Let us help you regain control and take your life back. At St. Joseph’s Behavioral Health Center, we are committed to providing compassionate, quality care, in an environment that fosters communication, trust, and personal growth. Our inpatient and outpatient programs are dedicated to helping those we serve to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. In addition, we have a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program designed to meet the needs of adults who are uninsured or underinsured with a history of opioid or stimulant use dependency. Whether you need assistance dealing with depression, anxiety, or substance dependency, or are seeking counseling, we can help.
Learn more at dignityhealth.org/stockton/behavioralhealth.
Our NICU team is fully staffed with trained physicians and onsite 24/7 neonatal specialty trained RN’s. Social workers & follow up support programs along with high risk infant clinic.
A groundskeeper by day and an artist by night. Jeremy “Kolourlab” Johnson has been creating art for as long as he can remember, perhaps most notably to locals in the form of vibrant murals sketched across the city.
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
From wines and beers to distilled spirits, San Joaquin County and its surrounding cities are filled with delicious and refreshing boozes. BY NORA
HESTON TARTE
We take a look at some of the locals making SJC shine. From pharmacists to boarding facilities, these are faces you can trust.
BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE TEAM
From where to stay to what to eat and everything to do in between, we’ve curated an itinerary for a near-perfect 48 hours in this coastal city. BY
NORA HESTON TARTEOwned by couple Kevin Cox and Suki Quigley, The Purgatory has been quenching the thirst and appetites of its customers since 2017. BY
SARAH STEFFENS
My brother runs marathons. Personally, I couldn’t do it—or at least I don’t have the drive to. To me, trekking 26.2 miles just for the hell of it doesn’t sound like a good time; it sounds like something you do out of necessity if your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere and you’re potentially being chased by a bear, and an ax murderer. But, to each their own.
Anyway, my brother’s obsession with running ridiculously long distances for sport piqued my interest. Can anyone hop on a road and accomplish the feat? How much training really goes into running a marathon? It turns out, the preparation may be more intimidating than the race itself. It was that line of thinking, however, that turned into an article on How To Run Your First Marathon, complete with tips and tricks provided by Tony Vice of Fleet Feet in Stockton.
That’s just one story that was inspired by the long-awaited spring. After months of torrential downpours, power outages, and some wind storms, I think we’re all excited to see the sun. And even if you’re not the type to get out and run in it (like me), there’s still plenty to do to (finally!) enjoy spring.
Other options? Wine tasting, sipping a locally made brew on the patio, chasing down San Joaquin County’s best musical talents, and more. As always, we’ve packed our calendar with fun stuff to do (much of it outside—and even including a run) and the rest of the pages with cool people and places to explore. Perhaps perusing local murals is more your speed? Take a walk around Stockton and find the colorful masterpieces created by Jeremy Johnson, and then get familiar with other artists who have painted the town red (and blue, and purple, and green, and so on).
Once you’ve read all about it—get out and do it! And show us what you’re exploring by tagging @sanjoaquinmag on social.
Happy reading!
TONY ZOCCOLI tony@sjmag.com
California National Parks routinely close trails and routes due to weather, but 2023 has proven a record year for snowpack. The good news is the parks have begun to thaw and destinations such as Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park and Kings Canyon National Park have reopened. What’s even better, the forecast is for sunnier skies this month, which will make visits not only possible, nut more pleasant.
Get your calendars out and mark July for a baseball outing unlike any other. The Savannah Bananas are the exhibition baseball team taking social media by storm for their TikTok-inspired dance moves performed between plays. Tickets are going fast for the baseball attraction with a scheduled game in Fresno on July 27 and another in Sacramento on July 29. Unfortunately, they will not be playing the Stockton Ports this season.
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Tony Zoccoli
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JUSTICE IS LOCAL. YOUR LAWYER SHOULD BE TOO.
Established in 1993, we have been representing San Joaquin Valley community members and their families for more than 20 years in catastrophic injury cases. Our offices are in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, not Los Angeles or San Francisco. We are well versed in the local rules and have a deep knowledge of the arbitrators, judges and court system. This unique knowledge and ability to navigate the local system has produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Vally by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.
Agroundskeeper by day and an artist by night.
Jeremy “Kolourlab” Johnson has been creating art for as long as he can remember, perhaps most notably to locals in the form of vibrant murals sketched across the city. “I’ve been told my work has a bit of fantasy and playfulness to it, and I feel like that’s pretty true,” Jeremy says.
It’s possible that art is in Jeremy’s DNA. His mother, after all, was an artist and often had projects for her kids to do growing up that involved the arts. At age 10, Jeremy’s step mom enrolled him in the Aldrich School of Art, which used to be located on the Miracle Mile. There, the late Joy Aldrich really opened up Jeremy’s eyes to a world of possibilities.
After several educational endeavors, which included two years of advance placement art at Bear Creek High School, art classes at San Joaquin Delta Community College, and a semester at Art Center College of Art and Design in Pasadena (the college was too expensive to stay for the long run according to Jeremy), he landed back in Stockton and was part of the 1850 Collective for two years before it disbanded. “We were Stockton‘s young hip art crew and had art pop-up shows all over Stockton, giving us a foot in the door to individually make names for ourselves,” Jeremy explains.
The relationships he created led to his first mural opportunity, an invitation from Matt Amen who asked if he wanted to paint a mural using some leftover supplies from a previous project. The collaboration with Alex Suelto covered a four story building located at Market and Aurora streets. It was, “probably the biggest building I’ve ever worked on,” Jeremy says.
Shortly after Jeremy was invited to participate in the 2019 Wide Open Walls Mural Festival in Sacramento.
“There I painted my first solo mural titled, ‘Cheshire,’ which garnered a lot of buzz with people. After it was done, mural work continued to flow in.”
Unbeknownst to Jeremy, the owner of the building sold it and after the festival, they painted over his mural.
“I’m not going to lie, it stung a bit, but I knew the nature of public art and they couldn’t paint over the experience I had,” he says. In addition to the collaborative piece in Stockton, Jeremy has works on OTB Disc Golf Co. located on the corner of San Joaquin Street and Alpine Avenue, in the courtyard of Sayla Music Academy at 21 W. Locust St., and an Alice in Wonderland-themed piece from the 2021 Wide Open Walls Festival located on the side of the Schiff’s Estate Sale building at 1309 Del Paso Blvd. in Sacramento.
While murals may be his largest form of public art, it’s not the only medium Jeremy dabbles in. “These days, I’m
actually making art in my home studio more than painting murals,” Jeremy explains. “I love experimenting with painting on found objects like old acoustic guitars or painting on my own cut out shapes of wood.”
“Color definitely plays a role in my work,” Jeremy says. “I tend to nerd out and obsess over my color choices and how they play with each other. I also incorporate nature into my work quite a bit having worked in landscaping with my dad since I was 13 and now at University of the Pacific for 15 years as a groundskeeper.”
Jeremy has also taught a few classes, but with his limited time, his passion lies in making art more than mentoring.
“I’m still working a nine to five job and raising two kids with my wife,” Jeremy says. “Just showing up and pushing through the tired or scared feeling is huge! It’s work but I feel like if you have a passion for what you do, you’ll make the time.”
One tip he has for budding artists is to take matters into your own hands by reaching out to local businesses and offering your services. “Whether it’s showing your work in a coffee shop, a mural where tons of people will see your work, or on tangible goods, those are great places to start getting your work out there.”
“Art making is my passion,” Jeremy says excitedly. “Whether I do it full-time or while I keep a day job, I think I’m going to do this for the rest of my life. If I can inspire and bring joy to my viewers, that’s all could ask for.” KOLOURLAB Kolourlab.com @kolourlab Jdj1031@gmail.com
“Your art isn’t for everyone, so don’t let that be the deciding factor,” – Jeremy Johnson
“I’ve always been a person who has championed for the right to protect the young and the vulnerable and those that couldn’t help themselves,”
Elena WongEducator Elena Wong grew out of adversity, embraced her environment and created a career that inspired generations and uplifted others. For her efforts, Elena was recently recognized along with eight other women with a Susan B. Anthony Women of Achievement Award bestowed by the San Joaquin County Commission on the Status of Women.
work ethic that has led to success. “I was considered a leader, and I had a wonderful time there.”
Teachers labeled Elena bright and precocious. Two recreation directors took Elena under their wing and taught her tennis, and she went on to play competitively by the fourth grade. She went on to graduate college and earn a doctorate.
“I’ve always been a person who has championed for the right to protect the young and the vulnerable and those that couldn’t help themselves,” says Elena. The native San Franciscan was a maternal orphan, shuffled between families in Chinatown. Often those families were immigrants who could scarcely provide for their own families, let alone, Elena. She became street smart and was deemed “uncontrollable,” and laughs as she suggests that she “ran the streets of San Francisco.” She considered bus and cable car drivers her guardian angels as they made sure she had food and got around town.
At age 11, Elena went to the Ming Quong Home in Los Gatos, a residential group home for Chinese bi-racial girls. She now recognizes that home provided her willpower, resiliency, self-confidence, and a
During nearly a decade as the associate superintendent of Stockton Unified School District, Elena championed teachers who had English as a Second Language certifications, and scholarships for girls and women. She was a pillar of strength in the wake of the Cleveland School shootings. She also helped create the Central California Asian Pacific Women network.
Now retired, Elena is still a proud member of the American Association of University Women and is planning to write a book about the (now closed) Ming Quong Home where she lived and thrived.
Humbly, she finishes, “I really didn’t expect this award. I think there [are] a lot more people in San Joaquin County who have done more to move the county forward. But I’m lucky.”
BY SUZANNE
LEDBETTERWhen the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce’s longtime CEO announced his retirement, the organization sought to fill the position with a candidate that demonstrated strong leadership skills, a passion for Lodi, enthusiasm to make sweeping changes to the business climate, and the skillsets to accomplish great things. Eventually, Lodi
native J.P. Doucette took over the reigns and the board got everything they needed out of a president and CEO, and more. J.P. was born and raised in Lodi before continuing his studies at Santa Clara University where he double majored in economics and environmental studies. He excelled in water polo as a collegiate athlete, and eventually returned to the town that raised him.
When we sat down with J.P. at Towne Corner Café for a cup of coffee, his easy-going, kind nature made it clear the organization found the perfect fit for their membership and will thrive under his leadership. “My experience as a small business owner will always impact how I look at the world. A majority of our members are small business owners, and I can relate to their experience. I believe it will assist in my ability to advocate effectively for them and enable me to create programs that will have a positive impact on their bottom line.”
A healthy chamber of commerce is vital to a healthy community. “Some of our more impactful work is not as widely known. The Chamber facilitates philanthropic efforts carried out in our programs and committees. Our Leadership Lodi program partners with a local non-profit on a project every year, improving or adding services provided to our residents in need. Our agribusiness committee is encouraging our next generation of farmers through their support of local FFA programs and agriculture education.”
What J.P. is most excited about in his new role as CEO is being a part of finding solutions to issues facing the community. “This is ultimately why we exist as an organization. We cannot solve most of the problems our members face, but we can connect them with the people or resources that will help resolve their issue.”
When J.P. isn’t working to make Lodi a business-friendly hub, he’s living out his family’s motto of “work hard, play hard.” “My wife and I model that passion for life for our kids. Our children are 8 and 10 years old, and I spend as much time with them as I can.”
