San Joaquin Kids Magazine November/December 2012

A FA M I LY MAGA ZINE FOR PA R E N T S

TEACHING

KIDS TO

GIVE PLUS

KEEPING BUSY OVER HOLIDAY BREAK CARMEL VALLEY NOV/DEC 2012

KIDS CALENDAR

SANJOAQUINKIDS.com

LATHROP

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LODI

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MANTECA

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RIPON

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STOCKTON

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TRACY

Santa’s At Sherwood Mall: Starting November 17th, bring the family to see Santa at his new train station and watch the Santa Express travel through the North Pole.

Family Holiday Fun: This holiday season we have plenty of fun for the family.

SANTA’S ARRiVAL Holiday Crafts & Entertainment for Kids!

Saturday, November 17th at 11am HOLiDAY PAGEANT California Tropic Regional Pageant Girls - Boys - Babies - Teens Saturday, December 1st ROAD CREW Music, games & prizes for kids!

Saturday, December 8th from 1pm - 3pm

Shopping & Dining: Express Pac Sun Zumiez Victoria’s Secret Samuels Jewelers Takken’s Elephant Bar Bath & Body Works Macaroni Grill MACY’S BEST BUY HomeGoods

Torrid rue 21 Petco ULTA

Located At Pacific Ave & Robinhood Dr•Stockton•952-6277

www.sherwoodmall.com

OWNED & MANAGED BY STONE BROS. | FOLLOW US:

Lights on the Farm A magical drive through a trail of holiday lights.

Santa’s Village

Holidays on the

Farm www.DellossoFamilyFarm.com

Santa Claus • Fresh cut trees

Imagine a place where it snows every day. A place where you can pack up the family and enjoy the snow just minutes away, and feel the spirit of Christmas every day. Your children will giggle, their eyes will light up, and you can enjoy the splendors of Christmas.... Welcome to Holidays on the Farm.

Snow on the Farm

Visit the newest mountain in the Valley-Snow Mountain!

Featuring Snow Mountain Ice Skating Available all day everyday

A 300 foot long tubing hill

Reservations for Snow Mountain STRONGLY Recommended (Only limited walk-ons available) Call (209) 982-0833 or www.SnowOnTheFarm.com

All day Open Air Ice Skating

300 foot long ride

passes are available.

Visit HolidaysOnTheFarm.com or call 209.982.0833 for more information and for reservations.

Open from November 23rd, 2012 until January 5th, 2013 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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What’s Inside 10

Kids Tidbits That's Showbiz!; Recommended Reading

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Fall Kids Calendar

18 Your Family OMG Grandma, U R Cool.

20 Just for the Parents Holiday Hazards 22

Haute Items: Kid's Wishlist

26 Your Kids Keeping Busy Over Break 28 FEATURE: Teaching Kids to Give You're never too young to give back to the community- get your kids involved by helping out these local charities. by Tammy Hansen 32 Carmel Valley Escape Looking for a rustic and kid-friendly weekend getaway? Carmel Valley offers beautiful sights the whole family will love. by Don and Ann Jackson

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

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HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS...

- Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists - Easy access to your personal doctor - Choice of hospitals and pharmacies - Local and nationwide emergency care - Healthy Families, AIM and Medi-Cal Coverage - Free 24/7 advice nurse - Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties

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Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.

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1-888-936-PLAN (7526) www.hpsj.com 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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Growing Stronger Every Issue

SanJoaquin T H E L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E C E N T R A L VA L L E Y

magazine

Education & Arts

+

san Joaquin’s Budding entrepeneurs a grand opening Mexican Heritage Center getaway Indian Wells

WEDDINGS A PUBLICATION BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

august 2012

sanjoaquinmagazine.com

SERVING SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY

lathrop | lodi | manteca | ripon | stockton | tracy

Stockton

THE SEASON’S

BEST DRESSES

Celebrate!

12 FABULOUS

LOCAL WEDDINGS

STOCKTON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

+ LOCAL FINDS

BEAUTY BUZZ

SUMMER 2012

www.sanjoaquinbride.com

a special publication of San Joaquin Magazine

YOUR LOCAL WEDDING PLANNING & RESOURCE GUIDE

2012 ANNUAl EVENTS | ARTS & CUlTURE | DININg gUIDE | MApS | HOTEl INfO

health SanJoaquin MAGAZINE’S

and

MEDICAL

B

O

SP N EC U S IA IS L SU

E

A Hosprea ital

Everyt s: hi Need ng You To Kn ow

Guide 2012

A H E A LT H G U I D E FOR SAN JOAQUIN RESIDENTS

2012 MEDICAL GUIDE sanjoaquinmagazine.com

A FA M I LY MAGA ZINE FOR PA R E N T S

Local Doctors + Medical Profiles + Healthy Choices + Area Hospitals

Rockon! +san Francisco Fun & pre-school 101

JULY/AUG 2012

SANJOAQUINKIDS.com

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magazine

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

SeaSOnS Change Come In-SIde!

Cardio Theater | Indoor & Outdoor heated Pools | Functional Training | group Cycling | Zumba, Yoga & More | Kids Clubs

61 California locations, and 11 near you!

IN-SHAPE HEALTH CLUBS In-ShaPe SPOrT: MarIna 5 STOCKTON LOCATIONS 6545 Embarcadero • 472-2111 In-ShaPe SPOrT: weST Lane 1074 E. Bianchi Rd. • 472-2100 3 TRacy LocaTionS In-ShaPe CITY: TraCY In-ShaPe SPOrT: QuaIL LaKeS 2303 W. March Ln. • 472-2230 239 W 11th St. • 833-3370 In-ShaPe CITY: haMMer Lane 7920 Kelley Dr. • 472-2105

In-ShaPe SPOrT: TraCY 101 S Tracy Blvd. • 836-2504

In-ShaPe CITY: DOwnTOwn 6 S. El Dorado • 472-2190

In-ShaPe FIT: TraCY 2311 n. Tracy Blvd. • 836-8787

2 ManTEca LocaTionS In-ShaPe SPOrT: ManTeCa 1805 E. yosemite ave. • 823-0174 FIT BY In-ShaPe: ManTeCa 1305 W. yosemite ave. • 249-7003 LAThROp LOCATION In-ShaPe FITneSS: LaThrOP 15362 Harlan Rd. • 373-2441

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daY

FREE gueSt paSS

IN-SHAPE HEALTH CLUBS

1-800-5-INSHAPE • www.inshapeclubs.com Pass is valid for 14 consecutive days. Must be local resident and at least 18 years of age with valid photo ID. Certain restrictions apply. Facilities may vary.

