San Joaquin KIDS

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF SAN JOAQUIN MAGA ZINE

San Joaquin

SPRINg 2010

and parent maga zine

disney museum in san francisco

SANJOAQUINKIDS.com $3.95

Local Teacher Peter Jaffe Healthy Families Earth Day in San Joaquin

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san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

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Kids Tidbits Daffodil Hill; Reaching for the Stars poetry contest

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Teacher in the Spotlight Peter Jaffe of the Stockton Symphony

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Haute Items: Sleepytime

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Spring Activity Guide

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Healthy Families Eat right, stay active, work on family relationships, and keep your home clean.

by Nissa Hallquist

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The Man Behind the Mouse Visit San Francisco’s new Walt Disney Museum. by Everard Strong

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Columns

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36

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Kids Kaptures See your kids in our magazine

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Mom on a Mission: Anna Goehring

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CloCkwise from top left: i-stoCk; Cal parks; disney museum; Courtesy HarperCollins publisHers; i-stoCk

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

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Your Family: Here’s to Earth Day Your Kids: Live, Laugh, Eat. Escapes: 4 Adult Lessons From Classic Kids Books

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What’s Inside

san joaquin kids and parent

Publisher | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

managing editor Jamie Menaker Creative director Sherry Roberts

To dance is to be out of yourself.

Larger, more beautiful, more powerful.

Sales and Marketing Director Heather Hilton ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jessica Krablin, Emily Olson, Vikki Sandor-Girolami, Valerie Zoccoli

Summer Sign Up Begins April 1st!

EDItorial inquiries jamie@sanjoaquinkids.com

Devotion 2 Motion Dance Academy

ContributING WRITERS Tammy Hansen, Nissa Hallquist, Everard Strong, Jennifer Thornton

Pre-School Programs • Ballet • Tap Jazz • Hip-Hop • Lyrical Intensive Dancer Programs

Photography Brenda Hartshorn, Matthew James

3602 Mars Way, Suite #117

accounting Raman Singh

*take Tracy Blvd to Gandy Dancer formally known as Broadway Dance Center

209.833.1844 • www.d2mdance.com

Editorial InternS Marcelina Blea, Rachel Filipinas

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Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards. Our printer is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

Friday, April 23 rd – Sunday, April 25 th

A festival for the kid in all of us!

25thAnnual Best of the West Food Fest

FONTS:

CMYK COLORS

Savoye LET (with stroke) Chalet Paris 1980 (with stroke) Chalet London 1960

Dark Blue: CMYK: 100/57/12/61 Light Blue: CMYK: 44/13/0/0 Bright Green: 26/3/93/17 Dark Green: 22/14/92/56

Come celebrate our 25th year with entertainment for all ages: • • • • • •

Sea Lion Encounter Velocity Circus Skyy Dogs Asparazone--Kiddie Amusement Rides Tyson the Skateboarding Bulldog Foster Farms Chickens (Saturday only)

Kids 10 and under FREE with paying adult!

For details, visit asparagusfest.com

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san joaquin kids and parent

sutter Creek’s daffodil Hill

If you go: www.ci.sutter-creek.ca.us, www.amadorcountychamber.com

Reaching for the Stars

I

n honor of Stockton astronaut Jose Hernandez’s recent trip into outer space, the Jose M. Hernandez Reaching for the Stars Foundation invited students to contribute to its astronaut and space exploration poetry and essay contest. Selected from more than 200 entries, the winners are local students, first-place Erika Jane B. Albinto (Lodi), second-place Raelin Tamargo (Stockton), and third-place Peacha Sokk (Ripon). The foundation, formed by Hernandez himself, focuses on helping kids “reach for the stars,” supporting students through scholarships, community involvement, and educational programs about science, technology, and engineering. —M.B. For more information: www.astrojh.com

The Astronaut

By Erika Jane B. Albinto Putting on this orange suit It’s been my work’s passion and pursuit.

I’m climbing on this iron machine Who would have foreseen?

To say it’ll be all right When everything might ignite.

I might be specially trained But things go wrong and aren’t explained.

Leaving in a rocket ship Knowing that this is it.

To see the galaxy and Mars, But is it all worth it for the stars?

Leaving loved ones for a while, Breaks my heart, creating a whole pile.

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

This agony and pain is like bodily cavity, Cause I’ll be flying over you against strong gravity.

When I’m breathing through a tube of air I’ll be wishing the country breeze and you, I swear.

I can hear the engines going My heart is constantly soaring.

I really pray not to find an asteroid.

So I can come back home with no void.

But right now I’m in space with the moon Between I love you and I’ll see you soon.

left: i-stoCk; rigHt: san Joaquin offiCe of eduCation

When fully flourishing, Daffodil Hill, located in the “jewel of gold country” in Sutter Creek, gives sweeping views of yellow, green, and white daffodils as far as the eye can see. The floral farm is in full swing each spring, with peak blooming season from midMarch to mid-April.

The otherwise working farm ranch is home to over 300,000 daffodils in over 300 varieties come springtime. Spread out over four acres, the flowers intertwine with the farm’s small animals, like chickens, pigeons, and lambs, perfect for the kids to see nature’s beauty and lifecycles together in harmony.

Daffodils have grown on the hill since the land was acquired by the McLaughlin family in 1887. Since then, the McLaughlins have planted new bulbs, including over 5,000 new bulbs each year, for the last twenty years. The farm started as a 36-acre ranch and toll road for travelers and teamsters hauling timber.

Other flowers are also planted, with all bulbs supplied through private donations—in the spirit of nature, Daffodil Hill is not a commercial business. —Marcelina Blea

lincOln’S cAlifOrniA legAcy

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tHe migrAnt PrOject:

cAlifOrniA fArm WOrkerS Explore the Human Cost of Feeding America On Exhibit March 1 – June 21, 2010

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san joaquin kids and parent

brenda HartsHorn

Teacher in the Spotlight

peter jaffe Stockton Symphony • Steppin Out’

teenth season with our local symphony, he’s raised the bar each year that he’s been at the helm. What Jaffe considers his biggest accomplishment in his time with the Stockton Symphony, however, is the kids education program he’s helped to create.

“When I went through the public school system in Berkeley, they used to bus us kids once a year to see the San Francisco Symphony play,” says Jaffe. “Hearing that as a kid, that’s one of the things that sort of inspired me to go into music. You really can’t duplicate the experience of seeing a live orchestra.”

Today, the program is highly in-demand for students in San Joaquin, and has grown from one day of two back-to-back shows, to three full days and six shows, accommodating well over 5,000 kids. The way the program works is that participating classrooms receive a packet long before show day, with

mattHew James pHotograpHer

O

Other than being one of the most pleasant people we’ve ever met, peter Jaffe is also the man-with-the-plan standing in front of the Stockton Symphony as their faithful conductor. In his fif-

a CD the teacher can play in the classroom to familiarize the students with the music (Jaffe says the kids enjoy the performance more when they recognize the music being played on stage), and a mini-newspaper, The Steppin’ Out Times, filled with word games and activities. Each year’s show has a different theme, hand-picked by Jaffe.

