San Joaquin Magazine October 2020

INKED IN SJ

HEALING THROUGH ART

LOCAL TATTOO ARTISTS SHOW OFF

TARA HEINZEN ARTIST & BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

THANK

GOODNESS OCTOBER 2020  $3.95

FOR NURSES 2020 IS THE YEAR OF THE NURSE

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Made for more assurance

Open, Safe and Ready for you.

We were all made for more. More confidence. More peace of mind. More comfort. And that’s why we’ve reimagined our already-safe ERs to be even safer in this age of COVID-19, creating dozens of protocols to ensure every moment of your next visit is safe, without losing any of our compassionate care. So you know that in any emergency, you’ll get the right treatment safely, quickly and from medical experts you trust.

Learn all the ways we’re keeping you safe at AdventistHealth.org.

SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 3

NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSORS 2020 2020 NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSORS

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THIS THIS THIS THIS THIS THIS YEAR’S YEAR’S YEAR’S YEAR’S YEAR’S YEAR’S WALK IS WALK IS WALK IS WALKISIS IS WALK WALK EVERYWHERE. EVERYWHERE. EVERYWHERE. EVERYWHERE. EVERYWHERE. EVERYWHERE.

Your health and safety are our top priorities, so the YourYour health and and safety are our topto priorities, so the health safety are our top priorities, so thewon’t Alzheimer’s Association Walk End Alzheimer’s® Your health and safety are ourpriorities, top priorities, so the Your health and safety are our top so the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® won’t Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® won’t Your health and safety are our top priorities, so the be a large in-person gathering this year — instead, Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® won’t Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® won’t a large in-person gathering this year — instead, be a be large in-person gathering this year — instead, Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® won’t we you to gathering walk in small teams of friends and be invite a large in-person gathering this — year — instead, be large in-person thisteams year instead, we invite you to walk in small of friends and weainvite you to walk in small teams of friends and be a large in-person gathering this year — instead, family while others in your community dofriends the same. we invite to in walk in small teams ofdo and we invite you toyou walk small teams of friends and family while others in your community the same. family while others in your community do the same. we invite you to walk in small teams of friends and in community your community the same. familyfamily while while othersothers in your do thedosame. family while others in your community do the For more information about this year’s event, same.

For more information about year’s event, For more information about this this year’s event, visit alz.org/walk For more information about this year’s event, For more information about this year’s event, alz.org/walk visit visit alz.org/walk For more information about this year’s event, visit alz.org/walk visit alz.org/walk visit alz.org/walk

[Walkto to End End Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s –– Walk [Walk to End Alzheimer’s – [Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Walk to End Alzheimer’s – [Walk toStockton End Alzheimer’s –– City] Walk to End Alzheimer’s [Walk to End Alzheimer’s – – [Walk to End Alzheimer’s City] Stockton City] Stockton City] City] October 17, 2020 [Date] City] [Date] October 17, 17, 2020 [Date] October 2020 [Date] [Date] [Date]

NATIONAL PLATINUM TEAMS 2020 NATIONAL PLATINUM TEAMS 2020 2020 NATIONAL PLATINUM TEAMS 2020 NATIONAL PLATINUM TEAMS

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS PRESENTING PRESENTING PRESENTING

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

You always make time for others. Make time for you.

Schedule your annual mammogram today.

You’re a doer. So when it comes to taking care of you, why is it you put it off? Prioritize your health, and book an appointment for your annual mammogram. Regular mammograms can detect early signs of breast cancer, when treatment options have the greatest chances of success. With two convenient locations and online appointment scheduling, getting a mammogram is easy-peasy.

Other things may be on hold during this pandemic, but your health shouldn’t be one of them.

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Where the Good Life is YOUR Life.

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At River Islands, you can live your best life.

Explore 7 new home neighborhoods, 20 furnished models and everything else life here has to offer.

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| OCTOBER 2020 9

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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Contents Features

OCTOBER 2020

29 HEALING THROUGH ART

Tara Heinzen is an artist. She’s also a breast cancer survivor—though she may buck that particular term—a woman, a proponent for body positivity, an entrepreneur, and a beacon for self-love and female empowerment. Tara, in a lot of ways, was always these things, but an experience with stage 0 breast cancer has influenced her life, her artwork, and her outreach for the past 8 years. BY NORA HESTON TARTE

60

THANK GOODNESS FOR NURSES

53

INKED.

The World Health Organization declared 2020 to be the “Year of the Nurse and Midwife” in celebration of the 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale (1820–1910). Across the globe many organizations, professional associations, health care systems, and other entities are celebrating the many roles and contributions of nurses in advancing the health and welfare of people in every nation. BY DEIRDRE CARLSON

Like many urban regions, San Joaquin County finds itself riddled with tattoo shops primed for getting some totally rad ink. But when it comes to adding something permanent to your body, choosing an artist shouldn’t be a decision made willy-nilly. Thanks to our dedicated readership, who clearly don’t shy away from body art themselves, we’ve got a list of the top four tattoo spots in the county—and some of the stand-out artists who rep them (thanks to that little annual Best Of list we put together). While tattoo shops still aren’t open (as of press), the artist’s downtime gave us a chance to dig through their portfolios and pick their brains on their favorite styles, their own tattoos, and other little known facts about them. BY NORA HESTON TARTE

91 GUTEN APPETIT!

29 60 53

If you’re craving authentic German cuisine, Stepping into German Guys will feel like taking a flight across the Atlantic without the time delay or the stress. Started by Ady and Kate Cogiel, the husband-wife team that coowns the restaurant, this German eatery features nothing but true German cooking using authentic cooking methods and ingredients, prepared by a mother-son team of chefs native to Germany.

BY NORA HESTON TARTE

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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Contents

OCTOBER 2020

36

THE 209 32 GENERATION VAPE

The new (deadly) craze 34 CANDY CORN-UCOPIA

We bet you didn’t know this much about candy corn 36 ART THAT EMPOWERS Inclusive school supplies 38 FOR THE GIRLS

Theadora Boutique offers support to breast cancer survivors 40 SOCIAL DISTANCING

ON THE TRAILS

Make good choices while out and about

NEXT ISSUE

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50

42 BACK TO THE BARRE What do you know about this ballerina workout trend?

50 HISTORIC HAUNT There may be spirits lurking around Preston Castle

ABODES 44 PLANT PASSION A mobile plant boutique is rolling around SJC 46 HOW TO SELECT & PLANT FRUIT TREES Build a fruit-bearing garden 48 FUN, FABULOUS FOCAL WALLS Classic Design has the deets on this fun trend

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WINE DINE 209 94 ANTI-ENERGY DRINKS

Ditch the Redbull for a healthier option 96 BLENDS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH Wines to open all autumn long 98 PRETTIEST POKE IN TOWN Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar serves the cutest setup

104 TIDBITS Key lime cheesecake,

cinnamon rolls, and pumpkin macarons

IN EVERY ISSUE 20 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 104 DINING GUIDE

100 KEEPING CALM IN 2020

CBD Oil is the new

kitchen staple 102 IN SEASON: APPLE HARVEST Apple cider, caramel apple baked brie, and crock pot apple butter

ANNUAL BRIDE GUIDE – PIZZA, PIZZA – SENIOR SECTION

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

We’re one of the top 100 US hospitals.

As Tracy has grown over the years, so has Sutter Tracy Community Hospital’s level of care. Recently recognized as one of IBM Watson Health’s 100 top hospitals, Sutter Tracy is now a leading hospital in the nation. And the best part?

It’s right here, close to home.

What’s more, Sutter Tracy was also recognized as one of the top 100 US hospitals in 2015.

It’s a thousand things, big and small. sutterhealth.org/stch SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 19

from the publisher

Thank you, Nurses!

It was January 2019 when the World Health Organization (WHO) named 2020 the official year of the nurse and midwife.

READ OUR

FREE

DIGITAL EDITION

@ SJMAG.com INKED IN SJ

HEALING THROUGH ART

LOCAL TATTOO ARTISTS SHOW OFF

OCT

TARA HEINZEN ARTIST & BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

20

WOMEN’S WELLNESS / THANK GOODNESS FOR NURSES

THANK

GOODNESS OCTOBER 2020  $3.95 SJMAG.COM

FOR NURSES 2020 IS THE YEAR OF THE NURSE

The reason was to celebrate the growing profession and the men and women who work on the front lines, those who bridge the community to the sometimes complicated world of healthcare. Little did anyone know then that 2020 would also bring with it a global pandemic, creating even more reason to celebrate the hard work of nurses and midwives in all facets of healthcare from the doctor’s office to the delivery room.

This month, in conjunction with our annual women’s health issue, we are featuring several nurses from across the county, and multiple major hospital and healthcare systems. This tribute to the dedicated nurses right here in San Joaquin County is our thank you for not only all they do on a daily basis, but also for the ways they have stepped up since the pandemic struck last Spring.

In the feature, the women talk about their dedication to the profession, how work has changed since COVID-19 hit SJC, and even a little about Florence Nightingale, credited as the founder of modern nursing.

2020 was chosen as the year of the nurse in part because it is the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth on May 12, 1820. During the Crimean War, Florence was heralded for many of her ideas and methods for treating patients. Today, we can reflect on how many of her care practices are still relevant, from cleanliness protocols to distancing to avoid disease spread.

Mostly, however, Florence is iconic because of her treatment of wounded soldiers, commonly referred to as “The Lady with the Lamp,” as she made her patient rounds, as well as the establishment of a nursing school in 1860.

The year of the nurse is just the last of many achievements held in Florence’s honor. International Nurses Day is celebrated on her birthday, the Nightingale Pledge is taken by new nurses as a sort of “swearing in,” and the Florence Nightingale Medal is recognized as the highest honor a nurse can receive.

Happy reading!

TONY ZOCCOLI

tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

LAST THOUGHTS NEW INK. The tattoo parlors in San Joaquin County are still closed (as of press time), but the time off from being able to get inked has many of us dreaming of the pieces we’ll get once the shop doors open again. In our tattoo feature, INKED, we catch up with the tattoo shops you voted the BEST in our 2020 Best Of poll, and share some of their impressive artwork.

STAGE 0.

I didn’t know much about stage zero breast cancer until we met Tara Heinzen, a ceramic artist who speaks out on going flat after mastectomy (i.e. not replacing breasts with implants). The skilled maker made the difficult decision to undergo a double mastectomy without detectable cancer after some concerning symptoms and a positive BRCA 1 gene test. Read her story on page 29.

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The Law Offices of

LAWRENCE KNAPP 250 Dorris Place • Stockton, 95204

209-645-1011 • www.LmkLaw.net

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR:

Nora Heston Tarte FOOD & WINE EDITOR: Suzanne Ledbetter TRAVEL EDITOR: Nora Heston Tarte REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Deirdre Carlson, Faith Lewis, Megan Meintasis Angela Rudolph CREATIVE

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

Lawrence M. Knapp

JUSTICE IS LOCAL.

YOUR LAWYER SHOULD BE TOO.

Established in 1993, we have been representing San Joaquin Valley community members and their families for more than 20 years in catastrophic injury cases. Our offices are in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, not Los Angeles or San Francisco. We are well versed in the local rules and have a deep knowledge of the arbitrators, judges and court system. This unique knowledge and ability to navigate the local system has produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Vally by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.

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ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PUBLICATION FAMILY

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/sanjoaquinmagazine Twitter: @SANJOAQUINMAG Instagram: SANJOAQUINMAG issuu.com/sanjoaquinmagazine © 2020 Inside Magazines Publishing Company

ALWAYS PRINTED IN THE USA

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Mosquito Prevention is Everyone’s Responsibility West Nile Virus is active in San Joaquin County

DUMP and DRAIN standing water.

TIP and TOSS outdoor containers.

Wear EPA registered insect repellents to prevent mosquito bites.

REPORT daytime biting mosquitoes.

Call the DISTRICT to request service or mosquitofish.

209.982.4675 or 1.800.300.4675 SJmosquitoandvector www.sjmosquito.org

NOW ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST CHILDREN’S DANCE STUDIO & BALLET SINCE 2015!

Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic Inc. Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic and Family Practice has had the proud honor of serving the Stockton community for over 35 years. Dr. Nicholas Birlew and His Healthcare Staff would like to say THANK YOU to our Fellow Front line and Essential Workers for the continued dedication and sacrifice made for the Greater Stockton Community during these challenging times.

Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic has steadfastly remained open and diligently serving our patients since this crisis started. We aspire to continue being your protector from illness and advocate for your ongoing good health now and always. With heartfelt appreciation, it is hoped that Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic and Family Practice will be able to continue to participate in the Stockton Community’s health care for many years to come.

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| OCTOBER 2020 23

Let their smiles shine like never before.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribing to San Joaquin Magazine ensures that every month you will receive our latest edition right in your mail box. Although we distribute copies to hundreds of area pickup locations, our publication is in high demand and locations often run out quickly.

12 ISSUES FOR ONLY $9.95 (12 ISSUES), OR $14.95 (24 ISSUES)

Subscriptions available through our website at SJMAG.COM, so you don’t miss another issue!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Story ideas, manuscripts, or comments can be emailed directly to the managing editor. Please include your name, daytime phone number, and email address.

E-mail NORA@SJMAG.COM

WRITER’S GUIDELINES San Joaquin Magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers. To suggest a story idea, email us at NORA@SJMAG.COM. San Joaquin Magazine also accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.

ADVERTISING San Joaquin Magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach area residents throughout the county. We offer multiple opportunities to achieve the results your business desires. With over 16 years of magazine publishing experience and multiple publications to choose from, it’s no wonder residents continuously look to our family of publications. Visit the ADVERTISE link on our website or call 209.833.9989 to request a printed media kit.

SPONSORSHIP San Joaquin Magazine prides itself in actively supporting organizations that make the city a better place to live and work. If you wish to partner with us and would like more information, please contact TONY ZOCCOLI, PUBLISHER TONY@SJMAG.COM

MAGAZINE

available anytime, anywhere.

