LOLO SPENCER FROM ACTING TO ADVOCATING
JULY 2022
SCAN TO READ ONLINE
VEGAN FARMER'S MARKET QUICK BITES AT VEGAN SOULSTICE
HOT DIGGITY DOGS MAKE 'EM YOUR WAY
350 REASONS TO BRAG ABOUT OUR COUNTY SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 1
THANK
You! WE APPRECIATE YOU AND SINCERELY THANK YOU FOR VOTING KROLOFF BEST LAW FIRM IN 2022
Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry & Christopherson, founded in 1946, is one of the oldest, most respected law firms in San Joaquin County. It is our people that make the difference. At Kroloff you’ll find experience, integrity and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the practice of law. WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE RIGHT SIDE — Yours.
Business | Litigation | Trusts & Estates | Employment Law 7540 Shoreline Dr., Stockton, CA 95219 2 JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
T: 209.478.2000
F: 209.478.0354
KROLOFF.COM
It’s knowing you’re with the best. We understand that care goes hand in hand with treatment and we value your trust. It’s why we’re honored you helped us earn San Joaquin Magazine’s 2022 award for Best Urgent Care. It’s a thousand things, big and small. Stockton Urgent Care Clinic 2545 W. Hammer Lane
Tracy Care Center, Urgent Care 445 W. Eaton Ave.
sutterhealth.org/sgmf SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 3
We’re at our best when you are.
Thank you for voting us Best Hospital. Your recognition of our people and our work means so much to us. Since 1899, St. Joseph’s has been dedicated to caring for all who enter our doors. Our very foundation was built on the principles of humankindness and responding to the needs of the community. And today, that hasn’t changed. We believe humankindness means not only providing our patients with exceptional clinical care, but also treating each person as a unique individual with dignity and respect. Thank you for your support and for entrusting us to care for you and your loved ones for generations. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/stockton.
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CHECK US OUT ON YELP CHECK US OUT ON YELP
Where the Good Life is YOUR Life. Discover a relaxed lifestyle that reflects this master planned community’s unique Delta location. Where collections of home styles are built among lakes, parks and trails. All set against a backdrop of the San Joaquin River. River Islands has its own charter schools, a lakeside restaurant and pub, sports fields, dog parks, and lots of room to put down roots and thrive. Homes are priced from the mid $500,000s to over $800,000. The Welcome Center is now open from 12-5 daily; closed Mondays, at 1401 River Islands Parkway in Lathrop.
RIVER ISLANDS
(209) 808-5168
I
RiverIslands.com
All neighborhood offerings, amenities and features are subject to change without notice. Prices effective as of deadline of publication.SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 7
Our Client’s Goals Are Our Focus
Tax Planning & Preparation ■ Accounting & Auditing Services Business Consulting ■ Budgets & Forecasts ■ Business Valuation Services Litigation Support Services ■ Marital Dissolution Accounting
Professionalism. Responsiveness. Quality. Dedicated to serving the community since 1978
Thank you to our Wonderful Clients for Voting us #1 for Best Accounting Firm!
3031 W. March Ln., Ste. 300E ■ Stockton, CA 95219 • (209) 957-3691 ■ www.iacopi.com 8
JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
“Our Mission” Improve the lives of patients through excellent Cardiovascular education, prevention, and the highest quality care. • Complete cardiovascular care from prevention to intervention. • Recognized expert in sport cardiology in USA and internationally. • Cardiovascular leadership at State and National level.
N O W O P E N I N L O D I 1210 W Tokay St. 209.370.3580 S TO C K TO N : 2633 Pacific Ave. 209.944.5530
www.drmanshadi.com
SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 9
Music Brickwalk ON THE
AT LINCOLN CENTER
Join us every Friday for live entertainment as talented musicians from all around San Joaquin County perform on the Brickwalk stage.
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Benjamin Holt Drive at Pacific Ave., Stockton | lincolncentershops.com |
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Thank You For VoTing Me #1 realTor in San Joaquin
3rd Year
in a
row !
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL CA REALTOR LIC #01987449 CORNERSTONE REAL ESTATE GROUP
209-986-9292 L E A R N M O R E AT L A N C E M C H A N . C O| M SJMAG.COM
JULY 2022
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THANK YOU! FOR VOTING US
BEST COSMETIC SURGEON IN SAN JOAQUIN
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SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 13
Simply Perfect, Simply Better!
1208 W. Tokay St. • Lodi, CA 95240
Call today: 209.334.4370 14
JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
Learn more about Dr. Franklin and his talented team by visiting www.ToddFranklinDDS.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST DERMATOLOGY OFFICES IN SAN JOAQUIN!
We offer an array of services to the residents of the greater Manteca/Stockton area.
NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS 296 Cottage Avenue, Manteca, CA 95336-4942 209-624-7006
Skin Cancers:
We focus on Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Surgical Excisions and Non-Invasive Painless Radiotherapy
Robert Leposavic, M.D. Mohs Surgeon
5757 Pacific Avenue, Suite 228, Stockton, CA 95207-5159 209-490-5050
Dermatology Medical Services:
Acne, Rashes, Scar Revision, Skin Cysts, Eczema, Fungal Nail Infections and Psoriasis
Amin Esfahani, M.D. Dermatologist
Cosmetic Services:
Botox, Dermal Fillers, Skin Rejuvenation and Laser Hair Removal
Stephen Doggett, M.D. Non-Invasive Radiotherapy
Joselyn Johnson, N.P.
www.luxdermatologists.com SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 15
Contents Features
JULY 2022
27 A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH
Lauren “Lolo” Spencer has re-channeled the energy of her youth. Now more than a decade since she began using a wheelchair, acting and activism have replaced street hockey and dance. Once she enjoyed running, now she helps others by the endurance and enthusiasm of living. BY JAMES RAIA
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48 2022 BEST OF
You spoke, and we listened! Our annual Best Of list is here, counting the best of the best businesses in SJC, according to you—our readers! Need recommendations on where to grab a post-work margarita? How about the place to throw your next kid’s birthday party? We’ve got it all! BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE TEAM
111 MEAT-LESS, DAIRY-LESS, AND FULL OF FLAVOR
Nestled beside and partnered with Downtown Stockton’s HATCH is Vegan Soulstice, a farmer’s market that celebrates fresh and delicious cruelty-free vegan food as well as arts and crafts created by community artists and makers. BY
SARAH STEFFENS
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HOT 120 IN-SEASON: DOGS
July is the season for grilling, chilling, and soaking up the summer sun. It’s the season to celebrate America’s independence with fireworks, family, and food. And the big question is, is there anything more American than a good ol’ fashioned hot dog? BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER
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THE CARE YOU NEED, THE WAY YOU WANT IT. Health care should be hassle-free. At Kaiser Permanente, it is. With connected teams and flexible ways to access care, it’s easy to get the support you need to stay healthy — when and where you need it.
kp.org/centralvalley SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 17
Contents 34
JULY 2022
44 40 THE 209 TOC 2
30 FEEDING KIDS A HEALTHY LUNCH Why not ask the lunch lady how? 32 WITH THE BAND Art Holton has an impressive musical resume 34 THE SKY’S THE LIMIT Oak Park hosts monthly astronomy events
38 5 WAYS TO ENJOY THE WOW MUSEUM THIS SUMMER Beat the summer heat inside 40 FINS UP! This local running club is about fun and fitness 42 OFF THE BE-EATEN PATH Ever wanted to swim with sharks?
44 SPIDERS, SCORPIONS, 36 JULY CALENDAR There’s AND SNAKES—OH so much to see and do in MY! The Serpentarium SJC houses some unusual stuff
NEXT ISSUE
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46 TIPS FOR SUMMER CAMPING WITH KIDS Make the most of your outdoorsy vacation
32 IN EVERY ISSUE 20 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 118 DINING GUIDE
WINE DINE 209 114 MIXOLOGY AT HOME Become your own favorite bartender 116 ZERO-PROOF COCKTAILS Mocktails are on the menu 118 THE FAT FRUIT What do you know about avocados? 112 FREEZE-DRIED FRENZY A new way to make candy
ANNUAL PET ISSUE • PET PARADE • SECRET MENUS
SEE HOW A REVERSE MORTGAGE CAN SUPPLEMENT YOUR RETIREMENT PORTFOLIO
E ST.
LOCAL WINES & BEER
2018
TERFRONT WAG RILLE LODI, CA
SEASONAL FOOD FAVORITES
LET’S GET TO WORK ON RETIREMENT
LIVE MUSIC
Welcome to the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life. It’s time to focus on what matters most to you— and leverage the power of your home to make your ideal retirement a reality.
PRIVATE EVENT SPACE
Westley Rice
Mortgage Advisor Finance of America Mortgage NMLS# 256150
and more!
1530 W. Kettleman Lane, Ste B Lodi, CA 95242
WesleyRiceLoans.com wrice@financeofamerica.com P: 1.209.224.3063 M: 1.209.610.9766 F: 1.855.800.8412 ©2020 Finance of America Mortgage LLC is licensed nationwide | Equal Housing Opportunity | NMLS ID #1071 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5, Horsham, PA 19044 | (800) 355-5626. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. This is not a commitment to lend. Prices, guidelines and minimum requirements are subject to change without notice.
TowerParkWaterfrontGrille.com 14900 West Highway 12, Lodi, CA
(209) 354-8706
WE ARE YOUR COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION In the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s 2022 Annual Report, we highlight some of our departments and programs, new initiatives,
continued progress, and significant milestones. Please read the report to learn more about the programs and services offered by your county office of education, and the work we do to
educate, innovate, inspire, and serve students, families, and our community.
Read our annual rep ort
to the community at
www.sjcoe.org!
SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 19
from the publisher
YOU VOTED – WE MADE IT COUNT I
READ OUR
DIGITAL EDITION
@ SJMAG.com LOLO SPENCER FROM ACTING TO ADVOCATING
VEGAN FARMER'S MARKET QUICK BITES AT VEGAN SOULSTICE
HOT DIGGITY DOGS
feel like I say this about a lot of months, but July really is my favorite issue of San Joaquin Magazine. That’s because annually our readers weigh in on their most-loved businesses from across the county in an array of categories. Not only is the information then published for all to use as a resource for the entire year (before our next Best Of issue hits stands) but it’s an educational process for us, too. Every year we inevitably hear about individuals and businesses we didn’t know about before, which is really cool since we consider ourselves experts on every town from Tracy to Lodi, whether they land in the top three or not. And that allows us to source out new story ideas and subjects. Basically, you as our readers help keep us in the know—and we really appreciate that. Coming at you in this issue is a vibrant feature of who you voted the best in our favorite long-time categories, as well as a few new ones. Looking for a new brunch spot? We’ve got you covered. Need to know who whips up the best margarita in town? We’ve got that, too. From food to fun, weddings to parenting, it’s all here—thanks to you. A word of advice from our editors to you: don’t toss this magazine in the bin after you’ve devoured it. Instead, keep it handy as a go-to resource, like the yellow pages and Yelp had a baby, so when your HVAC craps out, you know exactly who to call to get the job done right.
Happy reading!
MAKE 'EM YOUR WAY
JULY
22
16TH ANNUAL BEST OF THE BEST SJMAG.COM
JULY 2022
SCAN TO READ ONLINE
350 REASONS TO BRAG ABOUT OUR COUNTY SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 1
TONY ZOCCOLI
tony@sjmag.com
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LAST THOUGHTS DON’T GET BORED Did you know July is AntiBoredom Month? Luckily SJC businesses appear to have gotten the memo. Our July calendar is brimming with fun events to keep you busy this month, but there’s so much going on, we couldn’t possibly fit it all. Don’t forget about the Thursday Farmer’s Markets in Downtown Lodi, George’s Bar & Grill Car Show in Lockeford, swim lessons, summer camps, an underground hip-hop show at Jump in Stockton, and more.
SUMMER MOVIE SERIES Want a discount on familyfriendly movies? Regal Cinemas, with locations throughout San Joaquin, is offering up $2 tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for family films all summer long. Movies include Space Jam, The Batman Movie, Despicable Me, and more. See RegMovies.com for more.
Ty! n U o C n I Aqu o J n a S heY
PICs! E M O S SnAP d N A S k C I r HIT ThE B
ChecK in. Take picS. Win gifTs! The Brick City Bucket List covers some of Stockton’s best known landmarks, from corner to corner, and explains some of the history and stories of why we love this town.
Get your pass today at BrickCityBucketList.com! SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 21
Let their smiles shine like never before.
PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli
EDITORIAL
MANAGING EDITOR:
Nora Heston Tarte FOOD & WINE EDITOR: Suzanne Ledbetter TRAVEL EDITOR: Nora Heston Tarte REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Lynette Carrington, Megan Meintasis, James Raia, Sarah Steffens, Jessica Zimmer CREATIVE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sybil Watson ASSOCIATE DESIGNER: Lucas Zoccoli CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dan Hood, Sarah Steffens, Suzanne Ledbetter MARKETING
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Michelle Cox SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Neelam Patel CIRCULATION
DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Ristrim SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PUBLICATION FAMILY
MAGAZINE
available anytime, anywhere. SJMAG.com Digital Edition
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JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
SALES OFFICE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 1463 Moffat Blvd, Suite 4, Manteca, CA 95336 Phone: (209) 833-9989
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/sanjoaquinmagazine Twitter: @SANJOAQUINMAG Instagram: SANJOAQUINMAG issuu.com/sanjoaquinmagazine © 2022 Inside Magazines Publishing Company
ALWAYS PRINTED IN THE USA
Thank you for voting us Best of San Joaquin again!
Best Pet Boarding
Best Dog Training
BOARDING, TRAINING & GROOMING A park-like setting for your canine family member’s next vacation!
209.931.0758
Email: contactus@canineculture.com
9751 N. Highway 99, Stockton CA 95212
www.CanineCulture.com SJMAG.COM | JULY 2022 23 Visit our website for more information and videos of our beautiful property!
The Law Offices of
LAWRENCE KNAPP 250 Dorris Place • Stockton, 95204
209-645-1011 • www.LmkLaw.net
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribing to San Joaquin Magazine ensures that every month you will receive our latest edition right in your mail box. Although we distribute copies to hundreds of area pickup locations, our publication is in high demand and locations often run out quickly. 12 ISSUES FOR ONLY $9.95 (12 ISSUES), OR $14.95 (24 ISSUES)
Subscriptions available through our website at SJMAG.COM, so you don’t miss another issue!
Lawrence M. Knapp
JUSTICE IS LOCAL.
YOUR LAWYER SHOULD BE TOO.
Established in 1993, we have been representing San Joaquin Valley community members and their families for more than 20 years in catastrophic injury cases. Our offices are in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, not Los Angeles or San Francisco. We are well versed in the local rules and have a deep knowledge of the arbitrators, judges and court system. This unique knowledge and ability to navigate the local system has produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Vally by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.
Our Community
Our Hospice
Our Community’s longest standing accredited, Medicare and Medi-Cal certified hospice, palliative and support services organization. Community Hospice is committed to embracing individuals and families facing life-changing journeys, providing compassionate and personalized care since 1979.
• Hospice • Palliative Care • Pediatric Care • Alexander Cohen Hospice House The only inpatient hospice and respite facility in Stanislaus County
Locations: 4368 Spyres Way Modesto, CA 95356 209.578.6300
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2431 W. March Lane, Suite 100 Stockton, CA 95207 209.477.6300
JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
• Hope Counseling, Community Grief and Mental Health Support Services • Camp Erin® of the Central Valley Grief support for kids 6-17
• Community Education • Hope Chest Thrift Stores CommunityHospiceCV Chi_CommunityHospice
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Story ideas, manuscripts, or comments can be emailed directly to the managing editor. Please include your name, daytime phone number, and email address. E-mail NORA@SJMAG.COM WRITER’S GUIDELINES San Joaquin Magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers. Story ideas, email us at NORA@SJMAG.COM. San Joaquin Magazine also accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned. ADVERTISING San Joaquin Magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach area residents throughout the county. We offer multiple opportunities to achieve the results your business desires. With over 17 years of magazine publishing experience and multiple publications to choose from, it’s no wonder residents continuously look to our family of publications. Visit the ADVERTISE link on our website or call 209.833.9989 to request a printed media kit. SPONSORSHIP San Joaquin Magazine prides itself in actively supporting organizations that make the city a better place to live and work. If you wish to partner with us and would like more information, please contact TONY ZOCCOLI, PUBLISHER TONY@SJMAG.COM
ADVERTISING / EDITORIAL OFFICES SALES OFFICE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 1463 Moffat Blvd, Suite 4, Manteca, CA 95336 Phone: (209) 833-9989
WATER
AIR
WILDLIFE
is land is our land, and it will be for generations to come. WELCOME TO THE PORT OF TOMORROW. We may work on the water, but we know the value of unspoiled earth. Which is why the Port is using sand dredged from our waterways to help Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge restore its lands and save endangered butterry and plant species. It’s also why we’re cleaning up a neighboring former naval property for use that will create jobs and economic opportunity. At the Port, we’ll do what it takes to keep the future’s land as clean as its water, even if we have to dig a little deeper. SOIL + SEDIMENTS
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
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STOCKTON LODI MANTECA TRACY SONORA JACKSON
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Over 60 years of Vision Care
UPFRONT 209
A Force to be Reckoned With
the
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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE
FROM ACTING TO ADVOCATING, LOLO SPENCER DOESN’T LET HER ANYTHING HOLD HER BACK BY JAMES RAIA
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upfront209
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auren “Lolo” Spencer has rechanneled the energy of her youth. Now more than a decade since she began using a wheelchair, acting and activism have replaced street hockey and dance. Once she enjoyed running, now she helps others by the endurance and enthusiasm of living. Spencer, 32, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at age 14. The progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the brain and the spinal cord is also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease. Born in Los Angeles, Spencer attended Claudia Landeen School in Stockton from first grade through middle school She graduated from
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relying on public transit to cultivate her role. She earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Supporting Female in the film that debuted at the Sundance and Cannes film festivals. Numerous other movie and television roles have followed. "The movie is just very special because it was my first acting job ever," Spencer says. "It was really an experience that everyone was in on 100 percent. People had to wear multiple hats on set. When you are working on an Indie film it's notorious within the industry to know there's a chance the movie may never see the light of day, just because of budget reasons and those types of things.” "There was a little back and forth. It was, 'Wow, am I really in a movie? Like is this movie even going to make it to audiences and viewers?' " The fact that the movie went as far as it did is a miracle within itself." French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot identified ALS in 1869. But it became internationally prominent in 1941 when the New York Yankees’ player was diagnosed with the disease and was forced to retire. Gehrig's early symptoms included a loss of strength as well as balance and coordination issues. He was diagnosed on his 36th birthday in 1939 and died less than two years later. While now aware of the athlete's legacy, Spencer hadn't heard of Gehrig when she was diagnosed, nor had her family. "I don't know much about him," she says. "I know that he was a very, very legendary baseball player, but [that’s] the extent of all I really know. My relationship “Thinking back all those with my diagnosis is very different. years I don't quite fully In recent years there's been a question about whether or not identify with my diagnosis ALS is my true diagnosis. as something I own. It's just It's because I have had such something that I was told success so far and in my health and I've always perceived in general… Thinking back all those years I don't quite fully identify with it like that.” my diagnosis as something I own. It's just something that I was told and I've always perceived it like that.” Lincoln High School in Stockton in Spencer, whose modeling has included work 2005 and was recently inducted into for Tommy Hilfiger, Zappos, and Lady Foot Locker, the school's Hall of Fame. The honor created the YouTube channel Sitting Pretty in 2015. celebrates Spencer's versatile career She posts videos discussing living with a disability as a renowned social media influencer and how to support the disabled community as well as her expanding modeling and financially and emotionally. Her Instagram account acting careers. accentuates positives, including dating and personal Nicknamed "Lolo" by a cousin in relationships for those with disabilities. third grade, Spencer worked in various "I've heard from people that it helped them get editing and producing movie industry dates and just meet people," Spencer says of her jobs after college. But she debuted in advocacy. "It's given them the confidence to enter the front of the camera in the critically dating world. It's really been a rewarding project." acclaimed 2019 film “Give Me Liberty.” She played the role of Tracy, a woman with ALS who catches a ride in a packed medical van. DISCOVER MORE: LoloSpencer.com Diagnosed as a high school freshman, Spencer used her teenage years of
AUGUST 13 & 14 • NOON-7PM
D ELI C I OU S G AR L I C F O O D The two day event will feature our very own Cali Garlic Alley with delicious dishes such as Garlic Fries, Garlic Pesto Pasta, Garlic Mushroom and Onion Bread Bowls. But wait, it doesn’t stop there, we will be serving up a Maple Brown Sugar Garlic Ice Cream. Attendees may choose many garlic dishes from festival food vendors who are required to sell one or more garlic inspired menu items.
We have something for everyone! Show and Shine Car display with hot rods, low riders and muscle cars, cooking demos featuring local chefs, local entertainment preforming on the community stage, the Miss California Garlic Festival Scholarship Pageant, monster truck rides, petting zoo and pony rides, photography contest showcasing local photographers, a carnival full of rides, games and MORE!
$1 5 ADULT (1 8 -6 4 ) • $ 1 0 C HILD (6- 17), SR 65+ & MILITARY • KIDS 5 & U ND E R F R E E
C AGAR LICF ESTIVA L .COM S A N JOA QUIN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS • 1658 S. AIRPO RT WAY, STOCK TON, CA 95206 • 916- 370- 3647 SJMAG.COM
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health
HEALTH
FEEDING KIDS A
HEALTHY LUNCH AN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR TELLS US HOW BY NORA HESTON TARTE
I
t’s summertime, and that means parents everywhere are on their own when it comes to meal times for kids. Without the school cafeteria to rely on for balanced lunches, how will you keep your kid from eating Hot Pockets and Cheetos all summer long? Rachelle "Shelly" Metcalfe, the food and nutrition services school employee of the year from Lathrop Elementary, has you covered, offering tips for preparing nutrition-packed meals for kids of all ages, both over summer and during the school year.
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENTS OF A HEALTHY MEAL? Healthy meals should have a source of protein, fruits and/or vegetables, and whole grains. Milk can also be a good source of protein and vitamins.
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WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST MISTAKES MADE WHEN IT COMES TO FEEDING SCHOOL-AGED KIDS? I frequently see chips, which are high in fat and salt, and soda, which is high in sugar, brought from home.
JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
WHAT NUTRIENTS ARE SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN MOST OFTEN LACKING? School-aged children often lack adequate sources of fiber, protein, or vitamins in their diet. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of both fiber and vitamins. Most people know that bananas are high in potassium, but so are kiwis and strawberries. Protein doesn’t just mean meat. Some tasty, kidfriendly, high protein snacks include string cheese, sunflower seeds, nuts, and nut butters.
