209 Magazine - Issue #58

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023  ISSUE 58

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FEATURES Once again, we asked our readers to vote on the best schools, restaurants, places to shop for a variety of products and services, and professional services in the 209.

We received over 121,000 votes for businesses in over 300 categories.

Take a look at this year’s winners and make sure to visit your favorites in the Best of 209!

72 78 84 90 92 100

110 114 124 134 154 159

Best of Academics ..............................

Best of Entertainment ....................

Best of Animals and Farm Services .....

Best of Health & Fitness ..................

Best of Automo�ve.............................

Best of Home .................................

Best of Beverages ..............................

Best of Professional Services .........

Best of Community .............................

Best of Real Estate .........................

Best of Dining ...............................

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023  ISSUE 58

DEPARTMENTS IN THE KNOW 12 16 20 22

Scene in the 209 Community Calendar Central Valley Movie Rock Steady Adventures

26

ARTS&CULTURE 26 28

Jersey Boys at Fallon House Turlock Community Theatre

12

FLAVORS 34 36

L’ Amore Wine and Dine Hey Bartender

52

NAVIGATOR 38

Vikingsholm

FEATURE 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 50

Lake Alpine Pinecrest Lake Lake Camanche Lodi Lake Modesto Reservoir Lake McSwain Lake McClure New Melones Lake

THE GREAT OUTDOORS 51 52

California Quests Yosemite for Newbies

36

FULL OF LIFE 56 58

Fitness and Beyond A Giant 100th Birthday Celebration

66

A PLACE CALLED HOME 62 64 66

Dream Home Growing Community Gardens Pure Paws

MARKETPLACE 68

62

Handmade Blessings 209MAGAZINE.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

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Vol. 10 No. 58

August/ September 2023

$4.95

PUBLISHER/OWNER Hank Vander Veen

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

MANAGING EDITOR Sabra Stafford

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Joe Cortez Christopher Correa Teresa Hammond Marg Jackson Michelle Kendig Julie Rose Dennis Wyatt

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Harold L. George

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

SPECIAL CONSULTANT Larry Dovichi

To advertise in 209 Magazine, call Manteca • (209) 249-3500 • Newman • (209) 243-8170 Oakdale • (209) 847-3021 • Turlock • (209) 634-9141 209 Magazine is published 6 times a year

The robust response we received for our 9th annual Best of 209 contest is a testament to the resiliency of the 209. Just a year after the end of COVID-19 restrictions and the local economy is already booming.

We hope that you enjoyed nominating and voting for your favorite places to eat, shop, be entertained and stay healthy. Congratulations to all of the nominees and especially this year’s Best of 209 winners! Please support these local businesses throughout the region.

In this issue, you will also find a number of ideas to enjoy the last of summer.

There’s nothing better than a lazy summer day at the lake. The 209 is blessed to have a number of amazing lakes from the Sierra down to the Valley that are perfect for fishing, boating and just relaxing on the beach.

In the Navigator section, you’ll find information about the ‘Jewel of Tahoe’s Emerald Bay’ — Vikingsholm. This Scandinavian-inspired dwelling located on Fannette Island is open to visitors.

For those looking to make this summer the time they actually make it to one of the 209’s — and the world’s — most popular natural beauties can find all the information they need in the article “Yosemite for Newbies” in our The Great Outdoors section.

Mentioned above are just a few of the features that you find this issue of 209 Magazine. After reading the magazine, I encourage you to stay engaged by checking out 209magazine.com and following us on Facebook and Instagram.

As always, we at 209 Magazine continue to strive to be the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209.

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

121 S. Center St., 2nd Floor • Turlock, CA 95380 Comments: khacker@209magazine.com 209magazine.com ©Copyright 2023. 209 Magazine All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of 209 Magazine is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed in 209 Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of 209 Magazine management or owner. 209 Magazine assumes no responsibility and makes no recommendation for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred.

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Notes

with FRANKIE TOVAR

Granny Basketball: Columbia Gold Diggers Travel back to the 1920’s and get a taste of old fashioned, hardcourt fun with the Columbia Gold Diggers. Inspired by her Midwest roots, Barbara Trammell brought the first Granny Basketball team to California a couple years ago and is already taking her team to the National Championships in Iowa.

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

Modesto Tattoo Expo Body art was the main focus of this episode of Studio209 when more than 70 tattoo shops and tattoo artists set their stations up inside Modesto Center Plaza for the two-day Modesto Tattoo Expo. The ink flowed like water as thousands of tattoo enthusiasts gathered to receive on-the-spot tattoos from a variety of talented artists.

bit.ly/209PodcastApple

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Soundcheck209: Sorry Machine

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WE’VE GOT THE 209 COVERED

Soundcheck209 is back with Sorry Machine. Meet the Turlock trio Ciara, Colin and Wesley and find out how the band was formed, what inspires their songwriting and why they’re a must see Valley act. Enjoy a live performance of “Lucy Love” and become an instant fan.

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UPCOMING EPISODES

349: American Artist Appreciation: Merced Murals 351: Bands, Brews & BBQ in Ceres

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intheknow

Scene

in the

T

here were celebrations aplenty in June and July for 209 residents to get out and explore. Want your organization’s event featured in Scene in the 209? Email sstafford@209magazine.com.

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION Merced marked Juneteenth with some special festivities, including a parade, car show and the dedication of the Kirk Wright Memorial Playground at McNamara Park.

Merced Mayor Matthew Serrato tests his tossing skills at Merced’s Juneteenth celebration.

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Organizers of the celebration and the memorial playground were presented with certificates of appreciation from local leaders.

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LINGUICA RUN The Westside Auto Club held their annual Linguica Run in July in Gustine to raise money for local scholarships and non-profit organizations. The Linguica Run includes a classic car show that draws entrants from all over the area and a popular linguica lunch.

Mike Gonzales checks the engine on his 1996 Impala SS.

Steve Medeiros and his 1956 Chevy Bel Air.

Tony Bianchi eyes his 1956 Convertible Corvette.

SKIES THE LIMIT The sight of colorful balloons lifting into the skies over Ceres River Bluff Regional Park in June dazzled children and adults alike during the first annual “Skies the Limit” hot air balloon festival. The event, hosted by the city of Ceres, drew several thousand spectators.

A number of colorful balloons launched at Ceres River Bluff Regional Park for the first annual “Skies the Limit” festival in June. Some of the balloons touched down in Keyes streets and a park a bit later.

An out-of-town balloonist took up two others in his gondola hovering about the Ceres River Bluff Regional Park on Hatch Road. About 10 balloonists participated in the first annual event.

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My social media page My wassocial blocked. media page was blocked.

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Introducing

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intheknow

COMMUNITY EVENTS 12

AUG

2023

MOONLIGHT AND MARGARITAS

Moonlight and Margaritas, an evening of fun, music, dancing, silent and live auctions that benefit the Salvation Army’s after school program, will be held from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds.

Tickets for the event are $60 each or $500 for a table of 8. Visit the Turlock Salvation Army for tickets.

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2023

PARANORMAL NIGHTS AT KENNEDY GOLD MINE

Join experienced paranormal investigators as they lead guests through this historic property with access to all non-restricted areas during their investigations and see if miners are still at work.

The seven-hour experience is set from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Aug. 19 and Sept. 23.

Tickets are $75 and $50 for residents of Amador and Calaveras counties, with a valid identification. Tickets are non-refundable but may be exchanged for another date.

Space is limited to 18 persons per investigation.

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2023

RIB COOK-OFF

Club Mercedes, the non-profit organization in Merced, is hosting their 10th annual rib cook-off at 12 p.m. on Aug. 19.

The cost to participate is $80 per team. Each team can consist of one chief cook and three assistants.

To sign up for the cook-off, go to the club’s location at 569 West Street in Merced and request a sign-up form.

A signed waiver must be filled out by each attendee in advance. At the Kennedy Mine, nights are cool, and a warm jacket is recommended.

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SEP

9

2023

BARBERA FESTIVAL

The Amador Vintners Association has announced the return of the Barbera Festival, now in its 10th year, to the historic Terra d’Oro winery from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 9.

Festival goers can taste Barbera wines from over 50 wineries across California in this beautiful outdoor setting nestled in the Sierra foothills.

Along with the grand tasting, festival goers can enjoy gourmet food from top chefs, live music, local artists, and a new premier access area with limo and bus parking.

The festival highlights the popular Italian wine grape varietal, Barbera. Some of the oldest plantings of Barbera are in Amador County at Terra d’Oro winery.

SEP

TACOS AND TEQUILA

The Stockton Ports and Empire Entertainment Group announced that Tacos & Tequila Fest will be making its way to Banner Island Ballpark on Sept. 9.

The event will be headlined by T.I., Rick Ross, and Lil Jon. “An event like this is guaranteed to excite all fans of tacos, tequila, and throwbacks,” said Gabriel Acevedo, Chief Operating Officer and President of Empire Entertainment Group. “Tacos & Tequila Fest will make downtown Stockton the epicenter of entertainment on September 9 and provide an experience unlike any other for everyone in attendance.”

Alongside the musical entertainment, the event features

This event is for guests 21 and over. For tickets visit cellarpass.com/events/ barbera-festival-9998.

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SEP

LODI GRAPE FESTIVAL

For over 80 years the people in San Joaquin County have been gathering to celebrate the grape harvest at the annual Lodi Grape Festival. What started out as a small food festival in downtown Lodi has now evolved into a four-day event filled with great entertainment, food, vendors,

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tons of local food trucks, the Tequila Tastery with over a dozen vendors, Agave Alley with additional entertainment, and much more.

“By the time the gates open on September 9, Banner Island Ballpark will have been completely transformed into the Tacos & Tequila epicenter of the state,” said Jordan Feneck, General Manager of the Stockton Ports.

“We couldn’t be more excited to put on an event of this caliber for our community here at Banner Island Ballpark.” Tickets for Tacos & Tequila Fest are available at the Banner Island Ballpark Ticket Office or TacosTequilaStockton. com and start at $75 for general admission or on-field VIP tickets for $125.

2023

grape and commodity murals, competitive exhibits, carnival, wine tasting, and so much more.

The festival runs from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sept. 14; 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sept. 15 and 16; and 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sept. 17.

The festival is held at the fairgrounds at 413 E. Lockeford Street.

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intheknow

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SEP

16

2023

FIDDLERS’ JAM

The 72nd annual Fiddlers’ Jam will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Fiddletown Community Center.

The event will feature multiple bluegrass bands, open mic, acoustic jam sessions (bring your strings).

Paired with country BBQ, artisan crafts, Fiddletown award-winning wine, microbrew beer, historic gold rush building tours, and more.

The event has free admission.

Parking is limited and available one block away.

For more information visit fiddletowncc.org.

SEP

49ER FESTIVAL, PARADE AND CHILI/ SALSA COOK-OFF

The family fun event on Sept. 16 in Groveland will start with a parade on Main Street and will be followed by a day of festivities. The festival will have vendors, live music and entertainment, food, a beard contest, old West gunfights, a silent and live auction, a Western costume contest, a live chainsaw carving contest, petting zoo, an archery activity, and a youth art contest.

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

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

For more information call (209) 962-0429.

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OPENING AUGUST 10TH!

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The WINNING ticket will be drawn on September 1, 2023..

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intheknow

SEE

CENTRAL VALLEY MOVIE ON THE

BIG SCREEN

By JULIE ROSE

O

ne of the days that Travis Andre Ross has been preparing for, for years, is finally approaching. The Gustine High 1999 alumni’s first feature film “Central Valley” will be playing at the State Theatre in Modesto on Aug. 4.

The movie has been in the works for many years from first concep-

tion, to script, to production, post production and final cut. Since being “put in the can” so to speak, in February, Ross has been busy in the film festival circuit introducing his movie in Sedona Arizona, Hollywood and Los Angeles California, Dubuque Iowa, St. Petersburg Florida, and Long Beach Island

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New Jersey.

“Central Valley” was awarded Best Actor, Best Young Actor and the Audience Choice Award at First Glance Film Festival in Los Angeles. The film won the Audience Choice Award at the Lighthouse International Film Festival in New Jersey, also. “That award

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is the highest to me because it comes directly from the people watching the movie,” Ross described.

Being accepted to the film festivals is no easy feat. Receiving the official selection is a distinction in itself and receiving an award is another level, especially for a new-comer in the industry.

The festivals offer opportunities to build contacts, to network, to speak first hand to others about his movie. He is passionate about the story his film tells. Being relatively unknown in the industry he has to open his own doors, get his foot in, and do the leg work.

He enjoys the work. He believes in the power of his movie and enjoys speaking with people.

At the Lighthouse festival in June, Ross met a woman who has been a film critic for 30 years. She watched his film.

“I’ve always known it’s a good film but when she told me she was taken aback by it, that the film left her at a loss for words initially, that was a different level of validation for me,” Ross proudly acknowledged.

So far, since completing the film in February and having it played in six festivals, Ross has received two offers for “Central Valley.” He hasn’t accepted either yet but feels positive about making a deal by the end of the year, keeping his options open for a bit longer. He anticipates the movie being eventually shown in select theaters and/or streaming services.

With the film festivals breaking for the summer, a window of opportunity opened to find a venue for a special viewing. Ross reached out to the State Theatre management, who were thrilled to accommodate. “I was hoping to

I’VE ALWAYS KNOWN IT’S A GOOD FILM BUT WHEN SHE TOLD ME SHE WAS TAKEN ABACK BY IT, THAT THE FILM LEFT HER AT A LOSS FOR WORDS INITIALLY, THAT WAS A DIFFERENT LEVEL OF VALIDATION FOR ME. bring the film to the central valley this summer,” Ross mentioned, before the festivals pick up again in the fall.

The chance to bring the film to the area near where the original story took place and the film was primarily shot, was important to Ross. “I look forward to sharing the film with friends and family who are much a part of this story,” Ross expressed. He is grateful to Gabi Guerrini, the General Manager of the State Theatre, offering the special one-time viewing.

Ross wrote, produced and starred in the film which is based on true events of his own life. The film was mostly shot in Santa Nella, Gustine, Newman and Patterson where the storyline took place in real life.

The film’s story is personal to Ross; Moreso the message the film reflects is personal. The story is based on his own upbringing, the choices he made and the struggles he endured. Viewers will find there are many layers to be revealed throughout the story but the overall message is simply, learn to love yourself.

“The ending may just surprise people,” Ross told Westside Connect in an

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Travis Andre Ross has been receiving accolades at film festivals for his movie Central Valley. Ross is pictured with Zane Haney, left, who plays his younger brother in the movie.

earlier interview.

The film summary posted online reads, “When his younger brother suddenly passes away, Tim, a 35-year-old drug peddler who has never been able to take care of himself properly, must decide what to do with his 10-year-old nephew: let him go into foster care, or rise to the occasion and straighten his life out.”

Ross credits his co-stars Joseph David Jones and Gabrielle Walsh, their director Niv Klainer and his co-executive/ producer Todd James Myers. “If our film can help even one person out there, our goal was achieved,” the film maker stresses.

The movie has not been rated yet but Ross said he doesn’t believe it is appropriate for kids. There is foul language and drug use. The audience demographic is 18-40 years-old.

Showtime at the State Theater is 7 p.m. on August 4th. The run-time is 90 minutes. Tickets cost $10 and may be purchased online at thestate.org or in person at the box office weekdays 12-3 p.m. Call 209 527-4697 for more information about the State Theatre or visit the website. ●

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intheknow

Ready for a Rock Steady Adventure?

By KRISTINA HACKER

I

t’s only been one year since John and Trina Seale took over the campgrounds next to Salt Spring Valley Reservoir, but already the couple have transformed the hidden Calaveras County location into a destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and fun.

The Seales renamed the campground Rock Steady Adventures and have not only cleaned up the rustic foothills site, but also hosted a variety of concerts and themed events to draw in more people and offer something different.

“We knew that it had potential to really be a good camping destination. If you look at all the campgrounds around here like Lake McSwain, Don Pedro, all those places, they are packed to the gills and you have to make camping reservations months in advance to be able to camp in the summertime. So we knew that the camping side needed to be built up. And one of the things we thought about was we have this somewhat private resort that’s not associated with a state park or national park or anything like that. So we knew we could do events, and that would bring campers for the events,” said Trina.

So far, Rock Steady has held an Earth Day celebration, a June Campout that featured different bands over a weekend, tie dye classes and a painting activity, and a Backyard Luau Campout artist retreat in partnership with Creative Copperopolis.

Rock Steady also hosted the 60th annual East Bay Boat Club power boat races in June.

Not only have the Seales brought events to Rock Steady campground,

The Seales renamed the campground Rock Steady Adventures and have not only cleaned up the rustic foothills site, but also hosted a variety of concerts and themed events to draw in more people and offer something different. they also offer something unique to the area — a full-service camping experience.

“Full-service camping came about after our first Rock Steady Campout in June when a lot of the campers that were coming did not have their supplies so we offered them some tents and offered to set them up. We actually had three takers and so we had to buy more tents,” Trina said.

Due to the popularity of the fullservice experience, Rock Steady now offers the service year-round with different tent sizes — from a four-person teepee to a three-room, 14 person tent — including air mattresses and all the gear needed for camping. They even have one “glamping” tent.

The upgrades to the campground and campout events have drawn new people to Rock Steady, but the Salt Springs Valley Reservoir has also been a summer family destination for many generations.

While the reservoir is too shallow for large boats, it is perfect for small power

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boats, jet skis, kayaking and paddle boarding.

What the reservoir is best known for, however, is trophy fishing.

“There’s no natural inlet; it doesn’t connect to any of the rivers. It’s all rainwater streams that feed into it, so there wasn’t any fish species that really thrived. During the summer, it’s shallow and the water gets really warm.

Obviously, we don’t get any of the snow melts. It’s all rainwater catchment, filling the reservoir. So they stocked it in the ‘70s with Florida native fish because they can tolerate the warm water. So there’s Florida large mouth bass, black crappie, Florida bluegill, red ear perch and yellow tail catfish,” said Trina.

“They’ve really managed the fish since the 1970s. So it’s kind of become a known trophy bass location. We haven’t seen it this year, but in past years, there’s been double digit or 12 pound bass caught and crappie that are dinner plate size.”

Rock Steady Adventures is a yearround campground, but there are only two months left in their summer ‘Campout’ year. In August, the Seales are planning a Sunshine & Whiskey type of event with country music bands and local whiskey sampling tours. Then, in September, an end of season celebration will have a Goonies & Pirates theme, complete with an ‘80s costume contest, a treasure hunt and pirate paddle boarding.

For more information about Rock Steady Adventures or to book a camping site, visitfacebook.com/rocksteadyadventures4fun or call (209) 785-5267. ●

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arts&culture

‘Jersey Boys’ strikes the right chord for Sierra Rep

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

he Gold Rush era streets of Columbia State Historic Park is far from the hard-scrabble New Jersey neighborhoods that gave rise to the Four Seasons but that is exactly where residents in the 209 have the opportunity to see the story unfold.

The Sierra Repertory Theatre is staging “Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons” through Aug. 27 at the Fallon House Theatre.

“Jersey Boys” follows the rise of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards and Olivier Awards, “Jersey Boys” is presented documentary style with each of the members taking a season to tell a chapter of the 40-year friendship of the foursome as they worked their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom. Electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

“This has been the number one show on my wish list since I started with Sierra Rep,” says SRT’s Artistic Director Jerry Lee. “As a theatre piece, “Jersey Boys,” perfectly blends the disciplines of acting, singing, and dancing. It is infectiously fun and impossible not to love.”

“Jersey Boys” has a book

by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, music

by Bob Gaudio, lyrics by Bob Crewe.

“Jersey Boys” stars Adam Marino, Matt Michael, Bobby Guenther, and Quinn Corcoran as The Four Seasons.

The ensemble includes Camryn Elias, Charlie Munday, Greg Parker, Christopher Michael, Sergio Salinas, Alexandra Shephard, Taylor Tveten, Sebastian Rohn, and Kate Henderson.

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“Jersey Boys” has a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, music

by Bob Gaudio, lyrics by Bob Crewe.

The production is directed by Jerry Lee, choreographed/associate directed

by Ben Bogen, and music directed by Patrick Burns. Scenic design by Rand Enlow, costumes by Austin Blake Conlee, wigs by George Deavours, lighting

by Jonnie Painter, sound by Tatiana Covington-Parra, and stage managed

by Maggie Braun. The production sponsor is Micro-Tronics. Sierra Rep’s season sponsors are Sonora Area Foundation and John and June Rogers.

Regular performance times are at 12 p.m. Wednesdays, 2 p.m. Thursdays, 7 p.m. Fridays, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets range from $35-$48. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more, students, veterans, and first responders. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 209.532.3120, visiting SierraRep.org, or emailing tickets@ sierrarep.org. “Jersey Boys” is recommended for audiences 16 and older, the show contains adult language and situations.

The Historic Fallon House Theatre is located at 11175 Washington St. in Columbia. ●

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arts&culture

By VIRGINIA STILL

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

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By SABRA STAFFORD

T

urlock Community Theatre will be bringing to town a line-up for the 2023-2024 season that includes Grammy award-winning artists, popular comedy shows and sought after tribute performers.

Additionally, this summer TCT will be showcasing some classic Alfred Hitchcock films and some family-fun movies.

“A little bit comedy, a little bit country, and a little bit rock n’ roll,” said TCT Managing Director Kit Casey.

“These are really the three primary genres of performances that the Central Valley leans towards. Most of the artists booked so far are here for the first time at the Turlock Community Theatre, with a couple returning shows from Los Lonely Boys and James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash.”

The season of live performances gets underway on Aug. 6 with the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band with special guest Ally Venable Band.

FAMILY THE CENTER OF THINGS FOR LOS LONELY HAS ALWAYS BEEN AT BOYS. HENRY, JOJO, AND RINGO GARZA HAVE BEEN PLAYING AND TOURING TOGETHER SINCE THEY WERE TEENAGERS.

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Guitarist and songsmith Shepherd found success by making his own twist on the blues of the past. Shepherd has established himself as an immensely popular recording artist, a consistently in-

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demand live act and an influential force in a resurgence of interest in the blues. Tickets are $39, $59, $69, and $99.

