San Joaquin Magazine May 2021

SAVING THE OLD VINES LODI'S LEGACY IS DEEP-ROOTED

HELPING THY NEIGHBOR

SALVATION ARMY'S ENEDINA ANGELINI HAS A PURPOSE

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

FACES OF THE

209

OUR AREA'S MOST TRUSTED NAMES AND FACES THAT KEEP OUR REGION MOVING FORWARD

MAY 2021

SCAN TO READ ONLINE

SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 1

Safety first.

Healing always.

While safety in health care is essential, during a pandemic, it becomes that much more critical. St. Joseph’s Medical Center received an ‘A’ rating from The Leapfrog Group, a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the United States. This grade places St. Joseph’s among the safest hospitals in the nation – an accomplishment that has never meant more than it does today, because giving our patients safe care is our top priority.

Learn more about St. Joseph’s Medical Center’s efforts to keep patients safe during the pandemic and beyond at dignityhealth.org/Stockton/covid19.

Where the Good Life is YOUR Life.

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Top-Ranked Schools Acres of Parks 13 Lakes Farmers Market Boating Lakeside Restaurant Sports Fields San Joaquin River Trail

At River Islands, you can live your best life.

Explore 9 new home neighborhoods, 20 furnished models and everything else life here has to offer.

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We’ve Got All the Bases Covered

When it comes to banking, Bank of Stockton has been a leader in the field for more than 154 years. From business loans to expand a growing venture to real estate loans to help you buy a new home, we’ve always been here for all your banking needs. We are constantly working to make banking easier and more convenient with innovative products like our mobile banking app, remote deposit and security transaction alerts. Visit one of our branches today or check us out online and let us cover all of your bases.

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THIS HEALTH HEARTHREAT TO HEART

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| MAY 2021 7

LENDING IN YOUR COMMUNITY We’re committed to supporting the borrowing needs of the communities we serve. Here are a few examples of projects we’ve recently financed for clients.

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Contents Features

MAY 2021

21 HELPING THY NEIGHBOR

Enedina Angelini, 52, has served the Salvation Army for 27 years and counting. Starting as a volunteer, she became a paid employee with the organization at the start of the pandemic. First she was filling in for someone on vacation, but when the time was up she couldn’t find it in her to leave, so she stayed on as a volunteer to assist the bare bones staff that had dwindled at the start of COVID-19, with daily needs. After a few months, she applied to be the office manager and eventually became the volunteer coordinator, which is the title she holds today. “They’re all just titles on paper,” Enedina says. “Ultimately what lines the heart from serving, it comes from God and if we’re going to serve the way Jesus served, it’s not about your title it’s just about doing what is the right thing to do.” BY NORA HESTON TARTE

36

209 FACES

21 36

Meet the faces behind the businesses that help make San Joaquin County shine. The reason this region is such a spectacular place to live is in large part because of the businesses and organizations that make up its backbone, and we’re taking a closer look at those smiling faces who make it all possible.

BY THE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE TEAM

64 SAVING THE OLD VINES

If you ever travel to Lodi’s picturesque wine country, you’ll notice the old, gnarly vines that grace the landscape. These twisted, knotty grape vines are living relics of the generations that came before us and shaped Lodi into the internationally recognized wine region that it is today.

64

BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

83

10

SUGAR, SUGAR

As soon as you walk into Sugar Mediterranean Bistro, you immediately feel at home. The restaurant, which first opened in November 2018 in the Park West Place Shopping Center on Trinity Parkway in Stockton, has quickly become a favorite among community members for its inviting atmosphere and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. “We treat everyone like family,” shares owner Juan Alonso. BY JENNIFER MORROW

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

83

Celebrate Small Businesses Stockton Small Business Week is an opportunity to showcase the impact of local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and those who support them.

VIRTUAL POP-UPS Hear from local businesses at various virtual pop-up markets.

WEBINARS Attend free webinars for resources to help support your business.

GAMES & PRIZES Compete to win a prize for supporting small business week.

www.stocktonsmallbusinessweek.com SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 11

Contents

MAY 2021

32

92

94

THE 209 24 10 WAYS TO MAKE MOM SMILE THIS MOTHER’S DAY Mother’s Day is May 9

34 LODI & KOFU A Japanese city feels much like home

90 BALLPARK FOOD & WINE PAIRINGS Ball games aren’t just for beer

26 TAKE A STROLL DOWN STOCKTON’S TACO TRAIL Eat tacos, win prizes

ABODE

94 CHERRY PICK YOUR PRODUCE Lodi Blooms offers U-Pick cherries in May-June

28 NEVER TRASH. SOMETIMES TREASURE Thrifting in the 209 30 OHANA MEANS FAMILY Everyone can thrive at the Stockton martial arts studio 32 ON DOWN THE ROAD Harris Ranch is worth the drive

NEXT ISSUE

12

78 VERTICAL GARDENS Reduce back pain and strain with this gardening hack

WINE DINE 209

86 LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT Perfect your Cinco de Mayo dinner 88 WHAT WE’RE SIPPING NOW West Oak Nosh makes a killer mocktail

96 TIDBITS Cronuts and a new beer. plus the West Oak Nosh pretzel that is bigger than your Face

IN EVERY ISSUE 14 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 96 DINING GUIDE

94

NEXT ISSUE: JAPANESE HOT SPOTS • TIPSY GRAZER • ABODES

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

THIS IS NOT YOUR MOTHER’S CATARACT SURGERY.

CALL TO LEARN ABOUT ADVANCEMENTS IN CATARACT SURGERY.

Over 55 years of Vision Care

CATARACT SURGERY • GLAUCOMA CARE • RETINAL SERVICES EYELID SURGERY • LASIK • VISION EXAMS • GLASSES • SJMAG.COM CONTACTS | MAY 2021 13

from the publisher

THE FACE

OF SAN JOAQUIN Spring has sprung, the weather is warm, and we’re fully embracing life in San Joaquin County. But we know that

READ OUR

FREE

DIGITAL EDITION

@ SJMAG.com SAVING THE OLD VINES LODI'S LEGACY IS DEEP-ROOTED

HELPING THY NEIGHBOR

SALVATION ARMY'S ENEDINA ANGELINI HAS A PURPOSE

this life wouldn’t be possible without the neighbors and community members who own and operate businesses and organizations within the region. These friendly faces are what make the county tick. From your local gym to your favorite public golf course, the worker behind the counter when you order a hot pizza to-go to the barista whipping up your favorite early morning beverage to kickstart your day, we encounter these hard workers daily, but how many of us have taken the time to get to know them or even thank them for all they do? For those of us who don’t know our local business owners and their employees on a personal level, let’s get to know them. We’ve rounded up some of the most prominent business heads in SJC, responsible for helping life run smoothly, and we’re taking a deeper look at who they are, what motivates them, and how their businesses serve a happier San Joaquin.

After you read through the profiles, we encourage you to challenge yourself and support at least one of these highlighted businesses in the month of May. It can be as easy as scheduling an HVAC service appointment before we head into the hotter months (which we should all be doing anyway) to a bigger commitment of adopting a new family member from Delta Humane Society. Regardless of how you choose to support, we can guarantee it’ll be much appreciated—and we doubt you’ll regret it either.

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY MAY

21

FACES OF THE 209 / THE OLD VINES

FACES OF THE

Happy reading!

209

OUR AREA'S MOST TRUSTED NAMES AND FACES THAT KEEP OUR REGION MOVING FORWARD

SJMAG.COM

MAY 2021

SCAN TO READ ONLINE

SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 1

TONY ZOCCOLI

tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com

14

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

LAST THOUGHTS HERE’S TO HEALTH For those of you who aren’t aware, every May San Joaquin Magazine puts out its annual Health Magazine, a publication dedicated to keeping the county healthy by exploring trending health topics, providing tips doled out by local professionals, and highlighting some of the biggest accomplishments achieved by local hospitals. Pick up a copy wherever San Joaquin Magazines are stocked— SanJoaquinMagazine.com/ find-a-copy. Call ahead to confirm copies are available.

ANCIENT WINES It’s no secret Lodi is the go-to place in the Valley for high-quality vino. But how much do you know about ancient vines? These old plants date back more than 100 years, turning out varietals unlike their younger counterparts. Take a look at some of Lodi’s winemakers behind the ancient vines, sourcing vino from a selection of rare and dignified gnarled vines found on select vineyards throughout the Lodi Appellation.

THE

MUST-HAVE

ACCESSORY

for the on-the-go

in-the-know

San Joaquin Resident 10 WINE REGIONS TO VISIT

STOCKTON HEAT

AND NONE OF THEM ARE NAPA

15TH ANNIVERSARY OF HOCKEY IN STOCKTON

Be part of

exciting 20 health advertising opportunities trends 2020

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

JANUARY 2020

TOP

2020 HEALTH TRENDS / CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF HOCKEY

FOR

CRUSH THE FARMER’S MARKET HEROES OF THE DELTA 21 WAYS TO NAVIGATE IT LIKE A PRO

KEEPING OUR DELTA CLEAN

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

JANUARY 2020 WONDER WOMEN / WOMEN IN BUSINESS

SJMAG.COM

JANUARY 2020  $3.95 Display until January 31, 2020

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JANUARY 2020

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CELEBRATING THE WOMEN

THAT MAKE SAN JOAQUIN

APRIL 2020  $3.95 Display until April 30, 2020

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THRIVE

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Call or visit: www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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| MAY 2021 15

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:

Deirdre Carlson, Faith Lewis, Megan Meintasis, Jennifer Morrow, Angela Rudolph CREATIVE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sybil Watson ASSOCIATE DESIGNER: Lucas Zoccoli CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dan Hood, Ponnie Jackson, Tim Ulmer MARKETING

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Neelam Patel ADVERTISING

Michelle Cox CIRCULATION

DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Ristrim

SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PUBLICATION FAMILY

MAGAZINE

available anytime, anywhere.

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ALWAYS PRINTED IN THE USA

Stay Active. Stay Social.

Stay Connected.

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The Law Offices of

LAWRENCE KNAPP 250 Dorris Place • Stockton, 95204

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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.

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Results THE ESSENTIAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR LIVING IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

DOWNLOAD OUR 2020 MEDIA KIT & PLANNING CALENDAR TODAY

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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.

To suggest a story idea, 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 16 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

MAGAZINE

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

SALES OFFICE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989

Meet our Doctors...

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Learn more about Dr. Franklin and his talented team by visiting www.ToddFranklinDDS.com

TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

the

209

May 9-15 is National Salvation Army Week

HELPING THY NEIGHBOR ENEDINA ANGELINI SERVES LOVE AND COMPASSION WITH A SMILE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD Enedina Angelini, 52, has served the Salvation Army for 27 years and counting. Starting as a volunteer, she became a paid employee with the organization at the start of the pandemic. First she was filling in for someone on vacation, but when the time was up she couldn’t find it in her to leave, so she stayed on as a volunteer to assist the bare bones staff that had dwindled at the start of COVID-19 with daily needs. After a few months, she applied to be the office manager and eventually became the volunteer coordinator, which is the title she holds today. “They’re all just titles on paper,” Enedina says. “Ultimately what lines the heart from serving, it comes from God and if we’re going to serve the way Jesus served, it’s not about your title, it’s just about doing what is the right thing to do.”

Today, Enedina is the face of the Stockton Corps.— the first person you see when you walk through the door and the first voice you hear if you call the office.

SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 21

>>

“It’s the least I can do, it’s a reasonable service,” she says of her position, which encompasses coordinating volunteers, working face-to-face with the community in need, and putting in hours at the pantry (that feeds both families and individuals as well as the homeless population). For anyone who needs help, whether it be food to get them to the next paycheck, rental assistance, or more long-term care, Enedina works with community members to get them the help they need. And during a global pandemic, she’s seen that need increase, as well as the range of community members the Salvation Army serves widen.

The best part about Enedina’s job, however, is that it doesn’t feel like a job at all. “It’s what we get to do,” she says.

The emphasis is on “get to.” For Enedina, who spent 34 years in postal work before switching careers, she says working with

the organization is as natural as waking up and taking a breath. “It really is just second nature to me.” Growing up a practicing Catholic with strong ties to the church, she has always been a servant to God. “I am a soldier in the Salvation Army and ultimately that comes from being a servant of God and serving my lord Jesus Christ,” she says. And it’s not just doing the work that’s important, it’s doing it with a smile.

Extending compassion, lending an ear to those struggling, practicing equality, and treating everyone who comes into the office the same, that’s what helps people. Without those qualities, Enedina says the work would be useless.

The other people who come to the Salvation Army door in Stockton aren’t there asking for help, they are there to offer it. Whether they have the time and desire to serve or were court-appointed to complete

community service, Enedina says they are invaluable to the mission. With only three employees, staff needs the help and without volunteers assembling bags in the pantry and ringing bells at the kettle during the holidays, the Salvation Army wouldn’t be able to serve the population it does.

For anyone in Stockton struggling to make ends meet, Enedina urges them to visit the Salvation Army, where the focus is on giving a handup, not a hand-out (although patrons are essentially receiving both). Don’t let pride get in the way, she warns.

“Come as you are.” And even if you don’t know how the Salvation Army can help, Enedina says to still come. If the services offered by the organization don’t serve you, Enedina and the rest of the staff make it their mission to connect you with someone who can help. That’s because when a neighbor is in need, Enedina says she can’t walk away without doing something, and she believes that is the sentiment that most people carry in their hearts. “People need to know that we’re serious about what we’re doing,” she says. “It’s all driven from love.”

SALVATION ARMY STOCKTON CORPS.

1305 E. Weber Ave., Stockton (209) 948-8955 Stockton.SalvationArmy. org

22

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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local fun

MOTHER’S DAY 10 WAYS TO MAKE MOM SMILE THIS MAY  DEIRDRE CARLSON

Mother's Day 2021 falls on Sunday, May 9. If you don't already have this day circled on your calendar, do it now. Mother's Day is the occasion to show the important women in your life how much you appreciate them.

