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San Joaquin Lifestyles of Lifestyles San Joaquin
The Magazine For San Joaquin County
february december2012 2011
SISTER CITIES
STOCKTON SISTER CITIES BUILD FRIENDSHIPS THAT SPAN THE GLOBE Page 34
Volume 6, 5, Issue 6 1
LESLIE HUBER
LOCAL MUSICIAN OPENS FOR CLINT BLACK Page 29 February 2012 ■ sanjoaquinlifestyles.com
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l e t t e r
F r o M
t h e
e D i t o r
LET IT SNOW. LET IT SNOW. LET IT SNOW. The Magazine For San Joaquin County
B
PLEASE, DEAR LORD, LET IT SNOW!
cover Photo by aMy PhiPPS
PUBLISHER
roger Coover
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR Deitra r. Kenoly
EDITOR
ack in october, when planning our
Beginning with this issue, we will have a
February 2012 stories, it seemed a safe bet
feature article that will highlight the cultural
Carrie sass
to feature family trips to the snow, along with
diversity and richness of our community.
vehicles that could get you up to the winter
Jennifer torres, a well-respected local writer,
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
playgrounds with ease. Well, here we are
began this series (page 34) with an overview
Jason ente Dan loeffelbein
in mid-January, and we are all hoping and
of our stockton sister cities. each issue we
praying that the snow will soon begin to fall in
can walk with Jennifer as she takes us into
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
the sierra nevada. it has now moved beyond
the cultures, religion, unique customs and
our selfish “want” to enjoy the recreational
leadership of these communities that reside
benefits of the powdery white stuff, to
within san Joaquin County.
the economic concerns for our mountain
are you a business owner in san Joaquin
communities that depend on the snowfall for
County? if so, consider advertising in lifestyles
their livelihood. there is also the long-term
Magazine. in addition to the ad space being
effect of the lack of watershed in the spring
reasonably priced, you will be aligning yourself
that our valley is so dependent upon. so i’m
with the people, places and things that make
hoping that by the time this issue of lifestyles
up our great community. i like to think that
has been read, the snow has been gently –
lifestyles is all about “good news” – always
maybe i should say aggressively – falling on
positive and reflecting the genuine attitude
our ski resorts and mountain towns. if so,
of the people who reside here. send me an
please head up the hill and enjoy the snow
e-mail, note, or give me a call – i’ll make sure
(see stories on page 50 and page 55) and
you get to the right person who can help you
support these businesses.
design and place your ad.
— Carrie
XoXo Please continue to forward story ideas to: SASS! Public Relations 2972 W. Swain Road #228, Stockton 95219; or call: 209-957-7277; or email: cmsass@comcast.net 4
On the cover: Local Spotlight – Sister Cities
feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2
Barbara Daly Matt Davies laurie eager Charleen earley Michelle hart Joan heffernan ruthie Magetti Wendi Maxwell John McClimans Jay Michael rivera Jennifer torres
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Cesar larios lindsay ortez amy Phipps helen ripken aaron sass
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 2012. all rights reserved. reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinlifestyles.com.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SAVOR
10 tandoori nites LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
15 Cheese Central WINE/SPIRITS
20 soulmates
Savor
WINE CRITIC
Photo by ceSar LarioS
22 sweet wines with chocolate
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15
Community Spotlight Photo by LindSay ortez
THE ARTS
26 stockton arts Commission LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
22
29 leslie huber
Debut for local teen
TRAVEL FAR
32 nashville
Music city with local ties
Wine Critic
Photo by aaron SaSS
lifestyles
5
LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
34 sister Cities
LIVING WITH STYLE
38 squaw valley escape WAG TALES
46 Poodle
sweet ruby
TRAVEL NEAR
47 lafayette. romatic getaway SPORTING LIFE
50 ski resorts for family fun ELITE FLEET
55 Family- and snow-friendly vehicles
SCENE AND BE SCENE
14 World of Wonders 18 athena awards
46
Wag Tales – Joaquin Dogs Photo by ceSar LarioS
44 Child abuse Prevention Council Zuckerman Home
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Photo by aaron SaSS
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Lifestyles
People
introducing the people behind this issue of lifestyles
Jennifer Torres
Jennifer Torres moved to San Joaquin County from her Southern California hometown in 2004. Since then, she’s gotten married, bought a home and had a baby. She loves that through writing about the many cultures that make up our Valley community, she has the opportunity to hear – and share – so many amazing family stories.
John McClimans John has lived in the San Joaquin Valley for a little over a year and recently got married to a Lodi native. Although new to the area, he has learned to take advantage of all the great things the valley has to offer. By telling the stories of the people and places he writes about, he hopes to show readers the unique opportunities found in their backyard.
Barbara Daly “I love being able to write about people and places in San Joaquin County. Through my video production company, Daly Video Services (www.dalyvideoservices.com), I have had the privilege of meeting and writing about some of the area’s finest citizens and organizations. My articles with Lifestyles have been a wonderful extension of that. I feel blessed to know so many terrific and caring people in this community. My husband is a reporter at News10 and our daughters went to St. Mary’s High School. Nearly a day goes by that we don’t have a ‘six degrees of separation’ experience!”
Charleen Earley I love writing about a county that is so rich in culture, talent and beauty; it makes my job as a writer that much easier. I was a Stocktonian for almost six years, and have been writing for The Record for over 10 years. My favorite subjects to cover are people, places and things, of which my son says, “nouns, mom, nouns!”
Laurie Eager I love writing and thoroughly enjoy being a part of Lifestyles magazine. Each assignment is an opportunity for me to make a new friend in our community, and to share all that is great in San Joaquin County with others. There is a rich diversity here in the heart of California that offers unequalled opportunities to explore destinations from mountains to sea, a myriad of cultural events, fabulous foods from every corner of the world, and a deep-rooted connection to our agricultural heritage. I feel lucky to live here!
Michelle Hart Ever since I was a little girl I heard, “One of the good things about living in the San Joaquin Valley is that it is two hours from the snow and two hours from the beach.” Although this “Valley Cliché” is true, there are so many destinations in between! I am having a blast discovering them!
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I am
San Joaquin Photo By Cesar larios
Julie Whitehouse Age: 39 Occupation: Executive Director, American Heart Association Town in which I currently live: I was born and still reside in Stockton What I like most about San Joaquin County: Warm summer nights The people who mean the most to me: My Family especially my 2 nieces and 2 nephews Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Lodi wine country A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: I spent 3 months teaching English and traveling in Costa Rica and Panama – I still keep in touch with some of my students from Costa Rica, and my host parents, who treated me like one of their own children. One thing I want to accomplish while I am able: I would like to travel through Greece and Italy – not a 10-day trip – I want to take several months and really experience the culture, people and the cuisine Favorite sports team: 49ers and the Oakland franchise teams (including the Stockton Ports, A’s, and the Midland Rockhounds Favorite vacation destination: Maui, Hawaii Hobbies: Reading and traveling Sports I enjoy: Swimming, football and soccer Favorite food/dessert: My Dad’s barbecued salmon and Crystal peanut butter and chocolate ice cream – that’s my birthday dinner! I “give back” by volunteering with: My job is a nonprofit, so I guess that really doesn’t count. I try to participate in many of the events around the community – I am blessed to have the opportunity to participate and be invited to witness all of the giving organizations in San Joaquin County.