John Ondrasik III, also known by his stage name Five for Fighting, is best known for

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arts&culture

his piano-based soft rock sentimental ballads, such as “Superman (It’s Not Easy),” “100 Years,” and “The Riddle.” Five for Fighting will be performing on Sept. 10 with a string quartet. Tickets are $29, $39, $49, and $59.

Rumours, the Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show, will perform Sept. 16.

Rumours has meticulously put together a show that spares no detail, recreating the band’s legendary persona in their youthful glory from 19751987. From period accurate equipment and costumes to spot on characterizations and musical performances, Rumours takes the audience back to a time when music was still an unbridled cultural experience and bands put on a show.

Tickets for Rumours are $22, $29, $39, and $49.

Piff the Magic Dragon: 50 percent comedian; 50 percent magician; and 100 percent dragon. Piff the Magic Dragon broke on to the scene in 2015 on “America’s Got Talent” and since then has been delighting audiences at his Las Vegas residency at the iconic Flamingo Hotel and Casino.

In 2019, he was voted one of Variety’s Top Ten Comics to Watch and scooped Best Comedian, Best Magician and Best Headliner at the Best of Las Vegas Awards. In 2020, Piff was crowned the winner of TBS’ Tournament of Laughs, triumphing over his heroes Jeff Ross, Natasha Leggero and Judah Friedlander. Piff the Magic Dragon hits the road with a brand-new show for 2023 with Mr. Piffles, the World’s Only Magic Performing Chihuahua, and Jade Simone.

PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON BROKE ON TO THE SCENE IN 2015 ON “AMERICA’S GOT TALENT” AND SINCE THEN HAS BEEN DELIGHTING AUDIENCES AT HIS LAS VEGAS RESIDENCY AT THE ICONIC FLAMINGO HOTEL AND CASINO. The show is set for Sept. 22. Tickets are $29, $44, $55, and $65.

Los Lonely Boys will be returning to TCT for a show on Oct. 5. Family has always been at the center of things for Los Lonely Boys. Henry, Jojo, and Ringo Garza have been playing and touring together since they were teenagers. Three years ago, they decided to take a break to focus on their own growing families. But summer 2022 saw them back at it again, returning to life on the road alongside The Who. The Boys have been making music together for 17 years now, and they show no signs of slowing down. Tickets are $39, $49, $59, and $69.

Comedian Paula Poundstone has gained a reputation for her smart, observational humor and legendary spontaneous wit. She is the star of multiple HBO specials including “Cats,” “Cops and Stuff,” and “Paula Poundstone Goes to Harvard.” She is a regular panelist on NPR’s comedy news quiz, “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” She is

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heard weekly on her successful comedy podcast, “Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone.” Also, an author, her second book, “The Totally Unscientific Study of The Search for Human Happiness” was one of eight semi-finalists for The Thurber Prize for American Humor, the highest recognition of the art of humor writing in the United States. The audiobook was one of five finalists in all genres for the Audio Book of the Year AUDIE award. Her show is set for Oct. 19 and tickets are $29, $39, $49, and $69.

Christopher Cross took the 1980s music scene by storm with his self-titled debut album, winning five Grammy Awards, including—for the first time in Grammy history—the “Big Four” most prestigious awards: Record of the Year (for the single “Sailing”), Album of the Year, Song of the Year (also “Sailing”), and Best New Artist. In a career spanning more than four decades, Cross has sold over 10 million albums. His music has garnered five Grammys, an Oscar, a Golden Globe, an Emmy nomination and five Top 10 singles. Cross will come to town on Oct. 22. Tickets are $39, $49, $59, and $69.

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives will perform on Oct. 28. Stuart is a five-time Grammywinner, Country Music Hall of Famer, platinum recording artist, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient from the Americana Music Association, Grand Ole Opry star, country music archivist, photographer, musician, and songwriter. Since starting out singing gospel as a child, Stuart has spent over

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“IT IS A TIMELESS EXPERIENCE TO WATCH GREAT MOVIES OF THE PAST IN THE SETTING OF A THEATER ORIGINALLY BUILT IN THE 1920S AND RESTORED IN 1999.”

four decades celebrating American roots music. His teenage years on tour with bluegrass legend Lester Flatt in the ’70s were followed by six years in Johnny Cash’s band in the ’80s, and a chart-topping tenure as a solo artist in the ’90s. Recently, The Country Music Association announced the induction of Marty Stuart into the Country Music Hall of Fame’s class of 2020 in the Modern Era Artist category. In addition, Stuart is raising awareness for The Marty Stuart Congress of Country Music in Philadelphia, Mississippi which will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of country music through live musical performance and educational programming. This show has a country music VIP package for $200. Other tickets are $29, $39, $49, and $59.

James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash, a popular show in previous years, will be taking the stage on May 18, 2024. His tribute to Johnny Cash celebrates the life and music of the legendary ‘Man in Black’ with strong conviction and stunning accuracy.

Garner and his band faithfully recreate Cash’s biggest hits, including stories and personal anecdotes about America’s most beloved singing storyteller. A fun, toe-tapping trip down memory lane honoring Johnny Cash’s life and music,

and the boom-chicka-boom sound of his longtime backing band, the Tennessee Three.

“And these are just the first set of shows booked so far,” Casey said.

“We will most certainly have more performances to come as the season progresses.”

All concerts start at 7:30 p.m. and doors open at 7 p.m.

New this season will be a selection of films shown at TCT in August.

“For many years the Board of Directors for the Turlock Community Theatre has had the idea of showing classic movies in our historic venue,” Casey said. “It is a timeless experience to watch great movies of the past in the setting of a theater originally built in the 1920s and restored in 1999. It took many years for us to raise the funds to purchase a digital projector worthy of showing great movies, and thanks to the donations and support of so many in our community, we have recently acquired that projector.”

TCT will start their film run with A Summer of Hitchcock. They’ll be showing “North by Northwest” on Aug. 4; “Rear Window” on Aug. 11; and “Vertigo” on Aug. 11; and “Psycho” on Aug. 25. All shows start at 7 p.m.

Family Fun Movies will kick-off with “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” on Aug. 12 and “Mulan” on Aug. 26. Both movies start at 2 p.m.

All movie tickets are $5 “I should also say we are not limiting it to just old classic films,” Casey said.

“We will be running fun family films and other themed sets of movies peri-

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odically throughout the year.”

TCT also has made some adjustments to their season tickets. Previously, the purchase of season tickets required guests to buy tickets for a certain number of shows, which was typically more than half the season’s line-up, in order for them to have the benefit of picking specific seats and keep first right of refusal on them.

Now, this benefit is part of TCT’s On Stage Sponsorship.

“We felt that we would be offering more freedom of choice to patrons with this particular benefit by folding it into our On Stage Sponsorship program at a donation of $250 or more,” Casey said. “With the donation to our 501c(3) non-profit organization patrons are getting a tax write-off and the option to choose their specific seats, with first right of refusal for those seats, with no minimum requirement on the purchase of shows.

“Our other motivation for making the change has to do with changes to the industry itself with regards to booking shows for a set season,” Casey said. “Without having the season ticket requirement, and thus a series of shows for the entire season all booked at the same time, which more often than not limited our choices and ability to acquire specific performers, we now have the flexibility to book the shows as the season progresses. This is something that more and more venues around the country are opting to do.”

For tickets to any of the shows visit www.turlocktheatre.org. ●

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flavors

Life at L’Amore

By CHRISTOPHER CORREA

I do what I like to do, which is decorate food and make food look pretty.

I

lona Esmaeily of Turlock was one of several individuals who decided to take a leap of faith and start a small business in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when she launched L’Amore Charcuterie.

The business has been a resounding success, but she had always aspired for more.

“I do what I like to do, which

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is decorate food and make food look pretty,” Esmaeily said.

“L’Amore Charcuterie has been a very good business for me and has kept me busy. I mean, we just did a wedding for 600 people.

But that’s more like catering. For people who don’t have events, I still wanted to bring them these experiences.”

On May 16, she opened the

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doors to her new business, L’Amore Wine and Dine at 138 S. Center St. in Turlock. Esmaeily is still offering her classic charcuterie menu, but this time in a sit-down, restaurant environment with a full wine bar.

“My whole thing is cheese and wine. It’s a combination that everybody knows and loves. It’s like, ‘Yeah, let’s have a glass of wine, eat some cheese, just offering shareable plates,” she said.

Previously housed the space at 138 S. Center St. was a similar business – Savor Charcuterie. Savor Charcuterie was tailored more towards takeout and pickup orders. When Esmaeily got word that they were looking to move out of the space and transition their business almost completely online in November, she jumped at the opportunity. By February, the space was hers and construction and design began.

While there are wine lounges that serve charcuterie, Esmaeily wanted to make her restaurant stand out, and she seems to have accomplished that with the unique art. The person behind the large flowery murals throughout the interior is Merced artist Jaden Key. On another wall, there are artificial plants with the L’Amore name in pink, neon lights, which Esmaeily described as a “selfie wall.”

“When I imagined what I wanted my wine bar to look like, it was this,” she said. “I wanted somewhere for the community to go for these special occasions. A place to get dressed up on the weekends, a place to have fun and take pictures.

It’s elegant, trendy, but comfortable.”

Once at L’Amore Wine and Dine, guests can browse a menu of nearly 30 wines, including chardonnay, Moscato, rose, pinot noir and cabernet amongst others.

“I’ve been telling people, ‘I’m going to be the one to crack this trend. I’m going to make Turlock like wine,’” Esmaeily said. “A lot of those who like wine in Turlock already have their favorites, but I want to show everyone that there is more. I want to introduce the European wines, wines from New Zealand, wine from Portugal. Even Australia and Germany…”

As for the food menu, it includes five different types of paninis, three variations of cheese boards, four types of salads and six Mediterraneaninspired appetizers. Almost all of her ingredients

are locally sourced. One of the most popular orders during L’Amore’s first month of operation has been the Dolma appetizer, consisting of rice, herbs and spices rolled in grape leaves as well as the Three Meats Charcuterie board with hand selected meats alongside torshi and crackers.

“There’s a little bit of something for everyone here,” said Esmaeily. “Older people love the classic wines, (and) there’s a lot that catches the eye that really appeals to the younger crowd. It’s really good food and really good drinks, and we’re here for everything. Come after work, for your business meetings, for your birthday celebrations, just come here for the good vibes.”

L’Amore plans on hosting wine tasting events in the near future. For more information on the restaurant and future events, follow the restaurant on social media at @lamore_wineanddine on Instagram and at L Amore Charcuterie on Facebook. ●

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There’s a little bit of something for everyone here.

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flavors

By MICHELLE KENDIG

PHOTO BY TERESA HAMMOND/ 209 Magazine

A

bout 10 miles east of Oakdale off Highway 120 sits the small community of Knights Ferry. Located along the Stanislaus River and famous for being the site of the longest covered bridge this side of the Mississippi River, it is also home to the oldest operating general store (circa. 1952) in California. Today that general store also includes Rick’s Saloon/Café run by proprietor Linda Osborne. A bartender for the last 24 years in the Central Valley, she took over the business in February of 2023.

Originally owned by Rick Maisel, who purchased the bar in 1985, Osborne hasn’t changed much of the aesthetics inside, even down to the over 300 baseball caps neatly hanging from the ceiling, a collection started by Maisel about 40 years ago.

“Rick had a 200-hat collection so he put them all behind the bar and since, it’s just grown,” said Osborne, who cleans and maintains the array of hats once owned by Maisel and those donated by customers over the years.

Offering a full bar and ice cold beer, two of their most popular

drinks at the saloon include an Orange Tic Tac, a shot that Osborne concocted many years ago made with orange vodka and orange juice, shaken well and topped with a splash of Red Bull. The Lemon Drop Cocktail is a vodka-based drink that is very refreshing and the perfect drink for any hot summer day.

Featuring all types of music from country and folk to ‘80s-‘90s rock, live music can be enjoyed on most Sundays.

Run by Osborne with help from her family and friends and buoyed by community support, Rick’s Saloon has that close knit, Cheers “where everybody knows your name” feeling.

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“Music is huge here, it’s a huge music venue, there’s so much talent in this area and they really want to play here and I really want them to play here,” Osborne explained. “That’s been the heartbeat of this entire establishment since long before I was a twinkle in my daddy’s eye. People here just love music.”

Run by Osborne with help from her family and friends and buoyed by community support, Rick’s Saloon has that close knit, Cheers “where everybody knows your name” feeling. Locals are greeted by name with an occasional hug and if you’re lucky you may even get the chance to meet the bar’s namesake, Rick, who when asked if

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he had any favorite memories from the 38 years he owned the bar, replied with a laugh: “Most of those memories you can’t remember.”

Osborne added, “This would never have been possible without Rick trusting me, caring about me and knowing that I would take care of his baby … he made my dreams come true.”

With a clientele of locals and folks just passing through on their way up to the Sierra Foothills or having just spent the day rafting down the river, they can come in Tuesday through Sunday and enjoy the weather and a cocktail outside on the newly updated patio area where there are plenty of picnic tables with umbrellas. The family friendly Saloon/Café is also pet friendly. During the colder months, enjoy the fire pit and a hot toddy or come inside and rack up the table for a free game of pool and pick out your favorite songs

from the old school compact disc juke box.

Bartender Audra Hogwood said, when asked what’s special about working at Rick’s, “The people, definitely just very relaxed.”

Tuesdays are “Taco Tuesdays” from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., with your choice of chicken, beef or fish tacos made in house. The regular menu includes many appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches, just to name a few of the delicious options.

For all upcoming events, you can follow them on Facebook at Knights Ferry General Store/Rick’s Saloon & Café and on Instagram at rickssaloonknightsferry. ●

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IF YOU GO WHAT: Rick’s Saloon WHERE: 17701 Sonora Rd., Knights Ferry HOURS: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday; 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday; 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday CONTACT: Facebook at Knights Ferry General Store/Rick’s Saloon & Café and on Instagram at rickssaloonknightsferry.

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navigator

VIKINGSHOLM

THE JEWEL OF TAHOE’S EMERALD BAY

By TERESA HAMMOND

I

t may be just roughly a three-hour drive from the Central Valley area, but once one arrives, it’s easy to feel worlds away in Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay. A short drive from South Lake Tahoe via Highway 89, Emerald Bay is the only inlet on the lake, as well as home to Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette Island.

Not only does Emerald Bay host the only island, it is also home to what’s known as “Tahoe’s Hidden Castle,” more properly called Vikingsholm. A true hidden gem, Vikingsholm can be accessed by visitors via a one-mile trail off Highway 89 or by boat. The castle is open to visitors, offering tours in the summer months from June through September. Guides accompany visitors through the exquisite Scandinavianinspired dwelling and tell the story of visionary Lora Knight.

The daughter of a corporate lawyer, Knight was born in Galena, Illinois.

In 1915 Knight and her first husband James Moore purchased a home in Santa Barbara. Moore died in 1916.

In the early 1920s, she remarried Henry French Knight, a stockbroker from St. Louis. The couple divorced prior to the building of Vikingsholm.

It is said that for 16 years, Knight enjoyed spending summers on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. In 1928 she purchased the 239 acres at the head of Emerald Bay from the William Henry Armstrong family for $250,000. Knight then commissioned her nephew and Swedish architect, Lennard Palme to design Vikingsholm. This idea was

Fannette Island.

A true Inside the mansion much of the interior remains as it was decades ago when hidden gem, Knight entertained summer visitors.

Vikingsholm The furnishings of the home were careselected by Knight to maintain the can be accessed fully integrity of the Scandinavian influence. by visitors via a Antiques were purchased as well as in the instances where Knight one-mile trail off replicated would see something in a museum Highway 89 or which was not for purchase. She would commission craftsmen to duplicate by boat. items she fancied which were on display inspired by Palme’s home in Rye, New York, as well as the fjord-like location of Emerald Bay. Knight, along with Palme, made a trip to Scandinavia in 1928 for inspiration and construction ideas. The foundation for the 38-room mansion was laid in the summer of 1928. During the spring of 1929 a reported 200 highly skilled workmen were commissioned to work on the Emerald Bay property and were temporarily housed in barracks.

Now just a handful of years shy of a century since the house was constructed, one can’t help but be impressed by the detail, as well as the craftsmanship of the home. The woodwork is both intricate as well as solid as one looks at the timbers, as well as the granite boulder exterior of the mansion.

It is said that prior to construction of the home, direction was given that no trees were to be removed for the home’s foundation. Today the home sits among beautiful redwoods with a breathtaking view of Emerald Bay and

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in Norwegian and Swedish museums.

Many of the original furnishings still remain in the home.

Knight enjoyed a total of 15 summers at Vikingsholm. She passed away there in 1945 at the age of 82.

Once the estate was settled, the house and property were sold to a rancher from Nevada who maintained the home for just over a year. In early 1950 the final owner, Harvey West, sold the property to the State of California. The conditions of the sale were that he would donate half of the appraised value of the land if the state would pay him the other half. In 1953 the property was acquired by the State of California and is now a part of Emerald Bay State Park.

Visitors to the area may enjoy taking a picnic lunch and plenty of water to enjoy either before or after the tour. The grounds are shaded and well-groomed for hiking. Not far from Vikingsholm is Lower Eagle Falls, a 2.5-mile out and back hike, which provide views of the only waterfall to empty into Emerald Bay. ●

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25 th Anniversary

021 997 - -22023 11997

Thanks for making a difference!

More than $94,315 was raised for The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center We would like to express our gratitude to everyone in the community that contributed to Kidz Day. Many of you purchased Kidz Day papers, donated your time and resources, and made monetary contributions Officers Quote Thank you very much, Modesto and surrounding areas! The success of our 27th annual Kidz Day fundraiser once again demonstrates the generosity of this community. We are grateful for the trust and support you continue to show for the work of The Salvation Army. Throughout the year, The Salvation Army provides a safe and fun place where kids can grow, and families can be strengthened. We also serve our neighbors in need, and we are mindful of the fact that we would not be able to do any of this without your support. Please know we truly appreciate you and welcome you to visit the Red Shield Center so you may witness first-hand how your support impacts the lives of girls and boys, women and men in our community.

May God bless you!

Majors Harold and Maggie Laubach Captains Ray and Thelma Jimenez

KIDZ DAY CORNER VOLUNTEERS American Chevrolet Bank of Stockton - Dale Road Bank Of Stockton / 13 @ J BJ’s Consumer’s Choice Pest Control Blue Diamond Growers / Modesto Caruso Shopping Center Central Catholic Interact Club Central Valley Community Bank Ceres Chamber of Commerce Citizens Business Bank CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Agency EXIT Realty Consultants Golden 1 Credit Union / Modesto Golden 1 Credit Union / Turlock Got It All Insurance Agency ImPossible Moving Services Jeff Blizzard State Farm Agency JRP Realty Group Lending Assets Lifestyle Realty Love Modesto Mocse Credit Union Modesto Chamber of Commerce Modesto City Schools Child Development Program Nexa Mortgage Blue Diamond Growers Blue Diamond Growers prides itself on caring for our community and we are proud to, once again, support the Salvation Army and Kidz Day. Knowing that our resources are going towards helping our young ones enjoy their childhood to the fullest makes it all worth it. We are grateful for the longstanding partnership with noble organizations like the Salvation Army!

“The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary is proud to support the Red Shield Center as they work with at-risk youth in our community. The programs offered by the Red Shield help the youth develop physically, spiritually and emotionally. The addition of a new Senior Program this year has been very well received and helpful to another group of our at-risk citizens.

Thank you to the Salvation Army Red Shield staff who work tirelessly to improve our community.”

- Stephanie Miller, SAWA President

Oak Crafts By Jeremiah O’Brien’s Market Patty’s Angels RE/MAX Executive San Joaquin Valley College Sign Designs Inc. Stanislaus Latino Chamber of Commerce Sunny Grove Preschool and Childcare Thanks 4 Giving The Modesto 500 Lions The Park at Modesto The Plus Group, Inc The Salvation Army Modesto Administration The Salvation Army Red Shield Center The Salvation Army Red Shield Center Senior Program The Salvation Army Women’s Auxilliary Valley CAPS ABLE Valley CAPS Modesto Valley CAPS PLUS Vocational Coaching & Development Institute, Inc. Wells Fargo Bank / Oakdale Westamerica Bank / Modesto Westamerica Bank / Turlock

The Paul & Sharon Caruso Family / Caruso Shopping Center We are blessed to have The Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield Center in our community. The Red Shield provides education, enrichment programs, sports and spiritual guidance to local, at-risk children and their families. The staff work tirelessly to create a supportive and welcoming environment. The Red Shield provides priceless opportunities to many youth in need that may otherwise go without.

Dot Foods, Inc. “Dot Foods is a proud supporter of the Salvation Army/Red Shield” G3 Enterprises, Inc. We are proud to support the Red Shield Center. Every year, G3 and our employees join forces to make a real difference in the community. Contributing to over 50 charities locally and nationwide, we donate our time and financial support in a variety of ways. As a family-owned company, we know the family and community go hand-in-hand.