SHARE YOUR GOTO, HEALTHY, AND KID-FRIENDLY LUNCHES THAT PARENTS CAN WHIP UP AT HOME. A sandwich of lean lunch meats on whole grain bread is a good start. Add cut-up fruit and vegetables and nuts instead of chips. Fruit juice or milk are good alternatives to soda. While they do contain sugar, they have more nutrients than soda. Even Lunchables aren’t bad overall, they’re quick and easy.
HOW CAN PARENTS TAKE THESE TIPS INTO THE NEXT SCHOOL YEAR? Prep healthy foods ahead of time. Having fruits and vegetables cut in the fridge, along with things like string cheese, and packets of nut or whole grain crackers makes packing lunch each day easier.
NEED A MEAL?
Over summer, some children may not receive balanced meals, or maybe any meals at all. Unified, and other districts, have a Seamless Summer program for any children aged 2-18 to a pickup a healthy meal throughout summer.
Mosquito Prevention is Everyone’s Responsibility DUMP and DRAIN standing water.
TIP and TOSS outdoor containers.
Wear EPA registered insect repellents to prevent mosquito bites. REPORT daytime biting mosquitoes. Call the DISTRICT to request service or mosquitofish.
209.982.4675 or 1.800.300.4675 SJmosquitoandvector www.sjmosquito.org
The Gentle Dentist for Children While They Sleep!
SALIDA SURGERY CENTER 5712 Pirrone Rd. Salida, CA, 95368
Ask your child’s dentist for a referral
(209) 543-9299 www.salidasurgerycenter.com @salidasurgerycenter SJMAG.COM
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locals to know
"We are so blessed to have music and bands in our lives, in our 70s. To get together with people a couple of nights a week and make music. We enjoy it so much."
PEOPLE TO KNOW
WITH THE BAND ART HOLTON HONORED FOR STORIED CAREER, COMMUNITY SERVICE BY JAMES RAIA / D
A
DAN HOOD
rt Holton III has performed in Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln
Center in New York. He's walked the streets of Pasadena three times while guiding hundreds of student musicians in the Tournament of Roses Parade. Art has also played the clarinet in concerts around the globe all while thriving in a long career far closer to home. For his longevity and accomplishments as a musician and director, Art was inducted into Lincoln High School's Hall of Fame in 2020. He joined other honorees from the past several years who celebrated in April after ceremonies were canceled in 2020 and 2021. Music is a family affair for Art. His wife, Kathy, also a professional clarinetist, plays with her husband, still the director of Stockton Concert Band and Lodi Community Band. "For us, it has been a lifestyle," says Art, 72. "We are so blessed to
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have music and bands in our lives, in our 70s. To get together with people a couple of nights a week and make music. We enjoy it so much." Art received his Hall of Fame selection for "excelling in the field of music and for community service." A graduate of Lincoln High School in Stockton in 1968, Art received his Bachelor of Arts degree from San Jose State University and Masters of Art in Clarinet Performance from California State University, Chico. His musical credentials prompted a return to his high school alma mater where he served for 21 years as Director of Bands. Art also followed his
father's musical path as director of bands at San Joaquin Delta College where he worked until his retirement in 2015. The elder Holton was the institution's first band director when it was called Stockton College. He even taught legend Dave Brubeck music theory. Art has served as the President of the San Joaquin County Music Educators Association, Northern California Band Association, and California Band Directors Association. He is listed in Who’s Who Among American Music Teachers. He remains in demand as a guest conductor of Honor Bands throughout Northern California, as well as a sought-after clinician and adjudicator.
GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY
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Book an appointment online at GoldenStateDermatology.com or call one of our local offices today! NEW! 801 South Ham Lane, Suite A Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 787-3074
200 Cottage Avenue, Suite 201 Manteca, CA 95336 (209) 353-9810
632 West 11th Street, Suite 219 Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 500-4102 SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 33
upfront209
The Stockton Astronomical Society has their eye on the curiosities and complexities of the cosmos and they want you to get in on the fun! Those interested in the night sky are invited to attend the Astronomy in the Park events hosted each month at Oak Grove Regional Park. Attendees will be able to look through telescopes and see stars and planets in view. “We always start the evening with our moon because it will be visible even before the sun sets,” says Douglas Christensen of the Stockton Astronomical Society. “As Earth rotates and the sun gets farther below our horizon, it will get darker and the brightest stars of our night sky will slowly emerge in vanishing twilight. Our astronomers will move their scopes to other objects like the Globular Cluster in Hercules (referred to as M13). Some will point their Each month, Astronomy in the Park scope at the features a different Deep Space Ring Nebula in Object. The July 9 event will be the constellation M3, a Globular Cluster in Canes Lyra. Our Venatici, just under Ursa Major's volunteers will tail. It is a Globular Cluster made up tell you what you of about 500,000 stars and is about are looking at and 32,600 light years distant. It is part give you some of our Milky Way Galaxy. Globular information on Clusters are just what they look what it is.” like—big balls of stars much older The additional than our Sun viewings happen after 9 PM, closer to 9:30 PM (if the skies are clear). “You will be able to talk to a volunteer from the Stockton Astronomical Society, ask them any questions about the subject of Astronomy, look in the telescope that one of our volunteers has provided, and see whatever celestial object the astronomer has pointed their scope at,” Doug says. When asked what Doug enjoys most about this event he shares, “Watching people see the moon, Jupiter, or Saturn in a good telescope for the first time and seeing their reaction, hearing their expressions and witnessing them gob smacked at what they are able to see.... that never gets old.” Enthusiasts looking for extra astrological action can join the Stockton Astronomical Society to learn even more about the mysteries and complexities of the universe.
Deep Space Objects
EVENT /
The Sky’s the Limit Astronomy in the Park in Stockton BY SARAH STEFFENS / D
DAN HOOD
STOCKTON ASTRONOMICA SOCIETY (209) 471-1674
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calendar AGENDA
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY THIS MONTH BY NORA HESTON TARTE JULY 16, 4-11 PM
209 Beatdown XV
Are you ready for Extreme Cage Fighting? The Stockton Civic Auditorium and JR Entertainment present a night of live amateur MMA fights, including title belts for middleweight, bantamweight, welterweight, featherweight, and heavyweight, featuring fighters from the 209 versus other California amateurs. Stockton Civic Auditorium, 525 N. Center St., Stockton
JULY 4, 10 AM
4th of July Parade in Downtown Stockton
What better way to kick off your patriotic 4th of July than with a local parade? The United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County hosts this epic event in the streets of downtown Stockton. Come early to find parking. Stockton Memorial Civic, 525 N. El Dorado St., Stockton
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JULY 23, 7 PM
Jon Pardi at Golden 1 Center
Just a quick trek to Sacramento and you can be rocking out to country tunes from Jon Pardi, Lainey Wilson, and Hailey Whitters on the Ain’t Always the Cowboy tour, named for Pardi’s tune of the same name. Enjoy his hits, including “Last Night Lonely” and “Tequila Little Time,” plus older favorites. Doors open at 6 PM. Buy tickets at Ticketmaster.com
The Rocket Man Show
SUMMER MUSIC
Concerts in the Park JULY 6, 13, 20, 27, 6-8 P.M.
Stockton’s Victory Park plays host to 12 weeks of family fun and live music. The annual event is free to the community, and after a COVID-induced hiatus, there’s no excuse to miss out on the fun! Bring your lawn chairs, cozy blankets, and a picnic to enjoy with family and friends as you rock out to local acts. 1001 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton
GYPSY AT THE STOCKTON CIVIC THEATRE
THROUGH JULY 17 This heartbreaking and often hilarious tale of a mother desperate for fame explores her relationship with her two daughters and her overwhelming ambition. 2312 Rosemarie Ln., Stockton
JESSIE’S GROVE’S 19TH ANNUAL GROOVIN’ IN THE GROVE CONCERT SERIES
JULY 9, 23, 6 PM Come hear local musicians, sip favorite Jessie’s Grove wines, enjoy food, and even camp out with a Harvest Host reservation. 1973 W. Turner Rd., Lodi
TATTOOED AND TENACIOUS: FRIENDS OF THE FOX: INKED WOMEN IN INDEPENDENCE DAY CALIFORNIA’S HISTORY JULY 15, 6-10 P.M. THROUGH AUGUST 7 Tattoos may be commonplace today, but it wasn’t always that way. This exhibit at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum explores tattooed women from days past, including circus performers and upper-class citizens. 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi
TACOS AND TEQUILA: A TRIBUTE TO RON VALVERDE
JULY 8, 5:30 P.M. Sip tequila, enjoy tacos, and remember Ron Valverde, who gave more than 50 years of service to the Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Tickets are $45 per person. 6715 Leesburg Pl., Stockton
As part of an ongoing series, Independence Day (1996) will play at the Bob Hope Theatre. 242 E. Main St., Stockton
A NIGHT AT THE DRIVE-IN: SING 2
JULY 15, 6-11:30 PM Enjoy the classic drive-in theater experience. The UEI Parking Lot at Weberstown Mall will play Sing 2. Admission is free and food trucks will be on-site. 4994 Claremont Ave., Stockton
NUESTRA CULTURA PRESENTA: LUIS R CONRIQUEZ & LENIN RAMIREZ JULY 23, 5:30 PM A collection of seven Latin performers will gather at
Stockton Arena to perform their sensational hits. Acts include Legado 7, Banda Renovacion, Hijos de Barron, Tony Aguirre, and Alta Autoridad. StocktonLive.com
BACK TO SCHOOL MANTECA FOOD TRUCK FRENZY
JULY 24, 4-7 PM Free school supplies are the highlight of this community event that also features food trucks, a beer garden, and kids’ activities. Hosted by the Manteca Chamber of Commerce and the Manteca Department of Recreation at Woodward Park. 710 E. Woodward Ave., Manteca
STOCKTON PORTS AT BANNER ISLAND BALLPARK
SELECT DAYS IN JULY Summer is the perfect time for baseball and the hometown has a lot of opportunities to come watch them play. Check out the milb.com calendar for dates and tickets, and don’t forget to take advantage of Tuesday night discounts. MILB.com
CLASSIC ROCK
Bad Jovi: A
Tribute to Bad Co. and Bon Jovi JULY 23, 7 PM
Come enjoy tunes from some of your favorite artists. Bad Jovi is a tribute band covering songs from both Bad Co. and Bon Jovi. Catch them at Grand Theatre Center for the Arts and spend your evening reliving the 70s and 80s when these bands were at the height of their success. 715 N. Central Ave., Tracy
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family fun FAMILY
5 WAYS TO ENJOY THE WOW MUSEUM THIS SUMMER BY NORA HESTON TARTE
W
hen it’s too hot to hit the lake or the links this summer, why not step inside the World of Wonders Science Museum in Lodi to cool off? The science-centric museum offers summer camps and field trip opportunities as well as drop-in playtime for kids (and adults) of all ages. So, how will you make the most of your time at the WOW this summer? Sally Snyde, president at WOW Science Museum, chats about some of her favorites.
HIT THE ARCADE BUT CALL IT SCIENCE. How does playing pinball teach you science? The circuit boards used in pinball machines convert electricity into movement, causing reactions between switches, relays, solenoids, and electric motors based on the touch of an over-sized marble. Learn how they work, and then rack up the top score. A new machine is coming in October to double the fun.
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LEARN WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WALK ON THE MOON. The moon walking exhibit debuted in 2019, but due to pandemic shutdowns, many haven’t gotten a chance to test it out yet. Using a body harness, both kids and adults are lifted over a backdrop of the moon so they can experience the moon’s atmosphere. Rides will cost an additional $2 per astronaut.
PLAY PILOT FOR A DAY. A reallife flight simulator will make kids feel like they are soaring through the sky. Created using a Navy F-14 Tomcat static training simulator, the experience will be like one kids have never had before!
RELIVE YOUR CHILDHOOD BUT SUPERSIZE IT! MakerHQ, based in Sacramento, is responsible for the 10-foot Tetris wall installed at the museum. The interactive game board is largerthan-life and uses different configurations of four block shapes to test the player’s logic, reasoning, spatial awareness, and speed.
EAT BUGS. Inside the WOW Science Store, there are plenty of opportunities for families to continue their science lessons at home, including invention kits, building materials, lava lamps, art supplies, and more. One highlight are the Hotlix Bug Candy, colorful and creative sweets and savory snacks with an insect-base.
WOW SCIENCE MUSEUM 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi (209) 368-0969 WOWScienceMuseum.org
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209-327-9368 Call for a quote today! foamortgage.com/loan-officer/lance-skirvin-278625/ ©2020 Finance of America Mortgage LLC is licensed nationwide | Equal Housing Opportunity | NMLS ID #1071 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5, Horsham, PA 19044 | (800) 355-5626. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. This is not a commitment to lend. Prices, guidelines and minimum requirements are subject to change without notice.
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fitness
“The club is for everyone,” says Lucas. “We have beginner, intermediate, and advanced runners in the club, and our members range from age 4 to 65.”
HEALTH
/
Fins Up! LODI SHARKS RUNNING COMPANY TAKES A BITE OUT OF FITNESS BY SARAH STEFFENS
T
here is a special group of sharks that have built a reputation for moving on land, and if you’re scratching your head about who they are, better move that arm on top of your head and make it a fin. The group is the Lodi Land Sharks Running Co., and they are making waves with their sneakers on the track every Sunday and Wednesday morning! “The Land Sharks Running Co. is about four things—grit, consistency, community, and guidance,” says coach Lucas Garrett, who not only leads the bi-weekly workouts with a variety of drills to improve endurance
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and prevent injury, but also offers one-on-one fitness coaching. “We know that by using these four core values we can achieve any surmountable goal. We know that if you follow the plan we provide, you will see massive gains, not only in running, but in mental strength and durability.” So, who should consider becoming a shark? Lace up those sneakers and hit the track because “The club is for everyone,” says Lucas. “We have beginner, intermediate, and advanced runners in the club, and our members range from age 4 to 65. The great thing about running is all you need
is a pair of shoes and a great group of people to hang out with.” (Tip: Get your shoes at Fleet Feet in Stockton). “We are all just highly motivated people that like to have a good time and enjoy movement. Running isn’t just for fitness. It is for community, mental health, and longevity. The fitness is just a side effect that running offers. We give each other a ‘fins up’ and cheer each other on,” Lucas says. “We like to take pictures and give out high-fives." The Lodi Sharks Running Co. meets on Sundays at 7 AM at the Lodi Headwater Boat House and Wednesdays at 5:15 AM at Lodi High School. It’s free to attend, so come on out and be sure to follow them on Instagram at @ land_sharks_running_co for news and updates. #FinsUp!
Here’s to Being
The Best!
Since 1867, our goal has been to provide the highest level of service and innovation for our customers. Being voted
the “Best Bank” in so many of the markets we serve validates our commitment to that objective. From business loans to expand a growing venture, to real estate loans to help you buy your first home, we’ve always been here for all your banking needs. And we’re constantly working to make banking easier with products like our mobile banking app, remote deposit and security alerts. We remain dedicated to helping families and businesses grow, succeed and flourish throughout the communities we serve. Visit a branch near you or check us out online and become part of the Bank of Stockton family! 2021
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adventure
TOURS
Off the Be-Eaten Path DIVE WITH SHARKS OFF THE COAST OF SAN FRANCISCO BY NORA HESTON TARTE
T
wenty-five miles off of the coast of San Francisco sits the Farallon Islands, the winter water playground for great white sharks. The island is a bit eerie, completely uninhabited by humans save for a few researchers studying birds in the area. However, from September 15-November 30, new tenants move in and the waters come alive with some of the world’s deadliest predators. The tour group Shark Dive Adventures, based in Florida, welcomes adults of all ages to satisfy a lifelong dream by getting up close and personal with these giant water monsters, from the safe confines of a cage, of course.
WHAT WILL YOU SEE? These particular islands were chosen because of their ability to attract 16-20 foot sharks. “Sharks are bigger in San Francisco,” says Jane, marketing coordinator for Shark Dive Adventures. While Mexico is a popular destination for many cage divers because of clearer waters and the allowance to bait, the sharks you come across off of the Northern California coast will be larger in size. The tour company has dialed in the details to up your chances of seeing sharks on your visit. Tours take off later in the day to accommodate sunset feeding times as great whites are lured here to dine on Northern Elephant Seals. Mammal-shaped decoys are used to attract sharks, but bait is prohibited. While the company does everything in its power to make shark sightings happen, including operating only at peak times, they can’t be guaranteed.
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WHAT ARE THE FARALLON ISLANDS?
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A TOUR?
Buckle up for a long day. Tours last approximately 12 hours and include both The islands are technically lunch and dinner on the boat—the 65-foot part of San Francisco, even Derek M Baylis, a custom-built offshore though they are located research and education vessel. No dive in the Pacific Ocean, and experience is required and all necessary are part of the Greater items, including a wetsuit, are provided. In Farallones National Marine all, tours can accommodate 12 cage divers Sanctuary. The area is and four topside observers. On often called the trip, a naturalist will share the Galapagos details of the marine sanctuary, of California BOOK A TOUR islands, great white sharks, and because of its DATES: Oct. 15-Nov. 30 other wildlife. large population Cost: $475-825/pp Booking early is recommended of animals and SharkDiveAdventures.com since tours sell out. wildlife.
A second opinion can help quiet the second-guessing Help leave investment doubt behind. Talk with a financial advisor to demystify the complexities of investing and start feeling more confident with your investment plan. Gibson Financial Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Peter Gibson 3121 W March Ln Ste 110 Stockton, CA 95219 Direct: 209-954-7409 peter.gibson@wfa.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/Peter.Gibson 0G90146
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Thank you for Voting us #1 Hospice/ Palliative Care! We’re the one with the Butterfly!
3888 Pacific Ave. • Stockton CA 209-957-3888 • hospicesj.org SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 43
spotlight
PETS
SPIDERS, SCORPIONS, AND SNAKES—OH MY!
THE LODI SERPENTARIUM HOUSES CREATURES THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD
I
magine a semi-venomous 18-foot False Water Cobra slithering through a cage, a terrifying African Spitting Scorpion that can accurately shoot venom from one foot away into your eye causing you to go blind, and a colorful Ball Python that stretches up to six-feet long. What would you say if we told you it could all be found at The Serpentarium in Lodi—and it’s all for sale?
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The creatures that live at The Serpentarium on Kettleman Lane are the monsters that too often occupy our nightmares, but they are also the subject of much oohing and awing when people step into the reptile store that once operated partially as a museum. A change in the business model has taken The Serpentarium to a mostly retail business—and helped Owner Robert Coral expand to five more
locations (and counting!)—which means there is no longer a fee for entry. However, interested parties can still step in to oogle at the venomous (and not so venomous) beasts. All of the animals at the specialty reptile store are captive bred as opposed to wild caught, captive hatched, or even farm bred. As a result, the creatures are heartier and have more longevity. “Everybody in the reptile industry will prefer captive bred animals any day of the week,” says Tyler Clark, a reptile specialist who works at The Serpentarium. Amongst the most spine-chilling creatures is a Tailless Whip Scorpion, a crawly creature Tyler says shares characteristics with an infamous Harry Potter villain. These horrifying looking scorpions have one little secret though— they are actually completely harmless. Despite being capable of inducing blood-curdling screams from grown men, the creepy crawleys don’t even sting. Poison Dart Frogs are another worthy choice for interested parties. They get their name from their poisonous nature, but the truth is, these amphibians are actually harmless outside of the wild since their venom is created by their diets when they aren’t domesticated. “They aren’t actually poisonous,” Tyler says. Among the most popular pets to take home, however, (and a Tyler favorite) is the False Water Cobra (hydrodynastes gigas) the Serpentarium has come to be known for. Semivenomous, they are among the most dangerous snakes housed at pet stores in California, due to state restrictions. Originally from South America, these rear-fanged cobras “hood” when threatened, resembling the cartoons we all watched as kids.
THE SERPENTARIUM 708 W. Kettleman Ln., Lodi (209) 426-5839
SnakeMuseum.com
achievers
Young Minds Preschool Empowering & Child Care Center
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NOW ENROLLING Large facility with great outdoor space • Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily Increased Safety & Cleaning Protocols • Located near March Lane & Pacific Ave.
Hours: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm 209.956.5437 u 4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton Achievers is an equal opportunity employer and provider. License No. 394500414, 394500416, 394500417
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656 Rosemarie Ln. Stockton Ï (209) 932-0864 Ï rosegardenstockton.com SJMAG.COM
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FAMILY TRAVEL
/
Tips for Summer Camping with Kids BY NORA HESTON TARTE
T
is the season for going camping—with kids, dogs, friends, pool floats, and everything else in tow. So, how can you make the most of your summer camping adventures? We’ve got tips to help your summer foray into the wilderness go smoothly.
BOOK EARLY. By July, many campsites have already filled, so if you haven’t confirmed your reservations yet, now is the time. Look for open sites at California campgrounds and plan your vacation around what’s available. THINK OUTSIDE OF THE TENT. Summer camping
doesn’t have to mean a family tent on a patch of dirt (although it can and there’s nothing wrong with that!) There are, however, campsites with alternative lodging that we highly recommend. Covered wagons are an option at Frandy Park Campgrounds, Rancho Oso RV Resort, and Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Campground.
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EMBRACE SANCTIONED ACTIVITIES. Camping with kids may not be the chilliest. Having group activities at your disposal can help keep your brood entertained. KOAs, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, and other family-friendly campsites often host story times and movie nights and may even have amenities like jumping pillows, swimming pools, mini golf, and more.
LEAN INTO THE CHAOS. Camping is a time to kick back, relax, and let the kids be feral. Aside from matters of safety, offer your kids the freedom to get dirty, explore, and use their imaginations.
PACK HEAVY. When you’re traveling with kids, packing light doesn’t come with the territory. Pack the water toys, the fishing rods, the extra snacks, the play equipment, etc. The parenting rule of thumb is that if you don’t have it, you’ll need it. CONSIDER LOCATION. Camping is about the experience, but the location can make or break it. Plenty of California beaches allow for camping including Pismo State Beach, Doheny State Beach, and Kirk Creek Campground.
PLAN A HIKE. Map out your hike beforehand and make sure you have the proper supplies. If you’re hiking near a park that needs
reservations—like Yosemite National Park—ensure you have the needed passes to visit.
KNOW YOUR SURROUNDINGS. Whether you’re camping in California or somewhere else, do your research. Some campgrounds are prone to bears and recommend bear spray. If you’ll be in a snakeheavy area, bring a snake bite kit. For any campsite, carry a first aid kit and any safety supplies you may need, especially if you’ll be far from civilization.