Twenty-six-point-twomiles—that’s how long a marathon is. And running one can be quite the undertaking. “Running a marathon is an incredible accomplishment that requires dedication, perseverance, and careful preparation,” Tony Vice, owner of Fleet Feet in Stockton, says. While training is one necessary ingredient to successfully completing a marathon, so is a positive attitude and a good work ethic. But what else should you do before the marathon? Read on for Tony’s tips.
First off, it’s important to check in with your doctor, and perhaps even get a physical, before getting started. This is true of any new exercise program. “Marathons are physically demanding and require significant cardiovascular and muscular endurance, so you want to make sure your body is up to
the task,” Tony says. Next, gear up. Essentials include fitted running shoes, lightweight clothing such as moisturewicking polyester, a smart watch to track your miles and more, some sort of hydration pack you can run with, and snacks including energy gels or bars to keep you going during the race. A structured training schedule will keep you accountable and on track for the big race. Plans that gradually increase your mileage are suggested. This includes defining your starting point (your current pace and how long you can
run). Then, set a goal, even if that’s just finishing the race. Once you choose a plan (plenty are available online), stick to it. “Consistency is key when training for a marathon,” Tony says. And don’t just run. “To avoid injury and build overall fitness, it’s important to incorporate cross-training activities into your training plan,” Tony says, offering cycling, swimming, and strength training as options. Don’t forget to rest and recover in between sessions and never try and work through a painful injury.
When the big day comes, just a few quick steps can calm your nerves. Tony suggests familiarizing yourself with the course, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and resting for a few days before the race, prepping your gear, and arriving early to warm up.
“Running your first marathon should be a joyous occasion,” Tony says. “You have put in the work, now enjoy!”
MAY 6
In addition to Pixie Woods’ usual draws—entertainment, arts and crafts, playgrounds, and more—there will also be birthday cake to mark this milestone event. Starting in May, the beloved amusement park is open on Saturdays and Sundays, with additional days added as the year progresses. 3121 Monte Diablo St., Stockton
MAY 19-20
Formerly known as Zinfest, this wine-centric event is back with a line-up of activities, tastings, and more. Stop by Lodi Lake to meet the makers behind the wines of Lodi and sip varietals alongside delicious food. Tasting tickets start at $65.
1101 W. Turner Rd., Lodi
MAY 19-21
A celebration of diversity and culture, the second annual Flavor Fest at Weber Point Events Center brings friends and families together to eat, drink, dance, and shop. And don’t forget the live music! Enjoy a day, or the entire weekend, soaking in all Stockton has to offer. 221 N. Center St., Stockton
MAY 5, 6-9 PM
This farm-to-table dining experience is hosted on Downtown Stockton’s Main Street benefitting the San Joaquin Delta College Culinary Arts Program. 242 E. Main St., Stockton
MAY 6, 5-10 PM
If you have the need for speed, you’ll enjoy a night at the races. Head to Stockton 99 Speedway for this special Mother’s Day themed event. 4105 N. Wilson Way, Stockton
MAY 6, 1-3 PM
The season kicks off with a home game against the Oakland Soul held at Delta College Soccer Field. The Cargo SC is Stockton’s newest sports venture—a preprofessional soccer league! 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton
MAY 7, 8 AM-4 PM
Twice each year, in May and October, the Lodi Street Faire (hosted by the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce) comes to town, taking up 15 square blocks and featuring 25 vendors. 35 S. School St., Lodi
MAY 7, 10 AM-6 PM
Food, drinks, games, dancing, live music, artisan crafts, contests, family friendly entertainment, a car show, and more are all on the menu at this cultural event hosted at Weber Point Events Center by El Concilio. 221 N. Center St., Stockton
MAY 7, 1-5 PM
The Friends of the Fox series continues with a showing of Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) at Bob Hope Theatre. 242 E. Main St., Stockton
MAY 7, 2 PM
Chris Perondi and his wife bring their dogs to the stage to show off some fabulous tricks. 715 N. Central Ave., Tracy
MAY 11-21
Choose from one of eight performances and enjoy a selection of short plays. 2312 Rosemarie Ln., Stockton
MAY 27-28, NOON-8 PM
Come for the beer, stay for the food during a weekend featuring live entertainment and plenty of grub, held at Weber Point Events Center. 221 N. Center St., Stockton
MAY 13, 8 PM
Treat your mom to the musical stylings of Robin Spielberg on Mother’s Day. 715 N. Central Ave., Tracy
MAY 20-21
Stockton Chorale will sing popular songs from The Beatles over two days, Saturday at Cherokee Memorial Park and Sunday at Atherton Auditorium. Multiple Locations
MAY 20, 8 AM-NOON
Get your run on for a cause at Michael Faklis Park, hosted by Stowers Does It All! 5250 Cosumnes Dr., Stockton
MAY 12, 7-8:15 PM
After a pandemic halt, the series returned this year.
May 12 marks the last date to enjoy with a piano recital.
400 W. Rose St., Stockton
MAY 20, 11 AM-4 PM
This family-friendly celebration of cherries brings a parade, food, vendors, and live entertainment. And don’t forget the cherry pie eating contest! 18100 E. Front. St., Linden
MAY 6, 9 AM-5 PM
Twice each year Lincoln Center hosts a big sale for the entire shopping complex. Shoppers will enjoy discounts on everything from shoes and accessories to sportswear and home décor. Come down and enjoy the fun! 374 Lincoln Center, Stockton
MAY 6, 6:30-8:30 PM
Ready for a raucous night of high-energy music? E-40 and Too Short headline this all-star concert at the Stockton Arena also featuring Frankie J, Baby Bash, Warren G, J Holiday, and more. 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton
Ron Freitas was recently sworn in as the 42nd District Attorney of San Joaquin County. To his new title, he brings renewed energy to the office and is excited to roll his sleeves up and work diligently for the people.
Ron says he is grateful to have earned the trust of voters and acknowledges milestones that helped him get to this point. “From being a Portuguese kid from Los Banos, to the first in my family to attend and graduate from law school; to a 30-plus year career as a prosecutor, being named the California District Attorneys Association Instructor of the Year in 2017 and being co-chair of the CDAA’s Gang Violence Suppression Committee.”
During a decade on the Lodi Unified School District School Board, Ron helped create a path to ensure more women and people of color were chosen as teachers and role models. “I truly believe that ensuring our children have the
ability and skills to become successful adults have been one of my highlights and one of the greatest ways I’ve given back to our community thus far,” says Ron.
Some have inspired Ron, including Giants great Willie Mays, for the way he conducted himself and excelled during a time of racial turbulence. Ron’s campaign consultant, Lee Neves, was inspirational when he was diagnosed with liver failure in 2021. He fought through a liver transplant and conducted the campaign from his hospital bed. Ron explains, “I just thought of what Lee was going through and knew that I didn’t have it that bad. He’s one of the main reasons I’m district attorney today. That man is a force of nature!”
Ron has learned lessons from his challenging cases. He’s had scientific hearings that had DNA first admitted in San Joaquin County, impaneled two juries for one trial, and argued before the California Supreme Court. “They all taught me that it isn’t about the win or the loss, or how great of a prosecutor I was,” Ron says. “They all taught me that it’s not about me, or the office. It’s about the victim, it’s about the victim’s friends and families. It’s about ensuring justice is served.”
“One single session can work the entire body in a functional and healthy way that burns calories and improves overall fitness,” – Ash Singh
When it comes to choosing what to sip on, taste is obviously the highest priority. But there are other factors to consider, too, and if you’re asking us, we want to drink something both delicious and local this summer. From wines and beers to distilled spirits, San Joaquin County and its surrounding cities are filled with delicious and refreshing boozes. From cheers-ing to Friday with a couple of locally made brews to sipping your way through Lodi’s rosés, there’s a little somethingsomething for everyone looking to get their drink on in SJC.
BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD / SUZANNE LEDBETTER
Where the michelada originated is up for some debate, however, one way or another it makes sense as a Mexican Bloody Mary. In most cases, we think of the direct translation as mi chela helada, or “my cold beer.” However, a michelada is anything but your standard brew.
Similar to a Blood Mary, micheladas use tomato juice as a base as well as spices, hot sauce, and savory seasonings. However, don’t expect vodka here. Instead of a spirit, a michelada is made with a cold Mexican style beer, sometimes tilted upside down into the glass for better presentation.
Its flavors are definitely rooted in beer, but there’s a lot more to unpack. The additional spices help the drink jump rope between descriptive words like tart, salty, spicy, and fizzy. Much like the Bloody Mary, it can also be ordered up as a breakfast
drink, which is one of our favorite excuses to drink micheladas at any time of the day.
If you’re making one at home, opt for a light beer, preferably with a hint of salt and citrus. Traditionally, Mexican beers are used, such as Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Light, or Tecate.
When bartenders really want to impress, they start loading micheladas with other ingredients turning a cocktail into a meal. First, don’t neglect the rim; use both lime and tajin to edge the glass. Then, go crazy. Consider vegetables like celery stalks and asparagus, cocktail olives, fresh jalapeno, pineapple slices, and even proteins such as a shrimp skewer. Micheladas traditionally pair well with smoked meats, so adding them as an elevated garnish will make a nice addition. At Don Luis Mexican Restaurant, you can even get yours topped with a shot of tequila.
Alcohol in a can opens a world of possibilities, especially come summer. If you’re looking to bring a drink to the beach, the pool, a BBQ, etc., most places outlaw glass (for safety reasons) but many will allow for alcohol in an aluminum vessel.
Brews are an easy pick for summer drinks, and Lodi is home to quite a few breweries outfitted with glass cases where you can grab your favorites to go. And if you like a beer on tap but it isn’t mass-marketed yet, a crowler may allow you to take some with anyway.
However, SJC is also home to local producers of other alcohols that come in cans, too. So, if beer isn’t your drink of choice, it doesn’t mean you have to skip the party.
Wine drinkers will be thrilled to hear Michael David Winery sells its popular FreakShow cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay in four-packs of 187 ml cans. The red version boasts flavors of ripe black fruit and baking spices with wood smoke, maple tones, and a hint of oak, while the white is crisp and fruit forward with a playful zest.
Scotto’s Wine & Cider also got into the canned wine game with its Proscotto label. The chic black can looks as highend as the semi-sweet bubbles inside taste. Pick up a handful and enjoy them poolside. With bright juicy flavors, this sparkling wine is both zesty and balanced. Plus, it received 97 points from Just Wine.
Scotto’s, of course, is also known for sweet ciders. These flavorful concoctions are sold under the William Tell label and include flavors such as award-winning Hard Apple, Apple Strawberry, and Apple Wild Cherry. More wineforward options, mixing the best of both worlds, include Blueberry Zinfandel, Apple with Pinot Grigio, and Mango Muscat.
If a margarita is your goto sipper, make it easy by
reaching for the locally produced and allnatural Tia Linda’s. The 200 ml cans are perfect for on-the-go fun. It’s not just a mix either—the tequila is already in the can (18% ABV), made from fresh ingredients including organic lemon juice, organic lime juice, allnatural cane sugar, tequila, and a pinch of salt.
Any list of canned drinks wouldn’t be complete without recognizing the seltzer. California Seltzer Company is sold out of Five Windows Beer Co. Their creative line-up includes daring flavors like herbaceous Hibiscus Lime, citrusforward Blood Orange, tart Pineapple Lemon, and bright berry flavors in Hard Pink Lemonade, Yum Berry, and Berry Rush.