s a v o r
Food that dances in your mouth and Singhs to your soul
Jassi Singh, Simi Singh and Param Lamba
Indian cuisine at its finest By Charleen earley Photos By Cesar larios
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S
tockton has to be one of the luckiest
said simi singh, who manages the front of the
Maharaja Dalip singh, tables are outfitted
cities in California and probably on earth
house, waiting on tables and cashiering, while
with white linen tablecloths, silverware,
because of tandoori nites. it’s a restaurant that
her husband runs the kitchen as chef.
cloth napkins and glassware. expansion and renovations were made three years ago.
satisfies the palates of those who love it when
tandoori food is cooked in a tandoori oven,
food dances in their mouths, and where a taste
a huge open-top clay oven, and is typically
Born and raised in new Delhi, which is
of india is what every customer will experience.
found in the northern parts of india. however,
the northern capital of india, simi explains the
owners Jassi and simi singh have been
its popularity brought the delicacy into every
meaning of their last name.
creating and serving delicious indian cuisine
part of india, and the Western world. the fresh
“our god gurugobind gave us this name of
for the last 18 years, and their family-run
herbs and spices include cinnamon, lemon
singh, because he believed everyone is equal
business practices follow the freshest and
juice, tamarind, cumin seeds, cloves, and bay
in india. at that time, there was discrimination
healthiest standards around.
leaves, to name a few.
between upper class, middle class and lower
“We only use vegetable oils, skinless meat
Walking into tandoori nites, one instantly
class, but he said ‘no,’ everyone is equal. that’s
with no fat, and all of our curries are made
feels transported to india, with indian music
why many of us have the last name of singh,”
from spices, with our bases made from onions
softly overhead, lime-green walls with a deep
said simi, who came to the United states in
and tomatoes. We never use lard or Msg
red base separated by white armchair molding.
1985, when she was 20 years old.
(monosodium glutamate) in our dishes, and we
one wall is adorned with a painting of the
her husband learned how to cook from
don’t add flour, cornstarch or taste enhancers,”
taj Mahal, another of the last ruler of Punjab,
one of his cousins, and the two carved out
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a life together through food and service, even though she went to school in india to become a beautician. “i got my degree in india from a famous woman – shanaaz hussin – the leading beauty expert in india,” said simi, whose parents encouraged her to pursue a professional life. “But when we came to the U.s., there was only a small community of indian women.” simi and Jassi built their restaurant together while raising two boys. their oldest, age 24, attends UoP in computer engineering, and their youngest, age 21, graduated from san JoaquinDelta College and is pursuing a degree in business. of course running a successful restaurant has its ups and downs. “We work long hours and basically don’t have a social life. after a while, people stop inviting you to things. We hardly go to parties, because we are committed to our work. our kids have helped us through the years; it’s because of them that we are here,” said simi. “But the joy is that we own our own business, we are our own boss, and during tough economic times, we have our own thing,” added simi. “We’ve also grown up with our customers; they are family to us.” From chicken tikka masala, served in a tomato-based sauce with a flavor that sings in your mouth, to aloo gobi, cauliflower and sautéed potatoes, a dish i would order for breakfast, lunch or dinner, tandoori nites will draw you in and keep you coming back for life. entrées are served with King’s long grain white rice, grown in the himalayan foothills, and spices range from mild, medium to hot. “i love my work because honestly, it’s the only work i know,” said simi. “i think my husband cooks great, and i feel happy when our customers
located at 8102 Kelley Drive, off West hammer lane, call 209-952-2200 for reservations.
tell us so.” ❑ lifestyles
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of World Wonders
Photos By helen riPKen
the World of Wonders science Museum hosted incredible edible science, an adventure in Molecular gastronomy on november 12. Delicious food was prepared by local chefs and paired perfectly with wine. the fundraiser raised money to allow the museum to bring exhibits from the san Francisco exploratorium to rest at the WoW Museum permanently.
Pat and len harrington
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E
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steve and Denise tracy, Carol and Dan ingrum
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tyler sinclair and Jaclyn artlip
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george and nancy neely, and Jay Bell
D
Clarice and Janet Corell, Collette treiber
E
lisa and scott Dasko, Mike and leslie smith
F
June and John Cerda, Calvin and andrea stevens
D
F
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s P o t l i g h t
Simply saying the word creates a smile.
:)
Say cheeSe! Story by ruthie Magetti PhotoS by LindSay ortez
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odi’s Cheese Central opened its doors
cheeses from wedges, wheels, balls, flat
items such as: olive oils, preservers, chutneys,
seven months ago and has quickly become a
rounds, slices, and sticks. Finding an old
and honey. For all of you “foodies,” Cheese
smile-maker as a new central valley favorite.
favorite or discovering a new favorite is easy.
Central also offers a calendar full of cooking
Why? Because Cheese Central offers over 100
owners John and Cindy Della Monica are
demonstrations and classes, which enables
different varieties of cheese from around the
eager to slice or suggest a smooth, buttery,
you to take their kitchen-tested recipes directly
world. they also know how to keep it made
cheesy masterpiece at your request.
to your family table. or, if cookbooks are your
in the Usa, as american cheese makers
Cheese Central offers more than a
thing, stop by and donate a gently loved
are surpassing foreign cheese makers in
magnificent assortment of cheeses; they
cookbook to the “new to you” cookbook shelf
innovation and creativity. they offer tempting
bring to lodi a fabulous array of tasty pantry
and receive a coupon toward the purchase of
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s P o t l i g h t
that people should shop locally, supporting
California Cabernet, and you’ll experience
local farmers and businesses. Cheese Central
an all-american gastronomic delight. From
strongly supports products made in america.
Mac and Cheese to the american apple Pie,
speaking of american-made, when you come in, be sure to ask about the creamery in Utah which has created unique cheddar cheese infused with lavender and coffee, appropriately
named
“Barely
Buzzed.”
Consider pairing Barely Buzzed with a great
everyone enjoys a little bit of cheese to make them smile. ❑
Cheese Central 11 north school street downtown lodi
either a brand-new or new-to-you cookbook. Beyond business, the Della Monicas are good neighbors and caring community members. they donate a portion of each purchase made at Cheese Central to the local food closet. the Della Monicas are also longtime members of the slow Food organization, and have recently started a lodi chapter. the concept of slow Food is
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Athena Awards 25th Annual
angela rosenquist and sara garfield (center) surrounded by previous athena honorees
Photos By helen riPKen
the 25th annual stockton athena awards was held on november 17 at stockton golf and Country Club. sara garfield, the founder and director of one. tlC school for homeless Children, was the recipient of the 2011 athena award. the 2011 athena young Professional award was received by angela rosenquist, the vice president of sales and marketing for Boboli international, llC. A Judge Connie Callahan, Chief Justice
tani Cantil-sakauye and Debbie armstrong
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B
Mick Founts, Margaret salazar-huerta and rashonne Founts
A
C
shirley Jones and lynne swanson
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A blend of souls through spirits A sister’s desire to keep the legacy of her brother alive
By Charleen earley Photos By Cesar larios
W
hen Louie Bonpua was nearing the
end of his battle with leukemia at age 37, he made his younger sister keep a promise – one she agreed to keep, but wasn’t sure how. “He said to me, ‘you have to support the Leukemia Society when I’m gone,’” recalled Aggie Bonpua of Stockton, the youngest of six kids, all born and raised in the Philippines until their parents immigrated to the United States in 1981. “I immediately thought to myself, there’s no way I’m going to do any triathlons!” Diagnosed at age 32, her brother passed away on January 22, 2002, but not before completing 16 triathlons, one of them an Ironman, during
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his fight with cancer. he also carried the torch
While staying sober was not quite an option,
for the 2002 salt lake City olympic games. he
and since wine was not her drink of choice, it
passed away hours later.
