209 Magazine - Issue #56

VINYL WINDOWS & PATIO DOORS

TRINSIC SERIES/ V300 OFFERS:

• NEW! Black interior and exterior frames for the latest design trend

• Clean lines and narrow frames for a sleek, modern look

• Redesigned squared off profile on our easy to use SmartTouch window lock

Windows and Doors Are All We Do

Over 750,000 expertly installed window and door replacement projects since 1982 are why we can say with confidence, “We Are The Best!”

Serving Stanislaus, San Joaquin & Merced Counties • Lic # 51317OC-17B

• Even sightlines for an aesthetically pleasing look throughout your home

• A variety of exterior colors to enhance the look of your home, including Black

• A Full Lifetime Warranty with Glass Breakage as an optional upgrade

Available from: Cal Comfort Windows and Doors

Visit Our Showroom: 1050 Kansas Ave., Modesto, CA 95351 209.527.4069

CARE COULDN’T BE CLOSER.

Your health needs don’t follow a schedule, so why should you? With the Kaiser Permanente mobile app and website, you’re able to schedule routine appointments, email your doctor’s office with non-urgent questions, refill most prescriptions and view most test results. So you can stay closer to what you need. Together we thrive. Learn more at kp.org

PISTACHIO ALMOND LOAF CAKE

INGREDIENTS:

¼ cup white sugar

1 tbsp cinnamon

1 cup sour cream ICING/TOPPING:

1 ½ cup powdered sugar

3 tbsp milk

1 box yellow cake mix

2 (3.5 ounce) boxes of instant pistachio pudding mix (dry)

4 eggs

¼ cup vegetable oil

1/8 cup water

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Grease a bread pan with spray oil or butter.

3. In a small bowl, combine white sugar and cinnamon, mix well.

4. Pour cinnamon sugar into loaf pan and gently shake it all around coating the bottom and sides of pan.

5. In a medium bowl, combine cake mix, pistachio pudding mix (dry), eggs, oil, water

1 tsp almond extract

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup chopped S&J Roasted Salted Pistachios (shelled) ¼ cup S&J Roasted Diced Almonds

and sour cream.

6. Batter will be thick, pour the batter into the loaf pan, and spread smoothly on top.

7. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the bread comes out clean.

cooled, make the icing.

10. In a small bowl with a hand whisk, combine vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk. Mix well.

11. Add powdered sugar ½ cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.

8. Led bread rest for 5 minutes before removing from pans and allowing to fully cool on a wire rack.

9. Once cake is fully

12. After icing is mixed, pour over bread.

13. Top immediately with chopped pistachios and almonds.

14. Enjoy!

While one day a year is not nearly enough, Mother’s Day offers families an opportunity to let moms know how much they are appreciated. There are plenty of ways to celebrate mom here in the 209 and we have featured just a few.

PHOTO BY JENIFFER MURRAY/ Pexels

PUBLISHER/OWNER

Hank

Kristina Hacker

MANAGING EDITOR

Sabra Sta ord

CONTRIBUTING

Je Benziger

Christopher Correa

Joe Cortez

Kristina Hacker

Teresa Hammond

Marg Jackson

Claudia Newcorn

Julie Rose

Virginia Still

Dennis Wyatt CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sharon Ho man

Chris Castro

Beth Flanagan

Rich Matheson

Karen Olsen

Corey Rogers

Melody Wann

Charles Webber

SPECIAL CONSULTANT

Larry Dovichi

We made it through an unusually snowy and wet winter and early spring and now it’s time to once again enjoy exploring everything the 209 has to o er.

ose looking for a fun way to spend a weekend should check out our Community Events Calendar. It’s lled with information on local festivals and events such as the Asparagus Festival, Days of 49 Wagon Train and the Mother Lode Rodeo. is issue’s Hey Bartender feature highlights a unique tasting experience at Sabbatical Distillery. e former Delta asparagus processing facility turned distillery o ers award-winning spirits like their Blended Whiskey, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Sabado Gin and Cognac Cask Finished Blended Whiskey.

A true hidden gem, Modesto’s Burly’s California Bistro may be relatively new but the eatery has already gathered a following.

Outdoor spring adventurers don’t have to travel far to nd Shangri-La (or at least as close as you can get in Central California) at Henry Coe State Park. ere are a lot of reasons to venture to the Northern California’s second largest state park with its 87,000 acres of seemingly endless hills, valleys, and mountain ridges without a structure, telephone pole or even fence in sight from as far as you can see from almost every vague point you reach. Solitude, however, tops the list.

However you decide to enjoy spring, we thank you for making us a part of your journey.

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 Publisher/ Owner

hvanderveen@209magazine.com

Notes

with FRANKIE TOVAR

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

Marriage Anniversary Mass

Studio209 visited Our Lady of Assump�on Church in Turlock to witness hundreds of couples celebrate and renew their marriage vows en masse during the annual Stockton Diocese Wedding Anniversary Mass. Fun Fact: This episode marks reporter Chris Correa’s Studio209 debut.

Stanislaus Chinese Association Spring Festival and Year of the Rabbit

bit.ly/209PodcastApple

When we’re looking for a fun, communitydriven event to cover in the 209, Modesto is one of the first places we look. One of many fes�vals held in the month of March, this Spring fes�val proved to be a must-visit event with food, entertainment and culture to spare. Seriously, bring your appe�te!

bit.ly/209PodcastSpotify

WE’VE GOT THE 209 COVERED STUDIO209.TV

Taps on Tenth in Tracy

In a Valley teeming with breweries and cra� beer aficionados, Taps on Tenth served as a brew beacon in Downtown Tracy. With a plethora of pours to choose from a variety of regional breweries, this cra� beer tas�ng event was in no shortage of good �mes.

SPONSORED CONTENT

HIRE US TO FEATURE YOUR BUSINESS!

• Dell’Osso Family Farm

• Oa�ield MX Park

• Board and Brush

• Ten Pin Fun Center

• Indigeny Reserve

• Nutcher Milk

• Smart Axe

• Escape Modesto

• Bistro 234

• Toscana’s Ristorante

HIRE US TO PREVIEW YOUR EVENT!

• Calaveras Grape Stomp Fes�val

• Modesto American Graffi�

• Santa HQ at Vintage Faire Mall

• UC Merced’s Yosemite in the Park

• Zombie Escape at Snelling’s Ranch of Horror

• 209 Beatdown

• Emanuel Cancer Center Women’s Cancer Night

HIRE US TO COVER YOUR EVENT!

• Central Valley Brewfest

• StocktonCon

• San Joaquin Valley Portuguese Fest

• Stanislaus County Fair

• Dancing with the Turlock Stars

• Cowchella

• Stockton Greek Food Fes�val

• Rhythm on the Range

• Dust Bowl Oktoberfest

• Turlock Top Chef Compe��on

• Jumping Frog Jubilee

Contact our 209 Mul�media sales representa�ves or our Mul�media Producer to learn more about sponsored content opportuni�es with Studio209!

CHECK OUT 209 PODCAST

Join reporters Virginia S�ll and Teresa Hammond - the �tular V&T - as they preview the latest issue of the 209 Magazine. Listen to behind-the-scene scoops on the stories, learn about upcoming events in the area, and go grab a copy for yourself! Follow and subscribe on your favorite podcas�ng pla�orm.

Scene in the

Events and activities of all types were abuzz in the 209 this February and March. From theatre awards to crab feeds to fundraisers there was plenty of fun to be found. To have your organization’s event featured in the Scene, email ssta ord@209magazine.com.

DIVAS ON BROADWAY

Divas on Broadway, a fundraiser to support the Salvation Army in Turlock, recognized four women and one organization for their contribution to the community. Attendees were treated to a luncheon, fashion show, opportunity drawing and a live auction in March at the Carnegie Arts Center. This year’s event honored Allison Je ery, Peggy Jenkin, Mohini Singh, Arlene Vierra and a special recognition was given to the Turlock Garden Club for keeping Main Street looking beautiful.

Sandy Bettencourt, Kristin Bettencourt and Glenda Kranack.

Robyn Varni Fitzgerald and Mohini Singh.

VOLCANO THEATRE COMPANY

The Volcano Theatre Company held their kick-o party and awards ceremony March 11 at the Armory Hall in Volcano. The celebration, which had an enchanted forest theme, honored the best performances from the previous season and marked the opening of the next. The theatre opened their 50th season with Neil Simon’s “Prisoner of Second Avenue.” Shows are set for April 7 to May 14. For tickets visit volcanotheatre.net.

NEWMAN FFA CRAB FEED

The Newman FFA chapter recently held its annual crab feed bene t fund-raiser. The well-attended event was held at the Newman F.D.E.S. hall and not only featured delicious steamed crab, but a ra e and live auction.

