San Joaquin Kids March 2013

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

RECOMMENDED READING SPRING SPORTS GAME NIGHT SAN LUIS OBISPO

MAR/APR 2013

SANJOAQUINKIDS.com

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Begin motherhood in good hands.

Looking forward to being a new mom? Motherhood is an amazing journey and the Women & Infants Center in St. Joseph’s beautiful Patient Pavilion is just the place to start. New moms will enjoy the comfort of their own spacious, private rooms, and feel pampered with small perks—like garden views, a hostess who takes bedside meal orders, and freshly baked cookies delivered in the afternoon.

At St. Joseph’s, we are dedicated to your comfort, supplying advanced pain management, including epidurals. You’ll feel reassured knowing there are new C-section surgical suites and a state-of-the-art neonatal ICU. St. Joseph’s Medical Center has been awarded prestigious international recognition as a Baby-Friendly® birth facility! The Baby-Friendly® designation honors hospitals that offer an optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.

The birth of your baby is a story you’ll share time and time again. Choose the perfect setting— St. Joseph’s Medical Center—where we’ve created a special place for motherhood to begin.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

APRIL 26 - 28, 2013

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Divisions

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contents 20

16

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24

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24 Your Kids

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14 Kids Tidbits

Balloon Trees, Little Shop of Horrors

8 Spring Kids Calendar

18 Your Family

A new twist on game night

26 Recommended Reading Librarian's Picks

Spring Sports

20 FEATURE:

Military Families

by Jennifer Thornton

28 San Luis Opisbo Escape

Even the most jaded teens can't help but crack a smile at SLO's laid-back sights. by Jennifer Thornton

16 Haute

Items Getting A-Head

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS & KIDS March | April 2013

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

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- Hundreds of primary care physicians and specialists - Easy access to your personal doctor - Choice of hospitals and pharmacies - Local and nationwide emergency care - Free 24/7 advice nurse - Serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income. Plan availability varies by county.

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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 EDITORIAL INTERN Michele Bird

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Heather Hilton-Rufo Advertising Email: heather@sanjoaquinkids.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Cox, Lauren Sturman, Valerie Zoccoli, Christy Manzeck ACCOUNTING Melissa Peralta EDITORIAL INQUIRIES jessica@sanjoaquinmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jenn Thornton PHOTOGRAPHY Dan Hood, Matthew James Photo, Kristoffer Heacox, Dani Adams WEB DESIGNER Violet Whitworth DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Rebecca Ristrim

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. Š 2012 Inside Magazines

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

{} ASTHMA LUNG

CANCER SCREENING

WE’RE RANKED AMONG THE HIGHEST IN THE NATION FOR QUALITY

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From our innovative electronic medical records system to our fully integrated care teams, our unique approach to “total health” allows us to provide top-notch care that encompasses a range of important areas. It’s also why the National Committee for Quality Assurance ranked Kaiser Permanente Northern California among the highest in the nation’s health plans in 2011, including Top Ten in the Nation on 12 quality measures.* By focusing on the things that matter most to you, we’re helping you get the most out of life. Learn more at kp.org/thrive

*Based on HEDIS 2011 Commercial EOC Top Performance.

For more information, go to http://www.ncqa.org/qualitycompass.aspx

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COMPILED BY MICHELE BIRD

MARCH APRIL

CALENDAR

2013

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Chinese New Year Parade and Festival

The Redhead Express & Walker Family at Hutchins Street Square

March 3, Stockton The CNYC of Stockton is hosting the 35th annual Chinese New Year Parade and Festival this March to celebrate the Year of the Snake. This fun-filled day is the perfect outing for families, couples, and kids of all ages. There will be an exciting parade going through downtown Stockton followed by a festival featuring activities such as live entertainment, demonstrations, and a raffle giveaway. Don’t miss out on your chance to celebrate history and make new memories with your loved ones. 10 a.m.