took what felt like forever to her to finally create
the
six
years
between
them
only
strengthened the bond they held, that only ‘soul mates’ could accurately describe. “We were very close,” said Bonpua, age 41, director of her husband Paul alba’s medical supply companies. “he was very strict, but he’d never tell on me to my parents! he would call me while i was driving and tell me not to talk on the phone while driving. i’d tell him, ‘okay.’ then he’d call back and i’d answer, only to get yelled at for answering while driving. he loved me unconditionally.” While purchasing a pair of running shoes was not on her mind, making a wine in her
a blend that even her husband would love. “at first he thought all this was my hobby. now he’s my biggest customer and calls himself Mr. aggie. he loves the wine so much, but i make him pay like anyone else!” said Bonpua, mom to Chelsea, age 16, and louie Paul, age 5, named after her brother and husband. With a clear vision on how to keep her brother’s promise to help support the leukemia society, Bonpua’s soulmates Wines, a 2008 red Zinfandel, was released on December 3, 2010, with a portion of wine sales from each bottle going directly to the leukemia society.
brother’s memory was, especially after receiving
her final product, a high-end wine sold at
a phone call from someone she hadn’t heard
$68 a bottle, $48 during this holiday season,
from in over 22 years.
through her 17/20 license (which basically allows
“he called me last year around January 19
her to only sell wines through establishments or
and we met on January 22, the very day my
online), gained notoriety and sales with thomas
brother passed away. he said he wanted to help
Klein, regional vice president and general
me for the cause and that he’d been a winemaker
manager of Fairmont hotels.
for 22 years,” said Bonpua, who graduated with an international Marketing degree from California state University sacramento. not a runner or an avid wine-drinker, since Patron tequila is normally her choice of spirits at a restaurant, she decided to hire him anyway as a consultant. it jump-started a nearly six-month arduous process of blending and testing wines in order to create the best varietal, label, bottle, cork and capsule.
“‘i want your wines here’ is what he told me after tasting it and hearing the story behind it,” said Bonpua. “he noticed all the hard work i put into it, and every detail about it, and said he loved the blend. With family and friends telling me they loved it, i was never sure if they were just being kind to me!” talks of a new varietal are in the mix, and so is a blood registry supported by the leukemia
“i came to my office every day from 10 am
society. however, Bonpua is simply honored
till 2 pm to blend and taste wines,” she said. “i
to keep her brother’s promise, by helping to
used rombauer Zin as my benchmark. i believe
support an organization that stood by her
visit Bonpua’s website at
we created the perfect combination. it smells
brother throughout his athletic challenges and
www.soulmateswines.com
good and tastes good.”
inspirational struggle to survive. ❑
lifestyles
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W INE & CHO COLAT E
SWEETS REVIEW BY MATT DAVIES PHOTOS BY AARON SASS
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SWEET SATISFACTION
H
ave you heard? sweet is in. Just go
has a long history of aging and blending
their best-selling wines. the wine is medium-
into your favorite supermarket or your local
fortified wines. you often see tawny port that
bodied, with about half the sweetness of most
wine shop and you will likely see floor displays
has indications of 10 year, 20 year and 30 year
port. it has aromas of blueberries, raspberries
of Muscat and yes, sweet red wine. there is
on the label.
and dark fruits. this will match up with spicy
a whole new group of consumers who has a
these wines will last for months after
meat dishes, and will go equally well with
sweet tooth. they are buying lots of wine. is
being opened and provide a magnificent food
chocolate. try it with white chocolate for a
sweet wine for everyone? Probably not. But it
pairing with chocolate.
really interesting match.
does have its place in the world of wine. and
if you want to try a Muscat, consider
if there are more traditional wine
what better time to experiment with sweet
sutter home Moscato. yes, they are the
drinkers in your life, they might not be open
wine than February! go beyond chocolate and
White Zinfandel people, but in the late 1970s
to the more commercial wines mentioned
champagne with the sweet one in your life this
they actually sold more Muscat. in fact, the
above. it is true that some Muscats and
valentine’s Day.
winery has been producing this varietal for
sweet reds are mostly appealing to those
sweet wines go with a lot of the foods
over 50 years. now Muscat, or Moscato as it
who are just starting to enjoy wine. But
we eat every day. the pairing of riesling and
is sometimes called, is back in fashion. Much
even the most particular wine consumer will
Muscat with thai food and even Mexican
of the fruit for sutter home comes from the
recognize and appreciate the heritage and
food is a magic combination. the sweetness
Central valley, as Muscat grows well in warm
quality of tawny port. one of my favorites
of the wine matches up with the spice in
climates. this wine will set you back a mere
is Fonseca 10 year tawny Porto. the grapes
the food. i like a Muscat with curry. a late
$6.00 in most stores, and it is an incredible
the Portuguese use are not widely planted in
harvest gewurztraminer with chips and salsa
bargain. the wine has rose petal and lychee
California. in fact, many growers in the Douro
is unexpectedly delicious. Kung Pao chicken
nut aromas, and it is lightly sweet without
region of Portugal do not even know what
with sweet riesling is a fantastic pairing. you
being cloying.
percentages of each grape they have in
can try your own combinations, and you may
there are a host of sweet reds on the
their vineyards. Most agree that the best
be surprised at how good these wines match
market, but one of the more interesting wines
grape is touriga nacional, and other grapes
with food.
is a shiraz from south africa called Jam Jar. in
such as tinta roriz and tinta Cao fill in the
the ultimate sweet wine is port. in
fact, the product developed such a following
blend.