Cast and crew of 2022’s Best Overall Production, “Becky’s New Car.”

Director Paula Bibby and Board Members Jim Estes (President), Roxanne Fausett (theatre manager), Judy Elliott (secretary) and Karen Rovane (publicity).

2022 Best Lead Actor Award to Ian Davidson.

CRAB FEED PHOTOS BY DAN GOMES

COMMUNITY EVENTS

APR14 2023 APR22 2023 APR22 2023

SAN JOAQUIN ASPARAGUS FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin Asparagus Festival will be at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds April 14 to 16.

The festivities have a full lineup of events and entertainment, including a carnival.

The festival will be open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. April 14, 15 and 16.

Admission is $15 for adults (18-64); $10 for children (6-17), seniors over 65 and military with identification; children 5 years and under get in for free. The opening day has $5 admission for all, except children under 5, who get in free.

Parking is $10 and motorcycle parking is $5. Parking is cash only.

CHAMPAGNE AND ENGLISH TEA

Help support the Hospice of San Joaquin with an afternoon tea party set for April 22.

A classic afternoon Champagne and English tea, this elegant event features table settings of beautiful china. Each table is unique and gives attendees a distinct experience while they enjoy tea sandwiches and small bites.

Proceeds benefit Hospice of San Joaquin’s patients and their families.

Tickets are $60. Contact (209) 573-888 or email contact@ hospicesj.org for more information.

DOG PARADE AND FAMILY DAY

The Twain Harte Chamber of Commerce is hosting a dog parade and family day in downtown Twain Harte on April 22. Registration starts at 10 a.m. and the parade is at 11 a.m.

The downtown businesses will have special activities for the day.

Proceeds from the parade will go to help local animal shelters.

For more details and to sign up visit www.twainhartecc. com or call (209) 768-6572

APR26

DAYS OF 49 WAGON TRAIN

The Kit Carson Mountain Men Wagon Train and Days of 49 Celebration will bring Gold Rush history alive in historic Amador County from April 26 to April 30.

The colorful Kit Carson Mountain Men wagon train re-enactment through the Gold Country, where everyone is invited to join the wagon train afternoons and evenings for barbecue dinners and casual entertainment. Admission is free to all events.

On April 26, the wagon train departs from Plymouth and will loop through the Shenandoah Valley before camping at the Amador County Fairgrounds.

On April 27, the wagon train will be on the move to Drytown.

On April 28, the wagon train will make encampment at the Italian Picnic grounds in Sutter Creek. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. there will be

music, entertainment, dancing and a barbecue.

On April 29, the wagon train will make the trek to Laughton Ranch at 90 Clinton Road in Jackson. From 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. guests can visit the wagon train and a working ranch. There will be family activities, barbecue, music and vendors.

The final day of the wagon train is April 30. At 9 a.m. there will be a pancake breakfast and pre-parade entertainment, followed by the parade at 11 a.m. on Main Street in Jackson. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. will be the Days of 49 street celebration with entertainment, living history exhibits, vendors and family activities.

For questions and information, please contact John Queirolo, Kit Carson Mountain Men Head Wrangler at (916) 769-2339 or Dianne Oneto, Wagon Train Director at (916) 769-4468, or email 49erWagonTrain@gmail.com.

VAISAKHI AND SPRING FESTIVAL

The American Desi Society and the Cultural society of Punjabis are hosting the Vaisakhi and Spring Festival at 11:30 a.m. April 29 at Ronald E. MacNair School in Stockton.

The festival will have an outdoor venue for shopping, a bazaar, cultural performances, food and raffles.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the door for those 12 years and older. Parking is free. Call (209) 401-2995 for advance tickets or more information.

MAY

MARIPOSA BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL

Start the weekend with a parade through downtown Mariposa then enjoy a full weekend of food, vendors and artists, music and entertainment, family games and activities, bounce houses, pony rides, parachuters, spectacular movies, a virtual reality station, butterfly releases, and more at Mariposa Butterfly Festival at the Mariposa Fairgrounds on May 6 and 7.

The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 6 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 7. The parade is at 10 a.m. May 6.

Tickets to the festival are $5. Children 12 and under are free.

LODI STREET FAIRE

Over 500 vendors and thousands of shoppers will converge on downtown Lodi May 7 to enjoy the Lodi Street Faire to sell and purchase antiques, arts & crafts and commercial items at the event sponsored by the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce.

The Street Faire takes up 15-square blocks of Lodi, centered on School Street and the day is full of plenty of activities and delicious food from 25 food vendors. And, no faire is complete without sweet treats and cold drinks. Admission is free.

MOTHER LODE RODEO

The tradition of the Mother Lode Round-Up Rodeo and Parade continues as a tribute to the Western heritage in the Mother Lode. Now in its 64th year, the Mother Lode Round-Up will have a weeklong experience of cowboy and small town tradition that winds up with the RoundUp Parade and Rodeo on Mother’s Day weekend.

The festivities are all day May 13 and 14. It’s held at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds and the parade is on Washington Street in Sonora.

MAY 20 2023

SPRING CRAFT FAIR AT PRESTON CASTLE

The Preston Castle Foundation is hosting a spring craft fair from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 20 at Preston Castle in Ione. The craft fair will feature local artisans and crafters and food trucks will be on site.

Admission is free. Tickets for self-guided tours of the castle will be available.

For more information visit prestoncastle.org/springcraft-fair.

MAY 21 2023

MODESTO PORCHFEST

Modesto Porchfest is a collection of porch parties throughout the LaLoma, College, and Downtown neighborhoods thrown by gracious hosts.  Local bands will perform throughout the afternoon on porch, patio, and driveway “stages” throughout the neighborhoods.   Porchfest will be from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. May 21. Visit modestoporchfest.com for more information.

By CHRISTOPHER CORREA

Downtown Modesto will once again be the place to be if you’re a taco lover on April 29 as the fourth Modesto Taco Fest will be taking over I St. between 11th and 12th streets. e event will see more than 40 food vendors and a number of activities throughout the day for community members and visitors to enjoy.

“It’s just a very fun family friendly event for our local community,” said co-founder Darrel Wilkins. “It seems like everyone loves tacos, so getting everybody together from all ages and all backgrounds is just wonderful, and to celebrate together eating tacos is a very fun thing. It’s a great experience.”

Wilkins may be a familiar name to many in Stanislaus County, as he was born and raised in Modesto and has served as the boys’ head soccer coach for Beyer High School and Modesto Junior College. In 2018, his event business, Pure209, collaborated with Chris Ricci, who now sits on the Modesto City Council, to bring the taco celebration to life.

“I think Modesto might have more Mexican restaurants and taco trucks than any community in the Central Valley, so I think to showcase those trucks and the diversity of tacos from our local communities is important,” Wilkins explained.

e Modesto Taco Fest went strong for two consecutive years before the Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to the fun in 2020 and 2021. e event returned last year to much success, but Wilkins wants to go bigger and better than ever.

“Last year was so good, that this

year we are going to be twice as big. We’re up to about 40 food vendors at the moment, where last year I think we probably had 20,” Wilkins said.

Most of the vendors are from the Stanislaus County region, while attendees will also get to experience some Bay Area and Sacramento based food trucks. Vendors who will cook up tacos include C10 Taqueria, Cocina de Alina, Flacos Tacos, Dos Bros Tacos, Marky Marcs Tacos Y Mas, Birria Fuego, Taqueria El Trebol, Taqueria 209 and more. ere will also be other latin food options such as Conchitas Truck, Mango Crazy, Oaxaca Tamales, Vic’s Churros, Mely’s Churros and Natalia’s Crepes. Modesto restaurants will also have complimentary chips and salsa for guests.

With good food, there must also be good drinks to compliment, which is why this year the event is also collaborating with boutique mobile bar and beverage catering company, Mobile Mixologist. ere will a selection of

regular so drinks and non-alcoholic beverages, as well.

Aside from the abundance of avors, the entertainment is also expected to draw in hundreds of people. e most popular draw in past Taco Fests has been chihuahua races and luchador matches. Traditional Latin music, Mexican bands and Mexican folklorico dancing will take place to further ‘wow’ guests.

Modesto Taco Fest will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $15 for anyone but those under 14 years of age or seniors over the age of 65, who will be admitted free of charge. Tickets can be purchased online at ModestoTacoFest.com or through local non-pro t groups, who will receive a minimum of 33% of their sales.

According to Wilkins, past Taco Fests have done similar donation programs, having donated more than $6,000 to non-pro t groups. is year’s participants are the Ajax United Soccer Club, Modesto Salsa Bachata, Ceres Earthquakes FC, Modesto Rams Youth Football and the Hughson High girls’ soccer program.

