209 Magazine Issue 10

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8PUB LETTER

Vol. 2 No. 10 ■ October/ November 2015 ■ $4.95 PUBLISHER Hank Vander Veen

GENERAL MANAGER Drew Savage

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Alysson Aredas Dennis D. Cruz Teresa Hammond Melissa Hutsell Marg Jackson Candy Padilla Richard Paloma Sabra Stafford Virginia Still Jon Michael Terry Frankie Tovar Natalie Winters Doane Yawger

ART DIREC TOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mackenzie Alameda Jaime Ramirez

ADVERTISING DIREC TORS Chuck Higgs Taylor Phillips

SALES & MARKETING Beth Flanagan Nina Frisby 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

Welcome to the Fall edition of 209 Magazine. As the leaves begin to change and we head into the busy holiday season I hope all of you take the time to reflect on how blessed we are to live in this region. The staff at 209 Magazine strives to continue to provide you with information about the region and all it has to offer. We hope you find the stories in this issue informative and entertaining.

In this issue we are focusing on some of the many talented people in our region. One story is about Turlock native and film producer Mike Hermosa who is gaining ground in the entertainment world with his soon-to-be released film, “The Head Thieves.” Some of the scenes were filmed in Stanislaus County and the movie is set in the county. We also have a story about photographer Aaron Draper who is bringing more light to the homeless issue with his photo collection “Underexposed.” Draper’s professional career started in Modesto and he is a professor of photography at CSU Chico.

Heading further north we have a story about Stockton artist Robert Kelley, whose distinctive illustrations capture a variety of subjects ranging from animals to celebrities. Another highlight is Maddy Hudson, who started her singing career in Manteca Idol and appeared on “American Idol” in 2014. She is now part of the “Leading The Change Music Project for Kids” through the Horses Help Kids program in Canada, a youth based global initiative that supports humanity and the betterment of young lives.

Hudson also co-wrote and recorded the song “Stepping Into Your Life” to be debuted at this year’s United Nations’ World Mental Health Day, which is recognized in over 100 countries.

Through this and every other product we publish we continue to maintain our focus on the communities where we live, work and play. Thank you for taking the time to read this and every 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.

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.

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Hank Vander Veen Publisher hvanderveen@209magazine.com

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IN THE KNOW-Halloween Events.indd 10

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intheknow

Preston Castle

By MELISSA HUTSELL

IF YOU GO EVENTS: Overnight ghost tours are offered to the public or private groups year-round and sell-out quickly.

DATES: Halloween Haunt – Oct. 16, 17,23, 24, 30 Halloween Costume Ball – Oct. 31 FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit PrestonCastle.com

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By MARG JACKSON

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ow is the perfect time of year to think of Halloween costumes, haunted houses, black cats and other suitably scary things.

But in Oakdale, specifically at the Oakdale Leader newspaper office, you could almost say it feels like Halloween all year long.

And no, it’s not the jars of candy a couple of coworkers keep on their desks for us all to dip into – it’s due more to the often eerie feel of the building we report to every day for work. The Oakdale Leader office is where we produce three newspapers – The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times – along with crafting stories for a variety of special projects and preparing our contributions for the 209 Magazine. The building is old; it has history. And according to many, it has ghosts.

Some staff members refuse to work in the building alone; others will not stay after dark.

Personally, I have never felt threatened by any kind of ‘presence’ in the building but it is something I have experienced. Catching glimpses of someone passing by my office when no one else was at work, having a television in the break room turn itself on from time to time, seeing a phone line light up as if a call was being made – again when no one else was on site – are just a few of the occurrences. Other times, you get the distinct smell of cigar smoke, conjuring up an image of a long-ago grizzled old editor, chomping on the stogie and hollering about deadlines, or catch a whiff of an overbearingly fruity perfume, a fragrance that you know nobody in 2015 is going to willingly wear. Lights turn themselves on from time to time.

You hear the back door open and shut but no one 209MAGAZINE

IN THE KNOW-Oakdale Ghost Hunt.indd 19

has come into or gone out of the building. From my office, I have heard dishes being rattled in the kitchen – when I was there by myself.

More than once we have had teams of ‘ghost hunters’ come in to assess the building. It hasn’t really been much of a ‘hunt’ – there have always been some experiences to record.

We have caught voices on tape, we have captured orbs in photos, we have used special equipment and meters to ‘talk’ with these unseen spirits – all of which you can believe or disbelieve, but don’t knock it until you’ve experienced it.

Initials like EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) and EMF (Electro Magnetic Field) become part of your vocabulary; you talk knowledgably about Ghost Boxes and Thermal Imaging Cameras. All in the name of scaring up a few spirits.

Popular television shows chronicle the adventures of many mainstream ghost hunters. As these programs often portray, it can be a lot of time spent quietly sitting in the dark, listening for anything out of the ordinary, sometimes using the equipment to ask questions and hope for a response, either through the lighting up of lights on a K2 meter, or hearing responses later when you review the recordings.

It’s an interesting process and you actually try to explain the phenomena with down to earth possibilities, rather than immediately jump to another dimension.

But we have had enough unusual ‘happenings’ in our 1930s-era building that it seems a few people just never left. Even after their time-clock punching days were over. ■ 19

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IN THE KNOW-Cheese and Wine Expo.indd 21

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ances, performing at festivals in Canada, Ireland, England, Hong Kong, Australia and essentially in theatres throughout the U.S., Madigan also has done specials like “Madigan Again” which premiered on Netflix, released four CDs, two DVDs, and starred in two HBO specials and three Comedy Central specials.

Chuck Martin will be Madigan’s opening act at the Gallo and she describes him as a solid featured act that writes and directs for shows like “Arrested Development” and still enjoys performing standup comedy.

“I want you to get your money’s worth because some headliners will pick an opener that is not as funny as they are, I think that is not very fair to the crowd,” said Madigan. “I am pretty confident I can follow any opening act so I only get funny people.”

Madigan will bring her comedic

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storytelling skills to the Gallo and review topics like family, politics, current events, and sports, to name a few.

“Being a comedian was really just an accident that just kept going for 26 years which is great,” stated Madigan.

“I am one of the luckiest people walking around and completely aware of it every single day of my life.” ■

PHOTO BY NATALIE BRASINGTON/ 209 Magazine

which she didn’t quite understand when she signed up to be a judge.

Despite the unfavorable experience, Madigan stated that “it is always good to be on TV telling jokes, no matter what the situation is. The outcome was good; it just wasn’t the experience it could have been.”

Being from the Midwest she spends her time between her home in Los Angeles and the Ozarks where her parents live.

Not really caring for the “perfect weather” in southern California, Madigan prefers thunderstorms and lighting – something more dramatic – rather than “the consistent just weird mall weather.”

Growing up in the Midwest, Madigan explained that they were so sheltered that she had no idea that being a comedian could be a career.