California, port is often made from Zinfandel
that it got the attention of a major jelly
the true charm of the tawny port is in the
and Petit sirah, and these can be desserts
company whose lid was a bit too similar to
aging and not from the grape itself. the wine
in and of themselves. But for me there is no
the capsule on the bottle. now the importer
develops a nutty aroma and complex flavor
substitute for Portuguese tawny port. Portugal
has new packaging, and Jam Jar is one of
see sweet satisfaction, page 25
Chocolates from Rocky Mountain Chocolate
sweet satisfaction, continued from page 23 through controlled oxidation. Most top houses like taylor and Fonseca practice an exhaustive blending ritual before bottling so that their Porto tastes the same every time. Fonseca 10 year tawny is amber-red in color with good clarity. it has a rich cherry flavor with a nuttiness on the palate, and plenty of body to balance out the alcohol. Port is fortified to about 20%. this allows the wine to retain its sweetness of about 10% sugar because the higher alcohol will not allow for any more sugar to ferment. the alcohol acts as a preservative once the bottle is opened, and any oxidation has already occurred in the wines production. What this means for you is that you can open a bottle and it will hold up for several months. in the summer you can enjoy tawny chilled but this month i suggest you have it at room temperature along with some dark chocolate desserts. For me the Porto is my substitute for dessert. i like to tell myself that wine is fat-free. â?‘
sommelier Matt Davies is the owner of le Bistro restaurant in stockton
t h e
a r t s
Agency Supports Local Art
Stockton Symphony Maestro Peter Jaffe
S
story By WenDi MaXWell
tockton boasts a wide range of arts. Well-known ones include
stockton symphony, new Dance Company, and Plea for Peace. things in common? all receive stockton arts Commission grants. the Commission provides grants to local artists, focusing on emerging artists and nontraditional populations. Using interest from a special endowment, the Commission awards $50,000 annually. at the 85-year-old stockton symphony, Jane Kenworthy noted, “We’re doing some of the most creative work we’ve ever done.”
Performers at Plea for Peace
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Using a variety of grants, the symphony
across performances. as lisa rie, co-artistic
the importance of arts grants. “grants allow
commissioned a new work for children that
director explains, “Dance is a powerful art form,
creative people to indulge in efforts they might
speaks to community issues. Partners include
speaking volumes wordlessly and viscerally.”
not otherwise be able to do. artists aren’t limited by their creativity but by their financial
local churches, the haggin Museum, and the
a different audience inhabits downtown’s
school district. 5,000 kids will hear the piece
Plea for Peace, who received a grant to produce
this spring. as Kenworthy says, “everyone
a recording of live performances of stockton
the stockton arts Commission helps
knows Peter and the Wolf – this piece will join
musicians. the non-profit all-ages center hosts
provide the financial support for all the arts
it as another great composition for kids.”
live music, painting and photography shows
in stockton. ❑
means.”
a grant to new Dance Company helped
and independent films. By operating as a
support trolley Dances, outdoor performances
member collaborative, Plea for Peace teaches
For information on
in unusual places. audiences rode a trolley
planning and decision making, providing a
saC grants application,
through town to dance sites, where they were
voice for young adults.
joined by people who accidentally stumbled
visit: www.stocktongov.com/arts
Director Middagh goodwin explained
Trolley dance 2011
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story By BarBara Daly
ith poise, pizzazz and teenage
moxie, the 19-year-old lodi resident took to the stage like she’d been there all her life. leslie huber has been writing songs and performing her music for the last four years. But this would be her first professional performance, and she was opening for country music legend Clint Black! When the lights went up on stage at grass valley’s veterans Memorial auditorium, the crowd stood and cheered. Carrying her guitar, leslie huber casually strolled out center stage and thanked the sold-out audience for being there on a blustery windy night. she then introduced her first song, “stranded,” by saying, “it’s mostly self-explanatory… about my faith in god.” leslie set her guitar down and moved behind the piano. the crowd welcomed her with applause, then quieted as leslie’s emotionally charged voice wafted through the auditorium. the tone of her voice first catches your
“I Co uldn’t Stop Smiling” Young Lodi Musician opens for Country Music Star, Clint Black
attention, but as the room stills, you hear the words and soon find yourself tearing up.
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“leslie has the ability to connect with real emotions through song,” says Clint Black. the hubers have been friends with Clint Black since he performed at san Joaquin County charity concerts organized by the grupes (leslie’s grandparents). “Clint’s been like an uncle,” says leslie’s father, Kevin huber. as leslie’s talent developed through the years, Clint has been watching. he not only invited her to open his grass valley concert, but has used one of her songs in Flicka 2, the 2010 movie in which he starred. “i have never felt so privileged! i could live on stage performing. i couldn’t stop smiling!” beams leslie. haunting keyboard notes interrupt the applause as leslie begins the second song in her set, and our hearts melt once again with “Don’t let go,” about a young soldier experiencing his brother’s death on the battlefield. leslie picked up her guitar to finish her set with “Found love,” an upbeat song that left the audience happy and wanting more. Among the cheering crowd were her mother, Leslie's father Kevin, sister Merideth, Leslie and Clint Black
Sandy and father, Kevin. “Leslie has a unique ability to express her passions through writing and singing,” says Sandy. “We’re very proud of her!” Leslie gives her family much of the credit. “My parents have never stopped supporting my dreams. My sister, Meredith and my brother Fritz, too. They will always be the most important part of who I am.” According to Clint Black, Leslie’s on her way. “If she chooses to devote herself to the craft and the business of songwriting, the sky’s the limit. The talent is already there.” Leslie describes her style as acoustic, adult contemporary. Currently she is hard at work on her
Katlyn Johnson, Leslie, Samantha Sambado and Regan Porteous
demo CD, which she expects to release early this year.
Find leslie huber on: Facebook
I suspect this young artist will be smiling a lot in
listen to her music: youtube.com/lesliehuberMusic songs on: Myspace
the future. ❑
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e s C a P e s
Taste the Sweet Life
story By Joan heFFernan Photos ProviDeD By nashville ChaMBer oF CoMMerCe
W
hat a surprise to find a world-class art
complex in nashville. there it is on Broadway: the Frist Center for the visual arts. there’s even an opera center, but that’s not what most visitors come to see. nor do
Nashville: MUSIC CITY 32
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they believe nashville’s fame as Music City actually has roots in the 1800s. the buckle of the Bible Belt, nashville was once famous for publishing music for churches and gospel groups.
e s C a P e s
We even have a native stocktonian who made good in nashville. natasha ross
free to passengers, travel two downtown routes to make the city visitor-friendly.
as far as dining options, there is plenty of fried chicken to be had. For fare more suited
graduated from lincoln high school and
nashville was once home to the seventh
to California palates, the City grill is excellent.
decided on the south for her graduate degree
president of the United states, andrew
1808 grill is downtown and features fried
in business from vanderbilt University. she
Jackson – old hickory. Famed for his bravery
quail, pastas and flatbread. Urban Flats has
worked a while for Deloitte and touche, then
in battle, he lived on a farm just outside
american food, and boasts an award-winning
considered a change of pace over coffee
nashville. Called hermitage, it is now an
wine list.
with a fellow alum, who suggested she look
attraction comprising 1,120 acres of farmland.
nashville is a high-energy southern city
into purchasing a distressed business. after
guides in period dress welcome guests to the
surrounded by tree-covered rolling hills,
researching her options, she decided to open
grand 1837 mansion. there are tours of slave
antebellum mansions, music everywhere
her own bakery from scratch. after stints in
quarters, an heirloom garden, and the tombs
and hospitality that always ends with, “yes,
commercial kitchens and honing recipes and
of the president and his wife. if plantation life
ma’am.” ❑
baking skills, she opened Fiddlecakes, which
is your interest, there are several in the area.
grew into two locations. now after two years
Perhaps the most impressive is Belle Meade
in business with a full baking staff, she features
Plantation. once one of the largest estates
gluten-free pastries, delicious, rich traditional
in nashville, it was formerly a thoroughbred
cakes and pastries, a full-service coffee house
horse nursery famous for breeding and
and catering for offices and parties. stockton
nurturing champion horses that captured the
can be proud of our successful native daughter.
