209 Magazine - Issue #50

APRIL/MAY 2022 - ISSUE 50 - $4.95

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EGG DECORATING TRADITION

209 Olympian THE

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WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER. At Kaiser Permanente, we don’t see health as an industry. We see it as a cause. And one that we very much believe in. During this extraordinary time we are especially thankful to the heroism of our frontline workers. And, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to all of our outstanding care teams and individuals who deliver on the Kaiser Permanente mission each day to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We are here to help you thrive. Learn more at kp.org.

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FEATURES Nothing says spring like a picnic basket, an outdoor setting and a few close friends or family members. While you can’t guarantee a lack of ants or inclement weather, there are experts in the 209 who are ready to help you plan and execute the perfect picnic.

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Valley Picnics 209

That Picnic Company

Perez Picnics & Platters

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APRIL/MAY 2022 – ISSUE 50

IN THE KNOW 12 16 20 22 24

DEPARTMENTS 22

Scene in the 209 Community Events Calendar Linden Cherry Festival Easter tradition 209 Olympian

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ARTS&CULTURE 28 34 38

Red Tie Arts Live entertainment returns Spring fashion

FLAVORS 50 52 54

Hey Bartender The Kitchen @ Stone Brier Straight Off the Vine

NAVIGATOR 58

Musée Mécanique

THE GREAT OUTDOORS 60 64

Fore Your Information Sierra Splendor

FULL OF LIFE 68

A PLACE CALLED HOME 72 76

38

Fitness and Beyond

Family labor of love Dream Home

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50

MARKETPLACE 80

Knight Life Sword Fighting Academy

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Vol. 9 No. 50

April/ May 2022

$4.95

PUBLISHER/OWNER Hank Vander Veen

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Kristyn Aredas Jeff Benziger Teresa Hammond Melissa Hutsell Marg Jackson Angelina Martin Paul Roupe Sabra Stafford Virigina Still Frankie Tovar Doane Yawger

ART DIRECTOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sharon Hoffman

SALES & MARKETING Sethaniel Clark Teresa Hammond Marg Jackson Matt Johanson Angelina Martin Sabra Stafford Virginia Still

SPECIAL CONSULTANT Larry Dovichi

To advertise in 209 Magazine, call Manteca • (209) 249-3500 • Newman • (209) 243-8170 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

This issue marks the eight-year anniversary of 209 Magazine.

The goal when we started the publication was to highlight the people, places, organizations and businesses that make the 209 area such a great place to live, work and play. Eight years later, we are continuing to find inspirational people to feature, new businesses to share and interesting places to visit.

In this issue, you can get to know Keely Cashman, the 22-year-old skier from Strawberry who just returned from the 2022 Olympics in Beijing. Her story is an inspiration to all young athletes: “… just because you’re from a small area, there’s nothing you can’t do,” she told 209 Magazine writer Teresa Hammond.

“As a kid, I definitely had big dreams and I never did think I couldn’t do it. I hope that there’s little kids out there that think that too and I would say dream big because anything is possible.”

Also in this issue, local egg producer Gemperle Farms shares their family tradition of using roots, leaves and blossoms to decorate Easter eggs; outdoor venues The Fruit Yard and Ironstone Vineyards are gearing up for spring and summer concerts; and those looking to unleash their inner King Arthur — or Luke Skywalker, or Legolas, depending on your weapon of choice – can do so in Tracy at the Knight Life Sword Fighting Academy.

Thank you for taking the time to read 209 Magazine. We welcome your comments, calendar events and stories. We hope you will support the businesses and charities that have chosen to partner with us. We appreciate them and look forward to being the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209.

Hank Vander Veen Owner/Publisher hvanderveen@209magazine.com

©Copyright 2022. 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

Alpine: Climbing + Adventure + Fitness We decided it was time to visit one of the newest and most popular active attractions in the 209, so we visited Alpine Climbing Adventure Fitness in Ripon and let Angie have at it. This all-in-one indoor rockclimbing gym, fitness center and children’s destination has something for everyone in the family and features Adventure, Bouldering and Tall Wall zones. Do you think Angie completed the 55-foot climb?

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

Urbano Salsa and Bachata Modesto’s nightlife has long been a popular scene for Valley residents and now there’s a new twist – or rather spin – available downtown. Every Tuesday dancers flock to Urbano California for salsa and bachata classes and a dance social. We had to check it out for ourselves and what we found was a growing community of dancers who were eager to welcome more people to the dance floor.

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Battle of the Bands Modesto BATTLE OF THE BANDS, DUDE! That’s pretty much all that had to be said to get the Studio209 crew to the State Theatre in Modesto to witness this foot-stomping and at times brain-melting inaugural event. With bands from a wide range of musical genres on the bill, there was more than enough auditory delight to be spread around. Who had the tastiest grooves and won the grand prize? You’ll have to watch to find out.

Good Bye, Angelina.

After hosting 139 episodes of Studio209, Angelina Martin is hanging up the microphone and taking her talents to San Francisco. She asked questions with the best of them and often put herself in precarious situations for the 209 cameras, all with a smile on her face.

(Most of the time) Thank you for the entertainment and godspeed.

MORE EPISODES TO WATCH Oakdale Testicle Festival National Beer Day at Dying Breed Brewing National Gardening Day: Turlock Community Gardens Easter at The Fruit Yard

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intheknow

Scene

in the

F

rom award ceremonies to launch parties and festivals, people in the 209 were out and about this February and March and we were right there with them to capture the Scene in 209. Interested in having an event featured in the Scene section? Email sstafford@209magazine.com for information.

By SABRA STAFFORD

RIPON ALMOND BLOSSOM FESTIVAL The Ripon Almond Blossom Festival bloomed again on the streets of Ripon with a parade, vendor festival, carnival rides and games, a fun run, lots of food options and more. This marked the 60th festival for the yearly February event.

Rochelle Calderon and Conchita Swiggart joined The Valley Girl Company founder Tisha Blackwood-Freitas (center) for the launch party in Merced in February.

THE VALLEY GIRL COMPANY The Valley Girl Company is a membership networking organization that celebrated their grand opening in Merced in February. The organization seeks to help women connect for collaborations, promotions, education and service projects. Follow them on Instagram @thevalleygirlco.

Kristine Vogt of Fresno, Jessica Reyes of Los Banos and Joelle Mederios of Fresno came to Merced to mark the grand opening of the networking organization The Valley Girl Company.

Marisela Muniz of Manteca and Peggy Sue Felt of Riverbank got around the Almond Blossom Festival vendor booths on roller skates.

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Modesto Chamber of Commerce held the 108th Members Choice Award and Anniversary Soiree in March.

The event was an opportunity for members to recognize those businesses and individuals that have thrived in the community.

For more information about the Chamber visit modchamber.org.

Andrew Timbie, the CEO of Sierra Vista Child and Family Services, joins Bryan Justin Marks, the Executive Director of Love Stanislaus County and Bonnie Childers, the Director of Communications and Development at Sierra Vista, at the soiree.

Esther Fagbamila, Jose Sabala, Araceli Sabala and Rachell LeViege, all of Modesto enjoyed the opportunity to mingle at the 108th Members Choice Award and Anniversary Soiree.

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Dejeune Shelton, who serves on the Modesto Chamber’s Board of Directors, was on hand with her husband Jermol Shelton at the awards night ceremony held at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

Sarah Schrader, Jennifer Zellet and Don Borges, all from Modesto Junior College, were at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce event.

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A Delicious Spring Recipe with...

Bleu Cheese Smoked Almond Guacamole

Almonds Guacamole s Bleu Cheese Smoked A must with chips, thi back for more! ing e them com will turn heads and hav ) ies var e siz (Serving

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2 tbs jalapeno, no seeds 1 tbsp. minced fresh Kosher salt 2 avocados

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Smoked ¼ cup Jake’s Mesquite pped cho ly rse coa Almonds; mbles 3 tbsp. bleu cheese cru ce jui e lim sh fre . tsp 2 cked Pepper Jake’s Bleu Cheese Cra pped for garnish cho ly rse coa Almonds; and tbsp of cheese crumbles

jalapeno, and 2 2 tsp. of lime juice. . more lime juice, and salt 4. Season to taste with s ond alm ese che bleu d she 5. Garnish with the cru of cheese crumbles. and remaining 1 tbsp.

6. Enjoy!

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intheknow

COMMUNITY EVENTS 9

APR

16

2022

APR

FOODIE FESTIVAL

2022

EARTH DAY

The 3rd annual Foodie Festival returns to Stockton’s Oak Park from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on April 9.

Yosemite National Park will celebrate Earth Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 16.

The celebration will be in front of the Valley Visitor Center. Guests can join Park Rangers and the park’s partners and learn how they are working to preserve and protect natural and cultural resources in Yosemite National Park. The park will also be celebrating National Junior Ranger Day, National Park Week, Park Rx Day, and John Muir’s Birthday.

Black to Business presents this outdoor food festival with food trucks, specialty vendors, a live DJ, raffles, eating competitions, entertainment and more.

This event and parking are free.

Oak Park is located on E. Alpine Avenue in Stockton.

The day will include face painting, traditional tool demonstrations, informative and interactive booths, a litter clean-up project, art projects, and photo walks.