“It’s all about investing in the community to make it a better place,” Wilkins said. “If you invest in the community you live in through the fundraisers and the family fun of the event, it’s like watering the grass and it gets greener, and that’s fun in itself.”

For the latest updates on Modesto Taco Fest, “Like” their Facebook page or follow them on Instagram at @ModestoTacoFest. ●

It seems like everyone loves tacos, so getting everybody to celebrate together eating tacos is a very fun thing.

If you invest in the community it’s like watering the grass and it gets greener, and that’s fun in itself.

helping widen horizons of young adults with neurodiverse issues

By DENNIS WYATT

onica and Troy Stelmack love their son Danny.

And like all parents they want to make sure he enjoys a successful life.

Danny happens to be a young adult dealing with neurodiverse issues — autism and other neurologically atypical patterns.

A few years ago, the couple had an epiphany of sorts.

What would their son do a er they are gone?

e public schooling, he had received, only went so far.

How would their son be able to handle the basic challenges of a household from budgeting to cooking and how would he support himself?

en, a er thinking about it for a while, they realized there were other “Dannys” who had parents who likely have asked themselves the same question.

e couple decided to provide an answer to that question.

In 2018, they founded Wide Horizons.

e non-pro t teaches life skills with a robust mentorship program tailored to an individual participant’s unique set of needs.

Wide Horizons also works to nd vocations with tasks that participants are not only uniquely suited to tackle but can do so in such a manner that they become dependable and focused employees.

By accentuating the positive that participants have

as individuals and working with employers, they have been able to place a number of young adults with neurodiverse issues in jobs.

In many cases, they are considered to be among the best workers employers have due to their focus on detail and dependability.

Wide Horizons works with participants to determine

their strengths and interests.

ey then work with prospective employers to determine skill sets they need for jobs.

Wide Horizon then matches the two: A neurodiverse young adult with skills to perform particular jobs so they can contribute to society and help support themselves as well as an em-

ployer in need of dependable hard workers that embrace tasks.

e success of the Wide Horizon e orts are re ected in neurodiverse individuals that have landed employment at area companies such a Delicato Winery, Great Wolf Lodge, Ed’s Rockery, Jackrabbit Equipment in Ripon, and several other area wineries.

Monica serves as the CEO.

As a mother of three boys, including Danny, she has spent the last 26 years ghting for the rights of her children to experience full and complete lives.  She is also an assistant at the Serving Unique Needs ministry

THE SUCCESS OF THE WIDE HORIZON EFFORTS ARE REFLECTED IN NEURODIVERSE INDIVIDUALS THAT HAVE LANDED EMPLOYMENT AT AREA COMPANIES

at Crossroad Grace Church in Manteca.

Her previous roles at companies such as Costco and E&J Gallo required her to provide payroll, leave and absence, FMLA and similar administrative support for as many as 400 employees.

Troy is a Navy CombatAction Veteran and globally recognized project management professional. He has lead projects in excess of $25 million and helped his organization save tens of millions of dollars by leveraging teamwork and applying proven best practices in project management, strategic leadership and nancial accountability.

Troy has been actively involved in the community and the growth and development of its youth for decades.  Organizations with which he has been associated include Manteca Areas Soccer League, Boy Scouts of America, and  the Manteca Soccer Referee Association.

e two — in founding Wide Horizons — wanted to build on their success to help li young adults with neurodiverse issues.

e non-pro t is based in downtown Manteca at 110 North Main Street where they have a learning center along with o ces.

ey can be contacted at (209) 482-4483 or (209) 608-5034 for additional information.

e Wide Horizons website is at www.widehorizons4u.org. ●

By SABRA STAFFORD

For the home chefs who have ever felt chagrinned at tossing away celery fronds or cutting out a chunk of a bell pepper because of a blemish, Chef Philip Saneski has felt your pain. e award-winning chef is going to show people just how some of that food considered “waste” can be turned into something delicious.

Saneski will serve as the guest chef at the Salvage Social Hour that will be at the El Capitan Hotel in Merced from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. April 21. Saneski, with the hotel’s Executive Chef Quentin Garcia as well as chefs from UC Merced, will be serving upcycled foods with sponsors Black Sheep Foods, e Ugly Company, Sundial Foods, and others.

A sampling of the menu includes: Cauli ower Arancini with romesco sauce, Herb Stem Falafel with carrot top chimichurri, Upcycled Za’atar Breadsticks, Sundial Plant-Based Chicken Wings, Peruvian Causa Rellena, Caramelized Chicken Skewer with rescued bread garlic sauce, Tapas Style Albondigas with black sheep foods plantbased lamb, Blondies with Ugly Company dried apricot white chocolate chip, and Renewal Mill Brownies with Ugly Company dried cherries.

Saneski has served as vice president at Product for Regrained, an upcycled food start up and led product development for CCD Innovation, a food and beverage consultancy in the Bay Area. He also has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens and served on the board of the Research Chefs Association, with a particular mission towards expanding the shelf life of various foods.

Priced at $20/person, tickets include an entree and appetizers, in addition to cocktails for sale. Proceeds from the event will go to UC Merced Basic Needs Program, which provides vita resources for students who are struggling with food insecurity. To reserve your spot, reach out to chefmitchv@gmail.com or kimberly.garner@

Chef Philip Saneski is going to show people just how some of that food considered “waste” can be turned into something delicious.

Spring is in the air and right around the corner are hot summer days in the 209. With pleasant weather on the horizon, it is a good time for everyone to think about taking a sabbatical and the place to do that may be a trip to Sabbatical Distillery Bottle Shop and Tasting Bar, 16021 CA-4, Holt on Victoria Island Farms in the California Delta. Co-founders Jack Zech and Daniel Leonard took a long sabbatical leaving their corporate jobs and diving deep into craft spirits. 209 native Zech is a fourth-generation farmer. His family has been farming on Victoria Island for more than 50 years. Zech and Leonard met in college and had discussed creating something on the island bringing people together and serving as a

nexus between the urban and rural areas.

“We also recognize how fortunate we are to be able to do this,” added Zech. “Having the farm and the history and years and years of experience that

By VIRGINIA STILL

everybody has here working on the farm to give us the advice, the building being here, the support from the local community. We could not have done it without all those different things. We appreciate where we come from on this. We want to make the best product that we can and be as successful as we can.”

Leonard noted, “A lot of bars and restaurants we are in now is because someone in the community made the connection and they liked it. There is not that many businesses like us and they recognize what we are doing out here.”

Zech shared, “We are the first distillery in San Joaquin County since prohibition.”

Originally the farm was an asparagus processing facility for many years and then they stopped growing asparagus in 2015. The facility became a storage warehouse and was not in use. Then Sabbatical was born and in 2019 they created their first batch of whiskey. They opened to the public in May of 2021 offering guests a tasting bar of their spirits, bottle shop, tours, and they also host small private events. The distillery is a large open space filled with Amer-

There is not that many businesses like us and they recognize what we are doing out here.

ican oak, French oak, and different types of wine, brandy, and port barrels. The tasting is free and each spirit is described and detailed to the guests. On the farm they grow corn, blueberries, botanicals, and making a return this year is California grown asparagus. Commercially they grow almonds, alfalfa, wheat, and tomatoes. They have a farmers’ market and a U-Pick Blueberry event on Victoria Island Farms where guests go out and pick their own blueberries that are weighed and purchased in the distillery.

“We get people from all over,” expressed Zech about their clientele. “We are off the beaten path and we are really kind of the border between the Valley and the Bay Area. We get a mix of people with different perspectives. So, the whole 209 plus Contra Costa, Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin.”

They have incorporated using all the farm grown goodness in their recipes for their spirits including the corn, which is the base for the whiskey and vodka along with the blueberries that are fused in both the gin and vodka spirits.

“For craft spirits there was a lot of room for growth,” said Leonard. “People don’t have that much access to well-made local craft spirits. So, we thought this is a good opportunity. The farm has done so well for generations. They can grow pretty much anything. We can utilize those ingredients and turn them into something different.”

They have a sensational line up of award-winning spirits like the Blended Whiskey, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Sabado Gin, and Cognac Cask Finished Blended Whiskey. The lineup has a variety of smooth and rich flavors like the 92 proof American Single Malt Whiskey that is made from malted barley mashbill, aged over three years in American oak barrels and then finished in a French white oak cask that previously had Cognac; creating

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Sabbatical Distillery Bottle Shop and Tasting Bar

WHERE:

16021 CA-4 Holt, CA 95234

PHONE: 209-452-9295

EMAIL: hello@drinksabbatical.com

Open Year Round

a very savory offering that brings joy to the palate.

“We have had success so far,” remarked Leonard. “We have been winning quite a few awards and taken a different angle because we didn’t come from the industry so we are making things a little bit differently and people are reacting to that.”

