209 Magazine - Issue #74

BlueberryBreakfatLoaf

Ingredients:

1 cup Cottage Cheese

1 cup Fresh or Frozen Blueberries

2 cups Almond Flour*

3 Large Eggs

1 tsp Baking Powder

Instructions:

tsp Vanilla Extract 1/3 cup Coconut Sugar Pinch of Salt

* These products can be purchased at Stewart & Jasper, in-store and online.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together almond four, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until they are frothy. Add cottage cheese, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

5. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

6. Poor the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake for 40-42 minutes and then insert a toothpick or knife into the center, to see if it comes out clean. If it does, remove the loaf immediately. The loaf should be golden brown.

8. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes and then transfer to cooling rack.

9. Slice and enjoy!

Chef’sChoice

PREMIUM SEAFOOD

CEDAR

The most wonderful time of year has fnally arrived. No, not the Christmas season, but just as important for home gardeners and those who can’t get enough wildfower selfes, spring. 209 Magazine has put together a “bucket list” of spring activities to make your season the best it can be.

29 Wildfower Walk Picnic at Knights Ferry

30 U-Pick at Riverdance Farms Spring Wine Tasting

31 Pageo Lavender Farm Yosemite in Spring

32 Baby Animal Shower Bird Watching at San Luis Refuge

33 Gold Rush Days Oakdale Rodeo

SONORA PASS ADVENTURE

SPRING BUCKET LIST BOOKSTORE CRAWL THROUGH THE VALLEY ‘USE IT OR LOSE IT’ WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR BODY

PUBLISHER/OWNER

Hank

Kelly

EDITOR

Kristina

MANAGING

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Harold L. George

WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jef Benziger

Renee Edwards

Marg Jackson

Kristi Mayfeld

Claudia Newcorn

ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS

Chris Castro

Beth Flanagan

Melody Wann

Charles Webber

MARKETING

Rich Matheson

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Yosemite’s waterfalls are reaching peak fow and wildfowers are blooming across the Valley, all signs that spring has arrived in the 209. It’s the perfect time to get out and about the 209 area and fnd new favorite places to eat, shop and sight see.

In this issue, you can read out the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event and the hundreds of local residents making an impact this spring; learn about the inaugural Stockton Rose Garden Tour; and how Turlock native Sarah (Snyder) Doran’s original song she wrote for her wedding became an internet sensation.

Also in this issue, you can learn about the month-long Bookstore Crawl through the Valley. Te American Booksellers Association estimates that there are more than 3,200 independent book stores nationally. Tis local bookstore crawl will allow participants to get to know seven local shops.

Tank you for taking the time to read 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/Owner hvanderveen@209magazine.com

1215 W. Center Street, Ste 203 • Manteca, CA 95337 Comments & Questions: sstaford@209magazine.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

APR 18 2026 APR 24 - 26 2026 APR 25 2026

MODESTO’S GARAGEFEST

GarageFest, the city’s annual communitywide garage sale, will return April 18, offering residents a full day of bargain hunting and neighborhood browsing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Registration for participating homes opens Feb. 2 and runs through April 10. Hosts who sign up will be added to the event’s official digital map and receive a promotional kit to help prepare their sale. The map will be released the morning of the event to protect participant privacy and will include category filters to help shoppers find specific items.

The map will be disabled after 4 p.m., marking the end of the event.

Residents with questions can contact Visit Modesto, which organizes what has become one of the region’s largest garage sale days.

SAN JOAQUIN ASPARAGUS FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin Asparagus Festival will celebrate its 40th year April 24–26, returning to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds with three days of food, entertainment and family activities.

Organizers say the long‑running spring festival continues to draw thousands who come to enjoy live music, carnival rides, cooking demonstrations and a wide range of vendors. Signature attractions include the Miss San Joaquin Asparagus Festival Scholarship Pageant, a model train display, lowrider exhibits, blacksmith demonstrations, trackless train rides and a free petting zoo, with food available for purchase.

Single‑day admission is $15 for adults 18–64 and $10 for children 6–17, seniors 65 and older, and military members with ID. Children 5 and under are admitted free. All guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The festival runs Friday through Sunday at the fairgrounds.

SUTTER CREEK DUCK RACE

The Great Sutter Creek Duck Race will return April 25 with live music, food, prizes and a full day of family activities at Minnie Provis Park.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, and is free to attend. Participants can enter the race for $5 per duck or five ducks for $20, with more than $5,000 in prizes available. Winners do not need to be present.

Proceeds benefit community improvement projects, including the 2026 Monteverde Store Museum effort. Local vendors and organizations will also be on site.

The event is hosted by the Sutter Creek Foundation.

TWAIN HARTE DOG PARADE, ADOPTION FAIR

The Twain Harte Dog Parade and Adoption Fair will return April 25, bringing costume contests, rescue groups and family‑friendly activities to Joaquin Gully Road.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to noon and is free for spectators. Families can register to participate in the parade for $5 either online or in person. Parade bundles, which include event T‑shirts, are available in limited quantities and must be selected by size at registration, with pickup on parade day.

This year’s event features “Adoption Alley,” where local rescue nonprofits will showcase adoptable pets. Participation prizes and goods from local makers and shops will also be available.

The event is produced by the Twain Harte Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact Casey at 209‑791‑8422 or info@ twainhartecc.com.

CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL

El Concilio California will host the Central Valley’s largest annual Cinco de Mayo festival May 1–3 at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, bringing three days of music, food, cultural performances and family activities to Stockton.

Now in its 31st year, the free event is considered the region’s unofficial kickoff to summer and is expected to draw roughly 60,000 attendees. Organizers say the weekend will feature a bustling mercado, more than 150 vendor booths, Ballet Folklórico performances, two entertainment stages, carnival rides, and more than 20 food vendors offering dishes from around the world. Free children’s activities will be available throughout the weekend.

The festival opens Friday at noon with a carnival, food vendors, a health fair, kids’ activities and a car show. Parking is $10 per day.

LODI STREET FAIRE

The Lodi Street Faire will return May 3, bringing one of California’s largest and longest‑running open‑air markets to downtown from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The biannual event spans 14 square blocks and draws more than 450 vendors from across the state. Organizers say shoppers can expect a wide mix of antiques, arts and crafts, handmade goods and retail items, making the Faire one of the region’s premier draws for collectors and casual visitors alike.

Food vendors will line the streets with options ranging from hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages to tri‑tip, Mexican and Filipino cuisine. Sweet treats and cold drinks will also be available throughout the day.

A free parking garage is located at Sacramento and Pine streets, though it typically fills early with vendor vehicles. Visitors are advised to use street parking outside the barricaded event area. APR 25 2026 MAY 1- 3 2026 MAY 3 2026

One of the nation’s oldest Cinco de Mayo parades will take place Sunday, May 3, beginning at 10 a.m. in downtown Stockton. The parade will start at Weber Institute, travel along Weber Avenue and El Dorado Street, circle MLK Plaza and continue down Center Street. Parade winners will be announced at 4 p.m. on the fairgrounds’ main stage.

The festival will be held at 1658 S. Airport Way in Stockton. Admission is free all three days.

MAY 4 2026

MODESTO MARKS MAY THE FOURTH DAY

The city’s annual Star Wars Day celebration will return May 4 with an evening of music, activities and fandom in the 10th Street Plaza.

Modesto first proclaimed May the Fourth as Star Wars Day in 2016, and this year’s free, family‑friendly event runs from 4 to 9 p.m. The proclamation will be read at 4:30 p.m., introduced by Chris Murphy and Assemblymember Juan Alanis.

A high school band led by Brad Hart, conductor for Johansen High School and MoBand, will perform selections from the films at 5 p.m. The schedule also includes a Death Star piñata at 6 p.m., photo opportunities with Din Grogu at 6:30 p.m. and a lightsaber battle at 8:30 p.m.

MAY 9 - 10 2026

MOTHER LODE ROUND-UP AND RODEO

The Mother Lode Round Up, a long running celebration of the region’s Western heritage, will return May 9–10 with a full weekend of events culminating in the annual parade and rodeo.

Now in its 67th year, the Round Up is considered a hometown reunion for many in the Mother Lode, blending cowboy tradition with small‑town festivities. The parade is free to attend and will take place in downtown

Sonora along Washington Street, with rodeo events following at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds.

The celebration is produced by the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Posse, whose members, along with local merchants, sponsors and community supporters, help sustain the decades‑old tradition.

Events run all day throughout the weekend.