1. ADD TO HER GARDEN. Give her a

4. CLEAN HER HOUSE: You can take on the

new flower, plant, or tree to add to her garden. She’ll cherish anything that she can always watch grow. Check out Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts. 995 Lincoln Center, Stockton

task or give her a gift card to a highly rated local cleaning service like Molly Maid so she can schedule it on her own time. (209) 7888027

2. BOOK A SPA DAY. She took care of everyone else, now it's time for her to be pampered at a local day spa, such as the newly opened Skinh Spa. Let her choose from several services and remember to include a tip when you book the gift. 315 W. Pine St., Ste. 8, Lodi

3. CAR WASH AND DETAILING. Having a clean car is a joy, but it may not be one of those luxury services that your mom buys for herself. And with two Stockton locations, Zoom Car Wash is the perfect choice.

24

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

5. COOK A SPECIAL MEAL. Make your mom's favorite and most decadent meal, including a dessert. She'll appreciate the delicious gesture. Ask the staff at Artesian Natural Foods for some great specialty food options to get you started. 145 Lincoln Center

6. DESIGN A COLLAGE. Put together a collage of photos from your family's past to display somewhere she can admire it daily.

7. GO ANTIQUING. Spend the morning browsing the many antique shop in downtown Lodi. Just looking at all those vintage items may spark some old family memories, and your mom will love the quality time.

8. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER. How many times have you heard mom say she wishes she could stop time? Well in a way, a family photo shoot does just that.

9. TAKE A HIKE. A Mother’s Day hike may help ease her stress and with many beautiful paths at Lodi Lake Park and Oak Grove Regional Park you don’t need to travel far for good views.

10. TREAT HER TO A WINE TASTING. Whether she likes red, white, or rosé, San Joaquin County is home to a winery for her with over 85 wine tasting rooms in total. Pack a picnic overlooking the vineyards at Bokisch Vineyards or enjoy munching on some handpicked snack options at McCay Cellars while sitting in their succulent garden.

The opportunities, like her love, are endless.

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF WEST NILE VIRUS

My Science Camp

SUMMER 2021

Mendoza & Figone Attorneys at Law

WORLD OF WONDERS SCIENCE CAMPS

What a great way to keep your kids engaged this summer with fun and inspiring science activities, Monday-Thursday. This year we are offering 4 Main Camps and 4 Jr. Camps, designed to activate those inquiring minds.

JUNIOR CAMPS/Ages 5-7 First Jr Camp June 7th-10th [Science Sampler] Experience hands-on lessons and activities each day that will revolve around different areas of science. A great way to kick off the beginning of June!

Second Jr Camp June 28th-July 1st

[Space Explorer Camp] A great camp for kids who want to learn about the moon, stars, planets and everything in space!

Third Jr Camp July 19th-22nd

[Engineering Camp] Ideal for kids who love building and crafting experiments hands-on. Building science based lessons, crafting experiments, and engineering techniques building games.

Fourth Jr Camp August 2nd-5th

[Second Science Sampler] This camp has been so popular we’re bringing it back just before “Back To School” season begins. Experience hands-on science lessons and science activities each day that will revolve around different areas of science.

MAIN CAMPS/Ages 8-12 Science activity lessons will differ from Jr Camp.

First Main Camp June 14th-17th

[Science Sampler] Experience hands-on lessons and activities each day that will revolve around different areas of science.

A great way to kick off the beginning of June!

Main Camps run from 9:00am - 2:00pm Members $210, | Non Members $240 Junior Camp runs from 9:00am - 12:00pm Members $100 | Non Members $115 CDC requirements will be followed accordingly

Second Main Camp June 21st-24th

[Space Explorer Camp] A great camp for kids who want to learn about the moon, stars, planets and everything in space!

Third Main Camp July 12th -15th

[Engineering Camp] Ideal for kids who love building and crafting experiments hands-on. Building science based lessons, crafting experiments, and engineering techniques building games.

Fourth Main Camp July 26th-29th

Snacks will be provided for camps if checked yes.

Main Camp: please pack a lunch.

If you are later than 15 minutes in picking up your child, you will be charged a $15 fee.

Extended Care for main Camp: Before care, begins at 8:00am, after care ends at 3:00pm (Main Camp), and ends at 1pm (Jr Camp). $15 per day OR flat rate week long care $55.

[Second Science Sampler] This camp has been so popular we’re bringing it back just before “Back To School” season begins.

Experience hands-on science lessons and science activities each day that will revolve around different areas of science.

For more information or to reserve a spot for your child, visit the WOW website for an online registration form or call (209) 368-0969.

HURRY, these science camps fill up quickly!

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| MAY 2021 25

taste of the town

TAKE A STROLL DOWN STOCKTON’S TACO TRAIL GET REWARDED FOR EATING TACOS  BY NORA HESTON TARTE Imagine a trail paved in tacos, where delicious mom and pop taco shops are serving up mouth-watering Mexican cuisines at every turn. It sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it? Lucky for Stockton residents, it’s also real. Visit Stockton created the Stockton Taco Trail, featuring nearly 50 individual businesses in the city with tacos on their menu, and they are challenging local residents to try as many tacos as they can between now and December 31.

The Stockton Taco Trail of course won’t be going anywhere in 2022, but the deadline to earn a prize for your participation ends with the New Year.

So how do you win?

Download the pass at StocktonTacoTrail. com, which will be delivered immediately to your phone by both email and text. Then, start eating tacos. The more locations you check into, the better the prize you receive will be. The grand prize for visiting all taco destinations is a Stockton swag bag, the coveted Stockton Taco Trail trucker hat, and 15 minutes of fame courtesy of a spotlight

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on the Visit Stockton social media pages recognizing you as a Taco Trail winner.

If you don’t make it to every location, you can still get in on the fun. Those who visit 25 of the trail’s businesses will get a Stockton Taco Trail t-shirt (like the one featured to the right) and those who make it to ten taco shops will take home a Taco Trail decal and air freshener, plus bragging rights—obviously. As an added bonus, all of the included taco shops are family-owned, which means while you’re challenging yourself to eat a whole lot of tacos, you’ll also be supporting your neighbors. Plus, some of the restaurants will reward you with discounts when you present the pass.

Included hot spots range from fast-food tacos like the asada and carnitas varieties from drive-thru Alberto’s Mexican Restaurant, to the homemade, family-style taco dishes at Arroyo’s Café. Other standouts include favorites such as Casa Flores and Don Luis Mexican Restaurant, the established El Dorado Market (open since 1972), and a variety of taco trucks.

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Expert Tip: Save your pass to your phone’s home screen for easy access 3 STEPS TO WIN

Sign up at StocktonTacoTrail.com Get your pass, delivered immediately to your phone by both text and email Win Prizes by checking in at locations using a special PIN

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| MAY 2021 27

local tips storefront

NEVER TRASH. SOMETIMES TREASURE. THRIFTING IN THE 209  BY JENNIFER MORROW / D PONNIE JACKSON Between discovering unique pieces, scoring amazing deals, and doing your part to protect the environment and reduce waste, you can’t go wrong by shopping second-hand! Whether you’re looking to clean out your closet or upgrade your look, San Joaquin county has a vast array of vintage, consignment, and thrift shops to explore. Here are some of our favorite spots.

LILOU OF THE VALLEY, STOCKTON Shopping at Stockton’s Lilou of the Valley Vintage is like stepping into a time portal. The store features trendy vintage clothes and accessories from the 1940s to Y2K, such as 80s band tees, weathered Levi jeans, and swing dresses. If you’re looking to add some nostalgic flare to your wardrobe, you’re sure to find something special on these racks. For customers looking for something specific, Shop Owner Shontay Rodriguez recommends calling ahead or sending a DM to the shop’s Instagram (@lilouofthevalleyvintage).

Whether you’re a seasoned vintage shopper or new to the retro fashion game, Lilou of the Valley’s wide selection of stylish throwback pieces will help you step out of your comfort zone and have fun with your personal style.

New & Again

My Best Friend’s Closet,

MY BEST FRIEND’S CLOSET, TRACY My Best Friend’s Closet is Tracy’s go-to shopping destination for finding authentic, upscale items, from Tory Burch bags to Chanel earrings. The shop also features a wide variety of children’s fashion and gifts.

To consign, clients can schedule an appointment over the phone to drop off their items, which are then reviewed for condition, seasonality, and demand. For shoppers looking for high-end pieces to jazz up their look, either stop by the store or browse the boutique’s curated collection of stylish pieces available online.

My Best Friend’s Closet,

NEW & AGAIN, LODI For special, timeless items to furnish your home, check out New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery in Lodi, a family-owned business that offers quality decor at great prices. At New & Again, you can find gently-used dining sets, dressers, lamps, sofas, and much more. Additionally, the shop assists with estate sales and consignments by working with clients directly to evaluate and purchase items. New & Again also proudly supports many local charities, including Lodi House Thrift Store, another great second-hand shop that provides support for homeless women and children in the community.

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP: LILOU OF THE VALLEY VINTAGE 32 Acacia St., Stockton (209) 851-0434

MY BEST FRIEND’S CLOSET 53 W. 10th St., Tracy (209) 833-6232 MBFCloset.com

NEW & AGAIN CONSIGNMENT FURNITURE GALLERY 210 S. School St., Lodi (209) 368-2200 NewAndAgainOnline.com

Lilou of the Valley

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| MAY 2021 29

locals to know

OHANA MEANS FAMILY OHANA MARTIAL ARTS OFFERS ACCESSIBLE CLASSES FOR EVERYONE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD Advancing through belt classes at a dojo— regardless of the specific style—is a tough task for everyone. The classes require focus, strength, and athleticism as athletes

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

young and old build on skills to become proficient in martial arts. At Ohana Martial Arts/ Whelan’s Kajukenbo, the focus is on an accessible style of Hawaiian-based martial

space that is also arts that is open to fun for all ages. everybody. “In our Angelo and school it’s not just William Samson about punches and are two of kicks. It’s also about Tami’s students character building, that represent which we have a everything it program that instills means to thrive in every student with special needs. good morals and The two brothers, values.”

20 and 21, Every student participate in both who comes through private lessons Tami Whelan’s dojo and group lessons learns more than at Ohana. Already a few moves. In they’ve advanced addition to holds to a yellow belt and take downs, and took home students build first place at a character through virtual pandemic focus, respect, and tournament, discipline. This carrying a sense aspect of martial of pride and arts is beneficial for accomplishment many children (and with them every even adults, too), time they reach and it has a way of a new milestone. reaching children Their mother, with special needs Jeramie, says she in a way other has recognized a programs may not. boost of confidence Among Tami’s in both of her sons students are through martial those with ADHD, arts, and it’s a cerebral palsy, and benefit she says autism. She has even taught a class is important for for the blind center all children. in the past. “The She also credits benefits I have seen the sport with with special needs advancing their is the excitement ability to follow of accomplishment simple directions. and perseverance For Jeramie, that you don’t martial arts normally see from provided a social students that do not outlet while schools have special needs,” were shutdown, Tami explains. peer interaction Sometimes children her sons need, who feel they are and an opportunity different or don’t to make friends. learn typically can It also gave them struggle to fit in, a way to get but a dojo active and evens the pursue a playing sport they OHANA MARTIAL ARTS/WHELAN’S field and enjoy, while KAJUKENBO creates a many others 2714 Country Club sense of didn’t Blvd., Stockton belonging pique their (209) 814-4297 in a safe interest.

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Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net WriteStart is an equal opportunity employer and provider. License No. 393620552 SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 31

for your information

On Down the Road:

HARRIS RANCH  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

With leisure travel back open, many of us are itching to explore outside of our bubbles. For many it’s motivated by the reduction in cases, for some it’s the lifting of restrictions, and for others the ability to get vaccinated has them yearning to hit the road. Your first vacation doesn’t have to be far away. If you’re looking for a relaxing overnight or quick weekend trip, consider going somewhere nearby, socially-distanced, and unexpected. Instead of big tourist destinations, take a road less traveled and make an adventure out of it at Harris Ranch, a rural escape located halfway between the big cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Stay. Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant is a hidden gem. Whether you came here to getaway or are stopping over on a longer road trip out of town, the 153-room inn offers plenty in the way of rest and relaxation from well-appointed rooms bursting with luxurious amenities to on-site comforts including a pool, jacuzzi, and plenty of lounge chairs to put your feet up on in between dips. For a hotel with less bells and whistles (and perhaps a smaller price tag) check out the Best Western Plus Coalinga Inn.

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Eat. Here, it’s about the beef. These money makers are everywhere in Coalinga, including on the plates of hungry diners. The Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant offers your most popular dining choice for the evening. Most of the meat is going to be locally sourced, such as the Harris Ranch prime rib, filet mignon, ribeye, and more. Other specialties are made local, too, including flavorful dressings, farm-fresh vegetables, and olives, so you’ll really be enjoying the area’s bounty. If you’re looking for a more casual eatery, try the well-reviewed Harris Ranch Express BBQ, sourcing much of that same quality meat and serving it up as quick bites for patrons on the move.

Play. Many who visit Harris Ranch do so for the golf and steak dinner itinerary.

Lemoore Golf Course is about 30 miles outside of Coalinga and a popular stopoff for those staying at the Inn. A bit farther down the road, you can find tee times at Hunter Ranch Golf Course.

Keck Park & Community Center offers a break for families in town where you can have a picnic, play on the playground, or even get in a few rounds of disc golf or games of HORSE. To incorporate a little history into your stay, check out the fossils and Native American artifacts at R.C. Baker Memorial Museum (call ahead for up-todate hours as the museum has experienced temporary closures due to COVID-19).

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| MAY 2021 33

sister cities

LODI

CA

& KOFU

JAPAN

SIXTY YEARS AS SISTER CITIES  BY FAITH LEWIS

For 60 years the cities of Lodi and Kofu, Japan have fostered a relationship across cultures and more than 5000 miles, sharing their histories, traditions, and love of vineyards with each other.

Sister Cities were born of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s vision to create a global network of cities with strong bonds, an eagerness to share their culture, and a desire to foster peace and prosperity. Since its inception in 1956, this lofty goal has lived on through more than 500 cities in more than 140 countries around the world.

“An active relationship with Kofu, Japan, began in 1961,” says Bill Hinkle, president of Lodi’s Sister City Committee, which was founded the same year and still spearheads the exchange between the two cities.

He explains that Kofu was chosen because it, like Lodi, is at the heart of a grape growing region. The Yamanashi

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Prefecture, where grapes have been cultivated for the past 1300 years, is known as the “Kingdom of Fruit.”

