San Joaquin Magazine March 2011

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

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MARCH 2011

Financial Solutions for Generations.

Family outings, like the one shown above were very popular in the early 1900’s.

Relatives would spend many a Sunday afternoon socializing with other citizens from neighboring towns, gathering in forest groves, or along river banks in the area.

At the time of this photo, The Bank of Stockton was 48 years old. Photo circa 1915.

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march volume ten issue 3 • March 2011

FEATURES Stockton's squad of young racquetball players happen to be some of the best competitors in the world.

by Katy Berry

30 OLIVE OIL: SAN JOAQUIN'S GOLDEN BOUNTY

Local artisan farmers are producing topnotch olive oils, and hoping to start a flavor revolution. by Tammy Hansen

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36 LIVING SINGLE IN THE VALLEY

Here in San Joaquin, there are still plenty of single men and women, spending their time doing what they love and enjoying the Central Valley. by Jamie Menaker

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FAMILY HEALTH: HOME REMEDIES

To keep your family healthy and happy, without so many visits to the doctor, try these at-home health solutions.

by Nissa Hallquist

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MARCH 2011

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY KEYSTONE; MATTHEW JAMES PHOTO; COLDANI OLIVE RANCH

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BOUNCING OFF THE WALL

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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march volume ten issue 3 • March 2011

DEPARTMENTS 10

Publisher’s Note

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UP FRONT | 209 San Joaquin's racquetball superstars, St. Patrick's Day beers; Tracy Firefighters; Dennis Lancaster of Premier Mascots; Haute Items for the Garden;

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and more

122

Ten Great Dates

124

Out and About

128

March Win It! Contest

GETAWAY 82

Palm Springs

FOOD&WINE 101 Spotlight: Bud's Seafood Grille 104 Lodi Wine Picks

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106 Taste of the Season: Kiwi 112 Dining Out Food and Wine Tidbits: 116 VinniBag wine carriers 118 The AvoSaver 120 McCay Cellars on the map

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MARCH 2011

TOP TO BOTTOM: MATTHEW JAMES PHOTO; ISTOCK; PALM SPRINGS USA

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Cast5 t Your Vote h A n n u a l Best of SanJoaquin

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E R N N W I OF

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A UP FRONT

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

All for Love

If you read our magazine with any sort of regularity, you know that I’m a family man. I have three great kids, each with their own challenges and successes, and I love spending time with them and my wife. We run around with the dogs at the park, take in shows and games at the Stockton Arena, and just hang out at the house with barbecues and video games.

But what if someone in my family gets an upset stomach or ear ache? Should we take the kids to the doctor’s office, or try to remedy the symptoms in our own home? This month’s family health story is about just that: what you can do in your home to help, and even cure, some of the most common ailments. I had no idea that ginger tea can help stomachaches, and toothpaste can help itchy bug bites. (Page 44) I’m so wrapped up in my family’s day-to-day life—who has which after-school activity, which parent is picking the kids up from the bus, and what nights we’re hosting cousins or friends for sleepovers—I really have no insight as to what other, much cooler folks are doing with their time in San Joaquin. We interviewed nine men and women living on the other side of the coin, some with kids and some without, that are enjoying being single in the Central Valley. They have careers they love, and spend their spare time enjoying our little slice of the world. (Page 36) Speaking of our mighty little San Joaquin region, our local growers have positioned a new crop to start a flavor revolution: olives. We’re producing some of the tastiest and purest olive oil around, and even championing the national olive oil industry to tighten the standards for extra virgin olive oil, while encouraging home chefs to try these tasty bottles of liquid gold with flavors straight from our own orchards. (Page 30) Most of all, spring is here. Enjoy the longer days, the warm evening ~Carrie Bradshaw breezes, and the weekend sunshine. In honor of spring cleaning, we’ve redesigned our website, so be sure to stop by and check it out: www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com. While you’re there, vote for your favorite local shops, restaurants, services, San Joaquin sights, and more—your favorites could be featured in our 2011 Best of San Joaquin. Make sure you also check us out on Facebook for the latest updates from San Joaquin magazine (www.facebook.com/sanjoaquinmagazine).

“The most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you that you love, well, that’s just fabulous.”

Thanks for reading.

Tony Zoccoli Publisher, San Joaquin magazine

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MARCH 2011

Dameron Hospital is well known for comprehensive Women’s Services.

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Maywell L. Inong, DDS G  C D

MARCH 2011

SanJoaquin T H E P R E M I E R M AG A Z I N E O F C EN T R A L VA L L E Y L I V I N G

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PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

C C S-L A C D ZOOM WHITENING • IMPLANTS VENEERS • CROWNS D   THE WHOLE FAMILY

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“P        .”

- M C S

MANAGING EDITOR Jamie Menaker ASSISTANT EDITOR Katy Berry CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Martinez

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Heather Hilton ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kelly Moore, Michelle Cox, Vikki Sandor-Girolami, Valerie Zoccoli EDITORIAL INQUIRIES jamie@sanjoaquinmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nissa Hallquist, Tammy Hansen, Don and Ann Jackson, Patricia Kutza, Andrea Stuart, Jenn Thornton PHOTOGRAPHY Dan Hood, Matthew James Photo

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To suggest a story idea, contact us via mail, fax, or e-mail (jamie@sanjoaquinmagazine.com). (San Joaquin magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.)

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The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of San Joaquin magazine or its parent company, Inside Magazines Publishing Company, or its owners. Inside Magazines is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

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CARE THAT FITS YOUR SCHEDULE. Sutter Gould Urgent Care Centers offer extended weekday and weekend hours, and all-day walk-in appointments. You’ll also find up to the minute wait times posted online to make staying on top of your health even easier. It’s where convenience meets quality, personalized care from a name you trust.

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URGENT CARE HOURS STOCKTON

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MARCH 2011

UpFront 209

MATTHEW JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY

TRENDS PEOPLE CULTURE STYLE

Bouncing Off The Wall Young racquetball phenoms take Stockton to the top |

BY KATY BERRY

Racquetball is an energetic sport played on a court with two players who fire a small rubber ball back and forth off of the walls and ceiling, using—you guessed it—racquets. Anyone who’s ever seen or played a game knows it’s much harder (and way more fun) than it sounds. So who knew, here in Stockton, that we have some of the world’s best racquetball players?

››

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match at 17 years old. “Some people don’t ever make it to a semi-final match in their career, and I made it when I was only 17. That was pretty cool to experience,” says Rojas, who practices at least six times a week to keep himself in top form. “I want to break all the records currently held. I want to shatter them. I want to be considered the best player to ever play the game.”

Both Dave and John Ellis believe he has what it takes to represent Stockton as the best racquetball player in the world. “It may not be for another five to eight years but it’ll come,” says John. Rojas has over twenty tournaments scheduled for 2011. When he’s not playing, he’s studying business administration at Delta College. His younger brother Marco is 17 years old and clearly following in his brother’s footsteps, having already won the International Racquetball Federation’s Junior World Championships this past November in Los Angeles.

The team also includes the ambitious young David Horn, who is currently ranked at #25 in the world. David Ellis says despite racquetball being an “individual” sport, he trains his players as a team.

“We are emphasizing the attitude of working together and helping everyone do better and improve. It’s pretty fun really.”

So far his strategy seems to be working just fine. “All the guys are good young men, very respectful,” says John. “Their parents have done a good job with them and it shows. They all live in tough areas of Stockton and could easily go a different direction.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: The U.S. Racquetball Association, www.usra.org

MARCH 2011

MATTHEW JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY

The International Racquetball Association (IRA) was officially formed in 1968, and the sport quickly took off, launching a “workout craze” as a fun and engaging way to get in shape. Since then, Stockton has churned out several great professional racquetball players, including Scott Oliver who was once ranked as the #5 player in the world during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Today, Coach David Ellis of Stockton is leading a new generation of players going pro in a big way, putting Stockton on the map once again.

David Ellis has been playing the sport since he was 29 years old.

Now at the age of 66 he’s more involved than ever, still playing three times a week and coaching. He’s also father to John Ellis, another seasoned pro in the sport. Among his many accomplishments, John has been ranked as high as #3 in the world. In 1995 he became the first Pan American Games Singles Champion for the USA Racquetball Team in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and he has eight professional tournament wins under his belt. He’s even been inducted into the Stockton Athletic Hall of Fame. Today, John is the Director of Racquetball for In-Shape Sports Clubs and a coach as well.

“He’s working more with the younger kids who are just getting started,” says dad David. “I’ve been working with the kids who’ve been playing for years. They started when they were three, four, or five.”

His latest team members range between the ages of 17 and 22, and have been working with David for the past two years. All six players on his team have won qualifying matches at pro stops, but their most notable player is Jose Rojas who, at only 20 years old, is currently ranked #8 in the world.

Like John, who picked up his first racquet at the age of 3, Rojas says he began at age 5 and made it to his first semi-final tournament

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2180 West Grant Line Rd. Tracy, CA 95376 Phone: 866-623-7600 Fax: 925-373-2492 SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

St. Patty’s

Done Right Downtown

Local brews

St. Patty’s Day is a time when Irish-Americans come together to celebrate their heritage while paying tribute to Ireland’s favorite saint: St. Patrick. For those who don’t have a stitch of Irish in them, it’s quite simply a day to drink in Ireland’s honor.

Beer is a staple of the holiday, but there’s one brew in particular that “taps out” the competition: the Irish stout, Ireland’s most popular brew. According to National Geographic, about 5.5 million pints of Guinness are served each day worldwide, but on St. Patrick’s Day that number skyrockets to 13 million. If you’d like to try something new this year, here are a few local breweries that pour their own frothy versions of the traditional Irish favorite. —Katy Berry Tatonka Stout An intense imperial stout that’s surprisingly drinkable. 8.5 percent At B.J.’s Brewhouse, 5733 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 373-4660, www.bjsbrewhouse.com O’Kelley Irish Stout Toasty and creamy, just the way St. Patrick intended. 5.6 percent At Kelley Bros. Brewing Company, 112 E. Yosemite Ave., Manteca, (209) 825-1727, www.kelleybrewing.com Black Cat Stout Smooth with notes of roasted chocolate and licorice. 6.5 percent At Valley Brewing Company, 157 W. Adams St., Stockton, (209) 464-2739, www.valleybrew.com

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Race 8:30 a.m. Early registration $30, race day $35.

DeCarli Plaza, 200 N. Center St., Stockton, (209) 795-7832, www.downtownstockton.org

MARCH 2011

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON ALLIANCE

Stout and About

Each year, Stockton gears up for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration fit for Ned O’Flanigan himself.

This year, the festivities kick-off with the Shamrock 5K Run on March 12. The runners are divided by age groups with first, second, and third place prizes for both men and women. It’s also the first race in a series of four set to take place over the year. Runners who participate in three out of four races will be eligible for a grand prize.

After the run, head to Bradley’s, the standard St. Patty’s headquarters in downtown Stockton.

There you’ll be sure to find some Irish mischief, along with your share of corned beef and cabbage, pints of green beer, Irish car bombs, and a Dropkick Murphys Tribute Band. Sláinte! (That’s Gaelic for cheers.) —K.B.

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UPFRONT 209

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TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

Tracy Firefighters Climb for a Cause

Each year in Seattle, Washington, brave firefighters from the Northwest take part in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s annual Scott Firefighter Stair Climb. While most teams hail from Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Brian Hicks and his team of Tracy firefighters will be representing San Joaquin for the third year in a row.

Around 1,500 firemen participate in the challenge each year, attempting to climb seventy-three flights of stairs within Seattle’s Columbia Center while wearing their full fire gear.

The equipment adds an extra fifty to sixty pounds on each man, making the challenge a true test of endurance. In order to prepare for the event, Hicks’ team practices the run at a building in San Francisco. “After ten floors I usually start breathing hard, but it depends on how fast you go, too. It’s not easy at all. Last year the fastest guy on our team did it somewhere in the seventeen-minute mark, which is really COURTESY SCOTT FIREFIGHTER STAIR CLIMB AND TRACY FIREFIGHTERS

fast,” says Hicks.

The challenge is hosted by the Seattle chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma society, and they require a minimum pledge of $500 in order to participate. This year, Hicks is hoping to raise more than the minimum, and donate the extra funds to a local family. “The rest of the money will go to a child from the Sacramento chapter, which covers our area, to make sure the majority of the money stays local and benefits local kids,” says Hicks. This year, the twentieth annual Scott Firefighter Stair Climb is sold out and set to take place March 6. —Katy Berry

The Team: Firefighter Brian Hicks, Tracy | Engineer Ben Moreno, Capitola Captain Pat Vargas, Tracy | Engineer Kevin Meineke, Manteca Engineer Steve Major, Concord | Captain John Babcock, Lodi Captain Mike Oliveri, Tracy

For more information: www.leukemia-lymphoma.org

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MARCH 2011

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

25

UPFRONT 209

I

TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

[In the Spotlight]

Dennis Lancaster

Lead Designer, Premier Mascots, Tracy

Designer Dennis Lancaster spends his work days at Premier Mascots dreaming up wacky characters for businesses, schools, and children’s parties. We wondered what it’s like designing characters that are truly larger than life. —Katy Berry

What’s the biggest challenge in designing a mascot?

Characters going up stairs or fitting through doorways is a tremendous consideration. What I’m surprised at is that people see things in two dimensions. We’re used to seeing characters on a TV monitor. Our clients are surprised at how big the characters come out. We were once asked to do a character five feet in diameter.

We asked, can we reduce it by half? They grumbled and said fine, but when we delivered it they said they ‘didn’t think it was going to be that big.'

Are the costumes heavy?

It all depends on what the figure is and what it’s made of. I know some costumes weigh less than 25 pounds. But I have a couple Japanese monster costumes; one of them weighs 70 pounds and the other weighs 80. With heavier costumes we try to balance on the shoulders and use a padded harness that will mold to the body and the person so they can maneuver more easily and comfortably.

Are all your characters original?

We have a number of characters that we utilize for our own show, so those are all original. Most people laughed when we dropped the use of look-a-like characters, but after a while people got the idea and we worked steadily.

Sadly a lot of the other companies ended up being sued by Barney, Clifford, PBS; some of them were driven right out of business.

Occasionally on our website we still get requests for a looka-likes, but we know full well it’s a licenser checking to see if we would do any unlicensed costumes.

For more information: www.premiermascots.com

26

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

MARCH 2011

MATTHEW JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY

How did you learn to build mascots?

I was thoroughly burnt out as a teacher and wanted to do something different. My mother circled an ad for a company that does children’s parties and I decided, well, why not? I worked there for three years. Little by little I saw how the costumes were made, and because they didn’t have much money I started building some of the characters myself. The early stuff looked pretty rough. I was using glue guns and pipe cleaners, but it was enjoyable. I got a sense of satisfaction seeing how the children responded.

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9/21/2010 5:57:34 PM SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

UPFRONT 209

I

TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

29

BY TAMMY HANSEN

San Joaquin’s golden bounty Grassy. Peppery. Fruity. Floral. Valley gourmands are intimately familiar with the adjectives that make up a flavor profile, having enjoyed a few decades of growth in Lodi wine accolades.

A new crop of local artisan farmers is uncorking a different sort of excitement for local connoisseurs, bottling a different sort of Central Valley gold with a pronounced olive green tinge. These entrepreneurial growers are hoping to start a revolution in olive oil. You’ll find them at wine tastings and in fine food stores across the state encouraging consumers to savor nuances in their fresh products, sometimes offering straight-shot samples to emphasize that their products are as far from the ubiquitous oils on the supermarket shelf as, well, Italy is from Stockton.Valley olive oil farmers widely credit Oroville’s California Olive Ranch with kick-starting the California olive oil industry in 1999 when it brought high

30

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

density farming and harvesting from Spain, along with the California friendly Arbequina, Arbosana, and Koroneiki olive varieties. The vine-like trees and mechanical harvesters similar to those used in grapes are a perfect fit for local farmers seeking newly profitable crops.

Quick draining loam soils in the Valley are a perfect growing ground for olives, says Leonard Cicerello, a partner in Lodi Olive Oil Company and owner of the wine distributorship Lodi Wines LLC. He estimates his company’s olive oil production at 1,500 gallons, which is distributed through about 100 wine buyers.

Add a Mediterranean climate and it’s a recipe for success.

››

MARCH 2011

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

31

San Joaquin County grows 35 percent of the state’s olive oil-producing trees, making it the state’s second largest olive oil region, according to the 2009 County Crop Report.

32

are a bit bewitched by the gourmet cachet of a crop that echoes the romance of wine. A fourth generation farmer, Bozzano is smitten with the old-world olives of his Italian heritage. His family farm boasts nine varieties on 45 acres.

“All the varieties I grow are Italian varieties.

Each variety has a flavor profile that’s inherent to itself,” says the graduate

of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, who cooked at coastal and Napa restaurants before returning to the family farm. Most of his olives are hand-harvested, but Bozzano doesn’t thumb his nose at mechanization. His olives are harvested with pneumatic combs that gently pick up the olives from nets over the ground. “Even

Olive Oil Sources

Corto Olive California Olive Oil, Stockton: Bottled oils, a 6.5 pound

Bozzano Olive Ranch, Stockton: Bottled oils and gift boxes.

bag in a box, and a 20 pound bag in a box. www.corto-olive.com

www.bozzanoranch.com

Lodi Olive Oil Company, Lodi: Bottled oils, 1-gallon containers,

Coldani Olive Ranch, Lodi: Bottled oils, 1-gallon containers,

gift packs. www.lodioliveoil.com

balsamic vinegar, a buying club, and a unique dipping dish.

Shady Oaks Farm, Lodi: Bottled oils.

www.calivirgin.com

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

MARCH 2011

PHOTO PREVIOUS PAGE: MATTHEW JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY. PHOTOS THIS SPREAD: COLDANI OLVIE RANCH AND CORTO OLIVE

Although it only recently graduated from the miscellaneous category of the county report, the area’s 77 tons of olive oil from 86 acres (at a value of $119,000) is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years.

Local farmers are replacing row crops and old fruit trees with olive trees.

Many, like Joe Bozzano of Bozzano Olive Ranch,

Olive facts Don’t be intimidated by the new olive oils coming from local producers. Think of them as you would fine wines. Try them. Play. Here are some tips for the best experience.

Check the Label. Many California producers include information to assure customers they are getting a fresh product. Look for this information on the bottle: ‘Extra virgin.’ Only bottles with this label can claim the highest-grade oil.

Harvest, milling, or use-by date (olive oil should be used within 18 months).

Origin labeling by country or region.

Acid content below 0.8.

Ingredient list (some state varieties used).

A dark bottle (prevents oxidation of the oil).

California Olive Oil Council Certification (Producers use this voluntary certification to prove they meet certain quality standards set by the group.)

Fry Freely Cooks are often warned to avoid extra virgin olive oil when cooking because of cost and low smoke point (the point at which the oil burns and gives off a bad taste). But producers encourage frying with heart-healthy, extra virgin oil to get a sample of subtle flavor variations. Just watch the pot to avoid burning.

Think Outside the Salad Olive oil imparts flavor to any dish normally fried in flavorless oil like Canola or vegetable oil. It can also be used in place of butter. Try it for everything from potatoes to fish to mashed potatoes. Some other suggestions from producers include: As a finishing oil in soups or on meats. (Drizzle over just before serving.)

Cook popcorn in olive oil boosted with herbs.

Look online for cakes and pastries made with olive oil.

What Is Fusty?

The USDA’s new guidelines require an extra virgin olive oil to have less than 0.8 percent fatty acid and meet quality taste standards. Here are the markers: Rancid. A seed or varnish-like flavor caused by the oxidation of the oil.

Fusty. A damp, earthy smell due to poor storage conditions of the olives that promote bacterial growth.

Muddy-sediment. Caused by storage of olive oil in contact with the sediment for long periods, giving the oil a putrid flavor and odor.

Winey-vinegary. A flavor defect caused by the storage condition of the olives that causes aerobic fermentation.

the pneumatic combs are essentially oldworld,” he says. “Really all we’re doing is mechanizing the rakes.”

Growing and harvesting olives is just phase one, however, says Mike Coldani of Coldani Olive Ranch, who has 100 acres of trees. Milling the olives—pressing the oil from the fruit as quickly and simply as possible after harvest, with no additives—is another key aspect of a fine oil. Then comes blending, in which oil producers combine flavors. Oils are then stored in stainless tanks. At this point the clock starts running down. Coldani, a Cal Poly graduate who studied vineyard design, and other producers have no more than 18 months to get the oil to the table. Therein lies the major difference between the locally produced oils and the imported oils many cooks buy, he says. While most growers tread lightly on the issue of imported oils, Coldani tells it like it is. www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

“In America we’ve grown accustomed to a rancid taste,” he says. Rancid in this case means older oils that have oxidized. The result is a less fresh, varnish-like flavor.

A University of California at Davis July report on olive oil quality (funded by the California Industry) reported 69 percent of imported and 10 percent of California olive oils labeled extra virgin failed to meet criteria for that moniker. Researchers found rancid, fusty, or musty problems through tasting and chemical analysis in 86 percent of imported extra virgin olive oils.

The poor flavors are a result of oxidation, blending with inferior oils, or use of lower grade olives for oils. Responding to industry concern, in October the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) implemented voluntary grading standards for all olive oils. The simplest chemical indicator of quality oil is fatty acids at less than 0.8

grams per 100 milligrams. Some California producers have taken to touting their low acid content on the label.

There are dozens of other chemical factors that go into good olive oil, but producers tend to keep the politics at the industry level. With consumers, they let the product speak for itself.

Bozzano says the industry will continue to fight behind the scenes for fair standards, but getting the home cook to start thinking ‘peppery, fruity, grassy’ is the key to a robust California olive oil industry.

“Just like people started to develop a vocabulary for wine,” he says. “That’s where we need to head with olive oil.”

For more information: Visit the California Olive Oil Council at www.cooc.com.

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

33

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SAN SAN JOAQUIN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

3535

living

Single in the Valley

BY JAMIE MENAKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW JAMES

Sometimes it seems like you’re the last single girl —or guy—left.

Among a sea of married couples enjoying the weekend hand-in-hand or canoodling over Sunday brunch, it can feel like there’s not another single person anywhere in sight. Luckily, that’s just not true. Here in San Joaquin, there are plenty of men and women without a sidekick on their arm, doing exactly what they love, enjoying their career and their free time. These people are funny, successful, charismatic, energetic, and all have one thing in common: they love living in the Central Valley. Meet San Joaquin’s singles.

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

MARCH 2011

■ Sunshine Hollingsworth, 32, Stockton

Day Job: I’m the Office Manager for Laborers’ Local 73.

Her passion: I love gardening. I have several flower gardens, and a vegetable garden that will hopefully be more bountiful than it was last year.

