October 2017
printed on recycled paper
HALLOWEEN THRILLS by Ashlee Blackard
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Advertising Director Deitra Kenoly Editor Karen Bakhtegan
“It takes an endless amount of history to make even a little tradition.” - Henry James
Cover Artist Ashlee Blackard
“But when fall comes, kicking summer out on its treacherous ass as it always does one day sometime after the midpoint of September, it stays awhile like an old friend that you have missed. It settles in the way an old friend will settle into your favorite chair and take out his pipe and light it and then fill the afternoon with stories of places he has been and things he has done since last he saw you.” - Stephen King, ‘Salem’s Lot’ “Eye of newt, and toe of frog, Wool of bat, and tongue of dog, Adder’s fork, and blind-worm’s sting, Lizard’s leg, and owlet’s wing,— For a charm of powerful trouble, Like a hell-broth boil and bubble. Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble.” - William Shakespeare
Graphic Artists Jason LaMasters Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein Advertising Specialists Liz Saldivar Maria Miller Social Media Jason LaMasters Contributors Charleen Earley Melissa Erickson Melissa Hutsell Eunice Green Denzel A. Jackson Sonny Lucatorto
Bl ac ka rd
“The woods transform From green to red. Small creatures build Their wintry beds. The radiance of Summer wanes—displaced By soft September rains. As spiders spin Their silver webs, The ghostly mists Of autumn spread. The nights are trimmed With candle flames As autumn’s magic Fills my days.” - Amelia Dashwood
e le sh A by art
Follow us and share your photos and messages Email: thecurrent@recordnet.com Website: recordnet.com/thecurrent Facebook: The Current San Joaquin Instagram: thecurrentsj Twitter: @thecurrentsj
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08 traditions - dia de los muertos - frightful fun - goulish gatherings - scaring up new traditions - carving alternatives
20 bites - classico italiano - trick or eat
26 artbeat - october exhibits
28 music - the middle c
32 perspectives - state of mind
34 holistic - herbs for weight loss
36 the undercurrent - paranormal activities
38 get out - october events calendar
art by Ashlee Blackard
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by Melissa Hutsell
D
uring el Dias de los Muertos, it is said that the spirits of the dead join the living, unifying the two worlds. The belief combines indigenous and Christian customs, which celebrate rather than fear, the afterlife. Â The Meso-American holiday takes its roots from both ancient Aztec rituals and Catholicism, brought to the Americas by conquistadores, according to the National Geographic Society.
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Dia or Dias de los Muertos -- Day(s) of the Dead -- is celebrated throughout Latin and South America. However, it’s most strongly associated with Mexico where the traditions originated. In recent years, Day of the Dead celebrations have become more common throughout the U.S., from New York City to Chicago, and Austin, Texas to Stockton, California. The holiday occurs on November 1st and 2nd of each year, which coincides with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in Catholicism. It’s ancient customs honor death as another stage in the natural cycle of life. The holiday is both a time to communally mourn and a time to celebrate those who’ve moved on to the afterlife.
photos courtesy Mexican Heritage Center
November 1st, also known as “el Dia de los Innnocentes,” or “the Day of the Innocents,” is intended to remember children, while the following day is to honor adults. To those unfamiliar with the event, it may sound melancholic… but Dia de los Muertos is a lively, and vivid, holiday that’s filled with festivities and colorful traditions. According to the Sacramento-based Latino Center of Art and Culture (LCAC), it’s the most personal of all Mexican holidays. Customs differ from family-to-family, but traditionally include visits to gravesites, and building ofrendas. Ofrendas -- or altars -- commonly display photos, and the favorite foods/drinks, or other personal items of the deceased, explained Gracie Madrid, president of the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery. The nonprofit organization hosts altars at the center during their annual fiesta in downtown Stockton. “Last year, one ofrenda displayed a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken,” she said. While each is different, altars include customary items like marigolds, calacas (skull figurines), candles, incense, Pan de Muerto (bread of the dead), and sugar skulls.