Nestled in a valley and surrounded by the Japanese Alps and the iconic and imposing Mt. Fuji, Kofu is at the heart of a region rich in hot springs, grapevines, temples, and historic sites. Recognized as the birthplace of Japanese wine, vineyards still play an important role in the region.

Since 1961, Lodi’s Sister City Committee has arranged for the exchange of gifts, including sending Tokay grapevines to Kofu. In return, Lodi was gifted a miniature shrine and cherry trees for the Kofu Park. The Sister City Committee also facilitates an exchange of cultures by organizing community trips to and welcoming visitors from Kofu.

If you know where to look, you can find evidence of this Sister City relationship and the committee’s

ongoing efforts all around Lodi, especially at Lodi’s Kofu Park. “We were instrumental in getting the Sister City Logo included on the Mauch Yamashita scoreboard at Kofu Park [and] have cleaned and stained the Torii gate at Kofu Park,” Bill says. “We are [also] currently working with the City Parks Department to restore the Japanese Garden located at Lodi Lake Park.”

A trip to Kofu had initially been planned to celebrate the 60th anniversary, but with travel tabled for the time being, the festivities are going to look a little different. Instead, Bill is working to coordinate a video call between the two cities’ mayors and arranging to send a gift. He is hopeful that a trip can be planned for next year.

CITY OF LODI (209) 333-6702

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| MAY 2021 35

Faces of the 2021

THIS REGION IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE DUE IN LARGE PART TO THE

ORGANIZATIONS, PROFESSIONALS, AND ENTREPRENEURS THAT CHOOSE TO DO BUSINESS HERE. FROM INDUSTRY LEADERS TO SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS MAKING AN IMPACT, THESE ARE THE FACES OF THE 209. D DAN HOOD

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

2021

THE FACE OF CANINE BOARDING, TRAINING & GROOMING Jack and Kathy Weber love dogs. They have a long history of caring for their furry children, raising and competing with several breeds since the 1960s. One lesson the couple learned during their decades caring for, training, and grooming dogs was that dogs, much like children, have their own culture and a lot of needs.

The most well-behaved dogs are well taken care of: groomed regularly, kept pest-free, healthy, and trained. To help families in San Joaquin County cultivate strong relationships with their own four-legged friends, the duo opened The Canine Culture, a full service stop that provides a variety of services including boarding, training, and grooming. The added convenience is it’s all under one roof. And Jack and Kathy pride themselves on being handson—no corporate management team taking over here.

For over twenty years, The Canine Culture has provided outstanding care for pets when owners need to be away. “Good hygiene contributes to good health for canines just as it does for humans,” Jack explains. That’s why The Canine Culture places an emphasis on keeping canines in their care well-groomed and educating customers on how best to keep up their health and

ensure a long lasting partnership. “Our grooming services are first rate and will ensure your canine is in the best possible condition.”

The couple also notes that relationships with our pets are give and take, and training doesn’t only benefit the pooch but the human owner, too. Jack adds, “We help customers understand their canines, how to teach and learn from them to build the best possible lifetime relationship.”

While it takes a big team to provide the highest level of care for pets who are boarded on site, come in for routine grooming, or for training, Jack and Kathy remain part of the day-to-day operations and actually live on-premises. With a carefully selected and welltrained staff, the family-owned business ensures the finest level of care and superior results in all of their service endeavors. “The canine comes first with us,” Jack says.

THE CANINE CULTURE

9751 CA-99, STOCKTON (209) 931-0758 | CANINECULTURE.COM

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| MAY 2021 37

2021

THE FACE OF AUTO REPAIR The motto at Fix Auto is a very reassuring one: “Taking care of cars and the people who drive them.” As Stockton’s oldest body shop, it’s clear they’ve got that down to an art. And while the auto repair shop has transitioned to Fix Auto, it is still operated

by Aurora Collision, meaning customers get the same great service they've come to expect.

But Fix Auto Stockton does more than just repair your car after an accident. They can also do detailing, decal removal, and headlight restoration. Additionally, Shaun is happy to inspect used cars, free of charge, prior to purchase, potentially saving you the hassle of future repairs.

Once they’re finished with your car, you can take comfort in the fact that you’ll have a lifetime warranty. And if you have an emergency, give them a call – even after hours, Shaun will get the message and can help you address the problem immediately. “I don’t care what kind of car comes in,” promises Shaun. “It’ll get the same kind of attention.”

Owner Shaun Arroyo strives to make the painful process of collision repair as stress-free as possible. “I’m like the car lawyer,” he jokes.

“I only want my customers to worry about when the car will be done.” But once you’re in Fix Auto's capable hands, even that will be a refreshingly easy process. With systems that keep customers notified of their car’s progress, plus Shaun’s dedication to explaining the repair process and how long it’ll take, there’s truly little for anyone to worry about. At their new location, even their hours are convenient – and, they’re open on Saturdays, which is especially helpful for commuters who can’t come in on weekdays.

38www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM 38MAYSAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

FIX AUTO COLLISION STOCKTON / AURORA COLLISION 810 S. MONROE ST., STOCKTON (209) 465-2636 | AURORACOLLISION1.COM

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE SJMAG.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF COFFEE For many locals, House of Coffees is just that - a place to gather, feel at home and enjoy a great cup of Joe! But coffee isn’t the only drink on the menu. Craving a sweet afternoon treat? House of Coffees also offers Italian sodas, milkshakes, and an assortment of other delicious drinks. Need a beer? Come in during happy hour and treat yourself to a local brew. With so many drinks to choose from, it’s easy to see why House of Coffees is Lodi’s one stop, drink shop!

For Sami Terra, memories at the coffee shop on the corner date back to childhood. Having grown up as a loyal customer, Sami built a close bond with the former owners of the shop. But it wasn’t until she went away to college that she started working at a coffee shop herself and became passionate about the specialty coffee industry.

Sami knew she wanted to return to Lodi after graduating, and it was as if the stars aligned when she got a call from the owner of

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

House of Coffees telling her that she was going to sell and hoped Sami would be interested. Sami says she knew that this was her if not now, then when moment, and in February 2018, she became the new owner.

For Sami, the best part of the job is the community aspect. “It’s the people you get to know and meet every day,” says Sami.

“Specifically, you have a lot of new customers, as well as ones that have been coming in for the past 25 years – you get to form so many great relationships!” She refers to House of Coffees as, “The place where we know your name, and remember what you like to drink.” It’s the house that leaves you feeling right at home.

HOUSE OF COFFEES

239 LAKEWOOD MALL, LODI (209) 368-2611 | HOUSEOFCOFFEES.COM

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|

2021

Cameron Alyssa

David

Zack

THE FACE OF PIZZA At David’s Pizza, being involved with the community is just as important as serving up delicious pizza. “Getting to know the customers who come in regularly is the most satisfying part of the business,” says David Calder, owner of David’s Pizza. With more than 27 years of experience under his belt and an array of loyal customers to show for it, it’s safe to say that David serves up a mean slice of “za”, too.

“We make our own dough and pizza sauce daily,” says David.

“Everything is made with a lot of love and care.” Fresh, locallysourced ingredients and a family-friendly atmosphere are just a few reasons why David’s Pizza is a San Joaquin favorite. From their old fashioned, hand-tossed dough freshly baked in a brick oven, to their diverse array of 12 signature pizzas on the menu (including the option to create your own pizza masterpiece) David’s Pizza caters to both tradition and trend in their pizza styles and flavors.

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For customers craving something different, David’s Pizza offers savory pastas smothered in homemade sauce, fresh sandwiches served on a Genova roll, as well as a variety of appetizers to choose from, including some of the best wings in town! A customer favorite, the “Family Special” is the perfect group choice – it includes a large 2-topping pizza, family salad, and a 2-liter soda of your choice. So, whether you want to grab a hot slice of pizza for lunch on the go or take friends and family out for a pizza night, David’s Pizza is the local place to go!

“It’s all about consistency, and connecting with the community,” says David. “You can expect a family-friendly atmosphere with good music, good food, and good conversation when you come to David’s.”

DAVID’S PIZZA

1744 W. HAMMER LN., STOCKTON (209) 477-2677 I DAVIDSPIZZAS.ORG

2021

THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN Those looking to renovate a residential property rush to work with Kathleen Jennison and her team at KTJ Design Co. The entrepreneur and businesswoman has made a successful career out or turning humdrum houses in Stockton and neighboring towns into masterpieces families can’t wait to call home.

With her signature service, The Meticulous Method, Kathleen combines both project management and design. Her organizational skills keep homeowners on track when it comes to budget, timeline, planning, décor, and more. The trick is creating parameters early, and not letting clients break the bank once they are knee-deep in decisions.

KTJ Design assists with a wide range of home renovation projects but their bread and butter is complete restorations, ripping houses down to their studs and designing them literally from the ground up. This allows for careful replanning of space to build a home that meets a client’s individual needs. Then, elements such as flooring and wallpaper, paint and appliances are added before Kathleen and her team use their expert eye and available 2,400 square foot showroom in Stockton to assist clients in choosing custom furniture for the space and décor to bring the final picture to fruition. Every finish

from floor to ceiling is carefully selected with the help of an interior design expert.

Kathleen’s empire started in 2006 after a car accident and traumatic brain injury altered her personality. The CPA suddenly had an urge to dive into her artistic side and at the urgence of her doctors started taking art classes to improve cognitive function. A few years later Kathleen graduated with her second bachelor’s degree, this time in Interior Design from the Art Institute in Sacramento. This coupled with her existing degree in business administration formed the perfect combination of skills to start a home design company during a recession and continue to thrive even through a pandemic. Along the way, Kathleen has amassed a team of interior design professionals to assist in bringing customer’s visions to life while also opening her boutique furniture store in Stockton as a means of giving customers a place to see and feel products before ordering their own custom pieces.

KTJ DESIGN CO.

404 N. HARRISON ST., STOCKTON | (209) 932-9801 KATHLEENJENNISON.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF HVAC Lovotti Inc. was created on the precedence of doing local HVAC better, and for the past 15 years, owner Scott Lovotti believes his company is continuously succeeding. A consistent winner of San Joaquin County’s Best Of HVAC category—for more than eight years running—Lovotti Inc. has also received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, confirming that Lovotti Inc. is indeed doing HVAC better.

Services offered by Lovotti Inc. include air conditioning, electrical, heating, indoor air-quality, plumbing, and refrigeration. A one-stop-shop for all your home and business installment, construction, and repair needs, Lovotti prides itself on providing honest workmanship and exceptional customer service. “We make sure that all of our technicians are highly trained to perform their jobs,” says Scott. “We are consumers as well, so we know what it takes to provide the customer with a service at a reasonable price.”

The first thing Scott will tell anyone is he couldn’t do it alone.

A lesson he learned from his father, former baseball coach Paul Lovotti, is his business motto: “You are only successful as the team you build around you.” That’s why Scott only hires technicians and office staff he can trust, those with the same dedication to customer service Scott himself exudes. Above all else, Scott

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attributes the business’ success to the great team that makes up his company, including Office Manager Silvia Almazan, Utilities Project Manager Brian Thompson, HVAC Senior Estimator Ryan Prudhel, HVAC Project Manager Artie Jewel, HVAC Service Manager Dustin Deutscher, Electrical Manager Josh Dunkin, Plumbing Manager Jose Navarro, Refrigeration Manager Tim Thimler, Sheetmetal Manager JD Raya, Jason Canez, Project Engineer. Bryan Wichman, HVAC Residential Estimator, Joseph Lovotti, Safety Coordinator, and all supporting staff.

Beyond HVAC, Lovotti Inc. is a business of the community, not only providing an essential service to San Joaquin County residents, but also serving the community through several philanthropic efforts including support of The First Tee Program, United Way, United Cerebral Palsy, March of Dimes, St. Jude’s, Local Community Hospice, Stockton Ports, Stockton Kings, VFW and current and former military personal, various schools, and various youth athletic programs.

LOVOTTI INC.

3717 WEST LANE., STOCKTON (209) 931-2100 I LOVOTTIINC.COM

2021

THE FACE OF PUBLIC GOLF Manteca Park Golf Course is fast becoming one of the top courses in the Central Valley for playability and value, and The City of Manteca is proud of its hometown course, which represents some of the best greens in the Valley.

Living up to its motto, ‘The Public Course with the Country Club Feel’, Director of Golf Jeff DeBenedetti says, “We treat our customers like family and we do what we can to exceed their expectations. All players of all ability levels are welcome and will enjoy their round of golf here.” It’s not only one of the most affordable courses in the area, but also one of the best quality.

Jeff and his team are embracing the idea of community at the course. A big part of the mission involves expanding junior golf in Manteca. Employees told Jeff they once left the city to play golf at the junior level because there wasn’t a local outlet. All of that has changed. Manteca Park hosts four junior programs to hit every caliber of player. And with Jeff at the helm—his last junior golf team won the junior’s PGA national championship—young golfers are in good hands.

The full facility is more than an 18-hole course. It also offers a driving range, golf carts, a chipping green, and a putting green,

plus a banquet hall, coffee shop, clubhouse, and full-service golf shop.

For those who haven’t seen the course since 2017, there was a significant re-design. The holes were renumbered to encourage a better game flow and a faster pace of play, plus a better last hole experience. What was once known as a slow course can now reasonably be played in just over four hours.

The course is committed to maintaining its high degree of play.

The City of Manteca’s superintendent keeps the grounds looking fresh, the playing conditions top-notch, and the drainage running seamlessly. Condition-wise, Jeff says it’s one of the top courses in the San Joaquin Valley, and the prices give players the best value in the valley ($29 on weekdays, $34 on weekends). Perhaps the biggest perk, however, is the course location. “It’s right here in peoples’ backyard,” Jeff says.

MANTECA PARK GOLF COURSE

305 N. UNION RD., MANTECA (209) 825-2500 | MANTECAPARKGOLF.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF HOME DÉCOR Lincoln Center’s C.R. Porter is a homeowner’s dream. Stepping foot into the shop immediately evokes a sigh of relief, as guests browse a collection of opulent goods curated to bring style and grace to their abode. Owners Mat and Tyler pride themselves on operating a showroom brimming with high-end touches and tasteful pieces to elevate every home. From the bright throw rugs to the stylish couches, over-sized chairs to bar top accessories, there’s nothing C.R. Porter doesn’t have when it comes to sophisticated décor.

