San Joaquin Lifestyles Dec 2012

The Magazine For San Joaquin County

HOLIDAY MAGIC Page 7

December 2012/January 2013 â– 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

HAPPY HOLIDAYS PUBLISHER

Roger Coover

T

The Magazine For San Joaquin County

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR Deitra R. Kenoly

EDITOR

here is just something magical about piling into the family car and driving the “Christmas Light” circuit. It was something my family did when I was a child. Fresno, the nearby metropolis, had several beautiful neighborhood displays that would prompt an evening drive north to “the city.” There was a competitive spirit amongst the wealthy neighbors, as every display was over the top – and in those days perceived as extravagant!

In a naive attempt to duplicate their efforts, in the early ’60s all of our neighbors got together and designed trees made from strings of lights – similar to the Christmas trees that adorn the highrise buildings in downtown Stockton. They were displayed in the front yards of every home on 18th Street. We were so proud. Until of course, 17th Street followed suit. There goes that neighborhood competition again. A green tree, made from plywood, with pie plates behind every colored light bulb. They were magical. (ok, I was about 10!) And yes, 17th Street outdid us. Their Christmas trees were more creative, more festive and certainly more colorful. Yet the beauty of the effort by these two neighborhoods became infectious. Soon there were lights popping up everywhere, and homeowners were getting in the “spirit” of the season.

Fast forward 20 years with our own young

family. Every Christmas we would pile into the Izusu Trooper and drive “the circuit.” First to electrified Meadow Street, down Pershing to Lincoln Road past the spectacular creation at the Spanos home, and then to the Christmas display in the garage of a home on Benjamin Holt. We’d get out of the car and stand there, taking in all of the details displayed in the Christmas Village. It was a gift – a labor of love that Lyall Luke gave to our community. After Lyall passed away, the beautiful display was put into storage. Until this year!

With grandkids in tow, we’ll do the circuit again.

The only change will be that after Meadow Street, and after the Spanos estate, we will turn into Lincoln Center – where the “Benjamin Holt” Snow Village has been resurrected, and with it, bringing smiles and joy to young and old alike. See story on page 7.

So many holiday traditions, so many cultural celebrations (page 39). Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas, and please, please, make every attempt to shop local!

Our family welcomes a beautiful new granddaughter, Leah Marie, born to our son Aaron and his sweet wife Anna. We also welcome Nate Schloss, our soon to be son-in-law, who will be marrying our daughter Andi in January 2013. Ahh, life is good.

Carrie xoxo

Carrie Sass

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary Raffetto Jay Michael Rivera Michelle Machado Jennifer Torres-Sider Charlene Earley Colleen Foster and Dani Hovatter Donna Brown Lori Gilbert John McClimans Kelsey Roget

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Sowers Amy Phipps Colin Price

Helen Ripken Pam Eibeck

?

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

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

Photos and content become the sole property of Lifestyles and may be used, published or edited without limit or obligation to the author. Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinlifestyles.com.

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On the cover: Snow Village PHOTO BY DAVID SOWERS

CONTENTS LIVING WITH STYLE The Snow Village A winter wonderland of collectibles

7

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT Three Babes Bakery, San Francisco SJ ladies bake pies made from the fruits of the valley

11

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SAVOR

7

The Ultimate BBQ Fare Steak, chicken and the best ribs ever!

16

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WINE AND SPIRITS Uncorked

21

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I AM SAN JOAQUIN Dani Hovatter A talented young artist

24

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT Just a Splash

24

Local producer of pomegranate juice

28

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LORI GILBERT The Giving Spirit A benevolent young lady

31

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT The First Tee …and the positive influence of Ricky Barnes

37

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OUR CULTURE

28

Holiday Celebrations Rich in tradition

39

TRAVEL FAR Canada Two local ladies chronicle their journey

45

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WAG TALES Grace Covell

54

Keeping an eye on the campus

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SPORTING LIFE Shady Oaks Farm Combined Driving Event

54

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ELITE FLEET Santa’s Sleigh The ultimate holiday ride

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MARK THE DATE

45

Up-and-coming events

60

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SCENE AND BE SEEN CAPC Festival

26

Children’s Museum

27

Stockton Shelter for the Homeless

34

Haggin Museum

35

St. Mary’s Luncheon

43

Stockton Arts Commission

44

Community Foundation

52

El Concilio

53

60

Goodwill Helping Hands

62

Pacific Italian Alliance

63

World of Wonders

64

First Tee San Joaquin

65

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58 d ecemb er /ja nu a r y 2 0 1 3

19

L I V I N G

W I T H

S T Y L E

SNOW VILLAGE

BY MICHELLE MACHADO PHOTOS BY DAVID SOWERS

D

uring two decades of holiday

seasons, crowds pressed against the windows of a Benjamin Holt Drive garage to view Lyall A. Luke’s snow village. ➤

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Throughout December, Lincoln Center North will be home to the display, which promises to rekindle old memories and spark new recollections.

“She loved Christmas and did the display for the purist of reasons: to give joy,” explained Luke’s daughter, Jill Wick, who has reconstructed the village in her mother’s memory. Luke passed away in 2005.

The snow village is something of a study in contrasts: a grand landscape in miniature form. The main three-tier display sits behind 40 feet of storefront glass (the old Campbell’s in the Village location) – a medley of city, villages, farms, snow country and other locales, all rendered in tiny detail. The scenes depict old-fashioned farms and modern national retailers. Symbols of Americana are portrayed along with major city landmarks.

Its places are populated by people, pets and production animals.

Trains chugs around tracks; gondolas sway; a porch swing moves in an imaginary breeze. Decorated pine trees and lit houses abound.

The effect is mesmerizing. ➤

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Continued ➤

lifestyles

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L I V I N G

W I T H

S T Y L E

“My kids were just completely taken in. They wanted to stay for hours,” remembers Stockton resident Jana Wunsch, who also saw the snow village as a child. Her family plans to relive these memories at the Center.

Luke’s collection began with Department 56’s Original Snow Village, introduced in 1976.

Since then, the Minnesota giftwares company has added other villages, some of which include year-of-production pieces, licensed pieces and an extensive array of accessories.

Luke became an inveterate collector. “If there was a new piece, she bought it,” said Wick.

The snow village outgrew space after space, until it finally migrated to the garage, whose door was retrofitted with new windows for public viewing. Luke set the village up each year as a labor of love, according to Wick, owner of The Muddy Paw. “People don’t get the detail of the work,” she said. Each of hundreds of pieces is unpacked from its own box and thoughtfully positioned; strings of lights are individually affixed with tacky wax; and an intricate network of cords and outlets powers the whole fantastic world.

Wick has embraced that work with the help of friends and family, including her 9-year-old son Jack.

“It’s very personal. I put it up to honor my mother, and so Jack could see how much she loved Christmas and gave to the community,” Wick said.