Wild Paths, New Voices

Outdoor program helps students fnd confdence, community and their own leadership stories

BY SABRA STAFFORD

When Vicente Madrigal pushed his kayak into the slow‑mov‑ ing water of the San Joaquin River Parkway two years ago, he thought he was signing up for a simple adventure. He was a Firebaugh High School fresh‑ man then, more interested in getting out‑ side than in discovering anything about himself. But that frst trip with Adventure Risk Challenge — known widely as ARC — marked the beginning of a transforma‑ tion he never expected.

Today, as a junior, Madrigal speaks with a clarity and confdence that once felt out of reach. He has completed ARC’s Rising Community Leaders cohort, the 11‑day Stepping Stone Course in Yosem‑ ite National Park, and most recently, the program’s intensive 34‑day Immersive Course. Each step, he said, pushed him further from the comfort zones he once clung to.

In his application for the Immersive Course, Madrigal admitted he feared the writing requirements more than the physical challenges. “I think the biggest challenge, honestly, will be the essay,” he wrote. “I am not good at writing essays. I know I will get it done but, I know I will struggle.” He also shared a dream he had rarely spoken aloud: becoming a forest ranger.

“I think ARC will help me with this by improving my communication skills,” he wrote. “Which are much needed, and I struggle with communicating anything. I think ARC will help with this by pushing me out of my comfort zone.”

By the end of the summer, Madrigal had written an essay that surprised even

him — a refection on leadership, vulnerability and the kind of per‑ son he hopes to become. “When I came to ARC I didn’t know what kind of leader I was,” he wrote. “I didn’t know I was a leader at all. But over the last 34 days I’ve learned that I am. I am a leader who listens quietly. I’m a leader who is helpful and who asks for help. I’m a leader who is forgiving and asks for forgiveness.”

For ARC staf, stories like Madrigal’s are the heart of the program.

Adventure Risk Challenge is more than an outdoor program. It is a long‑term, relationship‑driven model that blends literacy de‑ velopment, leadership training and wilderness experiences for high school students who may

not otherwise have access to them. Te program operates year‑round in the Central Valley and the Tahoe region, ofering everything from backpacking and rock climbing to public‑speaking workshops and refective writing.

“Over the past 10 years that I have worked with ARC, I’ve been amazed by the personal and academic growth demonstrated by the students who participate,” said Jesus Alejandre, ARC’s Central Val‑ ley program manager. “It has been inspiring to watch as they have gone on to attend elite colleges, become leaders in their communities, and advocate for protecting the natural environment.”

Alejandre said the program’s strength lies in its dual focus: outdoor challenge and academic skill‑building. Students learn to navigate with topographical maps, cook in the backcountry and work as a team — but they also write essays, deliver speeches and refect on their personal values. Te combination, he said, builds confdence that lasts long afer the summer ends.

ARC’s curriculum is intentionally designed to help students develop positive identity, social competen‑ cies and a commitment to learning. Tese developmental assets are measured through the Developmen‑ tal Assets Profle, where participants consistently show meaningful improvement.

Since its founding in 2004, more than 400 students have graduated from ARC’s summer programs and more than 4,000 have participated in its year‑round oferings. In the Central Valley, ARC has provided summer course opportunities since 2009, creating a pipeline of young leaders who return to their schools

and communities with new skills and a stronger sense of purpose.

For many students, ARC ofers their frst experience in the Sierra Nevada. Te program’s summer courses — including the 34‑day Immersive Course — take place in Yosemite National Park, where stu‑ dents spend weeks hiking, journal‑ ing, learning and living together.

Te setting is intentional. ARC leaders say the wilderness provides a backdrop that encourages resilience, curiosity and self‑discovery. Away from the pressures of school, work and family responsibilities, students have space to refect on who they are and who they want to become.

Madrigal said the long days in Yosemite helped him understand the values that now guide his life: genuineness, adventure and health. He learned to trust himself, to speak up when he needed help and to sup‑ port others when they struggled. He also learned that leadership does not always look like being the loudest voice in the room.

“I’m a leader who listens quietly,” he wrote in his fnal essay — a line that ARC staf say captures the kind of growth they hope every student experiences.

Opening doors for 2026

ARC is now accepting applica‑ tions for its 2026 summer programs, with courses again scheduled in Yo‑ semite. All current California high school students are eligible to apply. Te program operates on a sliding scale based on family income, and most students pay just $1 per day to participate. Te true value of each course — between $5,000 and $10,000 per student — is covered through scholarships funded by public and private foundations, grants and individual donors.

For Alejandre and the ARC team, expanding access is a priority. “We’re excited to welcome a new group of participants to this transformational summer program,” he said. “ARC supports students’ social and academic development in ways that stay with them for years.”

ARC supports students’ social and academic development in ways that stay with them for years.

Applications are open until April 24. More information, including how to apply or donate, is available at adventureriskchallenge.org.

As for Madrigal, he is already thinking ahead. He still hopes to become a forest ranger, and he still sees ARC as the place that helped him believe that dream is possible. But more than anything, he said, he wants to keep growing — and to keep choosing the harder path when it leads somewhere meaningful.

“I will use my leadership in my life,” he wrote, “by lis‑ tening to my friends and their needs and making sure they always feel supported.” ●

Relay For Life brings communities together JOIN THE FIGHT

By MARG JACKSON

Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised in the Central Valley over the years through the American Cancer Society’s signature fundraising event, Relay For Life.

Te 24-hour team event in the fght against cancer will return to Johansen High School on Norseman Drive in Modesto in mid-May, running from the opening ceremony at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 16 through the closing ceremony beginning at 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 17.

In between, a lot is packed in to the 24-hour period and many participants attempt to stay awake and active throughout the event, going along with the statement that “cancer never sleeps.”

Tis will be the third year at Johansen High School for the regional event, with teams setting up their campsites and booths on the football feld and walkers taking to the track surrounding the grassy area.

Teme for the 2026 Relay is “Fishing For A Cure” and Kaiser Permanente has signed on as the presenting sponsor.

Prior to a one-year hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic, many communities in the area put on individual events.

But reductions in stafng levels at the American Cancer Society coming out of COVID prompted the regionalization of the signature Relay For Life program. Re-branded as the Relay For Life of Greater Stanislaus County, three host cities of Modesto, Oakdale and Turlock – which previously had individual relays – were joined together for one large event. Riverbank and Escalon were included in the Oakdale Relay For Life at that time and so continued on to the ‘Greater Stanislaus County’ regional event.

In 2021, 2022 and 2023 – with those events in the fall – Relay For Life was staged at John Turman Field in Modesto. Relay moved back to a late

spring date for 2024 and relocated to Johansen, which had been the home of the Modesto Relay For Life for several years previously. It was there for the regional event in 2025 and will be back at Johansen High School again for 2026.

“It was a slow start afer COVID but we are gradually growing in size and people are now coming back,” explained longtime Event Chair Irene Cortez.

More teams from the outlying areas have since been consolidated into the one main event, with the Modesto location now hosting Relay For Life of Greater Central Valley. It includes teams primarily from Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties, with communities such as Tracy, Ripon, Escalon, Oakdale, Modesto, Riverbank, Ceres and more represented.

Some three dozen teams – accounting for nearly 200 participants – are already signed up and actively fundraising, with over $44,000 raised so far of the $175,000 goal for 2026.

One of the points that Cortez and fellow event leadership team members stress is that the Relay For Life is a family-friendly gathering. Even those that are not on a team are encouraged to come out to Johansen at some point during the day or evening on Saturday, May 16 to support the teams and enjoy live music, food, games, an extensive kids area with free activities, along with plenty of teams ofering a variety of items available in opportunity drawings. Attendees can also purchase luminaria bags in memory of someone lost to cancer or in honor of someone still fghting the fght. Te decorated, lighted bags are placed along the track for the overnight hours, helping to lead the way for those walking the track at night.

Relay For Life is a 24-hour event; with the goal of having at least one member from each team on the track at all times. It is not a race and most participants walk during their time on the track.

Troughout the day there are also

I don’t do this alone. I have a great event leadership team that helps make this an awesome Relay.

fun competitions for Relay participants as well as several theme laps, ranging from crazy hats to tutus to a superhero theme, to add to the festive atmosphere.

A classic car show has been set up at Johansen during the event the past two years and plans are to ofer that again, as another way to draw in visitors on Saturday.

Some local community service organizations have stepped up over the past few years to assist with cooking and serving breakfast on Saturday and Sunday as well as dinner on Saturday evening.

