October 2015

Ramona, famed for turkey production, celebrated Turkey Day each year from 1933 to 1941. The unique event was discontinued because of World War II. Turkey Day queens and their attendants were a central part of the festivities. Pictured (photo below) is the 1938 Turkey Day, Dottie Richardson, looking splendid in royal crown and turkey feather robe. Beauty runs constant in this Ramona pioneer family: Dottie’s daughter, Linda Macintosh, was Miss Ramona 1956, and her granddaughter, Marjie Thomsen, held the honor in 1980. Robes and gowns worn during the event featured turkey feathers hand-sewn onto broadcloth-like fabric. One wearer, who found the clothes very warm, commented: “No wonder turkeys can’t stand the heat.”

Saratoga Sake, also painted the Ramona “1938 Turkey Day Queen” and “Midget Car Race” and co-painted the “Working in the Vineyard” murals. Sake’s reputation as a serious artist grew out of respect for his technical skill, creating his first portrait with spray painting in 1986. He has been featured in numerous magazines, TV appearances and newspapers around the globe. The artist currently lives in East County with his two children and wife Chef Stacey Poon-Kinney Star of Food Network.