San Joaquin Woman March 2013

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March 2013

The Magazine For San Joaquin Women

HOOPLA & WEST 12 RANCH Page 14

Spring cleaning THE Healthy Way page 8 With Garden Flair page 38

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“Can words describe the fragrance

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Spring Forward

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of the very breath of spring?”

– Neltje Blanchan

Publisher Roger Coover Publications Director Deitra R. Kenoly

Karen Bakhtegan

Editor Karen Bakhtegan

Editor

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ut with the old and in with the new. It’s time again for spring cleaning and San Joaquin

Woman is here to help. From getting your patio ready for entertaining and choosing healthy cleaning products to arming yourself for the battle with seasonal allergies, this issue is full of the information you need to get a jump-start.

I want to take a moment to thank all of the parents and grandparents who have been sending in photos of their little ones for our Tot Culture photo gallery. I am getting so many photos, and it is such a popular feature that it has blossomed to four pages of cute local kiddos, and I still have dozens to get to. So please don’t fret if you don’t see your kids in this edition. I promise to get to all of them within the upcoming issues.

Graphic Designers Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein Contributing Writers Mu Chien Chiang, DO Charleen Earley Eunice Green Heather Hugo Leah Myer Kim Robinson Susan Spracher

I am pleased to introduce you to our cover girl, Barbara Butterworth. She is our I am San Joaquin Woman feature this month, but I quickly discovered that the story of her unique venture was too grand to be contained in her bio. So now you can read all about it, thanks to the article inside by Heather Hugo.

We are always looking for great local stories, so send us your thoughts and suggestions.

Email us at sjwoman@recordnet.com.

Enjoy!

San Joaquin Woman magazine is published six times a year by The Record, 530 E. Market Street, Stockton, CA 95202. All information written for publication in San Joaquin Woman magazine 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. San Joaquin Woman magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Photos and content become the sole property of San Joaquin Woman magazine and may be used, published or edited without limit or obligation to the author.

Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinwoman.com.

Contributing PhotographerS Charleen Earley Lindsay Ortez Cover photo by Lindsay Ortez www.LindsayOphotography.com

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To advertise in San Joaquin Woman magazine, call (209) 546-8200

Contents Spring Clean • Home Improvement • Easter

March 2013

HOME LIFE 8 Spring cleaning the healthy way 11 Patios spring to life 44 9 housekeeping shortcuts for a busy family FEATURE 14 Hoopla & West 12 Ranch Studio 209 moms 18

Tot Culture San Joaquin kids photo gallery

finance 31 Six common identity theft risks at tax time career 34 6 ways to use social media in your job search

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body, mind & spirit 22 Getting ready for allergy season 24 Ladybugs easter basket sale 26 12 easy steps to getting it done 28 Relay for Life

beauty 36 Green products for

health, beauty and home

peek a boutique 38 With Garden Flair i am san joaquin WOMAN 42 Barbara Butterworth

H OM E LIFE

Cleaning the Healthy Way A

By Eunice Green, NHD

h… spring cleaning. And the first thing to do is gather up all the

tools necessary to get the job done. Mops, brooms, rags, dusters, and of course the soaps, detergents, bleaching agents, scourers, polishes, special cleaners for bathrooms… and the list goes on and on. We love the way these

products keep our homes sparkling

and sweet smelling, and one of the main purposes of these products is that many kill germs.

But, are we trading germs for something worse? Is killing these germs really worth the potential danger that can be the result of using products that are toxic, and can even pose a health hazard?

These health hazards can be acute and immediate, such as skin or respiratory irritation, watery eyes, or chemical burns, while others can be associated with chronic or long-term effects.

While the most dangerous cleaning products are corrosive drain cleaners, oven cleaners and acidic toilet bowl cleaners, the long-term effects of most commercially sold products can be very devastating.

Many of the ingredients in cleaning supplies may not show up immediately as a problem, but the long-term effects include hormone disruption, fetal abnormalities, and even cancer.

Chemicals that are hormone disrupters can interfere with the body’s natural chemical messages, sometimes blocking the action of hormones. Other hormonal effects can include decreased sperm count, increased rate of birth defects and also increased incidence of breast cancer. ➤

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S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

So what do we do?

A few safe, simple ingredients like water, baking soda, vinegar and lemon juice, aided by some elbow grease and a coarse sponge for scrubbing, can take care of most household cleaning needs. And of course, this can save a lot of money that is wasted on unnecessary, specialized cleaners.

There are some companies that make products that are less toxic and gentler on health and the environment. Most of these products are available in health food stores.

There is even a line of products that are very environmentally friendly, and can improve your health while reducing the chemical emissions released into our environment. These products are based on microfiber cloths that are imbedded with silver, which is one of the best anti-bacterial and safest ingredients available. Unlike cotton cloths that will spread the dirt, grease, and other particles around, these microfiber cloths, when used wet, lift the particles up into the cloth and away from the surface. Once inside the cloth, the micro silver in the cloth goes to work with self-purification properties against mold, fungi, and bacterial odor within 24 hours, so that it is ready to use again. The remarkable thing about these products is that they use water only – nothing toxic or potentially toxic.

Many people who have used these very special microfiber cloths find that almost immediately there is a lessening of allergic reactions and respiratory problems – not only in humans, but also in pets.

Not all microfiber cloths are in this class and there are many “wannabes” on the market today. The cloths that are the true”enviro cloths” also decrease cleaning time by about 75% – and who doesn’t want to finish cleaning faster? There are many more fun things to do.

