209 Magazine - Issue 7

A PRIL/MAY 2015 – ISSU E 7

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F E AT U R E S “If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.”

James Herriot, author of “All Creatures Great and Small” and British veterinary surgeon, is attributed to the above quote. His observations of the relationship between humans and the animals around them are beloved stories for readers around the world. It’s no wonder, as any pet owner can attest that four-legged or feathered friends are often the most treasured.

209 Magazine asked readers to submit photos of their animal friends for the Cutest Pet Contest. More than 400 people responded with photos of their dogs, cats, bunnies, horses, pigs, turtles and even one cow. After much debate, 12 finalists were selected and the Top 4 chosen. Meet the reader-voted winner of the Cutest Pet Contest: Daphne, a toy Eskimo poodle.

PAGE 42

Turlock veterinarian Dr. Robert Santos is dedicated to the healing and well-being of pets, using all methods available including acupuncture.

PAGE 48 Enjoying a day at the park isn’t just good for kids, it’s also beneficial to dogs and their owners. The 209 has many parks especially built to allow Fido room to roam — and socialize.

Sometimes it’s not just pets who need a little tender loving care. When in need, the creatures that share their habitat with humans can find refuge at the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center.

PAGE 56

PAGE 50

Teaching people how to interact with their canine friends has been the life’s work of Cesar Millan, the ‘Dog Whisperer.’ Millan shared his insight to a sold-out crowd at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

Jeannine Etheridge, co-founder and president of the Oakdale Equine Rescue, believes all horses deserve a safe place to live and learn how to interact with humans.

PAGE 46

PAGE 54

Daphne, who has been a part of Hayley Pascoe’s family since 2011, was voted the Cutest Pet in the 209.

Lorissa Rutledge works with her adopted horse, Fallon, training him to follow commands.

Cover photo by Jon Michael Terry Photography

Photo by Alisa Hutsell

APRIL/MAY 2015 – ISSUE 7

DEPARTMENTS 8

BOOK REVIEW

Welcome Page

40

IN THE KNOW

10 14 16

‘A True Story’ by Pete Crooks

FULL OF LIFE

Cirque Du Soleil: Varekai

60 Fitness & Beyond with Teresa

Van Gogh and Vino

Hammond

Chocolate Festival

62 Golfing in the 209 PLACE CALLED HOME

66 Preserving your harvest 68 California Closets CHARITY CORNER

10

70 Relay for Life 74 Parent Resource Center

20 Fashion app 22 Riverdance fest: The right pick for farm aficionados

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24

Central Valley Brewfest

MARKETPLACE

LOOK BACK

74

Oakdale Cowboy Museum

82 Amazon in Patterson 84 Stanislaus Grown 88 EV-Mobility Solutions

FLAVORS

26 Ciao Bella Ristorante 29 Strawberry inspired recipes 32 Helm’s Ale House

84

NAVIGATOR

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62

Pacific Crest Trail 209MAGAZINE

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APRIL/MAY 2015

Vol. 2 No. 7 ■ April/ May 2015 ■ $4.95 PUBLISHER Hank Vander Veen

GENERAL MANAGER Jennifer Marek Drew Savage

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Elizabeth Arakelian Alysson Aredas Dennis D. Cruz Ross Dickerson Teresa Hammond Alisa Hutsell Melissa Hutsell Marg Jackson Matt Johanson Richard Paloma Fabian Pourmand Photography Sabra Stafford Virginia Still Jon Michael Terry Photography

ART DIREC TOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mackenzie Alameda Jaime Ramirez

ADVERTISING DIREC TORS Chuck Higgs Taylor Phillips

SALES & MARKETING Beth Flanagan Maureen Jerner Tara Levy Krista Messer Vicky Norman-Eddy Colette Robison Corey Rogers Melody Wann Doreen Wynn

SPECIAL CONSULTANT Larry Dovichi

To advertise in 209 Magazine, call Manteca • 209.249.3500 • Oakdale • 209.847.3021 Turlock • 209.634.9141 209 Magazine is published 6 times a year 138 S. Center St. •Turlock, CA 95380 Comments: khacker@209magazine.com www.209magazine.com ©Copyright 2015. 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 mangament or owner. 209 Magazine assumes no responsibnility and makes no recommendation for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred.

Welcome back and thank you for checking out another edition of 209 Magazine. 209 Magazine has been such an adventure for us as writers, experiencers and creators. We are happy to announce that this issue has reached new milestones. Since our first publication last year, we have grown our magazine 43% in pages as well as increasing our drop locations by 72%. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our community and the willingness of local businesses to let us in their doors and allow us to share their visions. We appreciate all the support from readers and advertisers.

It is no secret that pets are a human’s best friend. This issue, we reached out to our followers to submit their favorite photos of their furry critters and received over 400 pictures of the cutest companions in the Valley. In addition to the winners, runner ups, and honorable mentions, this issue encompasses stories about notable animal centers such as the Oakdale Equine Rescue and Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center. We even give a peak into Monte Vista Small Animal Hospitals’ Dr. Rob Santos and his newest animal treatment, pet acupuncture.

With spring here, it’s time for our residents to get out in the sun and enjoy the festivities that the 209 has to offer such as Riverdance Farms Pick and Gather and the ever-so-popular Oakdale Chocolate Festival that draws crowds upon crowds of visitors into the place we call home! Open the pages and let the stories and pictures speak for themselves.

MNC of California strives to be a company that is positively impacting the community, with several publications in the heart of the 209. What sets us apart is our firm commitment to relevant, community-driven content. We want to feature the things that truly make our region a wonderful place to live, raise a family, and to visit.

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

Hank Vander Veen Publisher hvanderveen@209magazine.com

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APRIL/MAY 2015

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intheknow

This show is all about adaptability and transformation. — Varekai artistic director Fabrice Lemire

209MAGAZINE

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APRIL/MAY 2015

By VIRGINIA STILL

T

ransporting the public into a universe where emotions are attached to acrobatics, Cirque Du Soleil Company delivers Varekai, an enchanting forest inhabited by unusual characters, right to the 209 at the Stockton Arena from April 15-19 for seven performances only.

The world of Varekai is a deep forest at the summit of a volcano where a young man named Icarus falls from the sky, loses his wings and hurts his legs.

In true Cirque Du Soleil fashion, the show will feature the traditional acrobatic athletic abilities of performers and other elements, however, Varekai will also tell a story that is very close to the creator, writer and director Dominic Champagne’s own experience.

“It is a story that is very close to him because I believe a year prior he created the piece after he fell from the rooftop and fractured his two ankles,” explained Varekai’s artistic director Fabrice Lemire. “He was told by the doctors and specialist that he may not be able to walk again.”

In Varekai, Icarus finds himself wounded in an unknown world and his desire to live trumps his fears, which takes him into a rebirth.

“Basically, what does he need to do to go on with his life?” added Lemire. “It is very much about, how do you adapt to a new reality, to new surroundings, to a new community and many of us do this.”

Lemire moved to the United States from France when he was 23. He did not know anybody and his English was very poor.

However, these trials did not prevent Lemire from succeeding, which he explains is similar to the story.

The other characters in the performance will teach Icarus how to fly without wings and CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 

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intheknow

IF YOU GO walk without legs. They will help him embrace life and help him with a new way of thinking so he is able to move forward.

“It is very poetic actually when you look at the story and that angle,” said Lemire. “I love the metaphor of it and of course there is a small love story.”

Originally the Cirque Du Soleil shows were put on in the traditional “big top” circus tents.

Approximately a year and a half ago they made the transition into staging the shows at arenas to reach a new demographic of audience.

Currently, the traveling group has performances throughout North America and in 2016 they will transfer the show to Europe for a few years.

There are about 90 people including artists, musicians, singers, crew members and staff who collaborate to bring this elaborate show of color, acrobatics and more to the audience.

“It is very different and it is a lifestyle and you embrace it, you love it, or you just walk away from it,” stated Lemire. “It is hard for everybody to not be able to go home every night.

“We are also what you call a touring family, living in the same proximity with 90 people so you have to be able to create your own space and find ways to escape. So my role is not only artistic director but I manage the people on tour.”

With only about six weeks spent at home in a year, the touring family is dedicated to bringing the audience an amazing show.

The creative team that brainstorms the costumes, music, lighting and all the special extras that make Varekai a magical performance put in countless hours of work and it takes a lot of people to make it happen.

As you may see a single character on stage performing a certain act, Lemire would like to remind you that it takes a whole team of people backstage like the riggers, programmers, stage manager, musicians and band leaders to create that fascinating performance.

“We forget because we just see the beauty that is in front of us while there is a whole network behind to support that act,” said Lemire. “This show is all about adaptability and transformation.”

It’s also a performance that can transform the audience, he said, as long as they let the story take them away.■

209MAGAZINE

WHAT: Cirque du Soleil Varekai WHEN: 7:30 p.m. April 15-19; 4 p.m.

April 18; and 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

April 19 WHERE: Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St. TICKETS: $35 to $90, available at www.stocktonlive.com

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APRIL/MAY 2015

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intheknow

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PHOTOS BY FABIAN POURMAND PHOTOGRAPHY

There is an inner artist in everyone...

By ELIZ ABETH ARAKELIAN 209MAGAZINE

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ndividuals looking to tap into their inner artists need look no further than downtown Modesto where local artist Melinda Stevens is sharing her expertise with newfound painters.

In the subterranean cellar of Modesto restaurant Greens on 10th her unique program, titled Van Gogh and Vino, takes place. The concept is exactly as it sounds: people gather to drink wine and paint with Stevens at the helm as the instructor guiding her students through a pre-planned painting.

“There are some people who have never picked up a paintbrush in their life and they just want to have fun,” said Stevens. “It’s really more of a social event than a class.”

Students pay a fee to participate and get to leave with their canvas in hand.

During the lesson participants can sneak upstairs for drinks and appetizers which are available for purchase from Greens on 10th.

As the mastermind behind Van Gogh and Vino, Stevens started the program over a year ago after her sister told her about a similar event in Southern California. As a former art teacher with a Bachelor’s Degree in Art, Stevens found that hosting painting classes would be a fun way to share her creative spirit with the local public.

“I like wine too,” laughed Stevens.

Stevens has cultivated a loyal following with participants returning each month to see which painting she will teach next. Timing the paintings she teaches with the seasons of the year, Stevens aims to create a nonthreatening environment for locals to enter and discover their creative side.

“There is an inner artist in everyone and it’s a fun social event, not just going to a movie or a dinner. It’s something different to do and that’s why I think it’s caught on,” said Stevens.

For more information, visit www. vangoghandvinoca.com or call 209.402.7337. ■

APRIL/MAY 2015

There are some people who have never picked up a paintbrush in their life and they just want to have fun. —Melinda Stevens

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intheknow

Get sweet and nutty at the Oakdale

By VIRGINIA STILL

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H

Fruitopia was a popular first time vendor at the Chocolate Festival in 2014, bringing chocolate covered fruit and crepes all the way from Southern California.

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new vendor on hand this year offering handmade caramels.

Festival admission is $6 for those 12 and over, those under 12 are admitted free. There are discount tickets available prior to the event and if a canned food item is brought in the day of the event, festival goers will get a dollar off admission.

This fee allows the Oakdale Chamber of Commerce to give back to 15 to 20 local clubs and organizations that help with the festival, providing them with a donation following the event, giving them ‘a cut’ of the proceeds.

Oakdale was once home to a Hershey Chocolate plant and in the early years of the festival, they worked with the Chamber of Commerce and provided tours of the plant during the weekend.

When the company moved, Chamber officials decided to maintain the festival and have been able to continue attracting huge crowds and plenty of chocolate-themed vendors. Sconza Candy Company, which now occupies the former Hershey plant, has become a mainstay of the festival Oakdale Chamber Chief Executive Officer Mary Guardiola said the Hershey tours were a great tie in, but noted that “the event has conCONTINUED ON PAGE 18 

The eventual winners in this challenge from a past festival, Emily Songer, 14, tries to get the sticky syrup into the plastic cup and keep it away from the head and face of teammate Lauren Wingfield, also 14, during a Chocolate Challenge.