Visitors planning to join are encouraged to plan their trips in advance. Parking areas throughout the park are expected to fill early in the day. Visitor parking will be available at the Yosemite Village Parking Area and at Half Dome Village. Visitors are encouraged to park and utilize the free park shuttle to get to the Yosemite Valley Village and Visitor Center.

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APRIL

2022

TAIKO PROJECT

The Taiko Project will be at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy at 7 p.m. April 23.

Taiko Project was founded in 2000 in Los Angeles, California by a group of young, emerging taiko drummers led by Bryan Yamami and Masato Baba. The group continues to define a modern American style of taiko, blending traditional forms with an innovative and fresh aesthetic.

Tickets range from $25 to $45.

For tickets email boxoffice@cityoftracy. org or call (209) 831-6858.

2022

CAJUN FESTIVAL

The San Andreas Rotary presents The Calaveras Ragin Cajun Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 30.

The event will feature an authentic Louisiana Crawfish Boil, live music, vendors and more food booths lining Main Street and beyond in San Andreas.

Tickets are $5 in advance and $10 at the gate.

Each entry to the festival includes a chance to win a door prize. Proceeds will benefit the Hospice of Amador and Calaveras.

Free parking and shuttle at Calaveras High School.

For more information or tickets go tosanandreasrotary.com.

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APR

2022

SPRING WINE WEEKEND

HOPS AND BANGERS

LOWRIDER SHOW

The event will include vineyard tours, live music, tasting experiences and other special activities.

The event will feature many handcrafted beers from local breweries and locally produced foods, including Wolfsen’s Meat and Sausage Company.

The show will feature more than 800 of the best Lowrider, Bombs, Dubs, Trucks, Motorcycles and imports on display. There also will be live music and entertainment.

The Calaveras Winegrape Alliance will host the Spring Wine Weekend on April 23 and 24.

The Gustine Rotary will be holding the Hops and Bangers fundraiser from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 23.

One day and two-day tickets include a commemorative wineglass, a wristband for special tasting flights at 27 participating tasting rooms and a weekend guide with maps.

The event will include local cheeses, olive oils, flavored almonds and other specialty products for sampling.

1

For tickets and more information visit www.hopsandbangers. yapsody.com.

2022

LODI STREET FAIRE

Chamber of Commerce.

The Lodi Street faire is set for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 1 in downtown Lodi.

More than 500 vendors and thousands of shoppers will converge on the area to sell and purchase antiques, arts & crafts and commercial items at the event sponsored by the Lodi District

The Street Faire takes up 15-square blocks of Lodi and the day is full of plenty of activities and food from 25 food vendors.

Admission to the event is free.

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Tickets will be available at the gate. For more information call (408) 314-4686.

Tickets are $50 and are expected to sell out quick. Attendees must be 21 years or older.

Tickets are $40 for one day and $60 for two days.

Advance ticketing is required.

For tickets visit www. calaveraswines.org/springwine-weekend-tix.

MAY

The Stockton Lowrider Super Show will be held at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. April 24.

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intheknow

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MAY

2022

COCKTAILS AND KARAOKE

The Children’s Museum of Stockton is hosting the fundraising event, Cocktails and Karaoke from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

May 26.

Sing, dance, drink and repeat.

Enjoy an evening at the Children’s Museum of Stockton while helping raise funds for the organization.

Tickets are $45 and are available at www. childrensmuseumstockton. org. Must be 21 years or older.

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JUNE

2022

WATERMELON STREET FAIRE The Manteca Crossroads Watermelon Street Faire is set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 4 and 5.

The event will feature more than 100 250 vendors, including 100 arts and crafts. There will be

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MAY

PEDDLER’S FAIRE

The 50th Annual Arnold Peddler’s Faire will be held over Memorial Day weekend on May 28 and 29, in Arnold, on Highway 4.

Arnold’s beginning-of-summer festival is situated among the pines and redwoods, and features over 50 booths of high-quality, hand-crafted artisans, specialty food and antiques. Succulents, photography, tie dye, wood art, crystals, stones, Iron work, fine jewelry, bags, dresses, clothing, pottery, kettle corn, dried fruit, olive oil and much more will be offered by the artisans. In addition, the Ebbetts Pass Volunteer Fire Department will be selling local ales.

The festival is held at Bristol’s Ranch House Café parking lot at 961 Highway 4 in downtown Arnold.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission and parking are free.

For more information, email Kathryn at Kathryn@ brotherspromotions.com or call (831) 345-2006.

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JUNE

2022

APRICOT FIESTA

The 50th Apricot Fiesta will be held June 3 to June 5 in Patterson. This year’s festivities kick off the weekend before with the Wine & Cheese and Miss Patterson Meet and Greet on May 27 and the Apricot Fiesta Bake Contest on May 28.

The event will include free entertainment, food/beer booths, community parade, craft & commercial vendors, kid’s area, arm wrestling tournament, a corn hole tournament, and fireworks.

For a full schedule of events and more inform ation visit apricotfiesta.com.

a car show, a display of boats and RVs and children’s activities.

Admission to the event is free.

The faire will be held in downtown Manteca at Main Street and Yosemite Avenue.

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2022

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intheknow

Unmask

the Sweetness at Linden

Cherry Festival

By SABRA STAFFORD

The festival also remains a key supporter of the FFA. The student organization hosts a cow plop contest, which Solari described is a game of chance based on what square a cow decides to do its “business” in.

F

or more than 40 years the Linden community has been celebrating their agricultural roots with the Linden Cherry Festival.

After a temporary pause because of the pandemic, the Linden-Peters Chamber of Commerce is once again ready to celebrate their beloved fruit and this year’s theme in Unmask the Sweetness.

“We thought it was an appropriate them after the last two years,” said Vic Solari, the Chamber president.

The Linden Cherry Festival will be held on May 21 and will incorporate a day full of activities, including a parade, contests, games, carnival rides, live music, performances, a car show, and of course lots of cherries in all kinds of forms. Admission is free.

“It’s a great family-friendly day of fun,” Solari said.

Linden’s roots with cherries goes back to the late 1800s, when the town’s early farmers started to switch from fields of wheat to row crops of vegetables and fruit and nut trees, with walnuts and cherries accounting for the most acreage.

The festival’s origin goes back to the Linden Future Farmers Community Day Fair, according to the Linden Historical Society’s research. It was primarily a school activity until the

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town started thinking about turning it into a community-wide event. The Linden-Peters Chamber of Commerce got involved and in 1973 the newly named Linden Cherry Festival was held.

Some of the traditions born back in the early days continue with the current festival, including the naming of the Cherry Queen, a cherry bake-off and a cherry pie eating contest.

The festival also remains a key supporter of the FFA. The student organization hosts a cow plop contest, which Solari described is a game of chance based on what square a cow decides to do its “business” in.

“It may not sound pretty, but it’s a lot of fun,” Solari said.

There will be performances from the Linden High School cheer squad, the show choir and a demonstration from the San Joaquin County Sheriff ’s Department K9 unit.

The festival kicks off at 10 a.m. with a parade that winds along Front Street and ends at the festival grounds at 18100 Front Street.

“The cherry festival has been a long-standing tradition in Linden and we’re excited to welcome everyone back to it this year,” Solari said.

For more information about the festival visit lindenchamber.net. ●

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intheknow

Local egg farm family shares their Easter tradition D

yeing eggs around Easter time is a tradition that is cherished by many families, but especially by the Gemperle family.

The local egg farmers use nature as the inspiration for their decorations.

“The Gemperle family relies on the Swiss tradition for dyeing our eggs. With this method, children use roots, leaves and blossoms to decorate their Easter eggs,” explained Gemperle Farms President Steve Gemperle.

Everything from grass to crocuses and daffodils can be used to create interesting and unique patterns on the eggs.

This natural method also utilizes onion peels to color the eggs. The outcome is always a mystery and two eggs never look the same.

“We have keen memories

Historically, eggs represent rebirth, new life, and spring, so often their decorations are symbolic.

In Greece and the Middle East, eggs are dyed a bright red to reflect Christ’s blood. of our dad bringing home fresh eggs from the ranch and our mother boiling the onion skins, plopping the egg in the solution and eagerly waiting for the color to emerge,” Gemperle remembers. “I could not wait to remove the cheese cloth and see the secret image inside.”

Historically, eggs represent rebirth, new life, and spring,

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so often their decorations are symbolic. In Greece and the Middle East, eggs are dyed a bright red to reflect Christ’s blood. In some countries, the egg represents the rock laid in front of Jesus’ tomb. In Austria and Germany, only hollow green eggs are allowed leading up to Easter Sunday, at which point people display elaborately decorated eggs. In Eastern Europe, people use wax to decorate Easter eggs with intricate designs.

No matter their design or color, dyeing eggs remains a fun and memorable family tradition. ●

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GEMPERLE FAMILY ALL-NATURAL EASTER EGGS SWISS-STYLE A L L N AT U R A L D Y E INGREDIENTS Hard-boiled eggs 5 cups of water 8 cups loosely packed onion skins (yellow onion skins give an orange hue while red onion skins lend a reddish-brown hue) 4 Tablespoons vinegar

DIRECTIONS Fill a medium-sized saucepan with 5 cups of water and put over mediumhigh heat.