“This year, we can all experience that again.” ❑

Snow Village Display Lincoln Center North November 11th through January 6th Honoring: Lyall A. Luke Optional donation: Hospice of San Joaquin

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L O C A L

S P O T L I G H T

THREE BABES B A K E S H O P

BY MARY RAFFETTO PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLIN PRICE

M

ove over Baberaham

Lincoln; you’re just a fake president.

These babes bake. That’s right: pies and lots of ‘em, all-organic and made with TLC by San Joaquin natives and longtime best friends, Anna Derivi-Castellanos and Lenore Estrada.

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L O C A L

S P O T L I G H T

Though not technically sisters, the two might as well be, considering their families are so close they’re like, well, family. Lenore says,

“Many of our pies, including Banana Tres Leches, are inspired by our heritage,” says Lenore, “but our most popular pie is certainly

“Everyone in both of our families went to Saint Mary’s High

inspired by the Central Valley! It’s Salty Honey Walnut – We get the

School… we know each other’s original home phone numbers by

walnuts from Old Dog Ranch in Linden (our best friend’s dad’s ranch).

heart, and have been cooking together for years.”

We think they are so much better than any other walnuts we can buy

“We chose pies because they allow us to highlight the tremendous

commercially that we buy them in bulk, and then go through the trouble

diversity of produce grown in the Central Valley. Pies also have a strong

of cracking each one with a hammer. We toast them and then fold them

nostalgic power for us – selecting fruit, interacting directly with the

into a honey vanilla bean custard base to bake up a pie that has been

people who grow it, and the process of pie-making are rituals we both

featured in The Huffington Post and on the Cooking Channel.”

grew up with. Through our business, we hope to bring more awareness

The bakeshop now ships nationwide, in addition to making deliveries

to the agricultural, economic and environmental issues that are currently

all over San Francisco, the East Bay and Stockton. A quick skim of Yelp

at play in the Central Valley.”

reveals glowing customer reviews of the Three Babes’ delicious array.

Lenore cites their combined heritage as a contributing factor to their

Dedicated fans can even sign up online for a “Pie Subscription,” a pre-

product line. “Anna is Italian-Mexican and I am Irish-Mexican, so we

paid delivery program which will keep the goodies coming, or they can

use lots of Mexican and Italian ingredients in our savory pies, as well

visit in person at the numerous San Francisco locations listed on the

as the sweet ones.” The partners have concocted over two hundred

website.

different and imaginative kinds of pies since starting the company,

Their holiday menu includes the following: eggnog-custard (just

and the menu is always changing to make creative use of the freshest

one of many gluten-free pies), toffee apple, spiced chocolate-orange

seasonal ingredients.

chess, pumpkin-pecan and blood-orange caramel custard.

Lenore describes the Three Babes philosophy: “Anna and I both grew up in families committed to social justice and helping others.

Through our business, we hope to creating positive change by supporting organic farming in the Central Valley, and inspiring others to become more involved in their own communities. Whoever you are, wherever you are, you can make a difference in your sphere.”

Even Baberaham Lincoln would approve. ❑

Owners Anna Derivi-Castellanos and Lenore Estrada

“Everyone in both of our families went to Saint Mary’s High School… we know each other’s original home phone numbers by heart, and have been

cooking

together

for

years.”

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For more information, email Info@ThreeBabesBakeshop.com

Art Co-Opted Holiday Exhibition Opening Reception Saturday, November 17th, 12 PM - 2 PM

Main Street Music Coffee House

Main street Music Jazz Series A Jazzy Christmas Friday, December 21st, 8 PM

s y a d i l o H Concert Series

Friday, November 30th, 8 PM

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…In New York “City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style! Children laughing, people passing, meeting smile after smile... And on ev’ry street corner you’ll hear silver bells, it’s Christmas time in the city...”

Celebrate the sounds of the season with beloved holiday standards.

Franc D’Ambrosio aka “Phantom of the Opera’s”, “Iron Man of the Mask” will return to Tracy with his new Holiday show. Bring the whole family as Franc recounts celebrating the holidays while growing up in New York.

brosio

Am Franc D’

rk in New Yo 8 PM s a m t is r Ch h, ember 7t c e D , y a Frid

Merry Madness Saturday, December 8th, 10 AM to 4 PM

10% Discounts

* Arts Education Program holiday art sale * Art class registration * Purchases in the Grand Galleries * Ticket purchases and more exclusive opportunities! * 11:00 AM free movie: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (G) * 12:30 PM free movie: Year Without a Santa (G) * 2:00 PM free movie: The Nightmare Before Christmas (PG)

Santa will be at the Grand!

10AM- 4PM

All movies $4, general admission

Love Actually (2003)

Sunday, December 9th, 2 PM

White Christmas (1954) Sunday, December 22nd, 2 PM

715 Central Avenue in historic downtown Tracy, CA www.atthegrand.org | 209.831.6TKT (6858)

Douglass W. Wilhoit, Jr. (aka Santa) Age: 69 (Santa is ageless) Occupation: CEO, Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: 69 years The people who mean the most to me: Family and loyal & honest Stocktonians Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Too many to list!

A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: 1975 near-death and out-of-body experience, and after that, being told that I would not be able to talk again, but I fooled the doctors!

My bucket list includes: Having the hardworking, law-abiding and honest people of Stockton working together to help us get through a tough time, and prove the “Grinch-like folks” wrong!

Favorite local sports teams: UOP, Stockton Ports and the Stockton Thunder What I’m reading now: Bill O’Reilly’s Killing Kennedy Favorite vacation destination: Tie between mountains and ocean Hobbies: Enjoying family and all that Stockton and San Joaquin has to offer.

Sports I enjoy: Golf Favorite professional sports teams: SF 49ers and SF Giants Pet: Reindeer Favorite food/dessert: Turkey/ Mrs. Claus’ cheesecake I “give back” by volunteering with: United Way in general, but Homeless Shelter, Child Abuse Prevention Council and now the Ricky Barnes Foundation to support First Tee of San Joaquin specifically!

Other information you would like to share: A merry and blessed Christmas to all! HO HO HO

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I am

San Joaquin

S A V O R

From their kitchen to your table,

L

Italian-style

BY CHARLEEN EARLEY PHOTOS BY DAVID SOWERS

ocation, location, location has absolutely nothing

on the Waterloo, CA Restaurant, because even though it’s nestled off Waterloo Road amongst a chain of orchards, its food, staff and famous pesto and barbeque sauce is what keeps the front doors to this quaint Italian eatery swinging wide open.

“We’ve never had to advertise,” said Mari Jo Milano Kolze. “Ever since my stepdad J.T. put an ad in the paper years ago that if you buy one dinner, you get another one free, lines were out the door.”

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Mari Jo’s mother Bette and stepfather J.T. bought the place 23 years ago when it was mostly a bar for migrant farm workers. At the time, J.T. was working for Western Pacific Railroad as a laborer, and Bette owned two beauty shops.