“When we launched our first series of Steppin’ Out concerts, each piece we came up with for the kids had something to do with the feet,” he says.

“Every year there’s some kind of scene that I cook up. One year we had everything have to do with magic. Then it was special effects of different percussion instruments. We had one year where we called the concert ‘It’s About Time’, and we went all the way up to 7/4 time, that’s pretty fast.”

Jaffe is quick to say that while the concerts are educational, they’re also fun. “All of us on stage when we perform for the kids, its almost like being a parent, you see it through the kids’ eyes. You see their reactions. This, in turn, rejuvenates us.” —Jamie Menaker For more information: Visit www.stocktonsymphony.org.

Would you like to nominate an outstanding teacher for an upcoming edition of San Joaquin kids? log onto our website: www.SANJOAQUINkIdS.com

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

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sleepy time COMPILED BY JAMIE MEnAKER

[My Blankee Baby Blankets] At Campbell’s in the Village, 345 Lincoln Center, Stockton, www.lincolncentershops.com.

[Timeworks Twinkle Twinkle Clock] At The House of Clocks, 208 S. School St., Lodi, 260 Lincoln Center, Stockton, www.thehouseofclocks.biz.

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

[Annie Wear “Puppy = Cute” Onesie] (A portion of all Annie Wear proceeds go to animal rescue foundations). www.anniewear.com.

[Moby Wrap Baby Carrier] At Something Special, 1306 Lakewood Mall, Lodi, (209) 367-3702.

[Tolo Cuddlie Elephant, in Periwinkle Blue] At Along The Way, 145 Lincoln Center, Stockton, www.alongtheway.com.

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san joaquin kids and parent

spring activity guide compiled by Rachel Filipinas

79th Annual McKee Student Art Contest and Exhibition Through May 2, Stockton The Haggin Museum spotlights budding artists in the area’s longest-running student art competition. Featuring artwork from our local kids in kindergarten to grade 12, works encompass a wide variety of mediums, including crayon, watercolor, pastel, and photography. Meet the talented art teachers from these schools during the museum’s family festival March 13, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Admission $5, $2.50 for kids 1117, kids under 10 are free. Museum hours 1:30-5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, 1:30-9 p.m. every first and third Thursdays. Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, (209) 940-6300, www.hagginmuseum.org.

Chinese New Year Celebration March 6, Stockton Ring in the Year of the Tiger with a rich cultural celebration. From a parade of lion dancers to the colorful costumes of the Bayland Dancing group to Chinese dishes served by local vendors, the event will feature plenty to see, hear, do, and eat. The parade and festival are free, $2 tickets to enter Bob Hope Theatre. Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m., celebration 12-5 p.m. Downtown Stockton, between San Joaquin and Sutter streets and Market and Weber Streets, www.stocktonchinese.org.

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san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Shamrock Run March 13, Stockton Stockton’s biggest St. Paddy’s Day celebration spells out fun for the whole family. Take the kids over to the Family Stage for face painting, magic tricks, live entertainment, and cabbage juggling. Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. DeCarli Square, Weber Ave, and Janet Leigh Plaza, Stockton, (209) 464-5246, www.downtownstockton.org.

CQ’s Classic Cow Dog Trial March 13-14, Acampo Get in touch with San Joaquin’s farming side and witness the actual work behind ranch work. Handlers on horseback and their trained working dogs will go through obstacles as they attempt to herd up cattle. This will mark the tenth year of the annual event. Free. All day, starts at 8 a.m. Cutters Quarters Border Collies, 24343 Kennefick Rd., Galt, (209) 333-0780, www.cqbordercollies.com.

Table Setting Extravaganza March 13, Stockton Need some ideas for setting up a beautiful table when you have guests over? St. Luke School is hosting its twelfth annual Table Setting Extravaganza. Munch on hors d’oeuvres and desserts while you compete for raffle prizes and the coveted door prize of an eight-place table setting, complete with all dishes, linens, silverware, glassware, and centerpiece. Tickets $25, must be purchased in advance. 11 a.m. St. Luke School, 4005 N. Sutter St., Stockton, (209) 464-0801, www.stlukestockton.com.

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san joaquin kids and parent

local photo graphers check out these local photographers that almost made our cover

The Pink Panther March 19, Stockton it was billed as “a madcap frolic of crime and fun” when it was first released in 1963, and 47 years later, the statement still stands true. arrive early for the concert featuring tom thompson on the “mighty morton” organ, then watch bumbling detective Jacques Clouseau as he embarks on a clumsy escapade to stop a jewel thief in his tracks. $8, $4 for kids 12 and under. 7 p.m. Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 377-4673, www.bobhopetheatre.com.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

ri c ar

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Ballet Folklórico de México

kia Gregory

l in d

say

O r te

z

Fritz chin

If you would like to be featured on our cover please call 209.833.9989

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March 26, tracy roald dahl’s sweet tale of a boy’s adventure in a candy factory gets a new twist in this production, which is presented by sign stage on tour, who use sign language and speak simultaneously. don’t miss the last installment of the grand’s family treasure series. 6 p.m. $5-$15. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, www.atthegrand.org.

san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

March 27, Stockton whirling skirts, stomping feet, and a musical parade of traditional mariachi with contemporary songs come together in a rich production celebrating mexico’s bicentennial of its independence and the centennial of the mexican revolution, featuring the ballet folklórico de méxico of amalia Hernández. $35 and $45, 4 and 8 p.m.

Warren Atherton Auditorium, San Joaquin Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 477-8441, www.balletamalia.com.

Meet the Easter Bunny March 27, lodi Just as springtime rolls into town, so does easter and the always adorable easter bunny. bring your little ones in their best dresses and bows to see the bunny in person, at lodi’s Zoop a loop children’s boutique, and have the whole thing documented in photographs by phibbs photography. all donations and a portion of Zoop a loop’s proceeds benefit lodi House women’s and children’s shelter. 12-4 p.m. portrait packages start at $10.

Zoop a Loop, 40 Downtown Mall, Lodi, (209) 367-1444, www.zoopaloop.com or www.phibbsphoto.net.

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san joaquin kids and parent

Imagine... getting set for a successful school year.

Eggstravaganza in Eastside Park March 27, Stockton Hunting season is just around the corner—Easter egg hunting, that is. Stockton’s largest Easter egg hunt features over 15,000 eggs, air jump houses, balloons, face painting, and more. Free.

12 p.m. Eastside Park, corner of Horner and Del Mar streets, Stockton, (209) 483-2336, www.flcchurchonline.org

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March 27, Stockton You won’t want to be late to this party, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. Museum members are invited to an elegant tea service, featuring teatime treats such as canapés and cookies. Special party guests include Alice, the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts, and other characters from the book. If you want to become a member to attend, a family membership is $45 for one year. Event is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12 with museum membership. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, (209) 462-1404, www. hagginmuseum.org.