Now with widespread exposure due to her many television appear-

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Kathleen Madigan at the Gallo Center for the Arts TICKETS: $20 to $40; purchase at galloarts.org or 209-338-5062 TIMES: 8 p.m. Nov. 13

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intheknow

By MARG JACKSON

F

or the third consecutive year, the Latino Community Roundtable will be presenting its Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead – festival in downtown Modesto.

The festivities are set for Oct. 24 and will include a special procession, dancing, music, food and more.

Maggie Mejia, president of Latino Community Roundtable, said this year’s celebration is being dedicated to all of the victims of the devastating earthquake in Mexico City that struck 30 years ago, in September 1985.

“And it’s in memory of all of our young children from Stanislaus County who have passed on, who now are little angels of heaven,” Mejia said.

The Oct. 24 date, she added, is to get the festival in before the ‘fall back’ time change and the day will include a viewing of decorated altars, a procession from St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Modesto to the Red Event Center on 8th Street in the city, and an evening of food and music.

“The procession will be from the St. Stanislaus Church, we will have Aztec dancers, a hearse, a coffin we carry, we go all out for the procession,” Mejia said. “The church is around the corner (from the Red Event Center) on J Street but we are going to make the procession a little longer this year, we will go up to the Brenden Theatre, then down 10th Street, back to I Street, and the Red Event Center is at 921 8th Street, at 8th and I.” All are welcome to watch the procession for free, then view the various decorated altars that will be set up in the parking lot at the Red Event Center, also free of charge.

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The evening dinner and dance program has a charge of $30 per ticket and people can also purchase tables for eight at $250 that they can decorate to take part in a contest.

“People go all out in decorating their tables,” Mejia said of utilizing the ‘Day of the Dead’ theme.

For those that just plan to attend and don’t want to decorate a table, the LCR will have some already decorated. Even those that do their own decorating will have the tableware provided; they just do the theme work themselves.

“We are a Latino organization, so we serve Mexican food,” Mejia said of the menu for the night.

“We also will have a DJ, probably with Mariachi music. No host (bar) is at 6 p.m., dinner is at 7 p.m. and the music will start

about 8 p.m., we go until about 11:30 p.m.”

There will be a fun costume contest as part of the festivities as well.

This is the third annual Dia de los Muertos event hosted by the Latino Community Roundtable organization. Mejia said it is a fundraiser and proceeds help fund such LCR efforts as providing Christmas toys for those in need and backpack drives to help kids get ready for school.

For more information about getting involved, either through decorating an altar in the Red Event Center parking lot, taking part in the Dia de los Muertos procession, buying and decorating a table or simply attending to support the fundraising event, contact Mejia at 209-303-2664. ■

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intheknow It will be exciting to work next to my fiancé in creating a wine.

—Antoinette Benson

T

By MELISSA HUTSELL

ake your wine game a step further by bringtation processes with a close eye on the required ing out your creative side, and making your temperature for reds (80-85 Degrees) or whites very own blends. The best part – you don’t (55-65 degrees). Altogether, Foote estimates that have to be a chemist or connoisseur to get started. this process can take approximately nine months to Become an at home winemaker with Manteca’s a year until wine is ready to bottle and enjoy.

Delicato Family Vineyards’ annual At Home Antoinette Benson and Mike Flores attended the Winemaking Workshop. Here, you can learn the workshop to learn about the winemaking process beginning steps to the art of winemaking, and soon, from start to finish. Though familiar with at-home hone in skills that will impress palates with your brewing, both are new to winemaking. The class very own assortments. Each year, Tasting Room sparked their interest, as they are both motivated to Manager Richard Foote teaches a two-hour class on begin making their own blends together. the key to successful winemaking at home, “From Both Benson and Flores said they learned a lot A to Z,” he describes. His 27 years in the industry, from the class, including ways to keep costs down.

Delicato and more than 10 years teaching the class, has made “There are some short cuts you can do using tools Family him an expert. However, he assures that you don’t that are less expensive to get the same results,” said Vineyards have to be one to get started.

Benson. “What’s really great is that Delicato has all offers everything Everybody’s got to start somewhere, and that’s exthe tools and information at their winery.” a home actly Foote’s approach. He starts with the basics, from The couple is ready to put their newfound knowlwinemaker equipment and pricing to pH balance and storage. edge to the test. needs to get started. “[This class is for] anyone considering [winemak“We might even get creative and try a mangoing] or has done it in the past and it didn’t turn out,” pineapple white he said. wine. It will be With a glass of red wine in hand, he begins with exciting to work the fundamentals — terminology, common equipnext to my fiancé ment and additives — listing reasons for use and in creating a wine,” alternatives along the way. The step-by–step process said Benson. ■ is illustrated by power point, a collection of equipment at hand, and tastings of wine in each stage of fermentation.

Foote emphasizes the importance of sanitation during the entire process, as bacteria such as yeast, can mean disaster for batches if tools are not cleaned appropriately. “This is always a problem with at-home wineWHAT: Delicato Family Vineyards. makers,” Foote said. “Think very WHERE: 12001 99 Frontage Rd., clean. It’s good practice.”

Manteca.

With cleanliness in mind, next comes testing the pH and sugar CONTACT: (209) 824-3500. of your unfermented wine. Then, Richard Foote stands next to depending on the type of wine, FOR MORE INFORMATION: crushing/stemming equipment during a winemaking sterilize your juice, mix your Visit www.Delicato.com workshop on Aug. 22, 2015 additives, and begin the fermen-

PHOTO BY MELISSA HUTSELL/ 209 Magazine

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eveloped with the concept of “body, mind and spirit,” Toscana’s Ristorante, located inside the Tower Health and Wellness Center, encompasses a basic need for people — satisfaction.

The fine dining restaurant features California cuisine with an Italian twist. You can find local ingredients from the farmers' market in the seasonal dishes that are served. Executive Chef Michael Ortiz has been creating culinary delights at the restaurant for the past five years.

“The inspiration for the menu is derived from local ingredients and seasonal dishes,” Oritz said.

“It is important to us to incorporate fresh ingredients. I’m constantly working with local artisans in the community.”

Toscana’s Ristorante is an elegant, fine dining experience with an ambiance composed of soft lighting and architectural detail that reflects the Tuscan countryside.

“We make sure our customers feel like family when they come in here,” said Kevin Powell, the restaurant's front house manager. “Toscana’s is a place where you want to bring the people you love.”

Toscana’s in located in the Tower Health & Wellness building, sharing space with offices of different practices, all falling under the same idea of body, mind and spirit.

“The center is developed with the idea of family medicine, sports medicine and wellness,” said Dr. Joseph Romeo, partnered owner. “You feel better when you get in here and you want to get better when you’re here to get yourself back in the game. In Toscana’s, Kevin and Mike are going to make that happen for you. That’s the goal; they do good work and they do good things.”