Limit one pass per year. Offer expires 11/30/12. SJKMAG-1112 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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Lodi

Swim CLub 209.712.4382 | swimlodi@gmail.com | www.lodiswimclub.com

Swim training for:

beginners • intermediate • Prep High School master triathletes • water Polo

free

t-shirt & Cap for the first 10 people to sign up and mention this ad.

Celebrating 45 years of challenging & fun programs for all levels from beginning to olympic trials.

CONTACT US

San Joaquin Kids/Parent Magazine is published 6x a year by San Joaquin Magazine 793 S. Tracy Blvd, Suite 230 Tracy, CA 95376 Phone: (209) 833-9989 www.sanjoaquinkids.com

ADVERTISING OFFICE: 209.833.9989 PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli ASSISTANT EDITOR Jessica Clare CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Martinez

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Heather Hilton-Rufo Advertising Email: heather@sanjoaquinkids.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Cox, Lauren Sturman, Valerie Zoccoli, Christy Manzeck EDITORIAL INQUIRIES jessica@sanjoaquinmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tammy Hansen, Jenn Thornton, Don and Ann Jackson, Amanda Rife

Preschool Full Time Day Care

PHOTOGRAPHY Dan Hood, Matthew James Photo

Infant Care, Preschool, Pre-K & After School Full Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily Conveniently located near March Lane & Pacific Ave. in Stockton

DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Rebecca Ristrim

209.956.5437 4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton

Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

WEB DESIGNER Violet Whitworth

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2012 Inside Magazines

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

Recommended

Reading

BY AMANDA RIFE

THE SHAPE OF MY HEART (Preschool)

BY MARK SPERRING ILLUSTRATED BY ALYS PATERSON

An inventive way of teaching shapes to our youngsters, this book will make you see the world in a whole new light.

The Shape Of My Heart will make a perfect last-minute stocking stuffer for the little tykes in your life, so look for it when it hits the shelves December 24.

PIRATE CINEMA (Teen)

BY CORY DOCTOROW

In the nearfuture, the Internet is strictly paroled and media uploading and downloading is not tolerated. When the government takes away 16-yearold filmmaker Trent McCauley’s Internet access for a year, he sets off to find a way to start a techno-revolution and stop the government before all internet creativity is outlawed.

If your children can’t imagine their world without YouTube or streaming media then pick up this book, available now, that wonderfully analyses how anti-piracy movements like SOPA and RIPA might affect us.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

OCTONAUTS EXPLORE THE GREAT BIG OCEAN (Primary)

BY MEOMI

Introduce your children to the deep blue sea in this charming picture book that details the wonders that lay beneath the waves. The newest in a series, the Octonauts take on another voyage that explores underwater habitats. With adorable art, glow in the dark ink, and great educational opportunities, let the Octonauts be your child‘s guide to oceanlife.

Available now.

THE 39 CLUES: CAHILLS VS. VESPERS (Elementary School)

BY LINDA SUE PARK

Having a hard time getting your kiddo to read? Stop what you’re doing and get this amazing series. The first book, Maze of Bones by Rick Riordan (author of the Percy Jackson series), begins an interactive mystery that will keep your new readers entertained and engaged all the way through the last page of this newest addition, out December 4. Two siblings try and outwit a villainous clan that has kidnapped their family in Cahills vs.

Vespers in this fifth volume of the series.

HOLIDAYS

AT THE SPA

The Spa at Wine & Roses offers spa services and packages for women, men and couples. Our certified Aveda salon features a full menu of services, including hair so you can create a picture perfect holiday look. Also, as a guest of our spa, you will also have access to our exclusive spa privileges. Relax in the plunge pools or steam room and enjoy a peaceful moment in the soothing tranquility room. Shop for a unique holiday gift at The Nest or give someone the spa experience with a W&R gift card!

S pA R e S e R vAT i O N S 2 0 9 . 3 7 1 . 6 1 6 5 O R

spareservations@winerose.com

Fine Art Classes for Kids and Adults

Ment i ad fo on this r li disco st of unts

Now Enrolling for Winter Break Camps Sculpting in Clay

December 17-21 from 10am-12pm

"Winter Wonderland" Landscapes in Acrylic paint

December 17-21 from 10am-12pm

Year Round Classes ● Kids & Adult Classes Birthday Parties ● All Mediums Adult Birthday Parties All Classes are private & doors are locked during class

209.939.9931● 229 E. Alpine Ave.● Stockton ● www.artkorner.com 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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HARP Learning Institute Sometimes, even the brightest students struggle in school or are faced with tough to tackle subjects. “So many smart kids come our way, but unfortunately, they are not performing well in school,” says Lisa Harp, founder or HARP Learning Institute. Increased academic pressures can wear down a student’s confidence and self-esteem, and, especially with older students, leave them feeling dumb or behind their peers.

BY JESSICA CLARE

“There is so much that can happen when a student fails to learn,” says Lisa. She and the educational staff at HARP Learning Institute try to make a complete picture of a student’s strengths and weaknesses before developing an individualized plan for success. “We check for visual memory, visual discrimination, visual processing, auditory memory, auditory discrimination, auditory processing, gross motor skills, visual motor integration, eye movement and balance, as well as a quick dyslexia screening. We also do academic assessments to pinpoint specific needs,” says Lisa. This indepth evaluation allows the HARP Learning Institute staff to play to their students’ strengths and target their weaknesses. “For instance, if a student is weak in visual recall and memory, we know this is the skill we want to target,” says Lisa. “As the visual memory increases, so does the child’s memory.”