Kentucky Derby crowns.
Music City today is known for its Broadway
if you want the grand ole opry
honky-tonks which enliven the street, even at
atmosphere, right next door is the gaylord
3 pm on a Monday afternoon! this city is filled
opryland resort, with a huge atrium entry,
with singers and musicians itching to get on
large guest rooms and even a Delta riverboat
that stage and hootenanny. it’s good country
ride. in downtown, with a view up to the state
and Western music in friendly, casual bars, no
capitol building, sits the elegant hermitage
six-guns, but swinging doors and plenty of
hotel. grand public rooms define this southern
hooch.
hospitality hotel.
Stockton native Natasha Ross Owner of Fiddlecakes
More music celebration occurs at the grand ole opry, the world’s longest running radio show broadcast, live each week. ryman auditorium is still a working venue for today’s top artists, as it once was for Minnie Pearl and Johnny Cash. Famous on Broadway street are the Bluebird Café, the loveless Café and the loveless Barn. nashville is home to the Country Music hall of Fame and Museum, a 130,000-squarefoot museum cataloging nashville’s home to country music’s best musicians. Colorful buses, Photo by SheLby Lavender
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AnI nternational Affair Stockton Sister Cities builds friendships that span the globe
story By JenniFer torres Photos By aMy PhiPPs WWW.onthePhiPPsiDe.CoM
A
bout 10 years ago, at the urging of a friend,
louis gonzales joined a delegation traveling to empalme, Mexico, stockton’s sister city in the northwestern state of sonora. like the visits that had come before it – there have been more than a dozen since stockton and empalme became sister cities in 1973 – the itinerary included receptions with dignitaries and official tours of the coastal town. in the evenings, though, there were parties. at one of them, gonzales began talking with lucero Mariscal de Fernandez, a member of empalme’s sister city committee. the pair kept talking – long after the visit ended. eventually, they married. it was a fitting, if rare, milestone for an organization whose mission is to promote international partnerships, starting at the individual level. and while the gonzales’ wedding might be the only actual marriage to have resulted from the efforts of stockton sister Cities, the group can take credit for sparking and strengthening many other globe-spanning relationships. “it’s a good feeling to know you have friends in the world,” gonzales says. “those kinds of things are intangible.”
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CitiZen diPLomaCy in 1956, hoping to foster a climate of peace in the wake of World War ii, President Dwight D. eisenhower urged americans to pursue citizen-level diplomacy – to forge international friendships and commercial ties that could both spur cooperation and bolster economic growth. sister Cities international was among the many initiatives generated by this call to action, and has been among the most successful. With a long-established history of diversity, stockton was one of the first american communities to join the sister cities movement. led by then-Mayor Dean DeCarli and resident Kenji takeuchi, the city formalized a relationship with shimizu, Japan in 1959. (shimizu has since merged with the larger prefecture of shizuoka, but the sister cities relationship remains intact). over the next four decades, six more sister city agreements followed: iloilo City, the Philippines (1965); empalme, Mexico (1973); Foshan, China (1988); Parma, italy (1998); Battambang, Cambodia (2004); and asaba, nigeria (2006).
University of the Pacific’s annual Black History Month celebration involves a number of activities that honor the history and heritage of African-Americans and the African Diaspora
“We build relationships on the citizen level,” says gigi Quillinan, president of the stockton
India.Arie
sister Cities association. “that’s where it starts, reaching out to the citizens.”
a woRLd of ConneCtions For City Councilwoman Diana lowery, stockton’s official relationship with Parma, italy, represents an opportunity to strengthen an already deep-rooted connection between the cities. lowery’s father, Parma native luigi Maccini, was among 150 italians held as prisoners of war in lathrop after they were captured by British forces during World War ii. Unlike other war prisoners, Maccini and his countrymen were allowed to socialize among the valley’s extensive italian-american community. those who returned home after the war brought back fond
James Fortune
memories of friends in san Joaquin County. their children, says lowery, grew up with a love of stockton. “and we grew up with a love of Parma. We grew up with a respect for each other’s cities even though we had never been there.” that history inspired lowery and a friend in Parma to pursue the sister cities designation, which has grown into one of stockton’s most vibrant international relationships: stockton mayors regularly visit Parma, while Parma musicians, business leaders, athletes and government officials make frequent trips here – their next is planned for this summer.
see sister Cities, page 37
Deon Kipping
GOSPELFEST
Featuring James Fortune & Deon Kipping FEB. 4, 2012 7 P.M. An Evening with Tyehimba Jess (Spoken Word Poet)
FEB. 16, 2012 7 P.M. Two-Time Grammy award singer, songwriter and producer
India.Irie
FEB. 18, 2012 7 P.M. for more information visit
www.pacific.edu/x21133.xml lifestyles
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sister Cities, continued from page 35
Looking ahead
“you really have an opportunity to go
With no plans to propose new sister
in depth,” lowery says. “it’s an opportunity
cities for stockton, Quillinan hopes instead to
that’s second to none to get to know other
deepen the friendships that already have been
people and another culture.”
established and to broaden local participation and interest.
like any friendship, Quillinan says, a sister
“i’m looking at the younger generation,”
city relationship develops at its own pace
she says.
and with its own character. While stockton’s relationship with Parma has led to celebrations
to that end, stockton sister Cities has
of culture and preservation of shared history,
created a Facebook page and is relaunching its
connections in Japan have yielded exchange
website: www.stocktonsistercitiesca.org
programs for high school students. in
“We are so diverse,” said gigi Quillinan,
empalme, meanwhile, the friendship that
President of stockton sister Cities. “We say,
began with sister cities later resulted in a
‘share with us what your culture is all about.
significant donation: When local sister Cities
Can we blend the best of both our cultures?’” ❑
officials learned that empalme was without an adequate ambulance fleet, they arranged for the donation of two used emergency vehicles.
AROUND THE WORLD IN 65 SQUARE MILES Find traces of stockton’s sister cities all over town
5 19
Parma Sister City Park located at 9127 Chianti Circle
73
Iloilo Sister City Park located at 5920 scott Creek Drive
9
19
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
several other san Joaquin County cities have sister cities programs: Lodi: Kofu, Japan and lodi, italy
Tracy: Memuro, Japan, and an exchange program with the azores, Portugal
3
Plaza, Thursday, November 3, 2011.
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Association, the event was held at University
2006
Cultures. Hosted by the Stockton Sister Cities
1965
Louis Park Japanese cherry trees and a half-ton rock taken from Mount Fuji, gifts from shimizu-shizuoka, can be found just west of the softball fields, on Pixie Woods Drive
S
Faire 2011 – Celebrating a Kaleidoscope of
CITIES A R E
N S IST O T K C
entertainment provided at the International
Weber Point Events Center the national flags of Japan, the Philippines, Mexico, China, italy, Cambodia and nigeria fly above memorial plaques.
Lathrop: Bacarra, Philippines
20
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The photos in this story reflect the
Chavez Central Library the library houses a collection of cultural artifacts that have been presented as gifts from sister city delegations around the world.