The restaurant was built in 2006, and is coming up on a decade of business.

“We continue to build, it’s a process,” Dr. Romeo said. “If you walk around here, you’ll not find another place like this, anywhere. Not even San Francisco; it’s just a concept and idea we grew up with.”

Toscana’s proves their desire to satisfy the customer with their motto, “Special requests are our specialties.”

“Mike is really personable,” Powell said. “He’ll come out to your table and maybe get a few adjectives on what you like or what you don’t like. He’ll prepare you something from that information and leave you with the satisfaction of, ‘Wow, he really cared about what I wanted to eat and fulfilled what I needed.’”

Catering and banquets keep Toscana’s active year round, allowing them to travel throughout the area and provide great food to any kind of aggregation.

Surrounding the restaurant and offices is an atrium that soars high past the height of an average room’s ceiling. The central hall can hold over 300 people and is home to many banquets and events of all different occasions.

“The atrium is built to be a gathering center for the community,” Dr. Romeo said. “We have big events there where people can come, bring their family and kids and have a nice evening.”

Toscana’s Ristorante continues to build and maintain ties throughout the community.

They’re currently supporting CSU Stanislaus by hosting a fundraiser dinner with proceeds going to academic scholarships for students on a need and merit base.

“We are very integrated with the university and town,” Dr. Romeo said. “It’s the Valley culture, being part of the whole.” ■ 209MAGAZINE

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“We make sure our customers feel like family when they come in here.

Toscana’s is a place where you want to bring the people you love.”

— Kevin Powell

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Toscana’s Ristorante 1801 Colorado Ave., Turlock CONTACT: Reservations are accepted at: 209-216-3555 HOURS: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday- Thursday 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.toscanas.net

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portions of French fries, hush puppies and fresh coleslaw served family style.

Beverages are served in their finest glassware – AKA Mason jars – and starters are served on tin plates.

All dinners are served with rice pilaf, red beans and a slice of French bread.

A reasonably priced Seniors Menu for those 55 and older is available before 6 p.m. for just $8.00 that includes your choice of a Cajun spiced fillet, a catfish filet charbroiled, their crawfish enchilada or fried calamari served with fries, hushpuppies, coleslaw and their cobbler.

And as most regular dinners are priced from $14.00 to $20.00, this is a great deal.

With those reasonable prices, the portions are good sized for the discerning diner who’s comfortable at a country joint of which the likes “city folk ain’t never seen.”

Watkins said a customer favorite was the rib eye steak and ‘gator’ nuggets and he highly recommends the Cajun shrimp and lemon.

To top off the meal, the Catfish House serves a fresh made peach or boysenberry cobbler with a scoop of ice cream as dessert.

Watkins said his place is so popular he’s rarely had to advertise as word of mouth promotes the hidden gem.

Watkins invited readers of the 209 to join his “cast of regulars” who come hungry and leave fully satisfied every time. ■ 209MAGAZINE

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Known as one of the best kept secrets in the Modesto area, the menu has unique items to delight taste buds with outstanding fried, charbroiled or blackened catfish, shrimp dishes, frog legs or their well-known special, a rib eye steak with ‘gator,’ along with so much more.

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: FARMER’S CATFISH HOUSE 4937 Beckwith Road, Modesto, CA CONTACT: (209) 526-0969 HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

PHOTOS BY RICHARD PALOMA/ 209 Magazine

ocated at the crossroads of two country roads outside Modesto in Wood Colony, a small jaunt from the center of town, Farmer’s Catfish House is well worth the trip for great Southern food and service in a homestyle atmosphere.

Known as one of the best kept secrets in the Modesto area, the menu has unique items to delight taste buds with outstanding fried, charbroiled or blackened catfish, shrimp dishes, frog legs or their well-known special, a rib eye steak with ‘gator,’ along with so much more.

“We’ve been here since 1982,” said owner Tom Watkins, who came to the West Coast from Mississippi in 1979. “I had plans to open something when I got out here. We’ve made a lot of regular customers and friends here over the years.”

The interior ambiance is simple: rustic, wood and metal, providing a laid back and casual atmosphere.

“At times I have regulars consisting of church groups from Stockton and Turlock calling me to open early,” Watkins said. “We can get pretty packed.”

Watkins describes his restaurant as unique with no other place similar to it in the area, serving catfish any way you can imagine and other “delicacies from the South” with a down home country feeling.

The moment diners sit down they’re greeted by a friendly staff with generous

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Mark and Dana Kirkes, Owners of MK Electric & Design, with Oak Valley’s Dianna Bettencourt, Turlock Branch Manager, 209.633.2867 and Susan Quigley, Business Development Officer, 209.633.2855

“We have never had a bank ask what they could do to help us be more successful. When we were approached by Oak Valley Community Bank that’s exactly what their team did. They’ve been interested in ur business, proactive, and helpful from day one.”

- Mark Kirkes, MK Electric and Design Inc.

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O “There have been other works of homeless individuals, but I noticed a lot of those use long lenses, and are photographed in black and white to show the grim and grit and really cast them as the downtrodden.

I wanted to do the opposite. I wanted to cast a light on them and show them in a way that challenged people’s preconceived ideas of who the homeless really are."

ver the years Aaron Draper has developed a keen eye for detail and light and that skill has made him a sought after and well-regarded photographer, but it turns out his gift of gab is behind the project that proved to be his most ambitious and rewarding.

Draper is the creator of “Underexposed,” a photographic collection of the homeless community in the 209 and Bay Area.

“In photography the term ‘underexposed’ means the image is losing details in the shadows,” Draper said. “I felt like it was an appropriate description of the people I was photographing because their stories and backgrounds were getting lost in the shadows. These are the people that were falling into the shadows and only in the periphery of society.”

Draper used lighting to cast away the shadows from his subject and literally and figuratively put his subjects in a new light for the public.

“There have been other works of homeless individuals, but I noticed a lot of those use long lenses, and are photographed in black and white to show the grim and grit and really cast them as the downtrodden,” Draper said. “I wanted to do the opposite. I wanted to cast a light on them and show them in a way that challenged people’s preconceived ideas of who the homeless really are.

“I discovered that when I used the lights on them, the harshness would fall away and the beauty would shine through. It was about celebrating them as people and I took the same approach that I would with any other commercial project,” Draper added.

Draper is currently a professor of photography at California State University, Chico and is a freelance photographer based out of San Francisco. His professional career began in Modesto and that was where the project first came to life.

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The project began about five years ago in Modesto, when Draper found himself in need of a break from a rather difficult client. He was driving around 9th Street when he spotted a face that drew him in.

Always a loquacious fellow, Draper had no hesitation in pulling over and starting up a conversation with the man, who Draper would learn was named Leon and was a shrimper originally from the Louisiana area.