For some students, the typical classroom model just doesn’t fit their learning styles. “For example, a right brain dominant student might not do so well in math or follow step by step

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instructions easily. A tactile learner learns best by doing instead of seeing or hearing. In modern classrooms, it is difficult for this type of learner to succeed as most information is presented in an auditory fashion,” Lisa explains.

Lisa, who was a credentialed teacher in California, Colorado, and Arizona for almost

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

two decades, has firsthand knowledge of the difficulties faced by students, teachers, and parents. Many of the techniques used at HARP Learning Institute were developed by Lisa to help her son, who struggled with his own learning difficulties. His success encouraged Lisa to help other students with similar struggles, and ultimately found the HARP Learning Institute.

Since 2001, Lisa and her well-trained staff of certified instructors has been helping students grow and build up the confidence and skills they have been missing. This research-based approach helps students fill in learning gaps to reach academic success. “Our motto is that every student can learn when given the right set of tools,” says Lisa.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

HARP Learning Institute 1330 S. Ham Lane, Suite 102 Lodi, (209) 365-0950 harpinstitute.com

Is Your Child Struggling in School? Start Now.....

“Jacob is now in the second grade and getting all A’s and B’s. Last year he was failing every class.

Thank you Harp Learning Institute!” C.S.- Stockton

Learning Success Diagram:

• Motor Skills • Visual Processing Skills • Auditory Processing Skills • Memory Building • Multi-Sensory Academics

Call now for

frEE

diagnostiC tEsting Expires November 30, 2012

Helping students overcome: Below Grade Level Achievement • Dylslexia • ADD/ADHD • Auditory Processing Disorders • Visual Processing Disorders • Poor Test Taking Skills • Reading Fluency Problems Reading Comprehension Problems • Math/Algebra Problems • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Certified Instructors • Flexible Scheduling • Tracked Progress • Regular Reports • Kindergarten Readiness through High School Focus • Proven and Researched Backed Method and Approach

1330 S. Ham · Lodi, CA 95242 · (209) 365-0950 · www.harpinstitute.com www.imPactsPortscenter.com www.imPact mPact PactsPortscenter.com Pact enter.com

Carousel Children’s Consignment

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209.831.9140 | 49 W. 10th St, Tracy

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Clothes 0-16 Baby Gear · Furniture · Toys · Books · Maternity Open Monday thru Saturday 10 to 5

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er new Play cent • huGe Foam Pit houses • kids bounce • ZiP line • rock wall iP required • no membersh

1110 W. Kettleman Lane • Lodi, CA 95240 • FOLLOW US ON

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PartiPalooza: Where the Fun Begins!

PartiPalooza, located in Livermore, is the area’s best children’s entertainment center. We provide a clean, safe, fun, and family friendly environment for hosting children’s parties, events, or to just come out and have a great time. PartiPalooza is for children of all ages and interests, and a great place for your kids to have fun and get the exercise they need. We are dedicated to providing the best service and creating a special and memorable experience for you, your child, and their friends. Our professional and friendly hosts will help throw a party that won’t be forgotten!

We have a variety of entertainment and activity rooms to make your party unique!

Energetic youngsters will love the slides, obstacle course, jump house, air hockey, and foosball of our first activity room.

Aspiring divas and rockstars can visit our karaoke room, complete with stage, disco ball, and costumes so they can dress up, rock out, and be a star. Kids who prefer a little friendly competition will love our second activity room, filled with miniature bowling, rock climbing, basketball toss, tri-air hockey, foosball, a large slide, and enough arcade games to make everyone happy.

Visit PartiPalooza, Tri-Valley’s Ultimate Party & Entertainment Facility for Children, Today!

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

6253 Southfront Road Livermore, (925) 245-9913 partipalooza.com

Come in and join the fun… Bounce Houses, Miniature Bowling, Rock Climbing, Karaoke Room, Game Tables, Arcade Machines and more!

Where the Fun Begins!

The Ultimate Party Experience 6253 Southfront Road Livermore CA 94551

925.245.9913

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We offer Birthday Parties, Team Parties, Face Painting, Magic Show, plus Food and Refreshments. We provide a clean, safe, fun and family friendly environment to celebrate children’s parties, events and just plain fun. PartiPalooza is for children of all ages. Our professional party hosts can help you design a party that will impress your child and be the envy of their friends and family.

For extended Drop In and Play Hours during the Holidays visit: www.PartiPalooza.com

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

millennium dental quality family dentistry www.millennium-dental.net

Our ServiceS include: • Orthodontics & Invisalign • treatment for Infants • Implants • Cosmetic dentistry • Zoom 1-hour teeth Whitening

Stockton 2363 W. March Lane • 209.952.3951 | Tracy 436 West Beverly Place • 209.835.6487

Chiropractic is for kids too!

Do you want your child to look like a question mark or an exclamation point?!

We correct poor posture!

Chiropractic relieves growing pains, back pains, headaches, poor posture & many other ailments.

Complimentary Consultation & Postural Assessment

STAY WARM & INDOORS WITH IN-HOME TUTORING One-on-one, In-Home Tutoring All Subjects • PreK – Adult • Reading and Writing Skills • SAT/ACT Prep • Flexible Schedules • Affordable Rates • Qualified Teachers • No Long-term Contracts

We utilize the PosturePro digital photography program. X-rays only needed in severe cases.

10 West Locust St., Lodi Located in Downtown Lodi

209.333.2401

1 WEEK FREE CA LL FOR DETAILS

www.gerardchiro.com

Adding life to years, and years to life.

209-941-2248

w w w. c l u b z t u t o r i n g . c o m

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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Hands-On Hands

BY JESSICA CLARE

Christmas is right around the corner and you’ve probably already started shopping for the kids in your life. If you want to give something more personal and lasting than this year’s hottest (and usually impossible to find) toy, stop by Hands-On in Stockton or Modesto. Since 1989, Hands-On has offered Central Valley parents and teachers a wide selection of games, toys, art supplies, and hands-on activity kits.