Caring for Our Community Doctors Hospital of Manteca began 60 years ago with the mission to provide the best care possible to Manteca. Today, we are a top employer in the community with over 370 employees and a staff of more than 180 physicians - many board-certified in their specialty. Doctors Hospital of Manteca offers: • 24-Hour Emergency Care and Convenient Online Check-Ins • Advanced Orthopedics for Knee and Hip • Family Birthing Center • Imaging Services, Including 3-D Mammography • Surgical Services, Including Weight Loss Surgery • Women’s Health • Wound Care Center
To find a physician, please call 866-822-4764 or visit DoctorsManteca.com for more information. SJMAG.COM
| JULY 2022 47
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WE’RE CELEBRATING THE BUSINESSES DRIVING OUR COUNTY FORWARD, WITH RECOMMENDATIONS AND ACCOLADES DOLED OUT BY OUR READERS. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACE TO GRAB A MARGARITA OR THE BEST PLACE TO ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN A DANCE CLASS, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH A CURATED LIST OF SJC’S BEST BUSINESSES—DECIDED BY YOU! ••• BEHOLD, THE 2022 WINNERS OF OUR 16TH ANNUAL BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN! •••
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS. WE’VE GOT ANSWERS. HOW DOES SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PICK THE BEST OF WINNERS?
From February to April 30 we collected our readers’ votes for more than 400 Best Of categories ranging from food to services, shopping to weddings. More than 4,000 local residents shared their knowledge of our community to help us come up with a list of the best of the best. Whoever got the most votes is highlighted in the category, with up to four winners per list in case of a tie).
DO ADVERTISERS AUTOMATICALLY WIN?
Nope! Let's put this rumor to rest. A simple look through our pages proves this isn't true. We love our advertisers, but the Best Of list showcases the hot spots our readers chose as favorites—not the places our staff picks. And we can guarantee no special treatment is given to our advertisers in these sections. The only way to earn a spot on our best of list is to be the best, get the word out, and get the votes—you can’t buy your way in.
HOW DO I TELL YOU ABOUT MY BUSINESS!
Anyway you can! The best way to let our team know about the cool stuff you are doing in San Joaquin County is to email our editorial staff at editorial@sjmag.com. More than 96,323 readers turn to San Joaquin Magazine each month, which means the information we give is devoured by a lot of locals. If you tell us what you’re up to, we just may send a staffer out to visit. If we like it, you can land a spot in our magazine. Exploring fun local stuff and new trends is our favorite part of our job. We are always looking to share the coolest things in San Joaquin County with our audience, and you can help us do that by just spreading the word!
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APPETIZERS BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
FOOD & RESTAURANTS
AMERICAN RESTAURANT MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
If you are looking for the best classic American meal, you have to take yourself to Market Tavern, where flavors are combined for an exquisite experience! We can’t get enough of the wood fired Kurobuta Pork Chop with Brussels sprouts, apple, bacon, polenta, and local spiced apple sauce, and we think everyone needs to try Mama Jo’s Spaghetti & Meatballs! Market Tavern is the place to be for quality meals made from scratch for people who love really good food— perfect to bring the whole family, to add some energy on your next date, or for a night out watching the game at the bar. DOWNTOWNER (209) 910-9714 40 N. Sutter St., Stockton TheDowntowner.net MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
Everyone wins when you order appetizers from Midgley’s Public House. With a tasty menu that will please vegans and meat-eaters alike. Think tempura-battered vegan wings, pork belly sliders with chipotle aioli, and oysters served with lemon, champagne vinaigrette, cocktail sauce, and horseradish. We didn’t even mention the Festival Fried Asparagus with parmesan cheese and sriracha. Be sure to make a date of dining on all of the mouthwatering appetizers that Midgley’s is cooking up.
PAPAPAVLO’S Multiple Locations Papapavlos.com
BBQ
FROSTED FLOUR CAKERY & SUPPLIES (209) 369-2253 904 W. Lodi Ave., Lodi FrostedFlour.com
MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
FAT CITY BREW & BBQ (209) 323-4920 1740 Pacific Ave., Stockton FatCityBrewBBQ.com
Family owned and communityloved Fat City Brew & BBQ is known for its award-winning California-style BBQ, and if you haven’t sunk your teeth into their ribs and let them melt in your mouth, what have you been doing all your life? From their St. Louis Rib Full Slab to their Juicy Half Chicken, this is the joint to visit for exceptional BBQ. Make sure to save room for the delicious sides, including beer-battered sidewinder fries stacked with mac and cheese and garlic tots. Fat City offers special menus for each day of the week, and we’re making sure to try them all!
WATERLOO CA (209) 931-4019 10447 E. Waterloo Rd., Stockton TheWaterloo.com JULY 2022 | SJMAG.COM
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES (209) 957-2253 128 Lincoln Center, Stockton NothingBundtCakes.com
With flavors like Confetti, Red Velvet, and White Chocolate Raspberry, there are no bundts about it that Nothing Bundt Cakes is the perfect place to pick up your next birthday cake! Celebrate with designs such as Delicious Wishes, Center of Attention, and Happy Bundt Day that make the festivities even more special. All of their cakes are worth waiting 365 days for, but if you get every person in your life a birthday cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes, you won’t have to. Who has the candles? Let’s get this birthday party started!
TIN ROOF (209) 366-1128 171 S. Guild Ave., Lodi LodiBBQ.com
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FIZZ BAKERY (209) 951-3499 9210 Thornton Rd., Ste. 4, Stockton FizzBakery.com
BAR FOOD MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
Who says that when you go out for a drink that you don’t want some amazing, tasty food to pair with it? The menu at Midgley’s Public House will complement your drink of choice and leave you feeling like you made the best choice, with artisan dishes like Ahi Nachos made with wonton chips, avocado, flying fish roe, cilantro, seaweed salad, sesame seeds, and wasabi cream, and do we need to even mention their Crack Shrimp? Going out for drinks just got a whole new vibe courtesy of the award-winning menu at Midgley’s. PORTER’S PUB (209) 400-7147 121 S. School St., Ste. A Lodi PortersPubLodiCA.com MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR TRACY 2610 S. Tracy Blvd. 209.830.8288
LATHROP 15138 Harlan Rd. 209.858.1818
mikasabistro.com
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Brunch BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE (209) 956-0270 314 Lincoln Center, Stockton BudsSeafood.com
When Sunday morning comes along and you’ve built up your appetite, make sure you head over to Bud’s Seafood Grille. Known for their fresh seafood offerings, we can’t suggest it with more gusto. Order one of their dishes featuring crab or salmon, such as their Crab Cake Benedict with Hollandaise sauce or a hot sourdough melt with tuna or shrimp. The folks over at Bud’s still deliver with mouthwatering dishes like the Shipwreck Brunch including a fluffy scramble with cheese, ham, spinach, scallion, potato, sour cream, and tomato—seafood free! MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com THE DANCING FOX WINERY & BREWERY (209) 366-2634 203 S. School St., Lodi DancingFoxLodi.com
BUFFALO WINGS SMITTY’S WINGS & THINGS (209) 277-7479 5654 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton SmittysWingsAndThings.com
It’s all about those wings with sauces at Smitty’s Wings & Things. Offering both traditional and boneless wings (maybe the most brilliant invention since sliced bread!), Smitty’s also offers plant-based wings. We’re still debating which homemade sauce we like the best—Hot Honey, Damn Hot Honey, Mango Chipotle, or Garlic Chili—just to name a few. Get over to Smitty’s Wings & Things (owned by former NFL player, Steve Smith, and his college sweetheart, now wife, Jaime) and try them all for yourself. FIRE WINGS (209) 248-8044 1379 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. 501, Lodi FireWings.com FAT CITY BREW & BBQ (209) 323-4920 1740 Pacific Ave., Stockton FatCityBrewBBQ.com
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BREAKFAST SPOT CHUCK’S HAMBURGERS (209) 473-9977 5939 Pacific Ave., Stockton
The early bird gets the worm, or rather, a delicious home-cooked breakfast plate, when they visit Chuck’s Hamburgers for their first meal of the day. Adjoined to Pacific Avenue Bowl, you can create the perfect day by starting it out with a steamy cup of coffee and a plate of a perfectly prepared omelet, crispy hash browns, and please don’t forget the biscuits and gravy! Follow it up with a game or two of bowling and we think you’re off to a good start. Not a morning person? That’s ok, Chuck’s Hamburgers offers breakfast all day, come and get it when you’re ready. AVENUE GRILL (209) 333-8006 506 W. Lodi Ave., Lodi AvenueGrillLodi.com HEIRLOOM KITCHEN (209) 477-9513 61 Lincoln Center, Stockton HeirloomKitchen209.com
Burger (Classic) BOB’S AT THE MARINA (209) 957-3279 6639 Embarcadero Dr., Stockton BobsAtTheMarina.com
With a hint of nostalgia in their 1950s atmosphere, you’re going to love making a stop at Bob’s at the Marina for a classic burger. They don’t call them “giant” for no reason, the burgers at Bob’s are big and hearty and absolutely satisfying. Grilled to perfection and amazing with a side of one of their fries, we think it’s a must that you try Bob’s Giant Hamburger, their Sourdough Cheeseburger, or old-time favorite Patty Melt. Bob’s also offers a meatless Beyond Burger dressed in no less than their classic dressing, mustard, onions, lettuce, and tomato on a giant bun. SQUEEZE BURGER & BREW (209) 473-2222 856 Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton SqueezeBurgerStockton.com BROOKSIDE (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net
BURGER (SPECIALTY) MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
Chef Michael and the folks at Midgley’s Public House know how to take a classic burger and give it big-time flavor. Foodies will geek out on their SJM Burger—named for yours truly—with barrel-roasted prime rib, bacon, fried onion strings, and horseradish cream on a brioche bun. We just want to know if you will have traditional, garlic, or sweet potatoes with that? Vegetarians and vegans rejoice, Midgley’s also offers a Beyond Burger with sweet, caramelized onions and creamy avocado. When you head to Midgley’s to satisfy that craving for an epic burger, you will not be disappointed, in fact, your mind is going to blow! CAST IRON TRADING CO. (209) 227-8585 114 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton CastIronTradingCo.Business.Site MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
CHEF
MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
Being the Best chef in San Joaquin County means more than turning out delicious food. Ok, the fare is the biggest part of the accolade, but being a friendly part of the community helps, too! Michael Midgley may be Stockton’s celebrity chef—with runs on Top Chef, Cut Throat Kitchen, Knife Fight,” and “Top Chef Masters”—but he’s as down to earth as they come, which makes having a casual conversation with him in Stockton’s Lincoln Center is almost as much fun as diving into his inventive dishes served up at Midgley’s Public House. CHRIST ISERT, BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net RUBY LOPEZ, MEZZO (209) 473-7300 3499 Brookside Rd., Ste. A, Stockton MezzoStockton.com
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Fine Mexican Cuisine
Dine In q New Patio Dining To Go & Drink Specials Call Us About Our Catering Menu! Serving Breakfast, lunch & Dinner 5940 CA-99, Stockton Frontage Rd. Off Mile Rd
(209) 931-9163
Visit Us Monday – Sunday 7am – 9pm www.donluismexicanrestaurant.com | 53 SJMAG.COM
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FOOD & RESTAURANTS CASUAL DINING MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
Market Tavern knows just how to create a dining experience that is elegant and exceptional while still being casual, a trifecta that just makes it easy to go out and have a good time because who says that you’ve got to be dressed up in your suit and tie to savor some Wood Oven Roasted Bone Marrow or Organic Quinoa Salad with avocado, dried cherries, kale pistachio, and seeds? We’ve come to love how friendly Market Tavern is while wooing us with their chic charm as familiar as their Warm Apple Pie (with whipped cream and gelato, of course). PAPAPAVLO’S Multiple Locations Papapavlos.com CAST IRON TRADING CO. (209) 227-8585 114 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton CastIronTradingCo.Business.Site
Chinese Restaurant MIDORI FINE ASIAN CUISINE (209) 835-8882 2541 Naglee Rd., Tracy
The excellent food at Midori’s is the result of a group of talent that heads the restaurant. The owner, Harry, has his hand in other restaurants in San Joaquin County, including Mikasa in Tracy. His head chef, Albert, brings 30 years of industry experience to the table. And anyone who frequents the establishment knows “Mama” is there to care for you. From the crispy noodles to the homemade sauces, everything at Midori shines, creating a Chinese meal you can’t get just anywhere. DAVE WONG’S RESTAURANT & DELI (209) 951-4152 2828 W. March Ln., Stockton DaveWongsRestaurant.com DYNASTY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT (209) 478-1818 848 W Benjamin Holt Dr, Stockton DynastyFamilyCA.com
CLAM CHOWDER BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE (209) 956-0270 314 Lincoln Center, Stockton BudsSeafood.com
Look, if you haven’t learned this yet, when it comes to seafood, those who live in San Joaquin County are going to brag about the Lincoln Center hotspot, Bud’s Seafood Grille. The restaurant is a staple in Stockton, known for serving up a lot of fresh fish. Amongst those favorite dishes is the clam chowder, a traditional New England favorite MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net
Happy Hour MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
Treat yourself to a good time with drinks and food for Happy Hour at Midgley’s Public House, where you can snag the best deals on satisfying spirits, a perfectly cold beer, and scrumptious snacks! Stockton’s Lincoln Center is one of our favorite spots to visit to toast with friends after a long day thanks to the talented staff at Midgely’s. Power down your laptop, trade your office attire for something a bit more comfortable, and grab your keys to make your way on over and officially begin your evening. We think anything you order up will make your hour, indeed, happier. GARLIC BROTHERS RESTAURANT (209) 474-6585 6629 Embarcadero Dr., Stockton GarlicBrothersOnline.com DOWNTOWNER (209) 910-9714 40 N. Sutter St., Stockton TheDowntowner.net
HEALTH FOOD STORE ARTESIAN NATURAL FOODS (209) 952-8787 145 Lincoln Center, Stockton ArtesianNaturalFoods.com
Looking for a particular supplement or obscure ingredient? The quest for products to elevate your nutrition, excite your taste buds, and enhance your life can be found at Artesian Natural Foods. Foodies will want to give themselves ample time to scour the shelves at this health food store where they have stayed true to their roots since conception in the 1970s, discovering ingredients such as sprouted oats, pure chocolate bars, almond butter infused with sea salt and maple syrup, and craft kombuchas. The kind folks at Artesian Natural Foods are happy and eager to help you find whatever you are looking for, be it vitamins or a bag of grain-free flour to bake a batch of healthy cookies. SHERI’S SONSHINE Nutrition Center (209) 368-4800 6 N. School St. Lodi Sheris.com GREEN’S NUTRITION (209) 464-5738 1906 Pacific Ave., Stockton GreensNutrition.com
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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST IN BEST SEAFOOD, CLAM CHOWDER AND BRUNCH!
CHECK OUT OUR HAPPY HOUR & OUR BAR BITES ARE BACK!
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Happy Hour Daily 3pm to 6pm
Reservations of Any Size Accepted 314 Lincoln Center • 209.956.0270 www.BudsSeafood.com
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
FOOD & RESTAURANTS INDIAN TANDOORI NITES (209) 952-2200 8102 Kelley Dr., Stockton TheTandooriNites.com
If you are craving a batch of hot veggie potato and pea Samosas, some sweet and spicy Chili Paneer, or a mouthwatering plate of Chicken Tikka Masala with basmati rice and fluffy, seasoned naan bread, Tandoori Nites will treat you right! Experience all of the flavors of Indian cuisine and get ready for a delicious tasting adventure. Tandoori Nites cooks their dishes in a traditional open top clay oven heated by charcoal, creating the most tender and juicy pieces of meat and tantalizing vegetable dishes. End your meal with their fresh mango pulp icecream or Indian-style rice pudding. SWAGAT INDIAN CUISINE (209) 478-4724 2233 Grand Canal Blvd., Ste. 205, Stockton FRIENDS INDIAN RESTAURANT (209) 334-2751 1040 W. Kettleman Ln., Ste. 4, Lodi
Italian Restaurant PIETRO’S TRATTORIA (209) 368-0613 317 E. Kettleman Ln., Lodi PietrosLodi.com
The vibe calls for a warm and sunny glow to toast a perfect glass of wine with loved ones at Pietro’s Trattoria in Lodi. Family owned and operated, Pietro’s has been cooking authentic Italian food since it originated in Vacaville in 1956, relocating to the San Joaquin County (lucky for us!) in 1985. Start with the grilled ciabatta, tomato, basil, and garlic Bruschetta or
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Antipasto Salad, and move on to one of their perfect pizza pies. Save room for the Gnocchi with portobello mushroom, shitake mushroom, and porcini cream sauce, rumor has it, it’s the best in town! No matter what you order, you are sure to be nourished and in good hands at Pietro’s.
MIKASA ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR (209) 830-8288 2610 S. Tracy Blvd., Tracy MikasaBistro.com SHIRASONI JAPANESE SUSHI & STEAKHOUSE (209) 473-2525 3249 W. Hammer Ln., Stockton ShirasoniRestaurant.com
ANGELINA’S SPAGHETTI HOUSE (209) 948-6609 1563 E. Fremont St., Stockton Angelinas.com DE VEGA BROTHERS (209) 323-4339 5757 Pacific Ave., Ste. A140, Stockton DeVegaBrothers.com
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
KOMACHI SUSHI (209) 334-3131 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. D, Lodi SushiKomachi.com
Be inspired by the authentic Japanese cuisine at Komachi Sushi in Lodi. They serve everything from the freshest and most innovative sushi (try their Yellow Submarine or California Poppy rolls), perfectly portioned bento boxes (a Japanese tradition), steamy bowls of ramen, and sizzling plates packed with flavor such as their Chicken Teppanyaki. Quality is always the focus in washoku (Japanese cooking) and that is exactly what you are in store for when you visit Komachi Sushi. Each dish is prepared with excellence with an emphasis on simple, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy your meal with a Japanese staple such as green tea or with a refreshing and satisfying sake.
MEXICAN RESTAURANT DON LUIS MEXICAN (209) 931-9163 5940 N. Hwy 99 Stockton DonLuisMexicanRestaurant.com
Locally sourced and crafted with love, the food at Don Luis Mexican Restaurant is sure to cure your craving for a plate of authentic and delicious Mexican food. Serving breakfast plates such as Chorizo Con Huevos and lunch salads such as their Fiesta Taco Salad, we’ll need to remind you to save room for their amazing dinner combo plates complete with favorites like tacos, enchiladas, tamales, tostadas, quesadillas, burritos, and chile relleno, all served with a fresh batch of Spanish rice, beans, and fresh tortillas. Bring the whole family for a memorable meal cooked up from ingredients that support local farmers and businesses. MIGUEL’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT (209) 951-1931 7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 6, Stockton OCTAVIO’S (209) 451-1116 3201 W. Ben Holt Dr., Stockton OctaviosRestaurant.com
San Joaquin Magazine’s award winning restaurant for 6 years in a row
“Come as a customer, leave as our family!” A personalized, Japanese dining experience catered to your taste buds. Choose fresh, exquisite dishes both on and off our menu.
Best Japanese
307 S. Lower Sacramento RD. Suite D, Lodi, CA 95242 209-334-3131 www.sushikomachi.com
33 BEERS ON TAP
Best Sushi
WE FEATURE LOCAL WINERIES
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1BBQ 5 YEARS IN A ROW!
ORDER ONLINE FOR PICKUP & DELIVERY
WWW.FATCITYBREWBBQ.COM SJMAG.COM
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FOOD & RESTAURANTS
OUTDOOR PATIO/DINING GARLIC BROTHERS RESTAURANT (209) 474-6585 6629 Embarcadero Dr., Stockton GarlicBrothersOnline.com
If outdoor dining fits your fancy, you will love the patio at Garlic Brothers. Nestled up next to the Delta River, you are sure to be soothed and satisfied thanks to the water flowing with your food served by the extra helpful staff. Garlic Brothers cooks their food on a unique almond wood fire, so be sure to try their Grilled Salmon or their Grilled Herb Encrusted Ahi Tuna, while eating al fresca. Grab a seat outside and catch the sun setting for a memorable time that is both tasty and delicious. MEZZO (209) 473-7300 3499 Brookside Rd., Ste. A, Stockton MezzoStockton.com PIETRO’S TRATTORIA (209) 368-0613 317 E. Kettleman Ln., Lodi PietrosLodi.com
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PIZZA (NON-CHAIN) DAVID’S PIZZA (209) 477-2677 Multiple Locations DavidsPizza.org
David’s Pizza has been making a perfect pizza pie that’s been voted best of San Joaquin County since 1993. Build your own pizza with any of their extensive list of ingredients or choose one of their specialty pies such as The People’s Choice with pepperoni, Canadian bacon, olives, and sausage, the Artichoke Pesto Combo
with pesto sauce, garlic mushrooms, olives, and artichoke hearts, or David’s Combo, with pepperoni, salami, Canadian bacon, mushrooms, linguica, bell peppers, red onion, and sausage. Enjoy your pizza with one of their crisp and delicious salads or a side of Buffalo Wings and you’re in for a real treat! MICHAEL’S PIZZA (209) 462-6668 2300 W. Alpine Ave. Stockton MichaelsPizzaCafe.com RICK’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA (209) 339-9411 1320 Lakewood Mall, Lodi RicksPizzaLodi.com
Salads
WHIRLOW’S TOSSED AND GRILLED (209) 466-2823 1926 N. Pacific Ave., Stockton Whirlows.com
Family owned and operated for decades, Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled is a staple at Stockton’s Lincoln Center. Whirlow’s specializes in build-it-yourself salads served cafeteria style. Simply pick the ingredients you want in your salad and let the staff at Whirlow’s create it for you fresh and fast. We love the Raspberry Chicken Blue Cheese Salad, and the Grilled Salmon and BBQ Pork salads are out of this world good. With the weather warming up, we reckon we'll be craving a salad and we’ll be sure to get it from the very best tossing them up. DOWNTOWNER (209) 910-9714 40 N. Sutter St., Stockton TheDowntowner.net PAPAPAVLO’S Multiple locations Papavalos.com
Thank You for Voting us the best Appetizers, Burger Specialty, Bar Food Happy Hour, Clam Chowder, American Restaurant, Steak & Prime Rib and Chef Michael Midgley… 8th year in a row!
296 Lincoln Center ● Stockton
(209) 474-7700 midgleyspublichouse.com
SUNDAY – THURSDAY: LUNCH 11:30-4 • DINNER 4-9 FR IDAY & SATURDAY: LUNCH 11:30-4 • DINNER 4-10
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SEAFOOD BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE (209) 956-0270 314 Lincoln Center, Stockton BudsSeafood.com
If you want the freshest catch of the day, head over to Bud’s Seafood Grille for the best seafood in San Joaquin County. Bud’s has been serving the local community since 1993 and we’re still just as excited every time we get to visit! With dishes such as their Scampi with shrimp or their Calamari Parmesano, your taste buds belong at Bud’s! Bud’s offers daily specials in addition to their standard menu (that is anything but standard!) and they prepare Brunch on Sunday (try their Crab & Shrimp Omelet!), be sure to take a date to Bud’s for some exceptionally delicious food and a really good time!