04
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A GRAND MoUNTAIN HoME story By laUrie eager Photos By linDsay orteZ
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W
ith world-class skiing, year-round recreation, and gorgeous mountain vistas, all within a
few hours from stockton, squaw valley was the natural choice when eddie and sarah Zuckerman were searching for a vacation home. eddie grew up ski racing at squaw, and the Zuckerman family loves all the sports activities offered in this spectacular alpine setting.
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l i v i n g
W i t h
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after searching for months for the perfect
field crops. in order to personalize their home,
place, they opted to purchase a small cabin in
eddie and his wife asked artistic iron Works
need of refurbishing that was set on a large
of stockton to create stair rails in the form
lot. stockton architect Chris schrimpl drew
of gracefully arching asparagus spears. small
plans to expand the original house from
asparagus spears also serve as cabinet pulls in
1700 square feet to its present 8000 square
the kitchen. eddie and sarah both enjoy rock
feet of comfortable elegance. the home was
climbing so the floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace
completed in June 2010. the Zuckermans
in the family room is home to a number of
worked closely with local tahoe-area craftsmen
small sculptures of climbers. the main living
to imbue the home with an abundance of
space is richly appointed with beautiful wood
natural materials, artful finishes and touches of
at every turn. a stone entryway gradually
whimsy that make it uniquely theirs.
transitions to wood floors with an irregular
eddie Zuckerman is a Delta farmer who
pattern. the floors are hand-hewn, random
raises asparagus, potatoes, turf and other
width hickory planks from north Carolina,
Attention to detail: Rock climber on fireplace
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l i v i n g
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Man Cave living area
and the vaulted ceiling is clad in red cedar. Carpeted areas are covered in soft, warm new Zealand wool. Befitting a farmer’s home, the bathroom marble is called “rainforest,” which is composed of petrified dirt. the house has 5 bedrooms and 5½ baths, with plenty of space to host a large group of family and friends. another feature of this thoughtfully planned home is what sarah refers to as eddie’s “man cave” complete with a bar, surround sound, a large television and plenty of space to gather with the guys. the room can be closed off from the main living area with custom-built sliding barn doors fitted with hand-forged hardware Attention to detail: Asparagus spear stair rail
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l i v i n g
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from an austrian blacksmith residing in the
sarah chose not to use an interior designer to
area. tiles to the bathroom off the “man cave”
furnish the home, preferring to choose items
are imprinted with grizzly bear paw prints.
that are very personal and meaningful to their
there is a small fitness gym with a rubber floor
family. they both feel it is a “work in progress”
for pre-ski warm-ups. a door in this room leads
which will evolve as their family grows up, and
to a deck and hot tub, which are perfect for
they look forward to creating lots of wonderful
relaxing after a day on the slopes.
memories in their lovely mountain home. ❑
the Zuckerman home integrates beautifully
owners eddie and sarah Zuckerman architectural Design Chris schrimpl Contractor Carini Construction, inc. tahoe City
with its environment. squaw valley embodies achitectual amenities stockton
the true spirit of a “mountain village” filled with friendly people, breathtaking scenery and enough skiing, snowboarding, mountain
artistic ironworks of stockton
bike riding, boating, hiking, rock climbing and relaxation to make it the ideal getaway from the hard work and stress of farming. eddie and
Attention to detail: Grizzly bear paw bathroom tiles
Man Cave kitchen
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s C e n e
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B e
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Prevention Council
The Child Abuse Photos By helen riPKen
Back: Christie Munson. Front: Macy Munson and gabrielle stephens A
the Child abuse Prevention Council auxiliary of san Joaquin County hosted the 27th annual holiday luncheon & Fashion show on november 12 at Wine and roses. guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and fun afternoon full of fashion!
B
C
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A
leslie hillard, Monica Burkner and gregory Clifton
B
sarah annotti, fashion show chair Judy Peterson, and lindy turner-hardin
C
tricia Martucci, georgette hunefeld and Courtney harold
D
taylor Kodl, Judy stillian and amy Kodl
E
sally galli and linda stefani
D
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Wag Tales Joaquin Dogs
Ruby I am a: Chihuahua Where I’m from: I came from Sacramento via a very good family friend, who still has my birth mom, Sammy. Favorite place to hang out: I go to work with my mom, and love to hang out in the back room at Flair Boutique with my mom, Nana and all the girls. Most amazing trick: Because I am so small, I can find some tricky spots to hide when mom and dad are looking for me. It drives them crazy! Most recent accomplishment: I’m now twirling for treats. Favorite dogpark or place to play/ roam/walk: I get to walk to the lawn behind Papapavlo’s and greet people at the mailbox. Guilty pleasure: When I hang with my mom in the kitchen, I sometimes get yummy tidbits of special treats. I have to be good, though, to keep my 5-pound figure. Naughtiest deed: Naughty? I don’t know the meaning of that word! Favorite treat: My favorite treats are the omega treats in chicken and salmon. So good for my hair and skin! Obsession: I have to admit I wait by the door for my dad to get home, and I pester him to get down on the floor with me and play hide-and-seek with my toys. Where I go to get beautiful: I don’t like to get wet, but when I have to go, I go into mom’s shower and suds up with Niven Morgan Bath Gel that my mom sells at her store. Any other interesting info about me: I do get excited for my play dates with my birth mom and my adorable sister Chloe, whose human mom is Judy (former owner of Flair Gifts). Human parents: Starr and Joe Donati Photo By Cesar larios
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Lafayette e s C a P e s
A Romantic Getaway story By MiChelle hart
A
s elizabeth Bowen says, “When
you love someone, all your saved up wishes start coming out.� if a wish of yours is to be swept away for the evening to a luxurious fivestar hotel, have a romantic dinner in an historic building and return to a bubble bath and a great playlist, i have the destination for you! located between Berkeley and Walnut Creek is the small town of lafayette. With its quaint downtown, crisp air and oak-tree-studded hills, lafayette provides the perfect getaway for a couple wanting a quick but memorable weekend or evening. an important element for your tryst is setting the mood. i recommend bringing the proper provisions like a bottle of chilled champagne (veure Clicquot Ponsardin Brut is preferred), a fresh bouquet of flowers to put next to your bed, candles, something chocolaty and an iPod with a great playlist. after that, just follow these recommendations and your wish is sure to come true!
laFayette ChaMBer oF CoMMerCe 925-284-7404 WWW.laFayetteChaMBer.org
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e s C a P e s
the Lafayette PaRk hoteL and sPa the only Five star Diamond-rated property in the east Bay, this hotel offers both charm and elegance. With its French Chateau architecture, oversized guestrooms, many with vaulted ceilings, year-round heated pool, whirlpool spa, dry sauna, and state-of-the art fitness pavilion, this hotel is sure to impress! also available is the spa at the lafayette Park, offering everything from facials to aromatherapy massages.
Lafayette ReseRvoiR this beautiful 925-acre site with a 1.4-billiongallon reservoir offers hiking, fishing, boating and picnicking. With its lakeside trail of 2.7 miles, it is a perfect way to get out and begin your day. if you want to bring a picnic lunch, there are 35 picnic sites surrounding the reservoir. also offered are rowboats and pedal boats for rent at the activity center on an hourly, half-day, or all-day basis. this is a wonderful amenity located off Mt. Diablo Boulevard on the west end of lafayette.