Items are symbolic; yellow marigolds symbolized death for the Aztecs in pre-colonial Mexico; candles light the way of the departed;
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Traditionally, families visit and clean gravesites; leave personal items, flowers and candles; and sing and tell stories. Skulls are said to be smiling because they are laughing in the face of death. Dia de los Muertos can be traced back to the Aztec festival, which celebrated the goddess “ M i c t e c a c i h u a t l ,” according to the International Business Times. “Scholars have noted the indigenous cultures of Mexico honor the Lady of the Dead, the modern La Catrina, which many recognize today as a skeleton woman wearing a fancy hat.” Monarchs are also symbols of the holiday because they are believed to hold the spirits of the dead. “This belief stems from the fact that the first monarchs arrive in Mexico for the winter each fall on Nov. 1, which coincides with Día de los Muertos,” states the Smithsonian Insider.
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food and water offer nourishment after the journey to the other side; and skeletons represent the deceased’s’ life experiences (such as professions). Colorfully decorated skeletons, or “Calaveras,” and skulls have become increasingly synonymous with Day of the Dead. That’s because it’s an ancient euphemism for death, “[...] a remnant of an Aztec tradition where skulls were used during rituals to symbolize death and rebirth,” according to the Smithsonian Magazine’s “Festivals of Dead Around the World.” The center will showcase these customs and more at the region’s only Dia de los Muertos Fiesta on October 29th. The event has been put on by the Mexican Heritage Center since its inception in the late 1990s. Madrid said the fiesta begins with a procession following a coffin carried by four celebrants that dress up in mourning attire,” she explained. “It’s like a Mardi Gras parade.” Activities and vendors all center on the Day of the Dead theme, said Madrid, and hundreds participate. There’s live music, folklorico performances, and a section for kids where they can make masks and flowers or paint their faces, added Madrid. Many attendees come dressed up. Women of all ages participate in the fiesta’s la Catrina costume contest, which awards 1st, 2nd and 3rd place to the best dressed. This is a way to carry out our culture, said Madrid, and to show young kids the traditions of Mexican culture. At the same time, [the fiesta] is also a celebration of life. ❀ For more information, visit the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery at 111 S. Sutter St., Stockton or at MexicanHeritageCenter.org. The center regularly displays artwork, and will soon introduce a café.
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Frightfu
Fun
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for whol e thefamil
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Manteca Kiwanis Pumpkin Fair October 7th & 8th
Enjoy the finest in pumpkin-flavored foods, music, crafts and more. When the leaves start to fall and the weather gets a little nippy, it can only mean one thing… it’s PUMPKIN FAIR time in Manteca. The Manteca Sunrise Kiwanis will once again be hosting this annual fall celebration in beautiful downtown Manteca Yosemite Avenue, Downtown Manteca For more information: mantecapumpkinfair.org
Dell Osso Family Farms
Movies at the Point: “Hocus Pocus”
October 1st – October 31st
What started with a corn maze in 1997 has grown into the area’s biggest Halloween playground. Attractions include the ever popular corn maze, a haunted house, pumpkin blasters, a petting zoo, kid’s rides, zip lines, hay rides, and much, much more. Dell Osso Family Farm 501 S Manthey Rd, Lathrop
Gather your blankets, chairs, dinner, and snacks , it’s FREE outdoor movie time at Weber Point! Come enjoy this spooktacular family favorite. Weber Point 221 N. Center Street, Stockton
For hours and more information visit: dellossofamilyfarm.com
For more information: visitstockton.org
8th Annual Zombie Walk
Family Movie Night: “Monster House”
October 28th 8pm
October 6th 6pm