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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

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Winner Of Best of San Joaquin for 9 Years!

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Time for a Change?

What’s a media room?

Maybe we should convert Jeb’s old bedroom to a media room.

We’ve all been spending a lot more time at home lately — which makes this a great time to think about how we can make that experience even better. If you’re looking to make a change we can help with financing for home improvements, repairs or even a new home. Talk to one of our lending professionals today. Apply and get approved online or call one of our friendly loan officers at 1-844-700-5012 — we’ll make the process as simple as possible. Great rates are available and Bank of Stockton is here to help.

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209 TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

HEALING

THROUGH ART STOCKTON CERAMIC ARTIST’S BREAST CANCER EXPERIENCE INSPIRES NEW DESIGN  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D SHANNON LEA ROCK

Tara Heinzen is an artist.

She’s also a breast cancer survivor—though she may buck that particular term—a woman, a proponent for body positivity, an entrepreneur, and a beacon for self-love and female empowerment. Tara, in a lot of ways, was always these things, but an experience with stage 0 breast cancer has influenced her life, her artwork, and her outreach for the past 8 years.

Stage 0 is a term used to describe a form of non-invasive breast cancer sometimes without any detectable masses. For Tara, her own mother had suffered stage 3C inflammatory cancer, a type of cancer that causes inflammation, discharge, and pain without any detectable mass until it's at stage three or four. Tara tested positive for the BRCA1 gene and at age 35 began to have some of the same SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 29

>>

upfront

preliminary symptoms her mother experienced at 41. In 2012, after meeting with doctors, Tara opted for an immediate prophylactic double mastectomy.

Some of Tara’s friends didn’t understand her decision to cut off both of her breasts without any detectable cancer in her body, but Tara—a single mother—didn’t want her own children to endure a lengthy battle the way she had with her own mother at 16. So, Tara started the process.

She also decided to get reconstructive surgery after the mastectomy so she would again have breasts. Doctors told her implants after mastectomy helped women heal emotionally, and Tara did subscribe to the idea that breasts would alleviate some of the fear she was feeling over the changes to her outer appearance.

During recovery the burgeoning pottery artist couldn’t work as she had been. Her upper body was weak and between each surgery she would have to rest and recover, which meant she couldn’t manipulate large vessels and she couldn’t throw clay on the wheel.

To feed her creativity during recovery she began making small pinch

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bowls and other items she could create with less strength, but Tara yearned for the work she had done in the past. As complication after complication arose—from what Tara would later identify as breast implant illness (BII)—she racked up 17 surgeries and her artwork was forever changed.

Luckily, Tara was able to find the strength to pivot. As growing illnesses racked her body, showing up in the form of skin sensitivities, food allergies, GI symptoms, and more, she began to carve flow lines into the clay pinch bowls, a task she could manage even after each surgery. “Born and raised in Stockton, I've always felt connected to rivers, so it was natural for me to express the surrender I had to go through, flowing like a river with what life presented to me that I could not control,” she explained. “I began a new style and direction as an artist, out of desperation to express what I was feeling.”

After working with the flow lines in small pieces, a friend, who was not an artist, rolled out small slabs of clay for Tara to work with. The pieces were uneven and lumpy, but somehow that was even better. She

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

ended up creating a series of tiles that represented both her healing and her journey with breast cancer and BII, and showed it at an art show at Delta Community College, where it won several awards.

Kathy Hart, president of Delta College, bought most of Tara’s pieces before the show began, and Tara knew that she had stumbled onto something important.

Eight years later, Tara made the decision to remove her implants and just be herself. Flat chested and with scars, Tara felt stronger and still feminine with the ability to produce art in larger scales. “When it's all said and done, the years of struggle, I can now say I do not regret it. My art, soul, and artistic endeavors reflect it all, enabling me to connect more with others, and hopefully share a message of self-acceptance, self-love, and healing for other women who struggle to embrace all they are, and live their most vibrant life,” Tara says.

Tara also wanted to give back as a way of thanking the powerful women who helped her reclaim her own life in many ways from surviving domestic violence, leaving her marriage, and healing and raising her

children to supporting her through her health struggles. She started Healing Earth-Arts Circle for women to gather monthly to connect, encourage, and heal together, through artistic projects centered around connection to our inner Goddess and community of sisterhood (she plans to expand the efforts to all genders). She’s also part of the Stockton Strong Market, a group of female makers and entrepreneurs supporting each other and teaches ceramic workshops at The Hatch.

And Tara works with local artists (photographers and painters) on collaboration projects encouraging and recognizing beauty beyond scars (one of which produced the photographs used in this story).

“It's a privilege as an artist to use visual and tactile expressions to connect, bring awareness, and voice to some of the issues we face as women and society,” Tara says. “Facing breast cancer is scary, and one of the biggest fears I hear from women who ignore early signs and avoid taking preliminary action, is around the attachments to breasts, losing their feminine identity, and believing they won't be whole.”

PEEP HER WORKS: @heinzen.studio

SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 31

GENERATION Vape 3 VAPING FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW  BY DEIRDRE CARLSON E-cigarette use, or “vaping,” has become common, but there still seems to be a smoke screen concealing its true impact on health.

All the terminology can be pretty confusing, so here’s how it breaks down: A vape (or vaporizer) is any device that heats and aerosolizes a solution that the user can inhale (thus “vaping”). The device heats up various flavorings, nicotine, marijuana, or other potentially harmful substances.

A growing body of evidence shows that vaping, may be even

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more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. While vaping devices themselves can be harmful in certain situations, the issue is what chemicals are in the liquid that is being vaporized and inhaled, and how they are affecting users.

What’s worse, electronic cigarettes are just as addictive as traditional ones.

Vape solutions also often contain nicotine; which research suggests may be as addictive as heroin and cocaine. It's so addictive primarily because it triggers the release of dopamine, which the brain translates as a reward. What’s worse is that many e-cigarette users get even more nicotine than they would from a traditional tobacco product — you can buy extra-strength cartridges, or you can increase the e-cigarette’s voltage to get a greater hit of the substance.

Research Suggests Vaping Is Bad for Your Lungs Vaping can also paralyze cilia, the “hair-like” projections in the airways of the lungs that remove microbes and debris.

When those cilia become paralyzed, they are unable to do their job protecting the lungs, which increases risk of infection like pneumonia.

Vaping has also been linked to an “increased risk of wheezing and related respiratory symptoms,” according to a 2019 research paper.

SYMPTOMS OF VAPINGRELATED LUNG INJURY INCLUDE: • Rapid onset of coughing • Breathing difficulties • Weight loss • Nausea and vomiting • Diarrhea

A NEW GENERATION IS GETTING HOOKED ON NICOTINE Among youth, e-cigarettes are more popular than any traditional tobacco product. Recently, the U.S. surgeon general reported that e-cigarette use among high school students had increased by 900 percent, and 40 percent of young e-cigarette users had never smoked regular tobacco.

More than one in nine high school seniors in the U.S. report vaping daily.

Vape cartridges are often formulated with flavorings such as apple pie and watermelon that appeal to younger users. And both youths and adults find the lack of smoke appealing.

With no smell, e-cigarettes reduce the stigma associated with smoking.

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CANDY CORN-UCOPIA FOOD FOR THOUGHT ON HALLOWEEN’S TOP-SELLING CANDY  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Candy corn gets a bad rap, and we’ll be honest, it seems like people fall into two camps—they either love it, or they hate it. But despite its potentially bad reputation, candy corn still manages to top lists as the best-selling Halloween candy each October. While you’ve likely been noshing on this super-sweet, tri-colored treat since childhood, we bet there’s a lot you didn’t know about it.

IT’S BEEN AROUND A LONG TIME. There’s more than one company turning out candy corn each October, but Jelly Belly is the longest-running candy corn producer still in service today.

Previously dubbed Goelitz Confectionery Company, the company has been making candy corn since 1898. Brach’s, however, is the biggest seller of the product today.

YOU CAN ENJOY IT ALL YEAR. Not only does candy corn last quite a while—it’s good for nine months packaged and up to six months opened— there are variations of the dessert for other major holidays including reindeer corn at Christmas, cupid corn for V-day, Indian corn for Thanksgiving, and bunny corn for Easter, each one with its own colorful presentation. Back in the day, candy corn wasn’t even associated with Halloween—it was considered a summer snacker.

DENTISTS HATE IT. Pediatric dentists aren’t big proponents of candy at all but candy corn is especially problematic. Made up almost entirely of sugar, it’s certainly not good for your teeth. Add in that candy corn is chewy and sticks to teeth, and you can see why it’s a nightmare for oral health.

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

IT’S NICKNAMED ‘CHICKEN FEED’ Or at least it used to be.

People have long associated corn with chickens, so the nickname chicken feed stuck for a while and influenced early marketing. Now, it mostly just has a reputation associated with Halloween.

IT’S BASICALLY SUGAR. Candy corn is made by combining sugar, fondant, corn syrup, vanilla flavoring, and marshmallow crème then melting it to liquid form before each color is injected into a mold to give it its signature design.

While the candy is fatfree, a standard serving contains 140 calories and 28g of sugar, or about 7.5 calories per kernel.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS. Candy corn is so popular it was gifted its own holiday, suitably on October 30. It’s a good excuse to dive into the Halloween candy a day early. But let’s be honest, if you’re a fan of this stuff, you’re eating it all October long.

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local culture hopes her artwork conveys messages of you are enough and you can do this. “Positive self-talk is so critical for all students but especially for students that statistically have challenges navigating educational systems.”

Her designs are done using computeraided images. “The computer screen is my paper,” the graphic designer says. “I believe a gift I possess is conceptualizing shapes and how they form other objects in space.

I’m drawn to ornate patterns,” Zhauntel says. Her artwork also nods to the patterns and colors popular in the 80s and 90s when Zhauntel was an adolescent herself.

In addition to creating the graphics, Zhauntel, a mother of three, hand assembles all of the notebooks. She also sells leather-bond notebooks, coffee mugs, socks, backpacks, and apparel through her online shop AbstraktLife.com and the Stockton Strong Online Marketplace.

ART that EMPOWERS

ZHAUNTEL FIELDS DESIGNS SCHOOL SUPPLIES THAT SPEAK TO BLACK CULTURE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD may not often see themselves in products meant for children. “As an educator, my Fields grew up in Sacramento, school stationery line is truly sentimental keenly aware of her Southern roots for me,” says the assistant principal at and encouraged by her mother to explore Lincoln Unified School District. “As an her heritage, art, and self-expression. educator, I’m concerned with equity.”

As an adult, Zhauntel learned to use The idea to focus on school supplies her interest in art as a way to not only has many inspirations. Zhauntel draws explore herself but to empower children on her career, her own love of school around the world. The mother of three growing up, and the supplies she coveted started with greeting cards but that soon as a child. Zhauntel believes her artwork paved the way for Zhauntel to launch her equips students with a positive own company, Abstrakt Life, reflection. A notebook, for an online school stationery example, designed with a shop selling her designs. The SUPPORT THE teenage or younger student on pieces celebrate Black culture, CAUSE: the cover can serve as a mirror commonly depicting images of Abstraktlife.com for children who are not aptly students who are marginalized @abstrakt_life represented in the media. She or reflections of students who

She got it from her mama. Zhauntel

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

“My art helps to address this need to empower under represented students, to excel academically, to be proud, and celebrate their achievements,” Zhauntel Fields

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storefront

Theadora carries sizes 30-44 band and A-K cup in everyday bras, impact sports bras, and nursing bras.

THEADORA BOUTIQUE 270 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 474-7407 TheadoraBoutique.com

FOR the GIRLS BREAST CANCER PATIENTS FIND WHAT THEY NEED AT THEADORA BOUTIQUE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D PONNIE JACKSON Theadora Boutique is bringing sexy back.

The Lincoln Center shop has long held a reputation for selling sweet and spicy intimates for women; garments that boost self-confidence and can provide that extra pep in your step. “Lingerie is a personal and intimate affair [that] can help a woman explore her sexuality. It also, more importantly, can make a woman feel special and oh so confident,” says Jackie Kromm, owner of Theadora Boutique in Lincoln Center.

Kromm says her shop serves every woman, but has also carved out a niche market for breast cancer patients and survivors, called Care customers. “From our fun and diverse collection of clothing to our intimates, the feel of the store is so far from medicinal, which is so important when it comes to our breast cancer patients,” Jackie says.

In addition to custom bra fittings, postsurgical patients can browse drainage

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

camisoles and compression garments as well as pocketed bras and prosthetic breast forms. “Each breast cancer patient has different needs,” Jackie says. “No two women are alike with regards to their

“In the case of a mastectomy patient, fun, flirty, and sexy lingerie can give a woman just the ammunition she needs to boost her self-esteem and self-confidence, which inevitably contribute to the idea of health and wellness,” Jackie Kromm, Owner situation.” And to meet these needs, Jackie keeps a healthy stock of products so that women can almost always come in and leave with the proper garments in the same day. That paired with a team of associates dedicated to customer service and product

knowledge makes finding a well-fitting bra in a unique situation easier for customers.

Losing part, or all, of your breasts isn’t an easy experience to endure. Jackie acknowledges that for many, breasts are linked to being a mother, a wife, a lover, and even just a woman. “I personally have made it my mission statement to make sure that Theadora's is an inviting and safe place to land for women in need of our mastectomy services,” Jackie says. “Something as simple as a bra and breast forms could be a game changer to starting the healing process.”

For what Theadora doesn’t carry in-store, the shop offers special order, including intimates, swimwear, and swim style breast forms, to cater to those who have undergone a mastectomy. Plus, the shop’s seamstress is up to make any Theadora product a good fit.

SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 39

WEAR A DAMN MASK. It’s the hashtag heard read around the world, #wearadamnmask.

And you should, to an extent, even while on the trails. So, pack a mask and put it on anytime you’re walking near other people, which can happen on crowded trailheads.