Kidz Day Donations 2023 Presenting Sponsor

$2,500 - Silver Sponsors Ramsin & Denise Irene Sink Ganji

R

Bronze Sponsors - $1,500 - $2,000 Acme Construction Company, Inc. • Beard Land and Investment Co. Ken & Stacey Elving • McHenry Bowl, Inc. • Mistlin Honda • Westamerica Bank Kidz Day Sponsors - $1,000 Michael & Ila O’Connor • Dr. Robert & Sally Tanaka • Dennis & Jean Wittchow $500 James & Jean Alexander • Berliner Cohen LLP • Brewer Family Dentistry • DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Brokers, LLC • Duncan Foods • Kent & Virginia Johnson • Jean Lowell • Bill & Sharon Morris Dr. Gary Nazareno • Darrell & Roxanne Nelson • Oak Valley Community Bank • Pezzoni Engineering Company • Bruce & Grace Valentine • Warden’s Office Products $200 - $400 Acura of Modesto • Andrew R. Fletcher, DDS A Professional Dental Corporation • Bank of Stockton Tim & Lisa Bettencourt • BJ’s Consumer Pest Control • Lee & Sandra Bucknell • David & Darlene Derby Marge Derby • Joan Fischer • Dick & Teresa Hagerty • Janice Lucero • O’Brien’s Market • Bette & Richard Pelphrey • Robert Saunders • Joe & Ann Swain • Tom & Grace Van Groningen • Chick & Lynda Venturini Jennifer Viss $100 - $150 Harry & Donna Bakker • Karen Baumbach • Brent & Yolanda Bearden • Raymond & Frances Camagna Joyce Campbell • Casazza Ranch • Ron & Janice Emerzian • Five Minute Car Wash • Janelle Flint Louis & Kenni Friedman • Robert Glaserud • Pamela Hall • Marilyn Howell • Shirley Joachim Evan and Amanda Johnson • Joe Kroeze • Raedine Lillie • Donald & Stephani Locke • Charles E. Lyghtle • Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation Mercy Maya & Ruben Haro • Marilyn Morton • Elizabeth Murphy Sandra Nerland Oak Craft by Jeremiah • Michael & Maria O’Brien • Barbara Padmos Claude & Eva Purkis • Santos Properties • Sandra & Lynne Sanvill • Stewart & Stewart Inc. Deborah Stone • Robert & Wilda Thompson • TSM Insurance & Financial Services Larry & Edith Tucci • Nancy Villarreal • Timothy J Warnock Robert & Jennifer Webber • Wille Electric Supply Co. Inc ANKS L TH IAline SPECAde Brimm ety Lynn & Sue Zwahlen of Public Saf ANGE FOR cher Department

Ramsin & Denise Ganji We support Salvation Army and The Red Shield because of their programs supporting our local at-risk youth to have a place to go for a wholesome environment to play, learn, receive spiritual guidance, and most importantly, a place to gain that sense of self-worth among those who really do care about them BJ’S Consumer Choice Pest Control BJ’S Consumer Choice Pest Control is Proud to serve the At-Risk Youth in our community.

Sign Designs, Inc. We whole heartedly support The Salvation Army Red Shield. The fabulous programs that they offer keep At-Risk youth off of the streets, giving them a sense of belonging and self worth. The Red Shield works to keep these children from becoming tomorrow’s Salvation Army clients.

- Pete Michelini, Vice President

Ken & Stacey Elving 53 years of service!

Thank You Red Shield for all that you do!

Mistlin Honda of Modesto Mistlin Honda is proud to be part of this great effort to help the children of Modesto. The beauty of The Salvation Army Red Shield Center is that it’s in an area where it can have a positive effect on the lives of children. The Salvation Army’s reputation speaks for itself, as does all the good work it does in our communities.

- Dennis Lanigan

CH RS & CHANGE JA S CARDany PLEDGE mp s Food Co Cost Les h School Enochs Hig

Ceres by/ Joan Fis Marge Der ice Department Modesto Pol e Nancy Pop ca Bulletin en / Mante Multimedia Karen Olsffor d / 209 a Sabra Sta ffman / 209 Multimedi edia Sharon Ho Veen / 209 Multim Hank Vander

IN MEMORY

Lee & Sandra Bucknell / Honoring Longtime Supporter Of The Red Shield Center Paul Anderson Marge Derby / In Honor of Sandra Lau Joe Kroeze / In Memory of Eva Kroeze Deborah Stone / In Memory of Patty Tharp Dr. Robert & Sally Tanaka / In Memory of John & Steven Derby The Modesto Red Shield / In Memory of Chris Currie The Modesto Red Shield / In Memory of John & Steven Derby

IN KIND DONATIONS

Westamerica Bank is proud to partner with the Salvation Army Red Shield Center in their efforts to support the families in our community.

Acura Of Modesto • Blue Diamond Growers • Bridge Hospice Dust Bowl Brewery • El Rio • Janice Lucero • Jennifer Webber McCoy Tires • McHenry Bowl • Nancy Breasher • Robert & Carolyn Gunn Seva Hospice • The Park at Modesto The Park at Modesto Hair Salon / Olivia Hamilton

Michael & Ila O’Connor “It is our pleasure to support the Salvation Army Red Shield program and in a small way make a difference in the lives of fellow members of our community.”

vertisers Thanks To Our Ad Disposal

Thanks to your support, The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center will be able to help many children enrolled in our programs. Your generosity is creating a positive change in the lives of many kids.

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 40

$5,000 - Gold Sponsors

• Bertolotti American Chevrolet & ter • Hensley’s Paving Caruso Shopping Cen , Inc. ring inee Eng l era Gen • The Tubera Team Mocse Credit Union , Inc. The Burchell Nursery

7/24/2023 10:47:38 AM

FEATURE - Lake Cover.indd 41

7/24/2023 11:55:59 AM

feature

The jewel of

Alpine County

By SABRA STAFFORD

W

hen looking for a respite from the summer heat in the 209, it’s hard to find a better option than Lake Alpine.

Lake Alpine is located in the Stanislaus National Forest off Highway 4 in Alpine County at an elevation of 7,350 feet. It spans 180 surface acres and is filled from the melting snow, keeping the water chilly even in summer.

Summer visitors enjoy swimming, boating, hiking, camping, fishing, picnicking, biking, and interpretive programs. In winter, the lake becomes part of the Lake Alpine Sno-Park. Visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, snow-

shoeing, and cross-country skiing.

For those looking to try their luck with rod and reel, Lake Alpine is regularly stocked with trout.

Guests can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle board, fishing boats and bikes at the Lake Alpine Resort or Bear Valley Cross Country and Adventure Company.

There are several hiking options in the area, including the four-mile trail around the lake. The southwest end has a two-mile hike to Duck Lake with views of log cabins, an aspen grove and meadows of wildflowers in the late spring

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and early summer.

Those who want a bit more of a challenge can go for the hike to Inspiration Point, which offers a rewarding panorama of the lake and the surrounding timberland.

All Lake Alpine Recreation Area campgrounds, including Silver Tip, West Shore, Pine Marten, Silver Valley and Backpackers campgrounds are reservation only. Campsites are $30 per night. Recreation facility use fee is $5 per group.

Make reservations through Recreation.gov, 1-877-4446777, International, 518-8853639, or via their website, www. recreation.gov. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 11:56:46 AM

By KRISTINA HACKER

L

ocal ski and snowboard enthusiasts are very familiar with the trek up to Pinecrest Lake in the Stanislaus National Forest, as the road to the Sierra Nevada lake is the same to get to Dodge Ridge Ski Resort. In the summer months, however, vehicles making their way up the windy mountain road are loaded down with kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards rather than skis and snowboards.

The 300-acre lake, owned and operated by PG&E, sits at 5,600 feet, 30 miles east of Sonora on Highway 108.

Pinecrest Lake is located in what was once a meadow surrounded by granite outcroppings and is now the last in a series of dams constructed on the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. Originally, Pinecrest Lake was called Strawberry Flat because of the wild strawberries that once grew there. In the 1960s the name was officially changed to Pinecrest.

The lake is now known for its amazing views and family-friendly activities.

In fact, it is a generational tradition for many area families to spend a week or weekend by the shores of the lake, fishing, boating or just admiring the views.

Pinecrest is stocked with rainbow trout on a weekly basis, drawing in

those who enjoy fishing. The Pinecrest Lake Marina offers a variety of rentals including paddle boats, kayaks, sailboats, motorboats and party boats.

There is also a dock for those bringing their own boats. The Pinecrest Hub, located next to the general store, offers mountain bike rentals.

Another popular activity at Pinecrest is hiking the 6.8-mile lake loop trail. It is considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 3 hours to complete.

The Stanislaus National Forest Service offers educational activities throughout the summer months including campfire programs, tall tales and silly songs, Native American crafts and games, yoga, wildflower walks and others. For a schedule of forest service programs, visit: www.fs.usda.gov/ recmain/stanislaus/ Pinecrest Lake Resort (pinecrestlakeresort.com) offers different lodging accommodations from motel rooms to cabins and townhouses.

Camping near the lake is offered through Recreation.gov. The campground is within walking distance of the lake, an amphitheater, visitor center, swimming beach and hiking trails. Pets are welcome, but must be

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compliant with Tuolumne County leash laws.

There are plenty of picnic tables around the lake for those bringing their own food, however, the Steam Donkey Restaurant and Bar is located at Pinecrest Lake Resort for those looking for finer dining at the lake. The Pinecrest Lake Snack Bar is open daily during the summer months from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers nachos, soft pretzels, ice cream cones and sodas.

Mobile food truck Outpost Deli is also available at Pinecrest offering breakfast burritos and croissants, along with burgers, tri-tip and chicken sandwiches. ●

IF YOU GO WHAT: Pinecrest Lake WHEN: Day use is 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

WHERE: 30 miles east of Sonora on State Highway 108 COST: There is no fee for parking and visiting the day use area including for the use of a single picnic table and grill. Large-group picnic sites and camping is reserved through Recreation.gov.

INFO: bit.ly/3O5jNNS

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:01:23 PM

feature

YEAR-ROUND ENJOYMENT

AT LAKE CAMANCHE

By SABRA STAFFORD

F

from June to October with the sizes Turkey Hill is ranging from one pound on up to nestled in 16 acres eight pounders. at Lake Camanof mature oak trees cheAccommodations run the gamut from tents, and RVs, to one-bedroom cottages and adjacent to the rental homes.

Mokelumne Coast vacation The Lake Camanche Recreational to Crest trail staging Company also has boat rentals that fishing motor boats, patio area at Camanche include boats and kayaks.

One unique option at Lake South Shore.

un doesn’t have just one season at Lake Camanche.

This reservoir that sits at the junction of three counties in the 209 offers opportunities for amusement all year long.

Lake Camanche falls within Amador, Calaveras and San Joaquin counties. It spans 7,700 surface acres and possesses 54 miles of shoreline.

The North Shore, which is closer to Ione, sports a year-round café, a summertime ice cream shop and on shore camping. The South Shore, which is closer to Valley Springs, has a stocked trout pond, a summer snack shop and an amphitheater for movies and concerts in the summer, The lake features family and group camping by the lake shoreline, cottages, RV sites, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, equestrian trails and equestrian camping and bird watching.

Lake Camanche is known as a fantastic spot for bass fishing, with varieties like largemouth, smallmouth and spotted. It’s also a favorite destination for trout anglers.

Each year 60,000 pounds of trout are stocked in the lake

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Camanche is equestrian camping at Turkey Hill. This area is nestled in 16 acres of mature oak trees adjacent to the Mokelumne Coast to Crest trail staging area at Camanche South Shore. Equestrian campers, with trail permits, will have access to 28 miles of trail. The amenities include a horse wash station.

Birdwatching is another popular activity at the lake with options for self-guided tours and led tours.

Day use rates in the summer run $18 for vehicle and $21 for a vehicle and a boat. Campsites start at $38 per night and go up depending on the type of camping and length.

For more information and to make reservations, visit golakecamanche.com. ●

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7/24/2023 11:14:52 AM

feature

By KRISTINA HACKER

C

ity-owned Lodi Lake has been a local favorite since its dedication in June 1934.

The lake originally took shape as the lowlying land filled with water backed up by the first brush and wood dams built in 1889 and 1891 on the Mokelumne River downstream at Woodbridge. The flood of 1895 also helped create the lakebed. The Woodbridge dam and creation of the same-named water district increased the size of the lake over the years.

Today, the lake is best known for its miles and miles of waterways that can be traversed by kayak, with its habitat perfect for birdwatching a close second in popularity.

The Lodi Boathouse offers kayak and paddle board rentals, kayaking tours including monthly Full Moon Tours, and lessons.

For more information on kayak rentals, visit: www.lodiboathouse.com.

The Lodi Lake area is a birdwatcher’s

paradise, boasting everything from waterfowl to cranes to raptors. A few birds that frequent the Lodi Lake area include the Sandhill Crane, Northern Pintail Duck, Tundra Swan, Swainson’s Hawk and Yellow-billed Magpie.

Lodi Lake is part of the Lodi Lake Park, which features picnic areas, nature trails and a separate beach for swimming.

There is a minimal fee for entry into the park, swim area, and docent-guided group tours.

Individual tent camping is not allowed, but groups with a minimum of 12 RVs are allowed to camp at the lake if booked in advance.

Lodi Lake Beach features a large sandy beach and recreational swim area. From Aug. 5 through Sept. 4 the beach is open from noon to 2:45 p.m. and then 3:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays only. The cost is $3 per person per session to swim. ●

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IF YOU GO WHAT: Lodi Lake WHERE: 1101 Turner Rd., Lodi COST: There is a $5 daily parking fee; and $13 daily boat launch fee INFO: lodi.gov/348/Lodi-Lake

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:02:14 PM

feature

Waves of Modesto!

By JOE CORTEZ

W

hatever your interests, Modesto Reservoir Regional Park is the place

for you.

Located at 18143 Reservoir Rd., just outside of Waterford on Highway 132, Modesto Reservoir offers 3,200 acres of land and 2,800 acres of reservoir for camping and recreation.

Modesto Reservoir features approximately 150 campsites — available on a first-come, first-served basis — with hook-up amenities, and other camping areas with limited amenities.

Recreation opportunities include swimming, fishing, boating, water/ jet skiing, bird watching, waterfowl hunting (with a permit during specified times of year), radio control airplane flying, and archery.

In partnership with the Modesto Radio Control Club, a radio control airfield now exists near the west boat ramp. Competitions are held, including the popular “Demolition Derby on Wings.” The MRCC offers monthly gatherings and special

events throughout the year. The facility and the opportunity to fly are open to the public.

The Yahi Bowmen Archery Club operates and maintains the reservoir’s archery range, with the club holding weekly shoots during the summer (monthly during other seasons).

Modesto Reservoir showcases a variety of natural wildlife, and is stocked with rainbow trout, red-ear sunfish, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.

To keep the reservoir’s drinking water as pure as possible, there are no pets allowed at this lake. Camping is limited to 50 feet away from the high-water mark. As a preventive measure for gas and oil spills, no fuel containers are allowed in the park.

No fish cleaning station is available; fish cleaning is not allowed onsite.

Day-use hours for Modesto Reservoir are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (boat ramps close at 7 p.m.).

Day-use fee is $20 per vehicle ($15 for Stanislaus County residents), and

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if you’re towing a boat it’s an additional $15 ($10 for residents) to enter.

Campgrounds (accommodating up to two vehicles) are $40 per night ($35 for residents), while campgrounds with hook-ups are $45 per night ($40 for residents).

The picnic shelter use fee is $115 per day, with a $10 reservation fee ($125 total). For residents, it’s $90 per day, with a $10 reservation fee.

An annual day-use permit is $125.

Nearby Woodward Reservoir, just north of Oakdale on Highway 120, offers many of the same amenities as Modesto Reservoir.

“Woodward is similar in that has camping and boating and waterfowl hunting,” said Julie Orona, events and marketing coordinator for Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation. “And the pricing is all the same because it’s also run by the county.”

For more information, visit stancountyparks.com/modesto-reservoir or call 209-525-6750 MondayFriday (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:03:20 PM

MAKE A WEEKEND AT

LAKE MCSWAIN

A

new summer season, a new opportunity to soak in the fun at Lake McSwain in Snelling.

While 209 Magazine has documented all the fun on the water with folks over at the Splash-N-Dash inflatable water park, the site has plenty of other activities for visitors of all ages.

Prior to the waterpark’s opening in 2018, Lake McSwain was already a popular destination for tourists and community members alike.

The Lake McSwain campground is home to a marina, and is perfect for fishing, swimming and picnics. Unlike other lakes, Lake McSwain’s water levels are not affected by local water conditions, making it easy for swimmers to take a dip.

For the fishing aficionados, Lake McSwain is home of Merced’s annual Trout Fishing Derby, which takes place twice a year, first in April for the spring derby and then in October for the fall derby.

For those not participating in the intense fishing competitions, other wranglers can take advantage

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FEATURE - Lake_McSwain.indd 47

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA

of calm 10 mile-per-hour speed limits on the water and take their time trying to bait and reel in the wide variety of trout species.

The Lake McSwain campground also has multiple cabins available for rent if tents and sleeping bags isn’t your thing.

Nearby is The Reel Deal Marina Store and Café.

The store offers guests fishing tackle, camping gear and snacks to accommodate any fishing trip, picnics or camp sites. Whether you’re in a tent or have a roof over your head, The Reel Deal’s café gives visitors an opportunity to sit down and order breakfast burritos, burgers, tacos, hot dogs and appetizers.

The grounds also feature fish cleaning stations, kayak rentals, a playground, barbecue grills, event pavilions, horseshoe pits and a rentable barbecue pit.

For more information on Lake McSwain, to view park rates and hours or to purchase passes, head to www.lakemcclure.com/lake-mcswain-campingrecreation. ●

47

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:04:04 PM

feature

By JOE CORTEZ

A

fter a mild start to the summer, things got cookin’ in late June with arrival of triple-digit temperatures, and triple-digits last until August.

Lake McClure, which lies among the rolling Sierra Nevada foothills and stately oak trees of Mariposa County, provides guests a get-away from the triple-digits of the Central Valley.

Lake McClure is owned and operated by the Merced Irrigation District, which also owns Lake McSwain just a few mile downstream.

Both lakes — technically, reservoirs — are fed by the Merced River, which flows out of Yosemite National Park.

After the historic rains and snowfall of this past winter, the Merced River feeds Lake McClure with plenty of chilly, heat-beating water.

With a wide body of open water near the dam, Lake McClure is big enough for boaters to spread out, with plenty of coves and inlets to explore. Water skiers, jet skiers, wakeboarders, kayakers, paddlers, houseboaters are welcome.

Anglers are welcome, too. They’ll enjoy fishing for trout, bass and salmon.

Lake McClure is served by Barrett Cove Marina (on the western shore), which offers a variety of personal watercraft to rent.

As for camping, guests have several options.

McClure Point Camping and Recreation Area — located seven miles from neighboring Lake McSwain on Lake McClure Road — offers more views of the water than any other campground.

Barrett Cove is the largest of the lake’s recreation areas, with more than 200

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campsites. Horseshoe Bend Camping and Recreation Area is a few miles west of Coulterville on Highway 132. The Bagby Camping and Recreation area is located just below the Merced River at the inlet of Lake McClure. And, of course, there’s always the campsites at nearby Lake McSwain.

Day-use fee is $10 per vehicle ($3 for motorcycles, maximum two persons), plus $9 with a boat. An annual day-use pass is $125, and $100 to add a boat.

It costs $75 to rent the small picnic pavilion, and $125 for the large. A barbecue pit and wagon can be rented for $45, only at Barrett Cove.

The daily campground site fee is $30, with a second-vehicle fee of $12 (maximum eight persons per site).

For more information, visit lakemcclure.com, or call 209-354-2955. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:04:37 PM

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In Need of an Upgrade?

United Way of San Joaquin County’s Manteca Community Council is hosting the 13th Annual Wine, Chocolate & Art event at the Great Wolf Lodge!

Join us for Raffles, Music, and More!

SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM GREAT WOLF LODGE 2500 DANIELS ST, MANTECA PLEASE NOTE: WINE WILL STOP BEING SERVED AT 8:00 PM. MUST BE 21 AND OVER TO ENTER. Po Box 442 • Newman, CA 95360 • GCL#940324

We offer a wide variety of services:

$40.00 PER PERSON TO PURCHASE TICKETS, TEXT “WINE” TO 40403.

Kitchen and bath remodels • Custom cabinets • Countertops Painting • Heating and air • Plumbing • Electrical • Flooring Roofing • Windows and doors • Porches and decks • Framing Sheetrock and texture • Foundations • Siding • Gutters House additions • House-leveling

Local Media Sponsor

@CordeiroCustomRemodeling

Call (209) 243-9378 today for your free estimate!

United Way of San Joaquin County

FOR TICKETING OR SPONSORSHIP QUESTIONS, CONTACT: DONNA NG UNITED WAY—209.320.6206 DEBBIE BAGLIETTO OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK—209.396.1581

A tablespoon of water is all it takes for mosquitoes to develop!

DUMP and DRAIN standing water.

TIP OUT all outdoor containers that hold water.

Wear EPA-registered insect repellents to prevent mosquito bites.

REPORT daytime biting mosquitoes.

Call the DISTRICT to request service or mosquitofish.

209.982.4675 or 1.800.300.4675 www.sjmosquito.org SJmosquitoandvector

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WEST NILE VIRUS IS ACTIVE IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 10:47:41 AM

feature

New Melones The supersized 209 reservoir

By DENNIS WYATT

N

ew Melones is the largest reservoir is the 209 and the fourth largest in California, As such, the reservoir accessed by taking Highway 49 out of Sonora has the largest surface area of any lake in 209 with 12,500 acres making it ideal for robust water recreation.

New Melones’ elevation is at 1,100 feet. That means in the summer you can expect temperatures to essentially mirror those in the Northern San Joaquín Valley.

There are 100 plus miles of shoreline with the quintessential lower Sierra foothill summer scenery of scattered oaks with endless golden brush.

New Melones’s smooth “glasslike surface” makes it ideal for waterskiing, using personal watercraft, sailing, kayaking and such.

It is considered one of the top reservoirs for fishing. The lake features bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, kokanee, black crappie, channel catfish, and bluegill.

New Melones’s gem is Natural Bridges, a unique series of caves with

Coyote Creek running through them.

The trailhead are located on Parrott’s Ferry Road approximately three miles north of Columbia.

There is limited parking available at the trailhead. There are vault toilets at the parking area, but no drinking water. It’s a moderate 0.7 mile hike to Natural Bridges that you can tube or walk through.

There are two day use areas.

Tuttletown Recreation Area is a left turn off of northbound Highway 49 just after passing Jackass Hill Road (on the right) that takes you to Mark Twain’s preserved cabin from the Gold Rush days.

Tuttletown Recreation Area is on a peninsula.

It offers three campgrounds (Acorn, Chamise, and Manzanita) with 161 campsites, two day-use areas, a boat launch ramp with parking lot, an RV dump station, and fish cleaning station. Two group campgrounds are available by reservation only.