BAR MANAGER, THE KITCHEN AT STONEBRIER
THAT KIND OF DAY TWIST ON A NEW YORK SOUR
INGREDIENTS:
2 oz. Bulleit whiskey
1/2 oz. fresh orange juice
1/4 oz. maple syrup, diluted with water (use ½ oz. if you desire a sweeter drink)
DIRECTIONS:
Shake all ingredients together and pour into a glass with ice. Top with one ounce of red wine.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Use a bold red wine as the topper to be more spirit forward.
BAR MANAGER, BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE RUM PUNCH
INGREDIENTS:
1 oz. light rum like Bacardi
Tropical
1 oz. Banana liqueur
2 oz. cranberry juice
2 oz. pineapple juice
Half a lime
DIRECTIONS:
Add all of the ingredients with a scoop of ice to a shaker and shake well. Pour the contents into a glass and enjoy.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Invest in a shaker. There is a world of a difference in taste when you shake up a cocktail as opposed to adding the ingredients to a cup and stirring. When working with fresh citrus, this creates a frothy top.
BARTENDER, WEST OAK NOSH
CLASSIC MANHATTAN COCKTAIL
INGREDIENTS:
Luxardo Cherries/Cocktail
Cherries
2 oz. bourbon or whiskey
(suggested: Basil Hayden Dark Rye)
3 dashes of angostura aromatic bitters
¾ oz. sweet vermouth
DIRECTIONS:
Pour your favorite whiskey into a shaker, add one cocktail cherry with the juice, a splash of bitters, and ¾-ounce of sweet vermouth. Muddle cherry with liquid in shaker. Stir for about 30 seconds and double strain into martini or rocks glass. If you want it ice cold, shake for about 10 seconds instead of stirring. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Include orange bitters for unique added flavor.
GENERAL MANAGER, AVE ON THE MILE LAVENDER LINEN
INGREDIENTS:
1 ½ oz. Empress Gin
½ oz. elderflower liqueur
1 splash of lime juice
Soda Water
Cucumber and lime for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
Muddle sliced cucumber in shaker. Add Empress Gin, elderflower liqueur, a splash of lime juice, and ice. Shake then strain into ice-filled glasses. Fill to the top with soda water and garnish with a slice of cucumber and wedge of lime.
TIP to make it best: If you prefer a sweeter drink, trade the soda water for Sprite.
SERVER/BARTENDER, AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER
BERRY BLOSSOM COCKTAIL
INGREDIENTS:
1.5 oz. Hennessey
1 oz. triple sec
½ oz. sweet and sour
½ oz. strawberry puree
½ oz. raspberry puree
2.5 oz. lemonade
1 oz. diced strawberries
1 oz. blueberries
2 raspberries
1 blackberry
DIRECTIONS:
Fill a tall glass hallway with ice. Add all liquids to glass and shake or stir. Add diced strawberries and whole blueberries and stir again. Place the raspberries and blackberry on a toothpick as garnish.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Use fresh fruit.
BAR MANAGER AND COCKTAIL DIRECTOR, PAPAPAVLO’S BLUEBERRY BASIL GIMLET
INGREDIENTS:
3 oz. vodka or gin
½ lime, juiced
1 lime wedge muddled
1 ½ oz. blueberry and basil infused
simple syrup
1 egg white
Fresh blueberries
1 basil leaf
Large ice cube, optional
DIRECTIONS:
Muddle lime wedge with spoonful of blueberries in cocktail shaker. Pour three ounces of liquor into shaker and squeeze half of lime in shaker. Add 1 ½ oounces homemade artesian blueberry basil simple syrup. Cautiously separate one egg white from yolk and quickly add egg white to cocktail mixture. Dry shake (without ice) rigorously for at least 10 seconds. Open cocktail shaker and add one scoop of ice. Strain cocktail over a big cube in a bucket glass. Garnish with fresh basil leaf, fresh blueberries and lime wedge.
INGREDIENTS FOR BLUEBERRY AND BASIL INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP:
1 c. sugar
½ c. fresh blueberries
8 sprigs fresh basil
2 c. hot or boiling water
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients with hot water and stir until combined. Let cool overnight in refrigerator. Strain basil and blueberries out of syrup. Store in refrigerator until ready to use.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Switch up the presentation and serve the cocktail up in a chilled martini glass.
OWNER, DON LUIS MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND EL CHILANGO CHIDO
INGREDIENTS:
2 oz. mezcal
1 oz. agave
¼ lime
Club soda
Ice
Fresh fruit of your choice
DIRECTIONS:
Muddle fresh fruit (mango, guava, blackberry, raspberry, blueberry, etc.) into a shaker with alcohol and the juice of ¼ lime. Shake well and pour over ice. Fill to top with club soda.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: Don’t forget to rim the glass with tajin and salt.
OWNER, BLEND
IRISH MULE/JAMESON GINGER
INGREDIENTS:
2 oz. Jameson
½ oz. fresh lime juice
Ginger beer
DIRECTIONS:
Build cocktail in a glass or tankard. Fill with ice. Pour Jameson and fresh lime juice. Fill to brim with ginger beer.
TIP TO MAKE IT BEST: While ginger beer is preferred, those who like a bit more sweetness can use ginger ale instead. Or use in place of ginger beer when it isn’t available.
Before Paul Marsh become the manager of the Lodi Wine Visitor Center in Lodi, he famously owned Mile Wine Company. He’s also a certified sommelier, which means he knows a thing or two about wine, both in Lodi and beyond.
We sat down with Paul at the tasting room (next to Wine & Roses) to pick his brain, answering a little FAQ for those of us not as well versed as he.
Q: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES A QUINTESSENTIAL LODI WINE?
A: Sense of place. With all of the mutigenerational history in the area and the Mediterranean climate, we can grow some amazing grapes from the European varietals and sometimes do it better than what they do in Europe. It’s just optimal growing.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTERISTICS IN A GLASS OF WINE?
A: The nose. The nose is the first meeting that you have and then you have to figure out the fruit, earth, what other things are floating around in there. That gets my expectations ready for the next step. It’s almost like being a detective.
Q: WHAT CAUSES SEDIMENT ON WINE, AND IS IT A BAD SIGN?
A: Sediment is naturally occurring. There are particulates in the wine and when wine ages things settle naturally. It’s not a bad sign. Some wines are unrefined and unfiltered and are meant to be like that. Sometimes it’s a byproduct of the end process for wine making.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON ICE IN WINE?
A: You should not put ice in wine. It’s going to water down the wine. To me, it wouldn’t be fair to the wine maker or the wine to water it down. If you need it colder quicker, put it in the refrigerator and go text three people.
Q: WHAT IS THE REASONING BEHIND GOOD YEARS FOR GRAPES AND BAD YEARS? HOW DOES WEATHER AFFECT THIS?
A: Weather 100% has an effect. Climate is real and has a real effect on grape vines. Frost can damage buds to where your crops will diminish quite a bit. Last year there was a major frost incident and some people lost entire vineyards. This year should be a very, very good year for wine because with
all of the water still in the ground and the saturation the vines will have plenty to get their perfect growth going.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON CANNED WINES? DOES THE VESSEL AFFECT TASTE?
A: I have never found a canned wine to taste any different than a regular wine out of a bottle. I’ve tried cans from all over the world. I think they are a very cool thing to have especially if you’re going on a picnic or heading to the beach. It’s very safe because there’s no oxidation.
Q: HOW SHOULD I SERVE A BOTTLE OF WINE AT HOME TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT?
A: Equal glasses, so we can enjoy it together. Depending on what type of wine it is, some of them may need a little time to breathe. Most of the time… I’ll pour just a little half
glass and then that little air going into the bottle will open it up. If it’s an older wine, I would decant just to separate the sediment and let some air in.
Q: WHAT WINE TRENDS ARE HITTING LODI RIGHT NOW?
A: Grenache blanc, albariño, rosé. Those are all really, really on the forefront of what people are looking for and as far as even other winemakers and winery owners outside of Lodi are coming here to find the fruit because it’s doing so well. Also, cinsault, Carignan, and, of course, the old vine zin.
Paul Marsh hand selects ten wines deemed perfect for summer sipping. Pick them up at the Lodi Wine Visitor Center
2022 ALBARINO
This crisp white wine offers plenty of flavor. On the nose, you’ll get tropical fruit while the taste has noticeable hints of lemon, peach, and minerality. Expect refreshing acidity.
2022 NATIVO
This white blend features kerner, riesling, and bacchus grapes, offering a fruit-filled vino with a dry finish. The wine boasts grapes from the Mokelumne Glen Vineyards, the only place that grows kerner grapes in California.
LORENZA
2021 PICPOUL BLANC
This organically farmed vino marks the label’s first venture into white wines. This fresh, crisp sipper promises a zippy finish after flavors of key lime, Meyer lemon, chervil, green apple, and lemongrass.
2021 SAUVIGNON BLANC
You may struggle to pinpoint the plentiful flavors encased in this wine. From the nutty properties of pan-roasted macademia nuts to tropical tastes like green mango, there is lots to uncover while sipping this citrus-heavy vino ripe with acidity and minerality.
2021 ROSE OF PINOTAGE
The color on this French Provençal-style rosé mimics a Lodi sunset. Sit back and enjoy distinct flavors of red berries. Expert tip: This rosé pairs wonderfully with food.
PRIE VINEYARDS
2021 ESTATE GRENACHE
Summer doesn’t mean swearing off whites. Serve this organically grown estate grenache slightly chilled on warm days and enjoy the bright floral tones paired with citrusy grapefruit.
BRUELLA ROAD RED BLEND
This California-style red wine blend is made from tempranillo, zinfandel, and petite sirah grapes. For a summer wine, it’s bold and acidic, leans dry, and offers subtle tannins. You’ll pick up hints of dark fruit like blackberries as well as brighter red fruits and dried fruits.
HARNEY LANE
2020 LIZZY JAMES OLD VINE ZINFANDEL
Lodi is synonymous with old vine zins, and this rich and juicy version of the local bounty doesn’t disappoint. This wine is deep and intentional, using estategrown grapes from a single vineyard with gnarly vines dating back to 1904.
2020 STAMPEDE ZINFANDEL
Grapes from the Stampede Vineyards date back to the 1920s. The winemakers let the fruit speak for itself, using only native yeasts and including very little handling until bottling from neutral barrels.
2018 ESTATE VINEYARD PETITE SIRAH
This heavier red still pairs well with a summer evening meal outside. Grapes collected from the Mokelumne River provide unrivaled flavors in this popular sipper from m2 Wines.
As a Stockton native, Chris Dunn, owner of Delta Pacific Beverage Company, Inc., a family-owned independent distributor operating in 18 Northern California counties, has a passion for sharing his favorite beers with the restaurants, breweries, grocery stores, and liquor stores he frequents. It’s a job he fell into after leaving the banking world amidst the fallout of the 2008 real estate crash; one that allowed him to refocus on an industry he cared about a whole hell of a lot more than banking.
While Chris started as an importer for overseas brands, in 2011, he shifted focus, picking up craft brewery clients and helping with their distribution. What began with a 2,000-square-foot warehouse space and Chris’ pickup truck has since morphed into a much larger operation. Today, Chris (and his wife Katie who is the business’ CFO) has more than 50 employees, 20+ delivery vehicles, sales representatives in 18 counties, and a 30,000-square foot warehouse.
“The craft beer scene at that time was in its infancy,” Chris says of his 2011 start. And while Delta Pacific has grown rapidly, so has its list of clients, which includes locals like Morgan Territory Brewing and Dust Bowl Brewing Co. “We’re selling a lot of volume now and they’re producing a lot of beer now… I found a niche.”