Soweto Gospel Choir

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April 3, Tracy With energetic dancing and colorful costumes, this 26-strong choir blends gospel, reggae, and pop music that make for an inspirational and vibrant performance. The choir sings in six of South Africa’s 11 official languages. $30 for orchestra, $25 for balcony. 8 p.m. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts., 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, www.atthegrand.org.

Manteca Crossroads Street Faire April 10, Manteca Parents can enjoy browsing through the goods of over 300 local vendors, while the little ones are sure to have fun at the designated kids’ area of the fair, which features rides, games, a stilt walker handing out balloons, and live entertainment from Manteca Youth Focus. Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Downtown Manteca, between Manteca Ave. and Main St., (209) 823-7229, www.visitmanteca.org.

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san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

April 18, Stockton Get informed about the latest environmental issues and learn how to live a greener life. There are plenty of family friendly activities to take part in, from the Family Fun Bike Ride and Parade to the Endangered Species Parade, which features kids dressed as their favorite animal as they circle the park. End the festival on a high note and participate as a drummer in the Drum Circle.

Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Victory Park, Stockton, (209) 973-8389, www. livegreensanjoaquin.org.

Charlie & the Chocolate Factory

This uproarious morality tale about Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory features the brilliant talent of Sign Stage on Tour, who sign and speak simultaneously.

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san joaquin kids and parent

Stockton Asparagus Festival

S .M

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Since 1876

Since t 1876 arySince S 1876 igH cHool Since 1876 98% continue their education • Affordable tuition Honors and AP courses offered • Competitive athletics

April 23-25, Stockton What better way to get your kids to like veggies than a festival? With rides at the kid-friendly “Aspara-zone,” animal attractions ranging from a sea lion show to a skateboarding bulldog, and countless other booths, the annual festival is sure to hit a sweet note with the whole family. $12 for adults, $7 for students and teens 11-17, free for kids 10 and under. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Downtown Stockton Waterfront, (209) 644-3740, www.asparagusfest.com.

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May 7, Stockton Mark your calendar for a night of food, • 98% Continue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses fun, and fantastic film scores. Come Award winning Fine Arts program • Student/Faculty ratio of 16/1 • Competitive Athletics • Award Winning Fine Arts Programs dressed as your favorite movie star 65% of our seniors received 1st and 2nd Honors • Student/Faculty Ratio of 16/1 or action hero, or just sit back and • 98% Continue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses ntinue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses Since 1876 • 65%Association of our Seniors Received 1st &Colleges 2nd Honors Fully accredited by the Western of Schools and listen as Maestro Peter Jaffe and the • Athletics 98% Continue Their Education Honors & AP Courses •Arts Award Winning Fine• Arts Programs ve Athletics• Competitive • Award Winning FineAccredited Programs • Fully by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Stockton Symphony perform renditions • •Competitive •• Award Fine Arts Programs www.saintmaryshighschool.org Student/Faculty Ratio of 16/1Winning • Student/Faculty Ratio of 16/1 Athletics Affordable TuitionSince 1876 of soundtrack classics from films such • Student/Faculty RatioHonors of 16/1 • 65% of 1st our &Seniors Received 1st & 2nd of our Seniors Received 2nd Honors as Ghostbusters, Star Wars, and James  • 65% of ourAssociation Seniors Received 1st & 2nd • Fully Accredited by the of Schools and Honors Colleges Bond. $20-$80. Doors open at 5:45, picnic starts at 6 p.m., and by the Western Association ofWestern Schools and Colleges Fully Accredited by theTuition Western Association of Schools and Colleges concert begins at 8 p.m. Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium, 525 N. • Affordable • Affordable• Tuition • 98% Continue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses Center St., Stockton, (209) 951-0196, www.stocktonsymphony.org.

• Affordable Tuition

• Competitive Since Athletics • Award  Since 1876Winning Fine Arts Programs 1876   • Student/Faculty Ratio of 16/1 • 65% of our Seniors Received 1st & 2nd Honors • Fully Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges • Affordable Tuition 

98% Continue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses • 98% •Continue Their Education • Honors & AP Courses • Competitive Athletics • Award Winning FinePrograms Arts Programs • Competitive Athletics • Award Winning Fine Arts • Student/Faculty Ratio • Student/Faculty Ratio of 16/1of 16/1 HANDSON discovery our Seniors Received 1st &Honors 2nd Honors • 65% •of65% our of Seniors Received 1st & 2nd FOR ALL AGES! Fully Accredited the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Fully• Accredited by theby Western Association of Schools and Colleges • Affordable Tuition a great location for • Affordable Tuition field trips & birthday parties!   for hours and information visit:

www.WOWScienceMuseum.org OR CALL: 209-368-0969 2 North Sacramento Street, Lodi

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san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles May 13, Stockton The Beatles have established a longstanding pop legacy since their start in 1964. Whether you’re a long-time fan who missed out on seeing them live, or you have a kid who can’t get enough of the band’s Rock Band game, adults and kids will come together to revel in a faithful, note-for-note performance of classic chart-toppers and underground favorites from the mop-topped foursome. $25-$48. 7:30 p.m. Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 337-4673, www.bobhopetheatre.com.

The New Children’s Ballet Theatre May 14, Lodi Take the whole family to see young ballet dancers give their interpretations of award-winning children’s stories, set to the sweet strands of classical music. Directed by Dorothy Percival, and a collaboration of Ballet San Joaquin, Boshoi West, and the Professional Organization for Performing Artists, this a great way to introduce your kids to the arts. Tickets $8. 7 p.m. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 477-4141, www. balletsanjoaquin.com

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

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san joaquin kids and parent

Nutrition

Family Fun and Fitness: Running in San Joaquin County Upcoming Events: March 13: Shamrock Run 5K, Downtown Stockton. www.downtownstockton.org March 27: Easter Run & Fun 5K walk/run, 1-mile run, and kids’ fun run, Lodi. www.theschedule.com.

April 10: Run on Water 5K run/ walk, at Lodi Lake in Lodi. www.bearcreekwater.net.

April 24: Climb for a Cure 10K & Fun Run, Ripon. www.climb14ers.org.

April 24: Great Spear-It 5K, 1-mile, and 5-mile run/ walks, Stockton. Hosted by Kaiser Permanente. www. asparagusfest.com

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san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

With obesity and diabetes major concerns these days, for children as much as adults, it’s more important than ever to learn how to eat healthy. According to Joanna Lua-Vargas, Clinical Dietician at Doctors Hospital in Manteca, parents need to lead by example to teach children how to eat right early on in order to avoid health problems later.

The first thing to do is rid the home of temptation. Instead of chips, candy, and donuts, Lua-Vargas suggests a variety of healthy sweet and salty snacks, such as pretzels, air-popped popcorn, homemade trail mix, and, of course, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

But then, what about the times when temptation does present itself? There’s no avoiding TV, billboards, and peers constantly telling children about how great sugary, fatty processed foods are. In that case, in order to keep you and your children from feeling deprived, Lua-Vargas actually recommends giving in once in a while, such as a pizza night or a treat when out at the movies.