While economic hardships and cuts to education funds have forced many educational stores to close, Hands-On has stayed open for decades. “You cannot be a school supply store alone...you have to appeal to families and parents as well as teachers,” says Debbie Robillard, owner of Hands-On. Parents can find the toys and tools to keep their kids entertained and offer some after school enrichment, like the Fashion Angels sets that Robillard says have been a big hit with tween girls. Boys might be more interested in Air Swimmers, massive remote controlled sharks that easily float through the air. There are also plenty of toys for infants and toddlers, not to mention brands you and your kids already love like Melissa and Doug, Chuggington Trains, and Calico Critters.

Of course, Hands-On still carries everything a teacher may need to make learning fun for their students, from educational games and books for all age ranges to volcano kits and butterfly gardens.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

If you’re friends with any teachers or have one in the family, pick up a gift card for a shopping trip to Hands-On and help get them a step closer to their dream classroom.

Hands-On is currently offering a free punch card (a $1 value) plus two $20 free punches to customers who mention that they read about Hands-On in San Joaquin Magazine, so make sure you drop in and take care of your Christmas shopping a little early.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Hands-On Educational Supply Store 5757 Pacific Ave Stockton, (209) 473-3700 or 1700 McHenry Ave, Suite 61 Modesto, (209) 491-2937 learninghands-on.com

Your one stop for School Supplies, Educational Toys, Games and Fun! Kumon Study Supplies, Science Projects, Art Kits, Music and so much more!

Baby Farm Friends Bowling

by International Playthings

Art Easel

by Melissa and Doug

Professional Indoor Baseball and softball training facility for all ages. established in 1997

baseball and softball players

get ready for an all star 2013 season November and December

strength, power and speed classes

Preseason baseball and softball camps

saturday, December 1st • offensive and defensive camps saturday, December 8th • pitching and catching camp saturday, January 5th • all star camp Friday, January 18th • pitching camp

Academy services:

competitive ompetitive travel teams private and group lessons Team and individual batting cage rentals coaches oaches clinic college recruiting services Recreational and travel team clinics strength, speed and agility training

Super Marble Run Vortis

by International Playthings

ea

receiv

D H CAR20 C N U EE P E and two $ S! FR E $ 1 VAlU UNCH d and

is a tion th

Men

P FREE

Funtime Tractor

by International Playthings

STOCKTON: ( Stonecreek Village )

5757 Pacific Ave.

209-473-3700

Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm • Sun: 12pm-5pm MODESTO:

1700 McHenry Ave. Ste. 61

( McHenry Village )

209-491-2937

Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm • Sat: 10am-5pm • Sun: Noon-4pm

www.learninghands-on.com

(209(.833.BALL

280 E. Larch rd. #117, Tracy, cA visit our website for camp info and sign ups

www.allamericansportsacademy.net

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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OMG!

GRANDMA, U R COOL!

BY JENN THORNTON

Technology is recasting the way Millennials bond with Boomers. Here are tips to bridge the generation gap.

Old School, New School

The latest gadgets are as confusing as all get-out to grandma and grandpa but second nature to their tech-savvy grandkids, so ask for a brush up you probably could use with or without their help.

Kids of all generations love to feel useful and will bend your ear for any old thing. But ask them to teach you about Instagram, Angry Birds or the coolest app ever, and you’ll be a hero. A quick tutorial is reasonable, but don’t go overboard with how-tos on Twitter, Tumblr, and their siblings all at one sitting. Maybe Facebook is all you can handle. The point is to show interest in your grandkids’ world so that they eagerly invite you in.

Reconnect

Grandparents’ influence cannot be overstated. For years, elders living remotely had no way beyond letters and long-distance phone calls to connect with their grandkids. Then along came Skype, and with it, completely free access (what grandparent doesn’t love that?), giving grandparents—especially those with limited mobility or means—to check in regularly with their grandkids, face-toface. Set up a regular Skype date with your favorite fifth grader to make connection time feel extra special. If you’ve graduated to a mobile electronic device, access the automatically built-in app Face Time to make eye contact with your cuties. If your grandkids are particularly in the know, ask the family to set up a YouTube channel where videos of school plays, sporting events and family functions can be uploaded so they never miss out.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

Call Me… Maybe

A letter, Grandma… Seriously? For the quick-to-click net generation, an email is pushing it. Kids are much more likely to text then email or (moment of silence) send a handwritten letter. Don’t be offended, meet them where they are—oftentimes, that’s in the moment (in line at Starbucks). Believe it or not, even a phone call is viewed as too labor intensive for this set. While it’s still reasonable to expect a call and/or card for milestone events, the same isn’t exactly true for the more frequent “Hey, how are you?” Less is more, and speaking a kids’ language is the best way to continue the conversation. So get used to those acronyms, K?

Get Game

If you can learn to play Scrabble, then you can learn to play video games—no one says you have to be good at it (you weren’t at Twister and still you were a hit every Christmas). While grandparents should set limits on usage, “playing” may mean a few rounds of an age-appropriate video game like Super Mario Bros. But take a rule from your own generational playbook and strike a deal—I play Wii with you, you play hide and seek with me. Who knows, a few runs around the yard and you may never see another Xbox as long as you live.

Each child has a gEm insidE.

of PerformingArt s

Early Education i inclusion. nclusion. PrE Pr PrEschool Eschool in n cooperation with tusd/sjcoE

209.830.9296

www.apaoftracy.com

mckinley school & Wanda hirsch school TUsd side by side inclusion Program

Winstar Academy

 Gymnastics

1st place state champions

 Tumbling

Miss Moria

 Sports Acrobatics  Jammin’ Gym

209.321.8512

tmble4me@gmail.com

 Ages 18 months

Academy

to Young Adult

“Come make something of

yourself”

The Academy of Performing Arts’ mission is to provide a positive, self-esteem building, highly effective dance and performing art educational experience.

