San Joaquin Lifestyles Feb 2012

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

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29 leslie huber

Debut for local teen

TRAVEL FAR

32 nashville

Music city with local ties

Wine Critic

Photo by aaron SaSS

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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

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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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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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C

A

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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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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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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Mick Founts, Margaret salazar-huerta and rashonne Founts

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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. ❑

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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

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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

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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

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2

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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s P o t l i g h t

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l o C a l

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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

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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.

199

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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37

A GRAND MoUNTAIN HoME story By laUrie eager Photos By linDsay orteZ

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l i v i n g

W i t h

s t y l e

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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

s t y l e

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

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2

l i v i n g

W i t h

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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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feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2

l i v i n g

W i t h

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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

a n D

B e

s e e n

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

E

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2

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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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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e l i t e

F l e e t

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

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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

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 2

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.