“Moderation is the key. You don’t want it around all the time, but it’s okay to occasionally have food that’s bad for you,” she says. “Otherwise, total denial only leads to excessive splurging later on.”

Exercise

Keeping physically active is another important weapon in the fight against obesity and diabetes. As with eating right, leading by example is the best way for parents to teach their children to get regular exercise.

Put simply, get up and get out. Set aside some time every day when the TV and computer get turned off and the family goes out for a walk, a bike ride, a quick pickup game in the driveway before dinner, or a swim in the pool. On the weekends, go hiking or bowling or walk around the mall— find what works for your family.

For a more formal approach, area fitness centers have specialized programs for people of all age and physical levels. According to Dan Clark, General Manager of Custom Built Personal Training (the personal training company at In-Shape Health Clubs), significant results can be seen with fitness plans custom-made for the individual. A personal trainer also adds that extra bit of motivation and fitness knowledge that you and your family might not have.

More than feeling better physically, getting some exercise as a family is also an ideal way to have fun and spend quality time together.

The New

Children’s Ballet Theatre DIRECTED BY DOROTHY PERCIVAL

PERFORMANCE DATES May 12th, 13th, and 14th May 12th and 13th, Morning performances reserved for San Joaquin County Unified School District, limited seating • Evening performance, open to the General Public ONE NIGHT ONLY, Friday May 14th, 7pm TICKETS AVAILABLE AT LODI HUTCHINS STREET SQUARE BOX OFFICE $8 125 South Hutchins Street Lodi, CA (209) 333-6782 Dance interpretations of award winning literature, set to exciting classical music, in concert at the Hutchins St. Square Theater in Lodi and performed for San Joaquin Valley Schools will provide your child with hours of constructive, culture building involvement in the arts.

The New Children’s Ballet Theatre is produced by Dorothy Percival in association with Ballet San Joaquin, Bolshoi West, and P.O.P.A. (Professional Organization for Performing Artists) and will be assisted by Tamara Wagner, Margaret Lloyds Smallie, Emily Sarale and Adrian Sarale.

For additional information contact Ballet of San Joaquin/Bolshoi West at 209-477-4141 or 209-369-7171. 25 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

san joaquin kids and parent

Personal Hygiene

Establishing proper grooming habits is the most essential and simple way to prevent illness and/or dental issues.

Hand-washing in particular has gotten much attention lately with the ongoing threat of the H1N1 virus. That, and the supplementary use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, has been shown to greatly reduce the spread of infections.

Then there’s brushing teeth. Getting kids to brush their teeth is sometimes like, well, pulling teeth. The solution, says Rafat S. Razi, DMD, MPH, who specializes in pediatric dentistry in Tracy, is to make

dental care part of a child’s routine as early as possible. Children should start going to the dentist when their first teeth erupt; the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advises by the first birthday. Regular brushing should begin around that time as well, and flossing by three years old.

“Sometimes parents aren’t very insistent on establishing a brushing regimen with younger children, thinking their baby teeth are just going to fall out anyway,” Razi has observed. “But healthy baby teeth are what lead to healthy permanent teeth.”

In addition to ensuring the maximum prevention of dental problems from the beginning, starting young makes dental hygiene a good, daily habit that will last a lifetime.

26

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

Relationships

As a family practice physician with Sutter Health in Stockton, Carlos Delgado has seen firsthand the positive effects a good familial relationship can have on one’s health in general. After all, feeling accepted and emotionally stable tends to make one want to take care of themselves and each other.

The first step to having a close family is spending time together. Sharing a common interest (see “Exercise”), watching a favorite TV show together, and so forth shows interest and caring. Then, while spending time together, make an effort to engender an environment of open communication. If your children resist opening up at first, be patient.

Teens especially have been conditioned to think that adults don’t understand.

“The most important thing a parent can do is listen,” says Delgado. “Your children will come to you with their problems as long as they know you’ll hear them and be tolerant of their experiences.”

At mealtimes especially, turn off the TV and eat as a family in the dining room. It may feel odd at first. But with nothing to pose a distraction, discussion will become inevitable and, over time, comfortable. (Another positive side effect can be reduced obesity, since turning on the TV will no longer always be associated with eating something.)

Clean Home

You’re eating better, exercising, keeping your bodies clean, and spending more time together, but all these efforts to get and keep healthy could be for naught if you haven’t also considered your environment. Since you spend so much time inside, the pollutants found inside the home can be even more hazardous to one’s health than outside.

Pollution sources run the gamut: from hairspray and pet dander to radon and

carbon monoxide (see sidebar). While the amounts and types of pollutants will vary, there are ways to minimize them all. First, if at all possible, remove the source. Clean up mold and minimize moisture. Vacuum frequently to get rid of pet dander and dust mites. Do not allow smoking inside.

The second technique is ventilation.

Opening the window to let fresh air in and stale air out helps flush the home of quite a few airborne contaminants. Use a fan to circulate the air more quickly. Using some sort of air cleaner (portable or a whole house system) can eliminate smaller airborne particles that may be missed with regular cleaning.

Once you’ve taken such steps, you will likely see a reduction in asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections. You can literally breathe easier knowing that you are doing everything necessary to take care of yourself and your family. [SJ KIDS]

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): Common Pollutant Sources • Radon (colorless, odorless, radioactive gas, usually from soil under house) • Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) • Biological Contaminants (pet dander, mold, mildew, pollen, dust mites, bacteria) • Stoves, Heaters, Fireplaces, and Chimneys (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other particles) • Household Products (cosmetics, hairspray, cleaning materials, paint) • Formaldehyde (in certain building products, cigarette smoke) • Pesticides • Asbestos • Lead (Compiled from the U.S. EPA)

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san joaquin kids and parent

man behind the mouse the

a trip to the Walt Disney Family museum, san Francisco by everard strong | photos courtesy Disney museum

WALT DISnEY. For anyone exposed to a television in their youth, those two words conjure up mouse ears: iconic, saucer-sized, dark black mouse ears. From that vantage point, the mind might wander to other members of Disney’s animation family: Cinderella, Davy Crockett, Snow White, Goofy, Ariel, and even the many memorable villains that populate these stories.

From there, you might reminisce about your visits to the two magical lands where all of these characters come to life, Disneyland (in Anaheim, California) and Disney World (in Orlando, Florida). But, you always end up coming back to the mouse.

Few of us, however, are drawn to or know much about the man behind the mouse, the flesh-and-blood animator whose magic pen and wandering imagination brought these worlds to life, the real Walt Disney himself.

It’s this man that the Walt Disney Family Museum pays a high homage to.

If you plan your visit to the Walt Disney Family Museum with expectations of seeing various Disney character actors greeting you at the door, you’ll be disappointed. If you plan on going to get some insight into the creative process behind Walt Disney, and how he transformed a little mouse into the most well-known icon in the world, then your visit will be richly rewarded.

