A Day at the Park(way)

The Tri-tip Cook-off is a comin'! If you have been laying in bed awake at night wondering just what you should bring to this amazing event, please read on and put your mind at ease.

• Camera: there are soooo many photos opportunities and interesting wildlife to be seen.
• Bicycle: there are trials around the property that are rider-friendly. Plus you could park at Woodward Park and take the Eaton trail all the way to the Parkway (4 miles).
• Beach towel: wear shorts and tan those legs! There are several large, grass areas where you can relax and watch the clouds go by.
• Kids: not that you would leave them at home intentionally, but this is a family friendly event and they will love exploring the trails and seeing the wildlife.
• Appetite: let’s not forget that the sole purpose of this event is a four letter word that we use frequently around here: food.

Last Thursday, I got the opportunity to take some photos and learn more about the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, which will be the location of the 2011 Tri-tip Cook-off. It was a beautiful day and it made me even more excited about our upcoming shindig. On the property there are several points of interest that are sure to keep everyone entertained (if extreme barbeque mayhem isn’t enough).

The first thing that stands out is the pond next to the entrance. Standing next to the pond you will hear a chorus of different birds, quiet chirps from various bugs hiding in the tall grass, bees buzzing, and ducks quacking. Mounted telescopes open up the opportunity to spy on rabbits hiding in the brush and turtles crawling into the cool water. A trail allows you to walk around the pond and get up close and personal to the wildlife. Also there are several over-sized nests that were made for kids to go inside and explore.

Going more toward the center of the property you come to an old restored house from the late 1800’s. I was told that docents will be on site to give tours of the house. I got to walk  inside and get a brief history of the place. It is beautiful inside. On the second floor there are real bird nests that kids are allowed to pick up and check out. Plus they have different types of artificial poop from animals on the property (the guide told me the kids get equally grossed out and interested). There is also a gift shop that has all sorts of nature items and toys.

Right in front of this house is where we will be setting up shop. There is a big, old tree that shades the area, which includes a quaint little bench that looks over the pond. This is a great spot to be lazy and just lounge around. The gravel driveway in front of the house is where the grills will be stationed, sending that sweet aroma of tri-tip in all directions.

All in all, this property is perfect for a kick-back Saturday event. You can buy your tickets now to ensure your spot! Plus, we have a few more spots left for contestant sign-ups if you are interested.

Mark your calendars for April 2 at 11:00 a.m. - we'll see you there!