In addition to being the go-to spot for our own homes, C.R. Porter also stocks items perfect for hostess gifts, wedding gifts, and more, from urbane stemware to sweet-smelling designer candles.

Recently the store added another element, as well—a wedding registry feature that allows guests to buck the big box store filled with cookie-cutter wares and instead select refined pieces to complement their one-of-a-kind tastes.

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While you’re searching for the perfect cushy throw pillow to add to your collection, or a delicate wine decanter to adorn your dining room table, you won’t be left to your own devices (unless you choose to be). The staff at C.R. Porter, with Mat and Tyler at the helm, carry with them an abundance of knowledge in home décor to help you carefully select items to complete your vision.

Plus, there is more than what meets the eye. If the perfect piece doesn’t sit inside of C.R. Porter when you walk in, the staff will do their best to hunt down your dream décor, using the myriad of vendors available at their fingertips. And regardless of who approaches you while browsing at C.R. Porter, you’ll be in good hands—every member of the C.R. Porter staff has a detailed eye, an eagerness to help, and their own style to help you navigate the store’s thoughtfully sourced comforts.

C.R. PORTER

429 LINCOLN CENTER (209) 956-9250 | CR-PORTER.COM

2021

THE FACE OF ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY Coming up on 48 years, Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group’s board-certified physicians Dr. George Bensch, Dr. Gregory Bensch, and Dr. Michael Balduzzi have been pioneers in the diagnosis and specialized treatment of asthma and a variety of allergic conditions. With locations in eight cities, AIAMG’s patient-centered care has improved the lives of patients throughout the San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Calaveras, and Sacramento counties.

AIAMG specializes in evaluation and treatment of environmental, food, drug, and insect sting allergies, hay fever, sinus disease, anaphylaxis, chronic respiratory conditions, asthma, as well as allergic skin conditions such as hives and eczema. Careful

assessment of patients’ needs is vital to AIAMG’s clinical process, and the doctors who work here are the best in the county.

Amongst the three physicians, we’ve won The Best of San Joaquin 2016 – 2020.

We are excited to announce Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi in July 2021.

We welcome him with opens arms to our AIAMG family and continue to thrive diligently by providing excellent care to our community.

ALLERGY IMMUNOLOGY & ASTHMA MEDICAL GROUP 4628 GEORGETOWN PL. (209) 951-5353 I ALLERGYIMM.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF GOJU RYU Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts and Supplies has been a pillar in the karate community since 1984, teaching the system of Karate known as Goju Ryu under the international organization of Goju Ryu Uchiage Kai. Starting with its Stockton location, the dojo now operates additional satellite karate school locations at Stockton GymStars, Modesto GymStars, Hiers Goju Ryu in Lodi, and United Bay Area Karate Club in San Jose.

Goju Ryu combines fighting traditions from both Okinawa Japan (Go) and China (Ju). Loosely translated, go means hard and ju means soft, resulting in a balanced style of fighting that is able to tow the line between direct and indirect fighting movements.

“The mixture of the combined cultural fighting systems makes our style very affective for self-defense,” says Owner and Chief Instructor Gene Tibon. But while Tibon’s is one of the goto places for self-defense training, it’s equally important for competitive athletes. “Over the last 37 years we have developed over 450 gold medal national champions, 220 Pan-American karate champions, and currently have a 2021 Summer Games Olympic hopeful in Karate.”

In 2019, Tibon was awarded his eighth Dan Certification (an eighth degree black belt), which made him the second highest ranking senior in the Goju Ryu Uchiage Kai organization in the

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world. He’s also been inducted into 12 Martial Arts Hall of Fame organizations including the Stockton Sports Hall of Fame and the A.A. Stagg High School Hall of Fame. “I’m now the Ambassador of Masters Hall of Fame, one of the most prestigious Hall of Fame organizations in the world,” Tibon says.

Community is also important to Tibon and his team. In addition to fundraising for the studio’s athletes to advance their careers and pay their way to competitions, Tibon’s has also had a heavy hand in raising money for children’s charities and other causes through benefit tournaments. The goal is to raise a future generation of modern-day samurais—because samurai means to serve.

Students who sign up at Tibon’s do so on a month-to-month basis, the dojo adheres to safety protocols to fight against COVID-19, and when students receive their black belts at Tibon’s they are internationally recognized and certified.

TIBON’S GOJU RYU FIGHTING ARTS AND SUPPLIES 923 N. YOSEMITE ST., STOCKTON (209) 465-0943 I TIBONKARATE.COM

2021

THE FACE OF DINER CUISINE When you’re looking for easy, home-made cooking, the local diner is your feel-good spot every day of the week. Those who live and work in Stockton are lucky that American Waffle Diner is their neighborhood stop for good breakfast and lunch grub. The large menu boasts an array of decadent waffles as well as other breakfast staples such as eggs benedict and country fried steak plus a full lunch menu including soups, salads, sandwiches, and more. The emphasis is on fuss-free meals done right, and delicious beverages to sip along with them (think flavorful mimosas and an award-winning Bloody Mary).

Nesrin Shabbar is the mastermind behind this hometown hot spot that recently celebrated 12 years in business. Nothing has been able to slow the entrepreneur down, as her restaurant constantly graces our Best Of lists year after year, earning praise for Best Waffle, Best Bloody Mary, and Best American Cuisine.

The success of her business has even been noted on Good Day Sacramento and Fox 40 three different times.

While good food and customer satisfaction are the most important aspects of Nesrin’s business, the behind the scenes work is just as important. She has worked tirelessly to catapult American Waffle Diner into the spotlight, encouraging people near and far to stop

in for a cup of coffee and plate of eggs—or anything else on the menu. Her MBA in business certainly helps Nesrin chase down success, with a business acumen and marketing know-how that help promote the quality product she is putting out.

As COVID-19 has caused the restaurant industry to ebb and flow, American Waffle Diner has stayed ahead of the curve, transitioning to extended outdoor dining under white tents when indoor dining was shuttered and upgrading the permanent patio space with new furniture and heaters. When open indoors, increased safety protocols give customers peace of mind while they dine.

Running a successful restaurant in Stockton isn’t always an easy endeavor but It continues to bring Nesrin both satisfaction and joy. Seeing the smile on customer’s faces as they enjoy good food and good conversation inside her diner are all the motivation Nesrin needs to continue her successful brand.

AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER

1540 E. MARCH LN., STE. B-5, STOCKTON (209) 951-1175

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2021

THE FACE OF HIGHER EDUCATION Humphreys University is a WASC-accredited, private, non-profit institution of higher education with campuses in Stockton and Modesto, offering certificate, associate, bachelor, master, and juris doctor degrees in five broad academic areas: law, business, education, human services, and liberal arts.

Humphreys has been serving the higher-education needs of Stockton and surrounding communities continuously for over 125 years by providing anyone with a desire to learn and improve the opportunity to achieve a high-quality college education. Humphreys is not a huge public institution or a pricey private institution. It lands somewhere in between by offering an excellent education at a reasonable cost in a personal, caring, accessible environment. Humphreys is committed to its students’ success at every step, from the moment they inquire about admission to the day they walk across the stage and receive their degree.

As a small open-enrollment university, Humphreys believes in the power of education for personal and civic improvement and in the opportunity for all to pursue a college degree. Humphreys subscribes to a teacher-practitioner model of education; most faculty are working professionals in their fields of study who bring the richness and relevancy of their real-world experience and expertise to the classroom. Humphreys remains focused on

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its founding principles: a local, independent, career-oriented “college for the community” that serves its students exceedingly well through quality, relevant education, and extraordinarily personalized and attentive service.

Since 1896, Humphreys has upheld many of the same principles that helped the university garner success early on, dedicated to post-secondary education and to serving the educational needs of our students and community. It was first run by John R. Humphreys, Sr. and has been continuously run by four generations of Humphreys. Dr. Humphreys, Sr. (president, 1980–2015) says, “The founder believed that any sound programs must first be concerned with meeting the educational needs of the individual student and, second, with ensuring the program contains elements of general and career or professional education. The university has maintained this simple philosophy throughout its long service to the community.” When it opened, Humphreys University was the only higher learning institution in the San Joaquin Valley and remained that way until 1924.

Today, it remains the oldest operating college in the region and, for good reason, it is the hidden gem of the Central Valley.

HUMPHREYS UNIVERSITY

6650 INGLEWOOD AVE., STOCKTON (209) 478-0800 I HUMPHREYS.EDU

2021

THE FACE OF FINE JEWELRY Men looking to impress their significant others, women shopping to spoil themselves, and friends going all-in on a milestone gift will all be wowed by the selection at Peck’s Jewelers in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. Operated since 1945, not only is Peck’s the oldest family-owned jewelry store in Stockton, but it is also owned by Jeff Fields, San Joaquin County’s only Certified Gemologist Appraiser (C.G.A.). With that level of exclusivity, you can only imagine how opulent and diverse the inventory is.

From dazzling engagement rings designed to astound to pendants that will perfectly adorn a bride’s neckline on her big day, the specialty at Peck’s is wedding jewels. Any piece you wish to have is attainable with the right budget thanks to Peck’s custom options that allow customers to design their own pieces with the careful eye of a resident expert and a selection of highquality jewels hard to find anywhere else in the Valley. From design to fabrication, every step of the process is completed in California, so you never have to worry about lengthy transports or lost pieces. In addition, Peck’s offers diamond fashion jewelry to include necklaces, earrings, colored stones, and more, so you

can skip the custom process if the right piece is in store. Peck’s Jewelers also offers in-house jewelry repair, which means if your diamond chips or a clasp on your family heirloom breaks, Peck’s has the magic solution to turn it new again. Plus, cleaning services that will keep your ring sparkling as bright as it did on your wedding day.

Passed down through the years, Jeff is the third generation owner of Peck’s Jewelers and a Graduate Gemologist, or G.G., one of the industry’s most prestigious credentials that certifies Jeff’s knowledge of both diamonds and colored stones. With this certification, Jeff is more than qualified to help eager grooms handpick the best rings for their brides, from diamond to setting, and any other significant piece of jewelry you could ever plan to buy.

PECK’S JEWELERS

260 LINCOLN CENTER, STOCKTON (209) 478-6510 I PECKSJEWELERS.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF MEXICAN DINING It’s a family affair at Don Luis Mexican Restaurant, where the entire Rivera clan works hard to serve delicious and authentic Mexican meals from recipes prepared by their families and passed down through the generations—that’s the secret sauce to Chef and Owner Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera’s success with the Stockton eatery. And unlike some restaurants, this familyowned operation sees Cuate and his family at the helm, all of whom are hands on—not only are the recipes their own, but they all work in the restaurant, serving meals alongside staff, and lending a hand in the kitchen. In addition to Cuate, his wife Alexandra Rivera is often spotted on-site as well as their five children Alex, Tito, Jesh, Abby, and Gio (and number six is on the way).

At Don Luis, Cuate makes a point of sourcing fresh ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible, meaning your meal at Don Luis doesn’t just support the Rivera family but other local families and businesses, as well. And the unique meals made in the Don Luis kitchen—think popular plates including the torta Cubana, three amigos fajitas, and a collection of sizzling soups sure to make your mouth water—come from the hand of Cuate

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himself, a head chef who moved from Mexico City to Stockton in 1996 and explored European cuisine in 2011, bringing with him his worldly expertise. With so many items on the menu it can be hard to choose, but the tortillas may just be the real prize of the establishment. Homemade, fresh, and served warm, we recommend dipping them into one of the menu’s soups or the queso dip for extra flavor.

Don’t forget to wash down your poblano chile rellenos with a beverage from the full bar. Don Luis’ has become just as known for their over-the-top cocktail concoctions as they have their Mexican cuisine. No meal here is complete without one of the bar specialties, featuring everything from flavored margaritas and mojitos to decked-out Bloody Marys and Micheladas. Check out the seasonal drink menus for inspiration before you order.

DON LUIS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

5940 CA-99, STOCKTON (209) 931-9163 I DONLUISMEXICANRESTAURANT.COM

THE FACE OF

2021

CARDIOLOGY Dr. Manshadi knew from a young age that he wanted to be a physician. “During a complicated pregnancy and birth, competent doctors in Israel saved both my and my mother’s lives,” he explains. Today, he seeks to emulate the confidence of those doctors by saving lives, educating others, and truly honoring the Hippocratic Oath.

Named a top doctor by Castel Connolly, Dr. Manshadi began volunteering and administering EKGs at UC Davis Medical Center as a college student at the age of 18. There, he met Ezra Amsterdam, a teacher and mentor. “He instilled in me the love of cardiology,” he says.

There was not only a love, but serious talent, as Dr. Manshadi dove deeper into the study—and with the ability to justify and analyze complex entities and categorize them, he excelled. “If your gift and passion are synonymous, you will be successful and happy.”

In May 2013 Manshadi Heart Institute welcomed patients with a simple yet profound mission: Improve the lives of patients through excellence in cardiovascular education, heart disease prevention, and the highest-quality treatment available. From prevention to intervention, the Institute offers a full spectrum of cardiac care.

Dr. Manshadi personally improves the lives of the general public, raising awareness of sudden cardiac death in athletes and donating his book proceeds to purchase and install AEDs in schools across the country. “It’s very important to know how to use and AED, and you never know when you’re able to save someone’s life,” he says. “When applied within first two minutes, there’s a 90 percent survival rate.”

In his free time, Dr. Manshadi enjoys coaching soccer and supporting a league he funds for young children.

DR. MANSHADI, MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE

2633 PACIFIC AVE., # 1, STOCKTON (209) 944-5530 I DRMANSHADI.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF MORTGAGE LENDING At Finance of America Mortgage, community is the top priority.

And here, the mortgage lenders aren’t strangers mindlessly thumbing through your applications; they are neighbors. “We are a local lender serving local people,” says Stefanie Skirvin, operations manager at Finance of America Mortgage. “We live in your communities and strive to provide a personal experience during one of life’s biggest investments.”

If you’re buying a new home or property, Finance of America is there to make the process run as smoothly as possible, backed by a slew of knowledge and a variety of smart loan options. A home purchase, after all, is a big investment, and Finance of America lenders want to be there for you every step of the way, living up to their motto, “Business is Always Personal.”