Opening ceremonies on May 16 will feature guest speakers and some special presentations along with the Survivor Lap, the frst lap taken by cancer survivors in their purple shirts, as team members line the track to cheer them on.

As the honored guests at Relay, a special area is set up specifcally for survivors and there are several activities provided for them throughout the

event, as well as many teams ofering small gifs for survivors. Caregivers are also honored during the event for the pivotal role they play in the fght against cancer.

Saturday evening brings the luminaria ceremony, including a video tribute, while the Sunday morning closing ceremony typically features the announcement of various fundraising totals, in addition to team and individual honors, before the closing lap.

Tere is still time to get involved, either by starting a team, signing up as a solo participant, or joining in with an existing team for the mid-May event. More information is available by going to the Relay For Life of Greater Central Valley website at: www.relayforlife.org/stanislausca

“I can say that I don’t do this alone,” Cortez added of the months of work that go in to bringing the event together. “I have a great event leadership team that helps make this an awesome Relay.” ●

SIX COUNTY ALL STAR SENIOR BASKETBALL CLASSIC

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR BOYS AND GIRLS ALL-STAR GAMES! THESE GAMES WILL FEATURE THE TOP PLAYERS IN THE AREA.

Event Date - Saturday, April 25, 2026

EVENT LOCATION - MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE 435 College Ave., Modesto CA 95350

DOORS OPEN AT 2:30 PM JUNIOR HIGH ALL-STAR GAMES:

3:00 PM BOYS 8TH GRADE ALL STAR GAME | 4:00 PM GIRLS 8TH GRADE ALL STAR GAME HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR ALL-STAR GAMES:

5:45 PM GIRLS HS SENIOR ALL STAR GAME | 7:30 PM BOYS HS SENIOR ALL STAR GAME

THE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GAME WILL FEATURE A 3 POINT CONTEST. THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GAME WILL FEATURE A SLAM DUNK CONTEST.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR CASH ONLY

$15 ADULT, $12 SENIOR, $10 HS STUDENT WITH HS ID, $5 K-8 YOUTH BASKETBALL PLAYER WHO WEARS THEIR TEAM/PROGRAM’S JERSEY.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: & MODESTO SLAM-N-JAM

Celebrating 30 years

Support the Salvation Army’s Kidz Day

Several ways to be involved, volunteer, Donate, Adopt-A-Corner, Sponsor or Purchase an Ad HAVE YOUR $1 READY! Tuesday, May

Buy a Kidz Day Newspaper on street corners in Modesto, Riverbank & Oakdale to help support the center!

2026 Kidz Day Featuring The Red Shield Community Center’s gym sports, including Basketball, Futsal, Boxing, Pickleball and Volleyball, are more than after-school activities - they’re vital for helping young people stay active, build friendships, and learn teamwork. Each evening, the gym becomes a safe space, keeping our youth healthy and engaged. Community support ensures these programs continue changing futures, one game at a time.

A Teacher Worth Her Gold

Atwater educator honored for shaping ag futures

By SABRA STAFFORD

Atwater High School agricultural teacher Shelby Fishman has built a reputation for pushing students to discover their strengths, step into leadership, and pursue hands-on skills that open real-world doors. Tis year, her work is being celebrated across California. Fishman has been named a fnalist for the 2025–2026 Ag Educator of the Year through Nationwide’s Golden Owl Award®, one of the state’s highest honors for agricultural educators.

Te recognition follows a statewide nomination period that drew more than 400 submissions from students, parents, colleagues, and community members. Fishman’s stood out for her ability to help students build confdence and resilience—qualities that shape them long afer they leave her classroom. One student summed up her infuence: “Mrs. Fishman showed me how to be confdent in anything I do and to give my best at everything I try. She tells us that if you don’t put 100 percent into something, you won’t get 100 percent back.”

Fishman’s impact is especially visible in Atwater High’s agricultural mechanics program, where she has expanded opportunities and raised expectations. A 2025 Harbor Freight Prize for Teaching Excellence recipient, she has increased female participation in the Small Engines career pathway from 4 percent to 16 percent, helping more young women see themselves in technical and mechanical careers. She also ensures every student earns at least one industry certifcation—many graduate with six or more, including OSHA-10, EETC, and Briggs & Stratton credentials. Tese certifcations give students a competitive edge as they enter the workforce, ofen with skills that translate directly into high-demand jobs. Her work refects the broader mission of agricultural education: preparing students not only for careers, but for leadership. California Farm Bureau president and FFA alumna Shannon Douglass emphasized the lasting infuence of FFA advisors, noting that many leaders in agriculture began their journeys in FFA classrooms just like Fishman’s. “We deeply appreciate the dedication of agricultural

educators who build a strong foundation for FFA members and help shape the next generation of leaders in our industry,” she said.

Fishman was honored at the 2026 State FFA Leadership Conference, held in March in Ontario, where she received a plaque and a $500 check.

State FFA Advisor Jill Sperling praised the fnalists as educators who “invest far beyond the classroom,” ofen sacrifcing personal time to mentor and advocate for their students. “Tese six state fnalists embody the heart of agricultural education,” she said. “Tey help their students grow as leaders prepared to make a diference.”

Nationwide created the Golden Owl Award to spotlight the essential role agricultural educators play in preparing students for a rapidly evolving industry. Tis year’s program honors outstanding teachers in 13 states. In conjunction with the award, Nationwide is contributing $5,000 to the California FFA Foundation, strengthening support for student and advisor development statewide.

For Fishman, the recognition is meaningful— but the true reward is watching her students discover their potential, earn credentials that open doors, and step confdently into their futures. Her classroom is more than a workshop; it’s a place where students learn to trust their abilities, take risks, and build the foundation for careers in agriculture and beyond. ●

Stockton’s First Rose Garden Tour Blooms April 25

By SABRA STAFFORD

The inaugural Stockton Rose Garden Tour on April 25 promises a spring day steeped in color, fragrance and community pride as guests explore fve of the city’s most cherished rose gardens. Running from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the self‑guided tour invites attendees to wander through spaces that high‑ light Stockton’s horticultural heritage and the people who have nurtured it.

Event coordinator Carrie Sass said the tour is meant to showcase the beauty that ofen goes unnoticed in everyday life. “Tere is so much beauty in our community,” she said. “Tis is a wonderful opportunity to gather together and enjoy it.”

Ticket holders will visit the University Park World Peace Rose Garden, the private garden of Gerry Dunlap at the Jane and Jerry Butterfeld home, the Faye Fotini

Spanos Rose Garden at St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, the Gerry Dunlap Rose Garden at the Haggin Museum and the Rose Garden at

April’s Rose Garden Tour will give guests the best of spring roses.

Knoles Lawn on the University of the Pacifc campus. Each stop will ofer refreshments, live music and activities ranging from foral arrang‑ ing demonstrations to conversations with Master Gardeners.

For many, the timing is part of the magic. “Te frst blooms of roses in late spring are spectacular,” said Carol Burns of the Stockton Garden Club. “April’s Rose Garden Tour will give guests the best of spring roses.”

Te event is presented by SASS! Public Relations in partnership with the Stockton Garden Club and Stockton Beautiful. Proceeds will fund scholarships for Delta Col‑ lege horticulture students, tying the celebration of today’s gardens to the

cultivation of tomorrow’s growers. Stockton Beautiful president Marilyn Myrah said the tour refects the deep symbolism roses have carried for centuries. “Roses have always held special meanings for people, including love, passion and beauty,” she said. “Come and experience the beauty frsthand, breathe deeply and let the beauty unfold before your eyes.”

Tickets are $25 and available at several local retailers, including Best Wishes and SASS! Public Relations in Lincoln Center, With Garden Flair on Pacifc Avenue, In Season on Alpine Avenue, Fig & Fern in Wood‑ bridge and Te French Bee Nursery in Linden. Te tour is supported by Rose Garden Sponsors Dea Spanos Berberian and Te 54 Fund; Full Bloom Sponsors Judi Hachman and Fritz and Phyllis Grupe; and Rose Bud Sponsors Kathy Lagorio Janssen, Team Zap, Haggerty Construction, Jef Gamboni Architecture and Bank of Stockton. ●

A New Chapter OF HOPE

By SABRA STAFFORD

Designed and built by Diede Construction of Lodi, the center was created to meet the growing need for safe, structured residential treatment and recuperative care.