APRIL/MAY 2015

PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

PHOTO BY VIRGINA STILL/ 209 Magazine

ankering for sweetness? Mosey on down to the 23rd Annual Chocolate Festival in Oakdale, where ‘Chocolates Gone Nuts’ again and will be filled with a variety of family fun, good food, entertainment and an assortment of tasty treats. The two-day fest is on the calendar for May 16 and 17 in downtown Oakdale.

With almonds and walnuts being among the top five products of Stanislaus County and several orchards surrounding the area, it only made sense for the Oakdale District Chamber of Commerce to add nuts to the chocolate event and continue the same successful theme as last year. Over 30,000 acres of walnuts and almonds are within a seven-mile radius of Oakdale.

The Chocolate Festival has doubled in venue size since the first fest in 1993, and through the years there has been an increased participation from local non-profit groups. The first year of the festival, chocolate tasting was held at the Community Center with only eight vendors and now the streets of downtown will burst with over 25 chocolate booths alone. Over 175 vendors will be on hand to offer a number of items like sweet treats, food items, crafts, clothing, collectibles and so much more. Black Tie Caramel will be a

intheknow

PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

tinued with much success and there may be other tours in the future of Oakdale businesses during the festival.”

The festival’s Main Stage will have non-stop local bands and vocalists both days like Third Party Band, Highway 99 Party Band, Callbox, a kid band called Silly String Band, and Francesca Bavaro, just to name a few. The Chocolate Challenge Stage will host three chocolate challenge game times each day along with five performances each day of local dancers, karate demonstrations, and gymnastics.

To remind you that you are in the ‘Cowboy Capital’ there will be five performances each day of a Buffalo Bill style show with gun fights, quick draw competitions, whip cracking demonstrations, gun safety, and strolling performances.

The family festival will also have kids’ rides, pony rides, and a petting zoo. This year the classic car show is a benefit for Project Heroes and has added a scale car drag racing track in addition to the 80-plus cars that will be on display.

“They will also have die cast cars and wood model kits to purchase and take home,” added Guardiola. “This is some added fun for the car enthusiast and those that can’t drive quite yet.”

The first couple of years there was a tennis tournament that corresponded with the festival and now each year includes a Chocolate Festival run.

The Fun Run will be held Saturday morning and is a 5k or one mile walk or run.

“We have many groups that come out to participate in this, a little competition among friends

or just to help stay healthy,” said Guardiola. “This event is on Saturday morning only and the first 100 that sign up get a $10 certificate to discover new varieties of craft bean-to-bar chocolates from Cococlectic.”

Interested parties can register on Active.com or at the Oakdale Chamber website.

This weekend event that is usually held on the third weekend in May typically brings in 50,000 to 60,000 people over the two days. The Oakdale Chocolate Festival will be held this year on Saturday, May 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“While most of the chocolate is located in Wood Park we do have a few scattered around to tempt you as you stroll,” stated Guardiola. “This event promotes tourism for Oakdale.”

The day is sure to please with a variety of enjoyable events, bands, vocalists, food, and the spotlight on chocolates to taste or to watch on the Chocolate Challenge stage hosted by the Hawk radio station.

Participants of the challenge will win prizes like chocolate or other candy items.

“So in addition to strolling around the arts and craft areas and eating the yummy food you can have some fun with chocolate,” expressed Guardiola.

Thousands of people from all over attend the twoday festival and with warm weather on the horizon, it is sure to be a day of fun.

Visit downtown Oakdale this May for the 23rd annual Chocolate Festival; your taste buds are sure to thank you. ■

The annual Chocolate Festival Run, which hosts a one-mile and the 5k shown here is the first of the season’s local runs put on by the Modesto ShadowChase Running Club and helps kick off the two-day chocolate-themed festival in downtown Oakdale.

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intheknow

Unlike most California farms, Riverdance Farms grows Northern High Bush blueberries. Cindy Lashbrook displays the sweet berries above.

Riverdance fest

The right pick for farm aficionados “IT’S HOW YOU CAN FARM WITH NATURE; SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMS AND FARMERS, ESPECIALLY ORGANIC FARMS AND WHY LOCAL, SUSTAINABLY GROWN FOOD IS GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT.” — Cindy Lashbrook

By KRISTINA HACKER

A

n ecosystem is a community of living organisms, like plants and animals, and the environment in which they live including the air, water and soil. This symbiotic relationship is the essence of an annual Livingston event — the Pick and Gather at Riverdance Farms and Merced River Fair.

This annual event gives Valley residents and visitors the chance to get out on the farm and learn about the local ecosystem. There will be workshops throughout the two-day event, set for May 30 and 31, and hands-on activities for kids and 209MAGAZINE

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adults including the proper way to plant seeds, minnow races at the river, corn grinding and fish prints.

For Cindy Lashbrook of Riverdance Farms, the annual event is an opportunity to educate about organic farming.

"It's how you can farm with nature; supporting local farms and farmers, especially organic farms and why local, sustainably grown food is good for the environment," she said.

The event will also celebrate the area’s two State Parks on the Merced River. McConnell State Recreation

Area is across the river from the farm and festival. George J. Hatfield is further west, just as the Merced River joins the San Joaquin River.

To get a better look at the river, kayak excursions will be offered one each day. The trips are three hour guided tours down the Merced River that end back at the festival.

Along with farm and river events, the festival will also feature storytelling, local artisans, live music, children’s activities and an organic breakfast. Overnight camping will be available at the farm on May 30.

The food offered at the festival will all be from local sources, many organic growers and mostly healthy.

“It’s not your typical fair food,” said Lashbrook.

In an effort to promote ecosystem education, students who bring a science fair project on farming, nature, gardening, biology or water systems to share with the public, can gain free entry. Interested students should contact Lashbrook at Riverdance Farms to reserve space for their project. ■

ALONG WITH FARM AND RIVER EVENTS, THE FESTIVAL WILL ALSO FEATURE STORYTELLING, LOCAL ARTISANS, LIVE MUSIC, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AND AN ORGANIC BREAKFAST.

IF YOU GO WHAT: Pick and Gather at Riverdance Farms and Merced River Fair WHERE: Riverdance Farms, 12230 Livingston Cressey Rd., Livingston WHEN: 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. May 30; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 31 ADMISSION: May 30: $10 adults, $5 kids / students 3-20 and seniors 65+; May 31: $5 adults, $2 kids/students/seniors Information: Call Riverdance Farms at 7610081 or visit riverdancefarms.com; Merced River Fair Kayak Trips, FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit sanjoaquinriver.org/events

PHOTO BY KRISTINA HACKER/ 209 Magazine

Cindy Lashbrook of Riverdance Farms looks at a tree of Bing cherries on her Livingston area farm.

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intheknow

By MELISSA HUTSELL

T

his May, the third annual Central Valley Brewfest will bring California crafted brews, food, live music and artwork together for one of the Valley’s premiere events.

Festival goers can expect a plethora of award-winning local and national brews, all served up in the event’s souvenir mug, perfectly sized for all the samples you can handle. The Brewfest, located at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds will showcase more than 150 different styles of beer, says the CV Brewfest’s founder, Veronica Camp. From American Blonde Ales to Black IPAs there will be something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds, even those who have a love for cider.

“The purpose of the event is to build on the success of our first two festivals and introduce many more people to craft beer.

Focusing on the finest hops and artists in the area is a natural fit the community can enjoy supporting,” says Camp. “You won’t be disappointed with finely crafted beers from Dust Bowl Brewing Co., Prospector Brewing Co., Lagunitas Brewing Co.,

Firestone Walker Brewing Co., and Tioga Sequoia Brewing Co., among several others.”

Camp, who grew up in the Central Valley, aims to keep attendees on the cutting edge of a growing trend. “The craft beer movement is exploding.

This event is an opportunity for folks to discover new beers and ciders, promote local businesses, and have a great time with good people. ” The Brewfest is much more than a drinking event explains Camp, it is an all-out experience in taste, art, games, and music.

It wouldn’t be a Central Valley celebration without food from favorites like Lockeford Meat and Sausage, Bravos Bites, Docs Q’In Pit Stop, and El Hidalguense Taco Truck to complement those cool crafted brews.

New to this year’s Brewfest is a chance to catch live music from the Valley’s own local icons, Flying Blind.

For more information on Central Valley Brewfest, including designated driver options, and a complete list of participating breweries, visit cvbrewfest.com. ■ 209MAGAZINE

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The craft beer movement is exploding.

This event is an opportunity for folks to discover new beers and ciders, promote local businesses, and have a great time with good people.

IF YOU GO WHAT: The Central Valley Brew Fest WHEN: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. May 9 WHERE: Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, Building E1 TICKETS: $30 for participants, $15 for designated drivers; available at CVBrewFest.com

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flavors

By RICHARD PALOMA

We want people to come here and not want to leave.

PHOTOS BY RICHARD PALOMA/ 209 Magazine

A

fter a five-year absence from the local restaurant scene, Ciao Bella Ristorante and chef/owner Chau Nguyen have returned to Modesto, pleasing longtime customers and newcomers seeking authentic Italian cuisine.

Formerly at H Street and 13th Avenue in Modesto, Ciao Bella opened up in November at the Century Center at 2401 E. Orangeburg Ave., presenting a Mediterranean ambiance and European flair inside.

“I just missed the atmosphere and people – the whole environment,” said Nguyen, who closed the doors to the original location due to the dip in the economy. “It’s the only job where I get so many compliments in a day.”

Since he reopened his kitchen, he hasn’t had a slow night.

Nguyen, a 1984 Viet Nam refugee and a 1999 Modesto High grad, said he built the restaurant to be a cozy, friendly establishment using fresh

ingredients and making everything from scratch.

“It may take a bit longer, but it is made to order,” Nguyen said. “We want people to come here and not want to leave.”

Don’t let Nguyen’s Asian heritage fool you, as he got his start preparing Italian cuisine at the Mediterranean Market and Grille where he spent eight years and was mentored by former Modesto Mayor Carmen Sabatino and some of the finest Italian chefs in the area.

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Chef Chau Nguyen prepares the stuffed calamari special.

“I grew a passion for food and to create those authentic flavors that made people happy,” Nguyen said.

209MAGAZINE

gorgonzola also served with garlic mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Nguyen said he frequents farmers’ markets and local fruit stands for fresh ingredients and avoids corporate food suppliers for his produce. He also seeks local meat and seafood sellers to supply the restaurant.

This something extra sets their cuisine apart from other restaurants whose “race to the bottom” on food costs often leaves both flavor and the natural goodness of a meal out of the whole equation.

Nguyen’s tale of coming to the U.S. is straight out of the Great American Success Story.

At age five in 1984, his family, along with others, fled Viet Nam in his father’s fishing boat facing danger and hardship from pirates, the overcrowded boat and storms.

The boat was adrift for a few days and they were finally rescued by the USS Blue Ridge inside

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the South China Sea. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here today,” Nguyen said. “I’m very grateful.”

The family was sponsored and briefly stayed in Oklahoma until moving to Modesto in 1987.

To remind himself of his journey, Nguyen keeps photos of the rescue and his family from Viet Nam to keep him “humble” so he won’t forget where he came from.

“It’s been a blessing com-

ing from a third world country to America, to the land of opportunity,” Nguyen said.

“To have many loyal customers that follow and support me is wonderful.” ■

PHOTOS BY RICHARD PALOMA/ 209 Magazine

“I grew a passion for food and to create those authentic flavors that made people happy,” Nguyen said.

Ciao Bella features an assortment of made from scratch Italian pasta dishes and traditional dinners with daily specials that are reasonably priced, ranging from $12 to $21.

The stuffed calamari is a customer favorite and according to Nguyen, isn’t made anywhere else in the area.

The entrée is served with rolled calamari stuffed with shrimp and crab, garlic, fresh herbs and mozzarella cheese.

It is then breaded and baked served with a wine and cream sauce with a vegetable and garlic mashed potatoes.

“It’s like a cordon bleu with seafood,” said Nguyen.

