209 Magazine - Issue #53

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 - ISSUE 53 - $4.95

REVIVING

MAINZER SALUTE to our veteran-owned businesses

SPOOKY

FUN IN THE 209

EXPERIENCING

VAN GOGH WOMEN of Yosemite

$4.95US

COVER.indd 1

9/26/2022 6:53:31 AM

Windows and Doors Are All We Do Over 600,000 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

Vinyl Windows

Maximum views with contemporary style

Tuscany® Series is our premium vinyl window and patio door line with a broad range of operating styles for endless combinations. Awarded #1 Quality Vinyl Window in the Western US*, this is our best-selling series custom-made to your exact measurements from a unique vinyl formula and crafted with award-winning hardware. The result is high performing, energy efficient, elegant windows and patio doors that can beautify your home for years to come.

Available from:

Cal Comfort Windows and Doors

Visit Our Showroom:

1050 Kansas Ave., Modesto, CA 95351 209.527.4069 • calcomfortwindows.com

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 2

See The Difference

9/26/2022 6:41:54 AM

THE CARE YOU NEED, THE WAY YOU WANT IT. Health care should be hassle-free. At Kaiser Permanente, it is. With connected teams and flexible ways to access care, it’s easy to get the support you need to stay healthy — when and where you need it.

kp.org/centralvalley

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 3

9/26/2022 10:37:41 AM

SCAN ME FOR DIRECTIONS

(USING YOUR SMART PHONE CAMERA)

FIND YOUR RHYTHM WHERE YOUR PEOPLE PLAY

M y

At Harrah’s Northern California, we say, take a day - whatever kind of day you want to take. Try a cool drink at Louie Oliver’s, give the Roulette wheel a spin or boogie to the sound of winning slots. Most importantly, COME AS YOU ARE & FIND YOUR PEOPLE. You deserve a you day .

Ea ca tr C ■ ■ ■ ■

W

harrahsnorcal.com 4640 Coal Mine Rd. Ione, CA 95640 Must be 21 years of age or older to gamble and take advantage of this offer. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). ©2022 Caesars License Company, LLC

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 4

9/26/2022 10:37:42 AM

Make time for your mammogram.

Early detection can save your life. An annual mammogram can find cancer up to three years before symptoms appear, making it easier to treat. Ruby E. Bergman, our women’s diagnostic center, is an American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and offers: ■ ■ ■ ■

3D Digital Screening and Diagnostic Mammography Breast Ultrasound Breast Biopsis Needle Localization

We also offer bone density (DEXA) scans. Please don’t delay.

SCAN ME

Schedule your annual mammogram today.

Extended hours for Mammo Mondays in October: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

EmanuelMedicalCenter.org/MammoMonday 209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 5

9/26/2022 10:37:43 AM

FEATURES The 209 Magazine editorial staff couldn’t settle on just one feature, so for this issue, we are highlighting both “spooky” fun events to ring in the fall season and Halloween and paying tribute to Veterans Day with a salute to local veteran-owned businesses. There really is a lot to celebrate this season!

Spooky Fun in the 209 44 Dell’Osso Farms 46 Fantozzi Farms 48 Witches and Wine 50 All Hallows Faire Salute to Veteran-owned Businesses 52 Turlock Comic Shop 54 Buffalo Chips 56 Sparks Fly Candle Company, Sassy Candles for Sassy People 58 American Veterans First

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 6

6

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:31:56 PM

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022  ISSUE 53

DEPARTMENTS IN THE KNOW 10 12 14 18 22 24

Studio 209 Scene in the 209 Community Events Dia de los Muertos Second Harvest Food Bank Sandhill Crane Festival

29 18

ARTS&CULTURE 28 29

Great Valley Bookfest Rodney Carrington

FLAVORS 30 32 36 40

Galletto Ristorante Bourbon Barrel Le Mulet Rouge Fall Recipes

NAVIGATOR 62

“Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience”

32

THE GREAT OUTDOORS 66

Sierra Splendor

74

FULL OF LIFE 70 72 74

Fitness and Beyond Medicine Woman DigniCap

A PLACE CALLED HOME 76 78

Ornamental grasses Comforting color

MARKETPLACE 80

The Mainzer

72 209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 7

7

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:41:22 PM

8pub letter

Vol. 9 No. 53

October/ November 2022

$4.95

PUBLISHER/OWNER Hank Vander Veen

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Chris Correa Teresa Hammond Marg Jackson Matt Johanson Sarah Lawson Sabra Stafford Virginia Still Frankie Tovar Dennis Wyatt

ART DIRECTOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sharon Hoffman

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

SPECIAL CONSULTANT Larry Dovichi

As the weather — finally — cools down, now is the perfect time to get out and explore everything the 209 has to offer. In this issue, we highlight a number of “spooky” fun activities to celebrate fall as well as honoring local veterans who now run their own businesses. We encourage our readers to both shop local while supporting our heroes.

Those looking for a new place to eat, grab a cocktail or a glass of wine need look no further than our Flavors section. This issue we are featuring the Bourbon Barrel in Sonora, Galletto Ristortante in downtown Modesto, the Mainzer in Merced and Le Mulet Rouget in Sutter Creek. Each of these locally-owned businesses offer something special.

You don’t have to travel far this fall for a unique art experience. “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” has transformed a 27,000 square foot space in West Sacramento into an interactive exploration of the artist’s life.

We are happy to bring you all these stories and more to shine a light on the people, places, organizations and businesses that make the 209 such a special place to live, work and play.

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

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 ©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.

8

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 8

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:41:28 PM

@carmenetreserve #carmenetreserve W W W. C A R M E N T R E S E RV E . C O M MARKETED BY BRONCO WINE CO. | BRONCOWINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 9

9/26/2022 12:27:32 PM

Notes

with FRANKIE TOVAR

California Garlic Festival With a new name and new location, the California Garlic Festival welcomed hundreds of visitors to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds for a two-day celebration of all things garlic! Garlic ice cream, garlic French fries, garlic mushroom bowls, and more were divvied out to hundreds of visitors in a covert operation to destroy the vampire population. Just kidding – they just like garlic!

#329

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

Denair Gaslight Theater

This episode features a historical site that dates back to the 1930s and now serves as a community conservatory for the small town of Denair – The Denair Gaslight Theater. Old timey vibes in a small, intimate setting serve as the perfect backdrop for movies and productions alike, so take a trip to the small town to show your support.

Judy “Jupiter” Schmidt: Modesto’s Viral Astronomer

bit.ly/209PodcastApple

bit.ly/209PodcastSpotify

How did an amateur astronomic image processor from Modesto explode onto the galactic scene with her viral images of Jupiter? Watch this episode and find out!

Enjoy a sit down with Judy “Jupiter” Schmidt as she shares the passion and process that helped her images of Jupiter from the James Webb Space Telescope gain worldwide notoriety.

#330

209 Podcast with Virginia and Teresa

STUDIO209.T V

WE’VE GOT THE 209 COVERED

It’s the 209 Podcast with V&T! Enjoy the revamped 209 Podcast with new hosts Virginia and Teresa as they take you behind the scenes of the latest issue of 209 Magazine. Learn more about your favorite 209 stories from the people who help put them together each month by following the 209 Podcast on your favorite podcasting platform.

10

STUDIO NOTES.indd 10

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:06:06 PM

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! • • • • • • •

HIRE US TO COVER 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

• • • • • • • • • • •

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 Jubile

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

OTHER EPISODES TO WATCH 331: Dazed on the Green in Turlock 332: Blues, Brews and BBQ in Tracy 333: Stockton Walk to End Alzheimer’s 334: All Souls Day in Hornitos

209MAGAZINE.COM

STUDIO NOTES.indd 11

11

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:06:58 PM

intheknow

Scene

in the

T

here was plenty of fun and sun to go around in the 209 as we bid farewell to summer with festivals and celebrations of all varieties.

Want to see your event featured in the Scene? Contact Sabra Stafford at sstafford@209magazine.com.

NEWMAN FALL FESTIVAL The high temperatures didn’t stop the fun at the Newman Fall Festival over Labor Day weekend. The event included pageants, a carnival, volleyball and cornhole tournaments, a car show and lots of live entertainment. The highlight of the festival is the annual parade which drew a large crowd to downtown Newman.

PHOTOS BY ANGELA GONZALEZ

Trenten Cordero, Carla Martin, Chandra and Kylieigh Brace and Karen Alcazar, all of Gustine and Oscar Romero of Newman came out for the parade and to check out the car show and festival activities.

McKoi Uribe, Ashlie Uribe and Karen Ascencio, all of Newman got some prime seats to watch the parade go by.

209MAGAZINE.COM

12-13 IN THE KNOW - Scene in the 209.indd 12

Honorio Bardo of Michoacan Mexico, Claudia Bardo of Michoacan Mexico, Edward Greer from Philidelphia, and Isabel Greer of Michoacán Mexico were enjoying all the festivities of the Newman Fall Festival.

12

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:07:31 PM

CITY OF LIVINGSTON CELEBRATES 100 YEARS Sept. 11, 2022 officially marked the 100th birthday for the City of Livingston, a milestone that has been acknowledged through a series of events throughout the year. The year-long centennial celebration was highlighted with a downtown ceremony unveiling a commemorative plaque in front of the Livingston Historical Museum.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA/ 209 Magazine

Livingston City Council Member Jose Moran, Mayor ProTem Raul Garcia, Council Member Maria Soto and Council Member Gagandeep Kang unveil the centennial commemorative plaque in front of the Livingston Historical Museum.

A little bit older than the Park Fete, 102-year-old Jetty Hartgrove is the oldest member of the Escalon Senior Fun Bunch and was driven in the parade by Randy Schmidt.

Miss Escalon 2022 Isabella Nalbandian, center, and members of her court, from left, Gracie Bracco, Jessica Pantoja, Bailey Dugo and Olivia Beebe stand at the ready to try their hand at the quick draw booth, hosted by the Sierra Gun Hawks/Oakdale Cowboys.

209MAGAZINE.COM

12-13 IN THE KNOW - Scene in the 209.indd 13

Little Ripper, a five-year-old rescue Chihuahua, was definitely one of the coolest dogs at Escalon’s Park Fete in early August, sporting his sunglasses while being held by mom, Sara Hagan.

13

PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/209 Magazine

ESCALON PARK FETE The annual Park Fete in Escalon marked 100 years of celebrating this year. The early August festival included a pageant, a carnival, games, entertainment and a parade that shone a light on all the people that make the small town special.

Livingston Mayor Juan Aguilar Jr. and Mayor Pro-Tem Raul Garcia pose with Foster Farms CEO Donnie Smith and the Foster Imposter mascot at the city’s Centennial Celebration.

Enthusiastic scouts from Cub Scout Pack 263, siblings and chaperones riding along the parade route.

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:07:44 PM

intheknow

COMMUNITY EVENTS OCT

8

15

OCT

2022

BARRELS, BREWS AND BITES

STOCKTON WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

Sonora Sunrise Rotary will present Barrels, Brews and Bites, a tasting event at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 8.

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease.

Homebrewers, craft brews, and local wineries present their finest selections paired with gourmet bites.

SCARECROW STROLL

The contest is open to Lodi residents,

The Ripon Chamber of Commerce will present the 37th Annual Main Street Day on Oct. 15, along Main Street in Historic Downtown Ripon from Acacia Ave to Industrial Avenue. The festivities are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information contact the Ripon Chamber of Commerce at (209) 599-7519.

2022 organizations and businesses. $10 per entry. Entries must be completed online no later than 5 p.m. Oct. 21.

Visitors are encouraged to come in costume and take photos with their favorite scarecrows. Vote for your favorite by liking it on facebook. com/LodiParks. Winners will be announced on Oct. 31.

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Calendar.indd 14

RIPON MAIN STREET DAY

For more information contact Cheryl Schrock at (209) 606-2441 or register at stocktonwalk@alz.org.

29

Create your own unique familyfriendly scarecrow or a scarecrow representing your organization, sport, or business for the Scarecrow Stroll set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 29 at Lodi Lake.

2022

The walk will start at 8 a.m. Oct. 15 and is set to conclude two hours later at 10 a.m. The walk will be at Swenson Park Golf Course at 6803 Alexandria Place in Stockton.

While there is no fee to register for Walk, all participants are encouraged to raise critical funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure.

OCT

OCT

Main Street Day brings to the heart of Ripon a car show, antique faire, Ripon Fire District pancake breakfast, Calvary Reformed Church kids’ zone, local vendors, great food, music, arts and crafts, Ripon Unified School District Family Fun Color Run, Ripon High FFA petting zoo, Ripon Library book sale, Pet Costume Parade, local musical acts, as well as plenty of family fun and entertainment. This year there also will be a career fair which will focus on vocational jobs and career training for young people.

Join the Stockton walk today to help fight this disease and bring awareness to the cause.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at www. eventbrite.com/e/ barrels-brews-bitestickets-406241809187.

15

2022

14

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:17:05 PM

15

OCT

22

2022

OCT

TRACTOR FEST

RECORD SWAP

The San Joaquin County Tractor Fest will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 15 at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum in Micke Grove Park.

The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is hosting a record swap for all vinyl enthusiasts out there.

The record swap will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 22 at the museum at 610 N. 9th Street in Modesto.

610 KFRC will be broadcasting live from their mobile studio during the event.

Offerings include a tractor parade held at 11:30 a.m., activities for the kids, local food truck, and the museum buildings will be open throughout the day.

Entry is free.

Admission and parking for members of the San Joaquin County Historical Museum is free. For the general public the admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and military, and $5 for those 6-17 years. Kids 5 years and younger get in for free. Parking is $6.

2

NOV

ALL SOULS DAY

Celebrate All Souls Day under the stars in Hornitos at 7 p.m. Nov. 2.

The celebration starts in the town plaza, followed

Record vendors can contact beathappybooking@gmail.com for a space.

OCT

2022

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS STREET FIESTA

Downtown Stockton Will be the home of the Dia De Los Muertos Street Fiesta from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 29.

Four blocks of Sutter Street/ Market Street are shut down for a day filled with celebration and culture. The planned activities include: Mariachis, Raices, Folkloric Dance Group, Latin Soul Band, Classic Cars, Aztec Dancers, Catrina Pageant, Children Activities, Section Street Art and Face Painting, and Food and Cultural vendors.

The event is hosted by the Mexican heritage Center and Gallery.

2022

by a candlelight procession to the cemetery and then a mass at the church.

Following the procession, there will be a reception in the town hall.

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Calendar.indd 15

29

2022

15

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:17:15 PM

intheknow

19

NOV

2022

TROUT BOUT

San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation and the Delta Fly Fishers will host the annual Trout Bout beginning at 6:15 a.m. Nov. 19 at Oak Grove Regional Park.

Over 2,500 pounds of trout will be planted prior to the tournament, which is open to everyone. Prizes will be awarded in youth and adult categories.

Kids age 15 years and younger fish free at Oak Grove’s 10-acre lake during the event. There is no registration fee, however, a $5 fishing permit fee and valid state fishing license are required for those 16 years of age or over.

20

NOV

2022

HILMAR HOLIDAY EXPO

The 8th Annual Hilmar Holiday Expo will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 20 at the Hilmar Grange Hall, located at 8818 Lander Avenue in Hilmar.

The expo will have local vendors on hand selling a variety of items just in time for the holiday shopping. There also will be barbecue meals and sweet treats available for purchase.

25

NOV

2022

SONORA CHRISTMAS PARADE

The holiday season will kick-off with Sonora’s annual Christmas parade along Washington Street on Nov. 25. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and is held rain or shine.

The spirit of Christmas will fill the air with this night time parade with bright lights, floats, antique cars, and sounds of the holidays with marching bands and dancers.

For more information call (209) 532-7725.

A $6 vehicle-parking fee will also apply. There is a five trout limit.

All State Fish and Game laws apply. Participants must supply their own fishing equipment.

Park gates will be open at 6:15 a.m., derby registration closes at 10 a.m. and the last weigh-in is at 12:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded shortly thereafter. For more information, call (209) 331-2050.

Oak Grove Regional Park is located on Eight Mile Road and Interstate 5 in Stockton.

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Calendar.indd 16

16

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:17:26 PM

built for rookie walkers.