Beyond the turnoff to Tuttletown Recreation Area and to the right just before reaching the Highway 49 bridge

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spanning the reservoir is the turnoff for the year-round visitor center/museum. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It features a variety of exhibits highlighting the area’s history, the Gold Rush era of the “submerged town” of Melones, water management, and conservation. Ranger-guided nature hikes and visitor center programs are provided year round. There are evening campground programs in the summer.

Gloryhole Recreation Area is a left turn a bit north of the bridge.

It has two campgrounds (Big Oak and Ironhorse) with 144 campsites, three day-use areas, 30 miles of hiking/ biking trails, a fish cleaning station, a swim beach, and 2 boat launch ramps with parking lots. A full service marina and store complete with fuel and boat rentals are available.

Marina rentals include houseboats, party boats, sport boats, watersport craft as well as patio and platoon boats.

The marina’s website is at newmeloneslakemarina.com. The contact number is 209-885-3300. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:05:33 PM

thegreatoutdoors

By JOE CORTEZ

N

ot many will look back on the COVID-19 pandemic and see a silver lining, but Zach Wagner does.

The pandemic provided the 20-year-old Catheys Valley resident with an idea for a bike rental delivery business — California Quests — that came to fruition last fall.

“I’d been working on it for a few years,” said Wagner, who said he’d noticed that the bikes available to rent in Yosemite National Park were not in the best shape. “During COVID, I wondered what would be a good way to get people high-quality bikes without physical contact. California Quests was created so tourists and locals alike could have a bike delivered straight to their door without any contact.”

Here’s how it works: Visit CaliforniaQuests.com to order a bike. Right now, the company has a fleet of 10 premium mountain bikes — six adult bikes, two for teens and two for kids.

Additionally, you can rent racks to haul the bikes to your destinations — more than likely that’s Yosemite National Park.

Adult bikes can be rented for $100 per day. After the third day, that rate

drops to $80 per day for the remainder of the rental contract. Youth bikes start out at $75 per day, dropping to $60 after the third day, and kids’ bikes start out at $45 per day, dropping to $36. Racks can be rented for $15 flat rate, and helmets are always free.

If you live in the specified delivery radius — within 10 miles of Mariposa — California Quests will deliver the bikes/racks/helmets to your door at no charge. If you live within 20 miles of Mariposa (10 miles beyond the radius), you can have your bikes delivered for a fee of $30. If you live still farther away, California Quests will arrange a meeting point within the boundaries where you can pick up your equipment.

Business is picking up with the warmer weather.

“It was a little slow at the start because people don’t usually bike in the cold,” said Wagner. “It started picking up in the spring, and then summer a good bit more. But with traffic so unbelievably bad right now, biking would be the quickest way into the park.”

Before starting California Quests, Wagner worked for his parents, Jerry and Courtney Wagner, doing groundskeeping for their three Airbnb properties — Midpines House, Black Bear Lodge, and Main Street Boarding House — all near Mariposa.

“Now that things have picked up this summer, I’m looking at adding a bike every two weeks, eventually adding a new bike every week,” said Wagner. “The thing I’m most excited about is getting electric bikes in the future. For now, the

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most positive feedback I’m getting is about the contactless delivery. It’s really popular. People wanted contactless during the pandemic for health reasons, now it’s all about the convenience.”

In addition to increasing the size of the fleet, Wagner has designs on expanding California Quests’ realm of operations to other regions of the state and, perhaps, the nation.

“Who knows?” said Wagner. “We might have to call it ‘Outside-California Quests.” ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 11:18:30 AM

thegreatoutdoors

YOSEMITE

FOR NEWBIES

By DENNIS WYATT

T

here are six words when uttered by anyone who has lived in the Northern San Joaquin Valley for at least a year that never cease to amaze me — “I have never been to Yosemite.”

I find it unfathomable that someone within 150 minutes travel time of arguably one of the world’s most incredible and accessible natural wonders have never taken the opportunity to check it out.

I’m sure that the 3 million plus annual visitors to Yosemite— many who came from Europe and Asia — would probably think the same thing.

I’ll be the first to admit even in the year I racked up 10 trips to Yosemite that I avoided Yosemite Valley — the place where perhaps 95 percent of the visitors are drawn for obvious reasons — like the plague between May and October except when I want to hike out of the valley to the rim. That’s when 75 percent of the annual visitors descend on Yosemite.

Although the national park has 747,956 square miles, almost every one of those visitors’ heads to the main attractions within the walls of the six square miles that make up Yosemite Valley. There is a reason why Yosemite’s official site often warns visitors this time of year expect twoto-three-hour delays in traffic once

you reach Yosemite’s boundaries as well as enter the valley on weekends or afternoons on week days.

Now that you’ve heard my reservations for going this time of year, ignore them. The reason is because of the record snowfall that has created a unique summer opportunity in Yosemite Valley.

The waterfalls are running like it is still early spring.

In the past five years, only two would continue flowing over the rim to the valley this time of year — the falls known as Yosemite and Bridal Veil — and they weren’t exactly robust. Today they’re roaring strong.

The Glacier Point Road — that leads to what would literally be breathtaking views of Half Dome if you had to hike there up the Four Mile Trail — opened today (July 1) while working around road work.

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Hours are limited through July 4 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. It closes again July 5-7 and reopens July 8 with the same hours. Then starting every day on July 15, it is open with 30-minute delays.

The path to the high country via Tioga Road (Highway 120) as of July 1 still hasn’t been opened for the season.

All of that said, this is arguably the best summer in decades for newbies to Yosemite due to the snowpacks that has given the valley a spring-like feel when it comes to waterfalls minus the seriously cold weather at time.

This is arguably the best time to take a day trip as the weather is warm and the days longer.

What you’re about to read is basically a one-day whirlwind tour of the top draws of Yosemite that can be done with mostly flat walking and driving or catching the free trams.

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THE REASON IS EVEN AFTER 14 TRIPS UP IT PRIMARILY TO SHOW YOSEMITE NEWBIES ITS BEAUTY, IT NEVER LOSES ITS CHARM.

The only suggestion — a walk at least part ways up the Mist Trail to see Vernal Fall from a footbridge across the Merced River or climb the stone steps to the top where you are likely to see a rainbow along the way or going all the way to Nevada Fall — is included even though it requires a bit of exertion.

The reason is even after 14 trips up it primarily to show Yosemite newbies its beauty, it never loses its charm.

It helps of course that I fell in love while being sprayed with mist from the crashing water over Vernal Fall and a rainbow was arching across the Merced.

Before you go make sure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes meant for walking, a change of clothes (or at least socks) if you decide you want to get wet walking near a waterfall, and water that you can carry.

You’re better off packing a lunch and bringing in your own ice chest of drinks. If you have a backpack, bring it along especially if you end up taking the tram or heading off to take more of a hike as you will need to carry extra water, snacks and such.

There are a few concessions but between the crowds and the price means bringing your own makes sense. Also make sure you have a full tank of gas as there is none available in the valley although you can gas up at Crane Flat if you enter the park on Highway 120.

The quickest way from Manteca is Highway 120 as it takes you directly to the park. From Turlock it is going to be Highway 140 out of Merced.

Itinerary for whirlwind one day Yosemite visit The entrance fee is $35 for a sevenday pass. If you have an inkling you may need to go to the bathroom in the

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next four to six hours, I’d advise using the ones right after you get past the pay stations. The rangers will provide a map that you can use to reference stops that I’m suggesting.

After you emerge from the second of three tunnels as you head to the valley via the Highway 120 entrance you will be tempted to pull over to get a picture of the first dramatic granite views. After going through Yosemite, the view from this point will look mundane but it is still worth the stop.

The first stop once you are in the valley is Bridal Veil Falls. It may take a while to find a parking space in the lot or along the road leading up to the world-famous Tunnel View but it’s worth the wait. It is about a quarter mile hike to the falls.

From there I would go straight to the dirt parking lot at Curry Village.

You can access the tram from here

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thegreatoutdoors

ONCE YOU REACH GLACIER POINT YOU WILL BE TREATED TO VIEWS OF THE GLACIERCARVED VALLEY FROM 3,100 FEET UP AND A STUNNING VIEW OF HALF DOME.

or walk a little over a half mile to Mirror Lake. It’s called Mirror Lake for obvious reasons. You are also below Half Dome. This is the way to head up Snow Creek Trail to the southern rim but if you stay in the valley the walk to the lakes and the surrounding meadows is fairly flat.

Walk back to the valley loop road and catch a tram to Yosemite Falls.

Hiking to the lower falls is a treat.

Heading to the top takes an effort but it is worth it, especially being able to hold your smartphone over the granite edge — there is railing — and snapping video as Yosemite Creek plunges from 6,936 feet down to the valley 3,000 feet below.

You can take the tram back to Curry Village.

Once there you can do two things.

Try the Mist Trail hike that starts about a half mile away or get in the

car and drive toward the western end of the valley to near El Capitan.

This is a perfect stop for a picnic lunch. You can head toward the Merced River and find a spot suitable to enjoy both the water and searching the granite walls of El Capitan for climbers. Be sure not to enter areas that are cordoned off due to fragile eco-systems or restoration efforts. The imposing El Capitan is a vertical gain of 3,000 feet from base to top. It is the world’s eighth largest monolithic (single) rock.

From there, get in the car and head back as if you’re going to Bridal Veil Falls. Instead head up to the Tunnel View. Parking is a challenge but it’s worth seeing the view that Kodak in its heyday said was one of the most photographed in the world. Doing this later in the day puts the sun in the right place.

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From there continue onto Glacier Point Road.

You will run into snow along the way with many of the trails accessed from here still covered in snow, especially as you work your way from roadways. Don’t even think about trying to hike them unless you know what you’re doing.

Once you reach Glacier Point you will be treated to views of the glaciercarved valley from 3,100 feet up and a stunning view of Half Dome.

While the views from North Dome are probably the absolute best and similar lofty vistas from Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls are in the same league as Glacier Point, it is the only one you can reach without seven to 16 miles of hiking with lots of elevation gain.

On the way out near Crane Flat there are two smaller groves of giant

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sequoias if you are so inclined to see and have the time. The Merced and Tuolumne groves — depending upon the one you choose — involves between two to three miles round trip hiking and gain in elevation of less than 500 feet.

Hetch Hetchy is an option as well You could also say no to the crowds at Yosemite Valley and head instead to Hetch Hetchy Valley for a 2.5-to-fourhour roundtrip hike to Wapama Falls that covers 5.5 miles round trip.

Your turn off Highway 120 is before reaching the Yosemite Valley entrance station. The road takes you past the Evergreen Resort and San Francisco’s Camp Mather. You will go through a Yosemite entrance. Day users this time of year have to be out by 9 p.m.

You drive to the edge of O’Shaughnessy Dam and walk across the dam face and connect with a trail

that has a total elevation gain of 200 feet to reach Wapama Falls.

The fall once plunged 1,800 feet to the Tuolumne River. But even with Hetch Hetchy Reservoir covering the last 400 feet, it is still impressive.

There are a series of short bridges that takes the trail across the waterfalls. They were a little dicey still due to the heavy run-off so last month on a trip there I only crossed the first one.

Another guy braved the second bridge but turned back as the space between the next bridge was a heavy downward spray making it treacherous — and stupid — to try and navigate the slippery rock trail especially without benefit of railing.

I have been to Hetch Hetchy spring, summer, winter, and fall and it never disappoints.

How impressive is it? My first trip there was in March of 2016. I’ve been

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back five times and plan a sixth trip in August to show it to some friends.

There are essentially no crowds plus plenty of places to be lazy along the trail on granite outcroppings overlooking the reservoir.

As an added bonus, this year you can probably make a trip to Tuolumne Meadows once Tioga Road is reopened and see conditions and flowers that resemble early spring in July or the first few weeks of August. The subalpine meadow is at 8,619 feet. The only meadows I’ve been to that are more stunning are above 10,000 feet in the eastern Sierra requiring a half day of hiking to reach.

Take my word, if you haven’t been to Yosemite you need to go before you die.

That way you can make sure you caught a glimpse of heaven on earth to use as a comparison. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:06:56 PM

fulloflife

EASY ON THE SERVINGS

By TERESA HAMMOND

W

e are living in a funny world.

Keeping with the theme on which this column space was founded: I am constantly reading, watching and altering my fitness journey. Yet as a woman in her middle stage of life, I am “beyond,” with a topic which is just not talked about enough.

Personally speaking, the past few years have been rough, from a physical standpoint. A body altered by a cancer diagnosis and eight surgeries (including a double mastectomy), throw in countless treatments and medications which I’m pretty sure has my body saying ... what the heck.

Yet here we are and despite all of this, which some might throw their arms up and say, ‘Hey, I’m still here, who cares!’ I can honestly say, I do.

Over 12 years ago I lost close to 100 pounds not because it was trendy, but because I was unhappy being physically heavy. It sucked. Big bellies are uncomfortable, as is chafing and being short of breath when climbing stairs.

The weight stayed off because I love being active, I’m not a huge foodie, so a modest diet was easy and I like cute clothes, so that served as constant motivation.

However, as I’ve battled cancer, with each year the number on the scale has climbed. It’s frustrating on a level which is honestly at times more painful than cancer.

Why? One might say. How vain is she?

Another might ponder. Aren’t you happy to still be here?

The answer to all of this is simple. It’s hard work to get healthy and maintain it. To have it stripped from you as you’re trying to stay above ground can simply feel defeating at times. But wait, this is about more than cancer, it’s about stage of life. A topic which I swear if was covered half as much as the “health coach entrepreneurs” on social media we would all be doing so much better.

Recently as I scrolled and scrolled my trusty Google Doctor (yes I know critics, this girl is desperate), I stumbled upon a paragraph which shifted this journey and frustration onto a whole new axis.

Quite simply put, the paragraph shared that as we age, our metabolism slows requiring less calorie intake for optimal health.

What?

Now don’t misunderstand, I’m well aware that post menopause (which also happened during cancer) my metabolism slowed down. However, this girl has been walking miles at a time and spinning hours at a time to try and speed it up. So while my food has not changed drastically, the reality is, it needs to.

A visit with my OB earlier this summer found me in tears as we recapped the past three years of my life and “how I’m doing.”

Frustrated and defeated by the new 40 pounds I lug around, I broke into tears. My doctor shook her head, handed me a tissue and uttered words I needed to hear.

She shared she had recently turned 50.

She had packed on 15 pounds literally with no changes to her daily routine. Her solution, her servings got smaller.

“The amount of food on my plate is so little it’s almost silly,” she said. “But you

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know what? It worked and I’m healthy again.”

“Thank you!” I exclaimed as she shared this, noting I had read this, yet no one talks about this simple thing which makes so much sense.

“If you ate now like you did when you were 30 you would definitely gain

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This is where the strength training and nutrient rich diet comes in. We’ve just gotta work, errrr, re-work those muscles that we aren’t using as much any longer.

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weight, regardless of exercise,” she said.

I went on to share how after I stumbled upon this info, I thought back to my grandmother and my great aunt and how little they seemed to always eat on a daily basis. My doctor nodded, acknowledging the body requires less, however nutrient dense becomes more important for our brain and our bones.

So back to Google I went because I just knew I had to share this in this column space for the ladies like me. In my findings I discovered MyPlatePlan, a site which can help one figure out what their calorie intake should be based on their age, gender, height, weight and activity level.

In the search it was also noted on multiple sites, including the Mayo Clinic, that 150 minutes of brisk walking per week coupled with two to three days of strength training are best to help maintain weight, as well as shed some extra pounds.

Forget the fads and stop beating yourself up (as I did), most especially those of us who now know the word FUPA (Fatty Upper Pubic Area) and are thoroughly confused as to where this came from. Look around; we’re not alone and as odd as it is, it’s truly not uncommon in us midlife ladies.

This is where the strength training and nutrient rich diet comes in. We’ve just gotta work, errrr, re-work those muscles that we aren’t using as much any longer.

Mostly and mainly, hey I get it, us ladies have traveled some miles. Our bodies have served us and possibly some children well.

But this midlife chapter, is our chapter.

This is our time to go live our best life and a whole next level and wouldn’t it be great to do that in a body which served you versus sapped you of all energy and motivation.

So, here’s to gaining some knowledge; understanding that our portions must shrink not to be skinny but to be well and mostly for caring for the one thing we need to keep going — our health. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:07:46 PM

fulloflife

Lifelong San Francisco Giants fan Bertha Riggs is shown with her custom jersey in honor of her 100th birthday, coming this September.

PHOTO BY TERESA HAMMOND/ 209 Magazine

Splashdown

in McCovey Cove

By TERESA HAMMOND

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G

rass isn’t growing under the feet of Bertha Riggs, at least not if she can help it.

Now well into her golden years, this soon-to-be 100-year-old is taking the opportunity to do as much as she possibly can.

Most recently the Oakdale senior was seen on the Jumbotron of Oracle Park in San Francisco as well as on the evening news. Why? Well, it all began with an adventure and a few friends.

“Bertha and I have been good friends for many years,” longtime community member and adventure seeker Steve Cooper shared. “She and my wife are really good friends and I knew what a baseball fan she was.”

According to Cooper, he knew of Riggs’ love for her hometown baseball team, the San Francisco Giants.

“My dad used to take me, it wasn’t the Giants it was the Seals,” Riggs said of the early days of going to baseball games with her dad as a child. “I was born and raised in San Francisco, so he would take me to the ball game with him.”

Cooper further explained that one day as he and Riggs spoke of her favorite team, she shared that she’d love nothing more than for them to win another pennant for her 100th birthday. Riggs will turn 100 on Sept. 16 of this year. Knowing his limitations and hopeful that this might happen, Cooper proposed another idea. A float around McCovey Cove.

“I brought it up to her daughter Nina and Nina said ‘great, let’s go,’” Cooper shared of his conversation with Riggs’ daughter, Nina Wright.

A souvenir baseball, a sign with her birthday wish and great friend Steve Cooper were a few of the birthday highlights for Oakdale resident Bertha Riggs recently in McCovey Cove.

Retired firefighter Don Amario, left, was on hand to help Steve Cooper, right, on land and sea as they floated McCovey Cove with Giants fan, Oakdale resident Bertha Riggs.

Bertha Riggs was the star of all the selfies with kayakers as she floated and celebrated her upcoming 100th birthday in McCovey Cove during a recent San Francisco Giants game.

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fulloflife

“I called her our Cruise Director. She kept everything in line and kept Bertha comfortable.”

“I said I could swim,” Riggs chuckled as she recalled the initial conversation about being in a kayak instead of the stands. “It was fun. It was so different.

I’ve been to the games so many times and looked out and saw everybody out there (in the cove) and thought how crazy. They should come up here and have a seat.”

But now she would be one of that “crazy” group, though it would take some planning and additional support for Cooper to feel completely comfortable taking her out into the bay.

Cooper enlisted the help of his friend and retired firefighter Don Amario to accompany them in a second kayak on the bay.

“He’s an ex-firefighter, so that’s what made me comfortable,” Wright said of her mother’s adventure with her friends.

“That the two of them could handle mom. She said, “I could swim.” She was game right from the get go.”

“He was our support,” Cooper added of his friend’s involvement.

For Amario, the opportunity was a no brainer and he too was all in from the start.

“Steve Cooper’s always been involved, helping different people with different things,” Amario said of his friend. “So when he asked me, would you be interested in helping us, hey … anything you wanna do Steve, I’m good.”

And so the planning began. A Saturday day game was in order to make the birthday plan come to fruition. On Saturday, June 24 the trio of Cooper, Amario and Wright set out to give Riggs the birthday adventure of a lifetime – even if it came a few months early.

It was fun. It was so different. I’ve been to the games so many times and looked out and saw everybody out there (in the cove) and thought how crazy. They should come up here and have a seat. ­—Bertha Riggs “The day turned out better than any of us could imagine,” Amario said, mentioning a fan who spends every game in McCovey Cove. “He just wanted pictures with her. She got on the big screen; she got on television. That day was perfect. It was beautiful.”

Once the two men loaded Riggs into a tandem kayak, they were good to go.

“She was solid in the kayak. No hesitation at all. She was comfortable,” Cooper said.

The trio chuckled as they recalled the day and the very quick celebrity status Riggs gained among the others in the Cove. As kayakers discovered the soonto-be centenarian and her mission, they surrounded her for selfies and some ‘Atta girl’ kudos.

“Surrounded by love and kind people.

It was just a fun time,” Riggs said.

“We were celebrities out there,” Cooper confirmed. “It was incredible. What a thrill to be a part of it.”

As the two men toured the birthday girl around the water, proud daughter Wright, watched from the shore declaring, “That’s my mom!” to passersby.

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“The Ambassador of Fun, that’s my job,” Wright said of sharing these later years with her mom. The two women live together in Oakdale, so Wright can help care for her mom’s daily needs.

“Just being part of that whole thing. I knew it was going to be pretty neat for her,” Amario said, “it was neat for all of us. I mean it was so rewarding. When she was in the cove, everybody wanted to get a picture with her. Everybody sang happy birthday to her.”

Listening to the trio recount the day, Riggs beams with joy, sharing she threw kisses to everyone as she floated by.

“We had a lovely time,” Riggs said, beaming. “I just love everybody. I do, I really do.”

And for as much as she loves people, she also loves baseball. She shared fond memories of going to games and getting ice cream with her father as a child. She also shared her love for the team now and following their progress from her Oakdale home.

“It’s a clean, fun game. It’s just great,” she shared.

But sometimes, she admitted, she wishes they would take her advice.

“He’s okay,” Riggs stated of Manager Gabe Kapler. “He doesn’t take ‘em out when I say … Bring in another pitcher!”

But her support trio may have a solution to her criticism of the Giants manager.

“I’d like to see her throw out a first pitch at a game,” Amario stated. “Maybe for her 101st birthday she’ll get to throw out a first pitch.”

For now, though, the memories of their McCovey Cove trip will have to do.

“I find joy in helping you find joy in life. In adventure, in the spirit of adventure,” Cooper concluded. ●

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 10:47:44 AM

placecalledhome

FAMILY FEATURES

Award-winning outdoor space inspiration

R

enovating your home’s outdoor spaces not only enhances the aesthetic but can also provide a host of recreational benefits. Taking a look at award-winning projects can help many homeowners draw inspiration while also identifying capable, reputable contractors to take on the project.