Fall

now enrolling for

sessions

Ages 18 monThs Thru ProfessionAl

124 West 10th st. Tracy, CA

Phone: (209) 830-9296

Just across from Tracy Press

San Joaquin Locations

Lathrop and Tracy

www.apaoftracy.com

professional coach safety certified

Thank you for voting APA Best of the Best in Tracy, once again!

“When You Want The Best For Your Child” Est. 1992

PRESCHOOL THRU HIGH SCHOOL

Dedicated To Providing Academic, Moral, Athletic, Social & Spiritual Excellence K - 6th Grade LAKESIDE CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY 2011 Quail Lakes Drive 954-7653 • Field Trips • Limited Class Size • Computer Lab • Hot Lunches Available • Foreign Language

CUTTING EDGE EDUCATION

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Before & After School Care Year-round k-6 Child Care 6:30AM through 6:00PM

WEE CARE PRESCHOOL 954-7657

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• Warm Environment • Phonetic Pre-Reading Classes • AM/PM Snacks & Hot Lunches • Academic & Social Development • Learning Classes • Year-Round 6:00am To 6:00pm

Family Discounts Within Campuses Call For Your Personal Tour

Enhancing Early Education

• Affordable Fees • Small Child/Staff Ratio • Outdoor Area • Flexible Hours

50 Years of Combined Experience!

Programs for Infants/Toddlers from 2 Weeks to 2 Years Old. Preschool Program for 2 to 5 Years Olds

Celebrating 20 Years!

6311 Pacific Ave. • Stockton

209.951.KIDS 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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HOLIDAYHazards

BY JESSICA CLARE

The holidays are sneaking up on us. Thanksgiving is a few short weeks away with Christmas, Channukah and New Year’s on its heels. Though these times are typically filled with food, family, and above average levels of joy and cheer, there are always those news reports about risks that pop up around the holidays.

Here are some ways to avoid these seasonal dangers and keep yourselves and your family happy and safe.

PRECARIOUS PLANTS There are all sorts of holiday horror stories about the plants we use to deck the halls. Poinsettias are poisonous. Christmas trees start fires.

Eating mistletoe is lethal. The good news is that very few plant poisoning deaths are reported each year, and most incidents are quickly treated.

California Poison Control recommends that if a toddler takes a bite of a suspect plant, you should wash as much of the plant away as possible and call them at 1-800-222-1222.

As for Christmas tree fires, the culprit is usually a combination of dry boughs and electrical shorts. Check your Christmas lights before trimming the tree and make sure there are no frayed or exposed wires or connections. Water your tree frequently so it doesn’t become dry and extra flammable before the holidays are over, and of course, keep candles at a safe distance.

PARTYING RESPONSIBLY Your social calendars may be filling up with company parties and visits with friends and relatives. Holiday shindigs are a great chance to dress up and enjoy some grown-up company.

The dark side is that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the stretch from Thanksgiving to New Year’s has the most alcohol-related driving incidents and fatalities. You already know to be responsible and designate a driver or call a cab when you’ve had a bit too much bubbly, but do your kids know what to do?

According to the Drug Abuse Warning Network, the highest number of underaged drinking and driving injuries happen on New Year’s, with almost two thousand alcohol-related ER visits versus the typical average of 550. If you have teens, talk to them about the risks to themselves and others that come with getting behind the wheel if they’ve had alcohol or accepting rides from someone who’s been drinking. Offer a late-night pickup if needed, or arrange for a family member or friend to be on call if they should need a lift or are afraid to call mom and dad. Consequences can wait until they’re home safe.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

BLACK FRIDAY STAMPEDE There’s one surefire way to avoid the shopping frenzy and trampling injuries: Stay home. Most stores offer the same in-store deals online, so you can skip camping out in the cold and order your big ticket items on the cheap without changing out of your jammies. Websites like blackfriday.com or retailmenot.com round up specials from big name stores so you can shop without hopping from site to site. If Black Friday has become a yearly tradition, just try to be calm and patient. A little courtesy will go a long way with store employees and fellow shoppers, and even if someone snatches the last Wii U out of your hands, remember that you can probably get it cheaper on Amazon anyway.

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All I Want for

Christmas

Compiled by Jessica Clare

Watches by LEGO Available at Sassy Pants 354 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 451-9775 shopsassypants.com

Nakamas by Ganz Available at Zoopaloop 21 Downtown Mall, Lodi (209) 367-1444 zoopaloop.com

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

Denver Boots by Roxy Available at Zoopaloop 21 Downtown Mall, Lodi (209) 367-1444 zoopaloop.com

Crown Bracelet by Blee Inara Available at Tots and Teapots 2319 Pacific Ave, Stockton (209) 594-0556 totsandteapots.com

Chuggington Trains by Learning Curve Available at Hands On Educational Supply Store 5757 Pacific Ave, Stockton (209) 473-3700 learninghands-on.com

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by Fore!! Axel and Hudson Available at Tots and Teapots 2319 Pacific Ave, Stockton (209) 594-0556 totsandteapots.com

Air Swimmers Available at Hands On Educational Supply Store 5757 Pacific Ave, Stockton (209) 473-3700 learninghands-on.com

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Superhero Snapsuits by DC Comics Available at thinkgeek.com

Chain Link Bracelet by Juicy Couture Available at Sassy Pants 354 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 451-9775, shopsassypants.com Chanukah Set by Kidcraft Available at kidcraft.com

Kindle Fire by Amazon Available at amazon.com

Goodnight iPad Available at Barnes & Noble 3150 Naglee Rd, Tracy (209) 832-9744 barnesandnoble.com

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

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BY AMANDA RIFE

Keeping

Busy Over

Break

Winter is coming, and with it a series of extended vacations from school that can be daunting to parents who know that it’s only a matter of days before boredom sets in and their kids come down with a heavy dose of cabin fever. Here are a few pointers to keep your student engaged and entertained during extended breaks from school this holiday season.

26

FAMILY TIME

We easily get caught up in how to entertain our kids and overlook the obvious; children want to spend time with their families and don’t often care what form the attention comes in. Break out the board games, cook dinner together, and enjoy the time away from their busy schedule. Don’t forget, school -and sports for those little athletes- can be a full time job.