Dental Implants Gum Grafts Non-invasive Laser Gum Surgery

Men’s, Women’s and Kid’s sizes 1065 Colorado Ave Suite 2 • Turlock, CA 95380

www.turlockperio.com

Vintage Mall, Modesto Vintage Faire Faire Mall, Modesto • 209-577-0517 and Sherwood Mall, Stockton Weberstown Mall, Stockton • 209-957-4509

209-632-5744

Memory Care at Bethany Home in Ripon is loving, safe, and homelike

EXPERT MEMORY CARE SERVICES Bethany Home is dedicated to providing a safe, familiar home setting that is comforting and supporting to people who have problems with memory and orientation. With a specially trained team of compassionate and dedicated experts, we’re able to enhance the lives of those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s while ensuring their safety, health, comfort, and security.

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 17

17

Units Available Now

To learn more or schedule a visit go to, bethanyripon.org or call 209-599-7670

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:37:53 AM

intheknow

BY VIRGINIA STILL

A

lthough Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead may sound frightful, it is not a day for zombies but rather a celebration to reunite the living with the dead.

A celebration that brings families and community together.

This cultural tradition originated with the Aztecs in Mexico about 3,000 years ago. Through the years it has evolved and is celebrated all over the world including the 209.

The celebration remembering those that passed with all the traditions including altars, a Catrin and Catrina Parade and Contest, food, and entertainment will be held on from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Oct. 28 at Plaza del Rio Park in downtown Riverbank.

“I feel it is really important to celebrate this event because it gives families an opportunity to celebrate and commemorate a lost loved one in a different way,” stated event organizer, Nancy Garcia. “The altars are tributes and remembrances to the people we have lost. As children grow up, and they see pictures of people who haven’t been a part of their life but seemed to be important in their parent’s life, this celebration provides that opportunity to talk about them and what they meant to them.”

The sophisticated altars traditionally have three levels, several elements, and offerings for the dearly departed. Pan de muerto represents the body and bones of the dead, tissue paper represents the wind and joy, sugar skulls represent the living giving a funny face to the inevitableness of death, water that allows the dead to cool off after their trip to the underworld and symbolizes

purity that helps their sins be forgiven, a salt cross that symbolizes purity of souls, flowers that form the path that guides the soul and candles to guide the soul as well. Some people also put their loved ones that have passed away favorite foods, items, and pictures on display.

There will be a Catrin and Catrina contest with participants that have detailed attire and face paintings. They will parade about the plaza with a statement to respect death. There will be vendors, live music, and entertainment including traditional Mexican Folklore Dances.

This will be the third Día de los Muertos celebration held in Riverbank that has been well received by the public and very well attended. The first one was held in 2019 and organized by Garcia and a team of enthusiastic friends and colleagues.

With so much positive feedback and several people asking her to do it again as well as the attendance that exceeded their expectations, Garcia collaborated with the City of Riverbank and other organizations to hold another celebration in 2021. They did not hold the event in 2020 due to COVID restrictions.

“In my opinion, both events were successful, but the last one was even more so, but we had such

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Dia de los Muertos.indd 18

18

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:18:00 PM

PHOTO BY GENARO SERVIN/ Pexels

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Dia de los Muertos.indd 19

19

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:18:11 PM

intheknow

—Nancy Garcia

little planning time and were able to plan the event and bring in more families, not just organizations to create altars,” added Garcia. “The thing I am looking most forward to, is seeing the altars that the families are creating.”

This year the City of Riverbank’s Parks and Recreation department in collaboration with Garcia will be hosting the event.

There is no cost to attend the event. There are other celebrations that will be held throughout the 209.

“It is about remembering people,” expressed Garcia about the celebration. “They go on to another life and as long as we continue to remember them they will never die. That is the biggest piece.”

For more information on the celebration in Riverbank call the City of Riverbank at 209-8637150 or visit riverbank.org.

209MAGAZINE.COM

IN THE KNOW - Dia de los Muertos.indd 20

20

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:18:21 PM

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH US! Plan to spend your holidays at the premier boutique hotel in the Central Valley. The El Capitan offers guests unique and vibrant event spaces coupled with inspired menu packages.

From corporate holiday parties and gatherings with family and friends, the El Capitan is the place for you!

609 W. Main Street, Merced, CA www.elcapitanhotel.com 209.383.1234

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 21

Inquire about World of Hyatt Loyalty Program and earn up to 25,000 points based on qualified spend

9/26/2022 10:38:03 AM

intheknow

By DENNIS WYATT

T

them to food banks knowing those that ultimately receive them will be able to free up what limited money they have to buy food or perhaps pay a water or power bill.

Volunteers play a huge and critical role. They provide needed manpower to sort the food. Volunteers wanting to help can do so for a few hours or a half a day. Volunteers can do so once or as many times as they like. The tasks are essentially sorting cans and sorting produce. They can also help with free food distribution from a truck that takes fresh vegetables and fruits to area communities at scheduled locations.

The biggest “puzzles” that volunteers sort out are the boxes that come from stores such a Target, SaveMart, Safeway and Walmart.

They typically contain food that has reached its expiration date based on marketable shelf life. But that doesn’t mean the food isn’t still good — far from it.

Second Harvest staff has become experts at reading expiration dates. Specific food has specific times where they are still good after the stamped shelf life is reached.

While perishables such as dairy products do not last long afterwards, canned goods and packaged items typically have a useful life of six months to a year depending upon the food item.

There is little worry once the sorted items are provided to the 102 food banks of the food going bad. It is almost always consumed within weeks of reaching a food pantry.

Fundraising is critical to the effectiveness of Second Harvest.

While the donations of large items of food stuff by producers, distributors, and retail stores is the backbone of how the nonprofit agency helps feed struggling arrangements, donated funds allows them to purchase perishable items such as produce.

Due to arrangements Second Harvest has made, $1 can buy the equivalent of $5 worth of food.

To explore volunteer opportunities, donate, or find out more information about the non-profit, go to localfoodbank.org. ●

he San Joaquin Valley — the most productive farming region on the planet — is America’s food basket.

The Valley grows more than 250 crops. When coupled with its weaker cousin in terms of farm production — the Sacramento Valley — the two combined produce 25 percent of this nation’s table food using only one percent of the farmland.

It is against this background of plenty that the Mantecabased Second Harvest Food Bank of the Greater Valley is fighting the battle against hunger in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced counties along with five adjoining foothill counties.

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley is among 200 similar operations nationwide affiliated with Feeding America. The member food banks serve as distribution centers to funnel food to community pantries much like the Safeway distribution center in Tracy supplies stores throughout Northern California.

The partner food closets in the eight counties serve 35,000 unduplicated individuals each month.

The warehouse operation handles more than 15 million pounds of food a year.

It arrives in the warehouse in several forms. There are gigantic bins of produce that cost the food bank 6 cents to 20 cents a pound via the Farm to Family program that connects growers and packers directly to food banks for low cost fruits and vegetables. They aren’t considered marketable due to size, shape, slight blemishes, or overproduction.

There are pallets of goods delivered by sponsors such as ConAgra Foods. There are gigantic boxes and bins of miscellaneous items pulled from grocery store shelves because they are at or nearing advertised shelf life.

Then there are canned goods and such secured from various collection drives conducted by youth groups and non-profits.

All of that has to be sorted, set aside by food type, and then re-boxed or bagged.

Some of the items they receive aren’t food such as detergent, shampoo and toothpaste. They gladly accept the items and send

Second Harvest helps feed 35,000 a month in 209 region.

209MAGAZINE.COM

22 IN THE KNOW - Thanksgiving_Second Harvest.indd 22

22

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:19:11 PM

23

Order now for the holidays!

Trunk or Treat!

FREE EVENT - Bring the

whole family!

October 31, 6 pm - 8 pm Pumpkin Patch Sept. 30 - October 31 Hours vary

Bakery & Deli • Gift Shop • Handcrafted Cider • Barnyard Playground • Mini Train Ride • Full Breakfast & Lunch

dutchhollowfarms.com

coversappleranch.com

New Entrance 2500 Santa Fe Road, Modesto

19211 Cherokee Road, Tuolumne, CA

209-287-6010

209-928-4689

Make your mark.

Some businesses are content to have no other online presence than a Facebook page, and never think of how that looks to customers. While Facebook is a wonderful complement to a company website, it is by no means a realistic replacement. And not everybody has a Facebook account anymore.

Let us help you build your new website.

Visit us at 209multimedia.com/webdesign to get started.

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 23

23

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:04 AM

intheknow

SANDHILL CRANES

By MARG JACKSON

PHOTO BY ©GARRY EVERETT

I

t may be one of the most unique festivals in the 209 – and Lodi is glad to have it.

Coming up in early November, it’s the annual Sandhill Crane Festival, with a focus on learning more about how good stewardship has helped the species recover from dangerously low numbers and having a chance to see the birds up close. Through the festival, the Lodi Sandhill Crane Association highlights crane conservation, offering education along with entertainment.

The festival runs Nov. 4-6 and includes some family friendly activities at Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., in Lodi in addition to the nature treks and tours.

“Depending on the order of how you experience things, go see the birds somewhere in those days,” suggested festival publicity committee member Kathy Grant.

Nov. 4 will see an art show opening at Hutchins Street Square and the fine

arts show will continue all weekend long. Saturday and Sunday at the square there will also be a vendor hall with exhibitors, informational tables, items for sale, food and more.

“It’s really a very social thing, many people have been coming back (through the years) just like the birds,” said Grant. “Around the building there will be workshops, speakers, a food court, art tables for kids, origami, T-shirts for sale.”

Nov. 5 and 6 will feature the tours and while many do focus specifically on the cranes, there are other options as well.

“The Delta boats go out, there are kayaking trips on the Mokelumne, just celebrating where we live,” added Grant.

But the overall draw is, by far, the cranes and it’s easy to get there to see them; off Interstate 5 along Woodbridge Road in Lodi.

209MAGAZINE.COM

24 IN THE KNOW - Sandhill Crane Festival.indd 24

24

“The big picture here is that this is our natural history, it’s still happening, it’s still alive and well,” said Grant, who also works for the City of Lodi as its Watershed Program Coordinator. “It’s a story about the crane migration; we have both the Greater and Lesser species, they are migrators.”

You can see the cranes early or late; the ‘fly out’ in the morning sees some of the tours at the festival onsite before dawn. On the opposite side, the ‘fly in’ as birds return to the water is also a spectacular site, with hundreds of the cranes all headed for the same destination.

“It’s one of those events, anybody who wants to understand or know about California Delta land should experience just once,” summarized Grant. “It’s primordial California.”

For more information, including prices, tour options, or Hutchins Street Square activities, visit the festival website: lodisandhillcrane.org. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:19:45 PM

2 2

$ 38 You can help for as little as $ 38 You can help for as little as

Like many of us, we think we have it all. But life can change at any given moment and we may find ourselves with nothing and no one. Please share your blessings this Thanksgiving with those in need.

For just $2.38 you can help someone lift their spirits and feel hope in their heart.

You can help someone take steps to address the root causes of homelessness andmany bringof them anweend.

Like us, we to think have it all. But life can change at any given moment and we may find ourselves with nothing and no one. Please share your blessings this Thanksgiving with those in need.

Please help provide a Thanksgiving meal turkey, mashed For just $2.38 you can help someone lift their spirits and feel hope of in their heart. You can help someone take steps to address the rootpie causes bring them to an end. and gravy and pumpkin - ofallhomelessness for just and $2.38 Please help provide a Thanksgiving meal of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy and pumpkin pie - all for just $2.38

potatoes

PLEASE SEND YOUR DONATION OF $2.38 PER MEAL TO

TURLOCK GOSPEL MISSION PO Box 1231Turlock, CA 95381

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 25

9/26/2022 10:38:04 AM

EDDIE C. TORRES ATTORNEY AT LAW

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

164 N. MAPLE AVE. MANTECA, CA 95336

Eddietorreslaw.com

209-846-2127

Thank You For Voting Us Best In The 209 Two Years In A Row!

springcreekcc.com 209-599-3258

• Memberships • Weddings • Special Events

WE DO

Romantic

WE DO

Classic

WE DO

Elegant

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 26

26

WE DO

I do.

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:06 AM

Stop in and try our newest Jake’s flavor

It’s simply Dill-icious!

Dry roasted and season to perfection, you won’t be able to eat just one

Modesto Company Store in McHenry Village Store Hours: Monday-Tuesday 11am-7pm Wednesday-Saturday 11 am - 8 pm • Closed Sunday

1700 McHenry Ave., Suite 58

(209) 577-NUTS

NEWMAN 3500 Shiells Road

(209) 862-0555

PATTERSON 2985 Renzo Ln., Suite D

(209) 895-9463

1-877-ALMOND-8 | stewartandjasper.com 209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 27

9/26/2022 10:38:07 AM

arts&culture

founder Bookfestmus with y a R i om n To e books frrs. o some of th th u a g n participati

THE NEXT CHAPTER Great Valley Bookfest is Oct. 8 in Manteca

By DENNIS WYATT

T

he Great Valley Bookfest — now in its 10th year — is the latest chapter in the book being written to not just elevate literacy rates but to also celebrate the power and joy of reading.

More than 60 authors with most heralding from the Northern San Joaquin Valley are participating in the Bookfest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 8, at The Promenade Shops at Orchard Valley near Bass Pro Shops accessed via the Union Road interchange on the 120 Bypass.

If you think this free event is a staid affair, guess again.

Organizers have done everything possible to drive home the point reading is fun and can open the door up to all sorts of endeavors.

Besides having the chance to meet authors (and purchase their books if you like), there is a children’s pavilion with interactions with children’s

authors as well as hands-on activities, a poet’s corner with author readings, magicians, sidewalk chalk contest, customed characters, dance and martial arts demos, bounce house, vendors, and more.

The Bookfest not only speaks volumes about the commitment of organizers and participants to reading and literacy but it underscores the valley’s tremendous resources and commitment to elevate lives through the power of reading.

When Toni Raymus first started circulating the idea of staging a Bookfest, the nearly universal response was, “what, a Bookfest in Manteca?” with more than a few silently wondering whether she was joking.

Her response: Why not?

There is little doubt much of the San Joaquin Valley has its challenges. But that said, the Valley is not a desert when it comes to literature or culture. In fact, you could argue that the Northern San Joaquin Valley is the perfect setting for not just a Bookfest but to strengthen the written word.

For more information go to gvbookfest.org. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

ARTS & CULTURE - BOOKFEST.indd 28

28

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:20:16 PM

By VIRGINIA STILL

C

omedy never goes out of style; laughter is healing and something that we can all use these days. The multi-talented comedian, actor, singer, and songwriter Rodney Carrington will be coming to the area with his “Let Me In” tour.

Carrington has been doing comedy for 33 years and has starred in the television sitcom “Rodney,” a feature film “Beer for My Horses” with Toby Keith, and his own Netflix special, “Here Comes the Truth.” He has established a fan base that knows what to expect at his shows. The audience makes his shows feel more like spending time with family than work. This has also been part of the reason that the material and music he writes has not changed too much with the exception of getting older and adding in new experiences. His storytelling style comedy comes from scenes out of his own life.

He explained that the stories shared on his current tour reflect where he is in

life now. He thinks differently than when he was younger and things change, Carrington explained, like his kids are now older and living their own lives.

News does not reflect reality, Carrington noted, and is often not very truthful but more so based on opinions.

So, he does not get wrapped up in the news and does not talk about politics because he thinks it is a turn off and people are trying to escape from that.

“At some point you’ve got to manage what goes in your mind like you manage what you put in your body, I think,” expressed Carrington. “Most people are raising their kids and loving their kids and living their life and going to work and seeing their friends and family and that is the reality of our lives. But what is being projected on the news is something far different.”

Carrington found comedy by accident. While he was in college, he was studying theater and decided to try comedy thinking that it would help him with his

209MAGAZINE.COM

ARTS & CULTURE - Rodney Carrington.indd 29

29

acting. He realized from the first show that he loved comedy and that was going to be his career. The comedy road did not come without bumps as he slept in the back of his truck that had a camper shell on it for the first four to six years and traveled the country, going wherever he could get a gig. With the money he made from a show he would finance the next stop.

“In the early days I didn’t have necessarily the luxury to pick where it is I wanted to work,” remarked Carrington. “So, a lot of the places I was working were pretty rough. You could be somewhere in some city and there would be 300 drunken crazies. It felt like a “Braveheart” crowd.”

Through the years, Carrington has toured all over the country as well as Canada and Australia. He is extremely grateful for the audience that has followed him through his career and continue to attend his shows.