For example, selected by a panel of industry experts based on functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty, these National Association of the Remodeling Industry National Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award Winners showcase a variety of ideas for upgrading your outdoor spaces. Find the complete list at nari.org/cotywinners. ●

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Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living Under $100,000 The clients wanted to upgrade a poorly draining, impractical backyard into an attractive, functional outdoor entertainment space that flowed from the renovated basement. The project included an outdoor area for entertaining, outdoor kitchen, spacious patio with a custom concrete fire pit, oversized ceiling fans, ample storage and landscaping complete with native plants around the perimeter.

“By working on this project, we learned how important it is to take a holistic look at what clients are trying to accomplish with their renovations,” said Thomas Boyce, president of Boyce Design & Contracting. “Often with outdoor living projects, designers and contractors look at the exterior of the home in isolation.

We learned to look at how the interior and exterior of the home connect to each other to make sure the features and floor plan flow and work well together. By taking this approach, we were able to achieve a better finished product that is more functional and attractive for our clients.”

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Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $100,000-$250,000 A young, active family was looking to create a distinct outdoor living space with multiple entertainment spaces that tied in with the existing aesthetic and elevated the home amongst its neighbors.

The low-maintenance backyard

now features an outdoor dining area, sunken living room, entertainment area and additional storage space built with the home’s current architectural features while also maintaining a large enough yard for the kids and their friends to play.

“The aesthetic of the outdoor areas was designed not only for

function but also to reflect the interiors and keep the insideoutside living feeling continuous,” said Tim Johnson, owner and founder of Livit Site + Structure.

“For example, the shiplap used on the fire table is the same shiplap featured inside the home.

Likewise, the Douglas fir timbers used on the pergola are the same as the interior ceiling beams.”

Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living Over $250,000 A 4,000-square-foot project built at four different elevations, this client wanted to include a safe way to move from the upper level to the backyard without coming through the house, a structure for shade and protection from mosquitoes and a pool with features that reflected the home.

Adding a covered screen room with individually controlled wall panels, see-through fireplace, fountain, pool with sheer

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descent waterfalls, recycled rock walls and staircase from the upper elevation while enclosing it all within a stone wall met those expectations.

“A sound piece of advice for anyone building anything in the backyard: get a plan,” said Ken DePratt, owner of KD Poolscapes, Ltd. “Have it match your expectations list. Then, and only then, will you know if it matches your budget. We would recommend doing your research when taking on a pool project of any size.

It’s hard to push that hole around once it’s dug.”

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:09:50 PM

aplacecalledhome

Growing community gardens

By MARG JACKSON

PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

I

t’s far from a new idea, but it is one that is enjoying a bit of a resurgence.

Community gardens – those that offer up plots for residents to rent out and grow vegetables, fruit or flowers – are themselves growing in popularity.

For those living in apartments or homes that don’t provide enough outdoor space for putting in a small garden, there are many groups and organizations around the 209 that are working to fill that need.

One of them is the Oakdale Garden Club, which has a number of planter boxes and beds available, putting them in during the past year and now having several of them rented out.

From tomatoes – and lots of them – to succulents, sweet corn to strawberries, residents can work on their gardening skills and share their love of the hobby with like-

Gary Jones is an active member of the Oakdale Garden Club; he and fellow member Rachel Bond are co-chairs of the committee overseeing the Oakdale Community Garden.

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This is just a small piece of the mural that runs along the length of the Oakdale Community Garden off East A Street; the brightly colored mural was painted this past spring during the Love Oakdale event.

Longtime Oakdale Garden Club member Gary Jones helps oversee the Oakdale Community Garden, where several residents are renting out space to grow vegetables, flowers, succulents and more.

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Tomatoes are growing in abundance this season at the Oakdale Community Garden, with several of the plots featuring the popular plant.

minded people.

Gary Jones is an active member of the Oakdale Garden Club; he and fellow member Rachel Bond are co-chairs of the committee overseeing the Oakdale Community Garden. Jones said he is pleased by the response the organization’s garden-plot-for-rent program has received.

“We rent from March 1 to March 1 and we only have two empty in ground spots,” he said of the garden space nearly selling out this first year.

You can actually rent space at any time, as long as it is available, and the cost is $60 per year, with senior citizens age 65 and over getting a substantial price break, paying just $20 per year.

There are 20 large in ground beds along with nine boxes; the boxes come in two sizes, are raised to allow easier access for seniors but can also be used by anyone wishing to rent them out.

“One of the boxes and one of the in-ground beds, a local Girl Scout troop has,” Jones said of appealing to a wide audience for the garden effort. “What’s nice is we have some families in there, some single people, some seniors … and people are talking, comparing what they’re growing.”

In that regard, he said, it truly is a ‘community’ garden, as it is bringing residents of the community together for some outdoor time, exercise through gardening, and reaping rewards for the work done.

“Eventually we’d like to do some classes and they would be open to everybody,” Jones added of future plans for the Oakdale Garden Club at its community garden site. “We also planted an orchard; we have some nectarines, peaches and pears, apples, apricots, a cherry tree … we put 12 trees in and they’re looking good.”

No fruit is anticipated until next year, but the trees are planted at the north

end of the Community Garden which is off East A Street in Oakdale, close to the Oak Haven Senior Apartment complex and the Gladys L. Lemmons Senior Community Center.

“Most of the boxes are rented by seniors and I think all but one come from the senior apartments here,” Jones said, noting the proximity of the garden to the apartment complex.

A garden shed on the property provides ample room for storage of garden tools and it was constructed by Riverbank High School students as part of a class.

Jones said the shed is a perfect storage area and said the club was very appreciative of the craftsmanship and dedication of the students in putting it together.

Gardeners have access to their garden plots seven days a week; the garden gate is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Another goal of the club is to add more faucets in the near future, so there is one faucet available for each two

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garden plots, helping cut down on the need for carrying water to sites or using hoses to reach them.

“We have a ‘share box’ and people have put stuff in there,” Jones said, with gardeners spreading the bounty, putting vegetables they won’t utilize into the share box.

Some of the extra produce, he added, will also be passed along to Oakdale Community Food Sharing, which helps provide food to those in need in the community.

Jones said that many of the garden beds and boxes have been personalized by those that have rented them, one with a sign indicating it is the ‘Miller Family Garden’ while the plot rented by the Girls Scout has brightly colored decorative rocks interspersed among the plants. Another garden bed is being used to grow succulents … there are many ways to make it uniquely your own.

And that, Jones said, seems to be part of the appeal.

The backdrop wall of the garden was brightly painted with a colorful mural during the Love Oakdale community work day at the end of April this past spring and Jones said it really has helped to make the garden a bright and inviting place.

The club is definitely interested in getting more beds and boxes put in; they also will be adding a rose garden area and a pollinator garden, where they will feature some native plants in the hopes of attracting butterflies and bees.

“This is our first year but some of these have really taken off,” Jones said, surveying the wide variety of garden spaces. “Some of the people are still learning but it’s nice to see everyone enjoying it.”

For more information, visit the Garden website at www.OakdaleCommunityGarden.org. ●

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aplacecalledhome

Pure Paws

By MARG JACKSON

PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

A

s many people continue to deal with food allergies and turn increasingly to more natural products, the same can be said for pets.

And while it may feel like pampering, for many dogs around the region, natural treats are a wholesome alternative to commercially produced, full-of-filler products.

Among those in the business of offering fresh treats is Sara Bulygo of Riverbank, owner of Pure Paws Biscuit Bar. She creates colorful ‘pup’cakes, flavored cookies, bone-shaped treats, ‘pup’ tarts and other items perfect for your canine companion. She said getting involved in the small-scale production of natural treats was an easy path to choose.

“I was working at a dog grooming salon in Modesto and I realized there were so many dogs with so many skin issues that come from the food they’re eating,” Bulygo explained. “So, I came up with all-natural dog treats and they’ve been a hit; it has taken off so much faster than I had ever anticipated.”

She has been producing the treats for a little under a year and has taken advantage of the variety of outdoor venues for selling the product over the last several months.

“I do the Oakdale Morning Market every Saturday, the Turlock Market on Sundays, Escalon on every third Wednesday of the month; and then any

“They’re good for all dogs, all dog breeds, they’re all natural ingredients, no preservatives, additives, all human grade, no sugar, nothing like that. Everything is sugar free, dog safe.”

—Sara Bulygo other ones that come up,” she said.

Bulygo is also on Instagram at @ purepawsbiscuitbar and enjoys the creative process as she transforms ingredients into fun and flavorful dog treats.

“I really like the pupcakes and the donuts,” she said of her favorite items to prepare, with both mini and full-size decorated donuts offered. “I really like the big donuts, actually.”

Some treats are plain, others are decorated with all-natural dog safe sugar free frosting and sprinkles, including some with peanuts, coconut and the sprinkles she gets from another

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Owner of Pure Paws Biscuit Bar, Sara Bulygo of Riverbank has carved out a niche business with her all-natural dog treats.

company.

“They’re good for all dogs, all dog breeds, they’re all natural ingredients, no preservatives, additives, all human grade, no sugar, nothing like that,” she noted of the treats. “Everything is sugar free, dog safe.”

There isn’t any one specific item she can pinpoint as the top seller, however.

“Actually, every single market, every single event is different,” Bulygo said.

“Every time, something different sells out. I would say all the peanut butter ones are the most popular; however, the apple cinnamon pupcakes and donuts sell just as well.”

For her donuts and pupcakes,

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of the joy she has in the process. “I ingredients include whole wheat get to be creative with them, every flour, cinnamon, baking powder week is something different, I can and unsweetened applesauce. decorate them in different colors, Key ingredients in the parmesan different sprinkles … every week pretzels are whole wheat flour, can be different.” eggs, oat bran, chicken broth, The businesswoman added that baking powder, parmesan cheese she had been involved in the same and sesame seeds. The poplar type of effort several years ago but s’mores, pup tarts and dipped Colorful frosting and sprinkles, sugar free and dog has found the marketplace much bones are made with a combinasafe, help create colorful, tasty treats for your favormore interested in the products tion of whole wheat flour, natural ite canine companion. now. peanut butter, baking powder and “Many years ago, before I had Deserves Real Food” and the reasonable cinnamon. kids, probably about 15 years ago I had prices and all-natural ingredients can One of the treats that gets a lot of attried dog treats and dogs weren’t as make owners feel good about that spetention is the dog-shaped bones, which important to people as they are now,” cial treat they are offering to their pet. come in a variety of breeds, Bulygo she pointed out. “They weren’t like their She can also create specialty birthday utilizing dog cookie cutters to offer up babies, like they are now. But people cakes for your dog; contact Bulygo several different breeds. will always spend money on their dogs at purepawsbb@yahoo.com for more “I try to have all of the most popular and their kids, you know, and so I tried information. breed of dog faces so everyone can find it again and it has taken off so fast, “I love that they’re safe for all dogs. their breed,” she added of the peanut faster than I could have imagined it People love them; people say how cute butter flavored cookies. they are and I just love it,” Bulygo added would.” ● Her slogan is “Because Your Pup

Thank You for Voting Us

Best of 209 Member FDIC LODI (209) 367-9400 MODESTO (209) 544-2227 STOCKTON - DOWNTOWN (209) 944-1807 STOCKTON - MARCH LANE (209) 473-6859

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marketplace

ood

Wonderment

By TERESA HAMMOND

Pam Benziger, right, is all smiles as she advises a client on a wood working project.

New business Handmade Blessings and Handmade by You offers clients the opportunity to create their own custom wood pieces under the guidance of owner Pam Benziger.

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hings are starting to shape up in a whole new way for business owner Pam Benziger. The master crafter and wood worker has taken her gift from home parties and corporate events to a brick-and-mortar location at 1275 E. F St., Suite 9A, Oakdale.

What started as a labor of love to assist her husband, Realtor Kevin Benziger, with client gifts quickly morphed into something more nearly six years ago. She originally began with learning to make porch signs for her husband’s clients.

“I did some research, figured out how to do it and I love it,” she said of making the signs. “So, I started getting really into it.”

Quickly learning she enjoyed working with wood and the memories it sparked from her childhood, Benziger shared that, growing up with a father who was a “hobby carpenter,” the smell of the wood took her back to a “happy place” filled with nice memories.

“I watched a ton of YouTube videos and really enjoyed learning how to build things,” she added.

Benziger shared when she first started the business, she wanted to offer something different beyond the typical paint parties which were growing in popularity.

“Anything can be painted any way, in any style to go with their home,” the crafter said of creating wood working items which are transformed into home decor. “I know how to teach people all the techniques.

“I use stencils, I’m not an artist,” she continued. “The only thing I can paint by hand is sunflowers because I love them. So, I can’t teach someone how to paint on a canvas, but I can teach them this.”

Recognizing a niche for both products as well as a potential business, Handmade Blessings and Handmade by You was launched. Initially she did host paint parties and sold some custom items on Amazon. As the paint parties began to take off, Benziger created partnerships with others in the business which resulted in contract work with larger companies.

“Things were just starting to take off and then COVID happened,” she shared of her in home crafting business.

Continuing to host parties less frequently during that time, Benziger shared as things began to open up, she noticed people being more hesitant in hosting events in their homes as they were prior to the pandemic.

“It’s so funny, I had been praying about the space and I had not verbalized it at all to him,” Benziger explained of having thoughts of opening a space to host workshops in town but not discussing it with her husband initially.

She did share her thoughts and dreams with a close friend, but still had not mentioned it to her husband Kevin.

“I was definitely praying about it,” she said.

Through conversation, the idea for her location in town was prompted by her husband, who offered space within his own office for her to grow the business.

Proving to be a full circle moment and a bit surreal, the space which now hosts the workshop was also the location of her first job many years ago, formerly Oakdale Village Drug.

“The idea behind this business is to come and have a fun experience with your friends or just by yourself and meet people you’ll become friends with,” Benziger said. “Then go home with something you’re proud to display in your home or give as a gift. Creating family heirlooms even.”

“People have even said that to me,” she added of the heirloom comment, noting the fun of making something the family will be left with that they personally made.

The classroom seats 12 and classes are currently scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays. Price varies by project and class time is blocked out for three hours per project. Registration and payment for classes may be done on her website: handmadeblessings.com.

“They’re normally three-hour classes,” she said. “I don’t know if it will fully take three hours but I’m scheduling it that way because I know that it could,

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depending how things go.”

Currently Benziger pre-cuts the projects, then instructs the class on assembly. All materials, as well as paint and stencil (if needed) are provided in the class.

“If you like to craft, you’re going to love it,” she said of Handmade Blessings and Handmade by You. “If you’re not sure about it but you like what the project is, I promise you you’ll be surprised by how much you’ll enjoy the process and be proud of what you made.”

As for the “why” behind her passion for the business and bringing it to a storefront, Benziger keeps it simple.

“Honestly just showing people what they can do,” she said of what excites her most. “When a client comes in and says they’re not crafty and leaves with something amazing.” ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 12:13:13 PM

California Almonds…

The Perfect After School Snack!

The healthy choice for backpacks, lunch boxes or on the road!

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

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Winners

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Academics

Winners

ADULT SCHOOL

CONTINUING EDUCATION

NURSING SCHOOL

TURLOCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL SILVER

MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE SILVER

STANISLAUS STATE SILVER

STANISLAUS STATE BRONZE

BAY VALLEY TECH BRONZE

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, MODESTO BRONZE

ART SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL

BAY VALLEY TECH GOLD

THE CHARTREUSE MUSE GOLD CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER SILVER MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE BRONZE

CHARTER SCHOOL

E CADEMY CHARTER AT CRANE SCHOOL GOLD

STANISLAUS STATE GOLD

TURLOCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL GOLD

TURLOCK HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE

MAGNOLIA ACADEMY BRONZE

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION

PRIVATE SCHOOL

STANISLAUS STATE GOLD

KEYES TO LEARNING BRONZE

MARTIAL ARTS INSTRUCTION MERAFUENTES TAE KWON DO ACADEMY GOLD

OAKDALE MIXED MARTIAL ARTS SILVER

TURLOCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL SILVER

CERES KARATE BRONZE

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC SCHOOL, TURLOCK BRONZE

MUSIC STORE/LESSONS

COLLEGE

STANISLAUS STATE GOLD MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE SILVER

HERITAGE SCHOOL OF DISCOVERY GOLD TURLOCK CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL SILVER

TURLOCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL SILVER

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC SCHOOL GOLD

PRESCHOOL

CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, MODESTO SILVER

GREAT VALLEY ACADEMY SILVER

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE GOLD

GOTTSCHALK’S MUSIC GOLD

LEARNING INSTITUTE FOR FUNCTIONAL EDUCATION GOLD OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC SCHOOL SILVER TURLOCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BRONZE

SCHOOL DISTRICT

TURLOCK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT GOLD MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS SILVER CERES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BRONZE

HUTTON’S HAMLET MUSIC SILVER MODESTO ACADEMY OF MUSIC & DESIGN BRONZE

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, MODESTO BRONZE 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Academics

Winners

TECHNICAL SCHOOL BAY VALLEY TECH GOLD

Thank You For Your Votes!

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, MODESTO SILVER CENTRAL VALLEY BARBER COLLEGE BRONZE

“The Learning Institute for Functional Education seeks to increase the quality of life for every client it serves in a systematic fashion based on empirically based methodology. Our focus is on increasing our client’s developmental skills (i.e., adaptive skills, communication, attending skills, etc.) and decreasing maladaptive behaviors (e.g., stereotypy, tantrums, aggression, etc.) by teaching appropriate replacement behaviors.

TRADE SCHOOL

L.I.F.E. is dedicated to providing quality and cutting-edge services designed to facilitate the acquisition of functional skills in individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Our services include evidence-based techniques built on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and are specifically tailored to the needs of each individual client. L.I.F.E.’s goals are achieved through close collaboration of parents, care-givers, and professionals.

BAY VALLEY TECH GOLD CALIFORNIA TINT ACADEMY SILVER

Employment Opportunities Available.

Call us for more information.

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, MODESTO BRONZE

Client Intake: Terra Oehler - Owner - (209) 900-3722 Staff Recruitment: Brittany Capps - (209) 988-5141 www.life4autism.com

TRUCKING SCHOOL

WESTERN PACIFIC TRUCK SCHOOL GOLD

$25/Hour

Paid Tech Internships

J&R TRUCKING SILVER

Flexible part-time program On-site and online options Mentorship & networking

GREEN VALLEY TRUCK SCHOOL BRONZE

Share this opportunity with friends & family!

TUTORING CENTER MATHNASIUM GOLD

Apply Online! bayvalleytech.com

SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER, MODESTO SILVER GIVE EVERY CHILD A CHANCE BRONZE

Free Digital Skills Training Free Training Included on:

BVT Alumni Work at:

• Web Design • Software Development • Graphic Design • Digital Marketing • Tech Sales • IT Help Desk

• Apple • Tesla • E&J Gallo • Tyler Technologies • Turlock Schools • Walmart Tech Division

This project is fully funded (100%) by the federal Serve America Act and California VolunteersCoronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds of the 2021 Budget Act through a grant allocation totaling $4,977,250. This program is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 10:47:57 AM

Is my data safe?

It could be.

Stop relying on social media pages for your business.

Let us help you build your new secure website.

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

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 75

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We are grateful to be selected by our community as a “Best of 209” winner. This honor recognizes our strong commitment to provide our students with a high-quality education and University experience that will serve them for life.

Learn more about our commitment to student success at www.csustan.edu.

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Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School

Thanks You!

VOTED #1 BEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL VOTED #2 BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Academic Growth is just the beginning.

A Legacy of Excellence Since 1957

1st place Stanislaus County Science Olympiad Winners!

• TK - 8th Grade

• After School Sports

• Small Class Sizes

• Chess Club

• Extended Care

• Pentathlon

• Music-Art-Tech • Spanish-Library-PE

FAT I MA

• Yearbook Club

CATHOLIC SCHOOL • Student Leadership

Call to Schedule a Tour 209.524.4170

501 W. Granger Ave. Modesto - olfcatholicschool.com

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Animals and Farm Services

Winners

AGRICULTURAL LENDER

GROOMER

PET ADOPTION

BAC COMMUNITY BANK SILVER

TOP NOTCH KENNELS SILVER

PUPZ N PALZ SILVER

AMERICAN AGCREDIT BRONZE

TANGO KENNELS BRONZE

ASTRO FOUNDATION BRONZE

ALMONDS

LARGE ANIMAL SUPPLIES

PET BOARDING

BLUE DIAMOND SILVER

ESCALON FEED & SUPPLY SILVER

ESCALON SMALL ANIMAL CLINIC SILVER

ROBERTS FERRY GOURMET, WATERFORD BRONZE

CONLIN SUPPLY COMPANY BRONZE

TANGO KENNELS BRONZE

ANIMAL DENTAL

NUT SERVICES & SUPPLIES

PET SITTING / DAYCARE

PAWFECT GROOM SILVER

ROBERTS FERRY GOURMET, WATERFORD SILVER

ESCALON SMALL ANIMAL CLINIC SILVER

ESCALON SMALL ANIMAL CLINIC BRONZE

SKITTONE ALMOND SHELLER BRONZE

F&M BANK GOLD

STEWART & JASPER GOLD

MONTE VISTA SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL GOLD

ALLEGRO’S PET SPA GOLD

OAKDALE FEED & SEED GOLD

STEWART & JASPER GOLD

TOP NOTCH KENNELS GOLD

TOP NOTCH KENNELS GOLD

TANGO KENNELS BRONZE

PET STORE

DOG TRAINING

CALDRON’S PETS CHOICE GOLD

TOP NOTCH KENNELS GOLD

CARTER’S PET MART SILVER

BONE-A-FIDE DOG TRAINING SILVER

OAKDALE FEED & SEED BRONZE

TANGO KENNELS BRONZE

TACK / SADDLES

FARM TO FORK COMPANY

OAKDALE FEED & SEED GOLD

NUTCHER MILK COMPANY GOLD

DIAMOND K SADDLERY, OAKDALE SILVER

SONS FARM FRESH SILVER

HILMAR FEED & SUPPLY STORE BRONZE

STEWART & JASPER BRONZE

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STANISLAUS ANIMAL SERVICES GOLD

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Animals and Farm Services

TANNERY

Winners VETERINARY OFFICE

GOLDEN STATE TANNERY, INC. GOLD

MONTE VISTA SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL GOLD

WILDLIFE FUR DRESSING SILVER

CENTRAL VALLEY VETERINARY HOSPITAL SILVER

TRACTOR SALES & SERVICE GARTON TRACTOR GOLD

ESCALON SMALL ANIMAL CLINIC BRONZE

JOHN DEERE SILVER J.M EQUIPMENT BRONZE

CENTRAL VALLEY VETERINARY HOSPITAL AFFORDABLE GENTLE CARING

Voted BEST Pet Adoption!

