Local

Six veteran voices and venues defining Merced over time

Stories by Merced Sun-Star journalists, with AI summarization

Merced's rich cultural and social tapestry is woven with figures and places that have become community cornerstones. From the resilience of Roll-er Land roller rink surviving the pandemic to a beloved radio host energizing mornings for decades, these icons connect generations and help define the city’s character.

Places like Maria’s Taco Shop, with its 32-year tradition of late-night authenticity, and Sam Cafe, blending Thai cuisine with neighborly hospitality for 35 years, reflect dedication and adaptation to local needs. These institutions, alongside leaders like a retiring softball coach and a cherished teacher, demonstrate how individuals and businesses foster connection, perseverance, and service within their community.

Diaz speaking at his surprise retirement assembly.

NO. 1: MERCED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER RETIRES AFTER 35 YEARS. HE WAS THE ‘CINCO DE MAYO KING’

Ernie Diaz started working at Gracey Elementary in 1989. | Published July 11, 2024 | Read Full Story by Vanessa Saltos

Head coach Ross Cruickshanks talking with players after a game on Wednesday May 8, 2024. By PHOTO BY LUPE RAMIREZ

NO. 2: AFTER 25 YEARS OF COACHING, GOLDEN VALLEY HIGH’S SOFTBALL COACH ROSS CRUICKSHANKS IS RETIRING

“It’s definitely been my hardest decision I’ve made in my coaching career.” | Published July 27, 2024 | Read Full Story by Vanessa Saltos

Merced radio personality Dave Luna, 66, has been a familiar voice on the radio for 45 years. By Shawn Jansen

NO. 3: ‘HE’S AN ICON.’ MERCED RADIO PERSONALITY STILL GOING STRONG AFTER 45 YEARS ON THE AIR

Merced radio host Dave Luna has worked for 45 years entertaining listeners with his friendly personality and sense of humor. | Published September 10, 2024 | Read Full Story by Shawn Jansen

Enrique Valencia, 67, owner of Maria’s Taco Shop, speaks with an employee at the restaurant’s 1750 R Street location in Merced, Calif., on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024. The restaurant which is open 24 hours, has offered authentic fast Mexican food to the Merced community for 32 years.

NO. 4: TACO SHOP IN MERCED SERVES AUTHENTIC FAST MEXICAN FOOD TO COMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS

Maria’s Taco Shop, a Merced fixture for 32 years, offers authentic Mexican food 24 hours a day | Published October 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Andrew Kuhn

Skaters make their way around the rink at Roll-er Land in Merced, Calif., on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024 By Andrew Kuhn

NO. 5: MERCED ROLLER RINK CELEBRATES 44TH ANNIVERSARY AFTER NEARLY CLOSING PERMANENTLY

Merced’s Roll-er Land has been owned by the Robinson family since the roller rink opened on Halloween in 1980 | Published November 3, 2024 | Read Full Story by Shawn Jansen

Sam Cafe restaurant located at 235 W. 12th Street Suite B, in Merced, Calif., on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. By Andrew Kuhn

NO. 6: SAM CAFE HAS BEEN A STAPLE IN SOUTH MERCED FOR 35 YEARS. WHAT’S THE KEY TO ITS SUCCESS?

Sam Mayathong opened the first Thai food restaurant in Merced. | Published February 10, 2025 | Read Full Story by Shawn Jansen

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.