The newest building on the Gospel Center Rescue Mission campus rises three stories above South San Joaquin Street, but its true impact is measured in something far deeper than square footage. With the opening of the New Life Program Multi‑Purpose Center, the Mission has expanded not only its physical footprint but its capacity to stabilize lives, restore dignity and ofer a path forward for people experiencing homelessness in San Joaquin County.

Te 110‑bed, 14,577‑square‑foot facility is now fully in use, marking a major milestone for an organization that has served Stockton for more than 86 years. Designed and built by Diede Construction of Lodi, the center was created to meet the growing need for safe, structured residential treatment and

recuperative care. Inside, the building feels purposeful and human‑scaled: dorm rooms with one to four beds, bright shower and laundry areas, a classroom for life‑skills and recovery programming, and dedicated space for the Mission’s expanding Recuperative Care Program.

For CEO David L. Midura, the building represents years of plan‑ ning, partnership and prayer. “Above all, we give thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, whose provision and guidance made this work possible,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed through their prayers, generosity, and support.”

Te New Life Program is the heart of the Mission’s residential addiction‑treatment work, ofering two six‑month phases followed by a one‑year bridge‑housing program. Te new center allows the Mission to serve more people at once and provide a more stable environment for long‑term recovery. It also strengthens the Mis‑ sion’s role as the county’s frst provider of recuperative care—an increasingly critical service for individuals who are discharged from hospitals but have no safe place to heal.

Tat component of the project was made possible through a major partner‑ ship with Health Plan of San Joaquin, which invested $6.5 million to support individuals experiencing homelessness who have sig‑ nifcant medical needs. San Joaquin County contributed an additional $3.5 million, a decision Board of Supervi‑ sors Chair Paul Canepa described as both compas‑ sionate and practical.

“It is an investment in people and it refects smart governance,” Canepa said when the fnal round of

When we help people stabilize their lives, we reduce the long‑term costs of homelessness on healthcare, law enforcement and the justice system

funding was approved. “When we help people stabilize their lives, we reduce the long‑term costs of homelessness on healthcare, law enforcement and the justice system. Tis is how we create safer neighborhoods and stronger communities.”

Additional support came from the Federal Home Loan Bank, the City of Stockton, and a long list of private do‑ nors, including Fritz and Phyllis Grupe and the Grupe Country Fair sponsors. Teir contributions helped transform the Mission’s vision into a modern, functional space designed for healing.

Te building’s opening also signals a shif in how Stockton approaches homelessness—one that blends emer‑ gency shelter with long‑term recovery, medical care and structured support. As the oldest operating low‑barrier shelter in the county, the Mission has long been a safety net for people with nowhere else to go. Te new center strengthens that role, ofering stability at a time when the region continues to grapple with rising homelessness and limited treatment options.

Inside the New Life Program

Multi‑Purpose Center, the hum of daily activity—classes, counseling ses‑ sions, laundry cycles, quiet moments of rest—refects the Mission’s belief that recovery is built through routine, community and compassion. For the men and women who will pass through its doors, the building is more than a shelter. It is a place to begin again.

As the Mission settles into this new chapter, the question becomes how the expanded capacity will shape the lives of the people it serves—and how Stock ton’s broader community will continue supporting eforts that ofer both safety and second chances. ●

Spring Bucket List in the 209

By KRISTINA HACKER and SABRA STAFFORD

Aseason of wildfowers, waterfalls, and only‑here experiences across the Central Valley and foothills.

Spring in the 209 is a short but spectacular window when the hills turn green, rivers run high, and local farms, parks, and historic towns come alive. Tese ten outings highlight the best of the season—places where readers can slow down, explore, and reconnect with the landscapes and communities that make this region special.

Caswell Memorial State Park Wildfower Walk

A rare riparian woodland in full spring bloom

Caswell Memorial State Park ofers one of the most peaceful spring experiences in the region, with trails winding through one of the last remaining riparian oak woodlands in the Central Valley. Visitors can expect bright wildfowers, lush understory growth, and the chance to spot wildlife along the Stanislaus River. The park’s quiet, shaded trails make it an ideal

outing for families, photographers, and anyone craving a slower pace.

Caswell is a day‑use park open from 8 a.m. to sunset, with a small entrance fee. Dogs aren’t allowed on trails, and mosquitos can be heavy as temperatures rise, so repellent is essential. Trails are mostly fat but can be muddy after rain. Current conditions, closures, and maps are available through California State Parks.

Spring Picnic at Knights Ferry

A riverside picnic surrounded by history and spring scenery

Knights Ferry remains one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the 209, with rolling green hills, wildfowers, and the rushing Stanislaus River creating a perfect spring backdrop. While the historic Knights Ferry Covered Bridge is currently closed for extensive structural repairs and gated of to the public, the surrounding recreation area still ofers plenty of space for picnics, short hikes, and exploring the old mill site.

The Knights Ferry Recreation Area and Stanislaus River Parks remain fully open, though parking flls quickly on warm weekends and a day‑use fee applies. Picnic tables are limited, so bringing a blanket is wise. The visitor center is open seasonally and features exhibits on salmon migration and local history. The Army Corps of Engineers provides updates on access, parking, and river conditions.

U‑Pick at Riverdance Farms

Organic berries and a riverside festival weekend

Riverdance Farms in Livingston ofers a charming spring outing with organic u‑pick blueberries and cherries along the Merced River. Visitors can wander orchard rows, enjoy the peaceful riverside setting, and learn about sustainable farming practices. The farm’s annual Pick & Gather Festival adds even more energy, with live music, food vendors, and hands‑on activities celebrating local agriculture.

U‑pick availability varies by crop and weather, and the farm often posts specifc open weekends or requires reservations. This year’s Pick & Gather Festival takes place May 30 and 31, giving families two full days of activities and access to the orchards. Prices are by the pound, and containers are usually provided. Riverdance Farms’ website and social media pages ofer the most accurate updates on picking dates and festival details.

Lodi Wine Trail Spring Tasting

Seasonal releases and vineyard views in California’s friendliest wine region

Spring is one of the best times to explore the Lodi Wine Trail, when vineyards leaf out and tasting rooms release fresh seasonal wines. The region’s relaxed, approachable tasting culture makes it ideal for both newcomers and seasoned wine lovers. Boutique wineries like Harney Lane, Oak Farm, and Michael David ofer outdoor patios, vineyard views, and curated fights that highlight Lodi’s signature varietals.

Most tasting rooms accept walk‑ins during spring, though reservations are recommended on weekends. Tasting fees vary, and many wineries allow guests to bring picnics. The Lodi Wine Visitor Center is a helpful frst stop for maps, recommendations, and updated tasting hours. Visit Lodi’s ofcial website maintains a current directory of wineries and seasonal events.

Visit to Pageo Lavender Farm

A fragrant spring escape in the Turlock countryside

Pageo Lavender Farm ofers a peaceful spring retreat with rows of lavender beginning to wake up for the season and a charming gift shop flled with handmade soaps, oils, and culinary products. The farm’s rustic setting makes it a favorite for photographers, and their seasonal lunches provide a farm‑to‑table experience surrounded by blooming felds.

Hours vary by season, and the farm often hosts private events, so checking ahead is essential. The gift shop is typically open on select days, and lunches require reservations. Visitors should expect uneven ground and bring sun protection on warm days. Pageo’s ofcial website provides the most accurate schedule for shop hours, lunches, and special events.

Visit Yosemite Falls in Spring

Peak waterfall season in one of California’s most iconic landscapes

Spring is when Yosemite Falls roars to life, fueled by snowmelt that sends water crashing down the clifs in a dramatic display. The short walk to the Lower Falls viewpoint is accessible for most visitors, while more adventurous hikers can tackle the strenuous trail to the Upper Falls overlook. The surrounding valley is lush and vibrant, making spring one of the most photogenic times to visit.

Parking flls early, and some higher‑elevation roads may still be closed depending on snowpack. Visitors should bring layers—spring weather can shift quickly—and expect misty conditions near the falls. The National Park Service website provides real‑time updates on road conditions, trail status, and waterfall fow.

Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center Baby Animal Shower

A community event supporting local wildlife rehabilitation

The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center’s annual Baby Animal Shower is a heartwarming spring tradition that helps prepare the center for its busiest season. Visitors can meet the staf and volunteers who care for orphaned and injured wildlife, learn about the challenges facing native species, and donate supplies that directly support the center’s work.

The event is typically held in April at the center in Hughson. Parking is limited, and donations such as paper towels, formula, and cleaning supplies are encouraged. Because this is a working wildlife facility, visitors won’t handle animals, but educational displays and demonstrations are common. The center’s website and social media pages post the ofcial date and donation list each year.