FOOD, BEER & COCKTAILS TO-GO
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(209) 224-8157 10 W. Oak St. Lodi Ca 95240
BLAZIN’ CAJUN (209) 594-0581 125 Bridge Pl., Stockton
West Oak Nosh
HIGH WATER BREWING TAPROOM AND RESTAURANT
30+ Award Winning Craft Beers on Tap Indoor and Heated Outdoor Seating Book Your Party or Banquet Live Music, Trivia and Other Events Family and Dog Friendly Open Wednesday thru Sunday
SANDWICHES PODESTO’S MARKET & DELI (209) 951-0234 104 Lincoln Center, Stockton PodestosMarket.com
The food is always fresh and the prices fare over at Podesto’s Market & Deli at the Lincoln Center in Stockton. With a full-service deli and take-out menu, there is something for everyone. (we suggest their Pineapple Upside Down Cake). Podesto’s is the place to go to fill up on tasty eats to take on the road during your next adventure because we can all use a bit more of that, these days! FIORI’S BUTCHER SHOP AND DELI (209) 334-4121 400 W. Lodi Ave., Lodi FiorisDeli.com GIAN’S DELICATESSEN (209) 469-0108 2112 Pacific Ave., Stockton GiansDeli.com
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CAPTAIN CRAB (209) 465-8888 2702 W. March Ln., Stockton CaptainCrabSeafood.com
Steak/ Prime Rib PRIME TABLE STEAKHOUSE (209) 808-5999 357 Lincoln Center, Stockton PrimeTableSTK.com
Sister restaurant with Market Tavern, the food is fresh and prepared from scratch at Prime Table Steakhouse. We suggest starting with the French Onion Soup or the Prime Table Wedge salad, and then moving on to the English-cut Prime Rib with Triple Cooked Fries or Local Creamed Corn. Toast this amazing meal with one of their house cocktails for an epic night out. EL RANCHO INN STEAK & LOBSTER HOUSE (209) 467-1529 1457 E. Mariposa Rd., Stockton Sites.Google.com/Site/ElRanchoInn MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE (209) 474-7700 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton MidgleysPublicHouse.com
TIME TO CELEBRATE Every dish emulates traditions from one region of Asia or combines influences from several locales, such as Hong Kongstyle noodles, both Eastern- and Western-style Chinese, and more, including both classic dishes and more modern inspirations.
MIDORI FINE ASIAN CUISINE
2541 NAGLEE RD., TRACY (209) 835-8882 SJMAG.COM
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SUSHI
WAFFLES
MIKASA ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR (209) 830-8288 2610 S. Tracy Blvd., Tracy MikasaBistro.com
AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER (209) 951-1175 1540 E. March Ln., Ste. 5, Stockton AmericanWaffleDiner.com
When you combine short-grain white rice, rice vinegar, and a hint of sugar, you get shari, what we call “sushi rice.” Add fresh pieces of seafood and veggies and you get sushi, which literally means “sour rice.” History lesson aside, just know that for the best sushi in town, you’ll want to visit Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar and load up on all of the freshest rolls that will wow your taste buds and satisfy your belly. The menu at Mikasa is sure to impress you, your only task is to decide which sushi to try. We suggest taking a group of friends and sharing a big variety to taste it all.
Summer is all about getting away for the weekends but why not stay in town this time and hit up American Waffles Diner for a breakfast to remember? With specialty waffles such as the Cinnamon Roll, Fruity Pebbles, Fried Chicken, and Smores, heading over to American Waffles and enjoying every bite inside their 1950s-inspired diner will be a highlight of your day! And if you thought it can’t get any better than forkfuls of glorious crisp waffles with sweet syrup, how about a forkful of their San Joaquin Magazine Waffle with fresh berries and banana?
KOMACHI SUSHI (209) 334-3131 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. D, Lodi SushiKomachi.com
TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ (209) 835-6751 27 W. 10th St., Tracy TCCafeTracy.com
COCORO JAPANESE BISTRO & SUSHI BAR (209) 565-5890 2105 Pacific Ave., Stockton CocoroBistro.com
HEIRLOOM KITCHEN (209) 477-9513 61 Lincoln Center, Stockton HeirloomKitchen209.com
THAI CUISINE THAI ME UP (209) 981-9040 2125 Pacific Ave., Stockton
Downtown Stockton’s Thai Me Up is the spot to go for an authentic Thai meal served with a specialty cocktail, such as the Red-Light District or the Thai Chili Margarita. Thai cuisine uses all sorts of fresh herbs and spices, giving every dish knock-out flavor. Try the fried rice, curries, noodle soups, and, of course, the Pad Thai. Thai food is fun for the whole family, let everyone order a dish and combine them to make the most delicious meal together! End the evening with the Mango Sticky Rice—you will be glad you did! THAI SPICES RESTAURANT (209) 369-8424 2401 W. Turner Rd., Ste. 224, Lodi ThaiSpicesLodi.com SIAMESE STREET THAI RESTAURANT (209) 466-0130 3236 Pacific Ave., Stockton SiameseStreetThai.com
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Thank You
for voting us BEST WINGS 6 years in a row SMITTYSWINGS DINE-IN IS NOW OPEN! TUE-SAT 12-7PM & SUN 12-6PM. ANDTHINGS
209 - 227 - 7479
5654 N PERSHING AVE. STOCKTON 209-227-7479 SJMAG.COM
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
DRINKS
Beer Brewery VALLEY BREWING (209) 464-2739 157 W. Adams St., Stockton ValleyBrew.com
No matter how you prefer your beer, Valley Brewing is the place to go to enjoy a satisfying craft brew. With an impressive variety of ales like Berry and Apricot, and their Uberhoppy and West Coast Style IPAs, everyone gets to have their favorite beer when you order from Valley Brewing. The food at Valley Brewing is delicious as well, so be sure to enjoy your drink with one of their burgers, like the Waylon Burger or the Pulled Pork Cuban, and finish it all off with a piece of pie from the Valley Brew Market. Now that is the perfect night out! FIVE WINDOW BEER CO. (209) 224-8036 9 W. Locust St., Lodi FiveWindow.com HIGH WATER (209) 625-8146 927 Industrial Way Ste. A, Lodi HighWaterBrewing.com
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BLOODY MARY
MARKET TAVERN (209) 932-8001 236 Lincoln Center, Stockton MarketTavernSTK.com
The facts on exactly just how the Bloody Mary was invented are up in the air. Some say it was named after 16th Century Queen Mary Tudor and entertainer George Jessel claims he invented the drink in 1934 and named it after his friend, Mary Geraghty. We’re left scratching our heads, but not without a Signature Bloody Mary in hand from Market Tavern. Served during their brunch hour (weekends from 10 AM -2:30 PM), take your pick from the Bloody Mary menu with choices like Smoked Pig (with applewood bacon), Southern Fried (garnished with a chicken wing), and Italian Stallion (with a meatball slider and pepperoni). Bloody Mary’s sure have come a long way since their invention! OLLIES PUB (209) 333-9933 22 N. School St. Lodi OlliesPubLodi.com
CRAFT BEER PUB FIVE WINDOW BEER CO. (209) 224-8036 9 W. Locust St., Lodi FiveWindow.com
It’s all about serving great beer in a family friendly environment at Five Window Beer Company. Lodi’s Downtown brewery has an impressive variety of craft beers such as their Double Hazy Juicy IPA or their Cream Light Ale. They keep 15 drinks on-tap for a super extensive selection. Can’t decide? They’ve already helped with that by serving a tasting flight for those having a hard time picking just one. Besides quenching your thirst with one of the quality beers, you can also enjoy fancy wood-fired pizzas, play a round of Jenga or cornhole, and just have a good ol’ time with your friends and family. CAST IRON TRADING CO. (209) 227-8585 114 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton CastIronTradingCo.Business.Site HIGH WATER (209) 625-8146 927 Industrial Way Ste. A, Lodi HighWaterBrewing.com
AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER (209) 951-1175 1540 E. March Ln., Ste. 5, Stockton AmericanWaffleDiner.com
COFFEE SPOT TERRA COFFEE (209) 645-2326 912 N Yosemite St Stockton, CA 95202
Stockton is roasting up their own coffee beans (many of them single origin—coffee lovers rejoice!) over at Terra Coffee and serving it exactly as you like whether that is drip, hot, iced, or poured over. Most of the syrups are house-made and they have a food menu with tasty delights
including Avocado Toast on fresh sourdough, house made scones, and a Turkey Pesto Sandwich with Bacon. The vibe at Terra is artsy and colorful, a perfect destination to bring that book you’ve been reading or a friend to catch up. HOUSE OF COFFEE (209) 368-2611 239 Lakewood Mall, Lodi EMPRESSO COFFEEHOUSE (209) 451-0788 222 N. El Dorado St., Ste. C, Stockton EmpressoCoffeehouse.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 FAVORITE WINERY!
Estate Grown
Certified Sustainable
Multi-Generational
Our tasting room and wedding venue is surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds, a willow shaded pond and vineyards. Tastings by reservation Tasting Room hours: Thu-Mon 11-5
Weddings
Wine Club
7889 E Harney Ln, Lodi 209 369 3045
mettlerwine.com
Happy 4 th of July from Weibel!
9305 ThornTon rd STockTon • (209) 474-0221 WedneSday – Sunday dining room 12pm – 7:30pm TakeouT 12pm – 8pm WEIBEL.COM |
| 9 N. School St. Lodi
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Thank You
For Voting Us “Best Coffee Shop”.
WINERY
METTLER FAMILY VINEYARDS (209) 369-3045 7889 E. Harney Ln., Lodi MettlerWine.com
Mettler Family Vineyards has been growing grapes and making wine since the late 1800s. They take pride in treating the land with integrity and producing wine that we all want to raise our glasses and toast its deliciousness. Come here for a tasting of Mettler’s wines (we love their 2019 Lodi
HGM Old Vine Zinfandel) or schedule a visit to see its beautifully landscaped sevenacre property where they host parties and weddings. The Mettler family truly makes this winery a special place to visit, and you can make it one of your family’s special places, too. OAK FARM VINEYARDS (209) 365-6565 23627 N. Devries Rd., Lodi OakFarmVineyards.com MICHAEL DAVID WINERY (209) 368-7384 4580 W. Hwy 12, Lodi MichaelDavidWinery.com
TERRACOFFEE209 912 N. Yosemite St. Stockton Open Sunday-Tuesday 7am to 2pm Wednesday-Saturday 7am to 7pm
WINE TASTING ROOM OAK FARM VINEYARDS (209) 365-6565 23627 N. Devries Rd., Lodi OakFarmVineyards.com
Thank You For Voting Us One Of the Best Coffee Shops In San Joaquin!
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Just south of the Mokelumne River and set on 70 acres is Oak Farm Vineyards. We’re all fans of the wine at Oak Farm, from their 2019 Estate Grown Barbera to their 2021 Estate Grown Sauvignon Blanc. Make an afternoon of the peaceful beauty at Oak Farm. It is close enough to pop on over and far enough away from the hustle and bustle to feel like you escaped to another town. Parties from two to six guests are encouraged
to schedule a tasting and experience it for themselves—we know it will be one that you do not forget! HARNEY LANE (209) 365-1900 9010 E. Harney Ln., Lodi HarneyLane.com METTLER FAMILY VINEYARDS (209) 369-3045 7889 E. Harney Ln., Lodi MettlerWine.com
Thank you for voting us as the winners of Best Wine Tasting Room!
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BICYCLE SHOP
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
ROBBY’S BICYCLES (209) 951-4371 7931 Thornton Rd., D, Stockton RobbysBicycles.com
SHOPPING
Robby’s Bikes is more than a retail store. This favorite Stockton bike shop is a place to find your next ride, get your current ride fixed up, and learn about all the new tech available on the market. Whether you’re in
AUTO DEALERSHIP CHASE CHEVROLET (209) 565-1923 6441 Holman Rd., Stockton ChaseChevrolet.com
DESIGNER EYEWEAR
When you’re looking for a new car, the process can feel daunting. But with the right sales team on your side, it’s more fun than fury! Roll into Chase Chevrolet in Stockton to test drive your new vehicle. Everything is done in house, and the customer service is top-notch. If they don’t have what you are looking for, the sales team will do its best to track it down for you or get you into something even better at an affordable price! And while they may be a Chevrolet dealer, they have more than just Chevys to sell. Stop by and peep the lot for yourself. BIG VALLEY FORD (800) 971-8112 3282 Auto Center Cir., Stockton BigValleyFord.Biz MERCEDES-BENZ OF STOCKTON (209) 944-5511 10777 Trinity Pkwy., Stockton MBofStockton.com
CONSIGNMENT SHOP NEW & AGAIN CONSIGNMENT FURNITURE (209) 368-2200 210 S. School St., Lodi NewAndAgainOnline.com
It may be used, but it’s new to you. New & Again sells furniture and other homewares to refresh your house on a budget. Not only can you shop, but customers can also make a profit by selling their own goods through New & Again’s consignment service. They also handle estate sales. MY BEST FRIEND’S CLOSET (209) 833-6232 53 W. 10th St., Tracy CROSSROADS TRADING (209) 476-1301 5756 Pacific Ave., #26, Stockton CrossroadsTrading.com
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GREAT SPECTACLES (209) 955-7570 622 Lincoln Center, Stockton GreatSpectacles.com
It’s easy to look stylish in your shades when you shop at Great Spectacles! The Lincoln Center shop has a varied inventory of designer glasses, glasses accessories, and cases, for both casual wearers and those that need prescription lenses. With an array of stunning shades
FASHIONABLE ACCESSORIES FINA BOUTIQUE (209) 478-5670 240 Lincoln Center, Stockton
Do you need a new hat? How about new shoes and a handbag to match? The adorable clothing store in Lincoln Center has more than just pants and dresses to keep customers looking cool. The shop is consistently recognized by our readers as a top contender for fashionable accessories, too. Come down and see what’s in store from trendy shades
and large hats to gold pendants and slip-on sandals. It’s easy to dress yourself from head to toe with the inventory at Fina, and the best part is we can all but guarantee the slew of compliments that will start rolling in for that new belt or headband. BELLISSIMA (209) 469-0369 2230 Pacific Ave., Stockton FASHION SAFARI (209) 263-7059 123 S. School St., Lodi Facebook.com/ FashionSafari209
for a purchase or just want to pick the brains of the on-staff experts, Robby’s got you covered for all your biking needs. From BMX and mountain bikes to commuter and fitness bikes, Robby’s has it all—and the team to help you keep it in tip-top shape after purchase. LODI CYCLERY (209) 365-7433 312 N. Ham Ln., Lodi LodiCyclery.com
from labels including Cartier and Chanel, you’ll feel like a million bucks walking out of the specialty store and donning a new accessory that is sure to be the envy of all of your friends! BROOKSIDE OPTOMETRIC GROUP (209) 951-0820 3133 W. March Ln., Ste. 2020, Stockton BrooksideOptometric.com MIDTOWN OPTOMETRY (209) 957-8000 2321 W. March Ln., Ste. A, Stockton MidtownOptometry.com
GIFT SHOP
BEST WISHES (209) 478-3220 325 Lincoln Center, Stockton
Need a last-minute gift that doesn’t feel last minute? Best Wishes offers everything one could need to impress the recipient at your next bridal shower, baby’s first birthday, or engagement party. Specialty gifts including kitschy signs and kitchen pans that feel thoughtful and soft, quality baby gifts that aren’t
duplicated at the big box stores. Plus, you can grab a card while you’re there, too—no need to make two stops! Located in Lincoln Center, it’s convenient for stopping in while shopping about the plaza, adding to the overall convenience of the experience. That’s one more point in the column for Best Wishes! THE OWL BOX (209) 830-0796 131 W. 10th St., Tracy TheOwlBox.com CENA LUNA (209) 481-3883 2106 Pacific Ave., Stockton ShopCenaLuna.com
The Kitto Family has been cleaning clothes for Stockton since 1916. Pictured is Bert Kitto with two of his delivery vehicles. Jeff Kitto continues the legacy of cleaning clothes for Stockton.
Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best Children’s Stores n San Joaquin for 12 years!
Parkwoods c
Cleaners 1762 W. Hammer Ln. Stockton 209-477-4397
1901 Country Club Blvd. Stockton 209-464-2181
6503 pacific Ave. Stockton 209-476-1602
2819 W. March Ln. Stockton 209-472-0281
354 Lincoln Center • Stockton • www.shopsassypants.com
209.451.9775
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PET SUPPLIES CARTER’S PET MART, INC. Multiple Locations CartersPetMart.com
Everyone in San Joaquin County knows that Carter’s is the go-to place for pet needs. Supporting local is important, and there is next to zero competition for Carter’s unless you count the big box stores. Come in for all of your pet needs including food, treats, and wellness items. Fido will love picking a new toy off of the shelves, and kids like to browse the fun clothes and accessories for pets. Regardless of what you are looking for, Carter’s most likely stocks it at one of its four locations in Manteca, Stockton, Lodi, and—just outside of SJC—Modesto. Plus, pet adoptions are back, so you can even get your newest family member at Carter’s, making the real question, what don’t they have?
Shopping Center/ Mall LINCOLN CENTER (209) 477-4868 374 Lincoln Center, Stockton LincolnCenterShops.com
MUSIC STORE MUSIC GO ROUND (209) 473-6868 944 W. Robinhood Dr., Stockton MusicGoRound.com
If you have a musician in the family, you know how important a quality music store is. Not only is it ideal to have a go-to place for purchasing sheet music and accessories for your instrument(s) of choice, but the consignment part of the business means musicians can make a profit, too,
selling their older items to use toward new needs. In addition to more traditional instruments, Music Go Round also sells sound equipment both new and used. MAIN STREET MUSIC, INC. (209) 835-1125 45 W. 10th St., Tracy TracyRocks.com BILL’S MUSIC ON THE MILE (209) 466-4596 2312 Pacific Ave., Stockton BillsMusicOnTheMile.com
Lincoln Center is a one-stop-shop for any weekend afternoon or summer weekday evening. All within one shopping center, locals can buy a new wardrobe, enjoy a glass of wine on the patio with friends, eat a hearty lunch from one of Stockton’s best eateries, and pick up groceries before heading home. That doesn’t even touch on the special community events Lincoln Center hosts, including live music and holiday family fun. Stop by and see for yourself or plan your next date night here where axe throwing and an escape room are just the tip of the entertainment iceberg. WEBERSTOWN MALL (209) 477-0245 4950 Pacific Ave., Stockton Weberstown.com SHERWOOD MALL (209) 952-6277 5308 Pacific Ave., Stockton SherwoodMall.com
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SPECIALTY STORE CENA LUNA (209) 481-3883 2106 Pacific Ave., Stockton ShopCenaLuna.com
The adorable and perfectly curated airy shop sells everything from soy candles to culinary items, luxury planners to little wooden toys perfect for tots. The store looks like something out of a dream with its neat shelves boasting quality wares. Whether you came in with the hopes of finding that one perfect thing, or had no agenda at all, we’re sure you’ll walk out with a shopping bag full of goods to take home with you, and perhaps some new design inspo for your own home! BEST WISHES (209) 478-3220 325 Lincoln Center, Stockton
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The Carter Family Would Like To Thank You For Voting Us Best In Pet Supplies
SHOT CLINICS HELD ON WEEKENDS. CALL FOR MORE DETAILS
Family owned and operated for 27 years!
VOTED #1 PET SUPPLY STORE DELTA HUMANE SOCIETY PET ADOPTIONS
STOCKTON STOCKTON 909 W March Lane ADOPT A BULLS
LODI MANTECA ADOPTIONS EVERY SAT/SUN 11:30AM - 3:30PM 1379 S Lower MANTECA Sacramento LOCATION ONLY 510 North Main Street Rd Suite 503
MODESTO 92001 McHenry Ave.
209-957-6278 209-310-2598 209-239-4071 209 622-0547 Guaranteed Lowest Prices! ADOPTIONS
(ADOPTION FEES WAIVED)
MON-FRI 8:30AM - 8PM SAT 8:30AM TO 8PM • SUN 9AM TO 7PM
MON-FRI 8:30AM - 8PM
MON-FRI: 8:30AM –or 8:00PM Will match beat Competitor’s pricing! SAT 8:30AM TO 7PM • SUN 9AM TO 6PM – 7:00PM SUN: 9:00AM – 6:00PM EVERY SATURDAY, 11 AM - 3 PM SAT: 8:30AM Full Line Pet Store EVERY SUNDAY, 11 AM - 3 PM
(TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
STOCKTON LOCATION ONLY
% OFF e item, excludes
t food and cat litter
med at Carter’s Pet Mart in Stockton and Manteca. please. No cash value. No cash back. Not valid on the e of gift cards or prior purchases. not valid on LIVE LS OR FISH TANKS ABOVE 55 gallons May not be ned with any other offer. Expires 7/30/19 STKN
CKTON March Lane
57-6278
MON-FRI 8:30AM - 8PM SAT 8:30AM TO 7PM • SUN 9AM TO 6PM
WWW.CARTERSPETMART.COM
5 OFF
$
*
*Any Purchase $30.00 or more Store coupon. May be redeemed at Carter’s Pet Mart in Stockton and Manteca. One coupon per household please. No cash value. No cash back. Not valid on the purchase of gift cards or prior purchases. May not be combined with any other offer. Expires 7/30/19
STKN
MANTECA 510 North Main Street
2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 209-239-4071 Mon-Fri 8:30am - 8pm
8:30am to 9pm pm • Sun 9am to 7pm
Sat 8:30am to 7pm • Sun 9am to 6pm
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HOTEL
GOLF COURSE
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
FUN INDOOR & OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
(PRIVATE)
BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net
WINE & ROSES (209) 334-6988 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi WineRose.com
You’ll feel like royalty as a member of Brookside Golf & Country Club. The 18-hole championship course offers play suitable for all ages and skill levels, combining Scottish flavor with man-made beauty. In addition to the course itself, there is a two-tiered driving range, an expansive putting green, and a well-targeted chipping green, allowing members to fine-tune their games and warm-up for an onsite tournament.
Looking for a little R&R without traveling far? Whether you’re visiting town to take in SJC’s wine country, or are a native Lodian simply looking for a place to rest and recharge without the long drive, Wine & Roses is the place to be. The
HAGGIN MUSEUM (209) 940-6300 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton HagginMuseum.org
WOODBRIDGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 334-5455 800 E. Woodbridge Rd., Woodbridge WoodbridgeGCC.com
A little art. A little history. One of the reasons Haggin Museum is a favorite is because of its wide variety of exhibits. The museum opened in 1931 and has long housed historic artifacts representing Stockton and San Joaquin County. Over the years it has evolved to include interactive exhibits, private art collections, and more. In addition to the permanent displays, temporary exhibitions rotate in and out of the museum so there is always something new to see.
