In the words of the famous Gomer Pyle, “Surprise, surprise, surprise!” That’s the reaction one gets when walking in the door of The Rusty Wagon. It’s too much to take in all at once. If all the items in the shop were listed here, you’d have a complete article. From the wooden Indian standing tall in the passage between the two large rooms, to the barrage of color representing 100’s of products, it’s impossible to focus on one thing. You name it, there it is. Food products, paintings, pottery, shelves, and tables full of crafts, clothing, knick knacks, books, and crazy—yet beautiful—artistic creations. The list does go on and on. Vocational trainer Carol Van Tol led the tour. The two large showrooms were brightly lit with overhead lights and huge pane glass windows facing Walker Street. You can purchase regionally-sourced olive oil, olives, almonds, pistachios, barbeque sauce, honey, coffee, spices, cheese, bread, candy, and yogurt. The 40
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items come in small packages, gift baskets, or are individually wrapped. Along the way I met many of the adult associates employed by the store. They are the focal point of the organization and an integral element in creating gifts and stocking the shelves. The mission of The Rusty Wagon is to provide adults with disabilities an opportunity to learn, work, and thrive. They provide excellent customer service and are happy to show you their creations and crafts. Associates include Martina Ramirez, who’s worked there since the inception, Jose Amezquita, nine years, Sarah Lehr, Jesus Ulloa, Claudia Chavez, and Fred Hess. Nothing explains it better than the store pamphlet: “The Rusty Wagon is a community integration program that trains and employs adults with disabilities in our community. Our associates are qualified Far Northern Regional Center eligible. This program is a not-for-profit retail
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
The Rusty Wagon Rolls along
