The Current August 2016 - The Style Edition

August 2016

t S THE

e l y EDITION

dog days of summer

FASHION

mega diamond in the

BITES ROUGH

don't dress for

DINNER restore-ing

HOPE

coming to stockton

X FEST

printed printed on on recycled recycled paper paper

august 2016

NEWEST WRINKLE

by Natalie Watkins

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Contributors

“Style is something very individual, very personal, and in their own unique way, I believe everyone is stylish.”

Publisher Roger Coover

— Salman Khan

Advertising Director Deitra Kenoly

W

hen we hear the word "style," we often think of a particular appearance. But Webster’s Dictionary also defines style as “a manner of doing something.” When we decided to theme this edition STYLE, we had both definitions in mind.

With the latter definition, style becomes a man living a life that is true to the real person he is inside. It becomes a woman that has taken the difficult hand that life has dealt her and turned it into something inspiring. Style is taking something that was once discarded and making it into something more beautiful than ever. And style is giving of yourself without any desire for a return on that investment other than the way it makes you feel, and more importantly, how it makes others feel.

Editor Karen Bakhtegan Cover Artist Natalie Watkins Graphic Artists Jason LaMasters Jason Ente Account Specialist Liz Saldivar Social Media / Event Specialist Lina Tirre

Pictured left to right: Jason Ente, Jason LaMasters

Writers Sam Allen Charleen Earley Middagh Goodwin Eunice Green Bob Highfill Melissa Hutsell Mike Klocke Leah Myers Matt Nakamura Joshua Stoner Jennifer Torres

We have lots of that kind of style right here in our own community and right here in these pages.

We also have plenty of the more common definition of style, and… I could not let a STYLE edition go out without giving a shout out to the two incredible artists extraordinaire that create the look of The Current each and every month. Jason LaMasters is our lead designer. He has conquered the task of giving The Current a distinct style, while managing to keep it fresh and continuously innovative with each edition. Just when I think he has used all his tricks, he pulls more rabbits out of that hat. Jason Ente, graphic designer for The Record, has also been jumping in to create beautiful and artistic layouts in every single edition. His contribution has been priceless. Please stop what you are doing and give a standing ovation to these two talented souls… and then kick up your designer heels and enjoy The Current.

Photographers Charleen Earley Lina Tirre Rich Turner Clifford Oto

WE NEED YOUR INPUT Do you have something to say? Are you a writer?

An armchair columnist? A blogger?

Are you an entrepreneur? An inventor? An innovator?

An artist? Are you paying it forward?

Do you know of a hidden gem or an unsung hero whose story needs to be told?

Cheers,

We want to hear from you and we want to include you in upcoming editions.

Karen Bakhtegan

Email: thecurrent@recordnet.com Follow us and share your photos and messages Instagram–thecurrentsj Facebook–The Current San Joaquin Twitter–@thecurrentsj $5 value

august 2016

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10-27 style

- inspire u apparel - an authentic life - get that glow - small homes, big potential - sock it to me - dogs days of summer fashion - restore-ing hope - diamond in the rough

august2016

28 word on the street 29 new kids on the block 30 vitals 32 the campus 34 my generation 36 get out 38 vines 40 book nook  44 postcards from the delta 46 family ties 48 artbeat - who has the most style?

- say it with a box

- gorgeous skin and how to achieve it

- fashion forward

- summer of learning

- local events

- lange twins & peltier winery

- summer reads - big free library

- down to the sea in ships

- functional family

- all that jazz - linden community theatre "don't dress for dinner"

51 the undercurrent - x fest - the reggae fest - the nightcrawler – misaki

august 2016

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events

Beer gardens live music kids zone food truck competition

Stockton

& FAMILY FESTIVAL six

new car exhibitors wine down lounge New Car test drive area

SAT, OCT 22 n d Sj counTy fairgrounds

$500 pa rizes

Classic car show & COMPETITION

nd more!

10am-7pm $25 registration

All clubs & solo riders welcome!

“Family friendly event!”

For info call Lina Tirre

209-470-8925 Etirre@recordnet.com

Photos are for illustration purposes only

contact our specialists

209.943.8585

Liz Saldivar The Current lsaldivar@recordnet.com Outside Print and Digital Specialist

Lina Tirre Current Events Live etirre@recordnet.com Event Specialist Social Media

events

Get The Current delivered to your home the fourth Sunday of every month by subscribing to The Record.

Go to Recordnet.com to get your subscription started. ~or~ Pick up a free copy of The Current sponsored by Big Valley Ford starting Thursday, July 28 at any of these local businesses: Black Rose Tattoo 237 E. Miner Avenue Stockton Brannon Tires 4905 Claremont Avenue Stockton Canepa’s Car Wash 6230 Pacific Avenue 642 N. Hunter Avenue Stockton

Downtown Stockton Alliance 125 Bridge Place Stockton Friends of the Library 1724 W. Hammer Lane Stockton Green’s Nutrition 1906 Pacific Avenue Stockton

Canepa’s Lube & Oil 6220 Pacific Avenue Stockton

Humphreys College 6650 Inglewood Avenue Stockton

David’s Pizza 1744 W. Hammer Lane Stockton

iKutz Barbershop 2420 W. Turner Road Lodi

august 2016

Infusion Playhouse 306 E. Main Street Stockton

Millie’s Art Korner 229 E. Alpine Avenue Stockton

Kings Card Club 6111 West Lane, Suite 103 Stockton

Mr. D’s Pizza 122 E. Oak Street Stockton

Mexican Heritage Center 111 S. Sutter Street Stockton

My Partners Furniture 113 W. Harding Way Stockton

Meyers Optical 858 W. Ben Holt Drive Stockton

Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau 125 Bridge Place Stockton

Midtown Creperie 3311 Pacific Avenue Stockton

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Stockton Indoor Sports Complex 3251 N. Ad Art Road Stockton We Play 3252 Tomahawk Lane Stockton Wine & Roses 2505 W. Turner Road Lodi

NEXT MONTH THE

HISPANIC EDITION

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Natalie Watkins Stockton

Biography Natalie Masako Watkins was born and raised in Stockton, California. She started to paint and explore visual arts at age 16, during her junior year in high school. She gives a lot of credit to her high school art teacher, Mr. Ponte, for pushing her beyond her limits.

Since then, she has taken many art classes at Delta College, and continues to explore and experiment with visual arts. She loves hosting and participating in art shows and getting other talented artist involved in the diverse community of Stockton. She plans to be an art teacher, and hopes to graduate from Sacramento State in the near future.

Artist statement I’ve always found people and human figures to be incredibly inspiring. I was also into photography before I discovered that I could paint and draw. Portraiture was my favorite form of photography. With that, most of my work is inspired by other photographers and models. I do not aim to be a realist painter because I love manipulating the photograph with color and brush strokes.

Instagram: natilism Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Natilism Email: nmwatkins94@gmail.com

august 2016

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l e r a App

by Melissa Hutsell

Motivation You Can Wear

C

heryl Macias Nisby’s new clothing line is inspiring others, one garment at a time.

Her exclusively handcrafted InspireUApparel line features sweatshirts, tank tops, T-shirts, bottoms, hats, and much more. Each piece features various designs for men, women and children – all with uplifting sayings, including top sellers such as “INSPIRE,” “DRIVEN,” and “EMPOWER.” Nisby’s brand is aimed to motivate – her bold, inspirational messages spark conversations and spread positivity.

tivity Fashioned by Posihe art, and from her experience,

her Her designs come from ength to l, I always had this inner str she explains. “As young gir gave ver ne I . all that I tried to tackle push myself to do my best in nd rou my friends to do the same. I sur up, and always encouraged teristic optimistic mindset is a charac r He y.” vit siti po th wi f sel my to share s, and something she wants she attributes to her succes with others. stined ression for Nisby. “I was de Fashion is a source of exp jewelry e. I used to design my own lin ng thi clo n ow my rt sta to designs was a young girl.” Now, she and Barbie clothing when I ative cre the ny. In addition to being apparel for her own compa ger na ma rel, she is also a regional director behind InspireUAppa r ove 25 en in the retail industry for be ve ha current trends.”

“I rs.

Ko el cha Mi for d have always kept up with an n, hio imate inspiration. fas for on ssi pa a d r-old daughter remains her ult yea 13 her t, years […] I have always ha ren pa ap n bee r path.’ And of the industry has always inspire others to follow you d an r, de lea a Be While Nisby’s passion for ity. tiv ga ings and difference. Don’t feed into ne influenced by their surround y ver are ls gir g un “Yo “I always tell her, ‘make a s. say spotlight local athletes, gativity on social media,” she social media as a means to use to a course, there is too much ne ide at gre a be uld dia. I thought it wo the message.” what they see on social me sitive light [to help] spread po a in rs ola sch d an s, ist aspiring art

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A Seamless Start

Nisby had the ideas she nee ded to get started, but she says it wa s her friends and family that gave her the final encouragement she nee ded.

With their help, her brand gre w by word of mouth and through a small social media campaign.

She officially launched Ins pir eUA ppa rel in Oc tob er 201 5, and has since been met wit h an overwhelming amount of suppor t and enthusiasm.

Her products began to sell qui ckly, and within three weeks, Nisby sold her entire inventory through social media sales alone. “In one month , my bus iness idea skyrocketed and positive message was everywher the e!” she adds.

Her background in the ind ustry has allowed her to sea mlessly start her apparel line, she explains. She knows quality, and puts an em phasis on it. “I have a great understanding of what silhouettes flatter most, col or palettes that work each season, and trends that are more classic [so they can ] be worn year after year.”

Nisby also focuses on sourcin g, and works with Creative Vis ion Printing to produce her line locally. “I person ally order samples of each gar ment, and wear the garment to ensure [it] wears and washes well.” As the creativ e director, I’m involved [down to every detail] .”

kton Inspired by Stoc her favorite locations hometown, Nisby incorporates

In true dedication to her t and the gn, including UOP, the waterfron pai cam her into on ckt Sto out through athletes within also spotlights local scholars and Miracle Mile. InspireUApparel company’s the community who embody the s – those values. “I look for true leader munity, making a difference in the com mers.”