STOCKTON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 466-4313 3800 Country Club Blvd., Stockton StocktonGolfCC.com
DOUBLE DIP GALLERY (209) 365-3344 222 W. Pine St., Lodi DoubleDipArtGallery.com
MEXICAN HERITAGE CENTER & GALLERY (209) 969-9306 111 S. Sutter St., Stockton MexicanHeritageCenter.org
Get ready to get FED. This Stockton destination offers everything from a high-end steak dinner to bottle service for late night guests. Depending on the day and time, you can have myriad of different experiences at FED from a midday recovery brunch on Saturday to bar bites served until 9 PM to accompany your first drinks of a late night out. We’re not sure if it’s the atmosphere, the food, or the craft cocktails that make this restaurant the Best hotspot in Stockton, but our money is on some combination of all three. CAST IRON TRADING CO. (209) 227-8585 114 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton CastIronTradingCo.Business.Site DOWNTOWNER (209) 910-9714 40 N. Sutter St., Stockton TheDowntowner.net
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UNIVERSITY PLAZA WATERFRONT HOTEL (209) 944-1140 110 W. Fremont St., Stockton UniversityPlazaWaterfrontHotel.com HILTON STOCKTON (209) 957-9090 2323 Grand Canal Blvd., Stockton
CASINO
DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOTSPOT FED (209) 594-0339 116 N. Hunter St., Stockton FEDStockton.com
gorgeous grounds located in the middle of town transport guests to a tranquil paradise. Every aspect of the property, from its grab and go breakfast to its lovely little wine walk, is designed to provide guests a home away from home.
(WITHIN 100 MILES) JACKSON RANCHERIA (800) 822-9466 12222 New York Ranch Rd., Jackson JacksonCasino.com
Just a quick drive away, located in Jackson, Calif., a three-star hotel, full casino, and an award-winning restaurant make for a fun getaway for folks 18 and older. While the Lone Wolf Restaurant & Lounge HAGGIN MUSEUM was voted Best Steak Dinner in (209) 940-6300 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton Amador County, it’s the slots and HagginMuseum.org table games that most come to the ranch for. In all there are more than Doubling as both an art gallery 1,700 video games including slots, and a history museum, there Keno, and poker and 32 exciting is plenty to see at the Haggin table games ranging from various Museum. If you’ve ever been curious about Stockton’s humble types of poker to pai gow and black jack. Perhaps what really makes it beginnings, this is the place to a favorite, however, is the ability to learn all about your hometown win; Jackson Rancheria boasts more and how it came to be. MegaJackpot winners than any other WORLD OF WONDERS casino in Northern California. (209) 368-0969
MUSEUM
2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi WowScienceMuseum.org CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, STOCKTON (209) 465-4386 402 W. Weber Ave., Stockton ChildrensMuseumOfStockton.org
HARRAH’S NORTHERN CALIFORNIA (866) 915-0777 4640 Coal Mine Rd., Ione Caesars.com THUNDER VALLEY (916) 408-7777 1200 Athens Ave., Lincoln ThunderValleyResort.com
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COSMETIC SURGERY
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
HEALTH
VU PLASTIC & COSMETIC SURGERY (209) 476-7074 1617 St. Marks Plaza, Ste. E, F, Stockton VuPlasticSurgery.com
Looking for a literal pick me up? Dr. Hugh Vu is the medical mastermind at this cosmetic surgery clinic, offering procedures to target any area you may be unsatisfied with. From breast implants to face lifts, Botox to laser hair removal, there are a lot of ways to change your body’s ALLERGY IMMUNOLOGY & aesthetics while remaining healthy ASTHMA MEDICAL GROUP and safe, and also managing (209) 951-5353 expectations. To learn more, 4628 Georgetown Pl., Stockton schedule a consultation, and get AllergyImm.com started on your journey to a new Whether you have an itch you can’t you—one that is just as good, but explain or serious hay fever that just won’t with a little extra oomph. quit, treatment is available at Allergy Immunology. The Stockton office helps PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER OF STOCKTON with everything from seasonal allergies (209) 870-7100 1805 N. California St. #405, Stockton to skin conditions like eczema, immune system deficiencies to anaphylactic shock. PlasticSurgeryCenterOfStockton.com Whether your symptoms are mild or DR. SILVERTON, BROOKSIDE AESTHETICS severe, help is just an appointment away! (209) 952-2251 3133 W. March Ln., Ste. 1040, Stockton Come in for allergy testing, medications, and long-term treatment plans to find relief from what ails you. A team of doctors is at your disposal so you—and your allergies— can finally get the help they need.
ALLERGIST
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY O’CONNOR WOODS (209) 956-3400 3400 Wagner Heights Rd., Stockton OConnorWoods.org
If you have a loved one who needs a little help around the house, schedule a tour at O’Connor Woods. The Stockton retirement community is a gated, resortstyle oasis, created with comfort and care in mind. While help is on-site for everything from medical ailments to injuries, the focus of the community is fun. Dining experiences and a wellness center provide extra amenities for guests
and offers opportunities to socialize. One of the biggest perks of living at O’Connor Woods is that you rarely have to leave. With an on-site day spa, putting green, fix-it shop, library, chapel, classes, and more—you can do it all just steps from your front door.
THE COMMONS AT THORNTON (209) 242-9773 10711 Thornton Rd., Stockton MBKSeniorLiving.com VIENNA NURSING & REHAB CENTER (209) 368-7141 800 S. Ham Ln., Lodi ViennaNursingRehab.com
CROSSFIT STUDIO CROSSFIT 209 SPORT Multiple Locations CrossFit209Sport.com
High intensity, functional fitness—that’s the very definition of CrossFit. And those who enjoy the exercise, are typically all-in on the program, raving about the results and the community. At CrossFit 209, the exercise craze is accessible, serving fitness addicts from 12 to 80 years old, and providing classes that meet both beginners and more advanced CrossFit athletes. Choose from basic CrossFit classes, Olympic Lifting, endurance-based workouts, and even sport-specific classes aimed at bettering you in your hobby of choice. If you’re interested, you can even train to compete in CrossFit competitions. ASAP FITNESS Multiple Locations ASAP.Fitness F4 FITNESS & NUTRITION (209) 565-5364 5403 N. Pershing Ave., Ste. 10, Stockton
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DENTIST
(PEDIATRIC) KIDS CARE DENTAL Multiple Locations KidsCareDental.com
Fear of the dentist is a normal experience, but at Kids Care Dental the focus is on calming little nerves while also offering top-of-the-line care. Having healthy teeth and a pretty smile starts at a young age, and with plenty of Kids Care Dental offices throughout San Joaquin County, quality care is accessible! The team of friendly doctors and dental
DAY SPA WINE & ROSES (209) 334-6988 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi WineRose.com
It’s time to lay back and relax. You don’t have to be an overnight guest at Wine & Roses to enjoy its awardwinning day spa. Tucked into the serene hotel setting, punctuated by a trickling fountain and tall, leafy trees, the Lodi location feels like it’s a million miles away while still offering ease of access, located in the heart of Lodi. Browse the menu of rejuvenating massages and body treatments before adding on a facial to give yourself a longlasting, youthful glow. There are also make-up and waxing services, plus packages perfectly designed for two so you can enjoy a day out with your best girlfriend, or treat your man to a little pampering session. PERFECT BALANCE DAY SPA (209) 333-8117 401 W. Pine St., Lodi PerfectBalanceDaySpa.com BLUSH BAR (209) 915-3278 2540 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2, Stockton BlushBar.com
assistants at Kids Care are well-versed in calming anxious kids, and they are no stranger to awards, including previous Best Of acknowledgements from our readers. When it comes to our kids, we want to put them in the best possible hands, and with our readers there to back Kids Care up, the decision should offer parents peace of mind, too. DAX MARTIN (209) 951-4251 1310 E. Swain Rd., Ste. 2, Stockton BETHEL KIDS DENTAL (209) 400-2018 531 W. Kettleman Ln., Lodi BethelKidsDental.com
DENTIST
(COSMETIC) TODD FRANKLIN, DDS (209) 957-5885 The Fountains, 3031 W. March Ln., Ste. #118, Stockton StocktonCa.Dental
Dr. Todd Franklin, DDS, heads up the practice Hope Dental of Stockton, offering a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility at The Fountains. Here, a long list of services are available to patients, including cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic dentistry can result in improved self-esteem, oral health, appearance, and function, making it an important part of dentistry today. At Hope Dental, solutions to creating the best smile include porcelain veneers and crowns, teeth whitening, dental implants, and other dental restorations. To get started, schedule an appointment and learn what options best serve you. After it’s all done, you’re sure to be grinning ear to ear. LESTER LOW, DDS (209) 474-3333 3133 W. March Ln., Ste. 1090, Stockton SmilesDoctor.com MARTIN DENTISTRY (209) 951-4251 1310 E. Swain Rd., Stockton MartinImplants.com
DERMATOLOGIST DR. KYLE W. HERBOLD, MD (209) 951-1133 4553 Quail Lakes Dr., Stockton
When it comes to our skin, we want our cheeks in the hands of someone we can trust! When it comes to anything medical, choosing a quality physician is of the utmost importance. Dr. Kyle W. Herbold has proven his worth again and again over his more than 20
years in business. Based in Stockton, Dr. Herbold graduated from Yale School of Medicine before embarking on his career in general dermatology, where he now serves the Stockton community and neighboring towns for all of their skin needs. LUX DERMATOLOGY Multiple Locations LuxDermatologists.com DR. STUART JACOBS (209) 957-6662 5345 N. El Dorado St., #12, Stockton SJMAG.COM
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Optometrist BROOKSIDE OPTOMETRIC GROUP (209) 951-0820 3133 W. March Ln., Ste. 2020, Stockton BrooksideOptometric.com
Sometimes bigger is better. Brookside Optometric Group is the largest optometry practice in Stockton, boasting a big team of certified, qualified, and excellent optometrists to serve the local community. Everyone has different needs when it comes to their eyes, and luckily Brookside specializes in helping them all. From senior eye exams and diabetes-related management and treatment to children’s eye exams and LASIK care, it’s all possible at Brookside. To get started, schedule an appointment with one of the doctors on staff and let them lead you to clearer days. ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP (209) 466-5566 Multiple Locations ZeiterEye.com MIDTOWN OPTOMETRY (209) 957-8000 2321 W. March Ln., Ste. A, Stockton MidtownOptometry.com
FITNESS CLASSES ORANGE THEORY Multiple Locations OrangeTheory.com
A gym is great, but for some workout fanatics, it’s the classes that make exercise fun (or at least bearable). Orange Theory Fitness, with locations in both Stockton and Tracy, is a franchise business that focuses solely on group classes. The physical fitness program touts itself as a smart workout, using
various machines and exercises to maximize results—and get you sweating! Learn more about splat points and other perks by signing up for a membership. Not ready to commit? Take an introductory class to ensure it’s a good fit! IN-SHAPE HEALTH CLUBS Multiple Locations InShape.com TWIN ARBORS (209) 334-4897 1900 S. Hutchins St., Lodi TwinArborsLodi.com
Health Club
(Multiple Locations) IN-SHAPE HEALTH CLUBS Multiple Locations InShape.com
In Shape has 45 locations in California, a few of which serve the San Joaquin County population. The traditional gym offers a lot of amenities, including pools, fitness classes, state-of-the-art workout equipment, personal training services, kids care, and more. If you’re looking for full service and varied—this will be your cup of tea! Convenient locations include Lodi, Stockton, Manteca, and Tracy, and each one offers its own calendar of classes and fit and fun staff to make your workout atmosphere the best it can be.
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IN SAN JOAQUIN!
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7610 Pacific Ave Suite B8 | Stockton | Open Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 to 5:00
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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 PHARMACY 4 YEARS IN A ROW!
2021
Read our 950+ Reviews at: SmilesDoctor.com
Covid Vaccinations always available. Monday - Saturday from 10 am - 3pm.
EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE
You will appreciate the personal service that each patient receives from Dr. Lester Low and the caring staff. Their commitment for excellence will make each visit a positive experience towards good health. Don’t like going to the Dentist? I LOVE going to my Dentist! “Thank you Dr. Low for the excellent dental care I get from you and your staff. You, Dr. Low, are also an artist. I say this with conviction when I smile in the mirror.” — Alexia M.
Dr. Lester Low, D.D.S. 3133 West March Lane | Suite 1090 | Stockton
209.474.3333
www.SmilesDoctor.com facebook.com/LesterLowDDS
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RETIREMENT COMMUNITY BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
HEALTH HEALTH CLUB (ONE LOCATION)
and engagement. If you are looking for a new home that has always felt like home, schedule a tour at O’Connor Woods!
O’CONNOR WOODS (209) 956-3400 3400 Wagner Heights Rd., Stockton OConnorWoods.org
Stockton’s O’Connor Woods is a gated Life Plan Community on 34 acres of beautiful and quiet property that will make moving to a new home a positive transition. O’Connor Woods has built a reputation for more than 30 years of catering to their residents’ needs for comfort, wellness, connection,
LAVIDA SENIOR LIVING – LODI (209) 333-8432 2890 S. Stockton St., Lodi LaVidaLodi.com SOLSTICE SENIOR LIVING – LODI (209) 498-5344 2145 W. Kettleman Ln., Lodi SolsticeSeniorLivingLodi.com
TWIN ARBORS (209) 334-4897 1900 S. Hutchins St., Lodi TwinArborsLodi.com
The Lodi facility recently underwent a large remodel to make the gym the best it can be, including adding brand new equipment and upgrading many of the facilities. Add in a friendly and approachable staff that wants to see you succeed, and you’ve got the trifecta of local gyms! The facility offers a combination of sports training, indoor/outdoor pools, weight training, cardio, functional training, yoga, Pilates, group classes, and more. It’s safe to say there’s something for everyone in this bright and airy space curated to inspire movement in every corner. F4 FITNESS & NUTRITION (209) 565-5364 5403 N. Pershing Ave., Ste. 10, Stockton BEN MACKIE FITNESS (209) 955-0360 840 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton BenMackieFitness.com
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HEARING CENTER UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC HEARING (209) 946-7378 757 Brookside Rd., Stockton UPacificHearing.com
Hearing loss is the third most commonly reported physical condition (following arthritis and heart disease), and about 48 million report some degree of its symptoms whether that is trouble following conversations with others, needing to turn the volume way up on the T.V. or radio, and even avoiding social gatherings because it’s so uncomfortable when you cannot hear at your
Hospital ST. JOSEPH’S MEDICAL CENTER (209) 943-2000 1800 N. California St., Stockton DignityHealth.org
Dignity Health’s St. Joseph’s Medical Center believes that our mind, body, and spirit are one and the same, meaning, if the mind is calmer because we are being cared for by those around us, our body responds positively, our stress goes down, and we heal faster. St. Joseph’s calls this Humankindness and it has been at the
best. Stockton’s University of the Pacific Hearing Center is the expert at determining exactly what type of hearing loss you are suffering and how to treat it so that you experience improvement in all aspects of your life. Not sure where to start? Take their online quiz to see if you are a good candidate for a hearing test and let University of the Pacific Hearing handle the rest! AMERICAN HEARING AIDS (209) 992-3519 880 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton AmericanHearingAids.biz
core of their practice and mission for over 100 years. The caregivers at St. Joseph’s put their patients' needs first—physically, mentally, and spiritually, making the experience of healing from dis-ease one of empathy, listening, and respect. We can all benefit from more Humankindness. ADVENTIST HEALTH LODI MEMORIAL (209) 334-3411 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi AdventistHealth.org KAISER PERMANENTE STOCKTON MEDICAL OFFICES (209) 476-2000 7373 West Ln., Stockton Healthy.KaiserPermanente.org
Welcome
Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 HEALTH CLUB AND ONE OF THE BEST IN FITNESS CLASSES
Poses and practices
Find your calm
Health Amenities Included: Sauna, Steam Room and Jacuzzi SWIM LESSONS SPRING 2022 Indoor Heated Pool Adults & Children ISR (Infant Swimming Recourse) Call for more information * Fee based
Allergy, Immunology & Asthma Medical Group welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi to their practice. Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi obtained his Medical Degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, in Charlottesville, VA. He then went on to complete residency training in Internal Medicine at NYU-Winthrop Hospital in Long Island, NY and subsequently Allergy and Immunology Fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Dr. Balduzzi is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, as well as a BC/BE trained specialist in Adult and Pediatric Allergy, Asthma
and Immunologic Disorders. He is an active member of the AAAAI, ACAAI and WAO. Dr. Balduzzi is an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills, and follows both professional and collegiate sports actively. A former Lacrosse goalie for the University of Buffalo, Jeffrey continues to enjoy a variety of recreational activities including, but not limited to; golfing, fishing and alpine skiing. Practicing with Dr.’s George Bensch, Gregory Bensch and Michael Balduzzi our providers continue the utmost care for your allergy, immunology & respiratory needs.
A L L E R GY I M M UNOLOGY & A S T HM A
ALLERG
MEDICAL GROUP
AIAMG CELEBRATES 49 YEARS OUR OFFICE CONTINUES TO FOLLOW THE CURRENT PATIENT COVID-19 CDCOF GUIDELINES TOCARE HELP KEEP YOU SAFE WE SPECIALIZE IN EVALUATION AND TREATMENT OF: A L LDrug, E R G Yand I M MInsect U N O LSting O G Y Allergies & ASTHMA Environmental, Food, MEDICAL GROUP Hay Fever ∙ Sinus Disease ∙ Anaphylaxis Chronic Respiratory Conditions ∙ Asthma ∙ Allergic Skin Conditions such as hives and eczema E RGY I M MUNOLOGY & A S T HM A STOCKTON ∙ LODIA ∙L LMANTECA TRACY ∙ MODESTO MEDI CAL G R O UP SAN ANDREAS ∙ SONORA ∙ ELK GROVE
Silver Sneakers, Over 125 Insurances Accepted. 209-334-4897 • TWINARBORSLODI.COM TWINARBORSINFO@GMAIL.COM • 1900 S HUTCHINS ST. LODI, CA
(209) 951-5353
www.allergyimm.com Thank You For Voting Us BEST ALLERGIST 6 Years In A Row!
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INDEPENDENT PHARMACY
Pharmacy treats their customers like family. They are warm and friendly and they work hard to ensure the best service around. Whether you are looking to fill a prescription, receive an immunization or vaccination, prepare for healthy travels, or ensure your pet is at its best, you will find it all at Hammer Lane Pharmacy.
The staff at Hammer Lane Pharmacy are there to help you fulfill your prescriptions easily and conveniently. They offer local delivery and are open seven days per week. A full-service pharmacy, they accept all insurances and offer all vaccinations. Hammer Lane
PACIFIC COMPOUNDING (209) 474-7271 312 Lincoln Center, Stockton PacificCompounding.com
HAMMER LANE PHARMACY (209) 395-1906 2339 W. Hammer Ln., Stockton HammerLanePharmacy.com
DOUG’S EL DORADO DRUG STORE (209) 464-7722 2005 E. Mariposa Rd., Stockton EldoradoDrugs.Business.Site
Eye Surgery
Hospice/Palliative Care
ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP (209) 466-5566 Multiple Locations ZeiterEye.com
HOSPICE OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY (209) 957-3888 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton HospiceSJ.org
The staff at Zeiter Eye Medical Group are dedicated to enhancing and preserving their patients’ sense of sight using the latest technology with the highest-skilled surgeons who practice with care and respect. Come here for help with refractive surgery, cataract treatment, cornea, glaucoma, and retina treatment. They also offer comprehensive eye examinations and have a full-service optical shop. Visit Zeiter and see (pun intended) all they offer!
The word “hospice” dates back to the 11th Century and derives from the Latin for “guest” and “host.” It referred to hospitality for the sick and dying as well as for travelers and pilgrims. Today, for ourselves, and for the people in our lives that we love, finding the proper care is essential to enhance the critical season that conditions requiring hospice need. Hospice of San Joaquin Country’s mission is to honor life by ensuring patients and their caregivers are the focus in all that they do. Their vision is to lead in ensuring that the journey from serious illness through end of life is peaceful and safe.
BROOKSIDE OPTOMETRIC GROUP (209) 951-0820 3133 W. March Ln., Ste. 2020, Stockton BrooksideOptometric.com
COMMUNITY HOSPICE (209) 477-6300 2431 W. March Ln., Ste. 100, Stockton Hospiceheart.org
HERITAGE EYE, SKIN & LASER CENTER (209) 465-5933 445 W. Poplar St., Stockton HeritagEye.com
OB-GYN GILL OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY MEDICAL GROUP, INC. (209) 466-8546 1617 N. California St., Ste. 2A, Stockton GillOBGYN.com
highest quality of health possible. The staff here are committed to excellence, integrity, and empathy, and that mission is felt by all of their patients enabling them to feel comfortable, safe, and happy.
Gill OB/GYN is the largest OB/GYN Medical Group in the San Joaquin County with roots dating back to 1953. Women’s bodies and needs are constantly shifting and changing and Gill OB/GYN understands this deeply. They serve women during every stage of their lives with expertise and compassionate care. If you are a woman seeking medical attention, be sure to contact Gill OB/ GYN for the time and attention that you need to experience the
JENNIFER T. PHUNG, M.D. (SUTTER HEALTH) (209) 948-5940 2505 W. Hammer Ln., Stockton SutterHealth.org
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DR. NAKKA (209) 242-2690 1805 N. California St., Stockton Weence.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST FITNESS CLASSES IN SAN JOAQUIN!
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NATURAL FOODS Vitamins • Supplements • Specialty Foods Gluten-free, Raw Dairy, Local Products, Healthy Snacks & So Much More! Knowledgeable, Friendly Staff
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145 Lincoln Center (209) 952-8787 www.artesiannaturalfoods.com Tues.–Sat. 9:30am-6:00pm Closed Sun. & Mon.
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
HEALTH
ORTHODONTIST SAMRA ORTHODONTICS (209) 478-4666 1110 W. Robinhood Dr., Stockton
At Samra Orthodontics, the highly skilled orthodontic practice gives patients the confidence they need to smile wide, laugh with glee, and speak with certainty that your teeth look their best and are in good health. They see patients as people with stories, lives, and aspirations, and meet them with care and concern from their first treatment to their final visit. Staff pledge to make whatever orthodontic procedures and treatments you need easier and more comfortable, and that deserves a big smile in our books!
ORTHOPEDICS ALPINE ORTHOPAEDIC (209) 946-7200 2488 N. California St., Stockton AlpineOrthopaedic.com
Alpine Orthopaedic’s board certified physicians are committed to providing the highest quality of orthopaedic care possible. Treating foot and ankle, shoulder and elbow, hip and knee, hand, and spine
injuries, and offering comprehensive pain management plans is Alpine Orthopaedic’s specialty. Let’s face it, sometimes we suffer from accidents and illness and we need special care. You can trust Alpine to be with you every step of the way as you recover, heal, and return to living life with less pain, more joy, and more vibrant health. Treating both adults and children, Alpine has a reputation for improving both movement and mobility.
KIDS CARE DENTAL & ORTHODONTICS Multiple Locations KidsCareDental.com TROSIEN ORTHODONTICS (209) 833-1240 2850 N. Tracy Blvd., #300, Tracy TrosienOrthodontics.com
Pilates Studio SHINE CYCLE + YOGA + BARRE (209) 473-1332 308 Lincoln Center, Stockton ShineYogaStudios.com
When it comes to wellness, it’s more than just doing exercise and eating well, there is a whole energy to wellness. SHINE refers to that energy as a vibration, and they know that when you combine good energy with good intention you create a community of like-minded people vibrating higher together, and shining brighter together.