“We lived down the street from the bar, and I used to go in there and get hot dogs,” said J.T. “I fell in love with the place and my wife was such a good cook for all the kids, we decided to buy it. We didn’t have any restaurant experience, but we knew that there were no pork ribs in town, and no one was serving pesto!”

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Their Italian dinner menu boasts savory ribs, mesquite-roasted chicken, J.T.’s Steamers (21-25 steamed clams), a full pound of the finest hand-trimmed New York loin, salmon and pesto dinner, which is fresh linguini served with Bette’s world-famous basil and garlic sauce. The lunch menu include steak and roast beef sandwiches, burgers, turkey, ham or salami sandwiches, pasta and more.

They even created “America’s first Italian BBQ sauce,” to go nicely with their lunch and dinner menus, all of which are served in generous proportions. “Since the servings are so large, the dishes taste even better the next day heated up,” said Mari Jo. “I put the BBQ. sauce on pretty much everything!” said Sindy Plaster of Linden, one of their friendly wait staff.

The sauce, which is sold in the restaurant and in over 300 stores throughout Northern California, was the joint creation of J.T. and Bette’s first husband’s side of the family – the Milano’s recipe – from Southern Italy.

“My parents started out with four employees and today have 57.

Even during the recession, we haven’t laid off one person,” said Mari Jo. “My mom is a hard worker; she worked the kitchen while J.T. worked the bar. It’s their good business sense that’s got them where they are today!” ❑

Waterloo, CA Restaurant 10447 E. Waterloo Road (Highway 99 to Waterloo Road, east 6 miles) Stockton, CA • 209-931-4019 www.thewaterloo.com

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G R A P E V I N E

Hearty History A Taste of a

L

STORY BY CHARLEEN EARLEY PHOTOS BY AMY PHIPPS

et me take you on a tour through a few sweet and smoky sips of

a local story. The heart of this tale is Woodbridge Uncorked, but before we can turn to that chapter, we have to look at the stories of the couple, Katie (Piazza) and Austin Lesley, that took Uncorked as their business a year ago. ➤

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Katie’s part began with her dad’s family

their wine. Katie and Austin help educate their

vineyard, where she absorbed knowledge about

customers of the differences in flavor, texture,

the equipment and processes of winemaking.

and aroma of the eleven different varietals

After growing up in the Lodi wine industry, she

and award-winning wines. By intertwining the

went to Chico State, where she met her husband,

craft and character of these different wineries,

Austin. Both, having receiveding their bachelor’s

they have formed a unique experience, loyal

degrees in business, came to Lodi, making it their

relationships, and a presence of Lodi culture.

home, and hoping to learn more about the wine

Yet Uncorked is not just a winetasting room.

business. Austin was quickly taken into Katie’s

They offer another side to their service when

family business, now doing half of the tractor

night transforms them into a wine bar, exclusively

work in the vineyards, and learning the glossary

paired with craft microbrews on tap, coming

of wine techniques. With further experience

from local brewhouses. Their classy atmosphere

in management positions, wisdom from other

is kept even in the moonlight hours, especially on

winemakers, and an acquired palate from tasting

Friday evenings when they host live music.

throughout California, they came upon Uncorked at the perfect time.

Hospitality fills their event calendar: every month featuring one of their wineries with a

Now six boutique wineries are served at

release party or a complemintary tasting, holding

Uncorked, all having different stories, but holding

holiday boutiques and Ladies’ Night, and offering

the common features of being small wineries with

weekly tastings and a number of discounts with

100% hand-production wine. Each winery has

their Wine Club. The history of the brick building,

trusted this tasting room to represent them and

dating its own vintage year back to 1894, makes

G R A P E V I N E

it a matchless setting for intimate private events. Whether it is a birthday, professional business meeting, engagement or rehearsal dinner, Katie and Austin are there to make it an enjoyable experience.

Uncorked has a brilliant flavor produced through time and history.

Katie and Austin’s care for their business goes directly to their customers, where they are ready and willing to give professional advice in wine tasting. Their rounded perspective, dedication, and passion keeps them talking about wine, their wineries, and their stories. �

6 Boutique Wineries Akin Estates

Maley Brothers

Grady Family Vineyards

Weibel Family Vineyards

Lobo Loco

St. Sophia

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I am

San Joaquin Dani Hovatter Age: 23 Occupation: At this flux in time, I’m a freelance writer and a commissioned painter and illustrator.

How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: I grew up in Lodi, went down to L.A., where I got my bachelor’s in english writing and a minor in art, and then moved back up here about 9 months ago.

The people who mean the most to me: Those I mean the most to Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Drifting down the Mokelumne River A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: A few years ago, when there were only two months of summer left, I made a quick decision to apply to Biola University, hoping to transfer schools. This was done thinking I would still return to my old university, but I was accepted three weeks later. And so, I dropped my large map of plans and made the move. This impractical choice changed my life in practically every positive way.

My bucket list includes: Sailing on a tall ship for at least a month.

What I’m reading now: The Golden Compass, The Pathfinder, and The Hobbit. I have a tendency to read multiple books at a time.

Favorite vacation destination: Anywhere I haven’t yet been, with good company.

Hobbies: Writing letters, photography, cooking and baking, traveling, archery, and running, to name a few.

Favorite Sports Team: My family has a dedicated history to the Giants!

Pet: At home I have three Labradors – one papa and two brothers – and one black cat.

Favorite food/dessert: Pizza, popcorn, and piscatorial sorts, and then there’s cheesecake, ice cream, and chocolate.

I “give back” by volunteering with: I’ve worked with many different mission organizations in Mexico, Nicaragua, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic. Locally, I’ve done photography and painting for St. Mary’s Dining Room and St. Peter’s Church.

Words to live by: “It’s good to have an end to journey toward; but it’s the journey that matters, in the end.”

What I would like to accomplish: Having a career as a published novelist!

PHOTO BY DAVID SOWERS

S C E N E

A N D

B E

S E E N

Child Abuse Prevention Council

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Child Abuse Prevention Council held their Festa Internazionale on September 28.

There were beverages, food by local caterers, restaurants and vintners, accompanied by live entertainment.

A

B

C

D

E

F

A Cory, Steve and Sandy DeGuirre B C

Kathy and George Kaplanis, Jenny Stuhemiller and Cliff Savage D Brian and Nicole Alameda E

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Gail and Carlos Delgado, Barbara and Juan Delgado

Donna Salemme and Paula Martin F Jarome and Shauna Jacob

d ecemb er /ja nu a r y 2 0 1 3

S C E N E

A N D

B E

S E E N

The Children’s Museum

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Children’s Museum of Stockton held their “Come Dream With Us” on October 22 at the museum.