What she does in her spare time: Play with my plants, read books, teach myself to cook, watch movies, ride my bike, and hang out with friends.

The perfect mate: I’m looking for someone who knows how to laugh at themselves, and who’s compassionate towards other people.

Spending time in San Joaquin: Boating on the Delta, and Music in the Park during the summer months.

Best date ever: I went surfing for the first time. Afterward we hiked up to a hill and watched the sunset. Surfing was something I didn’t consider to be in my wheelhouse, but it ended up being so much fun, the fact that I’m terrible didn’t really matter.

Her favorite spot in the house: The back patio—the best place to read a book and listen to the birds.

In a dream world, she would sing like: I would just love to be able to sing in key, hit a couple high notes, and not get laughed at.

Three things she does every day: Put my contacts in, brush my teeth, and listen to some Adam Carolla.

Her morning routine: My alarm is set for 5 a.m. I may hit snooze a couple times. Okay, like four times. I like my sleep.

Her favorite item of clothes: Simple black heels and jeans.

What’s up next: I’d really like to get married and start a family.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

37

■ Michelle Scott,

■ Gina Calder, 44, Stockton

>>

46, Stockton

38

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

>>

Day Job + why she loves what she does: I own Michael's Pizza and Gina's Café. I love my job because it keeps me on my toes, every day is a new challenge, and I work with some of the most wonderful people. We really are like a big family.

Her passion: My family—we’re a small group but mighty. I’m so lucky to have friends that are family, and my family are my friends.

What she does in her spare time: What spare time? I like to ski, wine taste, kickbox, and run.

Last vacation: To visit my son at college.

Her biggest indulgence: Bread pudding.

Why she loves San Joaquin: It’s an easy place to live, you’re a couple hours away from the beach, the city, and the mountains. And we have great wine, great farming, and great pizza!

Describing herself in three words: Loyal, fun, and honest.

Her pets: I have a cat named George, and 2 golden retrievers named Daisy and Duke.

When on a date, she would be impressed if the other person: Knew what I would order because they paid attention to conversations.

Favorite drink: Vodka cranberry in the summer, red wine in the winter.

Her favorite spot in the house: On my couch in front of the fire Her remedy for a tough day: Running or kickboxing.

Book she’s still thinking about: The Harry Potter series.

She’s most proud of: Being a mom, running a successful business with the help of great employees, and being able to get tough when the tough got going.

Day Job: I’m a Registered Nurse and a Program Manager in Public Health Nursing, overseeing programs that focus on mothers, babies, and families. I love my job because I want to make a difference in someone’s life and better our community.

Her spare time: The number one thing is travel, but I also love hanging out with family. In the summertime, I love being near the water—boating, laying on the beach, or just having dinner at a restaurant on the river.

Biggest indulgence: I would have to say vacations. I love being able to pack up and go somewhere. It doesn’t matter if it’s for one day or one week, just a getaway is fine with me.

Showing local love: Even though I’ve lived in other towns, it just doesn’t feel the same as being in your hometown. My favorites here are hockey and baseball games, attending the Asparagus Festival with my girlfriends, Wine on the Waterfront, and Taste of the Delta.

In the kitchen: I love to cook. My dad taught me, and I always watched him in the kitchen as I grew up. We’re Italian, so a lot of time was spent in the kitchen.

How to impress her: Chivalry and some old-fashioned manners!

The most daring thing she’s done: Snorkeling in the Grand Cayman Islands with the stingrays. There were dozens, all different sizes, swimming under you and right next to you. They would eat squid right out of your hand.

The future: I don’t have to be married, but I’m not opposed to it. If I find the right man, it could happen.

living

■ Paul Tolle, 40, Tracy

Single in the Valley

Day Job: I’m a Biomedical Field Tech; I love the change of scenery on a daily basis. I also play music and tour.

His passion: Music and the outdoors.

Playing, performing, and writing music.

What he’s looking for in a mate: Intelligence, and the desire to go do something spontaneously with no other reason than to do it.

Best adventure: During my travels in the Navy I got to experience different areas and cultures. In Tasmania, going ashore and getting on a bus until it stopped, with nothing but a backpack and a good attitude.

Paul in three words: Fun, intelligent, adventurous Light reading: As strange as this seems, lately I’ve been into anything regarding quantum physics. I have a hidden passion for learning, and this seems to be my newest focus.

No fear: On a whim, I got up one day and decided to conquer my fear of heights, so I went skydiving—consider that fear conquered.

His close friends describe him as: A responsible person, father, and friend.

Favorite item of clothes: Black cowboy boots.

His family plans: I would love to get married later when I meet that special someone. I already have 2 kids, so I don’t really want to start that all over, but other children are perfectly fine.

What he’s proud of: My music, the shows I’ve played, and the accomplishments in the music industry.

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living

Single in the Valley

■ Michelle Brink, 30, Stockton

Day Job: Office Manager for Classic Design Floor to Ceiling Her passion: My son is my everything.

Local girl: I was born and raised here in Stockton, and I love it because my family is here. I enjoy all the great festivals, farmers markets, and the wine strolls in downtown Lodi.

What she’s looking for in a mate: Hard worker, honest, and likes kids.

On a date, she would be impressed if someone: Listened as much as they talk.

Her happy place: My big comfy chair in my living room.

Daily habits: Play on my iPhone, chat with my son, and count my blessings.

Her remedy for a tough day: Head straight to the gym.

The most daring thing she’s done: This. And my two tattoos.

Her friends would say she’s: A good mom, private, thoughtful, intense, and caring.

Best foot forward: Nothing is better than Uggs (fuzzy boots) or flip flops.

Making a change: I’m so proud of losing weight in the last 4 years, and being in the best health of my life.

■ Chris Ronson, 26, Modesto

Day Job: Project Manager for the West Coast’s leading industrial refrigeration contractor. I spend my days visiting job sites, which range from various wineries to dairies and cheese plants.

His true love: My greatest passion is racing.

This year, I’ll have the chance to race with SCCA’s Professional Race Series in my T1 Corvette.

Man’s best friend: Lately I’ve been spending a lot of time with my Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy. And by puppy I mean a 7 month-old, 75-pound dog.

Spare time: I spend 4 to 5 days a week doing CrossFit training, I like to go out on weekends with friends, or head to the shooting range for target practice.

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Heading overseas: I did a study abroad program to Athens, Greece. We were studying there for 6 weeks, and on the weekends we would take trips all over Greece to see some of the ancient Greek ruins and museums. My father’s side of the family is Greek, so I’d been before, but experiencing the sights with new people/friends was a lot of fun.

Why he’s still single: Because of my racing most of the year, I don’t have a lot of time away from it, my job, and the gym.

Spending time at home: A glass of wine and the hot tub, or a beer and some couch time with [my dog] Leonidas and a movie.

Marriage and kids: Yes to both. Ideally two kids, one boy and one girl.

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■ Lam Starkey, 39, Stockton

Day Job + why he loves what he does: I’m a signalman for Union Pacific. My job allows me to travel and see new things. Every project brings on different challenges.

The long road to San Joaquin: I was born in Vietnam, started school in Hawaii, then we moved to Okinawa, Japan. My dad started working for the Navy at Rough and Ready Island when I was 11.

His passions: Building, creating, and tinkering. Working on my classic car.

Destination travel: My trip to France and Italy. There was so much to see. I definitely want to go back. I also went on a cruise to Alaska in June.

His ideal date: Anywhere, anything, as long as we connect.

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Why he’s still single: Haven’t met the right dork like me.

Why he loves San Joaquin: My family lives here.

Describing himself in three words: Shy, witty, and independent.

His pets: Jacqui, my out-of-control pug puppy.

She’s so sweet. I hide from her and make her look for me.

His favorite spot in the house: My backyard, barbecuing.

Most daring thing he’s done: Agreeing to be in San Joaquin magazine.

His close friends would describe him as: Awesome When he wears a suit: Only if I have to.

MARCH 2011

living

■ Lee Neves,

Single in the Valley

■ Summer Pennino,

Day Job: I work for Electric Vehicles International (EVI) where I oversee Governmental Affairs and Marketing. I love EVI because it is a small company in an emerging “green” industry.

Her passion: Impacting the lives of young people. I serve on the Lodi Youth Commission as an advisor, which gives me the opportunity to plan events and work with students.

What she’s looking for: Someone who first and foremost has a relationship with Jesus Christ. I also love to laugh, so sense of humor and a great personality are key as well.

Vacation plans: Every year my family takes a vacation together.

I enjoy scuba diving, and have had the opportunity to dive in Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Spending time in San Joaquin: I love the different seasons and weather here throughout the year.

Bakesale Betty: I have yet to master cooking, but love baking.

I’m known for my homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Win her over: I would be impressed on a date if the other person planned the entire evening without asking me what I wanted to do or eat.

Smart cookie: In college, I was honored to serve as a White House Intern in the USA Freedom Corps office. Having the opportunity to see the inside workings of the White House and to meet amazing leaders was an extremely humbling experience.

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Day Job: I’ve got two of ‘em. Community Relations Manager for Barnes & Noble, and Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the California Cougars Professional Indoor Soccer Team. I wake up wanting to go to work, and I get the opportunity to work with some pretty amazing people.

Community service: I encourage literacy in our area, be it teaming up with University of the Pacific Athletics to host literacy events, or bringing Sacramento Kings center Samuel Dalembert to the bookstore for an autograph session.

His passion: As you can guess, sports, but also helping to make Stockton a first-class city. Sports give everyone in San Joaquin a common bond to rally around.

The perfect lady: Intelligence, inner and outer beauty, and an easy-going personality.

The perfect date: We’d go somewhere to just talk and get to know each other, without having to feel the need to impress or not be ourselves.

On the Central Valley: It’s perfect. Not too big, not too small.

If you want the small town feel, you can go to a little hole in the wall that’s been around for years, or if you want to be a bit more modern, you can go to AVE or the Stockton Arena.

In a dream world, he’d: Have the ability to bust out some lyrics like Dre and Snoop, dance like Kevin James in “Hitch,” and cook like Gordon Ramsey (minus the colorful use of the English language).

What he splurges on: If I’m dating a woman at the time…her. [SJM]

>>

28, Lodi

>>

35, Stockton

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MARCH 2011

Family Health:

BY NISSA HALLQUIST

HOME REMEDIES

A

home remedy is any sort of medical treatment developed by a layperson using a variety of herbs, spices, produce, and other common household items. As this is usually conducted without a physician’s professional input, you might think that such a practice would be frowned upon by the medical community. But that’s not necessarily the case.

Glenda Glass is a laboratory scientist specializing in clinical microbiology at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton.

She’s also a practicing herbalist and nutritionist. So she can see both sides of the issue, and how natural home remedies and clinical Western medicine can work together.

In minor, non-emergency cases, home remedies help the body heal naturally without compromising the immune system. In fact, they are actually apt to strengthen the immune

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system, as opposed to antibiotics and other prescriptions (see “Your Immune System’s Best Friend” on page 46). In an era where our instinct at the first sign of illness or discomfort is still to reach for a bottle of pills, Glass finds that home remedies help curb that instinct. By assisting the immune system and curbing the reliance on prescription medication, home remedies can also help the medical industry become less bogged down with unnecessary doctor visits.

If used in conjunction with common sense, and professional medical care when appropriate, home remedies are a reliable and safe way to treat the minor aches, pains, and maladies of your and your family’s daily life. The following are home remedies for some of the more common ailments you’re likely to run across, including a few personally recommended by San Joaquin area medical professionals.

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Blemishes/Acne Use vitamin C to lighten the appearance of skin blemishes and improve skin texture.

Dry the peels of a few oranges and grind them up into a fine powder. Add the juice of a lemon and roughly a teaspoon of soothing rosewater. Apply paste to affected areas.

Oatmeal can absorb oil and exfoliate the skin, while honey helps tone the skin. Make a single serving of plain oatmeal and add a quarter cup of honey. Let cool, and then apply to skin. Leave on for ten to twenty minutes, then wipe and rinse mixture off.

Peppermint can help reduce skin pain and inflammation. Crush a handful of fresh mint leaves. Rub the leaves and juice on skin and leave on for ten minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Kill bacteria on skin’s surface by applying an apple cider vinegar solution (one part to three parts water) to face, rinse off after ten minutes. Or, to the same end, apply tea tree oil onto affected areas before bed and wash off the following morning.

Bug Bites For a bee sting, remove stinger as soon as possible and treat with antibiotic if available. Reduce pain and inflammation by application of ice, toothpaste (glycerin dries out venom), fresh papaya, or honey. With mosquito bites, itching can be reduced by application of toothpaste (peppermint) or hemp seed oil (fatty acids). A slice of onion can reduce both itching and swelling. The application of aloe vera can soothe a variety of skin irritations, from bug bites to dry skin to sunburn.

Expert Recommended: The anti-microbial and astringent qualities of plantain (the weed, not the banana; also known as ribwort) make it soothing and prevent infection. Pulverize a handful of plantain into a poultice. Leave on affected area until pain subsides. Also good for minor burns and splinters. (Glenda Glass, SJMC) Congestion (Chest/Nasal) Breathing in steam infused with a few drops of certain essential oils (such as eucalyptus) can break up phlegm and open up congested airways. Aid the immune system with Echinacea tea or supplements.

Expert Recommended: Due to its high concentration of vitamins and anti-viral properties, ingesting elderberry in some form at the first sign of illness will keep the illness from escalating. (Glenda Glass, SJMC) Ingesting an increased amount of vitamin C reduces histamine levels that can cause inflammation and congestion.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Steep a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of pre-boiled water. Strain, let cool, and use as soothing eyewash. Other effective eyewashes include elderberry tea, aloe vera, water steeped in fennel seeds, or three tablespoons of honey dissolved in two cups of warm water.

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Create a poultice of grated potato.

Leave on eyes for twenty minutes to reduce inflammation.

Place warm tea bags on eyes to soothe eyes and break-up crusty discharge.

Spray colloidal silver or drop castor oil into eyes two to three times daily until pink eye is cured.

Dandruff Apply the juice of one small lime to the head to both soothe dry scalp and get shiny hair.

Wash hair with warm apple cider vinegar.

Cover head with shower cap and leave on for half an hour. Rinse completely with plain water. Use twice a week until dandruff is gone. Prior to washing hair, moisturize the scalp by applying hemp seed, olive, coconut, sesame, or tea tree oil. Leave on for twenty minutes or so before washing out.

Earache Apply a warm compress to soothe the pain.

Expert Recommended: For a painful ear, the antibiotic qualities of garlic juice can relieve the ache. Puncture a garlic capsule and put a couple drops into each ear. If needed, mix with olive oil first for thicker consistency and better adhesion to the affected area. Plug with cotton to keep from leaking until pain dissipates.

(Ralph Andrade, Andrade Chiropractic) A mixture of equal parts vinegar and rubbing alcohol dripped into the ear kills bacteria and evaporates excessive moisture.

Your Immune System’s Best Friend: According to Tracy chiropractor Ralph Andrade, you need to get sick in order to keep from getting sick. Or, to be more specific, you need to get a little sick to avoid getting really sick later. In many situations, “minor infections actually make the immune system stronger in the long run,” says Andrade. Your immune system is like a boxer. A boxer needs to train every day, working the bag and taking on bouts with other boxers, in order to build up their endurance and skills for the title fight. So too must your immune system train on smaller illnesses, say the common cold, in order to be strong enough to face something bigger later on.

These days, a lot of people’s “boxers” are getting flabby through the excessive use of prescription medications.

Prescription antibiotics do the work of the immune system for it. So, while they might combat the immediate discomfort of the sniffles, they actually leave the immune system weak and lazy. Dr. Andrade believes that the main benefit of home remedies is to counteract this weakening of the immune system. They

do this in two ways. First, they can ease the discomfort of certain symptoms while still letting the body continue to duke it out with the underlying illness.

Or they can actually help to speed up recovery, but naturally, without synthetic chemicals fighting the immune system’s fight. So, while a runny nose and sore throat might be annoying, suffering through them for a little while could be the best thing you could do for your future health.

Recipe for Health: There are certain staple ingredients that seem to be called on quite often for a wide range of home remedies (not to mention any number of culinary masterpieces).

Keeping the following items stocked in your kitchen cabinet will ensure that you’ll be home remedy ready when the time comes: Fenugreek: This seed/spice (often used in curry and maple syrup) has been shown to have powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. As such, it can be used to ease a variety of ailments, from sore throat and fever to joint pain and diabetes. It’s also been widely used as a milk producing agent for nursing mothers.

MARCH 2011

Fever Drink plenty of cool water to help reduce temperature and keep hydrated. Take a cool shower or bath. Induce a cooling sweat with ginger and lemon tea. Steep a teaspoon or two of fenugreek seeds in a cup of tea, strain, and drink with a teaspoon of honey and some lemon.

Headache Whatever the cause—stress, exposure to excessive heat or cold—get relief from a headache by ingesting lemon juice (about half a lemon in a cup of tea or hot water) or eating a peeled, cored apple with a dash of salt each morning on an empty stomach. A moderate amount of caffeine (such as that found in a cup of coffee or tea or chocolate) can reduce headache pain. Reduce headache-causing tension with deep breathing exercises, which relaxes muscles and increases intake of oxygen.

Nausea Ginger has been shown to have stomachsettling properties. Add a fresh piece to a cup of tea or take a gingerroot supplement.

Certain types of tea can also be soothing, peppermint and chamomile in particular.

Boil a cup of water with half a cup of rice for about twenty minutes. Drain and drink the rice water.

Ingesting a small amount of cinnamon or cloves (or clove oil) can also ease digestive discomfort.

Garlic: Whether in clove or supplement form, garlic has displayed antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

It has been used to prevent heart disease, regulate blood sugar levels, fight the cough and congestion of the common cold, and combats various infections and digestive discomfort.

Ginger: Most commonly known as an antinausea aid, ginger also helps with other digestive issues, including indigestion, gas, and cramping. Its anti-inflammatory properties have made it useful in easing arthritis and other joint pain. It also loosens phlegm, making it beneficial in treating chest congestion and other respiratory issues. Finally, as a known diaphoretic, it can help break fevers.

Honey: The medicinal properties of this sweet substance are actually best utilized in topical applications. Its antibacterial qualities make it beneficial in the treatment of wounds and other infections of the skin, as well as conjunctivitis (pink eye). It can also be swallowed, however, to sooth coughing and sore throats and fight the bacteria responsible.

Lemon: High acidity, low pH, and vitamin C make lemons ideal infection fighters. Eaten alone, or in conjunction with other ingredients should the sourness www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

be deemed unpalatable, lemons help fight the common cold and flu and boost the immune system.

Tea: The health benefits of tea vary depending on the specific blend.

Chamomile, peppermint, and green tea especially have medicinal qualities that sooth digestion, ease congestion, and support heart health. And it tastes great with a little honey and lemon.

Leaving Home: When to Seek Medical Help: Home remedies have their limits and should only be used for minor, non lifethreatening illnesses or injuries. The following general circumstances dictate that you set the home remedies aside and seek formal medical attention: Any acute trauma or injury (broken anything, excessive bleeding; if a symptom persists for an inordinate length of time; if a symptom is or becomes acute (spiking fever, chest pain). Certain localized infections, especially of the eye or teeth, can become systemic if left untreated.

Sore Throat Gargle with a mild, warm salt water mixture to reduce inflammation and pain. Drink a cup of hot water or chamomile tea with a teaspoon of lemon or lime and some honey mixed in.

Simmer two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in a liter of water. Let cool until comfortable to drink, strain seeds, and drink.

Toothache Chewing a clove of garlic can help relieve toothache pain. Due to its antibacterial effects, chewing garlic daily can help keep teeth healthy and strong. The same effect can be found by chewing on onion. For something a little sweeter smelling, chew on cloves or apply clove oil to the aching tooth.

[SJM]

Above all, use common sense. A cough doesn’t require a trip to the emergency, but difficulty breathing does.

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howto

How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist With the increasing number of dentists offering cosmetic dentistry, finding a qualified cosmetic dentist can be very challenging. Fortunately for the prospective patient, there are many resources that can be used to make the choice as simple as possible.

It is very important for you to take your time in the process of choosing a cosmetic dentist. You shouldn’t feel rushed or pressured into a procedure. The right office will celebrate with you the life-changing effect that cosmetic dentistry can provide.

Start by narrowing your choices down. Have any family, friends, or coworkers received any cosmetic dental procedures? Ask them questions about their experiences. Criteria of the cosmetic dentist should include: -Do they have before and after photos of their own work and do you like it?

-What special training does the dentist have in advanced cosmetic dentistry?

-Do they belong to any cosmetic dental organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry?

-Does the ambiance of the office reflect high quality?

-How are the staff interactions right from

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the very first phone call?

-Do they have an up-to-date website for you to review their office?

-What technologies do they incorporate in the office to cater to your needs?

-What special comforts are available for your visits such as music, blankets, pillows, or movies?

Once you have narrowed your choice down you are ready for a consultation.

Before a cosmetic dentist performs any procedure, it is critical that your overall dental health has been tended to. The consultation should consist of a conversation with the dentist about your likes and dislikes, and establishing realistic expectations regarding your treatments.

A consultation will usually involve some gathering of information and records.

Records for cosmetic dental procedures consist of but are not limited to: ٠ A comprehensive oral examination ٠ Photographs of the face, smile, and mouth ٠ Radiographs (x-rays) ٠ Models of your teeth. Wax models of your new smile can be fabricated from these.

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٠ Computer imaging of what your smile may look like ٠ A review of color, shapes, textures, and types of materials Finally your consultation may involve a discussion with a financial and scheduling coordinator. Many cosmetic procedures are not covered by dental insurance, but there are options available.

While the task of choosing a cosmetic dentist may seem daunting, once the right choice has been made, the journey can be enjoyable. Your new smile can be a lifechanging experience!

For more information: Todd Franklin, D.D.S. 1208 W. Tokay Street Lodi, (209) 334-4370 www.toddfranklindds.com MARCH 2011

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howto

Reduce Stress with Bikram Yoga Arm yourself with the tools that will transcend your life by reducing stress

by ANDREA STUART

It’s easier to deal with stress when you are given the proper tools. Yoga is a discipline that connects the mind and body through breathing techniques, physical postures, and meditation. If you are one of those people who think yoga isn’t for you, think again.

First, yoga teaches how to be still and calm through meditation and a breathing technique known as pranayama. Many of us don’t think much about how we breathe, even though it’s the most vital thing we do.

As a result, we often breathe shallow and rapid through our mouths, stimulating the sympathetic nervous system by creating carbon dioxide build-up in the blood.

Pranayama promotes proper breathing by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting calmness through oxygenation of the blood.

