April 2024 / San Joaquin Magazine

MAN WITH A PLAN TONY NOCETI REVIVES EVENTS

CHIPPING AWAY AT LIFE'S CHALLENGES

DINE AT IBIZA UNLIKE ANY OTHER

W ONDER W OMEN

The Powerful Females Making a Difference in San Joaquin

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Contents

Features

23

MAN WITH A PLAN

The Stockton Asparagus Festival folded in 2014 and was rebranded as the San Joaquin Asparagus Festival in 2015. Tony saw on the news that the festival was going away and couldn’t let that happen because maintaining heritage and tradition matters to him. “Asparagus was a huge delicacy, around here, it was the crown jewel of Stockton for many years,” he says. BY

REBEKAH MOAN

66

42

WONDER WOMEN 2024

23

38

As in years past, April marks our Wonder Women feature, profiles of San Joaquin County women of courage, integrity, leadership, and vision. While the individuals we’ve selected have all led different lives, what each one has in common is that their past experiences have propelled them to their calling.

BY ERIN DEINZER

38

CHIPPING AWAY AT LIFE’S CHALLENGES

The combination of both the physical and mental challenges that accompany the game of golf makes it an excellent sport for teaching kids how to meet and overcome obstacles.

BY ANGELA RUDOLPH

61

DINE AT IBIZA

Nestled in the heart of Stockton’s Miracle Mile is a trendy little café with big time culture and flavor. IBIZA Lounge & Tapas, owned by Arturo Zarate, is unlike any other place you have visited. BY

SARAH STEFFENS

42

61

TALES OF SUCCESS

As spring unfurls across our vibrant landscapes of vast vineyards and cherry blossoms, we at San Joaquin Magazine are thrilled to dedicate our April issue to the extraordinary women of San Joaquin County, celebrating their unparalleled contributions that continue to shape and inspire our community. This month, we shine a spotlight on our "April Wonder Women," a diverse group of remarkable individuals whose stories are not just tales of success but are testaments to the power of courage, integrity, leadership, and vision.

Whether it’s within the field of education, community outreach, agriculture, or policy making, these dedicated wonder women have committed themselves to making a difference in our community. It’s been our honor to learn more about each one, and to share their stories, struggles, and successes, with you.

As we turn the pages of their stories, let's also embrace the spirit of April in San Joaquin County. This month heralds a time for families to reconnect with nature and each other, exploring the myriad outdoor events that our county has to offer. From leisurely picnics in our lush parks, to vibrant street festivals that celebrate our rich cultural tapestry, April invites us to dine under the open skies, wander through blooming gardens, and rediscover the joys of community and togetherness.

Let this April be a month of celebration, inspiration, and exploration. As we honor the incredible women who are forging paths of change, let us also take the time to cherish the beauty around us, stepping into the sunshine with open hearts and an eagerness to discover all the wonders that San Joaquin County holds.

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LOCALS TO KNOW

Man with a Plan

TONY NOCETI HAS MADE IT HIS BUSINESS TO REVITALIZE LOCAL EVENTS

 BY REBEKAH MOAN / D BY SOPHIA ELLE

There’s never a dull moment for Tony Noceti, 65, a third-generation French Camp farmer and second-generation race car driver. “I work hard and play hard,” he says. “I’m a mover and shaker. When we were kids, we had to work. We didn’t tell our daddy we didn’t have anything to do because he would give us more work to do.”

In other words, Tony learned how to occupy his time, whether that was fishing, or as he got older, race car driving. When he was 13, he used to drive a ’67 Mustang without a license around his family’s property and then sit in the grandstands of the Stockton Speedway to watch others race. At 15.5, he drove a race car for the first time at the speedway, following in the footsteps of both his dad, Antonio, and uncle, Frank, who started racing at Baxter Stadium

before World War II. They continued when the speedway opened.

Tony never graduated from high school; he quit after two-and-a-half years to focus on farming and racecar driving. It’s a move that paid off considering he achieved some traction with racing, winning NASCAR’s modified championship at Altamont Speedway in 2007. Even though he’s not racing the way he did before, “I still have fun turning the wheels out there [at the speedway],” he says.

When the speedway closed in 2006 to make way for a housing development, Tony and his then-wife Carol Noceti contacted the racetrack’s owners Bob Hunefeld and Ken Clapp to keep it open.

“I was always fascinated with motorsports and when those things go away, where else can you get that kind of entertainment?” he says. “I love seeing people happy. It’s fun to see a smile on a kid’s face. I’m not going to let that go. If I didn’t do it, I don’t know who else around here would.”

He eventually revived it, turning

Upcoming Events

Stockton 99 Speedway 75th Season Opener: April 20 San Joaquin Asparagus Festival: April 12-14

the speedway into the Stockton 99 Speedway in 2009. But Tony didn’t stop with the speedway. He took on other events, albeit agriculturalfocused. Despite his interest in motorsports, Tony never quit farming either. His family settled in French Camp in 1905 and he’s continued to manage the 2,000-acre family farm that produces walnuts, wheat, hay, and grapes. That’s in addition to running his company, the Noceti Group, which took on the San Joaquin Asparagus Festival and the California Garlic Festival.

The Stockton Asparagus Festival folded in 2014 and was rebranded as the San Joaquin Asparagus Festival in 2015. Tony saw on the news that the festival was going away and couldn’t let that happen because maintaining heritage and tradition matters to him. “Asparagus was a huge delicacy, around here, it was the crown jewel of Stockton for many years,” he says. “I enjoy seeing people stand outside eating deepfriend asparagus with smiles on their

faces. And I know a lot of farmers and I want to keep agriculture going and also, I think about how to improve things and make them better for the public.”

The festival is essentially a carnival of sorts with 300 different vendors, pageants, cooking demonstrations, and a show, all for the price of $10-15 a ticket. “Where else can people go to get this much experience and entertainment for that price?” Tony asks. “We know folks are struggling and that’s why we keep the price low.”

As for the Gilroy Garlic Festival, it was canceled in 2022 but less than a week later Tony and his group announced they would take it on and host it in Stockton instead with the new name California Garlic Festival. Even though Tony doesn’t grow garlic, he eats a lot of it and the venture fell in line with his other goals.

“My mission is to give people a good, safe time,” he says. “It’s about the people here in Stockton; that’s my main focus, to give them a place a go.”

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“There is nothing like picking up a souvenir, in person, from a place you have just visited and experienced,”

– Susan Obert

Local Keepsakes

SOMETHING

EXTRA

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Since 1991, the Haggin Museum has housed its own quaint museum store. While not large in size, the shelves here are overflowing with collectibles to brighten your home and help commemorate your visit to the museum. The offerings aren’t a disconnected jumble of tchotchkes, but rather an expertly curated collection created by the store’s manager, Karen Causi.

As the world’s largest public museum collection of original artworks by American illustrator J.C. Leyendecker, the gift shop pays tribute to that accolade by selling note cards and

FROM THE HAGGIN MUSEUM

posters donning his famous images from the Golden Age.

While many of the items in the store pay homage to the artworks housed in the museum, others are focused on sharing the talents of local artists in the community such as one-of-a-kind bowls created in a variety of mediums and books, ranging from local history to poetry with many written by local authors. “Much of the store’s inventory includes items connected to the Haggin’s core and temporary collections making it the only store where some of the items can be purchased,” Susan Overt, the museums’ director, says.

The same energy is extended to the jewelry, candles, pottery, and food items, many with local roots and a story rich in Stockton history and culture, not a far cry from the works on the other side of the wall that champion the region for both its historical significance and artistic expression. “Occasionally, local artists, authors, and musicians can be found in the store, demonstrating their skills,” Susan says.

The museum store is open during all museum public hours, including late-night 1st and 3rd Thursdays when the museum stays open until 9 PM.