“He had a great smile and a great story,” Draaper said. “I then just asked if I could photograph him and he said yes. From there I started driving around and talking to some of the homeless individuals I would meet. It felt in some ways I was answering a question that society wanted to know as to who these people were and what were their circumstances.”

The project grew when Draper moved to San Francisco and started to meet more homeless individuals, all with a unique story to share.

“As long as there are homeless people, then the project will continue,” Draper said. “I will keep working to tell their stories.”

Draper was very conscious of not taking advantage of his subjects, so he treated each one like a model.

They were paid a $1 per minute and signed a photo release.

“For many of them it was a different level of respect afforded to them and helped them feel good about posing for the photographs.”

For some of his subjects it had been a long time since they had seen themselves in a photograph and the outcome was something that caught them by surprise, but in a good way.

“They liked how they looked and how the light shone on them,” Draper said. “These are some of my favorite photographs,” Draper said. “I love the texture in them and how that helps tell their stories.” ■

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s Henry David Thoreau once said, "It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see." Robert Kelley certainly stays true to these words of wisdom, as there’s a lot more to his pieces than meets the eye.

You don’t need to be an art aficionado to see why the Stockton native has taken the community by storm. This local artist continues to gain notoriety with his distinctive illustrations, which capture a variety of subjects ranging from animals to celebrities – each featuring clever subtleties that are anything but static.

His dynamic depictions can be found in local businesses, households, and throughout the world, including the Mile Wine Co. in Stockton, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and even London.

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The inspiration for his artwork comes from everything he experiences, from social media to music, and all things in between. He combines his interests in art with history, research and society to create pieces that are entirely exclusive.

Above all, Kelley tells the stories of the characters he captures through obvious expression and subtle nuances.

“The character and their life story give me the inspiration,” he said.

Through juxtapositions hidden in each piece, Kelley hopes to inform and stimulate his audiences. “[My] stuff has a little darkness and lot of emotion,” he explained. “If you love it, good. If you hate it, good. I want my art to form an opinion.”

Some portraits include household names such Robin Williams, Ice Cube, Jack Nicolson and Bob Marley.

Though he primarily paints portraits

By MELISSA HUTSELL

feature

“[My] stuff has a little darkness and lot of emotion. If you love it, good. If you hate it, good. I want my art to form an opinion.”

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using a variety of materials including pastels and alcohol, he immerses in a variety of mediums.

Kelley was born an artist. His father, who shared his artistic ability, nurtured his talent from a young age.

“I remember as a kid, four years old, sitting at a table with my dad and my siblings drawing and coloring,” he said. “Growing up, that’s what I did. I always did it in some way shape or form.”

Kelley pursued a degree in graphic design before attending San Francisco’s acclaimed Academy of Art University to study illustration. Despite his studies, he never anticipated a career as an artist, and so, he put his art on the back burner, until two years ago when “it finally just clicked.” He hit the ground running and soon, his home became his studio. However, his recent success did not come without a struggle to find his own confidence.

“I know what it’s like to have a passion but be afraid,” he said.

His goals are not only to illustrate and evoke emotions, but also, to provide a service that gives back to the 209, which he holds close to his heart.

“What I do is not about me – it’s for the world. I use the ability I’ve been given to do good for my community,” he said.

Kelley works with local charities such as the Children’s Center, March of Dimes, Art Expression of San Joaquin, and The Hospice of San Joaquin to help raise funds, and encourage the next generation of artists.

“I belong to Stockton, my artwork belongs to Stockton. And this community.”

View more of Robert Kelley’s Work at: Facebook.com/RobertKelleyArtist ■

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To see a Studio209 video segment of the Tiki Tradition, visit 209magazine.com

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Volunteers Needed! HOW YOU CAN HELP…

TURLOCK GOSPEL MISSION is Hosting its

Annual Thanksgiving Dinner & Celebration When: Thursday, November 26th Where: 437 S. Broadway Time: 11am to 1pm

• We need volunteers to help serve Thanksgiving dinner to people in need from 11am to 1pm.

• We need volunteers to help set up tables starting at 9:30am and volunteers to tear down tables starting at 1pm.

• Financial donations are needed to cover the cost of the Thanksgiving dinner.

• Donations of can food items, paper plates, paper cups and plastic ware are needed. To see a full list go online to turlockgospelmission.org • A Christmas gift for a boy or girl is needed. To see a list of items needed go on line to turlockgospelmission.org • All Christmas gifts will be given to local families in need.

For more information about HOW TO VOLUNTEER OR DONATE PLEASE CALL

209-656-1033 or go online at turlockgospelmission.org

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BRINEGAR/ DISNEYLAND

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DISNEYLAND CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF MAGIC

By DENNIS D. CRUZ

T

he year was 1955. The United States of America was under the leadership of president Dwight D. Eisenhower; the national average price of gasoline was 30 cents per gallon; Jackie Gleason entertained the world in the “Honeymooners” and “Mr. Sandman” by the Chordettes topped the Billboard Music charts.

All memorable but perhaps the most significant event that took place in 1955 was the opening of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.

On July 17, 1955, Walt Disney unleashed his imagination and vision to the world when he opened the theme park to the public.

According to Disney legends, Disney got the idea for the theme park while taking his daughters to ride a local carousel. As he sat watching them, he thought to himself, “Wouldn’t it be better to have a place where adults and children could do fun things together?” When he pitched the idea he didn’t waste time and got right to work. The park was built and opened one year to the day from its original groundbreaking.

Disneyland Resort had 18 major attractions when the Magic Kingdom opened. Among these attractions, many of them are still in working order and draw large crowds. Although they have been significantly enhanced over time, they still

have that Walt Disney touch. Notable original attractions include The Jungle Cruise, The Mad Tea Party, King Arthur Carrousel, Snow White’s Adventure, Mark Twain Riverboat and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Today there are more than 60 major attractions in Disneyland Resort alone. In these futuristic times, Disneyland Resort has gone through many changes to adapt to the park-going public. However, Walt Disney has famously been quoted as saying “Disneyland will never be completed as long as there is imagination left in the world.”

John McClintock of Disneyland Resort Public Relations added, “In addition to the great emotional attachment people feel toward the Disney characters and stories, Disneyland benefits from the creativity of the great team creating new attractions and shows for Disneyland Resort. Our ‘imagineers’ as they are called, are extremely conscious of and dedicated to the responsibility of continuing that tradition.

Newer attractions such as Star Tours: The Adventures Continue and enhanced classics such as Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean tell traditional stories with current technology.”

Over the last 60 years, Disneyland Resort has been referred to as “The Happiest Place on Earth”

“Disneyland strives to create magic and happiness for guests of all ages, using characters and storytelling techniques developed over decades of motion picture entertainment. We like to think every Disneyland experience provides fun and adventure for children, seniors and everyone in between.”