ED T AN W

We appreciate your votes!

: FUREVER HO ME S

Open Late 6 Days A Week Raj Dhanota DVM Aman Mangat DVM

Rajinder Bajwa DVM

Central Valley (209) 239-2547 Hours to Mon-Sat Veterinary 8AM to 7PM Hospital Sun. 9AM to 6PM 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Stanislaus Animal Services Agency

3647 Cornucopia Way, Modesto, 95358

(209) 558-PETS

www.stanislausanimalservices.com

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MSR 909

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST

AGRICULTURAL LENDER

California’s Largest Community Bank Ag Lender

1

1 FDIC data as of 4Q 2022. ©2023 Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California.

All Rights Reserved.

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800-888-1498 | fmbonline.com 7/24/2023 1:34:04 PM

COMPASSIONATE CANINE CARE AND EDUCATION

DAYCARE • TRAINING • BOARDING GROOMING • BOW WOW BOUTIQUE

Thank you for voting Top Notch Kennels Best of 209 Winner

BEST Dog Training BEST Pet Boarding BEST pet Sitting/ Daycare BEST Groomer

“Where dogs come to stay and play!”

TURLOCK 209.656.1960 | MODESTO 209.523.3138 | TOPNOTCHDOGS.COM

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Voted

BEST FARM TO FORK Thank you for your Vote!

Happy cows.

Fun Flavors.

Stanislaus County’s freshest bottle of milk.

At Nutcher Milk Taste matters. We feed our cows a balance daily ration, that our nutritionist puts together. We pick ingredients that don’t change the flavor of the cow’s milk.

When we milk our cows, their milk comes out about 98 degrees and we chill it to 38 degrees within 5 minutes of leaving the cow, saving flavor and preventing bacteria growth. This is above and beyond the Grade A standard.

We pump the milk to the processing plant 20 feet away during milking. We then do antibiotic testing to ensure antibiotic free milk. We then pasteurize and homogenize, making it ready to go to the bottle.

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

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We offer Whole milk, 2%, Half and Half and Lactose free whole milk.

Fun flavors for young and old. Chocolate, Strawberry, Cotton Candy, Root beer, Orange cream, Mocha, Cold brew Coffee, Banana, Eggnog, Pumpkin spice, and always trying new ones.

2020 has been a unique year all around.

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

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

Why glass bottle?

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

Glass bottles keep the milk colder, there is no taste changing residue from glass.

We reuse the bottles over and over so no milk containers in the landfill.

A $2.00 deposit exchange for every bottle.

RETURN CLEAN BOTTLES TO ANY STORE THAT SELLS NUTCHER MILK FOR YOUR DEPOSIT BACK!!!!

We deliver directly to stores near you.

Truly Farm to Fridge for you.

nutchermilk.com

7/24/2023 11:02:31 AM

Automotive

Winners

ATVS

AUTO DEALERSHIP (USED)

LUXURY AUTO

ROBERTS AUTO SALES SILVER

MERCEDES BENZ OF MODESTO SILVER

ACURA OF MODESTO BRONZE

VALLEY LEXUS, MODESTO BRONZE

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

MOTORCYCLE SHOP

HONDA KAWASAKI AND KTM OF MODESTO GOLD STOCKTON POWERSPORTS SILVER MERCED POWERSPORTS BRONZE

AUTO BODY / COLLISION REPAIR BURNSIDE BODY SHOP GOLD BUCK’S BODY SHOP SILVER CONCEPT AUTOBODY BRONZE

AUTO DEALERSHIP (NEW / DOMESTIC)

SMITH CHEVROLET OF TURLOCK GOLD ACURA OF MODESTO SILVER STEVES CHEVROLET - BUICK BRONZE

AUTO DEALERSHIP (NEW / FOREIGN) MISTLIN HONDA GOLD

ACURA OF MODESTO SILVER MODESTO TOYOTA BRONZE

SMITH CHEVROLET OF TURLOCK GOLD

SMITH CHEVROLET OF TURLOCK GOLD NORTHERN TIRE & WHEEL SILVER BALSWICK’S TIRE AND AUTO SERVICE BRONZE

CAR DETAILING

DAVIS FAMILY SHINES GOLD VINTAGE CAR WASH INC SILVER CEN-CAL DETAILING BRONZE

CAR AUDIO DEPOT, MODESTO GOLD AUDIO PROS, MODESTO SILVER CAR AUDIO OUTLAWS BRONZE

CAR WASH

CLEAR DROP CAR WASH, MANTECA GOLD VINTAGE CAR WASH INC SILVER

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MITCHELL’S MODESTO HARLEYDAVIDSON GOLD HONDA KAWASAKI AND KTM OF MODESTO SILVER MODESTO CYCLE SERVICE BRONZE

OIL CHANGE

10 MINUTE LUBE’N OIL GOLD JIFFY LUBE SILVER TOYOTECH BRONZE

CAR STEREO

CEN-CAL DETAILING BRONZE

ACURA OF MODESTO GOLD

RV DEALER

DON’S RV CENTER GOLD BEST RV, TURLOCK SILVER REFERRAL AUTO GROUP, ESCALON BRONZE

SMOG

BALSWICK’S QUICK SMOG GOLD PERFORMANCE SMOG INC. SILVER STANISLAUS SMOG 2, INC BRONZE

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 11:02:31 AM

TOWING SERVICE

WINDOW TINTING

FRANCISCO’S TOWING, INC. GOLD

MODESTO WINDOW TINT BY YOURTINTGIRL GOLD

AAA SILVER FOUR STAR RECOVERY INC BRONZE

MODESTO WINDOW TINT #1 THE ORIGINAL SILVER

WHEELS / TIRES

OAKDALE WINDOW TINT BRONZE

NORTHERN TIRE & WHEEL GOLD MANTECA TIRE SILVER BALSWICK’S TIRE AND AUTO SERVICE BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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7/24/2023 11:02:32 AM

MAX ALL-SEASON PERFORMANCE MAX ALL-SEASON HAS ARRIVED PERFORMANCE

We are honored to be

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Commercial, Residential, and Auto Tinting

Copyright © 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

Ask us about California Tint Academy

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(209) 239-1477 Open 7 Days a Week!

209MAGAZINE.COM

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OF DEDICATED OF OF DEDICATED DEDICATED SERVICE SERVICE INOF TURLOCK DEDICATED IN IN TURLOCK TURLOCK SERVICE IN 97 YEARS 97 97 YEARS YEARS 97SERVICE YEARS

1926

2023 2023

SMITH CHEVROLET OF TURLOCK A Family Tradition for 97 Years

VOTED FIRST PLACE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Thank you for your votes!

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

CALL US TODAY! 209.632.3946 www.smithchevroletturlock.com

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 87

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OF DEDICATED OFOF DEDICATED DEDICATED OF 97 DEDICATED SERVICE SERVICE SERVICE IN SERVICE OF TURLOCK IN DEDICATED OF IN TURLOCK DEDICATED TURLOCK IN TURLOCK SERVICE SERVICE IN97 TUR IN9 97 97 YEARS 97YEARS 97 YEARS YEARS 97 YEARS YEARS Y

1926 1926

2023 2023 2023

SMITH SMITH CHEVROLET CHEVROLET OFOF TURLOCK TURLOCK A Family A Family Tradition Tradition for 97 forYears 97 Years

VOTED VOTED FIRST FIRST PLACE PLACE AUTO AUTO DEALERSHIP DEALERSHIP (NEW) (NEW)

Thank Thank you you forfor your your votes! votes!

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

CALL CALL US TODAY! US TODAY! 209.632.3946 209.632.3946 www.smithchevroletturlock.com www.smithchevroletturlock.com

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 88

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IN97 TURLOCK OF DEDICATED OF DEDICATED SERVICE INOF TURLOCK DEDICATED IN TURLOCK SERVICE IN T YEARS 97 YEARS 97SERVICE YEARS

1926

2023 2023

SMITH CHEVROLET OF TURLOCK A Family Tradition for 97 Years

VOTED FIRST PLACE AUTO DEALERSHIP (USED)

Thank you for your votes!

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

CALL US TODAY! 209.632.3946 www.smithchevroletturlock.com

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 89

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Beverages

Winners

BAR / PUB

GASTROPUB

TAPPED APPLE CIDER SILVER

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER

RIVETS AMERICAN GRILL BRONZE

BAUHAUS BRONZE

BARTENDER

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

DYING BREED BREWERY GOLD

TONI LOPEZ @ TORI GOLD

DYING BREED BREWERY GOLD

MARGARITA

AGAVE AZUL KITCHEN & TEQUILA BAR GOLD MEMO’S COCINA & TEQUILA BAR SILVER CAFÉ BRAVO BRONZE

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. GOLD

ANGEL @ SKEWERS KABOB HOUSE SILVER

DYING BREED BREWERY SILVER

AUSTYN @ RIVETS BRONZE

BRETHREN BREWING COMPANY BRONZE

BEER TAP ROOM

THE PUB AND TAPHOUSE GOLD

MILKSHAKES

ROBERTS FERRY GOURMET, OAKDALE GOLD YOGURT MILL SILVER KNIGHTS FERRY OLD FASHIONED CREAMERY BRONZE

THANK YOU, 209!

DYING BREED BREWERY SILVER DUST BOWL BREWING CO. BRONZE

COFFEE HOUSE

GIACOMO’S ESPRESSO GOLD PINK PANTHERZ ESPRESSO SILVER CULTURE COFFEE BAR BRONZE

ESPRESSO BAR

GIACOMO’S ESPRESSO GOLD

LOCALLY

OLDE TYME PASTRIES SILVER CULTURE COFFEE BAR BRONZE

Turlock | Monterey | Elk Grove | Livermore

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SPORTS BAR

JAMS@209 SPORTS BAR AND GRILL GOLD DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER 108 SPORTS LOUNGE BRONZE

WINE BAR

CAMP 4 WINE CAFÉ GOLD STEWART & JASPER SILVER MOST WANTED WINE COMPANY BRONZE

WINE LIST CAMP 4 WINE CAFÉ GOLD

OPEN

DAILY

STEWART & JASPER SILVER

9am to 5:30pm

BISTRO 234 BRONZE

WINE TASTING

DELICATO FAMILY VINEYARDS GOLD STEWART & JASPER SILVER IRONSTONE VINEYARDS BRONZE

WINERY

E. & J. GALLO WINERY GOLD

12001 S. Highway 99 Exit #246 Manteca, CA 209-824-3501 dfvtastingroom.com

MILLIAIRE WINERY SILVER OAK FARM VINEYARDS BRONZE

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Community

ANNUAL FESTIVAL OR EVENT DENTISTRY FROM THE HEART, TURLOCK GOLD CENTRAL VALLEY BREWFEST SILVER HOSPICE OF SAN JOAQUIN - TREE OF LIGHTS BRONZE

COMMUNITY INVOLVED BUSINESS TRACY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLD NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT SILVER CHEMO CREW BRONZE

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION

SECOND HARVEST OF THE GREATER VALLEY GOLD CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION COUNCIL, STOCKTON SILVER

Winners TURLOCK CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET SILVER MODESTO FARMERS MARKET BRONZE

FAVORITE LOCAL HERO JEREMY RENNER GOLD

BRITTANY THAYER BRONZE

HALL RENTAL

AMERICAN EVENT CENTER GOLD ASSYRIAN AMERICAN CIVIC CLUB SILVER MRPS SOCIAL HALL BRONZE

OAKDALE FARMERS MARKET GOLD

LOCALLY-OWNED BUSINESS PAUL’S GLASS CO GOLD

MEMORY CARE FACILITY EL RIO MEMORY CARE GOLD

PRESTIGE ASSISTED LIVING AT MANTECA SILVER THE STRATFORD AT BEYER PARK BRONZE

NON-PROFIT FOR YOUTH

GIVE EVERY CHILD A CHANCE GOLD

YOUTH FOR CHRIST BRONZE

PLACE OF WORSHIP / CHURCH ST. MATTHEW ASSYRIANCHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH GOLD

CROSSROADS GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH SILVER CROSSPOINT COMMUNITY CHURCH BRONZE

PLACE TO WORK

TURLOCK IRRIGATION GOLD TURLOCK DENTAL CARE SILVER NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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EL CONCILIO BRONZE

CREATIVE ALTERNATIVES, INC. SILVER

EVENT VENUE

FARMERS’ MARKET

CASTLE AIR MUSEUM BRONZE

AMERICAN VETERANS FIRST SILVER

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE

AMERICAN EVENT CENTER BRONZE

TURLOCK HISTORICAL MUSEUM SILVER

HOSPICE OF SAN JOAQUIN GOLD

TURLOCK DENTAL CARE SILVER

DYING BREED BREWERY SILVER

MCHENRY MANSION GOLD

NON-PROFIT

ADRIAN HARRELL SILVER

ST. MATTHEW ASSYRIANCHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH BRONZE

THE CENTURY GOLD

MUSEUM

92

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

7/24/2023 11:02:40 AM

RADIO PERSONALITY DEE FERREIRA KJOY GOLD

DJ WALKER, KAT KOUNTRY 103 SILVER ROMAN ON THE RIVER - KRVR 105.5 BRONZE

RADIO STATION

KAT COUNTRY 103 GOLD KRVR 105.5 SILVER 104.1 THE HAWK BRONZE

SENIOR ASSISTED CARE BETHANY HOME GOLD

PRESTIGE ASSISTED LIVING AT MANTECA BRONZE

SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

THE STRATFORD AT BEYER PARK GOLD ASTORIA SENIOR LIVING SILVER THE COMMONS AT UNION RANCH BRONZE

DALE COMMONS BRONZE

WEDDING VENUE THE CENTURY GOLD

AMERICAN EVENT CENTER SILVER WINE & ROSES BRONZE

SENIOR RETIREMENT COMMUNITY THE PARK AT MODESTO GOLD COGIR OF MANTECA SILVER

ASTORIA SENIOR LIVING SILVER

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FOR YOUR VOTES!

GOLD

Favorite Bargain/ Discount Store

THE SPIRIT OF

SILVER

GOLD

Favorite Consignment Store

Premier Senior Living

Favorite Grief Support

Schedule your tour today!

Favorite Hospice/ Palliative Care

Favorite Thrift Store

209.578.6300 HospiceHeart.org

209.575.HOPE HopeChestThrift.org

in the heart of Modesto

SILVER

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

BRONZE

PHOTO BY CRYPTO CROW/Pexels.com

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7/24/2023 11:02:43 AM

FOR FAMILIES, NOT PROFIT

LIVE THE RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE OF YOUR DREAMS AT COGIR OF MANTECA! With our attention to resident care, premium amenities, spacious apartments, delicious cuisine, and a variety of activities, we strive to enable our residents to enjoy the retirement lifestyle of their dreams.

• • • •

Hospice Care Palliative Care Charity Care Free community grief support • Hospice House, 24-hour in-patient care facility

From independent living, assisted living, to memory care, Cogir of Manteca is here for you now and as your care needs change.

Call to schedule your tour today & ask about our move-in specials!

430 N Union Road, Manteca, CA 95337 Lic # 392700473

(209) 823-0164

(209) 957-3888 | www.hospicesj.org 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA

CogirSeniorLiving.com

FOR VOTING US YOUR FAVORITE COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION Do you like working with kids and making a difference?

Come join us in making a positive impact on children’s lives.

ALL POSITIONS!

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Voted Best of 209

Kids Dentist Orthodontist Invisalign Sedation Dentistry Sleep Apnea Solutions Annual Festival or Event Dentistry From the Heart

Cosmetic Dentist Dental Implants Locally Owned Business Place to Work

Dentist

Thank you for Voting for us Serving our community for 40 years!

3131 Colorado Ave., Turlock, CA 95382 (209) 667-7889 • www.TurlockDentalCare.com

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7/24/2023 11:02:53 AM

Dr. Robert A. McCulla, DDS

Dr. Bhupinder Bahia, DMD

Dr. Emma Carpenter, DMD

OUR NEW LOCATION

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 97

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

CEO — PRESIDE NT & PRINCIPAL DESIG N E R

Thank You FOR VOTING US...

SIGNATURE INDEPENDENT LIVING theparkatmodesto.com / (209) 545-1378

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

CEO — PRESIDE NT & PRINCIPAL DESIG N E R

Thank You FOR VOTING US...

elriomodesto.com / (209) 543-3805

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Dining

Winners

AMBIENCE

BRUNCH

CHEF BRAULIO @ BRAULIO’S BISTRO BRONZE

THE BOATHOUSE AT RIVER ISLANDS SILVER

AGAVE AZUL KITCHEN & TEQUILA BAR SILVER

CHINESE CUISINE

THE FALCON’S LAIR GOLD

BAUHAUS BRONZE

ASIAN RESTAURANT

KIMOTO SAKE AND SUSHI GOLD DAVE WONG’S RESTAURANT & DELI SILVER EAST MEATS WEST BRONZE

BAKERY

OLDE TYME PASTRIES GOLD MR T’S DELICATE DONUT SHOP SILVER GIABELLA SWEET BOUTIQUE BRONZE

BARBECUE

BIG VIC’S BBQ GOLD SLICK FORK, HUGHSON SILVER THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

BREAKFAST SPOT

CAHOOTS CORNER CAFÉ GOLD MY GARDEN CAFÉ SILVER LA MO BRONZE

GET TOASTED GOLD

LOZA WINE & CREPES BRONZE

CAKE / CUPCAKE SHOP OLDE TYME PASTRIES GOLD

ALYX’S HOMEMADE GOODS SILVER NOTHING BUNDT CAKES BRONZE

CATERER

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER GOLD BRAULIO’S BISTRO SILVER TACOS DE NIEVE BRONZE

CHARCUTERIE

CAMP 4 WINE CAFÉ GOLD BURLY’S CALIFORNIA BISTRO SILVER THE GRAZING GIRL BRONZE

CHEF

HANK OLSON @ FOOD FIX TRUCK GOLD CHEF MIKE ORTIZ @ BURLY’S CALIFORNIA BISTRO SILVER

DAVE WONG’S RESTAURANT & DELI GOLD GOLDEN BOWL SILVER DYNASTY GARDEN RESTAURANT BRONZE

CREPES

THE CRÈPERIE GOLD LOZA WINE & CREPES SILVER PALO SANTO CAFÉ BRONZE

DELI

VILLAGE FRESH MARKET GOLD FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER SILVER FERRARESE’S BRONZE

DESSERTS

CRUST & CRUMB GOLD SUNRISE BAKERY GOLD FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER BRONZE

DINNER

BISTRO 234 GOLD FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER SILVER

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100 A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3

7/24/2023 11:03:06 AM

BURLY’S CALIFORNIA BISTRO BRONZE

FRENCH FRIES

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER GOLD JAMS@209 SPORTS BAR AND GRILL SILVER FARMER BOYS BRONZE

FRESH BAKED BREAD

VILLAGE BAKING COMPANY & CAFE GOLD OLDE TYME PASTRIES SILVER GENOVA BAKERY BRONZE

FROZEN YOGURT

YOGURT MILL - ROSEBURG GOLD YOGURT MILL - 2591 GEER RD, TURLOCK, CA 95382 SILVER MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT, TRACY BRONZE

GREEK RESTAURANT

HAMBURGER

ITALIAN CUISINE

CHAPTER 2 SILVER

BELLA ITALIA SILVER

BACKWOODS BURGERS BRONZE

CHEFS OF NEW YORK, MODESTO BRONZE

HOT DOG

JAPANESE CUISINE

MAIN STREET FOOTERS SILVER

RAW SUSHI BISTRO SILVER

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER BRONZE

TORII JAPANESE RESTAURANT BRONZE

HOT WINGS

LUNCH

WINGS AND RINGS SILVER

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER SILVER

WING STOP BRONZE

ICE CREAM CO AND GRILL BRONZE

ICE CREAM

MEXICAN CUISINE

BURLY’S CALIFORNIA BISTRO GOLD

SPANKY’S WIENERS GOLD

JAMS@209 SPORTS BAR AND GRILL GOLD

ICE CREAM EMPORIUM GOLD ICE CREAM CO AND GRILL SILVER

PAPAPAVLO’S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO & BAR GOLD

YOGURT MILL BRONZE

SKEWERS KABOB HOUSE SILVER

INDIAN CUISINE

GYROS AND MORE BRONZE

DHABA, TRACY SILVER NAGINA PALACE, TURLOCK BRONZE

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KIMOTO SAKE AND SUSHI GOLD

BISTRO 234 GOLD

AGAVE AZUL KITCHEN & TEQUILA BAR GOLD EL JARDÍN SILVER LA MORENITA, HATCH RD BRONZE

TANDOORI GRILL GOLD

209MAGAZINE.COM

BRAULIO’S BISTRO GOLD

OUTDOOR DINING

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER GOLD DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER

101 A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3

7/24/2023 11:03:06 AM

Winners

Dining

AGAVE AZUL KITCHEN & TEQUILA BAR BRONZE

GALLETTO RISTORANTE BRONZE

SALAD BAR

PIZZA

GOLD DUST PIZZA, OAKDALE SILVER HELLA PIE PIZZA COMPANY BRONZE

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT BISTRO 234 GOLD

REDWOOD CAFÉ SILVER

OHANA SEAFOOD GOLD BISTRO 135 SILVER

SIZZLER GOLD

GOLD DUST PIZZA RIPON GOLD

SEAFOOD

THE FRUIT YARD SILVER

RAW SUSHI BISTRO BRONZE

STEAKHOUSE

SANDWICH

FOOD FIX BUTCHER & BAKER GOLD

MEDLEN’S HOUSE OF BEEF GOLD TEXAS ROADHOUSE SILVER

FERRARESE’S SILVER THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

EL RANCHO INN BRONZE

www.davewongsrestaurant.com

CHINESE CUISINE

Thedavewongsrestaurant Flavors Of The Orientcom www.davewongsrestaurant.com www

Family Dining / Intimate Booths / Banquet Facilities / Spirits & Lounge

C H I N 2828 E SWEST E MARCH C LANE U I S I N E 209-951-4152of ~ RESTAURANT The Flavors The Orient 209-951-1213 ~ DELI TAKE OUT

Familyyou Dining / Intimate BoothsCuisine!