WHAT TO BUY

Blackwing pencils, locally sourced and a favorite among artists, writers, and musicians including John Steinbeck, Looney Tunes creator Chuck Jones, and Disney animator Shamus Culhan.

Soaps and candles in varying scents and colors.

Art starter kits ranging from paint pods to sketch books.

Customized art collection jigsaw puzzles

FOOD SCENE

Catering to Community

LACY ESTRADA BRINGS HER NAPA EDUCATION TO SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY

 BY BRANDY COLLINS

Lacy Estrada’s passion in food is to see her customers happy. “It's kind of my fancy way of saying wine and food,” says Estrada of the catering services name, Vine and Fig Provisions.

VFP offers both catering and meal preparation services to customers. “Although the food here has really improved [in Lodi], I wanted to help break the gap between the wineries and the food,” says Estrada.

On the catering side, VFP prepares business lunches, birthday parties, and dinners, some of which have been hosted at local wineries including

Bokisch Vineyards, Oak Farm Vineyards, Heritage Oak Winery, and Paskett Winery, where meals are prepared to pair with on-site wines.

On the meal preparation side, customers can choose from Estrada’s menu of tantalizing favorites, such as a grilled peach burrata salad or a buffalo cauliflower salad. Meals are locally delivered to Stockton, Lodi, Galt, and Manteca and customers are able to personalize their meals with options like a Hawaiian sesame mahi mahi and veggie stir fry topped with homemade Chinese-style BBQ drizzle on a bed of roasted, smashed sweet potatoes. Each meal is calorie counted and portioned for people who are dieting or otherwise keeping track of what goes into their bodies. The meals can also be prepared for dietary restrictions, including vegan items like a vegan

mac and cheese. And she does it all with a personal touch. “Having a conversation with someone allows them to figure out options they didn't know were available,” Estrada says.

While her training comes from Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Estrada has lived in the San Joaquin area since her teens.

upfront209

“[For] a lot of chefs, their passion is creating food. My passion is service and giving people what they want.” Orders can be taken both on the website and by phone, with an expected response time of 24 hours. Meal preparation prices range from $20-$25 per meal, including delivery. Catered lunches include sandwiches, salad, and savory and sweet bites.

TWIN ARBORS SPORTS CLUB

TwinArborsLodi.com

Diana Brown, who has taught fitness classes since 2008, is dabbling in a new exercise field—barre fusion.

HEALTH

Barre Fusion

BUILD LONG, LEAN MUSCLES

 BY ANGELA RUDOLPH / D BY SOPHIA ELLE

Taught at Twin Arbors Private Sports Club, the fitness instructor is all in on the multi-faceted new trend, offering up plenty of physical benefits. “The most rewarding aspect of barre fusion for me is that I can see changes in our members’ strength, form, and posture,” Diana says. “The barre fusion format is lowimpact and challenging, making it both stimulating and fun!”

What is barre fusion?

Traditional barre involves movements that combine ballet and Pilates. This barre fusion class incorporates those traditional barre moves with strength training work and with Pilates-cued core work, creating a dynamic combination and a whole-body workout. Glutes are firmed, shaped, and elevated, legs are strengthened, the upper body gains strength and endurance, and the core is challenged.

Who should give it a try?

Everyone from beginners to advanced will be challenged during a barre fusion class by using individualized variations in movements available for each participant.

How does barre fusion shape muscles?

Barre fusion tends to create long lean muscles when it incorporates light weights with many reps. The movements tend to build endurance and work muscles in an elongated state supporting strength, balance, and good posture. Reaching through arms and legs in certain moves increases core stability because it’s necessary to keep the belly pulled in to achieve that length.

Is barre fusion a good choice of exercise for those looking to increase longevity?

Yes, this format increases your core stability and balance, both of which are important aspects of longevity. The mind-body connection is also an important component of the class. The key throughout class is to mindfully engage your core by pulling your belly in, wrapping the ribs closed, and finishing each movement with a Pilates exhale..

Connecting Through Education

SJCOE’S CONNECTION! PROGRAM SERVES STUDENTS WITH AUTISM



BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Some kids need a little extra help. Regardless of the specific diagnosis or need, general education simply isn’t the best fit for every child. Noticing, and accepting, that is what led the San Joaquin County Office of Education to create Connections!, a preschool program aimed at helping kids who need a little (or a lot of) extra support in the classroom.

Students are referred to Connections!, which operates at three campuses across San Joaquin County, after district assessments and as part of the IEP (individualized education plan) process. They are then enrolled and begin their educational journey with Connections!, which emphasizes communication, social, and adaptive living skills. Once students graduate, they transition to district programs or

remain in county operated programs as appropriate for their kindergarten year.

“Our primary goal with the Connections! program is to provide students with autism a typical preschool experience… with support layered in to meet their unique learning styles,” says Kristi Baysinger, the autism and behavior coordinator at SJCOE. The program uses evidence-based practices, an umbrella of strategies to increase learning rates for students with autism. Teachers focus on building pre-academic, social, communication, and language skills. Connections! preschool classrooms also operate 30 hours per week to maximize benefits and best outcomes.

Attending a Connections! program also opens the door for other supports. Based on the IEP, students may also access board-certified behavioral analysts, occupational therapists, and

“If you have the opportunity to start your kiddo here, I would take it,” - Paige Rendon

speech and language pathologists. “When [my son, Ezra] first began attending [a Connections! preschool], he only had a handful of words to communicate with and by the time he left he was able to communicate effectively and using sentences,” says Paige Rendon. “You can see how much thought goes into what would benefit each child by the way they suggest different ways to approach strengths and weaknesses.”

If you have any concerns about your preschool age child’s development, contact your school district for guidance.

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REDUCING Inflammation

DE-PUFF THIS SPRING

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, genetics, aging, and underlying health conditions or illnesses can all lead to inflammation. But in Spring, seasonal allergies may be to blame for your sudden puff. “Allergies cause a specific type of inflammation called type 2 inflammation. This is an aberrant immune response to the external environment,” explains Gregory Bensch, M.D., at Allergy, Immunology & Asthma Medical Group, Inc. “During the Spring we experience [a] very high level of pollen in the San Joaquin Valley, which results in many of the symptoms we commonly call ‘hay fever.’”

While avoiding allergens is the best way to reduce inflammation and other reactions, it’s not always feasible. While you have little control over the outdoors, you can better your indoor air quality by using humidifiers, air purifiers and changing filters often.

Next, over-the-counter medications can also help treat the symptoms caused by allergies. These are available as either oral, nasal, or ophthalmic antihistamines or topical intranasal corticosteroids,” Dr. Bensch says. Allergy, Immunology & Asthma, however, does not recommend the once-a-year allergy shots due to known side effects.

“Medications can reduce the symptoms of allergy but do not reduce to root cause of inflammation, allergic sensitization,” Dr. Bensch explains. Allergy immunotherapy gets to the root of the problem, offering a long-term solution to inflammation. Administered by board-certified allergists,

Dr. Bensch says, “it consist[s] of a series of injections with the allergens a patient is sensitized too. This will gradually desensitize the individual to the root causes of their inflammation.”

“Medications can reduce the symptoms of allergy but do not reduce to root cause of inflammation, allergic sensitization,”

While at-home remedies exist, especially to treat symptoms of allergyrelated inflammation, Monica warns the “proof” is anecdotal. Because placebocontrolled trials don’t exist for most

natural remedies, it’s more of a trial and error of what works for you.

If inflammation in the face is causing you grief, cold jade rollers can help fight the discomfort. But just as important is washing your face and showering often to remove potential allergens from your hair, skin, and clothes. You can also use eyedrops to treat watery eyes.

HEALTH

Gentle Dental

SPECIAL DENTAL CARE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

 BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING

As April is Autism Awareness Month, it’s a fitting time to recognize that children (and adults) with a variety of physical, mental, and development disorders sometimes face varying challenges receiving medical care.

Whether a patient has Autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, or another condition causing them discomfort during dental treatment, there is hope.