Bird Watching at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge

Spring migration across wetlands and grasslands

San Luis National Wildlife Refuge is a spring bird‑watching haven, with wetlands and grasslands attracting migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds. The auto‑tour routes make it easy for families and photographers to spot wildlife without disturbing sensitive habitats. Spring also brings lush green landscapes and active breeding behavior among many species.

Early morning ofers the best viewing, and visitors should bring binoculars, water, and sun protection. The refuge has multiple auto‑tour loops, a visitor center with exhibits, and posted bird lists. Roads may close after heavy rain, so checking conditions ahead of time is wise. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website provides maps, seasonal species updates, and accessibility information.

Oakdale Rodeo

A spring tradition in the Cowboy Capital of the World

The Oakdale Rodeo is one of the region’s most iconic spring events, celebrating the town’s deep ranching heritage. The PRCA‑sanctioned rodeo brings top competitors in bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and more, while the parade and community events create a festive atmosphere throughout town. For many families, it marks the unofcial start of spring in the foothills.

The rodeo is held the second weekend of April, and tickets often sell out. Visitors should buy only from ofcial sources to avoid scams. Parking can be crowded, and outside food, pets, and certain cameras are restricted. The Oakdale Rodeo Association’s website lists ticketing details, schedules, and arena rules.

Columbia State Historic Park Gold Rush Days

Living history in a preserved Gold Rush town

Columbia State Historic Park brings the Gold Rush to life with costumed docents, blacksmith demonstrations, stagecoach rides, and hands‑on activities that transport visitors to the 1850s. The town’s preserved storefronts, wooden sidewalks, and working shops make it one of the most immersive historic experiences in California. During Gold Rush Days, the park becomes even more animated with music, living‑history vignettes, and interactive demonstrations.

Gold Rush Days are held on the second Saturday of every month, typically from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., making them an easy recurring spring outing. The historic district is pedestrian‑only, and many activities are free, though some—like the stagecoach ride—have a fee. Parking is available just outside the district, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Event calendars and activity details are posted on the park’s ofcial website and the Friends of Columbia page.

BABY,I Do

TURLOCK NATIVE RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE AFTER WEDDING SONG GOES VIRAL

By JEFF BENZIGER

When Turlock native Sarah (Snyder) Doran wrote the song “Baby, I Do” for her October wedding to sing to husband Dalton, little did she suspect that the solo would go viral.

But the song did go viral, amassing 4.5 million views on TikTok and a million views on Instagram (under the username of @heysarahdoran).

Afer receiving an avalanche of emails from brides wanting to use her original song for their 2026 weddings, Doran decided to record it professionally in a studio and release it as a debut single just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Te song is available on iTunes, Google Play, Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon.

Doran explained that the song was crafed because Dalton wanted her to sing at the wedding.

“Tat’s a lot of pressure but I kind of started secretly thinking in my mind, okay, is there a way that I could make this work? I’m not sure.”

None of the songs she previously wrote for him would work in a wedding setting, she felt, so she began writing a new one last summer here and there, in the car, and at home in her free time.

Completed in September, Sarah liked how it turned out, felt confdent that she could pull it of and the song found its frst audience at their wedding at Stevinson’s Rustic Hill Ranch.

A video of her performing it at

the keyboard went viral when posted online. Brides soon began contacting her for copies to play at their weddings. She made accommodations for a bride in Grand Rapids, Michigan to use her song in a wedding earlier in February.

“I was able to get an early copy of the song over to her, “said Doran. “Such a ‘pinch me’ moment.”

At least 10 asked her to sing at their weddings but nobody has ofered to pay her expenses if it requires travel.

“I would have to be, you know, compensated in some way. Honestly, if it was a local thing, I would 100 percent do it for free because it would just be really cool to do my own song. But nothing panned out yet for me to actually go fy out and perform it somewhere.”

Doran said she made enough money from the TikTok video to pay for the production and recording costs. It was recorded at Tone Frequency Studios in San Jose and produced with the assistance of Nashville producer Kenny Schick. Doran was born and raised in Turlock but attended kindergarten through sixth grades at Sam Vaughn Elementary School and seventh and eighth grades at Mae Hensley Jr. High School in Ceres since her parents, Jon and Anne Snyder both worked for Ceres Unifed School District. Jon Snyder taught seventh grade world history at Mae Hensley before retiring in 2020 and passing away in 2021. Anne taught kindergarten, frst and

third grades at Walter White before transitioning to the district ofce in 2005 and retiring at the end of 2021.

Sarah eventually moved onto Pitman High School in Turlock where she graduated.

Doran said her mother has been a huge encouragement and said her father would be joyous over her musical advancements.

“He would have been excited. He was a local musician as well, so this would have been really, really exciting for him, I know.”

Doran tried out as a contestant for season 21 of American Idol in 2023 and received a “golden ticket” at her audition afer performing her original song, “Wildfower,” in front of Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. She advanced into the top 40.

“I was terrifed,” remembers the Modesto resident.

She made it through the frst four rounds but got cut right before the live show.

“Tat was a really cool experience. It was the frst time I had ever done anything like that. It just kind of felt like a once-in-a-lifetime thing.”

She remembers feeling intimated as she was surrounded by the other talented contestants striving to get on the show.

“It was it was a really good experience, really pushed me kind of creatively to be like, okay, let’s take this little bit more seriously. Let’s keep writing and, you know, gain a little bit more confdence, do some local gigs, all that.

That was my frst time performing for that long. So that was a trip, but it was super cool. I’m hoping to do that again this year.

“Tey loved me, they loved my music, but there was kind of a confdence missing. And so it kind of knocked me of my feet for a little bit because I really was like, ‘Oh, what if I make it? What if something comes of this?’ And nothing really major came with it other than a really cool experience, but it really gave me that creative push to be like, okay, what do we want my music to sound like? What is my identity as an artist and, to keep pursuing that?”

Locally, Doran has found success

performing and in 2018 won the “Valley’s Got Talent” competition at the Gallo Center for the Arts. She was also asked last minute to perform a three-hour set at the Stanislaus County Fair last summer, singing her own songs and cover songs from other artists like Fleetwood Mac and Adele.

“Tat was my frst time performing for that long. So that was a trip, but it was super cool. I’m hoping to do that again this year.”

She also has sung at Modesto’s PorchFest event.

To watch/hear Sarah’s song on TikTok visit: tiktok.com/t/ ZP8mWUSNj ●

time slows down. A place where hospitality is an art form. Tat feeling is no accident.

Catching up with Katie Sper‑ beck Willey — daughter of owners Bob and Moe — is like meeting the heartbeat of Falcon’s Lair. She moves through the space with the ease of someone who knows every rhythm and every story. “Tis is my family’s business,” she says, a smile carrying both pride and respon‑ sibility. She handles scheduling, runs cocktails, oversees the foor and manages the restaurant’s social media presence.

Te Willey family is no stranger to Ripon’s culinary landscape. Tey also own Ice Cream Emporium and Gold Dust Pizza, two beloved local staples. But Falcon’s Lair is their most immersive venture yet. Katie shared a milestone moment during my visit: “We changed the menu. Today is the frst day of the debut. We’ve taken the pizzas of the menu to make it more like the old‑fash‑ ioned 1920s, using names from that era.” It’s a bold shif — one that deepens the restaurant’s identity and reinforces its commitment to authenticity.

General Manager Alley Morris radiates calm confdence. She’s been with Falcon’s Lair for two years, and her connection to the restaurant is unmistakable. “I realized Ripon needed this place even in my frst week,” she says. “Tere’s nothing like it. Even when I go out to eat, I want to come here because I know the consistency and the overall vibe.”

Her biggest hurdle is one many hospitality professionals will rec‑ ognize: “People think they’re being hard, but they’re not — they’re being specifc. We’re going to give you what you want. Te hurdle is breaking the barrier of people thinking they’re being difcult.”

Her philosophy is simple: “I want guests to feel like home. Like some‑ thing they’ve never experienced. A place where you can forget your stresses and take a break from all the loudness outside.”

This entire cast is family. We all work together as a team, and we want people to feel comfortable and at home.

If Falcon’s Lair were a person, she says, it would be “comforting, humble and vibrant.”

