San Joaquin Parents

A Magazine for In-The-Know Parents

Parents ALSO:

Celebrate Family in San Diego with Kids Free October!

Local Survivor: Rosemarie Basi SEPT/OCT 2017 SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Grandparents who Babysit Ginger Bugs

Themed Weekends First class amenities Premium Lodging

Halloween events every weekend in October!

209.369.1041 www.towerparkresort.com

! g n o l r ea

y ll a n Fu

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™

At Tower Park Resort & Marina

YOGI BEAR and all related characters and elements © & ™ Hanna-Barbera. (s17)

Start your kids’ school year with healthy, giggly smiles As you prepare for the start of a new school year, Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics recommends paying extra attention to their oral health now to ensure they have beautiful, healthy smiles throughout the school year.

From check-ups to cleanings to braces and more, our 14 northern California practices got you covered.

Schedule today!

STOCKTON / LODI / TRACY / MANTECA / PLEASANTON / SACRAMENTO

SEPT / OCT 2017

CONTENTS 4

SEPT/OCT 2017 PUBLISHER | EDITOR

Tony Zoccoli MANAGING EDITOR

Lindsey Rodrian SECTION EDITOR

Nora Heston Tarte GRAPHIC DESIGNER

David Martinez MARKETING ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Neelam Patel ADVERTISING

Michelle Cox REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

6. What’s New at Dell’Osso

Over the last 20 years Dell’Osso Family Farm has proved there’s nothing quite like getting lost in an 18-acre field of corn to get you in the mood for Halloween.

And with so many attractions, we can’t help but wonder what new goodies they have planned for this year.

6. Calling All Super Heroes!

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of San Joaquin County gives a voice to abused, neglected, and abandoned children that have become dependents of the County Court.

Learn more about these heroes, or take steps to become one yourself at this year’s CASA Run at Lodi Lake.

10. Grandparents Who Babysit Ever feel bad asking your parents to watch the little ones while you and your spouse enjoy a (longoverdue) date night?

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

According to recent studies, grandparents who watch their grandchildren on a regular basis are less likely to develop both cognitive and mood disorders.

12. Unique Visions Dance

Do you have a child who aspires to dance?

A born performer with a knack for movement? At Unique Visions Dance Company in Stockton, Owner, Director, and Dance Instructor Chelsea Hill puts an emphasis on getting those tiny feet in front of large crowds.

14. Local Survivor: Rosemarie Basi

Learn of a local mother’s touching story, as she discovered and battled breast cancer.

From lessons learned to advice given, Rosemarie talks experience and sheds light throughout National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

16. Celebrate Family in San Diego With Kids Free October!

Gearing up for a family vacation? Head south to San Diego where kids vacation free in October! It’s all part of the city’s Kids Free San Diego promotion, October 1-31, packed with free meals, free admission, free tickets, and more.

We’ve got all the deets on how to stay, play, and save in style.

22. Tarantula Tours At Mt. Diablo State Park Furry, eight-legged arachnids may not be what first comes to mind when you think of Northern California wildlife watching, but every year the Bay Area Blonde Tarantula draws crowds of eager spectators to Mount Diablo State Park.

Learn more and check out our top 5 familyapproved hikes.

Copper Williams, Heather Isbill Faith Lewis PHOTOGRAPHY

Dan Hood DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

Rebecca Ristrim

CONTACT US EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES

San Joaquin Parents Magazine published bi-monthly by San Joaquin Magazine 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989 www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2016 Inside Magazines Publishing Co.

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HIGHLIGHTS

What’s New at

DELL’OSSO  BY FAITH LEWIS

Over the last 20 years Dell’Osso Family Farm has proved that there is nothing quite like getting lost in an 18-acre field of corn or shooting targets with mini pumpkins to get you in the mood for Halloween. In addition to the ever popular corn maze, pumpkin blasters, and hay rides, several new attractions will get the whole family squealing in time for everyone’s favorite frightful holiday.

And the star of this year’s show is the squealers themselves—squealing pigs, that is. The holiday ice rink has been temporarily transformed into a racetrack where you can cheer on your favorite piggie at one of three daily pig races throughout the month of October.

If watching the action isn’t enough for you, try your hand at racing rubber ducks by creating waves in the race-trough, another new attraction that is perfect for the whole family.

“Dell’Osso has this reputation of ‘What will they do next?’” says Yvonne Sampson, Dell’Osso Farm’s Marketing Director. And, indeed, in recent years many infrastructural improvements and new attractions have been added. A giant slide, for example, and wowballs (think human hamster balls). Another recent change is pricing, which has made more attractions available for general admission and is sure to make this Halloween a treat.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: DellOssoFarm.com

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

CALLING All SUPER HEROES! Run with CASA on Oct. 7 at Lodi Lake  BY LINDSEY RODRIAN

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of San Joaquin County gives a voice to abused, neglected, and abandoned children that have become dependents of the County Court. The volunteers that make up this nonprofit work with the Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) to provide support, mentorship, and love to foster children who often experience instability. In an always-changing, new and different world, a CASA volunteer is often a child’s only constant. CASAs also act as fact-finders for judges, providing them with information gathered from Court documents, social workers’ files, and educational, medical, and therapy records—and support the child in court.