Another patron chosen dish is the seafood pasta prepared with clams, scallops, mussels, prawns and salmon over linguini with a garlic and white wine sauce.

Ciao Bella also offers a tender filet mignon topped with garlic, onions, and mushrooms with a melted

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Ciao Bella Ristorante 2401 E. Orangeburg Ave., Suite 320 Modesto, California CONTACT: 209.521.2426 HOURS: Lunch: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m..

flavors Strawberry Balsamic Pizza with Chicken, Sweet Onion and Applewood Bacon Ingredients: 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves, I used my Strawberry-Pineapple Freezer Jam, use your favorite 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon sriracha chili sauce 1 ball pizza dough, your favorite or this recipe or a purchased ball of dough* 1 cup diced or shredded chicken breast, from rotisserie chicken or left over chicken of any kind 1/2 cup applewood smoked bacon, cut in 1 inch pieces, cooked and drained 1/2 cup thin sliced sweet onion 12 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese, I used Sargento, but whatever you like best is fine 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, diced small Preparation: Place pizza stone or sheet pan on middle rack of oven. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 4-5 minutes or until reduced to half of original volume and mixture is thick and syrupy. Add strawberry preserves and sriracha and mix well.

Set aside to cool.

Pat or roll out pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately a 14 inch circle. Shape does not have to be perfect, this is a rustic pizza.

Place a piece of parchment paper, slightly larger than your dough on a pizza peel or an upside down sheet pan. (The parchment paper will make your transfer of the pizza to the oven infinitely easier!) Sprinkle parchment paper lightly with cornmeal. Fold dough in quarters and place on parchment paper, then unfold.

Combine chicken with 2 tablespoons of the balsamic-strawberry mixture and mix to coat all chicken with sauce. Pour remaining sauce onto pizza dough and spread to cover. Leave 1 inch border all around the edge.

Place about 3/4 of the cheese on top of dough and spread to cover sauce evenly. Scatter chicken, bacon and sweet onion over cheese to distribute evenly. Scatter remaining cheese over this layer.

Slide parchment paper with pizza on top onto stone or cookie sheet. Bake for approximately 8-10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden brown. Watch carefully, at this temperature it is easy to burn the pizza!

Remove from oven and let cool slightly, 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and fresh diced strawberries. Serve and enjoy!

— Courtesy of the California Strawberry Commission

Strawberry Brandy BBQ Ribs & Sauce Ingredients: Strawberry Brandy BBQ Sauce 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 shallots – chopped 2 garlic cloves - crushed 1 jalapeno – seeds removed and chopped 2 pounds California strawberries – cleaned and halved 1 cup brandy 2 tablespoon brown sugar 1 cup ketchup 1/3 cup strawberry jam 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup water Salt and pepper, to taste BBQ Ribs 2-4 racks baby back ribs – skinned, extra fat removed Salt and pepper, to taste 1/2 cup apple juice – placed in a squirt bottle Strawberry Brandy BBQ Sauce (recipe above) Preparation: Strawberry Brandy BBQ Sauce In a large sauce pot over medium heat add the olive oil, shallots, garlic and jalapeno. Cook

until they just start to caramelize.

Add the strawberries and brandy. Note: Be careful and stand back when adding alcohol to heat as it might flare up.

Cook until the alcohol has reduced by half and then add all remaining ingredients.

Turn the heat down and cook slowly for about 30 to 45 minutes until the strawberries are “broken down” and the flavors have really started to combine.

Once combined, remove from heat and use an immersion stick blender to blend until smooth. Use more water to adjust the consistency if needed. *If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can pour in batches into a normal blender to combine.

Once cooled, pour into a container for storage. Good for up to 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Ribs Preheat the grill, smoker or oven to about 225 degrees F. Place ribs on a rack and sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and pepper.

Start cooking slowly, spraying with apple juice every 15 minutes to keep the ribs sweet and moist.

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After about 1 ½ hours, start “basting” the Strawberry Brandy BBQ sauce on every 15 minutes. As the sauce contains sugar in it, we don’t want it to get too dark (burn) – if at any point it starts to get dark, simply cover the meat with aluminum foil.

Continue cooking for another 30 or so minutes – until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

— Courtesy of the California Strawberry Commission

From April 1 to May 16 it’s your chance to decide WHO will be the best.

Vote Online bit.ly/BestOf209

Categories

Academic Dining & Beverage Entertainment Family & Pets Goods & Service Health & Wellness Professional Service

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flavors

Helm’s Ale

House

What a family pub should be

•2009•

By RICHARD PALOMA

PHOTOS BY RICHARD PALOMA/ 209 Magazine

A

le lovers in the 209 don’t have to go any further than downtown Tracy to find some of the best ales, beers, and pilsners from around the globe, available at Helm’s Ale House on Central Avenue.

With over 24 beers on tap, Helm’s Ale House also holds a full liquor license and serves lunch and dinner menus that include eight pasta dishes, steaks, 10 different gourmet hamburgers, made-to-order pizzas, and their distinctive garlic rolls.

Proprietor Dave Helm opened Helm’s Ale House in 2009 after a previous career as a law enforcement officer in the Bay Area.

“I couldn’t find a decent beer in Tracy,” Helm said, stating he would have to go to 209MAGAZINE

nearby ale houses in Livermore or Stockton. “As far as I was concerned, there was a market that was being ignored.”

Helm said the road to establishing a successful local ale house wasn’t easy as the naysayers and even some distributors described the 209 area as a “beer desert.”

“I literally called breweries and asked, ‘how can I get your beer?’” Helm said.

“They told me there was no market here; that residents weren’t ‘sophisticated enough’ for craft beers.”

Helm endured, and with the help of a local distributor, Roy Medeiros of Valley Distributors, Helm was able to connect with Stone Brewery of Escondido which led to him becoming a vendor of Stone Ales and others.

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Starting out at 10th Street and Central Avenue in Tracy, now Helm’s Ale House can be found at 600 Central Ave., just a few blocks away from the original site.

I couldn’t find a decent beer in Tracy. As far as I was concerned, there was a market that was being ignored.

— Dave Helm ● Helm said that in addition to offering microbrews and specialty ales alongside widely known beer labels, he wanted to have a place where people could grab a couple beers over lunch, wind down after work, or where families could meet for a nice meal.

Helm’s chef, Pat Goodwin, is a graduate of the New York Culinary Academy and brings over 15 years of creative food preparation to the table with mouthwatering entrées, appetizers and specials.

Helm’s offers Prime Rib Night on Thursdays, Friday Night Specials, extraordinary calzones to go with Pint Night – where all beers are priced one dollar off and patrons get to keep the glass – on Wednesdays, and live music.

All burgers are hand mixed and hand formed and they make their own pizza dough on site. The garlic rolls, a musthave at Helm’s Ale House, are house-made bread biscuits pan fried in garlic.

Helm’s Ale House moved to its current location at 600 Central Ave., Tracy, two years ago, and is just a few blocks away from the original site at 10th

Street and Central Avenue.

The inside of Helm’s Ale House is adorned with much personal history among patron-contributed police and fire department uniform patches and various memorabilia and awards from Helm’s law enforcement career including a letter from President Bill Clinton from 1993 when Helm was shot in the line of duty.

One side of the restaurant is totally devoted to US military memorabilia including history of the USS Helm, a destroyer from World War II named after a great-uncle of Helm’s, Rear Admiral James Meredith Helm, along with other relatives’ military service reminders and Desert Storm and Viet Nam artifacts.

With its craft beers, Helm’s Ale House presents various “concoctions” with their beermosa – a combination of tangerine ale, pear cider and orange juice, its creamsicle – tangerine ale, pear cider and vanilla, or its chocolate milkshake of 8-Ball stout, Stone porter, pear cider and vanilla.

“What can I say?” Helm offered. “I like to play with beer.” ■ 209MAGAZINE

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Helm’s Ale House offers over 24 microbrews and specialty ales alongside widely known bottled beer labels.

On the menu at Helm’s Ale House are 10 different mouthwatering gourmet burgers.

APRIL/MAY 2015

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Helm’s Ale House 600 Central Ave. Tracy, CA 95376 CONTACT: (209) 229-8667 HOURS: Mon – Thurs 3 pm - 10 pm Fri – Sat 11 am - 11 pm

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navigator

Angels help the weary on

Pacific Crest Trail

By MATT JOHANSON

Zach Padlo hikes a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail.

PHOTO BY MATT JOHANSON/ 209 Magazine

T

our new friend called “Lizard.” Everyone has a trail name up here; his companions included Burger Meister and Forever Fifty. They weren't the last angels who blessed us on our journey.

The Pacific Crest Trail runs along the west coast of California, Oregon and Washington, from the Mexican to the Canadian borders. The hardy few hikers who complete it each year take around five months. Zach, Sam and I trekked a five-day segment from Sonora Pass on Highway 108 to Echo Summit near Lake Tahoe.

After Ebbetts Pass, our next segment began with a pleasant night beneath the stars at Sherrold Lake; Zach and I enjoyed it, at least. But Sam, unused to sleeping outdoors, growled at many unseen critters in the night. The next day, we enjoyed the lakes, streams, meadows and peaks of the Mokelumne Wilderness, feeling stronger as our packs got lighter.

Meeting our fellow backpackers was also enjoyable.

Many were through hikers who began their journeys in the Southern California desert months before.

Along the way they acquired impossible strength, trim waistlines and distinctive trail names like Danger, Polar Bear and Yard Sale. Hailing from dozens of states and countries, they share a friendly outlook,

hough hundreds of hikers per year attempt the 2,600-mile Pacific Crest Trail, my cousin Zach Padlo and I hit the wall around mile 26.

We weren't rookies but the first days are always tough when starting at high elevation, like the 9,624-foot Sonora Pass.

For two days, we labored in thin air under heavy packs, clearing the trail's highest pass between Yosemite and Canada while attempting an ambitious pace of 15 miles per day. As much as we enjoyed the wildflowers and rocky scenery, the last miles leading to Ebbetts Pass beat up both our bodies and morale.

Then we passed a cardboard sign inviting us to “trail magic.” After a short detour, we met a PCT veteran and three companions who welcomed us into their camp and offered us cold drinks and free dinner.

How could we say no? As soon as we sat down, they gave us plates of fresh fruit, and within minutes, hot cheeseburgers. My dog Sam was also offered meaty treats and a dish of water. A wonderful hour later, we continued hiking with muscles and spirits refreshed.

We had met our first “Trail Angels,” the heavensent friends of PCT backpackers who greet hikers with food and drinks. “I've hiked the entire trail three times, and I want to give something back,” explained 209MAGAZINE

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THERE’S SOMETHING UNIQUE AND SPECIAL ABOUT TREKKING THROUGH PRISTINE WILDERNESS THAT’S SELDOM VISITED WHILE ALSO EXPERIENCING UNBRIDLED KINDNESS FROM THE WORLD’S NICEST STRANGERS. and they don't look down on those who hike for days rather than months.

On our map, the hike to Carson Pass appeared milder than our earlier segment, but outdoors types know well how looks can deceive. Sun, rain, steep switchbacks and tricky route-finding combined to make it longer and harder than expected. Two beat backpackers and one pooped puppy staggered to Carson Pass on our fourth day.

Trail Angels came to our aid again, refreshing us with fruit, chips and ice-cold sodas. Their selfless support proved that the PCT has become not just a trail, but a community. Hikers get to experience the west coast of the United States, and Trail Angels get the rewarding satisfaction of helping them. “They're so grateful,” said one. “It's like seeing kids' eyes get big when they see Halloween candy.” Though I've hiked many years in the Sierra Nevada and elsewhere, I've never seen anything like it.

We recovered enough to hike three more miles that evening, camping in the lush, wildflower-filled Meiss Meadow. We slept beside the historic cabin built by the Meiss family in the 1870s. Though the building is closed in summer, it stands as a reminder of life in a simpler time when mail arrived only rarely but the 209MAGAZINE

Truckee River provided fish regularly.

After about 65 miles, I felt we had adjusted to the rigors of the trail and the wilderness. That goes for my four-legged friend too. A pack of coyotes howled late in the night but Sam didn't make a sound, simply raising his head and ears before returning to sleep, snuggled beside me.