A

B

C

D

E

F A Girlie Hale and Dee Alimbini B

Heidi Altamirano and Joan Wilhoit

C

Louann West, Faye Giovenetti and René Cohen D Joyce Willens, Ronna Roberts and Alexei Badrak

E

Wes Rhea, Heather Duffett and Megan Peterson F Bob Loux, John Cicinato and Nancy Rutherford

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When a healthy fruit juice tastes

exactly as it should

BY CHARLEEN EARLEY PHOTOS DAVID SOWERS

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L O C A L

S P O T L I G H T

I

f it looks like a pomegranate and tastes like a pomegranate – then it

“For the last 60-plus years I’ve been eating them!” said Mehrten,

has to be John Ferreira and Joe Mehrten’s Perfectly Pomegranate juice,

who also operates his family’s Grand Oaks Bed & Breakfast Inn on

now sold in almost every Raley’s store throughout Northern California.

the property. “There are so many health benefits to pomegranates. I

“It tastes exactly like the fruit,” said Ferreira, who started out

did a lot of research. I drink it for health and enjoyment. It’s a very

raising dairy cows, but ended up planting 40 acres of pomegranate trees in Stockton four years ago. His business partner Mehrten planted 24 acres at his ranch in Clements.

pleasurable drink.”

He said mature trees generate roughly 15 tons of fruit per acre, they bloom in late March to April, and they harvest from them late October,

Ferreira, age 38, was amazed by how the current juices on store shelves didn’t taste like the fruit itself. Ferreira and Mehrten bill their juice as the “first drinkable pomegranate juice.”

to early November – just in time to be “thankful” for bounty.

From harvest the fruit is sent to the 10' x 10' x 12' crushing machine, located on Ferreira’s property, and partially designed by Craig Edwards,

“Anytime you concentrate juice, unless it’s done in a zero

owner of Acampo Machine Works.

atmosphere, you oxidize the antioxidants out and they become

The partners said their juice contains as much potassium as two

ineffective,” he added. “Our juice is fresh-squeezed. It’s pasteurized,

bananas per eight-ounce serving, contains the vitamin C of half an

it doesn’t turn into wine, and it’s in a glass, so it’s always fresh. When

orange, the equivalent calcium level of two slices of cheese pizza, and

it’s packaged in plastic, over time, oxygen enters and it doesn’t taste

the same vitamin D3 content as an eight-ounce glass of milk.

fresh.”

“The drink is invigorating. I get tired on the ranch in the afternoons

Mehrten, who says he’s an “old fella” in his 70s, remembers helping his mother plant his first pomegranate tree at age six.

– I sit down, drink a whole 16 ounce bottle and an hour later, I’m restored!” said Mehrten. ❑

Perfectly Pomegranate 5573 W. Woodbridge Rd. Lodi, CA. 95242 209.712.2559 mail@perfectpome.com www.perfectpome.com

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PERFECTLY POMEGRANATE MARTINI 1 oz vodka ½ oz Cointreau ® orange liqueur 3 oz pomegranate juice Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker ¼ filled with chopped ice. Shake and strain into a cocktail glass. Serve with a sqeeze of lemon.

OPRAH’S FAVORITE POMEGRANATE MARTINI Servings: Serves 2 Ingredients 1½ cups pomegranate juice 2 ounces Absolute Citron vodka or white tequila 1 ounce Cointreau liquor Cup of ice Splash of sparkling water (optional) Squeeze of lemon (optional) Directions Shake ingredients in a shaker and put in chilled martini glasses. Put pomegranate fruit into glass as garnish.

L O C A L

S P O T L I G H T

The Giving Spirit A benevolent young lady STORY BY LORI GILBERT PHOTOS BY AMY PHIPPS

H

annah Ketcherside was only 7 when she decided to help her community.

After serving meals at St. Mary’s Dining Room, where her mom, Cindy, serves

on the board of directors, Hannah celebrated her 8th birthday by asking for socks to give the less fortunate, rather than toys for herself. When she turns 12 on December 8, her birthday celebration will be the same as it’s been every year since.

Friends and family will bring her bags of socks, and they’ll head to the Stockton Thunder ice hockey game on December 1, and watch it from a luxury box. This year’s tradition has an added twist. In conjunction with the Thunder, she’ll set up bins at the doors for other fans to contribute to the sock drive.

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C O M M U N I T Y

It’s the first community-wide event in what has become a never-ending mission.

“Socks come in all the time,” Hannah said.

S P O T L I G H T

raising event in 2005.

It, too, comes from the heart of a child.

Literally.

Aid, now known as Junior League, arose, and Polhemus, a quilter of 15 years, eagerly made her donation.

“People sometimes just leave them on our porch,

When Polhemus was 8, in 1954, she spent

Cindy Ketcherside, a Junior League member,

or they come in the mail. Sometimes I’ve had a

nine months in St. Joseph’s Hospital, a victim of

bought the quilt, and her daughter can see what

few people drop them off at school.”

rheumatic fever that settled in her heart.

kindness meant to another little girl.

Over the years, the Merryhill School seventh-

“I was supposed to stay in bed so there

grader has collected more than 7,000 pairs of

would be no permanent heart damage,”

socks.

Polhemus said. “It could be crippling, like polio.”

“It’s a sign of giving back to the community,” Hannah Ketcherside said. ❑

“It feels good, because I’m actually helping

An active child, she was confined to her bed.

others instead of getting something for myself,”

Her family could only visit twice a week – on

Hannah’s Sock Drive, P.O. Box 1836

Hannah said.

Wednesdays and Sundays – for a couple hours.

Stockton, CA 95201

If Cindy Ketcherside initially inspired her

What made the incarceration tolerable was

daughter’s philanthropy, there’s more motivation

the volunteerism of Junior Aid, an organization

in their Linden home, now.

that had been in Stockton since 1927.

A quilt in the family living room speaks of another tradition of giving back.

“Junior Aid was so good,” Polhemus said.

Socks can be mailed to

People can also mail a check for purchasing socks to the P.O. Box above, made out to: St. Mary’s Dining Room (Socks) For more information,

“Somebody came to the ward every day. We’d

Hannah’s e-mail is:

It was made by Clyta Polhemus, of Escalon,

do crafts one day, or someone would read to us.”

hannahsockdrive@live.com

and donated to Stockton Junior Aid for a fund-

Years later, the opportunity to thank Junior

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Stockton Shelter for the Homeless

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Festival of International Cuisine was held on October 27 and benefited the Stockton Shelter for the Homeless. The evening included silent and live auctions, a raffle and delicious dinner made by local restaurants.

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F A Hine and Nilam Chaudhry, Maria and Rizvi Waqar B C E

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Eric Holman and Anita Woodruff

Gina and David Rishwain D Kim Wong, John Vera and Victor Fong

Henry Zeiter, Bishop Blair and Carol Zeiter F Craig DeJong, Beth O’Hara Owen, Gail Teague and Mary Leonard

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The Haggin Museum

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

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The opening reception of the Charreria – The Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture was held at the Haggin Museum on September 22. There was live music, food and 150 spectacular objects on display.