Dress up the kids in costume enjoy a family friendly Halloween favorite, Monster House. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Hutchins Street Square 125 Hutchins Street, Lodi
This Community Halloween Party has become the Biggest in the Central Valley over the years, and this year’s Zombie Walk will be Amazing! Don’t miss your chance to bring out your inner walking dead and parade with other zombies along the streets of Downtown Lodi. Or… just come watch the fun and as the zombies walk the streets for this fun filled and popular annual event. Downtown Lodi
For more information: hutchinsstreetsquare.com or 209.333.5550
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October 13th 6:30 pm; Movie starts at dusk
For more information: visitlodi.com/events
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Dia de los Muertos Community Street Fiesta October 29th 2-6pm
Live Music, a Catrina Pageant, folkloric dance, kid’s corner, face painting, games, food, arts & crafts, and much more. Bring the kids out to soak up some culture and have a whole lot of fun doing it! Mexican Heritage Center 111 S. Sutter, Stockton For more information: visitmexicanheritagecenter.org
Haunted Hutchins October 31st 5pm
Creep out the kiddos at Hutchins Street Square’s 4th Annual Haunted House. Parental discretion is advised with a recommended age of 8 and up. Hutchins Street Square 125 Hutchins Street, Lodi For more information hutchinsstreetsquare.com or 209.333.5550
SJRTD Fall Festival October 31st 3-6pm
Enjoy a fun family night with games, a haunted bus, face painting, a Día de los Pasajeros area, a photobooth, and live music, trick or treating, carnival games. Food and refreshments available. The event is open to the public and will be a great place to find information about valuable services for families in the Stockton community. San Joaquin RTD Downtown Transit Center 421 E. Weber Avenue, Stockton For more information: sanjoaquinrtd.com
Trick or Treat on The Mile October 31st 3-5pm
Kids, get dressed up for Halloween and come out and trick or treat on the Mile! Parents are welcome to bring their kids to the Mile on October 31st to trick or treat at participating businesses, restaurants, and shops. Stockton’s Miracle Mile Pacific Avenue, between Harding Way and Alpine For more information : visitstockton.org
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GHoulish Gatherings e h t for
s p u n w o gr Richard O’Brien’s
Wicked Wine Stroll
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 14th - 6-9 pm Approximately 25 Lodi wineries pour their wines in shops and boutiques in historic downtown Lodi and during the stroll, the merchants open their doors with special shopping discounts and appetizers.
Presented by That’s Showbiz Theatre Company
October 13th – November 4th Let’s do the time warp AGAIN! Back for a 4th year, enjoy an intimate performance in a caberet style theatre with beer, wine, specialty cocktails, and refreshments before and during the show.
Tickets are only $30 in advance and $40 at the stroll!
That’s ShowbizTheatre Company 1744 Pacific Avenue, Stockton
S. School St. & Pine St. Downtown Lodi
For more information, showtimes, and tickets visit Facebook.com/That’sShowbiz or call 209-938-0447
For more information and tickets, visit lodichamber.com or call 209-367-7840
Freaknight Stockton 2017 Saturday, October 21, 8:30 pm to Sunday, October 22, 1:30 am Once a year the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel transforms into the Central Valley’s best Halloween Party destination. Come dance and party at this amazing onenight event filled with fun mature craziness. 3 dance rooms pumpin’ out a mix of music genres to freak out on! Some of the Central Valley’s best music mixers will be dropping the beats for your body to party! Costumes Are Mandatory For Entry -NO COSTUME NO ENTRYUniversity Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 West Fremont Street, Stockton For tickets and more info: 209-944-1140 or visit: instagram.com/freaknightstockton
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EN YOU TER A T R RIS OWN K!!
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Abundance Vineyards 6th Annual Halloween Bash
“Yo, Ho, Ho & a Bottle of Wine!” A Night of Music, Fun & Wine.