Decreasing the use of harsh chemicals to clean your home will not only make a difference in your health, but how satisfying to know that you are also doing your part to preserve the environment for future generations. ❧

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SOURCES: http: news.investors.com/.royal.pingdom.com, blog.grovo.com, blog.hubspot.com, simplyzesty.com, pcworld.com, biztechmagazone.com, digby.com http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/communications/internet-minute-infographic.html, http://www.visualnews.com/2012/06/19/how-much-data-created-every-minute/

Patios ‘Spring’ to Life

After months of limited use and less-thanaccommodating weather, it’s time to get your outdoor entertaining area ready for primetime

By Darcel Rockett

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emember that place in the rear of your house? wood oil soap in one gallon of warm water and gently

It goes by the name of patio and it’s been feeling wipe one small section at a time. Use a toothbrush to abandoned during the winter months, but that’s all clean between the weave. Rinse with a hose, and turn about to change now that spring has sprung. Soon family the piece upside down so the water can run off. Wipe gatherings, after-dinner drinks and grilling will ensue on with a dry cloth and allow 48 hours to dry. this extension of the home, so you must prepare. Here are tips for sprucing up your patio:

Tackling that outdoor grill that was left unclean at the last cookout will require baking soda, water, a

Depending on how you left your patio last season, wire brush and elbow grease, according to Michael de there may be some cleaning involved to make your Jong, author of Clean: The Humble Art of Zen Cleansing patio pop. Donna Smallin, author of The One-Minute (Sterling, 2007). And for those rust stains on the patio,

Cleaner Plain and Simple (Storey, 2007) recommends take a scrub brush and pat warm water onto the spot. cleaning patio furniture with a garden hose and sprayer Sprinkle with lemonade powdered drink mix. Then, cover attachment. “You can double the life of your furniture, with a piece of plastic wrap (weighted down by a rock) be it vinyl, plastic or metal,” she says. To clean wicker and let it soak for 15 minutes. Remoisten your brush and furniture, wet a cloth with a mixture of a half-cup of scrub it off, and then rinse with a hose. ➤

Sa n Joa q ui n Wo m an

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Now that cleanliness is achieved, focus on beautifying the space. It goes without saying the greenery around your patio will need to be punched up. A patio shining with beautiful hardscape is wonderful, but dull without plants to balance it out – a trip to your local nursery for some greenery is a must. The National Gardening Association in South Burlington, Vt. recommends medium- to low-growing perennials for the border of a patio. ➤

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MARCH 2013

Asters,

Border Dahlia, Dianthus, Phlox,

Ranunculus, Veronica, Armeria, Aubrieta, Heuchera (Coral Bells), Primrose, Sazifrage and Lewisa are some varieties that will come up every year. Down the road they will also provide flowers for a tabletop bouquet, indoors or out. Make sure to have some white vinegar at the ready for any unwanted grasses or weeds creeping through the crevices and patio bricks. If there’s limited space to plant, window boxes brimming with trailing foliage or flowers, topiaries and multi-hued plants in ceramic pots will go a long way in providing atmosphere, too.

Go even further by accessorizing the perimeter of the patio with lanterns or pathway lighting to enable you to see in style.

“Invest in lower wattage bulbs; they create more of a soft glow,” says Kelly Edwards from HGTV’s Design on a Dime. “After all, you can have the best looking furniture in town, but without the right lighting it can look out of place.”

If you’ve got an eye toward personalization and entertainment, sound systems, sculptures and intricate fencing that can withstand the elements will also ensure your beautiful décor doesn’t end at the door. ❧

F EAT URE

HOOPLA & WEST 12 RANCH STUDIO

By Heather Hugo PHOTO BY LINDSAY ORTEZ

W

est 12 Ranch is birthing more

than just baby Thoroughbreds this year with the advent of Hoopla! and the West 12 Ranch Studio. Matt and Barbara Butterworth inherited the ranch and business back in 1987 from Matt’s mother who founded it in 1972.

Both graduates of Cal Poly’s Ag Management program, they developed the Thoroughbred horse ranch as a breeding, boarding, and layup facility that continues to operate today. ➤

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MARCH 2013

After dropping off their youngest daughter

complex than she first anticipated.

photographer now studying it as an emphasis

at college in the fall of 2011, Matt and Barb

“With the creativity has come great joy,

in college. Sarah and Barb stumbled upon a

took the scenic route back along the coast,

but it’s much more involved than I expected…

Rococo-Revival sofa in Barb’s hunt for glass.

stopping off at various farmers’ markets along

[with all] the decision making – blending color,

“Mom, it would be perfect as a photo prop –

the way. Barb was struck by the wide variety of

form and texture. What I thought would be an

we could stick it out in the pasture under one of

arts and craftsmanship displayed by the local

easy hobby has become hours of trial and error.

the trees and take photos with horses grazing

residents, specifically several pieces made with

I wake up in the night with new ideas to try in

in the background.” Sarah returned to school,

repurposed glass and teacups.

the morning.” My glass creations are displayed

and God gave Barbara scenes to create during

at Taste of Heaven boutique in downtown Lodi,

her dreams. “Build it and they will come…

and will also be on Etsy in February.

kept ringing in my head,” laughs Barbara. That

Less than a week later, the hunt for vintage glass began. “It took me 90 days of looking and collecting before I had the pieces I needed to

“Creativity and art are an expression of joy,

couch opened the door for an old wooden

start gluing. My husband was concerned I was

and I think everyone has it in some way, but

trunk, vintage suitcases, a birdcage, wine

becoming a hoarder!” With her workshop in

you just have to find it… I saw it in everyone

barrels, a wooden child’s desk in the shape of a

the living room and several hundred individual

else, but never felt I had any myself.”

train and a host of other whimsical or vintage

pieces of glass divided by color, Barb notes

One of the people she saw creativity in

props. “We wanted to create a place with

that the process of designing a piece is more

was her daughter, Sarah, a naturally gifted

multiple backgrounds and settings on one ➤

property for photographers and painters.” I honestly didn’t even know any photographers or artists at the time, or even if there was a need for such a place.

