Lifestyles June/July 2015

The Magazine For San Joaquin

COOL

SUMMER FASHION FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN

PIXIE WOODS

CELEBRATES 60 YEARS june/july 2015 ■ sanjoaquinlifestyles.com

l e t t e r

f r o m

t h e

e d i t o r

Publisher Roger Coover

Publication Director Deitra R. Kenoly The Magazine For San Joaquin

Editor Carrie Sass

MANAGING Editor

School's out for the summer.

T

he tent and camping stove are pulled

It’s also time to celebrate dads. Mine is 91

down from the rafters. Airline tickets are

this year. A nice backyard barbecue just seems

waiting for that tropical escape. Cabins are

to be the right way to relax and enjoy a great

reserved and beach towels and flip-flops are

family meal together. Fat City Brew & BBQ

packed in that flowery straw beach bag. Many

Supply (page 54) has everything you need!

options await for those wanting to get away.

Karen Bakhtegan

Graphic Designers Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein

Contributing WRITERS

This summer, at our house, we are also

If you’re staying close to home, get out

adding another celebration. You see, as the

your calendar – we’ve highlighted some local

song goes – “school’s out for summer…

activities to keep the kids busy. If you haven’t

school’s out forever.” Yes, school IS out forever

experienced the Delta Loop, (page 27) this

for The Sassman. After 42 years shaping and

might be the summer to explore! Our libraries

educating young lives as an 8th-grade teacher,

have summer reading programs – and they are

he has retired! It’s been a wonderful career,

free! (page 56) The Children’s Museum (page

and I am very proud of his dedication to the

75), Lodi’s WOW Museum, the Haggin Museum

thousands of kids who have passed through

and Historical Society Museum at Micke Grove

his classroom door. Now he has time to enjoy

have many planned activities throughout the

golf, the grandkids and some well-deserved

summer. A new find, Go Bananas (page 17) in

R&R.

Chloe Diaz Charleen Earley Eunice Green, NHD Sandra Gordon Dennis Hall Caitlin Hamer Zachary Johnson Jennifer McNeil, MD Leah Myers Doris Hobbs Jennifer Torres-Siders Susan Michener Spracher

Contributing Photographers Ashlee Blackard Charleen Earley Safeena Pader Mike Byerly Photography Helen Ripken

Lathrop, along with Gymstars (page 30) will keep the kids active!

Carrie Sass

Please continue to forward story ideas to: The Record/Lifestyles Magazine, 530 E. Market Street, Stockton 95202 or call: 209-546-8351; or email: kbakhtegan@recordnet.com

To advertise in Lifestyles magazine, call 209-546-8200 Lifestyles is published six times a year by The Record, 530 E. Market Steet, Stockton, CA 95202. All information written for publication in Lifestyles is believed to be accurate. Readers must assume all responsibility for their own actions based on this information. Occasionally a product or company may be named in an article, but does not constitute an endorsement of said product. Lifestyles assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Photos and content become the sole property of Lifestyles and may be used, published or edited without limit or obligation to the author. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinlifestyles.com.

On the cover: COOL SUMMER STYLE PHOTO BY Mike Byerly Photography

$3.95 Value

The Magazine For San Joaquin

CONTENTS

8 17 20 22 27 30

FEATURE

SILVER LAKE FAMILY CAMP GO BANANAS in LATHROP FATHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS PIXIE WOODS 60th anniversary DELTA LOOP recreation area GYMSTARS gymnastics

15 4 O’CLOCK MARTINI SAVOR 34 smack pie pizza

WINE CRITIC 39 DREAMS BY THE BARREL

WINE SPIRITS 40 SOMM LOdi native FASHION 43 SUMMER style 53 a designer life

PEEK A BOUTIQUE 50 lomeli gardens 54 fat city brew & bbq supply EDUCATION 56 summer reading program 60 quality local daycare

A summer

sweet wave.

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 63 nekDoodle

HEALTH & WELLNESS 66 join the tea party 84 digestive health

SWEET CHARITY 72 211 program

THE ARTS 75 children’s museum 78 finding the music wag tales 81 barkleyville dog park mark the date 86 LOCAL ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

FREE Bundtlet with purchase of a bundtlet Stockton

128 Lincoln Center • (209) 957-2253 Expires 7/31/15. Limit one coupon per guest. Must present this offer. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Redeemable only at the bakery listed. Must be claimed in-store during normal business hours. No cash value.

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FE A T U RE

Making new memories at summer camp

Stockton’s

Silver Lake Camp PHOTO COURTESY OF Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp

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FE A T U RE

R

By Charleen Earley

eady to leave the hustle and bustle

of the Stockton city life, in search of the calm, peaceful outdoors with your family and friends for the summer?

Nestled among tall pine trees, a beautiful lake and rustic all-wood cabins that sleep up to six happy campers, Stockton’s Silver Lake Camp in Amador County is one of the longestrunning family camps for kids.

“I call it ‘Family Fun since 1921,’ said

Board President Ron Felton of Stockton, who spends his extra time with his daughter Alexia sprucing up the camp site for a new summer season of outdoor memories. 

PHOTO BY Safeena Pader

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PHOTO COURTESY OF Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp

No need for texting, since activities will keep you busy all day long – fun things like kayaking, canoeing, swimming, volleyball, horseshoe toss, arts and crafts, variety and talent shows, campfires, movie, bingo and poker nights. While roughing it outdoors, everyone works up a hearty appetite.

“When you come to camp, that bell rings three times a day for meals.

It’s a place where you sit down and see your family and friends face-toface. It’s something that’s missing in today’s culture,” said Felton.

The camp is operated by the City of Stockton and has been in a lease agreement with the National Forest Service for over nine decades. In 2009, due to a financial downturn, nonprofit Silver Lake Campers Association stepped in to keep the camp running and now thriving.

“It’s flourishing now. Last year, we opened the camp one week earlier than the previous year during the Fourth of July weekend,” said Felton.

“We are doing it again this year. We open on July 2!”

Available to large group organizations such as churches and 4-H Clubs, Silver Lake Camp is located 100 miles east of Stockton off Highway 88 on Plasse Road, at an elevation of 7300 feet, and is less than an hour from Lake Tahoe. 

PHOTO BY Safeena Pader

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FE A T U RE

PHOTO COURTESY OF Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp

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PHOTO COURTESY OF Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp

Fees are $75 plus tax per 6-person cabin, and an additional $25

Silver Lake Camp is a professional-run camp with a nurse on staff,

plus tax per person, per night. There are over 40 cabins and two group

camp host and fully dedicated kitchen, housekeeping and maintenance

cabins, which sleep 16 campers each. Each cabin is outfitted with a

staff members. While kids may not get to text (darn) since there is no

double bed, two sets of bunk beds, a dresser and chairs. There’s a list

cell phone service, there is Wi-Fi for adults who can’t quite live off the

of what to bring on their website.

grid.

“We literally don’t make money doing this camp,” said Felton.

Expect to see camp nurse Edith Kleinhardt, who has worked the

“I do this because of the satisfaction and reward it brings me

camp since the 1950s and Shirley Bonuccelli, who started working in

in knowing that I’m part of the chain of legacy that has been

the kitchen in 1946. Felton said every return camper knows that Shirley

going on for almost 100 years. It’s very gratifying. I’m only

organizes the pajama breakfasts and wears a necklace with a fish on it.

one person in a long list of committed Stocktonians who have

“Camp is not just for the young kids,” said Felton. “Even the

given of themselves for no financial gain to see this place flourish and

older folks are excited to come back come year after year to see their

survive.”

friends.” 

“In today’s world, we are losing environments like this one, where kids get to experience the outdoors in a way that’s convenient,” added Felton, who also brings up other young volunteers, such as Austin Gourgues, from Stockton, to help with renovations.

Campers are also free to plan their own adventures on the 30 acres of land through hiking trails guided by a naturalist, swimming, kayaking and fishing at the lake, or just taking a walk in one of the wildflowerfilled meadows nearby.

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Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp 29981 Plasse Road • Pioneer, CA 95666 209-227-0082 www.stocktonfamilycamp.org

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Cynthia Roland, Constance Guidry, Demitra Leea and Sue Chambers

Donna Moses, Constance Smith, Peter Parros, Linda Cumby and Faye Lockett E

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Jacqueline McCrae

Gwendolyn Boss, Marguerite Toliver and Mateenah Floyd

Angela Casanave, Leslie Baranco Martin, Marcia Elam and Otashe Golden, MD Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

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Janie Reddish and Evia Moore

LIFE S T Y LE

C OL U M N

A word lounge. Stirred. Shaken. Straight up. Take a sip.