SOCIAL DISTANCING

ON THE TRAILS COVID-19 BRINGS ITS OWN ETIQUETTE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D PONNIE JACKSON (ABOVE) A lot is shut down or has been shut down, and even that which is open is socially distanced and less busy than usual. So what can you do on a free weekend with no plans? Well, quarantine seems to be the perfect time to work on your physical fitness, not to mention getting outdoors can do wonders for the psyche—and who doesn’t need an endorphin boost right now?

Enter hiking. This seemingly ideal outdoor workout option is garnering a lot of attention while the rest of the world is shut down. That’s because, nature isn’t closed. But while hopping on a mountain bike or lacing up a pair of hiking

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

boots is totally allowed right now it doesn’t mean those social distancing rules should fly out the window.

Being outdoors offers one form of relief from possible transmission, as experts maintain COVID-19 is less easily spread outdoors. But to stay truly safe, you need to follow some guidelines even if you’re enjoying nature. The basic rules come down to this: don’t overcrowd the trails, bring a mask with you, and keep your distance.

AVOID THE CROWDS. It turns out a lot of people have the same idea when it comes to getting out while we’re supposed to be staying in. And that means those typically bare trails are filling up fast, including the parking lots near access points.

Try to go when the trails will be less busy, such as during the week. Early mornings are often a safe bet— consider leaving not long after the sun gets up—while after-work hours can get crowded.

DON’T GATHER IN LARGE GROUPS. While outdoors it’s still important not to gather in large groups.

The rule of thumb has pretty steadily remained at nothing over 10 people. So, be smart when you hike. The less people you invite, the safer it is. And when you’re hiking, still try to maintain some distance, cover your cough, and follow the other basic etiquette rules of COVID-19.

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getting fit

BACK to BARRE

A LITTLE YOGA, A SPLASH OF PILATES, AND A BIT OF BALLET  BY ANGELA RUDOLPH / D DAN HOOD Long, lean, strong dancer muscles: everyone’s dream! If you thought the look and strength of a ballerina was just for the elite dancer, then you haven’t experienced the joy and challenge of a barre class. Barre workouts were invented by a ballerina back in the 1950s but have grown significantly in popularity in recent years, and for good reason.

The movements of a barre workout help to strengthen your muscles while practicing agility and grace. A combination of small, strength building movements, with the intensity of a good cardio session, barre stands out as a unique workout experience.

Best of all? You don’t have to have any dancing talent to master the barre! That’s right – you can have two left feet when it comes to dancing but still be an excellent performer when it comes to barre. This fun, fluid exercise system focuses on small movements that isolate muscles, including those you don’t often work, in order to build strength.

Alyssa Vaccarezza of Shine Cycle+Yoga+Barre in Lincoln Center elaborates. “Some people get nervous when they hear barre is ballet inspired. It’s really a little bit of yoga, a little bit of Pilates, and a little bit of ballet,” she says.

“The workout is low impact and highly focused on alignment, so it’s very safe. There isn’t one type of body that works for barre; it’s pretty much for everyone.” And that anyone includes teenagers to people in their eighties thanks to innumerable modifications you can make to the workout to tailor it to your own fitness goals and needs.

Worried you’ll need a tutu? No way. You can wear anything you’d normally workout in to a barre class. Leggings, shorts, etc.. Traditionally people have worn socks with grips on the bottoms during class but that is not necessary – you can even go barefoot if you prefer.

About ready to give barre a twirl? Alyssa has one last piece of advice for the beginner. “Come

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

into the workout with an open mind. It’s probably going to be a bit different than anything you’ve previously done, but just come and be ready to enjoy yourself. The instructors will guide you through each movement. As much as the workout is based in movement and building strength, it’s also about mindfulness.

Shine especially focuses on the mind-body connection and these barre workouts will work every muscle in your body, head-to-toe.”

HEAD TO THE BARRE: Shine Cycle+Yoga+Barre 308 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 473-1332 ShineYogaStudios.com

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home & garden

interior design and its clear to see how Laura’s dream of owning a plant store came to fruition.

The idea to open Rustic Garden on four wheels came down to two factors: inspiration and budget. Living in Santa Barbara for five years, Laura says mobile clothing boutiques—much like Lodi’s very own Lovely Girl Mobile Boutique—were a staple in the community. So, when looking at the costs of opening a brick and mortar felt overwhelming, Laura decided to take

PLANT PASSION LAURA MUNGUIA’S MOBILE

PLANT BOUTIQUE IS READY TO (ROCK AND) ROLL  BY NORA HESTON TARTE /

D COURTESY OF LAURA MUNGUIA Do you love long walks down the garden aisle? Feel joy when picking up a new “plant baby” to add to your brood?

Get giddy over matching planters? Then Rustic Garden was made for you, and its owner, Laura Munguia, probably wants to be your best friend.

Rustic Garden is a plant-lover’s dream. The mobile business offers a chic—and dare we say rustic?—space to browse house plants, decorative planters, and other accessories, all on four wheels.

“I was about 9 years old when I started my first outdoor garden and from there on I was hooked,” Laura says. “My mother always made sure to have plants indoors and outdoors. watching her passion and excitement for plants really influenced me.”

Add in an interest in

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

“I want people to come in the truck, have fun, and leave with a new hobby.”

the idea and make it her own.

It took one year to turn the truck into a mobile plant boutique, and Laura, her husband, and her father did all the handiwork themselves, including sanding the outside of the truck and every board inside of it (see above).

“My husband even picked up welding skills thanks to Rustic Garden,” Laura laughs, adding the company welds metal plant stands of all sizes, as well. Her favorite space on the truck, however, is the flooding steps on the back where people step into the shop.

“When you buy from Rustic Garden, you are not just buying a plant, you are buying from a small business owner that has put so much time and effort into creating a fun space just for you,” Laura says. “I want people to come in the truck, have fun, and leave with a new hobby.”

If you want to browse Laura’s goods, it’s best to follow her on Instagram and stalk the truck’s next location, which can be anywhere throughout Stockton, Lodi, Sacramento, and even the Bay Area. You can also request a shopping experience near you by contacting Rustic Garden directly through Instagram or by phone.

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home & garden

HOW to SELECT & PLANT FRUIT TREES FIND A FRUIT TREE THAT THRIVES IN YOUR BACKYARD  BY FAITH LEWIS Northern California is a Mecca for home-grown fruit. Stone fruit like peaches and nectarines flourish.

Apples grow crunchy and sweet. And we have to fight the birds to get our fair share of cherries. So, if you’re asking yourself “how do I pick the best fruit trees?” you’re really not asking the right question.

Instead, you need to ask “how do I pick the best fruit trees for me?”

We trust you to be able to pick a type of fruit you actually enjoy eating, so let’s skip ahead to the logistics.

How much space do you have? And how many trees do you want/need? Some varieties of fruit trees can grow upwards of twenty feet, and even the most enthusiastic backyard grower is going to have trouble picking fruit that high. Meanwhile, genetic dwarf varieties can be potted and placed on your porch.

Also, some fruit trees are selfpollinating, but most require a second tree (and some insect friends) for the cross pollination needed to produce. Once you’ve made these decisions, it’s time to decide where and when to plant it. Fruit trees love sun and they need to be planted in full sun. Spring is generally the best time to plant because your tree will have a longer season to grow into its new home before winter comes.

PICK WITH CARE

Delta Tree Farms’ Linda Edwards shares her tipsfor picking the best fruit trees

1. Find a symmetrical tree. “You want symmetrical branching so it’s fruiting all around the tree,” Linda says. A tree that has one branch that is significantly larger than the others is likely to favor producing fruit on that branch alone and you run the risk of that branch growing so heavy it breaks.

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2. You can often tell if a tree is healthy just by looking at it.

Make sure the bark isn’t too brittle, the leaves aren’t curled or dry, and the rootstock is healthy and fills the pot.

3. Bigger isn’t necessarily better – but it does mean you’ll get fruit faster. “In buying an older tree you’ll get fruit the same year,” Linda says. “Sometimes you can even buy the tree with fruit on it.”

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

OCTOBER GARDEN GOALS CLEAN up your garden by cutting back dead plant material and start a new compost pile.

RAKE up leaves and shred them (to make them easier to decompose), then add them to your new compost to be ready for spring fertilizing.

COVER frostsensitive plants as night temperatures begin to drop.

COLLECT and save seeds from your favorite annual blooms and stash them away for planting in early spring.

FERTILIZE and water roses. Hold off on pruning your roses until just before spring arrives to encourage new stem growth and blossoms.

Mark your calendar for February.

PLANT seed potatoes and peas (both sweet peas and edible peas) for a late-winter and earlyspring harvest. Be sure your peas are in a sunny spot to avoid developing mildew.

PLANT springblooming bulbs such as daffodils, freesia, montbretia, and hyacinth that are hardy enough to withstand winter frosts.

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home & garden

[and] herringbone patterns,” says Carmen Wenborn, who works at Classic Design. Other trends she’s noticed are wainscoting in matte black, as well as covering a wall in open shelving or utilizing wallpaper.

Focal walls are common in kitchens, where a tile backsplash may take over a larger space, commonly behind the stove, or a wall of open shelves may be used to increase storage space. Sometimes the focal wall is used to draw attention to a feature within the home, such as the fireplace. This is done by accenting the wall where the feature sits either with a bold color or a new material such as wood or tile.

You can also make the accent wall work for you. If you’re short on closet space, install a wall of built-ins that offer additional shelving, drawers, or even closets.

Step the design up by

making the built-ins stand out. One way to do this is to paint them an entirely different color than the rest of the room. “Think outside the box and be a little edgy,” Carmen says.

In bedrooms, accent walls can offer a dash of modernity. Or use an accent wall to signal transition, such as the backdrop to an office corner, a reading nook, or a yoga space. Where walls don’t exist, focal walls can offer separation.

If you are stumped on how to pull off the trend, use your resources.

Search some examples online, using sites such as Pinterest to get an idea for what you like. Then, take those photos, or a little bit of knowledge about your preferences, to the experts where design consultants can help you nail down the details and achieve the look you’re after.

FUN, FABULOUS

FOCAL WALLS

FANCY, FIERCE, FOXY, FASCINATING

What is a focal wall?

Also known as a feature wall, or accent wall, a focal wall stands out from the other walls in a room due to its design, often in terms of color or materials.

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D COURTESY OF CLASSIC DESIGN INTERIORS Looking to add a dash of design to your humble abode? From kitchens to bathrooms, bedrooms to living rooms, a focal wall can give your home a modern boost. This stylish design element refers to one wall—big or small—in a room either covered in wallpaper, plastered with tile, or painted a different hue, drawing the eye to it and adding some pizazz to the space.

At Classic Design Interiors, the design team is getting a lot of requests for focal walls. “We are seeing a lot tile being used on feature walls that include hexagon

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OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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HISTORIC

HAUNT

SPIRITS STILL CREEPING AROUND AT PRESTON CASTLE  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD

For 125 years, Preston Castle has stood in Ione, a quick 30 minutes east of Lodi.

Once home to juvenile inmates, the now defunct youth correctional facility is a historic landmark, offering guided tours by eager docents. For many, the history of the castle is most compelling, with stories of a military-style school housing troubled boys since 1894 abandoned in 1960, the murder of a staff member named Anna Corbin in 1950, and the castle’s journey to becoming a piece of local history. For others, it’s the paranormal activity—disembodied voices, doors opening and closing, spirit sightings, paranormal energy, and more—that excite.

“Preston Castle has witnessed many decades of change and has as many stories as square footage to share,” says Chris Garbarini, a docent and self-described empath who offers paranormal tours on property. “I absolutely believe 100 percent that Preston Castle is haunted.”

Chris’ suspicions about the paranormal activity come mainly from firsthand

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experiences. Chris recounts a story from 2010 where he swears he could smell fresh baked pastries wafting from the out-ofuse staff kitchen and feel the steam of the plunge bath tickling his nostrils. Since then, the encounters have only gotten stranger—and harder to explain. “I have watched a very tall male spirit float down a hallway after a woman in a flowing dress…

I’ve locked eyes with a spirit while walking right through him. The list goes on and on.”

Chris isn’t the only one with stories to tell. Sometimes guests ask Chris and crew about the docents dressed in period pieces and the small children in uniform. This would be normal, if either of those people existed at Preston. However, they don’t.

These sightings are just as hard to explain as the photos taken of faces in the windows of rooms where nobody is and electronic voice phenomena (EVP).

Even Karl Knobelauch, the president of The Preston Castle Foundation and

self-declared skeptic has experienced weird happenings at the castle including a disembodied voice calling his own name. “But there was no one [there],” he said.

One EVP from 2016 is Chris’ favorite to date.

After leaving a cell phone on record upstairs during lock up, Chris and his wife returned home to listen to the recording.

“You can hear normal everyday noises, birds chirping and cars driving down Preston Avenue,” Chris says. “But at 2:35 seconds of the recording

days they don’t. One particular entity seems to linger around the castle quite often, taking up residence in the intake room where boys coming into the school were processed. “This spirit and I have some history from the last few years. I have seen him multiple times in the intake room as well as in the hallway leading to it. I had shown my flashlight down the hall because he was more active than usual and as the beam from my flashlight hit where he attempt, and the man who murdered that women in 1950 was convicted of rape and murder in Oklahoma later on.

With a past like Preston Castle’s, it’s no wonder strange things are happening inside the castle walls. Stories of physical/corporal punishment by guards aren’t scarce. By 1895, one year after the castle opened, 175 boys lived in the on-site dormitories. In 1960, the castle was almost gone for good. For eight years three elderly women fought to keep the castle in place. And they won. Which is why Preston Castle—and all of its ghostly residents—still reside in Ione today.

PRESTON CASTLE 900 Palm Dr., Ione (209) 256-3623 PrestonCastle.org

you can hear the voice of a little boy call out from down the annex hallway say, ‘Come down here….

Help!’” No one heard the voice while they were inside the castle, and only one other person was outside during the time of the recording.