Barb started collecting old barn doors, wagon wheels, picket fences, rusted plows, and as well as a 1964 red pick-up truck, and continues to find more unique props weekly. West 12 Studio has local professional and amateur photographers out weekly for engagement, maternity, senior, and family shoots.

Barb is profoundly thankful that God has given her this opportunity.

“I’ve been asking God for years to give me some way to express myself in art, but with running the ranch and helping the kids, the time just wasn’t there. Now I’m having a ball, seeing all these things with new eyes, and getting to help other people be creative too. ‘To everything there is a season,’ and this is a season for Hoopla!” ❧

For more information www.facebook.com/West12Studio www.facebook.com/West12Hoopla

209 M OM S

tot culture

Julian Aguilar 1 year old Stockton Denise Osorio (mother)

Courtney Lorraine 5 years Morada Grandparents: Betty Hardison

Kali 3 years Grandparents: Jerry and Gloria Gutierrez

Carlos Elijah Balanon Jr. 6 months Stockton Carlos and Eliza Balanon 18

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

MARCH 2013

Layla 18 months Lathrop Grandparent: Jovelle Parent: Briana Victoria Bobian

Cody 18 months Linden Grandparent: Laura Chadwick

Lili, age 3½ Natalia, 3 weeks old stockton parents: Roberto and Amanda submitted by Grandma and Grandpa Higgins

Emi Fujii 3 years Stockton Parents: Brent & Eva Fujii Sa n Joa q ui n Wo m an

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Dakota 4 Years

Noah 4 Years

Stockton Grandparent: Linda Bonilla

Benjamin 8 years

Jacob 4 Years Liliana Lysette Lopez 5 years PARENTS: ericka N. Chavez & luis armando lopez of Stockton

Shep 2 years GRANDPARENTS: Frank and Pat Kim of Stockton 20

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

MARCH 2013

Mateo 1 year old Stockton Parent: Jennifer Badillo

Sienna Aguilar 5 years Parents: Charday & Jose Aguilar

Nauel 2½ years Stockton Grandparents: Bob Morrow and Pam Cook

Isaac 16 months Stockton Parent: Renée Soitoa Grandmother: Carole Matthews

Joey 3 years Stockton Grandparent: Mary Ann Poier

Sa n Joa q ui n Wo m an

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B ODY, M IN D & SP IR IT

Getting Ready for Allergy Season

S

BY Mu Chien Chiang, DO

pring is in the air. As the sun dries up the winter rain and foliage

States experience spring allergies. The most common spring allergy

begins coming back to life, many will begin the season with the sniffling,

trigger is pollen – tiny grains released into the air by trees, grasses,

sneezing, and eye-watering ritual of spring allergies.

and weeds. While many individuals develop allergies at a young age,

Every year, between 10-30% of children and adults in the United

allergies can rear their obnoxious head at any point in life.

Other seasonal sufferers may experience postnasal drip, dry

The most common signs and symptoms of spring allergies include: • Sneezing • Runny nose • Nasal obstruction • Nasal Itching • Watery eyes

cough, fatigue, irritability, itching, burning eyes, or itchy ears. While the symptoms of spring allergies are similar to the common cold, there are distinct differences. For example, individuals suffering from allergies will seldom experience fever or body aches, whereas these symptoms may occur with a cold. Someone with allergies may have a dry cough, while a cough from a cold will be productive. Finally, the occurrence of allergies usually follows a pattern (coming and going with the spring season), while a cold can occur at any time.

While allergies pose no immediate danger, they may become worse with time as an individual becomes more sensitive to an allergen.

However, if you can identify allergens, you can more easily avoid symptoms. The most common allergens include pollen, grasses, and wheat. While anyone can develop allergies, you are more likely to have allergies if they run in your family, if you were born during pollen season, or you were exposed to secondhand smoke at a young age. ➤

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S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

It’s nearly impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in an area where plants grow. And with San Joaquin County’s agriculture and Stockton’s tree population, spring can be a hard time for our seasonal sufferers. However, you can ease allergy symptoms by doing any or all of the following: • Try to stay indoors whenever the pollen count is very high (usually at its highest in the morning).

• Keep doors and windows closed whenever possible during the spring months to keep allergens out. An air purifier may also help.

• Clean the air filters in your home often. Additionally, clean bookshelves, vents, and other places where pollen can collect.

• Wash your hair after going outside – pollen can collect there.

• Vacuum twice a week. Wear a mask because vacuuming can kick up pollen, mold, and dust that were trapped in your carpet.