Taking individual concerns into careful consideration and developing special protocols to ensure both the safety and comfort of patients with special needs is the most important first step. Preventing dental decay is one of the top phrases you’ll hear at any dental office. At Salida Surgery Center, staff encourages modified

dental routines at home for the best success. “Patience and adherence to these special techniques can be challenging but with persistence can be a great tool to prevent dental disease,” says Salida Surgery Center Owner Pankaj K. Patel, DMD. “Early dental visits and early intervention are also encouraged.”

When there is a need for treatment of dental disease, many of these can be treated successfully at a dental office with thoughtful and proven techniques. Sometimes there will be need for general anesthesia in order to treat patients in a safe and effective manner. Over the years, Dr. Patel has provided general anesthesia to thousands of children and adults including children with special needs. The team at Salida Surgery Center will also craft an

individualized routine so that patients can continue to see the dentist in an effort to prevent future disease and maintain optimal dental health, which of course affects many other aspects of a person’s overall health.

“At Salida Surgery Center, we treat special needs patients every day,” says Dr. Patel. “We make special accommodations such as: early appointments, different induction techniques, and work with your dentist and physician to safely provide dental care under general anesthesia.” While autism and other special needs may affect the way a person’s receives dental care, it should never affect the quality of their care and their outcome of good health.

CHIPPING AWAY AT LIFE’S CHALLENGES

Fresh air, beautiful greenery, and the chance to work on physicality—there is a lot to enjoy for anyone who steps onto a golf course. The combination of both the physical and mental challenges that accompany the game of golf makes it an excellent sport for teaching kids not only about how to improve their swings but also how to meet and overcome obstacles they face in their daily lives.

Anyone who has played golf knows that it will quickly teach patience and humility. It’s not an easy game to master and it requires concentration, mental fortitude, and a willingness to try new techniques.

Manteca Park Golf Course is not only a stunning landscape, but it also offers many youth programs

through its ACE Junior Golf Academy, helping kids ages 7-17 learn the fundamentals of the game and elevating skills for those who have golfed before. ACE stands for Athletic Commitment to Excellence, a slogan junior golf program instructors coach by not just in the game, but in learning life skills like responsibility and respect.

There are four programs offered: Beta, Alpha, Gamma, and Delta, and some of the programs can build on one another. Alpha and Beta programs are best for beginners, and the Beta program allows participants to attend Alpha weekend clinics. Participants in the Gamma program aim to become elite golfers and must be at least 12 years old and have experience. Delta is geared toward kids who are

homeschooled.

Respect, integrity, and hard work are all major tenets of the programs that are taught beyond the basic rules of the game and the obvious skills of improving the golf swing and learning to putt and chip. “The game of golf mirrors the game of life,” says PGA Director of Golf Jeff DeBenedetti. “It’s the only sport where players call a penalty on themselves. Without integrity, respect for others, and hard work at your game you won’t succeed in golf.”

The ACE Junior Golf Academy not only fosters a love for the sport, is also helps build friendships and teaches resilience.

MANTECA PARK

305 N. Union Rd., Manteca (209) 825-2500

MantecaParkGolf.com

calendar

WHAT TO SEE AND DO THIS MONTH

APRIL 6, 1-5 PM

Lodi Wine Festival

Deep dive into the Lodi wine scene. During this allday festival, attendees can taste wines from a variety of local makers, sample food from 15+ restaurants, listen to live music, and meet the winemakers. Additional activities such as olive oil tasting and blind tasting events are also scheduled throughout the day. 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi

APRIL 12-14

San Joaquin Asparagus Festival

The Biggest Asparagus Festival in the West is back for another year of fun, fair-style antics, highlevel entertainment, and odd food combinations starring—you guessed it—asparagus. Head to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds for a weekend full of family fun. 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton

APRIL 21

Stockton Earth Day Festival

Come celebrate Mother Earth during Earth Month. The theme of this year’s event is Choose Planet Over Plastic. Held at Victory Park, there will be a variety of vendors, demonstrations, live music, and entertainment. Kids can enjoy face painting and other activities. 1001 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton

CHAMPAGNE & ENGLISH TEA

APRIL 6, 1:30-4 PM

The Butterfly Auxiliary hosts this elegant event at Church of the Presentation to benefit Hospice of San Joaquin. 1515 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton

BRINCOS DIERAS: IRREVERENTE TOUR

APRIL 6, 8-10 PM

One of Mexico’s top comedians is coming to Stockton for a night of raucous laughs. 242 E. Main St., Stockton

TRIPLETS OF BELLEVILLE

APRIL 6, 8 PM

A live jazz band will bring this animated film to life, a caper involving American gangsters, Tour de France cyclists, and vaudevillian sisters trying to expose a crime ring. 715 N. Central Ave, Tracy

JIMMIE VAUGHAN

APRIL 7, 7 PM

Grammy-winner Jimmie Vaughan brings his Tilt-aWhirl band to the stage, blasting blues music for all of Tracy to hear, 715 N. Central Ave, Tracy

STRATA TRIO

APRIL 7, 2:30-4:30 PM

Come to Faye Spanos

Concert Hall for a chamber music concert performed by three talented musicians.

3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton

STOCKTON SIKH TEMPLE PARADE

APRIL 14

The parade takes off from the nation’s oldest Sikh temple, Stockton Gurdwara Sahib. For one day only, celebrate with music, free food, and martial arts demonstrations. 1930 Sikh Temple St., Stockton

FRIENDS OF THE FOX: REAR WINDOW

APRIL 14, 1-5 PM

Catch the classic film, Rear Window (1954) by Alfred Hitchcock, preceded by a live concert at the “Mighty” Morton organ by Dave Moreno. 242 E. Main St., Stockton

Live Music Gospel Fest

APRIL 21, 6-8 PM

Kierra Sheard, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Vicki Yohe, and Charles Jenkins will perform at this star-studded event held at the Bob Hope Theatre in Stockton. 242 E. Main St., Stockton

CECE WINANS: THE GOODNESS TOUR

APRIL 17, 7-10 PM

The Grammy-award winning artist has returned to the national stage, singing her biggest hits across the country with a stopover in Stockton. 242 E. Main St., Stockton

STATE OF THE CITY

APRIL 18, 10:30 AM-2 PM

Hosted by the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce and The Port of Stockton, the event will focus on economic, educational, and cultural development in the city, while announcing upcoming projects. 2201 W. Washington St., Stockton

THE BRIT PACK

APRIL 19, 8 PM

This high-energy cover band brings favorites by The Beatles, Queen, Elton John, and more. 715 N. Central Ave, Tracy

JEFF ALLEN: ARE WE THERE YET?

APRIL 20, 7 PM

Jeff Allen shares real life stories along with his stand-up comedy. Get ready for an evening that is equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. 715 N. Central Ave, Tracy

ALICIA VILLAREAL “DONDE TODO COMENZO” 2024

APRIL 26, 8-10 PM

Alicia Villareal, accompanied by a mariachi band, brings her vibrant Mexican regional music to the Bob Hop stage. 242 E. Main St., Stockton

MOVIES AT THE GRAND: FREEDOM WRITERS

April 26, 7 PM

Watch the classic film starring Hilary Swank and Patrick Dempsey about young, inter-city kids from Southern California and the teachers who guide them. 715 N. Central Ave, Tracy

CAMBODIAN NEW YEAR

APRIL 12-16

This multi-day festival features ethnic cuisine, live music, and vibrant Cambodian folk dances. Whether you’re celebrating your own culture or here to learn about Cambodian culture for the first time, this festival is a fun and festive way to get the whole family involved. 3732 Carpenter Rd., Stockton

CABARET AT STOCKTON CIVIC THEATRE

APRIL 11-MAY 5

This popular tale about a British nightclub owner and American writer takes place during 1929 Berlin. Leave your troubles behind when you enter the doors and enjoy this classic story with a historic twist presented by a local theatre company. 2312 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton

WONDER WOMEN

CELEBRATING THE WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN SJC

 BY ERIN DEINZER D BY SHANNON LEA ROCK OWNER PRESERVE STUDIO SHANNONLEAROCK.COM

As in years past, April marks our Wonder Women feature, profiles of San Joaquin County women of courage, integrity, leadership, and vision. While the individuals we’ve selected have all led different lives, what each one has in common is that their past experiences have propelled them to their calling.