But First Let Me Take a Shelfie

S

By Susan Michener Spracher

ummer = vacation = enjoying a good “beach read.” Vacation

like Danielle Steele, Jackie Collins and Sidney Sheldon became a window

selfies are cute, but what if we share a part of ourselves that’s really

of what I guessed the real world was like. What a rude awakening to

interesting and throw a book into the picture? A “shelfie.” As in, what’s

discover how far from the truth that was! Still, in my mind, never a

on your bookshelf?

moment is wasted in the reading of a good story.

Reading and books are like air and water for me. Beginning with

Growing up before the age of the Internet and social media, I

the first book I can recall, a large Alice in Wonderland picture book. My

didn’t realize that there were others who shared my love for books

mother read it to me repeatedly until I could mimic her voice inflections

and reading. What a relief to find my people, and discover that being

and pretend I was reading. From then until now I can think of very few

a voracious reader doesn’t mean I’m odd. Us book nerds can mix and

days that I haven’t had reading material in my hand or nearby in a TBR

mingle on social media sites like Goodreads, where you can keep up

(to be read) pile. I zoomed through reading assignments in school and

with what friends are reading and find book reviews. And online dating

felt my heart leap with excitement when the Scholastic book order forms

has found a niche in the site Alikewise that allows book lovers to find

came out. I fell in love with the Little House on the Prairie books and

another based on their book tastes.

read them over and over. While I was quite content to curl up with a

I’m wishing you a summer of vivre dans les livres (to live in books)

book, my mother thought I needed to spend more time outside, literally

and of course, ice cold martinis. Don’t forget to post your shelfie on The

locking me out of the house for an afternoon. My response? I took my

Four o’clock Martini Facebook page. 

book and sat under a tree reading until I was allowed back in. What

~Cheers!

could my mother say? Technically I had been outside. It’s funny that I can remember the titles of my favorite childhood books like Half Magic and Harriet the Spy but I can’t remember where I laid my glasses down

fouroclockmartini.com facebook/thefouroclockmartini

or that I left my coffee cup in the microwave.

My favorite places were (still are) bookstores and the library. Being

twitter@absolutelySusan

able to check out and take home as many books as I wanted was better than any toy store. I wasn’t a chubby, awkward, latchkey kid when I was in the pages of a book. In late adolescence and early adulthood, authors

lifestyles

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FE A T U RE

KIDS GO

S A N A N A B PHOTO COURTESY OF GO BANANAS

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By Leah Myers

n 2006, when Janice and Gary Bowlin opened Go Bananas in Lathrop, their intention was to create a place where kids can “go bananas” and

play freely in a safe, clean environment. The idea was borne out of frustration from a lack of venues in the local area to take their granddaughter to play.

Go Bananas is also described as an indoor/outdoor playground for children of all ages – they can choose from inflatable jumpers, slides and obstacle courses, all within 10,000-plus square feet of space. With its jungle theme motif, it is the perfect place for kids to swing, climb and bounce in a family-friendly atmosphere. 

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PHOTO BY MIKE BYERLY PHOTOGRAPHY

Go Bananas also houses towering inflatable water slides in addition to standard slides, climbing areas, and other activities such as laser tag, billiards and air hockey. Open yearround, Bowlin also enjoys hosting special events, including visits from a magician and even Santa Claus. Food and beverages are also available for purchase at the indoor snack bar.

Bowlin explained there is a unique social aspect at Go Bananas where kids seek out other boys and girls to play with and also build their social skills. It is a win-win situation, because the parents will often meet other moms and dads while the kids entertain themselves. The time families spend together here also creates bonding moments where they forget about everything for a while and just have a good time.

Bowlin understands that it can be frustrating to parents when their kids become bored at home and need to be outside to exercise – away from their tablets, phones, video games and computers.

“There was a huge need in the community for this,” Bowlin said. Parks are not always safe, and during the winter, going outside to play is not an option.

After almost nine years, the business is still thriving – so much in fact, Bowlin said there are regular visitors from San Francisco, Sacramento and all over Northern California. With its strong appeal to families, Go Bananas will likely expand with other locations in the future.

Go Bananas is open Wednesday through Sunday

and

closed

on

Mondays

and

Tuesdays. 

17918 Murphy Parkway • Lathrop, CA 209-858-1500 gobananasnow.com PHOTOS BY MIKE BYERLY PHOTOGRAPHY

Celebrate

Dad!

WINE & ROSES DAD’S DAY BARBECUE

FATHER’S DAY AT THE ZOO

Take your Papa Bear on a Bear “Scavenger” Hunt, included with zoo admission.

Celebrate Father’s Day in casual dad style with a classic barbecue, classic cars and tropical bird display.

Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Sunday, June 21 Seating Times: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (every 15 minutes) $50 adults, $17 ages 5-12, $5 children under 5 Reservations: 209-371-6160 or townehouseres@winerose.com

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Sunday, June 21 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 for guests 14+ $3 for guests 3-13 Free for children ages 2 and under Parking excluded

Wine & Roses 2505 W. Turner Road • Lodi 209-334-6988

Micke Grove Zoo 11793 N. Micke Grove Road •Lodi 209-953-8840

BREADFRUIT TREE RESTAURANT

FATHER’S DAY CELEBRATION AT PIXIE WOODS

Bring Dad to enjoy the taste of the Caribbean at the Breadfruit Tree Restaurant on the Delta waterways.

Sunday, June 21 Call for details and reservations.

DADS GET IN FREE!

Breadfruit Tree Restaurant 8095 Rio Blanco Road • Stockton Reservations: 209-952-7361

Pixie Woods at Louis Park Shimizu Drive at Occidental Avenue • Stockton 209-937-8206

Date: Sunday, June 14 Time: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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60 years & Community ofFantasy

Generations of residents cherish Pixie Woods memories

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By Jennifer Torres-Siders PHOTOS BY Mike Byerly Photography

n June of 1955, Stockton’s fairyland for “children of all ages” opened on three and a half

acres at Louis Park, welcoming 16,000 guests in its first week of operation. In the 60 years since, more than a million visitors have enjoyed Pixie Woods, a place that remains a monument to childhood whimsy and a testament to the power of community spirit. 

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“My family took me there when I was a child,” says Gae Stewart, president of the advisory board that helps raise money for park maintenance and enhancement.

“As an adult, I took my children there. As I grandma, I’ve taken my grandchildren…

It’s a very special place. It’s a place to make memories for children, and it’s a great place to connect people to Stockton. You just get hooked.”

Set behind rainbow gates and shaded by leafy trees, Pixie Woods features train and paddleboat rides, a vintage carousel, and themed play areas including a pirate ship, a frontier town, a fantasy castle and a fire station. The park is open each year from spring through fall.

“It’s just a great place for kids go play and imagine,” Stewart says.

Since its founding, Pixie Woods has relied on the commitment of community volunteers. Each year, teams of supporters gather to paint and polish, repair and refurbish.

“They’ve got this amazing dedication to the park,” says John Alita, Stockton’s Community Services Director and a relative newcomer to the city. “I’ve been taken by just how proud everyone is of Pixie Woods.”

In its 60th anniversary year, Pixie Woods will host a birthday party (June 6), as well as its annual winetasting fundraiser (June 19), Christmas in July celebration (July 18) and other special events – each an opportunity for new generations of visitors to build their own warm-weather memories. 

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FE A T U RE

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FE A T U RE

“I’m a proponent of this idea of placemaking,” Alita says. “Whether it’s a park or a library, we need places for families to go.

These are the places to have the experiences that we all cherish.” 

Occidental Avenue and Shimizu Drive Stockton 209-937-8206 stocktongov.com/pixiewoods

COME OUT AND ENJOY June 6 60th Birthday Celebration, with entertainment and cake June 13 Walter K. Banks Fishing Derby June 14 Free admission for dads on Father’s Day June 19 Winetasting fundraiser July 18 Christmas in July, featuring a visit from Santa

Pixie Woods is open from noon to 5 p.m.

Thursdays through Sundays and holidays from June 4 to August 2, and from noon to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays from August 7 to October 25.

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Pocahantas and Isabelle Rivera

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Jasmine and Rayenne Bender

TR A V EL

N E A R

The Delta Loop So Close…

Yet So Far Away

PHOTOS BY ASHLEE BLACKARD

T

he Delta Loop Recreation

Area off of Highway 12 in Isleton is just a hop, skip, and a jump from anywhere in San Joaquin County, but once you are there, it feels a world away. It is the perfect day trip or weekend escape for a weary soul looking to relax and soak up the beauty of the Delta waterways in a resort-style setting. 