Sometimes the best way to spend a winter day with our kids is to snuggle up and take a well-deserved nap.

TEACH Vacation doesn’t have to be a break in studies. It’s a perfect time to do some one-on-one teaching with your child at a much calmer and more intimate rate. Help them get ahead of the curve by asking your student’s teacher what material will be covered next, or what subject could use a bit more practice before school starts. Local bookstores and learning materials shops are brimming over with great workbooks specialized in all educational subjects, from kindergarten spelling to high school geometry.

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

HIT THE TOWN Layer up and head outside this winter and enjoy some cold-weather fun! Take a walk to the library and check out some books on science projects and crafts for them to take interest in. Museums and community centers are loaded with free events, zoos become less crowded, and plenty of family-friendly movies hit the big screen.

DONATE November and December are the perfect time of year to introduce to our future generation the importance of giving back. Help a food bank sort their canned goods, bake some cookies and take them to a retirement center, hand out flowers to patients at your local hospital. With Christmas around the corner there are gift drives aplenty, so go shopping for donations and let them pick out a few toys they think another little boy or girl would like.

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28

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER l 2012

BY TAMMY HANSEN

TEACHING

KIDS TO

GIVE The gimmies are enough to give you a turkey-sized headache at the holidays, but it’s not that difficult to turn children on to the benefits of playing pint-sized Santas.

Children in their natural state (away from the 300-page toy catalog) are giving souls. All you need to build a holiday tradition of charity is a little creativity.

Many local nonprofit groups only allow teens and adults to volunteer onsite but that doesn’t mean even preschool do-gooders can’t contribute, although it means thinking outside the food bank donation box. A five-yearold might not be big enough to schlep sacks at the food bank, but she can collect cans in the neighborhood. An eight-year-old can’t work at the animal shelter, but he can collect and deliver the blankets and towels most shelters need.

Marilyn and John Kellen of Stockton started their own three generational tradition of giving four years ago, when their oldest

grandchildren were toddlers.

The couple and their two grown children shop for children’s charities instead of buying each other obligatory gifts. The three families take turns picking a favorite recipient. “It’s been wonderful, so we’ve just kept it up,” Marilyn says. Marilyn’s grandchildren, now aged six, six, and two, do much of the shopping.

“The younger we can get kids involved in it, the better off our society will be. The more loving and caring we can be, the better,” she says.

Schools, churches and youth organizations often do holiday drives and are a good venue for family holiday volunteering. For example, a Stockton Girl Scout troop one year worked together to collect $25 worth of rolled pennies to deliver to the zoo, says Micke Grove Zoo’s Kelly Morris. The Lincoln High School baseball team last year did a fundraiser and is working on a mentoring program for one.TLC School for homeless children, says Executive Director Sara Garfield.

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

29

If you can’t find a group to help out, representatives of local charities say they welcome even the smallest donations from families. Children can’t work the warehouse at Second Harvest Food Bank because of safety issues, but that doesn’t mean they can’t contribute, says Jessica Vaughan, volunteer coordinator at Second Harvest. Young volunteers can organize a neighborhood food drive and deliver their bags to the warehouse door. They can also pass out fliers promoting the food bank.

No donation of time or goods is too small. “Anything that they can do to spread awareness is really helpful,” says Vaughan.

Photo Courtesy Second Harvest Food Bank

Photo Courtesy Micke Grove Zoo

WEEK ONE

PLAN YOUR PROJECT

HERE’S A TEMPLATE FOR CREATING YOUR OWN FAMILY HOLIDAY GIVING

PROJECT:

• Brainstorm ideas for giving.

Does your daughter love animals?

Maybe you could collect blankets and towels for the animal shelter.

Does your son like to bake? Sell some homemade cookies to neighbors and give the proceeds to Dad’s favorite charity. Go doorto-door in the neighborhood collecting cans for the school food drive. Choose only one activity to do as a family.

• Go to the Volunteers in Service to Aid Stockton website, volunteerconnection.com, and choose a nonprofit group that fits your project. Listed charities have links to their web pages. You can also find specific volunteering opportunities here.

• Make a schedule. You’ll need time to collect donations. You’ll

30

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

also need to set a date for delivering them to your chosen charity. The holidays are a busy time; build your at-home volunteering into your plans.

• Discuss the details. Will you need supplies for your project?

Who will you be asking for donations or help? Approach your volunteering with an eye toward project management, and be sure to give the kids some responsibilities.

WEEK TWO

GET BUSY

• Call your chosen nonprofit and explain your plans for a donation if you haven’t already. This is the time to find out when and how you should deliver your donations.

• Advertise. Tell friends at school and work about your project. Post a plea on Facebook. Call family members and ask if they can help.

• Start baking, collecting, calling – whatever you’ve planned as your activity.

• Don’t be foiled if the initial plan doesn’t work. You planned to sell lemonade but it’s freezing cold? Switch to cocoa instead. The neighbors don’t have blankets for the shelter? Ask your school if they will include your project in your newsletter.

• Have fun! Wear silly hats.

Sing carols. Your charitable project is also an opportunity to build unity and make some great memories.

Photo Courtesy Micke Grove Zoo

at the

Marilyn Kellen says her family’s holiday efforts have translated into a year-round consciousness for her family. Marilyn’s granddaughter Madison Lee asked for donations instead of birthday presents last year.

“It does become a tradition,” Kellen says.

CHECK OUT THESE WEBSITES FOR MORE TIPS ON VOLUNTEERING AS A FAMILY: www.volunteerconnection.com A listing of Central Valley nonprofit groups, with opportunities for volunteering and donating to your favorite local cause. www.generationon.org/parents/family-volunteering This is the youth division of the Points of Light Foundation.

The site offers guides for family and youth volunteer projects as well as dozens of creative ideas for fundraising at home. pbskids.org/zoom/grownups/action/pdfs/volunteer_guide.pdf Great printable guide for families on how to choose and complete volunteer activities.