— John McClintock

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By TERESA HAMMOND

Japanese Tea Garden 209MAGAZINE

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he city of San Francisco offers more than sports teams, shopping and eateries that rival the finest in the world. Flanked by bridges on each end, skyscrapers in the middle and the ominous fog which keeps visitors at bay, the City by the Bay is the ideal place to find some sun and enjoy the fall season.

Traditionally known as the coldest place to spend one’s summer months, the city just 90 miles west of the Central Valley typically hosts an Indian Summer in the October and November months, making for ideal weather to get outside and explore.

Modeled after New York’s Central Park, Golden Gate Park is believed to be one of the best city parks in the United States. It is the largest manmade park in the world, spanning over 1000 acres and over three miles long (50 blocks). It is reported to host over 13 million visitors per year.

Among the park’s numerous attractions, it offers a number of affordable activities ideal for a family picnic, first date or touring for out of town guests. Situated less than one mile apart and with ample public parking options the city’s Stow Lake, Botanical Garden and Japanese Tea Garden are one such way to spend a day.

Stow Lake is the largest of the 10 lakes located within the park. On the northwest side of the lake, visitors can rent a row boat or paddle boat and enjoy an hour of leisure on the water while taking in the scenic views.

As one circles Strawberry Hill located in the center of the lake, they are treated to turtles sunning themselves on boulders and branches, birds taking flight and the sounds of an unexpected waterfall. There are also a number of foot bridges boaters pass under as they float around the lake, offering a whimsical bit of fun and storybook feel.

Staff members of the boat house are both cheerful and friendly, offering assistance, as well as advice to persons loading and exiting the boats.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a true hidden treasure for the nature walk enthusiast or persons seeking a beautiful quiet setting to picnic. A key part of Golden Gate Park history, 2015 marks the 75th anniversary since the garden opened to the public. CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 

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SF Botanical Garden

A DAY IN THE BAY STOW LAKE BOATHOUSE

Stow Lake Boathouse

It is commonly visited by locals wishing to escape into nature. The location offers more than 50 acres of plant life showcasing over 8,000 different kinds of plants from all around the world.

San Francisco’s mild temperatures provide a unique climate range which allows it to grow and conserve plants from all areas of the globe. Large lawn areas, flanked by regional garden offerings, allow visitors places to both relax as well as explore and learn.

Just steps away from the North Gate entrance on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Golden Gate Park visitors will be treated to the uniqueness of the Japanese Tea Garden.

Originally built as part of the World’s Fair in 1894, it is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States. Throughout its serene five acres, those visiting are able to meander down a number of paths. Of those many paths, one may

be led across a koi fish filled pond, a tea house or its fivetiered pagoda.

The pagoda was obtained was obtained by Japanese immigrant, gardener and the visionary behind the permanence of the tea garden, Makoto Hagiwara.

Hagiwara was the park caretaker from 1895 to 1925. He secured possession of the pagoda as well as the garden’s two large ornamental wooden gates at the conclusion of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco.

Tours of the garden are offered daily. The tours include a tour of Stow Lake and Strawberry Hill. Information includes origins of the gardens, history of the various structures and elements, as well as personal offerings by the guides. While picnicking is prohibited, an alfresco dining area is available for visitors.

All attractions are opened 365 days out of the year. ■ 209MAGAZINE

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Location: 50 Stow Lake Drive San Francisco, CA Hours of operation: Monday thru Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last boat released at 5 p.m.)

Rental Rates: Row Boats - $20/hour Pedal Boats - $25/ hour Electric Boats - $34/ hour 4-6 Passenger Pedal Boats - $34/hour

SF BOTANICAL GARDEN

San Francisco Botanical Garden is open 365 days a year. Hours of operation vary by season. Entrances to the park are located the corner of Ninth Avenue and Lincoln Way or Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

Admission: Adults $8, Youth 12-17: $6, Children 5-11: $2, Child 4 and under Free, Families: $17 (2 adults and all children under 17)

JAPANESE TEA GARDEN

Location: 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive San Francisco, CA (East of Stow Lake, between John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King. Jr. Drive) The Japanese Tea Garden is open year round, including all Holidays.

Hours of operation: Summer (3/1 through 10/31): 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winter (11/1 through 2/28): 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Admission: Adult: $8, Senior (65+)/ Youth (12-17): $6, Child: $2, Children 4 and under: Free *Mon., Wed., Fri.: Free Admission if entered by 10 a.m

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charitycorner

KNIGHTS IN SILVER

AND BLACK

ARMOR GIVE BACK

By DENNIS D. CRUZ

“We are Raider fans and love our team, but we love our community more. This is where we live and we all have to do our part to lend a hand.” — Endy Rivas

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED/ 209 Magazine

T

he Oakland Raiders have always carried a certain image in the National Football League. Intimidating, tough, win at all cost, with no regard for their opponents. Hard to believe that in the fall of 1999, a group of Raider fans collaborated with the historic franchise and formed the charitable group The Knights of the Shield in Fresno. Since then, they have expanded to five chapters in several areas of California; those covered by area codes 559, 714, 707, 310 and most recently the 209.

Endy Rivas, who was an original member of the Fresno (559) organization, was handpicked to become the president of the proposed 209 chapter in 2014.

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e Shield 209 the Knights of th This past August s to help ck pa d over 70 back Chapter collecte needs. ol ho -sc -to ck ba eir local kids with th

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“Our goal was to bring the booster club to the 209 area. In November of 2014 we were up and running. We currently have over 260 members in our club,” said Rivas.

In just 10 months the Knights of the Shield 209 Chapter has hit the pavement hard, making a difference in the 209 area, from Lodi to Merced. Unlike the NFL team’s image, the chapter has shown compassion toward those less fortunate in the area. Rivas and the rest of the club have rolled up their sleeves and gone to work trying to make the community better and helping those who have hit a rough patch in their lives.

“We are Raider fans and love our team, but we

apter teamed Shield 209 Ch e th of d s ht ig The Kn organize bloo Blood Bank to run as lly ca ifi ec up with Delta sp e m e summer, so ill youngster. drives over th Drives for an d oo Bl t en Replacem

Oakland Raiders qu arterback Derek Ca rr delivered his testim ony at the Turlock Go spel Mission in April. Ca rr handpicked the 20 9 Chapter to help with the event.

love our community more. This is where we live and we all have to do our part to lend a hand,” said Rivas.

The Chapter has participated in several charitable acts during their inaugural year. This past August, the Knights helped out 70 kids from the Dad’s House Education and Group Center of Modesto with needed supplies for back to school.

The Dad’s House Education and Group Center is an organization that helps single dads and their kids get back on their feet. The Knights teamed up with Dad’s and put together a backpack drive for kids in the center. The chapter also teamed up with Ruben’s Barbershop of Modesto and gave kids 209MAGAZINE

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back-to-school haircuts free of charge.

