Women in Business 2013 by Manteca Bulletin

WOMEN IN

BUSINESS This Special Section was written for and about the women who help drive our local businesses, large and small.

A Special Supplement to The Oakdale Leader, The Escalon Times & The Riverbank News â&#x20AC;˘ August 21, 2013

Women In Business

The Butler’s Pantry:

Ready To Bring Kitchenware To You By VIRGINIA STILL

r i v i n g around the Central Valley you may have noticed a white truck with bright blue and a lady in an apron holding a cake with the name The Butler’s Pantry on the sides. The truck was founded by Escalon native, Jamie Butler who created a mobile kitchen and home store. Butler and her husband thought of the idea after they could not find

good cookware in the area. “So we thought of this idea where we could travel to the surrounding towns offering cookware, gadgets, and things that the Valley doesn’t have,” said Butler. The Butler’s toured several fashion trucks in Los Angeles to get an idea of how they wanted their mobile kitchen store to be. They found a larger truck that was in decent condition. The larger truck was pre-

ferred so that she could carry more items. Butler’s brother Jim Brown customized the truck to the design that she sketched and did all the work himself. The mobile store is filled with a variety of kitchen gadgets, cookware, accessories, and housewares. Butler spent several years as a buyer for a kitchen and home store so she carries the latest in kitchenware. “I have been around

kitchenware for the last 7 to 8 years so I feel like I just know it,” stated Butler. “I know what is really good out in the market.” As an interior designer she has always liked the idea of a butler’s pantry where you store items and kitchenware and it so happened that her last

name is Butler. “We just thought it was the perfect fit because it’s a box kind of like a closet,” said Butler. Butler has taken her kitchen truck to local farmers markets, festivals, private parties, bridal showers, and housewarming parties.

The truck has been to the flea markets and festivals in San Francisco. Butler will have her truck on hand at a hamburger eating contest at a café in Oakland next month. You can also find the Butler’s Pantry in Sacramento, PANTRY, Page 3

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Mobile kitchen and home store owner, Jamie Butler, has a variety of items to choose from and will come right to your door with her Butler’s Pantry. PHOTO BY VIRGINIA STILL

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8/7/2013 11:46:29 AM

PANTRY

Continued From Page 2 Antioch, Manteca, and surrounding areas. “I love it, I love having a new store front every day,” said Butler. “One day I am out in the country and the next day I am on the bay in San Francisco and I just love meeting all the people.” The Pantry also holds work parties in businesses parking lots. People will shop in the truck on their lunch breaks. “Usually when I am out I have a lot of demos so people can try the gadgets,” said Butler. “So I have a lot of food stations set up and they can try different items, whether it’s the potato peeler or the cherry pitter or things like that.” In her truck she has

items like the pineapple peeler/slicer, mango splitter, a cheese knife that doesn’t stick and many other items. The truck offers different size cutting boards and owl cookie jars in several colors. They have Lazy Susans made out of wine barrels and a variety of napkin rings. For outdoor entertainment she has wine glasses that won’t break and a colorful selection of aprons for men, women and children. There are a lot of items she has on hand that would be good for camping. She has a cheese grater that is flat and can open up to be a box grater and knives that have covers. The inventory on the truck will change with the different seasons.

Butler expressed that she has kept her prices competitive with other stores and feels that the one on one service has been missing since internet shopping has taken off. “When you are in such a small space I feel like it’s really personable with your customer and you can really talk to them and show them the product,” said Butler. “When you walk into a larger retail store, you don’t get that service anymore. “That is another reason why I chose to do this, is to be able to be close to my customers.” The Butler’s Pantry is available for parties, events, wedding registries, and much more. For more information contact, Jamie Butler at 209-531-4415.

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Women In Business

Building A Business Wardrobe

he transition from college student or stay-at-home mom to full-time professional requires a number of changes. Those changes include updating your wardrobe to give it a more professional feel. Clothing that’s acceptable for a jaunt to the store or a night out may not be appropriate for the office. Just what constitutes a professional wardrobe has changed over the years, and the guidelines for such attire are no longer as firm as they once were. But it still behooves a woman to add some classic, professional pieces to her

closet. While skirts and pantyhose may no longer be mandatory, dressing conservatively and cleanly in an office environment is always a safe bet. In order to achieve a wardrobe transformation without breaking the bank, the fashion experts at Marie Claire advise adding separates to build around a base suit. Find a suit that is flattering to your figure and make it a workplace staple. Then purchase coordinating pants, sweater sets, shirts, another skirt, and accessories that can be mixed and matched with elements from the suit to create different looks. If your budget al-

lows, purchase another suit in a different color so you can continue to build wardrobe possibilities. When selecting base pieces, opt for neutral colors of tan, gray, black, and blue so that these items can be worn repeatedly without being noticed. Accessories and blouses can offer pops of color when necessary. A nice handbag or pair of shoes can quite easily add color to an otherwise monotone ensemble. When selecting items from the rack, look for those that fit well but aren’t too constrictive or racy. Inquire with your new employer’s hiring manager or human re-

Is Your Body Out of Shape?

sources department to find out if the workplace has any restrictions on wardrobe. There may be employee guidelines, particularly in certain industries, such as law or education. If no such restrictions are in place, keep skirts to knee-length and avoid particularly low-cut tops. Save more revealing items for nights out with friends. Many employers have adopted dress-down days as perks for their employees. Although you may be invited to dress more casually, avoid dressing for a day at the beach or hanging around the house. Opt for trouser-style

jeans that are free of rips and embellishments. If athletic shoes are allowed, make sure they are clean and not the pair you wear while tending to your garden. Avoid graphic T-shirts that feature potentially offensive or suggestive messages. In more conservative companies, dressing down may be opting for khakis instead of suits. It is important to know the difference. Women who are adding to their wardrobes can include these alltime business staples. * Classic black pump shoes * Crisp, button-down white shirt

* Fine-knit sweater in a bright color * Camisole or shell in a neutral color to wear under blazers * Cardigan in black or white that can be worn over tops or dresses * Fitted, sleeveless dress that can be paired with a suit jacket or cardigan * Straight-hemmed skirt in a neutral color * Flat-front black, gray and tan pants * Neutral-colored wool coat and a rain jacket Over time, women can add to their wardrobes as budgets allow and they learn more about what is acceptable at their places of hire.