WEEK 3

DELIVER THE GOODS

• Involve your children in the delivery. If you are mailing a check, have the kids address the envelope. Take them to the post office with you so they can give their donation a proper sendoff.

If you are delivering goods, the kids can help pack the car.

• Encourage your children to share their story with the recipient of your donations. Let the children represent the family in making a donation in person.

If you are mailing your donation, have your kids write a letter to the organization about their adventures in giving.

WEEK FOUR

CONDUCT A PROJECT REVIEW

• Discuss what went well and what didn’t. Does everyone want to do this again next year?

What will you do differently?

• Ask your children what they learned during the project and how they felt at different stages.

How did it feel delivering their donations? Were people they approached willing to give?

• Discuss small ways your family can contribute to others all year long. Children might consider spending time with a classmate who seems left out, for example.

Many nonprofit groups have activities or fundraising drives throughout the year. Could your family participate in or contribute to those?

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Daily admission charges apply

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

31

Carmel Valley Ranch Hike by: Thomas Hart Shelby

Carmel valley Monterey Peninsula’s Warmest Escape

BY DON AND ANN JACKSON

32

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

Carmel Valley is an ideal destination for both couples and families. For the last twenty-five years we’ve enjoyed more weekend getaways to the Monterey Peninsula than any other location. And a few years back we actually entertained the thought of calling it home. We love Carmel, Monterey, Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, all of which are located near the ocean. But Carmel Valley has less fog and tends to be quite a bit warmer. It’s also less crowded, and when combined with the pleasant weather, rural setting, and Santa Lucia mountain vistas, Carmel Valley can be considered the perfect getaway for weekend wanderers.

Where to Stay and Dine: We have two wonderful four star lodging recommendations in the Valley and both are dramatically different in a number of respects. Our perfect pick for a family getaway with kids and dogs in tow is the spectacular Carmel Valley Ranch which may be the only upscale resort in the area that actually encourages folks to bring the kids and their beloved Fidos. Under the direction of the premier hotel group, Joie D’ Vivre, this 500 acre resort playground has undergone a magnificent refurbishing and upbeat change in personality and purpose. Unlike Bernardus, this resort has an active kids program, encourages dogs-onleashes almost everywhere in the resort including restaurants, has a championship golf course and miles of hiking trails on property. Their new Spa Aiyana provides an inviting atmosphere for rejuvenation.

Photo Courtesy Carmel Valley Ranch

(carmelvalleyranch.com) A personal favorite, especially for discerning culinariancentered families, is the highly regarded Bernardus Lodge, a worthy member of the prestigious “Leading Hotels of the World”. This lavish getaway is best for families with older, more independent children who are ready for their first taste of a truly grown-up vacation. On our visits we’ve been totally enthralled by the vineyard setting, stunning design, exceptional amenities and the overall ambience of this boutique style luxury resort.

Since opening in 1999 the lodge and its signature restaurant, Marinus, have received critical acclaim from many reputable media sources. After our recent stay we wholeheartedly concur with those accolades. All of their tastefully decorated and spacious fifty-seven suites feature cozy stone fireplacesan immediate invitation to a

Photo by Paul Dyer, Courtesy Carmel Valley Ranch

Carmel Valley Ranch

relaxing stay. Complimentary wine on check-in plus cheese, soft drinks and a selection of fresh fruit await every guest’s room arrival and are replenished every three nights. Marinus, featuring California Fresh cuisine under the direction of renowned Executive Chef Cal Stamenov, is a remarkable culinary experience you should long remember. a visit to For a more casual breakfast, lunch or dinner, don’t miss Wickets Bistro, a local favorite. If pampering is on your agenda, Spa at Bernardus awaits. For those of you into exercise, Bernardus is one of the few resorts in California offering complimentary equipment and court usage for bocce ball and croquet, both on beautifully manicured grass, as well as two hard court tennis courts. (www.bernardus.com)

Room rates for both Bernardus Lodge and Carmel Valley Ranch vary according to season and are definitely on the high side, but the quality you’ll experience warrants the cost. Monterey’s Peninsula has numerous upscale lodging options and some are even more expensive, but for that special weekend getaway to the area, we honestly can’t make a better recommendation than Bernardus Lodge or Carmel Valley Ranch. For those of you who like to venture out for some vittles, don’t miss a dinner at the funky Will’s Fargo Dining House and Saloon, a regional institution for nearly fifty years. This practically legendary status steak and seafood house is located in the heart of Carmel Valley Village. (willsfargo.com)

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

33

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Photo Courtesy Carmel Valley Ranch

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Both resorts will tempt you not to leave their property but if you need to venture (parsonagewine.com, chateaujulien.com) out there are wonderful hiking and equestrian trails throughout the valley and especially exploratory ones in Garland Ranch Park. Carmel Valley’s verdant hills, relatively untouched since Spanish land grant days, secluded redwood canyons, majestic oaks, chaparral-laden slopes, ancient stands of pine and the Carmel River meandering through the valley should captivate any visitor.

Join us for great music this fall/winter: Jazz Ensemble at Whirlow’s on the Miracle Mile Monday, Nov. 26 at 7:00pm Musical Theater & Jazz Ensemble Performance Saturday, Dec. 15 at 7:00pm

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2012 Winter Recital, Saturday, Dec. 22 at 7:00pm

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FOR COMPLETE INFORMATION ON OTHER LODGING, DINING AND WINERY CHOICES AND MORE INFO:

Twitter@ZionAcademy

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

ADDITIONAL INFO ON ALL MONTEREY PENINSULA:

Don and Ann have been freelance travel journalists for over 25 years.

Don is President Emeritus of the International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association and serves as Advisor to their Board of Directors.

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35

KIDS November/December

CALENDAR

compiled by Jessica Clare & Amanda Rife

Stockton Thunder Goes Pink November 4, Stockton Stockton’s own hockey team takes on the Alaska Aces in this year’s breast cancer awareness themed bout, presented by St. Joseph’s Medical Center. The first 1000 women to arrive will receive special pink tote bags, and player jerseys will be auctioned off to help raise funds for breast cancer research and programs. 4 p.m.