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F A Ed Figueroa, Joelle Gomez and Diane Malcoun C E

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T J and Monica Streeter, Andrea Daugherty and Harjit Sud

Fabian and Maarisela Ceballos D Cathi Sawyer and Sharon Schenone

Consul General Carlos and Lina Gonzales-Gutierrez, George and Stella Visgilio (major sponsor) F

Marlene and Tom Guiliano, Larry and Holly Test

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The First Tee Suzanne Barnes

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STORY BY J. MICHAEL RIVERA PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

hough he no longer lives in Stockton,

pro golfer Ricky Barnes is more committed than ever to his native city.

In February, Barnes and his wife Suzanne Stonebarger

started

the

Ricky

Barnes

Foundation to “promote the physical and mental well being of children,” said Ricky in a statement.

The Barnes and foundation organizers held its first event, the Ricky Barnes Charity Pro Am Golf Tournament, at the Stockton Golf and Country Club on October 8. The tournament raised more than $100,000 for the First Tee of San Joaquin and obesity prevention for area youth.

“It was a huge success, especially for a first-time event,” said Paul Velaski, chief financial officer of the Arizona Community Foundation, which has helped establish and organize the Ricky Barnes Foundation. “Ricky was very pleased with the turnout and the Don Miller, Ricky Barnes and Kurt Blakely

fundraising, which is all about getting dollars into the community.”

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Eighty-four golfers – 21 four-person teams

Services, who served on the tournament

athlete in her own right,” said Blakely. “And a

– played through four hours of golf in a field

committee and helped with sponsorships. “This

tremendous individual like Ricky, whose roots are

that included Barnes and eight of his fellow PGA

is the best tournament I’ve been involved with

right here in Stockton, wanted to give back to the

tour members: D.J. Trahan, John Mallinger, Greg

in 25 years. I’ve played with a lot of really good

community.”

Owen, Kevin Stadler, Charley Hoffman, James

players, but never with PGA players. This was

Ricky’s giving isn’t limited to the charity

Driscoll, Colt Knost, and Derek Gillespie, who

a unique opportunity to play with PGA Tour

tournament earnings. He has committed to

was also the big break winner and an anticipated

players.”

donating money for every birdie and eagle he

PGA Tour player in the near future.

Ricky and Suzanne were equally passionate

makes on the tour to First Tee San Joaquin. Ricky

The nine PGA tour players rotated into each

about starting a foundation to benefit fitness

accomplished just that on June 20, when he

team, giving amateurs an opportunity to play

among county youth. “Suzanne was an all-

earned $10,000 by being the closest-to-the-pin at

and learn from the pros.

star volleyball player for Linden High School,

the Travelers Championship’s 15½ Challenge, an

“The whole event was an absolute home

University of Nevada and played on the pro

86-yard hole between the 15th and 16th holes at

run,” said Kurt Blakely, owner of Blakely Financial

beach volleyball tour. She was a world-class

TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut. ❑

Mitch Katz, James Discoll (Pro), Derek Dobbins and Derek Gillespie (Pro)

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Joy Joy World W orld toto the the

BY JENNIFER TORRES SIDER PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RECORD

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an Joaquin County residents claim

ancestry from more than 30 countries, from Laos to Lithuania, Italy to India. And as the weather turns crisp, fall and winter holidays celebrated throughout the region offer opportunities to learn more about many traditions that add richness to the Valley’s cultural landscape. Read on to begin exploring some of the season’s diversity.

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he Muslim holiday, also known as the “Feast of the Sacrifice,”

commemorates the patriarch Abraham’s obedience to God. (In the story – which is also part of Christian and Jewish traditions – God commands Abraham to sacrifice his son. Abraham is willing, but God intervenes at the last moment, presenting Abraham with a ram to sacrifice instead). As part of the holiday, families who can afford it sacrifice a sheep or a goat, keeping one-third of the meat for themselves; sharing one-third with friends, relatives and neighbors; and giving the remaining third to the poor. The date of the holiday is based on a lunar calendar, so it varies from year to year. In recent

Eid al-Adha

years, though, Eid al-Adha has fallen in fall and winter. Locally, the Pakistani-American Association of San Joaquin County hosts an annual Eid al-Adha celebration featuring live music and food.

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nown as “The Festival of Lights,” Diwali is a

Hindu holiday that typically falls in October or November.

It celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and is commemorated with the lighting of lanterns and fireworks, and the sharing of sweet treats. For nearly 20 years, the Indian Association of San Joaquin County has organized the Diwali Show, a community event in which as many as 100 children perform traditional Indian music and dance.

Diwali

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elebrated in November, Hmong New Year is a harvest celebration, a time to

honor the spirits of ancestors and to welcome a period of new beginnings. Every year, the local Hmong New Year celebration is held at San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, drawing several thousand visitors from throughout Northern California. The two-day festival features volleyball tournaments, food, folk dancing and pov pob, a traditional matchmaking ball-toss game played among teens and young adults.

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Our Lady of Guadalupe

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he Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is part of Roman

Catholic tradition. Celebrated in early December, and especially significant among Latinos, the feast day recalls the story of Juan Diego, an indigenous Mexican who, according to tradition, saw a vision of the Virgin Mary in December 1531. Mary instructed Juan Diego to go to the bishop and tell him that a church should be built in her honor. When the skeptical bishop demanded proof of Juan Diego’s story, Mary sent the poor man back with roses gathered in his cloak – a miracle in wintertime. Then, when Juan Diego returned to the bishop and opened the cloak, a luminous image of Mary was revealed on the cloth. In downtown Stockton every December, believers hold a procession in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, followed by a Mass at Stockton Arena. The event draws as many as 10,000 people.

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he Jewish holiday, also known as the “Festival of Lights,”

Hanukkah

is observed over eight days and nights in November or

December. (This year, Hanukkah falls on December 8 through 15). The celebration commemorates the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem following Jewish victory over Syrian occupiers. When the temple was reclaimed, believers wished to purify it by lighting its menorah (a special candelabra) for eight days. Unfortunately, there was only a day’s worth of oil to burn. They lit it anyway, and miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days. Today the lighting of the menorah during Hanukkah recalls that miracle, and for the past several years the Jewish organization Chabad of Stockton has hosted the lighting of a community menorah downtown.

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Kwanzaa

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ooted in the traditional harvest festivals of African

communities, Kwanzaa, a secular holiday, was developed in the late 1960s to celebrate black heritage. The festival is held over seven days, beginning on December 26, and focuses on seven principles: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (selfdetermination), Ujima (collective responsibility), Kuumba (creativity), Nia (purpose), Ujamaa (cooperative economics) and Imani (faith). During each night of Kwanzaa, a candle is lit, and observers reflect on one of the principles. Every year, the Black Employees Association of Stockton Unified School District hosts a community Kwanzaa celebration.