Second, yoga disperses built-up

tension in the body with physical exercise through postures called asanas. Each asana challenges the body in a way that increases strength and flexibility, and improves the function of that body part. Helena Monica of Bikram Yoga Stockton says that there is a science behind yoga’s movements. “We call it the tourniquet effect,” she says.

“Yoga doesn’t build lactic acid like other exercises can.” When you hold a pose, you block blood from reaching one part of the body. When you release a pose, the blood un-dams, cleaning out impurities, and improving clarity.

Together, pranayama and asanas teach you to become less reactive to negative stresses. You learn to slow down and just “be.” You can then apply this in the real world, where people around you will organically shift their perspectives in

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a ripple effect. Bikram yoga adheres to these principles in a heated environment.

The heat opens pores and aids flexibility, allowing you to get the same rigorous yoga workout in less time.

Yoga is not only a great way to nourish your mind and body, it’s fun!

For more information: Call Bikram Yoga Stockton at (209) 948-9642 (YOGA), visit www.bikramyogastockton.com, or stop by 2341 Pacific Avenue, Stockton.

MARCH 2011

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howto

How to Be Thrilled with Your Home As a local homeowner, chances are you aren’t selling any time soon. It’s also likely you aren’t completely thrilled with your current place either. But do you really have the time, talent, and money to dive into a complete home renovation project?

Watching HGTV has been fun, but so far that “Divine Design” team hasn’t knocked on your door, right?

And then there’s hiring a contractor.

You’ve heard the warnings: Hire the right contractor, check references, beware of costly overruns, hang on to your wallet, and hide the kids! All kidding aside, there are many, many facets to Effortless Home Improvement, and one Central Valley business delivers on all points.

At Lodi’s Classic Design Floor to Ceiling, you’ll find seven gifted designers who get projects started right with budget and space planning. This talented team takes clients through 6,000 square feet of

gorgeous showroom displaying a seemingly endless array of products: cabinets, countertops, lighting, sinks, faucets, tubs, carpet, hardwood, tile, shutters, fabric, wallpaper, paint, shower doors, and more.

But it certainly doesn’t end there; this business is also an impressively licensed, insured, and credentialed contractor with a super-experienced production team dedicated to seamless execution from dream to dream home.

Some added features include care and maintenance products, a warranty department, a credit history so impressive that glowing vendor references often adorn their advertising, partnership with a national buying group to keep material costs down, active membership in elite construction and remodeling associations, impeccable testimonials, and more. Finally, this is a locally- (and female-) owned business. It just doesn’t get any better than that.

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Are you ready to experience Effortless Home Improvement and be absolutely thrilled with your home? Then head to Classic Design Floor to Ceiling – no need to make an appointment, they’re looking forward to meeting you!

For more information: Call (209) 3344060 or visit www.classicdesignftc.com.

MARCH 2011

PARENTING CAN BE HARD.

HOME IMPROVEMENT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE.

Effortless HOME IMPROVEMENT 209.334.4060

2303 S. Stockton St. • Lodi, CA

www.classicdesignftc.com

M-F: 9-5 • Sat: 10-5

Effortless Home Improvement Contractor’s Lic. #886537

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howto

How to Achieve a Whiter, Brighter Smile

by DR. ANUREET SOHI-THADWAL, DDS

Transforming dull, stained teeth into a dazzling smile is a simple cosmetic improvement that can make a major difference in your appearance. There’s nothing more attractive than a bright and healthy smile. Drinking certain beverages (coffee, cola, red wine), age, and smoking, can cause stained tooth enamel, but there are now several ways to get your youthful smile back.

Brushing with whitening, fluoride toothpaste and flossing twice a day is a great way to keep your teeth healthy and white.

Regular cleanings at your dentist’s office (at least every 6 months) are also a must. If you want a higher level of whitening, the fastest way to get results is through in-office or chair-side bleaching. During the procedure, your dentist applies a protective gel or rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissue.

A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light or laser is used to enhance the action of the agent. ($650)

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Another favored method is professionally dispensed take-home kits. Your dentist provides custom fit trays and whitening gels available in different strengths. The gel is applied to the trays and worn at your own convenience, giving you full control over your results. After a week or two, you only need a few touchups a year to maintain your smile. ($200-$400) Finally, though not as effective as what your dentist can provide, over the counter products, such as whitening strips or mouthwashes are available. Before trying any of these methods, consult with your dentist to choose the plan that’s perfect for you.

Keep in mind that in order to use whiteners, your teeth must be healthy and cavity free, and bleaching will not lighten areas that have tooth colored fillings or crowns. Keep an eye out for teeth whitening specials in your area!

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DR. SOHI-THADWAL, DDS

For more information, visit All About Smiles, 5904 N. El Dorado, #C, Stockton, (209) 957-8907 www.allaboutsmilesca.com

MARCH 2011

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 55 DR. SOHI-THADWAL • COMPLETE FAMILY DENTAL CARE

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howto

How to Make Little Changes With Big Results

by TAWNY LABARBERA

On Dec 31st, you decided that you had enough, and you were going to make a resolution to stop a behavior or vice. It’s been well over two months since your new resolve, so… how’s it going?

Whether we realize it or not, motivation for change occurs when something generates an unfavorable response. Something stops working, gets negative feedback, or becomes painful. The biggest key to becoming the person you want to be is to fine-tune your decisions and focus on a plan that will eventually give you the results you want.

1) Set a goal date as reference, not as pressure.

Come up with a plan and work backwards, marking benchmark goals along the way.

2) Make a daily goal to keep your confidence high.

Don’t discount the power of mini-

celebrations. You should give appropriate reward to yourself for doing something that you set out to do.

3) Surpass a goal and surprise yourself.

Avoid letting tasks get so daunting that you get discouraged. Set the bar low and meet it every time. When you feel like you can push the envelope and take it further, do so.

4) Don’t forget to have fun along the way.

Put your feet in the ocean while you read.

Listen to a podcast while waiting in line.

Watch your favorite show while running on the treadmill.

5) Change the scenery.

Now it’s time to really jump in with both feet. It will be terrifying and exhilarating all at once, but it’s time to make some sacrifices and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

6) Put blinders on.

The end is in sight and obstacles are being

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thrown in your way at every turn. Stay the course and don’t be deterred; the reward is worth it!

For more information on In-Shape Health Clubs, please visit our website at www.inshapeclubs.com or call 1-800-5-INSHAPE to find the location nearest you. In-Shape owns and operates 42 health clubs in California, including 9 in San Joaquin County.

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howto

How to keep your family healthy For most residents in San Joaquin County, trying to navigate through the complex and steady stream of health coverage options can be rather tricky and often overwhelming.

The idea of cost-effective and affordable health care may seem out of your reach, but Health Plan of San Joaquin (HPSJ) may be able to help, offering affordable health care options that can lead to better, healthier lives for adults, children, and expectant mothers.

The first step is to see if you are eligible for coverage. HPSJ has application assistance specialists available on-site and by phone to help with completing applications for coverage. Just call (888) 896-7256 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and speak with an enrollment specialist. There are also community partners throughout the county who can assist you with applying: Catholic Charities Diocese of Stockton (209) 444-

5940, Charterhouse Center for Families (209) 476-1106, and Manteca Unified School Health Services (209) 858-0842.

HPSJ offers several plans: the Healthy Families Program for children of working families; the AIM (Access for Infants and Mothers) Program for expectant mothers; and Med-Cal for low-income families, the elderly, blind, and disabled. Each plan offers access to quality health care.

Comprehensive coverage includes office visits, hospital care, emergency care, prenatal care, immunizations, prescription drugs, and much more. Members have the option of selecting from hundreds of doctors and specialists throughout San Joaquin County. And when you sign up for Health Plan of San Joaquin, you have access to a multi-language customer service department, a 24/7 FREE Advice Nurse

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Line, online access to keep you in the know and a wealth of health and wellness information right at your fingertips.

For more information: Health Plan of San Joaquin, (209) 942-6300, www.hpsj.com MARCH 2011

HEALTH PLAN OF SAN JOAQUIN MEANS...

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

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

- 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 Eligibility guidelines apply and may be based in part on household income.

Plan availability varies by county.

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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howto

How to Hire a Professional for your Home Project

by KATY BERRY

With the housing market at a low and homeowners reluctant to sell their property, many are investing in home improvements. Remodeling is a great way to enhance the beauty of your house and create a space that you and your family love. It’s also a smart way to increase your home’s value as the market recovers. If you’re considering remodeling, make sure you start by hiring professionals so that your investment is sound and that you’ll truly love the finished product.

Begin by finding a business with years of experience. The high-end team of builders at Silver Fern Construction and Remodeling has over 100 cumulative years of experience and is certified by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). They have also been awarded with the NARI Contractor of the Year Award nine times.

Their builders are carefully chosen to cover all areas of expertise since no two bathrooms or kitchens are alike. A qualified remodeling company should be able to provide references without hesitation, and have examples of their work for you to view. The team should also have an indepth knowledge of all their products, especially since there's a huge variety of choices for everything, from countertops to sink fixtures.

Once you’ve chosen who will remodel your home, create a list of priorities including a budget, design ideas and styles you like, and an idea of when you’d like the project to be completed. Present these considerations to your builder and discuss your goals. At the end of the project, you should find that your new home is comfortable, functional, energy efficient,

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and safe. All of these are important factors in having a home that you love and that buyers will love in the future.

Silver Fern Construction

Remodeling For more information: Silver Fern Construction & Remodeling, 4283 N. Wilson Way, Suite 4, (209) 931-1822, www.silverfernremodeling.com

MARCH 2011

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howto

How to save time and money at the dentist CEREC dental restorations offer a single-visit solution to common dental procedures

It’s a common dental practice: Schedule an appointment, visit your dentist, and get a procedure done, only to have to schedule a follow-up appointment—and more often than not, multiple follow-ups.

One Appointment Dentistry in Stockton offers one easy solution: CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) dentistry, a state-of-the-art dental restoration procedure that saves time, money, and dental woes, without sacrificing quality.

With CEREC, common procedures like getting root canals, fillings, crowns, or veneers are carried out in a single visit instead of the usual two or three appointments.

“Dentistry is a progression, and dentists tend to work on the same tooth over and over again,” says Dr. Ronald Noriesta.

“This changes the philosophy of dentistry altogether.”

In CEREC procedures, a camera takes a digital image of the tooth, which is then converted into a 3D computerized model that the dentist uses to design a new tooth. An on-site milling machine then fabricates the new tooth from a highquality ceramic block.

Though CEREC restorations are more expensive than conventional methods, patients save money in the long run because of the restoration’s longevity and single appointment procedure. In addition to saving time and money, single-visit procedures reduce the number of local anesthetic injections needed. CEREC restorations require less drilling of the tooth, so there is more conservation of sound tooth structure. It also eliminates

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the need for temporary restorations. The ceramic used is proven to be stronger, longer lasting, and more natural-looking than conventional porcelains, and since the restoration is fabricated in-house from start to finish, the dentist has complete control of the final result.

“The best way to save money in dentistry is to put something in that’s stable, will last a long time, and won’t damage teeth in the long run,” Dr. Noriesta says.

CEREC is covered by most dental insurance plans.

For more information: Dr. Ronald Noriesta, DDS, One Appointment Dentistry, 3031 W. March Lane, Suite 340, Stockton. (209) 472-7500, www.oneappointment.com.

MARCH 2011

Another dental visit?

Turns out, you have better things to do with your time.

Actual Client

Spend your time

where you want to be...

Short on time? No problem.

Technology today is changing our everyday lives. Many people, however, aren’t aware that technology is also impacting dentistry in new and exciting ways. Cutting-edge innovations in dental instruments are requiring less time in the dental chair. Trips to the dentist are becoming less and less fearful, thanks to high-technology in dentistry. Our office is making these visits even easier and more convenient with technology that repairs damaged teeth in one appointment.

We are pleased to offer our patients CEREC restoration services—a superior method of creating precisely designed, color-matched and highly durable ceramic restorations. From simple fillings to full crowns to veneers, CEREC delivers the results you need in one appointment.

Get back to whatever it is you’d rather be doing. www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Ronald S. Noriesta, D.D.S. 3031 W. March Lane, Suite 340 Stockton, CA 95219

209.472.7500 oneappointment.com SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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howto

How to Select a High School

by KATY BERRY

When selecting a new high school, both the student and the parents have several important factors to consider. A top priority should be the overall atmosphere of the school and whether your child will be in a safe and comfortable learning environment.

Kathy Smith, Dean of Students at St. Mary’s High School in Stockton, suggests taking a tour or shadowing a student. “Ask a friend if you can shadow them, that’s the best way.

During their lunch break go explore the campus to get a feel for it.”

Of course, academics are a close second.

At St. Mary’s, 98 percent of all students who graduate go on to attend some sort of college. And because there is an average of 255 students per grade, the class sizes are intimate, encouraging higher test scores, better attendance, and improved grades in general. If the student excels at a particular subject, make sure that department is

strong, and that the school has a variety of course offerings at different levels of instruction. Extracurricular activities are also very important. Whether the student is interested in the arts or athletics, make sure the school offers programs that will satisfy their interests.

There are other special considerations that may affect your choice. For example, St. Mary’s offers counseling services that are not only academic, but include grief counseling, psychological counseling, and NCAA counseling. If the school requires tuition, you may ask if they offer a financial aid program. Inquire about tutoring services, and what sort of effort is put forth to help students apply for scholarships. In the end, each family has different criteria for what they consider important factors in making a decision, but the right school will offer the student a safe, supportive

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environment where they can prepare for the future while becoming a confident, wellrounded individual.

For more information, visit St. Mary’s High School, 5648 N. El Dorado St., Stockton (209) 957-3340 www.saintmaryshighschool.org

MARCH 2011

STCelebrating . MARY’S H135 IGH SCHOOL years A C O L L E G E P R E P A R AT O RY H I G H S C H O O L 5648 N. El Dorado Street, Stockton, CA 95207 www.saintmaryshighschool.org

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE In compliance with federal regulations, Saint Mary’s High School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, or national or ethnic origin.

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howto

How to Choose a Motorcycle

By KATY BERRY

If your dream is to feel the wind in your hair on the open road, there’s no more exhilarating way to travel than on a motorcycle. If you’re considering purchasing one but aren’t sure where to start, you may want to narrow down which type is right for you. Other than sport bikes, which are meant for racing or off-roading, the two main types of street motorcycles are touring bikes and cruisers.

Touring bikes are larger and made for comfortable long distance riding. Their most common features are their large windshields and fairings to shield the rider from the elements, a bigger gas tank for longer distances between fill-ups, and extra storage space. The passenger seats usually have a high back and arm rests as well. David Adams of Delta Power Sports in Lathrop recommends the Vision Tour by Victory.

With state of the art features including heated seats and handlebars, and an MP3 compatible radio and speaker system, this bike handles excellently and is superior in both comfort and safety. However, because of its size, it’s best that the rider has some experience before hopping on. Otherwise, you may want to try a cruiser.

Cruisers are the quintessential “cool” bike. They commonly evoke the Easy Rider image, and are considerably smaller than touring bikes. This bike may be more appropriate for day-to-day travel, rather than long distance. Some great choices are the Vegas, Kingpin, Highball, and Hammer, all made by Victory. Each bike has a traditional double down tube frame for the classic chopper look, a Freedom V-Twin engine, and a 6-speed overdrive transmission.

Because these bikes expose you to the

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elements, you’ll have to invest in a helmet with a face shield, and other protective gear to stay comfortable while you ride. Luckily, these accessories make you look even cooler.

For more information: Visit Delta Power Sports, 17605 W. Manthey Rd., Lathrop, (209) 323-6600, www.deltapowersports.com

MARCH 2011

Cross Roads

Vegas

Hammer

17605 S. Manthey Rd. Lathrop, CA • 209.323.6600 www.deltapowersports.com Vision 8 Ball

Jackpot www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Kingpin

Vision SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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howto to

After the Simply Smooth System

How To Maintain Your Style, Rain or Shine

by KATY BERRY

Winter has passed and summer is just around the corner, but no matter the season, every girl fears those days when unpredictable weather takes its toll on her hair and skin.

Fortunately, with the proper maintenance you don’t have to hide under a hat any more.

Use these highly recommended treatments to keep your complexion fresh and your hair silky, rain or shine.

To keep your skin from drying out, your daily skin care routine should include a gentle facial cleanser, daily exfoliation, and a moisturizer with sunscreen. Jonie Endo, owner of Versailles Salon and Day Spa in Tracy, also recommends a product called “C” Complexe, by Pevonia. This wonderful gel can be applied to the face and neck each night before bed. Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid work together to hydrate and correct photo-damaged skin, rendering it bright and

smooth. If you want to take your treatment a step further, visit Versailles for their Luminous “C” and “Sea” Pevonia treatment, which reduces fine lines, strengthens elasticity, and provides relief for dull skin using vitamin C and high tech seaweed. Your complexion resurfaces, renews, firms, and smooths, creating a luminous glow.

Hair frizz commonly occurs when dry hair absorbs moisture from the air on damp or rainy days. At home, make sure to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner like Redken’s All Soft or Smooth Down, or Pureology’s Hydrate or Super Smooth. But for guaranteed long-term results, the best option is the Simply Smooth Rejuvenating Hair System available at Versailles.

Unlike Brazilian Blowouts, this method is formaldehyde-free and keratin-based, which is better for you and your hair, leaving

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it shiny, silky, and frizz-free for as long as sixteen weeks without any chemical damage.

You’ll feel confident every day, and never have to hide from a storm cloud again.

For more information: Versailles Salon and Day Spa, 1010 Central Avenue, Tracy, (209) 836-1505, www.versaillessalon.com

MARCH 2011

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M a s s a g e

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l R o c k s t a r

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Jonie & Robert

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209.836.1505

1010 Central Ave. Tracy www.versaillessalon.com

W a x i n g l www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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howto

How to Go Green for Less While Remodeling Your Home

By RICH ISON

In the past several years, the green movement has been growing, making its mark on the building and remodeling industry. However, while many homeowners have considered making eco-friendly home improvements, the high cost has caused many to reconsider. In a tough economic environment, more people are focused on saving money in the short-term, and the price of going green hasn’t made it easy to justify the long-term money savings or how it helps the environment.

Over the past year more manufacturers have been making green products available to consumers, increasing their availability five-fold. The new competition in the green building and remodeling market has significantly lowered the cost of products, and many people are happily discovering that being eco-friendly now costs the same,

if not less, than the non-environmentally friendly options.

So how can you take advantage of the flourishing green home market? Begin with water conservation. You can shop for aerated faucets, low-flush toilets, watersaving shower heads, and disposals that will save you money while preserving gallons of water each day. The next best thing to do is install lighting fixtures, bulbs, and appliances that are marked with an “Energy Saving Recommended” label on them. These products reduce the amount of energy your home uses, and keep your electricity bills low. The third way to go green is by using products that have been manufactured with recycled materials. For example, there are many options for flooring and countertops that use recycled stone (like quartz), glass, or even bamboo to create a beautiful look that’s

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environmentally-sound.

If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, simply ask your dealer or contractor how they can help you go green with their eco-friendly products, and how going green can save you money now while helping to create a better environment for the future.

For more information visit: Inspired Kitchen & Bath, 570 Commerce Ct., Manteca, (209) 923-4837

MARCH 2011

Go GREEN and SAVE BIG GREEN

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We know that most people would prefer to help the environment, but in the past the cost to “Save the Planet” simply cost too much for the average family.

Now through April 30th, when you GO GREEN, you can SAVE BIG GREEN. Partnering with National brands, we are helping you GO GREEN for A LOT less! With unbelievable manufacturer incentives and dealer discounts you can save thousands $$$ with Green Savings on everything you need for your GREEN kitchen or bathroom remodel.

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howto

How to Build Your 2011 Spring/Summer Wardrobe

by KATY BERRY

Spring has sprung, so it’s out with the old and in with the new. This season, you can expect to see trends that hearken back to the 1970’s as well as a nod to the coy pin-ups of the 1950’s.

Since the seventies are coming back, a staple of your wardrobe should be bellbottom jeans. Make sure that the hem is as wide as your foot and they fit tight to the knee. A high-waist truly evokes the spirit of the seventies, but a low-rise waist looks great too. Try the Carrie Jean by True Religion or the Belle Jean by AG, both available at Fina in Stockton. Capri pants are also making a comeback. They should be worn below the calf, just above the ankle. Paired with ballet flats, you can evoke the daddy’s girls of the fifties or put on a great pair of espadrilles for a sassy pin-up look.

For tops, it’s all about bold stripes acting as the focal point of the outfit, particularly in a nautical navy and white color scheme.

You may remember maxi-dresses making a big splash last summer, but this year they’ve been fused with the sheer trend, creating a see-through maxi dress which is feminine and delicate, but also fun and provocative. Check out dresses by Hale Bob and Free People, also available at Fina.

Finally, macramé purses give a beachfriendly hippie vibe, or for a slightly more delicate look, crocheted accessories will be popular this season. For shoes, chunky wooden clogs are anticipated to have a huge impact on 2011 footwear fashions, reaching new heights of popularity. For a variety of handmade clogs, Fina offers fashionistas a great collection by Calleen Cordero.

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exclusively at

FINA For more information visit Fina, 240 Lincoln Center., Stockton, (209) 478-5670

MARCH 2011

exclusively at

FINA

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

240 Lincoln Center Stockton, Ca Now open on Sundays 12-4

(209) 478-5670

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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howto

How to Become a Teppan-Yaki Chef

by KATY BERRY

Teppan-yaki or hibachi style cooking was created in the mid twentieth century.

This tricky but graceful art form requires creativity, coordination, and perfect timing, as a chef must cook several dishes at his guests’ table while performing a range of difficult tricks. So how exactly does one become a teppan-yaki chef? We spoke to Jonnie Dang of Domo in Stockton to learn more about the craft.

“I started out as a bus boy and never expected to become a teppan-yaki chef,” says Dang. There is no culinary schooling that teaches this acrobatic style of cooking.

The best way to learn is to find an experienced Teppanyaki Chef who will act as a mentor. “On my free time I would borrow the chef’s fork and spatula, which are the main tools to use at the grill. I would try to imitate their tricks and their

culinary creativity. It’s not easy.” But before Dang could perform tricks on the grill, he had to learn the fundamentals of being a chef, including making sauces, washing and cutting vegetables, and filleting meat into the proper weighted portions. He also needed to learn how to master the grill, since areas of the hibachi are hotter than others and it’s easy to burn the food if you don’t know where to place certain ingredients while performing tricks.

Dang says he gets inspiration from watching videos on You Tube where acclaimed teppan-yaki chefs perform blindfolded and spin their spatulas so fast it’s hard to follow their movements. “The more tricks you know, the better the guest will be entertained,” says Dang.

“We learn and create more tricks as we go.”

Dang says chefs can copy each others ideas

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because once you create a show it’s yours.