To this day, Chris can’t explain it.

According to Chris, some days the spirits interact and some

was standing the light did not penetrate the black mass and I watched him move up a set of stairs,” says Chris. He says the same entity has stopped him from closing doors, objects have inexplicably moved in front of his eyes, and random knocking often occurs in that part of the castle. “These are just a few of my many encounters with the unknown at Preston Castle,” Chris says.

Ghost stories aside, historic tales are also eerie. There are 18 boys buried in the on-site cemetery, many boys died while attending the school (commonly of disease), one was shot during an escape SJMAG.COM

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INKED

SAN JOAQUIN’S FINEST TATTOO ARTISTS ARE SHOWING OFF  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / / D DAN HOOD

Like many urban regions, San Joaquin County finds itself riddled with tattoo shops primed for getting some totally rad ink. But when it comes to adding something permanent to your body, choosing an artist shouldn’t be a decision made willy-nilly. Thanks to our dedicated readership, who clearly don’t shy away from body art themselves, we’ve got a list of the top four tattoo spots in the county—and some of the stand-out artists who rep them (thanks to that little annual Best Of list we put together). While tattoo shops still aren’t open (as of press), the artist’s downtime gave us a chance to dig through their portfolios and pick their brains on their favorite styles, their own tattoos, and other little known facts about them.

DISCLAIMER: The photos taken for this shoot are for artistic purposes only. The tattoo artists at the shops listed are adhering to the governor’s guidelines and had not yet reopened to customers when these photos were taken.

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Bao Nguyen

OWNER

HARD LUCK TATTOO Bao has run Hard Luck Tattoo in Lodi since 1999, two years after he first got into tattooing. // His first tattoo: Bao first got inked at 19, a Buddhist goddess that represents the Vietnamese immigrants that came over by boat. Legend says she appeared in the ocean riding a dragon to rescue people. // Before tattooing, Bao was in school as an art major. // Bao’s style shines in his bold, old-school designs either drenched in color or muted in black and grey portraits. // What to get: Bao also enjoys tattooing Japanese-style artwork, skulls, snakes, roses, butterflies, and Polynesian-inspired designs. // Where to get tatted: Hard Luck recently burnt down when an abandoned building next to the shop caught fire. They weren’t able to recover much—some artwork, tattooing supplies, books, and awards—but most of the valuables were gone. Bao is awaiting information to decide if the building can be repaired or if he’ll have to set up shop somewhere else. // Pictured: Bao’s wife Trang, who co-owns Hard Luck Tattoo with him (as well as Salon Pure by Trang Nguyen in Lodi), shows off her intricate back piece, designed and inked by Bao. 5 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 365-1455, HardLuckTattoo.com, @ HardLuckTattooLodi

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CASEY ARTIST

UNION TATTOO AKA The Space Unicorn. // Casey started tattooing as soon as he could, getting into the profession at 18 years old as a way to explore his interest in and appreciation of art. // Casey is here to entertain, and he’s a self-described eccentric. “I’m just a hipster nerd that needs to calm down.” // As much as Casey loves the artwork, his favorite part of inking someone just may be getting to know them. Casey gets to meet people from all walks of life. “Always an interesting time entertaining other people in my element,” he says. // His Favorite Tat: Casey has quite a few tattoos of his own, but his two favorites are both unicorns. “I have a three-headed unicorn on my thigh I really love. But I also have my boss naked on a unicorn which is also my favorite.” // What to get: Casey’s favorite aesthetics include neo-traditional and new school designs, as well as black and grey pieces and anything that falls into the realm of realism. // What to ask him: if you find yourself in Casey’s chair ask what him and his cat are currently bingeing on Netflix. And maybe also about why he likes unicorns so much. // Pictured: Alexa, another artist at the shop, who Casey inks.

512 N. Union Rd., Manteca, (209) 825-5000, UnionTattoo.com, @UnionTattooAndPiercing

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MELISSA SANTOS

OWNER

CANVAS TATTOO Melissa Santos is the only full-time artist at her self-owned shop, Canvas Tattoo. Located on Harding Way in Stockton, the shop’s interior is simple, but the artwork that comes out of it is nothing short of legit. “I wanted a nice comfortable environment and thankfully I’ve been told that’s what I have by my customers and some passer’s by.” // Melissa broke into the once male-dominated industry despite being told, plain and simple, that there was no room in tattooing for a female.

“There weren’t but two I believe between Stockton and Lodi at the time,” she says. // Humble Beginnings: Melissa decided to pursue a career in tattooing after a co-worker caught her drawing at work. More than a typical notepad doodle, the associate offered to make her a tattoo gun if she’d give him a tattoo. // Melissa canvassed the area, stopping into local shops to show off her work and ask the opinions of other artists.

Ultimately, she gained a lot of insight and some skill building that allowed her to finesse her talent, including how to make her own needles. “Thank God you can buy them pre made. I burned myself so many times.” // What to get: Melissa specializes in black and gray pieces, but in all honesty she's up for just about anything.

304 W. Harding Way, Stockton, (209) 941-0875, CanvasTattoo.net, @canvas_tat2

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Jen Culotta ARTIST EMERALD TATTOO

The first person to give Jen a tattoo was Jen. Before she got a foot in the door in 2001, she practiced on herself as a kid and spent a lot of time flipping the pages of tattoo magazines for inspiration. // Jen calls herself nerdy. Outside of tattooing, her interests include anime, horror movies, and video games. “I spend most of my free time hanging out with my dog Maya,” she says. // What to get: Something trendy or a beloved character from childhood. “I love neo-traditional and more illustrative styles of tattooing. I’m really into tattoos that feature pop culture subject matter like movie and cartoon characters or things from video games and anime,” Jen says. // Jen’s gift is taking a person’s vision and recreating it on skin. Connecting with someone and understanding their wants and style helps her create some really gnarly ink. // Standout pieces: Choosing a favorite is no easy task, but Jen has fond memories of completing intricate sleeves. Two memorable pieces she’s done include a waifu sleeve (an anime character) and an Aphrodite sleeve. “Those were pretty fun. I enjoy mythology and the research aspect for sleeves like that. The waifu sleeve is awesome because I just love anime.” // Pictured: The shop manager at Emerald Tattoo shows off some of her Jen-made ink.

2525 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 333-8282, EmeraldTattoo.com, @emeraldtattoolodi

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THANK GOODNESS

FOR NURSES 2020 IS THE YEAR OF THE NURSE  BY DEIRDRE CARLSON / D DAN HOOD

The World Health Organization declared 2020 to be the “Year of the Nurse and Midwife” in celebration of the 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale (1820– 1910). Across the globe many organizations, professional associations, health care systems, and other entities are celebrating the many roles and contributions of nurses in advancing the health and welfare of people in every nation.

It was completely unexpected that this would also be the year of an international health crisis—a global pandemic that has now touched every level of society. Today the entire world is coping with the impact of COVID-19. Nurses are on the frontline in this environment.

From providing direct care to affected hospitalized patients to leading full scale public health operations, nurses are front and center working around the clock to protect the health and well-being of patients, employees, and the public at large. We are very proud of nurses everywhere as they provide services during the current pandemic.

As a show of our own appreciation, we chose to highlight some of our local nursing heroes and we truly cannot thank them enough for all that they do to keep our communities safe during these extremely challenging times.

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DESIREE SANDERS, RN, BSN | Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Urgent Care Stockton

Over the years Desiree Sanders has seen an overwhelming amount of colds, flus, and other minor injuries working in urgent care.

Then 2020 came, and as COVID-19 began to spread, the nearby Stockton Ambulatory Surgery Center temporarily closed, but allowed urgent care staff to use the lobby and vestibule to serve patients in a drivethrough clinic for COVID-19 screening and testing.

“One morning, I pulled into the parking lot and there were approximately 100 cars lined up,” Desiree recalls. “It was a lot to take in, but I knew my patients–and just as importantly—my team, needed me. I put on all the appropriate personal protective equipment and got to work.” Since COVID-19, there have been plenty of challenging days, but there have been good ones, too.

“Patients are so appreciative of the work we are doing. We have had local businesses send us lunch and give us treat bags. Our managers and supervisors have done the same. We have finally gotten into a rhythm where we can handle what comes our way and hopefully help those here in San Joaquin County.”

Desiree enjoys being a nurse in large part because she likes being the person others come to when they are scared and sick. “Helping them, educating them, and reassuring them makes my job worth it every day,” she says.

Desiree graduated with a bachelor of science in nursing from Sacramento State in 2018.

“It is such an honor to be a healthcare worker during this time. I love being a registered nurse because we get to care for people when they are at their most vulnerable. It is incredible the information we are trusted with, and I do not take that responsibility lightly,” – Desiree Sanders, Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

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EVELYN STAEHR, RN, BSN | San Joaquin General Hospital

Since the start of the pandemic, roles at San Joaquin General Hospital have expanded and changed significantly, and Evelyn Staehr’s nursing role in the trauma department is no different. In every single area of the hospital, nurses are working extremely hard. “In addition to extra patient loads they must constantly worry about their own personal safety as well as the safety of their coworkers,” Evelyn says. “The stress is incredibly high, but I feel this is when they truly shine and show the wonders of their strong, dedicated spirit. I have never been so proud of all my colleagues as I am now.”

At SJGH, staff education is a priority, however, “with the current creative and supportive leadership in place, we have overcome many barriers to continued education caused by the pandemic,” Evelyn says.

Even hundreds of year ago, Florence Nightingale wrote about cleaning, distancing, and openair ventilation as forms of disease prevention and care. She was extremely dedicated to the patient as well as her coworkers. Evelyn says, “I can personally see that same care from our nurses today.

Her teaching is as true today as yesterday and how wonderful to follow such a great mentor.”

Evelyn Staehr also serves as the assistant department manager for trauma as well as the trauma department educator. She is board certified in trauma care and has an 18-year background in emergency nursing care.

“Nurses with their strength, tenacity, and love of community, are succeeding and will continue to strive for the best care of our community through all challenges,” – Evelyn Staehr, San Joaquin General Hospital

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JULIE ROSE RN, IBCLC |

San Joaquin General Hospital As a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), Julie Rose has experienced her fair share of changes over the years, but nothing compares to this global pandemic. The COVID-19 crisis has had a profound impact in the hospital setting, making it a daily juggle of bed availability, supply of PPE, and staffing. “In the NICU we have always been especially aggressive in our cleaning routine and our screening of visitors, so just a few changes were needed. We have had to limit visitors to just Mom and Dad, one at a time at the bedside. Parents are screened with a temperature check and health questionnaire, scrub their hands, and wear a cover gown,” Julie says.

2020 has brought about a lot of new, but many of the practices used to slow disease spread in the middle of the worst pandemic of the century have been around for decades, if not centuries. “The advance practice nurses that we have in our Family Maternity Center provide a critical role to provide family centered care along with a holistic approach as we bring a new life into this world. Even in this crazy COVID time that we find ourselves in,” she says.

Julie is a registered nurse with 32 years of experience specifically in the NICU setting and 28 years at San Joaquin General Hospital. She has a bachelor’s in nursing degree and completed her training as a lactation consultant to become an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC). Julie is also a PICC certified nurse and teaches ‘Neonatal Resuscitation Program and Birth and Beyond’ to employees.

The work we do as nurses provides the foundation for the care patients receive in the hospital and I am honored to be in this profession providing essential care to the smallest of patients,” – Julie Rose, San Joaquin General Hospital

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KARA GREEN, BSN, RN, CNOR | Dameron Hospital Since the global pandemic has largely affected the volume of elective surgeries not only in our area, but globally, Kara’s role as operating room clinical manager at Dameron Hospital has been impacted significantly. “Surgical volumes declined during the first few months of the pandemic in preparation for a potential patient surge,” she explains. And while volumes of surgical procedures are increasing again, Kara continues to fight COVID-19 while simultaneously helping prepare Dameron for the addition of the latest robotic surgery technology.

Being a nurse amid a global pandemic is no easy feat. “I became a nurse because I am passionate for standing up for those who are vulnerable and cannot stand for themselves,” Kara says, adding she believes that being a nurse puts her in a position to serve as a patient advocate and educator, to help patients make informed decisions about their health and the health of those they love.

Kara holds a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree and is a certified perioperative nurse (CNOR). She is also pursuing a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree and a registered nurse first assist (RNFA) certification. “An RNFA certification reflects my interest in not only managing the operating room and making sure it runs smoothly, but also providing direct patient care alongside the surgeon. I feel that this will allow me to have a greater positive impact on our patients’ lives,” she says.

“Being a surgical nurse places us in a critical role of advocacy when patients are at their most vulnerable with potentially lifethreatening consequences. This may seem stressful for some people, but I feel like I was born to do this—it is truly my calling.” – Kara Green, Dameron Hospital

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MANDY SERRANO, RN | Kaiser Permanente Manteca Medical Center

Mandy Serrano is on the frontlines as a registered nurse in the emergency department at Kaiser Manteca. The ED is where her heart is, and where a patient oftentimes has their first encounter with staff. Every day as a nurse in the emergency department is different—especially now. “There are new recommendations and protocols that change almost daily,” she says. And with these frequent changes, there is constant concern and uncertainty surrounding proper protection of her patients, herself, and her family.

One of the biggest challenges Mandy has experienced firsthand is that no visitors or family is allowed in the facility. “We are the ones caring for the patients at the bedside and a lot of my time is spent trying to connect family (phone, video) with the patient,” she says. Family, for many, is a security blanket for patients, Mandy says, and she is looking forward to having them back in the facility whenever it is safe to do so.

Mandy says she is hopeful that the pandemic will bring awareness to the challenges nurses face and help them advocate to change those challenges—a potential silver lining of a horrible situation.

Mandy has worked in healthcare since high school but decided to go back to school to get her nursing degree later in life while working full-time and as a mother. She graduated from San Joaquin Delta College and started working in the emergency department where she has been for the past ten years.