Christmas

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or most in our community, Christmas is December’s – and

perhaps the whole year’s – most significant holiday event, a time for celebration among family and friends, and for reflection on the ideals of compassion and generosity. Many of the world’s diverse Christmas traditions are embraced locally. Latino Catholics, for example, re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth in a custom called Las Posadas. Meanwhile, Filipino-American families create parols, star-shaped lanterns made of paper and bamboo, evoking the star of Bethlehem. Within the Greek Orthodox tradition, the Christmas season continues for 12 days after December 25. Gifts are often exchanged and celebrations are held on January 1, the feast day of Saint Basil.

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St. Mary’s Doplh Gotelli Luncheon

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

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The St. Mary’s Dolph Gotelli luncheon was held on October 30 at Stockton Golf and Country Club.

Gotelli is an international expert and lecturer on the subject of Christmas, holiday rituals and Santa Claus.

The luncheon benefited St. Mary’s High School.

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D A Gayle Jackson and Dolph Gotelli C

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Marion Paulson and Susan Moe

Steve Werner, BJ Stewart and Beverly McCarthy D Pati Gotelli, Angela Brusa and Elisa Parises

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Stockton Arts Commission

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The 35th Annual Stockton Arts Awards Starry Night was held on October 20 at The Haggin Museum. The night began with a reception, wine bar and hors d’oeuvres, and concluded with the program, showcasing amazing talent and award presentation.

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Ginny Thompson, Marge Hellwig, Jackie Brown

Middagh Goodwin and Deidre Reyna D Mary Muller Niven and Betty Lasley E

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Lisa Gallego and Wendy Maxwell F Colleen and Bill Cook

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Rodeo. Glaciers. Bears. Oh my!

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DONNA BROWN & COLLEEN FOSTER

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ur trip to Calgary and along the Icefields

Parkway between Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise had it all.

First stop: the Calgary Stampede – part rodeo, part county fair, part carnival and part Las Vegas entertainment. A full day of rodeo fun – from bronc and bull riding to chuck wagon races – brought cowboys from all over Canada and the US… and a few from even farther away. It set the tone for adventure, but did not prepare us for what the Canadians call “the most beautiful highway in the world.”

The road to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway was one spectacular scene after another. The Columbia Icefields and the Athabasca Glacier: brrrr – but beautiful.

This vast glacier is the only one in the world that finds its snowmelt ending in three different oceans: The Pacific, Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Another stunning feature of the road to Jasper is the prevalence of breathtaking waterfalls. The Athabasca waterfall is one of the most dramatic in the area, but it certainly not alone. And one mountain lake after another tries to outdo the next with its deep emerald color: Peyto Lake, Moraine and Maligne Lakes, and Emerald Lake. One unexpected treat of a late spring was the sighting of twelve black bears foraging for food in the lower elevations – a record for our tour. ➤ lifestyles

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E S C A P E S

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Our time in Jasper

This glacier-fed lake is stunningly beautiful and amazingly COLD… but

coincided with Park Days

two Newfoundlands and a gaggle of teenage boys braved the frigid

– and we got to see the

temperatures on the mid-summer day we visited.

dedication of a new totem

A couple days’ visit in the quaint, busy, tourist-centered town of

pole. This was unexpected

Banff was a treat. A gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain yielded the most

since First Nations people who carve totems live in west coastal Canada,

spectacular views of the town, the Bow River, the HooDoos and the

but we learned this was a gift of friendship from the British Columbia

Banff Springs Hotel. A visit by a hungry mountain goat was an added

people to their Alberta neighbors. A fantastic nature walk near Mount

bonus. In town, we had a great Greek dinner after a hard afternoon

Edith Cavell featured the impressive Angel Glacier and the far smaller but

of T-shirt shopping and buying specially blended teas with names like

seemingly “suspended” Ghost Glacier, as well as the Cavell pond, full of

“Black Bear tea.”

Donna Brown and Colleen Foster

melting ice that calved from the surrounding glaciers. The mountain was

A trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver

named in 1916 for Edith Cavell, an English nurse celebrated for helping

in a domed car was a fabulous cap to an amazing trip. The scenery

soldiers regardless of what side they fought for. She was executed as

was marvelous, if not quite as spectacular as that along the Icefields

a traitor by the Germans during World War I for having helped Allied

Parkway. But the food was wonderful, and the service made you want

soldiers escape from occupied Belgium to the Netherlands.

to stay on board forever!

Our only sighting of Wapiti – elk – was in this magnificent area.

A few days in Vancouver to enjoy the delights of that metropolitan

The road back to Lake Louise was also studded with one dazzling

city was the perfect way to end a fabulous vacation. High tea in Stanley

scene after another. The majestic Lake Louise was the cap to some of

Park, an afternoon in Granville Island – with an overwhelming number

the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Named after Princess Louise

of choices for a takeout dinner – and a visit to galleries housing some of

Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria, Lake Louise

the most brilliant northwest artwork… this was a great way to bring a

is surrounded by Mount Temple, Mount Whyte and Mount Niblock.

spectacular vacation to a wonderful close. ❑

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The Magazine For San Joaquin County

A funny story: On my first day to my new home (at 2 months old) I tumbled into our swimming pool. A friend/photographer happened to be there and documented my human parent jumping into the pool to rescue me. The photos were shared in the UOP alumni magazine with a “President rescues dog�-themed brief story. It was two years before I was brave enough to get back in the swimming pool again, in spite of being an enthusiastic lake swimmer.

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PHOTOS BY PAM EIBECK

Wag Tales

Joaquin Dogs

Grace Covell (“Gracie”). I am named after Grace Covell Hall, the student dorm across the street from the house where I live on the UOP campus.

grown up, but my sister still puts her shoes away in the closet instead of leaving them on the floor.

Favorite treat: I work for love.

I am a: Golden Retriever

Obsession: Enticing students to pat me.

Where I’m from: Lodi

Where I go to get beautiful: Beauty of the Beast in Lodi, where my grandmother (breeder) works.

Favorite place to hang out: The UOP campus Most amazing trick: Chasing sparkles (light reflections) Most recent accomplishment: Chasing my 150th consecutive squirrel up a tree at Lake Tahoe (without catching any of them.)

Favorite dog park or place to play/roam/ walk: The forest around Lake Tahoe.

Guilty pleasure: Romping off-the-leash on the DUC lawn at 5:45 in the morning as Pam and Bill begin their morning run. I have to go back on my leash, though, to run through neighborhoods near campus.

Naughtiest deed: Chewing up one of my sister’s favorite shoes when I was a puppy. (I would never think of doing such a naughty thing now that I am all

lifestyles

Any other interesting info about me: I am just an ordinary dog (although some people tell me I am beautiful), who happens to live in the President’s House on the UOP campus. My typical day starts in the dark as I run with Pam and Bill across the campus and through the neighborhoods. After breakfast I find Bill to tell him when Pam is ready, and then we walk her to work. My favorite job is visiting with students on campus. Many of them tell me how glad they are to see me because they really miss their dog back home.