“These kids and parents needed help. When we heard about kids not having backpacks or haircuts for school, we knew we had to help out,” said Rivas.

The Knights also teamed up with Delta Blood Bank locations in the area and put together blood drives for those in need. From Sept. 17 through Oct. 3 the Knights and Delta Blood Bank hosted a replacement blood drive for 2-year-old Michelle Marques, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The drive was held in Turlock, Modesto, Stockton and Manteca.

During the holiday season of 2014, Knights of the Shield 209 Chapter put together turkey, toy and clothing drives throughout the 209 to help those less fortunate and needing a helping hand to get through the holidays.

“We were able to help out numerous families and individuals during the winter.

We plan on doing that again in the upcoming months. It’s just something we are all passionate about,” said Rivas.

With the recent wildfires in this region, the Knights organized a drive that included essentials for those who were forced to evacuate. They also volunteered to offer services for cleanup, repairs and anything else that may be needed to help in recovery efforts.

For more information on Knights of the Shield Chapter 209, log on to their Facebook page, keyword Knights of the Shield. ■ OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

9/30/2015 11:58:40 AM

fulloflife

Look up

Living in our presents

By TERESA HAMMOND

W

Even the most ‘healthy’ of persons can find themselves sucked into the addiction of social media.

hen is the last time you looked a stranger in the eye and smiled? Opened the door for a stranger or let a car back up or turn in front of you?

A little over a year ago I happened upon a YouTube video titled ‘Look Up.’ A five minute production by British writer and film maker Gary Turk. The clip has over 200 million views worldwide (over 53 million thru YouTube).

The short film encourages viewers via a rhythmic speech set to music and imagery to step away from technology and be more present.

Naturally at the time of viewing I ‘shared’ it on my own personal social media page and took a day or two to do exactly as it prescribed – live true presence. The trouble with addiction, is the person struggling with the dependency or habit is usually the last one to see it.

Loved ones may try to gently hint or challenge the person to acknowledge said struggle but often it takes time and trial for the addicted to see.

Even the most ‘healthy’ of persons can find themselves sucked into the addiction of social media.

For many, this may sound pathetic or unimaginable; most addictions do. The fact of the matter, however, is in a day and age of growing social networking and tools, it is becoming more and more common. So much so, that morning news broadcasts have hosted segments around it, research groups have studied the ‘why’ and information regarding the addiction continues to be prevalent and expansive.

So what does all this have to do with a column space titled ‘Fitness and Beyond?’ Perhaps this is the ‘beyond’ 209MAGAZINE

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portion, understanding and identifying where we may struggle mentally. Some turn to food, substances or other options to handle stress, insecurity or to feel in control and some … social media.

One study by researchers in Norway developed a scale outlining six basic criteria for addiction including: time spent thinking about social media, an urge to use it more and more, using as avoidance from real life, unsuccessful attempts to reduce usage, restless if unable to access and negative effects on employment or school work.

Why this topic? Why now?

Simple, as a mom, a friend, a daughter and a partner to a man I love with all my heart now is not the time to spend life through the camera of my smart phone to share with my social media friends.

As children are taking to parades and neighborhoods in Halloween costumes, turkeys will be carved with loved ones and stockings ripped open with anticipation. Now is the time to ‘look up.’ Now is the time to re-create old habits and live in the present. Not the ‘present’ of our ‘friends,’ but the gift or our own presence.

In the wise words of Mary-Frances Winters, “Don’t become too preoccupied with what is happening around you.

Pay more attention to what is going on within you.”

Lastly and most importantly, if you identify with any of the six items listed in the study, release your resistance.

Allow yourself to be a new healthy. Your presence is the greatest gift you can give those who love you not just for the holiday season, but for life.

Life after all, is “like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get,” Forrest Gump. Enjoy! ■

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Retirement

doesn’t mean you retire from life.

Retirement

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fulloflife

V

By TERESA HAMMOND

"It’s a really welcoming community, regardless of level. Everyone here is positive and encouraging of each other.”

— Jason Tom 209MAGAZINE

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alley climbers need not wait for the right weather conditions to get up high. Fitness enthusiasts looking for a new challenge need not make the trek to Yosemite Valley to try something new. And the sedentary looking for a fun activity to enjoy with their partner or friend may just find it at Modesto’s Stonehenge Indoor Climbing Gym. Situated in the southwestern area of downtown Modesto, just a handful of blocks from Interstate 99, the 4,000-plus square foot facility offers a variety of options for the novice, as well as the veteran climber.

“There are a lot of regulars here who come multiple times a week,” stated Jason Tom, a climber as well as a member of the trained staff at the facility.

Stonehenge, at 500 9th St., Suite L2 Modesto, is open weekdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. First time climber age 11 years or older costs $23, student or military rate is $20. Cost includes a class, climbing time, lessons, harness and belay (climbing) device. Regular climbing fee ranges from $10 to $15 and the climber must be belay certified. Monthly and family rates are also available. Group and party rates, as well as portable wall rental are options as well.

Tom began climbing the summer of 2011. He’s been a member of the Stonehenge team for over two years.

“When I first got into it, I had no idea what climbing was,” Tom said. “I wasn’t a natural. I like a challenge, so I started with a friend. What kept me here, was the community. The climbing community is so supportive.”

The climbing enthusiast shared that of the many benefits to the indoor gym, the community as well as the variety of climbing options are among the top of the list.

Climbing gyms are a safe, controlled environment for climbers of all skill levels and ages. Top-roped climbs involve the rope running through a carabiner attached to a bolt at the ceiling height of the gym. The climber ties into one end of the rope and the belayer is attached

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to a belay device on the other end. The belayer remains on the floor level, taking up the slack.

Bouldering is also an option, which does not require a harness or rope or belay partner. This offers the climber a more freeing experience with a crash pad or supportive mat below.

Stonehenge offers top-roped climbs with wall heights up to 50 feet and a cave and climbing room for the climber who prefers bouldering. Tom said he personally prefers the freedom of bouldering, but the gym has something for everyone.

“A gym is a safer place to start,” Tom said of gaining climbing experience and confidence in the indoor environment.

“Outside you need to know more about what’s going on. Climbing indoors you pick up bits and pieces of knowledge.

“It’s just like a normal gym, but a gym for climbers,” he added. “I honestly wish I had discovered this place sooner. It’s a really welcoming community, regardless of level. Everyone here is positive and encouraging of each other.”

While climbing shoes are not required for the beginning climber, they are an option and encouraged by the staff for a minimal feel.

According to the climber, like any sport, proper shoes and equipment do make a difference in the overall experience, noting that when he himself began he did not see the necessity for climbing shoes, until he tried it.

“There is a definite difference,” he said, of the traction and mobility the shoe offers.