Add the onion skins and simmer covered for 15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes.

Strain the liquid into a medium-sized bowl.

Add the vinegar to the onion skin water.

Let cool to room temperature.

Add hard-boiled eggs to the onion skin water. Remember that the longer you leave the egg in the solution, the darker it becomes.

At Gemperle Farms, we found 30 minutes works best for most colors. The colors will deepen the longer the eggs soak in the natural dye solution.

If you plan to leave your eggs in the solution longer, place them in the refrigerator.

VA R I AT I O N S Don’t stop with onion skins. Following the directions above, replace onion skins with some of the following all-natural ingredients to create different dyes.

Yellow: Blue: Pink and red: Golden brown:

6 Tablespoons of fresh grated root turmeric 6 cups of chopped purple cabbage 4 cups of chopped beets 6 Tablespoons of loose black tea or Earl Grey tea

DESIGNING THE EGGS To create a special design on our eggs, we use a simple technique with cheesecloth, leaves, blossoms and grasses collected from our gardens and flat leaf Italian parsley. We use onion skins, both white and red, to give the eggs a rich orange color or a reddish brown color.

ITEMS NEEDED Cheesecloth or pantyhose Twist ties or rubber bands Variety of natural materials, including plants, leaves, and flowers Hard-boiled eggs Natural dye (directions above) DIRECTIONS Cut a piece of pantyhose or cheesecloth and put a twisty tie on one end.

Put a hard-boiled egg in the tied section of cloth and place a mixture of leaves and flowers flat on the egg.

Close the other end of the cloth or pantyhose with a twist tie.

Place your egg in the prepared dye for about 30 minutes or longer depending on desired color.

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intheknow

STRAWBERRY GIRL RETURNS FROM BEIJING GAMES PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEELY CASHMAN

By TERESA HAMMOND

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here are those who dream. There are those who do. Then there are those like Keely Cashman.

The 22-year-old Strawberry, California native recently realized a lifelong dream as a member of the United States Olympic Ski Team competing in the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.

“When I was probably in like third grade or something I remember writing it,” Cashman said about her early days goal setting and skiing. “They asked us what we wanted to do and there was a little presentation. Mine was always skiing, skiing, skiing so I think I always knew it was possible. And I think my whole life I’ve been working for it.”

The Olympic athlete shared skiing was just in her blood, both a family passion, as well as growing up in a community where ski days were a thing at school. Cashman shared she may have been put in ski boots even before she could walk.

“It was in our family. My dad grew up racing and my older brother and younger brother,” the Olympian said.

“It was like a family affair and then I started racing when I was five.”

With the encouragement of mom Christy and dad John Cashman, the skier quickly became one with the slopes and stayed busy fine tuning her skills.

“It was definitely a family thing we did on the weekends. We’d go up every weekend or almost every day after

“I THINK MY WHOLE LIFE I’VE BEEN WORKING FOR IT.” school, but it was also the school,” she said of the early days on the slopes. “At Pinecrest School on Tuesdays, we would just go skiing. We would all meet up there. There’d be no school that day. So that has kind of been the early memories for me with that.”

Coached early on by her father, Cashman shared that while their coachathlete partnership would eventually have to end as her career grew, the bond would eventually transition as the family relationship could make things a bit more complicated in a team atmosphere.

“I would say that most of my success, I mean, pretty much all I owe to my family and my dad,” she said proudly.

“He’s coached my brothers and I ever since we started racing, and ever since I made it up to the national team. He’s taught me literally everything I know about the sport … about skiing.

“You know, it’s kind of tough when you have a coach and also a parent, sometimes that can get interesting,” she continued of her mentor. “But for me,

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it’s always been great and he’s taught me everything I know, but he’s also been a really good dad. I still call him on race day when I’m feeling nervous or stressed and I really could not do it without him. I would not be where I am today without him.”

The family bond and excitement went next level when Cashman learned of her Olympic team achievement in January 2022, just weeks before packing up and traveling to Beijing. The skier shared while the achievement was surreal, she was also a bit hesitant to accept the reality early on.

“It was pretty crazy. I will say though, that I didn’t really accept it until I was like in China,” she shared, “because we have all these things with COVID going on and we still had a few races left and I’ve had teammates that get injured right before the Olympics and aren’t able to go. And also, just with the COVID stuff going around that I was like, okay, you made it but you, like, still have to get there and everything has to go right so it took a while before I was like fully accepting of it.”

Cashman went on to share that the moment when it finally truly sunk in was during the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, describing entering the ceremonies as mind boggling.

“Walking out, seeing the rings was definitely a memory,” she said of seeing the symbolic Olympic Rings in person.

“I kept picturing how this would look

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“WALKING OUT ACROSS STAGE I WAS JUST THINKING I HOPE MY PARENTS ARE WATCHING.”

on TV if I was watching at home.

Walking out across stage I was just thinking I hope my parents are watching.”

During the 2022 Games, Cashman participated in three events, beginning with Super G, followed by Downhill and ending with Combined.

“I was a little bit nervous and I skied a little bit safe and wasn’t really charging,” she said of her one shot at Super G, “so I wasn’t super happy with that. But then I think that actually helped going into the Downhill; I was able to just relax and just be like, okay, you can just ski how you know how and then I was a top finishing American in that event.”

That was a highlight for sure for the athlete from her first Olympic experience and, looking to the future, Cashman confided she hopes to return to compete at the Italy Winter Olympics in 2026.

As for now, Cashman will take

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a little break, work at the family coffee shop and then return to train with the U.S. Ski team.

Reflecting back to the third grader she once was, living the dream, which became a goal, Cashman offers some wisdom for other youngsters in the 209, passionate about what they do.

“I would probably say that there’s absolutely no limit to what you can do,” she shared. “Being from such a small town and I know that other people probably feel this way too. It’s kind of hard to see what’s out there because we’re kind of isolated in this small area.

“But I would say just because you’re from a small area, there’s nothing you can’t do,” she concluded. “As a kid, I definitely had big dreams and I never did think I couldn’t do it. I hope that there’s little kids out there that think that too and I would say dream big because anything is possible.” ●

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arts&culture

By VIRGINIA STILL

W

ith the weather warming up in the 209, people are heading outdoors and Red Tie Arts (RTA) knows just where you can go to get great live entertainment. The RTA Summer Concert Series will once again be held outdoors at Lucca Winery in Ripon bringing the 209 a variety of artists and some new special events.

RTA is non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that offers special arts grant programs for underserved children who display talent and potential in all the arts. RTA was founded by Jerry Cooper and John Griswold, the two collaborating during the inception of the historic State Theatre where Cooper served as the volunteer coordinator and Griswold was the director.

Working with area school districts and music teachers, RTA assists with funding students to pursue the arts by connecting them to a professional music instructor for music or voice lessons.

They will purchase or rent instruments and in certain cases assist with travel expenses for performances. There are certain criteria for a student to be considered for the program or scholarships.

After doing a ton of research and studies from credible agencies and Ivy League schools, Griswold found that kids being exposed to music at a young age has incredible positive benefits including getting better grades and being more productive. These proven studies have been a driving force for RTA to bring the arts to the youth in the area

The concerts presented by Red Tie Arts are all fundraisers to be able to provide the funds and services to the kids. and help make “artistic dreams” come true.

There are about nine members who make RTA possible including Cooper, Griswold, and Education and Granting Coordinator Carole Mason-Loux. There are no paid positions and they do not have an office but they all are committed to the organization and work every event.

The participants in the programs have also volunteered to help with the events and they have even hit the stage with some of the artists who are performing.

Mason-Loux explained that when they first started they had a fair amount of participation but since COVID it has been more difficult receiving student recommendations.

The concerts presented by Red Tie Arts are all fundraisers to be able to provide the funds and services to the kids. The concerts have been known to

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sell out and each act is handpicked by Griswold, who is very passionate about music and very particular about who is selected to perform in the 209.

“I do my research,” stated Griswold about selecting artists for the Lucca Winery stage. “I listen. Sometimes I call other venues where they have been.

We’ve got to listen to it so it better be damn good.”

Kicking off the summer series is Heartless, a tribute to Heart, on June 4 with a lead singer who Griswold said is amazing.

On July 2, Lydia Pense and Cold Blood will hit the stage bringing guests funk, soul, and R&B from their original albums.

Joey Riedel pays tribute to Sir Elton John on July 30 and has toured across the globe taking guests on a musical journey.

On Aug. 27 the ultimate party band from San Francisco, the Big Bang Beat, will perform ‘60s Motown, funk from the ‘70s, and dance hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s.

They are in the planning stages for a Night in Rio on Sept. 24, which is slated to be a night of all things Brazil including food, music, and dance.

They are also working on a Black and White Ball for later this year that will be an evening of elegance, dancing and dining.

For more information on the concerts, grants and programs visit www.

RedTieArts.org. ●

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arts&culture

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

IN THE 209

By VIRGINIA STILL

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he outdoor music scene has received new life this spring, following the pandemic-related cancellations over the past two years. Outdoor venues like the Fruit Yard and Ironstone are set to bring a variety of artists to our very own backyard. Get ready to throw those hands in the air and enjoy some entertainment in the 209.