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The Loop is an ideal place to bring the kids and the dogs by boat or by car to enjoy a natural unspoiled setting with all the comfortable amenities of the civilized world – launch ramps, berths, restaurants and shops, ATM machines, clear cellular signals, picnic and barbecue areas, marinas, resorts, and RV parks. Spend the day, or make it an overnight excursion with camping or cabin rentals. ď Ž

For more information, maps, and a calendar of upcoming events, visit www.deltaloop.net

The Loop Andreas Cove B & W Resort Brannan’s Island Time Marina Delta Boat Storage Delta Shores Resort & Marina Delta Yacht Sales Kokopelli Kayak Rentals Korth’s Pirates Lair Marina • Giftshop • Cafe Lighthouse Marina Oxbow Marina Owl Harbor Perry’s Boat Harbor Moore’s Riverboat Restaurant Viera’s Resort Riverboat Marina & Delta Boat Works River’s Edge Marina San Andreas RV Park Spindrift Restaurant & General Store Spindrift Marina Willow Berm Marina

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FE A T U RE

Reaching Stars for the

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“W

OW” will be the first thing you say when you walk

“It’s all about building self-esteem here. It’s important to their

through the doors of GymStars off Hammer Lane and see a 20,000-

schooling and future careers. People who have strong self-esteem tend

foot gymnasium filled to the brim with kids, coaches and colorful

to be more successful in life,” said Bob, whose daughters Jennifer “JT”

apparatuses.

Johnson and Megan Wofford also manage and coach at the gym.

PHOTOS AND STORY By Charleen Earley

Over the last 16 years, Stockton owners Bob and Casey Tanon have

Many of their gymnasts, All Star Cheer and karate students compete

doubled their gymnasium in size and currently coach 1200 students

everywhere in California, with a wall of trophies to prove it, and they’re

– ages two months to teenagers – with tumbling, jumping, dancing,

proud of their recent winner, Yna Cruz, who won Regionals in April, a

balancing, karate, cheer and more.

Level 8 All-Around Champion and first place on the vault and bars.

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FE A T U RE

Besides competitions, GymStars features summer boredom-

proprioceptive and visual and auditory senses.

busters with weekly themed day camps from June 1 through August

“Especially for the younger kids, the more they move up and down,

14 including Jedi Academy, Dinosaurs, Superheroes, Mystery Madness,

it builds special awareness and gross motor skills. They also learn more

Bounce-Balance-Boogie, Pirates & Princesses and more.

about themselves,” said JT, a University of the Pacific graduate with

These camps, along with many of their programs, are focused on melding educational, physical and social activities together. Bob’s daughter JT said studies have shown how moving builds neurological pathways, and expands knowledge through tactile, vestibular,

a BS in business. “Our students enjoy school more and do better in school, too.”

Not only do owners Bob and Casey celebrate educational growth and physical fitness, they also celebrate birthdays like no other. 

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“We give the world’s greatest birthday

GymStars also caters to the special needs

parties!” said Bob. “You bring the kids, cake

community by offering two classes to high-

and candles, and we do everything else –

functioning special needs kids. The Walton

the invitations, thank-you cards, pizza, 8x10

Special Center School in Stockton visits

photo. We average eight parties a weekend.”

GymStars twice a month as field trips.

With up to 42 staff members, Wi-Fi for parents waiting in the wings for their children,

“We love serving our community of family and friends,” said Bob. 

GymStars 1760 W. Sonora Street • Stockton 209-957-1919 www.gymstars.com

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Diane Vigil and Karen Eagal

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BY LEAH MYERS PHOTOS BY Mike Byerly Photography

hen Vicki Snell, owner of The Mud Mill, opened Smack Pie

Pizza with her daughter, Krysta Pleyte, in downtown Lodi, their plan was to fill a void in the area. Snell always looked for a place that was family-friendly and affordable – a place where families can dine and kids could simply enjoy a soda and a snack after school. Needless to say, their business idea has been a strong success and Smack Pie Pizza, which opened in March 2014, just celebrated their one-year anniversary in downtown Lodi.

What makes Smack Pie different is that you can customize your pizza and it will be ready within 11 minutes. “The trend in new restaurants is fast casual,” said Snell. However, do not confuse “fast casual” with fast food. Smack Pie Pizza uses fresh, local and seasonal ingredients in their restaurant. Their best-selling pizzas are: “Meat” the Smack Daddy (#9) and the Pesto Chicken (#4). The pizzas are all thin-crust, and glutenfree options are available.

The pizza sauce is made in-house and many of the meats and vegetables are purchased from Lodi vendors. Pleyte explained their business has an operation similar to a Subway restaurant, where patrons can come in and personalize their own pizza from start to finish.

One perk for these small business owners is being on a first-name basis with some of their regular customers. Snell and Pleyte feel that pizza makes everyone happy and is an easy choice for a family dinner.

A passion for high-quality food isn’t the only thing the mother/daughter duo has in common; they also love seeing a smile on their customers’ faces when leaving the restaurant.

Smack Pie offers a happy hour on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, and other specials throughout the week. 

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Tony Vang and Angel Corralejo

Tom Patti and Tom McHugh

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Nelia Tarrango, Glenda Herrera and Kelly Halligan

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A D V E R T I S I N G

S U P P L E M E N T

- eat - drink - learn - at the hottest place around

M ile Wine Company’s multifaceted concept is unique in Stockton.

A quintessential wine bar, wine + cheese shop & restaurant, featuring seasonal small plates prepared by Chef Justin Good; Mile Wine Company offers an exceptional selection of distinctive and eclectic fine wines and craft beers from around the world chosen by proprietor and Certified Sommelier, Paul Marsh, plus, monthly winemaker dinners, a wine club, Sunday Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat, Wednesday night deejayed BINGO, wine education, and live music Thurs-Fri-Sat night.

Mile Wine Company

2113 Pacific Avenue • Stockton • 209.465.9463 www.milewinecompany.com

Open: Sun Brunch 12-5 • Mon - Thurs 11-10 • Fri-Sat 11-11

To advertise in

CALL 209-546-8200 The Magazine For San Joaquin

G R A P E V I N E

DREAMS BARREL T BY THE

BY DENNIS HALL

echnology webcaster Robert Scoble espouses that Silicon Valley

The Estate Crush 2013 white wine Albarino produced with grapes

is not a place, but rather a frame of mind for entrepreneurial lifestyles.

grown and crushed in Lodi tantalizes the nose with its floral fragrance

The same perspective is ‘app’ propo of Lodi, now officially part of

and initial taste and then tangy on the finish. The red Lamar Family

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Estates 2012 Merlot sourced locally via Creekside Vineyards exudes

Estate Crush, an accelerator for entrepreneurial winemakers in

spicy aroma with vibrant flavor all through the sip.

Lodi, delivers fusion of viticulture, wine and tech cultures translating

Business and lifestyles guru Guy Kawasaki asserts the key element

to dreams by the barrel. Customers and clients access its tasting room

of success for entrepreneurial vintners is enchantment via his teachings

through the quaint corner recessed door opening into an expansive

in his book Enchantment – the Art of Changing Hearts, Minds, and

room of wine bar with cubby shelves holding bottles of wine, stools,

Actions. Winemaking enchantment has three distinct, mutually

tables and chairs for sipping, buying wine, and relaxing. The décor

exclusive qualities: likeability; trustworthy; and/or good cause. Estate

shines with classy, exuberant understated whites and greens. Estate

Crush designs its operations allowing entrepreneurial winemakers to

Crush sells some of its own vintages. You may also sip and buy artisan

tap all three enchantment qualities at once. His two recent books, The

wines for a client brand such as Lamar Family Estates 2012 Merlot.

Art of the Start 2.0 and The Art of Social Media, foster knowledge for

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launching and self-marketing a wine business.

crush pad, barrel cellar room, and bottling/labeling operational areas.