“I am the nurse I am today because of my team and them allowing me to care for the patient in the best way possible.”

– Mandy Serrano, Kaiser Permanente Manteca Medical Center

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MANJU JAMES, RN, BSN, CCRN | Kaiser

Permanente Manteca Medical Center

Manju James has seen many changes in her role as a nurse in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Kaiser Manteca since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. There is now a heightened value on personal health and hygiene. “We want to stay healthy ourselves to continue to help care for our patients,” she says. And the role of the nurse in the ICU has significantly changed because there are no visitors or family members allowed at the bedside.

Manju is honored that 2020 was declared the ‘Year of the Nurse and Midwife.’ She says it is perfect for the current crisis going on. The honor, however, comes with expectations from the public and her patients of what being a nurse facing the crisis of a global pandemic really means.

“Kaiser Manteca has been working together as an organization to make sure that staff is set-up to provide the best care for the patients and ultimately get them home safe,” she explains. Due to increased media coverage, “people are now more aware of the day-to-day experiences and challenges that frontline and healthcare workers face every single day.”

Manju has been a nurse for about 25 years, graduating from Holy Family Nursing School in India when she was 21 years old. She worked in India for three years, Saudi Arabia for 4fouryears, and eventually made her way to California. She recently received her Adult CCRN® specialty certification in 2016, specifically developed for nurses providing direct beside care to critically ill patients.

“Due to COVID-19 visitor restrictions, patients now feel very alone and isolated. Nurses have to take the place of their families and try to make the hospital feel as homey as possible,” – Manju James, Kaiser Permanente Manteca Medical Center

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PAULA NEWMAN RN, BSN, CIC |

St. Joseph’s Medical Center Paula Newman’s role at St. Joseph’s Medical Center looks different these days due to the global pandemic and number of COVID-19 cases in the community.

Paula has been a nurse at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton for 31 years, and has served as the manager of employee health, workers’ comp, infection control for the past 18 years.

Paula’s expertise is extremely essential since infection control, preventing or stopping the spread of infections in healthcare settings, is at the center of the crisis. And although Paula is busier now than ever, she hasn’t questioned her decision to become a nurse—one she steadfastly made at 5 years old, always taking care of people like her brothers and other family members when they would get sick. “This is a challenging and exhausting time to live in, but also a tremendous learning experience,” Paula says. “Everyone is looking to infection control to give guidance, especially as things are changing so often. We are constantly learning something new.”

Paula’s success, however, is a team effort, one that Paula says includes the supportive administration at St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “They are in the trenches with us, supporting us, and working tirelessly to take care of the staff and patients.”

Paula graduated from San Joaquin Delta College with as a registered nurse and bachelor of science in nursing degree and is also nationally certified in infection control (CIC).

“Nursing gives you so many opportunities to take care of people differently,” – Paula Newman, St. Joseph’s Medical Center

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THERESA GUSMAN, RN, CNOR | Dameron Hospital For Theresa “Terry” Gusman, the assistant nurse manager in surgery at Dameron Hospital in Stockton, COVID-19 has sent ripples of change throughout the department, a common theme for life-as-we-knewit since the pandemic. With tears in her eyes she says, “I have personally seen the effects of the pandemic from all perspectives – giving care at the bedside, in a surgical procedure, having someone close to you ill with COVID-19. And how devastating and tragic it can be at every level. There is a whole new world to nursing now with COVID-19.”

Terry’s main role at Dameron is within the surgery department and she reports that many additional precautions are taken now with surgery procedures such as testing for COVID-19 and making sure proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is available. The overall goal is to keep patients and staff safe and unexposed.

There are many unknowns in the future of nursing – will there be any future equipment/PPE shortages?

How will new nurses get trained and into the field? When will a vaccine be safely developed?” Those are just a few of Terry’s concerns.

Terry has been a nurse since 1985, graduating locally from San Joaquin Delta College. She holds a national certification in surgery and has held certifications in emergency, TNCC, and critical care.

“Florence Nightingale could have probably never imagined this. But if she were here today, she would still be working and trying her best to take care of her patients in any way she could. And that is what all the millions of nurses around the world are doing right now,” Terry Gusman, Dameron Hospital

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THERESA NAZARENO, RN |Sutter Tracy Community Hospital

The current pandemic has changed absolutely everything for Theresa Nazareno, who has served as the infection preventionist and employee health nurse at Sutter Tracy Community Hospital since 2010. But in the middle of the pandemic, all the changes have affirmed what she already knew about working at Sutter Tracy. “We come together when the going gets tough.” Firsthand, Theresa sees how staff all respect each other, and how they can work together toward a common goal, protecting both patients and themselves. “I am grateful to be part of a healthcare system and its efforts to help provide employees what they need to care for patients and our community.” But perhaps Theresa’s best observation during this time is how people in the hospital community are treating each other. “The people here are caring for each other more than ever.”

As flu season is also here, Theresa says healthy living is going to become even more important, including eating nutritious foods, exercising, getting sufficient rest, and staying hydrated. “Self-care and self-love is especially valuable during trying times,” she says.

Theresa has been a nurse at STCH for the past 12 years. She holds a bachelor of science degree from a nursing school in the Philippines that she earned in 2003 before moving to the U.S. in 2004. She is also in her second year of a family nurse practitioner program and plans to graduate in early 2022.

“Nurses selflessly serving during this challenging time only show how nursing is a strong, highly skilled, and intelligent profession.

And we do not stop there! We continuously educate ourselves so we can better serve others,” -

Theresa Nazareno, Sutter Tracy Community Hospital SJMAG.COM

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VALERIE PEOPLES, RN-BC, BSHS, WOCN | St. Joseph’s

Medical Center

Valerie Peoples has been a nurse at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton for the past 27 years, but with the onset of COVID-19, her role quickly and drastically transformed. But this isn’t the first time Valerie has seen “unprecedented times.” As life makes a full circle, this is Valerie’s first epidemic and second pandemic in her career.

One year into her nursing career, Valerie was faced with her first epidemic—AIDS. It was a new and scary time and nurses took on the challenge. “I cared for dying young men in the prime of their lives, I cried with them, prayed with them, and held their hands as they took their last breath and passed away,” she says.

Valerie is now on the frontlines as the screening coordinator’ where she is responsible for ensuring adequate staffing of the screening stations, keeping stations stocked with necessary supplies, and updating staff when new information is available. The little things help her get through. “Resources have been put in place that every nurse has access to if in need of spiritual support or encouragement. We have been provided meals, snacks, flowers, and have participated in hospital parades acknowledging how much our hospital volunteers are missed,” Valerie says.

Valerie has been an RN for 40 years and has held many supervisory roles in medical/ surgical, skilled nursing, orthopaedic, and telemetry. She also holds a specialty certification as a WOC nurse.

“Florence Nightingale was a pioneer of nursing and now 200 years later we are pioneers in fighting this new enemy COVID-19, utilizing and practicing principals of infection control based on a foundation developed by her,” - Valerie Peoples, St. Joseph’s Medical Center

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DEDICATED TO KEEPING YOU SAFE Support your favorite businesses who have taken the pledge.

StocktonHealthyPledge.com SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 71

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LOOK & FEEL

YOUNGER THROUGH EXERCISE

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

than that, too. Stress and lack of sleep are problematic for aging but studies have shown that regular, moderate exercise can lead to a 65 percent increase in sleep quality including more restorative REM sleep. Exercise can also reduce stress by releasing mood-boosting endorphins. “ I always prescribe exercise to all my patients with underlying stress rather than prescribing anxiolytics (sleep-inducing or anxiety-relieving medications),” Dr. Manshadi says.

Even more important than how exercise can make you look, is how it can affect the way you feel. “Exercise can prevent heart attacks and strokes,” Dr. Manshadi says. “Just 150 minutes of exercise per week can reduce the risks for heart attack and strokes by 50 percent.”

The proof is in the science. Exercise can lower bad cholesterol and flatten abdominal obesity, which is secondary to visceral fat. Furthermore, abdominal obesity has a direct correlation to metabolic syndrome which is a precursor to diabetes.

And diabetes as well as obesity are risk factors for both heart attack and stroke.”

Of course… anyone who is middle age or older with a sedentary lifestyle should visit a doctor before undertaking vigorous exercise,” Dr. Manshadi warns.

We’re all after that youthful glow. But it’s not all about fancy face creams and cosmetic procedures. Part of looking (and feeling) younger is taking care of our bodies—and a big part of taking care of our bodies is exercise.

“Exercise is a magic elixir,” says Dr. Ramin Manshadi of Manshadi Heart Institute, Inc. “It has a wide variety of benefits.” The rule of thumb is to get 150 minutes of moderate cardio exercise per week to reap significant health benefits.

Not only does exercise keep your body healthy, it can really give you that youth-

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ful look because exercise can release substances that make your skin soft and fresh as well as slows skin aging.

“It can make you slow aging by slowing cell aging,” Dr Manshadi says. But it’s part of a bigger formula. “Stress, lack of sleep, and a bad diet can lead to a more rapid shortening of the telomeres which speeds up the aging process.” When you exercise regularly, manage stress, and eat a plant-based diet, the telomeres can actually become lengthened, according to a study out of UCSF and published in Lancet in 2018. The connection is deeper

MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE, INC. 2633 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 944-5530 DrManshadi.com

“Our Mission” Improve the lives of patients through excellent Cardiovascular education, prevention, and the highest quality care.

• Complete cardiovascular care from prevention to intervention.

• Recognized expert in sport cardiology in USA and internationally.

• Cardiovascular leadership at State and National level.

Lodi: 999 S Fairmont Ave. • Stockton: 2633 Pacific Ave.

2 0 9 . 9 4 4 . 5 5 3 0 • www.drmanshadi.com SJMAG.COM

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THRIVE AT

DISTANCE LEARNING  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

THE SECRET SAUCE FOR SUCCESS P for Professional. We want our students to get up in the morning, eat breakfast, get dressed in their scrubs. We want them to be on time for every class and be ready to work.

A for Academic. HCA students are expected to be on top of their school work and to know how and when to reach out for help.

S is for Service Oriented. While we can’t physically be out in the community, serving our neighbors, we can help others virtually, and we can help our families and neighbors.

S is for Strong. From a mental standpoint, we understand that for some people, these may be trying times, but we also expect our students (and staff) to look at obstacles and barriers and overcome them.

I is for Integrity. Integrity is defined as doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. This is even more important when in distance learning when teachers can’t observe students taking tests and doing work.

O is for Optimistic. We are encouraging our students and staff to find the silver linings. Clubs are still happening, education is still happening, people are building community through digital means.

N is for Nurturing. HCA staff and students are expected to encourage the growth of themselves and others.

School looks a bit different this year for students in San Joaquin County, but a move to distance learning doesn’t spell disaster for education. Health Careers Academy High School is finding success with distance learning by adhering to one key factor: aligning distance learning as closely as possible to in person classes. This includes scheduled Zoom classes that follow a typical class schedule, not lowering standards or expectations of students and staff, and continuing to work with the community on outside efforts including virtual internships, externships, and community service opportunities.

“It is imperative that students create effective routines and habits that will allow them to stay organized and decrease stress and anxiety,” says Aaron Mata, principal at HCA. In an effort to provide continued support to students, HCA’s administration and counseling team are available throughout the day for students and families. Teachers are

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also available to virtually support students during office hours. "Although our expectations continue to be high, it is not without grace and compassion for our students-during this difficult time."

Positivity is a key ingredient to all of this. HCA is focused on supporting students as they navigate a new platform for school. Staying on schedule, requiring school uniforms be worn, and more help students achieve. “We need to surround our children with positivity and provide opportunities for them to feel that they are winning every day,” Aaron says.

HEALTH CAREERS ACADEMY 931 E. Magnolia St., Stockton (209) 933-7360 StocktonUSD.net/HCA

Thank You For Voting Health Careers Academy One of The Best Charter High Schools In San Joaquin County Health Careers Academy Students Have the Opportunity to: • College Prep Curriculum Earn certificates to start a career!

• Earn college credit • HIPAA Certification • Learn from professionals in the industry • CPR/First Aid Certification • Intern & job shadow at local health care • Medical Assistant Certification facilities

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SEE YOUR PHYSICIAN DURING THE PANDEMIC 

BY NORA HESTON TARTE

When the global pandemic hit, healthcare had to pivot. And as a result of media coverage and changes within the hospital walls, many became worried over seeking medical care. However, seeing your doctor and maintaining routine appointments is still necessary, and with protocols in place, it’s safe, too. “Stockton Cardiology is extremely proud of our commitment to our patients and to patient care,” says Suresh Bhatia, an administrator with Stockton Cardiology Medical Group.

“By keeping our doors open, we have been able to keep patients out of the emergency room/urgent care environment, avoiding potential exposure to other patients who may be presenting to these external environments with symptoms.”

At Stockton Cardiology, every patient is contacted and screened prior to their visit to the clinic for COVID-19 symptoms. Staff also has their temperature checked daily.

And to limit spread, the office surfaces are constantly sterilized and sanitized, staff members are required to wear masks at all times, and the clinic requires all patients and caregivers to wear masks while visiting the clinic—no exceptions. “Within the clinic, all staff, patients, their caregivers and their family are required to practice safe distancing at all times,” Suresh ads.

As an added precaution, staff isn’t only following safety protocols inside of the office, staff are also acting responsibly outside of the office, each one guided specifically to refrain from large gatherings, to sanitize, and to socially distance. If a potential exposure does occur or if a staff member is showing symptoms, the office follows all CDC guidelines for staff and patients.

Whenever possible tele-health conferences are encouraged, such as for routine appointments or any time an appointment can reliably be conducted this way. Office visits, however, are necessary for patients who cannot communicate by phone or

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computer and sicker patients where testing in the office is required. “Doctors never sacrifice quality of care. If they feel a patient is required to come to the office, they will only schedule the patient in the office,” Suresh says.