“It has been a wonderful way to make a living, you

know,” stated Carrington.

“Comedy is my job but it is a portion of my life. I just enjoy the people that I get to see. It feels like to me that my relationship with the people that have come to see me all these years is what I appreciate most. I am very grateful.”

Although he has enjoyed all the different projects in his career through the years, standup is the one thing, he enjoys the most.

It gives him the freedom to make his own decisions. As long as he is still having fun and people are still attending his shows, Carrington said he will continue doing standup.

“I am really enjoying my life at home with my kids growing,” added Carrington.

“My kids are older living their lives and watching them make their wonderful creative decisions in life and seeing how that is turning out is something that I am enjoying. So, you know while it is my job, like everybody else I enjoy all the other pieces of my life as well.” ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:22:20 PM

flavors

continues to impress

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

here is a time during dinner service that Galletto Ristorante General Manager Cal Romo has a moment — and it’s usually just a few seconds — when he can look over the dining room and the open kitchen and see it all flow together with efficiency and perfection.

“It’s rewarding when you stand and you look back and the music is on and people are enjoying their food and it’s like, ‘okay, this is why I do this’ and then you go back to the rush,” Romo said.

209MAGAZINE.COM

30-31 FLAVORS - Galletto's.indd 30

30

For 21 years Galletto Ristorante has been a pillar of Modesto’s fine-dining scene and with a new consulting chef leading the kitchen, the excellent reputation they have garnered will continue to thrive and Romo will have more of those moments to savor.

Galletto Ristorante was opened by Tom and Karyn Gallo with a menu that favored Northern Italian cuisine and used ingredients that highlighted the Central Valley’s rich bounty. Recently, the couple handed over the restaurant to their four adult children — Julian,

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:23:03 PM

Gianna, Tessa and Will — with Julian and his wife Taylor Gallo taking on the responsibilities of day-to day operations.

The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Modesto in an expansive and architecturally-impressive art-deco building that was once the home of Wells Fargo Bank.

“This is a landmark site and they have kept it beautiful and true to its nature,” Romo said.

For the last year the restaurant has been working with Spencer O’Meara, a culinary veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including 23 as an executive chef.

“We have him come in quarterly and he works with our kitchen on maintaining standards, creativity, creating new menu items and changing our seasonal menu,” Romo said. “Our main focus on bringing Spencer in was to for those seasonal items and to have continuous growth with our menu. “We strive to stay true to our roots, while also giving the community something interesting and different on a regular basis.”

It’s an all-scratch kitchen, meaning everything is made in house from the pasta to the sauces.

“We make all our own pizza dough and every single pasta is made in house,” Romo said.

O’Meara appreciates the farm to fork menu Galletto Ristorante has cultivated and finds inspiration for new dishes from the seasonal bounty.

“When I’m creating a new dish, it goes one way or another,” O’Meara said. “It’s either somebody introduces

me to a protein, and I try and build a dish around it. Or I look at the produce list and I’m like, ‘oh, what do we have here? I want that.’ And then I put a protein next to it and start building.

Something has to inspire you, because if you force it, it will come across on the plate. But, if something inspires you and you get passionate about it, then that’s when some of your best dishes come out.

We strive to stay true to our roots, while also giving the community something interesting and different on a regular basis.

When not at Galletto Ristorante, O’Meara resides in Hawaii and while the island paradise is certainly a far cry from the Central Valley, it is where he finds some of his inspiration for dishes that locals end up enjoying.

A favorite for anytime of the year is the bruschetta. For the fall, the crostini are topped with roasted garlic, goat cheese mousse, prosciutto, persimmon slices and a drizzling of balsamic glaze.

A perineal favorite at Galletto Ristorante is the grilled ribeye, said Romo.

The 16-ounce steak is grilled to perfection and served alongside confit garlic potatoes, roasted wild mushrooms, charred broccolini, with a mushroom butter and a red wine reduction.

209MAGAZINE.COM

30-31 FLAVORS - Galletto's.indd 31

31

Served year-round, but particularly fitting for a crisp fall night is the pork chop entrée. The 12-ounce bone-in cut is prepared using roasted corn, spring onion, garlic baby kale, fava beans, red peppers, ham hocks and smoked tomato jus.

Seasonal offerings, like the butternut ravioli bring something new to the menu, while others have earned classic status, like the fettuccine.

“All of our pastas are house-made,” O’Meara said. “It has sun-dried tomatoes in there with a little Alfredo sauce and some asparagus. And then we have this gorgeous lobster tail on top. It’s really impressive.”

“It’s a dish that people love and come back for again and again,” Romo said.

Just as impressive as the menu, is Galletto Ristorante’s bar, with more than 150 different varietals, 12 bottled import and domestic beers and seasonal craft cocktails, like the spiced apple sangria, with hints of cinnamon and fresh, crisp apples.

In addition to the dining room, Galletto Ristorante has the wine vault and the Sala room, which can both be used for private parties; and the bocce ball court and the vine arbor patio, which is a bit like finding an Italian hideaway in the middle of downtown Modesto, where no matter the weather, it’s always a pleasant under the arbor.

Galletto Ristorante is open from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday for lunch and dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The restaurant is located at 1101 J Street in Modesto. For reservations or more information visit galletto.biz or call (209) 523-4500. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:23:05 PM

flavors

By VIRGINIA STILL

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VIRGINIA STILL & THE ARMORY

T

he Armory is a large entertainment venue in downtown Sonora that offers guests a Beer Garden, banquet room, a wine room, and the swanky Bourbon Barrel. After being dormant for several years, two families – Jenn and Doug Edwards and Rebecca and Jordan Barrows – joined forces to bring this entertainment mecca to life in the 209, including the relaunch of the Bourbon Barrel this year.

Although they are new owners of the Armory, the families are not new to the industry. The Edwards are locals that have operated two hotels and restaurants in Groveland. Doug is a chef that has worked as a private chef and has been in the food industry for many years. Jordan has also been in the industry for many years as an executive chef, restaurant consultant, and a private chef. He is the Executive Chef at the Armory and has created the menu that features American cuisine.

There are so many custom and unique designs throughout the Armory, like the wide-open outdoor Beer Garden with a waterfall that comes out of beer tap

handles, the cozy rooftop terrace with misters, the upstairs VIP table, the silo, and walking through a barrel to enter the posh Bourbon Barrel.

Guests can also find live music and a DJ on Thursdays and Fridays.

“People are coming here for the experience,” said Rebecca.

“It is the whole package with

People are coming here for the experience.

It is the whole package with the music, aesthetics, drinks, food and just the vibe.

209MAGAZINE.COM

FLAVORS - Hey Bartender!.indd 32

the music, aesthetics, drinks, food and just the vibe.”

The Bourbon Barrel has an impressive whiskey wall that has a rustic sliding library ladder along with the coolest bartenders. The Bourbon Barrel has its own kitchen with their own food menu. Although it is called the Bourbon Barrel they have a full bar with a long list of exceptional specialty cocktails like the Sierra Pack Mule, Blackberry Mojito, Aviator, Donkey Tongue, Pain Killer, and a guest and Instagram favorite, the Prickly Pig Paloma.

Lead Bartender Lydia Berwick has been in the industry for a long time and truly enjoys working for the new owners, as well as a team that she adores.

“Our team is perfectly overqualified because everyone here has either been in a position of leadership or has been in the industry for a very long period of time,” stated Berwick.

“We have this beautiful team that we’ve been able to

32

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:24:16 PM

pull recipes from so this is kind of a conglomeration of all our minds combined. We have a lot of respect for each other’s opinions in this building. So, there was a lot of tweaking and coming together and kind of marrying ideas and so that’s what our list is. It’s quite a large specialty cocktail list. There are a lot of fine details that go into every one but it’s cool, because you ask the employees and they all have pride, because they’ve been able to input and be a part of creating this.”

The Prickly Pig Paloma is served in a unique pig glass that has tequila, prickly pear, grapefruit, lime juice, agave and pink grapefruit soda that delights the tastebuds and is very refreshing. The guests snap photos of this one regularly.

Lead Bartender Avery Walker has been in the restaurant industry for several years and as a bartender she loves making drinks and the

interaction with the people including hearing all their stories.

“I love to hear their stories. It is a safe place for people to come and there is no stress. They do not have to share but if they want to, I am here to listen,” Walker said, adding that, like many bartenders, they often feel like counselors. “We are both psychologists and psychiatrists. We prescribe and we chitchat.”

However, after all it is called the Bourbon Barrel and that they do well.

They make their very own BarrelAged Black Manhattan that has just the right blend that is very tasty. The Smoked Old Fashion made with Four Roses Bourbon is quite the site to see

209MAGAZINE.COM

FLAVORS - Hey Bartender!.indd 33

33

with the flame burning bright and the smoke swirling around giving your palate some excitement. Perhaps, guests may be looking for something a little more delicate like the Strawberry Bourbon Smash with muddled strawberries, which is one that Rebecca enjoys on occasion.

Berwick noted, “All our drinks are really well crafted by a handful of professionals.”

They offer a number of bourbons, rye, scotch, or mezcal flights or you can choose your own custom flight with a selection of three spirits.

They serve up the classics as well and a few mocktails for

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:24:41 PM

flavors

We all work together well with respect and humility. those that may prefer something non-alcoholic.

“There’s a lot of things that I like about bartending, but they’re even more things I love about working for this specific company,” shared Berwick with a heartfelt expression. “I love being here. Every position is so crucial. We all work together well with respect and humility. We are all worthy and valuable.”

Bartenders Berwick, Walker and Casey Aguirre shared that there are a variety of guest favorites that they serve up on a regular basis and they welcome everyone to pull up a barstool and have an intimate experience with some tasty food, a classy atmosphere, and of course, a remarkable beverage.

They plan on hosting several events including a Halloween Party on Oct. 28. For more information visit their website armorysonora.com, or call 209-694-3158 or social media on Instagram and Facebook @bourbonbarrelsonora, and @ armorysonora. They are located at 208 South Green Street in Sonora. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

FLAVORS - Hey Bartender!.indd 34

34

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:25:04 PM

35

20TH ANNUAL

Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch Our Community

Our Hospice

Our Community’s longest standing accredited, Medicare and Medi-Cal certified hospice, palliative and support services organization. Community Hospice is committed to embracing individuals and families facing life-changing journeys, providing compassionate and personalized care since 1979.

• Hope Counseling

• Hospice Care

(Community grief and mental health support services)

• Palliative Care

• Camp Erin® of the Central Valley

• Pediatric Care

(Grief camp for children 6-17)

• Alexander Cohen Hospice House

(The only inpatient hospice and respite facility in Stanislaus County)

TONS OF FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

(Thank you for voting us the Best of 209 Thrift Store)

CORN MAZE, CORN CANNONS, HAYRIDES, PUMPKIN PATCH, COW TRAIN RIDES, ZOMBIE SHOOTING RANGE, AND MORE!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

A Drive-Thru Haunted Attraction!

2665 Sperry Ave. Patterson.

1/2 mile east of I-5

2431 W. March Lane, Suite 100 Stockton, CA 95207 209.477.6300

hospiceheart.org

CommunityHospiceCV

DESIGNER DECORATED TREES, WREATHS & HOLIDAY DÉCOR

209-892-2015

For sponsorship For sponsorship scan opportunitiesopportunities scan our QR code, our QR code, textorFOT2022 to 41444 or call text FOT2022 209.578.6370 to 41444.

WWW.FANTOZZIFARMS.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 35

4368 Spyres Way Modesto, CA 95356 209.578.6300

2022 2022

Open Fridays & Saturdays 7pm - 10:30pm And Sundays 7pm - 9pm • $25 Per Car

209MAGAZINE.COM

• Community Education • Hope Chest Thrift Stores

35

Save the Date!

Premier Raffle Drawing

DESIGNER DECORATED TREES, WREATHS or $ 6 forDÉCOR & HOLIDAY

20

$

100

eachwill be on display in the windows of

participating Merchants of McHenry Village

November 11-29, 2022

November 11-29, 2022 For Raffle Ticket purchase call 209.578.6370 NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN

ProceedsProceeds to benefit Community Hospice’s Pediatric Care Programs. to benefit Community Hospice’s Pediatric Care Programs.

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:10 AM

flavors

Le Mulet Rouge

By KRISTINA HACKER

Our tasting experience is a shared experience.

So, if you come in with a group, we serve you a bucket of wine.

—Tamara Richards

W

hen Colorado architects Randy and Tracy Hart decided to take their love of wine to a new level by moving to Amador County and opening a vineyard and tasting room in 2014, they brought their creativity with them. That creativity is evident in everything from the complex wines produced at Le

209MAGAZINE.COM

36-37 FLAVORS - Straight off the Vine.indd 36

Mulet Rouge to the thoughtfully designed tasting room in downtown Sutter Creek.

“All of the textures on the walls and the barrel staves and everything else are what they feel is really reflective of what you get when you’re tasting wine because you get the various textures of the different varietals,” said Tamara

36

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:26:03 PM

2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (Sunset Magazine International Wine Competition silver medal winner) This estate wine builds on flavors of blueberry and pomegranate, with a hint of vanilla on the finish.

Bad Jack Red (Sierra Foothills Wine Competition gold medal winner) This red is a Syrah blend with hints of baked cherries and rhubarb.

2016 Syrah (Orange County Fair gold medal winner) This estate wine has a spicy nose with dark fruit flavors and a lingering finish.

Richards, Le Mulet Rouge’s tasting room manager and events coordinator.

Le Mulet Rouge means the red mule, honoring the winery’s location on Red Mule Road in Fiddletown. All the wines produced at Le Mulet Rouge use exclusively Fiddletown grapes, with the exception of their sparkling wines.

Visitors to Le Mulet Rouge’s tasting room will get a unique experience.

“Our tasting experience is a shared experience. So, if you come in with a group, we serve you a bucket of wine, and the bucket of wine has your carafes and you pour at your leisure at your table. You’re never waiting for me to run around and fill your glass. You have your wine there. You can have wonderful conversations about the wine, about your life with your friends and family. But the wine is there and we get to chat about the wine as well. It’s a really fun experience,” said Richards.

Along with their wines, Le Mulet Rouge also features a seasonal sangria at the tasting room. Look for Richards’ apple spice sangria in October and November. ●

IF YOU GO WHAT: Le Mulet Rouge Tasting Room WHERE: 59 Main St., Sutter Creek HOURS: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday; tasting by appointment only 2018 Viognier (San Francisco Chronicle silver medal winner)

CONTACT: 209-267-5838 * lemuletrouge.com

This estate wine features fresh peach and mango flavors with a twist of lime on the finish.

209MAGAZINE.COM

36-37 FLAVORS - Straight off the Vine.indd 37

37

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:26:13 PM

Store It In Style

, t I m a e r D n a If You C t I d l i u B We Can

Serving multiple counties in the Central Valley, Sacramento and Tri-Valley areas.

Closet & Storage Concepts is the premier provider of home closet and storage solutions for virtually any room in your home.

Financing Available • Locally Owned • Locally Manufactured • Locally Installed Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday: by appointment only

1313 Scenic Drive (inside Don’s Mobile Glass) Modesto, CA 95355 | Phone: (209) 497-6441

For a FREE Consultation – Contact Us Today! (209) 497-6441

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 38

9/26/2022 10:38:13 AM

It’s when weekend warrior woes can’t wait until Monday.

When you need to see a doctor today, the Turlock Care Center Urgent Care is nearby. Urgent care treats injuries and illnesses that require same-day care but aren’t emergencies.

It’s a thousand things, big and small.

3100 West Christoffersen Parkway, Turlock 209-632-3909 | sutterhealth.org/turlock-uc If you have a life-threatening condition, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. A service of Sutter Gould Medical Foundation.

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 39

9/26/2022 10:38:15 AM

flavors

SMOKED PAPRIKA LAMB CHOPS WITH FRESH GRAPE SAUCE SERVINGS 4

1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 4 boneless sirloin leg lamb chops (3/4-inch thick each, about 1 1/2 pounds total) 1 tablespoon olive oil 3/4 cup dry riesling wine 2 shallots, minced 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme 1 1/2 cups seedless Grapes from California, rinsed 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS In small bowl, combine paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Rub chops with paprika mixture and set aside.

In large cast-iron or other heavy skillet over mediumhigh heat, heat olive oil. Add chops and cook to desired doneness, about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Transfer to platter and keep warm.