A final push to El Dorado National Forest took us to Echo Summit. One shouldn't expect help from Trail Angels, who won't always be found, but I was glad to get it a final time from friendly folks who gave us juice and homemade cookies. My nephew Benjamin Story also qualified as a Trail Angel by driving more than 350 miles to get us on short notice.

The hike still changed us for the better. There's something unique and special about trekking through pristine wilderness that's seldom visited while also experiencing unbridled kindness from the world's nicest strangers. Most of the PCT remains for us to do, but I suspect the day will come when we also visit the trailheads not to hike but to give back. ■ — Matt Johanson authored “Yosemite Adventures,” a new guide to 50 hikes, climbs and winter treks. His writing can be found at www.mattjohanson.com.

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209MAGAZINE

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bookreview

A true story

of dirty cops, soccer moms, and reality TV

By RICHARD PALOMA

PHOTO BY RICHARD PALOMA/ 209 Magazine

I

n 2010 when Contra Costa County’s Diablo Magazine Senior Writer Pete Crooks received a pitch from a Beverly Hills publicist about a local private investigator with his group of soccer moms turned P.I., and their soon-to-be released reality TV series, little did he know he would uncover and expose one of the largest police corruption cases in Northern California.

“It was such a sexy pitch,” said Crooks. “The P.I., Chris Butler, had this belief that soccer moms had this sixth sense for right and wrong. All these skills that moms have were great for investigative work.”

What developed later was a 10-hour long ride-along surveillance of a supposed cheating boyfriend as part of his feature. However an exposing email that he received days later stating the whole investigation was staged to get publicity and draw interest for the possible TV series inspired Crooks to go from entertainment writer to investigative reporter, subsequently revealing dirty cops setting up DUI arrests, selling narcotics from evidence rooms, robbing prostitutes, as well as at one point running a massage parlor.

Not only did Crooks reveal the criminal activity, but also showed that mainstream media programs such as Dr. Phil, the Today Show, and People Magazine had also been duped with their features on Butler and his group of mommy associates for the same reason – to get noticed for reality TV. At the beginning of this year, Crooks, along with BenBella Books, released a 320-page page turner that takes place along the 580-680 corridor titled, The Setup: A True Story of Dirty Cops, Soccer Moms, and Reality TV. “It never crossed my mind that it (the ride-along) was a hoax,” said Crooks, who said the magazine piece was originally accepted because the ‘moms’ were basically the demographic as many of Diablo’s readership. “I mean, it turns out there were nine adults that conspired to set me up.”

Crooks said the initial email he received from the person, who later went on to be a California Department of Justice informant into the corruption case, was a ‘gut punch.’

“It all started to make sense,” Crooks said, referring to what he thought were shoddy surveillance methods. “All these road flares I got on the ride-along were justified.”

Crooks became “obsessed” as his investigation into what happened started to unravel with Butler as he 209MAGAZINE

Diablo Magazine Writer Pete Crooks at cultivated a cyberhis desk. Little did he know he would relationship with uncover one of Northern California’s the informant. largest police corruption cases when initially assigned a piece about soccer As the rapport moms turned private investigators. developed, the informant revealed information that Butler, an ex-Antioch cop, was in cahoots with certain San Ramon and Danville police officers to frame clients’ husbands for DUI arrests for divorce and child custody proceedings.

As Crooks delved further he received more confidence from his cyber-source who then told him that Butler had C-4 explosives and was dealing drugs with the Department of Justice’s Norm Wielsch, who headed the Contra Costa Narcotics Enforcement Team.

“It was a curveball and I felt we needed to get a hold of law enforcement,” Crooks said. “There were drugs, C-4, and very serious activity going on with Wielsch at CNET.” Crooks, noting the danger of the situation, arranged through a trusted law enforcement friend for the informant to get in contact with reliable DOJ agents.

The story later reveals that the informant was a disgruntled associate with Butler’s team who was upset about being left out of the pending reality series.

“I think I got this info because I was paying attention to someone who needed attention and can’t stand it if someone else is getting it,” said Crooks. “(This person) wanted their chance. Twenty years ago you got famous on TV because you paid your dues as a newscaster or talented actor, but the ’02 writers’ strike caused ‘reality TV’ and the nastiest nobodies got their fame.”

Crooks, a film noir buff, tells the tale in his book in a straight-forward, sometimes sarcastic with a profanity or two, gregarious voice that makes the book a quick read.

“The voice of the book had to be down and dirty,” Crooks told 209 Magazine. “I had prostitutes, drug dealers, snitches and the narrative language had to be alike with these scumbags.”

Crooks ultimately said he wanted the ride the reader takes to be, “can you believe what these people are doing?”

Look for Crooks to be making Central Valley appearances to promote “The Setup: A True Story of Dirty Cops, Soccer Moms, and Reality TV” (BenBella Books, $24.95) in upcoming months. ■

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NOW THAT OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR YOUR HEALTH COVERAGE IS OVER

IT’S TIME FOR

VISION DENTAL

Phone: (209) 634-8911 | Toll-Free: (800) 400-0930 Fax: (209) 634-8848 | 132 S. Center St., Turlock, CA 95380

CA Lic #: 0G81319 209MAGAZINE

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45584_1

We have over 25 plans to pick from!

We will find a plan that your dentist or optometrist is on!

feature

T TES

P E T CO N T

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ST

CU

CONTEST

PHOTO BY JON MICHAEL TERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

WINNER

Daphne - 967 Votes Owner: Haley Pascoe

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CU

The Cutest Pet in the 209

T P E T CO N T

E ST

Meet DAPHNE

TES

Top 4

WINNER

By ROSS DICKERSON

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he winner of 209 Magazine’s Cutest Pet contest is a toy Eskimo poodle with a white-dipped tail named Daphne. Daphne’s mom is Hayley Pascoe of Turlock and she has had Daphne since 2011, when she found her at Pet Avenue in Turlock. Daphne loves to swim and Hayley says she is a water dog, through and through. Hayley reports that Daphne loves to go for walks and that she goes crazy as soon as she sees her leash. In the summer, Daphne loves to go to Grandma’s house to swim in the pool. Daphne likes to play fetch, especially if she’s retrieving a stick from the river in Shasta.

Daphne can shake on command and she knows the words “treats” and “bye bye.”

Daphne loves to stick her head out of the window when she goes on trips in the car with Mom and Dad. So much so, that Hayley will often receive text messages from people who have seen Daphne sticking her head out of the window while driving around Turlock.

Daphne is very protective of her Mom and Dad but not so much that she isn’t also friendly to strangers. She loves to go to pet-friendly restaurants where she is always extremely well behaved and where she sits in a chair and eats. Daphne loves going to the dog park in Turlock as well as on longer trips to out-of-the-area dog parks and attractions like restaurants and hiking trails.

Daphne is very attuned to her emotions and she wears her depression on her face when Hayley leaves. She also shows her excitement when Hayley gets home and she shows her happiness on her face as well. ■

Daphne - 967 Votes Owner: Haley Pascoe

CU

T P E T CO N T

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ST

2

TES

2

nd

Rocky - 674 Votes Owner: Heather Marshall

CU

T P E T CO N T

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2

TES

3

rd

TES

T P E T CO N T

4

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2

CU

Oscar - 169 Votes Owner: Sandra Placencia

th

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 

Regal - 80 Votes Owner: Jordyn Goodwin 209MAGAZINE

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Finalists

feature

Lola Alexandria Agresti- Assali

Mayra Karina Mendoza

Grizabella Shannon Ryan

Jax Jessica Sousa

Roberto Avalos & Megan Kiser

Buddy

Patterson Gloria Olivas

Zoey Angela Marcotte

Manny Shannon Ryan

Annette and Curtis Lineberger

Hunter Angelina Martin

Sampson Theodore Kelly Vander Veen

Brady Hollis Cattle Company

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feature

T

he star of NatGeo WILD’s brand new series called “Cesar 911” and the original host of National Geographic’s “Dog Whisperer” series, Cesar Millan, performed dog training techniques and shared the fundamentals of how to have happier, healthier relationships between humans and their four-legged family members to a soldout crowd at the Gallo Center for the Arts in March.

Some of the topics he discussed were behaviors like separation anxiety and aggression, which Millan explains is often misunderstood.

“I teach people how to respect species and let a dog be a dog, and I help people understand how their energy affects the human/ dog dynamic,” said Millan. “It is a lot of fun, and people tell me I’m very funny onstage.”

The idea of performing live began in 2006, when Millan shot his first Mastering Leadership DVD, “People Training for Dogs,” which was shot with an audience.

“We got a good response and, for me, it was very energizing, so I actually started touring later that year,” added Millan. “The show has evolved and grown over time, until it became ‘Cesar Millan Live.’ ” Two rescue groups, Pupz N Palz and Wags and Whiskers, were on hand at the Gallo Center with a few different canines so that Millan could demonstrate his methods and give guests live examples with multiple dogs that have different issues.

A pitbull named Nevie was brought out on stage by a representative from Wags and Whiskers Rescue. The group rescued the dog after she had been shot and was going to be euthanized. Nevie was a bit obsessive over toys so Millan showed the crowd how to deal with this type of situation.

Millan stated several times throughout the performance that as humans we have to be calm and assertive with our dogs along with being the ‘pack leader.’ According to Millan, the dogs see people as energy and they will feed off that energy. In the demonstration with Nevie, he took the toy and placed it on the ground and would not let her take it. Af-

PHOTO BY ALLAN WEISSMAN

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By VIRGINIA STILL

Psychology Center, I probably have about 30 or 40 dogs,” added Millan. “Some of them are permanent residents and others are just there to be rehabilitated.”

One of his most interesting clients was Jada Pinkett Smith, who was also one of his earliest clients. She had a pack of four gigantic Rottweilers that were a bit too much for her to handle.

“What was most interesting about Jada is that she just got it when I showed her how to work with the dogs and be their pack leader,” added Millan. “We’re still good friends and she’s also the one who paid for an English tutor for me for a year so that I would be ready to go onto American television.”

This led Millan to other celebrity cases including Howie Mandel, Patti LaBelle, Vin Diesel, Nicolas Cage, Scarlett Johannson, Hilary Duff, Daisy Fuentes, Annie Potts, “Downtown” Julie Brown, and movie directors Ridley Scott and Michael Bay. Here is some advice that Millan would like every dog owner to know: “Life is simple.

We make it complicated. Dogs are in touch with that simplicity because they live in the moment. Humans are not, because we either dwell in the past, which causes regret, or worry about the future, which causes anxiety. These emotions in turn affect our energy, which our dog reflects. If your dog is misbehaving, look at your own feelings and behaviors first. She’s trying to tell you something.”

For more information on Cesar Millan, visit trainingcesarsway. com ■ 209MAGAZINE

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On stage at the Gallo Center in Modesto, Cesar Millan was demonstrating how to handle a dog that gets excited when he sees food by being calm and assertive, which made the dog calm in a matter of minutes.

Cesar Millan was on stage with Nevie the pit bull, a dog that was saved by Wags and Whiskers rescue group, showing the audience along with her handler that she could be calm when she is around a toy.

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

ter a few minutes Nevie was just sitting there and was patiently waiting.

“I am self-taught,” stated Millan. “Much of what I do I learned instinctually and from the experience of working with thousands of dogs over the past 25 years.

“The vocation came from being around dogs and other animals from a very early age, so in one sense I’ve been working with dogs all my life, although I decided it was something I wanted to do for a living as a teenager.”

Millan talked about growing up in Culiacan, Mexico, and the differences between American and Mexican pet dogs.

“I work with a lot of other animals as a way to work with dogs.

I have a horse, a llama, chickens, goats, two turtles, and a macaw, among others,” said Millan. “The great thing about animals is that they communicate with energy so, unlike humans who speak different languages, a dog and a horse know how to 'talk' to each other immediately.

“In my personal pack, I currently have six dogs: Junior, my pitbull; two Chihuahuas, Taco and Coco; one Pomeranian, Benson; a Yorkie, Alfie; and the latest addition, a yellow Lab named Bentley.”