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SHINE offers cycle, yoga, and barre fitness classes. Get ready to connect with your body and others while you are challenged to reach new levels of personal wellness. Whether you hit the bike, mat, or barre floor, get ready to experience your best fitness levels yet. TRUE YOU HOT YOGA (209) 948-9642 2341 Pacific Ave., Stockton TrueYouHotYoga.com NOW & ZEN YOGA STUDIO (209) 369-7841 369 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. B, Lodi NowAndZenLodi.com
TA K E YO U R S K I L L S T O T H E N E X T L E V E L !
PICKLEBALL CLINICS AT
LEARN M OR E AT: IN S H A P E .COM/ R Q T
THA NK S FOR VOT I NG US B EST HEALTH CLUB ! SJMAG.COM
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Yoga Studio SHINE CYCLE + YOGA + BARRE (209) 473-1332 308 Lincoln Center, Stockton ShineYogaStudios.com
Yogis know the value of showing up for your practice, and it’s no secret that where you show up and with whom you show up impacts the quality of your experience. SHINE takes pride in having created a wellness studio that helps clients stay true to their personal goals in an environment that is both supportive and connected. With classes such as Hot Phenomenal Flow, Feel Good Flow, Yin Stretch, and even Candlelight Yin (we cannot think of a better way to end the day), you are sure to feel rejuvenated by your practice when you show up to SHINE.
PHYSICAL THERAPY MOVEMENT FOR LIFE PHYSICAL THERAPY (209) 334-2224 Multiple Locations MovementfForLife.com
Sometimes you need a little extra help in your physical recovery to get back to your best self, and when you do, Movement for Life Physical Therapy is there to help. A unique outpatient private practice, Movement for Life has orthopedic physical therapy clinics throughout San Joaquin County with highly skilled therapists to assist you in your specific needs. Living with chronic pain from an injury takes its toll, but the therapists at Movement for Life know that recovery can happen one stride at a time. If you are not sure where to begin on your journey to life without pain, Movement for Life is a great place to start. PT SOLUTIONS PHYSICAL THERAPY (209) 339-1690 840 S. Fairmont Ave., #5, Lodi PineStreetPT.com GOLDEN BEAR PHYSICAL THERAPY REHABILITATION & WELLNESS (209) 265-3038 1519 W. Yosemite Ave., Manteca TherapyPartnersGroup.com
NOW & ZEN YOGA STUDIO (209) 369-7841 369 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. B, Lodi NowAndZenLodi.com TRUE YOU HOT YOGA (209) 948-9642 2341 Pacific Ave., Stockton TrueYouHotYoga.com
Urgent Care SUTTER URGENT CARE (209) 954-0404 Multiple Locations SutterHealth.org
When you need urgent care, you need it to be fast, convenient, and economical. Sutter Urgent Care has you covered on all of these needs. An alternative to an emergency room with expert physicians, nurses, and supportstaff, Sutter Urgent Care offers same-day treatment for children three months and older and adults with non-life-threatening illness and injuries. No one ever wants to have to visit urgent care, but there are times that we all need to, and we feel safe with Sutter Urgent Care. With several locations in San Joaquin County, extra care is easy to find. STOCKTON URGENT CARE MEDICAL CLINIC (209) 952-9696 1148 W. Hammer Lane, Stockton StocktonUrgentCare.com TRINITY URGENT CARE & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH – STOCKTON (209) 955-1229 10200 Trinity Parkway, #202, Stockton UrgentCareTrinity.com
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
SERVICES
ACCOUNTANT/ CPA FIRM
ANIMAL RESCUE / SHELTER PALS HAVEN 5113 W. Sargent Rd., Lodi, PalsLodi.org
In 2021, PALS Haven made the move to a larger facility, offering 13,000 square feet of space to care for pets in need and facilitate adoptions. The remodel added additional kennels and more play space, plus a dog run in the front “yard.” As a no-kill shelter, the mission has always been to save cats and dogs from certain death, and with room for 50-60 canines and 100 cats, the new facility certainly aids founders Nancy Alumbaugh
and Daunis Bradshaw in achieving their goals. PALS Haven houses separate isolation cages for those that come to the rescue ill, a grooming area, three viewing rooms, a 500-square foot cattery where cats roam free, separate kitchens and laundry rooms for cats and dogs, and a separate kennel room for small dogs and senior dogs. DELTA HUMANE SOCIETY – SPCA OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY (209) 466-0339 4590 CA-99, Stockton DHSSPCA.org ANIMAL FRIENDS CONNECTION HUMANE SOCIETY (209) 365-0535 933 S. Cherokee Ln., Lodi AnimalFriendsConnect.org
IACOPI, LENZ & CO. (209) 957-3691 3031 W. March Ln., Stockton Iacopi.com
When it comes to our money, we like to see it stay in our bank account, and we bet you do, too! Sometimes the best way to manage your money is to put it in the hands of a professional. And because even the simpler tax returns can feel like a headache, we have a feeling if you’re doing your taxes with only the help of purchased software, you may be leaving money on the table. Whether you operate an LLC or are simply a professional individual looking for a little guidance, IACOPI, Lenz, & Co. are dedicated to protecting your accounts and maximizing your refunds with an experienced tax professional.
AUTO BODY/ COLLISION SHOP FABIAN’S COLLISION CENTER (209) 474-9465 2615 West Ln., Stockton
BOWMAN & COMPANY, LLP (209) 473-1040 10100 Trinity Pkwy. #310, Stockton CPABowman.com CROCE, SANGUINETTI & VANDER VEEN, INC. (209) 938-1010 3520 Brookside Rd #141, Stockton CSVCPAS.com
BANK (LOCAL) BANK OF STOCKTON
Bank of Stockton is woven into the fabric of San Joaquin County’s rich history, providing finance and banking services for individuals and businesses for more than 154 years. With a friendly face, staff at Bank of Stockton provide a personal experience to every guest and showed their dedication to customer wellbeing by remaining open as an essential business throughout the COVID-19 pandemic shut downs. Bank
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of Stockton continues to serve its large customer base at branches in San Joaquin County and beyond, providing easy access to banking professionals from open to close, and assisting in all aspects of personal and business finances. F&M BANK (800) 888-1498 121 W. Pine St., Lodi (main) FMBOnline.com BAC BANK (877) 226-5820 Multiple Locations BankBAC.com
It’s usually not on your best day that you’re calling up auto repair shops, but at Fabian’s, the team is determined to make your bad day a little better. For 27 years, Fabian’s (formerly known as Fairway Auto Body & Paint) has offered customers a full-service collision facility, boasting more than 85 years of combined experience in the collision repair business. Not only will they get your car back in tip top shape, but staff also works alongside customers to streamline the insurance process and even works directly with insurance companies to ease customer nerves. From 8 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday, the team at Fabian’s is there to help. ALL FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC Multiple Locations AFDBodyShop.com ALL AMERICAN AUTO BODY Multiple Locations AllAmericanAB.com
Refer a friend to an award winning bank & earn up to $500!* For more information go to www.bankbac.com/refer
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Terms and conditions apply and can be found at bankbac.com/refer or upon request at your local BAC Community Bank branch. SJMAG.COM
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
SERVICES
CREDIT UNION VALLEY STRONG CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations ValleyStrong.com
As an alternative to a traditional bank, credit unions offer the same services with a slightly different business model. The non-profit cooperatives like Financial Center Credit Union have a reputation for offering low interest rates, plus customers can still enjoy the basics, including checking accounts, saving accounts, credit cards, personal loans, and investments. At FCCU, there are extra perks including a data mobile app, theme park tickets, and even business banking opportunities. GOLDEN 1 CREDIT UNION (877) 465-3361 Multiple Locations Golden1.com CENTRAL STATE CREDIT UNION (209) 444-5300 919 N. Center St., Stockton CentralStateCU.org
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Caterer
ANGELINA’S SPAGHETTI HOUSE
If you’ve lived in San Joaquin County for long, you’ve likely enjoyed Angelina’s Italian fare at a wedding, or two. The longtime eatery located on Fremont Street offers more than dine in service, with catering services that make up a large portion of its business. Whether the goal is to feed 250 hungry wedding guests or offer a delicious corporate luncheon, the varied menus at Angelina’s offer something for everyone. Getting started is easy, with an automated online system that provides the first steps to making your event a success, followed by a close partnership with the talented and experienced Angelina’s team. FAT CITY BREW & BBQ (209) 323-4920 1740 Pacific Ave., Stockton FatCityBrewBBQ.com BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton (209) 956-6200 BrooksideGolf.net
DOG TRAINING BON-A-FIDE DOG TRAINING (209) 740-7420 BFDogTraining.com
At Bon-a-Fide Dog Training, classes are about more than teaching Fido how to sit and stay. In fact, the training classes are just as much for the human as the canine. Focused on fostering positive relationships between owner and dog, Bon-a-Fide classes help humans develop a close bond with their human partners. After trust is built, commands ensure dogs are well-behaved
and ready to be in public with others. The unseen bonus of having a well-trained pet is that behavior issues that could lead to abandoning your pet are less likely to arise. Not every training opportunity is equal, as the team at Bon-a-Fide works with teams to ensure individual goals are met for both person and pet. SYCAMORE LANE KENNELS (209) 334-1316 5111 W. Sargent Rd., Lodi SycamoreLaneKennels.com CANINE CULTURE (209) 931-0758 9751 CA-99, Stockton CanineCulture.com
Proudly Serving
• San Joaquin County • Tulare/Kings Counties
• Solano County • Kern County
25 Branch Locations 5 High School Branch Locations
250,000+ Members
30,000 ATMs
Approximately $3.5 Billion in Assets
(Includes CO-OP ATM’s)
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Thank you San Joaquin County for voting Financial Center Credit Union, now Valley Strong Credit Union, Best Local Credit Union for 7 years in a row!
Grow Your Possibilities with checking, savings and loan options designed for your personal and business banking.
(800) 221-3311 • valleystrong.com
Federally Insured by NCUA I Equal Opportunity Lender
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Hair Salon/Studio BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
SERVICES DRY CLEANER
POMP SALON (209) 954-9255 349 Lincoln Center, Stockton POMPSalon.com
Whether you want full color, subtle highlights, smoother hair, or just a trim, the talented staff at POMP Salon has you covered for all of your hair needs! Located in Lincoln Center, the high-end hair studio staffs only the best, licensed cosmetologists. This offers peace of mind for every customer—including those new
to the business. The proof is in the feedback. The highly rated and regarded salon collects positive reviews across platforms and shares their work on Instagram so future clients can peep the page for inspiration, or to choose their stylist! ENLIGHTEN SALON (209) 323-5536 7610 Pacific Ave., Ste. B8, Stockton PROVA COIFFURE (209) 565-5426 526 W. Benjamin Holt Dr. Ste. F, Stockton Prova-Coiffure.Business.Site
INSURANCE AGENT
PARKWOODS CLEANERS (209) 477-4397 1762 W. Hammer Ln., Stockton
There are a lot of options when it comes to dry cleaning services throughout SJC, so how do you know where to start? Being able to trust a dry cleaner with your favorite clothes is important, and you never want to sustain damage to an item that is expensive, or worse, irreplaceable. Our readers have spoken and the votes are in! Parkwoods Cleaner is the premier dry-cleaning facility in SJC. Stop by the Stockton business and see for yourself!
GEORGE AZEVEDO JR., STATE FARM (209) 474-3285 718 Lincoln Center, Stockton
Backed by State Farm, George Azevedo Jr. has been serving clients in Stockton since 1983 with a collection of services including auto, home, property, business, life, health, and pet insurance. That makes George a one-stop-shop for individual’s and family’s insurance needs. Give yourself peace of mind not just because you have the policies in place to protect your family, but also knowing you’re going into business with SJC’s Best.
GUILD DRY CLEANERS & ALTERATIONS (209) 368-2414 17 Church St., Lodi GuildCleaners.com FRESH CLEANERS AT MORADA (209) 952-7770 4361 E. Morada Ln. #100, Stockton
RYAN TURNER, FARMERS INSURANCE (209) 957-1100 4560 N. Pershing Ave., Ste. B, Stockton ANGEL SEPULVEDA, STATE FARM (209) 952-2154 1746 Grand Canal Blvd., Ste. 11, Stockton
LAW FIRM KROLOFF, BELCHER, SMART, PERRY & CHRISTOPHERSON (209) 478-2000 7540 Shoreline Dr., Stockton, Kroloff.com
Tradition and community are at the forefront of this storied law firm. Serving San Joaquin County since 1946, Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry & Christopherson garners a lot of respect from past customers. The firm’s specialty is on business and commercial transactions and litigation, real estate
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transactions and litigation, estate planning, trust and probate law, employment litigation and counseling, health care law, and more. Regardless of the area, Kroloff’s team is dedicated to quality, timely, and cost-effective legal services that help clients with a slew of life’s more complicated occurrences. NEUMILLER & BEARDSLEE (209) 948-8200 3121 W. March Ln., #100, Stockton Neumiller.com HAKEEN, ELIIS & MARENGO (209) 474-2800 3414 Brookside Rd., # 100, Stockton
I love this town. Thanks, for voting us 2022 best in San Joaquin. I love being here to help life go right'" in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do.
George Azevedo Jr, Agent
Insurance Lie#: 0505345 718 Lincoln Center Stockton, CA 95207 Bus: 209-474-3285 1601485
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PET SPA/GROOMER
may be found during a grooming session that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. In addition to the health benefits, grooming makes dogs look, feel, and smell pretty. Choose from a basic bath and tidy service or go for the full groom.
Did you know grooming your dog regularly is good for their health? It’s not just being clean that’s important; professional groomers are trained to pick up on potential problems before owners might. With a trained eye, skin issues, dietary concerns, or even lumps and bumps
THE PAMPERED PET GROOMING & SPA (209) 833-7600 1872 W. 11th St., Tracy PamperedPetTracy.com
SYCAMORE LANE KENNELS (209) 334-1316 5111 W. Sargent Rd., Lodi SycamoreLaneKennels.com
SOLAR COMPANY
PET BOARDING SYCAMORE LANE KENNELS (209) 334-1316 5111 W. Sargent Rd., Lodi SycamoreLaneKennels.com
SUN RUN SOLAR – STOCKTON (209) 456-5511 1551 Stimson St., #4, Stockton SunRun.com
It’s natural to feel a pang of guilt when we head off on a family vacation without the family pooch, and perhaps the best way to ease that uneasy feeling is by giving your pet the luxury of its own vacation. At Sycamore Lane in Lodi, the boarding facility feels like an oasis for our furry friends, equipped with comfortable dog runs and a grooming spa. One of the most unique aspects of the business is the ability to book activities for your pet while you’re away. In addition to several beautiful play yards, there is a lake for longer walks, a Zen Den for cuddle time, and even group play offerings on select days for social dogs.
There are so many reasons we love living in California. We’ve got it all—the beach, mountains, city, farmland, snow, and, oh, yeah—sunshine! California is the best state in the U.S. for solar and if you think that you can’t afford this climate-protecting luxury, we’re here to share that there has never been a better time to upgrade your electricity to solar as the costs of panels and energy storage is at its all-time low. The folks at Stockton Sun Run are here to help you determine the best solar options to match your budget and energy needs so that you can continue loving this beautiful, sunny, and happy state that we love to call home.
CANINE CULTURE (209) 931-0758 9751 CA-99, Stockton CanineCulture.com
QUEIROLO’S (209) 464-9658 3934 Coronado Ave., Ste. C, Stockton Queirolos.com
SUNSET KENNELS (209) 369-9400 19705 N. Ray Rd., Lodi SunsetKennelsLodi.com
VETERINARY CLINIC VILLAGE VETERINARY HOSPITAL (209) 951-5180 3125 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton VillageVetHospitalStockton.com
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PAW PRINTS GROOMING & SPA (209) 464-7297 2222 Grand Canal Blvd., #1b, Stockton
Tattoo Studio EMERALD TATTOO & PIERCING – LODI (209) 333-8282 2525 S. Hutchins St., #8, Lodi EmeraldTattoo.com
Nobody wants to rush a tattoo, considering the whole “it’ll be on your body forever,” thing, so how do you get inked without regret? Go to one of the Best tattoo shops in the county, obviously. Emerald Tattoo has a reputation for turning out stellar artwork across its many locations, including the Lodi branch. With an emphasis on quality
artwork and superior customer service, the artists at Emerald Tattoo aren’t just locally renowned; they’ve also been featured internationally. If you’re interested, schedule a consultation and browse some of the artist portfolios online. Each has their own specialty when it comes to ink, and the studio as a whole has a bomb reputation for both unique designs and cover-up work. 12 MONKEYS (209) 839-1265 911 N. Central Ave., Tracy 12MonkeysTattoo.net QUARTER HORSE TATTOO (209) 227-8374 916 N. Yosemite St., Stockton Facebook.com/QuarterHorseTattoo
HONEY’S AIR & SOLAR (209) 566-1978 501 Bitritto Way, Modesto HoneysAir.com
When it comes to our pets, no expense is too great, especially if we’re talking about their health. At Village Veterinary Hospital, Fido comes first, and the staff is not only attentive to your pets, they are cognizant of your needs as a pet parent, too! Located in Marina Center, services include everything from dental work and preventative wellness to senior pet care and scheduled surgeries. Whether you need an emergency check-up or a routine appointment, the staff at Village Vet will take care of you and your furry friends!
VENETIAN PET HOSPITAL (209) 477-3926 6610 Gettysburg Pl., Stockton VenetianPetHospital.com WALKER VETERINARY HOSPITAL (209) 478-8883 7600 West Ln., Stockton WalkerVet.com
#1
TATTOO SHOP for 2022 Best of San Joaquin
1st PLACE
We Did It
Again! THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST DOG TRAINER IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY 4 YEARS IN A ROW! We are committed to providing dog owners with the knowledge and skills they need to communicate with their dogs. This will enable them to develop a close, healthy bond with their canine friend. This relationship is critical in ensuring that the human-canine partnership is maintained & dog behavior issues don’t lead to owners giving up on their dog.
Fix Auto Stockton Same Great Service and Staff Thank you for Voting us one of the Best Auto Body Shops in San Joaquin!
Call today for a free estimate!
209-740-7420 q bfdogtraining.com
Before
After
Aurora Collision Center DBA Fix Auto Stockton • 810 S. Monroe Street Stockton
209-465-2636 www.fixauto.com/stockton
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Wedding Venue
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
(outdoors)
WEDDINGS
WEDDING VENUE (INDOORS) BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net
Brookside Golf & Country Club is sure to make your wedding the talk of the town. Equipped to handle large parties with 250-300 guests, the indoor space promises a memorable affair that guests will be talking about long after the last dance ends. Onsite food and beverage service makes planning
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WINE & ROSES (209) 334-6988 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi WineRose.com
an event at Brookside easy with an extensive (and delicious!) menu and a robust selection of wine and liquor. Soaring ceilings, jewel tone accents, elaborate crystal chandeliers, and stunning panoramic views of the golf course ensure a Clubhouse wedding will be everything you dreamed it would be—and more. WINE & ROSES (209) 334-6988 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi WineRose.com RIVER MILL (209) 983-9114 1672 W. Bowman Rd., French Camp TheRiverMill.com
A wedding at Wine & Roses feels like a fairy tale. With twinkling lights and towering trees, the outdoor space is enveloped in magic, a perfect balance of rustic charm and modern luxury located in the heart of Lodi but also somehow away from it all. Weddings as intimate as 25 guests and as grand as 350 can be accommodated onsite, and with catering available through Towne House Restaurant and room blocks available to guests, Wine & Roses becomes a one-stop shop for busy brides and grooms. BROOKSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (209) 956-6200 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton BrooksideGolf.net OAK FARM VINEYARDS (209) 365-6565 23627 N. Devries Rd., Lodi OakFarmVineyards.com
WEDDING CAKES FIZZ BAKERY (209) 951-3499 9210 Thornton Rd., Stockton FizzBakery.com
Fizz Bakery is famous for their confections including both decadent and inventive creations and traditional sweets. One of the company’s most impressive offerings, however, are their customizable cakes. Available for any occasion, Owner Tiffany Torres works with lovebirds to create everything from five-tier designs to something a little more
modest. And the design options are endless with subtle creams and bright whites to colorful greens and creamy pastels. The textures and extras are even more fun, with giant bows and edible pearls offered to spruce up the dessert display and plenty of finishes to add a wow factor to cake cutting time. FROSTED FLOUR (209) 369-2253 904 W. Lodi Ave., Lodi FrostedFlour.com M&W DUTCH AMERICAN BAKERY (209) 473-3828 4343 Pacific Ave. Ste. A6, Stockton MAndWDutchAmericanBakery.com
FORMALWEAR/TUXEDOS TUXEDOS OF LODI (209) 339-8897 24A N. School St., Lodi TuxOfLodi.com
Men deserve to stun the crowd on their big day, too! While eyes may be on the bride, tuxedos can also be showstoppers—or at least compliment the bride’s attire. At Tuxedos Of Lodi, the emphasis is on looking good. The family-owned store treats each client like they are special while finding the suit that best fits them, in both style and size. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, quality is of the utmost importance whether you’re strutting down the aisle in a black three-piece-tuxedo with tails or making a more casual appearance in a gray suit. As an added bonus, the tuxedo shop is equipped to serve the whole wedding party—and guests! MEN’S WEARHOUSE (209) 474-1638 5756 Pacific Ave. Ste. 44, Stockton MensWearhouse.com SJMAG.COM
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Wedding Flowers
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
SILVERIA’S FLOWERS & GIFTS (209) 477-4407 995 Lincoln Center, Stockton SilveriasFlowersAndGifts.com
WEDDINGS WEDDING DRESS /BRIDAL ATTIRE SHERYL GILES BRIDAL COUTURE (209) 224-5793 286 Lincoln Center, Stockton SherylGilesBridal.com
Sheryl Giles’ journey to opening her Lincoln Center bridal store started from modest beginnings. Working as a bridal seamstress, she discovered her love for beautiful gowns. It seemed only natural to open her own store featuring picturesque wedding dresses and other bridal attire in a range of sizes and styles. While she’s now in the driver’s seat, that doesn’t mean Sheryl has put down the needle and thread. One of the details that sets Sheryl’s apart is the offer to embroider sentimental details into a woman’s dress to bring a little extra meaning to her special day. In addition to bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses are aplenty and alternations and customizations are available for everything sold in store. ELIZABETH OF LODI (209) 369-9046 20 S/ School St., Lodi TheElizabethBridal.net MAGGIE’S BRIDAL & FORMAL (209) 478-1888 6295 Pacific Ave., Stockton MaggiesBridalAndFormal.com
Wedding Photographer BRIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY (209) 239-7542 2316 Fawnwood Ln., Manteca BriggsPhotography.com
A picture is worth a thousand words, and that’s why getting the right photographer is so important on your special day. Briggs Photography has a reputation for securing the shot, turning out wedding albums that are full of personality and style. Owners of Briggs photography Shawna and Richard, are both photography junkies
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and they are no stranger to love themselves, having married before opening their photography business together. In fact, the couples’ first date was shooting a wedding together! Now, they shoot everything from weddings and engagement shoots to life’s other big moments including senior portraits. DONNA & MATTHEW PHOTOGRAPHY (530) 965-0559 DonnaAndMatthew.com JON & JESS PHOTOGRAPHY (209) 594-3310 JonAndJessStudio.com
Silveria’s has a large assortment of floral arrangements available for every day. Many locals are familiar with the business’ easyto-use website, featuring colorful options for birthdays, anniversaries, congratulatory occasions, and more. When Silveria’s is hired for weddings, the process becomes more intimate. The family-owned flower shop has a large inventory of fresh flowers primed for weddings but doesn’t forgo the personal touch that a family business has, making it easy for couples to get exactly what they want on their big day with all of the care they could imagine. STOCKTON FLORAL (209) 361-6466 924 N Yosemite St # C, Stockton Facebook.com/StocktonFloral CHARTER WAY FLORIST (209) 956-9087 5620 N. Pershing Ave. Ste. A, Stockton CharterWayFlorist.net
WEDDING RINGS JEWELER GARY J LONG JEWELERS (209) 477-6881 320 Lincoln Center, Stockton GJLongJewelers.com
Looking for the ring to dazzle your future bride? Since 1983, Gary J Long’s specialty has always been pairing anxious grooms with the ring of their girlfriend’s dreams, making proposals happen all across San Joaquin County. And after the big YES, comes the “I do,” when Gary J Long’s staff will happily pair duos with wedding bands and any other jewels needed for the big day—and beyond. Family owned and operated in Stockton, the Lincoln Center shop comes with credibility and experience, selecting only the finest diamonds to pass on to customers and racking up 25 years of Best Of awards from various publications. KEVIN SCHIMKE JEWELERS (209) 464-9904 2349 Pacific Ave., Stockton KevinSchimkeJeweler.com PECK’S JEWELERS (209) 478-6510 260 Lincoln Center, Stockton PecksJewelers.com
“WHEN ALL’S SAID AND DONE, ALL PATHS LEAD TO THE SAME END. SO IT’S NOT SO MUCH WHICH ROAD YOU TAKE, AS HOW YOU TAKE IT.”