Housed in a beautifully renovated old barracks building in San Francisco’s Presidio Park, the museum’s inconspicuous outside gives away very little about what lies inside, with only a couple banners and small signs heralding its location. This feeling of ambiguity lifts slightly in the anteroom, where you buy tickets and wait for your assigned time to enter the exhibit room proper (the museum sells tickets based on specific entry times—this does not mean you have a certain amount of time to go through the museum, but serves as a rather brilliant internal process to keep too many people from visiting at once.) While waiting, you can amble around and look at the many cases adorning the three walls, each filled with the numerous personal awards and honors Disney received throughout his lifetime, and some other personal mementos from his estate.

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san joaquin kids and parent from concept to final drawing, and other behind-the-scenes notes and movies. The progression is so logical and intuitive, that you follow along Disney’s growth without major gaps or sudden stops, and before you know it, you arrive at Disney’s post-WWII films, which include more “live” actors along with his animation.

“Take the journey through the many interactive displays and activities...”

Once inside the exhibit hall itself, however, interests are picked up rather quickly. Comprising two floors and a huge showroom, sections are divided according to Walt Disney’s timeline: you start at the roots of Walt Disney’s family tree, proceed on to his early years as a cartoonist, and then on to the building of his empire, the WWII era, on to the creation of Disney World, and then end with a eulogy about his life.

If you have young children (9 years of age or younger), skip the first floor entirely— it’s interesting and fascinating for adults, and the interactive “paper cut-out” style of movies that showcase the highlights of Disney’s story are imaginative, entertaining, and educational—but children who associate the name Disney with animated mice, pigs, 30

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

and princesses will be bored, confused, and impatient and ready to get out of there.

The second floor, reached through a quaint elevator ride, is where it’s at, and children of any age will be enthralled and kept occupied for the rest of your visit. Here you can see Disney’s first forays into animation, Oswald the Rabbit (his first successful character that was then stolen from him, but forced him to create and then move forward with Mickey Mouse), and the assembling of his team of animators that would go on to change the world of storytelling forever. Take the journey through the many interactive displays and activities—you can “play” certain instruments along with the soundtrack to Mickey’s first starring role in “Steamboat Willie,” look at various reels showing the transformation of Cinderella

From here you head down a ramp, past the saddle Zorro rode, and enter into a cavernous display room dedicated to Disney’s ultimate vision, Disneyland Park. Overseen

by Disney personally, he had final approval over every last detail of the park, evident even in the miniature diorama—complete with moving rides—at the center of the room.

Television screens adorn one of the walls, each showing television shows, interviews, and other Disney videos. (Note: Since the Museum is dedicated to Walt Disney and his life, you will not find anything “current” from Disney studios here: no Little Mermaid, Lion King, and so on.)

Taking it all in, you leave, rightfully so, by going past notices of his untimely death (he was only 65 when he passed away December 15, 1966), followed by a hall filled with tributes and letters of condolences from around the globe, which is a fitting way to say goodbye: Walt Disney literally changed the world, and the world thanked him for it.

If you go: Walt Disney Family Museum 104 Montgomery Street (in the Presidio), San Francisco www.wdfmuseum.org Parking at the Presidio is free.

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san joaquin kids and parent: your family

Here’s to

earth day

he’s growing like a weed. She’s as pretty as a flower.

I’m free as a bird. We go with the flow. Whether we realize it or not, we celebrate nature and all of Earth’s beauty each day with symbolism such as this. With the

fortieth anniversary of Earth Day upon us, it’s important to take stock of not only the ways which we’re connected to nature, but also the many ways we can act as responsible stewards of our environment—especially involving our families in this mission.

Earth Day was first organized in 1970 to promote global awareness, conscientious behavior, and an understanding of the growing problems we face in air, water, and land pollution. With Earth Day now celebrated in over 140 countries around the world for its singular ability to inspire hope, optimism, and progress, we’ve learned firsthand as parents and grandparents that the choices we make each day, both in behavior and philosophy, have immediate and significant impact on our families. This spring in particular, with Earth Day April 22, we have the opportunity to teach this lesson to our children and show them that they too will have an impact on the future of our earth. As role models and teachers, we have this chance to inspire our children and help them see that they have the power to create a brighter tomorrow by making eco-friendly choices today.

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

5 things to do: Enjoy.Pack a bag, pack up the kids, grab the dog, and hit the hills. Hiking and

going for walks in nature are a guaranteed way to expand a child’s understanding of the natural world. Don’t forget to pass along any stories you have about the animals, plants, flowers, and trees you see along the way.

Grow.Make the world a greener, healthier place by planting a tree, bush, or plant this year. To maximize the positive effect, choose shade producing trees and/or leafy plants that will produce the most oxygen and absorb the most carbon dioxide.

Clean.Pick a public place to claim as your ‘family plot’ and make it your family

goal to keep that space clean in 2010. Help your children understand the connection between using our green spaces and being of use to our green spaces.

Recycle.Explore new ideas—compost for your garden, new uses for those paper towel rolls, or ways to create beautiful handmade stationary paper from old newspapers. If something has one purpose, it’s sure to have another. Think outside the box.

April 18.Earth Day Festival, Victory Park, Stockton This year’s annual festival features live entertainment, earth-friendly crafts, vendor booths, and much more. Admission is free. For more information about volunteering and participation visit www.livegreensanjoaquin.org.

Courtesy Cal parks

H

by Emily Olson

san joaquin kids and parent: your kids

BUTTERCREAM FROSTING

drop two scoops of mint chocolate chip ice cream into a blender. pour milk over the top and add a drop or two of green food coloring. blend, pour into a glass beer mug, and top with whipped cream and green sugar sprinkles.

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) 6-8 cups powdered (confectioner’s) sugar ½ cup milk 1 tsp. vanilla in a bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter until smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, add 6 cups of sugar, milk, and vanilla and mix until light and fluffy. if necessary, gradually add the remaining 2 cups of sugar to reach your desired consistency. add green food dye to achieve desired shade.

Live, Laugh, Eat. Exploring the Kid-Friendly Kitchen

by Emily Olson

FOOD HAS LOnG BEEn COnSIDERED THE GLuE THAT HOLDS A FAMILY TOGETHER, whether swapping stories over mealtime or sharing recipes and cookbooks through generations. Today, cooking with your kids in the kitchen has also become a great vehicle for sharing family stories, memories, cooking techniques, and laughter. Sometimes we become so consumed with the end result, the perfect Chicken Parmesan or the most delicately em-

34

san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

bellished cake, we lose sight of the fun that can come when collaborating with your family in the kitchen.

This month, with St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, there are plenty of opportunities to share your skills in the kitchen with your children, and even make it fun, by creating green-themed, delicious meals and desserts.

The Irish have a blessing that goes like this: May your troubles be less, may your blessings be more, and may nothing but happiness come through your door. With this in mind, we’ve come up with some kid-friendly ideas for you to incorporate into your St. Patty’s Day feast, with hopes that you’ll include the kids in many cooking adventures to come.

left to rigHt: sHerry roberts; i-stoCk

garnish your favorite brownies, cupcakes, or cookies with this incredible buttercream frosting—don’t forget to tint it green for st.