October 21st - 6-9 pm There will be a food truck, photo booth, costume contest and live music. This year’s band is the awesome Crosstown 5. Tickets are limited, so be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time. Wine Club members: $10 General Admission: $20 Abundance Vineyards 1150 W. Turner Road, Lodi Purchase your tickets at www.eventbrite.com This event is strictly 21+
PROM NOIR A Killer Night Saturday, October 28 7:00pm to Midnight Beats. Bites. Spirits. Delights. Set in the hauntingly historic Masonic Temple in Downtown Stockton, this is THE Hallow’s Eve event you don’t want to miss. Featuring: DJ Randwulf’s indie/house/hip-hop mix, Supernatural psych-rock by The Bottom Feeders. Crafty cocktails & spirits by La Palma, Beastly bites by Cast Iron Trading Co.’s Chef Kyran. The Masonic Temple 340 E. Market Street, Downtown Stockton Tickets: Early Bird: $15 General Admission: $20 For tickets and more info visit: www.goodstockca.com 21+ Only. Costumes strongly encouraged
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Scare up some new traditions H
alloween doesn’t have to involve candy. In fact, some of the best (and scariest) aspects of Halloween have nothing to do with candy. If you are looking to cut back on sugar or for fun ways for your kids to enjoy Halloween sans trick-or-treating, consider the following Halloween traditions: MOVIE MARATHON Nothing screams Halloween like a good scary story. Head to your local video store to peruse their aisles of classic horror films. It’s time to turn out the lights and settle in with a bowl of popcorn. Don’t forget a friend. You never know when you might need a hand to hold. PET PARADE Get the whole family involved in the festivities and dress your dog or cat in its own costume. If you desire a larger fete, talk with some of your neighbors (most of whom probably have pets) and encourage them to get in on the action.
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Plan a neighborhood parade of the pets and assign neighborhood kids or parents to be judges. Turn it into a fun contest and watch this tradition transform into an annual event. PARTY, HAUNTED HOUSE STYLE Decorating the house gets us in the spirit for any holiday. Don’t let Halloween be any different. You can always add festive flair by displaying jack-o’lanterns and a nice fall wreath on your porch, but if you want to take your home to the next level, make it spooky. Transform your home into a haunted house from the outside. If you want the neighborhood to participate, haunt your rooms and allow neighborhood kids to spook themselves silly.
GHOST STORY CAMPOUT Go the timeless route and host a ghost story campout. There is something about being in nature (with the howling wind and snapping branches) that adds an element of spook to a good story that a movie score can’t quite achieve. Take turns — and don’t forget the marshmallows.
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C
arving pumpkins for Halloween can be complicated, messy — and honestly, might not be the best option for your family if you are trying to complete the activity with young children. But you can still participate in jack-o’-lantern fun without a carving knife. Here are five alternative ways to decorate your pumpkins this Halloween. Paint Your Pumpkins Paint is one of the safest ways to decorate pumpkins and allows for endless possibilities. Whether you lean toward funny faces or something spookier, this craft is sure to be a winner. Just add a drop or two of natural dishwashing liquid soap to water-based paint to help it stick to the pumpkin. Bonus: You can wash the paint right off if you want to cook your pumpkin. Felt-Face Pumpkins Instead of cutting into your pumpkin, cut shapes out of felt and glue them on. Felt also allows you to add on fun accessories that carving just won’t accommodate — such as crossbones sticking out the sides or spider legs.
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Duct Tape Pumpkins This is not your grandfather’s duct tape. Modern duct tape comes in all sorts of fun colors and designs. In the fall, you are bound to find some with candy corn, ghost or witch prints. Washi tape also is a fun medium if you don’t plan on covering a whole pumpkin (which would require a lot of tape). Glass Jar Pumpkins Get away from pumpkins altogether and create jack-o’lanterns out of old glass jars. Decorate the outside of each jar with colored tissue paper and place a lit candle inside when you’re done. Paper Pumpkins Most craft stores stock round paper lanterns. Purchase several in orange (or any other color, if you’re feeling adventurous) and paint black faces on the sides of them. The best part about these pumpkins is you can hang them from your porch or trees in the front yard for elevated spooky decorations.