In same pan, add riesling, bring to boil and scrape up any browned bits from bottom of pan. Cook until wine is reduced to glaze, about 5 minutes. Add shallots, broth and thyme; cook until reduced by half, about 4 minutes. Stir in grapes and butter; swirl to melt butter.

Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste, then pour sauce over chops and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 359 calories; 31 g protein; 14 g carbohydrates; 17 g fat (42% calories from fat); 105 mg cholesterol; 565 mg sodium; .9 g fiber.

209MAGAZINE.COM

40-41 FLAVORS - Recipes.indd 40

40

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:43:12 PM

BRULEE PUMPKIN PIE PREP TIME 45 minutes

COOK TIME 1 hour

SERVINGS 8

PIE CRUST 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 8 tablespoons Country Crock Plant Butter, cold and cut into cubes 2 tablespoons chilled vegetable shortening, cut into pieces 4 tablespoons ice water

DIRECTIONS To make pie crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.

PUMPKIN FILLING 1/2 cup maple syrup 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree 1/4 cup coconut cream 1 cup Country Crock Plant Cream 1 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ginger 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground clove 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons cornstarch 3 tablespoons white granulated sugar

On lightly floured surface, roll dough into 14-inch circle. Transfer to 9-inch pie dish.

Lift edges and allow dough to drape into dish. Trim, leaving 1-inch overhang. Fold excess dough under and crimp edges.

WHIPPED TOPPING 2 cups Country Crock Plant Cream, chilled 1/4 cup powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

In bowl of food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse to combine. Add cold plant butter and shortening. Process about 10 seconds until it looks like coarse meal.

With food processor running, add ice water. Process until mixture clumps together.

To make pumpkin filling: In medium saucepan over medium heat, add syrup and vanilla; warm about 2 minutes then remove from heat and set aside.

Cool at room temperature 30 minutes then cover and transfer to refrigerator to chill at least 5 hours or overnight.

Before serving, sprinkle pie with white sugar and, using kitchen torch, brelee until sugar is melted and dark brown.

To make whipped topping: Using electric hand mixer or stand mixer, whisk plant cream, powdered sugar and vanilla on high until mixture thickens and stiff peaks form.

Slice and serve with whipped topping.

In large bowl, combine syrup mixture, pumpkin, coconut cream, plant cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, salt and cornstarch; blend with hand mixer until smooth. Pour mixture into pie crust.

209MAGAZINE.COM

40-41 FLAVORS - Recipes.indd 41

Bake 1 hour. If crust starts to burn, cover edges with aluminum foil. The middle will still be jiggly.

41

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:43:19 PM

Thank you for voting for us for awards in: Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon, Laser & Cosmetic Center, Neck Lift, and Skin Tightening

Calvin Lee, MD

BOTOX, Acupuncture, Threadlifts

Tammy Wu, MD

Plastic Surgery, Cellfina for Cellulite, Tummy Tuck, Breast Augmentation, Mommy Makeover, Face-Lift, Eyelid Surgery, Liposuction

Nikki Chiverrell MA, LE

Ultherapy, Hydrafacial, Facials, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels

Celebrating 20 Years • Find Our Updates On Instagram: @calvin_lee_md @tammy_wu_md • @skinguru209 - Nikki CALL US AT 209.551.1888 | 4754 DALE RD. MODESTO, CA 95356 ACROSS THE STREET FROM KAISER HOSPITAL

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 42

9/26/2022 10:38:16 AM

in the 209

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 43

9/26/2022 10:38:17 AM

feature

Dell’Osso Pumpkin Maze open every day in October.

CAROUSEL ON THE FARM

By DENNIS WYATT

T

here’s now an ostrich, zebra, giraffe and even a panda bear on the farm.

They are part of the latest attraction — a painstakingly restored carousel that debuted at New York City’s fabled Coney Island — you’ll find at the 26th annual Dell’Osso Family Pumpkin Maze that runs from Oct. 1 thru Oct. 31.

“A carousel is probably the last thing my father would have expected to have seen

209MAGAZINE.COM

44-45 FEATURE - Dell Osso.indd 44

locale before making its way to Lathrop.

The carousel is something that Susan wanted after Ron got his train in the form of the Dell’Osso Express that takes guests around the perimeter of the 10-acre corn maze.

“I always wanted a train,” Ron said.

As for the carousel Susan noted it’s a “little girl thing.”

It is one of several newer attractions awaiting visitors at the farm.

on the farm,” Ron Dell’Osso said as his wife Susan hopped aboard a giant cat with a fish in its mouth that is one of 36 ride options on the carousel adjacent to the wildly popular pumpkin blasters.

Crews spent over a month doing restorative hand painting of carousel details and rehabbing every mechanical apparatus of the carousel that came disassembled in a cargo container. The carousel that first delighted riders at Coney Island went to another

44

The carousel is one of the few attractions that has an additional cost on top of the admission, but most of the other attractions do not.

They include a hillside slide, tiny town, an 18-hole miniature golf course as well as a “lower” rope course designed for kids.

The crew in the Country Store will be busy baking pies, making caramel apples with various options such as plain, M&Ms, brownies, cookies, and more. The

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:46:25 PM

store offers a long list of treats from fresh-made apple doughnuts that many visitors like the taste so much that they buy a dozen to take home before they leave the farm, to 35 types of wild animal jerky including alligator.

A number of things that were on a hiatus due to during the pandemic are now back include the pig races, the interactive pirate show and more.

Craft beer and hard cider sales are back on “Cider Hill” as is homemade pizza. There is daily and nightly live musical entertainment.

There are more than two dozen attractions including the corn maze, a haunted house, and the Dell’Osso Speedway featuring pedal cars.

The farm also has various food options.

Among the attractions that are extra are the bazooka-like pumpkin blasters where for $8 you can fire a bucket full of mini-pumpkins, hurling them at various targets at speeds approaching 100 mph.

The best time by far to beat the crowds is Monday through Thursday that

209MAGAZINE.COM

44-45 FEATURE - Dell Osso.indd 45

45

feature lower admission rates as well.

“It ramps up as we near Halloween,” Susan said.

You can also purchase an annual pass good for as many times as you want to use it in October. It’s $69.95 with residents of Lathrop receiving a $5 discount. The passes can only be purchased at the farm.

Most of the attractions are included with admission. The maze opens at noon Mondays through Fridays and at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The last admission is 7 p.m. nightly while attractions

start closing at 8 p.m.

Admission is $18.95 Monday through Thursday, $24.95 on Friday and $27.95 on both Saturday and Sunday. Children 2 and under are free. Parking is free.

The Dell’Osso Family Farm October event employs 450 people.

Roughly 2 million people have visited the farm since the annual month-long October attraction opened in 1996.

It is one of the largest — if not the largest — agri-tourism concern in California that is not a traditional county fair. ● For more information, go to pumpkinmaze.com.

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:46:34 PM

feature

20 YEARS of providing fall fun

By KRISTINA HACKER

F

antozzi Farms in Patterson is inviting the public to help celebrate the popular fall attraction’s 20th anniversary this season.

“I can’t believe it’s been 20 years,” said Denise Fantozzi.

Fantozzi Farms, operated by Paul and Denise Fantozzi, has a bevy of family-friendly activities, highlighted by the 25 acres of corn mazes with more than five miles of paths. Within the mazes are 12 hidden checkpoints for guests to find and finding them all earns guests a certificate of completion.

209MAGAZINE.COM

46-47 FEATURE - Corn Mazes.indd 46

46

The corn mazes are designed to be enjoyed by all ages with some especially for younger children and featuring games to help them along.

The primary corn maze has a 20th anniversary theme this year.

“It has been a wonderful experience,” said Denise about operating the fall attraction. “We started off small with a corn maze, pumpkin patch and hay ride and then we kept adding things year after year.

“It’s our family tradition now…

It’s just become a part of our lives. It’s been really rewarding seeing it grow

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:47:38 PM

over the years and customers return year after year…It’s a great way to celebrate fall.”

The courtyard now features a hay bale maze, hay pyramids, large jumping pillow, hayrides, corn cannons, cow train rides, petting zoo, huge pipe slides, corn seed pit, pedal karts, zombie shooting range, and of course a pumpkin patch, with selections from small to large.

This year, the farm is bringing back the popular pig races and adding more photo opportunities and pedal cars.

For those looking to add a little more spookiness to their night, Fantozzi Farms is operating a haunted drive through attraction with plenty of thrills and chills.

Rooms representing different fears have been built over the course of the drive through and some feature animated exhibits and others have live actors looking to give carloads a jump scare or two.

The corn maze is created by utilizing GPS, which allows for an extensive and

detailed cut. Once the maze has run its course for the season, all the corn is cut down and used as silage for livestock.

The corn maze and the courtyard attractions are open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Mondays through Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays. The cost of admission for the corn maze and courtyard attractions is $12 per person and free for those 2 years and younger.

The haunted drive through attraction is open from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays. The cost is $25 per car.

Cash only at the gate.

Both the haunted drive through and the corn maze and attractions will close after Oct. 31.

Fantozzi Farms is located at 2665 Sperry Avenue in Patterson. Tickets can be bought in advance at fantozzifarms. com. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

46-47 FEATURE - Corn Mazes.indd 47

47

“IT’S BEEN REALLY REWARDING SEEING IT GROW OVER THE YEARS AND CUSTOMERS RETURN YEAR AFTER YEAR…IT’S A GREAT WAY TO CELEBRATE FALL.” —Denise Fantozzi

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:47:45 PM

feature

By SABRA STAFFORD

W

itches of all stripes, shades and warts will be descending upon Murphys for the return of the Murphys Witch Walk on Oct. 15.

Starting at 11 a.m. and continuing through to 8 p.m., the Murphys Witch Walk will feature multiple vendor bazaars, charity raffles, live music at local businesses, and plenty of food and drink options from the local Murphys restaurants, pubs and wine-tasting rooms. Guests are encouraged to come in their favorite witchy attire, whether it be a Witch of Eastwick, Harry Potter character, Maleficent, sorcerers Saruman or Gandalf, Sanderson Sister, the witches of MacBeth or the Good Witch of the North, the Wicked Witch of the East, or whatever other fascinating fantastical mystical character you can conjure.

The 6th Annual Murphys Witch Walk has expanded their vendor bazaar from last year’s single venue featuring 12 artisans to 40 vendors at two different venues along Main Street with additional artisan vendor

pop-ups and festivities staged by existing Murphys’ Main Street businesses. The aptly titled Murphys Witch Walk Wicked Goods Bizarre Bazaar will feature curious, odd, eccentric, esoteric, spooky, Pagan, spiritual, sacred, and witchy collectibles, baubles, trinkets, ephemera, ornaments, novelties, knickknacks and assorted works of art just in time for Halloween.

The Murphys Witch Walk, now in it’s sixth year, will welcome Whispers of a Witch Podcast hosted by professional voiceover actress Jennifer Anne Scott.

A portion of raffle ticket and vendor bazaar admission ticket sales, as well as other generated revenue, will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern California in honor of Murphys’ very own 9-year-old Wyatt Walker and the Walker Family.

“Super” Wyatt, as he has come to be known due to his resilience to unparalleled adversity, was diagnosed in December 2021 with medulloblastoma brain cancer, at

209MAGAZINE.COM

48 FEATURE - Witch Wine Walks.indd 48

48

Wicked Wine Stroll in Lodi

BY SABRA STAFFORD

Murphys will not be the only destination in the 209 that witches will be paying a visit to this Halloween season.

Lodi is having the Wicked Wine Stroll.

The Wicked Wine Stroll will be in downtown Lodi from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 15. Hosted by the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, the annual event lets visitors taste wine from more than 20 Lodi appellation wineries while strolling through the downtown shops.

Each downtown business that is hosting a winery will feature special sales for the evening, as well as tasty appetizers.

Tickets include a commemorative wine glass, tastings, and appetizers.

Guests are encouraged to come in witch attire to be entered into the costume contest.

They also sell designated driver tickets to keep strollers safe. They receive free water and soda and can enjoy the appetizers at each participating merchant. For ticket information please visit lodichmaber.com.

which time he underwent emergency surgery to remove the life-threatening tumor from his brain.

The street festival is free admission, while the vendor bazaar has an admission of $5 and includes and Murphys Witch Walk tote bag, a commemorative bumper sticker and five raffle tickets. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/27/2022 8:53:32 AM

VOTED

BEST

ESPRESSO

IN THE 209

BAR

. s r te or p p u S l u f r e d on W r ou to Thank you

ALISON’S CAFE TURLOCK

COFFEE • PASTRIES • SPECIALTY DRINKS • SANDWICH • HEALTHY OPTIONS DRIVE THRU 219 West Canal, Turlock CA 95380 209-656-9002

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 49

MON - SAT 6:00AM - 7:00PM SUN 7:00AM - 6:00PM

www.alisonscafeturlock.com

9/26/2022 10:38:19 AM

feature

A Celtic All Hallows Faire

By SARAH LAWSON

T

he term ‘Halloween’ has many meanings and interpretations from all across the globe, and the co-producers of Angel Camp’s All Hallows Faire, Patrick Karnahan and Lissa Britt, are sharing the traditional Celtic version. The majority of the Halloween customs have roots coming from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain which is a celebration to welcome the harvest at the end of the summer by having huge bonfires and wearing costumes to ward off the ghosts.

Originally put on several years ago as a quick idea that Karnahan planned to be just a one-time thing, after the successful event, the following year he decided to continue the celebration counting that as the first of many.

It began in Sonora but as the event grew, so did the numbers of people

attending; therefore, a larger area was needed to accommodate the new attractions and more parking. Shortly after, the event found its new home at 2465 Gunclub Road in Angels Camp.

“It all started when I was eight years old; me and my friend were building a haunted house in his backyard out of cardboard and right before we were going to present it to the neighbors and family, his dad came outside and made us take it down,” Karnahan explained. “Ever since then I wanted redemption and over time I envisioned a new type of haunted house, something more interesting.”

All Hallows Faire is a full weekend jam packed with events from fire swallowing, to live music, and even an allinclusive costume contest with prizes.

The event begins on Oct. 29 with the gates open at noon and events run-

209MAGAZINE.COM

50 FEATURE - All Hallows Eve.indd 50

50

ning until 10:30 p.m.

Saturday is the busiest day, beginning the festivities with one of their main events called ‘burning of the harvest man’ that is a tradition where people write notes to loved ones that have passed on and they are thrown into the fire. It is one of the popular ancient Celtic traditions.

There are dancers, cosplay performances, live bands, magic, and even the Phoenix Fire Family.

Those events and more stretch into Oct. 30 with the Faire running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More information on camping and booking an RV or a tent space can be found on their website allhallowsfaire. com.

More information, including ticket prices are available at: allhallowsfaire. com. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:49:50 PM

salute to veteran-owned businesses

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 51

9/26/2022 10:38:21 AM

feature

A LOOK INSIDE...

THE AMAZING WORLD OF

By CHRISTOPHER CORREA

he city of Turlock has spent years without a comic book shop, leaving many collectors and enthusiasts with limited options. Luckily for the community, two friends have combined forces to create Turlock Comics.

Turlock Comics, located on 2717 Geer Road, is owned and operated

by Joey Aiello and Kyle Turner, who opened the shop on June 4. The two veterans decided to take the risk of opening the shop after bonding over the hobby amongst other aspects of their lives. Not only did they enjoy comic books and card games, but they each had experience in the military and took their daughters to the same gymnastics classes.

“Our families have gotten along pretty well,” said Aiello. “We each have four daughters and they do gymnastics together, so we hung out a lot… Being in the military, we both have those stories and experiences that we can relate to that not many other people can.”

Aiello served in the Marines and Turner served in the Army, and like their branches, they each specialized in their own things as it relates to collectbles. Aiello explained that he has collected comic books since he was six years of age, with his favorite character and series being the Hulk. Meanwhile, Turner has had a huge passion for card games like Magic the Gathering.

“There are so many different communities and groups out there, with both

of us here we feel like our inventory is pretty wide,” Turner said.

Walking into the shop, customers are met with two long walls on each side of the space filled with comic books. Some of the comic books are rare, graded treasures while others are modern and more common copies. There are also multiple showcases packed with cards from sets like Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic the Gathering and more. Placed around the shop, there are also tons of action figures and Funko Pops. There is also no shortage of high-end memorabilia on the walls of the shop, stemming from custom made helmets to autographed movie props.