The men and women that make up San Joaquin’s CASA may not don a cape, but they are certainly super heroes. And this year’s CASA Superhero Run is back for the third year to celebrate, share, and support the work of CASA volunteers and the foster children they advocate for. The event boats fun for the entire family at Lodi Lake, with a family friendly 5K run that begins at 9 AM, and a morning of vendors, kids’ games and a kids’ dash that starts at 10:15 AM. The event also works to bring awareness and connect with potential CASA volunteers, as there are still many foster children in the county without a consistent mentor and supporter.

The Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Joaquin’s CASA Program is designated by the San Joaquin County Superior Court to recruit, train, and supervise CASA volunteers. No experience is necessary, as CAPC provides all necessary training. Becoming part of something so powerful will not only change the life a child, but surely yours as well.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: NoChildAbuse.org

Thank you for voting us

Best

Children’s Ballet!

San Joaquin Magazine 2017

A FREE EDUCATIONAL EVENT Presented by San Joaquin County Public Health Services

Saturday, October 7th, from 9am-1pm Call for details: 209-368-0969

702 Porter Ave., Ste. B., Stockton

209.479.5384

ANOTHER DESIGN BY SHAWN CRARY CO.

www.UniqueVisionsDanceCompany.com

2 N. Sacramento St. Lodi, California 95240

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Our studio offers classes in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Acrobatic Dance and Contemporary. It is our goal to teach our students the art of dance in a structured yet positive environment. Our studio is about striving for excellence in dance, community, school, family and life. We take pride in the fact that all students learn theatre and studio etiquette as well as the terminology, history, and proper execution of dance steps in an environment that builds respect, poise and self-confidence. We are convinced the benefits of their experience will be applied and utilized throughout their life.

Certified by Examination (Level I,II, & III) in the Dance Educators of America Teacher Training and Certification Programs and Acrobatic Arts Module One Certified.

Now Enrolling

Homeschooling through Rio Valley offers students the flexibility to pursue their own learning styles and interests with the help of a credentialed teacher and a generous student account. Rio Valley offers onsite workshops, field trips, and events to enrich students’ learning, as well as FREE access to online learning platforms and a unique reimbursement program.

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Beginning through Advanced Technique, Pointe & Repertory Pre-Ballet, Teen & Adult Classes Ballet Fit - Core, Stretch & Strength

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2218 Pacific Ave., Stockton CA 95204 209.390.4543 PacificBallet.net

Explore. Create.

Change Your World.

1110 W Kettleman Ln #10, Lodi (209) 368-4934 • www.riovalley.org

SEPT/OCT | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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XTRA CURRICULAR

GINGER BUGS

 BY LINDSEY RODRIAN PHOTOS BY BEN STEWARD

Mommin’ ain’t easy. Sometimes we need validation, adult interaction— and a healthy dose of caffeine! And sometimes (or, wait, is it all the time?!) our kids need a release, a play buddy, and a place to (safely) jump off the walls.

Maybe that’s what makes Ginger Bugs in Lodi so special. It was created for parents, by parents. Owners Kelli and Jim started their family in 2009 and faced some changes. Kelli left her fast-paced career to serve as a stay at home mom, and Jim continued to work long hours and travel often. Add moving to a new city to the mix, and you’ve got some serious inspiration!

Ginger Bugs began as a custom apparel and party décor supplier for kids and families, and has since expanded to include their parent-prayer-answering space in Lodi.

The 2,200 square foot play space was built with both parent and child in mind, with a bunch of interactive play options, a clean, sleek, and trendy ambiance, and free Wi-Fi, coffee, and other adults (gasp!). “I suffered with post-partum, and wanted to create a place for moms to come with their hair up, and to be welcomed and supported.”

Kelli and Jim spent countless hours researching top of the line play products in which to stock Ginger Bugs—with safety, cleanliness, and fun at the forefront. “We spent a lot of time doing market research, visiting similar businesses in other cities to see what worked and what didn’t,” Kelli says. “We wanted to keep it simple, calm, and minimal—to not over stimulate. And we worked to find manufactures that focused on what we care about.”

365 MAD TEA PARTY SEPT. 8, 5-7

Celebrate Ginger Bugs’ first birthday on Friday September 8th, with the Mad Hatter and Alice! Enjoy playtime, raffles, and adult fun, too!

Tickets are Required!

The Ballpit and Balls are equipped with GermBlock technology, utilizing state of the art bio-static technology that tests against over 50 common harmful germs. The Soft Play items are designed and created by Atomic Playgrounds—leading experts in the industry. Their products meet North American Society of Testing and Measures standards for Indoor Soft Playgrounds. And the play structure from CedarWorks, is equal parts, fun, functional, and fashionable. The splinter-free, chemical-free, high-quality design is made from furniture grade wood and boasts an earth friendly finish.

So, how do you get in on this!? Ginger Bugs makes it easy. Adults are always free, and kids can play daily for $9 a child. Or, opt for a Monthly Membership Package. For only $49 a month per child, your kids are granted unlimited, Monday-Friday access, and you’re rewarded with moments of freedom as you watch from your post. Monthly member perks include discounts on Rick’s Pizza, House of Coffees, and Edible Arrangements— and Ginger Bugs Merch, and Birthday Party Packages.

Yes, I did say birthday party packages! Ginger Bugs offers their space and creative talents for your next birthday party! Kelli can customize all aspects, including décor, food and snacks, and favors. “That’s my favorite part!” she smiles.

And what a relief, knowing you can trust your child’s birthday party in the hands of a passionate expert.

It’s clear Kelli’s mission statement is in full force, as moms come pouring through the door by 10 AM with their little ones. “This place saved me!” a customer chimes in.