The Professional Women of A.L. Gilbert

Jackie Wozniak of

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2228 Main Street Escalon (209) 838 - 7783

Michele Flanagan, HR / Office Mgr. - 13 years

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For about thirteen and a half years, Jackie has kept things running smoothly at Escalon Body and Frame. As the office manager, she handles the general office duties, administrative duties, billing and the very busy phones. She also schedules repairs and deals with all the insurance claims for collisions. Steve, the manager praises Jackie with this, “Jackie is great to work with and is efficient and friendly. She is an integral part of this operation.”

Judy Bradley, Receptionist - 36 years Dr. Marit Arana, Nutritionist - 10 years Melissa Sachau, Credit Asst. - 5 years Lesly Muncy, AR, Sales Asst. - 10 years

Serving California’s Agricultural Industry for 121 Years

Yvonne Ortega (not pictured), AR /AP - 13 years Lindsay Harris (not pictured), AR, Sales Asst. - 3 months

August 21, 2013

T T ii p p ss FF o or r W Wo om me en n Juggling A Family And A Career

he days when single income households were the norm are long gone, as nowadays both Mom and Dad must work in order to make ends meet. That reality has left many women juggling the obligations of motherhood with the obligations of a successful career. Such a juggling act is seldom easy, and many mothers find themselves neglecting one obligation for the benefit of another. The following are a few tips to make balancing work and family a little easier. * Share the responsibilities. While the days of the single-income household may be a thing of the past, many of the conventions of those days remain. Women may still feel the responsibility to cook family meals, clean up after the children and make it to all of their children’s sporting events or other school-related events. But those responsibilities should be shared so women can ensure they’re giving both their careers and families the attention each deserves. Devise a schedule where both parents tackle such responsibilities equally so each parent knows when they have some wiggle room. For example, if your husband routinely cooks on Tuesdays, then you know you won’t need to rush home on Tuesday night and

you might be able to stay at the office a little later to work on a project or catch up on work. Such sharing and scheduling can considerably reduce the stress of juggling a family and a career. * Exercise daily. Juggling a family and a career is often stressful, and stress can have a very adverse effect on your health. Women with high stress levels are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and cardiovascular disease. But the American Psychological Association notes the positive impact of exercise as a means to alleviating stress, citing studies that have shown that physically active people have lower rates of anxiety and depression than people who are sedentary. It’s easy to become irritable when stressed, and no mother wants to be irritable in the presence of her children. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine is a great way to alleviate the stress of juggling a family and a career, and you can even incorporate your family into your exercise routine, going for nightly walks after dinner or playing with your children in the yard. * Stay involved with your child’s school. Many mothers find staying active with their children’s school is a great opportunity for them to bond with their kids and keep

abreast of developments at their school. Such involvement can be minimal, such as attending a monthly luncheon with kids or agreeing to be a chaperone on one or two class trips per year. Such events are typically scheduled months in advance, so you should have ample time to arrange a break from the office without neglecting your professional responsibilities. * Take advantage of work-from-home policies. As technology has advanced, many companies have become much more lenient with regard to employees working from home. If your company allows you to work from home, even if it’s only once per week, then take advantage of that offer. This can provide more time with your kids, it will likely save you money on childcare, and you are certain to appreciate the opportunity to skip your daily commute, even if it is only once a week or a couple of times per month. * Plan ahead. Looking ahead is another way to make juggling a family and a career easier. Plan meals in advance to cut down on preparation time when it’s your night to cook. This can involve placing foods in a slow cooker in the morning or preparing part of the meal in advance so it’s ready to go in the oven the moment you arrive home.

Another way to plan ahead is to look at kids’ school schedules and plan trips during the school year when school won’t be in session. A three-day weekend is a perfect opportunity to plan a getaway to a nearby locale where the whole family can relax and reconnect without the pressures of daily life. Juggling a family and career is not always easy, but there are ways that today’s mothers can raise a happy family and still have a successful career.

More and more women are finding ways to successfully juggle a family and a career.

G.M. Collin authorized clinic. 13 years experience in advanced skin care. Brow & make-up artist.

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Women In Business

Simple And Healthy Ways To Boost Your Energy Levels

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* Drink water throughout the day. Water is a versatile beverage that serves many purposes, not the least of which is its ability to make a positive impact on your energy levels. When the body does not get enough water, it can send a variety of signals that are easily misread. The symptoms of thirst or dehydration can easily be confused for hunger, which may cause you to eat more during the day, and that food can make you feel sluggish as the day progresses. Even slight dehydration can make you feel fatigued. If drinking water isn’t a part of your daily routine and you find yourself feeling fatigued on a regular basis, start drinking water and your energy levels will likely increase.

Water is an especially good way to boost your energy levels thanks to its availability and affordability. * Don’t skip meals. Skipping meals is robbing your body of the fuel it needs to get through the day. Skipping breakfast is especially harmful, as you will be starting the day off essentially on a fast and your energy levels will suffer as a result. A healthy breakfast that includes whole grain cereals or breads as well as some fruit and lean protein is a great way to start the day off energized. And no matter how busy you are during the day, be sure to eat a healthy lunch, ideally one that includes some protein. Protein is important because it takes the body longer to break

down protein than it does carbohydrates, giving you an energy source that lasts longer than a lunch without any protein. * Exercise. Fatigue can be a byproduct of a body that’s overworked but also a side effect of a body that isn’t being worked enough. Daily exercise will increase your energy levels, even if the exercise is minimal. Research conducted at The California State University found that even a brisk 10-minute walk increased energy levels for as much as two hours. If your energy levels tend to start waning in the afternoon, consider a short, mid-afternoon jaunt. The dividends such a walk pays regarding your energy levels may just last until it’s time to call it a day.

Jan Noble, HHScEd, is the Founder/Director for Oakdale’s only post-secondary school - the Holistic Life Institute, School of Massage and Natural Health. Now in its 17th year, HLI offers a CA BPPE-Approved 500-hour Certified Massage Therapy program and a 500-hour Holistic Health Practitioner program. With a staff of 12 instructors, HLI trains 60-plus CMT and HHP graduates per year, some of whom continue on to become instructors themselves. HLI also provides a 13-office wellness center and spa for graduates to launch their new careers. In addition to directing the institute, Jan has authored “FigureShaping - The Completely Natural Weight-loss Protocol” and “Home with God - The Restoration of Your Spiritual Self”, both available at amazon.com.