The most common types of medications available to ease spring allergy symptoms include antihistamines, which help lower the amount of histamine, the substance produced during an allergic reaction. The older generations of antihistamine medications, such as Benadryl, are effective in reducing symptoms but are known to cause drowsiness. The newer class of allergy medications, such as Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra, and their generic equivalents, are antihistamines that offer the same benefits without the drowsy side effects. Thus, these medications are recommended for patients who maintain an active or busy lifestyle.

Other allergy medications include antihistamine and steroid nasal sprays, decongestants, and eye drops.

A clinical diagnosis is recommended before you consider taking any allergy medications. If you begin experiencing any allergy-like symptoms, visit your primary care physician to explore an allergy diagnosis and ensure you are not experiencing something more serious. ❧

Dr. Mu-Chien Chiang practices internal medicine with Dignity Health Medical Group – Stockton, a group of primary care physicians and specialists that provide care for the whole family. For more information about spring allergies, using medications, and more, visit StJosephsMedGroup.com or call (209) 475-5500.

B ODY, M IN D & SP IR IT

Ladybugs of Stockton Annual Easter Basket Sale

By Susan Michener Spracher

M

eeting Thelma Stewart, one gets a sense they’re in the

presence of history. Sitting down to talk with her provides information about a non-profit organization and its upcoming event, but is also a trip down memory lane as she names other familiar Stocktonians and their contributions.

Ladybugs of Stockton for Handicapped Persons was founded 39 years ago by Stewart and a small group of friends. Stewart’s youngest child Donnie was born with Down syndrome, and it soon became apparent that resources for people with special needs were lacking. The idea for fundraising came during a routine visit from a friend as Stewart was putting together Easter baskets. He suggested that they were so nice she should sell them, and the Ladybugs annual basket sale was launched.

What started as a small offering to friends and family has grown into a community-wide event creating demand for 1,000 baskets this year. For the Ladybugs it’s a year-round endeavor of gathering supplies

Thelma Stewart

to create the baskets. The must-have for every basket is a handmade bow, chocolate, a bunny and a toy that talks, such as a stuffed Mother Goose that reads stories. From there the contents take on the whimsy of all ages, including gardening and sports themes for adults. And then there’s the baskets themselves. They come in every shape and color, some

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trimmed in fur, with favorite icons like Hello Kitty and Sock Monkey and

Photo courtesy of Themla Stewart

of course, ladybugs. Everything is collected and stored at Stewart’s home,

More volunteers will work on the menu of homemade favorites for the

where a second house on the property becomes a basket factory. The

lunch that comes with a ticket. Stewart opens her home and garden for

production team is unbelievably small. Three seasoned volunteers start

the one-day sale, and emphasizes that gentlemen are welcome. Several

assembling baskets 6 weeks prior to the sale, working 5 days a week.

have a habit of stopping by early to make their selections. ➤

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

YourLocalConnectionTo

SanJoaquinCounty

With the exception of a few donors, the entire event is underwritten

by Stewart. Now in her 80s, she says this year’s sale is likely to be the

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last, that it may be time for a less labor-intensive event. However, she’s not ready to give up fundraising for the Ladybugs that provide funding for persons with special needs in San Joaquin County schools, and a bowling, and basketball. There is also a prom event in the spring, and the campus of The Walton Special Center.

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When a cause found Thelma Stewart nearly 40 years ago, she

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B ODY, M IN D & SP IR IT

12 EASY STEPS

TO GETTING IT KIMDONE ROBINSON BY

it S Y A W L A SEEMS LE B I S S O P IM Until it is DONE.

S

pring is a time of action for most of us. We can’t wait

to bust out the shorts, sandals and suntan lotion. Sun, here we come! It’s also the time of getting things done. Cleaning, clearing, preparing our homes, lives and selves for a time of happiness and celebration on boats, around barbeques and kicking back in our favorite chair admiring a sunset or two. I know most people are up to their eyeballs in self-help books, motivational DVDs and the like (and may even be thinking of clearing some of that OUT of their house), so here is my no-frills, twelve-step plan for getting “it” done. I’ve made it short and sweet, so you’ll still have time for all the fun you’re so longing for.

Step 1. Don’t just talk about it. It-talkers are notorious

Step 3. Lose the “it’s too hard” attitude. Attitude is a choice.

under-do-ers,

Better attitude equals better decisions, behaviors and outcomes.

under-achievers

and

under-performers.

Less talk, more do. If you need help mapping things out, there are great goal tracking sites online. A few favorites

Step 4. Be prepared to take care of it. Being unhealthy on

are Lifetick, Mindbloom Life Game, Goalscape, Milestone

a physical level means you won’t function optimally on any

and for those who like things super simple, Joe’s Goals.

level: mentally, emotionally, professionally or socially. Eat well, get adequate rest, take time to relax and refresh, and

Step 2. Don’t wait for it to “work out.” We tend to wait

you’ll feel good and function in ways to help get it done.

when we are uncertain where to start, or unsure what

Step 5. Get a care about it attitude. Having a “let’s get it done”

outside resources to tap into. Rather than hoping things will

attitude trumps a “I just don’t care” attitude any day of the week. If

happen, make them happen by getting clear on your goals or

it’s important to you… get it done. ➤

projects, accessing a goal-tracking site, setting realistic goals while factoring in a bit of extra time, contacting your resource providers to set up appointments, and then taking that first step.