COME PLAY: 312 N Ham Ln., Lodi Mon-Fri, 8:30-1:30 (209) 224-8684 GingerBugsLodi.com

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT

THE PLACE TO PLAY & THROW PARTIES...NOT TANTRUMS

Stockton Montessori School CULTIVATING LIFE TIME LOVE OF LEARNING

• Excellent year-round, full day & half day programs for age 2-6 • Individualized Montessori curriculum • Cultivation of creativity, initiative, critical thinking & leadership • Highly experienced, credentialed and dedicated staff • Well managed facility with two large outdoor playgrounds, indoor all-weather play area and separate nap room • On-site enrichment classes

209-954-9793

312 N. HAM LANE • LODI • 209.224.8684 GINGERBUGSLODI.COM

stocktonmontessori.com

SEPT/OCT | 2017

FOLLOW US ON:

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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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NOTEWORTHY

GRANDPARENTS whoBABYSIT  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Ever feel bad asking your parents to watch the little ones while you and your spouse enjoy a (longoverdue) date night? Or just so you can catch a couple hours of “me time”? It’s time to put the guilt aside. According to recent studies, grandparents who watch their grandchildren on a regular basis are less likely to develop both cognitive and mood disorders. So, think of it this way: by asking, aren’t you doing them a favor?

STRIKING A BALANCE

Most studies point to a balance: suggesting grandmothers who spend five days or more watching young children have an increased risk for cognitive disorders, however, those who watch them one day each week showed reduced risk for both Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s also suggested that grandparents who watched their grandchildren daily felt taken advantage of.

We aren’t suggesting you ask nana and papa to play fulltime caregiver, however, scheduling one day each week for play-dates with grandparents is good for everyone. If you’re hesitant, try asking grandma to watch the kids while you take a weekly class doing something you enjoy.

If grandparents live further away, try to make sleepovers happen every-so-often where you and your spouse can get away while the grandparents take the kids for the night.

ACTIVITIES FOR GRANDPARENTS

KIDS

&

• Get grandma active by heading to the park • Host a tea party using the fine china • Flip through old photo albums • Read together in a comfy chair • Plan an outing to a favorite place • Cook together • Teach kids a new card game or activity the grandparent enjoys

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

WHY IT WORKS

Caring for young children is engaging; they often require significant attention and use of mental capabilities (but we don’t have to tell you that), so it’s possible the need to use these functions keeps the brain sharp.

Cognitive disorders weren’t the only risk reduced through quality time with grandchildren. Another study found that caring for grandchildren prevents social isolation, a common problem amongst seniors that can lead to depression and even earlier death, and discourages the onset of mood disorders.

IT’S GOOD FOR KIDS, TOO

Intergenerational relationships lend themselves to positive child development. Kids who spend time with their grandparents (or other older adults) exhibit higher levels of social and emotional intelligence. Children learn differently from adults who are not their parents. Not to mention, building strong bonds and memories with family members is good for a child’s psyche, and could boost confidence.

EDUCATION

TOP PERFORMERS  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

UVDC Helps Tiny Feet Make Big Moves

Do you have a child who aspires to dance? A born performer with a knack for movement? At Unique Visions Dance Company in Stockton, Owner, Director, and Dance Instructor Chelsea Hill puts an emphasis on getting those tiny feet in front of large crowds.

This summer, a team of dancers (ages 8-15) performed at Stockton’s Relay for Life event, where they also raised money by participating in the walk. Next, they’ll dance their little hearts out at the Heart and Stroke Walk in Stockton in September. But the biggest performance in their future will be at Disneyland in December where dancers will pirouette and plié down Mainstreet, U.S.A in a parade with dancers from all over the world.

So who’s behind these big performers?

Chelsea Hill and her co-director Lethia Hill.

Chelsea teaches every class (available to students ages 3-18) while Lethia runs the office. Their unique small studio approach creates a family-like atmosphere for dancers as Chelsea and Lethia work closely with students and their parents to turn out dancers with technique, power, passion, and a love of performing.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

This season, UVDC will offer classes in ballet, pre-pointe and pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary dance, and acrobatic dance. Students can take classes in one discipline or across many.

The small studio has grown tremendously. In 2009, UVDC moved to its own space on Porter Avenue where the business still operates today.

In their first year, they saw just nine students in their annual showcase, and last year they welcomed 70.

“I have a passion for dance and I want students to see the benefits and joy of dance and use it how they like in life,” Chelsea says.

“Even if it’s as simple as ‘dance taught me to stand up straight and be proud.”

Students can begin taking introductory classes at three years old (as long as they are potty trained), and continue through the various disciplines. The atmosphere at UVDC is beyond your average preschool romp; it’s structured and focused on helping children thrive in the world of dance. Students reap the benefits of a close-knit studio as well as the skills taught by Chelsea, who is certified by the Dance Educators of America Teacher Training Program in Classical Ballet, Jazz Dance, Tap Dance, Modern Dance, and Theatrical

A c r o b a t i c s / Tu m b l i n g .

She also holds her B.A. in Liberal Arts with a focus on elementary education.

“Every student at UVDC learns theatre and class etiquette, terminology, dance history, and the proper execution of steps in an atmosphere that builds respect, poise, and selfconfidence,” Chelsea says.