Free. Parade: North El Dorado Street & East Weber Ave. Festival: Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium, 525 N. Center St., stocktoncnyc.org

March 14, Lodi Calling all country, bluegrass, and Americana music fans! The Redhead Express & Walker Family will be bringing their energetic live show to Lodi on March 14. Concertgoers are surely in for a night filled with good music and an unforgettable live performance from both bands.

7 p.m. Tickets $25. Charlene Powers Lange Performing Arts Theatre,

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

125 S. Hutchins St., (209) 333-6782, hutchinsstreetsquare.com

MARCH APRIL

March 15, Stockton The 22nd annual Trivia Bee is getting ready to kick off on March 15. Various trivia teams will be competing for the Bee Bobble Head Award and Best Team Name. Audience members will also have the chance to walk away with Best Costume and Best Decorated Table awards. With this year’s theme as “Bee a Good Sport,” trivia teams made of three people are encouraged to enter this fun and educational contest.

Team entry fee including dinner for each team member $550. Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium, 525 N. Center St., (209) 910-4548, sjcliteracy.org

CALENDAR

2013

22nd Annual Trivia Bee

2013 Brubeck Festival March 18 – 23, Stockton Attention all jazz music fans! The 2013 Brubeck Festival will be kicking off on March 18 through March 23 throughout Stockton.

The six-day festival will feature a variety of live music performances and educational lectures. Headlining this year’s event will be nine-time Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis

and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. The festival is a perfect event for people of all ages and if you’re not already a jazz fan, you’re bound to walk away one. Event times vary. Ticket prices vary. Events will be held throughout Stockton, (209) 946-3275, pacific.edu

The Haggin Museum’s 81st Annual McKee Student Art Exhibition March 21 – May 5, Stockton Do your kids love art? The Haggin Museum will be featuring a variety of art from students in kindergarten through 12th grade at the 81st Annual McKee Student Art Exhibition. Pieces that will be on display include twodimensional art, photographs, mixed-media pieces, and digital shorts. The exhibition is a perfect family outing, especially for those who artistic and creative. Maybe you may even see an entry of your own on display! Times vary. Ticket prices vary. The Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., (209) 940-6300, hagginmuseum.org

Catastrophic MMA Cage Fights March 23, Stockton Are you an MMA cage fighting fan? How about health products and fashion? Presented by “The Fight For Stockton Project” and MAV Organization, the Catastrophic Cage Fights will be held on March 23. In addition to the cage fights, there will also be a fashion show, fit expo, more than 20 booths, food, and more

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

at this event! With something for everyone, make sure to purchase your tickets now so you don’t miss out on this action packed and mind-blowing day. 2 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium, 525 N. Center St., (209) 812-5517, mavorg.org

millennium dental Focusing on children dental care 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 smhsoliveoilfestival.com

4th Annual

Food • Entertainment • Farmers Market Cooking Demos • Kid’s Zone • Bocce

SAVE the DATE! SATURDAY May 11, 2013 “Fun for Everyone” OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT 209.957.3340 EXT. 195

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MARCH APRIL

Vaudeville Festival

CALENDAR

2013

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21st Annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party March 30, Stockton Have you ever wished you could attend a mad hatter’s tea party? Beginning back in 1993 by the Haggin Museum Store Auxiliary, the 21st Annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party will be held on March 30. Classic characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland will be making appearances such as the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts, and much more! There will also be tea, cookies, and other treats for guests. This delightful tea party is perfect for people of any age because Alice In Wonderland is sure to bring out the kid at heart in all of us. 10:30 a.m. Tickets $15 for adults, $10 for children under 12. Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., (209) 940-6316, hagginmuseum.org

April 19 – 21, Tracy Downtown Tracy will be enchanted by the Vaudeville Festival this April with a weekend full of magic, illusions, and more! Participants will have an endless amount of activities to choose from including a street fair, various workshops on topics from clowning to juggling, and an animal show. The Vaudeville Festival will definitely be an entertaining and magical experience for all! Event times vary. Ticket prices vary. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., (209) 831-6858, atthegrand.org

Dell’Osso Mud Run on the Farm April 6, Lathrop Does a day full of running, food, drinks, and of course mud interest you? The Dell’Osso Mud Run on the Farm will be offering participants a day full of just that!