Former professional winemaker for global brand Bogle Wines

Clients can taste wines aging right from their own barrels. Tours quench

through six vintages of ten varietals, Richard Bunch speaks to the value

curiosity.

of Estate Crush versus owning your own winery. Professes Richard,

Estate Crush brings to the process its competent team from vineyard

“Estate Crush liberates you with peace of mind.” By that he asserts

to bottle. As senior consulting winemaker, Heather Pyle provides her

you don’t need to deal with regulatory red tape and know every critical

deep knowledge and expertise from years at Robert Mondavi in the

detail in the cycle from sourcing your grapes, hauling to crushing,

Napa Valley to new, on-site, day-to-day winemaker Kaleb Vanderham.

fermentation, interdicting contamination, lab testing, aging, barrel

Husband-and-wife team Bob and Ali Colarossi focus on management,

maintenance, storage, and marketing. What a relief!

strategic development, and communications. Nick Sikeotis is the

So come to Estate Crush with your dream by the barrel. Cheers! 

managing partner handling operations with years of success in the wine industry, finance, and banking.

For those with dreams of being in the wine business or just making wine for their own edification, it’s amazing. For as little as about $2,000

2 W Lockeford St • Lodi • CA 95240 209-368-7595 estatecrush.com

and patience in waiting a few months or so, Estate Crush delivers cases of wine the rightful owner has followed all through the annual process with one’s own label design reflecting unique brand name. No fuss, no muss. Dream to reality! The wine and label meet all the compliance requirements and quality assurance of government regulations so one can sell, give out as gifts, or simply sip for their own unique enjoyment.

lifestyles

Dennis Hall is a freelance writer, author, entrepreneur, and San Joaquin County advocate. Dennis advises SipCalifornia.com, a wine-industry business.

Dennis.SipCalifornia@gmail.com 916-541-1992

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g r ap e v i n e

Somm Lodi Native M

BY DENNIS HALL

y introduction to Randy Caparoso, one of San Joaquin’s

Linda Hartzell, owner of Harmony Wynelands Winery in Lodi, who

acclaimed citizens, came in a most roundabout circuit of networking

connected the dots for me that I needed to meet local blogger Randy

referrals spanning the globe. In short, via first through global business

Caparoso of Lodiwine.com, who also just happens to be the co-founder

guru Guy Kawasaki’s introduction to Chef Roy Yamaguchi whose first

of Roy’s Restaurants. Talk about bottle shock!

name adorns the international chain of Roy’s Restaurants. Then via

San Joaquin counts its citizens among its blessings, whether they are native or transplants nurturing our festive lifestyles. Yet, let’s be frank. If you were born and raised to a significant degree in the Zen spiritual, mystical realm that is Japan as a kid, and then on from there through adulthood got to thrive in surfing safari Oahu, would you sink stakes for inland Lodi? Randy Caparoso, our resident sommelier, did all of that, and yet, mahalo, chooses Lodi as home. In fact, he’s dedicated much of his time and energy to the renowned Lodi Native campaign bringing back natural processes for viticulture.

Randy, whose ancestry stems from the Philippines and rose to become a phenomenal, truly unique sommelier educated about wine via curiosity, enquiring, and perseverance, smiles warmly as he recounts the figurative terrior of his life still bearing fruit. Today, he’s a journalist, wine judge, sommelier mentor, and editor of Somm Journal, read all over the world. Bud breaking in Japan and flourishing to age eight before resettling in Hawaii for launch of a career ultimately as a restaurateur, he finds true peace aging as a doting grandpa ever so gracefully right here in our Lodi appellation.

Randy is an affable man who cherishes his family, grandchildren, friends, and being discriminating in scoring about wine flavors and complexities, including their pairing with cuisine.

The old school characteristics of self-reliance abound in the heart, soul, and mind of Randy, as he had to overcome surmountable odds 

Randy Caparoso

beginning in 1978 to become a global wine expert, then sommelier or “somm,” and co-founder of Roy’s Restaurants. As a young college student at the University of Hawaii studying philosophy, he was also a husband and father of two very young children working his way to make a living in paradise. His bosses didn’t present a menu of a career track. He had to write his own, and that meant starting as a waiter.

Wine was two dollars a glass and not the foremost choice of those upon whom he shined charm in Hawaii. Mastering knowledge of wine and how it paired to cuisine led him into a social network introducing

so very discriminant in choosing grapes, crush, fermentation, filtering,

him to his newfound friend Roy Yamaguchi.

aging, and finally rejoicing in the splendor of gratifying taste.

Randy attributes some of his success to a Japanese principal of

Randy and Roy built the Roy’s Restaurant chain from the sand up,

balance. Leonard Cohen’s album I’m Your Man has a song named

beginning in Hawaii and reaching ultimately all across the globe. Randy

“I Can’t Forget,” with the chorus line: “I can’t forget, but I don’t

grand-opened Roy’s Restaurants 28 times! All from a humble sip of

remember what.” Something important buried deep in Randy’s memory

curiosity and insatiable insistence on being of profound integrity in

from his childhood with Japanese citizens, teachers, and later chef Roy

giving customers exquisite experiences. That is phenomenal! Today he

Yamaguchi, that balance is paramount, particularly with viticulture

is in demand, advising restaurants in selecting the wines that pair with

leading ultimately to wine. Those lyrics of perseverance ring true, “The

their menu offerings.

summer’s gone / the winter’s tuning up / Yeah, the summer’s gone / But a lot goes on forever.” Indeed, the cycle of winemaking, and being

As a community, let’s raise our glasses and toast our friend Randy who is so grateful to be among us. Cheers! 

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a taste of

SUMMER ASHION

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BY CHLOE DIAZ photos By MIKE BYERLY PHOTOGRAPHY

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hat does a new season require? A new

wardrobe, of course! Summer is almost here, and as the temperatures rise from the weekend parties to the girl’s night out, we’re getting inspired by the season’s hottest trends. Whether it’s the bold and flirty rompers, as seen on models Teresa and Caitlin, or a dreamy boho-chic dress like Chloe wears, these seven exclusive summer trends are guaranteed to have you looking hot this summer. Plus, an accessory can make any outfit more feminine, and makes a perfect accent to any outfit. Unique necklaces and purses allow you to take your look from beach boho to casual chic. Flip through for your first taste of the most wonderful time of the year and get inspired by all these fabulous summer must-haves! 

Morgan: Aqua blue jumpsuit with white bandeau and leather hand and shoulder bag.

– Fina in Lincoln Center

• Hair and makeup by Carolina Munoz

F A S HIO N

Teresa

Boho chic nav y blue romper – Fina in Lincoln Center

with necklace

Chloe Floral patterned Bohemian dress with loose knit sweater and necklace – Fina in Lincoln Center Shoulder bag – Fashion Safari Lodi

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Chloe Wide leg printed pants with a flowy white top and necklace – Fina in Lincoln Center

Teresa Green silky halter dress – Fina in Lincoln Center

Morgan Red lace bodycon strapless dress – Fina in Lincoln Center

Morgan and Caitlin Peacock maxi dresses in turquoise and purple – Fashion Safari Lodi

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The Magazine For San Joaquin

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PHOTOS BY ashlee blackard

omeli Gardens, located at 10950 N. Highway 99 in Lodi, offers

an eclectic collection of garden and patio delights, from statuary, columns and gazebos, to fountains, patio furniture, planters and more!

Have you been searching for the perfect life-sized dinosaur statue for your yard? Well believe it or not, Lomeli has that, too! Situated on four and a half acres, Lomeli boasts an array of Japanese maples, spiral topiary, trees and shrubs. Just wandering through the property and browsing all the unique and beautiful yard décor is a joy in itself. 

10950 N. Highway 99 • Lodi • 209-369-6461 lomeligardens.com

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A Designer Life

By Doris Hobbs

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he characteristic that struck me most during my Sunday

Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design and Fashion, working in both

afternoon interview with Fashion and Interior Design Program Director

residential and commercial interior design. “These experiences allowed

Leslie Asfour of Delta College was her enduring knowledge of the retail

me to enter into the lucrative world of retail store design and visual

industry. As we conversed within a lit studio, consisting of patterned

merchandising,” stated Asfour. These grand opportunities opened a

tables and rows of the latest technology it occurred to me that the

gateway of study employment within The Limited, then on to their

space compares to Lifetime’s Project Runway.

Express division as the West Coast Director of Visual Merchandising.

Settling in while glancing over her current classroom designs,

It came naturally for Asfour to take her developing skills with

we began to talk about her start in the fashion industry. The second

management training, visual standards, and architecture of retail to

daughter of four siblings, Asfour set forth early towards a career in

her highest potential.

the fashion industry. By the age of 16 she found herself managing

Asfour conveys a devotion to her students in the Fashion programs

a women’s clothing store while finishing her senior courses in high

at Delta College. Her widespread knowledge of fashion and her past

school. During her college years she began learning the fundamentals

experiences translate through her lectures. Those that are interested in

of running a small business in comparison to a large corporation while

pursuing a career in the interior design and/or fashion industry discover

working for The Limited.

an array of tailored courses designed for them through Asfour’s

By the time she reached the age of 22, Asfour had received her

programs at Delta. 