-co and uppositive role models and has she , ive As a proud Stockton nat and wn eto always been loyal to her hom n a lot of the people in it. “There has bee ck about negativity and unfortunate feedba s in [here] Stockton. My entire family live nderful wo h suc and I have developed .” She ple peo ng friendships with amazi allow n’t uld adds that for this reason, “I wo tead, Ins ity. myself to feed into the negativ a positive I wanted to continue to spread at things message and focus on all the gre about Stockton.” bus ine ss In the me ant ime , the mother and e owner, career woman, wif cancer t por is developing apparel to sup and gn, pai awareness, a non-bully cam s. item more boy’s and men’s clothing

InspireUapparel is on every social media venue including: Facebook.com/InspireUApparel or Instagram @inspireuapparel To purchase your own piece of InspireUApparel, visit etsy.com/shop/InspireUApparel

august 2016

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D

an Jimenez counts his blessings. He manages a successful jewelry chain – Prestigio Jewelers next to JC Penney in Stockton, and at seven other locations throughout California – and he has come out as himself.

When I first met Dan at a downtown Starbucks, he was dressed in a summery blue polka-dot button-down shirt and cool Bermuda shorts. Jewels – not so much unlike those of his childhood idol Grace Kelly – sparkled just below his chin. A look that makes people smile.

c ti n e h t u An A story by Sam Allen photos by Lina Tirre But this isn’t for show. It is a consequence of Dan being himself, the best possible version of himself that he can be.

Early in life, Dan hid who he was. He lived a double life and promised his sister Lupe that he would never date men. She caught him at his family’s house on Robert’s Island with a man in his thirties when he was just 16 or 17. She freaked out, whipped out the tequila, and called his older siblings. They all cried, hashed it out, and finally Dan caved.

Dan didn’t want to hurt his sister, so he promised her – no more men. Life went on and time crawled on in the islands. Dan – who has an ease that makes others eager to listen to him – kept charming girls as his sweethearts. But six weeks after his encounter with another man, he said to himself, “I can’t live like this anymore,” and snuck off to Stockton. He headed to Eden Park to meet boys and to The Gay 90’s across the street, the boldly-named first gay bar and safe space in Stockton. An older boy befriended him, took him around to various LGBT/gay hangouts in the area, and that was that.

Except that it wasn’t: Dan still lived a double life.

His compromise for his sister took its toll.

Dan continued to draw inspiration from women, but continued to conceal that he was gay. He dressed well, but 12

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the clothes he wore didn’t always express his true self. He let himself be wined and dined by glamorous dames, but always kept one true male sweetheart for himself on the side. He spoiled them with treasures. To these young men, and to himself, he said, “I cleanse myself, because I do all of this for you.”

Finally, when Dan was 36, he had enough. He was going to be himself with everyone, everywhere.

And that changed things.

“

I can’t live like this anymore – I’m gonna be me, and I’m gonna be fabulous.

Sam prefers their pronoun* neutral. Chai cold. Chocolate hot. Their books thought-provoking.

A native of Stockton, Sam is 33, and like most of us, is still trying to figure out what they want to be when they grow up. They’re debating between writer, cat herder – aka UU minister – and tutor photo by Arturo Vera extraordinaire. And IB grad and Stan love. Their true love is observing humans in their natural environments. *It is common within the LGBTQ Community to choose to use a gender neutral pronoun for oneself, as opposed to the more commonly used “she” or “he.” If you are ever uncertain, just ask, “what is your preferred prounoun?”

“

No more masks, and no more shame.

He realized that all of his spirit-draining efforts to be accepted by others were responses to his own imagination. “There’s a fine line between how you’re portraying yourself to be accepted by others and how you see yourself. It’s from your own eyes, but not their eyes. I came out and said, ‘I can’t live like this anymore – I’m gonna be me and I’m gonna be fabulous.’”

Since then, Dan has lived a fabulous life. He has become a leader in the LGBTQ+ community. He regularly gets invited to weddings by the grateful couples he assists in his management position at Prestigio.

He has been open to receiving the gifts the world has given him, and he has loved.

Dan had a near-death experience once when he was visiting the Grand Mansion Inn. He was in a convertible accident, and he tried to help his friends, but his skull ended up being crushed “into a hundred pieces” by the convertible mechanism. Hours later, at UC Davis Hospital, he heard the medical staff and his friends around him announce, “He’s gone. Call it.” But he was alive, and he felt himself floating in the air, with fabric spiraling and unraveling all around him.

He came to life, recovered, and now surrounds himself with fabrics that he finds beautiful.

This is a reminder for Dan of second chances. Give him an old piano and he’ll make a bar out of it. Then he’ll send it home to its original owner. Like him, those things simply need to be salvaged, remade, and given a second chance. These things Dan understands.

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! w o l G t a h T et

by Leah Myers

T

he ultimate goal of a summer beauty routine is all about looking effortlessly chic. Summer calls for makeup that is lighter and brighter. When the temperatures are soaring, the last thing you should worry about is makeup melting down your face.

Skip the heavy foundation and smoky eye and keep it simple. With just a handful of products, you can achieve a beautiful, natural glowing face in minutes. My view on makeup has always been about having fun and creating a personalized look to enhance your natural features. I love to experiment with a variety of products because I have always been a beauty junkie! However, over the last year, I realized that taking care of one’s skin by eating nutritious food, exercising, drinking plenty of water and choosing the best beauty and skincare products is the key to achieve a healthy, clear complexion. Don’t forget to apply sunblock!

s’ dan and Field Exfoliate: Ro te s a b ra s io n p m ic ro d e rm a ve product I ha is THE best t in. If you wan used on my sk , w lo g -within that lit-from a s or three time use this two week.

Tinted moisturizer: Clinique’s Moisture Surge CC Cream Hydrating Colour Corrector broad-spectrum SPF 30 is a great product that gives sheer coverage and leaves a nice natural glow. This product will quickly absorb into the skin and feels weightless.

Eyeliner: Summer is also the perfect time to experiment with jewel-toned eyeliner for a fun pop of co lor. One of my all-time favorites is Ch anel Stylo Yeux, which is waterpro of, smudgeproof and literally stays on all day.

Try it in Cassis (dark purple) or Celadon (emerald green ). Wear it on the top lid or on the wa terline.

You can intensify the color for an evening look as well.

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Mineral Peptide Powder: Rod an and Field s’ mineral pep tide powde r with broad-s pectrum SPF 20 is a gre at option fo r anyone who wants to skip fo u n d a ti o n a n d ti n te d m o is tu ri ze r.

In te n d e d to be worn in place of foundation, th ese amazing light-deflect ing minerals im m e d ia te ly e v e n s k in tone and red uce redness.

Blush: Lancôm Delica e t e O in She il-Free Blush Subtil er Am P owder our pink sh ade tha ose is a bea Blush tl u skin to nes an ooks good on tiful d lasts m ost for hou rs.

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anel B ro n ze r: C h Beiges, Les glow healthy broadmulti-colour wder is a spectrum po nzer, blush gorgeous bro ne, hter all in o and highlig SPF 15. and includes Highlighter: Anastasia’s Brow Duality h ig h li g h ti n g p e n c il reflects ligh t where you want it to be.

Use along the brow bone, o n the lid, or in the corners of your eye s for an insta nt illuminin g lift. The pen cil features a matte and shimmer sid e for day and evening look s.

My favorite is the Camil le/ Sand shade.

STOCKTON SYMPHONY 90TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON Subscription and Single Tickets On Sale Now! Subscribers Save 15% CLASSICS I

CLASSICS IV

Saturday, September 24, 2016, 6:00p.m.

Saturday, March 18, 2017, 6:00p.m.

It’s a party at the Stockton Symphony’s 90th Anniversary Celebration! Jump aboard and celebrate our past as we journey into the future!

Being born with a musical genius in the family is a million-in-one shot, however, the Mendelssohn family wound up with two. Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn, whose compositional prowess rivals her brothers, wrote the delightful overture you will hear. Sandwiched between these gems you will hear Grammy-winning and “Perhaps the most soulful classical guitarist of his generation” Jason Vieaux.

90th Anniversary Grand Opening

CLASSICS II Ode to Joy

Saturday, November 19, 2016, 6:00p.m.

Were you there in 2009 for our spectacular premiere of Ansel Adams: America? If you were, come and experience it again, if not, come and be uplifted!

CLASSICS III Exotic Musical Tales Saturday, January 28, 2017, 6:00p.m.

Lancôme : ra Mascara ma masca ra D e s o n p Hy fo r t c h o ic e is a g re a gn lo s it is summer, a l il and w w e a r in g e. or smudg e k a fl t o n is mascara T h is a il a b le in a ls o a v a f version. waterproo

Lip Co lor : Cl ini qu e Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Co lou r Ba lm is a lipstick/lipgloss hybrid available in multiple shades. This balm keeps your lips hydrated, and the color is long-lasting.

All products (except Rodan and Fields) are available at Dillard’s stores and Dillards.com. If you have any questions about finding the right beauty products for yourself, or about Rodan and Fields skincare, feel free to contact me at: leahsamara@gmail.com or visit my website: leahsamara.myrandf.com

august 2016

Brother-and-Sister Geniuses

CLASSICS V

Rite of Spring

Saturday, April 8, 2017, 6:00p.m.

Mark this date in your calendars with big letters – our Classics 90th anniversary season goes out with a bang!

Immerse yourself in captivating stories told through brilliant orchestral colors.

Our guest soloist, Gabriela Martinez returning by audience request – will sweep you away.

www.stocktonsymphony.org or call us at (209) 951-0196 POPS I – The Haunted Melody Saturday, October 29, 2016, 6:00p.m.

Sunday, October 30, 2016, 2:30p.m.

It’s a night of Halloween musical treats and a few tricks that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Join the Stockton Symphony for the first of the Pops series and be prepared for a evening of haunted melodies.

POPS II – A Midnight Clear Saturday, December 10, 2016, 6:00p.m Sunday, December 11, 2016, 2:30p.m.

We welcome back conductor and composer Victor Vanacore and his arrangements of “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” “O Holy Night” and many other traditional holiday favorites. Joining the festivities will be the Stockton Master Chorale singing the “Hallelujah” chorus, “Carol of the Bells” and more!

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POPS III – A John Williams Extravaganza Saturday, February 25, 2017, 6:00p.m.

Sunday, February 26, 2017, 2:30p.m.

Generations both young and old with be captivated by this program, exploring the depths of our imaginations and the far reaches of outer space. Bring your family to hear selections from Star Wars Episode VII, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Jurassic Parks, Jaws, and many more!

POPS IV – Steppin’ Out Live with Ben Vereen Saturday, May 6, 2017, 6:00p.m.

Sunday, May 7, 2017, 2:30p.m.

Few entertainers are as accomplished or as versatile as Ben Vereen. His legendary performances are filled with song and dance, stories of his life, and a great deal of humor. Ben’s show is a unique blend of artistry combining tributes to Broadway and Frank Sinatra with a very special tribute to Sammy Davis, Jr.