Although their original focus was solely on whiskeys, they have ventured into gin and vodka while experimenting in their lab.

Whether you like gin or not, Sabado Gin is a must taste with the blend of botanicals along with a citrus and floral scent that is light on the tongue and very flavorful. It can be served up chilled in a martini glass or in a glass on the rocks all by itself; no mixers necessary. It’s an award-winning spirit

for a reason; having won double gold at the San Francisco Spirits Competition in 2022 and a silver in the Bartender Spirits Awards.

The Blueberry Lemon flavored Vodka is made with ingredients harvested from their farm and made in small batches. This can be served up chilled, on the rocks or mixed.

“We are really proud of what we have done but we are just getting started,” expressed Leonard. “We are focused on growing and getting more people to know about us. That is a big thing. We are out on an island so whenever we do have a chance for people to meet our brand then they become big fans of it.”

From the first taste of their whiskey creations to gaining more knowledge and experience to expanding into gin and vodka, the guys are proud to bring the 209 community a quality crafted whiskey, gin, and vodka. They enjoy watching people experience their creations during a tasting and now seeing their product in stores, bars, and restaurants.

“It is really fun to see what the bartenders have decided to create with our products,” said Leonard. “That is really

exciting. The professional bartenders, they think of way more creative ways to prepare it and then you can go and try it. Someone else preparing the product that you made with your hands and it is completely different and it is delicious. It is so fun and pretty cool.”

They have expanded their operations since their inception and can be found at retailers, bars and restaurants throughout the 209 including the Armory in Sonora, Oxford Kitchen in Lodi, the Grove House in Mariposa, and the Fox Pub in Modesto. Sabbatical can also be found at liquor stores and grocery stores throughout the 209 and can be found on a map on their website www.drinksabbatical.com. Their products can also be purchased online.

“The opportunity to be able to see where it is made and learn how it is made and then be guided through what we were thinking or what went behind these products and where your ingredients are grown,” stated Leonard. “It is a pretty unique opportunity out here. It is an educational and fun experience.”

The Bottle Shop and Tasting Bar is open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. ●

We didn’t come from the industry so we are making things a little bit differently and people are reacting to that.

By VIRGINIA STILL

Celebrating two years in business, Burly’s California Bistro is a place where families and friends gather for a farm to fork experience. Owner and Manager Da ani Ryan and Owner and Executive Chef Michael Ortiz, along with founder Kimberly Gaynor, collaborated to bring the 209 a menu that is locally sourced and will keep folks coming back for more.

It truly is all in the name as Burly is a nickname for Kimberly; California for diversity; and Bistro for the small casual dining establishment that it is. Locating in West Modesto was purposeful as mom Gaynor and daughter Ryan have lived on that side of town for many years. Ryan is a Modesto High alumnus and her daughter attends school there currently. Gaynor explained that the west side of Modesto did not have upscale dining options so she wanted to create something for people to enjoy without having to go downtown or further.

“We are like an upscale meat and potatoes,” noted Ortiz.

Burly’s may be a relatively new restaurant but Gaynor has been catering for over 30 years with Ortiz and Ryan joining in for over 10. Although they still cater, Gaynor is looking to step down from the restaurant business and retire.

“We wanted a kitchen and then somehow this happened,” added Gaynor about opening a restaurant. “ e restaurant is mainly for these two (Ryan and Ortiz). I am ready to retire.”

ey are open for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday; dinner on Saturdays from 5 p.m. to midnight; and closed

on Sundays. ere is a huge mural of what was going to be a geographically correct painting of Modesto but had so much interest from others to be added to the wall that it has grown to feature many businesses in the area. ere are some notable landmarks like the DoubleTree as well as hidden Star Wars items.

Ortiz has been a chef for about 20 years and has worked at several di erent restaurants in his career. He graduated from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco.

He said, “I have a well-rounded background. I did a little bit of everything.”

e farm to table was tting for the trio as they are surrounded by farms and have relationships with several local businesses including Dave’s Meat, Zaiger’s Genetics, Fisher Nut Company, Stewart and Jasper Orchards, Fiscalini Cheese and Alpine Paci c Nut Co.

“We get a lot of farmers in here,” said Gaynor.

ey collaborated on the menu that

has starters, salads, soups, and entrées like the Whiskey Peppercorn Sirloin that is a customer favorite. It comes with garlic whipped potatoes, and a local seasonal vegetable that is topped with a avorful whiskey cream sauce that brings extreme delight to the palate.

“Our whiskey sauce is really good,” said Ryan. “ e chef did a great job on that one. at is our go to. We suck people in with that sauce. It is hands down one of the best. He is a very talented dude. Everything is made from scratch; nothing is out of a can. We use everyone local.”

Every ursday is Prime Rib Night at Burly’s where guests can get a tender, well-seasoned cut of meat with garlic whipped mashed potatoes and seasonal mixed veggies.

e Crispy Calamari, Ahi Tuna Poke, and Almond Crusted Chicken Skewers are some of the starters that are top sellers.

eir one and only pasta on the menu is the chicken or shrimp Cavatappi ala Vodka that lights the tastebuds on re served in a cream sauce with mushrooms, garlic and pepper akes.

e avor pro le is spicy but very tasty and hard to stop eating.

e seared salmon is a guest favorite served with a mushroom risotto, asparagus, and lemon thyme sauce.

For those looking for something simple, another customer favorite is Dave’s Meat Beef Burger topped with Fiscalini cheese, peppercorn aioli, tomato, and pickled red onions on a brioche bun.

“It is a service industry so that is what it is for, the customers,” remarked Ortiz. “When they are happy, I am

— Michael Ortiz

We are like an upscale meat and potatoes.

happy. We have really loyal customers. Since day one we have had the same people coming into this restaurant.”

ey have a full bar and an extensive wine list with an assortment of reds and whites. On Wine Wednesday there are several varietals that are half price with the purchase of an entrée. Although there is happiness throughout the restaurant, Burly’s has a Happy Hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. except on Tipsy Tuesdays where happy hour continues in the bar until closing.

e location was formerly a church that had wood pieces with scripture on it. When they renovated the building, they incorporated those pieces into Burly’s.

“Our chef and his father-inlaw and my husband built this place,” stated Ryan about the hard work that was done prior to opening. “All the electrical my husband did and chef and his father-in-law did mostly everything.”

ere is a warm familyfriendly vibe in the quaint, casual restaurant where everyone seems to know everyone. Ryan pointed out a customer that graduated from Modesto High at the next table. People walked in saying “Happy birthday” and giving hugs to Gaynor, as her birthday was in March.

“Everybody knows everybody when they walk in,” expressed Gaynor. “We are from West Modesto. It is really important to us to be on this side of town.” ●

Ancient winemaking

at Story Winery

By KRISTINA HACKER

No need for a Delorean to travel back in time for wine lovers to experience the origins of the nectar of the gods. David Dediachvili has brought ancient winemaking techniques to Story Winery in Plymouth.

—David Dediachvili

e country of Georgia is considered the “cradle of wine,” as archaeologists have traced the

rst evidence of winemaking to the region in 6,000BC. Dediachvili is using what he learned about winemaking in his native Georgia to create a unique California wine.

“We say that wine is in our blood,” said Dediachvili about his Georgian heritage.

e retired healthcare entrepreneur decided in 2019 that he wanted to bring a little bit of his

We say that wine is in our blood.

Georgian heritage to Central California’s wine country and bought Story Winery, established in 1973 by Dr. Eugene Story, a winery that already came with a reputation for creating great wine.

The Georgian technique of winemaking involves pressing the grapes and then pouring the juice, grape skins, stalks and pips into qvevri — subterranean eggshaped earthenware vessels — to ferment for six months and then finished in oak barrels.

Dediachvili imports all the qvevri used at Story Winery from Georgia, as the vessels are handmade.

Story Winery is using this Georgian style of winemaking with California grapes, while also importing wine from his winery in Georgia using Georgian grapes.

“Georgia grows over 500 varietals of grapes that don’t grow anywhere else,” he said.

Both wines made from California and Georgian grapes are available for tasting at Story Winery, located in the Shenandoah Valley of Amador County. The tasting room overlooks some of the best panoramic views in the Valley, amidst a 120-year-old vineyard. The winery grounds, which include picnic tables, are open daily. ●

Tsitska is part of the Imereti family of indigenous Georgian vines. The variety is believed to be among the oldest white grape varieties in western Georgia. It has nice freshness and balance with aromas of linden and a note of honey.