Postino RestauRant laFayette ParK hotel & sPa 925-283-3700 WWW.laFayetteParKhotel.CoM
housed in an historic Carr Jones designed building and constructed in the late 1930s by Colonel garrett, this restaurant leads to sensory overload… in a good way. as you enter the building, you get the
laFayette reservoir 925-284-9669 WWW.Ci.laFayette.Ca.Us Postino restaUrant 925-299-8700 PostinorestaUrant.CoM
feeling you are in a circus tent, with sheer colorful fabric diffusing the light of the atrium-style roof above, you are instantly cheered by the brick fireplace with chefs busy at work. My favorite dish… vongole: Manila clams with toasted bread, calabrese sausage, garlic and white wine! yum!
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PoweLL’s sweet shoPPe a favorite of locals, this candy store is more than just a candy store. owner Zeina hissen describes, “the first time i walked into Powell’s sweet shoppe in Windsor, it was love at first sight! i was caught off guard by the confusion of smells, sounds, sights, colors and all those goodies! it was like walking through memory lane – the British candy section, gelato, candy cigarettes, Pez and lots, lots more. We couldn’t decide what to take home with us, so we made the only decision that made sense: we would just have to buy the entire store!” lucky for us they did… because now lafayette boasts its own Powell’s sweet shoppe!
PoWell’s sWeet shoPPe 925-299-9866 WWW.PoWellsss.CoM
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STOP
DREAMING START
RIDING 50
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L
By John McCliMans
et’s face it – who doesn’t love the
look on kids’ faces when they first see the snow. And with the prime location of the San Joaquin Valley, within a couple of hours of home, you and your family can be surrounded by a wintry wonderland. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned skier or if you just want to introduce your kids to the magic of snow, the Sierra is sure to provide exactly what you’re looking for. If your family’s idea of hitting the slopes doesn’t involve chairlifts or bindings, you might want to check out Sierra-at-Tahoe. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers Blizzard Mountain – an area to play in the snow, tube, snowshoe and warm up by the fire. Their two tubing lanes even include a rope tow, so you don’t get out of breath walking back up the hill.
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“it’s is a great place for families who want to introduce their kids to the snow,” says steven hemphill, Communication Manager at sierra-at-tahoe. “even if you’re not into skiing, you can still come up and enjoy the snow.” For the budding shaun White in your family, sierra-at-tahoe has the Burton star Wars experience, a program that introduces children to snowboarding while incorporating iconic star Wars Jedi themes, like balance and control. the full-day experience, including rentals and lunch, is $135. When you buy a package of three lessons, the cost drops to $81 per day. if you can’t seem to find the perfect place to satisfy everyone in your family, try driving up to Bear valley. the resort, which refers to itself as the friendliest mountain in the west, partners with several companies to offer its guests opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
“Families can drive up here and then split up to do what they like,” says Jason smith, Communications Manager at Bear valley For a less expensive option, make your way up to one of the 18 sno-ParKs scattered around the sierra. sno-ParKs, maintained by the state, are great for playing in the snow, making snowmen, and the occasional snowball fight. Day-use permits are only $5. so regardless if you’re planning to hit the slopes or hit each other with snowballs, beat the wintertime blues and get some fresh sierra air. you’re sure to have fun, and you’ll be creating memories which will last a lifetime. ❑
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BeaR vaLLey bearvalley.com 209-753-2301 Distance from stockton: 2 hours services: skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, snowmobiling lessons range from $46-$135 BeaR vaLLey CRoss CountRy bearvalleyxc.com rentals range from $11-$22 BeaR vaLLey snowmoBiLes bvsnowmobile.com rentals range from $49-$239 dodge Ridge dodgeridge.com 209-965-3474 Distance from stockton: 2 hours services: skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails lessons range from $64-$150 sieRRa-at-tahoe sierraattahoe.com 530-659-7453 Distance from stockton: 2.5 hours services: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing lessons range from $35-$145. Prices for Blizzard Mountain vary on conditions. sno-PaRks 18 sno-ParKs throughout the sierra nevada For maps and directions, visit ohv.parks.ca.gov/snoparks
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PICK YOURS UP TODAY!
J
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Januar y 2012
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S A
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The Mag
azine For
Dr H ■
H
outique
San Joa
quin Wo men
e l i t e
F l e e t
It’s about the journey and the destination.
LoAD UP
AND TAKE oFF.
’T
is the season for family snow trips
the insurance institute for highway safety
– this means clambering in and out of beefy
gives the volvo XC90 its top Pick rating, which
sUvs, and making 10-point turns to squeeze
is what consumers have come to expect from
into parking spaces, among other joys.
the brand. Priced below comparably equipped
By J. MiChael rivera
But there is another way. a growing
luxury crossovers, the XC90 carries family-
number of automobile manufacturers now offer
sized groups to their destinations safely and
crossover vehicles. the volvo XC90, subaru
comfortably. With available all-wheel drive, the
tribeca, and Ford Flex limited give consumers
XC90 responds well in snow and ice, and its
the fuel efficiency and creature comforts of
smooth handling and steering make it a snap to
a mid-size car, with the snow driving ability
drive and park. volvo added few improvements
found in full-size sUvs or pickups.
since the model debuted in 2003.
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Subaru Tribeca Photo courteSy Subaru oF aMerica inc.
56
the subaru tribeca gave consumers a taller and wider
the Ford Flex limited has garnered attention for its
alternative in the mid-size crossover vehicle market when
boxy, fashion-forward look, performance and competitive.
it debuted in 2006. the tribeca also seats seven, and
inside, the limited package offers room for seven,
continues subaru’s tradition of all-wheel drive excellence.
woodgrain-look interior trim, and a memory driver’s seat.
the tribeca’s six-cylinder engine produces a respectable
the Flex’s 355-horsepower, twin-turbocharged engine
256 horsepower, with almost identical fuel efficiency as
redefines what a v6 can do. With features comparable
the volvo XC90’s 16 city, 22 highway miles per gallon. the
to more expensive import models, and all-wheel drive
exterior isn’t flashy, but it’s safe, roomy and comfortable –
stability, the Flex limited will bring a smile to anyone
perfect for moving people in snowy weather.
handling driving duties. ❑
feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2
Volvo XC90 Photo courteSy voLvo carS oF north aMerica
Ford Flex Photo courteSy Ford MotorS
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I am
San Joaquin Photo By Cesar larioUs
Photo By Cesar larios
Ben Mackie Age: 31 Occupation: Personal trainer – owner and trainer at Fitness 360, specializing in personal training, pilates, and sport-specific coaching for soccer and golf Town in which I currently live: Lodi My hometown: Birmingham, England How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: 5 years
Favorite sports team: Tottenham Hotspur (English soccer team)
What I like most about San Joaquin County: I enjoy playing golf – and there are a lot of great courses in the area. Living in Lodi, I enjoy all of our local wineries. Winetasting makes for a great day out with family and friends.
Favorite vacation destination: London, Ireland, Cyprus and Las Vegas
Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Brookside Country Club and the Lodi wineries
Sports I enjoy: I love watching and playing most sports. I played soccer all my life, for the British army and professionally in the United States.