Participants who enter the race will be challenged to a 5k run full of mud and an obstacle course. Spectators will also be welcome to the race where there will be a variety of food, drinks, and an entertaining race to watch. You must be 12 or older to enter. Additional race details and rules can be found online. 8 a.m.

Dell’Osso Family Farm, 501 Manthey Rd., (209) 982-0833, mudonthefarm.com

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

Stockton Asparagus Festival April 26 – 28, Stockton The Stockton Asparagus Festival will be back for another year on April 26 – 28. The weekend will be full of food, rides, live entertainment, and a whole lot of asparagus, too! Dating back to 1986, the Stockton Asparagus Festival is a yearly tradition for all San Joaquin County residents. Don’t forget to purchase tickets and bring your family, friends, and asparagus lovers for a memorable weekend this April. 10 a.m.

Ticket prices vary. Downtown Stockton Waterfront, 221 N. Center St., (209) 644-3740, asparagusfest.com

Free Public Charter Schools Open to all students in San Joaquin County

Grades K-12 International Baccalaureate Programs Authorized IB Diploma Program

EastER stoRy timE

Saturday March 23 at 11:30. Stories, snacks, and egg hunt.

Special discounts hidden in some lucky eggs!!

354 Lincoln Center • Stockton www.shopsassypants.com

209.451.9775

APPlICAtIOnS AvAIlABle At

1 N. Sutter Street, Stockton • 209-390-9861 AnD OnlIne At www.stocktoncollegiate.org

Saturday, April 6, 2013 10:00am- 3:00pm Discover the world of reptiles through arts, crafts, and other amazing activities!

Come face to face with reptiles of all shapes and sizes!

A hands-on experience brought to you by local reptile stores and museums!

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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Where do

BALLOONS come from?

BY JESSICA CLARE

Little Shop of Horrors

BY JESSICA CLARE

Parents, there’s a good chance you already know and love Little Shop of Horrors; be it the mid 80s Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Steve Martin version; the ongoing and much beloved Off-Broadway musical; or the 1960 adaptation that featured a pre-The Shining Jack Nicholson. If your kids have reached that magical age where they can appreciate the nuances of dark humor and heavy sarcasm, it might be time to show them this cult classic--so why not do it right?

From March 6 through March 30, the Stockton Civic Theatre will be running this rock opera, filling the iconic roles like Seymour and Audrey with local talents under the direction of James Reed. Catch a matinee with the family and catch a new spin on this classic boy-meets-girl-meets-carnivorous-plant tale. Even the moodiest of teens should be able to appreciate the brooding humor and close-to-home angst of wanting someone you can’t have, minus all the reality TV-esque drama. And of course, with infinitely more laughs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Stockton Civic Theatre 2312 Rosemarie Lane Stockton, (209) 473-2424 sctlivetheatre.com

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

The World of Wonders Science Museum will host their very first book signing on April 13, featuring Lodi native and children’s book author Danna Smith. In her most recent book, The Balloon Trees, Smith drew inspiration from her husband’s work running a rubber manufacturing plant. Her rhythmic, whimsical story of a balloon’s journey from tree sap to birthday party adornment aims to give kids a bit of insight about where everyday items come from and show a bit of the science behind manufacturing in a kid-friendly, vibrant, and enthralling way.

In the spirit of her pro-educational style of writing, there are also interactive activities available online to compliment the story. Smith will do readings of The Balloon Trees at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for any interested kids and parents.