Billy Cohen with Richter Entertainment Group has been booking shows for Ironstone since 2005, and Fruit Yard since opening in 2018. He has been in the entertainment business for over 30 years.

“Honestly, at the Fruit Yard we had a great little season last year,” said Cohen. “We have a bunch of terrific shows scheduled for this year.

I’ve got to say it is fun putting shows on at the Fruit Yard, people really love going there. A bunch of these shows are going to sell out.”

I THINK A FEW MORE SHOWS WILL POP OUT AT THE FRUIT YARD AND DUE TO OUR WEATHER, IT COULD GO WELL INTO OCTOBER. The Fruit Yard Amphitheater will kick off the outdoor concert season with Midland on April 8 and then Lee Brice with a special guest on April 29.

“It would be impossible for me to predict just exactly how many shows are going to happen and when the season will end,” added Cohen. “I think a few more shows will pop out at the Fruit Yard and due to our weather, it could go well into

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October. We did last year. That is the beauty of being in Modesto, we can do outdoor shows in spring and well into the fall. Everybody should keep their eyes open and see what all transpires there.”

The Fruit Yard accommodates approximately 4,500 people with an intimate experience for those in seats or on the lawn.

The country stars are sure to pack the house at the Fruit Yard in May. Brett Young will hit the outdoor stage on May 7 with special guest Matt Ferrant. Trace Adkins with special guest Craig Morgan will perform on May 14, and Riley Green will make his way to the stage on May 28 with a special guest.

Chris Young will bring his Famous Friends Tour to the Fruit Yard on July 8.

Ironstone Amphitheatre is in Murphys and has a capacity of about 7,000 people including seats and the lawn.

“I am not sure what we will end up with at Ironstone, but we have a bunch of things on the bubble but, again, because of it being such a different season it has just been a little bit trickier to get things confirmed up there,” said Cohen. “It is a bigger place and a destination place; you really need to get the right thing at the right time to make it work. We don’t have as many shows up there right now confirmed. We are going to get a few more but I am not exactly sure what that season is going to look like.”

Slightly Stoopid with special guests Pepper, Common Kings and Fortunate Youth will hit the outdoor stage at Ironstone Amphitheatre on July 22.

I AM NOT SURE WHAT WE WILL END UP WITH AT IRONSTONE, BUT WE HAVE A BUNCH OF THINGS ON THE BUBBLE. “I think we are going to have a cool season at both places as usual. We are just excited to get back outside at both places because we have a great time doing shows at both places,” said Cohen.

Both venues will follow all state and county COVID guidelines in effect at the time of the outdoor events. Currently there are no masks, proof of vaccination or tests required to attend the outdoor concerts.

For more information on artists coming to the 209, visit richtergroup.net, thefruityardevents.com and ironstoneamphitheatre.net. ●

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arts&culture

BOHO SPRING

By SABRA STAFFORD

W

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

hen Jackie Gomez would go out shopping, she could never quite find the clothes that suited her style. Her answer was to open her own boutique.

Gomez is the owner of Love + Style, a boutique in Hughson with an eye towards country, edgy and Bohemian styles.

“I like the items that are a little bit edgy and different,” Gomez said. “Here, it’s not about matching every piece or following some fashion rules, it’s about wearing what makes you look and feel good.”

Love + Style carries a wide selection of clothing in sizes than run from extra small to 3X, with most falling in the small to large range. The boutique also has an array of accessories like purses, hats, scarves, jewelry, as well as shoes and some unique home décor items.

Love + Style is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. They are located at 7027 Hughson Avenue. For more information call (209) 284-1200 or loveandstyleboutique.com or on Instagram @loveandstyle_boutique or on Facebook. ●

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Hair styled by Angie Ramos @angieramos_hair.

Makeup by Vanessa Esquivel @v.a.n.e.s.s.a_e

Here, it’s not about matching every piece or following some fashion rules, it’s about wearing what makes you look and feel good.

Mini mauve print tiered ruffle dress

by French Kiss and white cowboy boots from Qupid.

Peach tank top by Nikibiki and embroidered flare jeans by Saints & Hearts.

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arts&culture

Off-white buttondown shirt from Be Cool, Zutter T-shirt and Risen Jeans shorts.

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Black tank from Be Cool, black jean shorts from Risen Jeans, and leopard print cover-up

by Ruggine.

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Lace cream romper by Mable and hat from California Hat Co.

Crotchet tank by En Crème, Risen Jeans and magenta hat by Olive & Pique.

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arts&culture

Risen Jeans, Wishlist Apparel tank and multiprint cover-up by Flying Tomato.

Golden yellow textured and ruffled dress by Peach Lane.

Blue maxi dress by Peach Lane and cover-up from Ruggine.

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Spring ahead.

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feature

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3/28/2022 11:59:44 AM

By SABRA STAFFORD

I

n the same way that glamping changed how some people go camping, some savvy entreprenuers are changing how people picnic by offering an upscaled version full of luxurious offerings and delectable dining experiences that add a real element of style and pizzaz to dining al fresco. The 209 is home to several businesses that offer a complete picnic experience, from lovely views to plush accomodations topped off with menus to tempt many tastebuds. It’s a brand new way to picnic in the 209.

VALLEY PICNICS 209

Contact: @valleypicnics209 on Instagram; alexisgarduno25@yahoo.com Areas served: San Joaquin County; surrounding counties come with a travel fee.

The idea of putting together a business that offered unforgetable picnics had long stewed in Alexis Garduno’s mind, so one day she finally just went for it and put the results up on social media.

“I got my first booking in two days,”Garduno said.

“With that first booking, I became even more inspired to give it my all in the business. It has been a lot of work, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Garduno specializes in creating Bohemian and romantic style picnics.

“In every picnic, my imagination and creativity stand out when a client tells me what theme and/or colors they would like for their picnic,” Garduno said.

“I put in a lot of time and effort to create an unforgettable picnic for each client.”

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She also likes to make sure each picnic includes a fresh flowers.

“Flowers take the picnic to the next level and who doesn’t like to see and smell beautiful roses?” Garduno said. “I also think a musthave item is a wood arch add-on that hangs over the table with a choice of green-

45

ery or real roses hanging from it.”

Valley Picnic 209 offers a couple of picnic packages. The main package includes a two hour picnic for up two six people with a selected theme and decor of the client’s choice. The decor includes charger plates, ceramic plates, glass wine

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feature

cups, real gold-plated utensils, napkins, rug or blanket for floor, and a pillow for each guest. Gurduno also offers multiple add-on items so that the picnic is exactly what the client requested.

“What I enjoy most about my business is seeing my clients’ reaction when they see their picnic set-up and their satisfaction,” Garduno said. “I also enjoy taking my creativity to the next level because I get to explore the many options of each client’s liking, so my creativity is always at work and expanding. Every picnic is different. I love meeting all my clients, making them feel special by making sure they know and see I’ve done my best to make their picnic beautiful and unique.

“I feel each picnic speaks for itself,” Garduno said. “I think letting your special someone or your loved ones know how much you love them by surprising them with a special picnic is a beautiful thing.”

An essential element for a beautiful picnic is the location and Garduno likes to use spots that add to the overall theme.

“My favorite spots for picnics are parks with a beautiful view, especially if there is water, like a lake,” Garduno said. “The set up always has a great view for my clients to enjoy their picnic even more. However, any place for a picnic is doable and beautiful. I’ve done many of my picnics at a client’s home,

in their back yard, front yard, and even indoors. Indoor picnics are also beautiful. And, clients get to have a beautiful picnic in the comfort of their own home.”

THAT PICNIC COMPANY

Contact: @thatpicniccompany on Instagram; thatpicniccompany@gmail. com; and (209) 604-4402.

Areas served: Central Valley

Marissa Titus took great pleasure in hosting events and parties. When she had the opportunity to experience a luxury picnic herself, she had one of those lightbulb moments on launching her own business.

“My love for hosting events and the boho esthetic really made it easy to jump in to the luxury picnic business

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after experiencing one myself,” Titus said. “I wanted to bring what I experienced and bring it locally and add my own personal touch to it.”

Baby and bridal shower picnics have quickly become some of Titus’ specialities and she offers packages that range from a small, intimate picnic for a couple to party picnics for guests of 30 or more.

There are several design and food elements that Titus thinks add special touches to a picnic, but she said the most important aspect of a perfect picnic isn’t anything that comes in her picnic basket.

“It’s having all your favorite people there,” Titus said.

In that same vein, Titus said her favorite part of the business is getting

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to meet new people and helping them make new special memories.

When planning her picnics, Titus likes to use places that highlight the simple beauty of the Central Valley.

“Ripon parks are my favorite for a casual day, but the lavender farms in Turlock have become one of my favorite places,” Titus said.

PEREZ PICNICS & PLATTERS

Contact: perezpicnics@gmail.com or (209) 252-1606.

I got my first booking in two days. With that first booking, I became even more inspired to give it my all in the business

Areas served: Central Valley

It only took one picnic to convince Viviana Padilla that this was the business for her.

“I had been wanting to start this for a little over a year after I threw my first girls night picnic for friends in December of 2019 and had such a blast,” Padilla said. “Then, I noticed picnics were starting to become popular in big cities, so I thought it would be nice to have something similar in the Central Valley.”