SIGN UP FOR A TRIAL CLASS: UNIQUE VISIONS DANCE COMPANY 702 Porter Ave., Ste. B Stockton, (209) 479-5384 UniqueVisionsDanceCompany.com

Celebrating

60 years

of teaching academic excellence and faith based values

Classic

1/2 Gymnastics OFF 2017 OPEN ENROLLMENT

Annunciation School Learning | Serving | Achieving

MEMBERSHIP FEE

• K (full day) - 8th Grade • Fully accredited by WASC and WCEA • Graduates are active Christians, quality academic producers, effective communicators, and problem solvers.

• Progressive and comprehensive curriculum includes science lab, fully equipped computer lab, 1:1 Chromebooks for grades 5 -8, class sets of iPads and Chromebooks for grades K-8. performing arts, and many enrichment activities throughout the year.

• The Annunciation community has long-standing, generational ties and a welcoming, supportive "family" atmosphere

Thank you for voting us one of the best children’s gymnastics!

1110 N. Lincoln St. • Stockton, CA • 209.444.4000 Visit our website for more information:

www.annunciation-school.org

“My son loves to go to Gymnastics here. Such great programs and wonderful attentive staff!” —Corin H.

Where love meets learning!

NOW ENROLLING!

Loving Kids Academy Preschool Program is now accepting

Preschool Full Time DayCare

current and fall enrollment for children ages 2-6!

(209) 425-1543 | LovingKidsAcademy@gmail.com LovingKidsAcademy.com

ABOUT US

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

We founded Loving Kids Academy to serve the families of Stockton, including those with special needs.

Staffed by some of the most talented and experienced teachers and education professionals.

GENERAL INFORMATION Loving Kids Academy is open Monday to Friday

209.956.5437

from 7am - 6pm. We offer full or half days on full or half-time schedule.

4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton

University Park 1004 N. Grant St. Stockton, Ca. 95202

Academy_SJMParents_May17_QP.indd 1 Loving Kids

Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net WriteStart is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Stay connected with us!

SEPT/OCT | 2017 4/10/2017 3:22:57 PM

License No. 393620552

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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LOCALS TO KNOW

LOCAL SURVIVOR:

Rosemarie Basi  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

One morning in 2015, Rosemarie Basi woke up with a sore right breast. It felt exactly like a clogged

milk duct, but Rosemarie wasn’t breastfeeding anymore, which seemed odd. Her next step was crucial: she visited her OB/GYN. What followed was difficult to say the least.

After several tests, doctors confirmed that Rosemarie had breast cancer.

“I felt a slap in the face. I felt betrayed. I have heard the advice on the news, read about cancer, and thought I was doing everything right to avoid the Big C. I stayed healthy, I was young, I ate well, and even breast fed all my girls,” Rosemarie says. She was 36 years old, with three daughters and a niece depending on her.

WHAT GOT YOU THROUGH?

I knew I had to double down on life and put on my fighting gloves for these girls. I still had a lifetime of graduations, first loves and broken hearts, proms, and aisles to walk down with them. I went through 16 rounds of chemotherapy. I had a radical double mastectomy (meaning they took both my breasts as well as some lymph nodes in my right armpit). I went through 30 sessions of daily radiation. And, I lost all my hair, including my eyebrows.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

WHERE ARE YOU RIGHT NOW IN TERMS OF YOUR RECOVERY?

I am learning to live my new normal. I am cancer-free and starting the next phase of my journey. At the moment, I am undergoing breast reconstruction.

HOW DOES BEING A PARENT IMPACT LIVING WITH BREAST CANCER?

It has made it difficult. My girls had to see me at my sickest and weakest; with chemo ports, caring for surgery wounds, and seeing the toll the chemo and radiation took on me, not only physically, but also to my appearance.

They experienced the cancer with me, and that kills your soul as a mom because all I wanted to do was shield them from pain and sadness; but the cancer robs you as a parent, you are unable to protect your babies from that pain.

IF YOU COULD PASS ONE LESSON FROM YOUR JOURNEY ON TO OTHER WOMEN, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

The first advice I would give would be to accept help when offered. I still struggle with this one. I’m not sure if it is the mentality of being worried that someone might think I am taking advantage of them or the mentality that I am independent. But in this phase in life, I needed help and other survivors will need it, too. This battle is too hard to take on alone.

Second, be patient. Going through treatment might seem long and frustrating, and we are losing so much of ourselves… but it will pass and brighter days are ahead.

HEAR ROSEMARIE SPEAK:

Making Strides of Stockton Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

OCTOBER 7, 8 AM

3755 Bridlewood Cir., Stockton, (209) 941-2679

StocktonCAStrides@cancer.org

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR GIRLS GAIN FROM THIS EXPERIENCE?

WHY IS BEING INVOLVED IMPORTANT TO YOU?

YOU ARE SPEAKING AT THE UPCOMING STOCKTON CA STRIDES EVENT. HOW ELSE DO YOU STAY ACTIVE IN THE LOCAL BREAST CANCER COMMUNITY?

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS?

I hope they know how valuable life is from what they had to live through. I also hope they learned to not sweat the small stuff because at the end of the day the things that matter the most are family, friends, and just waking up to see a bright beautiful day. You realize when you can’t hug or hold your children just how precious those moments are when you can.

Recently, I attended a First Descents trip where they take young survivors on life-changing outdoor adventure trips. I just came back from white water kayaking in Montana this past July.

I’m also involved in groups and attend events from Sisters of Strength Support Group at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation, Saint Joseph’s Hospital, and the Young Survivor Coalition.