You can see the rest of Smith’s published picture books on her website, dannasmithbooks.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

World of Wonders Science Museum 2 N Sacramento St., Lodi (209) 368-0969, wowsciencemuseum.com

Salida Surgery Center

Since 2004, Salida Surgery Center has been providing quality dentistry to children and special A leading dental surgery center designed with needs patients. We specialize in providing general children & developmentally disabled in mind, anesthesia for all our patients that cannot be treated specializing providing an excellent alternative in in a in regular dental office due to anxiety, fear, young dental care for patients that otherwise cannot be age, or requires extensive dental treatment. Please treated under means. visit ourconventional website for more information.

www.salidasurgerycenter.com

(209) 543-9299

www.SalidaSurgeryCenter.com

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Cast7 t Your Vote h A n n u a l 2013 Best of SanJoaquin

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Getting A-Head [HAUTE ITEMS]

BY JESSICA CLARE

Bittersweet Beanie

by Hula Mula Available at hulamula.com

Golden Plaid Fedora by Fore!! Axel and Hudson Available at Sassypants 354 Lincoln Center Stockton, (209) 451-9775 shopsassypants.com Shaddow Knit Hat

by Hula Mula Available at hulamula.com

Star Wars Character Plush Hats Available at thinkgeek.com

Gunther Fedora by Quiksilver Available at ZoopALoop 21 Downtown Mall Lodi, (209) 367-1444 zoopaloop.com

Linen Driver Cap by Fore!! Axel and Hudson Available at Sassypants 354 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 451-9775, shopsassypants.com 16

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

Est. 1992

Your one stop for School Supplies, Educational Toys, Games and Fun! Enhancing Early Education

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

Kumon Study Supplies, Science Projects, Art Kits, Music and so much more!

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 Art Easel

by Melissa and Doug John Deere Sit and Scoot ATV Calico Critters Adventure Tree House

209.478.CAKE (2253) 209.

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CElEbRAtE E

your

EvEnts with

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STOCKTON: ( Stonecreek Village )

5757 Pacific Ave.

209-473-3700

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

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( McHenry Village )

209-491-2937

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

www.learninghands-on.com Birthdays • Weddings Bridal Showers & Much More!

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FAMILY Game NIGHT

BY JESSICA CLARE

For most anyone under thirty, playing games tends to involve electronics and an Internet connection— but fear not, parents, for board games are making a comeback in a big way. Old favorites like Scrabble and Pictionary (though “Draw Something” may be a more familiar name these days) are popular apps, and savvy companies like Milton Bradley and Hasbro have given their staples a modern facelift. If you want to talk your kids into trading the controller for some dice every once in a while, try out one of these more contemporary options.

APPLES TO APPLES

(12 and up, 4-10 players) You’ve probably already seen, played, or at least heard of this wordy game, but for the uninitiated, here’s the gist: Players take turns matching nouns to adjectives, and take turns deciding which pairings are the most accurate (or funniest, depending on the mood). The sheer randomness of the cards promise that hilarity will ensue in any game, and offers a sneaky brush-up on vocabulary for both you and your kids—this game is one of Mensa’s official favorites, but don’t worry, everyone will be laughing too hard to notice they’re learning anything. Keep an eye out for variants on the original game like Disney Apples to Apples or Sour Apples, in which players pick the worst answers (There’s also a rated R version of the game, Cards Against Humanity, free for download at cardsagainsthumanity.com, but you’ll want to save this one for grown-up game nights).

Available at Target and most major retailers.

SETTLERS OF CATAN

RISK LEGACY

(10 and up, 4 players) Monopoly may be one of the most well-known board games, but it can also be the most grueling—games often involve arguments about who will be banker, back-handed dealings for the last railroad, and tend to finish when players get bored and move on to something else (seriously, how often has anyone played a game of Monopoly through to the end?). The increasingly popular Settlers of Catan takes the capitalist, cutthroat spirit at the heart of Monopoly and reduces it down to a much simpler (and easier to finish) form— players build up towns, cities, and roads while competing for the raw materials they need to expand. In-game politicking, like trading cards with others or teaming up against the leaders, are encouraged, and the game play is short enough that tempers don’t have time to rise.