Floor Manager Lydia Azevedo is the one who keeps the invisible gears turning. “Keeping track of everything that goes in and out of the kitchen. Te drinks, mak‑ ing sure everything comes out as ordered, keeping all the support staf on track.” On a Saturday night rush, she describes the rhythm as a “sof fow.” Professionalism is the standard, even when the pace quickens. Her most unusual guest request? “A blackberry margarita in a smoke box. Tey wanted the presentation of the smoke, but not the old fashioned.”

Above all, she wants people to know: “Tis entire cast is family. We all work together as a team, and we want people to feel comfortable and at home.”

Bartender Kyle Bolding sees the restaurant from a vantage point few others do. Without TVs behind the lounge bar, the energy shifs. “People are more inclined to interact with us and each other,” he says. “Te vibe is unique.” His fa‑ vorite drink that tells a story about

Ripon? “Our smoked maple old fashioned. No one around here has that.” His most underrated pairing? “People not being open to trying new things. If you try something new, you might actually like it.”

Server Jayden Machatto brings the dining room to life with enthusiasm. When he presents the Falcon’s Smoked Old Fashioned, the reaction is almost always the same: “WOW,” he laughs. “People get excited. I always ask if they want to take a video because everyone loves it when I open the box.” His favorite menu items to recommend are the rosemary focaccia and the poke nachos — “unconventional, you can only get it here.”

He points out details guests ofen miss: the background TV that blends into the 1920s ambiance, the tables named afer flms of the era, the speakeasy vibe that deepens the immersion. “I feel immersed the moment I put on my outft at home; it’s like putting on your suit of armor.”

What becomes clear afer speaking with the team is that Falcon’s Lair is more than a themed restaurant. It’s a living, breathing community built on intention, creativity and a shared love for making people feel at home. Every smoky cocktail, every vintage flm, every carefully curated detail is part of a larger story — a family who dreamed up a place where the past could be felt, not just seen, and a staf who treats each other like family and every guest like a cherished friend.

Falcon’s Lair isn’t just Ripon’s 1920s escape. It’s Ripon’s reminder that hospitality, when done with heart, becomes timeless. ●

Raise Your Glass

Lumberyard Cellars Brings Great Wine and Fun Flavors

TBy KRISTI MAYFIELD

hose of us that are fortunate enough to live in the Central Valley know that we have one of the best agricultural landscapes in the nation with fresh fruit and vegetables available year-round. One of the other amazing things about living here is the accessibility to so many lovely wineries and tasting rooms. For Derick and Megan Webb, owners of Lumberyard Cellars in Escalon, inclusivity and meaningful experiences are an integral part of their business.

Derick studied Enology at CSU Fresno and worked for some of the larger wineries in the Valley including Bronco Wine Company before deciding to take the leap and open up the Lumberyard Cellars Tasting Room in 2021. “Going to tasting rooms can be intimidating so we wanted to ensure that our tasting room is inviting and comfortable for everyone that stops by,” said Derick. Megan, who has a degree in Agricultural Business and an MBA, manages the business and fnancial side of things while also caring for

their two young sons.

From a light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc to a favorful Barbera, there is something for every wine lover on their menu. Derick worked closely with the Franzia Family when completing an internship at Bronco Wine Company a decade ago and he continues to work with them to this day to make the wine and create custom blends for Lumberyard Cellars. Tough the grapes for many of the wines come from various counties in California including: Amador County, Lake County and Madera County, Webb works with the Franzias at their Clark Ferrea Winery which is located on the historic grounds of the Zinc House Farm, to produce the various varietals and blends. Zinc House Farm sits just a few short miles from Lumberyard Cellars and ofers a robust menu of wines within their tasting room as well as fresh fruit and veggies straight from the farm.

Sangria is one of the most popular drinks that Lumberyard Cellars ofers with its fruity and refreshing taste. Apples, oranges and pears sourced from Zinc House Farm complement the wine as they blend together to create a deliciously cool beverage. In addition to wine, they also ofer nonalcoholic beverages with fresh fruit and sparkling water and new takes on old favorites like the Espresso Portini which is made with Port Wine instead of Vodka.

Te Webbs know that nothing goes better with wine than some delicious pairings such as their new Pesto Mozzarella Flatbread. In addition to their new fatbread, they also ofer tasty bites such as: baked brie and charcuterie boards. On certain days food trucks pop out to the tasting room to share their culinary delights with patrons.

Many of their patrons are regulars like Colin and Amanda Briggs, who live down the street from the tasting room and pop in ofen. “Having this here has changed my life,” noted Amanda as she relayed how nice it is to have a relaxing spot where friends can gather to enjoy some excellent wine and engaging conversation. “We want to bring people together and we’ve seen it happen. We have some people that met through our Wine Club and they became friends through the club and we love that,” said Megan when discussing the many events that they host throughout the year including baby showers and micro weddings.

Megan, an Escalon native, appreciates small towns and tight knit communities and noted how

helpful and generous everyone has been since opening the tasting room. “We have made so many new friends in the community and we are so grateful for that. We also like to help other businesses by hosting things like the Spring Market because we have a heart for small businesses,” said Megan when noting that they host more than one market every year.

From Wine Club Events to Spring and Fall Markets and Car Shows, Lumberyard Cellars hosts many events throughout the year to share their love of winemaking and

especially, their love for the local communities. Lumberyard Cellars will be celebrating its ffh year in business this Summer and they are planning a special celebration to commemorate this milestone.

If you’re looking for delicious wines and tasty bites, stop by Lumberyard Cellars to enjoy their curated selection of wines, food and great conversation.

For more information about Lumberyard Cellars or their events please visit:

Home - Lumberyard Cellars or call (209) 8576181 ●

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NATIONAL AIR & SPACE MUSEUM

TO THERE & BACK

By CLAUDIA NEWCORN

ith the impending Artemis launch, and NASA’s goals of putting humans on the moon for longer periods of time, the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum in Washington DC is the most impressive way of peering into the past – and future of space aviation. Even if you’re not a space travel junkie, there is something to pique every visitor’s curiosity. From the moment you step through the glass doors of the NASA Center, you can be overwhelmed – in a really good way. A showcase of all things aviation, you will encounter everything from the jet engines used to propel rockets into space (massive!) and lunar modules (surprisingly fragile) to the Star Trek Ship Enterprise (live long and prosper!), along with full sized planes suspended three stories above from the ceilings. Tere is so much to see among the constantly changing exhibits that you can take two strategies: skim and try visit everything, or focus on an area of particular interest. Your best bet is to frst identify what exhibits are available, and plan your trip accordingly (https:// airandspace.si.edu/).

To the Moon…

On my visit, I started with the history of the space program. Right in the main lobby was the Lunar Module LM-2, golden in its unbelievably thin skin. It’s one thing to see it on TV – but up close, you marvel at its compact size and

the courage it took Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin to climb into it and head down to the untouched surface of the moon.

Te exhibit, 50 Years from Tranquility Base showcased the objects and tools uses by these frst space pioneers, adding a moving element of humanity to the scientifc aspect of space travel. A visitor marvels at the “stateof-the-art” devices the astronauts used. I found myself wondering how “quaint” today’s technology will look to people 50 years from now when colonies will likely be on the moon, and perhaps even Mars.

Te Space Race exhibit provided a fascinating insight on the U.S.-Soviet space rivalry and how it fueled both military and scientifc developments that anchored the future technologies we enjoy today. Among the large gallery’s highlights were a German V-1 “buzz bomb” and V2 missile, an inside view of a Minuteman rocket guidance system, a Skylab Orbital Workshop which you can enter, and a full-size test version of the Hubble Space Telescope, most of which flled the 3-story gallery.

Space satellites were and remain an integral part of the space program. Mariner 2 marked the beginning of robotic exploration of planets, and dangles in the

Milestones of Flight Hall. Fired of in 1962, Mariner 2 measured the atmosphere of Venus.

…And Beyond

Originally established in 1946, the main building opened on the National Mall in 1976. Te museum has 22 exhibition galleries which dramatically cover the history of astronomy, aviation, spacefight, and planetary science. A testament to what an amazing place it is can be summed up with it having earned nearly 5 stars –out of over 47,000 reviews.

I was mesmerized by the early era of fight, the derring-do and risks that aviators, as they were known, were willing to take – both women and men. Seeing exhibits about Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh – including the Spirit of St. Louis, the frst plane to make a trans-Atlantic fight – were inspiring.

From the moment you step through the glass doors of the NASA Center, you can be overwhelmed – in a really good way.