Chris prides himself on working with quality craft brewers and competing with the big boys. Most independent distributors, he says, have been bought up by larger companies. But it’s the intimate relationships cultivated with their clients that sets Delta Pacific apart. That and the company’s passion for creating exposure for smaller brands that need the extra boost.
From taproom takeovers to placement in large grocery stores, Delta Beverage helps with it all, from
new companies just getting started to the larger labels that put them on the map like Pizza Port, Belching Beaver, and Modern Times.
Delta Pacific represents craft breweries from Colorado, Southern California, and the Pacific Northwest, as well as in the Central Valley, East Bay, and South Bay.
“When it comes to craft beer, we bring in high quality products,” Chris says, adding the brand also works with distilleries to distribute spirits.
“My goal is to be the largest most influential independent distributor in California,” Chris says. “I want to be the best beer/alcohol distributor out there.”
Wine and beer may be SJC’s best known exports, but they aren’t the only alcohols made local. A few distilleries have burst on the scene serving up gins, vodkas, rums, whiskeys, and more. From the big names in the game to smaller, family-owned operations, check out these four local distilleries for ideas on what to blend in your cocktails, or sip on the rocks.
The flagship liquor at Sabbatical is easy-to-drink, complex yet smooth. Drinkers will notice flavors of cherrywood and peat in this whiskey blend that combines Japanese style with American character. Double gold winner and Best of Category from ADI International Spirits Competition; silver medal winner in Bartender Spirits Awards.
Made locally from 100% estate-grown California sweet potatoes and water from the farm’s natural aquifiers, this smooth liquor is easy enough to drink on the rocks but also makes a great addition to cocktails. The texture promises to be buttery and smooth while the product offers a hint of sweetness as well.
Headquartered in Modesto, E&J Gallo Winery has a hand in many large brands, but they also produce their own label brandy, E&J Brandy. All E&J brandies are made using traditional methods and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years. The collection of smooth brandies come in three distinct styles, plus apple and peach flavors.
Move over tequila and lime. Stop ordering whiskey with a pickleback. When it comes to a celebratory drink, we know shots reign supreme, but we’re not talking dull, over-done (and not often delicious) ounces of straight liquor; San Joaquin County businesses are adding flavor to their most festive orders by stepping up their shot game.
Paying homage to their neighborhood—and Owner Kevin Hernandez’s alma mater—AVE on the Mile whips up a colorful Tiger Shot to celebrate the University of the Pacific mascot. Made with equal parts Peach Schnapps, orange juice, and sweet and sour, the drink goes down easy, but it’s not without plenty of punch. Each shot is topped with a float of Jager to make the drink orange and black (just like the school’s colors). “We created that being connected to UOP,” Kevin says.
Blend Ultra Lounge is a swanky Stockton hotspot that prides itself on displaying big city luxury with a Stockton area code. Instead of a dive bar or a wine and beer experience, Blend promises a nightclub-adjacent experience on a smaller scale.
There may not be a designated dance floor, but DJs spin music while high rollers enjoy tableside bottle service.
With the classy atmosphere comes a high-end drink list, and while cocktails are aplenty, the shots bring more fun to the table. Owner Michael Thorpe and his crew are known for throwing together some colorful options for those looking to cheers with their friends. And the flavors are out of this world. Choose something hot with the Spicy Pineapple Upside-Down Cake shot, complete with a tajin rim. Or keep it simple and sweet with a Starburst Shot.
If you can no longer stomach taking shots with your friends, we may be able to convince you otherwise with an Oyster Shooter. Blazin’ Cajun slangs the appetizer-meets-cocktail shot every day for $5 each. The drink is built on a Pacific oyster before it’s layered with Bloody Mary juice and vodka. Old Bay Seasoning, a favorite Bloody Mary topper, along the rim kicks it up a notch. Mikasa Japanese Bistro is in on the trend, too, serving up their own version for $4.50.
THIS REGION IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE DUE IN LARGE PART TO THE ORGANIZATIONS, PROFESSIONALS, AND ENTREPRENEURS THAT CHOOSE TO DO BUSINESS HERE. FROM INDUSTRY LEADERS TO SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS MAKING AN IMPACT, THESE ARE THE FACES OF THE 209. D DAN HOOD
Many know about The Kitchen @ Stonebrier already. The Stockton restaurant has a reputation for high-quality local fare served all day. In addition to the standard menu, however, the team behind this hidden gem—mainly Chef Shane Tracewell and Regina Bourez, the banquets/catering and bar manager—also serve monthly wine and cocktail pairing dinners, typically on the last Tuesday of each month. The pairings are held in the restaurant’s beautiful main dining room and hosted by an advanced level sommelier where both wine and liquor pairings are matched with Chef Shane’s most inspired creations, serving five or six courses in total. “Ultimately, we strive to never repeat dishes, always build on the positive, and to challenge ourselves to create a better and more unique experience for our supporters,” Shane says.
The focus is on making every paired dinner a personal experience highlighting community food and hard-to-find wines. “Our host breaks down the pairing process to a near scientific platform
allowing our guests to really soak in what is happening on the plate, in the glass, and together on their tongue,” Shane explains of the experience.
It all works because of the collaboration between staff. “It is a team effort for Shane and I,” Regina says. “We sit down and say what we would like to feature or the theme we would like to do and we work off each other.”
Shane adds, “Striving to champion the more obscure finds, we source our alcohol direct and ensure it isn’t available in any stores nearby, if at all.”
Want to attend? Guests can reserve tickets in person, by phone, or online.
4780 WEST LN., STOCKTON (209) 932-9322 I THEKITCHENATSB.COM
If you're looking for an accredited, nonprofit university with personalized attention both in and out of the classroom, Humphreys University is the perfect place for you. Located in the heart of the San Joaquin and Stanislaus communities, Humphreys makes it easy for you to live, work, and learn all in one place.
You can choose from a range of degree paths, from certificate to graduate degrees. With flexible class schedules and modalities, you can pursue your goals on your own time, and open enrollment allows you to start anytime. Plus, the eleven-week quarter system enables you to move swiftly through your program, so you can achieve your goals quickly and with a sense of satisfaction. Higher education is within reach at Humphreys University! Humphreys University understands that the college experience
can be overwhelming. Since 1896 the University has ensured that students receive personalized support. They offer helpful services such as a library, tutoring, virtual bookstore, career services, and computer services, all within a secure, inviting atmosphere. Counselors, financial aid staff, and academic advisors are always accessible and dedicated to helping you from the moment you apply to the day you graduate—and even beyond. Plus, there are plenty of financial aid options available to those who qualify, including federal grants and loans, Cal Grants, and various institutional scholarships.
Together Dan Natividad and Kristen Dyke co-own Port City Marketing Solutions, Inc., a full-service marketing and communication agency based in Stockton. For more than 10 years the duo, along with hired staff, have worked tirelessly to promote businesses in their hometown using their expertise in graphic design, website design, branding, digital marketing, social media, public outreach, and strategy and development. At its core, Port City prides itself on telling engaging stories through brilliant design, beautiful strategy, and flawless execution. The name itself is, of course, a nod to Stockton.
Not only is Stockton the place Dan and Kristen serve through their creative marketing strategies, it’s also where they call home. It’s where the team both works and plays. It’s where they have
chosen to raise their families. Dan and Kristen credit Stockton and their neighbors for shaping their values, both personal and professional: always take the high road, work with good people, love your family, and take pride in what you do.
Dan and Kristen have not only proven their expertise through the work completed at Port City Marketing, they bring with them a wealth of knowledge from startups, mid-sized companies, and billion-dollar organizations. They’ve survived in the trenches—and continue to do so—so you don’t have to.
Throwing axes has become a favorite pastime for many. Combining sport and competition with delicious brews (and other food and beverage) makes for time well spent with family and friends. And when it comes to tossing a few back while also tossing a few other items, Michael Hill is the man behind San Joaquin County’s axe throwing scene with Limitless Axes and Ales in Lincoln Center.
“What sets Limitless Axes and Ales apart from other entertainment venues is our unique blend of thrilling axe throwing, incredible drink and upscale pub fare, and a swanky lodge-themed atmosphere that transports you to a cozy and inviting space,” Michael says. In addition to the main stage entertainment—axe throwing—guests can also enjoy the venue’s other offerings: happy hour, Trivia Tuesdays, Thursday Glow Throw, board games, an "Axecade," giant Jenga, and 13+ televisions to watch your favorite sporting events and more. “Our expertly crafted cocktails and mouth-watering food
perfectly complement the experience, making us a one-of-a-kind destination for a night out with friends or coworkers.”
While Limitless Axes and Ales is ideal for date nights and small group outings, the venue also supports larger crowds. If you and your coworkers are looking to blow off steam, consider the space for a team building activity. With a combined lobby (sharing space with Limitless Escape Games), the Stockton shop can hold up to 150 people. “Our team is dedicated to creating unique event experiences tailored to our guest's needs, making us the ideal destination for corporate events, parties, and team building activities,” finishes Michael.
2021 is a wonderful year for real estate in San Joaquin County. The housing market has thrived over the course of the pandemic, fueled by lower interest rates and work schedule flexibility. For many, moving out of big cities created a surge in available buyers in Stockton, Tracy, Manteca, Lodi, Lathrop, and beyond, so houses for sale were enjoying multiple offers and big price tags. While home prices are on the rise, however, those low interest rates make buying a home affordable still because with less money tied up in interest, you can pay off your home faster and go for homes with a higher listing price. All around, it’s a good year for home ownership.
If you are looking to buy or sell a home in SJC, call on Lance McHan. The real estate agent started as an appraiser in 2000 but stepped away from the industry after the market crash. In 2015, a friend convinced him to come back, this time as an agent. “I resisted for the longest time because after dealing with agents as an appraiser I didn't have much respect for [agents],” Lance explains. However, he also saw an opportunity to be the type of agent he didn’t see in the business near enough. His friend gave
him the advice, “If you become an agent you can change the perception of realtors one client at a time,” and that exactly what Lance has done for the past six years.
Lance credits his friendly sales style and ability to work well with other agents for his success in the local real estate market. His goal is always to make the process run as smoothly as possible for clients, working with other agents as allies and not adversaries. By putting his client’s first, Lance has amassed a large number of local listings, adding to the slim inventory as much as possible.
So, whether you’re looking to buy or sell in San Joaquin County, Lance McHan is your guy, always working diligently to ensure his clients walk away with a smile on their face and nothing but good things to say about their experience.
Salida Surgery Center isn’t just a family-owned dental practice, the office specializes in treatment for children, including those with special needs, who require general anesthesia.
After receiving their own degrees and jumpstarting careers in Atwater and Hemet, brothers Dr. Pankaj K. Patel and Dr. Shailesh K. Patel decided to go into business together. Pankaj earned his Dental Degree from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine before continuing into anesthesiology, completing a residency in dental anesthesiology at Loma Linda University of Southern California and a anesthesiology fellowship at Riverside County General Hospital.
Shailesh went to school locally and graduated from the University of The Pacific, School of Dentistry in 1992. After that he opened two private practices before going into business with his brother.
“What sets us apart from others is that we are a family business where the owners provide patient care along with other doctors,” Dr. Pankaj Patel says. “We have earned our referring colleagues' respect and confidence in providing excellent care to our patients with a passion for almost 20 years.”
Working with niche clientele has helped the brothers excel, providing care to those who may otherwise struggle to find help. They also stay up to date on new technologies and belong to local community dental societies to elevate their care practices. The ultimate goal is better oral care for children and special needs patients that struggle to find specialized care.