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o c i s s Cla
Italiano
Angelina’s Spaghetti House A Stockton tradition for Generations by Charleen Earley
photo credit: angelinas.com
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I
t was 41 years ago when the late Angelina Demartini had a restaurant named after her, located near the heart of Stockton, and while other restaurants have come and gone for various reasons, Angelina’s Spaghetti House is still going strong. “She was my aunt,” said Steve Copello, who co-owns the family restaurant with Sam Taylor, a close family friend. “Back in the 1950s, she used to cook for her son-in-laws, guys who would meet up at Linden Orchards, and everyone raved about her food.” “It wasn’t her dream to open a restaurant. It was her son-inlaw John Boggiano’s dream,” he added. “He named it Angelina’s, because it was her style of cooking that got it all started.” The raving continues today from Angelina’s loyal customers. So to celebrate their customers and their 40th anniversary, last year they traveled back in time to December 27, 1976 – the day they first opened. “We brought back the original menu for one night, with the original prices and people were lined up around the block,” said Copello, who was born and raised in Stockton. “The full spaghetti dinner was $2.75, French dip was $1.60 and all our beers were 50 cents, except Heineken, that was 60-cents!” Sam Taylor, who works the backend of things, from kitchen to cooking, said they served between 800 and 1,000 diners that night. What started out with mainly spaghetti dinners and French dip sandwiches has grown to include their signature dish – meat raviolis.
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“We added things as we went on,” said Copello. “We have pesto, fettuccine Alfredo, tortellini, steak, veal, chicken and fish. Many years ago, a guy complained that we didn’t serve French fries – so we started making those!” A healthy, parting gift to their diners is a unique tradition the family has continued to do since the day they opened their doors. “On your way out of the restaurant, we have a place where we have apples, bananas and peaches, when they’re in season, with a note that says ‘Have one on us!’” said Copello. “Everyone is invited to take a piece of fruit on their way out.” The customers aren’t the only ones that remain loyal. Longtime staff members help keep the Angelina’s tradition alive. Maria Mendiola started as a server in 1978, their
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photo credit: angelinas.com
General Manager Mike Zidich has 35 years under his belt, and Craig Kaiser has spent 30-years catering and cooking to perfection.
Over the last four decades, Copello says many of their original customers have passed on from aging, but what moves him the most is who their customers are today.
“Craig makes all of our raviolis and sauces, no one else does. He’s a general fix-it man too,” said Copello. “My wife Jane tells me he’s more valuable than me!”
“We are now seeing their kids and their kid’s kids,” said Copello. “That’s the best thing in this business –you get to meet a lot of great people over the years.”
“Consistency” is what Copello says is the key to their family’s restaurant success. “And we have a great service staff too, because it’s all about taking care of the customer,” he added.
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Angelina’s Spaghetti House 1563 E Fremont St, Stockton (209) 948-6609 www.angelinas.com
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Trick or Eat Mummy Dogs Ingredients
1 egg
1 1-oz. tube refrigerated bread stick dough
1 tablespoon water Garnish: mustard
12 hot dogs Directions Step 1 Seperate dough into strips. Wrap one strip of dough around each hot dog, leaving 1/2 inch uncovered for face. Arrange on a lightly greased baking sheet.
Ghostly Pears Ingredients
1 pinch ground cinnamon
4 ripe pears, peeled - leave stalk intact.
Dried blueberries or currants (ghost eyes)
10 oz (1 & 1/4 cup) Apple juice
Sunflower seeds (ghost teeth)
1 Cinnamon stick
7 oz pomegranate juice (blood)
Step 2 Whisk together egg and water; brush over dough. Bake at 350° for 14 to 16 minutes, or until golden. Dot mustard on hot dogs with a toothpick to form eyes, if desired.
Place the peeled pears into a saucepan with the apple juice and cinnamon stick. Lid on, simmer gently for about 20 minutes, until the pears are slightly soft. Remove from the juice and place on a plate. Remove the cinnamon stick and continue to gently simmer the remaining juice for about 5-10 minutes until it has thickened slightly and become syrupy. Pour the pomegranate juice into another small pan and gently simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened slightly and become syrupy. Cut a thin sliver off the base of each pear so they stand. Give each ghost pear two eyes (make a small hole with a skewer first to make sure the eyes stay in!) & push the sunflower seeds into the pear to make a small circle for a scary ghost mouth. Drizzle a little of the ‘blood’ syrup into each ghost mouth & a small drizzle/ puddle of the reduced apple juice – Serve your scary ghosts with care. 24
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artBeat
Stockton Arts Week
American Ballads: The Photographs of Marty Stuart
October 13-22
Stock Full of Arts for 10 Days!