Whether it’s within the field of education, community outreach, agriculture, or policy making, these dedicated wonder women have committed themselves to making a difference in our community. It’s been our honor to learn more about each one, and to share their stories, struggles, and successes, with you.

ANNIE CUNIAL

— THE PROPONENT

Annie Cunial was born to parents who met living next door to each other when they were kids.

Growing up, she attended school in Stockton and Manteca, so perhaps it’s kismet that she’d return to her educational roots to work in the same school system she was a product of.

Following her graduation from Chico State, Annie began a teaching career in Manteca. After her work with grade school, high school, and ESL students, she eventually “graduated” to working for the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) as an events coordinator, then moved into her current role as the division director of the largest STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) office of any county educational district in the state.

Is there someone you consider a mentor or that you look up to for inspiration?

“My parents were my first role models. They wanted me to have opportunities they didn’t, and my work ethic comes from them. They gave me the gift of encouragement and unconditional confidence. It doesn’t matter if you’re 3 or 53, there’s no better feeling than your parents being proud of you.”

What are your goals for the future of STEM in SJC?

“Working in the STEM program at SJCOE, where we serve about 52,000 students, is probably the most fun you can have in education. The program prepares students for (and exposes them to) jobs in growing fields like computer science, data analytics, and coding, as well as environmental and sustainability roles.

“Try—even if you think you’ll fail. Scientists fail all the time, but they learn from those failures. We need to teach our kids that failing doesn’t mean you are a failure.”

As a testament to our commitment and dedication, our STEM program was recently awarded a $50M grant from the California Department of Education.

“I hope our students will recognize the opportunities around them and want to stay or return to this area to live, invest, and make a positive impact.”

TONI MCNEILL —THE ACTIVIST

Born and raised in South Stockton, Toni McNeill experienced a myriad of problems wreaking havoc on her community. Many of the societal determinants such as underresourced schools, over-policing, and the “war on drugs” were negatively impacting the young people growing up there, creating a seemingly unsurmountable barrier.

But out of that chaotic concrete environment, a rose bloomed.

Rather than allowing her situation to define her, Toni sought to change the narrative. Escaping from poverty, homelessness, and a lack of foundational resources, she focused her energy on what she’s always done best: mentoring, leading, and advocating.

Today, she’s the founder and executive director of Concrete Development, an organization of formerly incarcerated, inactive gang members who seek to influence positive change within their communities. Not one to stop growing, Toni recently participated in a first-of-its-kind, six-month intensive on community violence intervention training and was honored at a White House graduation ceremony.

What are the building blocks of the program at Concrete Development?

“It’s based on a three-tiered approach consisting of mentors, peers, and mentees. The first tier asks you to have one-to-three mentors you can reach out to and count on. The second requires that you have three-to-five peers who you’re accountable to. And the last is to have three-to-five mentees that you work with to help them navigate their personal journey. If any tier is missing, you won’t succeed.”

What is something unexpected about the San Joaquin Valley community?

“We’ve endured economic depression, bankruptcy, natural disasters, and more—yet we’ve overcome. We learn from our mistakes as a community, and we seek to become stronger and better, and to create a welcoming place for all.”

“I deeply resonate with Yoda, who warns others of the power they hold and encourages them to seek to do good. You can almost hear his voice in the back of your mind when a conflict arises. My hope is that someday, I will be someone’s Yoda.”

“Like in the movie CODA, I signed a song for my family.

It was at my brother’s wedding and when I finished, my father was crying. He told me, ‘I never knew how beautiful music was until I saw it on your hands.’”

MELINDA WILSON —THE INTERPRETER

If you’ve ever seen the movie CODA, in many ways it mirrors the life of Melinda Wilson, who’s also a Child Of Deaf Adults.

Melinda’s parents are both deaf, as is her brother. Growing up in a home where she was the only hearing person in the family meant that a lot of communication with the outside world happened through her. As a child, she remembers having to take phone calls and relay the information back-and-forth to her parents, who she learned sign language from so they could communicate as a family.

This lifelong connection to sign language eventually led to her occupation as an Educational Sign Language interpreter for deaf children within the San Joaquin County school system.

What is your role within the classroom?

“I learned that many deaf children were being raised without the use of sign language at home, which we call ‘language deprivation.’ Within the San Joaquin system, deaf students are mainstreamed into public education classes with a sign language interpreter to facilitate communication between the student and their teachers and peers.

“One of my joys is to teach hearing families with deaf babies American Sign Language through the SJCOE because it’s also important for parents to learn ASL so they can create a loving, supportive relationship with their child.”

Do you have a mentor or someone you look up to?

“My life-long friend, Barry, is also CODA. He’s the one who encouraged me to take the test to determine my signing abilities, then helped guide me to take classes and attend workshops so I could eventually retest and get to the level the state required for working with students in deaf education.”

MONICA STELMACK —THE ADVOCATE

Living in California as a young, single mother who’d immigrated from Mexico without knowing English, Monica Stelmack wasn’t exactly set up for success. Then, after moving to the San Joaquin Valley, her second child was diagnosed with autism—news made especially difficult due to language barriers, a lack of family nearby, and no real-world experience with the condition.

But she resolved to learn English and everything she could about autism. She focused on finding better employment and worked her way up in pay and position. After meeting and marrying her second husband, she returned to school and obtained a bachelor’s in business science.

“I chose to move away from the sidelines to actively advocate and fight for the rights of those who need it. By empowering the people in our program, we also empower those who love them.”

In 2021, with her husband’s support, Monica quit her fulltime job to focus on something she’d always wanted to do: help other parents like her. With that in mind, she co-founded Wide Horizons, a program designed to help young adults with autism and other neurodiverse challenges. Since its inception, the non-profit has welcomed 19 participants to their program providing scholarships, helping them find employment, and teaching them the skills they need to live independently.

Why is the work you’re doing at Wide Horizons necessary?

“Because our participants need to learn how to become more self-reliant. We’re focusing our energy and attention on identifying and planning what’s most important—like money management, organization, communication, or even how to cook for themselves. But we’re also helping parents and caregivers find the services their children need. As another mother of a disabled child once said to me, ‘We are the voices of our children, and we must fight for them.’”

What are your goals for the future of the organization?

“To increase the number of people we serve. We’re working on securing funding that will allow us to hire more staff and find a permanent location to provide a space for our participants to practice vocational and employment skills.”

“Being able to drive positive change and lobby for the success and sustainability of the winegrape industry is truly rewarding. This community has given me so much, and I am deeply invested in it.”

NATALIE COLLINS —THE ADVOCATE

When Natalie Collins was growing up in San Joaquin County, she was surrounded by the agricultural fiber of the area and became involved in 4-H and Future Farmers of America, which undoubtedly influenced her decision to pursue a college degree in agricultural business.

That passion to be part of the agricultural industry led Natalie on the path to her current position as president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG), a lobbying organization for winegrape producers in the state—many of whom live and farm in the San Joaquin Valley. (There are approximately 90,000-100,000 acres of planted wine grapes with vlue of round $450-500 million annually).

As only the fourth president in the 50 years of CAWG’s existence, Collins is poised to take California winegrape growers into the future. Under your administration, will there be a shift in focus on issues concerning the industry?