Padilla enjoys providing a place for the community to not only have fun with loved ones, but to get outside and enjoy the beauty around them.

Themed picnics are available for any occasion, from birthday parties and baby showers to anniversaries and bridal celebrations.

“We customize every package according to the wants and needs of our clients which is what makes each of our picnics unique,” Padilla said.

Padilla likes to make sure the picnics she

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xxxxx

creates for her clients are stress free and operates on the motto: “We do the work, you have the fun.”

Perez Picnics & Platters uses parks and other areas for the picnic parties, with a special flair for turning backyards into something magical looking. And when it comes to having a memorable and enjoyable picnic, Padilla said there are two must haves: ‘good weather and great company.”

LUX PICNICS

Contact: @Lux.picnics on Instagram; Luxpicnics.com Areas served: Central Valley from Lodi to Merced.

A simple wistful conversation between sisters Geor-

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to do is enjoy their special day,” Shull said. “We have been able to help our clients with their most important moments including bridal showers, birthdays, proposals and weddings.”

Lux Picnics offers three types of picnics; The Pop-Up Picnic starts at $199 and includes the set-up and tear down of picnic, fresh florals, bluetooth speaker, rugs, pillows, tepee, and umbrella, along with a fresh grazing board as well as ice cold refreshments and a sweet treat.

The Sweet Memories Picnic includes everything above along with a table upgrade and starts at $269. The Movie Night Picnic comes with all of the above and includes popcorn, candy and movie

gina Shull and Mari Green about the joy of picnicing inspired the business Lux Picnics.

“It started in 2019 as a conversation between sisters wanting to create settings where people could celebrate and be together in unique places,” Shull said. “The idea of a picnic is timeless and we take pride in curating a picture-worthy experience using beautiful California for our backdrop.”

Lux Picnics specializes in romantic picnics, especially those that will include a proposal.

“We also pride ourselves on creating a luxurious picnic experience where our client can feel comfortable knowing that all they need

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rental and starts at $329.

All of our picnics can be customized to soirees and can be customised with extra items including charcuterie, photography and more.

For Shull and Green, a perfect picnic is going to have three key items: a fresh grazing board, beautiful flowers, and good company.

The sisters said their favorite part of the work is “being able to create a worry free environment where people can make memories that they will have for a lifetime.”

Lux Picnics likes to utilize spots around the 209 for the picnics, especially those around water, like River Islands in Lathrop. They also do backyard set-ups. ●

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flavors

By VIRGINIA STILL

PHOTO BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

F

or the past 18 years, Café Bravo in Oakdale has been offering signature cocktails and margaritas alongside a unique menu that is popular with locals and international guests alike.

In the beginning, back in 2004, owner Javier Cancino and his family had to gut the former restaurant and do a full remodel.

“Very few people will remember this but right where the bar is there was a tortilla machine that made fresh tortillas for the first year,” said Cancino. “It is incredible what we have done over these years.”

There is a bar area, but the restaurant is family friendly.

They have several televisions for sporting events and play all kinds of music for guests to enjoy. They have been known to throw a party or two and have some events coming up in April and May. On April 9 and 10, the annual Oakdale Rodeo will take place and Café Bravo will be packed the entire weekend. They will have specials and extended hours during that time. The bar scene will take over after 5 p.m. and the

DJ will start spinning for those 21 and older. This is the busiest weekend of the year for the restaurant.

For Cinco de Mayo they will host another big party with specialty items and themed drinks.

Although the pandemic put a damper on things for a bit, Bravo survived and credits their loyal customers for keeping them alive.

“I have always appreciated

I have always appreciated this town but now even more.

They kept checking on us.

The regulars made sure we stayed busy.

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this town but now even more,” said Cancino. “They kept checking on us. The regulars made sure we stayed busy. It has been exciting. We still do ‘to go’ drinks. It worked for us and it is still available.”

They offer some beers on tap and a broad wine list but their margaritas are the number one seller at Bravo. The bar has a large selection of tequilas that make up their delicious margaritas that come in a variety of flavors like the watermelon, cucumber, coconut and the spicy jalapeno margarita. For those that are calorie concerned they offer a skinny margarita that is less than 100 calories. They use fresh fruits and juices.

Lead Bartender Cody Terpstra shared that there are several signature drinks that are crowd pleasers like the Mojito with rum, fresh muddled mint and lime; La Paloma with 100 percent Agave Blanco tequila, grapefruit juice, rimmed

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with Tajin; the fruity Sangria; and a traditional Old Fashioned served with rye whiskey or a whiskey of your choice.

For those that may be looking for a shot with some spice then the Caliente is for you with some Malibu passion fruit and a splash of Tabasco.

Terpstra noted that this shot is very popular and several locals request the “hot shot.”

“The Caliente shots are probably my favorite drink to make because when you go to the table and bring them the tray of shots over, they are all excited for it. That is probably the best,” remarked Terpstra. “My favorite drink is probably the Jalapeno Margarita; it is a little different than the regular margarita, it is spicier.”

The refreshing Blueberry Mash is not only eye pleasing but satisfying to the taste buds with Stoli Blueberi Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, fresh blue-

berries, fresh mint, fresh squeezed lime juice and a splash of soda.

Mezcal has been trending for some time and they use it in one of their signature drinks called the Chain Smoker that has pineapple, agave nectar, and sour mix. The name is very fitting as the Mezcal gives this tasty cocktail a smoky finish.

Terpstra has been with Bravo for nine years and bartending for five years.

While he has been bartending, he has met a lot of people and several travelers from other countries that stop by on their way to Yosemite.

“The thing with bartending is that you meet people that you would never meet in the first place,” he said. ●

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IF YOU GO WHAT: Café Bravo WHERE: 1275 E. F St., Oakdale HOURS: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday INFO: cafebravolatinkitchen. com or 209-847-3730

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flavors

By VIRGINIA STILL

T

he family owned and operated Kitchen@StoneBrier in Stockton serves up American cuisine and has an ambiance that is warm and inviting. Guests will likely find much to enjoy with the contemporary décor, food selections, cocktails, themed rooms, events and an exclusive wine list.

“We call this a hidden gem,” said Alicia Quismondo with the management team at the Kitchen. “A lot of our guests call it an oasis in Stockton and once they step in our doors they are blown away and they say this place should be in San Francisco. You don’t feel like you are in Stockton anymore once you walk

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through the doors and sit down.”

The restaurant celebrated its four-year anniversary in March and they have grown exponentially since their opening day. They are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and serve brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with bottomless mimosas.

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They will host an Easter Brunch with some specialty items in April. They also have plans for a special Mother’s Day menu in May. The Kitchen is slated to have monthly events featuring specific wines and spirits paired with delectable items and a sommelier on hand along with knowledgeable staff.

Regina Bourez is part of the management team as well and specializes in the events, banquets, the bar and concierge service. The boxed lunches, lunch catering, and grocery delivery helped get the Kitchen through the pandemic.

“We did a lot of packages and then we threw in the concierge service that I do,” added Bourez about surviving COVID. “Through the concierge we do grocery shopping and meals. Most of it was through the restaurant so when people needed groceries, we let them know that we had our fresh produce and prime meats and kept those doors open.”

The menu at the Kitchen features American cuisine but has served up other offerings as well like the huevos rancheros, breakfast burrito, chicken marsala and lobster ravioli.

“I think we offer more American but more eclectic; it is not just American fare,” stated Quismondo. “We pride ourselves in good quality, fresh, food. We make all of our food here fresh. We also pride ourselves with our service to our guests. We focus on our guests and when they come in, they have a wonderful experience here from the bar aspect to the food aspect as well and they are taken really good care of.”

For appetizers, the deviled eggs and the deep-fried calamari have been some guest favorites. The CJ Sandwich with turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese and avocado served on focaccia bread with a pesto cream spread is a standout sandwich at the Kitchen.

A lot of our guests call it an oasis in Stockton and once they step in our doors they are blown away and they say this place should be in San Francisco.

—Alicia Quismondo

Eggs Benedict is one of their top selling items on the brunch menu.

There are a couple different Benedict options on the menu including the Salmon Benedict and Beef Birria Benedict.

“The Chef makes an amazing homemade potato salad, like my mom’s,” noted Bourez. “The short ribs are a top seller for dinner and we put it on the

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catering menu and it has been a top hit.”

Another dinner option that has been a crowd pleaser has been their USDA prime steaks like the filet mignon and rib eye. The eight-ounce prime filet has a peppercorn red wine demi-glace served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The 12-ounce prime rib eye comes with a garlic and thyme compound butter that is served with a baked potato and sautéed mushrooms.

They do catering and private parties where a special menu can be created.

Management team members shared that they are constantly working on the menu to offer guests healthy options including vegan and gluten free menu items. They have a pizza oven and full rotisserie that they plan on utilizing, which will also expand the menu at the Kitchen.

The actual onsite kitchen has been remodeled a few times but was the original inspiration to naming the establishment as it is a focal point.

The Patmon family developed the restaurant and the apartment building behind it called StoneBrier; hence the name The Kitchen@StoneBrier. The Patmon Company Inc. is a management and development firm. The owners are Stocktonians and care about the community as they have participated in many charity events.