When it comes to a neighborhood pharmacy that feels like family, Hammer Lane Pharmacy is the place to go! Dr. Amir Khan is a Stockton native and has been serving his community as a pharmacist for over 23 years.
Amir is an alumni of the University of the Pacific (UOP) where he received his Doctorate of Pharmacology. Aside from working as a community pharmacist, Amir has served as an adjunct professor with UOP for over 18 years, helping future pharmacists gain experience in the practice of community pharmacy.
To serve the community better, Amir opened Hammer Lane Pharmacy in 2018. It is located next to Sutter Gould in the Food Source Shopping Center. Combined with Amir’s experience, knowledge, expertise and an amazing staff, the entire crew at Hammer Lane Pharmacy provides patients with a genuine caring attitude and superior service. Here, patients feel valued and taken care of.
For many it’s the little extras that Hammer Lane Pharmacy provides that makes all of the difference, including one-onone service, gentle direction, and thorough explanations of
medications and how to take them for best results.
The proof is in the accolades. Hammer Lane, with Amir at the helm, has three consecutive Best Of awards for Best Independent Pharmacy for 2019, 2020, and 2021 by San Joaquin Magazine.
Amir is a strong believer that you are only as good as your team and he is extremely proud to be working with one that is top notch. The team at Hammer Lane Pharmacy feels what separates them from their competition is personalized service; short wait times; convenience offerings such as curbside pick-up, free local home delivery, being open 7 days a week, accepting all insurances, and stocking many immunizations including COVID-19, pneumonia, Shingrix, Tdap, flu shots, and more. The ability to have immunizations administered in a private room is the icing on the cake. Hammer Lane also offers compliance packaging and, not to mention, carry many OTC and home healthcare products to make it a one-stop shop for customers.
If you live or work in San Joaquin County and you need help with your home or office’s heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems, then Advanced Tech 209 Inc. should be your first phone call. The local HVAC contractor provides both HVAC replacement and repair, plus other services to address the rest of your heating and cooling needs, from duct work to filters.
The local business has nearly 30 years of experience in the industry so they can be the experts when you can’t. And with a hassle-free service platform, it’s easy for customers to schedule both emergency service and routine maintenance. Simply call the service number anytime, 24 hours per day, seven days a week, to schedule an appointment.
The company lives by their motto, if it’s hot or cold, the service at Advanced Tech 209 Inc. is gold, promising top-notch
customer service both over the phone and in home. And you won’t get just anyone showing up to your door. Advanced Tech only works with its own employees instead of outsourcing jobs to other local technicians. Managing the quality of their employees helps the team keep work consistent. To make an appointment for service or get an estimate, call (209) 888-4944. As long as time allows, Advanced Tech 209 offers same day appointments regardless of weather, and always at an affordable price.
If you like puzzles, interactive activities, and having a good time, then an escape room might be for you. Limitless Escape Games is Stockton’s premier escape room venue, featuring five diverse rooms. Choose from The Morgue (a serial killer-themed room and Limitless’ newest addition), Pirate Adventure, Bank Heist, Wizard School, and Sherlock Holmes.
“Our escape rooms are meticulously designed and crafted to transport you to another world where you must work together with your team to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out,” Owner Michael Hill, who also owns Limitless Axes & Ales, explains.
When you step into Limitless Escape Games in Lincoln Center, you enter a different reality, ready to embark on a carefully designed journey that completely immerses you in the experience. The basis of the game is a series of challenging puzzles that need to be solved in order to “escape” the room you’re housed in, and while you’re having a good time, you’re also playing with
relationship building blocks for couples, families, friends, and coworkers. “We offer an unparalleled immersive experience that challenges your mind and ignites your creativity,” Michael says.
For an extra dose of difficulty, guests can compete for the top score, escaping the room faster than anyone else, and doing it while asking a minimal number of clues.
The Stockton space is ideal for small groups but can accommodate larger team-building events. “At Limitless Escape Games we differentiate ourselves by our dedication to creativity, customer satisfaction, and a top-notch experience that sets us apart from other escape room businesses in the industry,” Michael says.
Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts and Supplies has been a pillar in the karate community since 1984, teaching the system of Karate known as Goju Ryu under the international organization of Goju Ryu Uchiage Kai. Starting with its Stockton location, the dojo now operates additional satellite karate school locations at Stockton GymStars, Modesto GymStars, Hiers Goju Ryu in Lodi, and United Bay Area Karate Club in San Jose.
Goju Ryu combines fighting traditions from both Okinawa Japan (Go) and China (Ju). Loosely translated, go means hard and ju means soft, resulting in a balanced style of fighting that is able to tow the line between direct and indirect fighting movements. “The mixture of the combined cultural fighting systems makes our style very affective for self-defense,” says Owner and Chief Instructor Gene Tibon. But while Tibon’s is one of the goto places for self-defense training, it’s equally important for competitive athletes. “Over the last 37 years we have developed over 450 gold medal national champions, 220 Pan-American karate champions, and had a Summer Games Olympic hopeful in Karate in 2021.”
In 2019, Tibon was awarded his eighth Dan Certification (an eighth degree black belt), which made him the second highest ranking senior in the Goju Ryu Uchiage Kai organization in the world. He’s also been inducted into 12 Martial Arts Hall of Fame
organizations including the Stockton Sports Hall of Fame and the A.A. Stagg High School Hall of Fame. “I’m now the Ambassador of Masters Hall of Fame, one of the most prestigious Hall of Fame organizations in the world,” Tibon says.
Community is also important to Tibon and his team. In addition to fundraising for the studio’s athletes to advance their careers and pay their way to competitions, Tibon’s has also had a heavy hand in raising money for children’s charities and other causes through benefit tournaments. The goal is to raise a future generation of modern-day samurais—because samurai means to serve.
Students who sign up at Tibon’s do so on a month-to-month basis, no contracts! All instructors are DOJ and FBI background certified clear. The dojo adheres to safety protocols to fight against COVID-19, and when students receive their black belts at Tibon’s Goju Ryu, they are internationally recognized and certified out of Japan with Goju Ryu Uchiage Kai, member of the Japan Karate Federation.
Lincoln Center’s C.R. Porter is a homeowner’s dream. Stepping foot into the shop immediately evokes a sigh of relief, as guests browse a collection of opulent goods curated to bring style and grace to their abode. Owners Mat and Tyler pride themselves on operating a showroom brimming with high-end touches and tasteful pieces to elevate every home. From the bright throw rugs to the stylish couches, over-sized chairs to bar top accessories, there’s nothing C.R. Porter doesn’t have when it comes to sophisticated décor.
In addition to being the go-to spot for our own homes, C.R. Porter also stocks items perfect for hostess gifts, wedding gifts, and more, from urbane stemware to sweet-smelling designer candles. Recently the store added another element, as well—a wedding registry feature that allows guests to buck the big box store filled with cookie-cutter wares and instead select refined pieces to complement their one-of-a-kind tastes.
While you’re searching for the perfect cushy throw pillow to add to your collection, or a delicate wine decanter to adorn your dining room table, you won’t be left to your own devices (unless you choose to be). The staff at C.R. Porter, with Mat and Tyler at the helm, carry with them an abundance of knowledge in home décor to help you carefully select items to complete your vision. Plus, there is more than what meets the eye. If the perfect piece doesn’t sit inside of C.R. Porter when you walk in, the staff will do their best to hunt down your dream décor, using the myriad of vendors available at their fingertips. And regardless of who approaches you while browsing at C.R. Porter, you’ll be in good hands—every member of the C.R. Porter staff has a detailed eye, an eagerness to help, and their own style to help you navigate the store’s thoughtfully sourced comforts.
It’s a family affair at Don Luis Mexican Restaurant, where the entire Rivera clan works hard to serve delicious and authentic Mexican meals from recipes prepared by their families and passed down through the generations—that’s the secret sauce to Chef and Owner Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera’s success with the Stockton eatery. And unlike some restaurants, this familyowned operation sees Cuate and his family at the helm, all of whom are hands on—not only are the recipes their own, but they all work in the restaurant, serving meals alongside staff, and lending a hand in the kitchen. In addition to Cuate, his wife Alexandra Rivera is often spotted on-site as well as their five children Alex, Tito, Jesh, Abby, and Gio (and number six is on the way).
At Don Luis, Cuate makes a point of sourcing fresh ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible, meaning your meal at Don Luis doesn’t just support the Rivera family but other local families and businesses, as well. And the unique meals made in the Don Luis kitchen—think popular plates including the torta Cubana, three amigos fajitas, and a collection of sizzling soups sure to make your mouth water—come from the hand of Cuate
himself, a head chef who moved from Mexico City to Stockton in 1996 and explored European cuisine in 2011, bringing with him his worldly expertise. With so many items on the menu it can be hard to choose, but the tortillas may just be the real prize of the establishment. Homemade, fresh, and served warm, we recommend dipping them into one of the menu’s soups or the queso dip for extra flavor.
Don’t forget to wash down your poblano chile rellenos with a beverage from the full bar. Don Luis’ has become just as known for their over-the-top cocktail concoctions as they have their Mexican cuisine. No meal here is complete without one of the bar specialties, featuring everything from flavored margaritas and mojitos to decked-out Bloody Marys and Micheladas. Check out the seasonal drink menus for inspiration before you order.
Dr. Manshadi knew from a young age that he wanted to be a physician. “During a complicated pregnancy and birth, competent doctors in Israel saved both my and my mother’s lives,” he explains. Today, he seeks to emulate the confidence of those doctors by saving lives, educating others, and truly honoring the Hippocratic Oath.
Named a top doctor by Castel Connolly, Dr. Manshadi began volunteering and administering EKGs at UC Davis Medical Center as a college student at the age of 18. There, he met Ezra Amsterdam, a teacher and mentor. “He instilled in me the love of cardiology,” he says. There was not only a love, but serious talent, as Dr. Manshadi dove deeper into the study—and with the ability to justify and analyze complex entities and categorize them, he excelled. “If your gift and passion are synonymous, you will be successful and happy.”
In May 2013 Manshadi Heart Institute welcomed patients with a simple yet profound mission: Improve the lives of patients through excellence in cardiovascular education, heart disease prevention, and the highest-quality treatment available. From prevention to intervention, the Institute offers a full spectrum of cardiac care.
Dr. Manshadi personally improves the lives of the general public, raising awareness of sudden cardiac death in athletes and donating his book proceeds to purchase and install AEDs in schools across the country. “It’s very important to know how to use and AED, and you never know when you’re able to save someone’s life,” he says. “When applied within first two minutes, there’s a 90 percent survival rate.”
In his free time, Dr. Manshadi enjoys coaching soccer and supporting a league he funds for young children.
DR. MANSHADI, MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE
2633 PACIFIC AVE., # 1, STOCKTON (209) 944-5530 | DRMANSHADI.COM
When it comes to aesthetics, Stockton Supplies is a onestop shop for your eye-catching home and party needs. Moji Mohammadkhan is the face behind the business, which offers mix of event supplies and rentals as well as plants and pottery for sale.
Stockton Supplies/Rosegarden has been known as a provider of gorgeous rentals aimed at making every event shine since 2005. It’s convenient showroom on Rosemarie Lane carries an assortment of chairs, tables, china, flatware, serve ware, and more, to execute everything from a grand wedding to an intimate birthday party. Some of the most popular items include as a hot dog rotisserie, cotton candy machine, double margarita machine, chocolate fountain, popcorn maker, champagne fountain, and more, all aimed at impressing guests and ensuring a good time.