“One example of what’s changing is that we’re more concerned with wildfires, which now have their own ‘season,’ and are deeply impacting growers all over the state. As a result of recent governmental policy, which CAWG had a hand in, millions of federal dollars will go towards research on the impact of smoke from those fires, including how tainted grapes can affect the taste of the wine that’s made from them, and what growers can do to mitigate the damage.”

You’ve been selected as a 2024 “Wonder Woman,” but which superhero do you admire most?

“For me, it would be Captain Marvel. She exudes confidence and clarity in action, doesn’t waver from her internal moral compass, and inspires women to embrace their strength and fight for what they believe in.”

KATHRYN SIDDLE – THE BARRIER BREAKER

Despite your best efforts, oftentimes it’s hard to see your way out of the forest when there are so many trees. Such is the case with the homeless crisis; the hurdles can seem so vast that nothing ever really changes.

In her hometown of Lodi, it was becoming apparent to Kathryn Siddle that the homeless situation was untenable. But because no one was offering comprehensive, accessible services, there was no way for most of them to break out of the cycle.

With the support of the Lodi Committee on Homelessness, Kathyrn, a career social worker, started working out of her car to gain access to benefits for people living in the city’s parks. She started by helping them obtain social security and disability benefits, then began picking up and delivering medications, scheduling healthcare appointments, making sure they got where they needed to go, and took the time to get to know them.

As a reflection of the impact her community service has had on Lodi, Kathryn recently received the 2024 San Joaquin Susan B. Anthony Award.

Tell us about your work with the unsheltered in Lodi.

“When I first got involved, one of the major issues was that services weren’t being received. The idea of ‘whole-person care’ is a way of dealing with people as individuals with different needs.

So, I started with a question: ‘What is your situation and what’s the barrier?’

And many times, it was as simple as finding shelter for them and their 3-P’s: possessions, pets, and partners.

“After I realized that was an issue, I worked to create a low-barrier shelter. The result was a large tent that was set up inside an abandoned building. The shelter we created provides a home for 80 people on a 24/7 basis, and offers a secure location, mobile showers, and food.”

You’ve been recognized as a Wonder Woman, but which superhero do you admire most?

“Peter Quill, leader of the Guardians of the Galaxy. He loves the music his mother raised him on, he often suggests ‘dance-offs’ to solve problems, he’s resourceful, and he became captain of a ship with an amazing, special crew— including a raccoon as his co-pilot!”

“Sometimes in life, you feel called to take on a role because the need is so great, you just can’t look away.”

LACY ESTRADA

Lacy Estrada, Owner/Chef at Vine and Fig Provisions

Chef Lacy Estrada learned to love cooking at a young age through family gatherings. That combined with a passion for leadership and an agricultural background has led her to open Vine and Fig, a catering and meal prep service serving San Joaquin County.

Chef Lacy served as her chapter president of the FFA and was on the state championship Livestock Judging Team. Raised on a Clements ranch, she has a background in competitively raising sheep and showing across California. She fueled her passion for food by studying at the Culinary Institute of America, Greystone, in Napa Valley. There her affection for service blossomed as she worked in kitchens around the valley, including The Restaurant at Meadowood.

Back to her roots, Vine and Fig Provisions is putting into action her commitment to serving locally sourced, carefully prepared fine food with outstanding service. At Vine and Fig, every event is custom. Providing endless styles of events like winery lunches, special occasion dinners, birthday parties, and weeknight dinners, Chef Lacy and her staff provide everything for a full-service fine dining event or more intimate gatherings, delivered right to your door.

Chef Lacy has several missions when it comes to food, taking pride in serving those with special diets and allergies, prioritizing locality and sustainability and remaining connected to neighborhood farms. Chef Lacy is also passionate about community and service and works with nearby nonprofit organizations to give back to the community that has helped bring her dream to reality.

VINE AND FIG PROVISIONS

(209) 747-9464

Chef@vfprovisions.com

VFProvisions.com

Welcomes Prisilla Perales to the Team!

TRACY CANNABIS COLLECTIVE

Like the Altamont Pass on a busy commute day, the road to cannabis legalization has been a hard fought battle, and we aren’t there yet. However, women have truly led the way when it comes to this feat. It is simple. We are born caregivers. And TCC is blessed to be a majority women-owned small business. Meet our team:

Dr. Jenkins holds a Doctorate in Naturopathy and is a Master Herbalist and member of the American Herbalist Guild. After her daughter passed away from cancer treatments, she founded The Kiona T Jenkins Foundation of Natural Health in order to spread the word of natural medicines and endogenous cannabinoid system education.

Kimberly Cargile has been working in the cannabis industry for over 20 years, first as a cultivator, then managing dispensaries and advocating for patient’s rights and industry regulations.

Michelle Trew, a 30-year Tracy resident, joined the cannabis movement more than five years ago. She acquired her cannabis business leadership experience through the A Therapeutic Alternative Management Program.

Deanna Garcia also completed the management program at A Therapeutic Alternative and graduated from the Cannabis Reinvestment Opportunity & Equity Program. Since then, she has been working with city and state governments to help spread safe access to medical cannabis.

Jennifer Noska is a 20-year Tracy resident who has replaced pharmaceuticals with cannabis and now works for the maker of her medicine, Proof Extracts.

Haley Andrew also started out at A Therapeutic Alternative and is now CEO of Dixon Wellness and a consultant with Tracy Cannabis Collective.

TRACY

JOYCE J. TAYLOR OWNER A

s the owner of No Time Cleaning Services, Joyce has 33 years of cleaning experience and expertise. Her number one goal is for clients to stay satisfied with services. “My clients became like family,” she says. “I have clients that have been with me 15 to 31 years. I’ve always took my job to heart no matter what that job was.”

Married young to her high school sweetheart of 45 years and having three children, education was always a top priority, urging her kids to go to college. “I was working at American Savings as an Insurance Processor when in 1990 my mother passed away. During that time off a friend asked for us to start up cleaning,” she recalls. In January of 1991, the duo worked their first place and before Joyce knew it, word of mouth grew their gig into a full-time business. And then, Joyce was able to put all three of her kids through college.

After 28 years, in 2019, Joyce expanded the business and hired employees. That’s when No Time Cleaning Services was started. “I have grown into 12 employees. We are licensed, insured and bonded, and all employees are background checked.” Joyce says she has as high of expectations of her employees as she does of herself. “If you believe in yourself, anything is possible,” she says.

In addition to homes and offices, No Time Cleaning Services also cleans for events and move-ins and -outs. Simply call for a free quote.

eiter Eye Medical Group staffs a team of fierce female doctors to serve its diverse population. Dr. Pham obtained her Doctorate of Optometry degree at the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, where she graduated among the top 10% of her graduating class and earned awards for student academic excellence (Cum Laude) and for clinical excellence. Dr. Krishna Patel was born and raised in Stockton. She has always been fascinated with the sciences, and as she furthered her education, she found great passion for optometry. She attended Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon and during her last year of training she completed her clinical rotations at the Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, at multiple private practices in Eugene, at the Roseburg VA Medical Center, and at the Eye Care Associates of Nevada as India and Malaysia Dr. Katelyn Balancio, also born and raised in Stockton, decided on optometry as a career when she was fifteen years old upon receiving her first pair of glasses. While continuing her studies, she went on to volunteer and work in the field for the next ten years. Dr. Balancio completed her education at the UC Berkeley School of Optometry in 2019 and has been proudly serving the people of her hometown since. Dr. Erin Doxtader graduated from Midwestern University Arizona College of Optometry as a member of Beta Sigma Kappa, the International Optometric Honor Society. She is delighted to be serving the community of Lodi, her hometown. She has a particular interested in specialty contact lenses.

AUDREY SCHMIERER REALTOR

In the bustling world of real estate, where every transaction holds the potential for something new, having a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide can make all the difference. Enter Audrey, a Realtor with a passion for helping clients achieve their dreams and a deep understanding of the market, Audrey stands out as a trusted ally for anyone navigating the complexities of buying or selling a home.