Millan has a Dog Psychology Center in Santa Clarita Valley that stretches over 43 acres and includes a sheepherding area, a swimming pool, agility course and hiking trails. At this facility Millan rehabilitates dogs, conducts training courses and clinics.

“At any one time up at the Dog

feature

s ? t e p r -fo

By ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN/ 209 Magazine

A

lthough Turlock veterinarian Robert Santos is afraid of needles, he gives shots to his patients every day. In fact, he recently spent some time in China studying the art of needlework in acupuncture courses, but the patients on whom he is performing this progressive practice aren’t stressed adults – they’re animals.

Behind Monte Vista Avenue Small Animal Hospital in Turlock is the Center for Pet Longevity where Santos brings animals to a private room to perform the acupuncture practices.

“I mainly perform it for pain relief and seizure control,” said Santos, noting that elevating an animal’s quality of life is the predominant reason owners bring their pets to him.

Dating back to roughly 5000 B.C., acupuncture is an alternative medicine created by the Chinese who discovered that putting pressure on something created relief. In an effort to expand his services and stay abreast of developments in the veterinary industry, Santos found that the pet community in the Central Valley was receptive to the progressive practice. However, it does have its limitations.

care

relief

If your leg is broken I’m not going to fix it through acupuncture.

I’m going to fix it through Western medicine, but acupuncture could take over for pain control or to help the immune system.

— Dr. Robert Santos

fix 209MAGAZINE

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Dr. Robert Santos and veterinary technician Shawna Carmo help a pet receive relief from chronic pain by performing acupuncture at the Center for Pet Longevity, just one progressive service offered at Monte Vista Small Animal Hospital.

“If your leg is broken I’m not going to fix it through acupuncture.

I’m going to fix it through Western medicine, but acupuncture could take over for pain control or to help the immune system,” Santos explained.

The practice is also becoming increasingly common as Santos said roughly 50 to 60 percent of veterinary students he has seen while searching for prospective hires are showing an interest in the field.

“When I was in class we never talked about it and that was 23 years ago,” said Santos.

A pet’s need for treatment varies though it is common for an owner to bring their pet once a week for about a month before transitioning to monthly sessions and then to yearly tune-ups, said Santos.

For more information about the Center for Pet Longevity, visit www. centerforpetlongevity.com. ■

youtube.com/ TurlockJournal To see a Studio209 video segment of Santos Pet Acupuncture, visit 209magazine.com 209MAGAZINE

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feature

By MELISSA HUTSELL

D

og parks aren’t only for the canines in our lives.

Communities at dog parks stretch beyond just the fourlegged. Connie Pinkston knows this all too well. In 2010, Pinkston adopted a German Shepherd and called the city to inquire about a dog park. The city lacked the funds for a park, but offered the chance to re-purpose an existing park. So Pinkston got to work and

formed a nonprofit, Friends of Modesto Dog Park.

In 2012, Modesto welcomed the Modesto Dog Park. After two years of fundraising and grant writing, the nonprofit helped to raise approximately $150,000 through community and corporate donations such as Petco, O’Brien’s Supermarket, Northern San Joaquin Veterinary Association, Mike O’Brien DVM and 209MAGAZINE

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APRIL/MAY 2015

Boyett Petroleum. They also organized events including one-mile dog walks and chicken dinners.

Support from local business and people keep the park going, while also making it personal, “people take pride in it.”

“There are approximately 65,000 licensed dogs in Modesto,” she said.

“The community is ready for more.”

Since the park’s inception, Pinkston has watched a community

It’s an extended family that sometimes leads to friendships outside of the fenced grassy acreage.

— Amy Lovett

209 DOG PARKS TURLOCK of dogs and humans come to socialize as neighbors and pets build friendships. One story that stands out to Pinkston is of a recently widowed woman. The widow was only drawn from her bed to bring her dog to the park. The dog’s need for exercise gave her purpose and the dog park provided the venue.

However, every city does not have a dog park, the funds or a nonprofit like the Friends of Modesto Dog Park.

Ripon resident Amy Lovett travels to Stockton or Modesto to take her dog, Kali, to the park.

“We can run and play at home but the interaction with other dogs is completely different than what I can ever give her at home,” said Amy. “Kali is always exhausted when we leave and wears a smile on her face.”

To Lovett, dog parks are important for socializing and safe environments.

“There is never a dull moment.

Even when the skies are gray and sprinkles are in the air, you can usually find another dog family out at the park to make it worthwhile,” she said.

There is always someone to strike up a conversation, and sometimes, even form bonds with: “It’s an extended family that sometimes leads to friendships outside

of the fenced grassy acreage.”

Lovett adds, “It’s amazing the changes I’ve seen in her, for the better. She has always been happy-go-lucky but she knows how to interact and play with the other dogs.” Like many other dog owners, she would like to see more dedicated dog parks. “There are so many people with dogs that are treated like family and try to incorporate their furry children into their everyday lives,” she added.

For Kristin Montgomery, her entire family benefits from the park. Her half lab, half boxer mix is given a spacious place to explore after moving from a 47acre ranch. Judging from Pep’s tail wagging, romping, and smiling, she thinks the stimulation, other dogs and humans he meets encourages everyone to be social.

“I enjoy conversations with the other dog owners, who all put their pets’ needs on par with — or above — their own,” said Montgomery.

“For the kids, it allows them to learn to interact with dogs of all types and not fear them. I enjoy seeing the different breeds and personalities of dogs. It reminds me of the creativity of God in designing animals, and helps me remember that all of us are exceptional, even if we look the same.” ■ 209MAGAZINE

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APRIL/MAY 2015

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feature

By MELISSA HUTSELL

T This is not your average horse rescue.

— Jeannine Etheridge

he Oakdale Equine Rescue has saved more than 250 horses since its inception in 2011.

What started with just six horses only five years ago has evolved into the Oakdale based non-profit organization whose mission is to rehabilitate, foster and find homes for each horse they accept.

Although she has always had a deep love and appreciation for these animals, Jeannine Etheridge, cofounder and president of the OER Foundation, says she “never imagined creating and running a horse rescue.” It was not until her daughter’s fifth grade project focusing on her future career that Etheridge became involved with animal recues.

“My daughter’s dream was to become an equine veterinarian, so I thought it would be best if she worked at a horse rescue.”

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Etheridge contacted the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which directed them to a horse rescue located in Ceres.

After a bad experience at the Ceres horse rescue, the family was redirected to an organization in Oakdale.

“After several months of working side-by-side with my daughter and donating time, I was chosen to be a board member,” said Etheridge.

It wasn’t long before Etheridge decided to team up with Lora Handley to create Oakdale Equine Rescue, along with board members Ramie Shumate and Mary Smith. And the rest is history.

In five short years, Etheridge has saved hundreds horses from neglect and abuse only to rehabilitate them and find them safe, loving homes.

“This is not your average rescue, “says Etheridge.

APRIL/MAY 2015

Lora Handley with newborn, Scarlet, who was born at the Oakdale Equine Rescue and later adopted at age two.

Photo courtesy of Oakdale Equine Rescue

around horses her entire life, she says she is always learning.

“Each are totally different and come from different backgrounds. It can be difficult because horses that come from abusive backgrounds are shy and don’t want to be touched.”

However, she has seen many come out of their shell, “As we work with them and form relationships, their personalities start to come out.” All horses receive training lessons, which helps them communicate and be comfortable around others.

“We teach them how to follow so that they can lead,” Rutledge said.

Each horse that comes to the OER stays an average of six months, said Rudledge, but some stay for years. The average annual cost per horse is approximately $2,100. Many of the horses that come are severely malnourished, require surgeries or medication, training and food.

“Some horses come in with no handling, so we have our own trainers on site or send our horses down to Monty Roberts International Training Center at Flag is Up Farms in Solvang, California,” she said.

Both Etheridge and Rutledge said that seeing these animals come in completely defeated is the worst.

“The reward is putting the time 209MAGAZINE

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IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: The Oakdale Equine Rescue P.O. Box 1980 Oakdale, Ca 95361.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: OakdaleEquineRescue.org

Dr. Buchanan at Sweet River Equine Clinic doing a health evaluation on Izarra, a severely malnourished Thoroughbred mare. Izara is now living with her adopted family and has made a healthy recovery. Photo courtesy of Oakdale Equine Rescue

and effort into these amazing horses to see the life come back into their eyes and be adopted by amazing families,” said Etheridge.

For example, the Oakdale Police Department will soon start its own mounted patrol with two of the OER’s rescued horses.

“The rescue horses will be out serving the public. That’s a good feeling and what keeps me going,” said Etheridge. “Rescue horses are truly a privilege to own. They learn to trust and love you, are the most forgiving horses, and are simply the best to own.” ■

APRIL/MAY 2015

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OAKDALE EQUINE RESCUE

Thanks to donations and fundraising efforts that include fireworks stands, and benefits, the OER continues to save lives while educating the public horse care and management.

Horses come to the rescue in several different ways. The Foundation works with animal control officers from Merced, San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties to seize, adopt and foster horses.

“We also help people that have fallen into hard times and need to place their horses. They trust us to find them perfect homes,” said Etheridge.

The OER has a strict adoption process that requires a one-time fee donation, checkups, and no breed laws to ensure horses go to good, stable homes.

“If we don’t feel like it is a good match, we won’t let you take a horse home,” added Etheridge, who has repossessed horses after several months with their new owner.

Lorissa Rutledge, a trainer for the OER Foundation, helps to nurture the horses through basic training and by building trust so they can be handled safely.

“Horses are my life,” she said.

“I’ve been riding them since I could sit on a horse.”

While Rutledge has been

feature

F

By SABRA STAFFORD

rom Bella the resident Eastern Red Fox to a host of early arrival baby squirrels and owls, the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center is home to a bevy of critters — both cute and creepy depending on your disposition — that make up the menagerie of wild things roaming Stanislaus County.

The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center is a non-profit organization that takes in and cares for wounded, orphaned or abandoned wildlife. The goal for nearly every bird, reptile, or mammal is to release them back into their natural habitat, though some through circumstances find permanent homes at the center.

209MAGAZINE

The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center was founded in 1984 by six people who had $300, no facilities to speak of, but plenty of gumption. The founding six members — Donna Burt, Phil McKay, Brian Feyler, Marsha Feyler, Diane Duncan, and Jeremy Obers, with Turlock veterinarian, Dr. Douglas Marks providing veterinary services — have built up an organization that for more than 30 years has given respite and refuge to the area’s animals in need. They’ve built a home on two acres of land running along the Tuolumne River and amassed a membership that tallies more than 1,000 individuals on the ranks, and is 56

APRIL/MAY 2015

manned by a collection of dedicated volunteers.

“I had spent time at another center and really felt there was a need for one in Stanislaus County,” said Burt, who in addition to being a founding member, is also the center’s executive director. “We were all committed to the mission of caring for the animals so that they could eventually be released back into their natural habitat.”

From the humble starts in a garage, where they could only care for a few animals, the center has grown to a point where each year sees more than a thousand animals pass through the doors. In 2014, the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center admitted 2,061 animals representing 113 different species.

The center includes a mammal complex, an aviary for raptors, a

coyote enclosure and a deer yard.

The center is in the process of growing again with the addition of all new bird cages and an eagle aviary. The eagle aviary was a planned expense the center had been fundraising for, but the need for new cages was a surprise, which comes with a hefty cost.

The center is hopeful that the unexpected costs will be covered through donations and from their annual baby shower fundraiser, planned for May 16. The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center will be opening their doors to the public and providing information about the many creatures that find refuge at the facility. The festivities will include special presentations, children’s games, and food and refreshments.

“This is a good opportunity for

people to learn about the wildlife center, the animals we care for, and the volunteers who work here,” Burk said.

Just like other baby showers, the wildlife center is hoping that guests will come with presents in hand.

Items that are most in need by the center are: paper towels, Dawn dish soap, unflavored Pedialyte, hand soap, Playtex gloves, Simple Green, bleach, new heating pads that are not auto shut-off, large trash bags, printer paper, toilet paper, unscented laundry soap, and money.