Now Through November 19
Stockton Arts Week is a celebration of our community’s diverse arts and cultural offerings. This city-wide event highlights the vibrant art and culture Stockton has to offer by planning creative arts related events, such as: art walks, exhibitions, paint nights, demonstrations, performances, workshops, and much more! Stockton Arts Week is not an organization; rather, it is a 10-day celebration created to promote the rich arts and culture in Stockton.
Although known primarily as a country music star, Marty Stuart is a master storyteller not only through his songs, but also through his revealing photographs. The Haggin Museum 1201 North Pershing Avenue, Stockton hagginmuseum.org
For more information: visitstockton.org
“Picasso’s La Tauromaquia” at the Haggin Museum Now Through December 31
War Comes Home: The Legacy
artBeat
Now through November 5
The Haggin Museum is pleased to present Picasso’s La Tauromaquia from the Bank of America Collection. This collection of aquatint etchings features the allure of bullfighting in Spain.
The special exhibition, rich with historic and contemporary letters, offers an intimate perspective into the thoughts and emotions of veterans and their families.
The Haggin Museum 1201 North Pershing Avenue, Stockton hagginmuseum.org
San Joaquin County Historical Museum Micke Grove Regional Park 11793 N. Micke Grove Road, Lodi
More information: www.sanjoaquinhistory.org
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First Friday Art Hop October 6
Spend an evening with your friends and family celebrating the Arts in Lodi. Hutchins Street Square 125 S. Hutchins Street, Lodi For more information: hutchinsstreetsquare.com
Dia De Los Muertos at The Mexican Heritage Center October 10 – November 4
Check out the annual Day of the Dead art exhibition at the Mexican Heritage Center! The Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery will be holding its annual Dia de los Muertos exhibit October 10th – November 4th. Dia de los Muertos is a cultural celebration dating back to the early Aztecs. During this time we celebrate the lives of those that have gone before us. Altars or ofrendas are made for loved ones, family members, and friends that have died. We celebrate their lives and remember them in death. The center will be filled with art and ofrendas. There will also be a very special reception on Friday, October 20th. Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery 111 South Sutter Street, Stockton mexicanheritagecenter.org
Are you hosting an exhibit in November? Email details to: thecurrent@recordnet.com
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e l d d i m the
Singer songwriter competition in La La Lodi
by Charleen Earley
C
arol Ann Loeb says her mantra in life is to serve people and glorify God, and she’s doing just that by hosting a special competition in Lodi at a venue she created. It’s called The Middle C, located directly behind the music school B Sharp, where she’s been teaching cello and violin for the last three years. “I’m hosting a song writers competition where singers and songwriters can enter and perform original songs,” said Loeb, who moved to Lodi four years ago from her home state of Arizona. Competition is slated for Oct. 22, 2017, and audience door fee is $5. “The grand prize includes two songs that will be recorded and mastered at Stockton’s Press Recording Studio,” she added. “The winner will also receive 100 download cards and will headline a concert at The Middle C to release their single.” A musician herself, Loeb holds two Bachelors Degrees in Cello Performance and Music Education from Northern Arizona University and a Masters Degree in Cello Performance from the University of Northern Colorado. “I have performed with the Arizona Opera, the Phoenix Metropolitan Opera and the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra,” said Loeb.