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S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

MARCH 2013

Step 6. Don’t make it harder than it needs to be. Life’s challenging

Step 11. Don’t avoid it. Putting your head in the sand just creates

enough without you complicating the simple. Sometimes we just

more of “it,” and none of us want that. Lasting change begins

need to roll up our sleeves and jump in. No complaining. Think only

with awareness and acknowledgement. Step up and do what’s

of how good it will feel once it’s done.

necessary.

Step 12. Don’t over-think it. Analysis paralysis is a painful,

Step 7. Do it early in the day. Being productive early puts you in

pointless and unnecessary condition. To think is good. To obsess

a better place (mentally, emotionally and creatively) for the rest of

is bad. Stop obsessing.

the day.

Step 8. Let go of your “I can’t do it” beliefs. It’s time to lose those self-limiting, disempowering beliefs. They’ve run your life for long enough. You’re good enough, talented enough and, yes, you deserve happiness.

Step 9. It doesn’t always go your way, and life’s not fair. Learn to deal with it. More often than not success or failure will be determined by the way you respond to the situations, circumstances and events (good and bad, foreseen or not) of your world. Better reactions equal better results.

Step 10. Don’t focus on (or obsess about) it if you can’t change it. Wasting your time, talent and emotional energy on things that are beyond your control is a recipe for frustration, misery and stagnation. Invest your energy in the things you can control.

There you have it, Lovelies. A quick self-help guide to getting it done. In fact, let’s not call it self-help, let’s call it… some free practical advice. Feel free to share with those you love who may need help getting it done. Then you can all enjoy some fun in the sun together and celebrate having it done! ❧

Do you have a question for Kim?

Email your questions to kimrobinsonintuitive@gmail. com, and you may find your answers in the next edition of San Joaquin Woman magazine.

Kim Robinson is an intuitive life coach in Stockton. Combined with her unique gift of intuition, her non-standard approach helps people deal with issues such as grief, low self-esteem, anger, depression, substance abuse, compulsive behavior, financial difficulties, sexual abuse, control issues, and weight and eating disorders, just to name a few. www.kimrobinsonintuitive.com Sa n Joa q ui n Wo m an

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Relay for Life T

he American Cancer Society Relay For Life of

Stockton is just around the corner.

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

enjoy the camaraderie of a team and also raise funds to help eliminate cancer. Participants camp out at the

Register your team today by calling the American

Relay site, and when they are not taking their turn

Cancer Society at (209) 404-3065. This “celebration

walking, they take part in fun activities and enjoy local

of life” brings the Stockton community together in a

entertainment.

unified effort to celebrate the lives of those who have

The event helps communities celebrate those who

faced cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight

have faced cancer, remember loved ones lost and

back against the disease.

fight back against the disease. Teams from companies,

Former and current cancer patients and caretakers,

churches, organizations, hospitals, and schools collect

those who have lost a loved one to cancer, families,

donations, and can win individual and team prizes for

businesses, civic organizations and the public are

their efforts.

invited to take part in this exciting team event.

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STORY and PHOTOS COURTESY OF RELAY FOR LIFE

“Relay For Life brings the progress against cancer

Relay For Life takes place from 9 a.m. on Saturday,

to the forefront,” said Shelby McAthie-Begley, Event

June 8, until 9 a.m. on Sunday, June 9, at Bear Creek

Chair. “Many participants are our family, friends, and

High School. The American Cancer Society Relay For

neighbors who have dealt with cancer themselves.

Life is a family-oriented event where participants

Their involvement is proof of the progress that has

MONTH YEAR

been not only reducing death rates, but also in the quality of life following cancer treatment.”

“The funds raised enable us to continue our investment in the fight back against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services,” said Sarah Rushing, Publicity Chair. “Thanks to the generosity of corporate sponsors like Wilbur-Ellis, the money raised by participants goes directly to the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving programs.”

Information about how to form a team or become involved in Relay For Life is available from Team Development and Recruitment Chair Katrina Bambula at (209) 981-5246 or online at www.RelayForLife.org/stocktonca.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. ❧

For more information 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org

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MARCH 2013

The six most common identity theft risks at tax time T

ax time is always tough. Whether you

will owe or anticipate a refund, plan to do your own taxes or pay a professional to do them for you, preparing and filing your taxes can be a tedious task. It can also be a risky one: the information needed to prepare your taxes is a treasure trove for enterprising identity thieves.

The nonprofit Identity Theft Resource Center notes that for identity thieves, “tax time is a prime time of opportunity.” Forms such as W-2s and IRS tax forms usually include your Social Security number, name and address, and often, financial account information, the ITRC notes. Using that information, identity thieves can access your existing financial accounts, open new lines of credit and commit other acts of fraud. ➤

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FIN AN C E

It’s important to keep identity

1

Stolen tax documents

Your tax forms contain a wealth of personal information. Important documents such as

protection

W-2s and interest statements begin to arrive in the mail in January. Theft of these forms

front-of-mind

or renting a secure post office box. Avoid leaving incoming mail sitting in your mailbox for

during tax

could be disastrous. If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a locking mailbox any length of time, and always take outgoing mail directly to your local post office branch.

2

Once you’ve retrieved these documents from the mailbox, don’t let security lag. Never

preparation season.

leave sensitive documents lying around in plain sight in your vehicle, home or workplace.

Keep documents in a locked safe or file cabinet.