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photos courtesy Reliable Home Solutions

By Jennifer Torres

C

reating housing, at its best, is about more than simply providing shelter, says Gene Davis, president of Lodi-based Reliable Home Solutions. It’s about helping families come together, and in some cases, helping them heal.

“Anything that we do that inadvertently or by design is able to heal the family, that is what will keep us doing this for as long as we’ve got a breath,” he says.

Reliable Home Solutions specializes in park model homes. Though they often look more like small vacation cottages, park models are technically recreational vehicles, mounted on wheels and no more than 400 square feet in size.

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“ Well-planned, that’s enough space to transform a family’s well-being, Davis says.

Custom-built, his homes have been used as transitional housing for women and families recovering from abuse, as accommodations for aging parents who can live independently with support from nearby family, as student housing, and as affordable vacation properties for families who thought their dream of a cabin in the woods or on the water was out of reach.

“They’re incredibly versatile,” he says, and also well-built, featuring dual-pane windows, insulated walls, full-size appliances and other amenities that bridge the gap between home and traditional RV. Davis and his family got into the manufactured home business about 25 years ago, originally seeking new ways of housing abused women, seniors and other vulnerable individuals.

For more information, visit:

ReliableHomeSolutions.net

august 2016

— Gene Davis

”

Then, about five years ago, he brought the business – and the park models – to the San Joaquin Delta region.

“My vision was to create our own economic stimulus,” Davis explains. “They only thing prohibiting the Delta from being a world-class tourist destination is that there’s no accommodations, unless you stay in a tent or a camping trailer.”

Campgrounds and mobile home parks along Delta waterways began installing Davis’s park models.

“They started realizing that if they were able to provide housing for people, tourists would stay longer, spend more money and get out of the craziness of their everyday lives.”

In addition to campgrounds and RV parks, park model homes can, depending on local regulations, be placed on private property as well. Davis said he hopes more government officials will come to see the potential of smallscale houses to do large-scale good.

“It’s just been an incredibly joyous ride,” he says.

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drawers and will face off again in September, hopefully with more competitors.

by Mike Klocke

“Socks can be bursting with personality.

What is great about socks is the sheer amount of styles, colors, patterns and designs available,” said Nick, whose father is a shoe designer. “Now, literally there are socks of everything you can think of. I’ve found socks are also are great conversation starters. People love seeing wacky socks, and we love showing them off.”

it to me!

Do you have a sock game?

B

So if you want a sock game, how do you get started?

enjamin Franklin did. In fact, the portly statesman from the time of the American Revolution once said, “I never leave home without a nice pair of socks.”

We’ll start with Stance. The company was founded in 2009 by five men in Orange County and has blown up. According to company figures, Stance sold more than 36 million pairs of socks in 2015.

In Ben’s day, that probably meant warm, gray flannel foot warmers.

A number of high-profile athletes (Dwayne Wade), entertainers (Rihanna) and apparel designers (Ronnie Fieg) have hooked up with Stance.

If he was around today, Ben probably would be able to order cracked Liberty Bell socks from a company such as Stance, kite and lighting socks from Happy Socks, or footwear depicting his face on $100 bills (uh, I actually own a pair of those).

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson caused a sensation with his Yoda socks by Stance during the NBA playoffs (“Prefer title, Klay would …”).

Socks can be – and do – many things.

They can be a fashion statement, and are a growingly important part of men’s and women’s wardrobes. They can say a lot about you as a person, or reflect your personality. They can make political statements or capture trends.

The brand’s socks can be pricey, with a wide variety available on its web site. There’s also a Stance store in the Livermore outlet mall.

And I can’t believe I’m going to share this tip, but the two Ross Dress For Less stores in Stockton can be an untapped gold mine for Stance socks. I’ve found very creative Stance socks for $6 to $8 a pair. In fact, one of my favorites – Lou Gehrig – were culled from the Ross sock section.

And, of course, they can just be a lot of fun – for those willing to move past monotone colors, cliché patterns or argyle varieties.

As editor of The Record, and a socks aficionado, I challenged two of our reporters to weekly “Sock Offs” recently. Almendra Carpizo and Nicholas Filipas accepted the challenge. And so it was on.

Another under-the-radar store for several good brands of socks is the PacSun store in Sherwood Mall. PacSun doesn’t have a vast inventory, but the socks it carries are creative and often irreverent.

Over the course of six weeks, Almendra came strong with, 1) Astronaut Neil Armstrong walking on the moon; 2) Kittens flying on bacon in space; 3) Captain America versus Iron Man; 4) Pizza (with the words “Wanna Pizza Me?;” 5) French fries, and; 6) Mount Rushmore.

There also are dozens of online sock clubs (give Google a try and you’ll find plenty). Many of them ask questions to “profile” potential members.

Then, if you sign up, they’ll use that profile to surprise you with a set number (you choose) of socks each month. That enhances the “surprise” element, so it makes for a nice gift.

Nick more than held his own with, 1) Polka dots; 2) American flag patriotism; 3) Floral pattern; 4) Trail Blazers guard Damon Lillard (Nick’s a Portland native); 5) Johnny Cash, and; 6) Scottish tartans.

So don’t just throw on those mundane socks and head to work or school. Have some fun and make a statement.

My offerings were, 1) Elsa from the movie Frozen; 2) Baseball slugger Miguel Cabrera; 3) $100 bills (All About the Benjamins); 4) California Highway 1; 5) Van Gogh painting Starry Night, and; 6) New York City subway map.

Fellow Record employees judged, and Almendra ended up with 3 wins, Nick had 2 and the boss a measly 1. The boss demands a recount. We’re re-stocking our sock 18 the current

As a celebrity once said, “I like dress socks because they differentiate you, especially men in suits … The dress sock is the way to change things up. I like wearing my pants up higher so people can see them.”

OK, so that “celebrity” was a Kardashian (Rob).

He still gets it. august 2016

DOG DAYS OF

FASHION I

t happens every year as summer begins to wind down. There are still plenty of warm days ahead, sometimes into October, but you go shopping to freshen your wardrobe and the stores are full of fall fashions save for some slim pickings on the clearance racks.

Don’t fret yet‌ great summer style is still in full bloom throughout the season if you shop local boutiques, so you can keep your summer cool all while supporting local businesses.

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COW GIRL COOL

Fashion Safari

120 N. School Street, downtown Lodi 209-369-8222 Fashions, jewelry, belts, purses, sandals, hair accessories, hats, scarves, gifts, and more for women of all ages.

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CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

Bellissima Boutique 2230 Pacific Avenue on the Miracle Mile, Stockton 209-469-0369 Unique and stylish fashions for women.

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SURF’S STILL UP Zuesters

363 Lincoln Center, Stockton 209-951-5581 Surf and sportswear, activewear, school uniforms, shoes, and accessories for men and women.

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SUMMER BREEZY

Theadora

354 Lincoln Center, Stockton 209-474-7407 One-stop shop women’s boutique.

Fashions, accessories, bras and underwear.

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reStore-ing photo courtesy Habitat for Humanity of San Joaquin

story by Josh Stoner photos by Lina Tirre

Habitat for Humanity

I

raises funds for the building of homes in the numerous cities and counties it is affiliated with. To see the local chapter of the company, see sjchabitat.org). The stock inside the store changes almost daily, but the selection of home improvement goods is impressive, ranging from cabinets and bathtubs to lighting fixtures, tiles and more.

t was another scorcher here in the Central Valley when I stopped by the ReStore for my 11:30 a.m. appointment.

I began our interview by getting to know Michael a little Michael Huber, executive director of the Habitat for Humanity better. “This is a second career for me,” he informed me. “I came of San Joaquin County, sat behind his desk in professional from the medical industry and was in charge of radiation cancer attire and stood to shake my hand as I centers prior to coming here.” walked in for our interview. He was I was immediately interested a very active administrator – I later in hearing more. There was an watched him take frequent trips obvious story behind how he around the establishment to help made the jump from the medical volunteers with the placement of field to running a local nonprofit. new donations, all while balancing He continued by telling me that the duties of a person charged with when his previous company overseeing the business side of the was bought out, and it was organization. All this considered, necessary to make the decision he gave no indication of how to either relocate across the uncomfortable he might have been country or consider another in the intense heat, but instead option, he decided to look for smiled and welcomed me warmly. an alternative. Michael has always had a vested interest in A quick look at the homepage helping his community, and has of the ReStore describes the store found his work with the Habitat as “a discount home improvement for Humanity thus far, very center that sells quality new, and rewarding. previously owned products, at discounted prices.” All proceeds We proceeded and I asked from the store go to funding the Michael about the mission of building and renovation of planned the ReStore. “Our (Habitat for homes in the community, which are Humanity’s) mission is to build organized for various individuals low-income houses for people and families by the county’s chapter in need. We build some of the of the bigger Habitat for Humanity most energy-efficient homes affiliate. (Habitat for Humanity in California… it’s all due to is an international company that the fact that the ReStore has

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been successful.” Michael spoke a little more in depth about just how essential the store is to the greater mission of the Habitat for Humanity. “We have grants, we have city loans, and other sources of income, but for the most part the ReStore is what carries the organization… The success of the ReStore is paramount to the success of the organization.” Most counties have their own ReStores to drive the funding of their local home-building projects.

As Michael spoke more about the vision of the organization and his experience in helping further it, his passion became apparent. “I went to Nicaragua on a mission last November, and built some very small cinderblock homes with tin roofs for a family of five… It had no running water or electricity, but they thought they had arrived because they had been used to sleeping on a dirt floor in a tin shack.” I sat back and took a deep breath as I was both humbled and inspired by the work being done in this organization. Here in San Joaquin County, the mission is the same, but the projects and their recipients look a little different. Homes built here are most often received by people who have pretty good jobs, have decent credit, and who are just on the cusp of qualifying for a traditional home loan but just aren’t quite there yet. “We step in and help them build a home… Their partnership to us is that they put in 500 hours of their sweat equity (labor counted towards upkeep of the home in the building process).” This is a long process and it can take up to 5 years to accomplish. Families can’t just get a home overnight.

Recipients are chosen through an independent committee called the Family Selection Committee, created to cut down on nepotism, favoritism, or prejudice. A blind application is then brought by this committee to the Habitat board for acceptance or denial. Qualification of the families are based on the city’s median income. These median incomes vary between cities in our county – for example, Tracy’s median income would be slightly different than that of those in Lodi. “Many of the families come from entitlements of Section 8 and other housing programs… By giving these families the independence of owning their own home, the effects can be seen generationally.”