Quismondo and Bourez shared that people are seeking them out and several customers come from out of town. It is important to them to treat guests like they are part of the family and make sure that they have a unique dining experience. ●

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flavors

Val du Vino

By KRISTINA HACKER

It was always a dream to have a winery, but I was an amateur for 35 years.

—Mark Hoover

M

ark Hoover, the new owner of Val du Vino Winery in Murphys, has had a love of winemaking from a very young age. A science lesson about fermentation in his fourth-grade class prompted the young man to try his own experiment.

“I went home and I got a jar out of the cabinet and I took some

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Welch’s grape juice out of the refrigerator and I went and took some of my mom’s Fleischmanns baker’s yeast, put it in there and I stirred it up. I took it out to the garage and I forgot about it.

And then about three days later, I remembered and I went out there and there was all this foamy stuff.

It smelled really good. It was a smart thing I didn’t put the lid

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on or it would have blown up; anyway, I did. I decided to taste it. That was my first wine making experience,” Hoover said.

He went on to get a formal education in viticulture and enology (grape cultivation and winemaking) from the University of California, Davis. But it wasn’t until over 30 years later that he would turn that knowledge into a career.

“It was always a dream to have winery, but I was an amateur for 35 years,” said Hoover.

He went the corporate route for many years, then in 2015, came back to his love of winemaking with the opening of Integrity Wines in Watsonville.

The Central Coast winemaker would often vacation in Murphys, enjoying the foothills town and the abundant wine tasting opportunities.

Hoover was already looking for a place to expand and make more wine when he heard in late 2020 about Val du Vino being up for sale. He purchased the winery in June 2021 and has already made improvements, including adding a large outdoor patio area for guests.

One thing that Hoover has brought to the Murphys winery is using cooling and chilling techniques in his winemaking.

“What that does is it extracts flavonoids and phenolics, which is the good stuff, the flavors and the color…We brought in a whole cooling system and the extensive cold soaks. We are able to do white wines up here now and have them go really cold, which slows down the fermentation and improves the aromatics,” he said.

Hoover is also looking into building out another 5,000 square feet next to Val du Vino for wine production, for both the Murphys and Watsonville tasting rooms.

Along with new wines, Hoover is also planning to add a music venue to the Murphys winery and tasting room.

“We’re trying to bring in music that’s not typical for the area. So we’re opening it up for acts from the Bay Area, Los Angeles for sure here too, but we want to bring something people don’t expect,” he said.

As of mid-March, Hoover had not yet finalized concert plans.

In the meantime, Hoover is enjoying being a part of the Murphys wine scene.

“When I talk to people, it’s like ‘welcome to my dream,’” he said. ●

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2020 Petite Rose — El Portal Vineyard This wine has bright fruit notes of raspberries and strawberries with just the right acidity — think summer in a bottle. This is the perfect picnic and barbecue wine.

2019 Viognier – Dalton Vineyards A delicate floral bouquet graces the nose and leads to flavors of Asian pear and fresh stone fruit. This wine pairs well with creamy cheeses, Dungeness crab and hammocks.

2018 Zinfandel – Dalton Vineyards This medium-bodied Zinfandel has dark berry fruit flavors with accents of baked marion berry and currents. It has a fruit profile that lingers on the tongue and finished with cracked pepper. This wine is best paired with barbecue, roast pork loin and fireside chats.

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flavors

2017 Syrah – Dalton Vineyards This Syrah has the sweet aroma of fresh berry cobbler and a hint of dried cherries. It has a huge burst of black cherries and allspice. The finish is long and smooth.

We’re trying to bring in music that’s not typical for the area. ­—Mark Hoover

2018 Spanish Dragon –Metate Vineyard The Spanish Dragon is well balanced with notes of dark cherries and hints of red plum with deeply structured tannins that linger on the palate.

Finish is long with dark fruit, warm peppercorns, nutmeg and vanilla with balanced tannins.

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IF YOU GO WHAT: Val du Vino WHERE: 634 French Gulch Rd., Murphys HOURS: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily INFO: valduvinowinery.com or (209) 728-9911

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We have a lot happening!

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navigator

Musée Mécanique CITY ECCENTRIC ARCADE NOT TO BE MISSED

A

roll of quarters and good company are really all one would need for some good times and memory making at Musée Mécanique.

Located at Pier 45 of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Warf, this old school arcade is one worth visiting.

Open seven days a week, with no entry fee, the building is packed full of game entertainment which spans the decades.

Family owned and operated since 1933, the ‘Mechanical Museum’ boasts a collection of more than 300 items including antique player pianos, fortune tellers and its very own “Laffing Sal” and “Susie the Can-Can Dancer.”

The collection of iconic gaming and arcade memories was acquired

by San Francisco Native Edward Galland Zelinsky, who began his collection at 11 years old. Zelinsky passed in 2004, yet his legacy remains as the Musée Mécanique and is known as one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of coin operated games and artifacts.

Stepping through the door, one might immediately feel as if they’ve happened upon a boardwalk game room on steroids. No quarters? No

MUSEE MECANIQUE ... IS KNOWN AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST PRIVATELY OWNED COLLECTIONS OF COIN OPERATED GAMES AND ARTIFACTS. problem. Change machines are located throughout the large building. Even better is the low cost of each attraction and game, which reflects costs of times past versus the sticker shock one might have when parking just steps away from the entrance.

From pinball, Skee-Ball, to Pac Man, Asteroids, Air Hockey and other vintage

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By TERESA HAMMOND

games, a roll of quarters goes a long way at the Musée Mécanique.

Rows upon rows are lined up with games that span the decades since Zelinksy began his labor of love collecting such things in 1933.

Hand cranked music boxes, player pianos, and “How Loveable Are You” type antique games are blended in with games of all styles ranging in price from 25 cents to a dollar per play.

Looking to spend a bit more, then travel on over to the 1915 Wurlitzer Band Organ for a whopping $2. A sound which when played fills the room with music from days past and often stops visitors in their tracks.

For those interested in making a day of it and making the most of the drive to the Bay Area from the Central Valley, the Pier 45 location could not be better. Just steps away from parking, surrounded by eateries and adjacent to the Bay, this is one attraction not to be missed. ●

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Professional sound.

No studio fees or residuals.

VOICE OVER VOICE Professional sound.

No studio fees or residuals.

OVER

Phone Trees

Narration Phone Trees (Audiobook/Presentation/eLearning) Narration (Audiobook/Presentation/eLearning)

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w w w. r i c h m a t h e s o n v o . c o m 209 Magazine 50-AM2022.indd 59

3/28/2022 11:30:03 AM

thegreatoutdoors

in person 209MAGAZINE.COM

THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Golf.indd 60

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By SETHANIEL CLARK

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I have been lucky enough to attend both the Pebble Beach Pro Am in 2016 and the US Open in 2019

C

alifornia has a great rotation of PGA, LPGA, USGA, and Korn Ferry Tour events that patrons are able to enjoy each year.

Each February, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am is hosted a little over two hours away from the 209 and just a short 8-minute drive from Carmel Beach. Throughout the years this gorgeous seaside venue has also been home to one PGA Championship, two US Women’s Amateurs, three US Amateurs, and six US Opens with the most recent being in 2019.

I have been lucky enough to attend both the Pebble Beach Pro Am in 2016 and the US Open in 2019. Now I know a large population of sport fans find golf impossible to watch on television, calling the sport slow or boring, but nothing beats watching the professionals put on a stripe show in person.

If you have ever picked up a golf club and tried to hit a golf ball, you know how difficult the sport can be to play. It is one of the most heartbreaking sports where you feel on top of the world one second after crushing a drive 280 yards down the fairway, straight to utter defeat after duffing a chip or blading it 40 yards passed the green.

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thegreatoutdoors

For anyone who has never attended a professional golf event I highly recommend looking into upcoming events and planning a trip. You don’t have to be a great player or major fan of the sport to go enjoy the stunning views of these courses and appreciate the talent of these athletes.

However, watching golf in person is unlike watching any other professional sporting event. Most sporting events you are assigned a seat where you sit down for a few hours, cheer on your team and enjoy the game unfold in front of you.

Golf courses span across thousands of yards and it’s not a team sport so it can be tricky to navigate as a fan. For any first-

time goers, I have a few tips that can help you enjoy the most out of your trip.

My first tip for any novice patron would be to get to the course early. Show up an or two before the event begins and get familiar with the course layout.

Many courses have holes that intersect with one another, so positioning yourself between two or three holes can be very advantageous.

At Pebble Beach for example, one of my favorite spots to hang out is between holes three, four and 17 because you can see many different groups of golfers and witness all their different drives, approach shots and putts.

My next piece of advice is to

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find your favorite golfer and follow them for a few holes. Show your support by cheering for great shots and giving encouragement for any missed opportunities.

If you go to any golf event you have to be sure to check out the merchandise as well. Professional golf events are notorious for offering some awesome swag that you can wear at your next tee time. Not only will you look fresh out on the course, it can be a great conversation starter when someone notices the event you went to. Just make sure you get your souvenirs early because it tends to sell out fast.

If you plan on going to a tournament, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress to the weather.

There is lots of walking involved so make sure you’re ready and stay hydrated.