“But,” he says, “It’s not easy to be the best.”

For more information, visit Domo Japanese Sushi Grill & Bar, 300 Lincoln Center, Stockton, (209) 451-3654, www.domostockton.com

MARCH 2011

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howto

How to Create a Home That Reflects Your Lifestyle

by KATY BERRY

Your home is a reflection of who you are, so when it comes to remodeling or redecorating you shouldn’t settle for a look that’s generic. Luckily, C.R. Porter Home Decor and HT Vision Construction in Stockton have teamed up to create HT Home Design, a one stop “hybrid” remodeling and design center where professionals will guide you step-by-step in creating your perfect home from start to finish.

Before beginning your project, you must ask yourself a few questions. For instance, do you have children? Do you like to entertain? If you’re remodeling a single room, will it be a place with lots of activity, or a place to relax and unwind? All of these factors will help the professionals at HT Home Design to create a space to fit your lifestyle and provide the amenities

you’d most enjoy. By appointment, your personal building and design team will visit your home for an on-site consultation so you can know your options and feel secure in your design choices. From there, all the hardware, materials, and accessories are available on-site for an easy one-stop shopping experience.

Perhaps you just need to redecorate.

The experts at C.R. Porter will help you choose the right color scheme, furniture, fabric, and home accents that make your space unique. Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, or old world, you’ll find what excites you and learn how to create a beautiful and personalized space.

There is no longer a need to contract several businesses for your home improvement projects, now you can have a single trusted team guide you from foundation

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to furniture, taking the hassle out of home design and making it a fun and exciting process for you and your family.

For more information, visit: C.R. Porter, 357 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton, (209) 956-9250, www.crporterhome.com

MARCH 2011

collect what you love...love what you collect!

Fine Furnishings • Home Accessories Jan Barboglio Collection Sid Dickens Memory Blocks Custom Upholstery Design Services Available

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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howto

How to Buy a Beautiful Diamond

By DAN INGRUM

Buying a diamond doesn’t have to be scary. The more informed a customer is, the easier it will be. Begin with the right jeweler. At Danz Jewelers, we have a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Graduate Gemologist on staff, and we are members of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO). We’ve also been in business since 1984.

You must also consider the “4 C's.”

The first C stands for carat weight. There are 100 points in a carat, so 50 points equals 0.50 carats. The second C is for clarity. GIA has created a grading system where gems are graded from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and very expensive.

Diamonds that are graded SI2 and above will only have inclusions visible under 10x

magnification. I1, 2, and 3 have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.

The third C is Color, and the best diamonds have none. The color scale starts at D (colorless) and ends at Z (light yellow or brown). Lastly, there is the Cut, which refers to the proportions of the diamond.

The brilliance of a diamond depends on the light entering the diamond and being reflected back to the eye. Cut is often the most important C in the overall beauty of a diamond.

A diamond grading report from GIA is the most trusted quality report in the industry. But that is not to say that a diamond has to be certified to be beautiful and a good value. Danz likes to sit down with their customers and show them the different options. It's important to look at

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diamonds and compare them side-by-side. A diamond that looks good on paper may not be the most beautiful in person.

For more information visit: Danz Jewelers, 220 S. School St., Lodi, (209) 368-0424

MARCH 2011

If you don’t know diamonds, know your jeweler

Be sure of the quality, be sure of the value and be sure of the jeweler.

We have the experience and knowledge to help you select diamonds and other fine jewelry

As members of IJO (the Independent Jewelers Organization) we must adhere to the highest standards.

Graduate Gemologist (GIA) on staff

If you want Unique You want Danz 220 S. School Street Lodi, CA 95240, (209) 368-0424

since 1984

We’ve been in business

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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MARCH 2011

Pa m Springs Sun, fun, and then some

BY DON AND ANN JACKSON

Life is wonderfully unique at the breathtaking escape destination of Palm Springs. Year-round weather is patently better, the sun is warmer, stars appear brighter, and the sky seems bluer. This gateway city to the Coachella Valley has become one of the world’s most famous desert communities with international name recognition. Thanks to a long history of celebrity residents and the annual star-studded Palm Springs Film Festival, it is often referred to as the playground of the stars. The down-valley towns of La Quinta, Palm Desert, and others may have the more prestigious golf courses and upscale shops, but Palm Springs with its glamorous history has plenty to offer that those communities just don’t provide.

COURTESY PALM SPRINGS USA

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

››

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PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY

What to do and see: Palm Springs

has many special events year-round but their International Film Festival is our hands-down favorite. Founded 23 years ago by then Mayor Sonny Bono and always staged in January, it receives worldwide rave reviews. This year’s Film Fest included over 200 highly-regarded international films, many of which were under consideration for Oscars; and the Saturday night Awards Gala drew mega-stars the likes of Ben Affleck, Javier Bardem, Robert Duvall, Mark Wahlberg, Colin Firth, and Natalie Portman. This has become one of film’s biggest festivals, but unlike the Oscars and Globes, it’s much more open to the general public. Since many of the films and the Gala sell out, we recommend readers go online early to secure reservations for next year’s event (www.psfilmfest.org).

Palm Springs’ critically-acclaimed show Fabulous Follies is celebrating 20 years in the historic Plaza Theatre and features showbiz pros and well-known guest headliners.

When you watch the stunning dancers on stage, it’s almost unbelievable the cast is entirely 55 and over, and it’s better than ever (www.psfollies.com).

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THE HISTORIC WILLOWS INN

MARCH 2011

THIS PAGE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) VISITPALMSPRINGS.COM (2); PALM SPRINGS USA. OPPOSITE PAGE: PALM SPRINGS USA

INDIAN CANYONS

Featuring the world’s largest rotating tram cars, the engineering masterpiece that is Palm Springs’ aerial tramway never ceases to amaze.

It transports riders 2.5 miles to an elevation of 8,516 feet in 10 minutes through 5 unique life zones, desert to alpine wilderness. Views are incredible as you leave your bathing suits behind and don warm coats, hiking boots, or cross country skis at the top, where over 50 miles of Mt. San Jacinto State Park trails await. Another option is to dine in their Peaks Restaurant with awesome vistas and a spectacular improvement over culinary offerings of years past (www.pstramway.com). Up for a challenge? If the snow is gone, after getting off the tram, try hiking the remaining 2,288 feet to the top of Mt. San Jacinto (at 10,804 feet, it’s the second tallest mountain in Southern California). Be sure to check with the ranger station, only a few yards from the tram’s zenith, for trail information.

The Indian Canyons— breathtaking Tahquitz, Palm, Andreas, and Murray Canyons— are beautifully maintained by the local Aqua Caliente Cahuilla Indians and provide miles of moderately graded trails that can lead you to fan palm groves, oases, waterfalls, rocky gorges, babbling streams, and first-class fauna/wildlife/bird-watching (www.indian-canyons.com).

Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum for a pleasant surprise— we don’t know any other small city that boasts such a worldclass museum. Their exhibitions of Western, Native, Modern, and Contemporary Art should enthrall any museum devotee, and admission is complimentary every Thursday 4-8 p.m. (www. psmuseum.org). Anyone interested in World War 2 aircraft should add the Palm Springs Air Museum to their agenda, as well (www.palmspringsairmuseum.org).

Palm Springs’ celebrity home tours offer a peek at where Elvis, Liberace, Kirk Douglas, and quite a few other stars and celebrities lived and partied (www.thebestofthebesttours. com). VillageFest closes down a large portion of Palm Canyon Drive (the town’s main street) for one of California’s most popular weekly events featuring handmade crafts, jewelry, food, and entertainment, every Thursday evening for over 20 years (www.villagefest.org).

Where to stay and dine:

Palm Springs is loaded with lodging choices in every price range—fullservice hotels, B&B’s, historic inns, and ‘60s motels renovated into tasteful inns.

The Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel (formerly the Wyndham) recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation that elevated its stature to Palm Springs’ number one four-star large hotel. The property is everything you’d expect: stunning room décor, dramatic public areas, friendly professional staff, and a classic pool oasis that add up to a world-class statement.

Other plusses: It’s the headquarters for the Film Fest, and our meals at their restaurant and lounge were consistently exceptional (www. renaissancepalmspringshotel.com). The Riviera Resort and Spa is another classic example of what a multimillion dollar stylish remodel can accomplish. Going back 40-50 years it was one of the premier desert resorts, yet the property had become a tad tired in the ‘90s. Under new owners, it has been sophisticatingly reborn and the ambience is distinctly retro ‘50s. Be sure to have dinner at their in-vogue signature restaurant, Circa59, where the cuisine lived up to the reputation (www.psriviera.com).

Hotel Zoso, when first opened as the Marquis years ago, was considered a regional gem. Although it suffered through some lean years, Zoso is on the right track to bring it back to its once lofty status. We still love the rather cool and unique ambience, so a keen draw remains (www.hotelzoso.com). Ingleside Inn, www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

THE RENAISSANCE PALM SPRINGS HOTEL

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MATCHBOX PIZZA BISTRO

a historic 30-room former estate, under the same ownership for 35 years, was a trip into a nostalgic time capsule as we recalled our stay 25 years ago. Although refurbished and well maintained over the years, it still has the feel of days-gone-by, and is a perfect place to vacation if you’re thumbs-down on larger hotels. Don’t miss their Melvyn’s Restaurant, a genuine culinary escape into a bygone era.

Hundreds of the rich and famous have stayed and dined here as evidenced by all the celeb photos on the walls (www.inglesideinn.com).

The eight-room Willows, a historic 1927 Mediterranean villa, is perfect for those who long for the ultimate B&B experience.

This majestic manor was the temporary “home” for Albert Einstein, Marion Davies (William Randolph Hearst’s mistress), and other luminaries over the years. Sumptuous breakfasts are included overlooking a majestic waterfall. If walls could talk! (www. thewillowspalmsprings.com) Other recommended restaurants: Le Vallauris, probably the town’s most critically acclaimed restaurant over the years, holds a special place in our hearts—we got engaged here nearly 30 years ago! The to-die-for

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Are we favorably prejudiced about Palm Springs?

Emphatically yes. We loved living there for 12 years, were married in town, vacationed there almost every year spanning five decades, and authored/ published a guidebook to the area in the ‘80s. It remains our favorite destination vacation escape—and it could most certainly become yours.

For everything Palm Springs, www.visitpalmsprings.com [SJM]

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

MARCH 2011

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY MATCHBOX RESTAURANT; PALM SPRINGS FILM FESTIVAL; PALM SPRINGS ART MUSUEM

PALM SPRINGS FILM FESTIVAL

Mediterranean/French/ California cuisine, estatelike ambience, and first-rate service remain at the same high levels (www.levallauris. com). Spencer’s, at the beautiful Tennis Club, has become a highly popular local dining choice (www.spencersrestaurant. com); Matchbox, a casual bistro with mountain and downtown views, offers incredible woodfired pizzas, mini-burgers, happy-hours, and a very hip bar (www.matchboxpalmsprings. com); and Johnny Costa’s has been a tradition in the valley for over 35 years for excellent Southern Italian fare (www. johnnycostaspalmsprings.com).

Johannes, a relative newcomer, offers a unique and creative combination of Austrian and Pan-Asian cuisines and already has a loyal following (www. johannesrestaurants.com); and Rio Azul is a new Mexican restaurant with a colorful atmosphere and innovative dishes (www. rioazulpalmsprings.com).

beautiful smiles inside and out!

Creating

At Wheeler Orthodontics our #1 goal is to provide the highest quality orthodontic care in a family-based, high-technology practice. We offer a unique orthodontic experience that is fun, affordable, interactive, and effective. We maintain the most advanced procedures and equipment available, including digital radiography, digital photography, and advanced computer graphics, to ensure that every patient achieves a healthy and beautiful smile.

FREE Consultations Mention this ad at your consultation and

receive 10% OFF

treatment!

Cameron R. Wheeler, DDS, MS Board Certified Orthodontist

4568 Feather River Drive, Suite D, Stockton Phone: 209.951.0151 l Fax: 209.951.1235 Visit us on the web: www.wheelerortho.com

before

after

10 WEEKS to the ultimate body The Ultimate Bodyshaping Course combines fitness kickboxing, resistance training, flexibility and a sound nutritional program to get you in the best shape of your life! You are not doing it alone.

You are divided into teams and assigned coaches to motivate and guide you through your 10 week fitness journey.

From out-of-shape couch potato to fitness fanatic, anybody can do the UBC!

209.952.4000

Celebrating 10 Years with UBC You could win a fabulous cruise vacation!

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Ask for Jeanne stocktonkarate@aol.com visit: www.ultimatebodyshaping.com

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we take care of hearts February is American Heart Month

Wagner Heights is the only skilled nursing facility in the area which has a complete Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.

• Backed by local cardiologists • Whether recovering from a minor chest pain or open heart surgery, Wagner Heights’ Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is here to help!

• Cardiac Rehabilitation requires a multi-faceted, personalized, team approach for optimal recovery.

The cardiac rehab team at Wagner Heights consists of specialized medical professionals including physicians, registered nurses, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, registered dietitians and pharmacists.

9289 BRANSTETTER PL STOCKTON, CA 95209 WWW.WAGNERHEIGHTS.COM (209) 477-5252

“Call us for a personal tour of our hospital”

Special Advertising Section

senior living A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Golden Years in the Golden State It’s a wonderful life no matter what age you are. After dreaming of retirement your whole lives, why not live in style now that you (or your parents) have the time to relax and enjoy the good life? Check out these San Joaquin seniors resources to start living the life you were always meant to enjoy.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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MARCH 2011

WE ARE

FAMILY

SERVING

FAMILIES

Welcome to ARBOR PLACE We are an assisted living facility for the elderly serving Lodi and the surrounding area. Newly remodeled, it is homelike and comfortable. When walking through our front doors you feel as if you’re coming home. We are conveniently located behind Arbor Rehab & Nursing Center, and near several local physicians. Our goal is to meet or exceed the expectations of all we serve.

We Offer: Three home cooked meals daily, two scheduled snacks 24 hour supervision, 7 days a week Assistance with medications, including insulin for diabetics

Why Choose Us?

Emergency Call System in every room

Arbor Place is a small,warm, home environment setting.

This is the result of our commitment to quality care that is provided on a daily basis. We believe that choosing Arbor Place is a positive first step for you and your family.

Housekeeping and Laundry services provided daily

Arbor Place provides three levels of care, so that we may meet the needs of your loved one. We are proud of our loving, homelike atmosphere and our clean, safe, and secure setting.

Our focus to improve our residents’ quality of life is promoted daily by encouragement in interaction through our social activities program, home cooked meals in group dining rooms and compassionate caring staff.

Assisted Living Medical waiver Program to come...

Call us for more details.

ARBOR PLACE ASSISTED LIVING

17 Louie Ave, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 369-8282 Fax: (209) 369-7638 License # 397004353

www.arborplaceresidential.com

Furnished rooms complete with bedding Patios off of every room Planned Activities, social functions, and outings Lounge area with a flat screen TV and DVD player Transportation to Physician appointments Assistance with arranging incidental medical and dental appointments Supervision of Resident cash resources

Special Advertising Section

Visiting Angels

Angels

Homecare by Angels! Serving San Joaquin County Visiting Angels provides personalized homecare services to help the elderly and individuals with special needs continue to live in their homes. Our thoroughly screened, bonded, and insured caregivers provide the following services: Personal Care, Meal Preparation, Light Housekeeping, Errands and Shopping, Medication Reminders, Joyful Companionship, Transportation to appointments and activities, Assistance with discharge from hospitals or facilities, up to 24 Hour care, Day or night care, Live-in or Live-out care, Temporary or Long-term, Weekends and Holidays, Flexible Schedules, Respite for Family Care. Call now for a Free In-Home Consultation.

Visiting Angels 1544 St. Marks Plaza, Suite 1B, Stockton, (209) 952-3585 • www.visitingangels.com

Senior Homecare by America’s Personal Choice in Homecare

• Up to 24 hour care • Meal Preparation • Personal Hygiene Assistance

• Errands & Shopping • Rewarding Companionship • Day and Night Live-in or Live-out Care

• Respite for Family Caregiver • You choose the Caregiver • Criminal background checks on all Caregivers

Experience Visiting Angels Personalized Service System with a Free In-Home Consultation

(209) 952-3585 Screened, Bonded and Insured

Arbor Place Assisted Living LIVING ASSISTANCE SERVICES

1545 St. Marks Plaza, Suite 1B Stockton, CA 95207 www.jmhomecare.com

The Cat’s Pajamas of Retirement Options!

Arbor Place is a senior community for seniors that need assistance with activities of daily living consisting of assistance with dressing, bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, undressing, and any other requests the senior may need. There are caregivers and medication aides available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, awake and ready to assist our seniors with their needs. Arbor Place offers medication management, three nutritious meals with two snacks, housekeeping, laundry, and an exciting activities program to keep our seniors active and entertained. Arbor Place has been around for a very long time and offers the best care around.

Arbor Place Assisted Living 17 Louie Avenue, Lodi, (209) 369-8282

O’Connor Woods

Come for a visit and find out what sets O’Connor Woods apart from other retirement communities.

No Buy-In Fees!

Independent Living • Assisted Living • Skilled Nursing 3400 Wagner Heights Road, Stockton • 209.956.3400 • www.oconnorwoods.org

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Special Advertising Section

Senior Living O’Connor Woods Style. Health and Wellness for residents at O’Connor Woods includes many choices for staying fit, from a swimming pool, to a putting green, to a state-of-the-art Fitness Club.

Leisure Activities offer freedom of choice—from indulging in favorite hobbies to creating treasured friendships—and having the time to enjoy them!

Peace of Mind means living in a secure gated community and having the reassurance of 24-hour security and a supportive staff available if and when needed. You are welcome to come for a personal visit to find out all the benefits for yourself.

O’Connor Woods 3400 Wagner Heights Road, Stockton, (209) 956-3400

MARCH 2011

If you, or a loved one or friend, are facing the challenges of a chronic illness or are just confused about the options of recovery care in your community – we are here to help.

Golden LivingCenters, a leader in skilled nursing care, and AseraCare Hospice, one of the nation’s premier providers of hospice and palliative care services, have two dedicated liaisons in your community. Michelle Tomscak of Golden LivingCenters and Heather Marchetti of AseraCare Hospice can walk you through the difficult questions and guide you through your options.

Call Heather if you have questions about: • Understanding hospice • When to consider hospice • Why you should consider hospice • Determining whether you or your loved one is ready for hospice

Call Michelle to learn more about: • Around-the-clock skilled nursing care and specialized programs, including Golden Rehab • Recovery stays after an illness or surgery • Understanding your benefits after a hospital stay • Home health care options

Please take advantage of these two dedicated members of our team. Reaching out to our community and educating on these emotional and confusing issues are what we do.

Please don’t hesitate to contact them!

Caring for you is our privilege.

If you, or a loved one or friend, are facing the challenges of a chronic illness or are just confused about the options of recovery care in your community – we are here to help.

Golden LivingCenters, a leader in skilled nursing care, and AseraCare Hospice, one of the nation’s premier providers of hospice and palliative care services, have two dedicated liaisons in your community.

Jazz Dhaliwal of Golden LivingCenters and Heather A. Marchetti of AseraCare Hospice can walk you through the difficult questions and guide you through your options.

Heather A. Marchetti

AseraCare Hospice Phone: 209-471-6693 heather.marchetti@aseracare.com aceracare hospice - 209-474-8349

Golden LivingCenter - Galt 209-745-1537 Golden LivingCenter - Chateau 209-477-2664 Golden LivingCenter - Hy-Pana 209-477-0271 Golden LivingCenter - Portside 209-466-3522

Please take advantage of these two dedicated members of our team. Reaching out to our community and educating on these emotional and confusing issues are what we do.

Please don’t hesitate to contact them!

Call Heather if you have any questions about: • Understanding hospice • When to consider hospice • Why you should consider hospice • Determining whether you or your loved one is ready for hospice

Michelle Tomscak Golden Living Centers Phone: 209-304-0464 Call Jazz if you michelle.tomscak@goldenliving.com

have any questions about: • Around-the-clock skilled nursing care and specialized programs, including Golden Rehab • Recovery stays after an illness or surgery • Understanding your benefits after a hospital stay • Home health care options

Golden LivingCenters and AseraCare Hospice offer services and programs to residents without discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, status as a Vietnam era veteran, qualified special disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, or other protected veteran, or source of payment. GLS-06324-10

Special Advertising Section

Stockton Hearing & Speech Center

hearing only half of what people say?

Tired of seeking the

magic answer?

Stockton Hearing & Speech Center is your solution!

Human communication (the verbal exchange of ideas) is an extremely complex process.

When that process is disrupted, trust your care and solution to the most highly trained r u yo and experienced professionals available. edule to s c h r i n g a Stockton Hearing & Speech Center can help. h e eening

Coadlaly T

scr

Stockton • 4623 Quail Lakes Drive

209.438.4269

Watch our educational video on hearing at www.stocktonhearingandspeechcenter.com

rosa LAW OFFICES a professional law corporation

RANDALL W. ROSA

Call today and mention this ad for any one of the three following services: $100 Towards any estate plan 10% Off all fixed legal fees One half-hour $100 consultation in approved areas of elder law Call to speak to one of my experienced staff for details and see which offer is right for you. Don’t wait another day.

www.rosalawoffices.com

6 locations to serve you MODESTO

LODI

SACRAMENTO 2386 Fair Oaks Blvd.

Sacramento, CA 95825

909 15th St. Modesto, CA 95354

209.333.8061

916.442.2989

209.552.0120

115 S. School St., Suite 6 Lodi, CA 95240

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STOCKTON

MANTECA

209.939.9000

209.825.0888

5250 Claremont Ave., Suite 125 239 W. Yosemite Blvd.

Stockton, CA 95207 Manteca, CA 95336

TRACY

121 E. 11th St. Tracy, CA 95376

209.833.0014

Special Advertising Section

Hearing is the sense that immediately connects us to people and the world around us. Our species was once regarded as Homo sapiens, the toolmakers, but Dr. Jane Goodall discovered that chimpanzees use tools, too, making us more accurately described as Homo sapiens, the communicators. But... what if you have a hearing loss? Improving interpersonal communication is more than buying a hearing device and sticking it in your ear. Contact Stockton Hearing and Speech Center today- we can provide you with the information and technology necessary to deliver you the best hearing healthcare plan available for your specific hearing needs.

Stockton Hearing & Speech Center 4623 Quail Lakes, Stockton, (209) 438-4269 www.stocktonhearingandspeechcenter.com

Rosa Law Offices

Mr. Rosã is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, The California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform, and The California State Bar Committee on Trusts, Estate Planning, and Probate.