At the core of Audrey's approach is a genuine love for what she does. "I'm truly passionate about real estate," she says. "It's not just about closing deals for me; it's about making meaningful connections and helping people find that perfect place to call home."

This passion translates into every aspect of her work, from the initial consultation to the final handshake and beyond. Whether working with first-time buyers or seasoned investors, Audrey brings an unwavering commitment to excellence and a genuine desire to exceed expectations.

One of the hallmarks of Audrey's success is her dedication to her clients. "I believe that every client deserves personalized attention and tailored solutions," she explains. "That's why I take the time to really listen to their needs and understand their goals. By investing in my clients, I can deliver results that go above and beyond their expectations."

Whether it's identifying the perfect neighborhood, negotiating the best price, or navigating the intricacies of the buying or selling process, Audrey is a trusted advisor every step of the way. In this industry, challenges are inevitable, but it's how you approach them that makes all the difference. By staying positive and focusing on solutions, I can turn obstacles into opportunities and help my clients achieve their goals."

For Audrey, every transaction is not just a business deal; it's an opportunity to make a positive impact in someone's life. Whether it's helping a young couple find their first home, assisting a family in upsizing to accommodate their growing needs, or guiding retirees through the process of downsizing, Audrey approaches each client with the same level of enthusiasm and dedication.

In a world where trust and integrity are paramount, Audrey is a shining example of what it means to be a professional in the real estate industry. With her passion, commitment to clients, and knowledge of the market, she continues to make a lasting impression on everyone she encounters. So, if you're in the market for a positive and upbeat real estate experience, look no further than Audrey. With her by your side, your real estate dreams are closer than ever to becoming a reality.

SYCAMORE LANE KENNELS AND FARM OWNER AND STAFF

Michelle, Isabel and Sharline conduct their grooming business at Sycamore Lane Kennels demonstrating unique skills meeting the needs of clients, dog breed and a variety of grooming styles. They are calm, patient and understand how to communicate with a squirming dog or cat.

They are all excellent groomers, each with a specialty and affinity for perfection.

Michelle loves grooming Doodles and is known for the beautiful chrysanthemum-like heads she sculpts on Bichon Frises.

Isabel’s specialty is the Cocker Spaniel but can groom any breed needing a makeover.

Sharline mastered hand stripping, has developed a following in the Terrier community and can make any dog look like a celebrity.

Purebred or a mixed breed, each groomer is skilled to work with you creating the look you desire.

Book a SPA DAY when making your next appointment. Your dog will be treated to a spacious kennel, play time, then off to the warm, bubbly tub for a luxurious bath and pampering. After the pampering your dog will return to his kennel awaiting your return in comfort.

SYCAMORE LANE KENNELS & FARM

5111 W Sargent Rd, Lodi, 209.334.1316

SycamoreLaneKennels.com

JAIME SMITH OWNER

At Smitty's Wings & Things, Jaime Smith ensures every customer feels right at home the moment they step through the door. Recognizing patrons by their names and where they like to sit, she fosters an inviting, family-like ambiance. Together with her husband Steve, Jaime has been the cornerstone of this local treasure since its opening in 2013, pouring her soul into creating an unmatched dining experience at Smitty's. Her extraordinary dedication to excellence is evident in every handmade sauce and pizza dough, essential components of Smitty's signature dishes. Garnering national fame in 2016 by appearing on "Diners, Drives and Dives," Jaime's hard work gained a spot in the limelight. Moreover, Smitty's has been named the Best Wings in San Joaquin County for seven straight years! Jaime Smith exemplifies the influential role women hold in business, embodying the spirit and dedication that make Smitty's more than a restaurant—it's a community hub shaped by her leadership and care.

BUSINESS LISTING:

Smitty’s Wings & Things

5654 N Pershing Ave, Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 227-7479

Smittyswingsandthings.com

San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District is celebrating 79 years of public health protection this year. Since 1945, the independent special district has focused on providing stewardship for public funds, encouraging citizen participation, educating the public, and maintaining a safe and effective public health pest management program. Tasked to control mosquito populations and keep residents safe, the San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District is the goto for all mosquito questions and concerns. Be sure to take the necessary steps to keep you and your family safe through the removal of standing water and the proper use of EPA registered repellents, and call in any daytime-biting mosquitoes. It's initially ON you to keep mosquitoes OFF!

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY MOSQUITO & VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT

7759 S. Airport Way, Stockton (209) 982-4675

SJMosquito.org

If you’re water isn’t up to par, AquaKleen is here to help. The water purification company that services homes in San Joaquin County and throughout Northern California, offers water refinement systems for your whole house—including reverse osmosis systems, multi-stage refiners, and salt-free refiners. The goal is water that not only tastes great, but is great for your body, too! It all starts with a free, at-home water test, which can be requested through the website. The test gives home owners an in-depth look at their current water situation and, after diagnosis, the specialists at AquaKleen work with you to create a better water system in your home—one that eliminates hard water and water high in contaminants, such as high levels of chlorine in city tap water. To get started, visit the website today. AquaKleen has already served more than 20,000 customers, and you could be next.

AQUAKLEEN

5051 Commercial Cir., Concord (209) 649-2665

Jaime Tavares

Kim Karp

Pamela Swift

Debbie Baglietto

Elisa Luna

Cesar Camarillo

John Capri

Laura Weaver

Mary Gorgas

Mark Gloria

Wine Dine

RESTAURANTS | WINE | DRINKS | SWEETS

Dine at IBIZA

EXOTIC FOOD, DRINKS, AND LOUNGE FUN



BY SARAH STEFFENS / D BY DAN HOOD

Nestled in the heart of Stockton’s Miracle Mile is a trendy little café with big time culture and flavor.

IBIZA Lounge & Tapas, owned by Arturo Zarate, is unlike any other place you have visited. Known for their exotic menu featuring Spanish shareable tapas, family-style plates, unique cocktails, and a host of evening lounge events, it is the place to check out for a night of memorable food, drinks, and fun.

THE SOCIAL EXPERIENCE

IBIZA is all about their tapas (shareable dishes that are celebrated for more than just their culinary delight) and familystyle dishes. “IBIZA is proud to be the SJV’s main supplier of authentic Spanish tapas,” says owner Arturo Zarate. When enjoyed with others, tapas encourage social interaction, togetherness, and connection and small bites of several different dishes serve as an adventure of taste, texture, pleasure, and surprise. Here, there is something for everyone. Just imagine a rotating dance of plates donning warm marinated olives with savory herbs and sweet citrus, Octopus and Saffron Aioli with potatoes, arugula, and sherry vinaigrette, and the Prosciutto and Pear flatbread. The beauty of ordering a variety of tapas is that you get to try a little bit of a lot of things, tasting different culinary regions in every bite. “We offer Californian and Spanish-inspired dishes,” says Arturo. “Our food is made from scratch and we use local, and specially imported ingredients to guarantee an authentic

tasting experience.”

Beyond tapas, IBIZA offers a wide selection of larger, familystyle plates. Hearty appetites will enjoy their New York Strip Loin with garlic smashed potatoes and fresh in-season veggies, or their Chicken Picatta with lemon white wine and caper butter sauce served with linguini. All diners will swoon for the house made Pesto Penne, served with cream, parmesan cheese, mushrooms, zucchini, and sweet peppers. And IBIZA offers unforgettable sides, such as Truffle Mac with Four Cheeses and Lobster Mac & Cheese.

IBIZA serves an impressive variety of paella dishes, as well, also meant to share. A unique combination of bomba rice (short-grain rice that absorbs up to three times its volume in cooking liquid while maintaining its pleasurable rice texture), sofrito, and saffron is slowly simmered with exotic spices and your choices of proteins, such as chicken, shrimp, mussels, calamari, and Spanish-aged chorizo.