Named after the family’s affectionate brand ambassador dog, Simba, this Chardonnay has fruity notes.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Story Winery

WHEN: Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday and noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday

WHERE: 10525 Bell Rd., Plymouth

INFO: storywinery.com or (209) 245-6208

2020 Tsitska

2020 Simba’s Dream Chardonnay

By VIRGINIA STILL

There are several places in the 209 to indulge in edible delights and libations that will leave a lasting memory. With so many things to celebrate like Easter and Mother’s Day people in the 209 may be looking for a jewel of an establishment with great food and great service to spend time with the people they love.

For Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 14 Camps Restaurant, 711 McCauley Ranch Road in Angels Camp will o er a Mother’s Day brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature specialty curated cocktails and wine. e pristine green golf course at Greenhorn Creek resort and the beautiful

views makes this gem in the Mother Lode worth the trip for a special day to remember.

Call for reservations at 209-729-8181.

Another option is the Oxford Kitchen, 110 W. Oak in Lodi where guests can indulge in an eclectic menu with a unique blend of avors that will take your taste buds on a global tour. e Beef Wellington is of English origin and melts in your mouth or 209ers may enjoy the ever so popular and very tasty Fish n Chips. is cosmopolitan restaurant with a swanky bar has a delectable brunch and dinner for those that are looking to make some memories.

Call for reservations at 209-263-7234.

It is nice to have traditions and nice to do something new or a little di erent especially for special occasions. A change of scenery, a road trip, and time spent with great company around the table at an exceptional establishment with savory cuisine is a fabulous time any day. ●

aking mom out for high tea is a Mother’s Day tradition and there are a variety of shops to visit in the 209, including a new place in Oakdale.

With this tea shop the 209 has gained a rare gem which has been a long time in the making. At a time when historical buildings are being transformed to more modern interiors, that is far from the case of the recently opened Tea at 202 in Oakdale.

Owner Oly Truhett and lifelong partner Jim Bauman have spared little by way of time, detail or expense in recreating the 1884 Victorian home at 202 E. G St., Oakdale.

“ e minute I bought this house, I walked in and I could see it all done,” Truhett said of the Victorian being transformed into a tea house. “I envisioned everything.”

Admitting to a love of all things “pretty” and a love for “playing house” with her sister Judy Furtado, Truhett has hosted tea parties at her Orange Blossom, Oakdale home for friends and non-pro ts for years. A lover of antiques and antiquing, she shared she’d always wanted to bring a tea house into town,

TEA TIME AT 202

By TERESA HAMMOND

as well as preserve the history of the Victorian time period.

“It’s just me,” she said of the Victorian style. “It’s just always been my thing and my vision.”

So close to 11 years ago, along with partner Bauman, the couple began work on the property, starting with the cinder block building adjacent to the Victorian.

First opened in mid-October 2022, the Tea at 202 tea house has been well received in the 209 and beyond. e reservation only based business o ers two seatings; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Friday through Sunday.

Truhett, with the help of sister Judy, her daughter Tina (Furtado) Lucas, as well as her daughter in-law Carol Furtado, the fearless foursome bring their guests a true tea party experience complete with varying teas from the Azores, scones, nger sandwiches and signature desserts.

Truhett and her three dedicated accomplices gather at the house each week prior to hosting their guests to prepare everything that will be served. e homemade items are cra ed in the commercial kitchen of the 1884 home.

“ ese are recipes I’ve done forever,” Truhett said. “ e sugar cookies we’ve

baked since we were kids. We’ve baked all our lives. Everything is traditional. We’re trying to do everything traditional.”

Current cost for the 90-minute experience is $35 per person. According to Lucas, the response has been very successful and they continue to book parties for spring and beyond.

“It’s a tea time experience. at’s what we call it, it’s not just come in and have scones,” Truhett continued of the total experience.

e space that’s been created can host 26 to 30 per seating and private rooms are available at an additional cost.

Upon entering the home, the ve-year labor of love given to the space from the two owners is apparent. From the furnishings, to the moldings, oors, curtains, to serving pieces; nothing has been overlooked. Truhett shared that she and Bauman enjoy antiquing and through the years have collected much of what is being used for the current business venture.

To make a reservation or for additional information on Tea at 202, call 209-493-7431. ●

Judy Furtado is all smiles as she dishes up dessert for some guests of Tea at 202.

Bending Trending

Event Yoga in the 209

By TERESA HAMMOND

Whether one is looking for some fresh air, fun with some furry friends, enjoying a cold beverage or getting in some needed stretching, Event Yoga has quickly become a must for many in the 209.

Certified Yoga Instructors and Event Yoga Teachers Stephannie Schmit and Brittnie King not only share a love of teaching, they each share a love for bringing yoga to a varied student base by way of events. While the instructors operate separately of one another, Schmit a teacher with Studio V Pilates and King leading at Elevate Community Yoga, Modesto yoga studios, they also lead a variety of yoga events throughout the 209. “It’s approachable,” King stated about what makes event yoga different. “Event yoga is approachable for anybody. Yoga can be intimidating. It’s only a couple times of year, that’s something you can

commit to. You’re not committing to a weekly class, yet. That’s the biggest thing is how accommodating it is to any schedule.”

“I love doing events. It’s probably my favorite,” Schmit shared, noting first starting in her backyard with friends

close to five years ago.

“I tried to think of creative ways to bring people together,” she continued. For Schmit those “creative” ways resulted in recurring practices of Alpaca Yoga at Macedo Mini Acre in Turlock, as well Beer Yoga at Five Eye Brewery in Ceres and Dying Breed Brewery in Oakdale.

Upcoming events at two of the locations will be Saturday, April 22 at Dying Breed and May 12 and 13 at Macedo Mini Acre.

“It’s a great location. It’s so beautiful,” Schmit said of Macedo Mini Acre and the alpacas. “It’s the most unique experience you’ve ever had. You just have to come with no expectations, because you’re in the dirt, you’re on a farm.”

Of the two events she will host with the alpacas in May, one will be a “wine down” event in the evening, while the other will be a sip and stretch the following morning. Alpaca classes accommodate 50 people.

“It’s the most unique experience you’ve ever had. You just have to come with no expectations, because you’re in the dirt, you’re on a farm.”

Schmit explained the alpacas are gentle creatures and may approach and interact with participants during the 40-minute class.

Each of the two teachers, sharing a love of beer and yoga, partner with different breweries to host events.

“It’s the funnest day ever. If you’ve never done yoga and you like beer, it’s the best class to go to,” King said.

King, who also started teaching event yoga in her backyard six years ago, shared her interest stemmed from partnering initially with her husband who has a passion as a home brewer. The couple would host tastings, while King led a yoga class through a flight of brew. That eventually blossomed to King partnering with Blaker Brewery where she now exclusively leads beer as well as goat yoga. While her goat yoga classes are hosted at Blaker Brewing – The Tarmac in Atwater, she also hosts some beer yoga events at the Ceres Blaker location.

“Most of my classes we do a gentle flow, but the main focus is the drink,” King said.

“So you’re enjoying the beer while doing yoga.”

Adding adventure

and playfulness to the mix can be done through the addition of goats.

“It’s just an ambience, like Stephannie does with the alpacas,” King said, explaining that eight to 10 goats are brought to The Tarmac by a handler.

“You’re basically doing yoga, while drinking a beer with goats running around,” she continued.

Her classes tend to run between 45 to 50 minutes once attendees are settled in. King’s next beer yoga class will be at Blaker Brewing in Ceres on May 7 and her next goat yoga event will be hosted at The Tarmac May 21.

“It gives a new yogi a chance to try yoga,” Schmit said of the appeal and benefit of event yoga, sharing it’s inviting and not the same pressure of a yoga studio. “I just feel so joyful to bring people into a new environment to try something new and get a friend to try something new.

“If it brings them joy, then it brings me joy,” she continued. “The energy that everybody brings. They’re coming with such positive energy and it’s contagious.”

“Anyone who says I’m not flexible enough for yoga are exactly who should try yoga, because that’s what happens over time,” King added. “You stretch your muscles to guide your body to help bend so you don’t break.”

It is something truly for everyone to try, she said.

“The event yoga is just widely approachable and that I think is the best part. What I love about it, is it’s accommodating,” King concluded. “You don’t have to know how to do yoga to attend event yoga. Event yoga allows you to show up and do what works for you and your body. Even sit and watch while you drink your beer.”

Event yoga prices range from $30 to $65 depending on the event and its offerings. Details on listed events and upcoming classes may be found on Event Brite or the teachers’Instagram pages: schmiiit and cudownie_kingsthings. ●

“You don’t have to know how to do yoga to attend event yoga.”

SERVING UP FAMILY FUN

RIPON FARMERS MARKET

By MARG JACKSON

For a ve-month period from early May through late September, fresh produce takes center stage in Ripon. Hosted weekly, the Ripon Farmers Market serves as a fundraiser for Garden Joy, a community-centered garden that both teaches youngsters about sustainable growing practices and bene ts local food banks through donations.

e market runs each ursday evening, with the 2023 dates from ursday, May 4 through ursday, Sept. 28. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and the market is set up in the parking lot at Garden Joy, 929 W. Main St., Ripon.