Stockton Cardiology isn’t the only health office open to the public. Doctor’s offices remain open to treat patients for ailments outside of COVID-19. And Stockton Cardiology physicians encourage staff and patients to continue to see their primary care physician for any symptoms

they may be concerned about to ensure every health need is met even during the pandemic.

STOCKTON CARDIOLOGY MEDICAL GROUP 415 E. Harding Way, Ste. D, Stockton (209) 944-5750 StocktonCardiology.com

Stockton Cardiology Medical Group Complete Heart Care, Inc.

Dr. Lim

Dr. Punjya

Dr. Vaishampayan

Dr. Waters

Dr. Ramanakumar Dr. Raina

Dr. Chothia

Dr. Mirhosseini

Dr. Charos

• Established in the 1950’s we continue to serve San Joaquin, Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties • Comprehensive heart and vascular program • Invasive and non-invasive evaluations • Complex coronary and peripheral endovascular interventions • Disease management, pacemakers, internal defibrillators • Venous ablation for venous insufficiency (Stockton and Manteca)

“Our greatest reward is to see our patients smile again after a challenging health event.”

Stockton Cardiology Locations: Stockton: 415 East Harding Way, Suite D • 209-944-5750 │ Tracy: 1530 N. Bessie, Suite 101 • 209-832-0343 Manteca: 1148 - 3 Norman Drive • 209-824-1555 │ San Andreas: 704 Mt. Ranch Rd., #101 • 209-754-1012 SJMAG.COM

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MAINTAIN LIFELONG EYE HEALTH  BY FAITH LEWIS

What’s your favorite childhood memory? Think about the impact each of your five senses had on that moment. Maybe you recall the smell of freshly baked cookies or the sound of the ocean, but chances are what stands out most about that moment are the things that you saw.

Our ability to see the world around us dictates our ability to interact with it. The way we learn, communicate, work, and go about our daily lives are dependent upon having healthy eyes and clear vision. Yet, somehow eye health is often overlooked and changes in vision go unaddressed throughout life.

Fortunately, many eye conditions are preventable or treatable, starting at a young age. At Zeiter Eye Medical Group, routine eye care ensures any vision changes are addressed and developing eye conditions can be caught

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early. “Children should have a vision screening by age four, even if the child has no complaints,” says Dr. John Zeiter, the managing physician at Zeiter Eye Medical Group. “Young adults should be checked every year if they wear glasses or contacts and adults over 40 should be seen by their eye doctor at least every two years to check for glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal problems.”

As Dr. Zeiter mentioned, vision problems can start early and often have no obvious symptoms. In fact, vision problems are growing among preschool-aged children, a trend that is only expected to continue.

Luckily, the most common problems can be corrected with glasses and can help head off any vision-related learning problems.

Eyesight will continue to change through puberty and teen years, stabilizing in the mid- to late-twenties. But eyes naturally start to change again with age, particularly between 40 and 50. For most people this just means reading glasses, but more serious conditions can develop with age, even if you’ve had great vision all your life.

Some eye problems that appear later in life can run in families, such as glaucoma, a degenerative condition where pressure on the optic nerve results in vision loss. Other conditions are complications of existing health problems, like diabetic retinopathy where perpetually high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels at the back of the eye, leading to vision loss. While neither of these conditions can be cured or the damage reversed, they are manageable if caught early by your eye doctor.

ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP 255 E. Weber Ave., Stockton (209) 466-5566 ZeiterEye.com

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BOOST Your MOOD in UNCERTAIN TIMES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

To say times have been uncertain lately is a bit of an understatement. And, unfortunately, all of the changes and restrictions occurring can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. While it is normal to have some stress in your life and to feel sad, especially in the current climate, when these symptoms interfere with daily life and the ability to complete normal tasks, it’s time to seek help.

When recognized early, anxiety and depression are easier to treat. “Treatment for both anxiety and depression are similar where it may involve psychotherapy and medication(s) to help suppress and overcome the ailment,” says Dr. Amir Khan, owner of Hammer Lane Pharmacy.

“Both symptoms of anxiety and depression can also overlap.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, anxiety disorders result in intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. These symptoms can also lead to a panic attack. Depression on the other hand is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and

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loss of interest. Depression is more than feeling sad, it affects how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

Once you’ve recognized there is a problem, getting help is paramount.

Treatment should always include therapy, and often medication can help with overcoming symptoms. Prevention, when possible, is most effective. We can often stop these issues from spiraling out of control through prevention. Take steps to control stress, reach out to family and friends for support, and get treatment at the first sign of a problem. With anxiety, it also helps to stay active, avoid alcohol and drug use, cut back on caffeine, use stress management and relaxation techniques, eat healthy, and prioritize sleep.

As a registered pharmacist, Dr. Amir

cautions against the use of some over-thecounter treatments.

“Alternative medication, natural products, and over-the-counter supplements are marketed to potentially help with both anxiety and depression, but it is probably best to avoid them because these supplements are not regulated by the FDA and are not typically tested for drug interactions, their consistency in strength and potency across brands, as well as side effects.” he says, “Always reach out to your physician if you have questions about your condition and always reach out to your pharmacist if you have questions about your medications.”

HAMMER LANE PHARMACY 2339 W. Hammer Ln., Ste. J, Stockton (209) 477-7100

STOCKTON’S

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ACROSS THE STREET FROM SUTTER GOULD IN THE FOOD SOURCE SHOPPING CENTER MON – FRI: 9 AM – 6 PM, SAT: 9 AM – 3 PM SUN: 10 AM – 2 PM 2339 W. HAMMER LANE, STOCKTON

FOLLOW US ON

* Open 7 Days A Week

hammerlanepharmacy.com

SJMAG.COM

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CARE FOR YOURSELF IN A PANDEMIC 

This is a stressful time and there is still so much uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. Doctors Hospital of

Manteca (DHM) wants the community to know that it is open and safe to care for you and your loved ones. Your safety is the hospital’s top priority.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team of dedicated caregivers at DHM regularly treated patients with infectious diseases, and remain prepared and ready to provide safe care. Now more than ever, it’s important to not delay or neglect your healthcare needs.

“If you’ve been putting off your medical needs due to fear of coming to the hospital, there is no need to delay your care. We continue to care for all patients who come to us with healthcare needs not related to COVID-19 and that includes providing routine mammograms and screenings,” says Dawnis Villegas, RN, breast health coordinator at Doctors Hospital of Manteca. “It’s important that patients do not put off

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BY DOCTORS HOSPITAL OF MANTECA

their routine screenings as that can create problems down the road.”

DHM has established separate care pathways for potential or confirmed COVID-19 patients. Every precaution is being taken, combining strong infection prevention processes, staff training, testing, and ample supply of personal protective equipment. DHM is committed to universal protection and safety for every person who walks through our doors.

“In our Certified Breast Health Center, we want to make sure our patients feel comfortable when coming in for their mammograms. We are doing everything we can to make sure they feel safe,” Villegas adds. “Women tend to put the needs of others before themselves, but the last thing that should be neglected is their health.”

One out of every eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent. Mammo-

grams are the most effective form of early detection. “Annual mammograms are an important part of a woman’s wellness routine, generally beginning at age 40. It’s important to continue the routine, even during a pandemic,” Villegas says. “Don’t put off your screenings. We are here for you.”

If you need to schedule your routine mammogram or you have questions about breast health, call (209) 239-8370. To find a physician or view other services provided by DHM, visit DoctorsManteca.com.

DOCTORS HOSPITAL OF MANTECA 1205 E. North St., Manteca (209) 239-8370 DoctorsManteca.com

Make time for your mammogram.

Safe care is here for you.

Your Safe Care is Our #1 Priority Mammograms are the most effective form of early detection of breast cancer, but “early” is key. Please don’t delay your mammogram. Our certified breast center can keep you on top of your breast health with precautions in place to help ensure your safety. We offer next day appointments in a relaxing environment with among the latest in digital mammography.

Social Distancing

Wear a Mask

Clean Environment

Separate Covid-19 Areas

To schedule an appointment, call 833-216-5951 SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 83

MEDICAL PROFILES

HAMMER LANE PHARMACY Dr. Amir Khan is a Stockton native and has been serving his community as a pharmacist for over 20 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 15 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’s 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. This past August, Hammer Lane Pharmacy was recognized, for a second year in a row, as the Winner of the Best Independent Pharmacy for 2020

by San Joaquin Magazine.

The entire team is very proud and thankful for their award. The team at Hammer Lane Pharmacy feels what separates them from their competition is personalized service, short wait times, offering curbside pick up, free local home delivery, being open seven days a week, accepting all insurances, having flu shots plus all other immunizations in stock and administered in a private room, compliance packaging and, not to mention, many OTC and home healthcare products.

2339 W. Hammer Ln., Suite J., Stockton (209) 477-7100 HammerLanePharmacy.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

RAMIN MANSHADI, MD, FACC |

MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE, INC.

Dr. Manshadi’s philosophy parallels the true art of medicine taught and practiced by the father of medicine, Hippocrates: “To treat patients with kindness and compassion” utilizing the latest in medical knowledge and technology. To schedule an appointment please call (209) 944-5530.

FELLOWSHIP TRAINING: UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, Calif. INTERNSHIP AND RESIDENCY: California Pacific Medical center in Affiliation with UCSF San Francisco, Calif. MEDICAL EDUCATION: Medical Doctor, UHS/ The Chicago Medical School, Master of Science in Physiology, UHS/The Chicago Medical School Bachelor of Science in Physiology, UC Davis. AWARDS: Future Leader Award, CA, American College of Cardiology Young Physician Award, San Joaquin Medical Society, Americas Top Doctors, Castle Connolly Top Doctors. CERTIFICATIONS: ABIM; Internal Medicine, ABIM; Cardiovascular Medicine, ABIM; Interventional Cardiology. PRESENT AND PAST POSITIONS: President Elect, American College of Cardiology, California Chapter, Team Cardiologist, Sacramento Republic professional Soccer Team Immediate past President, San Joaquin Medical Society, Associate Clinical Professor, UC Davis. EXPERTISE: Sport Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Trans Aortic Valve Replacements Lipids, Congestive Heart Failure, Venous Ablations for Varicose veins.

Stockton: 2633 Pacific Ave., Stockton Lodi: 999 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi (209) 944-5530, DrManshadi.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY DERMATOLOGY

Golden State Dermatology, GSD, is a leading, comprehensive dermatology group offering dermatology, cosmetics, Mohs surgery for skin cancer, pathology, and plastic surgery. Our mission is to deliver the highest quality care and a great patient experience.

BRYAN BARNETT, M.D. has practiced dermatology in Tracy for over 25 years after retiring from the US Navy. He attended the University of Notre Dame, and after graduating, graduated from The Medical College of Virginia. He completed a Pediatric Residency and cared for children for seven years before completing a second residency in Dermatology at UCSF. • Double Board Certified, Dermatology & Pediatrics • Voted Best Doctor, Tracy CHRISTIAN JONES, M.D. brings over 25 years of experience to the Manteca community in medical and surgical dermatology. He completed

medical school at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston where he developed his passion for dermatology. After an Internal Medicine internship at the UCSD School of Medicine, he completed his residency training in Dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine in the renowned Texas Medical Center.

• Board Certified in Dermatology

PENNY NG, N.P. is a certified, licensed nurse practitioner in our Manteca and Tracy clinics. After completing her Bachelor’s in Nursing

at Sacramento State University, Penny furthered her training at UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center’s nurse residency program. She completed her Master’s in Nursing at Samuel Merritt University and worked in Stanford Healthcare’s Dermatology Department before joining GSD.

GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY 200 Cottage Ave., Ste. 201, Manteca 1542-A North Tracy Blvd., Tracy GoldenStateDermatology.com

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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Manteca: (209) 924-4086 Tracy: (209) 836-2220

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Personalized, High-Quality, Ethical Care from Your Local

MEDICAL PROFILES

JENNIFER M. LOW, DDS CHRISTIAN J. LOW, DDS GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

At Low Family Dental, we are committed to providing high quality dental care while making your visit as pleasant and comfortable as possible. With locations in Stockton and Lodi, our practice philosophy is one focused on patient care, education, and advanced dental techniques, allowing us to make informed decisions together to improve your oral health.

We are proud to announce that our practice follows a minimally invasive and biomimetic approach to dentistry; which is centered around tooth preservation and conservation to achieve a dental result that maximizes the potential lifespan of each tooth.

As third generation San Joaquin dentists, siblings Dr. Jennifer and Dr. Christian Low graduated from the UOP School of Dentistry. Dr. Jennifer’s dedication to dentistry is exemplified by her eight year tenure as an instructor at the UOP dental school. Additionally, Dr. Christian’s passion for dentistry stems from the advanced training he received during his residency at the graduate UOP Dental Clinic.

Together, we hope to create an environment that allows you to make positive choices for your dental and overall health.

PHOTO BY LALLY ACEDO

LOW FAMILY DENTAL

3031 W. March Lane, #340 East, Stockton (209) 957 - 6004, LowFamilyDentalMarchLane@gmail.com, LowFamilyDental.com

ALI MIRHOSSEINI, M.D, FACC GENERAL CARDIOLOGIST

MEDICAL SCHOOL: Shiraz university of Medical Sciences, Shiraz,

Iran 1998-2005 RESIDENCY: Mount Sinai Hospital, Chicago, IL 2011-2014 FELLOWSHIP: Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago, IL 2014-2018 CERTIFICATION: ABIM Internal Medicine: 2014, ABIM cardiovascular

disease 2018, SNC Nuclear Cardiology 2018, Echocardiography board certified 2017 HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS: Sutter Tracy Community Hospital, Tracy, Doctors Hospital Of Manteca, Manteca AREA OF INTEREST:

CAD, CHF, HTN, preventive cardiovascular disease, arrhythmia I enjoy helping people; I treat my patients as one of family members and will do my best to help them to have a better quality of life. Seeing a satisfied smile on patients’ faces after helping them is very rewarding and I strive to experience that every day.