“Once you get to a certain level, you’re definitely going to want shoes,” he stated. “We sell most everything that you need to get started and if we don’t... we can order anything you need.” ■

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: Stonehenge Indoor Climbing Gym 500 9th St., Modesto HOURS: Hours: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays; 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.

RATES: TFirst time climber — $23 regular, $20 for student or military; Certified climber: $10 to $15 FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit climbstonehenge.com or call 209-521-3644

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placecalledhome

By ALYSSON AREDAS

A

ll it took was just one look at a discolored hackberry tree at a local park for American Tree Medics Inc. founder and certified arborist Clyde Eric Britt to make a diagnosis.

“See the color? That one has what is equivalent to anemia—it has an iron deficiency,” said Britt. “The reason for that is a low volume of water uptake, which means it is not getting enough minerals.

“It will probably be dead within a couple of months,” continued Britt.

To the chagrin of Britt, the prematurelyyellow hackberry was not the only tree under stress at the park, which was already speckled with the stumps of damaged trees that have been cut down as a result of drought-related conditions.

“Here’s the thing: those trees didn’t have to die,” said Britt. “They don’t have to die.”

Through American Tree Medics Inc., Britt said that he could easily save the iron-deficient hackberry—and every other stressed tree—beginning with a certified arborist consultation and ending with a unique Total Tree Health plan.

At the beginning of the process, which the arborist said he perfected after years of “experimentation and common sense,” Britt conducts a consultation to scientifically assess each tree’s health status, create a unique drought resolution plan, and prepare the tree for installation and service.

Britt then works with the property owner to set up a drought response and water conservation system, which includes the installation of a Tree IV. With a Tree IV, Britt is able to immediately infuse the roots of the affected tree with much-needed water and minerals. Not only that, but he is also able to use significantly less water than what would be used in a deep watering process.

“By putting the water directly into the ground, I eliminate all evaporation and make sure every little bit of water goes into the tree, roots and crown,” said Britt.

Britt said that with his process, he can sustain each tree with as little as two gallons of water given twice a month. Conversely, in order to effectively deliver wa-

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placecalledhome

“The first step to conserving energy is to know how much you use.”

— Calvin Curtin, Turlock Irrigation District

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By NATALIE WINTERS

I

t's a battle everyone shares: Keeping energy bills low both during the hot days common in the 209 and the colder winter months to come.

Calvin Curtin, of the Turlock Irrigation District and Mark Kirkes, owner of MK Electric & Design, have a few tips to help improve efficiency and therefore pocketbooks.

TID is one of four irrigation districts in California that provides irrigation water and electrical retail energy to homes, farms and businesses.

“The first step to conserving energy is to know how much you use,” Curtin said.

TID provides a home energy analysis included in customers' bills

every month. It provides comparisons on a month to month basis on your home’s energy usage, and how you measure up against other homes in the TID district that are similar in size and age.

“You can set goals for conservation,” Curtin said.

“For example, you may want to save X number of kilowatt hours... the energy analysis allows you to track that, is free and is already included on your bill.”

To customize your home energy analysis, log in to your account online with TID and you can add specific details about your home that will provide better comparisons.

“We are owned by customers and we return value to our customers in the form of lowered rates,” Curtin said. “If everyone works together to conserve energy, the less energy we have to generate. When we are efficient as a district, our rates can stay low.”

Modesto Irrigation District and Pacific Gas & Electric offer these services as well, so check with your local energy provider to see if you can utilize this helpful tool.

MK Electric & Design Inc. has been in business for over 30 years. Their energy saving tips are specific to your needs as their electrical company serves most of the Central Valley.

“Switching to LED lights can produce a drastic change in energy savings,” Kirkes said. “There are replacements to LED in just about every shape and form now.”

LEDs have a faster start time and are substantially durable since they are made from plastic, rather than glass. CONTINUED ON PAGE 82 

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Westurf Nursery Your path to gardening success

We are your locally owned, full service nursery, which means that your purchases here benefit our local economy.

We carry a full line of plant materials, including a wide selection of shrubs and trees, and seasonal annuals, perennials & vegetables as well as fresh sod. To help your garden grow, we carry premium soils and mulches, available in bulk or bagged form, in addition to a comprehensive selection of organic & traditional fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides and pest control products.

Call or visit our facebook page for upcoming events and workshops throughout the year.

1612 Claus Rd., Modesto • 209.576.1111 Nursery Hours: M-F 6:30am-6pm • Sat 6:30am-4:30pm • Sun 8am-4pm

w w w. w e s t u r f. n e t

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We service & sell

All items limited to stock on hand

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W

hen someone walks into his downtown Merced store, David Thomas hopes he or she will be drawn to hardwood flooring and not its competition, laminate flooring.

Thomas and his wife Carrie have owned United Floor Covering at 312 W. Main St. for 15 years. He managed the store for five years before buying it.

"I'm a hardwood guy," Thomas says. "In a perfect world there would be no laminate. When I put my name on it I want the customer to be really happy. Most tend to be disappointed; laminate is a photographic picture of a hardwood. You can't get the full depth of a real hardwood."

Still Thomas concedes laminates may be more suitable for situations where there are pets, children and lots of high traffic. In floor covering, he says he probably sells 50 percent hardwood and maybe 5 percent laminates.

"I absolutely will try to talk them into hardwood but there are times where I will end up reluctantly selling laminate," Thomas says. "Laminates tend to be more affordable. There are hardwoods out there that are price-competitive. Some hardwood are price-comparative to high-end laminates.

Once they realize that, most people jump over to the hardwood side."

There are about 25 or more different types of hardwood, such as pecan, oak, maple, hickory, birch or walnut. There are some exotic types from Brazil as well as domestic products from the United States.

Co-owner Carrie Thomas feels the same way as her husband.

"I'm all a fan of the real

I like wood; it tells a story and dents and scratches add to the character. — David Thomas

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deal," she said. "I don't understand why somebody would want a picture of wood. We are raising three kids and have three dogs and hardwood in the kitchen and throughout the whole house. I like wood; it tells a story and dents and scratches add to the character."

Thomas said he tells his customers all the time that the best laminate will look is the day it gets installed. With hardwood, the longer it is used, the better it looks.

"I have lived with hardwood floors all my life. They tend to age well.

Hardwoods are getting longer and wider; there are a lot of tropical finishes. You can get a more unique, attractive look with hardwoods. In dealing with natural products there are no two lookalikes," he said.

Thomas said laminates have a life expectancy of 20 years or less while hardwoods will last 50 years or more. There are different quality levels for both hardwood as well as laminate.

"With laminate the more you beat it up the worse it looks," Thomas said.

"Hardwood is something if you go with the right one and as you use it and it ages, it will gain character and will look better, Hardwood always has a better look than laminate."

United Floor Covering is Merced's only locally owned and operated floor covering store. The store has been in business since 1973. â–

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Yates

marketplace

Jewelryanddiamondspecialists

By VIRGINIA STILL

T

“We love helping folks take their idea and creating a one of a kind piece. We also love sharing our knowledge of diamonds and gemstones with customers.”