FINISHING TOUCHES

With dishes like Classic Vanilla Flan featuring vanilla bean custard and caramel sauce, or Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake with fresh in-season fruit, caramel, and whipped cream, you’ll want to save room for dessert, as well.

IBIZA also serves an array of

Sharing food is an incredibly bonding experience, and IBIZA has added excitement in the ritual of eating with others.

unique cocktails and other alcoholic drinks. Their cocktails are meant to

complement their dishes and add to the festivity of dining out. Try the Strawberry Rose with amaras mescal, strawberries, rose water, agave, and lime, or the Purple Galaxy Quest with vodka, blue curacao, cranberry juice, and sweet and sour. IBIZA has a mouthwatering house sangria to quench your thirst, tequila tasting flights to cultivate your curiosity, and they offer specialty drinks regularly throughout the week as well as for holidays.

Bonding over food and drinks would not be complete without some energizing fun, which is why IBIZA proudly welcomes all those looking to have a cozy, relaxed, and chill experience well into the night with music spun by a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. Whether it is a holiday, birthday, or you just need to get out—IBIZA is the spot to unwind, eat delicious food, toast with tasty drinks, and remember that life is full of reasons to celebrate.

Sweet & Savory Mango Curry

ENJOY AN EXOTIC DINING EXPERIENCE AT TRACY THAI

 BY SARAH STEFFENS

This season, we’re looking no further than one of the most satisfying sweet and smooth fruits to enjoy: the mango. And a local restaurant has us extra eager to dish it up.

Tracy Thai’s Mango Paradise Curry, as described by owner Gesa Wongphiboonrat, “is a delicious mix of chicken, prawns, mango, bell peppers... steamed broccoli, and carrot, coated in our homemade red curry sauce made with coconut milk.” The dish’s fresh mango makes it stand out from any other curry you have tried, and gives it its unique, smooth, sweet, even buttery flavor.

When asked about the inspiration behind this dish, Gesa says, “the chef wanted to create a dish that was both savory and sweet. The mango added a special touch to treat your taste buds.” Gesa suggests enjoying it with a side of light and floral jasmine rice, so that it soaks up all of the sauce’s tropical flavors. They also serve brown rice, for those who prefer a nuttier flavor. Either combination offers a balance of both taste and texture.

Tracy Thai Café prides itself in creating dishes that are homemade, and true to South Asian cuisine. “Our chefs are experience[d] in authentic Thai cooking, and we use fresh ingredients daily,” says Gesa.

TIDBIT

Crazy for Cioppino

BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE SERVES THE SEAFOOD STEW ON FRIDAYS

When it comes to seafood, there is nothing quite like a bowl of freshly prepared cioppino, rich in tomato stew flavors, and hearty in a variety of the freshest coastal fish and shellfish. Cioppino literally translates from Italian to “chopped, torn-to-pieces.” It began as an unfussy soup consumed by Italian immigrant mariners and port workers in San Francisco. Fisherman would pitch in bits and pieces of fish and other seafood to create a now-staple stew, often served with fresh, toasted sourdough bread. Bud’s Seafood Grille, located in Stockton, has been providing San Joaquin County some of the very best homemade, authentic cioppino. It comes as no surprise that the story of Bud’s truly tantalizing stew was

nothing short of an experience of a triedand-true-recipe being passed down from one generation to the next.

The story goes that when Bud was working as a meat cutter at an Albertson’s grocery store, an elderly lady of about 70 years old approached him about purchasing some crabs. Around this time, Bud was processing about 1,200 pounds of Dungeness crabs from Eureka per day, so he certainly had some she could purchase. She bought about seven crabs and told Bud she would use them to prepare her mother’s famed family recipe for cioppino. This, of course, made Bud curious about the recipe, and he asked if she would share it with him. About a month later, the elderly lady returned to the store and handed Bud

a hand-written card with the prized family recipe on it. Bud adapted it slightly, and to this day, nearly 50 years later, it remains one of the restaurant’s most beloved recipes, a combination of the freshest seafood simmered slowly with tomatoes and spices, “A true, real deal,” says Bud himself. Bud’s chefs prepare this stew weekly on Fridays as a daily special.

TIDBIT

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

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: MonThur 11AM to 9PM, Fri - Sat 11AM to 9:30PM, Sun closed

KOMACHI SUSHI

307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd. Lodi, (209) 334-3131

SushiKomachi.com

Harry and Susan Yu have been a major part of the local economy since 2007 when Mikasa opened its location in Lathrop. Cooking with local produce and only using the freshest fish right from the Bay has always been key to their success. Fortunately the Yu’s chose Tracy for their newest location stocking the full bar with the most extensive liquor, sake, wine and beer selection around. Plus, with happy hour 7 days a week you’ll be sure to get your fill! Mikasa also offers off site catering and a separate banquet room for all your rehearsal dinners, large parties or business needs. Try the special SJM Roll (pictured)

MIKASA JAPANESE BISTRO

2610 S. Tracy Blvd. Ste. 110 Tracy, (209) 830-8288

15138 S Harlan Rd., Lathrop, (209) 858-1818

Nestled on the Brickwalk in Lincoln Center Midgley’s Public House specializes in steaks and seafood, with an extensive appetizer menu and unique desserts. Our bar menu consist of several unique cocktails, fine wines and spirits. We have several dining options including our extensive patio, dining room with floor to ceiling open windows, and a large bar area. We offer several dining options for large parties and do catering of all sizes, including our own food truck, Midgley's Public Truck, that can be rented for private and public events.

MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE

296 Lincoln Center

Stockton, (209) 474-7700

MidgleysPublicHouse.com

International Pop Up FOODIE

RANDY’S BISTRO SPICES UP MONDAY NIGHTS IN LODI

 BY BRANDY COLLINS

Randy Anzaldo has always wanted to own his own restaurant. And, in May of 2023, he realized that dream, opening Randy’s Bistro in the former Denis’ Country Kitchen spot. “I've been in the restaurant [business] since I was 10 years old,” he explains, purchasing Denis’ because it was a well-established restaurant in Lodi for over 31 years.

Despite its long legacy in the region as Denis’ Country Kitchen, Randy has put his own stamp on the space. His Monday night pop-ups offer a different experience completely.

Some of the details still represent Denis’ at its core, including original menu covers and some signature breakfast items such as the crab benedict. “A lot of people are used to the old kind of habits, but they actually like Randy's Bistro because I'm actually introducing a unique meal that they haven't tried before,” he says.

To invigorate the palates of Lodi, the restaurant has a specialty menu on Monday nights serving international cuisine from 4-8 PM. Each week, the menu rotates to highlight a new region and its specialties, including Asian, Italian, and Latin fusion.

“People that come in are very excited because they like to be surprised what's going to be next on the menu,” Anzaldo says. The menu of the week is posted on the Instagram page (@randysbistro.lodi). While the menu is always changing, Randy’s personal favorite is seafood night when he treats customers to fresh

Dungeness crab, cleaned and prepared by Randy and roasted with one of the restaurant’s signature dips. Randy’s also serves a whole Dungeness crab with signature garlic noodles for those with a heartier appetite.

“When I see the enjoyment of

customers coming in and seeing that while they're getting a whole crab,” starts Anzaldo, “that brings joy to me knowing that those customers will come back.” And while crab may be Randy’s favorite, the most requested meal is a classic Filipino dish called

pork adobo. The secret to his success? Cooking the pork in Sprite to keep it tender.

With less than a year under his belt, Randy still has more up the sleeve of his white chef's coat. In February, he introduced afternoon tea service with required reservations on the first and last Sunday of the month. He’s also expanding his hours to include more dinner service and eyeing a happy hour service. If you want to see what’s next, keep a close eye on Randy’s social media where he divulges new details and offerings to followers.