Human parents: Pam Eibeck & Bill Jeffery

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Community Foundation

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Community Foundation of San Joaquin County presented local charities with donations at Stockton Golf and Country Club on October 23.

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Camilla Wolak, Vi Howard and Peggy Yorke

Lorna Boothroyd, Ellen and Ray McCray D Duane Isetti and Linda Philipp E Rebeca Knodt, Leslie Heier and Lindy Turner-Hardin

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El Concilio

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

El Concilio’s 44th Annual Gala was held on October 5 at Hutchins Street Square in Lodi. Assembly member Ricardo Lara was the keynote speaker of the evening, and a wonderful evening was had by all.

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Alicia and Scott Biedermann

Dan Jimenez, Rosa and Sam Harnack D Shannon Ding, Sylvester Aguilar and Triana Berryhill

Kelsey and retired judge Cinda Fox, Annette Sanchez F Mary Macias, Jessica Weist and Judy Jimenez

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COMBINED DRIVING R

BY JOHN McCLIMANS PHOTOS BY DAVID SOWERS

unning in circles, navigating through obstacles and dashing

through cones may sound like activities from your last company picnic, but for Fritz and Phyllis Grupe, it’s just another day on the farm with their horses.

Scattered throughout their 1,300-acre estate they’ve built everything required to continue to pursue their passion of combined driving. Similar to the equestrian Olympic sport of eventing, combined driving is a set of events which occur over three days. In these events, the horses drive a carriage instead of being ridden.

For the past 12 years, the Grupes have hosted their own event for combined driving, the Shady Oaks Combined Driving Event (CDE). This

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annual event is the largest on the West Coast. Between 55 and 75

Tipping your carriage is a real risk, though, and to help offset the

teams of two from the western U.S. and Canada participate, and past

momentum of taking a tight corner, a second person on the back of the

events have attracted more than 1,000 spectators.

carriage, the navigator, leans to the left or right to keep all four wheels

Events start with dressage, a set of compulsory movements such as figure eights and diagonal trotting, which show the skill and ability of the driver (also known as the whip) and their horses.

The Grupes’ obstacles, almost all original designs, draw inspiration from near and far. The bridge obstacle, which uses an old truck bed,

Day two is the marathon. Testing the horses’ stamina and endurance

was inspired by an obstacle seen at Windsor Castle in England. Others

and the drivers ability to control and maneuver their horses, they go

take advantage of the natural features found at the old dairy that is

through a set of timed walking and trotting courses before starting

now home to the obstacles.

the obstacles. Drivers navigate through a series of gates in eight large obstacles as quickly as possible. Miss a gate and you’re eliminated.

“One of the tricks is to not tip over,” joked Fritz while walking through one of the obstacles. Phyllis added, “And keep in mind you have two big horses charging in front of you, going about 15 miles per hour.”

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on the ground.

The final event is cone driving. Navigating a series of narrowlyspaced cones, similar to an obstacle course, drivers have to avoid knocking off orange balls that sit on top of the cones. The team with the lowest combined penalty score from the three events wins.

Fritz first heard about combined driving while visiting friends in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Their friends mentioned they were going to a

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combined driving event and Fritz asked, “What’s that?” Now he’s been in the sport for 15 years, while Phyllis has been participating for seven.

Even though he’s only been competing for 15 years, Fritz has seen his fair share of success. He won the U.S. title in 2005 and 2009, and competed on the U.S. Equestrian Team in Salzburg, Austria in 2005. The carriage house of their stables is lined with championship ribbons from various events around the world.

But it’s not just about winning for Fritz and his wife. More importantly, they enjoy the time spent with each other, their horses and other competitors while they travel the world, competing in different events.

“You see a lot of the same people as you travel from event to event,” Phyllis mentioned as we drove through a large field on their property, where the participants’ trailers and RVs were set up for the weekend. “It’s like they become a second family.” ❑

Mark your calendars for the 2013 Shady Oaks CDE October 3-6 It’s a perfect event for any equine enthusiast, and is great for the entire family.

Admission and parking is free For more information about next year’s event, visit www.shadyoakevents.com

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Sleigh bells ring...

SANTA’S CHOICE OF TRANSPORT STORY BY DANI HOVATTER

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hristmas has slid back into the season. The cold days have

begun and the warmth of crackling wood, hot cocoa, and company of families surround us. Songs of a white Christmas and of the rosycheeked Claus chime in the background, while we imagine Santa naming the magical reindeer lineup, flying up into the moonlight and toward our chimneys. Every Christmas we’re greeted with this collection of nostalgia, and it’s all brought to us in a simple sleigh.

Sleds, sledges, or sleighs are usually followed by the thought of them sliding down a snowy hill; yet sleds have seen a broader range of terrain.

Trailing the sled’s origin is as much a mystery as locating the inventor of the wheel, but we can find its tracks throughout history.

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E L I T E

F L E E T

In sands, sledges were used for construction and transportation of obelisks in ancient Egypt. Over soggy fields and muddy roads, sleds brought Vikings to the shores for ice fishing. And over snow and stone, man-hauled sledges transported entire British expeditions to Arctic grounds. But because of the wheel’s efficiency over drier surfaces, the sled seized its reign in the places where the snow falls.

Fun and recreation have taken hold of this device over centuries, forming sports like the Swiss bobsled, the less commonly known Swedish sledge hockey, and the renowned Alaskan Iditarod dogsled race. But the countless other forms of sleighs – toboggan, flexible flyer, tube, luge, saucer, ski, snowboard, etc. – have provided common folk with a means to form cherished memories.

Whether you know sleds to ride on snow, dirt, gravel, or rooftops, they are the perfect transport into the holiday spirit. If you’re feeling the need for some sentimental charm, the south shore of Lake Tahoe offers a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Magical streets of snow and imagining Bing Crosby singing in your ear will explain why Santa chooses a sleigh over a car, year after year. ❑

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Mark the date

December

FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Since 1979, the Family Christmas Party has been enjoyed by museum members, their children and grandchildren. It will take place on December 2 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. and is hosted by the Junior Women’s Group at the Haggin Museum. There are activities for children, food, sweets and complimentary photos with Santa.

Prices are $40 for adults and $15 for children. Contact Kristen Anema for more information on membership at 209-940-6316 or email kanema@hagginmuseum.org.

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Nov. 14-Dec. 9

WHITE CHRISTMAS

The Stockton Civic Theatre will present “White Christmas” from November 14 – December 9. This special holiday musical is sponsored by Chase Chevrolet and directed by Jim Coleman. Tickets are $25 for adults, $21 for seniors and $15 for students and children.