STOCKTON CARDIOLOGY 415 E. Harding Way, Ste. D, Stockton | (209) 944-5750 | StocktonCardiology.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

DR. TEJPAL KAUR SOHAL |

ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP, INC.

Dr. Tejpal Kaur Sohal (Tej) joined the Zeiter Eye Medical Group team after graduating in 2019 from the oldest, continuously operating school of optometry, New England College of Optometry in Boston. However, this milestone did not mark her first venture into the profession of optometry. Dr. Sohal presented with an impressive background that includes 11 years working in optometry in countries such as India and Malaysia. As a result, patients can feel comfortable in Dr. Sohal’s care.

When discussing her chosen career in optometry, Dr. Sohal comments, “I get to practice what I love the most—to be able to restore and rehabilitate vision as well as providing my patients with a better quality of life.”

When Dr. Sohal is not caring for patients, she enjoys spending time with her family, getting outdoors, and staying active. Dr. Sohal loves traveling, hiking, and playing indoor badminton.

Dr. Sohal is excited to join Zeiter Eye Medical Group and is looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with her patients within our community.

ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP, INC.

Locations: Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, and Sonora (209) 466-5566 ZeiterEye.com

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Thank You For Voting Us

Best of San Joaquin.

BHAGYA NAKKA, MD, Inc. WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE BHAGYA NAKKA,MD,FACOG BOARD CERTIFIED IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY & FELLOW OF AMERICAN COLLEGE OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY DR. BHAGYA NAKKA WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU TO HER MEDICAL PRACTICE SPECIALIZING IN CHILDBIRTH AND ALL WOMEN’S HEALTH ISSUES. Dr. Nakka’s office is conveniently located opposite to St. Joseph’s Medical Center and offers a very centralized location to the residents of Stockton and neighboring towns. Dr. Nakka is affiliated with St. Joseph’s Medical Center of Stockton. Dr. Nakka has experience in high-risk obstetrical management and gynecologic surgeries including minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. She also offers annual screening, contraception, management of abnormal pap, infertility treatment and other women’s health issues. If you are looking for a personal relationship with caring young physician who will listen to your needs, please visit or call our practice to schedule an appointment.

1805 N. CALIFORNIA STREET, SUITE # 202, STOCKTON, CA 95204 PHONE (209) 242-2690 I FAX (209) 242-2694 www.drnakkaobgyn.com SJMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020 89

Thursday, December 31, 2020

Winter Wonderland New Year's Eve Ball

20 21

TICKETS: $150

FOR TICKETS & INFO:

No-Host Cocktail Hour 6:30pm Doors Open 7:30pm Wine Club / Early Bird & Table 90 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2020 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM Discounts Available

www.viaggiowinery.com 100 E. Taddei Road Acampo, CA (209)333-0431

RESTAURANTS | WINE | DRINKS | SWEETS

wine dine

209 OCTOBER IS GERMAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

GUTEN APPETIT!

AUTHENTIC GERMAN CUISINE FROM GERMAN GUYS  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD

If you’re craving authentic German cuisine, stepping into German Guys will feel like taking a flight across the Atlantic without the time delay or the stress.

Started by Ady and Kate Cogiel, the husband-wife team that co-owns the restaurant, this German eatery features nothing but true German cooking using authentic cooking methods and ingredients, prepared by a mother-son team of chefs native to Germany.

The secret is in the heritage. Ady and Kate moved to Stockton in 2019 to fulfill their American dream in the Sunshine State. By August, they had opened German Guys, a testament to traditional German cooking, with influences from neighboring countries such as Poland SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 91

>>

cravings

and Hungary. “We have no American food,” Ady says. “All is German.”

Ady splits cooking shifts with his mother—German Guy’s other master chef—who taught him how to cook while owning a restaurant in Germany for 20 years. From 9 AM-3 PM, Ady’s mother is behind the stove, and Ady takes over from 3-9 PM. “I make the dinners. My mom, she makes the lunch,” he says.

From open to close, the kitchen turns out time-honored dishes such as schnitzel (a thin slice of meat fried in fat), potato pancakes, sausages, salad, and spaetzle, all homemade food made fresh to order. Ady says his personal recommendation is the Red Pepper Schnitzel, a chicken schnitzel made with red bell pepper sauce and served with Mom’s Potato Salad and beets. “That is my favorite,” he says. “It’s what I love.” Kate’s go-to order is the Curry Meatballs, two meatballs slathered with tomato sauce, curry powder, and fresh tomatoes and served with potato pancakes and bigos (sauerkraut, bacon, and tomatoes). All of the schnitzel is either fresh tenderized pork loin or chicken, seasoned, breaded, and pan-fried to order (10-12 ounces each).

If you’re not familiar with German cuisine, you may need to ask questions. A lot of the dishes are DIG IN: fairly straightforward, including the 10438 Highway 88, Stockton (209) 990-1391 sausages and meatballs, but some of German-Guys.com the names like spaetzle and bigos may require a little explanation.

Luckily, meals are set up to help

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guests try a smorgasbord of foods— in most cases your main dish comes with both your choice of side—think potato pancakes, fries, spaetzle, potato salad, and tuna noodle salad—and a salad.

The salads here are also traditionally German. There are six to choose from and while a green salad is a staple across cuisines, options such as hot sauerkraut with mushrooms and bigos (a meat and cabbage stew) have stronger roots in Germany and will likely be new to the American palate.

The food isn’t the only representation of Ady and Kate’s hometown at German Guys.

The entire space is designed to replicate a German restaurant.

Back home, taking your family to a biergarten for the day is a normal affair, especially on the weekend. And at German Guys, San Joaquinian families can reproduce that comfortable, long afternoon stateside. Ady says this means no rush, no stress. It’s all about hanging out, having a couple of beers, letting the kids play, and snacking on delicious comfort food while listening to German tunes outdoors.

The outdoor beer garden, outfitted with picnic tables that encourage gathering, is a particularly popular place to grab a bite right now, but under normal circumstances, the indoor dining space is also bustling

GERMAN CUISINE DECODED SCHNITZEL A thing slice of fried meat FRIKADELLEN Similar to meatballs; round, somewhat flattened meat dumplings SPAETZLE A type of pasta made using fresh eggs BIGOS A meat and cabbage stew GULASCH Soup or stew of seasoned meat and vegetables.

with the same nod to German culture. “It feels like home,” Ady says.

Ady recommends pairing your meal with a German beer. The restaurant carries 15 bottled beers—they plan to add taps in 2021—all German. There are also non-alcoholic options such as soda, coffee, and tea. For dessert, try the German Strudel, a layered pastry with sweet filling.

“We cook really fresh,” Ady Cogiel, Owner

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| OCTOBER 2020 93

sips

ANTI-ENERGY

DRINKS

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY  BY FAITH LEWIS

Looking to put a little pep in your step without the postdrink jitters that come with that canned energy drink?

Maybe you’re hoping to cut back on the coffee or just looking for more natural options that won’t keep you up at night. We’ve rounded up some of the county’s best energy drink alternatives to give you that little boost.

KOMBUCHA @ ARTESIAN NATURAL FOODS These fermented teas have probiotics that can help with digestion, as well as naturally occurring amounts of caffeine, iron, and B-vitamins, and at Artesian Natural Foods you can pick from dozens of energyboosting (sometimes buzz inducing) kombucha flavors. A classic kombucha made with raspberry, lemon, and ginger, GT’s Trilogy Kombucha is a favorite with customers in search of a pick-me-up.

145 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 952-8787

THE GREENIE @ NÉKTER JUICE BAR At Nékter Juice Bar, they pack the goodies into The Greenie.

Made with lemon, parsley, kale, spinach, cucumber, celery, and apple, this juice is sure to wake you up and keep you going all day.

Chock full of vitamins,

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minerals, and enzymes with no added source of caffeine, you can safely avoid the afternoon crash. Need to super charge your juice? Ask to add ginger for an extra energy kick.

211 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 636-4694

MATCHA @ SHERI’S SONSHINE NUTRITION CENTER If you’re looking for a drink as refreshing as it is energizing, there’s nothing better than a cold green tea. Scratch that. There’s nothing better than cold green tea and matcha. To give you the boost you need, Matcha Love’s organic unsweetened Japanese matcha and green tea is brewed with whole organic green tea leaves combined with matcha tea powder.

Benefit from a natural source of caffeine and the powerful antioxidant punch it packs.

6 N. School St., Lodi (209) 368-4800

Open Daily 11am - 5pm 23627 N. DeVries Rd, Lodi, CA 95242 www.oakfarmvineyards.com | 209-365-6565

Sip Outside!

Enjoy our

extended patio seating

and try our 5 new Award-winning wines. (call ahead for reservations) 9 N. School Street | 209.370.6013

WEIBEL.com | SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 95

sip spotlight PELTIER 2016 TRIOMPHE A unique blend of petite sirah, teroldego, and cabernet sauvignon, this wine is made from the highest quality fruit from each vintage. They age each variety in separate barrels to get the most from each grape before blending. It pours a deep crimson color with intense fruit characteristics and aromas of blueberry, black currant, and vanilla. With hints of coffee and dark cherry, the Triomphe is smooth, full bodied and delicious. $40, PeltierWinery. com

fall in LOVE WITH

OAK FARM VINEYARDS 2018 TIEVOLI A beautiful blend of zinfandel, primitivo, barbera, and petite sirah, Oak Farm knows how to craft quality wines, and this one is no exception. A bold but balanced red wine blend with dark brooding fruit, hints of vanilla, and toasted spice, this wine will get you in the mood for all things fall. $22 OakFarmVineyards.com

BLENDS to  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

With cooler temperatures and pumpkin spice in the air, every October we start to transition from our summertime wines to the rich, developed flavors of red wine.

But not just any red wines. Come fall, we reach for Lodi’s red wine blends

KLINKER BRICK 2016 BRICKMASON BLEND The perfect Lodi blend comprised of 80 percent zinfandel, 10 percent syrah, and 5 percent petite sirah. In the glass it is a rich, ruby red with deep, developed flavors of red fruit. Hints of toasty vanilla, spice, and raspberry, lead to a long finish with firm tannins. A bold wine that delivers all the flavor you need to accompany braised meats and comforting fall foods. $15 KlinkerBrickWinery.com

for their intense fruit, balanced flavors, and because, well, why not?

2017 MARKUS TOURA Markus Wine Co. is known for his rare wine blends, and this might be the biggest, boldest of them all.

He sources touriga nacional, cabernet sauvignon, and petite sirah to produce an intense, dry red wine. Aromas of delicious black fruit with a hint of tar on top of the oak lends the way to flavors of dark berries, black plums, licorice, and spice.

A weighty mouthfeel with beautiful acidity, we’d pair this with venison and a blackberry thyme sauce. $39 MarkusWine.com

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RESCUE DOG WINES, BELOVED MIXED RED WINE BLEND, This knock-out wine is a combination of cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, teroldego, and petite sirah and it was a Gold Medal winner at the 2020 SF Chronicle Wine Competition. It pours a dark, deep burgundy, with fleshy berry fruit, warm toasted spice, and hints of oak. Big flavors of black cherry and blackberry with brash tannins and a medium to heavy body. Capable of aging for the next five years if you have the patience. Oh—and 50 percent of the profits go to support rescue dog organizations. $24.99 RescueDogWines. com

Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best In Zinfandel!

Open everyday 11:00 to 5:00 ... We hope to see you here.

THE “SPOT” FOR GREAT WINES IN LODI SUNSET WINE COMPETITION: 1 Double Gold, 2 Golds and 18 Silvers 2018 PETITE SIRAH, CALIFORNIA “DUBIOUS” “Best Petite Sirah” Platinum – Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 SANGIOVESE, LODI “AMOROUS” “Best Sangiovese” Gold – Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE, ROUS VINEYARD "LUXURIOUS" Platinum - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI, WEST SIDE VINEYARD "SUMPTUOUS" Platinum - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 BARBERA, AMADOR COUNTY, LINSTEADT VINEYARD "RIGHTEOUS Platinum - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 PETITE SIRAH, LODI "REBELLIOUS" Platinum - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 PRIMITIVO, LODI "DEVIOUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE “SUPERLICIOUS” Gold – Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 BARBERA, LODI "DELICIOUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE, MALEY VINEYARD "VOLUPTUOUS" Gold – Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 TEROLDEGO, CALIFORNIA "TREMENDOUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE, MOHR FRY RANCH "GENEROUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE "SERIOUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, AMADOR COUNTY, LINSTEADT VINEYARD "ADVENTUROUS" Gold - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 NEBBIOLO, AMADOR COUNTY "VIVACIOUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE "OBLIVIOUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE, NOMA RANCH "OUTRAGEOUS Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition

2018 ZINFANDEL, AMADOR COUNTY, THE ORIGINAL GRANDPÉRE Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE "MISCHIEVOUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 ZINFANDEL, LODI OLD VINE, WEST WIND VINEYARD "VICTORIOUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 GRACIANO, LODI, "GRACIOUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 LATE HARVEST ZINFANDEL, CALIFORNIA "FLIRTATIOUS Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition 2018 PORT, AMADOR COUNTY, LINSTEADT VINEYARD "DANGEROUS" Silver - Monterey International Wine Competition

7099 E. Peltier Rd. | Acampo, CA 2 0 9 . 3 3 3 . 2 6 0 0 | M AC C H I AW I N E S . C O M SJMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2020 97

cravings

FRESH AHI TUNA as the base

TOMATO CUBES ripe, seedless

ONION, CHOPPED bright, purple

PRETTIEST POKE in TOWN

HARRY YU SERVES PICTURESQUE POKE AT MIKASA ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR

JUICY MANGO pieces for tropical flavor

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD This Hawaiian-inspired dish is deeply rooted in Island cuisine, but it’s having a moment stateside, too. The name comes from the Hawaiian word for chunk—poke. Essentially it’s a raw seafood salad. At Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar, the Hawaiian Poki Tuna is served in a stemmed martini glass, offering a gorgeous presentation for guests. The chunks of tuna are marinated in sesame oil and soy sauce, keeping with tradition, and all of the other ingredients are served in similar size pieces

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(with exceptions made for the onion and tobiko). At Mikasa the dish includes cucumber, avocado, tomato, and red onions, drizzled with ponzu(a Japanese dipping sauce made using soy sauce, lime juice, vinegar, and fish flakes) and chili sauce, ($11.95).