The center takes in animals year round, with the busy season running from the end of the April to the start of September.

The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center is located at 1220 Geer Rd. in Hughson, next to the Fox Grove Fishing Access. ■

Donna Burt holds a Golden Eagle recovering from surgery at the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center in February 2014.

PHOTOS BY CANDY PADILLA/ 209 Magazine

Donna Burt, director of Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center, feeds a red shouldered hawk in 2011.

209MAGAZINE

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APRIL/MAY 2015

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fulloflife

Do what works

BUILDING YOUR STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

We are different physically, mentally and find our challenges in different places.

By TERESA HAMMOND

I

would be lying if I said it gets easier.

Earlier this year, I shared a bit of my weight loss journey and what it took to get back to the healthy ‘me’ I remembered or better yet, recognized.

With just so much space allotted for magazine writing, there was much I was unable to touch on.

One key and intricate piece in the early days of my weight loss journey still holds true today: there is strength in numbers. The numbers I speak of are the people who surround me as we battle through this together.

Complete candor: I still remember the day I pulled on a pair of jeans in a size I thought I had left in my twenties.

The first thing I did was snap a picture and shoot a text to my weight loss partner in crime and very close friend ‘G.’ The text which accompanied was simple … “OMG! Look at this!?!?”

Celebratory words of encouragement came back and on we went with our day. Now, four years later we’re still texting each other as we get back on track, struggle through a tough workout or recognize beer is just too good.

Yep! Beer — my struggle, oh and pizza, pizza is also evil and I do love and enjoy them both.

This is where the words balance and accountability play an equally important part. Even the toughest of trainers or life coach will offer cheat days or ‘treat’ days (as some say) which are just as crucial to long term success. To hear the successful tout the buzz words ‘life changing’ and ‘not a diet,’ are also true.

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I don’t have all the answers. I’m not a nutritionist and hold zero college degrees in health. Quite simply I’m like many of you. I’m a busy mom, shuffling two kids, working full time and trying to keep my jeans from getting too tight.

Toned legs and a good endurance run are a double bonus.

I am, however, a person who has lived the struggle of how to do it, make the time and where to start. A person who still, four years later, eats my fair share of salads, fruits and healthy nuts.

This is where it all comes back to the true buzz words of this piece: support, balance and accountability.

The key to the latter two is to have the support of friends not afraid to offer up those words.

An example of this would be a most recent text exchange between G and I as I commiserated over the notion of my favorite shorts not fitting this summer.

Time to get it back in gear, was my text.

The IPAs have caught up with me, I continued. To which she replied, but they’re just so good. That’s why we gotta do the work.

She’s right.

In the end, we’re all different. We are different physically, mentally and find our challenges in different places. Make no mistake, the struggle is real. It’s real just as much for the 5 foot, 2 inch girl who makes it look effortless or the plus size girl who is content to maintain her curves and maybe tone up a little.

Seek productive support. Become accountable and then learn to balance.

Lastly, be brave enough to see what can be. In the words of Marianne Williamson, “Nothing binds you except your thoughts; nothing limits you except fears; and nothing controls you except your beliefs.”

Now, go be brave. ■

APRIL/MAY 2015

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Get into the swing at 209 golf courses

By DENNIS D. CRUZ

I

when you tee off,” said general manager Rick Morgan.

The course has many challenges for golfers as it features numerous bunkers, water hazards and plenty of trees. According to Morgan, hole two is the most challenging on the course, forcing golfers to get in the game right away.

“Hole two is 410 yards with a par four.

There is a carry over water hazard that doglegs right. It can be a challenging hole, but golfers look forward to playing it,” he said.

Oakdale Golf and Country Club has been a staple for golfers in the area since the prestigious country club opened its doors on July 3, 1961. A group of six men, known at the time as “The Big Six” founded the country club. It was a ninehole course until 1975, when it expanded into a full 18-hole course. Today the course hosts approximately 470 golfing members and 185 social members. Oakdale Golf and Country Club is known as an equity

t is hard to beat spring time in the 209.

The sun is shining, the days are longer, the birds are chirping, and perhaps the best way to enjoy Mother Nature is to head to a local golf course.

There are several golf courses and country clubs in the area. Whether they’re private or public, the region has you covered if you’re looking to enjoy a round of golf this spring.

Saddle Creek in Copperopolis is a unique golf course and resort with its 17 1,200-square feet bungalows, sports club facility with swimming pools, weight rooms and fine dining just steps away at Copper Grille. In a recent issue of Golf Digest, Saddle Creek Resort was voted the number 12 course in California.

“What makes us stand out from other courses in California is that every hole is different. Meaning no two holes are similar in yardage or scenery. Each hole is secluded and you can’t see the next hole 209MAGAZINE

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Scenery

PHOTO COURTESY OF OGCC/ 209 Magazine

club, meaning each of the 470 members own a share in the club. Outside of that, member benefits include flexible teetimes and social events A unique feature at the club is that it is also known as “The Country Club in the country.” Meaning that unlike other clubs, the dress code is more lenient.

“We are a working man’s golf course.

Meaning that if you have denim, and tailor made golf clothes, then you can wear that. We want our members to be comfortable. As far as a strict dress code, we don’t believe in that,” said general manager Rick Schultz.

Oakdale Golf and Country Club prides itself on the family atmosphere that it provides.

“We host an event here almost on a daily basis, whether it is the high school golfers, from both Oakdale and Escalon, or the ladies who come out here and hold their events. It is also a destination for those who are retired. They come from far and near to play here,” said Schultz, who has been the general manager for the past eight years.

Another great golfing destination is Ripon’s Spring Creek, which this year is celebrating its 50th anniversary. On July 17 and 18, Spring Creek will host a special tournament along with a dance to follow. Spring Creek is a full 18-hole course, and provides other perks as well.

“Fifty years in the community and it is still going strong. It has a classic feel to it, even though we have made a few upgrades. Three years ago we added the country club to it. Inside the new facility, we provide a fitness center,” said general manager Steve Hupe.

Spring Creek offers a unique program to those who are interested in joining, called the Prelude Program. The program allows those who are interested a six-month free trial. This program allows golfers to test out the perks of being a full member before taking on the yearly membership and monthly dues.

And whether you look to golf for primarily socializing with a little bit of sport, or take it on for the fitness and sporting aspect with a little time after to socialize at the 19th hole, the 209 serves up a variety of courses that will help you fill the bill. ■

Hole 17 Scenery: A look over the water at Oakdale Golf and Country Club during sunset, where the sun peaks through the trees and dances on the water. Spring is typically a beautiful time to golf in the 209.

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Hole 17: A view from hole 17 at Oakdale Golf and Country Club.

Hole 17 features bunkers and a water hazard as well as trees.

Outside of its beautiful scenery and hazards, hole 17 also includes a stone bench for spectators.

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placecalledhome

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◆ Adria Afferino ◆

Certified Preserving Expert

id you know it is easy to preserve all the wonderful fruits, veggies and herbs from summer for use all year long? Now that we’re entering spring, now is the time to start planning!

Preserving Fruits Do you already buy whole frozen fruit for smoothies and yogurt? An alternative to store bought frozen items is to pick locally in season, freeze on cookies trays until solid and then repack in your favorite freezer container. Another age-old preservation practice is canning. Fresh, local fruits are wonderful when canned as jellies, jams, preserves or liquid “syrup.” Most fruits are high in acid and can be processed in a water bath. When prepared correctly water baths prevents spoiling and kills any bad bacteria that may be on the jar and lid, while sealing to prevent air or contaminants from entering during storage.

For a kid-friendly snack, try drying fruit pieces or making a sundried fruit leather by first blending in a food processor. To firm the leather we recommend sun drying, using a dehydrator or a low temperature oven at about 125 degrees until firm.

Preserving & Pickling Vegetables Most vegetables are low in acid and require the use of a pressure canner to properly seal in order to safely prevent botulism. Tomatoes are the exception (yes, they are technically a fruit) as they are acidic enough to be canned in a water bath. The Greenery’s certified preserving expert, Adria Afferino, makes all of her own tomato-based sauces for pasta, lasagna, pizza and more. One trick Afferino recommends is to freeze

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the tomatoes whole or skinned, especially if you’re in a time crunch since frozen tomatoes turn to mush once thawed. She also recommends not using low acid or specialty colored tomatoes, as they aren’t always acidic enough for preservation.

Pickling has made a comeback thanks to the zingy taste, easy preparation and easy storage. When it comes to pickling think outside the cucumber. The Greenery recommends pickling jalapeno slices, whole okra, beans and more. It is also a great way to encourage kids to eat a veggie they may not like otherwise.

For additional tips, visit the National Center for Home Preservation website, your local UCCE Master Food Preservers, the Ball Blue Book or Ball Complete Book of Home Canning or please join us at the Greenery Nursery for one of our upcoming seminars: Using & Preserving Herbs on April 25, Preserving Berries in Season on May 16; Growing or Preserving Safely on June 16.

Reservations are required, and accepted online or via phone.

— The Greenery Nursery and Garden Shop is the premiere nursery centered in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley.

Headquartered in downtown Turlock, the Greenery is locally owned and operated while featuring a large selection of quality plants, shrubs, flowers and trees.

Additionally, the gift shop and recently added Gourmet Pantry is a local favorite for gift shopping. The Greenery staff has expert experience in landscape design and horticulture and hosts over 40 seminars annually featuring topics such as gardening, cooking, preserving and home décor. www.greenerynsy.com ■

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California

Closets offers stylish home storage solutions

By MELISSA HUTSELL

A

h springtime, a season full of birth, renewal, fresh smells and…springcleaning! Why not recreate your indoor spaces to reflect the purity of the outdoors? While the mere thought sounds overwhelming, this can be an opportunity to give your home a much-needed makeover that will last.

California Closets, located in Modesto, offers the Central Valley a solution to their organizational needs. Through custom design, the staff will re-purpose just about any space to fit your lifestyle and remove clutter, so that the springtime ritual is less chaotic.

Not all of us are blessed with the ability to consolidate, organize and make the very most of the space we have. The team at California Closets will work with each client to understand their space, and how to work with it, redefining ideas of organized chaos.

Whether it is a walk-in closet, kid’s bedroom, a kitchen pantry, man cave, garage, office or really any living space, California Closets can help make your dreams a reality, from consultation to installation.

Drawing on their years of experience, the professional designers create a custom fits specific to your home, your style and your 209MAGAZINE

Each system is produced regionally, making projects truly customized to each space.

— Byron Walker

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color scheme with their selection of finishes, accessories and even lighting. Your new space will be stylish and efficient.

“The best part is how a California Closet transforms a walk-in or reach-in closet space,” said Byron Walker, support specialist. “It takes advantage of the entire wall space to increase hanging, shelving and storage of clothing, shoes, jewelry, ties, belts, scarves.”

More storage space means less stress. Not only does this new storage solution ensure more visibility, it looks stunning so you have a space you are truly proud of.

The staff prides themselves on their sophisticated, efficient designs and lasting quality. The diverse amount of products at California Closets comes with a lifetime guarantee.

“Each system is produced regionally, making projects truly customized to each space,” said Walker.

Not only do they offer exclusive and personalized projects, most systems can be installed in one day, minimizing any disruption in the home or office.

The team encourages customers to come into their showroom to see how they can create and design your space. For those in the market for a storage solution, get ready for a transformation that will solve organizational needs fashionably with California Closets. ■

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: California Closets 601 Galaxy Way, Modesto.

CONTACT: (209) 576 - 8668 FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit californiaclosets.com

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charitycorner

rallying communities against cancer

By MARG JACKSON

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W

hat began some 30 years ago in Tacoma, have opted to retain the full 24-hour Relay event.

Washington with one man hoping to Relay For Life Community Manager Vickie make a difference has become an interCordoza, who is based at the Modesto office, has national phenomenon, raising nearly $5 billion to worked for the American Cancer Society for almost benefit the American Cancer Society. five years. This year, she will work with five events, Relay For Life, the signature fundraising event for assisting the committees that plan Relays for their the ACS, now numbers about 5,000 Relays annually communities and then attending the events to offer in 20 countries. support and expertise.