Gold -Best Fine Jewelry Store
HEART ODDS G A BROKEN OVERCOME THE SURVIVIN STORIES AND SHARE THEIR
E DATES VDAY 20 VALENTIN SWEETIE THIS TO TAKE YOUR WHERE
4 LOCALS
GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE RESULTS IT DESERVES!
209.833.9989 / SALES@SJMAG.COM
MAGAZINE
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
PARENTING
BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT GINGER BUGS (209) 224-8684 2 W. Oak St., Lodi GingerBugsLodi.com
Ginger Bugs knows how to get the party started! The kid’s birthday hotspot is no stranger to our Best Of list, collecting accolades as local patrons rave about their customizable party packages. Starting at $475 and maxing out at $900, parents can choose to be involved in the planning process or show up to a perfectly curated event ready to wow! Options include photo collages projected during your child’s event, balloons and décor, food, and more, plus a slew of creative themes to choose from. One of the biggest perks is an event specialist to make sure your kid’s big day goes off without a hitch! And of course, all birthday parties have access to the Ginger Bugs’ super-fun play features including a ball pit and tricked out play structure. SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK (209) 888-0900 5358 Pacific Ave., Stockton SkyZone.com/Stockton WORLD OF WONDERS SCIENCE MUSEUM (209) 368-0969 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi WOWScienceMuseum.org
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Charter School ASPIRE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Multiple Locations AspirePublicSchools.org
Aspire Public Schools has a big reputation both in the San Joaquin County and beyond. With 16 schools serving kids in TK through twelfth grade, Aspire has a large presence in the Central Valley. Beyond that, there are additional locations in both the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Among those schools represented by Aspire, there are eight Stockton locations serving every grade level. Parents and students alike thrive in the environment, with
an emphasis on equal opportunity education and zero-tolerance for bullying. Ultimately, the goal of Aspire schools is to help students prepare for life beyond school with small, high-quality charter schools in low-income areas backed by some of the most impressive entrepreneurs in the country. VENTURE ACADEMY FAMILY OF SCHOOLS
(209) 468-5940 VentureAcademyCA.org DELTA CHARTER SCHOOLS (209) 830-6363 31400 S. Koster Rd., Tracy DeltaCharter.net
CHILDREN’S BALLET/DANCE STUDIO UNIQUE VISIONS (209) 479-5384 702 Porter Ave. B, Stockton UniqueVisionsDanceCompany.com
Get ready to DANCE! Chelsea Hill, the director, owner, and sole instructor/ choreographer of the Stockton dance studio, possesses a unique skill set that makes her an ideal teacher for young students interested in a variety of dance styles. Her background in performative arts paired with her studies in elementary education gives parents the confidence that not only will Chelsea teach students how to leap and twirl, but also how to do it all with grace and compassion in an environment that feels safe to them. In addition to ballet, Unique Visions offers classes in pointe, jazz, tap, acrobatic dance, and contemporary dance for kids ages 3 through high school. There are also holiday shows and an annual showcase to get kids acquainted with performing on stage. TWINKLE TOES (209) 712-7989 400 E. Kettleman Ln., Ste. 1, Lodi TwinkleToesDanceStudio.com THE DANCE CONNECTION (209) 956-2522 9951 Lower Sacramento Rd. Stockton DanceConnectionDC.com
New school year, new giggly smiles!
Don’t forget to schedule your checkup before school starts! We’ll make sure those little smiles are healthy, and catch any little problems before they become big problems. At Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, our flossophy (get it?) is to provide the absolute best care and have fun while doing it. We believe that no parent should have to stress about the dentist. We make it easy for you with convenient online scheduling, diligent health and safety policies, AND a fabulous staff of experts that will have your kiddo begging to come back!
FREE Quip Toothbrush!
schedule online! y l t n a t ins
844.616.5437
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BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
PARENTING CHILDREN’S CLOTHING SASSY PANTS CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE (209) 451-9775 354 Lincoln Center, Stockton ShopSassyPants.com
Kids deserve to look fun and fabulous, too! And what’s better than a boutique that offers everything your kids need season to season with the promise of name brands and new trends every time of year? Spend a day shopping with your brood in Lincoln Center and pick up everything from stylish jeans and party dresses to tie-dye t-shirts and seasonal items like umbrellas and headbands. Kids will love the bright colors and glittery extras that catch their eye, while parents will love the convenience of the store’s location and its varied inventory, offerings clothes and more for boys and girls of all ages. WILLOW TREE CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE (209) 339-7300 120 N. School St., Lodi WillowTreeChildrensBoutique.com CATERPILLAR CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE (209) 487-7102 906 N. Yosemite St., Stockton CaterpillarChildrensBoutique.com
Gymnastics GYMSTARS GYMNASTICS (209) 957-1919 1740 W. Hammer Ln., Stockton GymStars.com
GymStars Gymnastics offers a little of it all! From tumbling and gymnastics classes to ninja, dance, karate, and more, it’s a one-stop shop for high-energy fun! The entire business was born on the premise of delivering local parents what they needed to help their kids thrive. The multi-sport facility caters to families with all sorts of needs from weekly classes to camps, and always with a clean and safe environment. In addition to quality instruction for a variety of disciplines, GymStars is dedicated to building happy, healthy, confident, and responsible children who are learning life lessons all while having a good time! IMPACT SPORTS CENTER (209) 369-2436 ImpactSportsCenter.com ROYAL GYMNASTICS & SPORTS ACADEMY (209) 650-0098 2151 N. Tracy Blvd., Tracy RoyalGymSports.com
INDOOR FAMILY FUN GREAT WOLF LODGE (888) 966-9653 2500 Daniels St., Manteca GreatWolf.com
Great Wolf Lodge is making a splash in Manteca! The newest outpost of the indoor water park landed in the Central Valley city after years of pandemic whiplash. The end result has been an over-the-top, fun-for-the-whole-family experience that adults love just as much as kids. Stay on site and enjoy a staycation in your own backyard, packed with plenty of pool time, extracurricular activities, and family bonding experiences
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including mini bowling, arcade games, minigolf, and a ropes course. You never have to leave the lodge, where restaurants serve family-friendly meals and on-site coffee and candy will keep you and the kids going all day long as you venture from the outdoor pool to the indoor slides, and even a lazy river. SKY ZONE (209) 888-0900 5358 Pacific Ave., Stockton SkyZone.com/Stockton CHUCK E. CHEESE (209) 956-1640 6436 Pacific Ave., Stockton ChuckECheese.com
MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL TIBON’S GOJU RYU FIGHTING ARTS (209) 465-0943 923 N. Yosemite St., Stockton TibonKarate.com
There isn’t exactly a shortage of marital arts schools in San Joaquin County—especially in Stockton. So, to come out on top, is a pretty impressive feat. Goju refers to a hard soft style karate that blends the hard style of Okinawan Japanese straight line fighting with the soft style of Chinese Kempo that focuses on angular and circular movements. At the head of the operation is Sensei Tibon, teaching kids how to expertly move between jamming, isolation,
CHILDREN’S PHOTOGRAPHER SWEET SISTERS PHOTOGRAPHY 8825 Thornton Rd., Ste. A, Stockton SweetSistersPhotography.com
Life moves fast so it’s important to capture those little moments. Pictures have always made such special keepsakes and gifts, and if anything, the art of photography has become more treasured over the years. So, who will you trust with life’s most precious moments? Sweet Sisters Photography wants to grow with your family, by your side, lens in hand, every
and parry combinations to create a single fighting form. To accommodate all schedules, Tibon’s offers both in-person and virtual classes for students of all ages and skill levels. And in addition to learning self-defense and fighting skills, students come away with more confidence, respect, and discipline than they entered the dojo with on day one. STOCKTON JIU JITSU ACADEMY (209) 244-5668 2222 Grand Canal Blvd., Ste. 8, Stockton StocktonJiuJitsuAcademy.com DISCOVERY MARTIAL ARTS (209) 466-1009 5308 Pacific Ave., Stockton GoKarate.net
step of the way. From maternity and newborn shoots to family photos for your annual Christmas card and even senior portraits, put your trust in the capable hands of Janda, a family photographer and Stockton native who has landed the Best Of San Joaquin award for children’s photographer for eight years. LITTLE LOVE STORY PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN (209) 327-9704 115 S. School St., Ste. 14, Lodi Facebook.com/LittleLoveStoryPhotography HEATHER JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY (209) 406-3682 Stockton HeatherJeanPhotography.net
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PARENTING
Private School ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL (209) 957-3340 5648 N. El Dorado St., Stockton SaintMarysHighSchool.org
At St. Mary’s High School kids learn more than how to be good students. A compelling and competitive curriculum combined with faith-based instruction sets St. Mary’s apart from other schools nearby. At St. Mary’s, students are challenged to meet their full potential while developing as leaders and growing in their faith. As a college preparatory high school, education is very
important to students and staff, but many of the lessons learned will keep beyond a child’s high school or college career. The dedication to hard work, attention to detail, and disciplined work habits all combine to create well-rounded individuals and adults who will eventually lead this county—and beyond. PRESENTATION PARISH SCHOOL (209) 472-2140 1635 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton ANNUNCIATION SCHOOL 1110 N. Lincoln St., Stockton (209) 444-4000 Annunciation-School.org
PRESCHOOL PARVIN’S HOPELAND PRESCHOOL (209) 474-9144 5965 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton ParvinHopeland.com
In Stockton, parents have a lot of options for where to send their kids for early childhood education. Topping our Best Of list offers a lot of clout to Parvin’s. Founded by Dr. Parvin Soleimani in 1981, the preschool has a long history of combining learning and fun to turn out kids that are ready to take on elementary school—and beyond! A dedication to quality education has always been important at Parvin’s, which is why the curriculum includes language, early literacy, math, science, art, music, drama, social studies, and even Spanish foreign language instruction rooted in an environment that focuses on health, safety, creative expression, and multicultural education. CAMP PRESCHOOL (209) 464-4524 540 N. California St., Stockton CAMP-Preschool.com ST. BASIL PRESCHOOL & CHILD (209) 478-5252 920 W. March Ln., Stockton StBasilPreschoolStockton.org
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SWIM SCHOOL/ LESSONS
JUSTIN’S SCUBA TIME (209) 851-2928 3255 W. Hammer Ln. #2, Stockton JustinsScubaTime.com
It’s more than a scuba shop! The best swim lessons in the county—voted by our knowledgeable readers— are at Justin’s Scuba Time. At Justin’s no one is too young or too old to perfect their swimming skills. Classes are separated by age and skill to ensure every student gets the most
out of their experience at Justin’s, with courses made for kids under three, older than three, and even adults. Lessons occur twice per week for three-week sessions (a total of six classes), or parents can opt for private swim instruction. Plus, the indoor heated pool makes it easy to master your swim skills year-round, and not just in the summer months. TWIN ARBORS PRIVATE SPORTS CLUB (209) 334-4897 1900 S. Hutchins St., Lodi SYD MARDON’S SWIM SCHOOL (209) 477-9601 9951 Lower Sacramento Rd., Stockton SydMardons.com
Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts
Karate Studio & Martial Arts Supplies
923 N. Yosemite • Stockton 209.465.0943 FAX 209.465.1517 www.tibonkarate.com
95% of our Black be
lts achieve College and University Degre es,
100%
and the m ha ve gra of du ate d Hig h Sc ho ol! NO CO NT RA CT S! Ca ll for mo re inf orm ati on !
Adam C. Tibon
7 year national team member
Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best Museums & Birthday Spots!
CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE AT: GymStars Karate 1740 W. Hammer Ln.• Stockton 209.957.1919 GymStars Karate 5170 Pentecost Dr.,Ste B • Modesto 209.549.1919 Hiers Goju Karate 1900 S. Hutchins St • Lodi 209.333.8509 United Bay Area Karate Club 5591 Snell Ave. • San Jose (209) 676-0224
All instructors have been cleared by FBI and DOJ background checks, all are safe dependable karate teachers!
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We are working with all Charter Schools with P.E. Alternatives programs
Thank You for Voting Us Best Martial Arts Center!
Open Thursday - Monday 10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Gene Tibon 8th Degree Black Belt Instructor
The perfect balance of learning and play ®
OPEN HOUSE Saturday, August 6
10:00 am - 1:00 pm RSVP Today • Safe, nurturing environment • Enthusiastic and caring teachers • Links to Learning curriculum • Ongoing parent communication MH_SanJoaquin-BO_July22_7.875x4.75.indd 1
Merryhill Preschools 10250 Trinity Parkway, Stockton, CA
(877) 959-4187 MerryhillPreschoolStockton.com
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HOME
AIR CONDITIONING/ HEATING LOVOTTI, INC. (209) 931-2100 3717 West Ln., Stockton LovottiInc.com
Comfort is key when it comes to making your house feel like a home, and nothing is worse than being too hot or too cold when you’re just trying to relax! Staff at Lovotti, Inc. have all of the skills and equipment to keep your house at just the right temperature for a low cost. Schedule routine maintenance of an existing system to keep it running at optimum levels, or upgrade to something newer and more efficient! Whatever you choose, Lovotti, Inc. will make it easy. QUEIROLO’S (209) 464-9658 3934 Coronado Ave., Ste. C, Stockton Queirolos.com HONEY’S AIR & SOLAR (209) 566-1978 501 Bitritto Way, Modesto HoneysAir.com
Custom Blinds
DISCOVERY SHUTTERS (209) 472-9881 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd., Stockton DiscoveryShutter.com
You’d be surprised just how many options you have when it comes to window coverings. Spoiler alert: it’s more than curtains and standard blinds! At Discovery Shutters & Shadings, homeowners can choose from a large selection of colors, materials, designs, and functions when outfitting their home, old or new. And the Stockton business offers not just the product— they specialize in Hunter Douglas solutions—but installation, too. The entire process is made easy with in-home consultations, in-person and on-line shopping options, and customizable product choices that mean you’ll get exactly what you are looking for. BUDGET BLINDS (209) 933-9442 7819 Thornton Rd., Stockton BudgetBlinds.com/Stockton ELITE SHUTTERS & SHADING (209) 825-1400 2343 W. Yosemite Ave., Manteca EliteShadings.com
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FLOOR COVERING STORE PINNELL’S FLOORING AMERICA – LODI (209) 366-1701 225 E. Kettleman Ln., Lodi PinnellsFlooring-America.com
The options for floors are endless, which can make choosing the perfect material for your home feel like a daunting task. Have no fear, Pinnell’s is here! The flooring superstore in Lodi offers laminate, carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, and tile products in a vast variety of colors and styles. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the options, lean into the ability to truly customize your home with the support and expertise of a Pinnell’s employee. CARPETLAND (209) 473-3081 3110 E. Hammer Ln., Stockton CarpetlandStores.com BIG BEN’S FLOORING, CARPET, AND TILE CLEANING (209) 487-9663 3675 Wilcox Rd., Ste. A, Stockton
Thank you for voting us
Best Furniture Store (Modern)
& Best Interior Designer
429 Lincoln Center • Stockton, CA 95207 • Tel. 209-956-9250 M o n d ay - F r i d ay 1 0 : 3 0 A M - 5 : 3 0 P M S at u r d ay 1 1 : 0 0 A M - 5 : 0 0 P M • S u n d ay : C l o s e d w w w. c r p o rt e r c o l l e c t i o n . c o m
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HOME
Garden/Patio Store WITH GARDEN FLAIR (209) 933-9009 2206 Pacific Ave., Stockton WithGardenFlair.com
With Garden Flair has a little bit of everything, from big outdoor purchases (like that new fire table and rocking bench) to small extras, including candles and outdoor
décor. Regardless of what you’re looking for, you’re likely to find that (and more!) at the outdoor specialty store. And if you don’t have a specific vision in mind but know your outdoor spaces need a refresh, simply browsing the Stockton shop will offer all of the inspiration you need to redo and revise what feels tired. IN SEASON (209) 949-2499 215 E. Alpine Ave., Stockton InSeason.Store
HOME WATER FILTRATION
FIDELIS ELITE SYSTEMS 1401 Willow Pass Rd., #1025, Concord (877) 820-1971 FidelisElite.com
FURNITURE
STORE – MODERN C.R. PORTER (209) 956-9250 429 Lincoln Center, Stockton CR-Porter.com
When it comes to finding new furniture, it’s no surprise our readers are still going ga-ga over C.R. Porter’s carefully curated collection of modern designs. The Lincoln Center shop oozes class and sophistication with pieces that feel special, not like the big box stuff everyone in your neighborhood will have. One of the biggest perks is, not only is the inventory inventive and extensive, but the store is run by interior designers. Go ahead, tap into their knowledge and make your home sing! Here, we don’t choose style over comfort—you get both! THORNTON HOUSE FURNITURE (209) 369-0130 6 S. School St., Lodi THLodi.com 209 FURNITURE 1748 W. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 922-9888 209Furniture.com
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The water in your home matters, and did you know you have a choice about its quality? While we can’t decide what reservoir our home will pull water from, we can make the best of what we’re given. At Fidelis, the goal is to get every customer water that is high-quality and great tasting! Start with a free home water test, and then learn more about their purification and softening systems, including a salt-free water refinement system, multi-stage refinement, or reverse osmosis.
HOME BUILDER
FCB HOMES (209) 957-8112 10100 Trinity Pkwy., #420, Stockton FCBHomes.com
Do most people even think about who built their home? When you’re buying new construction, builder names become obvious and you’re likely to know exactly who you are dealing with, but it may be something we overlook when buying already finished homes. Pay attention to the builder; after all, they are the ones that dictate the quality of the craftmanship. If you’re home was built by FCB, you’re in good hands! This Stockton builder brings in big ratings for customer satisfaction, and when we’re looking at dropping hundreds of thousands, if not a million bucks, we want to make sure it’s a solid investment! CARESCO HOMES INC. 3350 Deer Park Dr., # C, Stockton (209) 952-6733 CarescoHomes.com ELLIOTT HOMES ElliottHomes.com
with Hunter Douglas sheers and shadings.
100
$
*
April 10–PURCHASES June 21, 2021 ON QUALIFYING
Ask for details.
ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES
Ask for details.
HADINGS
100
REBATES STARTING AT
$
* Discovery Shutters & Shadings April 10– June 21, 2021 ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd Ask for details. April 10– June 21, 2021 Stockton, CA
SILHOUETTE® WINDOW SHADINGS
Please contact store for hours Discovery Shutters & Shadings 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd Sat: Closed Stockton, CA Discovery Shutters & Shadings Sun:Lower Closed 10138 Sacramento Rd
SILHOUETTE® WINDOW SHADINGS
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 SHUTTERS & BLINDS
Please contact store for hours Sat: Closed Sun: Closed (209)contact 472-9881 Please store for hours Sat: Closed www.discoveryshutter.com (209) 472-9881 Sun: Closed www.discoveryshutter.com Stockton 209-472-9881 Lodi 209-333-0515 (209) 472-9881 Ask us about special savings select Ask us about special savings on on select www.discoveryshutter.com Hunter Douglas operating systems. Hunter Douglas operating systems. Ask us about special savings on select Hunter Douglas operating systems.
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April 10– June 21, 2021
Stockton, CA
Discovery Shutters & Shadings 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd Stockton, CA
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Mondaycontact - Friday 8store AM tofor 4 PM Please hours Call today for an appointment Sat: Closed * Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 4/10/21–6/21/21 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes HDOrigins® and Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a Reward Card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim approval. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $3.00 monthly fee Sun: Closed
shades with Po
the associ
June 27–Septe
SONNETTE™ CELLULAR ROLLER SHADES
will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2021 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.
mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 4/10/21–6/21/21 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes HDOrigins® and Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection id* ofManufacturer’s for qualifying made 4/10/21–6/21/21 dealers the U.S.Funds only.do Offer excludes HDOrigins® Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection Silhouette® Windowpurchases Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a Reward from Card andparticipating mailed within 6 weeks of rebate in claim approval. not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $3.00and monthly fee (209) 472-9881 will will be assessed against card 6 months card issuance and each month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card.approval. Additional limitations maydo apply. Askexpire. participatingSubject dealer for to applicable law, a $3.00 monthly fee ate be issued in balance the form ofafter a Reward Card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim Funds not details and rebate form. www.discoveryshutter.com ©2021 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating Discovery dealer for Shutters & Shadings 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd er Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. Ask us about special savings on select THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1Stockton, CA Hunter Douglas operating systems. HOME WATER FILTRATION Please SYSTEM! contact store for hours
(209) 472-9881 www.discoveryshutter.com
1–6/21/21 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes HDOrigins® and Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection rd Card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim approval. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $3.00 monthly fee month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for marks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.
We are honored and committed to bringing you the best solution for all your heating and air needs!