There are also expansion packs, so if you get bored with the core game, new rules and pieces await.

(12 and up, 3-5 players) Traditional Risk has been around since the 50s, so chances are, you’ve already played a few tense games of world domination. The latest revamp of this classic game takes cues from video games and adds a unique interactive element—it’s intended to be played as a fifteen game competition between the same players, and the end of each game introduces elements and consequences that affect future games, and secret elements contain game-changing rules and elements that can turn territories into nuclear wastelands or prompt an alien invasion. Stickers are added to the board to make sure any changes are permanent, so your fifteenth game is guaranteed to be very different from your first. Streamlined rules mean that the gameplay is much faster than typical Risk, too, and the ever-changing board and challenges will keep everyones’ interest for all fifteen games. This game is not without a bit of fun dramatic flair—look for the “Do Not Open Ever” envelope at the bottom of the box and carefully consider whether or not to follow that advice.

Available at Gamer’s Path

234 W Yosemite Ave., Manteca, (209) 239-8573

Can be special ordered from Comics Grapevine in Lodi

9 W Pine St., Lodi, (209) 368-1096

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

We are here for your family!

Our mission at St. Peter Lutheran School is to assist parents in the training of their children through Christ-centered teaching and excellence in academic curriculum.

Pre-school and kindergarten-8th grade 2400 Oxford Way, Lodi www.stpeterlodi.com | 209.333.2225

NOW ENROLLING! From Preschool through Grade Eight

Great Expectations.

“Teaching Training & Inspiring Young Musicians Since 1997”

Winners of the 2012-2013 Stockton Arts Commission Grant

Great results.

Mammography Breast Health Program Maternity Services Imaging Services

Piano · Drums/Percussion · Bass Guitar Violin · Cello · Woodwinds · Brass Language Arts · Literacy Through Photography K-2 Music Fundamentals · Musical Theater

Giving birth is a special time for you, your baby and your family.

Doctors Hospital of Manteca’s family-centered birthing suites are specially designed for your special delivery.

To find out more or schedule a tour call 209-239-8322.

For a Physician Referral: 1.800.470.7229

Now enrolling for Summer 2013 Join us for spring Music fest May 29-31, 2013

Please see our website for more details 1205 E North Street • Manteca

www.doctorsmanteca.com

Download a QR code reader on your smart phone.

Scan here to visit our site.

209.774.0819

7475 Murray Drive Suite 11 · Stockton, CA 95210 www.thezionacademyofmusic.org

Twitter@ZionAcademy

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BY JENN

ON THORNT

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

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SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

ted and rela g in in a rship tr s, leade p m a c Military through of the th y n r o a it M “ s. ouncil s mil initiative nor the Teen C o ountles h ’s c m e 3 to a r 1 th g ar, ro to to April This ye ts (up urprise th Ball, entric p s n u c e o a Y th m y is u d d o n lo r y nal ep ua da f this ild,” the r Natio onal G eated d ual Chil h ti None o p fo n a C e n r N a ly g n d ia o n g rn facin t its 2 elcome hough e missin r Califo families will hos ity is w nto. Alt n e l strain; th u a m ); tches fo n m a e tc r o tr m c e ti s a o o c S m ns, gh the month 27, in e local ial and e t throu raduatio c th n g n , e a , v n n s d e e y fi e r a y ); d e oms rs hil th plo thd Star M membe Guard c ponsor r non-de irths, bir s e fo (b lu r d B o s e / o e n d o n y yo to an parenth iver Cit for ever of miles to back rtner, R ry single difficult a a th r p e g o r n p a e ’s s m tr e om). nc d s and te program rmoms.c ng abse lso buil ta a r lo s e e e y v h e o lu T . b th ft y o amilies ut parents (rivercit Ready F dure, b tressing n n s o e e ti e s a il r o to h e p milies, Op pur , w involved uard fa ches of ily unit G service, n a m l f r a , o fa b y c ll s e lo a e e s nefit th to tur alu Both the within o not be alded v portant est. Na r d r e t, im h te n n in e ly u e r n lf th po se eds and cula rve com ase bre above me of looked re parti e b o a s s e y a r it a n e n f r u e o a mm part o nd as t living e abov families and co who, as understa ion tha king th s e e ta ificing e h w r r c o e c n c a d g ie s n in e u sil orlock, th these from th the re rates M . “One around, o s b e h g y la it a d e r w r u a co ts,” hy the rs most h and en hat’s w reservis T d othe . n d d a n a te c s e en life.” nne challeng military Guardsm ilies feel disco ark. to m ll n a o y h ti r c ita eir fam econne ring mil that is th “is that nted a r e e endu p m u th le e f p k o ta spirit Guard im orlock to unique amily elina M F g d n r A a It is the u s te lG ancial n on t motiva fi Nationa ti a a r r ia th o e n f r p y il O fo g n fam e Cali part of a job, fili t with th h ich, as rt.” it h w w , e her pos m b a t suppo r it a e Progr h h t t e c e g n h ta in Assis provid mber, w