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PHOTOS BY mike byerly photography

his place is a barbecue enthusiast’s dream come true! Fat City Brew

& BBQ Supply specializes in high-end specialty barbecues including The Big Green Egg, Green Mountain Grills and Bull BBQ barbecues. The store is well-stocked with a wide variety of high-quality barbecue supplies.

And as if that isn’t enough, they also carry home brewing supplies.

Owners Don and Nadja King share a passion for barbecuing and together they share their knowledge with monthly classes and events inside their store. 

Fat City Brew & BBQ Supply 211 Lincoln Center • 209-475-9931 Visit Fat City on Facebook!

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ED U C A TIO N

The Challenge is on with the Library’s Summer Reading Program

By Susan Michener Spracher

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hile describing this year’s Summer

Reading Challenge, city librarian Suzy Daveluy animatedly states, “we will have a ton of fun and educational activities at all library branches.” The program, which runs from June 1 to July 31, is making the most of the theme “Every Hero Has a Story.”

Joining in the fun is easy. Children ages 0-12 can pick up a reading log at any Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library branch or community center in Stockton and start reading (or be read to). Once 10 books have been recorded, the log can be returned for a free book prize. Library staff has pooled favorite series titles such as DC Comics, Disney, Big Hero, LEGO and Superhero. Stockton Ports tickets will also be awarded while supplies last. Teens and adults are also welcome to join the Reading Challenge by reading three books and recording a short book review.

Participants who complete a reading log are eligible to enter it in the grand prize drawing for an E-reader. Each library branch will award one grand prize made possible by a donation from local company, Golden Bear Insurance. 

ED U C A TIO N

Photo provided by San Joaquin County Library

Daveluy suggests checking out the library’s web site for the calendar

In an age of program and budget cuts, how has the Summer

of events and programs prior to picking up a reading log to coordinate

Reading Challenge endured for over 60 years? Daveluy says it’s because

a visit with one of the many activities scheduled. Families looking for

parents see the importance of keeping children’s reading skills up over

something to do on any given day will be able to find a program at a

the summer in a free, fun and easy way. “Families are always looking for

library. Individual branches will up the ante and increase the fun factor

educational opportunities for their children, and the library is a trusted

by issuing challenges. Last year the Chavez branch contest challenged

provider for that.” Fortunately local organizations recognize the same,

readers to read 2,500 books in return for the opportunity to throw a pie

and support comes from Friends of the Library groups and the Library

in the face of a librarian, which happened to be Daveluy. “They did it.

& Literacy Foundation. Last year’s record-breaking participant rate of

They were super-excited about it and they read way more than 2,500

nearly 3,500 clearly shows the Summer Reading Challenge program is

books.”

a winner. 

Generating that kind of excitement and engagement with the library is the central goal of the Summer Reading Challenge. Schools promote continued reading over vacation to avoid the “summer slide” that can occur where reading skills are diminished during vacation.

For more information

Demonstrating that reading can occur with a healthy activity, the library

go to the library’s website:

will offer a story walk near every branch. A book is deconstructed, the

www.ssjcpl.org

pages blown up to sign size and are placed along a walking path or in a park for readers to enjoy a story outdoors.

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Committed to Quality Raising the Bar for Early Learning For more information: raisingqualitysjc.org

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By Jennifer Torres-Siders

ike many in her field, Trini Chavez first pursued a career in childcare as a way to earn a

living while still being present at home for her own young children. But in the decade since she launched her business, Chavez’s ambitions for herself – and her profession – have evolved.

Now, she and her husband and business partner, Jose Chavez, are among the growing number of local childcare professionals who aim not just to provide day care to the families they serve, but an enriching experience that helps prepare children for success in the classroom and beyond.

“This is such a crucial stage in their lives,” Jose Chavez explains.

Owners of Wonderland Child Care in Stockton, Jose and Trini Chavez are part of Raising Quality, a countywide initiative that aims to establish uniform standards of excellence in childcare, to help parents make well-informed childcare decisions, and to equip childcare providers with the tools they need to improve their services. The initiative is funded by a federal Race to the Top grant and is coordinated by First 5 San Joaquin. 

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As part of the Raising Quality program, participating childcare providers agree to be rated on a scale that looks beyond basic health and safety guidelines, and evaluates things like the caregiver’s education level and what kinds of learning and development opportunities are offered.

Participants are eligible for cash awards for improving their programs, and for scholarships to pursue early childhood education coursework.

“Raising Quality represents a pivotal step in helping ensure our infants, toddlers and preschoolers have the best possible start,” says Lani Schiff-Ross, executive director of First 5 San Joaquin. “This is the future.

We want parents to understand what high-quality childcare looks like, and we want to help providers deliver a nurturing and enriching early learning experience.”

At Wonderland Child Care Jose and Trini Chavez – both of whom are going back to college – say Raising Quality and similar initiatives have helped them turn their home into a preschool environment with an extensive library of children’s books, a writing center and an elaborate backyard play area.

“I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Trini Chavez says. “I also know that parents are more informed and more aware. They are looking for places where their children are going to grow.”

Learn more:

Raising Quality is open to any licensed childcare program, public or private, that serves children ages 5 and younger. Priority is given to programs that serve low-income families, children who are non-English speakers, and/or children who have special needs. 

What Should Parents Look for in Childcare?

• It’s a personal decision – what’s best for one child might not be best for another. In general, look for a childcare provider who knows that learning begins at birth.

• Provides a safe and welcoming environment.

• Engages children in fun, hands-on learning experiences.

• Involves parents as their child’s first and most important teacher.

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Functional Flotation J

BY CHARLEEN EARLEY

oey Zucchelli finally had it with using Styrofoam kickboards while swimming and

exercising in the pool, when out of the blue water it occurred to her – almost like having a V8.

She came up with a functional flotation device, something that would fit around her neck and not pop off and hit her in the nose while swimming backwards. When she told her close friend Debra May about it, the perfect name floated to the top. 

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S p o t l i g h t

“Deb came up with Nekdoodle and we

equipment. It’s a great swim aid for adults

owners, even people on cruises, Zucchelli and

liked it. It stuck,” said Zucchelli, a lifelong

and children, great for aerobic exercise and a

May are currently working with the U.S. Coast

swimmer, born in San Francisco, raised in

great aquatic collar. And to work with a friend

Guard to get Nekdoodle legally approved to

Stockton. “We researched everything and my

(Zucchelli) is awesome!”

be a coast guard-certified safety device.

father cut out the shape on his table saw. We

Nekdoodle is lightweight (less than a

“We were named last year by the

both jumped in the pool to see if it worked,

pound), will support up to 300 pounds,

Safe Sound Family as Top 50 Water Safety

and by golly, it did!”

made of soft, durable vinyl-coated foam,

Products!” said May. 

The two started their company in 2010,

is permanently buoyant, salt and chlorine-

creating an aquatic flotation device that

resistant, and doubles as an aerobic kickboard,

cushions and supports the head and neck

flotation device and even a seat cushion.

while performing water fitness. They said it’s

“Last year we were recognized for

designed for recreation, relaxation and aquatic

our contributions to the Aquatic Therapy

therapy in and out of the water.

Institution, called the Dolphin Award,” said

Sold online and through trade shows and

Zucchelli, whose company is also associated

conferences, it retails at $34, and is sold for

with and supports the National Drowning

$29.95 on their website with free shipping.

Prevention Alliance. “Our slogan is ‘Make

While everyone encourages the two

Sense Every Time You Swim!’”

to take their Nekdoodle to ABC’s TV show

They are excited to have some big names

Shark Tank, they feel it would be phenomenal

own a Nekdoodle, such as first U.S. 100-meter

exposure, but giving up equity in their self-

backstroke gold medalist Adolf Keifer,

owned business does not appeal to them at

educator, author and world-class competitive

the moment.

and long-distance swimmer Dr. Jane Katz,

“This is a full-time job for both of us,” said May of Stockton, who hails from Orinda. “The

and most-decorated U.S. Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps.

joy is seeing everyone enjoying the product,

Great for professional and recreational

especially using it in aquatic therapy and as

use, boating enthusiasts, pool and spa

For more information, visit: www.nekdoodle.com

Your

Miracle Mile Health Food Store

r e t t a H y t d r a a P M Tea Join us

for a day of tasting and education on herbal teas, find out about their therapeutic benefits, taste a variety of herbal teas and talk to the herbalists that will be available.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12TH 10:00-4:00

LEARN HOW TOD N MAKE TEAS A DS N LE B A TE E K A M

1906 Pacific Avenue • Stockton • On the Miracle Mile

www.greensnutrition.com • (209) 464-5738

HE A LTH

&

W ELL N E S S

Join the tea party I

By Eunice Green, NHD

n the past, tea drinking was often

associated with the English and Japanese, but in recent years there has been a tea revolution and an increase in tea drinking, not only in the United States, but throughout the world.