One of the biggest benefits of working with Finance of America, is the one-on-one attention. Mortgage advisors are hands on, walking clients through the entire process with an emphasis on building a relationship and making themselves accessible whenever a question or need may arise. “No call centers, no scripts, just real people committed to making the dream of homeownership come true for as many people as possible,” Stefanie says. And while a personal approach is one of the pillars of Finance of America’s success, it’s not the only way to get the deal done. If it makes you

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more comfortable or is more conducive to your busy schedule, Finance of America also offers a state-of-the-art, on-line platform where clients can complete paperwork, answer questions, and manage the ins and outs of securing a mortgage without the need for in-person meetings.

At Finance of America, it’s not about pushing papers and meeting a quota. It’s about building dreams—your dreams. With knowledgeable, local advisors on staff, San Joaquin County residents can feel good about their investments, knowing they’ve made the right decision when selecting a lender to handle their home loan.

FINANCE OF AMERICA

1530 W. KETTLEMAN LN., STE. B, LODI I (209) 367-4232 FOAMORTGAGE.COM/BRANCHES/LODI-CA-102 3439 BROOKSIDE RD., STE. 209, STOCKTON (209) 224-3060 FOAMORTGAGE.COM/BRANCHES/STOCKTON-CA-102 605 STANDIFORD AVE., STE. N, MODESTO (209) 340-1200 FOAMORTGAGE.COM/BRANCHES/MODESTO-CA-102-5

2021

THE FACE OF LOCAL TOURISM For locals and visitors, Visit Stockton is a one-stop shop for tourism needs. Formerly known as the Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau, Visit Stockton is in charge of promoting and marketing local events, attractions, and businesses, as well as promoting Stockton as a sought after tourist destination, rich in culture and diversity. By marketing the city of Stockton, the tourism arm is able to bring in much needed revenue to support the city and its residents. With the additional income, Visit Stockton works hard to improve daily life for all who live in and visit Stockton. “We believe that a city that residents believe in will be a city that will drive future business investment and convert visitors into future residents to further grow a diverse and talented workforce,” says CEO Wes Rhea.

One of the core pillars of Visit Stockton’s efforts is giving back to the community, working with other nonprofits such as the United Way of San Joaquin County, the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton/San Joaquin, and the Stockton Maritime Museum.

By lending their marketing expertise, Visit Stockton is able to boost these local businesses and help them achieve their goals in serving the community, as well. Plus, staff at Visit

Stockton get hands-on, too, working with the food banks and other organizations to improve resident life on a myriad of levels. “Visit Stockton believes its residents come first, and we continually strive to grow resident pride and enhance the image of our city,” Wes says.

At Visit Stockton, efforts are divvied up amongst a team of adept marketing professionals who love Stockton and many who call it home. While Wes is at the helm of the efforts, he makes it clear the work wouldn’t get done without the help of his colleagues: Christa Griffith, Office Manager & CTA Program Manager; Amy Alpers, Director of Marketing and Communications; Tim Pasisz, Director of Sports & Tourism; Rebecca Scharmann, Events & Community Engagement Manager; Kalena Fields, Graphic Design & Brand Manager; Jesse Salazar, Video Production Manager; and Courtney Phelps, Event Services Administrator.

VISIT STOCKTON

125 BRIDGE PL., FL 2, STOCKTON (209) 938-1551 I VISITSTOCKTON.ORG

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2021

THE FACE OF FITNESS Originally built in the 1970s, Twin Arbors Private Sports Club is an icon within the Lodi community, serving its fourth generation of families by meeting all of their fitness needs. Owners David and Kay Claxton use their years of experience in the health and hospitality industry to share their passion for healthy living and to provide a great exercise experience for each member and their family. The rest of the team, led by Fitness Director Jackie Keigley and including the club’s Nationally Accredited Certified Personal Training Team: Kelly Nuss, Dayna Panella, Taylor Edwards, and Ben Bishop, share in the efforts. “Each trainer contributes a special value toward the entire team and together they know how to adapt with the ever-changing and always-learning fitness industry,” David says. “Twin Arbors can team you up with the right trainer to help offer you the best approach towards your fitness goals.”

Twin Arbors is more than just a gym. In addition to personal training services, the recently remodeled, 28,000 sq. ft., private sports club offers a wide variety of activities including weight training, cardio, basketball, racquetball, handball, lap swimming, aquatics classes, and group exercise classes. The club includes two separate weight rooms, two different cardio areas, a functional training area, large group exercise studio, a mind/

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body studio, racquetball/handball courts, indoor basketball court, indoor aqua therapy pool, an outdoor lap and family swim pool, a play center, and a cybercafé for kids. And while the gym may possess all of the amenities of a big box gym, it never feels like one inside. Instead groups are divided into individualized studio style spaces based on specific exercise activities that support an intimate and more personalized exercise experience.

Come down to participate in one of Twin Arbor’s award-winning group exercise programs including spin classes, yoga, barre, Pilates, kickboxing, Zumba, and more. For seniors, the club offers gentle yoga, chair yoga, and Silver Sneakers chair classes, as well as member-favorite aqua classes. To get a little more out of your membership, step into a specialized training class such as FIT, barrel yard boxing, or karate. “We are proud of our dedicated staff who are here to welcome you into our fitness community,” David says.

TWIN ARBORS PRIVATE SPORTS CLUB 1900 S. HUTCHINS ST., LODI (209) 334-4897 I TWINARBORSLODI.COM

2021

THE FACE OF 209'S NEWEST HOT SPOT Michael’s New York Style Pizza has been serving up delicious food to customers for nearly 43 years. Over that time, they have become a meaningful part of the local community, focused on bringing customers the freshest local ingredients that support neighborhood businesses and demonstrating a commitment to customer service, satisfaction, and retention. “Our team/family at Michael’s Pizza is dedicated to making the experience at Michael’s Pizza positive and delicious. We have employees that have been with us for over 12 years and they take pride in their work and this business,” says Owner Gina Calder.

Even with the economic struggles of the past year and the negative impact on restaurants, Michael’s has remained dedicated to quality, ensuring the pizza you get today is just as delicious as it’s always been, something they are able to promise thanks to the community support they’ve received for so many years, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. “My entire team is very special. I can honestly say that they care about Michael’s Pizza. They look forward to positive feedback from customers and are excited about how we evolve,” Gina says. The business was even recognized

as Stockton’s Small Business of the Year in 2020 by the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce.

In July 2020, Michael’s embarked on a new journey, a remodel that added an exciting new element to their pizzeria—a full bar. Gina says, “Having a full bar is a fun, new twist that has been well received by the community so far.” The expansion allows for fun additions to the menu including beer, wine, and cocktail pairings for the Pizza of the Month, as well as a late night bites menu featuring pizza by the slice, pulled pork sliders, tri-tip sliders, and jalapeno poppers, and bottomless mimosa brunches on Saturdays and Sundays. With the new bar, Michael’s has become both a family-friendly dinner stop and a late night destination where patrons can step inside and enjoy their favorite beer, cocktail, or wine from the expanded wine menu while waiting for a New York Style pie.

MICHAEL’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

2300 W. ALPINE AVE., STOCKTON (209) 462-6668 | MICHAELSPIZZACAFE.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF BUYING & SELLING HOMES 2021 is a wonderful year for real estate in San Joaquin County.

The housing market has thrived over the course of the pandemic, fueled by lower interest rates and work schedule flexibility. For many, moving out of big cities created a surge in available buyers in Stockton, Tracy, Manteca, Lodi, Lathrop, and beyond, so houses for sale were enjoying multiple offers and big price tags.

While home prices are on the rise, however, those low interest rates make buying a home affordable still because with less money tied up in interest, you can pay off your home faster and go for homes with a higher listing price. All around, it’s a good year for home ownership.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in SJC, call on Lance McHan. The real estate agent started as an appraiser in 2000 but stepped away from the industry after the market crash. In 2015, a friend convinced him to come back, this time as an agent. “I resisted for the longest time because after dealing with agents as an appraiser I didn't have much respect for [agents],” Lance explains. However, he also saw an opportunity to be the type of agent he didn’t see in the business near enough. His friend gave

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him the advice, “If you become an agent you can change the perception of realtors one client at a time,” and that exactly what Lance has done for the past six years.

Lance credits his friendly sales style and ability to work well with other agents for his success in the local real estate market. His goal is always to make the process run as smoothly as possible for clients, working with other agents as allies and not adversaries.

By putting his client’s first, Lance has amassed a large number of local listings, adding to the slim inventory as much as possible.

So, whether you’re looking to buy or sell in San Joaquin County, Lance McHan is your guy, always working diligently to ensure his clients walk away with a smile on their face and nothing but good things to say about their experience.

LANCE MCHAN

(209) 986-9292 LANCEMCH@GMAIL.COM

I LIC #01987449

2021

THE FACE OF SKIN HEALTH Beauty isn’t just skin deep; the health of our skin is what matters most. At Golden State Dermatology, with clinics in Tracy, Manteca, Livermore, and beyond, qualified physicians treat your body’s largest organ—your skin—from surface to root. In addition to cosmetic procedures, (which have expanded along with the addition of GSD’s second Tracy clinic), the clinics offer skin cancer diagnosis and a variety of treatment options. “Our Golden State Dermatology dermatologists are board-certified specialists in identifying and treating skin cancer,” says Andrea Miles, marketing manager at GSD. Treatment options include Mohs Micrographic Surgery, performed

by Minh Dang, MD, a skin-sparing treatment that works to remove the most common types of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas with minimal scarring, as well as other surgical and non-surgical procedures. The doctors at GSD care about your skin and offer preventative treatment and advice, as well as medical intervention. Most important, they agree, is wearing sunscreen.

Because skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and can easily go unnoticed, doctors at GSD recommend an annual appointment with their board-certified doctors. For higher-risk patients, more frequent exams may be necessary. And what better time to get started on protecting your skin’s health than in May, which is Skin Cancer Awareness Month? After all, the earlier skin

cancer is caught, the more options there are for treatment and better outcomes.

In order to put your best face forward, you need a qualified physician behind you. At GSD, you can’t go wrong. Mariam Amin, MD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist dedicated to providing the best possible care. Bryan Barnett, MD, is a medical and surgical dermatologist and former ‘Best Doctor in Tracy’ recipient, helping patients of all ages with skin disorders, including pediatric patients.

Minh Dang, MD, FAAD, is a current Fellow of the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery & Cutaneous Oncology, performing the Mohs Micrographic Surgery mentioned above. Christian Jones, MD, FAAD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of clinical experience in medical and surgical dermatology.

And that is only a sampling of the physicians working in San Joaquin County to help patients fight skin cancer, improve their skin’s health, and reduce the appearance of aging.

GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY

1542-A N. TRACY BLVD., TRACY (209) 836-2220 632 W. 11TH ST., STE. 219, TRACY (925) 251-9012 200 COTTAGE AVE., STE. 201, MANTECA (209) 924-4086 | GOLDENSTATEDERMATOLOGY.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF JAPANESE CUISINE Sunny and Tim Chang are the smiling faces behind one of San Joaquin County’s best sushi restaurants. Located in Lodi, the Japanese favorite offers locals and out-of-town visitors a tasty choice for lunch and dinner. An entrepreneur, Sunny opened her restaurant in 2013, where her husband Tim serves as executive chef. Between her, dare we say, sunny, demeanor, and Tim’s expertise in the kitchen, the duo fast became a favorite. In fact, guests from near and far often request Sunny’s presence at private dinners, serving up a colorful and authentic Japanese cuisine to families, friends, and business partners.

At Komachi, Sunny and Tim invite you to come in and make yourself comfortable. Those in a rush can call ahead and pick up lunch to-go, but the goal of the establishment is to really enjoy an experience while you dine. Whether it’s a lengthy business meeting on a Tuesday afternoon or a family dinner celebration on Saturday night, Komachi has the right atmosphere for the event.

Plus, Sunny and Tim love seeing their regulars—most business is repeat customers who have grown accustomed to stopping in for a meal rather regularly. As a result, the restaurant is often filled

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with faces almost as friendly as Sunny’s herself.

Those who visit Komachi Sushi are in for a treat. The flavorful sushi takes center stage with elegant rolls that include the freshest ingredients such as the Cowboy Roll and Code 3 Roll. In addition to sushi, ramen, donburi, and bento boxes are also popular choices, as well as salads, udon, and soba. If you’re hosting an event, Sunny, Tim, and the rest of the crew can even whip up a decadent party platter to impress your guests.

Pair any meal with a traditional Japanese cocktail, beer, or wine.

Komachi stocks several local varietals to cap a day of wine tasting as well as Japanese liquors you can’t find anywhere else. Ask about specialty drinks or pair ramen with a Japanese beer.

KOMACHI SUSHI

307 S. LOWER SACRAMENTO RD., STE D., LODI (209) 334-3131 SUSHIKOMACHI.COM

2021

THE FACE OF INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS George Azevedo has been a licensed insurance agent in San Joaquin County for 38 years. Born in Stockton and raised in Manteca (before returning to Stockton with the opening of his own agency), the Azevedo family has deep roots in the county’s insurance community. Azevedo was educated in Manteca Schools and graduated from San Joaquin Delta College and California State University, Stanislaus. Plus, most of his family still lives in the Valley. Even his job as an insurance agent was in some ways inherited from his father, who worked for State Farm for 36 years. “As a lifetime county resident I am familiar with our city and the surrounding county,” George says.

In addition to George, six other people round out the Stockton insurance office in Lincoln Center—George’s wife Janet, his daughter Lisa, his granddaughter Jade, and three other agents Melody, Carolyn, and Sonya. In total, the office boasts well over 130 years of experience in the local insurance agency.

The job is simple—be there for clients when they need it most.

George has seen just about every type of insurance situation

roll across his desk, and his lifelong residency in San Joaquin County means he has a wealth of knowledge at his fingertips to help his neighbors get the most out of their insurance. “Our job is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams,” George says.

“We know that fantastic service is the key to our success and we strive to provide it.”

When George isn’t helping people through insurance sales and claims, he’s giving back in other ways. Admittedly not the best golfer, he uses the outlet to serve organizations he feels passionate about, helping with the NAIFA Charity Golf Committee for the past 25 years, which gives to the Greater Stockton Emergency Food Bank.