Technically speaking, poke can include any sort of cubed meat, but seafood—especially tuna—is the most popular choice for the appetizer or lunch craze.

The popularity of this dish comes on the heels of

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

an influx of appreciation for Asian cuisine throughout the states, so it’s not a surprise that Hawaiian food is also on trend right now, with its subtle influences of Thai, Korean, Filipino, Japanese, and Chinese cuisine.

CREAMY AVOCADO for added texture

REFRESHING CUCUMBER for something light

MIKASA ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR 2610 S. Tracy Blvd., Tracy (209) 830-8288 MikasaBistro.com

A pop of color with BRIGHTLY-HUED TOBIKO, or FLYING FISH ROE

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANTS & TACOS!

Fine Mexican Cuisine Serving Breakfast, lunch & Dinner

Dine In q New Patio Dining

5940 CA-99, Stockton Frontage Rd.

Call Us About Our

Off Hammer Lane (209) 931-9163

To Go q Curb Side Pickup & Drink Specials Catering Menu!

Visit Us Monday – Sunday 7am – 9pm • www.donluismexicanrestaurant.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST BRE WERIES!

COME BY AND MEET THE FRIENDS YOU HAVEN'T MET YET High Water Brewing is a local independent craft brewery, taproom & restaurant with an extensive menu featuring seasonal offerings & 36 beers on tap.

We offer both indoor & outdoor seating in a relaxed environment.

Families & dogs are always welcome.

We have on-site catering for both private parties & banquets.

We offer live music, trivia, beer yoga, paint classes, open mic nights & more!

Take out is available for both beer & food.

We can ship our beer anywhere in CA.

Open Wednesday through Sunday 927 Industrial Way Lodi, CA l 209-625-8146 highwaterbrewing.com l highwaterlodi@gmail.com SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 99

diy THE 411 ON COOKING WITH CBD BE CAUTIOUS WITH HEAT

KEEPING CALM IN 2020

BRB—RESTOCKING OUR KITCHEN AT THE DISPENSARY  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER With the way 2020 is going down, we could all use a little calm in our lives. This year has been a doozy, and we are all looking for ways to cope with the stress and anxiety of these uncertain times. Well, guess what? There is a culinary trend that can help ease your nerves and add a depth of flavor to your favorite recipes—cooking with CBD! CBD is shorthand for cannabidiol, which is derived from the hemp plant. But rest assured, it does NOT contain any psychoactive properties. You won’t get a high, per se, but more of an overall feeling of chill. It’s basically a holistic solution to deal with insomnia, minor aches or pains, autoimmune diseases, and even anxiety.

PUMPKIN SPICE BREAD WITH CBD ICING INGREDIENTS THE LOAF

• • • • • • •

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1 tbsp. apple cider 1 tsp. baking soda 4 medium eggs 1 c. pumpkin puree ½-c. yuca-root flour 1 tsp. espresso powder 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

OCTOBER 2020 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

CBD SUGAR-FREE ICING: • 1 tbsp. CBD coconut oil • ¼-c. coconut butter

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F 2. Combine the apple cider with baking soda in a bowl and let the mixture fizz. Stir in eggs and mix with a stand mixer until peaks form.

3. Mix in the remaining ingredients until well combined.

4. Line a bread loaf pan with parchment paper and pour the prepared batter into the dish.

5. Bake for about 30 minutes.

Allow the loaf to cool in the freezer for 30 minutes.

6. For the icing: melt the coconut butter with the CBD coconut oil over low heat until combined and pour over the loaf.

Cooking CBD at a high heat can make it less effective. You want to stay below 320 degrees for the CBD to retain its healing properties. Experts recommend that instead of baking the CBD into your birthday cake, add it to the frosting that will go on the cake.

COMBINE IT WITH HEALTHY FATS Because CBD is fat soluble, your body needs fat containing foods to absorb the CBD into the bloodstream. Plan on using it in conjunction with your favorite healthy oil. It can be olive oil, coconut oil, or even MCT.

START WITH FOODS YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH Beverages are a great starting point for novice CBD users. Try adding it to your coffee, morning smoothie, or evening cocktail. From there, you can add the oil to your favorite salad dressing, chimichurri sauce, or even your Bolognese sauce. Get creative, have fun, and bring on the calm.

BE PATIENT AND USE CAUTION Utilizing CBD in food takes longer to get into your bloodstream than by simply applying a tincture under your tongue. With that said, don’t consume more just because you haven’t begun to feel the effects.

33 BEERS ON TAP

WE FEATURE LOCAL WINERIES

New MoNthly MeNu • Daily happy hour • taco tuesDay patio DiNiNg • KaraoKe weDNesDay “party oN the patio” FriDay • gooD FrieNDs aND gooD FuN

THANK YOU VOTING US #1 BBQ 3 YEARS IN A ROW!

2333 Pacific Ave. Stockton CA, 95204

2333 Pacific Ave. Stockton CA, 95204

ORDER ONLINE FOR PICKUP WWW.FATCITYBREWBBQ.COM

209.462.5283 209.462.5283 Aveonthemile.com

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hours: tues-sat 4pM to 12aM suNDay FuNDay BruNch 10aM to 2pM

EstatE Grown • sustainably CErtifiEd • Multi-GEnErational Our tasting room and wedding venue is surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds, a willow shaded pond and vineyards.

Wine Club • Outdoor Tastings • Purchase Online at mettlerwine.com Reserve your tasting at 209-369-3045 or at mettlerwine.com/reservations Tasting Room Hours: Thu–Mon 11–5

7889 E. Harney Lane, Lodi

209 369 3045

mettlerwine.com SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 101

in season

APPLE HARVEST  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER, FINE FOODIE PHILANTHROPIST

With cooler temps, comfort food, and the smell of fresh baked apples wafting from the kitchen, we love Fall. Which is why this month’s In Season feature showcases the mother of all fall foods—apples. From drinks and pastries, to savory roasts and appetizers, apples are much more versatile than folks realize.

The aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, cloves, and spices evokes warm memories of childhood. From afternoons spent in the kitchen ladeling hot apple cider into a glass to share with grandma, to hot apple pie served with a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream to celebrate the end of harvest. Apples are as American as fruit comes.

HOME MADE APPLE CIDER

When life gives you apples, make apple cider. This fall drink gives us all the warm and toasty feels.

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INGREDIENTS 10 large apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honey Crisp ½ orange 4 cinnamon sticks 1 tsp. cloves 1 tsp. allspice 1 whole nutmeg ½-c. brown sugar, packed

DIRECTIONS In a large stockpot add apples, oranges, spices, and brown sugar over medium heat. Cover the apples with two inches of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for two hours. Remove the orange halves. Using a potato masher or back of a wooden spoon, mash the apples. Return to a simmer and let cook uncovered for one additional hour. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing on the solids to leave a golden cider. Pour into mugs or glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

CARAMEL APPLE BAKED BRIE This sweet and savory appetizer is perfect for fall entertaining. It combines the creamy, buttery mouthfeel of brie with the crunch and sweetness of baked apples. Yes please!

INGREDIENTS 12 oz. wheel of brie cheese 1 tbsp. butter 2 medium apples 1 tbsp. brown sugar 1 tbsp. caramel sauce ½-tsp. cinnamon

DIRECTIONS Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.

Bake brie on a small baking sheet for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the apple mixture. In a medium sized skillet heat butter until melted. Add apples, brown sugar, caramel, and cinnamon and sauté over medium heat until apples have softened, five to seven minutes.

Remove brie from the oven and pour the apple mixture over the top.

Bake for five minutes, remove from the oven, and serve with a crusty baguette.

CROCK POT APPLE BUTTER

Spread this jar of joy on toast, as a dip with fruit, graham crackers, or as a topping for piping-hot oatmeal.

INGREDIENTS 6 lbs. mixed apples, red delicious, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-c. brown sugar ¼-c. granulated sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract ½-tsp. nutmeg ½-tsp. ground cloves ½-tsp. kosher salt ¼-tsp. ground pepper

DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients to the bowl of your crockpot and toss to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours, or until apples are a dark golden color and falling apart. Using an immersion blender, puree apples until smooth. Pour apples into jars and let cool to room temperature.

Cover and store in the refrigerator.

SJMAG.COM

LOCAL FEATURE: Want the perfect loaf of apple bread to start your morning off right?

Check out the Farm Café at Michael David, where you will find the most decadent, moist, and delicious harvest apple cake.

| OCTOBER 2020 103

tidbit

Hailed as one of the most authentic powerhouses of Japanese cuisine in the San Joaquin valley, Komachi offers a diverse array of exquisite dishes, ranging from the freshest sashimi to mouth-watering sushi rolls. “Come as a customer, leave as our family.”

Hours: Mon - Thur 11AM to 9PM, Fri Sat 11AM to 9:30PM, Sun closed

KOMACHI SUSHI 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd. Ste. D Lodi, (209) 334-3131 SushiKomachi.com

SPICING UP A FRENCH CLASSIC  BY FAITH LEWIS

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

MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE

The filling is where she departs from tradition a bit more. While a lot of recipes call for a sugary For Christina Fry, owner and buttercream filling, baker at SweetArts Bakery Christina whips up a in Tracy, the answer is her sweet and savory pumpkin fan favorite Pumpkin Spice mousse (the same mousse Macaron. her customers love atop Christina starts with the their cupcakes). A dollop authentic meringue macaron sandwiched between the shell recipe she snagged from two macaron shells helps to a pâtisserie in Paris – a trade balance the sweetness. secret she keeps to herself, When you bite into these not even letting the rest of macarons, you’ll her baking team in be met with the on the secret. Then spicy pop of the she adds nutmeg, SWEETARTS BAKERY shell and then the cinnamon, cloves, 1020 B St., Tracy light, creamy – dare and allspice to give it (209) 879-3353 we say decadent? – those fall flavors we @luvsweetarts pumpkin filling. all know and love.

What do you get when you cross a centuries-old French classic with an all-American fall favorite?

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296 Lincoln Center Stockton, (209) 474-7700 midgleyspublichouse.com

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

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

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

ALL MEALS ARE FRESH FOR 4 TO 5 DAYS UPON PICK UP OR DELIVERY

BUY 5 MEALS

GET ONE FREE Expires 10/31/20

27 Enjoy one of Bud’s delicious salads with our house made salad dressings either Take our or Dine-in!

HEALTHY MEALS ON-THE-GO FOR EVERYONE! 405 Lincoln Center Stockton, CA.

209-888-5297 FIND OUT MORE AT LEANFEAST.COM

314 Lincoln Center • 209.956.0270 www.BudsSeafood.com SJMAG.COM

| OCTOBER 2020 105

tidbit Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille.

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

Full bar and banquet room available. Open for lunch, dinner, and scrumptious Sunday brunch. Happy hour daily with $1.00 off all beer & well drinks 4pm -6:30pm.

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

SLOW YOUR ROLL SWEET, SWIRLY CINNAMON DESSERT

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).

 BY FAITH LEWIS MIKASA JAPANESE BISTRO

it makes all the difference, granting the treats a light and fluffy texture. The dough is then rolled out and butter, cinnamon, and sugar are added. Once the rolls have risen, they’re baked and Bakery, they’ve gone old glazed straight out of the school with owner Terrie oven.

Green’s classic cinnamon roll But if you thought all the recipe. good stuff was baked in, you’d Made fresh in house be wrong. Rather than relying every day (be there at 8 AM solely on sugar to flavor the to enjoy one piping hot), glaze, these cinnamon rolls Terrie’s recipe is considered are drizzled with a a bread since she rich, heavy cream uses yeast instead of CORNER SCONE glaze. Hints of vanilla baking soda or baking BAKERY complement the powder. It takes a 322 N. California St., Lodi cinnamon while still little longer to make (209) 747-3418 letting it be the star them this way but, @cornerscone322 of the show. according to her,

October is National Cinnamon Roll Month and if you ask us, you can’t pay homage to this glazed glory with an overly sweet, mass produced pastry from the mall kiosk. At Corner Scone

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2610 S. Tracy Blvd. Ste. 110 Tracy, (209) 830-8288 15138 S Harlan Rd., Lathrop, (209) 858-1818

Celebrating their 14th year in the Historic Tracy Inn, the chefs at Tracy Thai Restaurant have produced countless satisfied customers, with their wonderfully inventive dishes. The chef makes classics dishes like ‘Pad Thai’ and ‘Tom Kar Gai’ that leave the diner feeling that they have been transported to a street in Thailand. Many of the dishes such as Eggplant prawns, or Garlic Pork reflect a homestyle feel. The Menu is a delight and there are always Lunch and Dinner Specials. The wood panels and decors at Tracy Thai will bring you to a classic home style in Thailand. With a warm, cozy ambiance and delicious food, you would enjoy your meal at Tracy Thai.

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

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

$1.1M

$8.5M

$2.0M

Small Animal Veterinary Practice

Commercial Real Estate – Retail

Commercial Construction Loan

$350K

$500K

$1.5M

Ag Production Line of Credit

Commercial Revolving Line of Credit

Equipment Loan

Call Us About Your Next Project Today!

Cathy Ghan

Mike Petrucelli

Mike Garcia

320.7867

249.7370

343.7607

Commercial Real Estate

Commercial Lending

Commercial Lending

Michael Stevens Victoria Gaffney Commercial Lending

320.7860

Commercial Lending

Jeff Hushaw

Lynette Fletcher

844.7544

844.7552

Commercial Lending

343.7601

866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com

SJMAG.COM

Commercial Lending

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