Herbal teas are made from leaves, stems, flowers, roots or berries of plants. They have many essential nutrients that nourish and support the body and can make a difference, not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Herbs support the body and the mind, to heal, repair and become stronger.

Many spices are also ingredients for tea, and they make teas more interesting. Many spices induce a quicker response, acting as catalysts.

People often drink herbal teas as they want a beverage without caffeine, but black tea also has health benefits. There are studies that show it reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. Mentally it is very helpful for focusing.

It is the base for chai tea, and it is also very flavorful on its own.

Adding a pinch of cayenne to any tea makes everything work faster. Cayenne is a very intelligent herb, as it seems to know exactly where it is needed. It has the tendency to turn every herb it is mixed with into a “super herb”, really amping up the effectiveness. 

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W ELL N E S S

Matcha has become a very popular tea in recent years. It is a highly concentrated form of green tea, and comes from the very top leaves of the plant. Matcha is the tea used in tea ceremonies. It has properties (catechins and EGCG) that have been found to prevent many types of cancers. It also makes your brain happy, as it contains the amino acid L-Theanine. It has successfully been used for blood sugar balancing, lowering cholesterol, and also weight loss.

Weight Loss Tea 4½ cups of water 2 tsp yerba mate 2 tsp green tea 1 tsp hibiscus

Hibiscus became very popular a few years ago when Dr. Oz talked about it for lowering blood pressure, and it is one of the most successful

Bring the water to a boil, turn off heat and add the herbs; let

treatments that he has mentioned. It has a fresh, citrus flavor that is tasty

sit for 15 minutes and then strain. Drink one cup hot in the

both hot and cold.

morning, and then ice the rest and drink throughout the day.

Peppermint is highly popular and very well know for assisting with

Sleep Tight Tea

digestive issues. It also seems to lift moods and enhance energy.

Lemon balm is a wonderful antidepressant, and can really lift the

1 cup hot water

spirits. It is also known as the herb of longevity.

Chamomile is well known for being a relaxation herb. Many people drink a cup of this tasty tea in the evening, as it helps them to relax and prepare the body for sleep. Add a bit of hops or valerian and it becomes a very potent sleep enhancer.

Holy basil, an Ayurvedic herb, is known as an adaptagenic herb and helps the body to deal with stress and overall assists in achieving balance both mentally and emotionally. It is an herb that can be used on a regular basis.

Red clover and burdock root are well known for their blood-cleansing

½ tsp hops ½ tsp valerian 1 tsp chamomile Bring water to a boil, remove from heat and add herbs. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes, strain and drink. Can add a bit of raw honey for flavor.

Settle Your Nerves Tea

properties, and are often added to detoxifying blends. Red clover is a

1½ cups water

great support for ridding the body of yeast (Candida) and can be part of

1 tsp lemon balm

a Candida cleanse regime.

1 tsp chamomile

These are just a few of the herbal teas that not only taste wonderful

Bring water to a boil, remove from heat, add herbs and let

but can make a big difference with health issues.

Tea bags are a very convenient, quick and easy way to make tea.

steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Using bulk teas seems to enhance the benefits as the water is able to swirl all around the stems, leaves, flowers or roots. Although many people find that to be too much work,it really is a very easy process. Just bring your water to a boil, then take off the heat, add the herbs and let sit for about 15 minutes; strain. There are also many new tea-making cups available now that make using bulk teas a simple process.

Eunice Green NHD Green’s Nutrition 1906 Pacific Avenue • Stockton 209-464-5738 www.greensnutrition.com

Following are some delightful recipes for herb teas. 

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Summer Fields and Deb Mills

Summer Safety Slip-ups

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By Sandra Gordon

o big deal, you think – so what if my child doesn’t want to wear his helmet this

time. He can go for a bike ride without it just this once. Or you get caught up in conversation at a pool party instead of keeping an eye on your toddler.

It’s no surprise that accidents happen, even when we’re trying to be careful. But because we’re outside more and the days are longer, summer can be an especially dangerous time.

According to SafeKids Worldwide, there’s an 89 percent increase in children drowning in the summer months and a 45 percent surge in bike-riding deaths.

Fortunately, turning your child’s summer into a safety zone is a matter of making a few precautionary tweaks. Here are some small risks you might be taking that can lead to big problems, and our top tips for avoiding them. 

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Slip-up:

Leaving your child in the car. Each year, an

average of 38 children die from heat stroke after being left unattended in motor vehicles, according to kidsandcars.org. The inside of a car can heat up quickly – to as high as 122 degrees F in less than 20 minutes on an especially hot day. Moreover, young children overheat faster than adults because they’re less able to regulate their body temperature.

Play it safe:

Never leave your child in the car, even with the

windows “cracked,” or even just for a few minutes. And keep in mind that a change in routine or a bad night’s sleep can lend themselves to

Slip-up:

Keeping tiki oil within your child’s reach. Toddlers

the unthinkable – driving to work with your sleeping baby in the car

and older kids are drawn to anything that looks like juice. Tiki oil, which

and forgetting that it’s your day to drop her off at day care. To help you

is used to light tiki torches, comes in purple, blue and red. An enticing

remember that your baby is in the car, put a soft toy in the front seat.

container of it can easily be upturned and ingested. Another common

Or secure something you need, such as a purse or backpack, in the

mistake parents of young children make: “They’ll pour gasoline for the

backseat near your baby. Also, get in the habit of checking to make sure

lawn mower into a smaller container, like a measuring cup, and leave

that everyone has exited the car when you get to your destination, and

that sitting around,” says Rose Ann Soloway, R.N., a clinical toxicologist

lock car doors when you leave so a curious toddler can’t climb in your car

at the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C. In addition

when you’re not looking. Keep your car keys out of your child’s reach, too. to being poisonous, “Kids can swallow it or breathe it into their lungs, causing aspiration pneumonitis, which can be fatal,” Soloway says.

Slip-up:

Tossing charcoal after a barbecue. Cleaning out

the grill and disposing of coals in a remote section of your yard or at the

Play it safe:

Store tiki oil and gas in the original container

beach may seem like a good idea because it’s far away from everyone.

out of your child’s sight and reach, in a locked cabinet just like you

Trouble is, kids run all over the place in the summer, and they’re

do medicine and vitamins. The same goes for charcoal lighter fluid,

often barefoot. “Charcoal can get up to 1,000 degrees F,” says John

antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. These containers don’t have

Drengenberg, consumer safety director at Underwriters Laboratories, in

child-resistant caps, which a determined toddler may be able to override

Northbrook, Illinois. Even if the coals have cooled and don’t look hot,

anyway. If you believe your child has ingested something potentially

they can retain their heat for hours. It only takes a moment’s contact

poisonous, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. You’ll be

with a scorching coal to seriously burn a child’s foot.

connected with a nurse, physician or pharmacist at a local center who is specially trained in recognizing and treating poisoning. Do this instead

Play it safe:

Whether you’re at home, at the beach or camping,

cool down hot coals before disposing of them by dousing them with a

of heading directly to a hospital emergency room or call 911 – you’ll get the fastest advice on how to handle the situation.

garden hose or a bucket of water after cleaning out the grill.

Slip-up:

Assuming someone is watching the kids. “At

pool parties, many parents assume somebody else is watching. Mom assumes Dad’s watching. Dad assumes Mom’s watching and it’s easy to get distracted,” says Phyllis F. Agran, M.D., M.P.H., professor emeritus of pediatrics at the UCI School of Medicine, in Irvine, California. Even a few unsupervised minutes in the water can be deadly for a young child.

HE A LTH

Play it safe:

&

W ELL N E S S

Assign pool duty. At pool parties with children present,

Play it safe:

“Dump the wading pool when you’re done with it,”

assign a supervisor and make it clear by saying to your spouse, for example,

Drengenberg says. “And turn it upside down so it doesn’t catch rain water.”