ily me t we’re m a a h f t a g lp in e w ent we h . It’s kno e m o ls e m g e “th thin or some e c n a t assis g rin ub, offe ource h r, s e r r a s Fo he milies. , acts a s fa ie a il d r m lp a a e h Gu Ready F ent we es to m ic o v r m e s fo e g r l “th job, filin essentia a es from h m it o c w n tio owing it be gratifica hether e. It’s kn w ls e r, g e b in em r someth ” family m tance o is s s port. a l that sup financia g in id v d ’re pro ilies an that we ry fam a it il s m le all ard s ds to ed), reg n v r te e x s e e r king or Support l underta e retired, a , s r e e v ti iv c n g u rs (a ue brid on. This membe ies a tr h affiliati il c e n m th a a r F e b y erv of their n Read ue to s o n ti ti a n r il o e c p m O Fa y or makes for all, ho have s w s e e s c o o g in th pr operatin serving ing the n li m a m r a g e o pr Str nty— tewide in Cou nation. u ta q s a Jo a ce— provide g San Assistan includin rships to milies e , s tn e r ti a n p 16 cou ilitary fa munity its com ces to m r s u e o once a g s a e r r e lev ncial rior to, a p n s fi y d a n d 0 ea t). The tacted 3 guidanc loymen n p o e c d r e r e hild aft rs a er, the C 90 days v (membe e d n w a o , h g , urin children s sibling month d military ility of it t r ib o s p n p o u p , is to s sole res Program th u o Y and

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Spring Sports

BY MICHELE BIRD

With the spring season right around the corner, it means the return of warm weather, allergies, and of course, sports. Spring is full of almost any sport you can think of, from cheerleading to baseball. Whether your kids prefer to be in the pool or out on the field, there is a spring sport out there for everyone.

Sports are something that interest people of all ages. Whether you start at age two or fifty-two, the love for a sport is important and the experience you get out of it is unforgettable. From memorable moments in the game to championships, sports offer a unique experience each season. Not every sport is the same game, but they all offer a fun outlet to exercise and be active each day.

Sports are not only a great way to stay healthy, but can also be filled with friendships.

Many of your children’s teammates can

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end up being lifelong friendships, which is important during adolescence. Sports can also be a bonding experience because you are learning important qualities such as trust, dedication, and teamwork.

For kids who have great hand-eye coordination, they could excel in sports such as softball and baseball. Many teams such as Tracy Express Fastpitch Softball have already begun spring practices to prepare for the upcoming season. Leagues vary based on location and it is best to check official websites, call, or e-mail for additional registration and scheduling information. If you missed registration for those sports, you could also participate in private lessons. It is a great opportunity to improve skill level and prepare for the next season.