730 East F St., Oakdale (office)209-848-8382 • (cell)209-918-0647 www.holisticlifeinstitute.com

ennifer Smith never imagined that her husband’s hobby could have turned out quite like this. Fred’s Firearms began in 2008 and has recently expanded into its new home in Oakdale. The shop supplies everything from personal protection to recreational shooting guns and gear. With many years of experience, Jennifer and Fred are able to outfit the first time shooter or the experienced warrior. Jennifer says, “We try to match the customer with what would work best for them and the situation. I like to help everyone, but women especially, because I understand what they need. I feel I can help bring a woman’s touch to the gun world.” Basic Hand Gun 1 Class August 31 – Call for more information. Future classes will include Shotgun, Rifle Carbine, Intermediate and Advanced Pistol

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August 21, 2013

Tips For Female Entrepreneurs S

tarting a business is no small task. But as the 21st century progresses, more and more female entrepreneurs are embracing the challenge of starting their own businesses. Though each entrepreneur has his or her own motivation for starting a business, the chance to be your own boss and turn an idea into a successful business is a driving force for both male and female entrepreneurs. And though male and female entrepreneurs face similar hurdles when starting a business, many female entrepreneurs might be

more hesitant to set out on their own, fearing that old stigmas about women in the workplace might affect their chances at success by making potential investors or financial institutions wary of women setting out on their own. Though such concerns unfortunately are legitimate, women should not assume that such stigmas prevail. The continued success of female entrepreneurs has shed new light on just how successful female entrepreneurs can be. The following are a few tips for women looking to start their own business. * Seek out a mentor.

Many female entrepreneurs have blazed the trail you are about to embark on, and such women can prove an invaluable resource as you begin your journey. Find a female business owner you can connect with and ask her for any advice she can offer. She might not be able to help you with any specifics regarding your business, but she can very well share stories of what you can expect as a woman setting out to start her own business. * Have an airtight business plan. As unjust as it is, a stigma about women in the workplace still exists in the minds of

some professionals. This means women must be especially diligent and detailed when creating their business plan. One helpful hint is to act as if you are pitching yourself. Look at your business plan and ask if you would invest in yourself. Ask yourself the questions you would ask a fellow entrepreneur if he or she approached you with the same business plan you just developed. There’s no harm to be done by using every resource at your disposal, especially your own business savvy and experience. * Don’t expect to finance the business entirely on your own. Un-

Come in and Meet the Women of

L - R; Diana James, Sara Garcia, Jackie Bustos, Lupe Ordaz, Lacey Carlton, René Moreno, Janie Edwards Not Pictured: Emma Cornett, Meranda Ulrich and Jessica Dotinga

1080 West F Street, Oakdale

Next to Subway & Sara’s Dry Cleaners

847-2226

less your business is going to be especially small, you’re going to need capital to start your business. If you think you can finance the business on your own, you might want to reconsider. A business loan or investors can help you plan for the unexpected. If you attempt to go it alone, open your business and then find you need a business loan, the lending institution might find your brand has already been damaged and is less likely to succeed. That can make it harder to secure a business loan. Though it’s possible to finance your business entirely out of

your own pocket, it never hurts to partner up with a bank or a handful of investors. * Rely on your support system. Many women with business experience might feel they need to prove something to themselves when starting their own business and need to do so entirely on their own. While that’s great motivation, underestimating the value of your support system, including your spouse, children and even your mentor, is a mistake. Rely on these people who all want you to succeed, and turn their support into extra motivation.

PHARMACY

Lupe Ordaz, Jackie Bustos and Emma Cornett - Are bilingual patient service experts who work hard to get your medications in your hand and out the door as quickly as possible. Diana James - Has been working at River Oak Pharmacy for 14 years. She is an expert at dealing with insurance corporations. She helps our Spanish speaking patients, and enjoys helping all our patients get their prescriptions filled. Sara Garcia - Is a Registered Technician, and has been with River Oak Pharmacy for 14 years. She is an excellent patient oriented technician. She also helps our Spanish speaking patients. René Moreno - Is a Registered Technician, has been working for River Oak Pharmacy for 18 years, and is now working in our compounding lab, making custom prescriptions for our patients individual needs. Janie Edwards - Helps patients with all their prescriptions. Is a Registered Technician, and finds over the counter solutions for any medical need. Lacey Carlton - Is a Registered Technician and expert at customer service. She works hard to advocate on behalf of patients with insurance corporations, and manages our bubble packing services. Jessica Dotinga - is a customer service expert. She is currently working on obtaining her Pharmacy Technician license. Meranda Ulrich – is a Registered Technician, and has been helping patients at River Oak Pharmacy for over a year.

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Photo Taken at Motor Madness Event

August 21, 2013

Events By Elswick:

Simple Soirees To Elegant Affairs W By RICHARD PALOMA

ith a focus on f u n d raising events for non-profit groups, Oakdale’s “Events by Elswick” has been in the act of having widely attended affairs run smoothly. Owner Chris Elswick has been professionally associated with event planning and coordination of local festivals, seminars, and business related functions, getting her start in the industry

when she was asked to put on her class reunion a few years ago. “I fell in love with the whole process of putting on an event,” Elswick said. “By word of mouth it led me to be contacted to put on others (class reunions). It all went from there.” Despite the economy, the special events industry has grown over the last decade or so. Events by Elswick allows the organization hosting the affair to continue their business-critical duties while Elswick plans

and executes the research required just to find a caterer, venue selection, decorations, emcees, talent, service workers, etc. Day-of-event coordination includes being present to make sure the event goes off as planned so all attending can partake in the celebration. Elswick’s résumé includes planning and putting on the Riverbank Downtown Sip and Stroll, The Blues and Bibs Festival, and Fiesta Riverbank. Her biggest challenge annually is putting on the Cheese and Wine Exposi-

tion in cooperation with the Riverbank Rotary. As a member of Riverbank Rotary, her company is contracted to put on a number of local seminars, fundraising events, and dinners for Rotary International. Putting on successful events comes with its challenges, according to Elswick. “The weather will make or break an event,” she explained. “That’s something you have no control of.”