“Okay, you’re on duty while I’m chatting with our friends.” Don’t think it’s

In fact, empty all outdoor containers of water after use, including five-gallon

enough to make your older kids, who are having fun too, keep an eye on

buckets and insulated coolers; they’re all formidable drowning hazards.

your younger ones. Make that supervisor your spouse or another adult.

Slip-up: Slip-up:

Leaving medication on the hotel nightstand. “When

Letting your child ride his bike without a helmet.

we’re traveling, it’s often much easier for youngsters to get into things that

Studies show that kids ages 11 to 15 tend to wear helmets less often than

might be safely stored at home,” says Soloway. We stow medication and

younger ones.

vitamins in suitcases, on nightstands – places that are accessible to children, she says.

Play it safe:

Be on helmet patrol. A bike helmet can reduce the

risk of bicycle-related traumatic brain injury by up to 88 percent. So, of

Play it safe:

If you don’t have access to a locked cabinet, store

course, you’ll want to make sure everyone – you included – is protected

your medication and vitamins out of your child’s reach just like you would at

with a properly-fitted helmet whenever you ride. Keep on your older child to

home. Do the same at Grandpa and Grandma’s house, too, and make sure

always wear one.

any medication or vitamins they take aren’t accessible. 

Slip-up:

Keeping the wading pool filled. “Young kids can

drown in an inch of water or less,” says Duesenberg, so don’t think the water in your child’s baby pool is harmless.

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211 San Joaquin

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By Zachary Johnson

he 211 phone service has come to San

“211 is the national standard for providing

Joaquin County. The system allows anybody in

public information for referrals to available

the county to make a free phone call linking

services in the community, such as food,

them up to social services.

shelter, counseling and social services,” said

Organizers hope that word will spread

Mike Miller, director of the San Joaquin County

quickly enough so that 211 will become as

Human Services Agency. “We think it’s a very

synonymous with finding resources as 911

important tool to provide additional services to

is for help during an emergency. Besides

our clients.”

Ruhstaller said. That will change with the new

operators fielding phone calls, the system

The 211 directory service is commonplace

service. When families fall onto hard times,

includes an Internet database where people

around the country, and it spread fast across

they need help quickly, or a crisis will continue

can look up resources for themselves.

California over the past 10 years until San

to spiral into something even worse, she said.

Joaquin was the most populous county in the

“We have witnessed this so many times in

state without a 211 service. More than 90

childcare. It’s that one support that makes it

percent of people in the state had access to

all stay together, and without it, it all unravels.

211 services before those living in San Joaquin

Your work, and then your house, and then it all

County, according to the county.

goes to ‘H’ in a handbag,” she said. “If we can

Dialing 2-1-1 or going online to 211sj. org will lead to many links to county-provided

just provide those concrete supports when the family’s in need, it stabilizes them.”

help, but it will also link into nonprofits and

And since people in a crisis often need

others that are part of a coalition of 40 local

more than just one kind of help, the operators

organizations. But the county isn’t running the

will work to find out what those might be,

program. That’s being done by Family Resource

said Tiffany Phovixay, who is managing the

& Referral Center, a Stockton nonprofit that

program at the nonprofit. “There are a wealth

began 35 years ago helping people get

of resources we are able to offer,” she said.

childcare.

“That’s a key piece right there for 211.”

When people need help, it takes an average

People looking for this help who don’t

of eight phone calls to get to the right place to

know where to go often turn to nonprofit

receive that assistance, Executive Director Kay

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even emergency dispatchers at 911, organizers

than 10 years ago, and the path forward was

including assisting criminal offenders in

said. The new system will help reduce those

already well mapped out, she said.

programs intended to reduce recidivism, and

calls and allow those groups to do the jobs they are there to do, Ruhstaller said.

And as people call 211 or use the website, the system will track where people are getting

More funding is needed to keep the

helping people acquire health insurance. “It’s

operation going or expanding as more calls

for everybody who needs access to care,”

come in. The group is also seeking volunteers

said José Rodriguez, president and CEO of El

to join the staff operators.

Concilio.

help and what needs are being unmet.

Pat Collier of Stockton is volunteering

But because of the organization’s name,

Google Translate can put information into 150

because she recognized the need for a service

some people don’t realize they can get

languages, and callers can tap into translation

like this while working as a nurse at St. Joseph’s

help from the organization, which also has

services covering 200 languages.

Medical Center.

operations in Stanislaus County, which has a

The service is 24 hours a day and could also

“Working in the nonprofit area… you may

long-standing 211 program. In that county, it

be used to link people to specific assistance

do a lot of good work, but it’s very hard to get it

has helped direct people to El Concilio who

after a natural disaster, such as a flood or some

out to other people,” she said. “Other counties

might not have known there was help there

other emergency.

have this, and we have seen the benefit…

for them, Rodiguez said, saying he expected

hopefully we can see the good effects in our

the 211 operators in San Joaquin County

county of connecting people to resources.”

would link up people to assistance they don’t

When the idea of starting a 211 in the county was first studied, there wasn’t money to get it off the ground during the throes of the economic downturn, Ruhstaller said. Nonprofits

For her, volunteering allows her to play a role in making that connection.

were hit particularly hard. But the wait also

El Concilio, a Stockton-based nonprofit

means the technology available now is better

organization, offers a wide range of services,

know about, and not just from El Concilio.

“I know it’s going to make a difference for a lot of folks reaching out for social services.” 

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brings art and hope with bus

BY CAITLIN HAMER PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

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hen the Children’s Museum received a

passenger school bus from the Head Start Development Council in August of 2011, the first thing the board did with it was remove all the seats. The next step was turning it into a traveling exhibit, a project they had long hoped to bring to the community, an idea which was partly inspired by the excitement children would express upon seeing the bookmobile. 

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THE

Once the bus was ready, the board members drove it to the homeless

A RT S

really building something positive with their effort.”

shelter, and it was a huge success. Since then, it has made stops at

The board had hopes that the bus would offer children a safe,

Stribley Park, the Gospel Center Rescue Mission, and Conway Homes,

encouraging, and anti-bully environment. Through the art projects

as well as Stockton is Magnificent, and other community-sponsored

they’d work on together, they’d also learn valuable life lessons.

events that were centered around families.

As the bus isn’t incredibly waterproof and has no interior lights, it’s much easier for it to get around in the summer. The activities on the bus

“You can’t make a lot of mistakes,” said Yvette, of the process of creating art. “You’re going to be successful, and it creates pride and confidence and inspiration.”

depend on the week, the supplies, and where the bus is going, but no

The fact that the art bus exists is a reminder to the city that good

matter what, it promises a creative and interactive learning experience

things can and will grow and flourish in Stockton. It’s clear that its

for both children and their parents or caregivers.

impact is reaching further than just the places it goes, as it’s giving

A recent addition to the bus has been a mobile version of the Marble Run, which is an exhibit that opened in the museum earlier

children the priceless sense of the uninhibited joy that comes from getting involved in an art project. 

this year. The Marble Run is an interactive and educational experience which encourages children to send marbles through contraptions they design themselves, a process which cultivates creativity, collaboration, and problem solving skills.

“Our focus is to try to create some sort of empowerment as the children are creating something,” said Yvette Remlinger, Executive Director for the museum. “They use imagination and creativity and are

Children’s Museum of Stockton 402 W. Weber Avenue • Stockton 209-465-4386 www.childrensmuseumstockton.org

FINDING the STORY THE

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A Children’s Book Inspired by Community

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By Jennifer Torres-Siders

lthough the story that would become my children’s book,

Finding the Music, had been floating in my head for a year or two by then, its blurry edges didn’t sharpen into focus until around 2009, a little after Forbes named Stockton the country’s most miserable city.

Crime and foreclosure rates were spiking to troubling highs.

Employment and education levels lingered at frustrating lows. And I was pregnant with my first child.

Neither my husband nor I are from Stockton originally. But our daughter would be.

I thought a lot about what it meant to raise a child in a city whose challenges I had been documenting as a reporter for The Record newspaper, challenges that continue to demand our care and consideration.

At the same time, I realized this wasn’t a place I was watching from a safe distance. It’s a place I was part of.

And I knew I wanted to tell a story about community.

In Finding the Music/En Pos de la Música (published by Lee & Low Books

mariachi music, and about the role both played in shaping the life of her community and the lives of the people who inhabit it.

and illustrated by Renato Alarcão) a girl named Reyna accidentally

The book was inspired, in part, by the strength and traditions

breaks her grandfather’s vihuela, a guitar-like mariachi instrument and

of family that I inherited in my childhood, that I brought with me to

family heirloom. As she ventures into her neighborhood, determined

Stockton, and that I hope to pass on to my own children.

to fix the instrument, Reyna learns about her grandfather, about

But it was also inspired by people like Faustino Carreon, a south 

Stockton man who offered free music lessons to kids aspiring to perform mariachi. I covered the memorial service held after his death in 2009.