Patrick’s Day.

University University Trained Trained Instructors! Instructors!

Has your child ever suffered from any of the following?

Asthma? l Allergies? l Earache?

Complaints of soreness from carrying backpacks?

Qualified Instructors: All teachers are University trained Customer Service: Front desk staff is available to help students and parents during teaching hours Convenience: Wide selection of lesson times to fit your busy schedule Stress Free Recitals: Fun, low pressure recitals for students

visit us at:

www.stocktonmusic.org

University Trained Instructors!

Many Adults have experienced great results with chiropractic care for themselves, but may not be aware of the health benefits that their children will have as well. Chiropractic offers drug free choices and benefits for greater health and well-being throughout your life.

Schedule an appointment today to see how safe, gentle and effective chiropractic care can benefit you and your family.

NEW PATIENTS SEEN THE SAME DAY!

Thomas C. Oliver, D.C. Stockton Family Chiropractic 3020 Pacific Ave. l Stockton CA 95204 Tel. (209)-466-1234 l Fax (209)-466-6181

University Trained BIRTHDAYInstructors!

PARTIES! THE WORLD’S GREATEST

FULL SERVICE, PRIVATE PARTY EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR CHILD AND FRIENDS

KID’S PLAY NIGHT

WHERE KIDS

REACH FOR THE

STARS!

Themed play nights offer 3 hours of fun-filled activities for ages potty trained to 14!

TRIAL

Classes Available

CALL FOR DETAILS!

1740 W. Hammer Lane • Stockton, CA 95209 (209) 957-1919 • www.gymstars.com

Gymnastics, Cheer, Dance, Karate, Tumbling & Trampoline, P.E. Classes, Fitness Classes, Private Birthday Parties, Day Camps, Kids Play Night, & much more!

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

35

san joaquin kids and parent: escapes

Harold and the Purple Crayon

by Crockett Johnson

The Little Engine That Could

four adult lessons from classic kids books

by JENNIFEr thOrNtON

Y

ou know which books we’re talking about, the ones that your kids ask you to read over and over again with no end in sight. In the spirit of escape (because no matter what a wonderful mother you may be, you need your sanity, as well), take another look at those books that you’ve read so many times you can almost read in your sleep—you may be surprised at what you find.

by watty piper Five-second synopsis: after three stronger engines up and quit, little engine decides to haul yummies and toys over a dauntingly large mountain, will-powered by a mantra for the ages: “i think i can, i think i can.”

And the moral of the story is: stay the course to blaze a trail. the math on perseverance is still the same, so if little engine, brimming with toys and at a considerable size disadvantage, can steam on under less than ideal conditions, you can too. furthermore, parents who model resolve remind their children about the value of having determination in the face of that which seems unconquerable—false perceptions included.

The Cat in the Hat by dr. seuss

by maurice sendak Five-second synopsis: when feisty, short-fused max is punished for being mischievous and promptly banished to his room without supper, his imagination takes him to the land of wild things, where he reigns as king (take that, mom!).

And the moral of the story is: liberate yourself from anger. the next time the antics of your little ones threaten to whipsaw you into a debilitating state of unrest from which there is no reasonable return, find your happy place. Concoct a lovely little reality for yourself, filled with centering scenarios that will help keep anger at bay.

36

san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010

Five-second synopsis: World’s most unruly Cat breaks into a house and proceeds to destroy it, despite pleas from the two pint-sized residents and a you-know-better Goldfish—the story’s mood-killing voice of reason.

And the moral of the story is: Make peace with child’s play. Play is important, even for grownups, so avoid responsibility occasionally.

Play hooky, plan a hoax, or read up on your Seussisms. But remember, when throwing caution to the wind merits an apology, fess up. After all, if the Cat can redeem himself, so can you.

CloCkwise from top left: Courtesy HarperCollins publisHers (2); penguin books; random House

Five-second synopsis: Plucky Harold can’t sleep, opts for a nighttime stroll, and, rather than be discouraged by a moon-less night, takes matters into his own hand, penning everything he needs to legitimately avoid bedtime—a moon, a path, you get the picture.

And the moral of the story is: Solve problems creatively.

Thinking outside the box to find more inspired solutions to everyday problems reinvigorates our natural instinct to draw outside the lines. Silence your inner critic and remind yourself that you—like your 5-year-old—are a work-in-progress, and the process is equally as important as the outcome.

Fuzzy Wuzzy Bunnies!

2 DAYS ONLY March 12th &13th (By appointment only)

Call Today!

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bunnies!

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SUPPORTING MARCH OF DIMES

A portion of your purchase is being donated to the March of Dimes through team Annica Chin

march of dimes

BABY’S 1ST YEAR Only $125 (save $120 !)

4 sessions (3,6,9,and 12 months)

1 4x5 with each session Custom sets Free consultations Online Proofing

2014 Pacific Ave. Stockton (209)943-2446 • www.fritzchin.com

209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

37

san joaquin kids and parent

san joaquin advertising section

Dr. Arthur L. Solomon is a certified Pediatric Dentist serving the Tracy community for over 20 years. A California Bay Area native, Dr. Solomon received his bachelor’s degree from UC Davis and his DDS from UCLA Dental School. He received training in the specialty of Pediatric Dentistry jointly at USC Dental School and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Dr. Solomon is both a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Tracy’s only Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He is a member of numerous national and state associations.

Dr. Arthur L. Solomon monitors your child’s dental health as well as oral growth and development. He utilizes a wide range of methods to ensure safe and comfortable treatment, including conscious sedation and nitrous oxide.

His marine-themed office features state-of-the art equipment such as digital x-rays, and child-friendly décor including flat panel TVs over each dental chair.

Dr. Solomon strives to provide guidance to good dental health and positive dental experiences to last a lifetime.

Arthur L. Solomon,DDS Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry 1427 Tracy Blvd., Tracy • (209) 832-7906 • www.tracykidsdentist.com

Kids Care Dental Group is a dental practice conceived and dedicated to serve the special needs of infants, children, and teens. Our commitment is to provide excellent dental care, delivered by highly-trained professionals in an atmosphere that is both comforting and fun for the patient.

Our offices utilize the most up-to-date dental technology and offer multiple treatment options depending on the needs of the child. We accept most major insurance carriers, and are in fact “preferred providers” for most, including Healthy Families.

FREE Infant Exams (2 years old and under) • An kidfriendly environment • Non-traumatic approach • Parents welcome in the treatment area • Evening, early morning, and Saturday appointments available • Emergencies welcome • Multiple treatment options including general anesthesia • At Kids Care, we care!