Dr. Gordy Klatt is known as the founder of Relay.

She will work with Oakdale, Riverbank, Tuolumne He spent a 24-hour period walking and running on County, Manteca and Escalon for the 2015 relay a track at the University of Puget Sound in Washseason. ington in May of 1985 in what was called ‘The City “Our (ACS) services, our research, what we have of Destiny Classic’ and he obtained pledges for his done over the last 100 years, that’s a given,” she said time on the track. It was all of Relay helping support part of his effort to help the the work the American American Cancer Society Cancer Society started in continue its battle against 1913. a disease that touches one But Relay also offers in three people in their more than that and is a lifetimes. Dr. Klatt raised very unifying experience, $27,000 in 1985 and the next she said. year, he was joined by more “It gives us a place to than 300 other participants honor our survivors, it that made up 19 teams and gives us an opportunity raised $33,000. to mourn the people that Throughout the 209, Relay we have lost,” Cordoza For Life helps raise money explained. “That whole 24 for cancer research, patient hours, we celebrate and services and education. remember and fight back, Teams raise money prior Relay gives everyone the to their individual events opportunity to do that.” and the ‘day of ’ Relay also She said taking up the includes booths with a vafight against cancer brings —Vickie Cordoza riety of food, merchandise, the community together, games, opportunity drawpeople from all walks of ings and more, with all proceeds benefiting the ACS. life with one common goal – beating cancer.

The focus is firmly on survivors at Relay For Life, Celebrate, Remember, Fight Back – these are the as they are the honored guests and lead the way touchstones of Relay For Life. Relays ‘celebrate’ those around the track for the initial lap after opening birthdays cancer survivors are still having due to ceremonies. Caregivers are also saluted and teams advances in treatment and early detection; they offer a can range from high school groups to churches, time to ‘remember’ those loved ones and friends lost; business teams to families. For that 24-hour period, and relayers have an opportunity to ‘fight back’ against whether it’s during an early April rain or under a the disease in a very concrete way. scorching late June Central Valley sun, the teams And while the goal of Relay For Life is to raise come together with a vision and a purpose. At least money to fight against a dreaded disease, the event one member from each team must be on the track itself is full of music, fun, laughter, and camaraderie. at all times during Relay … and the all day, all night Communities come together in the festival-style atevent is designed to drive home the fact that cancer mosphere for a day and a night, supporting each other doesn’t sleep. along the way.

In some communities, the event has now been It’s also a safe place to shed some tears, remembershortened to a 12- or 16-hour period, though many CONTINUED ON PAGE 72 

That whole 24 hours, we celebrate and remember and fight back. Relay gives everyone the opportunity to do that.

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charitycorner

209 RELAY DATES April 11

Livingston, Livingston High School

April 18

Hilmar, Hilmar High School Waterford, Waterford High School

April 24

Modesto High Schools, Modesto High

April 25-26

Ceres, Ceres High School, CSU Stanislaus, Stan State campus, Turlock Merced, Merced College,Oakdale, Oakdale High School ing those who lost their battle. Luminaria bags light the track throughout the night, the decorated bags including names of both survivors and those lost to the disease.

Though each Relay has its own special features, all include some standard happenings, including the opening ceremony, a time to honor sponsors, luminaria, ‘fight back’ activities designed to increase awareness of the disease, and the closing ceremony where teams learn how much money their event raised and team and individual fundraising honors are presented.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Relay For Life and it will be first relay season since the passing of its founder. Dr. Klatt died in August of 2014 of heart failure. He had also battled stomach cancer.

The work Dr. Klatt began three decades ago through Relay continues, said David Stempel, a senior consultant and media specialist at the ACS corporate office in Oakland.

“We need your help to finish the fight,” Stempel said. “Because when we walk and fundraise together, we’re bigger than cancer.” ■

May 1-2

Hughson, Hughson High School

May 2-3

Patterson, Patterson High School Riverbank, Riverbank HighSchool Tuolumne County, Sonora Elementary School

May 16

Always the marquee event, bull riders Manteca, East Union High School (Clockwise from top) In this balloon release ceremony at a previous Relay For Life in Escalon, participants wrote messages to loved ones lost to the disease and sent the balloons off in a coordinated release. Oakdale Mayor Pat Paul wields the scissors, cutting the ribbon to officially kick off a past Relay For Life in the community as the Boy Scout Troop prepares to present the colors. Opening ceremonies often include welcoming remarks from local dignitaries. Relay For Life is an exercise in hope – as participants raise funds and awareness – and focuses on finding a cure for the disease, as this sign that lights the night attests. Luminaria bags, purchased in memory of someone lost to the disease or in honor of a cancer survivor, are decorated and line the track, equipped with a candle or small light to help light the way for walkers overnight.

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May 16

Modesto, Johansen High School Turlock, Pitman High School

May 30

Los Banos, Pacheco High School Mariposa, Mariposa Fairgrounds

June 6-7

Ripon, Ripon High School

June 27-28

Escalon, Escalon High School

Sept. 12

Atwater, Shaffer Elementary School

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FROM 8:30 A.M. - 8:30 A.M. COME OUT AND HELP US END THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER ONCE AND FOR ALL! THERE WILL BE GAMES, RAFFLES, ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, GREAT FOOD AND FUN. RELAY FOR LIFE IS A LIFE CHANGING, 24 HOUR CANCER FUNDRAISING EVENT THAT HELPS COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE GLOBE FIGHT BACK AGAINST CANCER.

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charitycorner

Teach a man to fish...

Resource center educates for the betterment of youth

By TERESA HAMMOND

PHOTOS BY JON MICHAEL TERRY/ 209 Magazine

F The families I work with, to see them be successful, that’s what makes this all worth it.

— Mary Lynn Lebow Heroes 4 Health is a six-week course offered for kids and parents aimed at teaching about nutrition and the different food groups.

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rom bread to bed linens, better health to health insurance, for the family seeking guidance or assistance in these areas they are sure to find it at Parent Resource Center, Modesto.

“I’ll always say our basis was casseroles and coffee pots,” said Mary Lynn Lebow, a case manager and site supervisor, speaking of her bond with the Rhoades family.

New to the area, the couple had dropped into the center location at 530 S. Santa Cruz in Modesto inquiring on classes and services.

“We had nothing,” Seetal Rhoades said of her family’s relocation to the Central Valley.

“We had started all over. You miss the simple things. I missed baking and he (husband James) missed a coffee pot.”

Lebow said that within the week some essentials were located for the family. Admitting to being hesitant at first, Seetal Rhoades shared the appreciation for the kitchen basics.

APRIL/MAY 2015

At the time of this introduction, the Rhoades’ middle child Timmy had just turned one year old. Through one of the parenting classes offered by the center, Seetal Rhoades was able to meet new moms. The childcare services offered gave Timmy exposure to others and older brother Alex had the opportunity to play with other children.

“He would cry the whole time he was in there,” Rhoades said of her middle child. “Mary Lynn would say it will be okay. He was not really used to being away from mommy and daddy that much. We were both better for it.”

When the couple became pregnant with their daughter Victoria, they returned for the Healthy Birth Outcome classes. When insurance was hesitant to refer son Timmy for testing for a genetic disorder, the center helped as well.

“That’s been the biggest impact on me,” James Rhoades said of the center. “Having a person in the neighborhood we can go to.”

“It’s like this network with branches everywhere,” Seetal Rhoades added. “She’s (Lebow) got connections everywhere.”

“We work with a lot of different agencies to help our families,” Lebow said of the connections. “If we don’t offer the service here, chances are we know someone who does.”

James Rhoades attended the parenting classes as well, though he wasn’t sure he originally wanted to take them.

Feeling knowledgeable without assistance, he said ultimately he found the classes were beneficial.

“Even if you think you already know it, give it a chance. There really is a bunch of stuff I learned. It’s not going to hurt to check it out.”

Lebow has worked with the Parent Resource Center for five years.

She currently works with 34 families, as well as facilitates a parenting class and pregnancy support group.

She loves her work.

“The families I work with, to see them be successful, that’s what

Parent Resource Center Executive Director Susan Mendieta Beasley, far right, along with seven of the nine case managers that work out of the downtown Modesto location.

The Rhoades family, from left, Timothy, Alex, James, Seetal and baby Victoria are one of thousands of families who have benefited from the services and programs offered by the Parent Resource Center in Modesto.

makes this all worth it,” she said.

The Parent Resource Center is a private, non-profit, child abuse prevention agency, offering support to parents via in-home mentoring, classes, educational opportunities and additional referral services. Many of its programs are grant funded.

“The majority of our funding comes from grants and generosity of the community,” Executive Director Susan Mendieta Beasley said. “We have a very active Board of Directors and wonderful volunteers.”

Beasley shared her pride in what the case managers as well as volunteers offer to the community and said she is continually buoyed by the generosity through donations both of time and material nature.

“The children,” the director 209MAGAZINE

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said of what she looks forward to each day at work. “Children are innocent in the world and it’s up to the agencies like ours and the mothers and fathers to help provide the best for the children.

We need to do the best that we can for them.” ■

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: The Parent Resource Center 811 5th St., Modesto satellite location at 530 S. Santa Cruz Ave., Modesto.

CONTACT: 549-8193 or 549-8822.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Information regarding services offered may be found atwww.prcfamilies.org.

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lookback

I like to say that the ‘cowboy spirit’ is alive and well in the walls of the cowboy museum... the ‘Cowboy Capital’ slogan is still very near and dear to all of us.

— Christie Camarillo

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shares community’s rich Western history

By MARG JACKSON

F

rom a small corner of a former railroad depot to eventually taking up the entire building, the Oakdale Cowboy Museum has carved its niche in the community.

Oakdale – with its Cowboy Capital of the World moniker – was once home to more world champion rodeo cowboys per capita than any other town in the country. Over two dozen world champions hailed from Oakdale and the area also boasts more than a dozen PRCA, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Hall of Fame members. Cowboy Museum Executive Director Christie Camarillo said celebrating, sharing and preserving the city’s western heritage is what the museum is all about.

“The idea came to create a facility that commemorated our rodeo and ranching heritage, that actually came from a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce,” Camarillo explained.

She credited “good Oakdale people” with wanting to showcase the city’s unique history and said those discussions took place nearly 20 years ago. At that time, Camarillo was not living in Oak-

dale but said her brother Jerold, a two-time team roping champion, was one of the original planners.

“They said ‘let’s talk to some of the ranchers and cowboys, see if we can display some of those trophies and buckles and saddles’,” Camarillo said of the humble start.

Plans progressed, and the group was able to swing a deal with the City of Oakdale, which owned the former Southern Pacific depot along the city’s main F Street thoroughfare, renting a small 500-square foot portion to display their items.

Originally, the museum partnered with the Chamber of Commerce, was run by volunteers and they hosted fundraisers to help pay the rent.

Shortly thereafter, Camarillo left a longtime career in sales and marketing in the airline industry, returning home to Oakdale to take care of her ailing father. She was pleased with the establishment of the western museum, but felt her brother was not taking it as seriously as he should.

Meetings of the museum board, she explained, were on Monday nights.

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“Once a month they met, and it was interfering with his Monday night football,” Camarillo said, chuckling over her brother’s priorities.

She let him know she wasn’t happy that he was missing the monthly meeting and he in turn let her know how he felt.

“He said ‘if you think you can do a better job, you do it’,” Camarillo said.

So she did.

Her brother obtained permission for her to act in his stead at the board meetings and it wasn’t long before the group realized they had the person they needed.

“Coming from the corporate environment, I was really used to working,” Camarillo said. “I was helping with everything, I volunteered, helped out on the fundraisers.”

Strictly a volunteer until 2000, Camarillo said that’s when she was asked to come in as the executive director, as the group wanted someone that could take the museum “to the next level.” They also by then had broken away from the chamber and were a non-profit agency. CONTINUED ON PAGE 80 

lookback

PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/ 209 Magazine

Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Oakdale Cowboy Museum is a non-profit organization, supported through charitable donations and several annual fundraisers.