The Women of Jennifer Boyden, Personal Lines / CSR I have enjoyed helping people protect their homes, autos and RV’s for the insurance industry since 1996. Laura Leusink, Office Manager / Commercial CSR I specialize in commercial insurance needs for business and have enjoyed helping people with their coverage for almost 24 years.

Jennifer Boyden

Annie Gallagher, Agent / Broker Lic # 0727717 I have 26 years of experience in all aspects of the insurance industry. My focus the last 7 years has been on medical lines, including dental, vision and life lines, for individuals and groups.

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Erin Hohenwarter

RICHARD PALOMA/ THE LEADER

Cromwell & Ney INSURANCE AGENCY, INC

Pleased to Meet You!

Laura Leusink Annie Gallagher

ELSWICK, Page 13

Chris Elswick has been coordinating public and private events for the last five years. “I fell in love with the whole process of putting on an event,” said Elswick who got a chance start by putting on one of her class reunions.

Erin Hohenwarter, Office Assistant I do all the data entry for the commercial lines and have been here over 2 years. I enjoy working with this great group of women. Maggie Martinez

Maggie Martinez, Receptionist / CSR It’s my pleasure to serve my local community, obtaining competitive pricing for the best possible coverage. I look forward every day to seeing familiar faces and assisting our Spanish speaking customers.

Amie Ney – Conde, Owner

Health Care Reform will affect us all. If you have questions, we have answers. Many changes have occurred in the industry, but one remains: we all need to protect our most valuable assets. We have a team of qualified staff to walk you through the insurance maze that leaves many people frustrated and confused. We represent top insurers giving us the opportunity to find the best price for you.

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Women In Business

Lori Theofanopoulos: Superwoman Mother And Manager Does It Without A Cape By IKE DODSON

t’s nearly 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, and a lively crowd has staked claim to every corner of the Corner Café. Traffic lazily saunters past on Highway 108, as a buzz emits from cheerful patrons of all ages that enjoy their first meal of the day. The packed kitchen is a flurry of activity by the staff, and servers hustle about the room. Oakdale High graduate Quincy Shoeman, a reputed competitive kickboxer, finishes up his meal as Lori Theo-

fanopoulos makes her grand entrance. She offers a bright smile to staff and customers, and then quickly hops into action — clearing tables, delivering checks and chatting with patrons. The small tasks are a brief glimpse of Oakdale’s busiest businesswoman in work mode. Between managing the Corner Café, running three mixed martial arts academies and caring for her family, the only thing Theofanopoulos can’t do is fly. Or so we think. “She’s superwoman right now,” Lori’s hus-

band, Tom Theofanopoulos said. “When you get someone with her kind of outlook, things turn out very positive.” The husband and wife team run Oakdale, Sonora and Merced Mixed Martial Art Academies, the prestigious home of some of the best fighters in the world, including Ultimate Fighting Championship slugger Michael McDonald and World Series of Fighting veteran Angel DeAnda. Tom trains the fighters and organizes their prefight preparations, but Lori signs up fighters and

class participants, is office manager and serves as a sort of payroll/accountant/ human resources/ business manager superstar. She’s at the gym four days a week, manages the ticket table at Tom’s Art of War Production fights,

and runs the café with her nephew, Jack Sinodinos, and daughter, Amanda Theofanopoulos, five days a week. Not counting Saturday fights, she spends 53 hours a week at either the café or Oakdale MMA. “Tom says I am insane for that schedule, and if

my chores are not done at home, I have to quit,” Lori said with a laugh. “I want to do it all though, I enjoy doing it, and also taking care of my family.” Lori’s push toward an active business life does CAPE, Page 11

Dr. Alma Martinez recently joined Dr. Tom F. Mihok in his Oakdale optometric practice. Dr. Martinez graduated with “honors” from Western University of Our Staff’s names are (as pictured): Health Sciences’ College of Dr. Alma Martinez, Yvonne Urquidez, Rita Optometry in Pomona, CA. Higuera, Jennifer Borja, Yvonne Desales, She is pleased to return and Dr. Tom F. Mihok in the middle. home to the Central Valley. Dr. Martinez is looking forward to giving back to her surrounding communities by providing the best possible eye care to her patients. Both doctors provide routine eye exams, contact lens care, and treat ocular diseases and emergencies. They endeavor to bring an awareness of the importance of preventative eye health care. Dr. Martinez is Welcoming New Patients • Se Habla Español

141 California Avenue • Across from the Post Office

209-847-3051

Martial Arts Instructor Tom Theofanopoulos draws a big smile from his wife Lori at Oakdale MMA. PHOTO BY IKE DODSON

August 21, 2013 11

CAPE

Continued From Page 10 little to nudge her towards the stereotyped lifestyle of a strong working woman. She said she devotes her life at home to taking

care of her husband and her family in the same traditional Greek fashion that she was raised in. It’s the same reason the Theofanopoulos family is so involved in joint business ventures. Lori runs the Corner Café because her brother, Bill Sinodi-

At Oakdale MMA, Lori Theofanopoulos is designated for desk work. PHOTO BY IKE DODSON

nos, and sister-in-law, Toula Sinodinos, bought the establishment two months ago. They asked Lori to run the place with Amanda and their son, Jack, until their youngest daughter graduates high school in 2015. “My sister (Toula) will come down twice a week (from the Bay Area) and help us out,” Lori said. “She’s my inspiration.” The extra hands are needed, considering the café is often packed with patrons. It wasn’t always the case. “We didn’t change the menu, or the staff, but we upped the quality of food and made it homemade,” Lori said. “We make fresh food of good quality.” The café is also a hotspot for the Oakdale MMA fighters. McDonald eats there daily and many

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Alongside her daughter Amanda Theofanopoulos and nephew Jack Sinodinos, Oakdale’s Lori Theofanopoulos poses proudly with her staff at the Corner Café. PHOTO BY IKE DODSON

of the combatants will ask for food to best fit the nutritional needs accompanying their training. It’s a change of pace from deskwork at the gym that Lori maintains

under the assistance of both Amanda, and DeAnda’s wife, Krystal. Even behind the scenes of combat training, it’s a family affair. “The whole family is a part of this,” Lori said.

“I love working with my family, because we can talk about everything openly.” Communication isn’t the problem for Lori. She just needs to learn to fly — or so we think.