“We want this place to be somewhere people can come to, look at all the stuff and hang out,” Aiello said. “Sometimes we have guys come in here and hang out for hours just talking about the latest releases or showing off their newest pickups.”

Even though the shelves are heavily stocked with eye-catching collectibles, it was not always the case when they first opened.

“There came a point when we were still painting and setting up that we were really feeling that pressure that we needed to finally open up since the bills were starting to rack up,” Aiello said.

209MAGAZINE.COM

FEATURE - Turlock Comic Shop.indd 52

52

“We only had some pieces from our personal collections, and only about half of the walls were full.”

Even with the limited supplies at the beginning, the two explained that products were instantly flying off the shelves, something that has not slowed down since.

“Even with as much stuff that we have now, we are still always buying and restocking. The demand has been pretty insane,” Turner said.

Aiello believes that the high demand and popularity of the shop thus far is for several reasons.

“The main thing is that Turlock hasn’t really had a shop like this for a while. The closest places for people to go get their comics is Modesto, and many people don’t want to make that drive all the time,” he said.

Turner added the fact that comics and collectibles are simply popular, citing that many cities, including small towns, have multiple shops.

“This isn’t the largest of spaces, and at times we’ve had over 20 people in here searching through

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:51:06 PM

comics, talking to each other, looking through the Pops, doing just about everything,” Aiello said. “The fact that we’ve been so popular is awesome. And we know that some of these other shops haven’t had this success, so it goes to show that we’re establishing ourselves as a really fun and trustworthy place.”

One of the most notable customers that have come into the shop is MMA and UFC superstar Nick Diaz. The legendary fighter walked in unannounced last month and conversated with customers, discussing everything from his career to pop culture, taking photos with all who asked.

“I was genuinely star-struck when Nick Diaz came in. The most surprising

part was just how cool he was hanging out and talking with everyone,” Aiello said. “From lifelong collectors to people just curious about the hobby, we’ve had people from all walks of life come in.

People from all ages and all personalities come in looking for certain Funko Pops and comics, it’s been really eye-opening to see just how large these communities are.”

Not only is it surprising to see how huge the community is, but to see how passionate people are is also cool to see,” Aiello said.

The passion is most evident in the gaming area in the back of their shop.

Turlock Comics plays host to several tournaments for a variety of card games.

“We don’t have the biggest prizes or the biggest stakes, and we like it that way,” Aiello said. “We want to give back to our small community here in Turlock, and even with it being small events, we still have that same amount

209MAGAZINE.COM

FEATURE - Turlock Comic Shop.indd 53

53

of fun and excitement as any other larger places wuld have.”

Aiello and Turner encouraged everybody to follow the shop on social media sites for the latest updates on tournaments and new inventory. Their Instagram handle is @Turlock_Comics while you can find them on Facebook at @TurlockComics.

“We’ve grown so much in such a short amount of time, we’re crushing all of our goals since we came together and started this,” Turner said. “It’s been amazing so far and we just hope that people can come in, have a good time and want to come by again.”

Turlock Comics is open Mondays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:51:15 PM

feature

M

aking the move from being a cook at a restaurant to being the owner is a big leap of faith.

There’s so many more decisions to be made, aspects to factor in and problems to solve.

Richard Ritzman, 55, of Sutter Creek decided to take that leap in August of 2021 when he and his wife Michelle decided to purchase Buffalo Chips, a popular eatery in Sutter Creek. But shying away from a challenge is not something that could be said of Ritzman.

At the age of 17, Ritzman started talking to a recruiter for the United States Marine Corp. After he graduated high school and turned 18, he enlisted and started training as a machine gunner.

Ritzman served for 10 years and traveled around to various parts of the world, as well as being deployed for Operation Desert Storm.

After a decade in the service, Ritzman decided to leave the military for a very personal reason.

“I had two boys at home and I wanted to be a part of their lives,” Ritzman said.

By SABRA STAFFORD

209MAGAZINE.COM

54-55 FEATURE - Buffalo Chips.indd 54

54

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:52:52 PM

He worked various physically intensive jobs, but as they were starting to take a toll on his body, he decided to move into a new field. But cooking was not his first choice.

“I went in to nursing,” Ritzman said. “We were in Washington and I had maintained my GPA to qualify for nursing school but when we came down here it was a lottery system. So, I decided to go back to school.”

He enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and learned the fine art of cooking.

“I enjoy working with my hands, so it doesn’t matter to me if it’s welding or cooking a meal,” Ritzman said.

Those years in the military helped

This is a very supportive community, especially for veterans and I’m grateful they keep coming in. prepare Ritzman for the hard work it would take to succeed as Buffalo Chip’s cook and owner.

“I get here at 6:30 every morning and I am the last one to leave,” Ritzman said.

“Me and two other people do all the prep work and get everything ready for breakfast. Then we get to cooking.”

Located at 76 Main Street, Buffalo Chips is an ice cream dessert parlor as well as a grill serving up breakfast and lunch. The menu features breakfast standards like omelets, pancakes and French toast and lunch favorites like deli sandwiches, salads and burgers that are purported to be the best in town.

Buffalo Chips is a popular place for tourists to stop during their stay in Sutter Creek, for which Ritzman is very grateful. But it’s the locals that continue to come by routinely that really touch him.

“This is a very supportive community, especially for veterans and I’m grateful they keep coming in,” Ritzman said. ●

CRINKLAW

F I N E A R T G A L L E R Y / S T U D I O KATHERINE CRINKLAW ARTIST HOURS: TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:30-4:00, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. 377 FIFTH STREET, GUSTINE, CA. 209.573.3523 crinklawfineart.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

54-55 FEATURE - Buffalo Chips.indd 55

55

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:53:00 PM

feature

C

had and Kayla Roslan just may have found their niche. The United States Navy veterans, turned entrepreneurs, are both the brains and the humor behind Sparks Fly Candle Company, Sassy Candles for Sassy People.

It’s a company they began shortly following Kayla’s separation from service in 2017 and a few months after the birth of their son.

“So, when my son was born, the world shut down and we had nothing to do and really no ways to make an income,” Kayla Roslan said, noting that while her husband remained enlisted through July of 2021, she remained in their Washington home with their new baby and no outlet, be it employment or education.

“We wanted something we could do as a hobby for the two of us, so we started making candles,” Kayla continued. “We were really, really good at it and our family loved it. My husband is really good at graphic design, so we wanted to figure

By TERESA HAMMOND

209MAGAZINE.COM

56-57 FEATURE - Sparks Fly.indd 56

56

out how to bring a little bit of joy to the world because we were so shut down and everything seemed so gloomy.”

Fast forward to August 2021 and the family found themselves relocated to the 209 via a job opportunity for Chad.

Kayla, an Enochs High School 2012 alum, desired returning to the 209 to be close to family.

“We chose to come home, all of our family’s here, I’m from here and my son — James, three this November — was very alone out there,” Kayla said of the family relocation.

Yet the job opportunity that brought them here proved to be short-lived.

In the summer of 2022 Chad walked away from corporate life to join his wife full-time in the candle business.

“It’s better,” Chad shared, pointing out that prior to his resignation he was doing double duty, at his corporate job and helping Kayla with the home-based business, and he believes

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:53:40 PM

he made the right decision. “Having more control over my schedule is giving us so much more freedom to take care of ourselves and our business.”

Now calling Oakdale home, the family has set up their candle making production in the tandem third car garage of their new home.

“Our logo is Sassy Candles, for Sassy People, that’s kind of our motto,” Kayla said of Sparks Fly Candle Co. The “sassy” she speaks of are the candle names and descriptions which are accompanied by specific scents, which might prompt one to make the connection. Examples of their creativity with candles like: Coffee; “Because hating your job should come with enthusiasm,” or Outdoorsy; “Smells like drinking wine out on the porch.”

While the wood wicked, soy candles with essential oil fragrances are pleasant to the senses, it was their essence of fun and creativity which caught the attention of Oakdale Mayor Cherilyn Bairos.

Bairos crossed paths with the Roslan family and their Sassy Candles, serving in her role as an Oakdale Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. Drawn to the candles and their originality, the mayor shared she began thinking of an opportunity.

“I started thinking, hey, what about if they could make a candle for Oakdale? What would that smell like?” Bairos said of their initial introduction. “Leather, dust, cowboy, almonds, dairy … everything together and how would that look?”

The mayor quickly began brainstorming with the couple about hosting a contest for the scent, as well as the label and the name. The Roslan duo loved the idea and its originality.

“They’re inspired after our real-life circumstances,” Kayla shared of the candles.

“This DD 214 that’s the paper you get when you’re released from the military,” Bairos said of the candle which first caught her attention. “I got my nephew that one.”

After deciding to pursue the contest idea, in March of this year the “Oakdale” candle was created by a community member. Images of a cowboy hat, oak tree and boot are featured on the label capturing the image of the “Cowboy Capital of the World” with the listed scents of Oak, Leather, Bourbon and Country Music.

Since then, the veteran-owned and operated company has continued to grow. Expanding to 209 farmers’ markets, as well as upcoming fairs, including Dutch Hollow, Manteca Pumpkin Roll and Oakdale’s Downtown Christmas in early December.

209MAGAZINE.COM

56-57 FEATURE - Sparks Fly.indd 57

57

The couple has also begun partnering with non-profits, giving back and offering support, which they credit for so much of their own individual success.

Kayla is a recipient of a scholarship from the non-profit Sentinels of Freedom, which helped the family with housing for disabled vets.

“They’ve just been so helpful to us that we wanted to give back,” Kayla said.

The couple recently made a custom candle for attendees of the non-profit’s annual gala event.

“We really got a lot of help from Sentinels of Freedom,” Kayla continued, explaining the non-profit helped her go to school and provided financial aid as well as connected them to a business which helped them network for their candle business.

“A lot of the non-profits are very, very active in helping veterans start a business,” Chad added.

As veterans with servicerelated disabilities, the help and support of the veteran non-profit community does not go unnoticed with these two US Navy Veterans.

“There’s no way I would even be near where I am now.

Even at my college that I went to in Washington they had a veteran service, entire department and that’s where I found my family and friends that helped me with the transition,” Kayla noted about veteran support. “It’s really nice to know that there are people out there who are willing to help veterans that are going through some of the same stuff and be able to form that community.

“That’s why we work with them so much,” Kayla continued. “We know what we’ve gone through. We know what others have gone through so we want to support them.”

While the support of the veteran community has become an additional focus of the company, ultimately their driving force is to simply bring joy and happiness to their customers.

A variety of scents as well as “sassy” influenced candles can be found on their website: www.sparksflycandle.com.

They even host a scent of the month club for members. Custom labels and scents are also popular with their clients.

“I love bringing people happiness. It is like the best thing to me,” Kayla said of the hobby which quickly became a booming business. “Seeing them read the labels and they actually laugh. That’s amazing to me. At that point I don’t even care if people are buying my candle. They’re just coming and they’re laughing and having a good time. I just love that.

“This is exceeding expectations already.” ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:53:44 PM

feature

Operation:

American Veterans First By

I

t is all in the name for the non-profit organization American Veterans First, founded by United States Marine Corps veteran Duke Cooper.

The organization was established in 2016 to be a refuge for veterans and first responders. Since the inception, Cooper and his team have grown the organization, expanded the programs, and increased their partnerships which has led to great success.

“The volunteers that we have make this organization a success,” said Cooper. “We have the best group of men and women that we have had in the past six years and I owe all the success to this group and the volunteers. We are helping veterans heal one step at a time and making this world a better place one day at a time.”

AVF Executive Secretary Paige McLaughlin, Director of Veterans Outreach Shirley Serato, Director of the Museum Gloria Robertson, Director of Volunteers Karen Knox, and several others have made AVF what it is today.

Through the years the organization has helped several veterans in the 209 and beyond with a variety of programs including the veteran’s outreach with distribution of food, coats, blankets, socks, underwear, shoes, hygiene packs, wheelchairs, electric scooters, and walkers. Some of the programs have also been extended out to those in need even

For me there is no better feeling than to volunteer your time to help somebody that is less fortunate than you. if they are not veterans.

“We are honored to do that,” added Cooper about helping the community.

“When you come into our building and we can help you there is no better ‘feel good’ than that. I am proud that we have a great facility. For me there is no better feeling than to volunteer your time to help somebody that is less fortunate than you. It is very rewarding.”

The group has sent several care packages to service members overseas. They have donated vehicles to veterans in need, toys to foster kids, uniforms, and flags. Schools have taken field trips to their facility where they learned some history and were taught to properly fold a flag and how to dispose of it. They now have a military museum at their location on Oakdale Road in Riverbank with artifacts and history from the Civil War to Iraq and Afghanistan.

209MAGAZINE.COM

58-59 FEATURE - Veteran Non-profit.indd 58

58

They have met the needs of so many veterans in the 209 in so many ways in the six years they have been in existence including mental health services.

Cooper received Veteran of the Year honors in 2020, presented by California State Assembly member Heath Flora for all the work his organization has done.

Cooper served in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1974 and was an infantry rifleman.

There are no paid positions and there have been many changes through the years including the volunteers and board members. However, the focus of remembering the fallen, patriotism, honoring service members and helping veterans has been consistent and something Cooper is very passionate about.

AVF has made many friends like WWII Navy Combat veteran Alan Taylor and Korean War Army Veteran Eddy Jones along the way.

Veterans Day is a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars and in 1918 on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month an armistice was signed officially ending World War I. The holiday on Nov. 11 was originally known as Armistice Day but in 1954 it was changed to Veterans Day. “We strive to bring awareness to our veterans and to let them know that they are not forgotten,” expressed Cooper. “The ones that are gone, we

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:54:23 PM

cannot resurrect them from the grave but we can resurrect their memory and we call it not forgotten. From day one it has been important to us to make sure the veterans that fought for this country are not forgotten.”

For AVF to keep the doors open and continue the fight for veterans’ rights as well as their humanitarian efforts they hold fundraisers, accept donations, and apply for grants.

For more information visit americanveteransfirst.net, email veteransfirst16@gmail.com, call 209-652-7627 or stop by 6436 Oakdale Road in Riverbank. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

58-59 FEATURE - Veteran Non-profit.indd 59

59

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:54:34 PM

GIVE LOCAL FLAVORS Think Hilmar Cheese for All Your Gift & Party Needs

Follow Us: @hilmarcheese • /hilmarcheesecompany 9001 N LANDER AVE/HWY 165 • HILMAR, CA • WWW.HILMARCHEESE.COM • 209.656.6383

Lux Dermatology Thank You For Voting Us #1!

Let Our Experience Work For You

2020-2022

Introducing Dr. Amin Esfahani

Amin Esfahani, MD

Amin Esfahani was born in Tehran, Iran and grew up in Toronto, Canada. He completed both undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Toronto with focus on the role of nutrition in lowering risk factors of diabetes and heart disease. He attended New York Medical College (NYMC) and completed his internship at the prestigious Harvard Medical School affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. He completed his dermatology residency at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University. In his final year he served as the Chief Resident. His interests outside of clinical medicine include leadership and mentoring. Amin previously served as the president of student government at NYMC and as member of ACGME’s Review Committee for dermatology.

Meet Our Team

Robert Leposavic, MD

Stephen Doggett, MD

Joselyn Johnson,

Dermatologist Mohs Surgery

Radiation Oncologist Brachytherapy

MSN FNP

Medical Services Include: Acne, Rashes, Scar Revision, Skin Cysts, Dandruff, Eczema, Fungal Nail And Toenail Infections, and Psoriasis to Name a Few.

Skin Cancer: Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Brachytherapy and Surgical Excisions.

Cosmetic: Botox, Dermal Fillers, Skin Rejuvenation and Laser Hair Removal.

Call Either Location To Learn More.

296 Cottage Ave. Manteca • 209-624-7006 5757 Pacific Ave. Ste. 228 Stockton • 209-490-5050 luxdermatologists.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 60

60

Healthy, beautiful skin is possible

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:26 AM

Open enrollment begins 11/1/22

600 E. Main Street, Suite 200, Turlock, CA 209-634-9031 • www.westernvalley.com Lic #0649647

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 61

9/26/2022 10:38:26 AM

navigator

Immerse yourself into the world of

VAN GOGH

By SABRA STAFFORD

A

nyone who has ever gazed at one of Vincent Van Gogh’s vividly colored creations, whether it be a reproduction or an authentic piece, and wanted to step inside it, can now have that wish full-filled.

“Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” has transformed a 27,000 square foot space in West Sacramento into an exploration of the artist’s life, works, inspirations and techniques through modern technology like 4K resolution projections, 3D imaging and a virtual reality experience.

“We are thrilled to be bringing Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience to West Sacramento,” said Mario Iacampo, CEO and Creative Director of Exhibition Hub, who created the show. “This innovative and arts-focused community in the heart of the region is the ideal location for our award-winning immersive experience.”

“We are honored that West Sacramento was selected to host this worldclass experience,” said Mayor Martha Guerrero. “This furthers our mission to elevate the cultural offerings in our city and we look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region.”

The exhibit is divided into four distinct sections, with the first covering Van Gogh’s life and art. While he went largely unrecognized during his life, art historians and biographers have been able to put together the course of his young life and all that inspired him through the trove of correspondence he

It is a serene experience and one not to be rushed. Sit down in one of the many chairs in the expansive room and take in the entire experience. left behind, including the voluminous letters between himself and his younger brother Theo. Through these letters, the exhibit tells the story of Van Gogh in his own words, as he reflects on topics ranging from his initial attempt to study theology, to his use of color, to his life in France, and sometimes his own mental state. His words are combined with reproductions of some of his most well-known works, including a series of his paintings of sunflowers and a 3D projection of the many flowers in vases he painted, with a dream-like musical score and the dulcet voice of a narrator taking you along the journey.

This section includes a life-size replica of the view Van Gogh had during his self-imposed stay at a sanitarium and his bedroom in Arles that he painted repeatedly. Visitors are allowed to step into the room for a feel of the space.

The immersive experience comes in the next section, where guests walk

209MAGAZINE.COM

62-64 NAVIGATOR - Van Gogh Exhibit.indd 62

62

into a 10,000 square foot gallery with Van Gogh’s paintings coming to life in a stunning 360-degree light and sound marvel. Watch in awe as his paintbrush strokes in “Starry Night” swirl all around you and the petals off his “Irises” cascade around the room.

Crows fly from one painting to another ad boats set sail across the waters of his paintings.

It is a serene experience and one not to be rushed. Sit down in one of the many chairs in the expansive room and take in the entire experience.

The third section of the exhibit is a where visitors can unlock their own creativity and put their own interpretations on a Van Gogh piece.

The studio has several coloring-book sized prints for guests to pick. Once one is selected, sit down and start reimaging it with the provided crayons.

Once completed the work can be scanned and projected up on the studio wall, complete with a gilded frame.

Guests can either tack up their work on the studio walls or take it home and proudly adorn your refrigerator with your own masterpiece.

The final section is virtual reality experience that is included in VIP tickets or an additional $5 for general admission. Tis section should definitely be included in your excursion, unless you get queasy easily. The virtual reality takes you on an astounding walk through Van Gogh’s life in Arles and Saint-Remy de Provence, both in

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:55:12 PM

The scenery as you stroll from the countryside through the forest into the village and finally down to the waterfront, is other-worldly and simply stunning.

62-64 NAVIGATOR - Van Gogh Exhibit.indd 63

9/26/2022 12:55:35 PM

navigator

France. The scenery as you stroll from the countryside through the forest into the village and finally down to the waterfront, is otherworldly and simply stunning. It is a full 360-degree experience and along the way the paintings this scenery inspired will materialize before your eyes.

Produced by Exhibition Hub and Fever, the leading entertainment discovery platform, “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” has proven so popular that the stay in West Sacramento has been extended to run through Dec. 31. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (last entry) on Fridays; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (last entry) Saturdays and holidays; and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry) on Sundays.

The visit takes about 60 to 75 minutes to complete, though it is self-guided so visitors can go at their own pace.

Tickets start at $34.90 for adults and $19.90 for children. Tickets should be purchased in advance by visiting vangoghexpo.com/ sacramento/#tickets.

The exhibit is located at 31 15th Street in West Sacramento. In order to ensure the best guest experience, Exhibition Hub and West Sacramento were able to identify city resources and work with local organizations to implement a valet-parking. operation and easy off-site parking program.

In addition to valet parking on-site, guests can also park at West Sacramento’s public lot close to Drake’s The Barn where the first two hours are free and take advantage of the City’s new VIA ride-share vehicles for just a $3.50 ride ($1.75 for seniors and people with disabilities) to the venue. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

62-64 NAVIGATOR - Van Gogh Exhibit.indd 64

64

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:55:30 PM

"Light Up a Light, Light Up a Life."

Tree of Lights offers a chance for anyone in the community to recognize the people who have impacted their lives, through a memorial or honorary light dedication. Donations for Tree of Lights begin in October and are accepted through the end of the year. Your donation will light up our Tree of Lights and support Hospice of San Joaquin’s programs for terminally ill patients and their families.

To purchase a light, visit www.HospiceSJ.org or call (209) 957-3888

HEALTH INSURANCE IS COMPLICATED.

Join us at our

Ceremonies

Stockton 11/22

Lockeford 11/26 Ripon 11/28 Escalon 11/29

we get it.

Lodi 12/1

Manteca 12/1 Rio Vista 12/3 Tracy 12/7

Become a WIS&G client today to get answers to your questions, gain clarity, and get the help you’ve been needing.

Call or email us today to find out what our experienced health & benefits team has to offer.

Sing it loud!

I got my own website!

follow us on:

Stop relying on social media pages for your business.

Let us help you build your new website.

Visit us at 209multimedia.com/webdesign to get started.

wisg.com | 800.790.4875 | info@wisg.com license #0596517

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 65

65

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:28 AM

thegreatoutdoors

M

any people know that Royal Robbins and Warren Harding pioneered rock climbing on Yosemite’s big walls like Half Dome in the 1950s. Not enough know about the role women like Bea Vogel played in the sport’s evolution.

“Warren was complaining about Royal Robbins finishing the Regular Northwest Face of Half Dome without him. He was pouting and moaning because he had been left out,” Vogel recalled.

“I told him, ‘Oh hell! There are lots of other walls. Why don’t you do El Capitan?’”

At Vogel’s suggestion, Harding and his partners labored to scale The Nose of El Capitan over 47 days in 1958. The breakthrough ascent changed climbing forever, though Vogel noted that Harding never credited

209MAGAZINE.COM

THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Sierra Splendor.indd 66

1960, made the first ascent of Nutcracker, using clean protection instead of pitons which scar and damage rock.

Sibylle Hetchel and Bev Johnson achieved El Cap’s first female ascent in 1973.

“Being up there with another woman can be incredibly comfortable, relaxed, and hilariously funny …There is always a certain pressure to prove that women can do things,” Hetchel observed.

Lynn Hill would second that. Well-known for the first free ascent of The Nose in 1994, Hill shared instead about her 1980 climb of El Capitan’s Shield with Mari Gingery. The overhanging and intimidating route took six grueling days to ascend.

“Well worth the effort,” Hill wrote. “I felt the need to demonstrate that women can do whatever we set our minds to.”

her for inspiration.

That’s one of many revelations contained in the new book “Valley of Giants: Stories from Women at the Heart of Yosemite Climbing,” edited by Lauren Delaunay Miller. A climber herself, who has served on Yosemite’s Search and Rescue Team, Miller assembled 38 fascinating women’s narratives from 1930 through the present.

Her work will expand the horizons of even those who consider themselves wellversed in Yosemite climbing history.

For example, women like Marjorie Bridge Farquhar and Virginia Greever climbed the Cathedral Spires in the early 1930s. Vogel led classic routes like Royal Arches and forged her own pitons by the early 1950s. Liz Robbins, teaming up with her future husband Royal Robbins in

66

More than just a litany of women’s accomplishments though, “Valley of Giants” expresses the wisdom its contributors achieved.

Life lessons they acquired through their journeys and shared in Miller’s book differ starkly from the tone of men’s climbing narratives.

“Our foremothers have much to teach us, if only we stop and listen,” Miller wrote.

“Yosemite Women” exhibit Yosemite women’s history goes far beyond climbing, of course. “Yosemite Women: A Yosemite Museum Exhibit Honoring the 19th Amendment Centennial,” a new display open to the public at the Ahwahnee Hotel, documents their many contributions.

Indigenous women like Julia Parker kept alive traditional practices such as basket making. As an interpretive park ranger, Parker

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:56:01 PM

educated visitors for more than 50 years. “I felt like Yosemite was a big mother to me, protecting me from the outside,” she said.

In the years after President Lincoln first protected Yosemite’s wilderness in 1864, Irish immigrant Bridget Degnan opened a bakery and fed the crowds forming in Yosemite Valley. After Yosemite became a national park in 1890, Jennie Foster Curry established Camp Curry and hosted guests there for decades. Clare Marie Hodges became the first female ranger in the National Park Service in 1918, patrolling the backcountry and performing her duties with “fearless dexterity and efficiency,” the park superintendent recorded.

Shirley Sargent, a Yosemite historian and author who wrote more than 30 books

209MAGAZINE.COM

THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Sierra Splendor.indd 67

Yosemite superintendent is the best job on the planet!”

Muldoon said.

“An Accidental Life” film Further establishing 2022 as the Year of Yosemite Women, a new film called “An Accidental Life” reveals the emotional story of climber Quinn Brett.

Brett achieved rare success climbing in Yosemite, once ascending seven big walls in seven exhausting days with her partner Josie McKee in 2016. During the following year, she suffered a 120-foot fall on The Nose which broke her back and paralyzed her from the waist down.

“An Accidental Life” shows her effort to heal and forge a new life. Filmmaker Henna Taylor captures Brett’s lows and highs as she suffers wrenching grief while searching for joy. Throughout the movie, a wheelchair-

and 200 articles, captured much of this history in her work, “Pioneers in Petticoats,” published in 1966.

“Yosemite has had ‘men to match its mountains.’ At their heels were the pioneers in petticoats whose energies, exploits and significance in that place of surpassing beauty and prominence received little recognition or public notice. The authoress, a Yosemite devotee since 1936, decided to correct this oversight,” Sargent wrote.

“Yosemite Women” shared the stories of many others who changed Yosemite, including climbers, conservationists, and rangers. Cicely Muldoon, the park’s female superintendent, took office in 2020. “I am so grateful for all who helped clear the path for me, and hope I can give a helping hand to the next generation of park leaders…

67

bound Brett struggles with physical tasks, therapy, pain and despair. “I’m living my nightmare,” she says.

Friends rally to help her adapt and cope. As the film ends near the accident’s second anniversary, Brett enjoys a camping and cycling trip with them. “I’m celebrating new friends and new experiences,” she says. She’s learned to ride a hand cycle and landed a National Park Service job to help expand backcountry access for the disabled.

“The reason I chose to share my difficult time with you all is to shine a light to this injury, its secondary ailments, the stigma society places on disability and that helping us via funding more research is not an impossible feat,” Quinn wrote. “Continue funding and fueling spinal cord research. Please.” ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:56:08 PM

VINYL FENCE & BUILDING PRODUCTS, INC.

DURABLE, LOW MAINTENANCE FENCING, PATIO COVERS GAZEBOS AND VINyL FENCING REPAIRS

1113 CARVER ROAD, MODESTO

(209) 892-5729 (209) 846-9457 VINYLFENCEMODESTO.COM

Fall is proof that change is beautiful.

We hope to see you in our showroom soon!

Showroom Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat-Sun by appt only

Make your mark.

5170 Pentecost Dr. Ste. 1 Modesto, CA 95356

In today’s mobile world, it’s more important than ever for companies to have instant, mobile-friendly information available as easily as possible, or else people tend to move on to someone who does. Life moves too quickly to look for hard-to-find stuff.

209-491-0310

Web Design

Mention this ad in the 209 and we’ll extend contractor’s pricing.

AREA RUGS • CARPET HARDWOOD • HARD SURFACE www.sheltonleeflooring.com

209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 68

209MULTIMEDIA.COM

68

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 10:38:30 AM

Get your g in iv G s k n a Th & n e e w o Hall

Treats Here

2225 GEER RD. TURLOCK

(209) 668-0928

WWW.OTPASTRIES.COM 209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 69

9/26/2022 10:38:34 AM

fulloflife

Scalp freezing and defrosting during each weekly treatment was added to the menu to help prevent hair loss for a second time.

Breast cancer and the unexpected

By TERESA HAMMOND

It took a crew of dedicated girlfriends, but each week for 12 weeks a small army rallied to make sure I made it safely to treatment at UCSF.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TERESA HAMMOND

T

hings don’t always go as planned. Six small words which hold so much truth.

I first began to learn this lesson as a child, only made more apparent when adulting became a full-time thing. And while some might think I learned this most in the spring of 2020 when I learned of my breast cancer diagnosis, they would be wrong.

Truth be told, the surprise of life versus plans happens all the time. Regardless of your marital status, bank account balance or size of your jeans we all get greeted with not so great “life” surprises on occasion.

Being that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I felt this was the best time to share the second part of my breast cancer story.

First diagnosed in April of 2020, Stage 3, Triple Negative Breast Cancer, would be a new box to fill in on Health

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - FAB.indd 70

Forms, as well as a new title to share with those walking a similar path. We did all the things (chemotherapy — lots, radiation — also lots, as well as a bi-lateral mastectomy).

Take that cancer, was my truest feeling when we completed this journey in early summer of 2021.

70

Supported by a team of optimists, as well as scans that showed “No Evidence Detected” the plans were made to remove my port (the device inserted in my chest to administer chemo) in early fall.

Life is funny and while it might be a taboo topic for a

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:56:48 PM

journalist, I’m here to share that I believe in God and He indeed showed up through this unexpected chapter.

Days prior to having my port removed in 2021, my appointment was postponed by a week as my surgeon had a more urgent case to tend to. As a cancer survivor I knew what that meant and simply sloughed it off as no big deal.

What I didn’t know was days later I would find a ball-bearing size lump in my underarm on the right side. Strange as it was, I messaged my surgeon, convinced it had to be an infection of some sort as a result of my reconstruction surgery earlier that summer.

Meeting with her that following week, was one of the more heartbreaking moments in this journey. Her words I’ll never forget and they still sting today as I share them here.

Upon checking the lump, she shared with my mom and I we’d need to do some more tests. The port “Porsche,” as my daughter and I had named it, would have to stay until then.

“We may need it again,” the doctor shared. And the tears did fall. The fear set in and the tests resumed.

In time we would learn the cancer had returned. Three months, three simple, life-filled, short months was what we were treated to and then — more cancer.

Punched in the gut and stunned beyond words, my guy and I slept on the news before making any decisions. I still remember that night very vividly as well.

Sharing with him that I wasn’t ready to die. I needed to be here for my children, his children, him, my parents, my friends, what exactly was happening?

Well, as my story goes a night to think on it and a lot of prayer led us to request a referral to leave the Valley and seek treatment in the Bay Area. UCSF Mission Bay would soon be our new home for this battle and we were grateful to add them to the team.

While it is not my intention to bash Valley medicine or doctors in any way, my experience through the past two years of this journey is valid. With the

cancer we were fighting (an aggressive cancer, in late stage) we learned that what was best for us was not to just have the help of an Oncologist but a Breast Cancer Oncologist, someone specialized in the field of treating patients like me.

Once again, we would go back to the table to kill this thing once and for all and return to life as we once knew it. Once a week for 12 weeks, UCSF would be my home away from home. The downside nausea and fatigue would return and yes, so would hair loss.

I chuckle as I type this because what I know now, that I didn’t know then was life never really returns to how it once was when you’ve battled cancer. Everything in life post cancer is in High Definition, which is both a plus and a minus.

Then there’s the subconscious anger that must be acknowledged and dealt with, not to mention survivor’s guilt when someone you love passes from the disease you survived.

Yet, there is always a silver lining, as well as a bright side and mine would come by way of not just being in some of the best care in the nation, but also the opportunity to save my hair.

For some this is a sign of vanity at its finest and well, I’m at peace with that judgement.

While I understand “it’s just hair,” it’s also something more than that. What we came to learn during the first battle was that overall, I could handle most of the treatments pretty well.

For the most part, I still looked very much like myself, until I was bald. When one loses their hair however, the world knows you’re not well and wigs just weren’t my thing.