The local shop, however, recently expanded its operations to serve more than just event planners and locals looking to throw a bash. Since 2021, the Rosemarie Lane store also carries a large array of plants and pots, tapping into a trendy market. Making use of the showroom’s outdoor space, customers can browse small and large (and we mean HUGE) pots for their growing gardens. The pieces serve both function and design, offering
quality craftmanship that supports healthy plant growth as well as vibrant colors and shapes to fit every yard and aesthetic.
It's not just the vessels available at the garden shop, either. An outdoor greenhouse is the ideal environment for growing an array of plants for both indoor and outdoor use. This way, guests can pick up their pots and choose what to fill them with all in one fell swoop.
Experts on staff have excellent recommendations for what to plant, when, and where. You can get advice on what grows best in your yard, what soil to use, and even when to re-pot plants.
The addition of the new shop didn’t stop operations of the rental business. Instead, it acted as an expansion to bring more options to local residents all with a common thread of creating a gorgeous space whether it’s as temporary as a diner party or as permanent as your own backyard.
Husband-and-wife team Steve and Jaime Smith are the faces behind the brand, turning out quality wings (and other fare) to local patrons in Stockton. Many know Steve most for his NFL career where he played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and then NFL Europe from 2001-2004. And it was that football party atmosphere that served as the launching pad for the thriving Stockton wing shop.
After years of serving up grub to friends while watching the game at their home in Oregon, Steve and Jaime ended up back in her hometown of Stockton. It’s then they decided their next game move would be an audible, switching gears from the stadium to the kitchen. Steve is the ultimate fry daddy, responsible for cooking up the fresh-never-frozen wings made to order. As a result, it may take up to 20 minutes to get your food, but the final product is worth the wait.
The duo came into the experience without any formal culinary experience, but that hasn’t stopped them from taking home five years of Best Wings awards from San Joaquin Magazine, cementing their place in the local culinary scene as the local faces of wings.
Other accolades include a spotlight on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, hosted by Guy Fieri, and the need to upgrade their space
to a larger kitchen where they could meet the growing demands of both locals and an international clientele. Roadtrippers and visitors from across the world stop into Smitty’s based on reputation alone and Steve and Jaime can proudly say they’ve welcomed guests from Japan, Europe, and more.
Upgrading to a commercial kitchen and going from 49 seats to 123 allows even more wings to fly out of the kitchen. And while Steve may be the mastermind behind the meats, it’s Jaime who is responsible for curating the delectable dipping sauces customers rave about. “Everything we put on the table comes from our heart and our home,” Jaime says.
A recent menu expansion allows the eatery to offer cocktails to guests, but they are taking any changes slow as to not move away from what has made Smitty’s stand out. The beer-and-wine-only restaurant is now turning tricks behind the bar, serving up flavored mimosas and Micheladas to clientele, all while maintaining the neighborhood sports bar vibe that made it famous.
Beauty isn’t just skin deep; the health of our skin is what matters most. At Golden State Dermatology, with clinics in Tracy, Manteca, Lodi, and beyond, qualified physicians treat your body’s largest organ—your skin—from surface to root. In addition to cosmetic procedures, (which have expanded along with the addition of GSD’s newest clinic in Lodi), the clinics offer skin cancer diagnosis and a variety of treatment options. “Our Golden State Dermatology dermatologists are board-certified specialists in identifying and treating skin cancer,” says Andrea Miles, marketing manager at GSD.
Treatment options include surgical and non-surgical procedures, as well as Mohs Micrographic Surgery, performed by Minh Dang, MD and Abdallah Khourdaji, MD. Mohs surgery is a skin-sparing treatment that works to remove the most common types of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas with minimal scarring. The doctors at GSD care about your skin and offer preventative treatment and advice, as well as medical intervention. Most important, they agree, is wearing sunscreen.
Because skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and can easily go unnoticed, doctors at GSD recommend an annual appointment with their board-certified doctors. For higher-risk patients, more frequent exams may be necessary. And what better time to get started on protecting your skin’s health than in May, which is Skin Cancer Awareness Month? After all, the earlier skin
cancer is caught, the more options there are for treatment and better outcomes.
When you have a qualified dermatologist behind you, you can face the world with the confidence to be your best. At GSD, you can’t go wrong. Mariam Amin, MD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist dedicated to providing the best possible care. Minh Dang, MD, FAAD, and Abdallah Khourdaji, MD provide a full range of dermatology treatments as well as performing the Mohs Micrographic Surgery mentioned above. Christian Jones, MD, FAAD, is a medical dermatologist with over 25 years of clinical experience in medical and surgical dermatology. And that is only a sampling of the providers working in San Joaquin County to help patients fight skin cancer, improve their skin’s health, and reduce the appearance of aging.
San Joaquin County and the rest of the nation continues the slow recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this crisis, the Bank of Stockton, considered an essential services business, remained open and available to help customers with their banking needs. “We’ve been conducting business as close to usual as possible, despite these unusual times,” says Douglass M. Eberhardt II, Bank of Stockton President and CEO.
As a local community bank, Bank of Stockton’s team worked tirelessly to help both customers and non-customers in securing much needed funding during this time, acting as a conduit for both rounds of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The bank assisted customers with successfully securing approximately 3,400 loans totaling over $360 million to help small businesses weather the pandemic. “In these unprecedented times, when our communities need their bank most, it is our job to be here for them,” Douglass says. Bank of Stockton has survived depressions, recessions, economic downturns, and uncertainties throughout its 155-year history. When
new challenges occur, like COVID-19, the bank continues to provide unprecedented strength and safety to the communities it serves. In the midst of the pandemic, the bank built a second location in Lodi on Kettleman Lane, moved into a new location in Pine Grove, and will be moving to a new location in Sonora in the spring to meet the needs of its growing customer base.
With 20 branches in 16 cities throughout nine counties, Bank of Stockton is well-known for its personalized service and long-tenured bankers. “Together, we will weather this storm and Withstand the Test of Time as we have for over a century and a half,” Douglass says.
Branches in Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, Ripon, Oakdale, Elk Grove, Rio Vista, Pine Grove, Angels Camp, Sonora, Modesto, Turlock, Fairfield, Napa, Brentwood. BANKOFSTOCKTON.COM
Stevan Michaels, VP, Loan Administrator. Headquarters
Mary-Elizabeth Eberhardt-Sandstrom, VP & Director of Retail Banking
Kent Fyffe, VP and Business Banking Center Manager, Lodi
John R. Primasing, Jr., VP, Chief Credit Officer
Douglass M. Eberhardt II, President, C.E.O. and Chairman of the Board
Not pictured: Jim Nemmers, VP and Business Banking Center Manager, Manteca
Gifty Aidoo FNP-C is an experienced aesthetic injector who is passionate about helping her patients feel confident and beautiful. With more than 20 years of experience in a hospital setting, she is a skilled ICU nurse with a passion for aesthetics. She credits her time in hospital for helping her build the skills necessary to open her own medi-spa, including comfortability with a needle, practice in emergency situations, and developing patient relationships.
In addition to her master's degree in nursing from Fresno State University, Gifty also has injection certifications and more than seven years working in the injectables space. She currently is a trainer for Revanesse (one of the biggest filler companies in the space) and also trains other injectors. Working at the helm of her own business, Aesthetic Lab by GifyNP, she leads a team a talented and qualified professionals with a passion for providing personalized concierge aesthetic medicine services in
both Modesto and Turlock.
Gifty values total wellness and takes a well-rounded approach when assessing facial anatomy and setting beauty goals for her patients. She uses expert assessments, techniques, and quality products to help her patients achieve their desired results. Plus, all of her work is supported by the latest scientific evidence, performed in a safe and trusted environment. At Aesthetic Lab, clients can receive a range of services, including Botox, fillers, facials, body contouring (EMSculpt), laser hair removal, vitamin IV's, vitamin shots, weight loss programs, medical grade skin care, PRP micro needling, hair restoration, hormone replacement, and more.
For 48 years, Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group’s board-certified physicians Dr. George Bensch, Dr. Gregory Bensch, Dr. Michael Balduzzi, and Dr. Jeffrey Balduzzi, who was welcomed in August 2021, serve the community in the diagnosis and specialized treatment of asthma and a variety of allergic conditions. Spring and early summer are the most intense times for pollens. Therefore, with locations in eight cities, AIAMG’s patientcentered care has improved the lives of patients throughout the San Joaquin Valley.
AIAMG specializes in evaluation and treatment of environmental, food, drug, and insect sting allergies, hay fever, sinus disease, anaphylaxis, chronic respiratory conditions, asthma, as well as allergic skin conditions such as hives and eczema. Recently, AIAMG has expanded their office with a new dedicated infusion
room to provide a comfortable, professional, medical environment. Careful assessment of patients’ needs is vital to AIAMG’s clinical process, and the doctors who work here are among the best in the county. Amongst the four physicians, they’ve won The Best of San Joaquin for the past five years.
AIAMG also works to provide the community and continue to follow CDC guidelines with information that is critical to stay well during the prolonged pandemic. With resources like these, the goal is to provide state of the art care to all patients.
For locals and visitors, Visit Stockton is a one-stop shop for tourism needs. Formerly known as the Stockton Convention and Visitors Bureau, Visit Stockton oversees promoting and marketing local events, attractions, and businesses, as well as promoting Stockton as a sought-after tourist destination, rich in culture and diversity. By marketing the city of Stockton, Visit Stockton brings in much needed revenue to support the city and its residents. Visit Stockton works hard to improve daily life for all who live in and visit Stockton. “We believe that a city that residents believe in will be a city that will drive future business investment and convert visitors into future residents to further grow a diverse and talented workforce,” says CEO Wes Rhea. One of the core pillars of Visit Stockton’s efforts is giving back to the community, whether by hands-on volunteering or lending their marketing expertise to local non-profits. Visit Stockton boosts these local businesses and organizations, helping them achieve their missions in serving the community, always with the goal in mind to improve resident life. “Visit Stockton believes its
residents come first, and we continually strive to grow resident pride and enhance the image of our city,” Wes says.
At Visit Stockton, efforts are divvied up amongst a team of adept marketing professionals who love Stockton and many who call it home. While Wes is at the helm of the efforts, he makes it clear the work wouldn’t get done without the help of his colleagues: Christa Griffith, office manager; Rebecca Scharmann, director of sports, events, and tourism development; Diana Nuno, events and community engagement manager; Nicholas Ramirez, events services manager; Amy Alpers, director of marketing and communications; Anthony Esteves, social media and content manager; Jesse Salazar, video production manager; and Wesley Sosa, graphic designer and brand manager.
Whether you’re in the market for a set of shiny new braces for your growing brood, or you have dreams of a straighter smile for yourself, Samra Orthodontics is here to help.
“We serve people, not patients,” Owner Mickey Samra, DDS, says. We truly believe our purpose is to make sure you live, smile, and laugh every single day - we just happen to straighten teeth.”
While the emphasis, of course, is on quality and results, Samra Orthodontics also focuses on making orthodontic care accessible. “I want to make sure people understand that orthodontic treatment should be reasonably priced and affordable for all people rather than some high priced item that only a few people can afford,” he says. And because orthodontics have an effect on whole body health, including mental health, it’s an important part of every person’s healthy living lifestyle and should therefore be within reach.
In addition to low prices, the office works with most insurance
companies and provides options for payment plans, etc. to help make orthodontic care a reasonable expense that won’t leave you broke.