Michael went on to explain that children who live in a home owned by their parents finish 10-15% higher in school testing.

The children aspire to own a home for themselves one day, just as they watched their parents own their own home when they

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were children. “It’s about empowerment,” said Michael. I could envision this empowerment as I reflected on the philosophy of the organization.

What I enjoyed most about my time with Michael was the stories he told me about the families whose lives had been forever changed by the building of their home in our community. Shortly after leaving the medical field, Michael found himself questioning his decision to make such a big change in his profession. After assisting in the building of a home for a mother of two, who had previously been living with her parents, Michael overheard the 12-year-old son say to his mother, “It’s OK, Mommy, I can still sleep on the floor.” The young boy now had his own room but was so used to sleeping on the ground, due to lack of space in their old house, that he gladly volunteered to continue living as they once did. Michael was hooked as he watched the family rejoice together that they would now all have their own rooms, with plenty of space.

Needless to say, Michael no longer questions if he is in the right line of work.

If you would like to help a local family in our community become empowered by building their own home, stop in to the ReStore and pick up a few things for your own home or project. When you do, you’ll be helping to make the Habitat for H u m a n i t y ’s vision become a reality – a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Store information: 4933 West Lane, Stockton, CA 95210 Tel: 209-463-1043 Fax: 209-463-1285 E-mail: restore@ sjchabitat.org

Joshua Stoner is a Stockton community native, who is currently employed as a full-time teacher at St. Mary’s High School.

In addition to being a proud father to a rambunctious two-year-old and a grateful husband to a beautiful wife, he is also a part-time musician, blogger, entrepreneur, and keynote speaker for various groups in the surrounding area. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology as well as a master’s degree in theological studies. His passions include the pursuit of knowledge and spending time with his family. He is thankful to be a new addition to the Current’s writing staff!

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Diam R

ond

story and photos by Charleen Earley

in the Rough Jewelry maker kicks homelessness in the ass

ondolyn Baker has got to be one of hardest working homeless persons you’ll ever meet, and if you ever get the chance to meet her, you’ll not only be awed by her presence, but blessed as well.

Born and raised in Stockton, Rondolyn is mom to nine children, ages 33, 31, 21, 20, 17, 14, 10, 9 and 7. She whips out those ages like she’s reading lotto numbers, when most parents have to stop and remember how old each child is exactly.

But before you judge – first know that she’s never slept a night in her car with her kids. It’s because every evening she’s designing beaded jewelry to sell the following day on the streets of Stockton, just enough to pay for her next hotel room for the night.

“I prayed one night for 45 minutes in a bathroom. I was in an abusive relationship at the time,” she said. “I asked the Lord for a creative way to survive. I had been panhandling for five or six years. I said ‘Lord, I’m not a beggar; this is not me. I’m a worker.’”

Living in Texas at that time, Rondolyn said she had been in ministry for years and read the Bible every day. Scriptures, she said, started to come to her, just when a lady in Walmart gave her five dollars.

“I was going to buy food with it, but I felt that instead of fish, God was giving me a fishing pole,” she said.

She bought three yards of crafting string in three different colors for $1.98, a bag of charms and kid scissors, all for $5.

“I began to thank God for giving me work to do!” she said. “And I prayed as I made the necklace, and I also prayed for the person I would sell it to.”

Not one sale, the first two hours.

“I started to think, ‘why didn’t I get hot dogs?’” she laughed. “But then I began to bless the people walking by, and I began to pray for their needs. I went out as a servant, instead of praying for my needs!”

“I know many people are out there dying of cancer, have lost their homes, lost loved ones, 26

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and I realized that my issues were so small in comparison to others,” she continued.

“Within an hour, I had $137 cash in my pocket. It’s the true loaves and fishes story.”

From that moment forward, Rondolyn refused to have a poverty-thought in her head.

She’s stepped up her game in jewelry design. No more kid scissors – Rondolyn’s jewelry is top-notch, with quality that matches department-store level.

Her earrings, necklaces, anklets, charm bracelets and key chains range from $2 to $40, and she knows exactly how much she needs to sell each day to cover lodging, gas, cell phone service and food.

“I basically have to make $100 a day to survive,” said Rondolyn, who purposely stays clear of new male relationships to focus on her family.

Long-term hotel stays are impossible, since most hotel staff tell her, “it’s not permanent housing.” Even with help from food stamps and Medi-Cal, she still works hard daily to make ends meet.

“I’ve gone through a lot of abuse. It started at home and then from the men I chose,” said Rondolyn, who ran away at age 17, but later studied to earn her GED. She has one cousin she’s close to, who buys jewelry from her. She also has many mantras in life, most of which are biblical.

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” she said. “Love the Lord with all your heart; work diligently as if you are working for God, not for man. I always believe, ‘this too shall pass.’ I’m not perfect, but it’s important to learn to forgive. I also try to do the best I can for today.”

To place an order, visit her on Facebook at Rondolyn’s Jewelry, email at rondolynbaker@gmail.com, or call 775-253-0714.

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WORD ON THE STREET

Which San Joaquin County business or organization has the most STYLE? Bob

Brandi Monique

Stockton

Stockton

“Art Expressions of San Joaquin”

“BJ’s Brewhouse and Red Robin”

Megan Lodi “Trail Coffee Roasters”

Carol Ann and Chase Lodi

Renee

“b# School of Music”

Stockton

Madison

“T4 ”

Lodi “Corner Scone Bakery”

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Lester

Helena

Stockton

Lodi

“The African American Athletic Hall of Fame, the Mexican American Athletic Hall of Fame, and the Stockton Athletic Hall of Fame”

“True You Hot Yoga”

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Say It With a Box

​T

his unique gift store just celebrated their grand opening on July 13.

Their custom gift boxes are “thoughtfully curated within the company ethos of artisan, natural and ethical.”

Each custom box is filled with local products that are delicious, beautiful and useful, and each is carefully hand-packed and completed with their signature twine.

“Every box tells a story about places and the people who produce them.”

Stop by and experience this unique gift-giving resource!

Say It With a Box 2301 W. Alpine Avenue Stockton www.sayitwithabox.com www.facebook.com/ sayitwithaboxgifts/ photos by Lina Tirre

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n i k S s u o e g r o G e it v e i h c a o t w o h and

by Eunice Green, NHD

I

t doesn’t matter the age – it seems all women and even some men are constantly looking for ways to improve skin health. More mature individuals are looking for ways to prevent wrinkles, and younger people often have issues with acne and discoloration.

The media is full of products, often at incredibly high prices, that are marketed to promote healthylooking skin.

There are a few things that are more conducive to healthy skin than the chemicals that are being advertised.

If you have dull, flaky, saggy, loose skin, it is often a sign of dehydration. Just drinking more water can often make a huge difference in how the skin looks. You can’t find anything more cost-effective than that.

Antioxidants are key to reducing inflammation, which is the leading cause of wrinkles. Vitamin C is the main antioxidant that will help, as it also assists in collagen production. Fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants should be consumed on a daily basis.

and b e

Limiting sun exposure is also important, and can prevent that leathery-looking skin that really makes you look older.

very

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A buildup of toxins in the body due to the air, water and food causes damage as well as aging. Detoxifying by the way of a juice cleanse is often recommended for the body to be able to focus on energy production and the elimination of toxins. Having a glass of water with lemon first thing in the morning is very cleansing, and there are also many wonderful cleansing products on the market.

Collagen is essential for the health and appearance of your skin, and this protein is also necessary to reduce the typical signs of aging. Collagen is an important building block of elasticity and its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When collagen levels begin to decrease, you will begin to notice wrinkles appearing, especially around the mouth and eyes. Supplementing with a good collagen product can help the dermis keep your skin firm and supple.

Collagen can also keep small veins and arteries from appearing, and help maintain a youthful and flawless complexion.

Collagen has a wonderful side effect, as it is also essential for joint health. If your joints don’t hurt, you can enjoy an active lifestyle, which in turn also helps your skin; the more active you are, the more exercise you get, the better your skin looks.

Hyaluronic acid is very integral to healthy, youthful skin. Smooth, elastic-young skin is naturally loaded with HA. The HA provides continuous moisture to the skin by binding up to 1,000 times its weight to water.

Our ability to produce HA decreases as we age, and our skin then loses its ability to hold water, leaving a drier, thinner and wrinkled appearance. HA can improve your skin’s moisture content, and at the same time, strengthen the skin’s barrier – that is, the outer layers of the skin. A healthy barrier feels soft, smooth and plump. Taking hyaluronic acid internally can help from the inside out. Then the use of skin care products with HA can rejuvenate the skin almost instantly. There are wonderful scrubs (gentle), serums, facial mists, lip balms and moisturizers.

Again, there are some side effects – good ones. HA also helps joints by putting the synovial fluid in the joint so that you are not bone-on-bone, and it provides a cushion. It also is very helpful for the eyes, and there are sprays that keep the nasal membranes moist.

Skin is the first indication we see of aging, and making a small effort can make a big difference.

It also helps our self-esteem, and having a positive outlook about our appearance can also make us look younger.

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n o i h s Fa FORWARD

by Melissa Hutsell

What started as an impromptu and spontaneous dorm room design has quickly become one of the region’s most recognizable collegiate brands. “When I started The Tiger Collection, I envisioned growing the brand into something much more than a simple clothing line at a university. I recognized a need, so I envisioned a lifestyle,” says Gibbs. And so, his brand spread to form licensee partnerships with other universities.

by Melissa Hutsell

Z

eus Collegiate offers much more than a way to proudly showcase your university or alma mater; it’s a trend-inspired collegiate lifestyle brand that extends far beyond graduation.

Lamar Gibbs, the creative mind and founder of Zeus Collegiate, launched his first collegiate apparel line – The Tiger Collection – in 2013.

Like its namesake implies, The Tiger Collection was inspired by the University of the Pacific mascot, the Powercat, and Gibbs’ passion to create something different than the monotonous merchandise usually found in campus bookstores.

The Florida native moved to Stockton in 2005 to attend UOP. After arrival, he headed to the university bookstore to find only dull and expensive options. “I thought to myself, ‘I could do better.’’” Although he didn’t think much of it at the time, this would motivate Gibbs to create his own line of Pacific apparel. However, it wasn’t until his sophomore year that he made his first piece.

The Tiger Collection is now one of several university-specific merchandise brands designed by Gibbs, under the parent company Zeus Collegiate.

Zeus Collegiate currently offers merchandise for UOP, California State University Sacramento and California State University Northridge; he hopes to introduce more soon.