Thank you for Voting us one of the best in Air Conditioning, Heating & Solar in San Joaquin!
* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 6/27/20 – 9/7/20 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Each window fashions unit must include PowerView® Automation to qua be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 4 weeks of rebate claim approval. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 m and each month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. **PowerView App and Hub required. ©2020 reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 20Q3MAGSOC3
• Lifetime Warranty • Free Home Water Test • Reverse Osmosis • Salt & Salt Free Systems • Prevent Hard Water Stains • No More Itchy Skin • Protect your home & family • High Quality Water
Robert P. Queirolo - Never Forgotten
David R. Queirolo - Owner
(209) 464-9658
www.Queirolos.com SJMAG.COM
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PAINTER
BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN
WE PAINT (209) 937-2468 209WePaint.com
HOME
It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do! Whether you’re painting inside or outside of your home or business, the readers have chosen We Paint as their contractor of choice. Owner Jason Gonzalez and his crew promise professional, reliable, and trustworthy service from start to finish. And with We Paint, you know you’re getting the best of the best—not just because our readers voted it so, but because the team only employs skilled craftsmen dedicated to their trade. Opened in 2004, the company has been stacking their Best Of awards for years, not just from us, but from The Record, too.
INTERIOR DESIGNER KTJ DESIGN CO. (209) 932-9801 404 N. Harrison St., Stockton KathleenJennison.com
Whether you’re looking for a new couch or want to give your entire home a facelift, Kathleen Jennison has you covered. The celebrated interior designer offers full-service interior design, including a storefront with hand-selected goods to shop as well as professional help with pulling your home together or giving it a much-needed refresh. Her fullservice design promises assistance from concept to conclusion, leaning into major changes but always supporting the client’s vision first. Everything from new paint and plush pillows to updated lighting and polished built-ins is possible with KTJ and her team on your side. C.R. PORTER (209) 956-9250 429 Lincoln Center, Stockton CR-Porter.com CLASSIC DESIGN INTERIORS (209) 334-4060 2303 S. Stockton St., Lodi ClassicDesign-Interiors.com
TONY CANTON PAINTING (209) 334-2741 2400 Eilers Ln., Lodi
Kitchen/ Bathroom Design MAZZERA’S REMODELING CENTER (209) 466-9724 312 S. Sacramento St., Lodi Mazzeras.com
Did you know that the kitchen and bathrooms are the best investments when it comes to updating your home? Research shows that a remodel in these rooms will get you the most bang for your buck, and a bigger return on investment than remodels in other rooms. Mazzera’s is a Lodi-based retailer that serves San Joaquin County in a slew of renovation projects. And when you do business with Mazzera’s, you know you’re supporting a family-owned business, which always feels good. The team also doesn’t lack experience, with more than 80 years in the industry. Now that’s something we’re happy to get behind! CLASSIC DESIGN INTERIORS (209) 334-4060 2303 S. Stockton St., Lodi ClassicDesign-Interiors.com DAN DAVIS CONSTRUCTION (209) 323-0057 Dan-Davis.co
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REAL ESTATE AGENT LANCE MCHAN, BROKER ASSOCIATE (209) 986-9292 LanceMcH@gmail.com
If you haven’t heard, it may be the perfect time to sell your home. With interest rates low but home prices skyrocketing, it’s easy to say you’ll get more in return if you put your home on the market now. If you’re ready to take the plunge, we know who your first call should be! Lance McHan has a stellar reputation in the community. Selling homes since 2015, his real estate background actually began in 2000 when he started a career as an appraiser. If you have a bad taste in your mouth when it comes to real estate agents, you’re not alone! Lance avoided the career path for years because he didn’t like how some agents behaved, so instead he vowed to be the type of agent he wanted to see more of in the local market. With another Best Of award on his shelf, we’d say he achieved his goal! BETH MEREDITH, RE/MAX GRUPE GOLD (209) 969-2502 3255 W. March Ln., Ste. 400, Stockton CHARLES LEWIS REALTOR (209) 518-8145 3516 Deer Park Dr., Ste. A, Stockton CLewis.PMZ.com
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WE PAINT & RENOVATE & R E N O V AT E I N C.
Limited time only!
Cabinet Painting Special What’s included
Only * $4,200! n (Based o et) fe r a e n li 50
• We sand and prime all surfaces for the best adhesion! • All surfaces receive 2 coats of premium cabinet-grade paint *CABINET INTERIORS NOT INCLUDED
Free hardware
(New hinges, pulls & knobs; your choice of finish)
“My house looks amazing!”
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- Diane G., Stockton
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Lic# 836278
Thank you for voting
WE PAINT & RENOVATE INC. Best Painter! SJMAG.COM
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Voted “Best Winery of the Year 2022 Monterey Wine Competition!”
Join Us For Live Music Every Saturday & Sunday 1 - 4 PM
COME ENJOY GREAT WINES, LIVE MUSIC, GOOD FRIENDS, SUNSHINE & FLOWERS EVERY WEEKEND (RESERVATIONS REQUIRED).
7099 E. Peltier Rd, • Acampo • 209.333.2600 • MacchiaWines.com Come Visit Our New Location At Village West Marina Where you get served with sweetness!
Proudly Serving Gunther’s Gourmet Ice Cream Tuyens Fresh Baked Pastries Organic Acai Bowls Fresh Fruit Smoothies Hawaiian Shave Ice Featuring Trail Coffee Roosters
@sunsetsweets Open Daily From 8am-9pm • (209) 712-8764 • 6649 Embarcadero Dr. #110 Neighboring Bobs & Garlic Brothers In Village West Marina. 110
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wine&dine R E S TA U R A N T S | W I N E | D R I N K S | S W E E T S
THE DISH
MEAT-LESS, DAIRY-LESS AND FULL OF FLAVOR VEGAN SOULSTICE CATERS TO EVERYONE, VEGAN OR NOT BY SARAH STEFFENS, / D SARAH STEFFENS / BIBI BINDER
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estled beside and partnered with Downtown Stockton’s HATCH is Vegan Soulstice, a farmer’s market that celebrates fresh and delicious cruelty-free vegan food as well as arts and crafts created by community artists and makers. The brainchild of husband and wife, James and Bibi Bender, Vegan Soulstice is leading the way in teaching the community about delectable, innovative, and compassionate plant-based food. Plus, there is something about being outside in the sunshine and fresh air that elevates the entire experience of shopping and eating. SJMAG.COM
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wine & dine
VEGAN SOULSTICE 40 S. Union St., Stockton @vegansoulstice
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The market, free to attend and open to the public every first Saturday and third Sunday of the month, offers space to stroll from vendor to vendor and take in all of the cool and laidback vibes. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend and the market is dog-friendly, making it easy to get the whole family out into the community and experiencing the health and vitality of a vegan-friendly lifestyle whether you’re strictly vegan or not. Upon arriving to this Stockton gem, guests can’t help but be lured in by the tantalizing aromas that waft from each chef’s pop-up tent. Stockton is known for its ethnic diversity and the food at Vegan Soulstice celebrates that with varied menus and passionate chefs doling up creative, meat-less, dairy-less, and egg-less combos. With dishes like the must-try portabella steak (you will be amazed at this mushroom’s meaty and satisfying flavor), gourmet fried potatoes with freshly minced herbs drizzled in yummy sauces, savory sushi with creamy avocado and crisp veggies, loaded jackfruit tacos, artisan horchatas in every flavor and color of the rainbow, and perfectly soft and chewy baked cookies (try the s’more flavor or the birthday-inspired cookie with frosting and sprinkles), you will be in awe at the dishes that these vegan chefs are preparing. After you have filled your belly with
food that leaves you feeling nourished and satisfied, browse the canvases with colorful designs, succulents in a plethora of pots, and displays of handcrafted jewelry and kitchenware. You will quickly gain the sense that Vegan Soulstice is a group of vendors who are interested in more than the business of profit, they are on a mission to spread and share their passions with the community. The market is partnered with HATCH Workshop, a 501(c)(3) non-profit for emerging artists and makers with a mission of awakening and empowering the craftsperson in everyone through access to affordable workspaces, education, and equipment. HATCH artists can be found at the market presenting their works with an air of pride and dedication. James and Bibi Bender have truly created a special place in the heart of Stockton that you do not want to miss. When you see them, be sure to say hello and capture the warmth and friendliness they exude, a feeling that is reverberated throughout the market. When we share the experience with others in our community who also value the simple and rewarding practice of eating, drinking, and creating, a magical thing happens; we realize that together is the way nature intended us to grow, connect, and collaborate.
Thank Thaank You Th You For For Voting Voting Us Us #1 #1 Waffle Waffl fflee
DINER
1540 E. March Lane Suite B-5, Stockton 209-951-1175 Americanwafflediner.com American Waffle Diner Americawaffles SJMAG.COM | JULY 2022 113
resource COCKTAILS
MIXOLOGY AT HOME BY SARAH STEFFENS
T
hink you need to leave home to enjoy that cocktail? Building your own home bar is actually quite simple, with just a handful of tools, you’ll be hosting your own speakeasy in the comfort of your living room. While we can help you become a mature mixologist in no time when following this guide, establishing a secret password for your new at-home bar is on you. Keep reading to get started.
QUALITY SPIRITS Less is more when it comes to setting up your own home bar. Be sure to stock it with quality liquor that you enjoy and ask your friends what their favorite varieties of liquors are, too. Purchasing one at a time is helpful to keep costs down (perhaps a new bottle with a featured cocktail each month?) We suggest having whiskey, white rum, Scotch, gin, bourbon, rye, vodka, and brandy on hand, to keep your drink menu varied.
MIXERS, MODIFIERS, & GARNISHES Unless you are simply pouring shots, be sure to stock a few mixers and modifiers such as sweet and dry vermouth (for martinis and Manhattans), Campari (think Negronis and Americanos) and Cointreau (for those margaritas, cosmopolitans, and mimosas). You will also want some aromatic bitters; we suggest beginning with orange but there are many you
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can try. A lemon, lime, and orange variety will amp up your menu with fresh flavor and bright color, as will fresh mint, basil, and thyme, and a quality jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries.
BAR TOOLS & GLASSWARE Again, quality over quantity, when choosing bar tools and glassware. It’s better to invest in a few good pieces that will last a long time rather than unreliable tools. Keep things simple and be sure to have a mixing glass and long-handled spoon, jigger for measuring, Boston shaker for drinks with fruit juice and egg whites, and Hawthorn strainer for those pesky bits of fresh herbs we mentioned above. Other tools that will come in handy are a sharp paring knife and peeler for citrus, ice-molds (do everyone a favor and get one with a lid so that your cocktails don’t taste like that fish you froze!), and a wellprepared playlist with proper lighting to match the mood.
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 BEST PIZZA!
VISIT US AT OUR SECOND LOCATION! 4755 QUAIL LAKES DRIVE UNIT A, IN STOCKTON
1744 w. hammer ln. • stockton • 209.477.2677 SJMAG.COM
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5 5 Best
ZERO-PROOF COCKTAILS TASTY DRINKS WITHOUT THE HANGOVER BY SARAH STEFFENS
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yourself to a refreshing mocktail made with fresh, cleansing cucumber and spicy ginger beer, at Stockton’s The Black Rabbit where you can relax and unwind with a vibe that is swanky and eclectic. Pair this beverage with their Original Brussels Sprouts with bacon, mustard vinaigrette, and Fresno chili. We think the two were made for each other! 2353 Pacific Ave., Ste. B, Stockton, (209) 323-5141
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TAVERN TONIC
The folks at Market Tavern will zero-proof any of their cocktails upon request, including the Tavern Tonic, made with sparkling lemon tonic, juniper, pink peppercorn, fresh thyme, and star anise. Try this exotic drink that is perfectly spiced with any of the restaurant’s wood-fired pizzas. 36 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton, (209) 932-8001
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BERRY JUBILEE As the days get warmer this season, we know what we will be sipping over at West Oak Nosh in Lodi. The Berry Jubilee zero-proof cocktail has fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda before it is garnished with a sweet Luxardo cherry. Now all we need is a burger and fries—good thing West Oak are the experts at that, too! 10 W. Oak St., Lodi, (209) 224-8157
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SUN SETTER We cannot think of a better way to end the day than with the Sun Setter from Towne
House Restaurant at Wine & Roses. Made with fresh orange juice, sweet pineapple, refreshing lime, and tart cranberry, each sip celebrates the golden glow of the day’s end. Try this beverage that will leave you feeling relaxed with Mary’s Duck Breast and finish it all with the Upside-Down Cake for the ultimate San Joaquin County sunset. 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 334-6988
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CUCUMBER & GINGER Treat
PIMM’S CUP A
sweet and crisp mocktail made with strawberry, cucumber, and orange bitters to toast with loved ones is what we’re ordering from The Oxford Kitchen in Downtown Lodi. All of their beverages are created with their housemade elixirs and give them delectable flavor. If you’re looking to pair it with dinner, try the Grilled Pear & Avocado Salad or the Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Flatbread! 110 W. Oak St., Lodi, (209) 263-7234
Go to fedstockton.com to make reservations
(209) 594 - 0339 116 N. HuNter Street, StocktoN fedStocktoN.com tueSday – tHurSday 11am-9pm friday 11am-1:30am Saturday 10am-1:30am UIN MA
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Fresh • Flavorful • Bold Mon. - Thurs. 7:30am - 8pm Fri. - Sat. 8am -9pm 2535 Pacific Ave. Stockton, CA (209) 808-5069
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food focus FIND IT HERE AVOCADO TOAST West Oak Nosh NATIONAL AVOCADO DAY IS JULY 31
Have it for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day. Topped with pickled onions, this toast is loaded with fresh avocado! 10 W. Oak St, Lodi, (209) 224-8157
SIDE OF GUACAMOLE Don Luis Mexican Restaurant Dip your chips in the delicious homemade guacamole perfected by Chef Cuate Rivera. 5940 CA-99, Stockton, (209) 9319163
STEAK AND AVOCADO SANDWICH Mimosas Gourmet Take a bite out of this savory sandwich combination that combines perfectly cooked steak with Swiss cheese, chipotle aioli, caramelized onions, and, of course, avocado, on a ciabatta roll. 117 W. Elm St., Lodi, (209) 263-7050
CRAVINGS
THE FAT FRUIT
AVOCADO SMOOTHIE
AVOCADOS ARE DELICIOUS AND FILLING BY NORA HESTON TARTE
F
irst of all, yes—avocados are fruit. Despite being green and often confused for a vegetable, the fact that it grows on a tree and contains a seed puts it into the fruit category. If you want to get really technical, it’s actually a large berry, go figure. Avocados are one of the few fruits that contain healthy unsaturated fats, helping to lower LDL cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full longer. They are also linked to lowering cardiovascular inflammation. The higher calories and fat content may sound scary, but we promise it’s a good thing, since avocados are rich in monosaturated fats, also called “good” fats. Why else are avocados good for you? These unsuspecting fruits are high in potassium, fiber, and folate. Plus, they boast vitamins E and K.
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Q: How did the avocado baker make bread? A: With his avoca-dough
BlenderBar Lodi You can add an avocado to any smoothie on the menu in order to take advantage of its many benefits. Or order one that’s already heavy in the fruit, like the Protein Bomb featuring avocado, banana, spinach, blackberries, raspberries, yogurt, and a protein mix. 115 S. School St. #3, (209) 625-8855
Celebrating their 14th year in the Historic Tracy Inn, the chefs at Tracy Thai Restaurant have produced countless satisfied customers, with their wonderfully inventive dishes. The chef makes classics dishes like ‘Pad Thai’ and ‘Tom Kar Gai’ that leave the diner feeling that they have been transported to a street in Thailand. Many of the dishes such as Eggplant prawns, or Garlic Pork reflect a homestyle feel. The Menu is a delight and there are always Lunch and Dinner Specials. The wood panels and decors at Tracy Thai will bring you to a classic home style in Thailand. With a warm, cozy ambiance and delicious food, you would enjoy your meal at Tracy Thai.
Hailed as one of the most authentic powerhouses of Japanese cuisine in the San Joaquin valley, Komachi offers a diverse array of exquisite dishes, ranging from the freshest sashimi to mouth-watering sushi rolls. “Come as a customer, leave as our family.” Hours: Mon Thur 11AM to 9PM, Fri - Sat 11AM to 9:30PM, Sun closed KOMACHI SUSHI 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd. Lodi, (209) 334-3131 SushiKomachi.com
TRACY THAI 1035 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 833-9703
Owners Harry and Susan Yu have been a major part of the local economy since 2007 when Mikasa opened its location in Lathrop. Cooking with local produce and only using the freshest fish right from the Bay has always been key to their success. Fortunately the Yu’s chose Tracy for their newest location stocking the full bar with the most extensive liquor, sake, wine and beer selection around. Plus, with happy hour 7 days a week you’ll be sure to get your fill! Mikasa also offers off site catering and a separate banquet room for all your rehearsal dinners, large parties or business needs. Try the special SJM Roll (pictured). MIKASA JAPANESE BISTRO 2610 S. Tracy Blvd. Ste. 110 Tracy, (209) 830-8288 15138 S Harlan Rd., Lathrop, (209) 858-1818
Nestled on the Brickwalk in Lincoln Center Midgley’s Public House specializes in steaks and seafood, with an extensive appetizer menu and unique desserts. Our bar menu consist of several unique cocktails, fine wines and spirits. We have several dining options including our extensive patio, dining room with floor to ceiling open windows, and a large bar area. We offer several dining options for large parties and do catering of all sizes, including our own food truck, Midgley's Public Truck, that can be rented for private and public events. MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 296 Lincoln Center Stockton, (209) 474-7700 midgleyspublichouse.com
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wine & dine IN SEASON
Hot Diggity Dogs JULY IS NATIONAL HOT DOG MONTH BY UZANNE LEDBETTER
J
uly is the season for grilling, chilling, and soaking up the summer sun. It’s the season to celebrate America’s independence with fireworks, family, and food. And the big questions is, is there anything more American than a good ol’ fashioned hot dog? Americans spend more than seven billion dollars a year on hot dogs, and they go hand in hand with baseball, beer, and poolside barbecues. In fact, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs on the fourth of July alone. That’s enough dogs to stretch from Washington D.C. to Los Angeles five times. When it comes to how to prepare them, most folks opt for a basic approach. But the truth is, there are more ways to dress up a dog. From chili to peppers to relish and spicy jalapenos, hot dogs are as versatile as any food around. You can boil them, steam them, grill them up, or smoke them on a Traeger. Either way, you’ll satisfy both the little kids and the grownups at your next family gathering. And best part is, you can do it on a budget.
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KIMCHI KOREAN HOT DOG INGREDIENTS
½ c. mayonnaise 1 tbsp. Sriracha sauce 1 package hot dogs 1 package hot dog buns 2 c. prepared kimchi, available in grocery stores ½ c. pickled jalapenos
DIRECTIONS Stir together the mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl and set aside. Grill hot dogs. Arrange inside each bun and top with mayo mixture. Add kimchi and jalapenos and serve.
BACON WRAPPED HOT DOG INGREDIENTS
8 slices of bacon 8 hot dogs
DIRECTIONS Heat Blackstone griddle, or any flat top griddle, to medium heat. Wrap each hot dog with one slice of bacon in a spiral. Place hot dogs on the griddle and cook until bacon is crispy. Flip hot dogs one quarter and continue cooking each side until the bacon is cooked through and crispy on every side. Enjoy all by themselves, on a toasted bun with mustard, or with grilled yellow onions.
CHILI CHEESE DOG INGREDIENTS
DOGS WITH A LOCAL TWIST LOCKEFORD SAUSAGE 19775 N. Cotton St. Lockeford, (209) 727-5584 If you haven’t had a Dakota sausage from Lockeford Sausage, you might be living under a rock. These dogs are leg-en-dary in the 209, and are available at Lodi’s Street Faire, the Grape Festival, or the Farmers Market. Better yet, head out to the shop in Lockeford and grab a dozen to grill up at home.
COSTA’S FINEST KETTLE CORN CostasFinestKettleCorn. com, (209) 810-0608 The corn dogs from Costa’s Fine Kettle Corn are glorious. Crunchy, sweet, savory batter envelopes a juicy hot dog, made even better with a double dipping of mustard and ketchup. Grab one at the Farmer’s Market or any other dedicated events Costa’s attends.
MILLER’S HOT DOGS MillerHotDogs.com Did you know that Miller’s Hot Dogs, home to the Raider’s faithful hot dog lovers, is made right here in Lodi? While the original manufacturing began in 1910 in Oakland, California, they moved their plant to Lodi in 2002. You can pick up their products in local grocery stores while still supporting a local family business.
8 hot dog buns 8 beef franks 1 pound ground chuck 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 small onion, chopped, plus one-half onion chopped for garnish 1 tbsp. chili powder 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce 1 can kidney beans 1 tbsp. hot sauce of choice 1 tbsp. olive oil 2 c. cheddar cheese, shredded
DIRECTIONS Heat skillet over medium heat and add oil and ground beef. Brown ground beef and add Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Once cooked through, add tomato sauce and reduce to low heat. Add one can of kidney beans and heat through. Meanwhile, cook hot dogs until the water just starts to boil, then remove. Arrange hot dogs on buns, top with chili mixture, shredded cheese, mustard, and yellow onion. SJMAG.COM
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sweets
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
FREEZE-DRIED FRENZY DREA’S KITCHEN GETS CREATIVE WITH CANDY BY
SARAH STEFFENS
T
here may be nothing better than unwrapping your favorite candy, taking a pause, and letting it melt in your mouth. Whether you prefer rainbow-colored candies with tart and sour flavors or candies with nuts and butter, perfectly balanced and savory, we all know the pleasure of letting a sweet confection coat our tongues and send us to our own little happy land filled with clouds of marshmallows and trees with licorice trunks and gum drop branches. Don’t forget the butterscotch sunshine! Andrea Garibay knows a thing or two about creating this happy land, inspired by the latest craze of freeze-drying candy (yes, you read that correctly!). Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, is a process that removes
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98% of candy’s water, more than the 80% removed during dehydration, giving it an irresistibly crunchy and airy texture and intensified flavor. Freeze-drying preserves food, giving it a longer shelf life—not that we think it will be collecting dust on a shelf considering how delicious it is. It’s an excellent idea for those who like to stock their pantries once and enjoy daily stolen moments to savor a sweet all season long. Garibay’s business, Drea’s Kitchen, is equipped with a freeze-dryer that does all of the work for her, she just needs to do the difficult job of picking out exactly which candies to dry, a task that makes us rethink our own to-do list. “I unwrap the candy and load it into my machines,” says Garibay. “I
make English Toffee and peanut brittle and my personal favorites are my Jolly Ranchers (that taste like cotton candy), caramel apple lollipops, and ice-cream.” Drea’s Kitchen candies are currently available for purchase on Instagram or by messaging her directly.
DREA’S KITCHEN @dreas.kitchen209 Dreas.Kitchen209@gmail.com
Give Us A Call Today
(209) 957-9630
www.hedyholmesstaffing.com SJMAG.COM
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