Thank for voting us #1 in Chinese

Banquet Facilities / Spirits & Lounge 209MAGAZINE.COM

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SUSHI

KIMOTO SAKE AND SUSHI GOLD RAW SUSHI BISTRO SILVER

209-321-1972

KATANA SUSHI BRONZE

Thank you for Voting us #1

THAI CUISINE

THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT GOLD THAILAND RESTAURANT, MODESTO SILVER

Indian Cuisine in the 209!

TASTY THAI BRONZE

Party Trays Available.

515 Main St. Manteca, CA 95336 BUSINESS HOURS: Order y Also ou Ma Y Open 6 Days A Week 11a to 9:30p.

Closed Wednesdays.

VEGAN / VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT THE FARMACY GOLD

e

On-Lin

BAUHAUS SILVER

Delicious Indian Sweets

GREEN GRUB BRONZE

Indoor and Outdoor Dining.

Serving Domestic, Imported Beer & Wine

Now Serving DOSA 209MAGAZINE.COM

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7/24/2023 11:03:10 AM

Thank You

for Voting us Best PIZZA in the 209 Area!

Thank you for voting us

Best Ice Cream in the 209

The look of the Victorian era and the feel of an old school-type ice cream parlor.

We offer a fun family friendly environment.

Come join us for our gourmet ice cream with over 42 flavors to choose from with six vegan options & soy milk for shakes or malts!

We have a large variety of delicious sundaes to choose from.

Hours of Operation Tuesday – Sunday 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm 120 West Main St Suite A, Ripon, CA 95366

Tel 209.599.1818 Like us on Facebook

209MAGAZINE.COM

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How do I let them know I’m open for business?

Get a website.

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209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 105

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Thank You For Voting Us

Best Greek Restaurant In The 209!

We Love Serving You And Appreciate Your Support!

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

Let Us Cater Your Next Event

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

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Voted BEST Bakery, BEST Wedding Cake and BEST Cake/Cupcake Shop!

The Sweetest Place in the 209

Thank you to our wonderful customers and amazing staff - we couldn’t do this without you!

2225 Geer Rd., Turlock

(209) 668-0928 OTPastries.com

Proudly Serving Our Community For 43 Years

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Thank you for voting for us

BEST AMBIENCE!

Restaurant/ Lounge Transport back to all things old Hollywood…

Enjoy conversation with one another over one of our craft cocktails & small bite offerings.

Enjoy lively music, fine cocktails, food offerings galore, and the company of one another at Falcon’s Lair - Ripon’s newest restaurant/lounge with an old Hollywood flair.

HOURS:

TUESDAY - THURSDAY, 3 PM - 9 PM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 11:30 AM - 10 PM SUNDAYS 11:30 AM - 8 PM. • CLOSED MONDAY.

1225 CANAL BLVD., RIPON, CA 95366 https://relicincorporated.com/falcons-lair/ | 1-209-599-9999

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Voted Best

Crepes

THE BEST CREPES IN THE 209

A Family Owned Creperie Serving an Assortment of Sweet and Savory Crepes Readers choice winner SIX years in a row Best of 209 winner SEVEN years in a row

1668 COUNTRYSIDE DRIVE • (209) 850-9258

Tuesday - CLOSED • Wednesday - Monday 9:00AM - 8:00PM

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Entertainment

ART GALLERY

THE CHARTREUSE MUSE GOLD BUNGALOW BUNNIES BURLESQUE SILVER GLITTER COVEN CABARET BRONZE

BANQUET FACILITY

SPRING CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GOLD PAGEO LAVENDER FARM SILVER GREENS ON TENTH BRONZE

BOWLING ALLEY

TEN PIN FUN CENTER GOLD MCHENRY BOWL SILVER YOSEMITE LANES BRONZE

CASINO

BLACK OAK CASINO GOLD CHICKEN RANCH CASINO SILVER JACKSON RANCHERIA CASINO RESORT BRONZE

COUNTRY CLUB

SPRING CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GOLD DEL RIO COUNTRY CLUB SILVER

Winners OAKDALE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB BRONZE

ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS GOLD DYING BREED BREWERY SILVER SPLASH BAR MODESTO BRONZE

FAMILY FUN VENUE

DUTCH HOLLOW FARMS GOLD QUANTUM ESCAPES SILVER BOOMERS MODESTO BRONZE

GUN RANGE

CALIFORNIA SHOOTING SPORTS GOLD BARNWOOD ARMS SILVER STAGE STOP GUN SHOP & INDOOR RANGE BRONZE

KID’S BIRTHDAY

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Make your mark.

FAVORITE VENUE (GOLD)

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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.

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1000 I STREET, DOWNTOWN MODESTO • (209) 338-2100 • GALLOARTS.ORG

springcreekcc.com 209-599-3258

• Memberships • Weddings • Special Events

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I do.

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Health & Fitness

BOOTCAMP

THE PERFORMANCE LAB GOLD 1OAK HEALTH CLUB SILVER AGAPÉ FIT YOGI FITNESS BRONZE

CHIROPRACTOR

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

COSMETIC / PLASTIC SURGEON LARS ENEVOLDSEN, MD GOLD

THEODORE STAAHL, MD - MD LASER CENTER SILVER DR. JAMES HOYT BRONZE

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GYMNASTICS

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MENTAL HEALTH CARE

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MOHS SURGERY

GENERATIONS FAMILY OPTOMETRY GOLD

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Health & Fitness

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SLEEP APNEA SOLUTIONS TURLOCK DENTAL CARE GOLD

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Meet our providers: Marc Stoner, FNP Dayna Iverson, FNP-BC

We are at our best when we can serve wonderful people like you!

Thank you for choosing us to be your compounding family pharmacy, serving the central valley for 34 years!

Family Practice with over 30 years of experience in the Oakdale, Riverbank and Sonora community Stroke Prevention Anti Aging Preventative Health Screens Diabetic Footcare Weight Loss program

Now accepting new patients We accept Medi-Cal, Private & Cash

Women’s Health

1080 W F St. STE D, Oakdale

Our womens health is by women for women. We offer Bio-Identical hormone therapy.

209-847-2226

(209) 848-8410 Fax (209) 848-0732

riveroakpharmacy.com

VOTED BEST CHILDREN’S OPTOMETRY

Child Wellness

Si habla español

Our Primary Care Clinic offers child immunizations, school and sport physicals.

Contamos con personal médico que habla español para ayudar con todas sus necesidades www.pathwayhc.com

Ask about our extended hours 190 S. Oak Ave., Bldg 2 Ste 1, Oakdale, CA 95361

VOTED BEST OPTOMETRIST

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

9 TIME WINNER BEST OF 209 9 TIME WINNER READER’S CHOICE 2010 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock | 209-667-1213 | GenerationsOptometry.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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VOTED BEST COSMETIC DENTIST VOTED BEST DENTAL IMPLANTS VOTED BEST DENTIST VOTED #1

BEST DENTAL IMPLANTS

5 YEARS IN A ROW – READERS CHOICE VOTED #1

BEST COSMETIC DENTIST 2 YEARS IN A ROW – READERS CHOCIE VOTED #1

BEST DENTIST

7 YEARS IN A ROW – READERS CHOICE VOTED #1

BEST DENTIST

5 YEARS IN A ROW – BEST OF 209 VOTED #1

BEST COSMETIC DENTIST 8 YEARS IN A ROW – BEST OF 209 VOTED #1

BEST DENTAL IMPLANTS 5 YEARS IN A ROW – BEST OF 209 VOTED # BEST INVISALIGN – BEST OF 209

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ADER’S CH RE

TU

AL

CE OI

201 7

Thank you from the VaraniSmile Team for all of your support and love! We truly appreciate that you took the time to vote for us.

RL O CK

JO U

RN

Helping people smile with confidence!

527 E. Olive Ave., Turlock

(209) 667-8874

www.VaraniSmile.com

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THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR AWARDING US GOLD FOR WAXING STUDIO AND DAY SPA AND SILVER FOR FACIALS!

For skin that’s fantastic... it’s SKINTASTIC Salon & Spa! Specializing in Waxing and facials, and providing a plethora of other services too!

A Full Service Salon & Spa offering a wide range of services, including, but not limited to:

• Waxing • Facials • Hair • Massage • Body Contouring • Teeth Whitening • Vaginal Rejuvenation • IPL & More!

SKINTASTIC stands for body positivity, women empowerment, and making every person feel comfortable and beautiful in their own skin.

630 15th St. Modesto • (209) 849-8997 • WWW.Skintastic209.com

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MEMBERSHIPS & GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

Our Services & Retail • Massage and Body Work • CBD • Infrared Sauna Detox • Herbs • Skin Care Services • Skincare • Ionic Foot Detox • Loose Teas • Yoni V-Steam • Unique gifts • Reflexology • Essential Oils • Body Wraps • Supplements

naturalpathwellness.co

GOLD - Favorite - MASSAGE THERAPY GOLD - Favorite - WELLNESS CENTER SILVER - Favorite - DAY SPA

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES!!

BACK TO SCHOOL CAN BE STRESSFUL!!

TIME FOR A MASSAGE OR FACIAL...

BRING THIS AD TO YOUR APPOINTMENT AT NATURAL PATH TO RECEIVE AN ENTRY IN OUR AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER DRAWING FOR A FREE 1 HOUR MASSAGE

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK FOR AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER SPECIALS We bring therapists and products to one location to help guide you on your journey to Being your Best YOU!

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Lux Dermatology

Proud to have been voted #1 in the 209 two years in a row!!

Let Our Experience Work For You Meet Our Team

Robert Leposavic, MD

Stephen Doggett, MD

Dermatologist Mohs Surgery

Radiation Oncologist Brachytherapy

Joselyn Johnson

Niki Ramirez

MSN FNP

NP - F

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

Skin Cancer: Cosmetic: Mohs Micrographic Botox, Dermal Fillers, Surgery, Brachytherapy and Skin Rejuvenation and Surgical Excisions.

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

Healthy, beautiful skin is possible

luxdermatologists.com

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MEET OUR PROVIDERS Robert Leposavic, MD Robert Leposavic, MD, is a board certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon. He currently sees surgical patients at LUX Dermatology locations across California and Nevada. In addition to practicing surgical dermatology, Dr. Leposavic has given presentations and multiple lectures on a variety of topics, such as mast cells and Basophil, the molecular mechanisms of cell signaling and dermatology. He was also a Principal Investigator for the Enbrel EASE Study from 2004 to 2005.

Dr. Leposavic is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society, and Santa Barbara Medical Society.

Stephen Doggett, MD Stephen Doggett, M.D. completed his Medical Degree at the University of South Florida College of Medicine (1980) and completed an internal medicine internship at Richland Memorial Hospital at the University of South Carolina. Dr. Doggett’s interest in Radiation Oncology led him to complete the residency program at St. Mary’s Medical Center in San Francisco (1986) and to complete a Fellowship in Brachytherapy and Hyperthermic Oncology at the City of Hope National Medical Center (1987).

Dr. Doggett has since focused his Private Practice in the area of Radiation Oncology and Brachytherapy. Dr. Doggett continues to publish and teach physicians.

What Being Number One Means To Us At LUX Dermatology, our physicians have made it their mission to provide our community with exceptional medical, surgical and cosmetic care. Our team is comprised of several boardcertified dermatologists and certified physicians assistants.

With decades of combined experience, we understand each patients need for indivualized treatment plans. The staff at LUX Dermatology is dedicated to your needs and works hard to reassure and explain any diagnosis or procedure in a manner that is easily understood.

We pride ourselves on offering cutting edge, high quality treatments for our community; the most advanced skin cancer Joselyn Johnson, MSN, FNP removal surgeries in our state-of-the art facility. Additionally, Joselyn received her degree from San Jose State we offer Electronic Brachytherapy, an alternative non-invasive University in 2007. She is a board-certified Nurse treatment for certain types of skin cancers.

Practitioner and has worked in Clinical Dermatology for over eight years all in the Manteca area. She is experienced in the latest cosmetic procedures and offers both these services in Manteca and Stockton

Niki Ramirez, NP - F Niki graduated from Sonoma State University with a Masters degree in Nursing and received her board-certification through AANP as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She provides general and cosmetic dermatology services to her patients.

Niki began her healthcare career as a firefighter/ paramedic, then spent 10 years in the Emergency Department as a Nurse at a San Francisco trauma center. While studying for her Masters, she developed a love for dermatology. Niki is the newest member of the Lux Dermatology team. She sees patients in both Manteca and Stockton.

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If you desire a brighter, fresher appearance, the providers at LUX Dermatology are ready to help. We have several lines of skin treatments and products. Botox® and Juvéderm® help mitigate the appearance of facial lines. We also carry a wide array of Skinceuticals® and Elta MD® products to enhance and recondition your skin.

From the moment the patient enters our office, they feel welcomed and heard. The friendly staff will greet them and lead them from check-in to check-out. The team can also assist when it comes to any insurance questions and concerns that they may have.

Call today and schedule your appointment.

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

7/24/2023 11:04:02 AM

Home

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HOME AUTOMATION

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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PLUMBING

WARREN’S HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING GOLD WESTERN PLUMBING SILVER APPLEGATE TEEPLES DRILLING CO., INC. BRONZE

POOL SERVICE/REPAIR

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Home

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PURSLEY’S SILVER

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VOTED BEST WINDOW/GLASS DEALER BEST GLASS & MIRROR COMPANY

Thank you!!!

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1977

We Know Glass!

Offering professional glass repair andreplacement throughout the Central Valley.

Ask about our current specials • New Vinyl Windows • Patio Doors • Mirrors

License # 673448

influencing senior lifestyles influencing

239 N. Main Street, Manteca

(209) 239-4177

www.weknowglass.com rrglassmanteca@aol.com

senior lifestyles

209MAGAZINE.COM

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LOCALLY OWNED, FAMILY OPERATED

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE!

“ Thank you for putting your trust and confidence in us.

We won’t settle for less than the best for you!”

Call today for a free estimate

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

for all your roofing needs, and ask us about our 25 YEAR LABOR and LIFETIME MATERIALS warranties for better peace of mind.

Over 30 years of experience!

Residential | Commercial & Industrial plumbing services

Sinks | Drains | Faucets Septic Tanks & Sewer Lines Grease Traps | Floor Drains Toilets | Water Heaters | Backflow Prevention Hydro-Jetting | Preventative Maintenance Inspection Gas & Water Pipelines Repair | Re-Piping Storm Water Treatment | Life Station Maintenance SWTD Filter Replacements and MORE!

209-581-0480 CSLB #875920

4425 Farm Supply Drive Ceres, CA 95307 office@ateeplesinc.com www.ateeplesplumbing.com

(209) 594-5912 Americanroofingservicesinc.com

209MAGAZINE.COM

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VOTED BEST WORKING KITCHEN SHOWROOM VOTED BEST APPLIANCE STORE VOTED BEST KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING

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7/24/2023 11:04:08 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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7/24/2023 11:04:10 AM

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

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

INTERIORS | EXTERIORS | CABINET FINISHING | CONCRETE COATINGS

209-634-1111

lancasterpainting.com

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Lic #868896

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You Deserve COMFORT!

There is a reason why we have been consistently voted as the best heating and air service provider for four consecutive years!

Thank you 209 for voting for us!

Cencal Mechanical Heating & Air, Inc. 1254 Lone Palm Ave, Modesto 209.522.1124 - info@cencal.us License #864271

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You Deserve COMFORT!

LET’S TALK HEAT PUMPS LOWER UTILITY BILLS LESS MAINTENANCE BETTER SAFETY NO CARBON EMISSION

When You Install A New Heat Pump

ENJOY REBATES UP TO

3,750

$

**

** $2,000 in tax credit, up to $ 1,000 TECH CA, up to $ 750 in utilities rebate

Cencal Mechanical Heating & Air, Inc. 1254 Lone Palm Ave, Modesto 209.522.1124 - info@cencal.us License #864271

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Professional Services ACCOUNTING & TAX PREPARATION FS TAX SERVICE INC. GOLD PETER HOLTZ, CPA SILVER EVIDENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS BRONZE

ASPHALT PAVING / GRADING

MACHADO & SONS CONSTRUCTION GOLD UNITED PAVING, CERES SILVER M4 CONCRETE BRONZE

ASPHALT SEALING / STRIPING 209PAVEMENT GOLD

D L CATHCART ASPHALT SEALCOAT SILVER M. CARROLL BLACK TOP SERVICE BRONZE

ATTORNEY

LAW OFFICE OF EDDIE TORRES GOLD LAW OFFICE OF KENNETH R. HEDBERG SILVER TATAJE LAW BRONZE

ATTORNEY - ACCIDENT

ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER GOLD KENNETH HEDBERG, ESQ. SILVER LAW OFFICE OF EDDIE C. TORRES BRONZE

ATTORNEY - FAMILY LAW

COENENBERG FAMILY LAW. GOLD

Winners LAW OFFICE OF KENNETH R. HEDBERG SILVER CHRISTINE PARRAZ BRONZE

BAIL BONDS

JOANNA’S BAIL BONDS GOLD ADRIAN’S BAIL BONDS SILVER BAD BOYS BAIL BONDS BRONZE

BANK

VALLEY FIRST CREDIT UNION GOLD MOCSE CREDIT UNION SILVER GOLDEN 1 CREDIT UNION BRONZE

DAMAGE RESTORATION

RAINBOW INTERNATIONAL RESTORATION OF MODESTO GOLD COIT CLEANERS SILVER

BANK OF STOCKTON GOLD

HUFF CONSTRUCTION / DKI BRONZE

F&M BANK SILVER

DIGITAL MARKETING

BAC COMMUNITY BANK BRONZE

BANNERS & SIGNS

ONE ELEVEN WEB DESIGN GOLD EVIDENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS SILVER

ONE ELEVEN WEB DESIGN GOLD

LEVEL UP GROUP BRONZE

EVIDENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS SILVER

ELECTRICAL SERVICE / REPAIR

THE CRAFT ROOM BRONZE

BARBER

PRAISE THE RAZOR BARBERING GOLD WELL BLENDED BARBER SHOP SILVER GODSPEED BARBERSHOP BRONZE

BOOKKEEPING

KIRKES ELECTRIC INC. GOLD

SOLAR INSTALLATION GROUP, INC. SILVER WARREN’S HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING BRONZE

ESTATE PLANNING

COLLEEN VAN EGMOND, ARATA SWINGLE VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER GOLD

BALANCED BOOKS, LLP GOLD

EDINGTON LAW FIRM, INC. SILVER

BOURN BOOKKEEPING LLC SILVER

STRATEGIC LEGAL GROUP BRONZE

FS TAX SERVICE INC. BRONZE

ESTATE SALE COMPANY

209MAGAZINE.COM

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CREDIT UNION

ESTATE OF AFFAIRS GOLD

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NEW & AGAIN CONSIGNMENT FURNITURE GALLERY & ESTATE SALES SILVER SULLIVAN ANTIQUES AND ESTATE SALES BRONZE

FINANCIAL PLANNING

DWAYNE ALPERS @ MORGAN STANLEY GOLD BOB DALY AT BAC COMMUNITY BANK SILVER HILLBERG CAPITAL MANAGEMENT BRONZE

FUNERAL HOME

ALLEN MORTUARY GOLD TURLOCK MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME SILVER

INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES

LOPES TRUCKING SERVICES SILVER

CONLIN SUPPLY COMPANY GOLD

REEVE TRUCKING COMPANY BRONZE

BARNES WELDING SUPPLY SILVER

HOTEL

WINE & ROSES GOLD

CERES PIPE & METAL BRONZE

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES TURLOCK SILVER

INSURANCE AGENCY

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, TURLOCK BRONZE

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE SILVER

HOUSE CLEANING

BLACK DIAMOND SERVICES GOLD

RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. BRONZE

ULTIMATE JANITORIAL SILVER GIBBS MAINTENANCE BRONZE

PL FRY BRONZE

GOLF CARTS

JJ’S GOLF CARTS GOLD GOLF CARS UNLIMITED SILVER WOODY’S GOLF & INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES, DENAIR BRONZE

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

HAIR SALON

SALON TWO ZERO NINE GOLD GLOSS SALON - MORGAN VAN DUYN SILVER BEAUTIFULLY ENTISE’D SALON BRONZE

HEAVY EQUIPMENT HAULING ALEX ANGEL LOWBED GOLD

164 N. MAPLE AVE. MANTECA, CA 95336

Eddietorreslaw.com

209-846-2127 209MAGAZINE.COM

209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 135

Thanks for voting us best in the 209 three years in a row!