Sarah Darpinian is Executive Director at Garden Joy while Heather Crooker is the Market Manager for the weekly Farmers Market.

“ e market is a fundraiser for Garden Joy,” explained Crooker. “All of our vendor fees go to the garden.”

Opening the market in 2019, Darpinian said that’s the year that Crooker joined the board of Garden Joy and, as a market vendor with E&H Farms out of Oakdale, specializing in gourmet mushrooms, she was already o en attending the market.

“She o ered to take over managing the farmers market, she has made it bigger and better,” Darpinian explained of board member Crooker stepping up. “She had a lot of vendor contacts and she started managing it in 2021.”

Garden Joy shares space in Ripon with Studio Joy, a yoga studio, so it is that parking lot that lls up with booths, activities and shoppers throughout the summer.

“We think of it of not just having a farmers market but creating an experience,” noted Crooker. “ ere’s live music, a beer garden, local artists on the front lawn, one week there

might be painting, another week sculpting, water colors and, in the garden every other week, we have some sort of class.”

e two agree it’s “not your typical” farmers market, as it serves up plenty of interactive activities for all ages in addition to the fresh produce, herbs, weekly pop-up food vendors and more.

is year, since the rst market is scheduled on May 4, it coincides with ‘Star Wars Day’ – May the Fourth be with you – so they are planning to have a variety of Star Wars characters on hand to pose for photos with attendees.

Several vendors also indicated they will have some Star Wars specials for the market’s opening day.

e 2023 market is shaping up to be a good one, the two said, as there are 42 total vendors signed up and they will once again have rotating food trucks each week o ering items from sushi to burritos. e weekly pop-up food vendors have traditional fare ranging from hot dogs to tamales and many families make an evening of it, eating, shopping and enjoying a family outing at the

market.

And while the booths are set up in the parking lot, there are also activities in the garden and a large lawn area with sprinklers that are o en turned on in the heat of the summer, providing a refreshingly cool spot for kids to run and play. Classes o ered every other week will include poetry, cooking and more.

SONS Farm Fresh, Way of Life organics, E&H Farms mushrooms, Christine’s Garden, Rancho Azul blueberries and Drake’s Micro Greens are the main produce vendors attending the weekly market while specialty goods range from sourdough to soaps, candles to cutting boards. There are also rotating vendor spots for clothing, jewelry, houseplants and other items, so each week has a little something different.

“We have a lot of volunteers the day of, to help in the parking lot,” explained Crooker.

ere is also a schedule of when vendors are to arrive, since they have to strategically organize them in order to allow for an easy ow of foot tra c.

Strand Ace Hardware, with stores in Escalon, Ripon,

Modesto and Manteca, is the sponsor for this year’s Ripon Farmers Market.

“For Garden Joy, I think the market has really brought awareness to the fact that Garden Joy exists,” said Darpinian. “We started in 2018 and we lease the land (for Garden Joy) from Studio Joy; we’re a nonpro t and Garden Joy grows and donates about 2,000 pounds of food per year, we donate to food pantries.”

e summer market is wellsupported by area communities, with many residents in the 209 setting aside at least one ursday evening during the summer to head to Ripon.

“We get people from Turlock to Lodi, a lot from Ripon, Escalon, Manteca,” noted Darpinian.

More information is available on the Garden Joy website, with market updates provided frequently throughout the vemonth run. Visit gardenjoyca. com to learn more.

“I hear from a lot of vendors that this is one of their favorite markets,” added Crooker. “ ey can bring their kids and hang out, it’s just a really family friendly event.” ●

“WE GET PEOPLE FROM TURLOCK TO LODI, A LOT FROM RIPON, ESCALON, MANTECA,” NOTED DARPINIAN.”

CONNECT WITH YOUR CREATIVE SIDE AT DRAGONFLY ART FOR LIFE

By JULIE ROSE

Looking for a space to paint, draw, or create your own work? Have those creative vibes but not sure how to use them? Just want a place to relax and rejuvenate and see where your thoughts and emotions lead? Dragon y Art For Life may just be the answer you are seeking. e open concept studio o ers a place for visual artists to use their skills and explore new ones.

Owner Barbara Alvarado invites artists of every level to come to the studio and use the space as they need. Perhaps you have your own project and supplies but need a place to do your work. Maybe you’re thinking about trying a particular medium but are not ready to commit to the cost of the supplies. Dragon y Art For Life o ers opportunities for individuals and groups to be creative as ts them best. e tables, easels and supplies are available to use Tuesday through Saturday. Instructors are onsite to support and walk through techniques as needed.

Alvarado and fellow partner and instructor, Patrick Barr, o er individual lessons in a variety of mediums as well as small group sessions. e cost is $25 per class.

Classes are o ered in acrylics, watercolor, digital painting, mixed media, cartooning, lettering, charcoal and drawing. Surfaces used include canvas, watercolor paper, pastel paper, wood, glass, mixed media, sewing and textile art. ere are also classes in mythological creatures drawing, character development and beginning sewing both machine and handstitching.

Memberships are available for $50 per month. Members have access to the studio during open hours which includes use of the supplies and instructor support. e fee also includes one canvas and a 20% discount on individual sessions.

Group classes are scheduled at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

e classes are taught in four sessions; the cost is $100 which includes that month’s membership fee. Whether you’ve never touched a brush, have always been an artist, or just want to be creative, come into Dragon y Art For Life and experience all the studio has to o er. Alvarado and Barr are ready to welcome and assist you.

Dragon y Art For Life is located at 1210 J. Street in Modesto. e studio is open 12 – 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Friday night events are held at 7 p.m.

For more information call the studio at 209 916-4489 or visit their website. Gi certi cates are available. ●

Announcing 26th Anniversary of

SIX COUNTY ALL STAR SENIOR BASKETBALL CLASSIC

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR BOYS AND GIRLS ALL-STAR GAMES! THESE GAMES WILL FEATURE THE TOP PLAYERS IN THE AREA.

DOORS OPEN AT 5:30 PM

GIRL’S GAME 6:00 PM, | BOY’S GAME 8:00 PM.

3 POINT SHOOT OUT & SLAM DUNK CONTEST

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR

$12 ADULTS • $10 SENIORS (65+)

$8 STUDENT (K-12) • $5 YOUTH PLAYERS (K-8)

MUST WEAR THEIR BASKETBALL

JERSEY TO GET IN AT THIS PRICE.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: & MODESTO SLAM-N-JAM

BOBBY COLE GAME DIRECTOR

LAKE TAHOE’S THUNDERBIRD LODGE

If you don’t know it’s there, you won’t see it while driving around Lake Tahoe. Nestled on a coastal spur on the Nevada side sits underbird Lodge, the home of “accidental” conservationist and multi-millionaire George Whittell, Jr. And that’s just the way he wanted it.

An Unplanned Legacy

Born in San Francisco in 1881, Whittell inherited his parent’s vast fortune, and was able to indulge in his dream of “never working a day in his life,” instead pursuing his love of adventure and the unusual, from running away to join the circus, to safaris in Africa, to serving as an ambulance driver in World War I. Exiting the stock market with $50 million just before the 1929 crash (equivalent to $4 billion today), he chose to move to Nevada to dodge California income and real estate taxes. It was with this decision that his unintentional Tahoe legacy begins.

By the early 1900s, Tahoe’s mountains had been logged to bare rock. Timber barons saw no value in the land and were eager to sell. With ready cash, and a desire for solitude, Whittell purchased 40,000 acres along 27 miles of shoreline extending from Incline

By CLAUDIA NEWCORN

Village to Zephyr Cove. Although he had originally planned to develop parts of the lake, he grew to see the worth of preserving the region, and resisted offers and demands, building an isolated summer retreat.

As time progressed, the state of

Nevada felt that nobody should own so much land, and used eminent domain to take Sand Harbor. In 1960, he was pushed to sell 9,000 acres of property to developers who would create today’s Incline Village. Whittell was forced to sell o additional parcels over the years, until his death in 1969.

Acquired by Jack Dreyfus in 1972, much of the remaining 25,000 acres were sold to the Nevada State Parks and the US Forest Service, ensuring no further development. Dreyfus added to the building, but spent little time there. In 1993, he sold the Lodge in a complex government exchange in which the land went to the US Forest Service, and responsibility for the historic structures were taken on by the non-pro t underbird Lodge Preservation Society, which manages the property today.