Oak Valley COmmunity Bank Women in Business

working to reduce our client’s tax liabilities through careful planning and tax strategies. Jayne Hartley, CPA, has

L-R Mary Kay Giannini, Jayne Hartley, Rebekah Bounmany

over 35 years of experience and specializes in tax preparation and planning for corporations, individuals, estates and trusts. Mary Kay Giannini, CPA, has 26 years of experience preparing taxes and auditing for individuals and business entities. Rebekah Bounmany is the Office Manager.

www.JayneHartleyCPA.com • Jayne@JayneHartleyCPA.com

125 North Third Avenue Oakdale 209.848.BANK Elisa Luna Branch Manager 209.343.7632

1910 McHenry Avenue Escalon 209.821.3070 Laura Weaver Branch Manager 209.343.7633

Two Offices for Your Convenience Oakdale 1214 West F Street, Suite B 205 (209) 845-1040

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Women In Business

Gypsy Cowgirl Shares

Food Preservation Philosophy By MARG JACKSON

hile some may consider it a bygone art, Bambi Porter is here to change your mind. Canning vegetables, putting up fruit preserves, even pickling some items, all can be done with the right equipment and just a little bit of instruction. It’s something that Porter is passionate about and she has completed training to become a teacher, passing

the craft on to others. “It’s so amazing, I never thought this opportunity would have come to me,” Porter explained. She is the only certified Master Food Preserver (non-county employee) in Stanislaus County and completed coursework through the Cooperate Extension to earn the distinction. “I’ve been canning, doing some sort of preserving for years,” Porter added. “More than 20.”

She said she feels the art “skipped a generation,” as her grandmother canned out of necessity, but her mother didn’t have to, with canned and frozen vegetables becoming much more readily available in stores. But Porter enjoyed the idea of growing something and then finding a way to keep it fresh for later consumption, without having to use a lot of preservatives and additives. With canning, preserving and pickling,

…where restored meets refined. Shelley Leadem of The Empty Nest

116 N. Third Avenue, Oakdale • 847-9300 Hours: Tuesday - Saturday - 10am-5pm emptynestoakdale@gmail.com

Taking a break to smile for the camera at the scene of a demonstration, Bambi Porter is happy to take her Gypsy Cowgirl Kitchen Co. on the road, providing information and a ‘how to’ class on food preservation. She also does workshops for canning, preserving and pickling. PHOTO BY MARG JACKSON

she said, it’s just the goodness of the product itself and if you are doing the work yourself, you have control over what, if anything, you add to it. Plus there’s the fringe benefit of getting to eat the product down the line. It wasn’t always a successful venture, though, as Porter said there were some errors in judgment and mishaps as she was just getting started. “I didn’t always have positive results, there were some goof-ups and it was a lot of trial and error,” she explained, adding that one of her earliest attempts at jam, she allowed the bottom of the pot to scald and ended up throwing away an entire batch of jam that was burned. However, she said with a laugh, only the jam suffered. “I didn’t make anybody sick, so I figured I was doing something right,” she said of her initial canning attempts. It was through an article in the Los Angeles Times

that she learned of the existence of ‘master food preservers’ with a class in L.A. through the Cooperative Extension of Los Angeles County graduating with over 100 members. It piqued her interest and she made some inquiries, directed to contact Stanislaus County Cooperative Extension. Due to budget cuts, she learned, Stanislaus County no longer offered a program by itself but did work in conjunction with San Joaquin County. After completing 50 hours of training and passing an exam, Porter earned her dual certification, a Master Food Preserver for each county. “I feel passionate about it, I got my certification and I had wanted to start my own business,” Porter said. “I prayed really hard about it, I wanted a sign …” Porter said the thought just kept coming to her that she should start a business to share her love of food and the art of preserving, so the Cowgirl Kitchen was born.

“It is my pleasure to go out into the community, to teach people how to preserve food safely,” she said. Classes are free, though she offers a separate series of workshops that do have a fee. Those workshops are hands-on, with the participant making products to take home with them. The classes are more demonstrations, a session on ‘how to’ and she has those throughout the region, recently offering them at Westurf Nursery (Aug. 17) and Vintage Faire Mall (Aug. 18). She will also be at The Taste of Oakdale event on Aug. 27 and September classes are scheduled at Westurf Nursery on Sept. 14 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and a cheese/yogurt demonstration will be offered at Morris Nursery in Riverbank on Sept. 28, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. “This is the heat of the canning season,” she said, happy to be travelCOWGIRL, Page 13

August 21, 2013 13

ELSWICK

Continued From Page 9 Elswick said with past events when inclement weather threatened an event she found herself “thinking on the fly” with Home Depot runs and last minute calls to rental services so guests would not be inconvenienced. While she appreciates all the volunteer help she gets, working with volunteers who commit but fail to follow-up can be an ordeal also. “When you pay someone it’s different,” Elswick said. “When you have to work strictly with volunteers you hope they can be reliable.” To enhance her company and reputation, Elswick is pursuing cer-

tification from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. “It’s not something that you get easily,” Elswick said. “It takes several hours of coursework.” As the business expands, Elswick, a past president of the Oakdale Chamber of Commerce, said she would like to bring something similar to Sip and Stroll event to Oakdale. “Anytime you can promote something with downtown businesses, it’s a good thing,” Elswick said. “It promotes the overall structure of the city where people can go in and become familiar with the businesses.” Elswick can be reached at 209-6798375.