Not every journey to a straighter smile is the same, and everyone has preferences when it comes to their care; Samra Orthodontics prioritizes flexibility to meet individual needs. “No matter the treatment option you choose, rest assured we will always treat you with kindness, respect, and excitement,” Mickey says. And they’ll do all of it while also utilizing top-notch technology, including digital impressions, to increase accuracy, comfort, and results.
2023 represents 44 years in the San Joaquin community for Hedy Holmes Staffing Services. The Stockton-based agency covers Sacramento, San Joaquin, Merced, and Fresno Counties and has been, and continues to be, one of the oldest and locally owned fullservice agencies in the region. The Central Valley offers a multitude of employment opportunities and the Hedy Holmes team stands ready to assist employers and employees alike.
The pandemic period brought change to the employment markets; remote-work, reduced hours, ever-changing hiring criteria, lockdowns, testing, etc. Things are now returning to pre-pandemic levels and Hedy Holmes Staffing is adjusting to the normalcy. An experienced team is standing by to assist employers and employees alike. Finding hard-to-fill positions through temp-to-hire and direct hire recruiting are this team’s specialty.
Hedy Holmes seized a unique opportunity in the late 1970s to change the face of staffing in our local region. With determination and courage, she embarked on what has proven to be a journey
that literally has put thousands of residents to work over the years. While Hedy remains active in the company, Tena Runyon, vice president of the organization, oversees the day-to-day operations. The company continues to operate through two-main channels— traditional staffing, which include temporary, and temp-to-hire positions, and professional services, which focus on placing skilled workers into administrative, middle-management, and executivelevel positions.
These two women are a tour-de-force of knowledge and experience in this field. Charity, faith, integrity, transparency, and perseverance is the foundation of this local agency that has proven longevity in the 209.
A lot has changed in the automotive business these last few years, but it is good to see that some things at Chase Chevrolet have not. “We do everything we can to make it easy on the customer,” says Sales Manager Tim Moser. “We know that customers want an easy, hassle-free buying experience so we created the EasyPass®. This allows the customer to find their next vehicle, work on a payment that fits their budget, apply for credit, and even get the value of their current vehicle.” Completing a lot of steps online allows the customers to save more time in the dealership.
However, when the customer gets to the store, whether it’s for the first time or the one hundredth time, they will receive a personal, friendly, and knowledgeable sales associate that will walk the customer through the entire process with no pressure.
Since 1944, Chase Chevrolet has earned its reputation as a trusted sources for locals looking to bring home the car of their dreams. For every associate at Chase Chevrolet, customer satisfaction comes first and it doesn’t just stop during the sales process. “We want customers to become part of the Chase Family and that can
only come from their satisfaction from not only the sales process but also from the service they will receive on their vehicle” adds Moser. “The end goal is to ensure that everyone has a positive experience and becomes a customer for life.”
Outside of the dealership, Chase Chevrolet strives to support the community that has in turn supported them. By partnering with numerous nonprofits and charities throughout San Joaquin, they’ve proven that their level of care extends outside the car business.
For such an important purchase, you’ll want the best, and the folks at Chase Chevrolet are confident they can take care of every need. “We have fantastic service, no high-pressure sales, and of course great prices,” promises Moser. “There’s a reason we say, ‘Buy Into It’!”
Manteca Park Golf Course is fast becoming one of the top courses in the Central Valley for playability and value, and The City of Manteca is proud of its hometown course, which represents some of the best greens in the Valley.
Living up to its motto, ‘The Public Course with the Country Club Feel’, Director of Golf Jeff DeBenedetti says, “We treat our customers like family and we do what we can to exceed their expectations. All players of all ability levels are welcome and will enjoy their round of golf here.” It’s not only one of the most affordable courses in the area, but also one of the best quality.
Jeff and his team are embracing the idea of community at the course. A big part of the mission involves expanding junior golf in Manteca. Employees told Jeff they once left the city to play golf at the junior level because there wasn’t a local outlet. All of that has changed. Manteca Park hosts four junior programs to hit every caliber of player. And with Jeff at the helm—his last junior golf team won the junior’s PGA national championship—young golfers are in good hands.
The full facility is more than an 18-hole course. It also offers a driving range, golf carts, a chipping green, and a putting green,
plus a banquet hall, coffee shop, clubhouse, and full-service golf shop.
For those who haven’t seen the course since 2017, there was a significant re-design. The holes were renumbered to encourage a better game flow and a faster pace of play, plus a better last hole experience. What was once known as a slow course can now reasonably be played in just over four hours.
The course is committed to maintaining its high degree of play. The City of Manteca’s superintendent keeps the grounds looking fresh, the playing conditions top-notch, and the drainage running seamlessly. Condition-wise, Jeff says it’s one of the top courses in the San Joaquin Valley, and the prices give players the best value in the valley $31 on weekdays, ($36 on weekends to walk). Perhaps the biggest perk, however, is the course location. “It’s right here in peoples’ backyard,” Jeff says.
If you’re a fan of visits to San Diego, then you would be remiss to miss an opportunity to visit neighboring city, Oceanside. Part of San Diego County, and a brief 45 minute drive north from the San Diego airport, sits this lesser-known beach town, offering all of the sparkling oceanfront property, plenty of restaurants, and an impressive collection of water sports, without the crowds that swarm to SD each summer. From where to stay to what to eat and everything to do in between, we’ve curated an itinerary for a near-perfect 48 hours in this coastal city.
A good home base is of high priority in Oceanside. The town offers plenty within walking distance if you choose the right place to stay. We personally would opt for one of two high rises located ever so conveniently right on the beach—Mission Pacific Hotel or The Seabird Resort. The sister properties each cater to their own clientele. While, of course, anyone can stay, The Seabird is designed with family travel in mind, including a rooftop pool and kid’s club where you can drop the youngins for a bit of alone time. Mission Pacific, however, offers additional adult amenities, including 21+ hours at the rooftop pool and chic rooftop restaurant boasting small bites and cool cocktails named for the surrounding area.
When you stay at one, you’re granted access to the other’s amenities, a noteworthy perk for those who wish to get their spa on at The Seabird. This effortlessly swanky and somewhat minimalistic space boasts creature comforts including a sauna, plus a full spa menu ranging from manicures and pedicures (best enjoyed with a glass of bubbly in hand) to massages and facials. Whatever you do, leave time to lounge on the outdoor deck, with an oceanfront view and plenty of natural sunlight. Without leaving your hotel you’ll also be able to enjoy meals both indoors and out and partake in a little shopping. The Shore Room at The Seabird Resort caters to a diverse crowd, including pooches with its Friday Yappy Hour from 4-7 PM while Piper serves up breakfast with an array of early morning cocktails and fresh juices. At Mission Pacific, High/Low is good for
grab and go coffees or a leisurely lunch with an ocean view and Valle specializes in four-course, pre-fixe dinners.
While the on-site amenities are enough to draw anyone in, it’s the location that makes staying at these two properties ideal—oh, and that oceanfront view.
The city of Oceanside isn’t far from San Diego, which means if you aren’t driving in, you should book your flights into the SD airport. From there you can grab an Uber for ultimate convenience or save a few bucks by taking the Coaster. You’ll need to hitch a ride to the Santa Fe Depot, but from there the train drops off right at the hotel. Not to mention, it’s a fun experience and a cool way to see the city.
With only 48 hours to explore, you’ve got to get started quick. Welcome yourself to Oceanside by getting acquainted with all it has to offer.
Next door to your accommodations sits the Top Gun House, the actual dwelling from the original 1986 film. Inside, in addition to movie memorabilia, you can purchase hand pies for a sweet treat. The seasonal flavors rotate but in general the “high pies” are fried fruit-filled mini pies filled with mascarpone ice cream. The unique business that updated one of the county’s oldest homes, is the creation of Chef Tara Lazar of F10 Hospitality.
With your dessert in hand, stroll down the pier. To your left, you’ll see an outdoor amphitheater (mostly used by skateboarders) that was prominently featured in Bring It On’s competition scenes. The pier itself is usually filled with fishermen and tourists. A small dwelling at the end is in the works to become a restaurant. From here, you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins and will most certainly see a few friendly pelicans hoping those fishing will throw them a bite. Surfers, too, are fun to watch as they catch waves below.
If you’d like to go exploring, consider grabbing a surrey bike to make it more fun. These vessels are available to rent along the Strand, a stretch of beach-side road, and provide a fun way to see the city, and perhaps pretend you’re one of the Flintstones.
We recommend taking advantage of the Mission Pacific’s rooftop bar, dubbed Mission Pacific Rooftop, as well. If you know what you’re doing, you’ll reserve a table for just before sunset so you can catch golden hour over the ocean. Here, craft cocktails and small bites are available for everyone but it switches to a 21+ atmosphere after 5 PM Monday through Saturday (and sometimes earlier if a DJ is scheduled). The same restrictions apply on Sundays, all day.
If you’ve arrived on a Thursday, which we highly recommend, save room for more at Sunset Market, a street experience featuring dining, shopping, and live music from 5-9 PM weekly. The robust street market is home to more food vendors than you can count and a wide variety of delicious dining. Most of the booths are simply named for the food they carry, so
it’s easier to choose where you’d like to eat, and with more than 200 vendors, we can bet you won’t go hungry.
Post grub fest, you should have time to enjoy the rooftop pool before hitting the hay and getting a headstart on the next day.
As mentioned above, breakfast at Piper is practically a must. We suggest starting with a green juice before diving into a plateful of Caramelized French Toast, brioche bread topped with citrus custard and date syrup, or a Hasselback Croque Monsieur, rosemary ham, gruyere cheese, and sauce mornay on a croissant with thyme and onion confit potatoes.
After breakfast, explore Oceanside by foot. The California Surf Museum is a worthy stop off and it doesn’t take long to peruse the collection of surf boards. Of particular interest is a display on Bethany Hamilton and the board she was riding when she lost her arm to a shark—bite marks and all.
You’ll want to download the O’Side Sips Trail app, which points you in the direction of breweries, tasting rooms, distilleries, and
coffeeshops nearby. When you check into participating businesses, you’ll earn points to cash in for swag, and some locations have discounts, too. Our personal recommendations include Craft Coast Beer and Tacos (if you have room, eat lunch here—the tacos are divine!) and nearby Ofila Vineyards Tasting Room and Kitchen. Once you’ve exhausted this area, continue on to the Harbor Village. This quaint stretch of businesses gives off small beach town/ summer vacation vibes with Nana and Pop Pop’s Sweet Shop, several eateries featuring fresh seafood, and seaside drinks at Rockin’ Baja Lobster Coastal Cantina where the margaritas rival the delicious Mexican food. Post lunch, it’s time to get on the water.
If you’ve come for the whale watching, tours depart next door to the cantina at Oceanside Adventures. Be sure to reserve a spot early as tours do sell out. In all, the trip takes about two hours and includes narration by a certified naturalist aboard a 50-foot, one-level catamaran.
If you prefer to be at the helm, you can rent your own vessel at the harbor available by the hour. Here, there are kayaks, paddleboards, speed boats, and pontoon boats for rent. Get up close and personal with the harbor seals and sail past the Oceanside sign.
When it’s time to go, you can walk the 20 minutes back to your hotel and take in the Love the O interactive sculpture,
located near the seawall at the beach. Plan ahead and bring a lock to leave with your names. At sunset, the sculpture comes alive as the sun shines perfectly through the heart.
The rest of your afternoon can be filled in with activities such as the Oceanside Museum of Art or visiting a few of the places on the O’Side Sips Trail, especially for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up in the form of caffeine or alcohol.