Mr. Rosã has written numerous papers on Elder Law topics, is a frequent media guest in the area of Elder Law, and has presented Medi-Cal training programs to California’s leading brokerage and banking firms.

The Rosã Law Offices practices Elder Law in the following areas: Medi-Cal eligibility in LongTerm Care, Estate Planning, Revocable Living Trusts, Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Care Directives, Probate, Conservatorships, Trust Administrations, Protecting the homes of those who are institutionalized in skilled nursing facilities, from state recovery claims, and Pre-planning for the possibility of Medi-Cal eligibility in skilled nursing facilities.

Rosã Law Offices 115 South School St., Suite 6, Lodi, (209) 333-8061 • www.rosalawoffices.com

The Commons Communities

Valley owned and operated by Premiera Care, The Commons communities offer a senior housing alternative combining independence with personal care in a warm dignified community setting.

From our personal care services to our activities program, we strive to create a menu of options uniquely tailored to fit your individual needs.

Those who become part of our family enjoy a beautifully decorated community with exceptional personal care from a staff ready to help 24 hours a day. Amenities include: elegant dining room, MARCH 2011

The Largest Selection of Whirlpool Bathtubs in a Single Showroom Anywhere in the World!

Where else can you nd what Tubz has to o er?

Over the past 27 years we’ve gone from a “one man” home business to having the largest bathtub showrooms on the planet. Our Fremont facility, for example, has “hands-on / feet-in” tubs on display, over 400 including 13 models of door tubs with 3 or 4 more arriving shortly, as well as a very special new line of barrier free showers available nowhere else this side of Santa Barbara. Here’s some advice we’ve given out for decades: You wouldn’t even buy a new pair of tennis so, for goodness shoes without trying them on sake, “Come put your tootsies in our tubs”. And how about this: We have working bidet toilet seats in all three of our restrooms, plus a working “demo” out on the half acre showroom in the midst of the 20 Toto toilet “line-up.”

Now, havi ng l earned al l thi s – why woul d a tub shopper go anywhere else looking for the selection, inventory, experience, opinion, and product knowledge, combined with truly competitive pricing that just doesn’t exist anywhere else?

The Naked Truth About Door Tubs

This tub is made in America.• This tub is made using • tub is manufactured by Jacuzzi.

Acrylic.This This may surprise you but the VAST MAJORITY of the door tubs you’ve seen advertised are actually fabricated in, you guessed right, China, and are made using gel-coated which cannot compare with the properties of non stainable, non porous, thick, virgin, cross-linked acrylic. Once they’ve been with either a whirlpool system or an air system, they are then typically being advertised as having been “Made in America”. It is true that in the thermoforming process a sheet of acrylic gets stretched quite a bit, but the truth ought not to be.

“Come put your tootsies in our Tubz.”

FREMONT - 400* 4840 Davenport Place Fremont, CA 94538 510-770-8686

SACRAMENTO - 250* 830 National Drive, Suite 120 Sacramento, CA 95834 916-575-9100

OAKDAL E - 100* 441 Gregor Road Oakdale, CA 95361 209-845-9115

For days and hours of operation see us at tubz.net www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

*Number of bathtubs awaiting your personal “Hands-on/Feet-in” evaluation

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Special Advertising Section

Fit After 50

Supporting an active lifestyle thru fitness & wellness.

Senior Awareness Day 2011 Focusing on seniors, caregivers and their families

ursday, May 26th 2011 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Micke Grove Park Lodi, CA.

• Vendor & Food Booths • Health Screening • Bingo • 1.5K Walk/Run • Antique Car Show • Art Show • Earth Friendly Tips • Live Entertainment Free shuttle service by SJRTD For more information on the event or activities call 468-1104 or visit www.sjaging.org • seniorawarenessday@sjaging.org

library, barber & beauty shop, hydrotherapy bath, emergency call systems, medication supervision, transportation, three chef prepared meals, weekly housekeeping services, planned activities, and much more! Come discover the difference, where quality of care matters every day.

The Commons Modesto, (209) 526-2053, Stockton, (209) 476-1500

Human Services Agency, Aging and Community Services Join in the fun and informational opportunity at Senior Awareness Day, a free event offering over 120 booths of information on services and resources for adults, seniors, and their families, nestled in the beautiful setting of Micke Grove Park. This year’s focus is on health and wellness. A 1.5 walk/run through the park starts at 9 a.m., or please your eye at the art exhibit of local artists; enjoy food and live entertainment; take a ride down memory lane at the Classic Car show; or sit for a game of Bingo. Free transportation is offered from central Stockton by RTD, and shuttles will chauffeur you from your car to the event.

For more information: Call (209) 468-1104 or visit the website at www.sjaging.org.

Arbor Nursing Center

Orthopedic-Fracture Recovery Stroke (CVA) Recovery Program Pulmonary Rehabilitation Wound Care and Skin Management

ARBOR NURSING CENTER 900 North Church Street Lodi, CA 95240 209.333.1222 www.arbornursingcenter.com

Arbor Nursing Center is located near beautiful downtown Lodi. Our 149 bed facility promotes a family atmosphere, and each resident is nurtured through family and staff involvement in their daily lives. We offer private and semi-private short-term rehabilitation suites, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym, and beautifully landscaped grounds and courtyards. We boast a culinary chef who prepares meals based on medical needs and individual taste. The high standard of care each individual receives in our home-like environment is the foundation of excellence that Arbor Nursing Center brings to the community of Lodi. “We are Family serving Families”.

Arbor Nursing Center 900 North Church Street, Lodi, (209) 333-1222

UBS Financial Services, Inc

Donna J. Kane, CFP Retirement planning includes two phases: Wealth Accumulation and Income Distribution.

A common concern that many people have when they are in retirement or planning for retirement is whether or not their assets will be able to provide them income for the rest of their life. It

Featuring our HOMEWARD BOUND REHAB PROGRAM, our center offers physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation therapy, skilled nursing and long term care.

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Special Advertising Section

MARCH 2011

Across the globe.

Across the globe.

Across the country.

Across the country.

Across the kitchen Across table. the kitchen table. ubs.com/fa/donnakane

firm that has a unique global perspective, translated through the relevant and trusted advice of a Financial Advisor. Together, we’ll craft As you look to protect your own unique plan, and and grow work your with wealth, it’sstep important to work withyou a you every of the way to help firm thatit—on has a your unique global achieve terms. perspective, translated through the relevant and can trusted advice of a Advice you trust Financial Advisor.

Together, we’ll craft starts with a conversation. your own unique plan, and work with you every step of the way to help you achieve it—on your terms.

Advice you can trust starts with a conversation.

Donna Kane, CFP® Vice President-Investments 2800 West March Lane, Suite 110 Stockton, CA 95219 209-473-0588 donna.kane@ubs.com Donna Kane, CFP® Vice President-Investments 2800 West March Lane, Suite 110 Stockton, CA 95219 209-473-0588 donna.kane@ubs.com

ab

As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor any of its employees provides legal or tax advice. You should consult with your personal legal or tax advisor regarding your personal circumstances. CFP® is a certification mark owned by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. ©2011 UBS Financial Services Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. 31.17_Ad_8.5x11_FT0125_KanD.indd

ubs.com/fa/donnakane www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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Special Advertising Section

Investment Strategies & Portfolio Management

In today’s market, you need to entrust someone to assist you in investing your assets that will always act with your best interest in mind.

As Investors get into or close to retirement, equity market fluctuations become more dangerous to investors with a fixed liquidity requirement.

With the current bond impending bubble, we offer an alternative to a portion of your long only portfolio of stocks and bonds. Our hedging strategies reduce losses ina down market and take advantage of price volatility.

For more information, give us a call at:

209-473-1156 and visit our website at: www.boudamesinvest.com

Boudames Investments Corporation 25 South Hunter St., Stockton, CA 95202 elias@boudamesinvest.com “Our responsibility is to serve you as a fiduciary and work with you to analyze and evaluate your liquid portfolio needs”. Elias Boudames Boudames Investments Corporation is a California Registered Investment Advisory firm CRD#150143.

Elias Boudames

is important to spend some time with a Certified Financial Planner to discuss this concern and work towards peace of mind. My practice emphasizes two subsets of wealth management: retirement planning (from wealth accumulation through retirement income distribution), and estate planning. Please call my office to discuss the necessity of a complimentary portfolio review.

UBS Financial Services, Inc 2800 W. March Lane, Suite 110, (209) 473-0588 donna.kane@ubs.com

Boudames Investments Corporation

Think About It: Most wealthy investors here in San Joaquin County have their money parked in funds where money is made when these assets go up in value or lose money when the value goes down.

This is also called “The Long only strategy.” Long only strategies are good when markets are going up but they are not so good otherwise, especially as retirement age approaches. Although the domestic equity market is bullish at the moment, the debt market is in trouble, especially the public debt of states and municipalities. What about those times when the market is idle or giving back profits?

Boudames Investments Corporation 25 South Hunter St., Stockton (209) 473-1156, www.boudamesinvest.com

Discover

Rio Las Palmas

a community rich in hospitality and friendship.

ASK ABOUT OUR AMAZING MOVE IN SPECIALS! Call today to arrange your complimentary lunch and private tour.

Spacious studio, 1 or 2 bedroom apartments ■ Friendly, caring and compassionate staff A close-knit “small town” atmosphere ■ Fine restaurant-style dining ■ Housekeeping ■ Shopping shuttle for around town trips ■ Corner store ■ Beauty and barber shop ■ Pool table and game room ■ Fitness center and programs ■ Convenient Stockton location ■ Rehabilitation services (Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies) ■ Exciting day trips and recreational activities ■ ■

It feels good to belong. At an early age, we discover how comforting it feels to belong. As we grow older, it’s even more important to be accepted and understood. At Rio Las Palmas, creating a spirited atmosphere where residents and their families belong is the secret to our long-lasting success in Stockton!

We are independent, assisted living, respite care, and so much more: *Spacious apartments *Restaurant-style dining *Housekeeping and linen services *Activities and social events *Scheduled local transportation *Warm and friendly staff

Please call for a complimentary lunch tour and ask about our amazing specials!

Rio Las Palmas 877 E. March Lane, Stockton, (209) 957-4711 www.riolaspalmasretirement.com RCFE# 397004515

GRACIOUS RETIREMENT LIVING

877 East March Lane • Stockton

209-957-4711

www.riolaspalmasretirement.com RCFE# 397004515

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Special Advertising Section

MARCH 2011

Special Advertising Section

Emeritus at Fulton Villa

Set on beautifully landscaped grounds with a courtyard and walking trails, Emeritus at Fulton Villa is considered one of the premier assisted living and Alzheimer’s communities east of the Bay Area. Located close to Highway 99 and I-5, our newly remodeled community offers 79 apartments on two floors. Here, our residents - in many cases, with their pets - enjoy retirement living. Yet should they need a helping hand from our warm and caring staff, we also offer complete assisted living services, tailor-made to your loved one’s needs. We’ve designed our services to focus on wellness, helping your loved one maintain or improve their health, so they can live as independently as possible. Our promise is simple: Our Family is committed to yours.

Emeritus at FultonVilla 517 East Fulton Street, Stockton, (888) 872-2499 • www.emeritus.com Antioch, (925) 754-7772 Manteca, (209) 463-9100 Elk Grove, (916) 683-6833

We’re here to help you make the right decision about assisted living.

Our Family is Committed to Yours.

Emeritus Senior Living Choosing assisted living at an Emeritus Senior Living community will actually give your loved one greater independence. You will gain peace of mind knowing that they are nearby in a safe and comfortable senior living community.

Call us today to learn more about the benefits of assisted living for your loved one.

We will be glad to arrange a private tour experience for you.

Call today to schedule a tour and learn more about the many options we have available.

(888) 872-2499

Golden Haven

Golden Haven is a secured, 150-bed capacity assisted living facility for elderly with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. For over 20 years, our family-built, owned, and operated facility has been one of the premier and largest stand-alone memory care homes in California.

Our 40,000 square foot building sits on 2.5 acres of open, landscaped space, which promotes our residents’ sense of freedom and independence.

Golden Haven’s care program includes a specialized activity program tailored to the various stages of Alzheimer’s. Residents also enjoy gracious amenities like our Serenity Wellness Center/Spa, a full-service beauty salon, and a hospitality room for private parties. Call or visit us for a tour of a place we strongly believe anyone would be proud to call home.

Golden Haven 2324 Lever Boulevard, Stockton, (209) 464-4743

Look For Our Next Senior Section Call: 209.833.9989

517 East Fulton Street, Stockton • www.Emeritus.com • Lic. # 397000370

GOLDEN HAVEN Professional care, a hel helping hand, your peace of mind.

“Over 20 Years of Experience, Specializing Exclusively in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care” Secured Facility & Landscaped Grounds Individually Tailored 24-Hour Assisted Living Memory Care Program Gracious amenities including spa, beauty salon/barber shop, & private party room Assisted Living Medi-Cal Waiver Program (ALWP) Available Hospice Care Available

Golden Haven 2324 Lever Blvd. ٠ Stockton CA License # 390312403

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Unrivaled long & short term respite care

Special Advertising Section

office 209.464.4743 fax 209.464.4755 www.goldenhaven.net SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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food&wine

DINING REVIEWS WINE

In the Spotlight:

Seafood Savvy Bud's Seafood Grille

BY JAMIE MENAKER | PHOTOS BY DAN HOOD

There’s a reason that Bud’s Seafood Grille has been voted the best seafood restaurant in San Joaquin each year since it opened: the fish is tasty and the recipes straightforward, or as Bud’s likes to say, “fresh and simple.”

Celebrating its eighteenth year in April, Lincoln Center’s culinary darling has made a point of staying true to its motto.

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www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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I RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT Bud’s fruits and vegetables come straight from the bountiful fields of San Joaquin whenever possible, and all seafood is sourced from Bay Area suppliers. The eatery orders fresh sourdough bread from San Francisco daily, courtesy of the Maggiora Baking Company— their bottomless bread basket is one of diners’ favorite perks.

“Our menu is seasonal,” says owner Bud Millsaps. “Fish change seasonally, so we don’t have halibut in the winter. Or we will feature something that’s really in season, like Shady Lady tomatoes from Linden. We do a lot of tomato specials—those are freshly picked, right into the truck, and delivered to the restaurant.”

Bud and son Matt take care of day-to-day business, while wife Jeanne takes on the majority of the restaurant’s marketing. Bud is quick to credit his wife for helping him take the leap to open his restaurant all those years ago.

“When the space in Lincoln Center opened up, my wife said ‘Let’s do it.’ She’s the one that convinced me to do this, and now my son is with us, too. We’ve been here, we’ve been doing this on our own for almost twenty years. It’s the real deal.”

Bud’s menu is filled with local favorites. The clam chowder is a thirty year-old recipe, widely known as San Joaquin’s best. The beef medallions are marinated with mouthwatering flavor, and so tender they can be cut with a fork—no knife needed. The Caesar and Louie salads with shrimp and/or crab are crisp and fresh, and the seasonal fish specials are cooked to perfection and flavorful. (We loved the macadamia-crusted mahi mahi with beurre blanc sauce, and the lemon panko-crusted orange roughy).

“The clam chowder is a recipe created by about eight people,” says Bud. “A bunch of us got together and critiqued it as we created it. And it’s only gotten better as the market has improved—better clams, fresher produce. What makes it so good is that there’s so much stuff in it: lots of clams, clam juice, no water. If you want the best, you have to spring for it.”

Bud and Matt are both familiar faces at the restaurant most evenings. Many of the eatery’s diners come in regularly, in part for the chance to catch up with the Millsaps gentlemen while they dine. The dining room is a traditional nautical theme, with long-time customers' prized fish catches displayed on the wall, and the hardwood galley bar is fully stocked and serves up oysters on the half shell.

Bud’s also serves a Sunday Brunch menu, with fresh breakfast fare the likes of farm fresh eggs Benedict, quiche, sourdough French toast, and of course seafood, served with fresh pastries, fruit, potatoes, and Champagne.

Going forward, the Millsaps hope to add wine flights and weekly specials to the menu. They already serve house-made cioppino and crab cakes Friday evenings, and are hoping to offer a special for each day of the week, like their lemony salmon cakes. “Some of our specialty menu items are delicious, but take so much preparation we can’t serve them every day. Once a week is the perfect amount.”

If you go: Bud's Seafood Grille, 314 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 956-0270, www.budsseafood.com

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EDITORS PICK

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I WINE PICKS

WINE & SPIRITS

This month’s picks from the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center

McCay’s Truluck Ways with Zinfandel

BY RANDY CAPAROSO

Good news on the doorstep, and the Delta takes one more step: McCay Cellars’ Lodigrown 2007 Jupiter Zinfandel was listed among the Top 100 Wines of 2010 in this year’s San Francisco Chronicle.

This news is significant because wine judges and critics are slowly acknowledging the surging quality of wines that come from our little slice of California John Fogerty once shunned in song. (Ironically, Mr. Fogerty has long since admitted that when he originally wrote “Stuck in Lodi Again,” he had never been to San Joaquin—he actually picked “Lodi” because he thought the name sounded “cool.”)

But the stigma of being a Paradise for wine grapes—hence, a primary source for mega-sized wineries like E&J Gallo and Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi—will probably be stuck with Lodi for a while.

The second irony is the fact that being an ideal growing region for varieties of Vitis vinifera, and lots of it, also makes Lodi a Mother Lode for winemakers who prize the ultra-rich qualities of Zinfandel coming off vines that have thrived in the region’s rich, sandy loams for over 100 years. Other than Amador County, ancient vines like this simply don’t exist elsewhere in California, and Lodi harbors these productive survivors by the thousands of acres.

My favorite wine from winemaker/ proprietor Michael McCay (although not the wine on the San Francisco Chronicle’s list) is his 2007 McCay Truluck’s Lodi Zinfandel ($24), culled from a vineyard of 80 year-old, free standing, own rooted, vertically head trained vines, inter-planted with 40 year-old vines trained in the same fashion as their older siblings. Lodi Zin lovers on intimate terms with these downright stingy, old-man plantings know what usually comes of that: enormously concentrated red wines.

In the Truluck’s Zinfandel, the nose is multifaceted, suggesting crushed autumn leaves, Christmas-berry spices, and smoky tobacco nuances curling up from

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a concentrated core of blackberryish fruit, just hinting at raspberry purée.

When Truluck’s hits the palate, the feel is svelte, fullsome, meaty, and velvety, while completely avoiding the usual Zin baggage (ponderous, flabby, or raisiny excesses).

“I have an old-world palate,” explains McCay, “and I’m not a fan of the R.S. style of Zinfandel,”—meaning, the style of Zinfandel made from grapes picked extremely high in sugar, resulting in sweetly ripened flavors and, as often the case, wines that don’t quite ferment completely dry, leaving perceptible residual sugar.

“By picking a little earlier than usual for Lodi, I can produce a dryer, less jammy style of Zinfandel, without the high octane alcohol,” says McCay. That said, he adds, “I truly believe Lodi has the best climate in the world for Zinfandel, which is why I’ve chosen to specialize in it.”

Farming for flavor in accordance with Lodi Rules for Sustainable Grapegrowing, harvesting by hand, meticulous work at the sorting table, small batch fermenting, hand-punching in macro-bins, and aging a minimum of 30 months strictly in French white oak: these are all part of McCay’s recipe for success. Considering that 2007 represents McCay’s first commercial vintage (although he’s been making wine and growing grapes since the ‘90s), everything bodes well for Lodi’s future as a great winegrowing region—not just a big one any longer.

Randy Caparoso is an award-winning sommelier/restaurateur and longtime wine journalist who also pens the blog for the Lodi Winegrape Commission at www.lodiwine.com.

MARCH 2011

Klinker Brick Winery 2008 Old Ghost Old Vine Zinfandel The 2008 Old Ghost is a blend of two old vine Zinfandel vineyards, 89 and 98 years old. Yields were lower in 2008 than the previous vintage and well under one ton per acre.

The wine has exotic spices of cardamom and black pepper on the nose, infused with bright, black cherry fruit. On the palate, it is rich, round, and full-bodied with flavors of brambleberry and chocolate-covered cherries yielding to a long and lingering finish.

Come by and see us!

Tasting room hours: Fri, Sat and Sun. 11am-4pm.

Tasting by appointment on other days.

Tasting room hours: Fri, Sat and Sun. 11 am-4 pm.

Tasting by appointment on other days.

Klinker Brick Winery located at: 15887 N. Alpine Road Lodi, CA 95240 | (209) 333-1845 www.klinkerbrickwinery.com

15887 N. Alpine Road Lodi, CA 95240 | 209-333-1845 www.klinkerbrickwinery.com

family winery Enjoy our wine in our tasting room or by the fireplace on our patio.

Fridays & Saturdays 12 - 8pm Sundays 12 - 6pm 209-368-1378

TASTING ROOM OPEN DAILY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

VIAGGIOWINERY.COM 100 East Taddei Road Acampo, CA 95220

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

9010 E. Harney Lane Lodi, CA 95240 PH 209-365-1900 Love. Laughter. Family. These are the three main ingredients we pour into every bottle of Harney Lane wine.

The Seven Deadly Zins...

Free anti pasta platter with purchase of bottle of wine

Tasting Room Open Thursday - Sunday 12:00pm – 5:00pm

Lodi’s famous Old Vine Zinfandel 4580 WEST HIGHWAY 12 LODI, CALIFORNIA 95242 PH 209-368-7384

www.MichaelDavidWinery.com

Tasting Room Open Daily 11:00am-5:00pm 340 West Highway 12 Lodi, CA ph 866-334-5722 fx 209-334-5726

Voted the “Best Tasting Room in San Joaquin County” & “Best Zin in America”

HARNEYLANE.COM

wall street journal wine competition

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I

WHAT’S IN SEASON

Kiwi & Shrimp Salad Rolls

TASTE OF THE SEASON KIWI

BY KATY BERRY

Kiwi fruit have a tropical air to them. Their furry brown skin is curious, but gives way to vibrant, limegreen flesh which holds a pretty halo of tiny black seeds. The fruit was first grown in China where they were considered a delicacy, but kiwifruit didn’t make it to California until 1968, when they were imported from New Zealand. At the time, they were called ‘gooseberries,’ and Californians decided to rename the fruit after the fuzzy brown Kiwi Bird that inhabits New Zealand. Today California produces 98 percent of the U.S. kiwi supply, with the Hayward variety most popular.

Whether you “sloop” it right out of its skin using a spoon, or slice it into little disks, the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of these small juicy fruits is easy to enjoy. Kiwis are also fat free and packed with important nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Even their skin is good for you, so if you don’t mind a little kiwi fuzz, you can chomp right into it.