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She’s also written and released an album this summer with her husband Chase Loeb, with their group “Music with Strings Attached,” and is currently working on a new project that incorporates sampled beats, looped cello and keyboard instruments. Her love for music and musicians is an understatement. “My favorite part about playing music is collaborating with other people,” she said. “I love playing a symphony that is 300 years old, on a stage with 100 other musicians.” “I love playing chamber music with small groups of musicians, duets with my husband on piano, sitting in with bands, musicals and opera!” she added. “All with other people who love music.” Creating the competition is her way of giving other musicians a leg up. “After producing the Music with Strings Attached first album, I wanted to help enable other musicians to have their music professionally recorded and mastered. Having a quality recording and the ability to distribute it, is key for musicians to get their music out to the public,” said Loeb. “I hope it encourages songwriters to create something new, to complete a song they have started, or perform a song they have already composed,” she added. Contestants must prepare two original songs for performance, each with a five-minute time limit, no profanity or explicit lyrics and must enter before Oct. 18 with an entrance fee of $25. Not to add more pressure, but one of the three judges will be Angela Parrish, solo singer from the Golden Globe and Oscar-winning movie, La La Land – who will also perform a concert the day before competition with cello and piano duet, Music with Strings Attached. “Angela, Chase and I attended the same university in northern Colorado for our master’s degree,” said Loeb. “Angela studied jazz and I studied classical music. We have kept in touch since college and I asked her to come and perform a concert with Strings Attached.” Loeb’s goal for this event is about connecting and building confidence in performers. “Musicians and artists need support from their community, to be encouraged to continue creating and to communicate a soulful connection,” she said. “People can attend and discover new local musicians they can listen to and follow.” ■ www.themiddlec.org
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mind 32
state by Denzel A. Jackson
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M
ental health is something everybody deals with, whether we want to or not. And that which affects our minds goes by different names: Anxiety, Pleasure, Stress, Euphoria, and many more. It is easy for us to talk about the good stuff, because it’s fun and not embarrassing (most of the time). Contrarily, we seem to be more silent when it comes to the negativity inside our minds. Is it because when we let others see what is weak about us, we feel vulnerable and at risk of being abused? Possibly, but I am just a person, and you are just a person too. It’s silly for us to pretend that we are more. When we are honest about our situations, with our self and with others, then I think we can all collectively take steps towards whatever the solutions may be. Ideally, we can all have someone we share enough trust with to talk about these things to. But if any of you do not have that, you don’t have to be alone this time, because I put together this list for you. These are true stories of people dealing with the health of their minds, and I’ll start with myself: Denzel – I over think things in hyper-detail. Sometimes I can’t even enjoy a song because I become occupied identifying the instruments on their own, and I try to understand how the music was created. Other times, I can be talking to someone, and instead of hearing what they say, I might stare at their mouth to study how the lips and tongue work to create syllables, then I imagine the difficulty of animating that. It may sound petty, but this has hindered me in numerous social settings. To deal with it, I try to be present in the moment with that song or person, and not get bogged down staying in my head. Stephanie – “As is common amongst women: selfjudgment. Something I struggle with is unwholesome thoughts and judgment upon myself.Those judgments can be about how I look, feel, or whether it is good or bad that I think a certain way about things in general or other people. The fact that I realize I am selfjudgmental allows me to step back and reevaluate my judgments. Then I consciously decide how to respond, rather than allowing myself to unconsciously jump to those judgments.”
Erin – “I feel like I have a whole bunch of bugs in my brain like school, my horses, grandparents, mom, financial shit, my well being- anything that affects my emotions. If I were to pick the biggest bug, it would be between financial and family. I can make myself sick just thinking about them. So, if I can recognize that and stop myself when first thinking about it, I can prevent stressing. Or, since I’ll think about it anyway, I find ways to occupy my mind like ride my horses, exercise, or surround myself with people, things I enjoy and don’t cause me stress.” Keenan – “Stress, fight, or flight responses activate when all I am doing is ordering McDonalds but I get pissed off instead of acting rationally when the dude doesn’t get my order correct. Best medicine is meditation or realizing right now I can think rationally and compassionately.”
My boot camp of creativity happened in the world of visual art, and that is the place where I first learned the incredible value and fortune of being able to manifest what is inside of my mind, in a way to share it with the world. I study craft, but my main focus has always been the language of creativity, and currently, I am applying that to writing, via working in the Current and creating a novel titled TMOD.
Cindy – “When something bothers my mind, it feels uneasy. For me, there is no worse feeling than uneasiness, because it encompasses anxiety, hurt, pain, fear, panic, uncontrollability, sadness... To deal with this, I drink a good deal of water. It seems to wash and dilute the problem. If I still feel uneasy, I will sleep. Usually by the time I wake, it has passed and I feel better.” I personally spoke to each one of these people and I would not have asked them to be a part of this if I felt like they had nothing good to share. They are different genders, colors, sizes, ages, wealth brackets, and etcetera, but we are all still just people, pleasantly weird in our own ways.