“Power. College. Simplicity. Quality. I wanted a brand name that exemplified those four characteristics,” says Gibbs. The title reflects aspects of Greek and college life. “The “collegiate” aspect fits hand-in-hand with the Greek aspect, because it typically leads you to think about Greek life – fraternities and sororities,” he adds. The Greek god

“My roommates and I were getting ready to attend Midnight Mania,” an event in which they introduce the men and women’s’ basketball teams, play games and give out free stuff. “I wanted to dress differently, so I purchased a blank white fitted baseball cap with thin black pinstripes.” When he got back to his dorm, he pulled out a sharpie and “went to town on that poor cap. I drew the Powercat on the front and the Pacific ‘P’ initial on the back.” He wore his homemade cap to Midnight Mania and to his surprise, fellow students began to ask him where they could get their own. “I didn’t even like the cap because I drew the Powercat slightly crooked, but they loved it. I didn’t think much of it.” After graduating from UOP in 2010 with a degree in graphic design, Gibbs started designing and printing, becoming officially licensed through the Collegiate Licensing Company in March 2013.

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Zeus also represents power and strength, s o m e t h i n g the company encompasses, while the gold logo represents quality.

“I want Zeus Collegiate to be the ‘gold standard’ of collegiate merchandise.”

Gibbs’ products undoubtedly stand out from the rest, and it’s not just because of his commitment to quality. He feels a responsibility “to provide students, alumni, and fans of the [university of their choosing] with an exciting alternative to everyday boring and bland collegiate apparel.”

“I don’t like cookie-cutter apparel,” he explains, “You shouldn’t be able to go to another university bookstore and see the same apparel designs bearing different colors and a different name,” he adds, “Everything is designed with a purpose. We don’t design it just to look ‘good.’ We design it to complement you.

We design it to feel comfortable on you. We design it for you.”

Some of the stylish selections include limited edition snapback caps, jackets and tank tops for men, women and children.

Zeus Collegiate effortlessly combines comfort, quality and fashion, so there is no need to sacrifice one for the other.

“Today’s trends inspire my new products as well as my need to develop something different and off-the-wall that will spark a conversation.” For instance, he explains, “instead of creating a basic tank top, I’d prefer to create a crop tank top or a flowy tank top that incorporates the university name and/or logos. If I design something that doesn’t spark a conversation when you wear it, I should probably rethink that design.”

Gibbs thrives on interacting with his consumer base and on giving back. He remains active on social media and on campus, and regularly offers contests and giveaways. “I want to grow this brand into something that will give back to Stockton and Pacific. I’m from south Florida, born and raised. All my family resides there. I could easily relocate the company and work from there, but Stockton is where I want it to stay and grow. I believe Stockton is going to blossom.”

For more information and to view Zeus Collegiate apparel, visit: ZeusCollegiate.com and by following the company on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube @ zeuscollegiate Receive 15% off any order with code “THECURRENTSJ” when you shop ZeusCollegiate.com

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Summer of

LEARNINg

by Matthew Nakamura

Lincoln High School Student

Summer Jobs For Teens Provide Great Life Lessons

P

Responsibility The first life lesson that you will learn is time management.

The act of getting to the job and showing up on time when you are scheduled is a very important part of growing up. You must learn to manage your free time and be aware of your schedule so that you can plan accordingly to hang out with friends and participate in other activities. Before all of this, though, you must submit an application and go to an interview.

The application is the easy part, as it is simply filling out information. The real nerve-wracking part is the interview, where you must dress and act professionally because you will be talking to the person who will ultimately decide whether or not you get the job. I was extremely nervous when I went for my interview, but it turned out to be very easy because the interviewer was extremely pleasant to talk to and made me feel very comfortable.

art-time jobs for teens can teach time management, maturity, and how to handle money. I recently started working for the Stockton Ports baseball team as a member of the game day operations staff. At the games I work as an usher, taking tickets, showing people to their seats, and keeping spectators safe. The biggest part of my job, however, is to ensure that guests have the best possible experience while at the ballpark.

One of my friends really enjoys playing golf and plays just about every morning. He recently found a job at the Stockton Golf and Country Club, which allows him to work in an environment he really likes. Another friend who is a swimmer has a job as a lifeguard at a local community pool. This is another example of teens finding summer jobs that allow them to be around their favorite activity and get paid for it. As the old saying goes, “If you love your job you won’t work a day in your life.”

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Maturity The next lesson is maturity and learning how to conduct yourself in a workplace. When you are on the job you must behave professionally toward customers and your fellow employees. Most of the time the workplace is a very serious place, and not the place for fun and games. This type of maturity can transfer into real-life situations where you need to act more like an adult. For example, in my job I have to deal with all kinds of people, and the pleasant and not so pleasant must be treated with respect because that shows maturity. Learning to get along with people of all ages and backgrounds – both coworkers and customers – will help you find friends in new and foreign environments, such as college and while traveling.

Real World Applications Another important aspect of having a job as a teen is that it can be listed on your college application. Yes, prospective colleges look at grades and test scores, but they also look at extracurricular activities and responsibilities you have had outside of school. For example, a college could look at your high school career and see that you had a part-time job in addition to sports, clubs, and community service. This helps prove that you are responsible enough to balance all of your commitments.

Managing your money is one of – if not THE – biggest life skill a job can teach you. Money makes the world go round; almost everything has a monetary value. When we were young, a lot of us believed money was unimportant, as our parents provided everything for us. When you have a job you learn to respect the idea of saving money, and a lot of that comes from earning that money yourself and realizing how much time went into obtaining your paycheck. That, in turn, changes your view on how much of that hard-earned cash you really want to spend! Learning this at a young age can have a huge impact on your life as an adult, as making smart spending choices and saving become a real priority as you prepare to support yourself.

All in all, a part-time job can teach teens a lot about the real world and acquiring the necessary tools to succeed. My job has taught me many of the skills I will use in the next phase of my life, such as learning to deal with all kinds of people and managing money effectively. One of the best parts of my summer job? Getting that paycheck!

Matthew Nakamura is an incoming junior at Lincoln High School in Stockton.

He has played lacrosse for five years and is a member of the Lincoln High School lacrosse team in addition to playing for a club team called the Sacramento ACES. His community service includes assisting coaches with the Stockton Spartans youth lacrosse teams, organizing a campaign at Lincoln High to send holiday cards to members of the military, and church events. His favorite activity is relaxing and hanging out with his friends.

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JULY/ AUGUST

O T E G UT EVENTS

13299 Curry Avenue, Lodi 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More info: dartwines.com July 31

Every Friday through October

ROCKING THE BLUES ON THE DELTA

Brick & Mortar and Janet Leigh Plaza North El Dorado at Channel Street, downtown Stockton 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

More info: 209-888-8624

August 2

WATERFRONT FRIDAYS

Every Weekend through August

CRITTER CORRAL

San Joaquin Historical Museum Micke Grove Park 11793 N. Micke Grove Road, Lodi 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

More Info: 331-2055 Every Wednesday through August 17

MUSIC IN THE PARK

Victory Park 1001 N. Pershing Avenue, Stockton More info: visitstockton.org 877-778-6258 July 28 to August 7

LINDEN COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER at Linden High School Performing Arts Center 18527 E. Front Street, Linden Box office 209-200-6081 More info: lindentheater.com July 29 & 30

BIG FREE LIBRARY BOOK GIVEAWAY

712 W. Luce Street Port of Stockton, Rough and Ready Island, Bldg. 712 July 29 from 1 to 5 p.m., July 30 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More info: Facebook search “Big Free Library” July 30

AUTHOR NANCY BROOKS AT ART EXPRESSIONS OF SAN JOAQUIN 2318 Pacific Avenue, Stockton Meet the Author: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Art of Writing: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

More info: artexpressions.org July 30

MAKERFEST

World of Wonders Science Museum 2 N. Sacramento Street, Lodi 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More info:wowsciencemuseum.org July 30

2ND ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY CAR SHOW & CARNIVAL Hosted by Bridge of Stockton 703 E. Bridge Avenue, Stockton 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More info: 477-4441 July 30

15TH ANNUAL TASTE OF THE DELTA WINE. FOOD. MUSIC. AUCTION Tower Park Marina KOA Campgrounds 14900 W. Highway 12, Lodi 1 to 4 p.m.

More onfo:TasteOfTheDelta.com

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July 30

A TASTE OF NICARAGUA AT D’ART WINES

The Blue Diamond Band & Debbie Smith Windmill Cove Resort and Marina 7600 Windmill Cove Road, Stockton 3 p.m.

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Multicultural Neighborhood Gathering 302 E. Fremont Street, Stockton 6 to 8 p.m.

Free admission More info: visitstockton.org August 2

KEVIN HART LIVE

Stockton Arena 248 W. Fremont Street, Stockton 6:30 p.m.

More info: stocktonlive.com August 4

STOCKTON FOOD TRUCK MANIA Oak Grove Regional Park 4520 W. Eight Mile Road, Stockton 4 to 8 p.m.

More info: visitstockton.org August 5

DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES BLOCK PARTY 826 N. California Street, Stockton 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

More info: 209-468-8053 FREE

August 13

ADELITA AWARDS DINNER

Mexican Heritage Center 111 S. Sutter St., Stockton, $35 per person, Contact: Gracie 209-969-9306, graciemadrid@sbcglobal.net August 13

A DAY ON THE STOCKTON GREEN Klein Family Field Pershing Avenue at Larry Heller Drive, Stockton 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

More info: eventful.com August 18

FULL MOON RIDERS

Janet Leigh Plaza, downtown Stockton 222 N. El Dorado Street, Stockton 6 to 8 p.m.

More info: visitstockton.org August 19

LINCOLN CENTER LIVE CLASSIC CAR SHOW Lincoln Center, Stockton 6 to 9 p.m.

More info: lincolncentershops.com August 20

THE STOCKMARKET

630 E. Weber Avenue, Stockton 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more info: www.stockmarketca.com August 20

REGGAE FEST

Weber Point Events Center 221 N. Center Street, Stockton Starts 11:30 a.m.

More info:eventful.com August 20

TRINITY FOOD & MUSIC FEST Holy Cross Catholic Church 18633 E. Front Street, Linden 6:30 to 8 p.m.