A framed poster signifying the 10th anniversary of a fundraising dinner for the Oakdale Cowboy Museum features several of the founding members of the organization and is displayed by Executive Director Christie Camarillo.

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Oakdale Cowboy Museum 355 E. F St., Oakdale HOURS: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday Saturday; closed Sundays and holidays

Though she didn’t have training in museum operations, Camarillo did have 20-plus years’ experience in marketing and a lifetime of experience in the ranching and rodeo arena. It was, as they say, a perfect fit.

Eventually, the museum expanded from one corner of the former depot to taking up a couple of suites, finally purchasing the building from the city and utilizing the entire facility. They have rooms full of loaned trophies, saddles, photographs, memorabilia, buckles, even a gift shop … and rotating exhibits that have featured everything from champion bucking bull Bushwacker to local ranching families.

Camarillo said the original group that had the vision has seen their dream come to fruition, as the museum definitely keeps the focus on the community’s heritage.

They also host specific events during the year to keep the doors open.

“We have four successful fundraisers that we do every year,” Camarillo said.

“Our support comes from a very generous community, without folks going to attend our events, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”

The Testicle Festival kicks off their year in March, working in cooperation with the Oakdale Rotary Club on that unusual – but always sold out – festival.

The Cowgirl Luncheon in April, during Rodeo Week in the community, is another sell out, and the museum hosts its annual Dinner-Auction in September. They also put on the Cowboy Christmas and Craft Show the weekend after Thanksgiving.

“Those are our big fundraisers that help us with our overall operating budget,” Camarillo said. “We have National Day of the American Cowboy in July – we work with the Oakdale Saddle Club on that to bring exposure to the day and our heritage.”

Camarillo said the area’s rodeo legends were more than willing to donate treasures from their pasts and share stories of their lives to bring the museum to life. She said visitors, no 209MAGAZINE

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matter where they are coming from or going to when they stop at the F Street museum, learn about a community rich in history and iconic in western lore.

Along with paying the bills and keeping the museum open, the fundraisers also allow the museum to achieve another one of the original goals – provide scholarships to students who want to cultivate their western roots. Oakdale High School, in fact, is one of the few schools where students can letter in rodeo.

“We give $5000 in scholarships annually to graduating high school seniors, not just in Oakdale but in the Valley, they have to be active in rodeo or production agriculture, cattle and horses,” Camarillo explained.

Another $1,000 scholarship, the Doc Dorius Scholarship, is available for a student who “aspires to be involved in agricultural health, nutrition, livestock or ranch management,” said Camarillo.

Over the years, there have been a couple of different renovation efforts at the Southern Pacific depot, with upgrading, interior changes and painting, making the museum a welcoming place for visitors.

“It makes me smile when I see people like past rodeo champion Bill Martinelli come in and smile, looking at his photographs, or Ace Berry or my brothers, they bring people in,” Camarillo said. “They bring people in to promote, share their legacy and accomplishments, show what we have in the cowboy museum.”

Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Sundays and holidays. The museum is at 355 E. F St., Oakdale.

“I like to say that the ‘cowboy spirit’ is alive and well in the walls of the cowboy museum and we are so lucky to have all this memorabilia and history, the ‘Cowboy Capital’ slogan is still very near and dear to all of us,” Camarillo added. “Being able to continue to work here, sharing a piece of our western heritage; that makes me smile every day.” ■

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IN PATTERSON

By ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN/ 209 Magazine

R

obots are usually reserved for children’s imaginations, but at the Amazon Fulfillment Center in Patterson they are very much a reality.

While Amazon has created its own robots to expedite laborious tasks usually reserved for employees, according to vice president of the company’s North American Operations Mike Roth, Amazon’s productivity is a result of a harmonious working relationship between the robots and the employees.

“All of this would mean nothing if you don’t have great associates to use the technology,” said Roth.

The Amazon Fulfillment Center in Patterson held its grand opening in January and the new facility has placed the town on the map as host to a rare eighth generation site, meaning it is the most advanced Amazon facility to date because of its Kiva Robotics.

Kiva Robotics function like large, orange discs upon which racks of items for shipping are stored. Without the help of humans, the sensory robots can change directions and offer up the rack with the most storage space to employees waiting to scan and organize the products.

Another proprietary creation of the company is what is referred to as the “Armazon,” a robot that lifts up to six tons of products on pallets as high as 24 feet with precision.

The collaboration between the Kiva Robotics and the hundreds of full-time employees at Amazon means tens of thousands of products leave the more than 1 million square foot facility each day as the company ships to 185 countries. As far as keeping the orders straight, “there are sophisticated algorithms to determine what ships and where,” said Roth, noting 209MAGAZINE

that items leave Patterson for regional and international deliveries.

While the new Amazon center has served as an economic driver in the region, it is also an educational powerhouse due to the company’s partnership with the Patterson Unified School District that is lead by Dan Fay, the general manager of the Patterson Fulfillment Center.

Fay is collaborating with Patterson High School where teachers and students are presently taking steps to build a warehouse on the campus that will serve the entire district.

“A couple of the teachers decided to create a business logistics track for their students,” explained Fay, who assisted in designing the building plans.

Inspired by Amazon’s new warehouse, the district warehouse and additional coursework will not only allow PHS students to learn the skills necessary to enter into a career in the logistics industry, but also potentially grant them necessary certifications when they graduate.

“This is one way I have been able to grow my personal relationship and the company’s relations with the community,” said Fay. While the partnership affords Amazon a potential pool of employees that could seamlessly transition to a job at Amazon, the partnership is also a win for the students.

“Our students have really enjoyed working with Amazon. It’s a great partnership to provide career training opportunities for Patterson Unified students,” said Patterson Unified School District Superintendent Philip Alfano. “I think that our work with Amazon will open doors for our students and get them thinking and preparing for their careers.” ■ 82

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Director Kish Rajan of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development highlights the important role private businesses like Amazon play in California’s economy at the company’s Patterson Fulfillment Center grand opening in January.

The collaboration between the Kiva Robotics and the hundreds of fulltime employees at Amazon means tens of thousands of products leave the more than 1 million square foot facility each day as the company ships to 185 countries.

Vice President for Amazon’s North American Operations Mike Roth indicates to a machine that builds custom cardboard boxes for Amazon products.

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F

resher is always better—especially when it comes to food.

Albeit better, fresh food is often compromised with alternatives that tout convenience, more attractive pricing, or options that simply play upon a consumer’s lack of awareness regarding the availability of locally grown food.

It is because of this that Stanislaus Grown—a coalition of local agricultural producers, growers, and supporters—strives to link the community to local farm fresh foods through the establishment of a cohesive brand, as well as a marketing and educational campaign.

“The benefit of Stanislaus Grown is not just to the community, but to local farmers,” said East Stanislaus Resource Conservation technician and Stanislaus Grown program manager Trina Walley. “Our underlying mission is to promote local agricultural products and the heritage of Stanislaus County.”

As a program under the East Stanislaus Resource Conservation District, Stanislaus Grown was created last year through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Farmers Market Promotion Program grant, which was awarded in 2012.

“We wanted to do something to bolster the economic feasibility for farmers on a lot of the small and medium sized farms,” said Walley.

“We really wanted to increase consumer awareness of locally grown crops.”

According to Walley, Stanislaus Grown achieves this by attending local events, including the Stanislaus County Fair and various farmers' markets.

The program has also played a role in developing the Local Food & Farm Guide, where buyers can learn more about the benefits of buying local, find out more information about farmers' markets in their area, and browse through a detailed directory of local producers.

By ALYSSON AREDAS

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“We’re making consumers aware of all the benefits of buying local,” said Walley. “With this guide, people can refer to a written publication to help connect with local produce.”

Despite the fact that grant funding for Stanislaus Grown will expire in March, Walley assures that the program will live on through ESRCD for 2015 by continuing to promote and support the local agriculture industry in a number of ways.

“We want to continue facilitating opportunities for local farmers or producers at farmers' markets or retail settings to help sell their product to the consumer,” said Walley.

The program has grown through partnerships, such as its recent collaboration with Ag Link.

Through this collaboration, Stanislaus Grown has effectively increased access to its Local Food & Farm Guide, as consumers are able to locate the guide through Ag Link CONNECT, the organization’s website and iPhone app.

Stanislaus Grown is also working with Stanislaus Business Alliance regarding downtown Modesto’s incentive program to bring in more businesses, especially local agricultural companies, to fill the many vacant storefronts.

“As part of that, we’re working on forming 209MAGAZINE

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a cluster or grouping of like businesses along 10th Street that relate to Stanislaus Grown or Modesto-made products,” said Walley. “One that has already opened downtown is Rodin Ranch.

Through their store, they sell their locally grown dried fruits and nuts and gift baskets.

“Our goal is to fill up more vacant store fronts on 10th Street with those types of businesses to create a locally grown corridor in order to create more farm-to-market connections for local growers,” continued Walley.

The program is also helping serve fresh, locally grown produce to area schools by participating in the local farm to school network with Ag Link, the University of California Cooperative Extension, and Stanislaus County Health agency.

“This is another way that we’re trying to connect the farm to marketing opportunities,” said Walley. “Our participation in the incentive program with downtown Modesto is an example of connecting farmers to retail opportunities, while our farm to school connection is providing farmers with opportunities in the local school market.”

For more information on Stanislaus Grown, visit stanislausgrown.org. ■ APRIL/MAY 2015

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FROM THE RANCH W

PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN/ 209 Magazine

hen Volkmar Kunerth attended Eurobike in Germany, the biggest bike show in the world, he did not just admire the sleek design of the electric bikes before him. He saw the potential to contribute to the worldwide shift towards sustainable transportation.

“I saw a heavy exposure of electric bikes at the show,” recalled Kunerth.

After performing some further research, Kunerth concluded that there was a relatively untapped market for such bikes in the United States.

“I wrote a little business plan and the projections for the U.S. market for electric bikes were four to five years behind the European market,” said Kunerth.

Kunerth is now taking steps towards making the progressive bike a part of main stream culture in the Central Valley.

Hybridizing his former career paths as a business development director and employee of Sustainable Silicon Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to generating environmental change and conservation, Kunerth established EV-Mobility Solutions last year which sells electric bikes, scooters, all-terrain vehicles and electric vehicles for transport and security.

“When you focus on clean energy, it makes sense to have clean vehicles,” said Kunerth.

While Kunerth noted that other areas of the state have already taken steps towards integrating electric bikes into their cities, such as the San Diego region which is readily equipped with electric vehicle rental stations and bike paths, he sees a significant amount of opportunity in the Central Valley.

Kunerth also offers electric vehicles targeted towards the agricultural market.

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TO

THE ROAD

BRINGS ELECTRIC BIKES,VEHICLES TO THE REGION

By ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

The electric ATVs and UTVs are typically used on ranches and dairies as employees often need to traverse hundreds of acres of land at a time. By introducing local agricultural operations to the benefits of electric ATVs— no gasoline and the convenience of plugging the vehicle into your garage, for instance – Kunerth is bringing progressive solutions to the Central Valley.

“It’s a little more expensive up front, but in the long run saves thousands of dollars in operating costs and gas bills every year,” he explained.

EV - Mobility Solutions sells electric bikes which allow cyclists to pedal, but with the assistance of a battery power, which expedites the journey and in turn allows commuters to show up for work in less time and with the added benefit of less perspiration.

“It’s called pedal assist,” explained Kunerth. “You pedal until you reach the proper speed as the electric engine helps you to accelerate.”

While standing and sitting scooters equipped with a basket are ideal for a quick jaunt to the store, Kunerth also has cargo scooters, which resemble minitrucks and electric patrol scooters ideal for security firms.

“What really drives me is basically my passion for clean air, sustainability and clean energy. I believe together with solar and clean energy production electric vehicles make great sense,” said Kunerth.

“And it’s a lot of fun.”

For more information on EV - Mobility Solutions’ electric bike and vehicle offerings visit ev-mobility.net or contact Volkmar Kunerth at kunerth@ev-mobility.net. ■

When you focus on clean energy, it makes sense to have clean vehicles.

—Volkmar Kunerth

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