Summer in Oceanside is warm and the evenings feel lovely with the coastal breeze to cool you off, so we recommend walking to dinner. Downstairs at both hotels there are options, but if you venture out, the next few blocks are filled with casual eateries. Choose between the open-air concept with indoor and outdoor seating at Rosewood Kitchen and the refined American menu at Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen.
Before you depart, make time for a final brunch in Oceanside. When the weather is warm, everyone loves a fun and funky rooftop and Cococabana is just that. The drinks are as photo worthy as the décor, which features washes of golds and pinks.
Brunch is offered on Saturdays and Sundays only from 11 AM-1 PM and includes a menu full of fresh ideas. The Breakfast Baked Potato is especially delicious with a sunny side up egg and chopped bacon, and the Jerk Butter Oysters are a fun twist on a favorite. Puplo Ceviche features jerk-seasoned octopus and the Mango Salad is ideal for someone opting for lighter fare. If you like a sipper that is both spicy and sweet, start brunch off with a O-Side Rider, made with tamarind and chili-infused mezcal (both smokey and spicy), watermelon,
mint, and fresh lime. Or choose something a little smoother. The Caribe Welcome is made with a house rum blend, coconut water, apricot brandy, coconut cream, and fresh lime.
Don’t let its name fool you—The Purgatory Craft Beer & Whiskey Bar, with over 500 varieties of whiskeys and a menu that will satisfy any craving, is a little piece of paradise located in the heart of Downtown Tracy. Owned by couple Kevin Cox and Suki Quigley, The Purgatory has been quenching the thirst and appetites of its customers since 2017.
When you step inside of The Purgatory, it’s hard not to be captivated by the impressive collection of whiskeys, displayed on illuminated shelves behind the bar. “We have whiskeys from all over the world,” says manager Mina Marks. “We have American, Scottish, Canadian, Japanese, French, Mexican, and Indian varieties. They all taste different. They all have their own brewing and distilling methods, which gives them distinct tastes, and even unique coloring.”
Most know that grape varieties give wine its color. A red grape may turn into cabernet, a green, chardonnay. Whiskey receives its color from the wood it is aged in. Wood varieties from oak to walnut to cherry provide a spectrum of color from clear, pink, golden, amber, and even deep red, making each tasting experience different than the next.
There are different rules for what kind
of whiskey you are making, too. “To be an American Bourbon, it needs to be brewed with at least 51% corn. The rest of it can be made from a variety of rye, wheat, and malted barley, and the overall flavor is sweet,” says Mina. Ryes, on the other hand, taste more peppery, and you probably guessed it, need to be brewed from at least 51% rye. Most whiskeys are brought down to a standard percentage of alcohol by volume (known as proof) by adding water to it before bottling to ensure consistency, but cask strength whiskey is bottled at the strength that it’s drawn from the cask with no added water. Known as barrel proof/barrel strength, it's usually strong stuff!
If you’re not sure where to start with whiskey, The Purgatory offers tasting flights to familiarize yourself and let you decide upon your personal whiskey style. Each week, a new flight is featured on the menu. For those looking to expand their experience, ask for a custom flight. And if you prefer a cocktail to drinking it straight, the whiskey cocktails at The Purgatory include Up in Smoke Old Fashioned and Muffin, What About You?, which are both hickory-smoked. While they are very different, the two
drinks share warm, campfire aromas and comforting flavor.
Not into whiskey? Kevin and Suki still has you covered. They offer cocktails made with vodka (try the Paradise in Purgatory with Violette liquor), gin (can’t go wrong with the I’ll Be Your Huckleberry, an ode to Purgatory’s second location in Spokane, Wash.), tequila (the Cherry Popper with Luxardo cherry is a winner) and rum (the Cucumbersome is a favorite). You’ll also find a selection of wines and a host of craft beers from local areas such as Livermore and Stockton.
Don’t forget about the mouthwatering food at The Purgatory. Famous for their Purgatory Elk Burger on a Brioche Bun with Garlic Fries, their Pork Belly Tacos, Clam Chowder, and their Roasted Goat Cheese with Blueberries & Honey, you’re in for a fun opportunity of food pairing for all those delicious drinks. New to the menu this Summer will be ABLT (that’s a BLT with avocado), Cajun Fries, and Garlic Green Beans. The whole menu is specially created by co-owner Suki Quigley. Everything is made fresh and served either at the wooden bar or tables hand-carved by Suki herself. How’s that for impressive?
This summer, we’re all about enjoying the sunshine with vibrant, flavorful food, and bottles of crisp, cool wine. That’s why we’ve fallen in love with Lodi’s freshest poke spot to enhance the best bottles—Loco Poke.
Loco Poke, owned by husband and wife Michael and Leslie Moreland, is thee spot for dine-in or takeaway Hawaiian fare. Their specialty is poke—tender bites of raw fish traditionally flavored with sea salt and sesame oil. It’s rise in popularity has
been seen most commonly served in a bowl, tossed with any combination of leafy greens, rice, cucumber, marinated red onion, avocado, mango, green onion, cashews, peanuts, sesame seeds, and nori seaweed; in all, Loco Poke has 29 topping options to choose from. At the end, choose sweet and/or savory sauces such as teriyaki, ginger, chili, and garlic. The final product is eaten like a salad (chopsticks optional).
Poke is as refreshing and satisfying as it is delicious. And if you’re new to the dish, samples are up for grabs
at the Lodi Farmer’s Market where Loco Poke is a frequent vendor. Something not everyone knows, however, is it pairs tremendously well with wine, especially whites and rosés. And Loco Poke’s owners have created platters of poke and poke appetizers for pick-up or delivery that are specially created for a wine pairing experience.
“Our platters are perfect combinations of fresh poke that you can take with you while wine-tasting, to a party, or for your next holiday gathering,” says Leslie. “People often think to pair grilled salmon with a chardonnay, but don’t always think of how well is goes with poke. Some of our personal favorite pairings are with Van Ruiten Family Wines (which Loco Poke has based their food and wine pairing suggestions).”
Not sure where to start? “Try salmon and ahi poke with pinot grigio or chenin blanc. Try shrimp, crab, and chicken poke with rosé. All of our poke tastes amazing with chardonnay,” says Leslie. “And our chicken teriyaki bowls go great with sauvignon blanc.”
BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D BY BANK OF STOCKTON HISTORICAL PHOTO COLLECTION
Today, when we talk about Lodi’s biggest exports, it’s wine that tops the list. Known for its large number of vineyards and wineries, Lodi is especially popular for curating delicious zinfandels. But before alcohol became the town’s biggest resource, it was watermelons. In fact, Lodi grew and shipped so many watermelons, it was once known as the Watermelon Capital of the Country, sending out more than 3,000 carloads each year in the 1800s.
Lodi, of course, still grows and sells watermelons, but it’s no longer one of the area’s most notable crops. To discover how Lodi became known for its watermelons, you simply have to follow the money. The fruit was chosen as a good candidate for local farmers because of the cash it would bring it. Plus, there was less competition
than the area’s former focus: wheat.
An old issue of the Lodi News-Sentinel from 1956 details the first watermelon farmers as George Eddlemon and Northrup, who planted 80 acres of watermelon along the Mokelumne River. Other nearby farmers followed suit, planting smaller lots of watermelons to sell. The location near the water allowed for large, sweet melons to thrive even without complicated irrigation systems. The watermelon growth was so noteworthy that headlines in the late 1800s were often about booming melon sales coming out of Lodi, and many depicted the large weights and sizes of these cash cows.
Lodi may have held the most impressive title when it came to growing melons, but it’s not the only part of SJC known
for producing the sweet fruit. In 1911, the first Melon Carnival (which later became the Stanislaus County Fair) was held in Turlock, and sandy soil, high temperatures, and cooling breezes all make for ideal watermelon growing conditions around Manteca, Ripon, and Tracy. In fact, those chilly Delta breezes that sweep in at night are what makes the melons in this region so sweet.
San Joaquin County is still a big watermelon producer, yielding 167 million pounds in 2020. Manteca even celebrates the crop with the annual Crossroads Watermelon Street Faire, scheduled for June 3 and 4 this year. However, despite the deep melon roots that run through SJC, Cordele in Crisp County, Georgia has since been crowned The Watermelon Capital of the World.
With warmer weather, sunny days, and the beginning of BBQ season, watermelons are the perfect addition to your plate. Incorporate the sweet, fleshy fruit into springtime salads, festive cocktails, and inventive desserts. If all else fails, a sliced watermelon is the simplest compliment to any backyard gathering.
INGREDIENTS
2 c. watermelon, cubed
1 cucumber, cubed
½ c. feta
¼ c. purple onion, diced
¼ c. mint, chopped
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
Layer watermelon, cucumber, feta, and purple onion on large platter or in bowl. Garnish with chopped mint and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
“When one has tasted watermelon he knows what the angels eat.”
Mark Twain
INGREDIENTS
1 c. vodka
8 c. watermelon
2 tbsp. lime juice
2 tbsp. honey
½ jalapeno, sliced
1 tbsp. salt
Muddle jalapeno slices in a cocktail shaker. Meanwhile, in a blender, add watermelon, lime juice, and honey.
Blend until pureed. Pour through fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds. Add vodka, juice mixture, and muddled jalapenos, and stir to combine. Rub lime slice around rim of each glass and dip into salt. Pour over ice and garnish with watermelon slice and jalapeno pepper.
INGREDIENTS
1 c. blanco tequila
¼ c. lime juice
1/3 c. triple sec
1 watermelon, cut into triangles
¼ c. margarita salt
Zest of two limes
Slice the watermelon into triangles and place into large baking dish. In small bowl, combine tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Pour mixture over watermelon and let soak for one hour. On a small plate, mix salt and lime zest. Dip tip of each watermelon slice into salt mixture and serve.
As Spring wraps up and the weather gets warmer, we’re all excited to get out and try new things, yet we’d be hard-pressed to not go back for seconds on Cast Iron Trading Co.’s Diablo Tacos. These delightful tacos once graced the menu and will be available as a special menu item again only for the month of May.
The word diablo finds its etymological roots in the Latin, Greek, and Spanish word for our English “devil,” and in the case of these tantalizing and delicious tacos that are “hella good,” a phrase found on
the restaurant’s welcome sign and used to describe all of Cast Iron Trading Co.’s menu items. Diablo refers to the crimsonred hue of charred chile and tomato sauce that coats your choice of grilled shrimp or cauliflower. Both options are topped with grilled onions and peppers, Baja cabbage slaw, pickled jalapeños, radish, and micro cilantro, and served inside of a fresh flour tortilla.
Make the journey this May to Downtown Stockton’s Cast Iron Trading Co. to feast on some sinfully delicious tacos. This is one temptation you will not regret.
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.
1035 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 833-9703
Owners Harry and Susan Yu have been a major part of the local economy since 2007 when Mikasa opened its location in Lathrop. Cooking with local produce and only using the freshest fish right from the Bay has always been key to their success. Fortunately the Yu’s chose Tracy for their newest location stocking the full bar with the most extensive liquor, sake, wine and beer selection around. Plus, with happy hour 7 days a week you’ll be sure to get your fill! Mikasa also offers off site catering and a separate banquet room for all your rehearsal dinners, large parties or business needs. Try the special SJM Roll (pictured)
2610 S. Tracy Blvd. Ste. 110 Tracy, (209) 830-8288
15138 S Harlan Rd., Lathrop, (209) 858-1818
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
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.
296 Lincoln Center Stockton, (209) 474-7700 MidgleysPublicHouse.com