GEORGE AZEVEDO, STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENT 718 LINCOLN CENTER, STOCKTON (209) 474-3285 I GEORGEAZEVEDO.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF HAIR COLOR The team at Pomp Salon are there to help clients look fresh. With a range of services focused on haircuts and color, each and every stylist at the salon has a wealth of knowledge about haircare.

“POMP Salon exists to improve the image [of] the hair industry and to improve the lives of those who are in it. We accomplish this by focusing on professional habits and by providing an exceptional environment and experience for both the stylist and client,” says Co-owner Dino Ballin. To keep stylists on the cutting edge of hair fashion, POMP invests in his employees’ continued education.

Never-ending opportunities—classes are held every Monday taught by some of the world’s top educators—for hair education help stylists feel confident serving a range of clients and staying on top of trends. Plus, clients love the high-end, big city vibe of the salon.

POMP wouldn’t be what it is without the expertise of Co-Owner Vicki Kirk and Lead Trainer Courtney Nault. Together, the duo have developed the POMP Stylist Development Program. With over 100 advanced classes and seminars under their belt, they share their knowledge with other stylists to help develop skills. They open their Monday classes to any and all in the industry, even to those

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in competing salons, and have trained and cleaned up hundreds of stylists in POMP's seven year existence. “When you see quality hair color walking around San Joaquin County, it's highly likely that it's the result of Vicki & Courtney or somebody they have trained,” Dino says. With Vicki’s eight years of cosmetology experience and dedication to detail combined with Courtney’s nine years of experience, advanced training from the best schools around the country, and designation as the house cutting expert, anyone can feel comfortable in a chair at POMP salon.

POMP Hair Co, LLC which currently includes POMP Salon and POMP Suites, are the fifteenth salons built and co-owned by Vicki Kirk. The goal is not only to serve clients, but also to improve the conditions for hairstylists everywhere by treating them with respect and allowing the financial freedom they deserve.

POMP SALON

349 LINCOLN CENTER, STOCKTON (209) 954-9255 | POMPSALON.COM

2021

Stevan Michaels, VP, Loan Administrator.

Headquarters

Kent Fyffe, VP and Business Banking Center Manager, Lodi

Mary-Elizabeth Eberhardt-Sandstrom, VP & Director of Retail Banking

John R. Primasing, Jr., VP, Chief Credit Officer

Douglass M. Eberhardt II, President, C.E.O. and Chairman of the Board Not pictured: Jim Nemmers, VP and Business Banking Center Manager, Manteca

THE FACE OF BANKING San Joaquin County and the rest of the nation continues the slow recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic. Throughout this crisis, the Bank of Stockton, considered an essential services business, remained open and available to help customers with their banking needs. “We’ve been conducting business as close to usual as possible, despite these unusual times,” says Bank of Stockton President and CEO Douglass M. Eberhardt II. As a local community bank, Bank of Stockton’s team worked tirelessly to help both customers and non-customers in securing much needed funding during this time, acting as a conduit for both rounds of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The bank assisted customers with successfully securing over 2,000 loans and had all hands on deck to help. “In these unprecedented times, when our communities need their bank most, it is our job to be here for them,” Eberhardt II says,

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Bank of Stockton has survived depressions, recessions, economic downturns, and uncertainties throughout its 154 year history.

When new challenges occur, like COVID-19, the bank continues to provide unprecedented strength and safety to the communities it serves. In the midst of the pandemic, the bank built a beautiful second location in Lodi on Kettleman Lane to meet the needs of its growing customer base and has plans for branch improvements in other markets it serves this year. With 20 branches in 16 cities throughout nine counties, Bank of Stockton is well-known for its personalized service and long-tenured bankers. “Together, we will weather this storm and withstand the test of time as we have for over a century and a half,” says Eberhardt II.

BANK OF STOCKTON

Branches in Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, Ripon, Oakdale, Elk Grove, Rio Vista, Pine Grove, Angels Camp, Sonora, Modesto, Turlock, Fairfield, Napa, Brentwood.

BANKOFSTOCKTON.COM

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2021

THE FACE OF PET ADOPTION Pet adoptions skyrocketed during quarantine. As more people began working at home, they found they had more time to dedicate to a furry friend. “I do believe that COVID-19 has helped many of us learn to appreciate our pets more knowing that they provide to us unconditional love, warmth, and companionship,” says Maria Thompkins, CEO of Delta Humane Society SPCA OF SJC and President of the board. “We try to remind our adoptees that once you adopt it is a full lifetime commitment and [pets] do become your children.”

Since February, adoptions have begun to slow back down, but the team at Delta Humane Society SPCA OF SJC are still working hard to serve the homeless pet population. “Our goal as an SPCA and animal shelter is to help save our homeless pets. We make sure to spay/neuter, vaccinate, microchip, and love on them until we find their furever home,” Maria says. In addition to caring for the pets themselves, staff is serious about pet education, encouraging people to adopt instead of selecting animals from a breeder and to spay/neuter their own pets. Maria says combating breeders is a big part of their goals as an organization.

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In addition to sponsors and community donors that help make the humane society successful, their efforts would be in vain if it weren’t for the new board of directors: Maria Thompkins (president), Bonnie McAtee (VP), Kelly Favero (secretary), Lance McHan (treasurer), Marci Waller (board member), Richard Lopez (board member), Michael Kenneth (board member), and Susan Feighery (board member). That is in addition to the rest of the staff: Maria Thompkins (CEO), Marisol Gonzales (operations management), Charles Johnson (HR/bookkeeper), Steffanie DeVore (shelter supervisor), Andrea Courter (office administrator/shelter tech), Francisco Munoz (organization development consultant), Calvin Patterson (kennel tech I), Jalen Clay (shelter tech I), Emma Casillas (shelter tech II), Saige Dickerson (shelter tech II), Joshua DeVore (facility assistant I), Junior Milichici (facility assistant II), Blossom Mancinas (shelter tech), and Caxandra Palma (shelter tech/adoption specialist).

DELTA HUMANE SOCIETY SPCA OF SJC

4590 CA-99, STOCKTON (209) 466-0339 I DELTAHUMANESOCIETY.ORG

13th Annual

Pets On Parade

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MAKE YOUR’S

PETS

AND POOCHES

famous

Upload your picture today of your pet.

Select Pet entries will be showcased and featured in our upcoming edition.

Go to SJMAG.com UPLOAD YOUR PET PHOTOS THROUGH JULY 10TH

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Saving the Old

Vines Lodi’s legacy has deep roots in ancient grapes  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER D DAN HOOD

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If you ever travel to Lodi’s picturesque wine country, you’ll notice the old, gnarly vines that grace the landscape. These twisted, knotty grape vines are living relics of the generations that came before us and shaped Lodi into the internationally recognized wine region that it is today.

In fact, Lodi is home to the oldest cinsaut vineyard in the United States—the Bechthold Vineyard. With several vineyards dating back to the early 1900s, Lodi Wine Country has plenty to brag about. But these prized vineyards are facing the fight of their lives. The cost of manual labor, coupled with low yields, and a challenging grape market, is forcing many growers to rip out the region’s older vineyards.

And that is where the idea for the Save the Old campaign came to fruition. A joint marketing effort between the Lodi Winegrape Commission and the Historical Vineyard Society, Save the Old aims to educate both the consumer and the wine industry on the significance of these old vines, why it is important to save them, and how we can keep them in the ground. “We have something in Lodi that is authentically unique,” says Stuart Spencer, executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission and winemaker of St. Amant Winery.

“And we have a responsibility to honor our past and elevate these old vine vineyards.”

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“I farm over 1500 acres, yet I walk this 25-acre vineyard more than any other block I farm.”

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The Bechthold Vineyard KEVIN PHILLIPS, MICHAEL DAVID WINERY

Planted in 1886 Variety: Cinsaut Location/Sub-AVA: Mokelumne River

Wines to try:

Michael David Cinsaut of Rose, McCay Cellars, Cinsaut, Turley, Estate Crush, Fields Family Wines, Bonny Doon, Bedrock, Onesta, Jessie’s Grove, Birichino, Lorenza, Two Shepherds, Whetstone, and more

It's hard to believe Lodi is home to a vineyard that is over 135 years old. Back in 1886, Joseph Spenker, a German immigrant, planted a 25acre plot of land with grapes in a land-locked block off Woodbridge Road between Davis and Devries roads. The own-rooted (vines that have been allowed to grow on their own rootstock), headtrained vineyard of cinsaut, is purported to be the oldest living cinsaut vineyard in the world. The resulting juice is intense, soft on the palate, and ripe with strawberry and rhubarb. Good acidity, aromatic, and awardwinning—the Bechthold Vineyard is everything we love about Lodi wine.

According to Kevin Phillips, who maintains a long-term lease to farm this treasured land, this vineyard is something worth saving.

“I love everything about this vineyard, walking it is like a trek through a viticulture time warp,” Kevin says. “I farm over 1500 acres, yet I walk this 25-acre vineyard more than any other block I farm.”

The gnarled vines serve as his inspiration. Knowing they were planted just 20 years after the American Civil War helps Kevin appreciate the rich history of generational farming in Lodi. And since the Phillips family is also a multi-generational, trailblazing farming family,

the partnership with the Bechthold family is a natural fit. As owners of Michael David Winery, the Phillips family is a driving force behind the campaign to save the old vines. Kevin recognizes the importance of maintaining Lodi’s roots, but also acknowledges that economic sustainability must be the goal. In other words, consumers need to be aware of the importance these old vines play in the industry’s history and be willing to pay more for a bottle of wine that contains these grapes.

Michael David Winery produces two wines from the Bechthold Vineyard—a cinsaut and a cinsaut rosé.

Both, beautifully finesse representations of the variety and the vineyard. In fact, over 25 wineries source fruit from this treasured plot of land. The list of folks who would love to work with this fruit is growing, and there is only so much to go around.

It’s a winemaker’s dream to work with fruit like this.

It is a vineyard that the community hopes will continue to thrive as it has over the past century. After all, the vineyard’s longevity can partially be attributed to the pure beach sand soil in which it’s planted. “Sand isn’t conducive to the spreading of Phylloxera,” Kevin explains.

“Which is one of the main reasons this block has sustained the test of time.”

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Lizzy James Vineyard KYLE LERNER, HARNEY LANE WINERY

Planted in 1904 Variety: Zinfandel Location/Sub AVA: Mokelumne River

If you love Lodi Zinfandel, you’re probably a huge fan of Harney Lane’s Lizzy James Zinfandel.

But what you may not realize, is that this wine is sourced from a vineyard that dates to 1904. It’s not every day you drink an old vine zinfandel that is crafted from vines that are 116 years old.

Owned and farmed by the Mettler and Lerner families, the Lizzy James Vineyard was almost removed back in 2000 by developers looking to break the land up for development. The two families, which also operate Harney Lane Winery, and have deep roots in Lodi’s grape growing history, had the opportunity to purchase the land from the developers. It’s fair to say, they understood the importance in Save the Old, twenty-one years ago.

The Lerners and Mettlers put efforts into rehabilitating the 20-acre ranch of zinfandel, making the Lizzy James Vineyard one of Lodi’s most iconic sites. Lerner is quick to acknowledge that the economics of farming such an old vineyard doesn’t exactly pencil out. The low

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yields and higher cost of farming are just some of the challenges he faces farming the vineyard. But he is also quick to acknowledge a different perspective as a winery owner. “Now that we are also making wine, we have discovered the unique flavor profile that the old vineyards produce,” says Lerner. “They cannot be replicated in a new planting. It is a function of time and the changes that take place in the vineyard.”

Zinfandel, as Lerner describes it, expresses its sense of place more than any other. And that holds true for the Lizzy James Vineyard. Harney Lane Winery launched its inaugural bottling of their Old Vine Zinfandel, Lizzy James Vineyard, back in 2006. It continues to be a crowd pleaser, while racking up accolades at wine competitions across the country. The quality of fruit is exceptional and consistent, with flavor profiles of blackberry and currant. The Lizzy James Vineyard is an exceptional example of how one family’s efforts to save the old, results in a beautifully complex wine.

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“They cannot be replicated in a new planting. It is a function of time and the changes that take place in the vineyard.”

Wines to try:

Harney Lane Old Vine Zinfandel, Lizzy James Vineyard, and Harney Lane Lizzy James Vineyard Port Style NV

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Wines to try:

Centennial Zinfandel, LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyard.

Only the best vintages are bottled. 2009, 2010, and 2014, with 2017 coming soon.

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Centennial Vineyard CHARLIE LEWIS, LEWIS FAMILY VINEYARD

Randall and Bradford Lange, LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards Year Planted: 1903 Variety: Zinfandel Location/Sub AVA: Mokelumne River

While you may have had the distinct pleasure of tasting the LangeTwins Family Winery’s Centennial Zinfandel, you may not know how lucky you are. The

“The Save the Old campaign is important to our family because it draws attention to the vineyards and wines crafted from these unique vineyards.”

Centennial Vineyard is an 8.26-acre zinfandel vineyard in the Mokelumne River AVA that was planted in 1903 by George Lewis and is the source of the LangeTwins flagship wine— the Centennial Zinfandel.

When we think about the importance of Saving the Old, we must also acknowledge the rich history of relationships between farming families.

Relationships like the one between the Lewis and Lange families that dates all the way back to 1916 are a prime example of how farmers have committed to preserving the past while embracing it in the present, and planning for the future.

After the Lange family emigrated from Germany to Lodi in the 1870s, they established agricultural roots through the cultivation of nonirrigated watermelons, and later, wine grapes. With hopes of sharing farming expertise, Albert Lange sought out a likeminded grower and neighbor, George Lewis. The farmers’ long friendship evolved into a family connection that celebrated their hardworking way of life, and today, Albert’s grandsons, Randall and Bradford Lange, have continued the generational friendship with the Lewis Family. Charlie, George’s son, still actively farms the historic Lewis vineyard, and the fruit is grown exclusively

for the LangeTwins Centennial Zinfandel. “There is good reason Centennial Zinfandel is our icon wine,” says Bradford Lange, owner at LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyard.