COWGIRL

Continued From Page 12 ing around the region for classes. “I’m up to my eyeballs in peach jam right now.” She also enjoys the workshops, because people get to taste the fruits of their labor. “You are making your own jams, jellies, pickles, cheese,” she said. “You are doing it all, with guidance. “My hope is that people go out (after a class or workshop) and enjoy their own canning journey.” She also said it can be a great way for families to spend quality time together, creating memories and healthy food to eat. Also, if a family gardens, she said it’s a sensible way to make the best use of their product, since they can eat some fresh and can some for later

ith 25 years in the industry, Lucy brings experience, knowledge, and service to you day in and day out. She started her career on the company side working her way up to the senior executive ranking before becoming a broker and agency owner. That experience as will as her involvement in industry associations both on a local and state level brings a talent to the table few have. As a broker she represents a variety of companies which allows her to look for the best product for your needs at the best price. Lucy welcomes the opportunity to service ALL your insurance needs. 366 West F Street • Oakdale 847-8025 4101 Tully Rd., Ste 301 • Modesto 524-6891 Lic#: 0F60672

HOME • AUTO • BUSINESS • FARM • HEALTH • BOND • LIFE

use. “When you are passionate about something, you are a magnet for others with that passion, there’s a synergy and so many doors open to you,” Porter said, noting that her journey has also included appearances on radio and soon will feature a TV appearance on Channels 31’s ‘Good Day Sacramento’ program. She also has done ‘Lunch and Learn’ events around the valley for Kaiser Permanente and said her Facebook page is a great place to go to learn what’s coming up next. Visit gypsycowgirlkitchen.com on Facebook for more information. Porter can also be reached at 209-484-5492. From a keen interest in learning about the craft to finding her passion for food, Porter said she loves sharing her knowledge with others. “Here I am to help you can,” she said.

Did You Know?

Six of the 10 college majors with the highest salaries for new graduates have something to do with engineering. So says a survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, which notes that computer engineering majors earned the top spot with an average starting salary of $70,400 for graduates who finished school in 2012. Chemical engineering majors came in second with an average starting salary of $66,4000, while computer science majors, with average starting salaries of

$64,400, came in third. The NACE salary survey relied on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the United States Census Bureau and Job Search Intelligence, a compensation management firm. In addition to computer science, the survey, which examined starting salaries for new graduates in more than 90 fields of study, found that finance, construction science/management and information sciences and systems were the only majors outside the field of engineering to crack the top 10.

elcome to Country Kids! We offer a safe and fun learning environment for children ages 18 months - 12 years. Our programs include an academic Pre-Kindergarten Class, Preschool and Preschool Junior Classes, as well as Before and After School care. We are open Monday Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Country Kids began as a small, in-home program in 1992 and moved to its current center in 1996, as business continued to grow. Country Kids is owned and directed by Dawn Briggs, who has over 30 years of experience in preschool and child care. With her mother Charlene Hutson serving as assistant director, and her daughters Stephanie and Sarah Briggs working as assistant teachers, Country Kids is proud to say we have three generations serving the families we provide educational and child care services for. We invite you to stop by for a tour of our center and learn about the fun opportunities available to your children.

Country Kids

Child Development Center

1301 Miller Ave, Escalon, CA 838-1600 countrykidsescalon.com CA License #: 393601774, 393601775

Women In Business

ypsy Cowgirl Kitchen Co. was born out of passion for simple, delicious and healthy food. Bambi is the only (non-county Kitchen Co. employee) certified MASTER FOOD PRESERVER in Stanislaus County. Do you want to enjoy local foods like tomatoes and cherries year round? Do you have an interest in food traditions and preservation and want to learn more? Are you interested in canning, but have a fear of not doing it safely? Whatever your motivation, Gypsy Cowgirl Kitchen Co. is offering a variety of demonstrations/ workshops on preserving the local harvest in safe, simple and delicious ways. dale, CA Oak E S T. 2 0 1 3

Check out the Gypsy Cowgirl Kitchen Co. website at: www.gypsycowgirlkitchen.com or on Facebook at: gypsycowgirlkitchen.com. 209-484-5492

River Oak Dental Spa Tourtlotte Dental Corp Christina Tourtlotte, DDS • Mary Tourtlotte, DDS Andrea Pezoldt, DDS 1473 East G St., Ste. C Oakdale, CA 95361 • (209) 848-8074

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FOR LIFE TAILS

CALL

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www.riveroakdentalspa.com

River Oak Dental Spa is the dental practice of Dr. Christina Tourtlotte who has been operating her family dental practice in Oakdale since 1994. The office is equipped with state of the art technology for the dental practice and several features to present a relaxing, pleasant and spa like atmosphere for the patient. The dental office has chairs which give the patient a gentle massage, digital radiograph x-rays, in chair patient entertainment systems, and the ability to use nitrous oxide to ease patient anxiety. The office décor includes running water fountains to enhance the soothing atmosphere. Some spa treatments are available on a periodic basis. In February 2013, the office introduced our patients to the newest state of the Back Row: L-R: Andrea Pezoldt, DDS, Vita Lara, Office Manager, Debbie Acamo, art technology, the CEREC. The CEREC is a sophisticated CAD/CAM System for the production of all Front Office Coordinator, Deanna Acamo, Front Office Coordinator, Tiffany Tobias, Hygienist, Ashley Ortega, RDA, Korie Whorton, Hygienist ceramic inlays, onlays, partial crowns, veneers, and crowns for anterior and posterior teeth. Front Row: L-R: Christina Tourtlotte, DDS, Melissa Mora, RDA, Amanda Clark, Dr. Christina Tourtlotte is an Oakdale native and the 1989 Oakdale Rodeo Queen. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry where she graduated with RDA, Mary Tourtlotte, DDS honors in 1992. Dr. Mary Tourtlotte, the sister of Dr. Christina joined the practice in 2005. Mary graduated from University of the Pacific Dental School in 2005. Mary is also an Oakdale native, graduated Oakdale High School in 1993. Mary is very passionate about aesthetic dentistry and building a private practice. Proudly serves as a Reserve Navy dentist. Dr. Andrea Pezoldt joined our office in January 2009. Andrea graduated from University of the Pacific Dental School, and has been practicing for 16 years. River Oak Dental Spa is welcoming new patients and featuring laser whitening and office bleaching. Look for special pricing on this bleaching procedure in future ads.

August 21, 2013 15

Things To Consider Before Changing Careers

he days when men and women would work for the same company for decades are largely a thing of the past. Though some professionals still remain loyal to a single firm for the duration of their careers, such instances are now the aberration as opposed to the norm. Switching firms or careers has certainly become more acceptable over the years, but that does not necessarily mean everyone who switches jobs is doing it for the right reason. Many people have switched jobs only to realize the grass is not greener on the other side. Others have switched jobs amidst economic uncer-

tainty only to be laid off shortly after making the move. While the opportunity for a fresh start is nothing to scoff at, professionals looking to change careers should consider a host of factors before deciding to do so. * Motivation: Before changing careers, it’s best to sit down and honestly assess what is motiving your potential move. If you harbor a strong desire to pursue a passion and make it your career, then changing careers is probably something you must do. But changing careers because you feel if you are slighted by a current employer or you feel like changing for the sake of change, then you might want to reconsider.