One thing I want to accomplish while I am able: Climb Mount Everest with my brother
58
A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: I joined the British army when I was sixteen years old and served for 9 years. Within 2 years I was on my first operational tour of duty in Kosovo. Having that kind of responsibility – the pressure of having the safety of other people in your hands – helped me become who I am today. Serving my country was the best part of my life.
Hobbies: Working out, golf, and traveling.
Favorite food/dessert: English fried breakfast, sushi
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Mark the date M a r K
t h e
D a t e
The Knowlton Gallery
“May the Force Bee With You”
the Knowlton gallery is beginning 2012 with California vernacular, a celebration of things that are uniquely “Californian.” the artists featured will be Dennis Ziemienski, Carolyn lord, randall sexton, timothy horn and Chuck Kovacic. an opening reception will be held at the gallery on February 4 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, and the works will be on display until March 3. in March and april, Deladier almeida’s paintings of the man-made landscapes of the northern California region will be featured at the gallery. stop by March 10 from 1:00-4:00 pm for the opening reception of almeida’s works.
the library and literacy Foundation of san Joaquin is hosting the 21st annual trivia Bee will be held on Friday, March 9 at the stockton Civic Memorial auditorium. this year’s theme is “May the Force Bee With you” – a science Fiction & Fantasy odyssey, and the foundation is opening up the competition to nine high school teams this year! For team and sponsorship information contact sass! Public relations at 209-957-7277 or anna_sass@comcast.net.
Stockton Symphony
the toys are back in town! Disney on ice will present toy story 3 at the stockton arena from February 9 until February 12! this exciting night on the ice will take family fun to infinity and beyond! For more information or tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com or the arena box office.
the stockton symphony is presenting Classics iv: Conflict & resolution on thursday, March 8, and saturday, March 10 at the atherton auditorium at san Joaquin Delta College. the music of tchaikovsky, Bach and avner Dorman will be played, and thomas nugent, Webster Williams and avner Dorman will be featured during the concert. For more information call the symphony box office at 209-951-0196 or visit www.stocktonsymphony.org.
Wine & Chocolate Weekend
Controlled Chaos Comedy Tour
Disney on Ice
enjoy the chance to visit amongst 40 lodi Wineries for a weekend of wine and chocolate on February 11 and 12! each winery will have a variety of activities, including wine and chocolate pairings, barrel tasting, blending classes, live entertainment and more! tickets are $45 in advance and $55 the day of the event, and include an event wine glass, a commemorative chocolate tin, an event map and guide, and wine tasting. For more information or tickets visit www.lodiwineandchocolate.com.
on Wednesday March 28, Jeff Dunham will take the stage at the stockton arena, performing his Controlled Chaos tour. Dunham’s sidesplitting performances have made him the top grossing live comedian in north america for three consecutive years, as well as the last two worldwide. For more information or tickets visit the stockton arena ticket office, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.
Upcoming Events at Hutchins Street Square
“Simply Sinatra” the stockton symphony continues the Pops series with valentine Pops: steve lippia in “simply sinatra” on February 11. the concert begins at 6:00 pm at the atherton auditorium on the Delta College campus. tickets begin at $22; tickets for children and students with an iD are half price. For more information visit www.stocktonsymphony.org or call the symphony office at 209-951-0196.
Metropolitan Klezmer will be bringing an eclectic exuberance to yiddish musical genres on February 12 at 4:00 pm. on February 26, Country Joe McDonald will sing a 100th anniversary tribute to Woody guthrie. Don’t miss his entertaining tribute to the legendary folk singer, beginning at 3:00 pm. Finally, on March 7 at 7:00 pm, the Mood, the 1940s Big Band Musical revue will celebrate america’s greatest generation! For more information or tickets please call 209-333-5550.
The Ladybugs Easter Basket Garden Party
Soup Supper & Auction the annual souper supper & auction is coming up on February 24! enjoy 10 savory soups in your souvenir soup bowl, bread, wine, beer and desserts and many raffle prizes! tickets are $40 per person, and $45 at the door. For more information contact tidewaterartgallery@yahoo.com or call 209-986-0979.
lifestyles
easter baskets. easter Baskets and even more easter Baskets. save the date for the annual easter Basket Fundraiser held at the home of thelma stewart. the event will be held on Wednesday, March 21. a benefit for special needs kids, more than 700 hand-wrapped baskets are available for purchase. tickets must be purchased in advance.
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C o M M U n i t y
s P o t l i g h t
compassion
Faith Dignity Self-Worth Grace Integrity Confidence Strength Honor Intuition Sincerity Pride
Wisdom CharaCter Power Chara
Courage Self-Assurance Inner Beauty Understanding Love Self Respect
Young Women
Empowering
Engage - Inspire - Become
W
62
hen women see a need, things get
them about what it means to be a woman in
with grace and faith. Dr. Pamela eibeck,
done. “empowering young Women” addresses
america. the goal is to begin a dialogue that
President of the University of the Pacific, will
boys and girls on the saint Mary’s high school
encourages students to break the chain of
be the keynote speaker, in addition to a sMhs
campus for a day, and culminates in a dinner
conformity, while encouraging them to think
student who will share her story of adversity,
that same evening open to the community.
and make changes for their future success.
faith and triumph. this collaborative effort
the idea began with tori verber salazar,
st. Mary’s students are not only intrigued
between administration, faculty, students and
san Joaquin County Deputy District attorney,
by the topic, but integrally involved, creating
the community is the first of its kind. st. Mary’s
and Kathy smith, sMhs Dean, and becomes
t-shirts and a video that interviews fellow
high school plans to continue the event with
reality on February 9, when experienced
students about their opinions, expectations
the goal of touching as many young women’s
community speakers will address the sMhs
and perceptions of women. st. Mary’s ’09
lives as possible, making a difference not only
boys and girls about peer pressure, societal
graduate gianna Brusa was asked to create
for a day, but for a lifetime. ❑
norms, media messages and their influence on
the artwork for the event’s logo, which
behavior, confidence, emotions and actions.
features two hands releasing a beautiful
their mission is to empower and inspire
butterfly. her art signifies letting go of the
young women by using the tools of education
norms, pressures and expectations that
and faith to foster and strengthen self-esteem
hold us back from empowerment so we can
and confidence in order to build a strong
become confident and free to be ourselves.
sense of self-worth, personal responsibility
she chose empowering words to be placed
and accountability. seeing the rise in young
graphically behind her art to communicate
women being treated with less dignity and
the intrinsic strengths we gain when we are
respect, in addition to the proliferation of
able to be true to ourselves.
media placing unreasonable pressures on
“empowering young Women” will honor
young women, salazar and smith thought it
Dianne gini, sM Class of 57, for her life’s
was imperative to have a conversation with
dedication to helping others in our community
feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2
Thursday February 9, 2011 For additional information contact Tori Verber-Salazar toriverber5@gmail.com or 209-663-8073 Tickets: 209 957 3340, ext. 195.
Published on Feb 1, 2012
The February 2012 issue of San Joaquin Lifestyles from the Stockton Record.
Published on Feb 1, 2012
The February 2012 issue of San Joaquin Lifestyles from the Stockton Record.