The Lake Cottage

In 1936, construction of underbird Lodge commenced. Whittell was a hands-on owner, constantly changing proposed designs, meticulous about detail. Completed in 1941, the Lake Cottage, as it was originally called, included six cottages built of native stone and timber. He explicitly wanted it to blend in with the natural surroundings. Some

Crafted with Honduran mahogany, featuring a gleaming steel and chrome Duesenbergstyled exterior top cabin, the “Queen of the Lake” was designed by famed naval architect John L. Hacker explicitly for use on Lake Tahoe.

navigator

buildings were for his exotic animals collection, including elephants and a lion.

Built in the “Tudor Revival” style, gabled walls chiseled from mellowed stone sit under steeply sloped shake roofs.

Hand-wrought ironwork lamps and xtures accent carved wooden beams, stairs and railings glow golden in the ruddy sunlight bouncing through the diamond-paned windows that grant visitors a glorious view of Lake Tahoe.

e home is four stories, including the servants’ quarters in the basement. A ham radio, movie camera, a hydroelectric plant fed by an elaborate fountain, air conditioning, and an exercise machine reveal Whittell’s interest in (at the time) leading-edge technologies. An electronic intruder sensor-siren system and hidden passages, stairways, and cupboards re ect his passion for privacy; he was known to “disappear” from card games or his wealthy guests when he tired of them.

Stone pathways curl about the massive granite boulders and gardens, edging along the cove where boats docked and guests would swim, overlooked by a restored lighthouse. Stories say that Whittell would light its beacon so he could nd his way back from visits around the lake.

Queen of the Lake

A twisting 600-foot underground tunnel extends from the main house to the boathouse. Out-of-work miners blasted the tunnel and the stone was used to build the pathways. In one chamber, a dancing devils replace grate likely gave eerie illumination to what is believed to be an opium den, a perfectly acceptable practice in the day. An unknown room, re-discovered a er Whitell’s death, is an un nished swimming pool. A worker died there in an accident, and Whittell chose to seal it o . e beautifully maintained 55-foot long vintage 1940 underbird Yacht personi ed Whittell’s love of technology and opulence. Cra ed with Honduran mahogany, featuring a gleaming steel and chrome Duesenberg-styled exterior top cabin, the “Queen of the Lake” was designed by famed naval architect John L. Hacker explicitly for use on Lake Tahoe.

Nicknamed the “Castle in the Sky” by locals, the Lodge is now on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to private and group tours, underbird Lake Tahoe is popular to rent for parties, weddings, corporate events, school programs and more. Note that to visit, you have to take a shuttle bus that leaves from Incline Village; no private cars are allowed at the Lodge. (thunderbirdtahoe. org). ●

By DENNIS WYATT

MORGAN HILL — Shangri-La does exist.

It’s a two hour drive from the Northern San Joaquin Valley followed by a blissful 5-mile hike to a spot that in another day and age one might aptly have called a swimming hole.

Once there you can reward yourself with a lazy nap, stretched out on a boulder at the edge of a 20-foot wide and 8-foot deep pool of clear water on Coyote Creek fed by early spring runoff. It’s hard to figure out what’s more rewarding — your eyelids getting heavy surrounded by rolling hills of stunning greenery unmarred by signs of civilization save the trail that brought you there or waking up from a mid-day nap to scenery that puts anything you can dream about to shame.

Welcome to China Hole, one of the gems you’ll find in Henry Coe State Park high above the Santa Clara Valley protected by the steep ridge lines of the Diablo Range.

There are a lot of reasons to venture to the Northern California’s second largest state park with its 87,000 acres of seemingly endless hills, valleys, and mountain ridges without a structure, telephone pole

There are a lot of reasons to venture to the Northern California’s second largest state park.

PHOTO BY DENNIS WYATT/ 209

or even fence in sight from as far as you can see from almost every vague point you reach.

Solitude, however, tops the list.

It’s a place that draws around 40,000 visitors a year — a mere pittance compared to those that venture to the hikeable 1.3 million acres found in state, regional, and county parks that ring the San Francisco Bay Area.

There are more than 250 miles of trails that include old ranch roads that lure hikers, backpackers, mountain bike enthusiasts, and equestrians.

Because of its low numbers the park has a true wilderness area with about a fourth of the park that’s devoid of trails. It is the real McCoy when it comes to offering a visual taste of “wild” California in terms of the landscape that once was spread across much of the valleys and mountains of not just the East Bay and South Bay but the western edge of the Northern San Joaquin Valley as well.

The park actually covers parts of two counties - Santa Clara and Stanislaus. Its highest point — Mt. Stakes at 3,804 feet — sits within Stanislaus County on the park’s northern boundary. Mt. Stakes some 22 miles west of Newman also happens to be the highest point in Stanislaus County.

Most of the 40,000 visitors enter the park by taking the East Dunne Avenue exit on Highway 101 in Morgan Hill and driving 14 miles to its terminus at 2,664 feet above sea level.

If you want even more solitude for a day hike there are three other seasonal, weekend entrances with two accesses from the Gilroy area and the other from the ridge line that runs from Livermore to Mt. Hamilton that can be accessed driving up Del Puerto Canyon out of Patterson.

The views along Dunne Avenue as you take a narrow windy road out of the Santa Clara Valley are impressive as well but pale into comparison with what you can find even on just a two mile or so

walk-about from the park headquarters.

The most popular destination in the spring is China Hole. Coyote Creek will dry up as spring unfolds with China Hole itself likely to disappear by midJune.

It is comparable in a way to the popular Little Yosemite Valley swimming hole to the north in the Sunol Regional Park south of Pleasanton with a bit less trees overhanging the creek.

China Hole is also a slightly longer hike without a relatively flat trail option you could take instead of crisscrossing hillsides where the effort is rewarded with striking vistas. The biggest difference is the depth of the wilderness and accompanying solitude thanks to the dearth of people.

On my most recent trip I opted for a 10-mile loop that avoided ranch road segments as much as possible. That allowed for maximizing the hiking experience given narrow trails weds you with nature more so than a primitive dirt road that carries with it the knowl-

edge that vehicles can travel it.

Given the tight space at the park headquarters for parking, you will likely end up parking at the entrance parking lot that affords you a stunning view in its own right of the southern Santa Clara Valley to the west and the park to the east.

There is a pleasant half mile long trail dubbed Live Oak Trail that takes you from that parking lot right past the park headquarters building where you pay your $8 per vehicle entrance fee.

By opting to stay on trails I was able to enjoy 10 easy and slightly whimsical crossings of Soda Springs in a rugged canyon. It offered plenty of excuses to stop and take photos and video of the stream tumbling over rocks.

The most temperate times to visit the year round state park are spring and fall. Usually by now park rangers and volunteers will tell you the peak is ablaze in color. But the cooler weather and late rains delayed earnest blooming. That means there is a solid month-long window until perhaps mid-May to savor nature’s palette as it unfolds.

The scenery for the next month or so will be in the “green mode” you’d expect to see in late January or early February during a normal winter at Mt. Diablo State Park.

Besides backpacker camping there are 20 drive-in campsites.

Given this is a wilderness area, Henry Coe State Park is home to mule deer and a variety of smaller animals such as black-tailed jackrabbits, raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and rabbits to name a few. There are even elusive mountain lions roaming the park. During my visit I came across none of the aforementioned but there were a large number of hawks and other raptors as well as birds.

You need to carry adequate water with you and also dress accordingly. Even when temperatures start to dance with the 80s, if you are out and about as sunset approaches it can get chilly. ●

China Hole is also a slightly longer hike without a relatively flat trail option you could take instead of crisscrossing hillsides where the effort is rewarded with striking vistas.

rst time mom of a 31-year-old son and a 28-year-old daughter and continue to be amazed with the wonderful lives they have built for themselves. Later in life, our relationship is more interesting, and friendship has emerged in the best possible way, however, parenting continues ... all the days of our lives. What does it mean to be a mother? It’s the most rewarding job of my life.”

Cheryl Brunk, mother of two: John Tyler Brunk and Kristen Brunk

So as Mother’s Day draws near, as women, celebrate your mentors; as daughters love on the ladies who did their best to “get it right” and as moms remember “the days are long, but the years are short.”

Happy Mother’s Day! ●

Hostas are very strong plants and feel at home in many places. With their beautiful leaves and ease of care, these perennials are very popular right now. ere is plenty of choice in colors and patterns: from dark green to blue and from spotted to variegated. Versatile hostas will bring you months of joy, year a er year.

Color variations

Hostas originate from northeast Asia. In 1784, the first seeds were brought from the Chinese port of Macau to the Jardin des Plantes in Paris. Initially a true collector’s plant, today this perennial is loved by a varied audience. This is hardly surprising, given the beautiful leaves in all sorts of sizes, shapes and color variations from blue-gray to variegated white-green. What’s more, in summer, graceful stalks bearing white, blue or lilac flowers also make an appearance.