For more info and recipes: California KiwiFruit Commnission, www.kiwifruit.org

2 Tbsp. each vegetable oil, rice vinegar, lime juice, and honey 2 tsp. minced fresh ginger 1 tsp. finely grated lime zest ½ tsp. crushed hot pepper flakes ¼ tsp. each salt and pepper 24 medium cooked shrimp, peeled (about 12 oz.)

2 cups shredded Napa cabbage 2 green onions, thinly sliced 8 rice paper wrappers, about 9-inch 4 California kiwifruit, peeled and sliced 1 cup bean sprouts ½ cup lightly packed fresh mint or coriander leaves Whisk oil with vinegar, lime juice, honey, ginger, lime zest, pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Measure out 2 Tbsp. of the lime mixture; toss half with the shrimp and half with the cabbage and green onion. Set remaining mixture aside for dipping the rolls.

Immerse each wrapper in warm water for 20 seconds or until pliable. Lay out on a clean, damp towel. Center some cabbage along the bottom third of the wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with 4 shrimp, 3 slices of kiwi, a portion of bean sprouts, and a few fresh mint leaves.

Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling and roll tightly just until filling is covered. Fold in sides and continue to roll tightly until closed. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients. (Rolls can be prepared up to 1 day ahead, covered with a damp paper towel and wrapped with plastic wrap.) Slice rolls on the angle and serve with reserved dipping sauce. Makes 8 rolls.

Tip: Rice paper wrappers can be found in the Asian section of most supermarkets.

California Kiwi Sandwich 1 California kiwi or pear 2 strips home-roasted or store-bought roasted red peppers 2 slices grainy sandwich bread 4 tsp. olive paste or tapenade 3 Tbsp. goat or Boursin cheese, at room temperature sprouts to taste Peel kiwi, then thinly slice. If using pear, peel if you wish, core and thinly slice.

Wash and pat pepper dry. Spread 1 side of each bread slice with olive paste, then spread with cheese. Top 1 side with red pepper, then kiwi and some sprouts. Top with other bread slice, cheese side down. Makes 1 sandwich.

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Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner all day Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

1110 Kettleman Lane, Lodi, (209) 368-2272 651 N. Cherokee Ln., Suite #G, Lodi, (209) 334-1884

Hollywood Family Cafe & Catering is proud to serve only the freshest & highest quality ingredients, like choice Angus beef, and fresh fruits & vegetables. Our specialty breakfasts come with juice and your choice of homemade cinnamon roll or fresh baked muffins.

EARLY BIRD specials between 6 am and 8:30 am for breakfast. 4-5:30 pm for dinner including salad, garlic cheesebread, choice of side, and fresh grilled veggies.

Kids 10 years and younger eat free Thurs, Fri, & Sat (dinner only). Wi-fi Available.

Let us help you with your fundraiser, call for details. Restaurant available for your private parties. Call early to reserve.

315 S. Cherokee Lane Lodi, (209) 369-4065

Experience Lodi's premier Restaurant and Wine Tasting Room, Califas Cafe & Bistro. Featuring an innovative wine and beer selection, Califas offers diners fresh California cuisine with a Latin style and European flair. Lunch and dinner reservations are accepted and can accommodate banquet parties as large as 50 people. Ask about our full service off site catering services for your private parties, weddings, or corporate events, catered by “Black Tie Gourmet Custom Catering.” Executive Chef and Owner Julio Camberos has over 20 years of "hands on" culinary experience in the food service and hospitality industry.

“It is my mission to bring a quality gourmet experience, with outstanding personal service”.

– Chef Julio

Toot Sweets...

Is a from-scratch bakery/café with a friendly and inviting environment. Started in Berkeley in 1975, this successful family owned business has made its place in Stockton. Toot Sweets does not use mixes or any artificial ingredients.

From custom roasted coffees offered in a wide range of flavors to suit your taste, to gladly filling lunches and light dinners, Toot’s offers a variety of unique food and drink items suitable for any occasion. We also offer drop-off catering.

Gift certificates available!

4755 Quail Lakes Dr., Ste. D Stockton, (209) 474-6692 www.tootsweetsbakerycafe.com

Welcoming Big Valley diners since 1976, this family owned restaurant is still THE place to go for a delicious meal in a relaxed atmosphere. The exhibition kitchen features Italian/American cuisine, all house made dishes and cooked to order. The consistency of the top quality food, friendly staff, excellent service and wonderful customers have made Stockton Joe’s an all time favorite dining establishment. The award winning lounge has been voted Best Happy Hour year after year. The beautiful banquet room seats up to 60 guests. Stockton Joe’s also specializes in catering at any location for any occasion, and is the exclusive caterer for all events at the Commercial Exchange Banquet Hall and the Commander’s House.

SAN JOAQUIN DINING GUIDE

With their cozy diner booths and their rich red interior, Casa Mexicana is a great place to enjoy some authentic, inexpensive, and delicious Mexican food in a homey and relaxed setting. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Casa Mexicana makes warm, homemade tortillas and other homecooked dishes that will leave you satisfied and happy. As long as you enjoy tasty fresh Mexican food, this fun and versatile restaurant and bar is a great place to visit day or night. Elena and Job Sanchez also provide catering. Casa Mexicana also owns a bakery. Saturday nights at 9 p.m., Casa Mexicana hosts a nightclub with all varieties of music.

236 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 951-2980 www.stocktonjoes.com

Mexican

Restaurant

Angelo’s Mexican Restaurant, Full Bar, & Catering, serving Mexican breakfast, American breakfast, lunch, and dinner to the community and all our Angelo’s customers. We sincerely appreciate your support through the hard economic times, and for voting us BEST OF LODI 2010—Thank you!

Your Amigos at Angelo’s.

Open 7 Days a week Mon-Thurs 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Fri-Sat 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

28 North School St., Lodi (209) 366-2728

Califas Cafe and Bistro Black Tie Gourmet Catering chefjulio@blacktiegourmet.net (209) 367-9866 www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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Tracy Thai Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is known for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has exceptional presentation, from mouth-watering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with more adventurous tastes, or delicious familiar dishes that are great choices for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

1035 Central Ave. Tracy, (209) 833-9703

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments, located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine, and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes. Three outdoor dining patios make for a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner. Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12, to as large as 100 guests. Papapavlo’s is open Sun.Thur., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

501 N. Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the causal dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with the professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, Mikasa invites you to explore the list of premium sakes.

Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe. The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll. They’re looking forward to your visit! Kampei!

15138 Harlan Rd., Lathrop (209) 858-1818 www.mikasasushilathrop.com

With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming venue with exceptional service. Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or can enjoy a romantic evening sitting by the large fireplace.

Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail. As an added bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

2505 W. Turner Rd. Lodi, (209) 334-6988

Johnny’s Diner & Creamery @ Tracy Outlets off MacArthur We invite you to walk in our door and let the time machine take you back to the good old days of the fabulous 1950’s, where life was just a little simpler. A bit of 1950’s fun fills the walls. We are serving up burgers, fries, milkshakes, BLT’S, chili cheese dogs, and more….

And we have a full ice cream parlor where you can sit and enjoy a tall root beer float, classic banana split, specialty sundaes, and kid inspired treats like dirt n worms and cookie crumble. Whether you’re on date night, a family outing, or celebrating a birthday, a visit to Johnny’s Diner is sure to be a treat. A bit of 1950's fun 1005 E. Pescadero Ave., Tracy, (209) 832-1188 www.johnnysdinerandcreamery.com

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This fantastic, family-run restaurant is a top choice in Stockton for savory Mexican fare. Miguel’s promises quality food; as a result, the kitchen doesn’t cook with animal fats and uses sirloin tip rather than ground beef. You’ll taste the difference in the carne asada, camarones rancheros, braised red snapper, fajitas, and steak a la chicana.

Omelets and spicy egg dishes also draw raves, and combination plates offer good value and a selection of tastes.

7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 5 Stockton, (209) 951-1931

MARCH 2011

Lunch : 7 Days a week: 11 am-2 pm Dinner: 7 Days a week: 4-9:30 pm Happy Hour: Sunday- Thursday: 4-6 pm 300 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 451-3654 www.domostockton.com

A favorite among guests that enjoy fine dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill offers an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile floor, while still remaining family friendly. With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers Monday night prix fixe (French for “fixed price”) dining specials, letting diners order a complete meal for about half the price of doing so a la carte. Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

28 S. School St. Lodi, (209) 369-0470

Michael’s Pizza has been supported by this community since 1978 and voted the best Pizza in San Joaquin County. We take pride in every pizza we make using the freshest ingredients and making our dough every day. All of our pizzas can be made with our original dough and we are happy to offer whole wheat dough. Also at Michael’s Pizza is our fun Café featuring full breakfast and fresh baked goods. Come in with a group, sports team, or birthday party and enjoy our party room that seats 30+ people.

For fast delivery, or take-out, Please Call 462-6668.

2300 West Alpine Stockton, (209) 462-6668

La Palma is a quaint, authentic dining venue located in the heart of the ‘Miracle Mile’ on the corner of Pacific & Tuxedo.

La Palma specializes in superior Mexican cuisine such as Sizzling Fajitas, Fish Tacos, and Chipotle Shrimp; all of which come served with Spanish rice and your choice of black, pinto, or refried beans. Alongside an exquisite selection of local wines from which to choose from, La Palma Mexican Cuisine boasts a full service Tequila bar with more than 50 of the finest imported tequilas. Come experience Mexico, without the air miles! Open everyday for lunch & dinner.

SAN JOAQUIN DINING GUIDE

Domo Japanese Sushi Grill & Bar is the newest Japanese Cuisine Restaurant to embark Stockton. It is 8,000 square feet of Japanese experience. Domo’s Sushi, Grill, and Teppan Yaki is all about innovated food creations. There is something for everyone to enjoy. From our special sushi rolls, asparagus beef wrap, to our Teppan Yaki of Lobster, Filet Mignon, and Chicken or even a special drink or shake from our bar, there are sure to be many selections and favorites. Happy Birthday! Receive one FREE Steak and Chicken dinner with purchase of three dinner entreés or more. (Not valid with happy hour)

Michael's New York Style Pizza

2301 Pacific Ave. Stockton, (209) 941-4179 www.lapalmaonthemile.com

Artist Palate Cafe For a delightful experience, the Artist’s Palate Café awaits you in Lodi. A unique environment provides a variety of delicious paninis, sandwiches, soups, salads, espresso, beer, wine, breakfast items, desserts and the opportunity to view and enjoy the endeavors of local artists and craftsmen which are on display.

Enjoy our outside patio overlooking sights of Lodi or spend the time kicking back with a Latte or Wine Smoothie catching up on your day's work utilizing our free Wi-Fi. Stop by, we would love to serve you!

Winter Hours Mon-Friday 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 9-3pm 1110 W Kettleman, Suite 19 (Upstairs at the Bella Terra Shopping Center) Elevator is located next the Woodbridge Pizzeria (209) 369-5000,

www.artistpalatecafe.com

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

We use ingredients of only the highest quality when preparing our meals. We cook using 100 percent cholesterolfree cooking oils, for a delicious and healthy meal. If you would like to order something not listed in the menu, we will do our best to accomodate you in any way we can. Gift Certificates available.

Mon-Fri: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m and 5-10 p.m. Sat-Sun: 12 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Serving San Joaquin County since 1979 7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 115 Stockton, (209) 957-0617 www.pekingstockton.com

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Voted San Joaquin’s Best Family Restaurant, the Creamery is a classic American grill that has been a Stockton landmark since 1985. Even with a fresh, new look that is more spacious and modern, this dining favorite still offers the same cozy feel as when it first opened more than two decades ago. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an impressive dessert selection seven days a week.

Whether you are in the neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please. NOW SERVING BREAKFAST ON THE WEEKEND. 5756 Pacific Ave. Located in Robinhood Plaza, Stockton (209) 952-1111

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

115 S. School St. (inside Woolworth Place) Lodi, (209)369-5400 www.Crushkitchen.com

Welcome to Casa Flores Marina, the very best in Mexican Cuisine. Casa Flores Marina is the new location in the Marina Shopping Center on Benjamin Holt Avenue, just west of I-5 in Stockton. Enjoy the warm, inviting dining room or dine al fresco in the secluded, outdoor patio.

You will be treated to mouth-watering, innovative dishes that will keep you coming back! Casa Flores Marina has a beautiful, fully stocked tequila bar offering the finest selection of tequilas anywhere.

You can enjoy fresh fruit margaritas made with all natural ingredients. No pre-made mixes here. Enjoy Tequila Tastings every third Thursday of the month or book your next big party here. Open for lunch and dinner.

All of Flip’s custom crafted burgers and hot dogs are made to order using fresh, local ingredients. Our milkshakes are made using real milk and awardwinning, hand scooped ice cream. We are known for our unique deep-fried specialties. Come and try a fried egg on your burger, deep-fried hot dog, deepfried pickles, deep-fried twinkies, deepfried oreos... Flip’s is Stockton’s place to pig out. Enjoy restaurant quality food at fast food prices. Flip’s has a familyoriented environment which will make you feel like you’re at your own home.

We are only a short 15 minute drive from anywhere in Stockton. Located right off of Highway 99, take the Waterloo Exit, go west for 2 minutes.

We are open Mon-Sat. 11 am-8 pm.

3201 W. Ben Holt Dr., Ste. 155 Stockton, (209) 451-1116

2503 Waterloo Rd. Stockton, (209) 943-5477

Happy hour daily with $1.00 off all beer & well drinks and $5.00 bar bites 4pm - 6:30pm

Juan Cruces III is the second generation to expand in the restaurant business, by stepping out to Tracy. Casa Flores today has grown with great reputation and new traditions. When visiting a Casa Flores Mexican Restaurant, you can count on great tasting foods, a welcoming environment, and speedy friendly service. Juan will be creating a combination of old Mexican tradition and modern flair. He is creating an expanded menu that will serve traditional Mexican entrees from recipes passed through generations, but modified with a healthier twist. As for the future, Casa Flores will continue striving for excellence and quality, a tradition we are obligated to uphold.

314 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton (209) 956-0270 www.budsseafood.com

2503 N. Tracy Blvd.

Tracy, (209) 879-9608 www.casaflorestracy.com

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille. Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with a bottomless basket of fresh sourdough bread. The new leafy outdoor patio seats thirty, and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend or two. Full bar and banquet room available. Open for lunch, dinner, and scrumptious Sunday brunch.

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Crush Kitchen & Bar has a menu that Executive Chef/Owner Michael Warren describes as California with HEAVY Mediterranean influence. The entire menu is made from scratch. From the unique Hummus plate to the house made mozzarella and the handmade pastas, Crush is focused on the “Farm to Fork” philosophy. This year Crush was chosen as “The Best of San Joaquin” and it is very clear why. Crush has a wine list that boasts over 130 European and local selections and also has a full bar.

Next door to Crush is “The Market” a boutique grocery that is also owned by Michael Warren and partner Michael Thomas. Thursday-Monday 11:30 amclose, Wednesday 5 pm-9 pm, CLOSED Tuesday.

MARCH 2011

So let go of the worries of the day, and Go Outback.

Open for lunch Mon-Fri at 11:30 a.m.

Dinner 7 days a week Happy hour 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. M-F 1243 West March Lane, Stockton (209) 954-9615 www.outback.com

30X108 in.

SHIRASONI

STEAKHOUSE ˆ TEPPANYAKI ˆ SUSHI BAR

Wishing You andOUR Your Family “YOUR TABLE, KITCHEN” Japanese is a Year a Very MerryShirasoni Christmas & a Restaurant Happy New traditional Japanese hibachi steakhouse.

The authentic cuisine at Shirasoni is prepared fresh and cooked in front of you at the teppanyaki tables, and served by a performing chef, in hot bitesize portions ready to dip into a variety of delicious Japanese sauces. Shirasoni also offers an excellent menu of sushi and sashimi.

Birthday eats free with a party 6 or more 3249 W. Hammer Lane Stockton, (209) 473-2525

Tin Roof Barbeque and Catering is open for lunch Monday through Friday, serving local wines and a large selection of beer on tap.

Full-service catering available.

171 Guild Street, #101 Lodi, (209) 366-1128 www.lodibbq.com

Bringing a new look and feel to Stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors. The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. As with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes.

Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the “Miracle Mile” and is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Outdoor dining available.

6367 Lone Tree Way Brentwood, (925) 240-7808

1825 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2 Stockton, (209) 939-1825

Mezzo Restaurant, located in the Brookside business center, serves authentic, multi-regional Italian cuisine using only the freshest ingredients, local produce, meats and seafood.

Our belief is that Mexican dishes done right are both wonderful and diverse.

Creating superb dishes from Cochinita Pibil to Tartare de Salmon; our food is inspired by the heart of Mexico. Our 100% natural margaritas made with true agave nectar and fresh squeezed lime can be enjoyed on our covered and heated outside patio. We’re holding to the authenticity of true Mexican dishes not found in this area, thus revolutionizing Mexican food.

Renowned chef and owner Richard Hyman has created a menu steeped in Italian culture where seasonal menus and local, sustainable produce are at the center of the plate.

Pastas, sauces, sausages, Mozzarella and Ricotta cheeses are all made in house, guaranteeing diners that they are in for a culinary experience like nowhere else in the San Joaquin Valley.

3499 Brookside Rd, Ste A Stockton, (209) 473-7300

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Far from the origins of barbeque, located in the industrial area east of Lodi, Tin Roof Barbeque and Catering has become a favorite in the Central Valley. With a contemporary twist to traditional barbeque favorites, owner Richard Berardi has mastered smoking meats unique to California, including oak-smoked tri-tip, smoked brisket, pulled pork, and of course BBQ chicken. Add a traditional southern style barbeque sauce or homemade horseradish. A side of sinful macaroni and cheese or potato salad with a homemade aioli complete the meal.

SAN JOAQUIN DINING GUIDE

A flavorful mixed grill of juicy steaks, tender chicken, fresh fish, and pasta dishes. Satisfy every taste with mouthwatering appetizers and salads.

Every day, Outback starts out fresh, making every one of their soups, salad dressings, and sauces from scratch. At Outback, it’s all about quality —and all about the food.

Open Daily Serving brunch on weekends 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 955-0100 www.rev1910.com

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DiningOut MIGUEL’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 7555 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 951-1931. Full bar.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $ This place is no frills, just delicious, homemade Mexican cuisine. For a small cost, lovers of traditional cucina mexicana can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Start off your day with a flavorful breakfast dish like Miguel’s huevos, and come back for lunch and to enjoy favorites like the carne asada or taco dishes. On Fridays, stop in for their special Albondigas soup, a Mexican meatball soup with veggies and noodles.

The Mexican décor will make you feel like you’re south of the border, and the food will keep you full and happy.

LATHROP Mikasa Japanese Bistro 15138 Harlan Rd., (209) 858-1818. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this casual dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with their professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, you’re invited to explore their list of premium sakes. Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe. The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll. Kampei!

LOCKEFORD Joe’s of Italy 18700 N. Hwy 88, (209) 727-5841, www.joesofitaly.com. Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $$

Joe’s of Italy’s cuisine has been a wellknown establishment in the Central Valley for over 75 years. Their comfort Italian food has been refined to perfection and is a joy to experience, as well as reasonably priced. Located in the middle of Wine Country, Joe’s has some of the most authentic Italian cuisine anywhere in the area. Try linguine and clams, stuffed raviolis, gnocchi, or canneloni—not to be missed.

LODI Califas Café & Bistro 480 S. Cherokee Ln., Suite E, (209) 367-9866, www.califascafebistro.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

OUR POLICY

These listings are provided as a free service by San Joaquin magazine for its readers. As such, inclusion is based on editorial consideration and is not guaranteed. If you would like your dining establishment to be considered for this listing, send information to jamie@ sanjoaquinmagazine.com, including your name, the name of the establishment, address, and contact information.

PRICING KEY (ENTREE): $–UNDER $10

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$$$$–OVER $24

If you love fresh California flavors, then you’ll love Califas. Owners Aracely Camberos and Chef Julio Camberos have created a menu that combines all the great local ingredients that San Joaquin residents crave, artfully infused with ethnic flavors and a traditional European cooking style. The result is a menu that’s fresh, original, and delicious. Become a member of the “Bistro Club” and get special VIP deals throughout the week.

Also keep an eye out for their wonderful dinners and special events.

Casa Mexicana

1110 W. Kettleman Lane, Suite 1, (209) 368-2272. Full Bar. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$

With their cozy diner booths and their rich red interior, Casa Mexicana is a great place to hunker down and enjoy some authentic, inexpensive, and delicious Mexican food in a homey and relaxed setting. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Casa Mexicana makes warm, homemade tortillas and other homecooked dishes that will leave you satisfied

and happy. Grab a margarita from their full bar if you’re feeling frisky, or join the crew on Saturday nights as Casa Mexicana hosts a dance party featuring a live DJ. As long as you enjoy tasty fresh Mexican food, this fun and versatile restaurant and bar is a great place to visit day or night.

Crush Kitchen & Bar 115 S. School St., (209) 369-5400, www.crushkitchen.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

This chic establishment is becoming a fast favorite in Lodi and all over San Joaquin.

Crush Kitchen & Bar utilizes the freshest ingredients to make dishes that showcase the wonderful flavors of California’s local agriculture. Their homemade pastas and sauces are paired with local wines, and the well conceived menu has a variety of options that include Italian, American, and Mediterranean dishes, infused with the original gourmet vision of Crush’s talented chefs. Located on School Street, this place is the perfect way to end a day of shopping in Lodi by enjoying a delicious cocktail at their stylish bar, and don’t forget to try their unusual yet addictive white truffle salt and cayenne pepper popcorn while sipping your martini.

Habañero Hots 1024 Victor Rd., (209) 369-3791, www.habanerohots.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Not only does this Mexican restaurant offer steaming fajitas and cheesy nachos, but they serve up hot peppers, too. Those willing to eat a habañero chili pepper can win their way into the Habañero Hots “Hall of Flame.” This is no bell pepper, either; the habañero is rated between 100,000 and 350,000 on the Scoville scale, developed to rank spiciness, compared to a mere 5,000 for a basic jalapeño. If you’re successful in the “Eat the Heat” contest, you are rewarded with a complimentary T-shirt and your photo on the wall. Hey, you can always wash it down with one of their one hundred seventy-five selections of tequila.

Haru Sushi Bar 550-H South Cherokee Lane, (209) 334-9988 Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Haru Sushi Bar boasts an extensive menu including a wonderful array of original sushi rolls, not to mention their colorful sushi boats, bento boxes, nigiri and sashimi, this sushi bar has something for everyone. Taking pride in their artistry, their Asian influenced décor and beautiful plate presentation is pleasing to both sushi fanatics and first-timers. Locals can also come to Haru Sushi Bar to enjoy their happy hour specials and their tasty selection of beer, wine, and sake. This family owned business is committed to quality and customer satisfaction so diners can expect a great meal each time they return.