More info:visitstockton.org

August 5

August 20

Stone Creek Village 5757 Pacific Avenue, Stockton 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

San Joaquin County Fairgrounds 1658 S Airport Way, Stockton More info: xfest209.com

EVOLUTION

X FEST

August 6

August 20 to 21

Weber Point Event Center 221 N. Center Street, Stockton 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

More info: aaacccstockton.org

Stockton Arena 248 W. Fremont Street, Stockton 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

More info: stocktoncon.com

SOUL FOOD FESTIVAL

August 6 and 7

ANNUAL JAPANESE FOOD FESTIVAL & BON ODORI Buddhist Church of Stockton 2820 Shimizu Drive, Stockton August 6: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

August 7: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More info: visitstockton.org August 11

STOCKTON CHORALE SUMMER SING Central United Methodist Church 3600 Pacific Avenue, Stockton 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

More info: stocktonchorale.org August 12

MOVIES AT THE POINT PRESENTS THE AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

Weber Point Events Center 221 N. Center Street, Stockton Gates open 6:30 p.m.; film begins at dusk

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STOCKTONCON

August 27

REGGAE ON THE DELTA Breadfruit Tree Restaurant 8095 Rio Blanco Road, Stockton More info: breadfruittree.com August 27

STOCKTON PRIDE FESTIVAL Weber Point Events Center 221 N. Center Street, Stockton More info: stocktonpride.com August 28

7TH ANNUAL STOCKTON BATHTUB RACE Louis Park Boat Launch 3499 Monte Diablo Avenue, Stockton 12 to 2 p.m.

More info: visitstockton.org August 31

SISTER ACT

Stockton Civic Theatre 2312 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton For tickets and show times: 209-473-2424 or boxoffice@sctlivetheatre.com

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The Press Room at LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards reflects the vision of its founders.

S E N I V

by Bob Highfill

Tim Mattheis, principal architect with WMB Architects of Stockton and Sacramento, worked closely with LangeTwins’ principals Charlene and Randy Lange to create a tasting room that reflects their personal and corporate outlook. The Press Room opened in 2013 to rave reviews, and still is one of the most attractive tasting rooms anywhere.

“What we really were looking for was to have a tasting room that was integral to the whole heart of the winery,” Charlene said. “That was the whole idea. We wanted that style.”

The Press Room and the space leading to its entrance contrast and complement LangeTwins’ large production facility off East Jahant Road in Lodi.

“Our idea was to use the industrial materials in a sophisticated way – in a Chanel way, if you will,” Mattheis said. “As we looked around, we worked with the concrete and stainless steel and aluminum grating and water, and used those throughout the design.”

Approaching the entrance, visitors encounter a fountain cascading over the LangeTwins’ logo engraved in concrete. Near the fountain is a reflecting pool with tall, Swedish-made light spears that are visually striking and bring the surrounding industrial complex to human scale. The pool also creates a cool, refreshing image and a barrier from the working winery.

The Press Room itself is tucked beneath an overpass where trucks dump their grapes at harvest.

The interior is a study in form and function.

On beautifully polished seeded concrete floors, the tasting bar»

photos courtesy Lange Twins

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ineries, like most commercial enterprises, go to great lengths to draw positive reactions from customers.

Tasting rooms and bottle labels are two of the most visible ways in which wineries interface with consumers, and their designs are paramount to their success.

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is comprised of two tables made from 22-foot-long halves of the same reclaimed redwood tree. The tables appear to float from the support structure.

The display cabinetry also is made from reclaimed wood set against concrete beams.

photo by Clifford Oto

design. When form meets function, you’ve bridged the gap and can now communicate clearly.”

Design is meant to communicate a message, and LangeTwins and Peltier wineries have communicated their messages quite clearly and attractively.

The barrel room adjoining the tasting room has dual functionality as a temperature-controlled environment for aging LangeTwins’ red wines and an intimate spot for private tastings or parties.

The rooms are separated by a retractable wall with glass w i n d o w s .

The feel is sophisticated and modern, yet homey and comfortable, a stark contrast from the steel and concrete outside.

“I’ve worked on other winery projects, but nothing quite as unique as this one,” Mattheis said. “I have to give the Langes a great deal of credit, because they are very open to accepting the unusual and interesting. I don’t know of a lot of wineries in the valley that have this kind of unique tasting room.”

Ian Bender designed clean, classy, sophisticated labels when owners Gayla and Rodney Schatz decided to rebrand their winery from Peltier Station, which they founded in 2001, to Peltier Winery. Peltier Station’s labels were dark and played off a railroad theme, because of the train tracks that run along the west end of the property at North Kennefick and Peltier roads in Acampo.

Contact reporter Bob Highfill at (209) 546-8282 or bhighfill@recordnet.com.

Follow him at recordnet.com/fromthevine and on Twitter @bobhighfill.

“I approached them with a few different designs and the decision was to go upscale with a classier look,” Bender said. “I started using that brand and identity to connect all of the other brands.”

Bender went with white labels, which he said are popular, classier than dark labels and easy for consumers to spot on store shelves. For Peltier’s estate-grown wines, Bender designed a black, monogram offset “P” framed in a diamond. For the reserve line, the logo is straightforward and confident.

“My philosophy in design, and a lot of things, is less is more,” Bender said. “I like to use asymmetry and utilize the white space or negative space in the

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The

BookNook

by Howard Lachtman

R

ising interest in the American Revolution is sparking new biographies and histories that reveal the personal struggles and human side of our Founding Fathers. No longer viewed as “funny old guys in wigs,” the Founders are now as hip as Broadway’s Hamilton, and as close to us as front row seats at 1776, the musical that wowed Stockton this summer in a smart and stylish Stockton Civic Theater production that brought the Founders vividly alive.

Searching for a great Revolutionary read, I was lured by the two names in the subtitle of Nathaniel Philbrick’s Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold and the Fate of the American Revolution (Viking; 448 pages; $30). Talk about an odd couple! But though his name is synonymous with treason, Arnold was perhaps Washington’s most brilliant field commander, earning the great man’s respect for his part in winning the crucial battle of Saratoga and frustrating the British fleet on Lake Champlain. If not for his treachery, Arnold would be worthy of inclusion in the hall of heroes rather than the hall of shame.

of Arnold, who fled for his life, leaving his wife to deal with George W. She did so with a theatrical fit of hysterics, clutching her baby and tearfully proclaiming ignorance of Arnold’s intent.

Convinced of her innocence, if not her sanity, Washington allowed her freedom.

Arnold’s name lives in infamy, a reminder that valor and ambition do not always coincide. Despite his perfidy, he performed one last service to his country. “By turning traitor,” Philbrick writes, “Arnold alerted the American public to how close they had all come to betraying the Revolution by putting their own interests ahead of the newborn country.”

How and why did this hero turn traitor?

Philbrick’s historical detective story tells the compelling story of a man who began in a blaze of glory and ended in lasting disgrace. Arnold’s rise and fall is played out against the larger turmoil and uncertainty of the era. Loyalties were divided, colonies contentious, and Congress ineffectual.

Washington’s inexperienced, ill-equipped and unreliable soldiers seemed like scarecrows against England’s powerful forces.

Burned in effigy and denounced throughout the colonies, the man who sought to betray his country ironically helped to strengthen its morale and firm its resolve to win the war.

If you need another reminder that life is stranger than fiction, consider the case of the romance novelist who recently wrote relationship maven Dear Abby to complain that her husband became grumpy and sulky whenever he read her novels. Was the husband allergic to chick lit? No, it was because he felt her romances owed more to experience than imagination.

The husband’s misgivings are typical of reader confusion about the creative process. To what extent does a fiction writer borrow or steal from life? The answer varies with the writer. There are those who keep fact and fiction relatively separate, inventing more than copying. And then there is the kind described by Lesley M.M. Blume in Everybody Behaves Badly (Houghton Mifflin; 332 pages; $27). Here, a young reporter arrives in Jazz Age Paris, eager for adventure, intent on making a name, and hungry for fame. His name is Ernest Hemingway.

Although Washington never suspected Arnold of treachery, he was well aware of his defects. “I reprimand you for having forgotten that in proportion as you have rendered yourself formidable to our enemies, you should have been guarded and temperate in your deportment to your fellow citizens,” he counseled Arnold, urging him to curb his tongue and control his temper. But Arnold’s valor had been replaced by greed and the wrong kind of ambition.

Marriage to Philadelphia society belle Peggy Shippen, Philbrick postulates, may have set in motion the plan to deliver West Point to the British (an incriminating document shows Peggy in the pay of the enemy). The plot might have worked had not British secret agent John Andre been careless enough to have been captured with the plans on him. Washington ordered the arrest 40

A gifted time traveler with a knack for evoking the past, Blume introduces us to a circle of unruly expatriates whose passions, jealousies and rivalries defy conventional morality and ignore rules of etiquette.

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Hemingway mentor Gertrude Stein immortalized this wild bunch as “the lost generation.” Blume shows us how being “lost” helped Hemingway find a path to literary fame and fortune. When the Paris bunch went on a lark to Spain, partying and running with the bulls at Pamplona, Hemingway saw his opportunity and took it by writing The Sun Also Rises. Converting his cronies to thinly disguised characters of the novel, he redefined American writing with the terse and tense style that became his trademark.

Deeply researched and engagingly written, Blume’s book shows us the less romantic side of the lost generation legend, the comedy of the feud between the macho “Hem” and feisty flapper Zelda Fitzgerald, and the dismay of those who recognized themselves as the writer’s fictional characters. Some cried foul. Some shouted betrayal. Hemingway saw it differently. If a writer wished to write truly, he declared, he had to write what he knew.

Everything was fair game. Nothing was sacred.

So much for friendship. Knowing Hemingway was as risky as trying to write like him.

“Hemingway had a little bit of poison for everyone,” Blume writes, “and he was quite adept at co-opting the lives, loves and vulnerabilities of others as grist for his literary mill.”

The scandalous implications of The Sun Also Rises ensured its success as much as its innovative style. Critics hailed the author as the voice of his generation. Tourists flocked to Paris, searching its bars and cafes for real-life originals. Hemingway escaped to Key West and remarried, leaving behind his favorite city and first wife Hadley, whom he later came to realize was the love of his life. Some never forgave him for his tell-all novel; others recognized the artistry of The Sun Also Rises and forgave the abuse.

Going back in time to meet the young writer enables us to form our own opinion of his methods and results. Granted, the hardboiled, short-fused Hemingway is not a practical role model for our distressed romance novelist. But another, more socially conscious writer of the day does offer a solution for her marital problem. You can find it in W. Somerset Maugham’s classic short story, The Colonel’s Lady. Add this charmer to your list of summer reading treats.

The Readers Write …an invitation to submit your poems, memoirs, or short stories for publication consideration.

The Current is committed to showcasing local talent. If you are an aspiring writer or you just have a knack and like to write as a hobby, send us some of your work and it we just might publish it in the August edition of the Current.

