Independent. Opinionated. Not Everyone's Cup of Tea.
This is an independent local publication from Epic App Solutions — the 209 area code's paper, organized by zip — not affiliated with any other newspaper, agency, or organization unless an article says so directly. Expect straight opinions, real questions, and the occasional field note that doesn't pull punches.
We're also a moderated newsroom, not a social feed. Disagree like an adult, bring evidence — acting up gets shown the door.
If that's not for you, that's fine — just say so below and we'll part ways here.
THIS IS YOUR IP: 216.73.216.54
Clicking Agree just remembers your choice on this device for 30 days. Clicking Disagree logs the visit and shows you the door — nothing more happens automatically.
Ask Edna
Edna
Front Desk · The Epic Gazette
Goes to a real person, sugar -- not some ol' queue.
The 209's Interactive News — From the Public, For the Public, FreeSponsored by Epic App Solutions
Section // The Puzzle DeskDaily Crossword · No. 2Puzzle Desk
The 209 Crossword
Thursday, October 1, 2026 · the 209 history edition · California
Pick a square — the clue you’re answering shows here.
1___ Railroad, running through Oakdale since 1897 (6)
3Orchard nut that pays a lot of county bills (6)
6The 'Apricot Capital of the World' (9)
8River that runs past Oakdale and Waterford (8)
9Gold Rush ferry town with the covered bridge; county seat 1862-71 (12)
12Gold-camp county seat on the Tuolumne before Modesto (8)
14Town named for the Roman goddess of agriculture (5)
15National park up Highway 120 -- the county's backyard (8)
Down
2Oakdale's signature April weekend (5)
4Town named for a railroad superintendent (6)
5The county's name, and one of its rivers' (10)
7Town that throws the Cheese & Wine festival (9)
10Turlock-area farm industry, in a word (5)
11Modesto native who directed 'American Graffiti' and 'Star Wars' (5)
13Modesto winery founded 1933; grew into the world's largest (5)
Every answer is the 209 history or geography.
Wrong letters turn red on Check grid — tap a square twice to switch
across/down. New grid at midnight; “deal another” sets a second board off today’s shoe.