Tere are science demonstrations, a planetarium and an IMAX theater that ofers multiple shows – and it makes a nice break from hiking the museum. One room actually has rides in the form of simulators, giving you a

chance to experience fight. You can enjoy tours led by museum docents, which add depth and insights to your visit. Discovery Stations ofer interactive learning sessions and demonstrations, such as Living & Working in Space, and America by Air: Te History of Air Exploration.

While I did not get a chance to visit it (yet), the museum actually has a second location in nearby Virginia: the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, with two large hangars which house where the really big objects including a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a Concorde, and the Space Shuttle Discovery, among thousands of other aviation and space artifacts.

Wear very comfortable shoes! While there are places to sit and a cafeteria, this is a walking museum with concrete foors.

Plan Your Trip

Exploring the museum can be really simplifed by visiting their website in advance and reviewing the current exhibits, and determining which ones you would like to visit. It is very family-friendly, with hands-on exhibits that engage kids and the kids-at-heart.

As with other Smithsonian museums, admission is free and no tickets are required to visit. However, depending on the time of year, the NASA museum may require a Pass Reservation to enter, so check the website. It is open daily, 10-5:30 (with exceptions for certain holidays). Te IMAX theater shows do require paid tickets.

One thing I will emphasize: Wear very comfortable shoes! While there are places to sit and a cafeteria, this is a walking museum with concrete foors.

Whatever exhibits you visit, be ready to be enthralled and amazed at the past, present and future of space travel. ●

Sonora Pass Adventures

By MATT JOHANSON

Hike to the summit of 11,459-foot Sonora Peak, a half-day outing with a spectacular mountain view. Take an equestrian tour of the Emigrant Wilderness. Or, simply camp out of your car in the Stanislaus National Forest, no reservations needed and free in many places.

As soon as Sonora Pass reopens, abundant recreation opportunities await outdoor enthusiasts along Highway 108. Visitors who go early afer the road opens can enjoy great cross country skiing before summer melts away the year’s snow. Free downhill skiing is also possible: some intrepid skiers shuttle a vehicle to the pass and ski several miles down its steep slopes to a second vehicle lef below.

A broader range of activities become available in mid-summer when most visitors enjoy the area.

Developed campgrounds can be found from Kennedy Meadows to Pinecrest Lake. Pinecrest is the closest to the restaurants and shops of Strawberry, and tends to be the most crowded.

Higher on the road, camping is less expensive and more private. Brightman Flat Campground, about 15 miles east of Strawberry on Highway 108, ofers 33 sites beside the Stanislaus River on a frstcome, frst-served basis.

Visitors to Pigeon Flat campground can pitch their tents in the shadow of the Columns of the Giants, an interesting formation of stone columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. At 7,000 feet, Pigeon Flat is also a good place to acclimate for a high-elevation hike.

However, campers need not pay to use developed campgrounds. Forest Service regulations allow camping anywhere in the Stanislaus or other national forests

unless posted otherwise. Tere are plenty of forest roads leading to scenic and private areas. Try Herring Creek Road just north of Strawberry. It’s a dirt road, but you shouldn’t need a truck to drive it.

Kennedy Meadows Resort and Pack Station ofers guided equestrian tours and unguided horse rentals. Kennedy Meadows also has cabins, a restaurant and a general store.

Many hikers ascend Sonora Peak because only two miles and 2,000 vertical feet separate its summit from the Saint Mary’s Pass trailhead, marked by a road sign about a mile west of the highway’s 9,643-foot summit. A well-marked trail covers most of the route, and those who reach the summit enjoy a terrifc view of the Sierra range.

For a tougher challenge, try Leavitt Peak in the Emigrant Wilderness. At eight miles round-trip with some of-trail scrambling required, this is a bigger grunt than Sonora Peak, but well worth the efort. Pick up the Pacifc Crest Trail heading south at the highway summit. Both the pass and the trailhead are marked by road signs, and there’s plenty of parking available.

Both Sonora and Leavitt peaks have summit registers. Reaching the summits not only entitles climbers to document their achievements by signing them, but allows them the privilege of reading the interesting thoughts and observations of visitors from years past.

Many hikers pick up the Pacifc Crest Trail at Sonora Pass, either heading north towards Lake Tahoe or south towards Yosemite National Park. Tese point-to-point hikes can take a week or more, but many shorter loops or out-and-backs are possible. Hike even a short distance, and you may meet a hardy trekker bound for Canada or Mexico.

Rock climbing abounds within short distances from the road. Most of the

Visitors to easily-accessed Pinecrest Lake enjoy swimming, fshing, boating and paddle boarding.

climbing is fairly stif, but gym climbers and beginners will fnd a few opportunities. Check the excellent guidebook, “A Climber’s Guide to the Sonora Pass Highway,” available locally.

Te Highway 108 corridor also ofers fshing, swimming and mountain biking. In short, anyone who likes the outdoors will fnd something to do there, and it isn’t nearly as crowded as Lake Tahoe or Yosemite. ●

IF YOU GO

CAMPING:

Pinecrest and Pioneer Trail campgrounds accept reservations. Visit recreation.gov for Pinecrest and reserveamerica.com for Pioneer Trail. Other campgrounds are walk-ins. Check the Stanislaus National Forest website for a list and prices.

Equestrian: Call Kennedy Meadows at (209) 965-3900 or visit the resort’s web site at www.kennedymeadows. com.

HIKING:

The Summit Ranger District office of the Stanislaus National Forest, on the east side of Highway 108 at Pinecrest, has information, maps, advice and free wilderness permits for overnight wilderness visits.

‘Use it or lose it’

JACK LALANNE’S ADVICE WAS RIGHT WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR BODY

By DENNIS WYATT

You’ve got to work at living because dying is easy.

—

Jack LaLanne, the late ftness guru

My Achilles Heel for the longest time in group exercise classes were the gigantic red, yellow, blue or grey exercise balls.

My arms started aching whenever an instructor simply announced we’d be using them that session.

You would think a reasonably ft person would have no issues with picking up a large ball made of ribbed PVC material and flled with nothing but air.

Te exercise routines that were in vogue 15 years ago, literally killed my shoulders and upper arms to the point I couldn’t go through the entire set.

Tat’s right. A guy who some contend did aerobics with the restraint of the Tasmanian Devil of Bugs Bunny fame minus the coordination, was whipped by moving a big ball that fully infated weighs — according to my scale — just under 5 pounds.

If you think it is easy trying grabbing on to one, extend your arms, and move it over your head or in circles in front of you, I dare you to try it.

Equally fun is being on your back and doing similar movements with the ball pressed between your ankles.

No one was happier than me when the fashion shifed to using the balls primarily for pushups and sit-ups.

Ten one day afer I talked my class instructor Margy Nelson into doing double grapevines — those who took Angel McKinley’s 6 a.m. class at In Shape Manteca called the move “Te Dennis” as I made it mine by going from one end of the exercise room to the other — she an-

nounced we were going to use the balls.

I fgured we were doing sit-ups. Wrong. She was going old school.

Tis wasn’t going to be fun especially given it was at the March Lane In Shape in Stockton where I was a relative newcomer and smack dab in the front.

I thought I was going to embarrass myself at the very least.

Much to my surprise, afer 5 minutes or so neither my arm or shoulder hurt. In fact, I was ready to go 15 more minutes.

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. And it was safe to say I was really happy with myself.

Te reason I was pleased with myself was simple: It proved to me — once again — that getting older doesn’t translate into the wheels falling of the bus.

I’m never going to be an athlete of any sort or even Jack LaLanne for that matter — the late ftness guru who celebrated his 60th birthday by swimming to Alcatraz handcufed and shackled while towing a boat. But I don’t have to accept complete decline as inevitable.

LaLanne was a pimply-faced skinny kid with a serious sugar addiction who parlayed a humble

gym he opened in Oakland in 1936 into a career that earned him the moniker of “Te Godfather of Fitness.”

He was never at a loss for words to get people active and healthier.

Nor did he shirk from being physically active. He repeated ftness stints like his Alcatraz swim almost annually until the day he died at age 96.

His philosophy was captured in his one-line zingers such as, “Would you give your dog a cigarette and doughnut for breakfast every morning?”

LaLanne told interviewers his life was turned around when he heard lecturer Paul C. Bragg as a young boy.

Te following words are what LaLanne said changed his life forever: “It matters not what your age is or your physical condition, if you obey nature’s laws, you will be born again.”

I’ll admit there was a time when I doubted the words that motivated LaLanne to, in his own words, “use it or lose it.”

But then I’d come across people who had gotten of insulin or severely cutback because they had altered their diets or religiously followed an exercise routine.