Golf tournaments last several hours with sometimes the first tee time starting at 8 a.m. and the last tee time going off as late as 2 p.m. and finishing around 6 p.m.

My last piece of advice would be to have fun and enjoy the moment. I’ve had so many great experiences watching these tournaments in person. From getting to stand three feet away from Tiger Woods while he warmed up and drove the ball 280 yards down the pipe in a major tournament, to getting to sing happy birthday to Phil Mickelson while he walked down the 18th fairway at Pebble Beach. They are memories I will keep for a lifetime and I want everyone to experience that kind of joy as well.

If you have questions about any upcoming events feel free to reach out to me at foreyourinfo209@ gmail.com. Until next time, hit it hard. ●

If you plan on going to a tournament, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress to the weather.

There is lots of walking involved so make sure you’re ready and stay hydrated.

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63

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thegreatoutdoors

Castle Crags State Park provides a scenic highlight in the North State.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Sierra Splendor.indd 64

3/28/2022 12:10:25 PM

By MATT JOHANSON

A

fter a hard day of through late fall in most years. high-elevation backHikers who appreciate a gradual warm-up might packing a dozen miles prefer an eastbound hike starting at Three Points around Ebbetts Pass, I would Trailhead near Camp Valcrest. Our trek through the have settled for crackers, peaSan Gabriel Mountains includes multiple stream nut butter and water. Instead, crossings and several optional summits, including a group of trail angels I’d never Winston Peak, Throop Peak and Mount Burnham. met before invited my companComplete the hike below the switchbacks beneath ion and me into their roadside Mount Baden-Powell (named for the founder of the camp to enjoy hot cheeseburgBoy Scouts) at a large trailhead and parking area. ers and cold beer.

The town of Wrightwood stands about seven miles That’s the spirit of the Pacific Crest Trail: mountainto the east. sized challenges balanced by world-class company. The This segment crosses Highway 2 several times, 2,650-mile path between the borders of providing easy access by PCT Mexico and Canada never fails to deliver standards and allowing hikers both. to easily shorten or extend this Some 7,000 hikers tread the path each suggested portion. Parking at THERE’S A year, including around 10 percent who popular trailheads in this area BACKPACKERS trek the entire distance and others who requires an Adventure Pass. complete portions. Thru-hiking marks PARKING AREA HIGHWAY 80 TO SIERRA a lifetime achievement for many, but CITY (37 MILES) SOUTH OF THE completing even a short section delivers rewards and builds skills for longer much of the SiHIGHWAY THAT’S erraThroughout journeys.

Nevada, the PCT traverses FREE IN SUMMER. elevations above 10,000 feet Now’s the time to start planning your adventure. As the pandemic recedes, this with distances of 100 miles or looks like a good year to go. This winter’s more between road access and light snowfall will mean fewer mosquiresupply opportunities. In comtoes, easier hiking and a longer backpacking season. If parison, this short segment northwest of Lake Tahoe you’re eager to discover this wonderful world, consider tops out at around 8,400 feet, making it much more these three segments for an introduction. accessible and a reasonable choice for beginners, conditions permitting. This section is normally accessible by late June, though heavy snow years may ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST (24 MILES) require a later start.

This section north of Los Angeles closely traces HighFind the trailhead north of Highway 80; there’s a way 2 west of Wrightwood. With an average elevation of backpackers parking area south of the highway that’s 6,000 feet (and a high mark of 9,406 feet), it offers cooler free in summer. Our route takes us right beneath temperatures than the hot desert to the southeast which scenic Castle Peak. Once you’ve gained Castle Pass, thru-hikers complete in spring. But it’s also low enough you can climb north to visit Castle Peak’s three to be free of heavy snow and accessible from late-spring

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thegreatoutdoors

Hikers enjoy a meal together before hitting the trail.

summits, or hike south to ascend the more modest Andesite Peak. Less than a mile from the pass, our trail passes near the Sierra Club’s Peter Grubb Hut, a beautiful and rustic ski cabin. Continue north past Basin Peak, another short and optional adventure and the highest point of this segment.

From here we gradually descend, passing many streams and meadows on the way to Jackson Meadows Reservoir, about 25 miles from Highway 80. Another 12 miles, mostly downhill, take us to Highway 49, about 1.5 miles east of Sierra City.

WHICHEVER SECTION YOU CHOOSE, YOU CAN EXPECT TO BE CHALLENGED ON THE WAY, PHYSICALLY AND OTHERWISE.

SHASTA-TRINITY NATIONAL FOREST (57 MILES) This section showcases some of the North State’s best scenery including Castle Crags State Park and Mount Shasta, encompassing elevations between 2,100 feet and 8,200 feet, gaining elevation in the northbound direction. In a normal year, backpackers can reasonably access this area by July.

Join the path south of Dunsmuir on Highway 5 at Castle Crags State Park, which protects a spectacular range of granite spires which formed 170 million years ago. More recently,

miners and Modocs fought a historic battle here in 1853. Hiking to the striking spires area involves a detour off the PCT of about three miles round-trip, definitely worth it if you have the time.

The PCT leads past many ponds and lakes as it winds northwest through Shasta-Trinity

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and Klamath national forests. Some 34 miles from the suggested start are Deadfall Lakes. Here you’ll find a worthy detour to the nearby Mount Eddy, highest of the Klamath Mountains, which affords visitors awesome views of Mount Shasta to the east.

At 37 miles, our path crosses Forest Road 17 at a trailhead and parking area. Hikers might catch a ride here to the town of Weed and Highway 5.

Otherwise, the PCT crosses State Route 3 in another 20 miles to the northwest, about 57 miles from our start and six miles southeast of the town of Callahan. This is the kind of place where many PCT hikers break out a hitchhiker’s thumb.

Whichever section you choose, you can expect to be challenged on the way, physically and otherwise.

There’s a lot to learn out there and a short article can’t express it all. But you can expect to learn on the way, especially if you use one of the many excellent guidebooks and/or cell phone apps like FarOut and AllTrails. You can also expect to meet fellow hikers who are almost always kind and generous with their experience and help.

Soon you may want to give this community something back, like extra food, water, rides to town, or burgers and beer. ●

A P R I L / M AY 2 0 2 2

3/28/2022 12:10:59 PM

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fulloflife

By TERESA HAMMOND

I

empowering the skeptic in us. Yet when placed in many and most circumstances I tend to be a “bright side” girl. A fact which blaringly shot me in the face a few years back when hearing my children actually say those words when faced by disappointment. Impressed and proud, I shared the story with a colleague, one who has known me for more years than my children.

It was her observation and perception which helped me see that indeed, my children had learned this from me.

Yet I digress … kind of.

The reading habit I chose to reconnect with and ultimately embrace five years ago really stuck. Placing books of interest in my Amazon cart now a true guilty pleasure.

My preferred genre tends to be self-help, non-fiction, as well as health and wellness.

Surprised? I know, go figure. A girl who writes

t’s been five years since I shared a personal challenge to spend less time with my nose in my phone and more time with my nose in a book.

The fun thing about habits is while some may not be easy to break others may be fun to embrace. The funny thing about habits is they’re often spoken about in a negative context. We tend to hear more talk about breaking habits versus celebrating those which are beneficial. So goes the way of life in many cases. Always easier to acknowledge shortcomings or the negative than celebrate the good, or so it seems.

I tend to be a rainbows-and-butterflies girl.

An annoyance to some and that’s okay. Somehow, it’s just the way I’m wired.

Not to be confused or over toot my horn, journalism, as well as business, has a way of

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be a friend.”

But this, well, this takes it to a global level.

Smiling at a stranger, complimenting a person whose hair, hat, handbag or whatever you admire. Holding open a door, offering to help another who might be struggling; the list goes on.

In short, I just absolutely love this. I truly have no idea how this book landed in my cart, but I’m truly glad it did.

The second wisdom I gained from Lima was a quote, which I feel all should give some thought to.

In the chapter titled “Believe in Giving What You Need,” the author shares a quote from Brendon Burchard stating, “At the end of our lives we all ask ourselves three questions: Did I live? Did I love? Did I matter?”

And again … Wow! As a mother of two, several years ago I began thinking of and embracing all three of these things.

Often pondering “what would my legacy be?” Surrounded by so many powerful people, personally and professionally the question seems natural. Who would people remember when speaking of me to my children?

Not being morbid, just simply striving to live true to myself and leave a legacy which would make my children proud.

As I shared in last issue’s column, I still have much to accomplish and a legacy which is still being defined, but man how great will life be if we each tap into Lima’s wisdom. Life, after all, is ours for the taking, love abundantly surrounding us and lessons continue to be learned. ●

in a space entitled Fitness and Beyond isn’t a fan of Horror or Fantasy novels.

Now granted, I do enjoy a good fiction summer read escaping to a beach somewhere via a book and some gal pals I’ll never meet but take me on their travels. That’s fun.

It’s my current read however, which struck me with some wisdom I’ve felt compelled to share. I think that’s why I love “self-help” books; I always seem to gain some sort of fresh perspective from another’s learned wisdom.

Yes, most self-help books I read tend to be inspired from another’s struggle or life lessons by way of setback, hurdles or overcoming.

IT Cosmetics founder, Jamie Kern Lima, penned a book “Believe It; How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable.”