SEPT/OCT | 2017

The best part of being active is the network you build, this community of survivors that becomes your family.

These organizations are brilliant because they go the extra step of involving your family members; and they help them heal as well because husbands, wives, partners, caregivers, and children also grieve and feel pain through this process.

It sucked to go through what I went through, so if I can help anyone else through this, it would make me feel good.

When you are going through your journey, live as normal a life as possible. I also definitely made sure I was in more pictures, as I didn’t like to be in pictures before diagnosis.

For those without cancer, please be considerate of what you say. We know we are sick, we know there are uncertainties, and most of all we are fragile. Don’t suggest we prepare for our deaths. Don’t ask how many months we have left. Our time is precious, help us stay positive.

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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te a r b e Cel ily in Fam

With Kids Free October!  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Gearing up for a family vacation? Head south to San Diego where kids vacation free in October! It’s all part of

the city’s Kids Free San Diego promotion, October 1-31, packed with free meals, free admission, free tickets, and more. We’ve got all the deets on how to stay, play, and save in style. Check out the best of the best; we’ve narrowed the list of 100+ offers down to the top ten to take advantage of.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

La Jolla Childrens Pool 2: Courtesy Lisa Field SanDiego.org

SEPT/OCT | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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Stay in Style When you book a room at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in San Diego’s Hotel Circle, kids will receive a free gift just for staying, plus they eat free.

Other hotels are getting in on the action: Rancho Bernardo Inn offers free gift and breakfast for kids and kids eat free at H u m p h r e y ’s Restaurant at H u m p h r e y ’s Half Moon Inn & Suites, Loews Coronado Bay Resort, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, Four Points Sheraton San Diego-SeaWorld, and more. (SanDiego.org/ Promotions/Kids-Free)

Solve a Mystery

Ever wanted to participate in a murder mystery party? Now is your chance! Perfect for spooky Halloween adventures, Murder n’ Mayhem offers adventure hunts at Seaport Village for those who want to get a taste of the murder mystery event. For every adult ticket purchased, families can enjoy one child’s ticket free (ages 12 and under) valid for the 1-hour adventure. Spots fill up fast, so advance reservations are required!

(MurderNMayhem.com)

Explore San Diego

by Land & Sea See the best of San Diego by sea AND land? Hop on SEAL Tours amphibious vehicles—bus-boats that travel from land to sea while offering fully narrated, 90-minute tours for guests. With the purchase of every adult ticket, you get one kid’s ticket for free.

The Hydra-Terras are virtually unsinkable, Coast Guard-approved, and manned by a captain for the ultimate, safe adventure. (SealTours. com).

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

Visit the Museums

San Diego’s vast museums are one of the city’s biggest draws. For the entire month, kids will visit many of SD’s enchanting museums for free, including: San Diego Model Railroad Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum, USS Midway Museum, the Veteran’s Museum & Memorial Center, the Mingei International Museum, New Children’s Museum, Heritage of the Americas Museum, Junipero Serra Museum, and more.

Discover the San Diego Zoo. The famed San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,700 animals, and for the month of October, the zoo is inviting your wild ones to meet its wild inhabitants for free. Kids ages 11 and under visit both the Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park free, up to 10 children per each supervised adult ticket. (Zoo.SanDiegoZoo.org)

Learn to Surf

Want to learn how to surf? What better place than the warm waters of the San Diego Bay? At Surf Diva, kids will receive free private surf lessons, one per each paying surfer. The surfer can be an adult or another paying child. Professional instructors train both beginners and experts, helping them cultivate necessary surf skills with an emphasis on having fun. (SurfDiva.com)

SEPT/OCT | 2017

Take a Cruise Enjoy a meal while cruising across the San Diego Bay where you’ll enjoy cityscape views and might even catch a glimpse of resident sea lions lounging in the harbor.

All one- to two-hour harbor cruises are up for grabs, and each paid adult admission admits two kids for free. (Hornblower.com)

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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Go to LEGOLAND Located 30 minutes north of San Diego, LEGOLAND boasts more than 60 rides and family-friendly shows and attractions in a hands-on, interactive environment where the lovable, buildable LEGOs are your mascots for family fun. This deal is already underway (Aug. 14-Oct. 31) and offers free child’s admission to both LEGOLAND California and the SEA LIFE Aquarium. A paid adult ticket is required for each free kids ticket. (Legoland.com/ California)

Float to Italy The Gondola Company in San Diego offers traditional gondola rides meant to transport visitors to another country, without leaving the San Diego Bay. Every gondola can hold up to six passengers, and every paid adult couple is good for up to four free kids tickets. Cuddle up with a blanket and select a bottle of wine to enjoy on the water while kids watch the waves on this 50-minute ride.

