San Jose, CA. – The 408 Chapter 1st Annual picnic was a huge success as they opened their arms to welcome 49er fans from all over. The 408 Chapter Vice President Lisa Guttierez and President Robert Garcia along with 49er Empire founder and President of the Bay Area Core Chapter, Jay Esperanza organized a beautiful event that is sure to become an annual destination for years to come. Lake Cunningham was the perfect setting as everyone pitched in, in true Empire fashion. From the 510, Auggie Perez showed up with his Mine 49 Tailgate Trailer in tow to set the landscape off for a proper tailgate atmosphere.
Folks, IT WAS A PICNIC!!!
Photographer Paul Muldrow was there to capture the moments.
The Brotherhood
The Sisterhood
Even the Park Rangers pitched in to help haul in equipment
Under the Mine 49 tent, 415 Chapter Vice President, Alfredo “DJ Mixtek” Aguilar not only provided the DJ equipment but put it down in the mix for the entire day.
Marlon Allen and Abel Rueda stepped up as master chefs and held down the grill like it was nobodys business!
Much respect to the Empire family that traveled five hours all the way from Bakersfield, CA. to be at the picnic. Everyone paused to listen to Saul Ramirez of the Bakersfield Chapter’s emotional speech in memory of Ryan Gaxiola’s love for the 49ers. Rest in Peace Ryan.
Among the many 49er fans that where hanging out were Lupe McCommick who traveled in from Sacramento, CA. Catherine Tate from Ladies of the Empire, 415 Chapter President Leroy Bermudez came in with family and friends from San Francisco, Rudy DeAnda owner/operator of The Blue Chip Sports Bar and Restaurant, as well as Jerry Walker, the 49er Team Archivist and Co-Host of Hooked on the Niners TV Show.
One Team, One Family, One Empire!