Other spring sport options include youth football and cheerleading. Registration dates for teams throughout San Joaquin County vary. The Tokay Jr Tigers kicked off registration for the 2013 season on January 20. Registration will continue through May 18. Official details can be found on the official Tokay Jr Tigers website. The Tracy Buccaneers, a youth football and cheerleading team, will begin signing up returning players and siblings starting March 10. New players will be able to sign up on March 17 at Monticello Elementary School in Tracy, California from 1 – 4 p.m.

If your kids are like fish and would rather be in the water than running on the field, they would be perfect on a swimming or

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

water polo team. There are various teams located throughout San Joaquin County, such as the Lodi Swim and Water Polo Club as well as the Tracy Triton Swim Club. The Tracy Tritons will begin registration starting on March 2 for returning members and March 24 for new members.

No matter which sport you decide to take part in, just remember to have a good time and a lot of fun. Sports are not always about winning, but also for the love of the game.

You will walk away with a once in a lifetime experience and a chance to be part of a strong team. You never know, maybe your kid will end up the next Superbowl winner or Olympic gold medalist!

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LUIS LUIS!

BY JENNIFER THORNTON

SHORE UP FOR FUN IN FAMILY-FRIENDLY

SAN LUIS OBISPO When it comes to vacation, “fussy” is just another thing my family packs. Being parents of a 'tween has a little something to do with it. That, and none of us can agree on anything. My husband is a science type (nature centers are huge), I’m creative, and our daughter? Well, let’s just say that unless adventure answers to the name Justin Bieber, she’s hard to dazzle these days.

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Things as they are, we don’t stray too far from familiar stomping grounds. Though it’s hard to compete with flashy provinces like Tahoe and Los Angeles, California’s striking Central Coast holds its own with some of the best scenes in the state. And still, it lurks unforgivably low on the must-go radar. For families like mine, this is particularly pitiful given the region’s bevy of playgrounds—from historic San Simeon and fog-shrouded Morro Bay to beach-housecrazy Cambria and pleasures beyond (inland, Paso Robles buzzes with wonderful wine and in less commercialized Cayucos, a rickety pier delights). But of all these coastal outposts, one emerges with the best of everything: San Luis Obispo (or “SLO” if you’re local).

It’s here my “fussy” family converges after a long road trip, much to the chagrin of my daughter, who was not all thrilled when I suggested we stow all technology for the ride. In its place, old-fashioned fun, including sing-a-longs to—her words not mine—“really bad music.” It’s not until we promise to ban U2 that the first round of license-plate bingo commences.

By the time we roll into SLO, situated midpoint between San Francisco and Los An-

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

geles, my daughter is “totally over” the alphabet game. Out of steam ourselves, we luck out. It’s Thursday, the day SLO freshens up with a renowned street fair masquerading as a farmers’ market (sanluiscounty. com). Here, downtown comes alive with peddlers of freshly plucked organics, street performers, and garage bands galore. A balloon animal artist soon lifts my daughter out of her funk, I take a shine to jugglers with Cirque du Soleil-level skills, and my husband finds refuge in homemade cheese. And that bike valet? A big hit.

No wonder the USA Today anointed SLO “The Happiest Place in the USA.” Two hours in and we’re drinking the Kool-Aid, too. (Truthfully, we’re guzzling it.) Soon enough we agree to skipping rocks at SLO Creek, a stream that snakes through the middle of town, and just when I think things

can’t get more surreal, we’re strolling down Bubblegum Alley, home to 1.7 million pieces of gum, some recast into mindboggling displays of artistic genius.

My daughter quickly joins a gathering of other kids who’ve also broken free from the grasp of their embarrassing parents and are now gleefully smacking their gum in a rousing chorus of cool.

I blame the balloon guy for alerting my daughter to her newfound Picasso tendencies—for one hour she relentlessly works at fashioning something that never does provide any clarity. But one thing is totally clear: we’re all having a much better time than we had in the car. And not just us; everyone is irrepressibly cheery. But if you lived in a town that’s in the perpetual hug of verdant hills just ten miles from the Pacific, you’d be giddy, too.