If you’re considering a change because of an issue with your present employer, try working out the issue before pursuing a career change. You might find the issue is a byproduct of miscommunication and not something to change careers over. If you want to change careers because you feel like you need a change, keep in mind how difficult the job market is and how vulnerable you might be if your next move does not pan out. Give your motivation some serious thought before making any career changes, and you’re less likely to regret your decision. * Experience: Pursuing a new career in a different field can be exciting, but

if you lack experience in that field then you could be making a mistake. While the economy has rebounded in 2013, the job market is still highly competitive and less than ideal for inexperienced workers. While you will need to start somewhere if you ever hope to transition to a new career, consider doing so on a part-time or volunteer basis and keep your current job. This gives you a chance to get your feet wet and pad your resume, and you will still have the safety net of a full-time career. * Quality of life: Quality of life is too often overlooked when professionals are considering a career change. Though the op-

portunity to make more money is enticing, money should not dictate your decision. A new job with a higher salary might require you to be on the road more often than your current career, negatively impacting your quality of life, especially if you have a family. Longer hours at the office may also take away from family or personal time, which can affect your quality of life as well. Before changing careers, think of the potential impact such a change may have on you and if you’re willing to live with that impact. * Relocation: Better jobs might be available in a different job market, but there are disadvantages to relocating. Many established professionals already have

a network of friends, family and fellow professionals, and abandoning that network for a new life in another city can be extremely difficult. Single workers might adjust more easily to a relocation, but parents must consider the potential impact a relocation will have on their families. Even single professionals might find moving to a new city where they have no established social circle is far more difficult than they imagined. Such a move can cause feelings of loneliness and isolation. Unemployed professionals may feel that’s a risk worth taking, but those who already have a job should determine if a relocation is really something they are ready to try.

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102 Grove Avenue, Suite B • 209-505-0993

An integrity based lender with competitive rates, a variety of products and happy customers!

Women In Business

Gale Willms Health Insurance Services G

ale has been a life-long resident of this area and involved in the insurance industry since 1997. Her goal is to make sure you have the right insurance plan at the right price, therefore providing you with the best health care protection. Changes to the Health Care Industry are upon us. Open enrollment will begin Oct. 1, 2013 with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2014. Gale has been attending all trainings and seminars and has the knowledge and expertise to assist you in making this transition as stress free as possible.

Call Gale today at 613-8768 for all your insurance needs.

Lic # 0C06975

Custom Draperies and Shutters

by Tina Jensen

began in 1978 in a spare bedroom of her home. Since that time, she has expanded her work area and created custom window, bed and table coverings for thousands of clients. When asked, Tina says, “ I love meeting new people and helping them to create a look that is not only pleasing to them, but impressive when showing family and friends.” With over 200 fabric and trim books, she loves taking them into the client’s home, helping them make choices that they will love, and then constructing the entire project herself. Hunter Douglas brand shutters, shades and blinds can also be chosen for that special window with many choices in sampling. Call Tina for an estimate and give your home a fresh new look.

Custom Sewn • Bed & Table Coverings Shutters • Shades • Blinds • Awnings Free Estimates

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Take A Proactive Approach To Stress

ew men and women can avoid stress. Be it a byproduct of a hectic work environment or the result of juggling a family and a career, stress is a part of life for many adults. In fact, according to a report from the American Psychological Association, 77 percent of adults experience physical symptoms of stress on a regular basis. The APA also notes that job pressure is the leading cause of stress, followed by money and health. Many adults cannot envision a scenario in which they aren’t worrying about work or their finances, so it’s easy to assume there’s little they can do to reduce their stress levels. However,

there are several proactive steps men and women can take on a daily basis to reduce their stress levels in an attempt to live a healthier life. * Give yourself a little more leeway. Work-related stress is not always a byproduct of tension with coworkers or a seemingly endless workload. For some, work-related stress starts on their way into the office and continues on their trip home at the end of the day. Sitting in traffic when you have to be at the office by a given time is a significant stressor for many men and women. In a 2011 independent study commissioned by the navigation product manufacturer TomTom(R),

researchers studied the physiological stress markers in participants’ saliva and found that both men and women experienced an increase in stress when driving in traffic, even when they did not feel their stress levels increasing. Men had a particularly stressful experience when sitting in traffic, as their stress levels increased by 60 percent when driving in traffic (female stress levels increased by 8.7 percent in the same circumstances). To avoid such increases in stress, leave for work a little earlier in the morning. Giving yourself an extra 15 to 20 minutes to get to the office may help you respond more positively to rush-hour traffic, reduc-

August 21, 2013 17 ing your stress levels as you get ready for the day ahead. Leaving early may even allow you to take an alternate route to work that might be slightly out of the way but feature fewer motorists. * Get out from behind your desk. Sitting behind a desk all day makes it easier to work through lunch, which can make your workday seem that much longer and that much more stressful. Take a more traditional lunch break, even if it’s only to the office kitchenette or cafeteria, so you can get away from your computer and think about something other than work for a little while. After lunch, take periodic breaks to stretch and to take a quick breather. Get a glass of water or a cup of tea or just walk around. Such breaks can prevent existing stress from escalating further or can help you ward off work-related stress entirely. * Make healthy changes to your lifestyle. Your life-

style can either help you prevent stress or make stress that much worse. A healthy lifestyle includes regular exercise and a nutritious diet, including one wherein caffeine and sugar consumption is kept to a minimum. The APA notes that poor nutrition is the fifth-leading cause of stress in the United States, so emphasizing a healthy diet may prevent the onset of stress or reduce its symptoms. Too much caffeine and sugar can cause mood and energy swings and negatively affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep. A bad night’s sleep will only exacerbate stressful situations throughout the day. In addition to eating a healthy diet and finding time to exercise, which may prevent stress or reduce its effects, you should limit your alcohol consumption and stop smoking if you are a smoker. Excessive alcohol con-

sumption and tobacco or drug use are negative ways to cope with stress and will only make stress worse, while avoiding such triggers may help you prevent the onset of stress. * Reduce your workload. The APA study found that 31 percent of adults admitted to having difficulty managing their responsibilities at the office and at home. It’s difficult to reduce your workload at home, so consider doing so at the office. This can be as simple as delegating responsibilities more often or as significant as working less. Stress is associated with a host of ailments, including heart disease and a weakened immune system, so even those adults who feel they cannot budge with regard to their professional responsibilities might need to do so if work-related stress has gotten out of hand, as the consequences of ignoring stress could prove dire.