Ticket prices vary. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St, Stockton, (209) 373-1400, stocktonlive.org

Sandhill Crane Festival November 2-4, Lodi Every year, the Sandhill Crane makes its treacherous migration from as far as Siberia all the way to Lodi. Come learn about and admire these beautiful birds in person, or through the crane-based art exhibits and festivities. All ages are invited to fold origami cranes to be sent to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan. Times vary. Art exhibits free, cost of nature tours vary. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S Hutchins St, Lodi, (800)581-6150, cranefestival.com

SUNRISE FLIGHT BY MICHAEL CORLEW

36

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT NOVEMBER/DECEMBER l 2012

Lodi Community Concert Series Presents the Swingin’ Blues Stars of the USS Hornet November 11, Lodi Tap your toes to 1940s style swing tunes as this five woman group belts out old timey favorites by groups like the Andrews Sisters. These ladies’ USO-style performances are reminiscent of WWII era entertainment for the troops, and aim to support those still in combat today. 3 p.m. $28. Hutchins Street Square Performing Arts Theater, 125 S. Hutchins St, Lodi, (209) 333-6782, hutchinsstreetsquare.com

White Christmas November 14-December 19, Stockton If you love the movie made famous by Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney, don’t miss a chance to see a live performance. Broadway alum and Civic Theatre Artistic Director Jim Coleman directs a veteran cast through your favorite song and dance numbers from this Christmastime classic. Times and prices vary. Stockton Civic Theatre, 2312 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton, (209) 473-2424, sctlivetheatre.com

Sky Tours at Delta College November 16 and December 21, Stockton No telescope? No problem. The Stockton Astronomical Society will gladly lend you theirs at the once a month event. Bring a sweater and a healthy dose of curiosity as local astronomers show you stars, planets, galaxies and more, as well as answer questions you have about what you see in your star gazing experience. Free.

7-9 p.m. Shima Parking Lot at San Joaquin Delta College, Stockton. stocktonastro.org

Trout Bout November 17, Stockton Pack up the tackle and bring your budding anglers down to Oak Grove Park for the 24th annual Trout Bout. Kids 15 and under can compete for free to try and claim some of the 2,700 pounds of fish being released for the tournament. All other ages are welcome with a valid California fishing liscence and a $3 permit fee. 6:15 a.m.-1 p.m.

Oak Grove Regional Park, Eight Mile Road and Interstate 5, Stockton, (209) 331-2050, mgzoo.com

Run and Walk Against Hunger November 22, Stockton For the fitness nuts out there wanting to instill those healthy values in their children, sign your family up for this quick sprint through downtown Stockton’s waterfront area. Starting at the Port’s baseball stadium and ending in the Thunder’s hockey arena, this walk/run is a family friendly sporting event that does not require the fleetest of feet. Sign up the kiddos for the kids run, or register your whole family for the walk and spend the morning strolling for a good cause. $10-40. 8 a.m. Stockton Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont, Stockton. runagainsthunger.org

Holidays on the Farm November 23 – January 5, Lathrop After the corn maze is mowed over and the pumpkin cannons packed away for another year, Dell’Osso undergoes its winter wonderland transformation, complete with light shows, snow tubing, and ice skating. Come spend a night picking out your Christmas tree and taking in winter activities without ever leaving the county. Times and event prices vary. Dell’Osso Family Farm, 26 Stewart Road, Lathrop, (209) 982-0833, holidaysonthefarm.com

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

37

Festival of Trees December 1 and 2, Lodi Transport yourself and your family back to the Victorian era for a taste of classic Christmas at the Historical Society’s annual Festival of Trees.

Admire the ornately decorated and themed trees, exhibits, and craft demonstrations. Kids can participate in hands-on arts and crafts and visit Santa. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $1 for children 2-10 and $8 for adults. Parking is free when tickets are purchased in advance. San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum, 11793 Micke Grove Rd, Lodi, (209) 331-2055, sanjoaquinhistory.org

Parade of Lights December 6, Lodi This annual celebration hosted by the Downtown Lodi Business Partnership will help you get in the holiday spirit with floats, marching bands, dance groups, and of course, plenty of festive lights. The route begins on Pine and works its way through downtown Lodi, led by a dramatically lit horse drawn carriage with Santa himself bringing up the rear. 6:17 p.m., Free. Downtown Lodi, visitlodi.com

Radio Disney at Sherwood Mall

It’s A Wonderful Life December 14, Stockton Bob Hope Theater’s Classic Film series brings this Christmas classic to the big screen this December. To some it isn’t Christmas without this movie, but if not then introduce your kiddos to this model in cinema and forever and give their hearts a little extra excitement whenever a bell rings around them. 6:30-9 p.m. $4-8. Bob Hope Theater 242 East Main Street, Stockton, stocktonlive.com

December 8, Stockton For fantastic music and games head down to the Sherwood Mall and join Radio Disney’s Rockin Road Crew’s live entertainment.

This holiday shindig for kids 12 and under is a free way to get your kids in the holly jolly spirit in Disney’s new-fashioned way. 1-3 p.m.

Sherwood Mall Pacific Avenue at Robinhood Drive Stockton, (209) 478-1791, sherwoodmall.com

Holiday Pops: A Swingin’ Holiday Celebration December 16, Stockton The Stockton Symphony teams up with Broadway vets Teri Hansen and Nat Chandler to present this year’s Holiday Pops concert, complete with appearances by the Stockton Chorale and Youth Chorale and, if you’ve been good, Santa Claus himself might show up. 2:30 p.m. matinee, 7:30 p.m. evening show. $2260. Warren Atherton Auditorium, 5151 Pacific Ave, Stockton, (209) 951-0196, stocktonsymphony.org

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A H E A LT H G U I D E FOR SAN JOAQUIN RESIDENTS

sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Local Doctors + Medical Profiles + Healthy Choices + Area Hospitals MEDICAL GUIDE_2012.indd 1

4/17/2012 8:32:22 AM

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