I’ve met people who have lost 75 pounds and kept it of by simply walking an hour a day.

And I’ve known people who were told they’d have limited mobility in a limb and be on pain killers for the rest of their life, who walk today better than a 15-yearold and do so without popping pills.

For years I’ve told people who’ve complained about

aches, pains or being listless and moody that you can reverse virtually anything at least to some degree, if you work at it.

Now that I’m about to turn 70, I am still much more active than when I was 20.

I’m clearly not packing in fve straight days each week or working out between 60 to 90 minutes a day.

It’s not for lack of a desire, it’s that my time constraints have increased.

Now that I’m about to turn 70, I am still much more active than when I was 20.

As a result, in recent years the actual time spent exercising on any given weekday is now in the 30 to 45 minute range.

Tat said, just like with those massive infated balls, I can still make adjustments in my exercise to counter the little challenges your body presents as you grow older.

Tis is not meant to brag. What I hope it will do is encourage people to “use it” — whatever hand you were dealt from the DNA deck — to avoid losing it.

LaLanne was right. Dying is easy. Living, though, takes work ●

Walk more to stress less

More than 10 years ago, a mere fve words frightened desk jockeys everywhere: “sitting is the new smoking.” Still, many people across the U.S. are walking less than they used to. Long days spent sitting can take a toll over time, negatively impacting bodies and minds.

Research from the American Heart Association shows 1 in 4 adults in the United States sits for longer than 8 hours each day, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and premature death.

Feeling stretched by the demands of everyday life is common. However, simply adding just 20 minutes of daily physical activity may reduce the risk of disease and improve mental health, according to research published in “JAMA Internal Medicine.” Additionally, being physically active reaps many benefts down the road. It keeps your mind sharp as you age; studies show higher levels of ftness are linked to better attention, learning, working memory and problem solving. It also slashes risk of depression and boosts an all-around sense of joy. Research continues to show physical activity, like walking, reduces stress, boosts mood and promotes overall wellbeing. Tis year, in honor of National Walking Day - created by the American Heart Association more than 10 years ago to encourage more movement

throughout the day and help people live longer, healthier lives, one step at a time - consider these ideas to get your body moving to help lower stress, improve sleep, lif your mood and support both mental and physical health.

Step into the Great Outdoors

Slipping on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and heading outside is a simple way to get more movement in your life. Walking outside has the added benefts of helping reduce stress, improving mood and boosting cardiovascular health. Sunshine also provides a boost of vitamin D and immune support.

Make It Fun

Tink of movement as something you give yourself, by moving more your way. When you choose activities you enjoy, it becomes easier to make them part of your day. If you can’t fnd 20 minutes for a walk outside, even short bursts of movement can help. Walking in place at a brisk pace, walking up and down the stairs in your home, fnding a quick dance workout online or even seated exercises and stretch breaks throughout the day can help you feel more refreshed and ready to take on everyday tasks, like cooking and running errands.

Walk with a Furry Friend

Pets can be a great motivator to get moving. Plus, taking your furry friend for a stroll can support heart health, lower stress and boost overall happiness. In fact. a study published in the “Journal of Physical Activity and Health” shows dog owners are 34% more likely to reach their ftness goals and get the recommended amount of physical activity than those who don’t have a dog. Walking with your pet can also lead to more social connection, such as meeting neighbors or other pet owners.

Pound the Pavement with a Pal

Walking solo can be good for introspection, but bringing a friend, family member or coworker can make the time pass more quickly and add connection to your routine. Explore a greenway, waterfront or indoor mall for a fresh way to get some steps. If a loved one isn’t available to join you, make a phone call while you walk or take a meeting or conference call outdoors if your work allows it.

Every step counts. Visit Heart. org/movemore for more tips to get moving. ●

Going beyond aesthetics 7 Home Design Trends for 2026

Heading into spring, home design is once again evolving. Homeowners are blending comfort, personality, sustainability and connections to the outside world this year. More than just aesthetics, these trends are warm, intentional and rooted in real life.

Whether you’re refreshing a room or planning a full-blown makeover, consider these ideas for inspiration that feels both timeless and fresh.

Warm, Earthy Palettes

This year, say goodbye to whites and cool grays. Instead, cozy earth tones like clay, sage, caramel and rich neutrals create a grounded, inviting atmosphere. Refresh walls or cabinetry with these earthy hues or try colordrenching - using a single hue in varying tones across walls, trim and ceilings - for a bold new vibe that feels both timeless and modern.

Flowing, Curved Shapes

As homes trend more toward feeling lived-in rather than staged, hard edges and rigid forms are taking a backseat. In 2026, curves are everywhere: soft archways, rounded furniture and curved statement pieces - think circular mirrors or oversized armchairs - create fuid, comforting spaces.

Natural Materials and Textures

Designs this year celebrate materials that age beautifully, like natural stone, reclaimed wood and textiles that tell a story. Consider woven pillows and throws, handmade pottery, textured walls and wood with visible grain to enrich rooms with sensory detail and an artisanal feel.

Personalized Nostalgia

Blend vintage fnds with contemporary art to create a space that’s truly your own. That means vintage fnds, heirloom pieces and decor that evokes memory - even quilted textiles or classic checkered tiles - styled in fresh, modern ways to add warmth and individuality.

Attention to Statement Details

Small details are getting big attention this year. Swapping out basic cabinet hardware and lighting fxtures for artisanal, tactile metals can help elevate kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, turning them into design statements.

Flexible, Multifunctional Spaces

With hybrid work and lifestyle blending continuing into 2026, rooms should be designed to serve multiple purposes. Reading nooks can double as workstations. Living rooms efortlessly transition from day to night. Adaptable furniture, hidden storage and smart layouts help make multifunctional spaces feel intentional and uncluttered.

Outdoor-Inspired Interiors

The connection to nature grows stronger inside homes with greenery, natural light and materials that echo the outdoors. From indoor-outdoor fow to plant-rich spaces that feel alive and tranquil, biophilic design promotes calm, comfort and connection.

Visit eLivingtoday.com to fnd more design inspiration to make your home more personal and grounded in comfort.

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he ranks of independent book stores grew by fve in the Northern San Joaquin Valley region over the last two years and these business owners are inviting the public to get to know them better throughout the month of April.

Seven local shops are staging a month-long Bookstore Crawl through the Valley. To join the crawl, simply visit one of the participating bookstores to pick up your free “passport” and get a stamp and other goodies from each store you visit during the month.

And on April 25 — national Independent Bookstore Day — expect big celebrations at the seven independent bookstores that crawl organizes note are “cozy places full of charm and hyperlocal connection.”

Te American Booksellers Association estimates that there are more than 3,200 independent book stores nationally.

Organizer Lauren Dutch of Story Books and Toys in Oakdale had the dream of opening her bookstore in 2020, around the same time other book lovers were exploring similar ideas.

“Tis isn’t about competition. It’s about community. Tese spaces are stronger together, just like the towns they serve,” Dutch said.

Dutch notes while it may be cheaper to shop from big box stores or online, “Amazon won’t read to your kids, or make you a cup of cofee, or chat with you about your favorite authors, or host a poetry reading.”

“People aren’t just scrolling past one another but they’re engaging with each other,” Dutch said of bookstores. “Tey’re talking about stories, sharing perspectives, and connecting with people they may have never met otherwise.”

People aren’t just scrolling past one another but they’re engaging with each other. They’re talking about stories, sharing perspectives, and connecting with people they may have never met otherwise.”

“Families gather for story time, friends meet over book club discussions, and children discover the joy of reading in a way that feels meaningful and lasting. ”

Te bookstores participating in the Central California Book Crawl are:

*BK Bookstore, 2943 4th Street, Ceres @bkbooksandmore Monday-Saturday 10-6.

*Bookish, 811 W. Roseburg Ave., Modesto @bookish_modesto Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 .

*Caspian Books, 48 W

10th St, Tracy @caspianbookstracy Monday-Saturday 10-5.

*Mountain Bookshop, 1376-I Mono Way, Sonora @mountainbookshop Monday-Saturday 1-5.

*Ripon Bookstore, 204 W Main St, Ripon @riponbookstore Tuesday-Friday 9-5:30; Sunday 12:30-5:30.

*Scrawl, Scribble & Smirch Bookshop, 536 5th Street, Gustine @ scrawlscribblesmirchbookshop Tuesday-Friday 11-6; Saturday 9:30-4:30.

*Story Books & Toys