Introducing the professional women of… C.T. Brayton and Sons, Inc. is a General Engineering and Building Contractor, established in 1946, incorporated in 1969. We specialize in Educational, Medical, Industrial facilities and Parking Structures. C.T. Brayton & Sons, Inc., has a great team and their present staff is recognized and thanked by current President, Robert Brayton.

Vicky Siegfried Controller

Bonnie O’Connor Sr. Accountant

Betty Nelson Staff Accountant

Kaitlyn Brayton Administrative Assistant

Deanna Shirlock Sr. Project Manager

Stacy Granberg Safety Manager

Pam Galbreath Project Coordinator

1804 Jackson Avenue, Escalon • (209) 838-7388 • www.ctbrayton.com License No. 257952

Women In Business

Attorney Focuses On People’s Futures By DAWN M. HENLEY

imberly Sullivan Gray wants people to consider their loved ones, consider their futures, and get those matters in writing. Sullivan Gray is an attorney who specializes

in estate planning, trusts, wills, probate, and conservatorships at Dickerson Law, Inc. in Oakdale. Sullivan Gray started her career doing litigation, and later became more involved in other aspects of law. “I enjoy helping people plan for their future, giv-

ing them comfort for that aspect,” she said. “It’s very important for people to think about the future, even if it’s uncomfortable.” She said that deaths can tear families apart and that’s why it’s so important and a whole lot easier when wishes are known, it’s written down, and taken care of. She added that healthcare power of attorney and financial power of attorney help with a more smooth transition when a loved one is no longer able to take care of such things. She noted that for people who have trusts, it’s a good idea to get it reviewed if it’s been a long while since it was written. “You want to revisit it every so often,” Sullivan Gray said. “Laws change, life circumstances change… A lot of times people do an estate plan…

Attorney Kimberly Sullivan Gray specializes in trusts, wills, estates, and probate at Dickerson Law, Inc. in Oakdale. PHOTO BY DAWN M. HENLEY

and life moves on. People pass, children grow up, grandchildren come along. What was written down 20 years ago may not be in a person’s best interest now. It may not be as relevant as it was

then.” She added that people’s views also change, as do relationships. For better or worse, she said, things evolve. Sullivan Gray briefly explained the difference

between a will and a trust. With a will, it’ll go through the probate process. It is court supervised and it is part of the public record. It can take ATTORNEY, Page 19

August 21, 2013 19

ATTORNEY Continued From Page 18

a long time, even up to a year-and-a-half on a basic estate, and a percentage of the assets will be taken out for fees in the process. Trusts are not a public process, there is no court oversight, it’s also not part of the public record. Assets can be transferred relatively quickly to heirs. The document is more expensive up front, she said, but in the end it usually saves money and definitely saves time. Sullivan Gray said having a will or trust is important so that one has control over what happens after they die. She said that a person who owns property or significant assets, should really look into a trust. If someone has children, it’s important to

have wishes written down, with the appropriate legal wording, to ensure who will raise them in the event of parental death. She added that beneficiary designations on life insurance and such are not the same as having a will or trust. “Everyone should talk to someone (attorney) to see what their options are,” she said. “If I don’t think someone needs to spend money on a trust, then I’ll tell them they don’t need one. Everyone is different. “I think what really is important is honesty and integrity,” she added. “I treat my clients like family.” Sullivan Gray earned her law degree from McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. She first practiced law in Lodi and then later worked at Gianelli and Associates in Modesto. She met her husband in Escalon during that time and then she took a hia-

tus to raise their child and work at her family’s business in Escalon. She came to Oakdale to work with her former colleague from Gianelli and Associates, Brett Dickerson, at Dickerson Law, Inc. in October of 2012. Dickerson handles real estate law, employer law, and does litigation and Sullivan Gray fills the gap with her area of focus. She’s in the office Wednesdays through Fridays. On the days she’s not in the office, she works at her family’s business in Escalon, Creative Water Gardens. “Quality of life is important,” she said. “I get the best of both worlds.” Sullivan Gray belongs to the Oakdale Rotary, AAUW, the Chamber of Commerce and is part of the 2013 Leadership Oakdale class. She said she enjoys Oakdale because it’s a small town and makes her feel at home.

Women In Business

Oakdale Dental Care

190 South Oak Ave. Bldg. 1 Ste.1 • Sirina S. Aguilar, D.D.S.

190 South Oak Avenue Dr. Aguilar offers dental services to the Building1 Suite1 community of Oakdale and surrounding Oakdale, CA 95361 areas. She847-1320 is a native of Stanislaus County (209) and resides in Oakdale. Dr. Aguilar earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry at California State University Stanislaus and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from University of California, San Francisco. She enjoys volunteering at head start programs and local elementary schools to provide yearly dental screenings.

Dr. Aguilar and her friendly staff are dedicated to providing superior family dental care. Our goal is to help you feel and look your best while focusing on long term dental health. Come and join our practice, we are here to take care of you.

Summer Promotion: Complete exam & x-ray Only $100 Se habla Español

“We always welcome new patients and look forward to a long and healthy partnership with you, your family, and friends.”

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00-5:00 • 847-1320

Susan Creedon, CPA

Certified Public Accountants

“We value our client relationships.” Meet Susan Creedon, CPA, Kim Alton, CPA and Lisa Morris, Office Manager, a team of highly experienced professional women in Oakdale. By combining our expertise, experience and the energy of our staff, each client receives close personal and professional attention. We offer a broad range of services and we are ready to find the accounting strategy that fits your needs and ensures your financial success. SUSAN CREEDON, CPA is committed to providing the highest quality services to our clients. Our clients have the assurance that the personal assistance they receive comes from years of advanced knowledge and training, along with technical and financial expertise. An on-going investment of time and resources for professional continuing education, state of the art computer technology and extensive business relationships is an indication of this firm’s commitment to excellence.

Under New Ownership

L-R: Lisa Morris, Kim Alton, CPA; Susan Creedon, CPA