(GondolaCompany.com)

Grub Freely One of the most popular Kids Free deals in San Diego involves free meals for those under age 12. Take advantage by eating out exclusively at restaurants gifting free meals to young patrons.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

The participant list is long, but a few of our favorites are: the Patio on Goldfinch, Casa Guadalajara, Buster’s Beach House, Carnitas’ Snack Shack, and Patio on Lamont. **Deals run Oct. 1-31, seven days per week for kids ages 12 & under (unless otherwise specified)

KIDS FALL FEST

PRESENTED BY: HERITAGE DINING & PROVISIONS

THE WATERLOO GUN AND BOCCE CLUB

4343 N. Ashley Ln., Stockton (Restaurant & Bar will be open until 10pm) Info @ 209-73-BOCCE (26223) • SEPT. 23rd, 2017 4-8PM TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE DOOR: $7/Adults • $5/Kids • Under 2 are free

FEATURING ATTRACTIONS

SPONSERED BY:

PERFORMANCES BY: Ventriloquist • Tony Borders (First show @ 4:45pm) Special Violinist Group • Elevate Dance Company • www.elevatedancecompany.com

Train Rides (4:30-6:30) • Bounce Houses • Balloon Artist • Face Painter • Many exciting local and near-by vendors to keep EVERYONE happy!!! Food Court by Chef Paul Ratto • $20 all you can eat gumbo inside the restaurant from 3p.m-8p.m

Lance McHan with Casillas Real Estate Lovotti Inc. Bank Of Stockton Mayo Constuction

AS WELL AS A PRESENTATION BY: World of Wonders Museum • Robotics by Sylvan Learning Center

The 1850 Collective Artists Group • San Joaquin County 4-H Youth Development Program • AND MUCH MORE! Portion of the proceeds will go to the Waterloo Athletic Boys and Girls Club

SEPT/OCT | 2017

Heating • A/C • Plumbing • Electrical • Refrigeration

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

21

CHALLENGE

Tarantula  BY FAITH LEWIS

TOURS

At Mt. Diablo State Park

HEAD OUT AND ONTO ONE OF THESE TRAILS, PERFECT FOR FAMILIES AND TARANTULAS! 22

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

1

Furry, eight-legged arachnids may not be what first comes to mind when you think of Northern California wildlife watching, but every year the Bay Area Blonde Tarantula draws crowds of eager spectators to Mount Diablo State Park.

Throughout the months of September and October the males strike out looking for love.

The Rock City, Wind Caves, and Sentinel Rock Trail is one of the most popular hikes at Mount Diablo State Park. Coming in just shy of a mile, this loop is a favorite of amorous arachnids and families alike. And once the kids have their fill of creepy crawlies, they can do some crawling of their own through the sandstone caves along the trail. Be sure to stop at the Indian grinding holes near the current trailhead where the Bay Miwok people once ground acorns and other seeds into meal.

SAN JOAQUIN GENERAL HOSPITAL • SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY CLINICS • YMCA OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY

2017 C OM M U N I T Y

Health Fair Saturday

October 21

10 am - 3 pm

SJGH | 500 W. Hospital Rd. | French Camp Clinics’ Parking Lot

FRE E

SE RVICES: •Blood Sugar Screenings* •Blood Pressure Screenings* •Car Seat Check-Up

Clinics Open

S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E :

Call Ahead for an Appointment: 468-7078

• Treatment for Abnormal

•Hearing Testing •Dental Screening •Flu Vaccines

Screening Results with a Provider Referral from Screening Booth • Children Walk-Ins • Pregnancy Testing • Mammograms • Breast Exams

*Abnormal Results Reviewed

by Provider

A Professional Speech-Language Pathology Corporation

Flex Club: A Social Skills Training Group Ages 5-8 & 11-13

We’re Here for You!

The Gift of Speech offers a wide range of clinical speech and language services for both pediatric and adult populations. Our mission is to provide exceptional speech-language services and to offer fair and appropriate options for our clients.

Bring the Entire Family

Something for Everyone!

• Children’s Activities • Raffles & Prizes ... and Much More!

E V E N T B R O U G H T TO Y O U B Y: SA N J OAQ U I N

3031 W. March Ln. • Ste. 117 South • Stockton • 209.952.2588 Visit our website for application and detailed information: giftofspeechinc.com

®

CO U NTY

For more information or to participate, please: call (209) 292-8468 or email communityhealthfair@ymcasjc.org

JOIN US FOR FUN ART ACTIVITIES & PROJECTS

Immediate Openings Available!

Team Charter has immediate openings in several grade levels.

In addition, enrollment applications are now available for the 2017-18 school year.

September 9 | Mixed Media Collaging

Have fun exploring the process of layering mixed media to make colorful collages out of everyday materials.

October 14 | See Art in a New Light

• TEAM is a Public School - Transitional Kindergarten - 5th grade • Small Class Size • Highly Qualified, Dedicated Teachers • Rigorous Academic Curriculum • ASES Program • Free or Fee Based Before & After School and Vacation Care Programs Available Depending on Eligibility

To learn more about TEAM, contact us at (209)462-2282.

Please visit our website at www.team-charter.org

Celebrate Haggin Museum’s newly re-imagined art galleries with a selection of activities throughout the museum.

1:30 - 3 pm | 209.940.6300 No Reservations Required Children Under 10 FREE Regular Adult Admission All Materials Provided

1016 E. BIANCHI ST. • STOCKTON

HAGGINMUSEUM.ORG

SEPT/OCT | 2017

600 E. MAIN ST. • STOCKTON

209.279.5500 209.462.2282 SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

23

CHALLENGE For most of the year park visitors come and go none the wiser to the nocturnal locals living in the silk lined burrows underfoot, but as summer draws to a close the mature male tarantulas venture out of their burrows in search of a mate. No one knows exactly how they find the females’ burrows— especially since tarantulas are essentially blind, only able to differentiate light and dark with their eight tiny eyes. Male tarantulas, who mature at about seven, will never return to their cozy burrow once they start their search for a mate. The females, in contrast, can live up to twenty years.