It’s an inspiring and entertaining read for sure. It was toward the end of the book, however, that I was struck by some words I just had to share.

In the book, Lima shares two ideals which really made me sit up and think.

The first being a wisdom of a powerful lesson which she states, “if you want something or need something, give it and you will surely get it.”

Later followed up by sharing, “When you give what you need, it’s a way of using your own microphone to uplift others.”

Wow! I mean how true is this? It reminds me of a longtime wisdom I often shared with my children by way of friendship, the simple “you get what you give” or “if you want to have a friend,

Life, after all, is ours for the taking, love abundantly surrounding us and lessons continue to be learned.

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aplacecalledhome

FAMILY LABOR OF LOVE

By MARG JACKSON

F

or Bill and Roelyn Poot, running Poot’s Cactus Nursery has been a true blessing. And it’s one they have shared with the entire family, as son Brian Poot is now an owner with them and many family members work at the Central Valley landmark business.

At 17229 E. Highway 120 in Ripon, Poot’s is a well-known and popular stop for those looking to pick up a few succulents, a unique cactus, some special soil (Bill’s own recipe) or even planning to do a complete yard makeover. With continued drought conditions impacting the region, many locals choose to landscape with decorative rock and waterthrifty plants such as cactus and succulents, and the staff at Poot’s is more than happy to help create just the right plan for your space.

“I’m the leader of the pack,” Roelyn said, smiling. “We are in our 27th year and we moved here to the property 35 years ago. We had one greenhouse, 30-by-20, that we built.”

Bill for many years worked in the ag industry transporting produce and Roelyn said it was a trip to Turlock to pick up tomatoes some 46 years ago that touched off the idea that has grown into a unique family business.

At the stop, Bill was treated to a tour of some greenhouses on the property before getting the tomatoes loaded for transport to cold storage.

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were plants that didn’t need a lot of water or a lot of care. “Next thing I knew there was a greenhouse built.”

While still driving the produce route, Bill would get cuttings from various plants that he would bring home and add to the expanding garden area.

Originally starting their married life in Patterson, they moved to the Escalon area and then relocated to Ripon, where they established the business along the highway.

“At first it was just Bill and I,” explained Roelyn, adding that they began to add staff the larger the operation grew. “This busi-

ness was such a very unique niche for so many years.”

Son Brian now is an owner, their daughter Brenda does the payroll and bookkeeping, a granddaughter handles the social media and designs shirts for sale in the gift shop, a grandson’s wife has been on staff for over two years … and that’s just a sample of those involved in keeping the business running at full steam.

Along with son Brian, their son Billy – who manages the Napa store in Salida – is their “go-to” for anything electronic and son-in-law Ted is in construction, building the small gift shop on the

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The sign along Highway 120 between Escalon and Ripon is visible and points the way to the well-known local landmark, Poot’s Cactus Nursery, which has been in business for more than a quarter century.

Bill Poot, at left, owns and operates Poot’s Cactus Nursery with wife Roelyn and son Brian, along Highway 120 between Escalon and Ripon.

premises. Brian takes care of the inventory and deals with the wholesalers.

Billy and wife Hannah’s daughter, Alli, 11, has her sights set on joining the family business as well.

“She’s a sales person,” Roelyn explained. “She’s going to take my place someday.”

Now covering nearly an acre, there is a wide selection of both cactus and succulents, Bill’s unique blend of soil, T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, even specially designed planters in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit all yards.

The business is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We are believers,” Roelyn said of the family, which attends First Christian Reformed Church in Ripon.

Their faith is the reason they

Billy and wife Hannah’s daughter, Alli, 11, has her sights set on joining the family business. chose to close the business on Sundays, even though it likely would be their busiest day of the week. They are very involved with their church family and take that day to dedicate solely to the church.

As Roelyn indicates, the family is grateful to fill a niche, not only in the Central Valley, but beyond.

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“Some people drive two, three hours to come here,” she said.

The picturesque property, which also includes a koi pond with fountain and water features, has been utilized for many photo shoots. They have special tours of the greenhouses, including a private collection of plants, that can be booked in advance and are offered periodically throughout the year.

More information about the tours, and sign-ups, can be done online by visiting the website at pootscactusnursery.com.

The site provides a wealth of information about the various succulents and cactus available.

Poot’s can also be reached by calling 209-599-7241.

Ironically, said Roelyn, when much of the world was shutting down amid the height of the CO-

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aplacecalledhome

PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

This variety of cactus is an echinopsis hybrid and is sometimes called a ‘sea urchin’ cactus. It is one of many varieties offered at Poot’s Cactus Nursery in Ripon.

VID-19 pandemic in early 2020, their business saw a resurgence.

“The last seven years,” she said of growing exponentially, “not only because of the drought but also COVID. With COVID, people spent more time at home, got into their yards.”

Many chose to make changes, opting to become water thrifty, and knew that Poot’s was the place to go to help implement those changes successfully.

“We were so busy, we are just very grateful for the opportunity,” Roelyn said.

Everyone in the business has their area of expertise and Roelyn said it all comes together, with the entire family/staff there to support and encourage each other and provide the best service and products they can for their customers.

They are always getting in different varieties of succulents and cactus and Roelyn said they can offer advice as to what would work best for each individual yard, depending on how it is situated and when and where it gets the most sun.

“I just enjoy the people and helping them,” she said. “We can teach them the right way to care for the plants; succulents prefer morning sun in this

I just enjoy the people and helping them. We can teach them the right way to care for the plants. hot valley while cactus can endure the hot sun.”

She also said their soil is “very famous” and people will drive a few hours just to get a supply of Bill’s unique soil blend.

“It’s award-winning soil,” Roelyn said proudly.

Bill, though the original driving force behind the business, lets Roelyn take the public relations

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Granddaughterin-law Lyndsey is among the family members working at Poot’s Cactus Nursery and enjoys creating the special succulent pots and bowls, in a variety of sizes.

lead. There is even a shirt in his honor in the gift shop, with a cartoon-style drawing of Bill on it declaring that he is as “cuddly as a cactus.”

Along with the six day a week operation, the photo shoots and scheduled tours, Poot’s has also hosted some special vendor faires, including a holiday-themed event and a late spring gathering.

Bill and Roelyn have been married for 53 years, approaching their 54th anniversary in June. Opening their business in 1994, Roelyn said she can’t imagine doing anything else. They live on the property, their sign is visible as you travel the highway between Escalon and Ripon and they welcome shoppers from near and far.

“This was my husband’s vision, just a little spot on the highway,” Roelyn summarized, with the humble beginning in one greenhouse growing in to a familycentered thriving business. “We are blessed.” ●

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placecalledhome

By SABRA STAFFORD

O

ver the years when Janet Romanowski and Darrel Louis went on family vacations, weekend getaways or even just a day away from their home in Santa Cruz, there was one destination that was always at the top of their list - Murphys in Calaveras County.

“We would bring the kids up to go skiing and we would ride the motorcycles up here when we could,” Romanowski said. “We just really had good times up here, so when we started thinking about a second home, this was the first place we looked.”

The couple’s first property in Murphys was a place with a little cottage behind the main house and they decided to fix it up and use it as a vacation rental. It proved to be a successful venture and they have gone on to purchase a couple more properties with the most recent of The Villa at Val Du Vino Winery.

The ranch-style home has three bedrooms with elegant and comfortable furnishings like the maple burl wood bedroom set in the master suite. There are three bathrooms and a large living room that reflects Louis’ passion for music. Guests are encouraged to strum one of the guitars he keeps around or play a tune on the piano. There’s a gourmet kitchen with a stunning Dacor eight-burner stove that inspires guests’ inner chef to get cooking.

The real highlight of The Villa is the location and how it manages to be both town and country. The Villa is located right off Main Street in Murphys and guests can sit on the front porch, sip wine and take in Murphys unique downtown vibe. Circle around to the other side of the house and there is one of two private patios with beautiful views of

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grapevines and open pasture. Adding to the ambiance of relaxation is a hot tub and a pool.

Guests who happen to be there on Wednesdays are in for an added treat.

The couple hosts an open mic night in a sound-proof barn on the property for musicians and those who just want to listen.

“It’s a nice way to enjoy the local music scene,” Louis said.

The Villa is available for rent on VRBO and AirBNB. Find the links at the website murphysvacationhomes.com or call (831) 359-5454. ●

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Mall where kids and adults alike can earn their During parties and events, seat at the Round Table. visitors can even partake in Knight Life Sword Fightjelly ball fights. ing Academy allows visitors “It’s like paintball or to unleash their inner King FENCING IS airsoft, but without any of Arthur — or Luke Skywalker, THE ONE THAT’S the pain, bruises or paint or Legolas, depending on your DEFINITELY everywhere,” Gagner said. weapon of choice. From sword Gagner has been partakfighting and lightsabers to THE MOST ing in weapons combat for archery and fencing, owner RECOGNIZED over 20 years and was a and founder Allan Gagner II SINCE THE fencer in college. Soon after, aims to provide something for he toured with a choreogeveryone.

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531 Kansas Avenue, Modesto

209-521-4490 www.aakmodesto.com

Monday – Friday 9 am -5 pm, Saturday 10 am – 5 pm

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