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Professional Services INSURANCE AGENCY COMMERCIAL

Winners INSURANCE AGENCY - LIFE

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

BENEFITS DIVISION OF RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE SILVER

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER

RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. BRONZE

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE

INSURANCE AGENCY - CROP

DIBUDUO & DEFENDIS INSURANCE BROKERS LLC GOLD WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE

INSURANCE AGENCY - HEALTH GEORGE MAURICIO AGENCY GOLD

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER BENEFITS DIVISION OF RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE

INSURANCE AGENCY - HOME & AUTO

RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. GOLD WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE

INSURANCE AGENCY - WORKER’S COMP RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. GOLD

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

INSURANCE AGENT

LEROY ROCHA - RICO PFITZER PIRES & ASSOCS GOLD

CHARLES SCHWAB, MODESTO BRONZE

JUNK REMOVAL

KLEAN SLATE JUNK REMOVAL GOLD VINCE HARO HAULING AND YARD CLEAN UP SILVER BIG BLUE JUNK REMOVAL BRONZE

LAW FIRM

ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER GOLD LAW OFFICE OF KENNETH R. HEDBERG SILVER TATAJE LAW BRONZE

LEGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANT

1ST CHOICE LEGAL ASSISTANCE GOLD

MICHAEL IRELAND, JR. - WINTONIRELAND STROM & GREEN SILVER

A LEGAL PLACE, LEGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANCE SILVER

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE

LEGAL FORMS & MORE BRONZE

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER AYERA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. GOLD AT&T SILVER

LIGHTING INSTALLATION

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT GUY GOLD KIRKES ELECTRIC INC. SILVER FOWZER ELECTRIC BRONZE

XFINITY BRONZE

INVESTMENT COMPANY MORGAN STANLEY GOLD

209MAGAZINE.COM

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FARMERS FINANCIAL SOLUTIONSGEORGE MAURICIO SILVER

MERCHANT PROCESSING SERVICES EVIDENT PAYMENTS GOLD

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7/24/2023 11:04:22 AM

AMERICAN MERCHANT SERVICES SILVER

ONE ELEVEN WEB DESIGN BRONZE

MERIDIAN PAYMENT SERVICES BRONZE

PRIVATE SECURITY

NAIL SALON/MANICURIST

SECURITY FORCE ONE, MANTECA GOLD

NEWMAN NAILS AND SPA GOLD

DIRECT SECURITY & SOUND SILVER

BEAUTIFULLY ENTISE’D SALON SILVER

CRIMETEK, TURLOCK BRONZE

NAILS BY MARY RANA TOLEDO BRONZE

SBA LENDER

NOTARY PUBLIC

SUCCESS CAPITAL GOLD F&M BANK SILVER

1ST CHOICE LEGAL ASSISTANCE, LLC SILVER

BAC COMMUNITY BANK BRONZE

PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

SHIPPING & MAILING

DOWNTOWN BEAR POSTAL, MODESTO GOLD

SILVA INJURY LAW, INC. GOLD

PAK MAIL SILVER

ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER SILVER

UPS STORE BRONZE

THE BOGAN LAW FIRM BRONZE

PHOTOGRAPHER

ALY INCARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY GOLD CRYSTAL B RAMOS PHOTOGRAPHY SILVER CAPTURED BY ALEENA PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE

PRINT / COPY SHOP

J & J PRINTING, MANTECA GOLD DITTOS SILVER

PAINTED APE SILVER INK DISCIPLES TATTOO PARLOR BRONZE

TELECOMMUNICATIONS PENGUIN GOLD

MOJI TECHNOLOGIES SILVER

TRAVEL AGENCY

TRAVEL IN GOOD COMPANY GOLD AAA, MODESTO SILVER PIN-IT TRAVEL TWINS BRONZE

WAXING STUDIO SKINTASTIC GOLD

SPRAY TAN

GODDESS GLOW BY BEE GOLD BRONZED SUGAR BEAUTY BAR SILVER BRONZE BEAUTY BAR BRONZE

STORAGE FACILITY

DERREL’S MINI STORAGE GOLD AAA CERES SELF STORAGE SILVER

BIZZY BRE’S WAX SILVER BE LOVE SKIN SPA BRONZE

WEDDING CAKE

OLDE TYME PASTRIES GOLD SWEETARTS BAKERY SILVER NOTHING BUNDT CAKES BRONZE

SECURITY PUBLIC STORAGE BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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INKED UP BY DUSTIN STACY GOLD

SKYELAR COMMUNICATIONS BRONZE

JOANNA’S BAIL BONDS GOLD

ADRIAN’S BAIL BONDS BRONZE

TATTOO PARLOR

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7/24/2023 11:04:23 AM

Thank You FOR VOTING US

BEST BAIL BONDS COMPANY

IN THE 209 Safe area FOUR YEARS RUNNING

“I’ve Got Your Back”

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

Thank you Joanna! ”

- Tai B.

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

Habla Espanol

www.joannasbailbonds.com

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

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7/24/2023 11:04:26 AM

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

WE ARE ON CALL 24/7

“People Trust me, and it means the world to me that I can help so many doing what I love,” says Joanna, who has been in the profession for 32 years.

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

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

A very special thanks to all those who voted for my business for the third year in a row. We at Joanna’s try very hard to provide a service for our clients that is beyond mediocre. I would also like to thank my staff, friends and family that have supported me and my dream to be a successful business owner throughout the years.

This is my 32nd year in the bail industry and I still have a passion for helping people, and that will never change.

7/24/2023 11:04:31 AM

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7/24/2023 5:23:45 PM

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

The BEST Insurance Solutions in the 209!

2023 Best of 209 Bronze: Agency & Commercial

As an Independent Agency, our Agents are dedicated to what matters most, our clients. Since 1968 and for many more years to come, we continue to appreciate your trust in us to provide outstanding service alongside the Insurance policies you need and deserve. We are honored to represent the 209 as your best Insurance Agency!

2023 Best of 209 Gold: Workers Compensation

Workers Compensation Insurance and Advisory that extends beyond just your policy service. At Rico, Pfizter, Pires & Associates we provide you with the insurance insight you need to guide you through creating a safe workspace for you and your employees. We appreciate your vote for Best of the 209!

2023 Best of 209 Gold: Home & Auto

Our Personal Lines Agents are dedicated to going above and beyond to make sure you not only have coverage you need, but also that you can understand. Thank you for voting us your 2023 Best of 209 Home & Auto Insurance!

Thank you for Voting Rico, Pfitzer, Pires & Associates!

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7/24/2023 5:25:02 PM

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our cherished clients and dedicated supporters for the unwavering support you have shown us.

Your trust and encouragement have been invaluable in our journey.

Thank you for being a part of our success!

Tax Preparation • Tax Planning Bookkeeping & Payroll • Business Consulting ITIN Applications www.fstaxservice.com

925.315.7420

@fstaxservice.inc

By Appointment Only 202 W Main Street Suite 201 Turlock CA 95380

I need a website.

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

Reliable. Safe.

Respectful.

We can help.

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.

209-919-1503 Email: Alex.AngelsLowbed@yahoo.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Thank you!

The Vall

ey’s

FAVORITE INTERNET!

to our loyal customers for voting us Best Internet Service Provider 2023

-ServingBUSINESS & RESIDENTIAL Customers

NO CONTRACTS

NO HIDDEN FEES

LOCAL SUPPORT

Reliable Internet at Blazing Fast Speed!

Call or visit us online today!

209.579.3000 ayera.com

VOTED BEST BOOKKEEPING Thank you for your Votes

• BOOKKEEPING & ACCOUNTING • PAYROLL • QUICKBOOKS SUPPORT • ACCOUNTS PAYABLE & RECEIVABLE • PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS • FINANCIAL REPORTING 2051 GEER ROAD, SUITE A • TURLOCK • (209) 634-4099 INFO@GETBALANCEDBOOKS.COM • WWW.GETBALANCEDBOOKS.COM 209MAGAZINE.COM

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At Estate of Affairs, we recognize the importance of our success is directly tied to the relationships we build with our clients and customers. We deeply appreciate the trust our clients place in us and take pride in helping our customers find cherished treasures. From our family to yours, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for nominating and choosing Estate we specialize in devising and of Affairs. executing customized plans to Estate of Affairs is a alleviate overwhelming burdens comprehensive partner. As a full- while ensuring you receive service asset liquidation company, maximum returns on your assets.

At Estate of Affairs, we cater to life transitions, providing a range of valuable services. Whether you are in need of an estate sale, a divorce liquidation, a business consolidation, have relocation challenges, or a real estate clean out, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Count on us to navigate these transitions seamlessly and professionally, ensuring a smooth and stress free experience.

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7/24/2023 11:04:37 AM

Entrust Your Asset Liquidation Needs to Count on Estate of Affairs to take charge of every aspect of your sale with the utmost care, dignity, and efficiency. Our meticulous approach involves organization, conducting thorough research, setting appropriate prices, and executing extensive advertising efforts, resulting in well- attended sales.

Throughout the sale we provide a reliable POS tracking system, ensuring smooth transactions. Once the sale is concluded we collaborate with our clients to distribute the remaining items as desired, leaving the location empty and ready for its next chapter.

We understand that some of life’s transitions can be challenging. We aim to be a shoulder you can lean on. Our We further understand each sale is commitment to superior customer service is guided by our core values: Compassion, a unique experience, deserving our Dedication, Integrity, and Accountability. undivided attention. As a result we foster a transparent partnership with our clients, delivering efficient and responsive representation when they need us most.

Estate of Affairs works towards finding

fair and equitable resolutions without compromising our clients’ core interests.

Please consider entrusting your family’s asset liquidation needs to us. Rest assured we’ll handle the entire process professionally from the beginning to the end with care, dignity, and efficiency.

209.857.5727 • WWW.ESTATEOFAFFAIRS.NET

FAMILIES IN ALL CITIES IN THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES ALAMEDA, FRESNO, KERN, MERCED, SACRAMENTO, SAN JOAQUIN, STANISLAUS, AND TUOLUMNE

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1st Choice Legal Assistance, LLC SE HABLA ESPAÑOL THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF THE 209 GOLD TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

We offer the following: • Divorce • Custody & Visitation • Child & Spousal Support • Adoptions & Guardianships • Wills & Trusts & Deeds • Notary • Payment Plans Available • Divorcio • Custodia y Visita • Manutención Ifantil y Cónyugal • Adopción y Tutela • Testamento y Herencia y Andanzas • Notario Publíco • Planes de Pagos Disponsible

Cheryl N. Garey Stan. Co. LDA # 17-002 Not an Attorney CHERYL@1STCLA.COM 1STCLA.COM

TEL: (209) 422-5499 • FAX: (209) 222-3828 209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 146

7/24/2023 11:04:38 AM

1st Choice Legal Assistance, LLC Cheryl N. Garey Stan. Co. LDA # 17-002 Not an Attorney CHERYL@1STCLA.COM - 1STCLA.COM 802 14th Street, Suite A, Modesto, CA 95354 600 N. Second St., Suite 2, Patterson, CA 95363

We are honored to be the recipients of the Best of the 209 Gold Award for the second year in a row. I would like to personally thank my family, friends, colleagues, clients, and all that have been a crucial part of our success in the last 6 years. We are thankful to be able to serve our community with all their document needs in English and Spanish. We strive to go above and beyond the client's needs to provide a service that is quality, affordable and like no other. Thank you for allowing 1st Choice Legal Assistance to be your choice for your document needs.

TEL: (209) 422-5499 • FAX: (209) 222-3828 209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 147

7/24/2023 11:04:39 AM

Voted Best Insurance Agency

Contact us for your insurance solutions Business Benefits Crop Personal 800.790.4875 | I NFO@W ISG.COM | L IC. #0596517 We are an equal oppor tunity provider

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7/24/2023 11:04:39 AM

Promoting Healing Through Compassionate Advocacy

For voting Silva Injury Law Favorite Personal Injury Attorney

Helping injured people in auto accident cases in the Central Valley.

Free Consultation with a personal injury attorney NO FEE unless we win Turlock Office: 2130 Geer Road, Suite A Turlock, CA 95382 Phone (209) 600-4389 Fax (209) 665-0095

Monterey Office: 215 W. Franklin Street, Suite 212 Monterey, CA 93940 Phone (831) 471-5060 Fax (209) 665-0095

Modesto Office: 515 13th Street, Suite 203 Modesto, CA 95354 Phone (209) 600-4389 Fax (209) 665-0095

Merced Office: 1170 W. Olive Avenue, Suite G2 Merced, CA 95348 Phone (209) 600-4389 Fax (209) 665-0095

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Voted Best Funeral Home 6 Years in a Row Michael Allen

Alison Allen

President

Vice President, Funeral Director

Matthew Testo

James Gehrke

Funeral Director

Funeral Director

Keith Richardson

On-Call Family Attendant

Ben Sivils

Assistant Manager

Veronica Munoz

Bilingual Arrangement Counselor

Ken Freeby

On-Call Family Attendant

Melody Eddings

Preparation Room Manager

Crematory Manager

Jacob Ward

Sarah Reed

Holly Strickland

Laurie Walters

Morgan Fleming

Advance Planning Specialist & Receptionist

Dan Johnson

On-Call Family Attendant

Systems Analyst

Morri Elliott On-Call Family Attendant

Embalmer

Crematory Operator

Stan Gustafson In Loving Memory

The Allen Family is proud to be the only family-owned funeral home in the Turlock area.

247 N. BROADWAY, TURLOCK | WWW.ALLENMORTUARY.COM Serving our community for 71 years

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WE SPECIALIZE IN AGRICULTURAL LAW

|

BUSINESS LITIGATION & TRANSACTIONS

ESTATE PLANNING & LITIGATION | PROBATE | CONSERVATORSHIPS ELDER LAW | EMPLOYMENT LAW & LITIGATION | DEBT COLLECTION RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Bradley J. Swingle Colleen F. Van Egmond Amanda J. Heitlinger

|

PERSONAL INJURY

Richard D. Moths Laura McGee

Of Counsel

Michelle L. Morelli

1207 I Street, Modesto | 209.522.2211 | svhlaw.com 209 Magazine 58AS2023-164.indd 151

7/24/2023 11:04:42 AM

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7/24/2023 11:04:45 AM

Thanks For Awarding Us

Is here to

Help Resolve

all of your important Divorce and Family

Legal Issues

The GOLD For Best Security Company in The 209 Again This Year!

SECURITY FORCE ONE Anthony Logan

✓ Divorce ✓ Annulments ✓ Guardianship ✓ Child Support ✓ Spousal Support ✓ Legal Separation ✓ Grandparent Rights ✓ Child Custody ✓ and Visitation We strive to resolve matters in an amicable and efficient manner - getting straight to the critical issues with effective results.

P.O. Box 4473 Manteca • CA 95337

Phone: (209) 239-6150 Scrtyfrc1@yahoo.com

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

209-645-2842 • www.coenenberglaw.com

Now With A Second Location In Lodi 429 Lockeford St. Ste. C

Thank you for your support!

We are honored to serve this community!

2517 Mitchell Rd. Ste. D. Ceres, Ca. 95307 (In the Save Mart shopping center)

Tailored Hair Cuts • Kids Cuts • Hot Towel Shaves

209-566-8177 | praisetherazor.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Real Estate

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ANOKEEN VARANI GOLD

ADRIAN HARRELL - NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT SILVER AMANDA FIGUEROA, WEST COAST MARKETING GROUP BRONZE

ESCROW COMPANY

Winners BIG VALLEY MORTGAGE, RENEE RIVERA BRONZE

MORTGAGE BANKER

BIG VALLEY MORTGAGE, RENEE RIVERA GOLD ABILITY MORTGAGE / AMBECK MORTGAGE ASSOCIATES SILVER

MONUMENT ESCROW GOLD

GREAT CENTRAL MORTGAGE BRONZE

FIRST AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY SILVER

NEW HOME DEVELOPMENT

DOMA BRONZE

BRIGHT HOMES GOLD

JKB LIVING, INC. SILVER WINDWARD PACIFIC BUILDERS, INC. BRONZE

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT GOLD CORE FOUR REALTY SILVER SUCCESS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BRONZE

REAL ESTATE BROKER EMILY PARKER, RIPON GOLD

HOME INSPECTION

J BIXLER INSPECTIONS GOLD EZ HOME INSPECTIONS SILVER NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT TURLOCK BRONZE

HOME STAGING

THE STAGING STUDIO GOLD SELLER’S HELPER SILVER FIB HOME STAGING & INTERIOR DESIGN BRONZE

LOAN OFFICER

FERNANDO ZAPIAIN - CHURCHILL MORTGAGE GOLD ANDREW NARSI SILVER

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Voted Best Property Management

9 YEARS IN A ROW Thank you for your continued support & loyalty!

9

TIMES GOLD AWARD WINNER

TRUST THE BEST

Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties for over 13 years (209) 668-6700 | 843 E. Main St., Turlock | NewBridgeManagement.com DRE Lic #01878838

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7/24/2023 11:04:49 AM

Voted Best

HOME INSPECTION 6 Years in a Row Residential Commercial Pool & Spa Sewer Scopes Termite (Third Party) Certified Professional Inspector Certified Master Inspector

(209) 288-9227

jbixlerinspections.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Thank You

For Voting Us

Best of 209

REAL ESTATE COMPANY NOW HIRING & TRAINING!

“Find your HOME at the next EXIT!”

EXIT REALTY CONSULTANTS

209-668-2525 WWW.EXITHOME.COM

TURLOCK 600 E. Main Street, Turlock, CA. 95380 Ph: 209-668-2525

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CERES 3018 E. Service Rd, Ste 104 & 105 Ceres, CA. 95307 Ph: 209-554-5252

MERCED MODESTO MODESTO 1822 W. Olive Ave, 3425 Coffee Rd Ste 1C 901 Mchenry Ave. Merced, CA. 95348 Modesto, CA 95355 Modesto,CA. 95350 Ph: 209-622-2020 Ph: 209-626-2625 Ph: 209-622-4800

MANTECA TRACY FRESNO 150 W. Yosemite Ave, 924 N Central Ave 2416 W. Shaw Ave., Manteca, CA. 95366 Tracy, CA. 95304 Fresno, CA 93711 Ph: 209-823-1234 Ph: 209-627-1111 Ph: 559-256-7878

MORE COMING SOON!

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Real Estate

ATLANTIC REALTY SILVER ADRIAN HARRELL - NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT BRONZE

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

HOMESMART PV & ASSOCIATES GOLD

Winners REALTOR

TAYLOR THOMPSON, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY GOLD MICHAEL ROCHA SILVER DANIELLE SANDERS BRONZE

EXIT REALTY TURLOCK SILVER ATLANTIC REALTY BRONZE

Voted #1 Home Staging in the 209

VACANT HOME STAGING OCCUPIED HOME STAGING VIRTUAL STAGING AIRBNB STAGING

CALL MICHELLE HALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

(209) 346-2117

MICHELLE@THESTAGINGSTUDIO.COM 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Shopping ACCESSORIES - HOME OLIVA DAWN CANDLES GOLD

BLAME THE FLAME CANDLE CO SILVER

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BOOKSTORE

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INVINCIBLE COMICS, MODESTO GOLD

BLOOM AND FORAGE FARM BRONZE

BARNES AND NOBLE SILVER

ACCESSORIES - WOMEN’S

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PATCHED PUMPKINS BOUTIQUE GOLD COTTON & SAGE SILVER

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE THE BRIDAL VAULT GOLD KC BRIDAL CO SILVER

ANTIQUE STORE

MIRA BRIDAL COUTURE BRONZE

MAGPIE ANTIQUES SILVER ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE BRONZE

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ACE HARDWARE, OAKDALE SILVER

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ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER FAMOUS FOOTWEAR BRONZE

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RUSTIC ROOTS SILVER

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THREADS CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE SILVER TJ MAXX BRONZE

BIKE STORE

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TINY BIRDS TINY BEES BRONZE

THREADS CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE GOLD COMMUNITY HOSPICE HOPE CHEST THRIFT STORE SILVER

CUSTOM FURNITURE

BACK HOME FURNITURE & DECOR GOLD SUITE 52 LIVING - PORTICO FOR HOME & GARDEN SILVER RUSTIC ROOTS BRONZE

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PATCHED PUMPKIN BOUTIQUE, OAKDALE SILVER

HOME DECOR & MORE BRONZE

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PENCIE AND GINGER GOLD

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CUSTOM RECLAIMED FURNITURE BACK HOME FURNITURE & DECOR GOLD

EARLES WOOD AND METAL WORKS SILVER

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Shopping RUSTIC ROOTS BRONZE

FINE JEWELRY

Winners GROCERY STORE

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WINCO SILVER

YONAN’S JEWELERS SILVER

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GUN DEALER

FLORIST

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BARNWOOD ARMS SILVER

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HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY

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THE MASTER’S TOUCH JEWELERS GOLD

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RUSTIC ROOTS SILVER

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HARDWARE STORE

GIFT BASKETS

TRUE VALUE, MODESTO SILVER

ROBERTS FERRY GOURMET, OAKDALE GOLD MAZZELTOV FARMS SOAP COMPANY SILVER HILMAR CHEESE COMPANY BRONZE

GIFT SHOP

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STRAND ACE HARDWARE, INC. GOLD

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HOME LIGHTING

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MATTRESS / BEDDING

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ONLINE STOREFRONT

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PLACE TO BUY ART

ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE GOLD CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER SILVER DRAGONFLY ART FOR LIFE BRONZE

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BLAME THE FLAME CANDLE CO SILVER

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SHOE STORE

COTTON & SAGE GOLD ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER DSW DESIGNER SHOE WAREHOUSE BRONZE

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MCHENRY VILLAGE, MODESTO GOLD VINTAGE FAIRE MALL SILVER RIVERBANK CROSSROADS BRONZE

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UNIQUE LOCAL SHOP

MAZZELTOV FARMS SOAP COMPANY GOLD COTTON & SAGE SILVER

In Historical Downtown Turlock

Voted Best in the 209 “Celebrating 33 Years!”

3200 Sisk Road, Modesto, CA 95356 Tuesday - Saturday 10 to 6 Closed Sunday and Monday (209) 524-7746 • www.ciccarellijewelers.com

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

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Village Fresh Market

Voted

Best Grocery Store & Best Deli BEST of 209 covers 7 counties; Amador, Calaveras, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne so it is a huge honor to have won the BEST of 209 for Eight years - 2015 thru 2023!

And 9 time winner of READER’S CHOICE 2014 thru 2022 that covers Turlock, Hilmar, Denair, Hughson and Delhi

2090 East Canal Drive, Turlock CA

Villagefresh.com

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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

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