Proximity like this yields endless opportunity for adventure, from biking and

hiking to fringe recreation like hot-air ballooning. We discuss all possibilities the next morning over breakfast at the Madonna Inn (see sidebar), a legendary hotel known for its dizzying array of charming-to-odd interiors. We sift through the surplus of options, giving tractor rides, the Children’s Museum, and Mission Plaza their due consideration before whittling down our list to a doable itinerary over a heap of syrupsoaked pancakes. For my daughter, fun boils down to the beach, while my hubby and I are keen to discover what we’ve been told (correctly, in fact) is a worthy wine country. If we had forgotten how collaborative we can be—especially when killing time between antiquated car games—we’re reminded by the time the check arrives.

In a fairer world—one with more time, an even-tempered child and endless resources—we would do everything, but

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instead we spend a sunfilled day at Avila Beach (visitavilabeach.com). A local’s secret, most tourists skip this place in favor of more popular pit stops in Pismo and Morro Bay, but don’t make that mistake.

Here you’ll find a petting zoo and hayrides at Avila Valley Barn (avilavalleybarn.com); abundant aquaculture at Sea Life Center (sealifecenter.org) minus the Monterey Aquariumesque crowds, and the Point San Luis Lighthouse (sanluislighthouse.org).

And by all means, take time to canvass the area’s vintage points. Almost all SLO wineries are boutique producers, meaning

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operations are small but accommodating. Among the more family-friendly options are Baileyana (baileyana.com), which offers lovely picnic grounds and bocce ball, and Sextant Winery (sextantwine.com).

Located at the Old Edna Townsite, this spot gives wiggly kids the run of its expansive grounds (and the deli is fantastic, too).

By the time the midnight strikes on our vacation, we’ve rediscovered our rhythm. I hand over the iPad and Dad gets in a little Joshua Tree. Slowly, we make our way home… and while it’s a lot more peaceful, it’s not quite SLO enough.

SAN JOAQUIN KIDS & PARENT MARCH/APRIL l 2013

DETOUR: HEARST CASTLE Set aside one day to visit Hearst Castle (hearstcastle.com). Call it what it is—a ginormous, 165-room monument to excess perched high above San Simeon. This historic hill-topper, dubbed “the ranch” by its newspaper magnate owner, William Randolph Hearst, hosted luminaries in its heyday, among them his mistress Marion Davies (no word if the ornate theater onsite screens Citizen Kane, Orson Welles’ classic retelling of Hearst, his silent-film actress honey and his expansive homage to opulence). Not having lost a shred of its Spanish-style luster, this wondrous spectacle (one of California’s principal draws) stuns with sprawling surrounds—the property once boasted the world’s largest zoo.

Though things have since settled down, you’ll still find bountiful gardens, ancient statuary, and other magnificent spoils, plus a unique mix of architecture, most grandly on display in two shimmering pools—the exterior one beckoning unsupervised kids to jump in, especially on a hot day, so keep them close; and its less touted but equally impressive interior counterpart, lavishly detailed with Moorish embellishments.

SLUMBER PARTY! If you’ve got kids, then you know that hanging out with the inn crowd must somehow factor into your trip plans. Here it’s at the quirky Madonna Inn (madonnainn.com).

Though campy, this Willy Wonka-like wonderland is imaginative times ten, dazzling onlookers and visitors alike with 110 themed rooms (one memorably, if not shockingly, doused in hot-pink paint) and, sometimes, with truly bizarre extravagances—you’re not seeing things, men, that urinal is indeed a waterfall. And yet, for all its wacky splendor, the place is a spitting good time. Not only does the centrally located Inn have all possible accoutrements to legitimately earn “resort hotel” status (spa, fitness center, restaurants, shopping), it also boasts ideal proximity to downtown SLO and the sand dunes of South County. If staying elsewhere, be sure to stop by for the buttery delights routinely coming out of the oven at the Inn’s popular bakery, and do not miss a slice of the grand dame’s pink Champagne cake— it’s legendary.

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