3

Take steps to

Phishing scams

Identity thieves often prey on tax-time anxiety by sending emails or making phone calls that purport to be from the IRS or other federal agency. These tactics are designed to

protect yourself

bilk you out of sensitive information. It’s simple to avoid these scams: ignore all such communications. The IRS uses good old-fashioned snail mail – never email, text messages

against these

or phone calls – to communicate with taxpayers. If you suspect you’re being scammed by someone posing as an IRS representative, report the incident to the IRS by forwarding

six common identity theft

Unsecured documents

suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov.

4

Sloppy CPA

You hire a tax preparer to help ensure you get the maximum return or minimum payment

risks during

– and that you don’t run afoul of complex tax laws. Yet your tax preparer can cause you problems if he or she fails to properly safeguard your documents. Be cautious when

tax time:

hiring a tax preparer – only work with someone you know or whose reputation you’ve investigated. Ask who will have access to your documents and how your preparer will keep your forms and information secure.

5

Slipshod storage

Everyone knows you have to hold on to tax documents. In most cases, you should keep tax returns and supporting documents for at least three years from the date of filing. Keep forms in a secure, locked location – or store them digitally in password-protected files.

Tax season is stressful enough without

When it’s time to dispose of documents, shred them with a cross-cut shredder before

having to worry about the risk of

getting rid of them.

identity theft. It’s important to take steps to minimize your risk leading up

6

Failing to monitor your identity

Keeping an eye on your credit and financial accounts is the single most proactive step

to tax day, and through the remainder

you can take to protect your identity at tax time – and throughout the year. Check

of the year. ❧

your credit report before and after tax season, and several times throughout the year.

Consider enrolling in a comprehensive identity theft detection, protection and resolution product like ProtectMyID. The product is designed to help consumers identify early signs of identity theft and minimize or prevent the damages caused by identity theft. Log on to www.ProtectMyID.com to learn more.

32

CAREER

R

esumé? Check. Cover letter? Check. Now you’re ready to begin

that job search, right? Wrong. There may be some very important things you’re forgetting about that could dramatically enhance your job search.

Nowadays, job searches involve much more than simply submitting hundreds of resumes and cover letters. “Today’s job search requires a strategy that uses social media as well as traditional vehicles,” says Wendy Wagner, career services director for The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale.

According to a 2012 Jobvite survey, 92 percent of U.S. companies use social networks to find talent, with LinkedIn the most popular.

“Make sure you have a social media strategy to augment traditional methods such as face-to-face networking and informational interviews,” says Lyndsay Cooper, career services director for The Art Institute of Tennessee-Nashville, a branch of The Art Institute of Atlanta.

Wagner and Cooper offer the following tips to give yourself an edge in your job search.

Six ways to use social Brand consistency.

Make sure your profile is professional and reflects the job you’re looking for across all social media platforms. Ensure your privacy settings are secure (especially on Facebook). On LinkedIn, make sure your profile is complete including skills and recommendations. On Twitter, link to

For more information about The Art Institutes visit www.artinstitutes.edu.

your website, blog or online resume. And don’t forget Pinterest, YouTube, Google+ and Foursquare.

Know your audience.

Your audience in Facebook is different from your audience in Twitter or LinkedIn. Make sure your updates reflect that. On LinkedIn, share articles and blogs on industry-related topics. On Facebook, post more personal (but not too detailed) updates to remind your friends that you’re in the job market.

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MARCH 2013

Today, employers use LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and other social media to identify, recruit and check out new employees. The Internet has helped level the job search playing field by offering access to resources that enable you to identify and prepare for career opportunities. But it’s also offered employers access to more talented job candidates. A smart social media strategy can help you stand out and land the job you seek.

media in your job search Know your online profile.

Network online.

Google yourself and make sure what you see is what you want it to

Expand your network and engage others with similar interests by

be. Go to Klout.com so you can see your “klout” score, which reports

posting, sharing/forwarding, tweeting and retweeting relevant articles

how influential and engaged you are across platforms. Another great

and blogs. This raises your online profile, and encourages others to do

site is wefollow.com, a Twitter directory organized by shared interests

the same for you. Twitter works well for this.

or categories. Users can add themselves to the categories that best fit their interests.

Research.

Be proactive.

Use social media to create your target list of companies, then research

Use social media to connect with recruiters, employers and employees of

those companies and their employees. Use hashtags on Twitter to find

companies you’d like to work for. Join – and participate in – organizations,

jobs. For example, if you are interested in fashion, search #fashionjobs.

groups and blogs in your industry or alumni groups. Become an industry

Sites like Technorati or Twellow let you search people’s bios and the

expert or thought leader.

URLs in their bios; you can easily find, follow and engage key employees of those companies so they get to know you before you approach them for a job. Prepare for a job interview by using social media to research the interviewer and find common topics to break the ice.

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35

BEAUTY

LOOKING BEYOND THE PRETTY PACKAGE – HOW TO REALLY KNOW YOUR BEAUTY PRODUCTS

By Leah Myers

W

hile many of us are concerned with

eating healthier and buying locally-grown, organic un-processed foods, it is equally important to examine the ingredients contained in products that we use for the outside too – such as cosmetics, soap and skin care products for the face and body. Certain skin types are easily irritated, and many people are allergic to parabens, synthetic fragrance and sulfates.