RANDY’S BISTRO

1327 W. Lockeford St., Lodi (209) 368-6350 @randysbistro.lodi

CHOCOLATE COVERED

MICHAEL’S HEAVENLY SWEETS SPECIALIZES IN STYLISH DESSERTS

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Celebrations taste better dipped in chocolate—at least that’s Michael McDonald’s philosophy, a local chocolatier and owner of Michael’s Heavenly Sweets. The direct-to-consumer business thrives during holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Easter, Christmas, and wedding season, offering everything from gourmet caramel apples to chocolatedipped berries available for delivery in Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, and Lathrop.

Michael’s career at the SJC Probation Department came to a halt when his sweets took center stage. What started as a delicious way to share his passion with coworkers quickly morphed into a fulltime job selling the sweets he perfected under the study of famous chocolatiers in France. Now his delicacies include inventive flavors such as a cookie butter caramel apple, cotton candy caramel

apple, gourmet pecan caramel apple, and chocolate dipped pineapples. His decorative strawberries are also popular served in mini tuxedoes for wedding season and dunked in white chocolate and gold for other occasions, plus a variety of more flavors and designs.

The options feel nearly endless, and the designs are part of the appeal. Sure, a caramel apple is going to taste delicious almost anywhere, but where else can you purchase a white chocolate-dipped apple outfitted with pink and blue iridescent sparkles and finished with a crown of candy pearls? Or a creamy chocolate dipped strawberry donning an edible white chocolate butterfly? And that’s just the start of his decadent offerings. Shoppers can also order an entire peach cobbler cheesecake, a party platter full of cashew chews, a gourmet chocolate

dipped pear, pecan nut clusters, or marshmallow skewers. For weddings, matching bride and groom caramel apples are an adorable addition to any dessert table and a Cinderella apple makes a thoughtful gift for the elegant bride with a sweet tooth.

It’s these designs that have made Michael a hit not only with the local community ordering gift boxes full of his desserts but also community organizations he partners with, including Visit Stockton, University of Pacific, Flavor Fest, and Terra Coffee. His concoctions have even landed Michael on Good Day Sacramento.

MICHAEL’S HEAVENLY SWEETS

MichaelsHeavenlySweets.com

SWEETS

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IN SEASON

Three Keto Lunches

CHICKEN SALAD IN A JAR

Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 min

Cook Time: 0 min

INGREDIENTS:

Vinaigrette:

½ c. olive oil

2 tbs. lemon juice

2 tsp. sea salt

1 tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. smoked paprika

¼ c. cilantro, minced

1 scallion, minced

CHICKEN SALAD LAYERS:

¾ lb. of cooked chicken breast, shredded

2 c. shredded cabbage

1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved

2 c. cooked cauliflower rice

Optional Extra Fats:

1 avocado, peeled & diced

½ c. chopped nuts

1 c. shredded cheese

8 tbs. prepared ranch dressing

INSTRUCTIONS:

Whisk vinaigrette ingredients together in large bowl. Toss cooked chicken breast in and coat well. Divide chicken between four, two-cup glass jars, followed by remaining salad layers and optional extra fats. Secure jars with lids, and when ready to serve, empty into serving bowl and toss.

Nutrition

Calories: 422

Carbs: 8

Net Carbs: 6

Protein: 28

Fat: 33

Does not contain extra fats

 PHOTOS AND STORY BY SARAH STEFFENS

TACO SOUP

Serves 4

Prep Time: 5 min

Cook Time: 25 min

INGREDIENTS:

1 tbs. avocado oil

1 yellow onion, peeled & diced

3 garlic cloves, peeled & minced

2 tsp. sea salt

1 tsp. black pepper

1 tbs. chili powder

1 lb. of ground beef

2 c. rotel tomatoes, drained

1 14.5-oz. can of coconut crème

1 c. beef or chicken stock

1 avocado, peeled & diced

2 tbs. lime juice

¼ c. cilantro, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add avocado oil to large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add diced

onion and minced garlic, and season with sea salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Stir well to combine. Sauté until onions are soft, about five minutes. Add in ground beef and break up with a wooden spoon. Sauté until beef has browned, about ten minutes. Stir in tomatoes, coconut crème, and stock. Reduce heat to a simmer until soup is thick and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in avocado, lime juice, and cilantro. Store any leftovers in fridge for up to three days or freeze in a sealed plastic bag for up to six months.

Nutrition

Calories: 488

Carbs: 11

Net Carbs: 7

Protein: 25

Fat: 40

SALMON KABOBS WITH GREEN BEANS & TOMATOES

Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 min

Cook Time: 20 min

INGREDIENTS:

4 wooden or metal kabob skewers

Veggies:

1 tbs. butter

1 medium shallot, peeled and sliced

1 c. cherry tomatoes

2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

2 c. French green beans

½ tsp. sea salt

¼ tsp. black pepper

Marinade & Salmon:

¼ c. olive oil

1 tbs. coconut aminos

1 tsp. sea salt

½ tsp. black pepper

½ tsp. garlic powder

Juice and zest from ½ lemon

1 lb. of wild-caught skinless salmon, diced in 1 ½” x 1 ½” squares (about 20 pieces)

Tzatziki:

1 c. whole milk Greek yogurt

1 tsp. sea salt

½ tsp. black pepper

Zest from ½ lemon

5 dill sprigs, minced

1 tbs. grated cucumber

Instructions:

If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 15 minutes or more to avoid burning. Whisk marinade ingredients in large bowl. Add salmon to bowl and soak in marinade for 15+ minutes.

While salmon is marinating, heat grilled pan to medium heat and add butter. When pan is hot, add shallot, cherry tomatoes, garlic cloves, French green beans, sea salt, and pepper and sauté until veggies are blistered and blackened, about 10 minutes. Set veggies aside in bowl. Thread each skewer with salmon and place skewers on the same heated grill pan. Do not move so they get charred grill lines. Flip after one minute per side. Cook salmon until opaque in color. Mix all tzatziki ingredients together until creamy and well-combined. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

Nutrition

Calories: 412

Carbs: 10

Net Carbs: 7

Protein: 30

Fat: 29.

The Nose Knows

WINE AROMATICS ENHANCE THE TASTING EXPERIENCE

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

As a registered sommelier with a background in New York City restaurants, Patrick Cappiello who uses mainly Lodi grapes to make his Monte Rio Cellars wines, knows the importance of wine aromatics. “The magical thing about wine is wine grapes have the ability to produce aromas that aren’t grapes,” Patrick says. “Think about other fruits. Bananas can’t do it, apples can’t do it, cherries can’t do it.”

And so, smelling your wine before you taste is part of the experience. In fact, there’s plenty you’ll pick up on the nose that will be lost on the palate. Consider coming home to a roast chicken baking in the oven. You’ll first notice the aromas of the chicken before you ever taste it. “You taste first with your nose in so many ways.”

Step 1.

Choose the right vessel. Patrick likens a wine glass to a speaker. While you can drink wine out of a tumbler or a plastic cup, it won’t amplify the aromas the same way a wine glass will. If you want to get into the different shapes and sizes of wine glasses for each variety of wine, that can be a fun foray backed by science. In general, however, Patrick says using a larger wine glass and filling it just a quarter of the way full will do the trick.

Step 2.

“The aromatics of wine are so well integrated and it’s such an important part of the experience.”

Master the movements. To best experience the aromas of the wine, first swirl it in the glass. Then, place your nose about a half-inch from the glass and sniff. The swirl is an important step as it introduces

oxygen into the wine and amplifies the different components.

With a simple sniff, even wine novices can pick up a lot of nuances. This is where you’ll smell berries, leather, and spice. You may even identify the varietal before tasting. That’s because cabernet sauvignons routinely smell of black currant while syrahs will give off aromas of blueberries and bacon fat.

Step 3.

Now, you sip. After you’ve gained all of the relevant information through aromatics, you can sip the wine. In this step you’ll notice tactile tasting notes, such as the alcohol, sugar, tannins, and viscosity while the individual flavors are informed through the nose.

WINE

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