MARCH 2011

Hollywood Family Café 315 S. Cherokee Ln., (209) 369-4065 Beer and wine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $

Whether you missed out on the fifties, or just miss them in general, flashback to the age of Elvis, June Cleaver, and the Big Bopper with a visit to the Hollywood Family Café.

Complete with a juke box and plastic upholstered booths, this all-American diner has a menu of classic items like juicy cheeseburgers, thick milkshakes, pancakes, and much more. No matter what meal you’re stopping by for, the chipper atmosphere, friendly service, and great food makes this family-friendly joint a fun alternative for dining out.

Lodi Beer Company 105 S. School St., (209) 368-9931, www.lodibeercompany.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Whether you’re looking for a place to meet for your next business lunch, to grab a bite with friends or your kids after work, or to dine with a party of one hundred, the Lodi Beer Company welcomes you. The beautiful slate floors, iron work, and copper accents create an inviting atmosphere, and with up to fourteen beers on tap and menu items ranging from deep-fried macaroni and cheese to a twenty-two ounce rib eye steak to grilled mahi-mahi, everyone is sure to leave happy and full.

Lodi Feed and Fuel 27 W. Elm St., (209) 365-1043 Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$-$$$$

Come dressed up or down; Lodi Feed and Fuel welcomes all for a fun, fine dining experience. With classic and contemporary movie memorabilia adorning the restaurant’s walls (think John Wayne juxtaposed with Jack Sparrow), and its prime location across the street from the movie theater, this is a perfect choice for a dinner-and-amovie date. Thursdays are great days to try out the bar— from 4 to 7 p.m. enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers and a live comedy show every other week. If you are in the mood for an adventurous drink, be sure to try the Grapefruit Cosmopolitan made from freshly squeezed grapefruit juice or the Wasabi Bloody Mary.

OZ Sushi & Grill 2414 W. Kettleman Lane, Ste. 206, (209) 334-9800 Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Family owned and operated, this contemporary sushi restaurant and bar offers a unique menu with over thirty special rolls to choose from, along with the option to create your own. With names like The Pink Lady and the Vogue Roll, diners are sure to enjoy exploring the creatively crafted and deliciously fresh fare offered here.

OZ Sushi & Grill also boasts chic, modern décor to complement any get-together, whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion.

Pietro’s Trattoria 317 E. Kettleman Lane, (209) 368-0613, www.pietroslodi.com Beer and wine. Lunch and dinner. $$

Charmingly designed and warmly staffed, Pietro’s restaurant is a family-owned establishment that’s clearly well loved. Pietro’s serves up huge portions of traditional Italian fare, and the restaurant is designed to give the impression that diners are sitting in the middle of a tiny, rustic Italian village. Try the rich and garlicky penne aglio pasta with mushrooms, spinach, and crushed red peppers, the hearty individual pizzas, the chicken parmigiana, or the lemony veal piccata with capers. Family-friendly, and banquets up to 125 people.

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Rosewood Bar and Grill 28 S. School St., (209) 369-0470, www.rosewoodbarandgrill.com Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

A favorite among guests that enjoy fine dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill is an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile floor, yet it remains family friendly. With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers Monday night prix fixe—French for “fixed price”—dining specials, letting patrons order a complete meal for about half the price of a la carte. Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

School Street Bistro 116 N. School St., (209) 333-3950, www.schoolstbistro.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

At this quaint European-style bistro, everything is made from scratch daily, as well as all the sauces and salad dressings accompanying their regional American cuisine. Specialties include upscale comfort foods like bacon wrapped meatloaf and smoked gouda macaroni and cheese, in addition to delicious steaks and fresh seafood. The bistro features domestic and imported beers and an extensive wine list of over one hundred local and imported wines. This

is a popular destination for both casual dining and the occasional wine tasting events hosted by the restaurant, so reservations are highly recommended.

Strings Italian Café 2314 W. Kettleman Ln., (209) 369-6400, www.stringscafe.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

First impressions can be deceiving, as is the case with Strings Café. The modest location (nestled in the WalMart shopping center) doesn’t do its flawless reputation justice.You have to stop in, if only to taste the soft Parmesan bread and the salad, which is really quite memorable—crisp lettuce sprinkled with savory croutons, sunflower seeds, raisins, and a dressing that pulls the whole dish together. Thinking about stopping after the salad? Not a chance.

Try the lasagna, which is superb, or any of the seafood dishes, all of which are surprisingly fresh and flavorful.

Wine and Roses 2505 W. Turner Rd., (209) 334-6988, www.winerose.com Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$$-$$$$

With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming

venue with exceptional service. The kitchen uses fresh, local ingredients to create tantalizing examples of California cuisine. Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or a romantic evening dining by the large fireplace.

Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail and, as an additional bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

MANTECA De Vega Brothers 515 N. Main St., (209) 823-0947, www.devegabrothers.com. Beer and wine.

Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton. The Manteca site boasts hand-painted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music. Both restaurants are known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

Finley’s Bar and Grill 10477 S. Airport Way, (209) 983-9493.

Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch during the winter season. $$-$$$$

Finley’s is full of pleasant surprises, the first being the truly romantic restaurant that lies within this nondescript building. While soft candlelight flickers at the center of your elegantly set table, you can relax and share a bottle of locally-made wine and, if you’re brave enough, kick off your dinner by sharing an appetizer of sautéed or deep-fried frog legs.

This succulent dish is sweeter tasting than chicken, and quite appetizing.

After indulging your adventurous side, spring into dinner with the savory house specialty, smoked prime rib.

Feeling romantic enough to propose?

Finley’s also caters small, intimate weddings in their spacious garden.

Isadore’s Restaurant 680 N. Main St., (209) 825-4300, www.isadores.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Isadore’s is anything but humble: the kitchen is out-of-this-world, and they know it. In fact, if you happen to inquire, they’ll gladly tell you which items on the menu you’re sure to fall in

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Lodi

209.472.9881 209.333.0515

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love with. Locals swear by the quality of the seafood and made-to-order pasta selections. Though there’s no official children’s menu, the kitchen will gladly whip up a pint-sized meal for your munchkins, as well as accommodate any other special requests. Finally, don’t be shy—order the Sex in a Pan for dessert. Sweet, ripe banana slices and rich chocolate pudding on a crumbly cookie crust topped with real whipped cream and chocolate sauce make for a climactic end to any meal.

Kelley Brothers Brewing Company 112 E. Yosemite Ave., (209) 825-1727.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

This Manteca hot spot rose up out of the ashes of the El Rey Theatre, which ironically burned down after its final showing of The Towering Inferno. Big, bulky sandwiches, like the Southweststyle BBQ Pork Masterpiece make this a great lunch destination, but live music Friday and Saturday nights and the largest bar in the Valley (complete with twelve house-made beers on tap) draw crowds at dinnertime and in the later hours, too. The whole family will enjoy the food as much as the fun murals and collections of local antiques on display.

STOCKTON The Alder Bistro 151 West Alder Street, (209) 943-1921, www.aldermarket.com Full bar. Open for dinner. $$$

Having been in business for thirty years, The Alder Bistro is a tried and true choice for fine dining in Stockton. Their menu includes everything from artisan salads like the Maple Salad, which includes maple dressing, Danish blue cheese, dried cranberries, waldernuts, and fresh apple slices, to juicy steaks and fresh seafood.

On Saturdays, they have “Basque Night” with an impressive, and impressively priced pre-fixe menu featuring an array of dishes for those who like to try everything. They also have a “1/2 off night” every week, so locals can enjoy delicious gourmet meals without needing a Rockefeller budget. The cozy lighting and décor also makes The Alder Bistro perfect for a romantic evening out.

Angelina’s Spaghetti House 1563 E. Fremont St., (209) 948-6609, www.angelinas.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Angelina’s is a true family restaurant: owned by four family members, named after another, and welcoming to all of yours. For thirty-one years, their hearty homemade pastas, raviolis, and traditional sauces have been bringing families together just like a meal at Grandma’s house. Consider inviting www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

all your relatives to dine together in Angelina’s comfortable and cozy banquet room the next time you are hosting a family get-together. Angelina’s isn’t fussy—just simple, classic, and great tasting.

Arroyo’s Café 2381 W. March Ln., (209) 472-1661, www.arroyoscafe.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $

When Guadalupe and Jesus Arroyo moved here in the early 1940s, they immediately began sharing their passion for food with friends and family by opening their first restaurant. Sixty years later, their son Mario continues the tradition and commitment to excellence at Arroyo’s Café. Located on the water, one can enjoy fresh, homemade tortillas, enchiladas, carne asada, and other Mexican favorites.

Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant hosts live Mariachi music, and the bar hosts Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Ave on the Mile 2333 Pacific Ave., (209) 462-5AVE, www.aveonthemile.com Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$

Commonly described as “chic” and “upscale,” Ave on the Mile takes finger foods to a whole new level. Come have a seat in the swanky, comfortable lounge and prepare to enjoy decadent appetizers and desserts while sipping on top shelf cocktails from their fully stocked bar. Celebrating a night out on the town? Ave offers bottle service for those who want to enjoy a night of VIP treatment. Or simply come to relax and enjoy the top-notch hospitality that makes Ave special.

Breadfruit Tree Restaurant 8095 Rio Blanco Rd., (209) 952-7361, www.breadfruittree.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch & dinner. $$

In the mood for something different?

Relax on the Delta and enjoy the flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean Islands at Breadfruit Tree. The restaurant serves food from many of the tropical islands, and prides itself on its Peleau—a rice stir-fry with fresh veggies and seafood, seasoned with a myriad of delightful spices. Complete your meal with a Jamaican beer or housemade, Caribbean-style drink. While eating, admire the hand-painted murals depicting waterfalls and island life. The owners proudly claim, “As they say in the Caribbean, ‘we cook food with love.’”

Breadfruit Tree is open for catering yearround, and restaurant dining February to November.

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I RESTAURANT GUIDE Bud’s Seafood Grille 314 Lincoln Center, (209) 956-0270, www.budsseafood.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille.

Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with a bottomless basket of fresh sourdough bread, so be careful not to fill up before the rest arrives. The new leafy outdoor patio seats thirty, and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend.

Casa Flores Marina 3201 W. Ben Holt Drive, (209) 451-1116, www.casafloresmarina.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Centrale Kitchen and Bar

[ WINE FIND ]

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1825 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2, (209) 939-1825.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Bringing a new look and feel to Stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors. The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. As with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes. Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the south end of the Miracle Mile.Outdoor dining available.

Chitiva’s Salsa and Sports Bar and Grill 445 W. Weber Ave., (209) 941-8605, www.chitiva.net Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Chitiva’s serves up authentic Mexican food, tasty tropical drinks, and a giant side of fun six nights a week. Saturday nights after 9 p.m., the fajitas and enchiladas play second fiddle to the DJs and live bands on center stage—the Salsa is still hot, but now it’s a dance, not a culinary dip. If all this has you craving a cool Delta breeze, look no further than the restaurant’s outdoor dining overlooking the water or one of their popular

Cocoro Japanese Bistro 2105 Pacific Ave., (209) 941-6053 Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Cocoro is the “it” place to go for sushi in Stockton. Its streamlined, contemporary Japanese décor and intimate seating arrangements give it a sophisticated atmosphere, and its artful sushi creations made with fish delivered fresh daily from the Bay Area keep patrons coming back for more.

At the sushi counter, you can watch talented chefs roll and wrap beautiful bites right before your eyes. The restaurant’s signature sushi—the Coco Roll—consists of a tempura prawn wrapped up with avocado and topped with eel, spicy tuna, teriyaki sauce, and special house dressing, all garnished with a walnut. For the less adventurous eater, Cocoro offers the traditional range of tempura, teriyaki, and noodle dishes.

The Creamery 5756 Pacific Ave., Robinhood Plaza (209) 925-1111. No alcohol served. Open for breakfast (on weekends), lunch, and dinner. $-$$

The Creamery Restaurant is a classic American grill that has been a Stockton landmark since 1985. Great for large parties or a family meal, it is also the perfect spot for hungry shoppers. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an amazing dessert selection seven days a week, with breakfast served on the weekends. Whether you’re in the neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please.

Dante’s California-Style Pizza 9305 Thornton Rd., (209) 474-0221. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Nestled in the Thornton Plaza shopping center, Dante’s puts a sunny California spin on the standard pepperoni and cheese creation. In fact, most of their pizzas don’t even come with pepperoni or mozzarella. The name of the restaurant says it all—this is not your authentic Italian pizzeria, so be prepared for specialty pizzas with experimental combinations of unique and exotic toppings.

Dante’s offers fourteen different pizzas made with fresh meats and produce, gourmet cheeses, and colorful sauces (the pesto is fantastic). Like any pizza joint worth their sauce, take-out and delivery options are also available.

Dave Wong’s Chinese Cuisine 2828 W. March Ln., (209) 951-4152 Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

You may already have a favorite Chinese restaurant—everybody does—but if you are in the mood to venture away from habit, try Dave Wong’s. This longtime Stockton favorite serves up a pleasant combination of Chinese, Cantonese, and Szechwan eats. The broccoli beef, lemon chicken, and fried rice MARCH 2011

COURTESY VINNIBAG

Casa Flores Marina has everything that a lover of Mexican food could want, from the fresh and tasty chips and salsa they bring over when you sit down, to the hot and sizzling fajita skillets, accompanied with hearty portions of warm tortillas, rice, sour cream, and fresh guacamole. But aside from the delectable food, Casa Flores Marina hosts great events including their tequila tasting on every third Thursday of the month. Guests can try their impressive tequila collection paired with an appetizer and shaken into a delicious cocktail.

Their outdoor seating is a great place to enjoy a marina margarita, or stay indoors for a romantic meal in the soft lit dining room.

Salsa cruises (summer months through October). So go find your dancing shoes, sip a cool mojito, and have some fun.

FOOD&WINE are hands-down favorites. The menu has many traditional dishes, alongside appetizing treats like wok-charred green beans. The muted walls and intimate (yet expandable) quiet candlelit dining chambers reiterate the fact that Dave Wong’s is not your typical Chinese restaurant.

David’s New York Style Pizza 1744 W. Hammer Lane, (209) 477-2677 900 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 957-2850 Beer & wine. Open for lunch & dinner.$-$$

Toppings, cheese, and dough that’s prepared fresh daily may be three of the reasons this Stockton staple has had such success that they’ve recently opened a second location in Lincoln Center. Or maybe it’s all the choices at David’s New York Style Pizza that make it so popular: Eat in or take out? Hammer Lane or Lincoln Center? Thick, thin, or standard crust? Indoors or out on the patio? One of David’s twelve specialty pizzas or one of your own creations? We know sportslovers love the pizzeria because it combines some of their favorite things: great pizza, beer, fellow fans, and the big game televised on the many 46-inch flat screen televisions hung in both locations.

Whatever their reasoning for coming back, repeat customers can be found enjoying David’s New York Style Pizza seven days a week.

De Vega Brothers

2819 W. March Lane, Ste. A1, (209) 957-3839, www.devegabrothers.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton. The Manteca site boasts hand-painted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music. Both restaurants are known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

I RESTAURANT GUIDE De Vinci’s 4555 N. Pershing Ave., (209) 957-2750 No alcohol served. Open for lunch and dinner. $

Old-world Italian eats rule here, where the foccacia and ravioli are homemade. Red and white checkered tablecloths and an Italian-inspired mural lend distinct charm to this half deli, half restaurant which serves up spectacular sandwiches, rice torta, and pesto. The food may be delicious, but don’t bring a hungry crowd and expect to find a table big enough—this place is best for take-out and catering.

Instead, grab a bag of goodies to go and head over to nearby Victoria Park for a picnic with panache. A downtown Tracy location was recently opened.

Yubic

Yogurt

15%

Off

Your Order Offer Expires 3/31/2011

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli 445 W. Weber Ave., Ste. 126, (209) 462-3401 Beer and Wine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli is appropriately named, serving up some of the best casual favorites this side of the Delta.

With its premium coffee bar, morning starters, salads made to order with the freshest local produce, and the popular tritip sandwich that’s grilled daily on the patio, you can’t escape the quiet, peaceful nostalgia that Delights has to offer. Located right on the water in the historic Waterfront Warehouse building, Delights is a visual treat. While they don’t accept reservations, you’ll soon find that it’s not necessary. This restaurant is a relaxed hangout for anybody, from businessmen to students from local colleges and schools.

209.858.4232

www.yubicyogurt.com

15124 S. Harlan Rd. Lathrop, CA

(Inside Savemart Shopping Center)

Andrade Chiropractic Providing our patients with friendly and caring service; World-class standards; State-of-the-art Robotic automated prescription filling.

DID YOU KNOW? We offer FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY For information call 234-1020

Whether you enjoy sushi, seafood, or steak, Domo has a menu with choices to satisfy any appetite. Their sushi is rolled fresh, with innovative flavors and ingredients. Or grab a seat for something sizzling at their Teppan Yaki grills, where chicken, beef, even lobster can be prepared right at your table. Domo is a great place to have fun with friends or family. Don’t forget to have a sip of one of their delicious sakes or try another creative cocktail at their full bar.

Auto Accidents • Sports Injuries Low Back Pain • Headaches • Same Day Appointments Available • Open 6 Days A Week • Commuter Hours - Mon-Sat: 7a-6:30p • Most Insurance Accepted

832-1996

Domo Japanese Sushi Grill & Bar 300 Lincoln Center, (209) 451-3654, www.domostockton.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Experience the Difference!

Chiropractic Care for Children and Adults

In Tracy since 1989 • Se Habla Espanõl 2754 North Tracy Boulevard

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SERVICES INCLUDE Check free bill pay ‫ ׀‬California Lottery Self service copier ‫ ׀‬Kodak photo kiosk

Dr. Ralph Andrade and Family

Your caring Neighborhood pharmacy!

3526 South Manthey Rd., Ste. H Stockton, CA 95206 Phone: (209) 234-1020 · Fax: (209) 234-1825 New Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 10am-3pm · Closed Sun. DROP BY FOR LAST MINUTE GIFTS OR GIFT CARDS FOR ANY OCCASION!

You’re Greatest Wealth is Your Health SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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I RESTAURANT GUIDE El Rancho Inn Steak and Lobster House 1457 E. Mariposa Rd., (209) 467-1529 Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Celebrating seventy years in business, El Rancho Inn has been charming customers with its superior service and delectable dishes. Although most drive by without giving this establishment a second glance, it’s well worth your time to stop in for a meal. The steak, lobster, and homemade soups are excellent, but be sure to look up from your plate and take in the surroundings. From the cattle brands on the walls to the regulars relaxing at their favorite tables, this country inn is sure to bring a smile to your face as well as warmth to your belly.

Flips Burgers 2503 Waterloo Rd., (209) 943-5477, www.flipsburger.blogspot.com Open for lunch and dinner. $

THE AVOSAVER The way New York is known for its pizza, so Californians are hailed for their bounty of delicious avocados. We are the largest producer of avocados in the world, as well as the biggest consumers, so it’s safe to say that most of us have endured the frustration of seeing a perfectly good avocado turn mucky brown in no time at all.

The AvoSaver works by letting half of an avocado “nest” on its contoured base. The avocado is strapped into the saver, sealing out air and preventing oxidation, keeping it fresher longer. The strap keeps the avocado secure no matter what its size, and since the AvoSaver is dishwasher safe, you can stop wrapping your doomed avocado remains in tin-foil or plastic baggies, and enjoy them from start to finish. Now that’s good for the environment. —Katy Berry

For more information: At Lodi Cooks, 5 N. School St., Lodi, (209) 334-5751, www.lodicooks.net

The Fruit Bowl 8767 E. Waterloo Rd. (209) 931-1196, www.thefruitbowl.com Open for breakfast and lunch. $.

Since 1947 the Luchettis have been selling delicious, fresh fruit from their ranch. After years of passersby stopping in for their ripe peaches and cherries, today the Luchettis sell more than just fresh fruit. Stop in for homemade preserves or their famous fruit or cream pies. They also offer fresh baked bread, pastries, cookies, muffins and imported Italian coffee. If you’re more than just passing through, have a seat and enjoy their gelato made in-house using their own home grown produce. Let them make you a warm panini sandwich or try their best seller, Ina Luchetti’s original Zucchinni Torta. If you want homemade food that’s as fresh as it gets, The Fruit Bowl is a little piece of country heaven.

Garlic Brothers 6629 Embarcadero Dr., (209) 474-6585, www.garlic-brothers.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Ironically, Garlic Brothers is a spectacular spot for a date, even though the kitchen is known to go heavy on the—you guessed it—garlic. Fun and lively, this restaurant sits right on the water’s edge and boasts

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Gian’s Delicatessen 2112 Pacific Ave., (209) 469-0108 Open for lunch. $

Nobody does sandwiches quite like Gian’s, and that’s why locals flock to this longtime neighborhood gem for a lunch that makes you say Mmm! Try their coppa and prosciutto, flown in from where else but Parma, Italy, the food capital of the world.

Or have some of their homemade Italian dishes like their famously delectable ravioli.

It won’t be long before you become a regular at this must-visit Italian eatery.

La Palma Mexican Cuisine 2301 Pacific Ave., (209) 941-4179, www.lapalmaonthemile.com. Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $$

Open since December of 2009, La Palma has quickly become a favorite in Stockton for delicious Mexican cuisine. Come for their fish tacos, sizzling fajitas, and shrimp green enchiladas, all of which are included on their list of specialty dishes. Open at 10 a.m., La Palma also serves hearty breakfast dishes like eggs with chorizo, huevos rancheros, and chillaquilles. Enjoy a cocktail at their full service bar, or one of their decadent desserts like the ChimiPalmas. Their festive yet tasteful décor and friendly service add to the pleasant atmosphere of this Stockton hotspot.

Le Bistro 3121 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 951-0885, www.lebistrostockton.com Full bar. Open for dinner. $$$$

This award-winning restaurant is Stockton’s only four-star dining experience. Whether eating lunch or dinner, Le Bistro offers a menu of French Continental cuisine beautifully presented in a stylish and sophisticated setting. This is a luxurious affair, where servers wear tuxedos and the ever-evolving wine list is like no other. The quiet elegance extends to the outdoor patio as well as four banquet rooms that can accommodate up to two hundred guests. If you are in the mood for an upscale treat, this is the place to go. Check the website for current information about live bands playing in the restaurant’s show room this fall.