Where to plant hostas

Hostas like moist soil and organic fertilizer. Most hosta species thrive in a semi-shaded spot. The guideline here is that blue-leaved hostas do well in the shade and that yellow-leaved ones can handle a little more sun. The more variegated the leaves, the less sun they will toler-

ate. Hostas with thicker leaves, on the other hand, can tolerate more sun. They look great in ornamental pots, in a mixed border, on water banks and as solitary plants. The lowest variety will grow to about 4 inches, while the tallest can grow higher than 3 feet.

Keeping snails away

Many hostas suffer from slug infestations. Fortunately, there are plenty of environmentally friendly methods to protect your hostas against snails. A regular snail-catching session at dusk will go a long way. Setting up a wide circle with broken shells or coffee grounds around your plant (or pot) can also work as a slug barrier. Spraying hostas with garlic powder dissolved in water should also keep snails at bay.

Fun idea

Create a hosta corner featuring plants with different leaf colors. Position taller varieties behind low-growing ones. ●

 Hostas are also known as plantain lilies.

 There are more than 7,000 different hosta varieties.

 The plant got its name from Emperor Franz I of Austria’s physician: N. Th. Host (1761-1834).

 Some hosta flowers smell divine!

 Hostas are not evergreen. In autumn, this perennial will die back, and sprout again in the spring.

 Hostas are perfectly hardy. Some varieties can easily handle temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, including in pots!

 Variegated hostas are also known as streakers, and no two leaves are ever the same.

Spraying hostas with garlic powder dissolved in water should keep snails at bay.

If you’ve ever driven by a stylish home and harbored the desire to poke around the inside, then the Carnegie Arts Center in Turlock has the perfect event for you.

The Carnegie Arts Center is holding The Art of Design, a two-day fundraising event that features uniquely designed homes and highlights the creative expression of designers, homeowners, and some local artists.

The Art of Design Twilight Tour is from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. May 12. The Home & Garden Tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 13. Twilight Tour tickets are $75 for Carnegie Arts Center members and $90 for non-members; advance purchase Home & Garden Tour tickets are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers; tickets purchased on the day of the event will be $35. Tickets are available at the Carnegie Arts Center and online at carnegieartsturlock.org. Proceeds from the weekend’s events go toward support for the CAC’s exciting exhibitions and youth educational programs that serve the entire community.

This year’s homes are:

Carnegie fundraiser returns with twilight, home & garden tour

By SABRA STAFFORD

Cahill Avenue

This urban farmhouse is a classic turn-of-thecentury, two-story design with a large front porch, pine oors, and original wood sash windows. The furnishings are simple, exuding the charm and comfort associated with traditional American design.

Kensington Drive

This traditional California ranch style home was built in 1997. There have been many cosmetic changes over the years, the most recent was a kitchen and great room remodel in 2022.  “The kitchen is my favorite place in the house. I can now create, cook, and entertain while looking out over my comforting and colorful backyard,” commented the homeowner. The master suite is a quiet sanctuary with soothing colors and beautiful, contemporary amenities. Sharon Jaureguy, of Jaureguy’s Design and Construction, has transformed almost every room in the home.

Peacock Drive

This single-story home was built in the mid-1980s. The homeowners purchased it originally as a rental property, then remodeled it in 2014 to make it their own, commenting, “We love the one level floor plan.” The redesign of the yard by local landscape designer Lee Harris created a welcoming and maintenancefree living space. A bocce ball court, fire pit, and front courtyard have become gathering places for family and friends.

Daubenberger Road

Built in 1911, this historic Turlock home was originally located on East Main Street. It was moved in 1969 to its current location where new owners made major changes to the Arts and Crafts elevation, giving it a style reminiscent of Spanish Colonial. The current homeowners purchased the property in 2017 and recently completed extensive updates, beginning with the 1872 barn. The home’s modern design reflects an elegant yet easy lifestyle. The late Michelle Tucker, took on the interior design. Her vision was to maintain the traditional style of the house while incorporating a modern simplicity using neutral colors and clean-line fixtures and trim. Knowing the family would spend a majority of its time in the kitchen, she made it extremely functional with the placement of the appliances and counter space.  “The addition of a 16 foot island is the focal piece in the kitchen that is used for hosting large parties to our everyday meals; we simply love it,” reported the homeowners.

THE AMAZING WORLD OF JOYSTIQ

By CHRISTOPHER CORREA

Have you ever met anyone who doesn’t like playing a game of any sort? Merced native Andy Beltran sure hasn’t, and he has made it his mission to provide his hometown with as many fun activities as possible inside his new business, Joystiq.

Joystiq is an arcade bar that opened in mid-January located in the heart of downtown Merced at 325 W. Main St. Within the doors of the two-story building is 8,500 square feet full of fun, with walls decorated in unique patterns and multiple seating areas surrounded by literal hundreds of games. Whether they are arcade games, board games, modern or vintage video games, outdoor-style games like cornhole or even sports games on one of the dozens of televisions, there are games to suit anyone’s interest.

“Fun is my whole thing, and I want to have a place for everybody,” Beltran said.

Beltran explained that the inspiration behind Joystiq came when he came across a similar venue while living in Philadelphia for work. He always knew he wanted to own a business one day like most of his family, and the experience at the arcade bar made his vision clearer.

“I worked out there in Philadelphia, saved up money knowing that I wanted to open up a business one day, and I always wanted to come back to Merced to do it because growing

up here, there really wasn’t much to do, and once you get to a certain age, you look back and realize how amazing childhood is,” he said.

Launching the business was a long time coming, though. While still living in Philadelphia in 2016, Beltran and his family noticed that the building, which used to be home to a Taekwondo gym, came up for sale, and it was one of those

opportunities that they felt they couldn’t pass up. Work to transform the building got underway when Beltran moved back to Merced in 2017, but his dream was put on hold due to the uncertainty brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We obviously didn’t know what was going to happen with the world, so we couldn’t really spend money. Like, we couldn’t

plan for a restaurant if we didn’t know for certain about the future of the industry, especially at the height of those times, so we just had to take a step back, and eventually, the world started picking back up again,” Beltran explained.

For those ve years in between the purchase of the building to now, Beltran was able to put his creative mind to work in more ways than one. Not only did he come up with most of the wall and room designs on his own, but the

furniture and art that accompany the space were built or salvaged by him and his family members.

On one side of the building, there is a baby blue wall with photos of dogs hanging, all in which Beltran says he found at an antique store.

Above many of the arcade games and beside some of the large screen televisions are shelves displaying vintage video game consoles, each one being previously owned by he and his brothers during their childhoods. Upstairs, guests can also

WITH THE HELP OF MY DAD AND MY BROTHER, BETWEEN THE THREE OF US, WE BUILT THE TABLES, WE BUILT THE BAR AND BASICALLY EVERYTHING THAT YOU SEE IN HERE.

Check out the video at Studio209.tv

nd a private karaoke room where the walls are lled with vinyl record covers from a variety of genres and eras. Visitors may also notice that the tables and chairs are made from secondhand items like pipes and scrap metal.

“With the help of my dad and my brother, between the three of us, we built the tables, we built the bar and basically everything that you see in here,” Beltran said. “But as far as the interior design goes, it was all sort of from my head… People seem to really like it, which I’m happy about. It all kind of came together through trying to bring to life my extroverted character, just visiting di erent places, looking through a lot of Pinterest and just trying to piece things together.”

e experimentation doesn’t stop at the design, either, with Beltran incorporating a menu of a unique combination of American and Mediterranean food, which was also a gamble considering that he is Mexican and has no Mediterranean roots.

“I just really enjoy Mediterranean food,” he said with a large smile. “Merced doesn’t have anything like this, so I just wanted to bring it here.

Mediterranean food is very healthy for you, too, which is really important to me. But we have the traditional burgers, fries and wings too since everybody likes those things.”

In the two months that Joystiq has been open, Beltran said that it has been an experience unlike

any other, with it quickly becoming an a ernoon and weekend destination for those looking to unwind, family celebrations and major events like the Super Bowl and most recently St. Patrick’s Day.

“I’m happy that people are having fun and I hope it keeps going. I’m going to keep trying to put on di erent events like video game tournaments, comedy shows, live DJs, live bands, guest speakers, the whole shebang,” Beltran said. “Whether you’re an adult or child, there is something here for you. It’s just been exciting and a dream come true.”

Community members are encouraged to follow Joystiq on social media for the latest updates on games and events. ey can be found on Instagram at @JoystiqMerced and on Facebook at Joystiq Merced. ●

MERCED DOESN’T HAVE ANYTHING LIKE THIS, SO I JUST WANTED TO BRING IT HERE.

Itaqui anis re nos sin excestem reperum re consectatquo in ratur mos