It was inspired by the individuals who rallied behind Chavez High School’s fledgling mariachi program when student musicians struggled to afford traditional suits, called trajes. I wrote about their fundraising effort in 2006: “What we’re wearing now, it’s OK,” a 17-year-old student told me at the time. But with trajes, he added wistfully, “We can be real; we’d be like real mariachis.”

To mariachi music, the vihuela brings rhythm and harmony. That’s why I chose it for Reyna’s grandfather, a character whose voice, though we don’t hear it until the very end of the book, is nonetheless present throughout a community’s joys and struggles. 

Learn more at jenntorres.com

Finding the Music is available through booksellers such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble, or through the publisher, Lee & Low Books.

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Wag Tales B

PHOTOS BY ASHLEE BLACKARD

arkleyville, located at 5505 Feather River Drive (just

south of Fourteen Mile Slough), is the perfect place for your furry friends to socialize with their K-9 peers. Situated on four acres, the park is separated into 3 fenced areas – one for dogs under 20 pounds, another for larger dogs over 20 pounds, and a separate agility/play course.

There are plenty of benches and shade trees to keep the humans comfortable while Fido gets some much needed

off-leash

fun

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exercise.

Barkleyville

also

provides all the necessary amenities such as doggy water fountains, waste bags and disposal containers. While the 

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park has been open for several years already, it is always kept clean and well manicured. The park gets prettier each year as the landscaping matures and the trees fill out more and more making it a pleasant experience for four-legged and two-legged visitors alike. 

Chica

German Shepherd

Ramsey Cirneco

Scruffy Terrier Mix

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Mum’s the Word When it comes to Digestive Health

W

By Jennifer McNeil, MD, Colon and Rectal Surgery

hen it comes to issues of digestive health, for so many

they need colonoscopy because they feel great and have not had any

people, both men and women, it’s mum’s, or rather bum’s the word.

problems with their colon. That is great; however, a colon polyp does

Although things like hemorrhoids and colonoscopies might be

not necessarily cause any symptoms, and a polyp can be present and

embarrassing to talk about, it’s important to seek expert care.

grow to become colon cancer. The good news is that a colonoscopy can

As a colorectal surgeon, one of the most common things I hear from

be used to both detect and remove polyps. By detecting and removing

my patients is “I think I have a hemorrhoid.” This is usually because

polyps, colon cancer can often be prevented. Furthermore, it is better to

they have pain and swelling near the rectum – actually the anus – but

find a small cancer if there is one, than wait until it is bigger and may

we have a difficult time in our society using such words. If you think

cause more health problems. The majority of procedures to remove colon

you have a hemorrhoid, don’t be afraid to be evaluated by a doctor. If

cancer can be done laparoscopically, that means through small incisions,

hemorrhoids are indeed causing you problems, there are various options

leading to a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery.

for treatment. Medication therapies are available and, if needed, an in-

Don’t let fear or embarrassment keep you from getting screened for

office procedure called banding can be done to remove troublesome

colon cancer or from seeking the care you need to treat your hemorrhoids.

hemorrhoids. Sometimes regulating your bowel function can help to

Talk to your doctor today and ask for a referral to a colorectal specialist

lessen your hemorrhoid symptoms and help you avoid having to have

if you think you have a hemorrhoid or if it’s time for a colonoscopy. 

them removed surgically. It is extremely important that your doctor diagnose you, and not yourself. Other things, including serious health

Dr. Jennifer McNeil is a board-certified colon

conditions, can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding in that area.

and rectal surgeon with Dignity Health

Although hemorrhoids can be painful and nearly impossible to

Medical Group Stockton, a network of health

ignore, colon cancer may show no symptoms in its early stages. Colon

professionals providing high quality and

cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women. It is imperative that everyone have a colonoscopy at the age of 50, or sooner if you have a history of colon polyps or colon cancer

compassionate care. To make an appointment with Dr. McNeil or one of our other specialists, call 209-946-6800 or visit DHMF.org/Stockton.

in your immediate family. I often hear patients say that they don’t think

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June ~ Mark the date Concerts in the Park

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Spend Wednesday evenings at Victory Park throughout the summer visiting with friends and listening to great music beginning Wednesday, June 3 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets!

For more information, visit www.visitstockton.org/events/concerts-in-the-park

6

Grab your family and friends and join the Relay For Life on Saturday, June 6 at 9:00 a.m. at McNair High School. This wonderful event put on by the American Cancer Society helps raise funds and awareness for cancer research and treatment. For registration information, contact Stephanie Rocero at relay4life_stockton@yahoo.com

Lincoln Center Live Wine Stroll

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Join St. Joseph’s Foundation for Stockton’s first farmto-table event benefiting St. Joseph’s Heart Center.

The event begins Saturday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy appetizers, dinner and dessert all from locally-grown produce. For sponsorship and ticket information, contact jenny.copello@dignityhealth.org or call 209-461-3338.

festival celebrating Italian Culture

Waterloo Gun and Bocce will host a festival celebrating Italian culture on Sunday, June 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Enjoy traditional food and live entertainment.

For more information, call 209-931-0323.

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Watch Harvard’s beloved blonde take the stage in this fun and exciting musical about self-discovery on Wednesday, June 17 at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information, contact info@sctlivetheatre.com or call 209-473-2424.

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DeltaFusion celebrates its fifth year at Victory Park with a fun and interactive Festival and Pageant on Saturday, June 27 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

For more information, contact education@hagginmuseum.org or call 209-940-6315.

St. Joseph’s Farm to Heart

Stockton Civic Theatre presents Legally Blonde: The Musical

Experience Micke Grove Zoo after dark on Saturday, June 20 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bring the family and enjoy exciting wildlife, fun activities and fireside storytelling.

For registration information, contact zooed@sjgov.org or call 209-331-2138.

DeltaFusion 2015

Enjoy wines from more than 20 local wineries while listening to live music throughout Lincoln Center on Friday, June 12 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit Child Abuse Prevention Council. For more information, contact info@ lincolncentershops.com or call 209-477-4868.

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July ~ Mark the date 3

Stockton Ports vs. San Jose Giants

Come out and watch the Stockton Ports take on the San Jose Giants, Friday, July 3 at 7:10 p.m. Bring the family and experience the Independence Day celebration. For ticket information, visit http://www.milb.com/tickets/singlegame.jsp?sid=t524

Free Admission Day at The Haggin Museum

Free Yoga in Victory Park

4

Enjoy a free admission day at The Haggin Museum on Saturday, July 4 from 12 to 5 p.m. View priceless paintings, statues and sculptures as well as planes, trains and automobiles this city is famous for. For more information, contact info@hagginmuseum.org or call 209-940-6300.

10

Downtown Tracy Artwalk

Enjoy visual and performing art from local artists in downtown Tracy on Friday, July 10 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. This is a free event the whole family will enjoy.

For more information, call 209-831-6858.

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Bring your yoga mat or beach towel and join free yoga Saturday, July 18 in Victory Park at 9:00 a.m. Explore greater flexibility, balance, and strength. For more information, contact khubaka@yahoo.com

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Port City Roller Girls Derby Bout

Cheer on your Port City Roller Girls at a roller derby game on Saturday, July 25 at the Stockton Indoor Sports Complex.

Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Watch as the girls take on Shasta Roller Derby during their ninth season. For ticket information, contact portcityrollergirlzz@yahoo.com or call 888-993-3729.

Randy Sparks and The New Christy Minstrels Dinner Concert

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Enjoy Randy Sparks and the full, seven-member New Christy Minstrels on Friday, July 31 at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum at Micke Grove Regional Park. Social hour will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the concert at 8:00 p.m. For ticket information, contact info@sanjoaquinhistory.org or call 209-953-3460.

August ~ Mark the date

The Annual Moonlight Gala

This beautiful evening event raising awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society is being held on Saturday, August 1 at Oak Farm Vineyards. For more information, contact Katie.drebert@cancer.org or call 209-941-2679.

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Mary Ann Cox-Martin and Perfecto Munoz

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John Moore, Charles and Teri Hess

To advertise in The Magazine For San Joaquin

call

209-546-8200

Spend the Day on the Mile

OUR UNIQUE SHOPS AWAIT YOU! stocktonmiraclemile.com