Masa Contemporary Japanese Lounge 2819 W. March Lane, (209) 473-1255 Wine and beer. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

With their modern yet welcoming décor, fresh selection of sashimi, and friendly service, Masa is a major contender on the Stockton sushi scene. Their diverse MARCH 2011

COURTESY AVOSAVER

[ FOODIE FIND ]

This place is what some people might call a diamond in the rough. It’s small and quaint, but packs a punch with their awesome menu of decadent fried favorites. Come in for a big juicy burger since they have over fifteen options including the ever-popular Mad Cow Burger, which includes toppings like a fried egg and fried jalapenos. They also have several choices of hot dogs, a plethora of fresh ingredients to pile atop, and a separate section on the menu that’s devoted to their deep-fryer, where you can order such delicacies as the fried twinkie, fried oreo, fried pickles, or fried zucchini. If you love true-blue American food, then discover this hidden gem in Stockton and you’ll be hooked.

delicious garlicky pizzas, pastas, and seafood.

Contrary to popular belief, however, anything on the menu can be whipped up without the brothers’ favorite ingredient.

Before you leave, roll up your sleeves and dig into a serving of Justy’s Cake—vanilla ice cream on a cookie crust topped with toffee and glazed with caramel and chocolate.

FOOD&WINE

I RESTAURANT GUIDE

selection of handmade sushi rolls includes fast favorites like the Masa roll which includes onion, tuna, avocado, and asparagus. Their unique creations are only paralleled by their elegant presentation. If your date isn’t a big sushi fan, there are plenty of other great menu items like the teriyaki chicken or beef udon on the menu, just to name a couple.

Mezzo 3499 Brookside Rd., Suite A, (209) 473-7300 Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

This wonderful Italian restaurant is dialed in to what local foodies are looking for. The hand-painted artwork on the walls helps create their elegant yet fun ambiance, and the friendly staff is happy to make your dining experience special. However, where Mezzo really hits the mark is with their use of fresh and local produce that travels from the farm to your plate, making their scrumptious dishes taste even fresher.

Their passion for cooking authentic Italian meals doesn’t stop there, as their pasta is also homemade, proving that Mezzo has the passion that all true food lovers will come back to taste time and time again.

Michael’s New York Style Pizza

Moo Moo’s Burger Barn

2300 W Alpine Ave., Ste. A, (209) 462-6668 Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $-$$

10940 Trinity Parkway, (209) 957-9450 222 N. El Dorado St., (209) 469-9450, www.moo-moos.com. No alcohol served.

Open for lunch and dinner. $

Once simply one of the best pizza joints in Stockton, Michael’s has grown to add a café, deli, and now a full breakfast menu. The pizzas (13 combinations or make your own) draw you in but choices for everyone keep the community coming back as a whole. Michael’s also boasts a party room for up to 40 guests and has long been a favorite for sports teams and birthday parties. Dive into a hearty meat pizza or give Michael’s newest creation, the whole wheat crust, a try.

Midtown Creperie 2311 Pacific Ave., (209) 941-9070, www.midtowncreperie.com Open for breakfast and lunch. Dinner served only on Thurs., Fri., and Sat. $

For those who’ve always wanted to visit the French quarter in New Orleans, now they can have all the southern charm and delicious flavors of Louisiana at Midtown Creperie. With a fantastic menu of both savory and sweet crepes, along with salads, sandwiches, and scrumptious breakfast items like omelets and beignets, this fantastic addition to the Miracle Mile is the perfect place to put a little south in your mouth.

Playing off the name of the restaurant, Moo Moo’s is decorated with hand-painted murals of a large barn and open pastures, but the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a ‘50s diner than a drive through the countryside. Authentic burgers, shakes, onion rings, and fries are served in addition to less greasy sandwiches, salads, veggie burgers, and sweet potato fries.

This is a great place to come with small children for a fun, tasty, and affordable meal. Moo Moo’s ensures that, like happy cows, happy diners come from California.

Outback Steakhouse 1243 W. March Lane., (209) 954-9615, www.outbacksteakhouse.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

For a perfect steak every time, Outback Steakhouse is always number one. Their hearty menu includes ribeye, NY strip steak, Prime Rib, and their Outback Special, a signature sirloin seasoned to perfection. Steak dishes come with options like adding a delicious blue cheese or horseradish crumb crust, or their Lobster and Mushroom topping.

If you’re not into red meat, Outback accommodates you with plenty of delicious chicken and fish dishes like their Shrimp En Fuego Fettuccini or

spring into

their King Crab. Plus they have great salads, sides, soups, and appetizers like their famous Bloomin’ Onion.

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar 501 N. Lincoln Center, (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer you the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes. The main dining room has a unique design with a showcase kitchen and bar in warm, classy decor.

You’ll find the three outdoor dining patios a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner. Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12 to as large as 100 guests. Papapavlo’s also specializes in off-premises dining with their outstanding catering services.

Peking Restaurant 7555 Pacific Ave., (209) 957-0617, www.pekingstockton.com Beer and wine.

Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Peking has all the Chinese dishes that your family already knows and loves, like seasoned mushu pork, crispy pan pacific

Van Ruiten Family Winery

Tasting Room Open Daily 11:00am-5:00pm 340 West Highway 12 Lodi, CA ph 866-334-5722 fx 209-334-5726

“”Excellence Crafted in History” www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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I RESTAURANT GUIDE won tons, and hot and sour soup. But they also have some new classics that you’re bound to discover, just ask your server for their fresh specials, or try what locals have already deemed an instant classic like their delicious crispy House Chicken. The dishes at Peking are never bland, but are always served hot, with flavorful sauces that add a kick to your typical Chinese menu. Perfect for lunch or dinner, Peking is a great place to eat with family, colleagues, and friends all year round.

Revolucion 1910 296 Lincoln Center (209) 955-0100, www.rev1910.com Full bar. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday Brunch. $-$$.

Sass Bar & Grill 110 N. El Dorado St., (209) 808-4058 Full Bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

[ LODI WINE ]

MCCAY CELLARS MAKES WINE COUNTRY HISTORY Congratulations are in order for McCay Cellars, whose 2007 Jupiter Zinfandel was honored this past December on the San Francisco Chronicle’s list of the 100 Best Wines of 2010. Described as having notes of raspberry, black cherry, huckleberry, dry sandalwood, and hazelnut, the wine is part of their first vintage with only 450 cases produced. It’s also the only wine on the ‘100 Best’ list from the Lodi area.

“I’m very excited about being one of the top 100 wines,” says winemaker Mike McCay. The compiler of the top 100 wines is Jon Bonne, who tasted several thousand bottles in order to sculpt his list. Of Mike McCay, Bonne says, “He’s a great example of a small Lodi producer who’s setting a high bar with winemaking, finding all the nuance and great flavors that Lodi fruit can deliver. I hope more folks get a chance to experience his wines.” According to McCay there are only about 100 cases left, so hurry and get your hands on this sensational Zin before it’s all gone. —K.B. For more information: McCay Cellars, 4 N. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 642-5756, www.mccaycellars.com

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The warm and contemporary décor in Sass is inviting and excites the senses with its unique accents and attention to detail. The excitement is only multiplied when you see their eclectic menu, with cuisine inspired by flavors from around the world and local ingredients that showcase the wonderfully fresh produce available in San Joaquin. Enhance your meal by their selection of local wines, or a chilled cocktail from their bar. And in the warmer months, don’t miss the opportunity to dine on their romantically lit sky terrace while enjoying the Delta breeze as you overlook Stockton’s waterfront. Sharing so many impressive elements, Sass is a special place to dine with family and friends year round.

The Shadow Oaks Wine Bar and Lounge 7555 Pacific Ave., (209) 477-5547.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$$

Formerly a steakhouse, Shadow Oaks has recently updated its offerings to become an upscale wine bar and lounge. They still offer a few steaks, as well as sandwiches, appetizers, and a menu of other delicious selections. An incredible wine list awaits you at Shadow Oaks, with bottles priced anywhere from $25 to $450. With its sophisticated interior, beautiful bar, and live entertainment Wednesday through Saturday, we are more than happy about the new Shadow Oaks.

Shirasoni is a triple threat, operating as a steakhouse, sushi bar, and teppanyaki restaurant all in one. Hungry guests can choose to sit at the sushi bar or in their large dining room where talented chefs prepare your dish while putting on an authentic teppanyaki dinner show. Watch as professionals perform tricks, flipping their utensils and chopping your sizzling veggies right in front of your eyes. Enjoy a juicy steak or try one of their more traditional Japanese dishes. If you’re just stopping for a quick bite, have a seat at their intimate sushi bar for a taste of their fresh sushi or sashimi. Try one of their unique creations, like their Firecracker Roll, for a spicy surprise.

Stockton Joe’s 236 Lincoln Center, (209) 951-2980, www.stocktonjoes.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Featuring Italian/American Cuisine in the San Francisco tradition, this is the place to go for a delicious meal in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Entrees include charbroiled steaks, fresh seafood, veal, chicken, and pasta dishes, including several heart-healthy options.

Stockton Joe's frequently plays host to a variety of musicians who entertain guests in the comfortable lounge. Wine tasting evenings and specials are offered by local wineries featured each month. Joe's also caters all over the county, and is the exclusive caterer for the Commercial Exchange Banquet Hall and the Commander's House. With exhibition cooking, an award-winning lounge, and a large and attractive banquet room, Stockton Joe's is a local feature not to be missed.

Valley Brewing Company

157 W. Adams St. (209) 464-2739, www.valleybrew.com Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend breakfast. $-$$

The Valley Brewing Company is a fun place to bring the whole family for dinner: homemade beers, classic pub fare, live bands all year round, and unique sports memorabilia keep everybody happy. The Brewing Company keeps fourteen beers on tap at all times, from a pale wheat, to an IPA, to the house favorite Black Cat Stout, and apricot and berry fruit beers. Check the website for up to the minute information about when the fun’s happening.

Waterloo

10447 E. Waterloo Rd., (209) 931-4019, www.thewaterloo.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

At this fun restaurant, they really know how to mix it up on the grill. One of their signature dishes is the savory barbecued ribs, served as an appetizer or an entrée. The ribs, which are best paired with Bette’s world-famous pesto, are tender to the point of melting away in your mouth. It is likely visitors will find this restaurant bustling when they visit, so during peak hours, be prepared for a lengthy wait.

If that doesn’t suit you, they also offer their entire menu for take-out orders, and they even offer catering.

MARCH 2011

DAVID MARTINEZ

Javier Del Castillo started a revolution, or rather Revolucion 1910, his authentic Mexican restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite. Using fresh ingredients and only serving entrees that originated in Mexico, patrons will find a menu full of small plate entrees designed to bring out the best of authentic Mexican flavor.

The corn tortillas are all homemade, as are the sauces and vinaigrettes made to fit each entree.

Chili peppers are used in most dishes for their flavor rather than spice, in inventive entrees such as tacos al pastor or chile relleno con huitlacoche and Mexican oaxaca cheese. Be sure to try the tres leches cake for dessert, with margaritas made from only the highest quality tequilas from agave nectar, and lime juice squeezed fresh for each drink.

Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant 3249 West Hammer Lane, (209) 473-2525, www.shirasoni.com Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

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I RESTAURANT GUIDE

Yasoo Yani

326 E. Main St., (209) 464-3108 Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

This downtown restaurant, open since 1975, is a classic eatery where the food is as eclectic as the diners. Mothers with their toddlers settle in next to prominent businessmen in ties for everything from a sturdy American burger to Greek souvlaki. Don’t be intimidated by the Greek side of the menu or the local luminaries—souvlaki is simply the Grecian version of shish kebab, served on pita bread, and at Yasoo Yani, everyone gets the same fine family service. Don’t even get us started on the honey-drenched baklava for dessert.

TRACY Carmen’s Casa Nachos

350 W. Grant Line Rd. (209) 835-9402 Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Want to spice up a dull week? A trip to Carmen’s Casa Nachos family Mexican restaurant should do the trick. Try Carmen’s fantastic fajitas and their specialty salsa seven days a week for lunch and dinner, where they make all their food fresh everyday. Outdoor dining and a children’s menu are available to accommodate the whole family, while their catering and banquet menus take care of all your special occasion needs. Turn up the heat at Carmen’s Casa Nachos, where it’s Siempre Caliente!

Magellan’s

15 E. 6th St., (209) 839-2333, www.magellansworldcuisine.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$$$$$

Magellan’s Restaurant, named after owner and Executive Chef Thomas Magellan, is much like the small, intimate restaurants found in San Francisco. Featuring American Continental cuisine, the menu choices range from duck salad to their salmon burger to the ever popular, delectable filet mignon. The menu changes seasonally and the high level of noise found in some restaurants is not to be found here. If you are looking for a good traditional meal with peaceful ambiance, seafood specials, and a martini bar to put others to shame, then Magellan’s is the place.

Thai Café

614 Central Ave., (209) 832-3800. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

More practical than fussy,Thai Café is the place to go when the craving for good Thai food, fast, strikes.This little place manages to stay afloat despite some stiff competition from surrounding restaurants, perhaps in part to a large following of loyal customers. Regulars rave about the Thai Chicken Salad and Salad Kai, but if you are in the mood for something a little heavier, go ahead and try the Koa Paad— deep-fried rice served with your choice of meats.The colorful Thai decorations set the mood for a fun and flavorful meal where everyone is welcome.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Tracy Thai

1035 Central Ave., (209) 833-9703 Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is famous for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has artistic presentation and exceptional flavor, from mouth-watering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal.

Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with adventurous tastes, and also familiar favorites for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

The Great Plate

714 Central Ave., (209) 833-0862, www.thegreatplate.com Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Looking for the best pizza in town? It’s here! The Great Plate has signature pizzas like Buffalo Chicken, or the Dominic, or build your own. Handmade to order and fired in the brick oven with always fresh dough for perfect crust and a delicious pizza. But that’s not all, excellent burgers, wings, salads, pastas, steaks, seafood, and more. Located downtown across from the Grand Theatre, come and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere. Great Plate offers two full bars and 16 beers on tap, a fine wine list, and Sunday breakfast (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and the NFL Ticket. Or check out the exciting nightlife featuring live music and DJs on both floors. Visit, “Tracy’s Favorite Place to Play.” Banquet rooms available for up to 125 people.

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!

WOODBRIDGE Woodbridge Crossing

18939 N. Lower Sacramento Rd., (209) 3661800, www.woodbridgecrossing.net. Full bar.

Open for dinner, Sunday Brunch. $-$$

Housed in one of the oldest brick buildings in the San Joaquin Valley, this historic restaurant, formerly Woodbridge Feed and Fuel, provides fine dining in the midst of antiques, Western artwork, and memorabilia.

Known for their prime rib and steak, this restaurant strives for great customer service. Woodbridge Crossing diners are treated to live entertainment and dancing on the weekends, and the restaurant also offers private banquet facilities where guests sit in unique old boxcars. [SJM]

(

(

The Old Feed & Fuel

Prime rib

baby back ribs

Sunday Brunch

For reservations call (209) 366-1800 18939 N. Lower Sacramento Road Woodbridge, CA 95258 Looking forward to serving you.

Steve Ding - New proprietor For more info please visit Woodbridgecrossing.net

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Ten Great Dates

COMPILED BY KATY BERRY

March 23, Sacramento If you’re a Lady Gaga fan, then you’ll be glad to know that this over-the-top show embodies everything you love about her.

Besides hearing Gaga sing all her hits, you’ll be able to see her at her freaky best in notorious garb, with scandalous numbers and maybe even a few surprises. $52-$177. 8 p.m. ARCO Arena, One Sports Parkway, Sacramento, (916) 928-6900, www.arcoarena.com

Wildflowers West March 1-April 30, Lodi The challenge of capturing a landscape covered in flowers is one that evades artists each year, as they try to find the rare window of opportunity when weather and timing allow for the perfect view—but when the fields of wild blooms are finally caught at their peak, the artist is truly rewarded. Come experience

countries, Guzmán’s talent and charisma brings each piece to life. $22-$55. Thursday’s show begins at 8 p.m., Saturday’s show begins at 6 p.m. Atherton Auditorium at Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., (209) 951-0196, www.stocktonsymphony.org

Friends of the Fox Present Classic Film: Vertigo March 11, Stockton

the thrill and beauty of these moments through

Deemed a “flop” during its release in 1958, Alfred

works by local artists. Free. Hours vary. Knowlton

Hitchcock’s film, Vertigo, is now hailed as a

Gallery, 115 S. School St., Ste. 14, Lodi, (209) 368-5123, www.knowltongallery.com

masterpiece and considered one of the best thrillers of all time. Set in San Francisco, a retired police officer who suffers from a fear of heights is hired to spy on the

Symphonic Spice

wife of an old acquaintance, who fears she is possessed

March 10 & 12, Stockton

or going mad. The resulting plot is full of seductive twists

With alluring melodies from cultures around the

and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. $8

world, the Stockton Symphony again brings a

adults, $4 kids. Organ concert at 6:30 p.m. Film at 7 p.m.

truly memorable and engaging show featuring

Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 337-

songs by Golijov, Piazzolla/Ridriguez, Guzmán,

HOPE, www.bobhopetheatre.com

Génin, and Falla. The show will also feature the remarkable talents of flautist Viviana Guzmán.

Having played in more than eighty-five

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MARCH 2011

COURTESY ARCO ARENA; BOB HOPE THEATRE

The Monster Ball Tour Starring Lady Gaga

DATEBOOK

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Take Charge Cleanup Project

Darren Carter

March 11, Stockton

March 12, Lodi

On the second Friday of each month in Stockton, proactive citizens can gather

Los Angeles-based comedian Darren Carter is bringing his humor and

and “Take Charge” in cleaning up some of Stockton’s rundown storefronts

charm to San Joaquin this March at Hutchins Street Square. With an act

and restoring the beauty of downtown Stockton. Volunteers will meet at

that includes great impersonations, observational humor, and “off-the-

the Downtown Stockton Alliance office and travel to their nearby cleanup

wall” social commentary, audience members are sure to get a kick out of

destination together. Free. 3:30 p.m. Time subject to change. Downtown

Carter’s relatable wit. $25-$35. 8 p.m. Charlene Powers Lange Performing

Stockton Alliance, 343 East Main St., Stockton, (209) 464-5246,

Arts Theatre, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 333-5550,

www.downtownstockton.org

www.hutchinsstreetsquare.com

Sunshine Boys March 11-13, Tracy

Spring Art Annual

Together, comedians Lewis and Clark performed one of the most famous

March 18-20, Lodi

Vaudeville acts of all time. However, off-stage the duo hated one another. In the

The Lodi Community Art Center will be hosting the 51st edition of their

play Sunshine Boys, by Neil Simon, Clark’s nephew Ben attempts to orchestrate

spring art show, kicking-off with a preview benefit Friday, March 18.

a memorable reunion show, but convincing the notorious grumps to put aside

Guests will enjoy gourmet food and wine as well a silent auction, raffles,

their differences is no easy feat. $15. Various times. Studio Theatre at the Grand

and live art demonstrations. Since the theme is “An Art Renaissance in

Theatre Center for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-TKTS,

Lodi,” guests can also expect to run into wandering minstrels, and are

www.atthegrand.org

encouraged to wear their finest renaissance garb for a costume contest.

The rest of the weekend, visitors can view the show for free and enjoy hors d’eouvres, wine tasting, door prizes, and more. Benefit tickets $50, regular admission is free. Benefit 6-9 p.m., regular gallery hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Woodbridge Winery, 5950 E. Woodbridge Rd., Acampo, (209) 333-3855, www.lodiartcenter.org

Lodi Spring Wine Show March 25-26, Lodi The 31st annual Lodi Spring Wine Show is sure to draw in another great crowd this year with an expected turnout of at least 2,500 people. The event will include wine tasting from over forty local wineries, live music, hors d’oeuvres, fun wine-related vendors, and a chance to win ‘The Ultimate Wine Basket’ with 100 bottles inside. All proceeds benefit the Lodi Grape Festival “Bucks for Books” Scholarship Fund. $25-$30. 6-9 p.m.

Ole Mettler Grape Pavilion on the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi, (209) 369-2771, www.grapefestival.com

Rolling Stones Unauthorized March 19, Tracy Rolling Stones fans will deem this show a must-see when they witness how band members Rudy, Mark, Dave, and Kenny transform themselves into the legendary rock group to amaze audiences with their spot-on tribute show. Featuring accurate costumes, stage antics, and perfect renditions of all the songs you know and love, this concert will keep audiences on their feet as they groove to classic hits like “Paint it Black,” “Start Me Up,” and “Beast of Burden.” $28-$38. 8 p.m. Eleni Tsakopoulos-Kounalakis Theatre at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, www.atthegrand.org

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Fashion Gives Back November 20, Lodi PDC The Boutique’s Red Carpet Fashion Show in Lodi’s Woolworth Place featured local models, designers, ‘swag’ bags, the Nutcracker Sweet ballet, and local wine, all to benefit the Kristen Watt Foundation.

[1] Pam Payne, Christie McCorstin, Sky Francis, Angie Shuman [2] Tracy Ann Stirlen, Lisa Starkey, Sarah Watt, Jillian Brizendine [3] Nicole Graumen, Olivia MacDonld [4] Katie Wood [5] Crystal Pech [6] Peanut Martinez, Lisa Sysombath (Designers) [7] Stephanie Watt (Founder), and Sarah Watt

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One.Charter Performing Arts Academy Ribbon Cutting

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December 10, Stockton Peter Jaffe led excited students, teachers, and parents in celebrating the opening of this new art-focused charter school, while students indulged visitors with demonstrations of their work.

[1] Alissa Norman, Kya Johnson, Chaya Elem [2] Pamela Mannah, Bath Jara [3] Curtis Mannah, Janine Cuaresna, Lisa Maldonado, Mick Founts [4] Shannon Ding, Vice Mayor Kathy Miller, Mayor Ann Johnston, Superintendent Mick Founts, President of San Joaquin Board of Education Jill Fritchen [5] Teanna Mahan, Adriana Reynolds [6] Tom Smith, Joshua Meyers [7] Adriana Reynolds, Anthony Williams

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The Curtain Goes Up November 18, Stockton Members of the Stockton Opera Guild enjoyed a presentation by Peter Jaffe about this season’s production of La Boheme, including a beautiful live performance.

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[1] B.J. Stewart, Carolyn Pometta [2] Kate Bautsch, Nicholas Ebbers, Jessica Siena [3] Gene Gini, Judy Goldstrand [4] Vincent and Renata Bricka [5] Jessica Siena [6] Peter Jaffe, Nicholas Ebbers

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Macchia’s Mad Hatter Wine Release Party November 20-21, Acampo Macchia’s many followers were not dismayed by rainy weather, and showed up in their grandest headwear to celebrate Macchia’s fabulous wines.

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[1] Ruth Glanville, Adel Liebelt, Marion Wold [2] Ed Bottorff, Tim Holdener, Valerie Wilkins, Whitney Smith, Kathy Smith, Bev Evany [3] Amy Stoddard, Finnius Biwer [4] Shelly Dandridge, Linda Hunt, Irma Dickey

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Last Issue's Winners!

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

MARCH 2011

Except Tradition

time changes everything