For more information, call 209-473-2424 or visit www.sctlivetheatre.com.

Nov. 23 Jan. 5 Visit Dell’Osso Family Farm from November 23 to January 5 and experience Holidays on the Farm. There will be snow for tubing and zip lines, a beautiful drive through lighted show attraction, and Santa’s Village with various activities! Also, don’t miss ice-skating on the farm! For more information, visit www.holidaysonthefarm.com or call 209-982-0833.

LODI PARADE OF LIGHTS

The Downtown Lodi Business Partnership will host the annual Parade of Lights at 6:17 p.m. on Thursday, December 6. The one-mile route begins on Pine Street, continues down Church Street, Lodi Avenue, School Street and Locust Street. For more information, email info@downtownlodi.com or call 209-369-8052.

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EL CONCILIO’S ANNUAL “NAVIDAD EN EL VALLE” TAMALE DINNER

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On December 6, support El Concilio by purchasing tamales from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Stockton Civic Auditorium. Meal tickets are $10, and advance purchase is encouraged.

For tickets and more information, please visit www.elconcilio.org or call 209-337-7516.

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ONE RANDOM DAY

One Random Day will be presented at The Knowlton Gallery from December 1 to January 12. All paintings on display were painted on August 28, 2012, and there will be between 24 and 28 photos in the show. The opening reception will be on December 1 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

For more information, call 209-368-5123.

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HOLIDAY MIXER

Dress as your favorite Hollywood character and walk the red carpet at the Stockton Women’s Network’s Holiday Mixer on December 13. Celebrate 30 years and schmooze with starlets, dodge paparazzi, and win prizes at Mid Cal Body Shop from 5:15 to 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.stocktonwomensnetwork.org or call 209-472-0359.

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THE NUTCRACKER

“The Nutcracker” will be performed by the Lodi Ballet on December 14 and 15 at 7:00 p.m. at Hutchins Street Square in Lodi. Tickets for adults are $16 and $10 for children under 12, students and seniors.

For more information or tickets, call 209-333-5550 or visit www.hutchinsstreetsquare.com or www.loditickets.com.

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STOCKTON SYMPHONY HOLIDAY POPS

On December 16, the Stockton Symphony will present “Holiday Pops: A Swingin’ Holiday Celebration.” Broadway stars Nat Chandler and Teri Handsen will help kick off the holidays with the Stockton Symphony!

Tickets range from $22-$60 and can be purchased by calling 209-951-0196 or by visiting www.stocktonsymphony.org.

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On January 11 and 12 Monster X Tour will be at the Stockton Arena. There will be monster trucks and FMX stunt riders in this action-packed evening!

Don’t miss the pre-event Autograph Pit Party. For more information or tickets, call 209-373-1400 or visit www.stocktonlive.com.

From January 15 to February 23 the Knowlton Gallery will be showcasing Contemporary Marine Artists of the West Coast. The opening reception will be held on January 19 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 209-368-5123 or visit www.knowltongallery.com.

COMMUNITY CENTER FOR THE BLIND & VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Join Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired for their 6th Annual Crab Feed on January 19 at 6:00 p.m. at the Waterloo Gun & Bocci Club. Feast on crab, delicious sides, wine & dessert. Grab a cocktail from the bar, browse the silent auction and win some great door prizes & raffles!

Tickets are $45.00 each – call 209-466-3836 or visit www.communitycenterfortheblind.org/crabfeed.

February

MONSTER X TOUR

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The Harlem Globetrotters will be at the Stockton Arena on January 17 at 7:00 p.m. The “You Write the Rules” World Tour will showcase the skills of the Globetrotters and take fan participation to the next level. For tickets, call 209-373-1400 or visit www.stocktonlive.com.

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January

MARINE ARTISTS OF THE WEST COAST

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS

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CARRIE UNDERWOOD

Don’t miss Carrie Underwood’s Blown Away Tour at Stockton Arena on February 26. $1 of every ticket purchase will be donated to The Red Cross disaster relief. Tickets are available at the Stockton Arena Box Office, or by visiting www.stocktonlive.com.

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Goodwill Helping Hands

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Goodwill Helping Hands dinner was held on October 11 at the Stockton Hilton. The evening honored

Marian

Jacobs,

the

recipient of the 2012 Goodwill Helping Hands Award.

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C

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E

F

A John Kautz, Marian Jacobs and Gail Kautz C

Jeff Heiser, Judy and Steve Herum

Carol Prokop, Janet Kavanaugh and Andy Prokop D Phyllis Grupe and Karen Munro E

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B

Dr. Ashok and Nina Daftary F Mike and Carol Hakeem and Joan Wilhoit

d ecemb er /ja nu a r y 2 0 1 3

S C E N E

A N D

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S E E N

Pacific Italian Alliance

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

On October 6, the Pacific Italian Alliance held their Passport to Italy event on Knoles Lawn at UOP, and was followed by a concert by Pasquale Esposito and his band.

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B

C

D

E

F A Jesse and Nisha Pataria

B

Cynthia Natali and Vicotira Serr

C

Linda Ratto, Karen Rosson and Diana Lowery D John and May Canzano, Stacy and Chris Flaherty

E

Rod and Kelli Boveee, Bill and Angie Rogan F John and Lynette Zeiter, Susan and Greg Traverso

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World of Wonders

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The World of Wonders Science Museum hosted “Incredible Edible Science” on October 13 at the museum in Lodi. The evening included an auction, raffle, wine and edible science creations!

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D A Bob Morrow, Bryce Bewley and Pam Cook C

B

Deanna Delu, Lloyd and Pat Hill

Sharon and Darrius Johnson

D Alan and Linda Kaawaguchi

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d ecemb er /ja nu a r y 2 0 1 3

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

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Ricky Barnes Charity Pro-Am

PHOTOS BY HELEN RIPKEN

The Ricky Barnes Charity ProAm was held on October 8 and sponsored by Davis & Associates, American AgCredit and Chase Chevrolet of Stockton. Proceeds from the event went to First Tee San Joaquin, which promotes the physical and mental well being of children in San Joaquin County.

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C

D

E

F

A Maureen and Gene Stonebarger, Suzanne Barnes, Adrienne and Marcia Stonebarger B

Carol Hirota, John Mallinger (Pro) and Charlie Hoffman (Pro) C Ann Oliver, Cathy Barnes and Andy Barnes D Joe and Denise Chelli

E

John and Tallia Ferraiolo F Dick and Barbara Fichtner

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BLACK WHITE A

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L

SAVE THE DATE for New Year’s Eve Stay tuned into our Facebook page and website for more info.

Facebook.com/UniversityPlazaWaterfrontHotel

Twitter@UniPlazaWatrFrnt

UNIVERSITYPLAZA

Visit our Website at:

www.universityplazawaterfronthotel.com for additional information.

110 West Fremont Street Stockton, CA 95202

209.944.1140