Despite their large fangs and creepy-crawly appearance, these tarantulas are undeserving of their phobia inducing reputation as dangerous predators. They are docile creatures and pose no real risk to people. In the unlikely case that they were to bite someone, it is no more painful than a bee sting.

The best time to find tarantulas is in the evening as the mountain begins to cool off for the night.

They tend to stay at lower elevations, rarely braving the 3849 foot summit. That being said, love-struck tarantulas have been known to defy all expectations and can sometimes be found out and about in the middle of the day, especially in shaded areas or toward the end of the season.

Keep your eye on the road when you arrive in the park as tarantula crossings are common, but the best way to find them is to get out of the car and out on the trails.

Among the recommended hikes for spider spotting are the popular Rock City and Curry Canyon Trails.

If you want to increase your chances of coming across one of these crawling creatures, sign up for a guided hike led by the

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2

The Mary Bowerman Trail is a flat loop less than a mile long that circles Mount Diablo’s 3849 foot summit. Though tarantulas prefer to hug the lower altitudes around the base of the mountain, it isn’t uncommon to find a few directionally challenged spiders near the top. While you’re busy watching where you step, don’t forget to look up to see the vista views that stretch all the way to San Francisco on a clear day.

3

For families with older kids the 5.4 mile Curry Canyon Trail is likely to be the setting for some serendipitous spider memories.

This out and back hike will take approximately 1000 vertical feet to the summit, taking you through prime tarantula territory along the way.

4 volunteers of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association.

While it can be tempting to pick up a prize tarantula after a hard day of spider hunting, don’t! They are more fragile than they appear, and falling just a few inches could be fatal for a tarantula. Instead, put your hand flat on the ground in front of the tarantula and he—having left his glasses in his burrow— will climb right over, not being able to tell your hand from anything else that might be in his path.

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

If you’re looking to get the skinny on these long legged arachnids, you might be better suited to a family friendly guided tour with the volunteer tarantula experts of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association. These tours are scheduled for evenings throughout the season and reservations can be made at mdia.org. Meeting at Mount Diablo State Park’s Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, the hikes usually last about two and a half hours.

OUR FAMILY OF PUBLICATIONS TO LIVING WELL IN THE VALLEY

Be part of our award winning publication family:

Celebrating the County’s Best Published Monthly

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Targeted Results / Print & Digital Media campaigns For more information about San Joaquin Magazine call 209.833.9989 or email sales@sjmag.com To subscribe visit sanjoaquinmagazine.com

SEPT

OCT

THE ADDAMS FAMILY AT STOCKTON CIVIC THEATRE

SEPT. 1-24

 COMPILED BY SJM EDITORIAL TEAM

Check out this new musical comedy based on the macabre cartoon characters created by Charles Addams. Gomez and Morticia’s now grown-up daughter Wednesday upsets her family by bringing home her “normal” boyfriend and a big secret. A zany night unfolds with the rest of the Addams clan, including little brother Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Grandmama and Lurch, as well as some pesky dead relatives. It premiered on Broadway in 2010 and has entertained capacity theatres all over the country. Stockton Civic

Theatre, 2312 Rosemarie Ln., Stockton, SCTLiveTheatre.com

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

Baconfest at Dell’Osso Family Farm

CALENDAR

2017

STOCKTON FOOD TRUCK MANIA

SEPT. 7

Get your food truck grub on and enjoy live music, family friendly entertainment, and an evening of fun at Oak Grove Regional Park— the first Thursday of every month! Enjoy a delectable selection of the best gourmet food trucks from all around Northern California. 4 – 8 PM. Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. Eight Mile Rd., Stockton.

ROSE GARDEN GALA

SEPT. 8

Support the One-Eighty Teen Center— the ultimate, positive hang-out spot for teens with pool tables, a café, activities, classes and more—and enjoy an evening at the beautiful Wine & Roses. The fundraising event includes dinner and dessert. And attendees can participate in the live auction and raffle. Some of this year’s silent auction items include a San Francisco’s Donatello Hotel Valentine’s Getaway, Outdoor Wilderness Guided Experience with 180 Adventures leader Kenny McGregor, A 5-day Donner Lake Cabin Stay, and others! Wine & Roses, 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 339-2308, 180Lodi.org

BACONFEST AT DELL’OSSO FAMILY FARM

SEPT. 9 -10

If you missed out last year, you’ve surely marked your calendar for Dell’Osso’s Second Annual Baconfest—featuring a Bacon Eating Contest, tons of beer, live music, a cooking contest and demos, a pig costume contest, pig races, free kids activities, arts and crafts, and vendors.

Beloved TV Personality, Adam Richman, will take the stage each day to Emcee.

Dell’Osso Family Farm, 26 Stewart Rd., Lathrop, Baconfest.com

GREAT AMERICAN HERO 5K/10K OBSTACLE RUN

SEPT. 10

America unite! Bring your teamwork and all you’ve got this September 10. Run for your country, your hero, in remembrance of someone, or just to support all those hero’s that keep us safe both at home and abroad.