Theme : summer adventures • Poems: minimum 1 page Short stories, memoirs: minimum 750 words Email submissions for consideration to: thecurrent@recordnet.com Be sure to type “The Readers Write” in the subject line of your email.

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Little G I B Free Library

by Jack Jacobs

N

pounds.

athan Werth estimates one Dole banana box full of books holds anywhere from 40 to 50 volumes and weighs maybe 30 He should know. The 43-year-old professional grant writer, book lover, Library and Literacy Foundation Board member, and Little Free Library mover and shaker has played an integral part in bringing over 1300 of those banana boxes to the Intelligent Wireless Networks warehouse at the Port of Stockton for the Big Free Library Book Giveaway this coming Friday and Saturday, July 29 and 30.

He admits an exact box count is difficult to determine. More are continually added. “ We have stockpiled approximately 60,000 to 80,000 books of mostly adult reading levels, and we would like to share them with our community,” says Werth, the “we” referring to the Little Free Library Stockton Association, the local grass roots project that oversees the building and stocking of those little

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“birdhouse” book receptacles that are sprouting all over town. The invitation is open to all individuals and organizations in need of books. Even just the curious are welcome to come and see.

“Heck, just stop by to see what 60,000 to 80,000 books look like, or to dig though them to find old and interesting pieces,” continues Werth. “It’s a pretty amazing collection.”

Equally amazing is the story of how Little Free Libraries came to possess such a stash.

“You see, but you do not observe.”

This Sherlock Holmes quote is etched into the stairs leading to the second floor of the Hein & Co. Bookstore in Jackson, California. Proprietors Wolf and Linda Hein have transformed the upstairs of their bookshop into a Sherlock Holmes theatre – Baker Street West – complete with the detective’s library, office, and bedroom, Mrs. Hudson’s tea room and the Wolf and Bear Pub, and plenty of “secret passages.”

It is the perfect venue for meetings of the Sherlock Holmes Society and the Baker Street Players, the local theatre company regularly staging Sherlock Holmes productions there.

“Their store is nothing short of magical to me,” says Werth, the social media stalwart with both the Library Literacy Foundation and Little Free Libraries.

It was through social media that he learned of the bookstore’s second floor remodel and plans to have over 100,000 books go to the pulper if homes (pun fully intended) could not be found for them.

Send good books to “the pulper?” The name itself conjures up some kind of insatiable beast ready to masticate all that is good and wonderful about the printed page. It struck Werth as an absolute anathema.

One phone call to Mrs. Wolf secured the volumes for Stockton’s Little Free Library and sent Werth to Jackson with a U-haul to bring back the treasure. Four trips later hardly put a dent in the loot. Even dispatching a furniture truck driven by Martin Ballejos for Basel Karabala, owner of 209 Furniture and the Library and Literacy Board’s vice president, still left more books to bring back.

“The game is afoot.”

And that is what has led to the Big Free Library Book Giveaway. A stockpile of all those free books of all genres awaits in those 1300 or so banana boxes to be carried off by those individuals or organizations in need of books: shelters, care homes, community centers with a library or social service / religious / philosophical organizations – it doesn’t matter.

Part of the challenge, though, is finding the Intelligent Wireless Networks warehouse. It is located at 712 W. Luce Street, Building 712, on Rough and Ready Island at the Port of Stockton. It can be found by driving all the way west on Washington Street to Navy Drive, then over the bridge to the Port’s main gate where Port security will ask for identification and then direct you further.

The Big Free Library Event runs from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 29, and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 30. More information can be found by doing a Facebook search for “Big Free Library.”

Elementary.

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m o r f s d r a c t Pos a t l e D the

s p i h S n i a e S e h t o t n Dow Story and photographs by Rich Turner

A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.

— John A. Shedd This outbound freighter is about to pass under the Antioch Bridge, heading toward San Francisco Bay with fertile Delta land in the background.

O

cean-going ships smack in the middle of prime agricultural land? No ocean in sight? With 245 ships calling on the Port of Stockton in 2015, up from 230 in 2014, it’s not as uncommon a sight as it once was. That’s good for business and, surprisingly, habitat restoration, too.

Not knowing much about the Delta when I moved here in the mid-1970s, imagine my surprise when I’m exploring the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and a huge ocean-going ship appears. I’m in the middle of prime agricultural land at ground level, enjoying the verdant landscape and a ship glides by? Don’t ships need water? Where’s the water?

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Turns out there is a deepwater channel that cuts through the Delta from the San Francisco Bay to Stockton, and it’s dredged deep enough to handle some pretty impressive ships. To this day, when I see one on the move so far inland from the sea, I’m tempted to chase it with camera in hand. When I’m doing aerial photography, I’ll occasionally see one inching slowly either seaward or inland to her next stop, the Port of Stockton, and feel the need to direct my pilot to change course and follow it for a while.

Brief history of ocean ships in the Delta — Even though the official opening of the Port of Stockton wasn’t until 1933 when the S/S Daisy Gray, loaded with lumber from the current

the Pacific Northwest, arrived, the Delta had long been a marine highway. Cargo boats as early as 1846 began traveling up the San Joaquin River from the San Francisco Bay. By the 1850s, Stockton, at the eastern edge of the Delta, had become a lively shipping and supply center for the Gold Rush era.

As gold production declined in the 1860s, agricultural production increased.

There was no railroad in California’s Central Valley yet, and enormous amounts of cargo had to be shipped to market. Larger ships were needed, but the Delta was too shallow. In 1906 plans were made to create a deepwater channel with a depth of 14 feet. However,

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After traveling from the Pacific Ocean, through San Francisco Bay and the Delta, these ships are docked at the Port of Stockton to take on cargo destined for distant global ports.

by 1917 ships were larger, and a depth of 26 feet was suggested. Federal and local funding was secured and the first dredging contracts for the Stockton Deepwater Channel were awarded in 1930.

By 1933 dredging of the deepwater channel was completed, and the Port of Stockton officially opened for business. To accommodate even larger vessels, the channel was dredged deeper, and by 1987 the minimum depth was 37 feet at low tide.

Delta habitat restoration — To maintain the minimum depth, additional dredging is periodically needed. What to do with all of that dredged material? Why not use it to restore habitat?

Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge in the Western Delta is the only place on earth that is home to the endangered Lange’s metalmark butterfly. Over the past 100 years this dune habitat has been severely impacted by human development, and after the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco, much of the sand was used to rebuild. In 2013 the Port partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to place dredged material at Antioch Dunes. So far, some 60,000 cubic yards of dredged sand has been placed at the Antioch site, and this restoration project will continue each year through 2022. The dunes that are being recreated support three plants – the naked stemmed buckwheat that is needed by the butterfly, the endangered evening primrose, and the Contra Costa wallflower.

The Deepwater Channel depth is maintained and habitat for endangered species is restored in the process. Docent-led tours are available every second Saturday of the month, and reservations» aren’t required. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/ antioch_dunes/ Final thought —

Did you know that roadway sections of the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge were cast adjacent to the Deep Water Channel right here in Stockton? This section was barged to the Bay in 2005.

Having unloaded in Stockton and riding high in the water, this outbound vessel slowly makes her way around a bend near Twitchell Island, heading toward the Pacific Ocean. It’s fun to find a good place to picture them as they pass by.

Today it is not uncommon to see huge oceangoing cargo ships gliding between Stockton, some eighty miles inland, and the Pacific Ocean through some of the richest agricultural lands on earth. But unless you’re up in a plane or on a levee you can’t see the water, so it can be disconcerting the first time you see one of these big fellas seemingly traveling on land. If you’re near enough when one goes by, it’ll definitely grab your attention. You might be tempted to reach for your camera, too.

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by…

As the sun majestically slides down behind Mount Diablo, another ship arrives in Stockton from a distant port to take on bulk cargo.

Looking like a toy by comparison, the Hawaiian Chieftain visited the Port of Stockton in 2002.

— John Masefield

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L A N O I T C Fun

y l i m a F

by Steve Sonntag

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F

amily is the basis of our lives. When there is love and mutual respect within the family, there is a better chance for everyone feeling better emotionally and wanting to live up to their potential.

In order for everyone in the family to fully appreciate each other’s roles, here is an idea for your consideration. Typically, everyone has their own seat at home, like at the dining room table, where they feel comfortable, while eating and drinking with different family members, maybe trying to look at their smartphones.

To consider this activity, everyone needs to turn off their smartphones and put them facedown on the table. Secondly, everyone stands up from where they are sitting, and they move to the next seat over, where another family member usually sits. With this new perspective, everyone thinks and talks about the person who sits in that seat in terms of what their personality is like, what they do for the family, and what they think they do outside the home. In the meantime, the others just listen.

After everyone has given their impression of these different individuals in these different seats, they change seats again in order to express how this other person is, what their role is in the family, and what they think they do outside the home.

This activity is repeated until everyone returns to their original seats.

Once everyone is back in their seats where they usually sit, everyone explains how they feel about each other and their roles in the family.

This activity can give a different perspective and a different appreciation for everyone, whether they are young or old. Perhaps, as needed, family members can clarify what they actually do and/or validate what others say.

Here is another idea for your consideration. It is suggested to consider experimenting with a surprise activity for the family. Everyone decides and commits to having a specific time in which everyone is free for a specific time period, like 2 hours, a half day, or a full day.

the youngest who is capable of making plans develops an activity for the family and does not tell anybody what this surprise activity is.

On the day of the surprise activity, everyone follows what the youngest has planned for that determined time period. It can be a lot of fun for everybody.

Upon finishing this activity, everybody discusses how they felt about it.

When the family determines when they wish to have the next surprise activity, the next child who is older plans what is going to happen, again without telling anybody.

Once all of the children starting from the youngest to the oldest have planned and implemented these surprise activities, the mother plans the next activity with the father planning the last one.

If there is another older relative living there, then that person does the same thing.

The family may even wish to do this activity more than once, because they have enjoyed it.

The element of surprise when everyone has so much going on can result in them having that much more fun. The children boost their self-confidence.

Also, mutual respect and admiration can be the great result.

The end result of both of these ideas is that there is quality family time.

Steve Sonntag was Manteca Unified School District’s high school teacher of the year, a department chairperson, and a mentor teacher. Since retiring, he has been a tutor, a family and teacher workshop presenter, an author of four family and teacher books and magazine articles, different officers for UOP’s Phi Delta Kappa (an educational organization), and a charter school teacher.

His goals are to support, encourage, praise, and inspire people with practical, creative solutions.

The adults will determine the amount of money that can be spent for the entire family, including for traveling, meals, and entertainment. If money is an issue, they may even need to suggest nothing, because money can be tight.