Kids Care Dental 3485 Brookside Road, Stockton (209) 957-4386 www.kidscaredentalgroup.com

38

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

san joaquin advertising section

VENTURE ACADEMY FAMILY OF SCHOOLS Imagine exploring the environment in the San Joaquin Delta river system; performing live on stage at Disneyland; raising goats and riding horses; creating movies, posters, or books using the latest technology; climbing a thirty foot rock wall; observing, formulating, and testing scientific theories in a state of the art science lab; exploring your personal interests. Now, imagine that all of this is part of YOUR school. Join Venture Academy Family of Schools and experience rigorous, standardsaligned learning opportunities that keep students engaged, excited about learning, and making appropriate academic progress toward becoming independent, successful members of the community. Whether in Kindergarten, twelfth, or any grade in between, students can find a program that meets their individual interests, opens pathways to careers or college, and satisfies all state requirements. Families interested in enrolling in Venture Academy Family of Schools are encouraged to go to www.ventureacademyca.org to see the variety of educational opportunities offered. The enrollment process begins with you making a well-informed decision about your child’s education and future. Venture Academy Family of Schools is best described by our students. Sophomore Breanna Toves rides horses, tends farm animals, and experiences the outdoors as part of her education. “I like attending Durham Ferry (Agriculture and Environmental Science Academy) because the teachers make learning fun,” said Toves. “Some of my favorite things are going to the farm and the garden, plus I learn new things everyday.” The High School Home Study academy allows senior Mike Camera to pursue his passion while finishing his education. “I like the flexibility Venture Academy’s Independent Studies program allows me. I can study while I travel around the country pursuing my career goal of becoming a professional motorcycle racer,” said Camera. Delta VISTA Integrated Technology senior, Brittany Puerta, describes her experience, “Delta VISTA has critically challenged my thinking by taking my education a level beyond high school. This is why I was accepted at a top university.” Any of the school’s six academies provides students with a chance to individualize their learning based on their interests and skill levels. It is our goal to see all students become lifelong learners whose imagination, passion, dreams, and curiosity become the foundation for pursuing a college education or career-technical pathway for success in the 21st century. Call today at 209.468.5940 or go online at www.ventureacademyca.org to apply for the 2010/11 school year for enrollment information. Let your educational adVenture begin today at Venture Academy Family of Schools.

VENTURE ACADEMY FAMILY OF SCHOOLS . . . a K-12 Charter School

Where students can . . .

Embrace Challenge Think Critically Live Responsibly Play Passionately Learn Innitely

VENTURE ACADEMY FAMILY OF SCHOOLS OFFERS: Small class sizes!!

• Unique academies include art, music theater, dance, technology, health careers, agriculture, science & ROP programs (construction, etc) • WASC Accredited

• Grades 1-12 on-site • K-12 Home Study • Independent Study & online 9-12 • High school sports, Mock Trial team

Enroll now for 2010/11 Space Is Limited 2829 Transworld Drive Stockton, CA 95206 209.468.5940 www.ventureacademyca.org

Imagine exploring the environment in the San Joaquin Delta river system; performing live on stage at Disney209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com land; raising goats and riding horses; creating movies, posters or books using the latest technology; climbing a thirty foot rock wall; observing, formulating, and testing scientic theories in a state of the art science lab; explor-

39

san joaquin kids and parent

look mom

I’m Famous

Check out this issue’s “Kids Kaptures.” To include your child in our next issue’s edition, visit our website at www.sanjoaquinkids.com.

Aaron 5.30.08

Abigal 9.09.01

Asia 5.18.99 Austin 10.27.06

Dilan 9.5.07

Gavin 2.16.07

Gio 10.20.03

Darius 10.01.05, Jeremiah 3.16.07, Ava 7.4.08

Hailey 1.21.96 40

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

Jake 10.14.07

Isabella 4.8.09

Jamin 3.15.06

Cheer Odyssey the best can’t be missed, A face of a champion looks like this!

Tryouts will be on

SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2010

for the 2010-2011 season

Competitive Cheerleading • Tumbling • Dance • Cheerleading Camps & Clinics Birthday Parties • Special Performances!

2010 Spring Appointments and registering for 2010 SUMMER CHEER AND DANCE CAMPS!

FREE registration with the ad FREE Trial class available

Cheer Odyssey • 4772 Frontier Way Suite #300 • Stockton CA

209-546-1931 • www.cheerodyssey.com • cheerodyssey@yahoo.com

Give your children the gift that lasts a lifetime Competitive prices on quality musical instruments.

Large selection of band instruments, sheet music and North American made guitars!

Proverbs 22:6

Voted best music lessons in Tracy 10 years in a row

Main Street Music

Call for more information 209.835.1125 53 West 10th St. Tracy

S a l e s

•

S e r v i c e

•

L e s s o n s 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

41

san joaquin kids and parent

Ask The Local Experts Ava 11.14.04, Jordan 4.11.03 Searching for a Private School, Why choose a Catholic school?

The Catholic Schools in America, often seen as academic academies of excellence, usually are college prepatory. They tend to prepare their students academically above what is available in the public schools.

Does this mean they will not consider a child with learning difficulties? Not at all. Often in light of their spiritual philosophy and mission, the Catholic School will work above and beyond to help meet individuals where they are, teaching dignity and respect

Olivia 12.25.08, Simon 07.17.06

for all children.

Must my child be Catholic to attend?

Though Catholics are given preference, children of all denominations and creeds are welcome to apply. Each school site determines the degree of participation they expect in this area. Most will ask that students attend religion class daily and participate in common prayer activities when scheduled.

Are your teachers prepared and licensed?

All teachers, lay or religious, are expected to hold credentials.

Where do your alumni go to high school?

The students of the Stockton Catholic elementary schools tend to go mainly to St. Mary’s High School.

From there, they continue to universities far and wide.

Most finish with college degrees.

Joyce 6.18.00

For More Information: Patricia Simon, St. Luke Catholic Elementary School 4005 N. Sutter St., Stockton (209) 464-0801 www.stlukestockton.com

Logan 11.14.05 42

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

After School Program & After School Program &

Does 

Elementary School

Elementary School your child……

Seem

frustrated

wi

IsIs Your Child Struggling Your Child Struggling h Does your child……  Challenged getting Does your child……

 Seem frustrated traditional learning?

Experience behavio  Seem frustrated with with traditional learning? with Traditional School?  Challenged getting homework done? with Traditional School?  Challenged gettingbehavior homework done?  Experience challenges?

Your Child…… Is Experience behavior challenges?

Is Your  Child……

Creative?  Creative? High energy?

Is Your Child……  High energy?  Easily distracted?  Creative?  Easily distracted?

 High energy? *Multisensory Teaching*  Easily distracted? *Multisensor Alternative to Traditional Education

Alternative to Trad  Brings Learning To Life *Multisensory Teaching* Brings  An alternative, interactive way of teachingLearning To  Teaches toAn your child’s learning style alternative, inte Alternative to Traditional Education

The Easter Bunny will be at Zoop a Loop, 40 Downtown Mall, Lodi Saturday March 27th Noon-4pm

842 W. Lodi Avenue, Lodi (209) 369-4686

      

Portraits by Phibbs Photography - packages starting at $10 Women & Children’s Shelter Fundraiser Easter dresses & bows available now at Zoop a Loop For more info go to www.PhibbsPhoto.net or Zoopaloop.com

 Uses audio, visual, tactile & kinesthetic

Fundraiser  Teaches to your chi Brings Learning To Lifeyour child’s strengths Identify & utilize Wine Pairing Dinner Uses audio, visual, t An alternative, interactive wayconfidence of teaching  Build & expand your child’s Saturday, April 24th  Help your child experience success Identify & utilize y Teaches to your child’s learning style Macchia Winery in Lodi  visual,Build & expand Uses audio, tactile & kinesthetic Call to reserve your spot your Fundraiser  your (209) child exp 366-3493 Identify & utilizeHelp your child’s strengths

Wine Pairing Dinner

Build & expand your child’s confidence Saturday, April 24th Help your child experience success Summer Available Macchia Winery in Lodi SummerProgram Program Available Kidz ItIt Iz!!Iz!!