Opening ceremonies begin at 7:30 AM with a 21 gun salute, taps by the local VFW and the Star Spangled Banner. The 10K run begins at 8 AM, followed by the 5K waves and a 1 mile kids/family wave beginning at 10 AM. Following the completion of the last 5 k wave our Military, Veterans, Police, Fire, Sheriff join in our Victory Mile Lap as we salute you for all your efforts to keep our country safe, then the ladies of Quilts of Honor will present 10 military heroes with handmade quilts by volunteers. Eagal Lakes Resort, 12 W. Lorenzen Rd., Tracy, EagalLakes.com

SEPT/OCT | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

27

SEPT

OCT

CALENDAR

2017

LODI GRAPE FESTIVAL & HARVEST FAIR

get in on this ride, as it’s the last of the season. 6-8 PM. Janet Leigh Plaza, 222 N. El Dorado St., Stockton,

Celebrate the grape harvest with four days packed full of fun. Come for the live performances and rides, stay for the carnival experience, fair food, and of course a plethora a wine tastings. The festival goes until Midnight on Friday and Saturday—with a line up of live bands sure to get you dancing. Lodi Grape

STOCKTON HEAT OPENING GAME

SEPT. 14 – 16

Kick off the AHL season at the Arena with our very own Stockton Heat. Cheer on the boys against the Bakersfield Condors. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, StocktonHeat.com

PUMPKIN MAZE AT DELL’OSSO FAMILY FARM

You can’t miss out on this amazing Halloween classic, on the big screen, in open air! If your kids haven’t seen this film yet, they’re missing out! Grab chairs and blankets, pack a picnic dinner, and get lost in some sweet nostalgia with your little ones.

Plus, it’s free! Gate opens at 5:30 PM. Weber Point,

Holidays on the Farm are back in full swing at Dell’Osso, and this year’s Halloween celebrations (the 20th annual) include favorites like the corn maze, haunted house, zip line, Kids’ Zone, and pumpkin blasters, as well as pig races, rides, games, and a plenty pumpkins for a-picking! General Admission tickets include a host of attractions! Dell’Osso Family

 COMPILED BY SJM EDITORIAL TEAM

OCT. 6

Festival and Event Center, 413 E Lockeford St., Lodi, GrapeFestival.com

SEPT. 29 – OCT 31

Farm, 26 Stewart Rd., Lathrop, PumpkinMaze.com

FULL MOON RIDERS

OCT. 5

Gather up the brood and your picks and join the DSA and biking community for their monthly, guided, historic downtown Stockton bike ride under the full moon. This month’s theme says—Get Your Cosplay On! Coordinating family costumes? Yes Please! Glow stick-ed bikes? You betcha! Be sure to

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(209) 464-5246, DowntownStockton.org

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

MOVIES AT THE POINT: HOCUS POCUS

221 N. Center St., Stockton, (209) 937-8206

SAN JOAQUIN TAMALE FESTIVAL

OCT. 14 & 15

The San Joaquin Tamale Festival brings together the spirit of live music and great plated foods with locally inspired cuisine and drinks from California.

The Festival is also packed-full of fun activities for the whole family—including live entertainment throughout the two-day event for adults and children on two stages, a professional cooking demonstration, arts and crafts, a classic car show, a boat show, and much more. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, (209) 6886918, SanJoaquinTamaleFestival.com

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SEPT/OCT | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

29

LAST word

DISANORES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

I love dinosaurs, and I’ve been determined to pass that love of dinosaurs onto my son since the day he was born. His nursery decorated in dinosaurs, books about dinosaurs lining his shelves, even a little Dinosaur Train on TV now and again.

It turns out it doesn’t take much to get little boys hooked on dinosaurs, and it wasn’t long before my son was talking about them gleefully. In his cute little voice he would mispronounce it, “disanore.” Everyone just melted when he said it that way.

Fast-forward approximately two years to a routine drive to preschool and my whole world changed. Sitting there quietly for a few moments, he suddenly blurted out of nowhere: “Mom! Guess what? I can say DI-NO-SAUR.” He pronounced it perfectly. I whipped around and exclaimed, “What?!” If I had been driving, I might have crashed, but luckily his dad was along for the ride that morning.

“DINOSAUR! DINOSAUR! DINOSAUR!” He chanted. “I’m a big boy now cause I can say dinosaur. Disanore is what babies say.”

I damn near broke down into tears right

30

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

there on the way to preschool. I pestered him about who had taught him how to say it that way, I contemplated (briefly) telling him whoever corrected him was wrong and it really is pronounced disanore. But he knew—the secret was out, and I suddenly saw my little kid being dropped off on his first day of college, asking me not to get out of the car as he walked to his dorm room for the first time.

It sounds like a reach, I know, going from being able to correctly pronounce dinosaur to the sudden pangs of empty nesters syndrome, but it’s all just happening too fast. And to be honest, I was never going to teach him how to pronounce dinosaur correctly.

And since I had such an intense reaction to his pronouncement, my son now makes it a point to remind me of his genius every so often. Days go by without a mention of dinosaurs and then all of a sudden, out of the blue, he’ll say, “Mom. I can say dinosaur cause I’m big now. Does that make you sad?”

Yes it does, kid. Yes it does.

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a spa getaway, close to home.

W E I N V I T E YO U TO E X P E R I E N C E O U R AWA R D -W I N N I N G S PA AT W I N E & R O S E S .

The Spa at Wine & Roses offers spa services and packages for women, men and couples. Our certified Aveda salon features a full menu of services. As a guest of our spa, you will also have access to our spa privileges. Relax in the plunge pools or steam room and enjoy a peaceful moment in the soothing tranquility room. Shop at The Nest, a retail boutique featuring therapeutic spa and salon products and unique gifts.

R E S E RVAT I O N S 209.371.6165 or spareservations@winerose.com 2505 W. TURNER ROAD, LODI CALIFORNIA

winerose.com