Parabens are used as a preservative, and while FDA-approved, are harmful because it mimics estrogen. Typically, parabens are found in commercial creams and lotions. Products that contain vitamin E or other natural preservatives are a better substitute. Sulfates, found in soaps, shower gels and shampoos tend to

Aveda products, which are mostly plant-based, offer a wide

cause dryness and can irritate sensitive skin.

range of safe and environmentally friendly shampoos, conditioners, styling

An allergic reaction to sulfates can also result

products and cosmetics. Aveda’s standards have now established the

in skin rashes and eye irritation.

company as a pioneer in the green cosmetics world: now more than 90% of

Fortunately, there are cosmetics companies

essential oils and 89% of their raw herbal ingredients are certified organic.

who have taken note over the public’s growing

Aveda products can be found online at www.aveda.com or at Reflections

concern with harmful ingredients in their

Salon and Spa in Stockton, California.

personal care products and have offered some wonderful, safer alternatives. Conveniently, those products are available to us in the Central Valley. ➤

36

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

Aveda Reflections Salon & Spa Stockton

209-472-8700

MARCH 2013

Butter London has a gorgeous array of nail/lip colors and was the first company to sell nail polish free of the three harmful ingredients: formaldehyde, toluene and parabens. Butter London is available at Dillard’s and Ulta in Stockton, and Juice Beauty products are available at Ulta Stores, www.ulta.com and www.juicebeauty.com.

Butter London Dillard’s Stockton

209-477-1230 Juice Beauty products are formulated without parabens, petroleum, propylene or butylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, pesticides, phthalates, artificial dyes or synthetic fragrances.

Environmental activist and famous vegan actress Alicia Silverstone recently partnered with Juice Beauty to launch her own collection of makeup and skin care products. The five-piece set includes a cleanser, moisturizer, and basic makeup items for a natural and healthy glow.

Juice Beauty Ulta Sherwood Mall, Stockton

209-235-1209

Jane Iredale cosmetics are made without parabens and phenoxyethanol, and what is even more impressive, her products have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation. To earn this seal, a manufacturer must provide scientific data showing that its products sufficiently and safely aid in the prevention of sun-induced damage to the skin. Jane Iredale’s line includes everything from foundation, bronzer, blush, lipsticks and an assortment of eye shadows, liners and mascara.

Her products are available online at www.janeiredale.com and also at The Spa at Wine and Roses in Lodi, CA.

Jane Iredale The Spa at Wine and Roses Lodi

209-371-6165

Everyone has a personal preference when it comes to choosing cosmetics and personal care products. Knowing what ingredients to avoid and protecting one’s health and the environment are now a common factor in making those purchase decisions. Happy shopping! ❧

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37

FEATURE

Peek-A-Boutique

Outdoor living f lair drama with

and

By Charleen Earley

W

hat grew out of a love for gardening,

entertaining and relaxing, blossomed into a family-owned, corner garden store on the Miracle Mile called With Garden Flair.

It’s where co-owners Rick Ladd and Jeff Gibson have creatively filled all nooks and crannies with high-end merchandise, including indoor and outdoor patio furniture, beautiful dishes, drinkware, linens, gifts and so much more.

Their motto: outdoor living with indoor style, where flair and drama are their specialties.

“Our customers are those in their 30s on up, educated and with a disposable income, but there’s really something here for everyone,” said Gibson, who is from Stockton, moved to the Los Angeles area, and came back home eight years ago to open the store with Ladd. “Our family would shop K&M, and I remember getting my Scout items there!” ➤

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MARCH 2013

With high-quality, hand-painted umbrellas called Alura, Isabel, and Katherine starting at $1500, each umbrella frame is made from Indonesian oak and brass fittings. If you’re looking for quality, beauty and uniqueness, the 8-foot, 5-inch solution-dyed canopies have a UV protectant hand-painted design, Sunbrella tassels, and the finishing touches are their handturned wooden finials.

Ladd is currently on the Miracle Mile Merchant Committee, a group who plans events to help promote the Mile, while Gibson is on the Miracle Mile Improvement District.

“Our customers are loyal and come from Stockton, Linden, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy and even the Bay Area.

Some of our customers have asked us why we don’t open a store in Concord or the Bay Area,” added Gibson. ➤

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39

FEATURE There are plenty of reasons to revisit their store on a regular basis, since they add new specialty items monthly and throw in sales too.

“We have a big furniture event beginning March 1, with 25% to 35% on all outdoor furniture, umbrellas and replacement cushions,” said Gibson. “We currently have a Wishing for Spring Sale with 25% on all fiber stone statuaries and decorative pieces, which continues through the end of March.”

When it comes to investing in outdoor living, the two give their clients educated and personable one-on-one customer service – a rare quality you’ll be pressed to find in big-box stores these days.

Owners Rick Ladd and Jeff Gibson

“We greet every person who comes in and we’ll even gift-wrap for you,” said Ladd. “We’ll

2206 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204

search out items for you from our catalogs; there’s

209-933-9009

really nothing we won’t do to make you feel good,

www.withgardenflair.com

because you become a friend of ours.” ❧

FEATURE

I am San Joaquin

WOMAN

Age: 53 Occupation: Wife, mother, rancher, and now artist.

How long have I lived in San Joaquin County: I have lived in San Joaquin County since I was married in 1984, but my husband graduated from Lodi High in 1977. I love living in San Joaquin County, especially just outside of Lodi. I am a country girl at heart and have driven just about every back road there is in the past 30 years. From the vineyards to the open fields, the giant oak trees and still-standing windmills which dot the countryside, the hawks and barn owls, and our fantastic climate – we have it all.

Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: My “backyard,” which is West 12 Ranch! People have so much fun looking at all the vintage props, seeing the clawfooted tub with its pump, trying on hats, posing with the horses, remembering the past, etc.

A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: I am grateful to say that I learned about God’s love for me at a young age, and accepting Jesus as my Savior has guided the rest of my life. I have watched time and again as God has brought good out of impossible situations (ask me for the stories if you see me around town!), and learn a little more each year of how deeply He desires our best – even when we don’t see it or feel it in the moment. Getting to share God’s love and the fact that He has a plan for each of our lives if we will let Him, is very exciting, and the center of who I am.

Hobbies: My hobbies have taken over my horse ranch! I have tables of repurposed glass in my house that I use to create my Hoopla! glass art and cake plates, which have since made their way into Art Hops and other local events. The Studio at West 12 Ranch started with a Victorian sofa I bought while looking for glass, because my daughter thought it would look cute in a pasture photo. Now the ranch is a playground of opportunity for local photographers who want a one-stop photo shoot location. I love finding old things and giving them new life – whether that be glass, trunks, chairs, dressers, antique couches, or old barns that are falling apart, and I love getting to share this with the people in the Valley.

I “give back” by volunteering w/ the following organizations: My husband and I are both involved with Faith Community Church. It has been my pleasure to serve during the Lodi House Festa Della Donna for four of the past six years. More recently, we have loaned and transported the straw for the Salvation Army Annual Trunk or Treat Event – a hit with local families.

My favorite quotes: “Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King “For God so loved the world that he sent His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” — John 3:16 42

S a n J o aqu i n Wo m an

MARCH 2013

Barbara Butterworth

PHOTO BY linsday ortez lindsayophotography.com Sa n Joa q ui n Wo m an

43

FEATURE

9

Housekeeping Shortcuts for a busy family No time for a full-out spring cleaning session?

Try these tricks to keep things tidy on the go

By LAMBETH HOCHWALD

I

f it seems next-to-impossible to keep up with

home maintenance, no need to worry. Our cleaning experts have sketched out 10 quickand-easy shortcuts that’ll help you fake the fact that you haven’t dusted in weeks. Read on and experience cleaning bliss: ➤

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MARCH 2013

4 Don’t neglect the bathroom. Since this room can get really messy – fast – stay on top of it by keeping a microfiber cloth under the sink and using it daily. “Before you leave the house, wring the cloth out in warm water and wipe all the sink surfaces and faucets,” Cobb suggests.

In addition, make sure everybody has a place to hang up towels and washcloths and use baskets under the sink to store hair styling tools and products.

5 Smells matter. If you can’t thoroughly clean a room, don’t despair.

Spritzing a favorite home fragrance or light a candle. “If a room smells clean, you’ll feel less stressed that you haven’t had as much time to clean it,” says TV personality and author Leslie Reichert, a mom of three and an expert who specializes in “green” cleaning.

6 When in doubt, fluff and straighten. It’s a small thing, but merely fluffing the pillows, straightening the chairs around your table and even putting fresh flowers on a table can make the entire room look cleaner, Reichert adds. To fluff the pillows really well, toss them in the dryer on

1 Live like your home is for sale. Instead of thinking of tidying up as

the “air fluff” setting. “This removes dust and pet dander,” Cobb says.

“Just be sure that you’re not overcrowding the dryer.”

a chore, consider that you are simply putting your best foot forward.

Those who open the door to regular homebuyer visits must keep their

7 Focus on the floors. There’s nothing worse than a mountain of dust

homes ship-shape. With that mindset, it’s easier to do simple things like

bunnies to make you feel like your house is sloppy. So, after you vacuum

scooping up newspapers, putting away the breakfast dishes and wiping

your floors, go over high-traffic areas with a dry microfiber mop and your

down the dining room table. “Create the showcase space you want to

favorite spray cleaner. “This is quick to do and it makes the floors look

come home to everyday,” says Marni Jameson, a syndicated columnist

good,” Reichert says. “When your floors look clean, the whole room

and author of House of Havoc (Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2010).

looks better.”

2 Clean while you cook. To avoid a bad case of “grungy kitchen,”

8 Don’t underestimate the power of the basket. If your living room

start every meal prep by emptying the dishwasher so it’s ready to fill.

is filled with a mishmash of Legos, magazines and DVDs, consider

Then, before you start cooking, keep the sink filled with hot water and

purchasing a basket (or two) to keep that room looking neat and

dish soap. “As you finish with a utensil or a pan, drop it into the sink

organized. “I like baskets that are large enough to hold everything,”

to start the cleaning process,” suggests Linda Cobb, author of the New

Cobb says.

York Times bestseller, Talking Dirty with the Queen of Clean (Pocket Books, 2004). In addition, use a spoon rest to keep dirty utensils and food from spilling all over the counter.

3 Establish (reasonable) daily cleaning habits. To keep clean-up tasks

9 Take a snapshot of each room at its cleanest. The next time you clean a room from top to bottom, take a picture of it in all its sparkling glory. This photographic evidence is especially helpful if you want your kids to pitch in and clean up. “A photo helps moms show their children

from piling up, add some daily chores to your routine that aren’t too

how the room should look when they tell them to ‘go clean their room,’”

hard to follow. Making the bed right after waking up and putting away

concludes Reichert. ❧

your toiletries right after using them are simple goals to start. Always hang towels up and put toilet lids down. “If something needs sweeping, wiping, washing or folding, do it that minute, so nothing snowballs,” Jameson says.

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