Call to reserve your spot Kidz 6042 E. Kettleman Ln.

366-3493 6042 E. Kettleman Ln. Lodi, CA (209) 95240 (209) 366-3493

Direct Your Future, Inc. - 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

(209) 366-3493 • www.directyourfutureinc.com

Summer Program Available Direct Your Future, Inc. - 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization Kidz It Iz!!

6042 E. Kettleman Ln.

Direct Y

Helping to

EDUCATE OUR READERS

(209) 366-3493

Stockton School of

Direct Your Future, Inc. - 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

Performing ArtS Inspiring the Artist Within Offering classes in:

Since1993 TAP • BALLET • JAZZ HIP HOP • ACTING Don’t Miss Our Special Education Sections. Call one of our experienced advertising representatives at 209-833-9989 today!

SanJoaquin T H E P R E M I E R M AG A Z I N E O F C E N T R A L VA L L E Y L I V I N G

Visit www.SanJoaquinMagazine.com

COmPETITIvE DANCE TEAmS vOICE mUSIC THEORY ENSEmBLE

magazine

6130 Pacific Avenue, Stockton (209) 478-2548 • www.sspaonline.net 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

43

san joaquin kids and parent

Mia 4.9.05

Patrick 4.21.04

Rocky 10.01.06

Ricky 2.27.98

Thomas 6.30.98

Tiffani 2.7.96, Carly 11.7.98

Kingston 10.14.08

Emma 3.10.09

Topher 11.19.04 44

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

Zachary 8.6.04

Annabelle 4.18.07, Leo 3.18.01

MISS

Sparkles Delight

Recruiting Workshops Private Lessons Group Training Coaches Clinics Travel Teams Youth Camps Cage Rentals BASEBALL & Team Clinics

www.sparklesdelight.com

209.835.8383 Action Packed Show!

Balloon Creations Face Painting Magic • Bubbles Juggling • Puppets

Sparkles the Clown

Voted Master Your Best of Game!

Tracy SOFTBALL SCHOOL 2006

is available 7 days a week for all occasions

Indoor Training Facility

established in 1997

(209) 833-BALL • 300 W. Larch Road Unit #1 Tracy www.allamericansportsacademy.net

Academy

of PerformingArt s

“Come make something of

yourself ”

The Academy of Performing Arts’ mission is to provide a positive, self-esteem building, highly effective dance and performing art educational experience

+

Tooth Straightening for Children and Adults

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Most Insurance Accepted • Payment Plan Available

(209) 817-5005 • www.drstevescott.com 4534 Precissi Ln., Ste. C, • Stockton, CA

To record those special moments

Photos by Vikki g SITTING FEE $50 • (209) 663-9800 www.vikkig.com

we do portraits too

124 West 10th St. Tracy, CA • Phone: (209) 830-9296 Just across from Tracy Press • www.apaoftracy.com

al rs ion ucto s s r ofe st Pr ce In n Da

Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Cheer • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe Tumbling • Hula • Mommy & Me • All Boy Classes Adult Classes • Creative Movement • Competition • B-Day Parties Ballroom • Zumba • Choreography

www.danceandcheerstars.com • (209) 465-7373

building blocks

Serving youth with

presented by Speech Therapy Associates

ages 6-18

Building Blocks is a unique education playgroup for toddlers & preschoolers with lots of fun and hands-on learning!

Our program focuses on language enrichment and developmentally appropriate curriculum for ages 18 months thru 4 years

SPEECH THERAPY ASSOCIATES 1209 West Tokay Street, Suite 8 Lodi, Ca 95240 • (209) 334-0830 www.staspeech.com

nowENROLLING enrolling for NOW FORthe THE spring session WINTER SESSION

disabilities Inclusion Program

Making fun happen

Open Monday to Friday & most school breaks All our activities are created to meet the child’s needs Yearly membership fee only $35.00 Sponsorship Available

Call Lisa Sughayar (209) 832-2582 #109 209.833.9989 I www.sanjoaquinKIDS.com

45

san joaquin kids and parent

Mom On A Mission

Formerly: Marketing and Media Relations Manager, Lodi Wine and Visitor Center Currently: Freelance marketing Kids: Victoria, 18, Christopher, 16, Abrielle, 5 I hear teenagers gasp and laugh hysterically downstairs— never a good sign. Do I really want to face reality and see what’s going on? Taking a deep breath, I descend the stairs and see my oldest daughter with a pillow over her face laughing, and the other two cleaning up. Yikes. A pen fight with a purple sharpie that exploded on the ceiling, floor, and white couch … well, the ceiling now has a permanent smudge of purple. It’s all part of a typical day in our household—homework, dinner, chores, fighting over the computer, TV, loud music—will it ever end? Thankfully my kids all have a great sense of humor and recognize when mom has had it, so they make me laugh or at least smile. By the end of the night, I silently smile and pray for healthy, vibrant kids, they fill my life and give me strength.

So how do we do it all, with three kids and myself, a single mom? My 18 year old daughter, Victoria, is called ‘the Rock of Gibraltar’—along with her boyfriend, Jimmy. They both help with the younger ones, keep me in ‘the know’ of what’s what, and amaze me with their zest for life. My 16-year-old, Christopher, always keeps life beyond exciting—who else would think of painting himself white to match his skateboard. Plus, he keeps his little sister tough: no boy will ever be able to out-master her. My 5-year-old, Abrielle, intelligent, silly, playful, and loving, keeps us all bound in what family is truly about—support and love.

Three kids at three different schools, a working mom, sports, church, house to keep up. How do we make it? Lots of teamwork and a sense of humor. Oh, and did I mention the beyond-amazing family and friends that help to make it all run smoothly? It’s mostly my parents—I strive to be half the parent that they are with unconditional love, wisdom, strength, courage, and patience. Every family needs a Greek Yiayia and Papou (grandmother and grandfather) like them.

Work can definitely take its toll on quality family life, so I’ve taken the ‘leap of faith’, left my 9 to 5 (or 6, or 8) job, and started my own marketing company to spend more time with my kids. I enjoy the challenge of helping businesses grow and expand their network, a true passion of mine. As work always spills over into daily life, it’s important to be fulfilled and love what you do. As Victoria says, “When mom is happy, everyone is happy.”

46

san joaquin KIDS I Spring 2010

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san joaquin KiDs I Spring 2010