“It is crafted from a vineyard that is well over 100 years old and acknowledges both the vineyard’s quality and the connection between the Lange and Lewis Families.”

But the quality of the wine is only surpassed by the fortitude of these old vines.

These vines have weathered disease, survived prohibition, and endured unstable markets,” Charlie says. “The threat of urbanization, water availability, and disease are only exacerbated by the economic challenges of keeping a vineyard in the ground that only produces 3 to 4 tons per acre.”

For both the Lewis and Lange Family, preserving these old vines for future generations is at the crux of everything they do. The Centennial Vineyard is certified sustainably through LODI RULES and every bottle of wine they produce also bears the seal of certified sustainability.

“The Save the Old campaign is important to our family because it draws attention to the vineyards and wines crafted from these unique vineyards with hopes that wine drinkers will seek out these special wines that ultimately will give Lodi growers the opportunity to keep them in the ground,” Bradford says.

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Rauser Vineyard

JEAN RAUSER, OWNER STEVE FELTEN, KLINKER BRICK WINERY

Year Planted: 1909 Variety: Carignan, with small amounts of Alicante Bouschet Location/Sub AVA: Mokelumne River

On the east side of Lodi along the Mokelumne River, lies another storied vineyard. The Rauser vineyard, owned by Jean Rauser and farmed by Steve Felten of Klinker Brick Winery, is an 8-acre plot that boasts award-winning carignan. The own-rooted vineyard is also scattered with Alicante Bouschet, a grape that is such a deep garnet, it will stain your hand when crushed.

The partnership between the Rauser and Felten families is a natural one. In a small town like Lodi, farmers get to know each other pretty well. Both families were active in 4-H, and both had a keen eye for family farming.

When Klinker Brick began making a rosé wine in 2012, they approached Rauser about purchasing some fruit.

They immediately fell in love with the old vineyard’s attributes of high acidity combined with strawberry and red berry fruit characteristics. In fact, the flavors were so intense, the Feltens began making both a rosé and a red wine from the carignan. The red carignan has been a consistent sell out with each vintage.

While the fruit is impeccable, clean, and consistent, old vines achieve lower yields. Producing just 3 to 3.5 tons of grapes per acre,

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Klinker Brick is committed to farming the Rauser vineyard with a minimalist approach.

Unlocking the Old-World style of wine making lends itself to a wine that is lower in tannins and alcohol, but with a medium body, soft finish, and balanced acidity. “The vineyard is simply special,” explains Joseph Smith, Klinker Brick’s winemaker. “The age of the vines, and its ability to survive on its own rootstock all these years is remarkable.”

Joseph asserts that working with these old vines is akin to keeping history alive. The partnership between owner, farmer, vintner, and winemaker, is unique and involves a ton of moving parts. But the common ground they stand on is preserving these historic vines for future generations.

For Steve, the importance of the Save the Old campaign is simple. “It’s history,” Steve proclaims. “These old and ancient vines were the beginning of the wine industry in Lodi and they’re still making history today.” He hopes consumers recognize the rich color, concentration of flavor, and intense aromas from the old vine carignan can only be replicated with vines this old.

Wines to try:

Klinker Brick Carignan, Klinker Brick Bricks and Roses Rosé

“The vineyard is simply special,” ...It’s history.”

L to R: Winery owner Steve Felton and Winemaker Joseph Smith

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“We’ve been the caretakers of these beautiful old vines and it would be a very sad day if we had to pull them out.”

Wines to try:

Mohr-Fry Ranch Old Vine Zinfandel (2500-3000 cases), Marian’s Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel (350-400 cases), Lodi Native Marian’s Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel (120 cases), Speakeasy Red (500 cases, a zinfandel-based (65%) red blend made in the tradition of California’s heritage field blends).

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Marian’s Vineyard

BRUCE AND JERRY FRY, MOHR-FRY RANCH STUART SPENCER, ST. AMANT WINERY

Planted in 1901 Variety: Zinfandel Location/Sub AVA: Mokelumne River

When you listen to Bruce Fry of MohrFry Ranch talk about the Save the Old campaign, you can sense the determination and obligation in his voice. “These old vines are kind [of] like your children. We take great care in keeping them healthy to produce a high-quality crop,” Bruce says. “We’ve been the caretakers of these beautiful old vines and it would be a very sad day if we had to pull them out.”

For Stuart Spencer, whose family owns St. Amant Winery where he is the winemaker, he knows the harsh reality of losing vineyards to disease. When the Spencer family’s own vineyard was destroyed by Phylloxera in the mid 1990s, it was the Fry family who delivered seven tons of fruit for St. Amant to make wine. The wine racked up accolades and the two families created a long lasting relationship that is going on two decades strong.

The two families joined forces to make the best possible zinfandel in 1999. Jerry Fry was to choose his best vineyard block and St. Amant would spare no expense to craft the most delicious wine possible.

Jerry chose an 8.3-acre, ownrooted vineyard planted in 1901 in the sandy soils just south of his house in the Mokelumne River AVA. Jerry named it “Marian’s Vineyard” after his mother, the matriarch of the Mohr-Fry Ranch farming operation. She passed away on Sept. 13, 2007 at the age of 94 but was the inspiration and namesake for the Marian’s Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel, which is why the relationship between the two families is such an integral piece of the Save the Old movement. Two families—one

farming, one wine making—and one worthy cause.

Marian’s Vineyard is a plot of land winemakers across the world dream of being able to make wines from. In any location, a vineyard like this is extremely rare and special. And there is a reason that it is still in the ground today— it produces and makes incredibly special wines. The finished wines are fruity yet complex, filled with a harmonious blend of red and dark fruits, but with an underlying structure and balance that makes for long-lived wines. This complexity can only come from a vineyard with a 120-year history of ripening grapes.

Spencer is thrilled to have such quality fruit to work with and Marian’s Vineyard is the backbone of four of St. Amant’s finest red wines. The wines consistently shine and continue to rack up awards and accolades in the wine industry.

While many grape growers have decided it isn't worth it economically to keep these old vines in the ground, the rich history and desire to make quality wines in Lodi has remained a driving force in their company’s philosophy.

“We live in a throwaway society now days,” says Bruce. “And we believe these old vines deserve more and we are willing to try as hard as we can to market and sell these old vine vineyard grapes at the price that will make the grower whole. If not, then we would have to pull them out.

That is why we are working with wineries like St. Amant that show off the quality of what these vineyards produce.”

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help save the old

HISTORICAL Vineyard SOCIETY

Throughout Lodi’s countryside, you may notice some vineyards have a sign with a seal that says Historic Vineyard Society. The HVS is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of California’s historic old vine vineyards. One of their primary objectives is to gather a comprehensive registry of California’s historic vineyards. To be considered as a Certified Historic Vineyard, it must currently be a producing California wine vineyard with an original planting of at least 50 years old with at least one-third of existing producing vines that can be traced back to its original planting date. Donations assist the organization through education, research, and events. You can donate at HistoricVineyardSociety.org.

GRAB

SOME SWAG

Want to show your support of Lodi’s Old Vines? Head over to LodiWine.com, where you can choose from retro-inspired mugs, shirts, posters, and more.

Our favorite swag is the limited edition 24 x 36 full color poster of an old vine illustrated by artist Danilo Agutoli. At just $25, this poster is a great way to support our local wine industry and add a little local flair to your walls.

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DRINK OLD VINE WINE It’s hard to argue with this one. There is no shortage of wines crafted from old vines in Lodi Wine Country. From carignan to zinfandel, and cinsault, these old vines produce a deep, concentrated flavor profile that can’t be replicated. Look for Old Vine on the label or stop into the Lodi Wine Visitor Center for recommendations.

HERE ARE A FEW AVAILABLE AT LODIWINE.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.”

T KEN HEAR A BRO ODDS OVERCOME THE SURVIVING STORIES AND SHARE THEIR

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| MAY 2021 77

VERTICAL

GARDENS REDUCE BACK STRAIN AND JOINT PAIN  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

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Gardening can be such a powerful outlet for stress relief or boosting a bad mood, but as we age the up-and-down and added pressure on hands and knees can become troublesome for joints and even lead to pain that affects daily life. While there are a lot of tools people can utilize to reduce this pain, some seniors may actually forego gardening because It has become too painful. Another option, however, is to create a vertical garden. Vertical gardens can be built from scrap wood or a full kit can be purchased in-store or online. Either way, a vertical garden will keep you off your knees and largely allow you to garden standing up. Vertical gardens

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| MAY 2021 79

are different than their ground-level counterparts, so before you jump in with both feet, read our tips for helping your vertical garden grow.

THE RIGHT TOOLS

With help, it’s not hard to pull off a vertical garden in your backyard and you have options to consider. Use wood and build planter boxes on a fence to house small plants, herbs, and vegetables; buy pre-fabricated containers such as plastic or wooden tiered raised garden boxes or felt hanging containers to organize your goods in; or put up scaffolding against a wall and create an eye-catching centerpiece that offers more design than functionality.

If you don’t have a good fence or wall to work as the support, opt for a stand-alone system. If you get fancy with it, some of these tiered systems even have built-in irrigation, or you can add some yourself.

When choosing your planter, it’s important to consider what you will put in it. Eric Firpo, co-owner of In Season in Stockton, suggests containers that are 8-10 inches deep to house a variety of plants.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS

Eric says the key is using plants that have shallow roots. This includes some flower varietals, lots of herbs, vegetables including spinach, kale, and beets, and even strawberries. Basil can grow really tall, so keep in mind placement of your plants on the different tiers and ensure each one has enough space to thrive.

“As in any garden the spacing is… important to think about before planting,” Eric says. “You’ve got to think about how big that plant is going to get and how long the roots are.”

It can be helpful to organize your planters and map out everything you will grow before planting a single seed. If you’re hoping to start a blooming flower bed, select plants with shallow roots that will not grow too tall. The tallest plants should go on the top tier. Or, if you’re focused on an edible garden, buy a felt hanger and plant a variety of herbs used on a regular basis. If you’re using the bounty, you’ll keep cutting the plants down to size.

“You’ve got to think about how big that plant is going to get and how long the roots are," Eric Firpo, co-owner of In Season

TREAT IT WELL

A vertical garden, like any container garden, is going to dry out faster and therefore require more watering. Eric says on hot days, you’ll have to water a vertical garden at least every other day, if not daily. A built-in irrigation system, of course, can take some of the work out of a vertical garden. Other necessities include good potting soil and fertilizer. Eric recommends an organic soil with organic fertilizer already mixed it. In addition to drying out quicker, nutrients also leech out faster in a vertical garden. “You want to make sure the fertility of the soil is high so the plants have the opportunity to thrive,” Eric says.

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SUGAR, SUGAR

SUGAR MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO IS STOCKTON’S SWEETEST LUNCH SPOT  BY JENNIFER MORROW / D DAN HOOD

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As soon as you walk into Sugar Mediterranean Bistro, you immediately feel at home. The restaurant, which first opened in November 2018 in the Park West Place Shopping Center on Trinity Parkway in Stockton, has quickly become a favorite among community members for its inviting atmosphere and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. “We treat everyone like family,” shares owner Juan Alonso.

The menu features Greek staples, like gyros and pita wraps, as well as salads, pastas, and kabobs. With an eclectic SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 83

>>

cravings

range of Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Latin influences, Sugar Mediterranean’s variety and creativity shine through in every dish. Juan says he aims for a blend of Mediterranean cuisine with elements of his own culture: “We’re from Mexico, so we’re trained to combine that Mediterranean taste with a little Latino twist.”

As the Mediterranean diet is becoming more and more popular among foodies due to its health benefits, many of Sugar Mediterranean’s regulars enjoy coming in for salads on their lunch break. The Blackened Salmon Salad, a fan favorite, is a classic Greek salad with romaine and red leaf lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, olives, cucumbers, feta cheese, artichoke, and peppers, with pan-seared, fresh salmon layered on top. The pita wraps, which are served with a hearty amount of perfectly crispy curly fries, are also incredibly popular.

For dinner, Juan recommends the Chef’s Choice Pasta, a delicious entree with rich ingredients of Italian sausage, white wine, garlic, spinach, tomato, and marinara sauce.

“It’s one of our most famous dishes,” he shares. Guests can also choose from a wide variety of specialty cocktails, from palomas to margaritas. Ana Ortiz, the bistro’s general manager, says the Devil’s Margarita is the way to go: “That’s our signature drink. [It’s] really popular and refreshing and delicious.” The drink is a classic lime margarita made with Don Julio Blanco tequila and topped off with a thin layer of scarlet red cabernet for a bold look and taste. You also can’t go wrong with the Tropical Long Island—featuring tasty mango puree—especially on a warm summer day.

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Throughout the pandemic, Sugar Mediterranean has utilized its expansive patio seating to continue serving customers while providing a welcoming and safe community space. “We get people from everywhere here. They love to come out to the patio and have appetizers and drinks and have dinner after,” Ana shares.

“Sometimes people bring out their pets. Or people that ride bikes around the area bring their bikes and leave them outside the fence, and then they come in and enjoy [the patio] for a couple of hours.”

In the summertime, the restaurant also features live music, which is very popular with guests. “People love that,” says Ana. “We also serve the Stockton chambers, and we’ve done some fundraisers, too,” Juan adds. “We love Stockton.

And the community.” As for their favorite part of the business, it’s interacting with regular guests. “We know

exactly what they’re going to order, so when we see them pull up, by the time they get to their table, they already have their drinks ready for them,” Ana says. “And they love that.

They love to know that you recognized them and that you remembered them. Everyone wants to be remembered.”

Despite difficulties brought about by the pandemic, Juan and Ana remain energized to keep the restaurant going, which they credit to the generosity and enthusiasm of the community. “We’ve been here for about three years now, and we’re going to do whatever we can to stay,” expresses Juan.

“The people who support us give us strength.”

SUGAR MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 10628 Trinity Pkwy., Ste. E, Stockton (209) 910-0212 SugarBistro.net

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| MAY 2021 85

cravings

LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT PERFECTING YOUR CINCO DE MAYO MENU  BY NORA HESTON TARTE A festive menu on Cinco de Mayo calls for authentic tacos.

make the final product sing. Pre-seasoned packets will do, but so will your own creative blends of spice, featuring paprika, chipotle, red pepper flakes, lime, lemon, and more. Cook the meat so it’s nice and juicy and not overdone. The tortillas should end up moist with the fats from the meat.