There were a number of silver linings in Chapter 2 of Breast Cancer battle. Weekly trips to UCSF with my favorite ladies in my life (and my guy for the final final), a medical team, which was truly one of a kind and the cooling cap. This invention was so revolutionary in my second chapter that I’m sharing more of it in this issue’s Full of Life feature. Thanks to this, not so simple, invention weekly scalp cooling (aka freezing) during treatment helped me retain my hair.

There were rules which made it a bit challenging, as you basically baby your hair and treat it like fine china. Specific shampoo, wash once a week only, no hair products, no blow drying, no styling tools and silk pillowcases. And yes, I did all the things. Gratefully it was winter and hats quickly became my BFF. Late March of this year, we once again finished

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - FAB.indd 71

71

Post treatment/ cancer celebration with friends who are family was enjoyable yet short lived as my cancer recurrence was found weeks following the August 2021 festivities.

the battle. Another finish line in one more marathon of this amazing life. Once again, I am typing this just days before my port is to be removed.

Yet here’s the point/landing the plane in this long-winded chapter telling.

We really never know what’s to come next. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time for us as women, daughters, sons, spouses and friends to stop and remember/encourage self-care. Early detection can be so instrumental in preventing another woman from any of the path I’ve traveled and that’s a good thing. The resources are there, but you have to have the discipline to simply take the time. Trust me on this one … one day of scheduling a not so fun appointment can save you two years of “is this really happening.” Take good care. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 12:56:56 PM

fulloflife life

MEDICINE &

MINDFULNESS

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

By TERESA HAMMOND

Seeking the advice of a Functional Medicine Doctor, it was suggested that Burge try bioidenticals, as well as a natural antibiotic. Much to her pleasure both worked.

O

verall wellness is more than the once popular and simplistic diet and exercise. As the health industry has grown, it has become increasingly well known that wellness is a true mind/body connection.

Simply put, wellness can’t be found solely in a bottle, at a gym or in a meditation class. While each may be significant contributors, healing the body, mind, spirit and achieving ultimate wellness must come from the inside out.

Medicine Woman, Angela Burge not only believes this, she learned it firsthand through her own journey with

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - Medicine Woman.indd 72

72

healing her body, clearing her mind and an overall detoxification.

The 209 Medicine Woman shared she’s always enjoyed gardening, cooking and living a healthy lifestyle. Five years ago, however, she began her true transformation when traditional medicine began treating her for a hormone imbalance. Not completely content with how things were going, she described feeling foggy, fatigued, sleep deprived and not like herself.

Seeking the advice of a Functional Medicine Doctor, it was suggested that Burge try bioidenticals, as well as a natural antibiotic. Much to her pleasure both worked.

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:15:54 PM

Over the course of the next five years, she dropped 40 pounds from simply detoxing and using energy medicine.

“I wasn’t trying to lose weight,” she shared, stating she was simply trying to be healthier overall. “It just started coming off naturally. So I know when you give your body the tools it will go where it needs to go.”

Sharing she’s always had an interest in alternative medicine, Burge pointed out that she believes and utilizes western medicine as well.

It would be at an event, however, where she heard the philosophy and teaching of Alberto Villoldo, which led Burge from being one interested in health and natural alternatives to actually seeking a life of serving others as a Medicine Woman.

In September of 2019 Burge took a trip to Chile, South America to attend a training at Alberto Villoldo, Light Body School where she received her Shamanic Medicine Certification. There she joined 32 other women from around the world attending the Women’s Medicine Journey. Over the course of 10 days, she and the others were immersed in the Chilean mountains studying plant medicine, herb medicine and energy medicine.

“Sometimes I listen to myself and think, people must think I’m crazy,” she said, laughing. “But I’ve had some really amazing healing experiences both with myself and also with clients.”

Her studies eventually led to the formation of her business.

“This is my mission, to take what I’ve learned and what’s helped me,” she said of launching the Medicine Woman in May of 2021. “Continue my own education and teach people how to help themselves. We all have an innate healing ability; we just don’t know it.”

Burge specializes in a number of things to help clients, ranging from

clean eating recipes, herbal medicines as well as shamanic training for energy work.

“Teas are just one way to get the herbs in. All herbs are loaded with phytonutrients, which are micro nutrients that we’re just learning to identify. They all have different phytonutrients,” Burge explained. “It can be a little tricky with herbs because you have to be willing to try things and you have to be willing to be consistent for a period of time.”

Of the many ways she utilizes herbs, both herbal teas, as well as tinctures are natural aids she uses, as well as teaches clients how to make and apply to their own health needs.

“Tinctures are plant medicine basically,” she said, noting that one takes fresh or dried plant material and infuses it in vodka. “It soaks in for six to eight weeks, you shake the bottle every several days and then you strain it. What you’re left with are the medicinal components of the plant in the tincture.”

To bring her knowledge and passion to a larger community in a more accessible way, Burge began partnering with Modesto entrepreneur Ann Endsley and hosting classes at Endsley’s shop, Gather, on McHenry Avenue in Modesto.

Using the space to host hands-on

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - Medicine Woman.indd 73

73

workshops such as, a 10-day detox group program, building an herbal apothecary and food medicine dinners have been a great way for the Medicine Woman to spread her knowledge and passion in a big way.

“I think the most important thing for people to try and do or get is pick something that resonates with you,” she said of her passion and sharing with others. “Start with a step you can easily fold into your life. Don’t set yourself up for failure.

“I think connecting with your why is really important,” she added, becoming emotional. “I think that sets people up for success and I think that’s what’s different about this work and this program.”

Recognizing the prompt of sudden emotion, the trained medicine woman said it’s the truth it has in her own journey that brings the tears to her eyes.

“And because I feel really sad that people go through life feeling disconnected,” she said. “I think we’re all in such a rat race hurry all the time now and it’s been one of the hardest things for me to deal with in modern life.”

Yet as she grows a passion, a calling, her “mission” into a business which benefits others, the 209 Medicine Woman recognizes her good fortune and from that her excitement to keep sharing and growing.

“Lately my philosophy has been, figure out what you love and do more of that,” she said, “whatever it is. I don’t care if you have to do it at 6 a.m. or on your lunch break, just do it. It may not be your job, but there’s ways to do more of what you love. When you feed your soul, you feel differently, you really do.”

For information on all of the Medicine Woman’s services, events and one on one opportunities, visit www.angelaburge.com or on social media at Angela Burge Medicine Woman. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:16:01 PM

fulloflife

Proper fit of the DigniCap by the nurse is critical in the process of the DigniCap Scalp Cooling process.

Scalp cooling system offers cancer patients privacy and dignity

By TERESA HAMMOND

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DIGNICAP

I

t is fair to saay, there is nothing easy for someone first hearing the words, ‘you have cancer.’ For many a number of words and or questions might first come to mind: Stage, type, prognosis, treatment and for many women —‘will I lose my hair?’

While many cancer regimens (i.e.: treatments) do not have a side effect of hair loss, there are a fair share of chemotherapies used for solid tumor cancers, such as breast, ovarian, uterine, prostate, colon, bladder and in some cases lung, that result in hair loss for both men and women.

Fortunately patients undergoing those types of chemotherapy, now have the ability to potentially “save” their hair or at minimum retain a good portion thanks to scalp cooling.

First invented by Swedish oncology nurse Yvonne Olafsson in 1996 and patented in 1998, the idea has been launched and used in many forms since that time. Olafsson was the brains behind the DigniCap, a scalp cooling system which in 2015 became available in the United States, when it received FDA clearance.

“Unfortunately in terms of awareness we’re trying to educate the whole world, because any of us could get cancer at any time,” Melissa Bourestom, Chief Communications Officer of Dignitana,

shared. “Our hope is that by increasing awareness, especially among people who are either in the health care community or among friends and family who might have heard about scalp cooling will say ‘you know I heard there’s this thing that can help you save your hair.’”

In 2017, the FDA expanded the clearance to include men and women with solid tumor cancers undergoing chemotherapy.

“We recognize that cancer is one of the hardest things that most people will ever have to deal with in their life,” Bourestom acknowledged. “Scalp cooling offers you a way to hopefully make that a little more tolerable. Maybe that means you get to maintain your privacy, whether you can wake up in the morning, still have your hair and look like yourself, keep your self-esteem, whether you can have some measure of control because you’re doing something to fight back. All of those things are just really, really important.”

The name DigniCap, comes from the root dignitas, which is Latin for dignity.

“The wrap itself is flexible. It’s designed to closely fit your head. There’s a couple things that we know about scalp cooling for sure, you need to have very close contact to the head and you need to have a constant temperature,”

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - Digni Cap.indd 74

74

Bourestom stated. “That is achieved by the wrap filled with coolant.

“It’s kind of like a blood pressure cuff,” she continued. “It’s flexible material, it fills up with coolant and it pushes up against your head. That’s unique in the market. There are no other caps that fit any head shape or size like our cap does.”

A neoprene cap then covers the wrap to ensure the wrap stays close to the scalp with no air pockets. Once properly fitted by a trained nurse, a 30-minute pre-freeze begins to get the patient acclimated to the cold temperature. The DigniCap is worn during infusion, as well as post infusion. The length of time post cooling is determined for half the life of the drug administered.

Bourestom shared that while the Scalp Cooling System is proven to be effective, the organization cannot guarantee no hair loss.

“When we talk about our efficacy rate or success rate, it’s hard,” she confided, noting that a variety of factors can contribute to the ultimate success rate of the system. Simple things such as age, prior smoking history, overall health prior to diagnosis, as well as observance of guidelines given once a patient begins using the system.

“There are times that patients do all that they’ve been advised and still may

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:16:36 PM

Not only does Bourestom feel spreading the word of the DigniCap Scalp Cooling System is important, but so is awareness by way of insurance providers. not have a good outcome,” she continued, adding that the pivotal trial showed that 66 percent of patients were able to keep 50 percent of their hair.

“That’s considered success,” she stated. “The patient perception of how you look and what is “success” with scalp cooling is one of the most difficult. It’s really hard to help patients and doctors and nurses understand how to talk about that.”

Not only does Bourestom feel spreading the word of the DigniCap Scalp Cooling System is important, but so is awareness by way of insurance providers. At present time most providers in California do not offer coverage or a reimbursement for the cooling system. There are, however, a number of organizations that offer subsidies to help cover the cost of DigniCap. “We’re very much trying to work toward standardized reimbursement,” she said, “so that patients and health care providers know what to expect when they’re looking at whether to do this treatment or not. We’re just not there yet.”

One thing noted that is most

The nurse/patient relationship becomes one of importance, aside from traditional chemotherapy. Nurses take great care in administering the DigniCap for the patient’s ultimate success.

helpful is for a patient to submit a claim, even if the provider shares it’s not covered. The codes must still be put in and are tracked. The more tracked and denied, the stronger the case for standardizing coverage.

“Even if they deny your claim, it still gets tracked as somebody who wanted to use it,” Bourestom noted. “All of that helps us to build a case with payors that this is something the patients want and the patients should have access to.”

For information on DigniCap Scalp

209MAGAZINE.COM

FULL OF LIFE - Digni Cap.indd 75

75

Cooling System or to contact a clinical expert, visit www.dignicap.com.

“Cancer is hard enough. To have to lose your hair and deal with that and deal with the uncertainty of what you’re going to look like when you wake up tomorrow morning, that’s just a really hard thing,” Bourestom concluded. “Our hope is that patients don’t have to deal with that. We want to give them an option to do scalp cooling, minimize hair loss and have some sense of privacy and control during their treatment.” ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:16:43 PM

aplacecalledhome

By PERENNIAL POWER rnamental grasses in pots can bring any outdoor space to life. Even the slightest breath of wind is enough to get them swaying.

Let ornamental grasses shine on your balcony, terrace, or roof garden, and enjoy their appearance as it changes throughout the seasons. Variation in color, shape & height Ornamental grasses are perennials that you will be able to enjoy for a long time. They come in a variety of shapes: from low to high, from compact to lush.

There is also plenty of variety when it comes to color. First of all, there are different shades of green, from yellowish to dark. Ornamental grasses also come in the surprising colors blue (blue fescue, Festuca glauca), black (black mondo grass, Ophiopogon), and red (cogon grass, Imperata cylindrica).

FROM SPRING GREENERY TO WINTER SILHOUETTE Ornamental grasses look attractive in all seasons, from the first fresh green blades in spring and beautiful plumes in (late) summer to the intense leaf colors in fall. Even in winter, ornamental grasses create a fairytale winter silhouette, enhanced by a layer of frost after a cold winter night. Evergreen ornamental grasses that retain their color, such as blue fescue and sedge (Carex), are also an option.

ENDLESS COMBINATIONS If you like the power of simplicity, why not try filling containers with a single type of ornamental grass, such as silvergrass (Miscanthus) or fountaingrass (Pennisetum). If you

209MAGAZINE.COM

A PLACE CALLED HOME - Garden Grasses.indd 76

76

would rather go for variety, you can go wild with ornamental grasses combined with flowering perennials. For a botanical look, you could combine them with foliage plants, such as coral bells (Heuchera).

TIPS Use frost-resistant pots and containers to plant ornamental grasses.

Make sure there are holes in the bottom of the pot to allow excess water to drain away. Water the grasses regularly to prevent them from drying out. Cut them back in early spring to make room for the first fresh greenery of spring. Evergreen grasses don›t need cutting back; you can just pick out any withered blades of grass.

Visit www.perennialpower.eu for more information about perennials. ●

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:17:29 PM

FINANCING & LAYAWAY FOR THE HOLIDAYS MOST LIVE KITCHEN DISPLAYS IN THE VALLEY! Come see why we have won the Best of 209 for eight consecutive years.

We have everything you need for a superior remodel.

SHOP REFRIGERATION

SHOP COOKING

SHOP DISHWASHERS

SHOP LAUNDRY

2412 McHenry Ave., Modesto • (209) 238-3000 18275 Hwy 120, Jamestown • (209) 238-3000 X2 • www.DirectAppliance.com

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 77

9/26/2022 10:38:37 AM

aplacecalledhome

COMFORTING COLOR

COMFORTING COLOR COMFORTING COLOR

Fill your home with balance and hope Fill your home with balance and hope

Fill your home with balance and hope

I I

today’s most beloved design aesthetics celebrate the past, present and future while bringing balance, hope and comfort for you and n the world of design, what’s old inevitably becomes new FAMILY FEATURES today’s most beloved design aesthetics celebrate the past, present your family to embrace. again, and a similar pattern is inspiring today’s on-trend and future while bringing balance, hope and comfort for you and n the world of design, what’s old inevitably becomes new color palettes for home decor.

The latest styles reflect your family to embrace. again, and a similar pattern is inspiring today’s on-trend reviving and comforting influenced bystyles heritage color palettes forcolors home decor.

The latest reflect Timeless Color FAMILY FEATURES today’s mostColor beloved design aesthetics celebrate the past, present and romance, lending a comforting look that colors is familiar in anbyindividrevivingto and influenced heritage Timeless Using color to evoke feelings and emotions hardly new and romance, lending to inevitably a look that is familiar in annew individandUsing future while bringing balance, hope andiscomfort for but you and n theualistic worldway. of design, what’s old becomes color toaevoke feelings and emotions ispalette hardly new but combining carefully curated color with other design ualistic way. people livingistheir everyday, working lives at your family to embrace. again, With and amore similar pattern inspiring today’s on-trend combining a carefully curated color palette with other design With more people living their everyday, working lives at elements can allow you to create a look that pays homage to the many homeowners areThe discovering the contentment that elements can allow you to create a look that pays homage to the colorhome, palettes for home latest styles reflect home, manydecor. homeowners are discovering the contentment that pastwhile while breathing newinto lifeyour into your living space. comes with slowing down.

Often that means looking to the past past breathing new life living space. comes with slowing Often thatby means looking to the past reviving and comforting colorsdown. influenced heritage Timeless Color Reimagining classic, familiar tones allows you ato achieve a Reimagining classic, familiar tones allows you to achieve to find comfort moving to find for forward. moving forward. and romance, lending toforacomfort look that in delivers an design motif thatthat is equal parts reminiscent and refreshing.

Nostalgia serves as is an familiar emotional tool thatindividdelivers deep-rooted design motif is equal parts reminiscent and refreshing.

Nostalgia serves as an emotional tool that deep-rooted Using color to Homestead evoke feelings and emotions is hardly new but ualistic way.

“The Color Collection offers an effortless and healing powerful properties. healing properties.