Once time and money are determined,

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T

here is no better way to cap off a hot summer day than an evening of cool jazz by the water, tasty food and drink, and great company.

It’s not too late to catch the Summer Jazz Festival Series at McCleod Lake Park in downtown Stockton, presented by SMA Entertainment. This “bring your own chair” open lawn seating event may be laid-back, but it does not stop short on style. Four live jazz bands take center stage each festival date. Upcoming headliners include Julian Vaughn and Nick Colionne.

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JAZZ in the COURTYARD “SAXES AND KEYS SUMMER SERIES” University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton Featuring MARCUS JOHNSON SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2016 VIP Concert and Jazz Buffet 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Tickets $43 – not sold at the door General admission 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. $27 advance or $32 at the door

Featuring MIKE PHILLIPS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 VIP Concert and Jazz Buffet 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Tickets $43 – not sold at the door General admission 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. $27 advance or $32 at the door Tickets available at: University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, Bill’s Music Sales, Music Go Round, LaMarr’s Casual Curl, or call 209-482-8754 or 209-483-1980

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Vaughn is a rising star in the Smooth Jazz community. His first hit single, “On Your Feet” remained at #1 on the Billboard chart for three consecutive weeks.

Colionne has a jazz style that is both urban and contemporary. He has blazed a trail to the top of the ranks of today’s stars.

Combining jazz, R&B, blues and funk, he has an unmistakable sound.

And if that is not enough, there is even still more to enjoy with Jazz in the Courtyard at the beautiful University Waterfront Hotel, presented by Inner City Productions.

Their Saxes and Keys Summer Series includes an optional VIP experience complete with a VIP concert and jazz buffet. Dine to the groove of upcoming headliners Marcus Johnson and Mike Philips.

Johnson brings a tasty blend of contemporary jazz stylings and hip-hop rhythms. Saxophonist Mike Phillips has ushered in a new, exciting chapter in the jazz music scene. His youthful exuberance mixed with seasoned craftsmanship ensures a rise as a leader in his field.

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STOCKTON SUMMER JAZZ FESTIVAL SERIES EXPERIENCE McLeod Lake Park, Downtown Stockton (corner of Fremont and Center) AUGUST 27 – JULIAN VAUGHN and Friends SEPTEMBER 24 – NICK COLIONNE and Friends General admission: $25.00 open lawn seating (bring your own lawn chair) Festival gates open at 12:00 p.m.

Live music starts at 2:00 p.m.

NO blanket seating NO coolers or ice chests NO alcoholic beverages or food (food and beverage vendors onsite) NO animals with the exception of service animals Purchase tickets online at www.smaent.com For more information, call 408-515-4420

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By Charleen Earley

he town of Linden is growing, not only in population, but also in arts and entertainment.

A theatre that started with children’s productions now has developed into a community theatre – children and adults get to “play.” We are fortunate to use the performing arts building of Linden High School for our productions. It is located at 18527 East Front Street, and the next big show is called Don’t Dress for Dinner, directed by Mike Kiley and begins July 28.

“It’s a wild comedy,” said Judy Williamson of Stockton, chair of the artistic committee. “It’s very fast-paced, a lot of physical action and comedy, and lots of twists and turns in the story line. It’s about a husband and wife both having secret affairs, but unfortunately all parties arrive at the house at the same time. There’s a mix-up of many funny excuses and disguises,” she added. “It’s a really fun show!”

When it comes to drama, Judy is no stranger. She started dancing at age five and moved up the ranks from there as drama teacher, actress, choreographer and director. After 37 years, she’s now retired from teaching at Amos Alonzo Stagg High School in Stockton, and along with June Spencer and Che Franklin, work with Brookside School on their musical productions.

Taylor Carnes, Joel Kester, and Cassandra Campbell.

For Judy, drama teaches life lessons. “It’s not only for entertainment; it also teaches different elements of life.” You gain compassion for your fellow man. Whether you put a song or dance behind it, theater is communication and education. That fits in with the mission of CTL in that they have a purpose “to enrich, educate and entertain the community.” Everyone at Community Theatre of Linden feels the same and is working toward those goals.”

Don’t Dress for Dinner, which features six actors – three men and three women in their late 20s to mid-30s – plays July 28 through August 7, with matinees on Sundays. Cost is $15 for students, $20 for seniors, and $25 general admission with $15 rates for members of groups of 10 or more people.

For more information visit: www.lindentheatre.com

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by Middagh Goodwin tockton X Fest is coming for you August 20. The event, started 16 years ago by Chris Ricci Presents and staged in a 15-city-block radius on the streets of downtown Modesto, is moving to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds. On April 26 after a very long city council meeting, X Fest was approved pending the safety plan which Ricci and the Chief of Police would nail down. After issues with the City of Modesto on planning and safety that reportedly would have added $30,000 to the events budget, Ricci met with the CEO of the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds on May 10 to discuss the move.

On June 1 it was officially announced that X Fest would not be taking place in downtown Modesto, but instead, Stockton. It was alive, but will it survive?

Many supporters feel that there was a bait-and-switch. They signed petitions, showed up to the City Council meetings – one which lasted over 6 hours – and just weeks after getting the thumbs up, Chris Ricci Presents held a press conference to tell everyone that X Fest was moving from downtown Modesto (“the heart of X Fest”) to Stockton. Not moving to another location in Modesto or Stanislaus County, but to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds. Ricci says he doesn’t want to raise the $20 advance ticket price. Some supporters say people would have been more than willing to pay the $2 – even $5 – more to cover the additional costs.

Some people may not go to X Fest this year because of the move, but many more will be going for the very first time. Those residing in Stockton do not have to worry about making the drive to Modesto; they can take a cab this year, or use Uber or Lyft. Stockton and San Joaquin County will play host to the “Biggest Party in the Valley.” With 20 stages and 150 performers, this multi-genre event features reggae, rap, metal, rock and electronica. This 21-and-over event has something for just about everyone.

Scheduled to perform this year are headliners Suicidal Tendencies, T-Pain, The Expendables, Sage the Gemini, Honey Cocaine and more, along with locals Diamond Dez (2015 MAMA winner), Broke Down Wasted and Absolutely Yes. With any event that has been staged for a decade and a half, there are growing pains. This year the crews can set up the day before, rather than waiting until midnight.

There are no street closures, or fences that need to be put up and taken down. Add to that on-site facilities that will not only reduce the cost, but add to the enjoyment of the event.

Go out and enjoy the party, and show why Stockton is a great place for big events to be staged.

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k c o R s t o Ro

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Honey B

and The

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hen it rains, it pours, and that is what is going to be happening on the third weekend of August. There is going to be a plethora of entertainment choices – the 5th Annual Stockton Con at the Arena, X Fest coming to the Fairgrounds, and the Weber Point Reggae Fest.

Driven by Faith and No Doubt Management presents the Weber Point Reggae Fest, August 20 and 21 at the Weber Point Event Center, held from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day. Reggae has done quite well over the years in the 209, and this event showcasing national, regional and local artists should only make it stronger.

The award-winning Arden Park Roots from Sacramento will be headlining Saturday, having gained a sizable following over the years with their brand of roots rock reggae and surf. King Hopeton from Jamaica, One Leg Chuck from Lodi, and local comedian Insane Wayne handling MC duties, along with 12 other acts, fill out the first day of the festival.

Sunday Gonzo the lead guitarist and vocalist of Tribal Seeds (formerly of Fortunate Youth) will be headlining, a favorite in the area. Another great act from SoCal, Arise Roots will be rocking the stage with high-grade roots reggae music.

Honey B and the Cultivation are based out of Sacramento, but have roots in Stockton and Modesto, and will also be joining in the fun in the sun. 14 artists total play on Sunday.

ts

rk Roo

Pa Arden

by Middagh Goodwin

Saturday August 20 • Arden Park Roots • King Hopeton • DJ Fresh • I-Trinity & the P.O.I • Ladee Dread • Import • Natural Revolution • One Leg Chuck • RiotMaker • Johnny Dreads and the Rebel Lion Band • Ione Angeles & Rebel Lion Band • DJ Mike D • DJ Sugar Bear • MC Insane Wayne • MC Sam Raw Sunday August 21: • Gonzo • Arise Roots • Iya Terra • Ital Vibes • True Press • Irie Fuse • Dyli • Honey B and The Cultivation • Woven Roots • Black Judah • Wings and Roots • DJ Squarefield Massive • DJ Green B • MC Sweet T

Cultivat

ion

Let’s hope this is not an exception, but a new trend of bigger events taking place in Stockton. Go out and support these great events taking place so that even more will be planned in the future.

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r e l w a r C t h N ig

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Misaki

hey come and they go, receiving all sorts of publicity and notoriety before closing their doors.

We’re talking about restaurants in the Hotel Stockton adjacent to downtown’s Janet Leigh Plaza.

Paragary’s restaurant, complete with its city subsidy… gone.

Sass Bar and Grill, here for a figurative cup of coffee, then… gone.

French 25, after concerns over its lease… gone.

Meanwhile, across the plaza and next to the movie theater, another restaurant continues into its second decade.

Misaki Sushi and Bar has figured out the equation to make things work in downtown Stockton. Part of the reason is the owners capture multiple markets.

Lunch during the workday? Check. They usually can get you in and out within an hour, although at times they’ll get a bit slammed and backed up. That doesn’t happen often.

Dinner and a movie? Check, big time. It helps to make reservation, but you can turn things into an entire outing or date (meal and a movie) with just a few more steps.

Night on the town? Check. Belly up to the sushi bar and order a sake bomb or a ginger martini or a Tokyo tea. And then let the sushi plates flow from chefs that are talented and engaging.

Some recent online reviewers commented: - They always take time to explain the sushi rolls and make suggestions for things to try.

- This place has absolutely outstanding fish – much better than you might expect for a sushi bar next to a movie theater in Stockton.

- (Try the) Fuji roll, smoked salmon roll and spicy scallop roll. Amazing.

- The drinks are amazing. I try something different each visit.

We’ll call Misaki “moderately” priced for a sushi bar. You’re certainly going to find some that are less expensive, but you’re also not paying topend prices.

A couple can enjoy themselves – they don’t rush you – and have a couple of drinks with their meal for less than $50 for heading over to that movie.

These folks have it figured out, and their patrons are the beneficiaries.

Do you have a place you think we should “crawl?”

Send your tips to Current editor Karen Bahktegan at kbahktegan@recordnet.com.

In fact, the chefs turn it all into an entertainmentlike show, and that keeps people coming back.

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