— Ron Yates

here is a store tucked in the corner of a shopping center in Modesto called Yates and Co. Jewelers where they promise to provide customers with the “finest jewelry at an honest price.”

Ron Yates has been in the jewelry business since 1988 and, in 1999, he created his first website to sell rare coins which led him to the idea to create a website for jewelry as well.

“That (website) keeps us pretty busy,” stated Yates. “So if they (customers) are not coming in the store we are helping them with live chat, phone calls, and online orders.”

The ecommerce business has expanded the customer base to include people from all over and has been very successful for Yates and Co. Recently, Yates was working on a custom design of a men’s wedding band with a customer from New Hampshire.

There were a few years Yates recalled when their ecommerce business was booming and they had 100 packages on the delivery truck. The online business has changed since then with Internet giants like Amazon that are on the scene.

After working at a jewelry store in the evenings while he was going to college, Yates continued to work with jewelry evaluating collections along with buying and selling coins.

The man that Yates was working for left abruptly and advised him to open his own business.

“So I did. I didn’t have any money so I got creative financing and ended up getting enough money to buy a case, a sign, a safe, a desk and a couple

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showcases,” added Yates. “My first month I had an armed robbery. They cleaned me out.”

Two men entered his store and held him at gunpoint and took everything that he had. He was told to lie on the floor and one of the suspects had a gun to the back of his head.

“If the gun hadn’t jammed he would have shot me,” said Yates. “They had just gotten out of jail for burglary like a month before in Modesto.

“It scared the daylights out of me.”

This led Yates to be very security conscious so the store has security cameras everywhere, inside and out, a door buzzer, holdup alarms and more, along with staff always using good common sense.

The jewelry store is a family affair with wife Mechelle as the Graduate Gemologist and jewelry appraiser, daughter Ashton as the Creative Director and Accredited Jewelry Professional, GIA (Gemological Institute of America) certified, and cousin Scott Mackey, who is the Store Manager and Diamond Expert, GIA certified as well.

Mechelle is also a member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.

Yates buys and sells diamonds as well as antique jewelry with pieces that are about 100 years old. He also designs men’s jewelry with a variety of metals like titanium, rose gold, meteorite, tungsten, sterling silver, gold, and white gold.

He will soon have a new line of custom designed men’s rings out for customers that will be made with different materials like dinosaur bone.

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From left, the friendly staff at Yates and Co. is ready to serve you: Ashton, Mechelle, Scott and owner Ron Yates.

“We really are the best place locally to buy diamonds,” said Yates. “When customers are shopping for diamonds we will provide the education on what determines the diamond’s value, its beauty, we will show you two diamonds side by side, you don’t get that on the Internet.”

Along with designing custom pieces for their customers Yates and Co. also buys gold.

Yates and Co. Jewelers specializes in vintage diamond engagement rings from the early 1900s, designer jewelry and custom designed pieces.

“We love helping folks take their idea and creating a one of a kind piece,” said Yates. “We also love sharing our knowledge of diamonds and gemstones with customers.”

Yates & Co. Jewelers is located at 3501 McHenry Ave., #18, Modesto. For more information, visit yatesjewelers.com or call 800-370-2646. ■

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marketplace

the product.

She can also tailor her ‘Jars’ to specific health needs, using coconut sugar for those on Paleo diets that don’t want cane sugar, utilizing artificial sweeteners, or substituting honey or agave nectar for sugar.

“It represents my mother-in-law’s memory quite well,” Hill said. “Plus it’s something fun I can do with my kids, we can go pick apricots, I can be there hulling strawberries in the yard as they circle around me on their bicycles and steal strawberries.”

Hill’s Jars of Delicious feature jams, jellies, pie fillings, canned fruit and fruit butters with everything from the traditional peach, strawberry and apricot to the more distinctive pomegranate and a Hawaiian mix of coconut, pineapple and mango. She also said she enjoys ‘mixing it up’ with strawberry rhubarb, passionfruit, papaya and cherry lemonade flavors.

“It’s just anything to do with fruit,” noted Hill. “No vegetables, nothing hot; that is a cottage food restriction.”

Hill started out doing Oakdale’s weekly Farmer’s Market this summer and said she got about halfway through it before she had to pull out because of the heat. She does still have a regular circuit where she sells her products, including the Thursday market at the Modesto Library, the Saturday morning Turlock market and one in Hughson every other Thursday evening. She is also looking into expanding to markets in Lodi and Stockton, as her schedule allows, and said she is always open to suggestions as to where people might want to see her.

You can also visit her Facebook page, email her at jarsofdelicious@gmail.com or call her for information or to place an order at 209-981-9775.

“For events, I have gone to several of the holistic expos at the Turlock fairgrounds, last year I was at the Riverbank Cheese

and Wine Expo, I’ve done the Denair Farm and Family, the Hughson Fruit and Nut, the Manteca Pumpkin Festival.

“This year I’ll also be going to the Elk Grove Harvest Festival and several Christmas and holiday boutiques including Manteca and one of my biggest events is at the high school in Hughson, the 20th Century Craft Fair they have the weekend before Thanksgiving; those shoppers are hard core.”

Another benefit of home canning the fresh summer fruits is that her family can enjoy them all winter long, having the fresh taste of peaches, plums and pears when they aren’t readily available in stores.

Above all, she said, the business helps keep her children’s grandmother’s legacy alive.

“They remember grammy with all this stuff,” Hill said. “It keeps her memory in the forefront of their minds.”

One of the slogans for the business is ‘Be a friend, Give a jam’ and Hill said there aren’t many people that don’t enjoy receiving a ‘Jar of Delicious.’ She can do gift baskets and the products come in a variety of jar sizes, easy to accommodate a single buyer or the one looking to please a family.

Hill grew up in Clements and her husband in Denair, and they lived in Turlock and Denair before moving to Hughson three years ago. The Central Valley’s bounty, she noted, fits in perfectly for her business.

“I love it, it’s pretty cool,” Hill added. “I’ll sling my jam anywhere.” ■

“My mother-in-law was the one who taught me how to can. She passed away last May and my husband’s sisters and I sat down and did 250 small jelly jars, put them out at her Celebration of Life.”

— Cheree Hill

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PLACE AN ORDER JARS OF DELICIOUS facebook .com/jarsofdelicious email: jarsofdelicious@gmail.com call: 209-981-9775

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Where the Sidewalk Ends and the West Begins 2100 East “F” street Oakdale 209-848-2888 Monday - Saturday 10 - 6 Sunday 11 - 5

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MARKETPLACE-Mid Valley Nutrition.indd 94

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Big Basin Dog Training If You Don’t Train ‘Em Don’t Blame ‘Em! All-Breed Training

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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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