Make it fun by setting up build-your-own taco stations. Let guests or family members pick their own meats and toppings to create a taco that satisfies their cravings.

There isn’t one right way to perfect the staple, but we know that this version from Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera, owner of Don Luis Mexican Restaurant in Stockton, holds up.

Cuate's biggest piece of advice is to make sure all of your ingredients are super fresh. You don’t want to serve anything on your tacos that is frozen or shelf-stable. And that goes for the salsa, too. “A taco is not a taco if you don’t have the right salsa,” WANT TO LEAVE THE WORK Cuate says. “Everyone TO THE PROS? can make tacos but what Order up to-go tacos makes amazing tacos from Don Luis. It’s hard is the fresh salsa with to pick which ones are fresh ingredients. The best but Cuate has a few condiments make it even suggestions. “The best better such as grilled tacos we have are carnitas onions, radish, cucumber, and shrimp tacos,” he cilantro, and don’t forget says. Every ingredient is the grilled jalapeños.” Ok, fresh and tasty. Looking now we’re hungry. for something different?

Quality meat is another Tex-mex style chicken staple. Whether you and beef tacos are choose carne asada, another good carnitas, choice, served in shredded a crunchy fried chicken, or DON LUIS MEXICAN shell and topped ground beef, RESTAURANT with salsa, Tapatió season your 5940 CA-99, Stockton hot sauce, and a taco meat (209) 931-9163 DonLuisMexicanRestaurant. squeeze of lime. with plenty com of extras to

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MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COMSANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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| MAY 2021 87

what we’re sipping now

SPRING BREEZE  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

Can you believe summer is just around the corner? Neither can we. While we’re all working to get off that quarantine fifteen, you may consider cutting back on your alcohol intake. After all, mocktails, and low alcohol drinks are all the rage in 2021. We have the perfect concoction to satisfy your cravings without skimping on flavor. In fact, the only thing the Spring Breeze is missing is booze. But we doubt you’ll miss it much because without an ounce of alcohol it’s still refreshing, sweet, and seasonal.

INGREDIENTS 1 oz. Strawberry Puree ½ oz. Fresh Lime Juice 1 oz. Simple Syrup 2-3 oz. Club Soda Lime wheel, for garnish Fresh mint, for garnish

DIRECTIONS Prepare a rocks glass with ice. Mix the strawberry puree, lime juice, and simple syrup in the glass.

Fill to the top with club soda and garnish with mint and lime wheel.

WEST OAK NOSH 10 W. Oak Street, Lodi (209) 224-8157

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BALLPARK FOOD & WINE PAIRING HOT DOG AND A GEWURZTRAMINER… WHY NOT?  BY NORA HESTON TARTE It’s that time of year—baseball season is underway. The Stockton Ports start playing ball on May 4. To celebrate, we’re rounding up our favorite ballpark culinary items and pairing them with vinos you can find throughout Lodi wine country.

HOTDOG The key here is to choose a wine that will complement the toppings on your stadium dog. For something simple—think mustard and sauerkraut—a gewurztraminer makes a good pairing. If you prefer your hotdog like a five-yearold (ketchup only), a wine with ripe grapes and higher alcohol content will better stand up to the vinegary taste of the ketchup. Lucky for us, this describes many of the Valley’s zinfandels.

.

GARLIC FRIES Much like the hotdogs, you’ll want to match your wine to the toppings—in this case, garlic.

Garlic can be an overwhelming flavor, but a GSM blend is popular to pair with garlicheavy Italian cooking for a reason.

PEANUTS If you’re chucking your shells onto the ground while noshing throughout nine innings, we have a surprising revelation.

Port is an excellent way to bring out the flavors in peanuts. For a lighter beverage, reach for that sparkling.

CORNDOG Corndog afficianados might already know that it’s champagne that pairs best with salty, fried foods. You don’t have to be too picky on which champagne or sparkling wine you select, anything from a true champagne to a prosecco will stand up to the fried treat.

SUNFLOWER SEEDS Another crack-and-go snack, sunflower seeds whether mixed into another dish or eaten on their own, do nicely with a sauvignon blanc. The white wine with flavors of citrus and lemongrass add flavor to the easy snack food.

NACHOS CRACKER JACKS One trick for pairing wine with something sweet is to outdo the sweetness of the food with the beverage. For this reason, a Moscato or other dessert wine is a fine pairing for that infamous ballpark snack

Here is another ballpark staple that pairs nicely with a sauvignon blanc. The rule we’re invoking here is to pick a wine with the opposite flavor profile of the food. In this case, a crisp white will cut through the cheese and salt providing balance on the palate.

BANNER ISLAND BALLPARK 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, MILB.com/Stockton

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PICK YOUR OWN

CHERRY PICK YOUR PRODUCE To say the fourth generation farmer behind Lodi Blooms, James Chinchiolo, is eager for the upcoming 2021 U-pick Cherry Season would be an understatement. He is beaming with excitement as he walks through his cherry orchard at Lodi Blooms farm with fiancé Evelyn Ferraiolo on a warm spring afternoon just days after the trees went into full bloom.

On the 40-acre plot in optimal growing conditions, Lodi Blooms holds about 8,000 cherry trees of multiple varieties such as Bing, Brooks, Lapin, and, James’s favorite, Coral Champagne. James says only three to six percent of the blooms go on to become delicious cherries. And it’s not your typical cherries at Lodi Blooms either. These are

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PICK YOUR OWN AT LODI BLOOMS  BY DEIRDRE CARLSON

premium export-quality cherries you won’t find in stores.

“They are more sweet, larger, and firmer in texture than most cherries people are familiar with,” James says.

Bees play an important role in the operation, as well.

“There are two beehives per acre and each hive contains

“There’s something truly unique and special about the quality of the cherries that we have here in the San Joaquin Valley,” - James Chinchiolo

This is the third annual U-pick season at Lodi Blooms. The season typically kicks off in May and runs 4-6 weeks, but Mother Nature really dictates how long the season will last. This year there will be some new expansions such as the addition of a 5,000 square foot tent with multiple safely distanced weigh stations and cashier areas to keep the checkout process as seamless as possible. There will also be three types of guided tours on the property: public, semi-private, and private, along with personalized U-pick experiences. And the beauty of being out on a 40-acre orchard is Mother Nature has naturally set this up as a very safe, socially distanced event for the entire family.

If you can’t make it to the orchard, Lodi Blooms provides orchard-side pick-up, local porch delivery, and cold-packed shipping anywhere in the U.S.

LODI BLOOMS 11560 N. Lower Sacramento Rd., Lodi (209) 642-4295 LodiBlooms.com

about 10,000 bees for a total of 80,000 bees on this property.” But don’t worry about getting stung – the hives are relocated prior to the U-pick season.

@lodiblooms

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| MAY 2021 93

in season in season

BEAUTIFUL BOUNTY

OF BERRIES WE COULDN’T CHOOSE, SO WHY SHOULD YOU?  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

The adage, “April Showers bring May flowers,” doesn’t quite do the month of May justice. While flowers are certainly something to look forward to, there is so much more to get us hyped each spring here in SJ County, with one being spring’s bounty of fresh berries bursting onto the market scene. From sweet and ripe strawberries to the small but mighty blueberry and all the way to our reigning queen of crops cherries, one thing is certain; we can’t get enough of berry season.

So, instead of making the other berries feel like we’ve chosen a favorite child, here at SJ Mag, we thought we’d share some of our favorite recipes utilizing an assortment of berries. Grab them at your local farmer’s market, at your neighborhood farm stand, or even your grocer.

94

HERBED CHERRY CHICKEN INGREDIENTS

6 chicken thighs 1 tbsp. kosher salt ¼ c. Calivirgin Balsamic Vinegar 2 tbsp. honey ½ c. olive oil 1 c. minced shallots ½ c. cherry pepper jelly 4 to 6 fresh rosemary sprigs 2 c. cherries, local, pitted, salt to taste ¼ tsp. black pepper

DIRECTIONS Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt.

Whisk together balsamic, honey, olive oil, shallots, cherry pepper jelly, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in a re-sealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Let sit at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator. Take out 30 minutes before placing in hot oven. Meanwhile, pit the cherries and set aside. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

MAY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Place chicken thighs skin side up in a cast iron skillet. Nestle the rosemary sprigs in between the chicken and top with the pitted cherries, pushing some to the bottom of the pan. Pour the marinade over the chicken and place in oven. Rotate every 10-12 minutes up to 45 minutes. Increase the temperature to 450 degrees and cook an additional ten minutes, until skin is crispy. Season with high quality sea salt and fresh-ground pepper.

DUTCH BABIES WITH STRAWBERRY COMPOTE INGREDIENTS

3 large eggs, room temperature ½ c. all-purpose flour ½ c. whole milk 2 tbsp. sugar, plus ¼ c. for strawberry puree ½ tsp. vanilla extract ¼ tsp. salt 3 tbsp. unsalted butter 2 c. fresh strawberries 2 tbsp. lemon juice

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Make strawberry sauce by adding strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until strawberries begin to break down. Pour into a large measuring cup or gravy boat, cool, and set aside. Combine eggs, flour, milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and vanilla until smooth in a blender.

Place butter in a heavy 10-inch skillet or cast-iron skillet. Once butter is melted, pour batter into pan, and return to the oven for 20 minutes until the pancake is puffy and golden. Remove pancake and serve immediately with fresh strawberry puree or maple syrup and a combination of your favorite berries.

BLUEBERRY THYME SHRUB INGREDIENTS

4 c. fresh blueberries 2 c. apple cider vinegar 2 c. sugar 4 fresh thyme sprigs

DIRECTIONS Place the blueberries in a non-metallic container. Add vinegar. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least three days. Pour the vinegar marinated blueberries into a sieve over a bowl and press berries to release their juice. Discard leftover solids.

Pour blueberry liquid into a medium saucepan, add sugar, and boil for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pour liquid into a container and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

SHRUB COCKTAIL

1 oz. vodka 1 oz. blueberry shrub 2 oz. club soda Pour ingredients over ice and garnish with a thyme sprig.

SJMAG.COM

| MAY 2021 95

tidbit

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille.

Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with fresh sourdough bread made exclusively for Bud’s by our local Genova Bakery. The covered outdoor patio seats thirty and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend or two. We also invite you to come visit the newly renovated bar and dining room which now offers more window tables for a lovely view of Lincoln Center while you dine. While at the bar, take advantage of the nightly deals on bar bites. Please be sure to ask about our banquet and catering services for your special event or holiday party. Full bar and banquet room available. Open for lunch, dinner, and scrumptious Sunday brunch. Happy hour daily with $1.00 off all beer & well drinks 4pm -6:30pm.

BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE 314 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton (209) 956-0270, budsseafood.com

MAY BRINGS A BLACKOUT

FROM HIGH WATER BREWING  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

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

High Water Brewing, Inc. is no

akin to champagne but flavors of apples and the ginger-like Galangal stranger to innovation. root,” explains President The Lodi brewery is and Brew master Steve constantly turning out Altimari. To honor the seasonal flavors to up traditional Gose style of the ante on its already beer, it also contains pink varied—and very Himalayan salt. inspired—menu.

The beer comes May brings a new in at 8.5 percent can release, Boom ABV, 12 IBU Boom Out Gose HIGH WATER and is available the Lights, a twist BREWING, INC. 927 Industrial Way, Lodi for purchase in on a traditional (209) 625-8146 16-ounce cans German Sour Mash HighWaterBewing.com at High Water Gose beer. “It has a Brewing. light effervescence

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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

tidbit

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. Ste. D Lodi, (209) 334-3131 SushiKomachi.com

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.

TRACY THAI 1035 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 833-9703

THIS WEST OAK NOSH PRETZEL is BIGGER than your FACE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Serving San Joaquin County since 1979 We use ingredients of only the highest quality when preparing our meals. We cook using 100 percent cholesterol-free cooking oils, for a delicious and healthy meal. If you would like to order something not listed in the menu, we will do our best to accommodate you in any way we can. Gift Certificates available.

Mon-Fri: 11am-2:30pm & 5-10pm Sat-Sun: 12pm-10pm

PEKING RESTAURANT 7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 115 Stockton, (209) 957-0617 pekingstockton.com

with two tasty dipping sauces, house-made beer cheese and beer mustard.

The pretzels are baked channeling those vibes and in-house and twisted to upping the ante with an overperfection, fluffy on the sized Brauhaus Bavarian inside and delightfully Pretzel at West Oak Nosh. crunchy on the outside.

Where else would you find Then, it’s an authentic sprinkled in large German pretzel? crystals of salt This monstrous WEST OAK NOSH and served warm, bready snack 10 W. Oak St., Lodi ready to dip or is a plateful— (209) 224-8157 eat plain. literally—served

Remember the days of grabbing a mall pretzel with friends? Well we’re

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WIN DINNER fresh ON US WEEKLY WINNERS

GO CRONUT CRAZY AT DF DONUTS  BY FAITH LEWIS rolled over and over, giving this breakfast delicacy a fluffy, airy center with that satisfying outer crunch.

DF Donuts makes a variety of tempting flavors fresh every of these breakfast classics, Thursday-Sunday. Ease yourthe cronut is made from self into the cronut craze and buttery croissant dough and stick with classic donut frostthen fried like a donut. ing flavors (glaze, chocolate, But you don’t have to maple, sugar) or dive right in hitch a ride to New York City with DF Donut’s maple bacon, (where the cronut was first berries topping, or cooked up) or catch s’mores cronuts. a flight to Paris to Better yet, ask for try one! At DF DoDF DONUTS a filled cronut and nuts, cronuts are 1664 E. March Ln. #3, try a new flavor like made with care.

Stockton coffee, mango, or Over the course (209) 932-9676 Dulce de leche every DailyFreshDonuts.com of three days, the week. dough rises and is

Part croissant, part donut, the cronut has been turning heads since it was first thought up almost ten years ago. Bringing the best of each

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NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

TO ALL THE HEALTH CARE WORKERS AND PUBLIC SERVICE PROFESSIONALS ON THE FRONTLINES CONTINUING TO FIGHT AGAINST THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC MAGAZINE SJMAG.COM

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