Looking to the past “TheVintage Vintage Homestead Color Collection offers an effortless serenity andserenity powerful Looking to the past combining a carefully curated color palette with other design look that reveals the importance of being hopeful to find stability is often beneficial during times of uncertainty and can be an With more people livingduring their times everyday, workingand lives atbe an lookbalance,” that reveals the importance of being hopeful to find stability is often beneficial of and uncertainty and said Ashley Banbury, HGTV Home that by Sherwinopportunity to bring styles practices back tocan the present to elements can allow you to create a look pays homage to the home, many homeowners discovering the contentment that to and balance,” saiddesigner.

Ashley “Our Banbury, HGTV Homeofby Sherwinopportunity to bring styles andofpractices back to the present create anare appreciation the past.

Williams senior color 2023 Color Collection past while breathing new life into your living space. comes with slowing down. that means looking tolifestyles, the pastthe WhetherOften living through the romance of rural the Year revives elements the past“Our that are perfectly paired create an appreciation of the past.

Williams senior colorfrom designer.

2023 Color Collection of Reimagining classic, familiar tones allows you to achieve a comfortthrough of forward. home the or the nostalgia of from far-off times, some with vintage, comfortable and classic to find comfort for living moving Whether romance rural lifestyles, theof the Year revives elements fromcolors.” the past that are perfectly paired design motif that is equal parts reminiscent and refreshing.

Nostalgia serves as an or emotional toolfrom that far-off delivers deep-rooted comfort of home the nostalgia times, some of with vintage, comfortable and classic colors.”

FAMILY FEATURES

I

“The Vintage Homestead Color Collection offers an effortless serenity and powerful healing properties. Looking to the past look that reveals the importance of being hopeful to find stability is often beneficial during times of uncertainty and can be an 0 9 M A G A Z I to NE.COM C T O B E R / N O Vsaid E M B E RAshley 2022 and Obalance,” Banbury, HGTV Home by Sherwin78 opportunity to bring styles and practices back to the 2present create an appreciation of the past.

Williams senior color designer. “Our 2023 Color Collection of Whether living through the romance of rural lifestyles, the the Year revives elements from the past that are perfectly paired comfort 78-79 of Ahome or the nostalgia from far-off times, some of with vintage, comfortable and classic colors.”

PLACE CALLED HOME - Dream Home.indd 78 9/26/2022 1:22:00 PM

pe

present ou and

but gn to the

ve a . ortless tability winon of paired

Blending Past and Present

Striking a balance between old and new can take many forms, thesePresent styles show: Blending Pastasand

Striking a balance between old and in new can n Heritage Revival: An interest reviving

Blending Past and Present take the many forms, as these styles show: past is evident in design trends like a

Striking remerging a balance between old and new can and appreciation of antiques n Heritage Revival: An interest take many forms,elements, as these styles show: in reviving vintage such oversized furniture the past is evident in design trendsthis likestyle, a and traditional shapes.

To capture remerging appreciation ofon antiques and n Heritage Revival: An interest in contrasting reviving your design should focus vintage elements, such oversized furniture the past is evident trends like a old and new forinadesign mix-and-match look. and traditional Toiscapture this feels style, remerging appreciation of antiques andthat Ultimately, the shapes. aesthetic a look your design should focus on contrasting vintage elements, such oversized furniture simultaneously individualistic and curated. newshapes. forcolor a mix-and-match look. and old traditional Toscheme capturecan thisallow style, Aand cohesive the aesthetic is a look yourUltimately, design should focus on the various elements to contrasting stand on that theirfeels simultaneously individualistic andfor curated. old and forworking a mix-and-match look. ownnew while in harmony an A cohesive colorFor scheme Ultimately, the aesthetic is aexample, lookcan thatallow feels intentional design. the the various elements to stand on their simultaneously individualistic and curated.

HGTV Home

by Sherwin-Williams while working in harmony for an Aown cohesive scheme 2023 Colorcolor Collection ofcan theallow Year intentional design.toFor example, the various stand theirthetones includeselements a combination of on familiar Home ownHGTV while working inSherwin-Williams harmony curated for an by that have beenby thoughtfully 2023 Color Collection of thecolor Yearand intentional design.

For the design experts who example, borrow includes a by combination familiar HGTV Home Sherwin-Williams design concepts from theofpast for atones haveCollection been and thoughtfully by 2023that Color the Year hopeful future aofsense ofcurated belonging. design experts who borrow color and includes combination of familiar tones Hues alike Poetry Plum and Hot Cocoa concepts from thecurated past thatdesign have been thoughtfully bya evoke warmth and depth, whilefor moderate hopeful future and a sense ofand belonging. design experts who borrow color andGlamour shades like Restrained Gold Hues like Poetry Plum andfor Hota midCocoa design concepts fromto the past offer fresh ways incorporate evoke warmth depth, hopeful future and and a sense of while belonging. range neutrals.

Meanwhile, soft moderate tones shades like Restrained and Glamour Hues like Poetry Plum and andGold Hot Cocoa like Natural Linen Cool Beige offer offer fresh ways to incorporate midevoke warmth while moderate subtle colorand fordepth, lighter, brighter spaces. range neutrals.

Meanwhile, soft tones shades like Restrained Gold and Glamour like Natural Linen andofCool Beige offer offer fresh ways to incorporate midn Mixing and Matching Eras: A new take subtle forislighter, brighter spaces. range Meanwhile, softintones on neutrals. retrocolor design emerging which eras likeare Natural Linen Beige offer blended and and newCool and old furnishing n Mixing and of this Eras: A new take subtle color for lighter, spaces. work side byMatching side. Tobrighter get look, you’ll on retro design emerging in whichand eras craft a space thatis marries historical are blended and newofand oldAfurnishing n Mixing and Matching Eras: new take contemporary design, celebrating both work side side. get you’ll on retro design emerging inthis which eras the old andbyis new.

ToTodesign forlook, longevity, craft a space that and marries historical andin are blended and pieces new incorporate thatold arefurnishing ambiguous contemporary design, celebrating both workera side side.the Totest get of this look, you’ll andbystand time. old and To design for longevity, craftthe a space thatnew. marries historical and incorporatedesign, pieces celebrating thatReviving are ambiguous contemporary both n Vintage Homestead: design in era and and new. stand the test time. the old design for longevity, elements fromTo the pastofwith mixed patterns, incorporate pieces and that vintage are ambiguous in up to classic shapes decor adds n Vintage Reviving design era and standHomestead: theand testcomforting of time. comfortable design.

With elements theand past with mixed patterns, this trend,from prints patterns encompass a classic shapes and vintage decor adds up to n Vintage Reviving how design rangeHomestead: of styles, reinforcing interiors comfortable and comforting design.

With elements from the past with mixed patterns, connect to fashion.

Mixing classic elegance this trend, prints and patterns encompass classic vintage decor adds up the to a withshapes sleek and vintage shapes is refining range of of styles, reinforcing how interiors comfortable and comforting design. concept polished comfort.

To With achieve tocurate fashion.

Mixing classic shapes elegance this connect trend, prints andpieces patterns encompass a the look, in heritage with sleek vintage is refining range ofpatterns, styles, reinforcing interiors and alongshapes withhow retro accents.the Be concept of polished comfort.

Toelegance achieve connect Mixing classic sure to to fashion. incorporate vintage lighting and look, curateshapes piecesisinrefining heritagethe shapes withthe sleek vintage glass, as well. andA patterns, along with retro accents.

Be concept of polished comfort.

To versatile color choice likeachieve Darkroom, sure2023 to incorporate vintage lighting and the look, curate pieces in heritage shapes the Color of the Year from HGTV as and glass, patterns, along with retro accents.

Be Home bywell.

Sherwin-Williams, is an alluring versatile color choice like sureshade toAincorporate vintage lighting and that is classic enough forDarkroom, heritage the Color the Year retro from for HGTV glass, as2023 well. interiors but alsoofmodernly a Home by color Sherwin-Williams, isIt’s anaalluring Athrowback-inspired versatile choice like Darkroom, aesthetic. neutral shade that enough heritage the 2023 Color ofclassic the Year fromfor HGTV perfect for is creating an eclectic yet modern interiors butand alsoout. modernly for Home byinside Sherwin-Williams, is retro anuse alluring look Indoors, it ona the throwback-inspired aesthetic.

It’s a neutral shade thattois offset classicmore enough for brown heritage walls earthy and taupe perfect creating an eclectic yet interiors but also modernly retro a modern tones infor your furnishings andfor textiles. look inside and out.

Indoors, it on the throwback-inspired aesthetic.

It’suse a neutral walls offset more earthy brown and taupe perfect fortocreating an eclectic yet modern Get inspired to combine the past with the your furnishings andthat’s looktones inside out.

Indoors, use ittextiles. on all the your present forinaand comforting design wallsattohgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com. offset more earthy brown and taupe own Get inspired combine the with ● the tones in yourtofurnishings andpast textiles. present for a comforting design that’s all your at hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com.

Get own inspired to combine the past with the present for a comforting design that’s all your own at hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com.

CRAFTING A CONSERVATORY CRAFTING A CONSERVATORY Today’s homeowners are also increasingly interested in biophilic design and CRAFTING A CONSERVATORY bringing the outdoors in, which prompts a conservatory aesthetic in home design. To achieve the look, design your space to make maximum use of Today’s homeowners are also increasingly interested biophilic design and natural light in creative ways. Incorporate large pottedintrees and statement bringing outdoors in,between which prompts conservatory plants thattheblur the lines indoorsaand outdoors. aesthetic in home design.

To achieveare thealso look, design yourinterested space to in make maximum useand of Today’s homeowners increasingly biophilic design natural in creative ways.

Incorporate large potted trees and statement bringing thelight outdoors in, which prompts a conservatory aesthetic in home plants blur the the look, lines between indoors design.

Tothat achieve design your spaceand to outdoors. make maximum use of natural light in creative ways. Incorporate large potted trees and statement plants that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors.

209MAGAZINE.COM

78-79 A PLACE CALLED HOME - Dream Home.indd 79

79

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:22:08 PM

marketplace

Eat, drink and be entertained

at the Mainzer

By VIRGINIA STILL

209MAGAZINE.COM

80-83 MARKETPLACE - Mainzer.indd 80

80

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:14:11 PM

T

he revival has been ongoing in downtown Merced with the renovation of the El Capitan Hotel and the Mainzer theater on Main Street, bringing people in the 209 a hub of entertainment and upscale restaurants. They have quite the variety of merriment at the Mainzer with live shows on the main stage, movies in the cinema, a retro-gaming area, a self-serve beer bar and tasty pub food are all reasons that people are making their way to the heart of Merced.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is fun to be had at the Mainzer and it is worth the trip as there is a surprise at every turn with the art collection, design, or amenities that make this remodeled theater something truly special.

What once was a storefront is now an indoor gaming area with Skeeball, a large scrabble board, Foosball, ping pong and much more.

Kim Garner, Director of Culture and Community Impact for the sister properties (El Capitan and Mainzer) explained that the Mainzer was originally built in the early1920s as a live performance theater and then it was turned into a movie theater. It burned down around 1930 or 1931 and then was rebuilt. It operated as a movie theater for a long period of time and was renovated in the late 1990s.

The Mainzer reopened in 2020 with a fresh new look and new concept. Although that was a rough year to open, Garner noted that they had a really good response from the community.

“Opening through the pandemic was definitely difficult,” said Garner. “I will tell you this, Merced was so excited to see the property get revitalized. People were breathing on the windows to come in. It was really hard because when we opened, we had to do the social distancing; a lot of what we did had to be outside on the street. It was difficult but even with that, people were coming because they were excited to see what it was looking like inside and what

we had done with the historic space and so it was really good.”

The lobby desk has board games and game pieces to play with on the custom tables that have checkers, chess, and trivial pursuit boards on them in the restaurant. Guests would never know that before the restaurant existed it was a bus station with the exposed beams that make up the ceiling, the décor, and the self-serve beer bar making it a oneof-a-kind experience.

“We wanted to offer a space where people could come sit there for hours and enjoy yourself with your family or with your college buddies like the UC Merced students can hang out,” added Garner. “We are really proud of it. We are hoping that we offer as many different entertainment experiences possible in that space. I think there is literally something for everyone whether you like live performance or want to hang out with your family or friends; there is a myriad of ways to use that space.”

Quentin Garcia is the Executive Chef for all their restaurants in the hotel including Rainbird and the theater which features American comfort food.

The fun continues at the Mainzer with the main stage that offers a diverse lineup of entertainment where guests can dine, have drinks, and watch a show like the Killer Dueling Pianos, the Selena tribute band, drag night or the upcoming Tom Petty tribute band.

The gem upstairs called the cinema has an array of seating options from comfy couches to oversized chairs giving it a nice living room feel. There are several options in the cinema for guests to enjoy like movies, concerts, or a new lecture series where individuals discuss important topics regarding the Central Valley. Guests can order food

209MAGAZINE.COM

80-83 MARKETPLACE - Mainzer.indd 81

81

and drinks and have them delivered while watching movies or concerts in the cinema.

They have a few self-serve beers for people to choose from upstairs.

“The little cinema upstairs, it is a real jewel,” Garner said.

“We do very interesting programming both on the main stage and in the cinema.”

They had their very first speakeasy last month which Garner shared was “a riot” with the Merced Symphony.

They entered through the side door with a password and

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:13:55 PM

marketplace

secret knock. Everyone was in 1920s attire and there was a jazz band from Fresno that performed.

“There is 100 years of experiences in that theater space, that is a long time,” said Garner. “It means a lot to our area.

Both of our properties do. When they were built it was unique and revolutionary for our time and our area 100 years ago. We are trying to bring that back now; it is important to us. I think the community has really embraced it.”

For those that may live out of town the beautifully renovated El Capitan offers valet parking, elegant rooms, and a short walk on Main Street to the Mainzer.

They offer brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. where they serve up mimosas and families and friends have been known to spend time enjoying the ambiance and playing board games.

With football season underway, the Mainzer knows there are football fans in the 209 that may want to watch a game on the big screen. They will be showing some of the games on the big screen this football season.

“I am hoping that over time with both the hotel and the Mainzer, people start to look at Merced with fresh eyes,” remarked Garner. “Me being part of the 209 and from the Valley we want to be surprising and exciting in a way that really does speak to where we live and the uniqueness of where we live. We are not just a drive through area. We have an awful lot to offer and it is very much our own.”

To find out what all the buzz is truly about at the Mainzer, visit their website at themainzer.com or call 209-4464001 or on social media: Facebook and Instagram @mainzermerced.

They are located at 655 West Main Street in Merced. ●

209MAGAZINE.COM

80-83 MARKETPLACE - Mainzer.indd 82

82

OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

9/26/2022 1:14:02 PM

Lending in Your Community Oakdale

125 N Third Ave 209.848.2265

Ripon

150 N Wilma Ave 209.599.9430

Patterson

20 Plaza 209.892.5757

Escalon

1910 McHenry Ave 209.821.3070

Modesto-12th & I 1200 I Street 209.549.2265

85 Mono Way 209.396.7720

Modesto-Dale 4120 Dale Rd 209.758.8000

Tracy

1034 N Central Ave 209.834.3340

Jeff Hushaw 844.7544

Michael Stevens 320.7860

Victoria Gaffney Lynette Fletcher 343.7601 844.7552

Rob Gildea 320.7864

Kim Parco 320.7860

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 83

3508 McHenry Ave 209.579.3360

191 W North St 209.249.7360

Mike Petrucelli 249.7370

14890 Mono Way 209.532.7100

Modesto-McHenry

Manteca

Call Us About Your Next Commercial Lending Project Today!

Cathy Ghan 320.7867

East Sonora

Downtown Sonora

Turlock

241 W Main 209.633.2850

Stockton

2935 W March Lane 209.320.7850

Thank you for voting us the

Best Bank in the 209!

www.ovcb.com 9/26/2022 1:24:41 PM

Real Life Kitchen Dreams

Complete Kitchen Remodel Starting At

$30,000* • New Cabinets • Custom Countertops • Under Cabinet Lighting • Flooring • Paint • Tile Backsplash +FREE FIRE CLAY FARM SINK WITH REMODEL Using another contractor or having trouble getting materials?

We can supply your contractors with the best quality materials.

Financing Available • *Restrictions May Apply • Lic #983435

531 Kansas Avenue, Modesto

209-521-4490 www.aakmodesto.com

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

209 Magazine 53-ON2022.indd 84

9/26/2022 6:42:27 AM