Cody – “I find myself over analyzing situations that have affected me greatly. I try to dissect every little thing and it increases my anxiety. After talking with my mom about what is bothering me, exercising and spending time with friends and family allows that anxiety to subside, and occupy my time in a healthy manner.”
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by Eunice Green, NHD
Herbs for Weight Loss A
f ew ye a r s a go, eve r yo n e h e ard ab o u t Garcinia Cambogia from Dr. Oz. Many people thought that this was a “new” herb and rushed to purchase what he claimed to be a miraculous weight loss herb. The truth is that it has been around for many years. It’s appeal was because many people thought it was not only “new” but also very exotic just because many had not heard of it before. This is a very common herb in Southeast Asia and recently much scientific research has been done on this herb as a weight loss supplement and trials were conducted showing evidence of more than just the feeling of fullness. Clinical trials also showed that it increases calorie burning and assisted in emotional adjustment making you feel happier and reduced anxiety. That is very significant as many people are emotional over eaters. Health food stores really had a “run” on this herb and some people did show improvement and lost some weight. Many did not have the results that they were expecting. So why did some people lose weight while others did not? There are a number of answers to this question. First, it isn’t a magic pill. It has been found that it is great in assisting people to follow a healthier, lower calorie diet. If you continue to eat fast food, lots of sugar and processed foods, it isn’t going to work. There needs to be diet changes as well and the “magic” is in the way it can reduce cravings, help with emotional eating and giving that feeling of fullness. These things are what help with weight loss. By taking this supplement it seems that making dietary changes are a bit easier. The second thing that is important is in the quality of the herb itself. When this became such a popular herb, many companies began throwing together a Garcinia Cambogia supplement with low quality herbs so that they could sell them
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at a low price. This supplement was all over the internet and millions of dollars have been spent on products that were not a good quality. Obviously they didn’t work the way they were expected to. Always purchase your herbs from companies that are trusted. The third answer, in my opinion, is in the delivery system. Ingesting herbs in liquid form has great benefits. In a liquid form the herbs have a quicker transit time through the digestive system and into the small intestine where absorption takes place. This really makes a difference as we get older as many of these functions become even slower. Adding Yerba Mate to Garcinia Cambogia is an excellent way to maximize the benefits. Herbs work together synergistically and adding a liquid Yerba Mate can amp up the effects when used together with Garcinia Cambogia. Yerba Mate has many health benefits as it is loaded with antioxidants, helps with focus, enhances physical endurance, aids digestion, boosts metabolism thus burning calories and fat. It also curbs the appetite by giving a feeling of fullness. A wonderful way to take these two herbs is in a special blend of high quality coffee and as most of us drink coffee every day, this is an easy way to take these herbs and reduce the waist line and the weight. It is delicious hot or cold, kosher certified and gluten free. It all comes together in a little package, a powder that can be added to water. Very convenient as these little packages can be tucked in a pocket or a purse so you can take them with you wherever you go. So many people have had great results with weight reduction losing anywhere from 10 lbs to over 100 lbs. It really assists and supports you in making the lifestyle changes that are necessary to creating a healthier body.
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Paranormal Activties Local haunted spots to inspire your inner ghost hunter
Banta Inn
22563 S 7th St, Banta Rumor has it that since the 1930s, the Banta Inn has been haunted. Locals have claimed to hav e seen the ghost of the former inn keeper Tony Gallegos who died in the building. The bar at the inn is known for the occ asional poltergeist prank.
East Eight Mile Road
Stockton Drivers at night claim to have see n the ghost of a woman dressed in white near the road. Som e who have passed her have even reported seeing her through their rear view mirrors sitting in their back seat. Another gho st spotted on Eight Mile is that of a native Indian girl. It is said she screams loudly in the dark of night.
Hotel Stockton
133 E Weber Ave, Stockton The century old landmark is rum ored to be teaming with apparitions. The most notorious are known as the white suit
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smoker and the ghostly pianist. Mr. White Suit has been spotted in the back of the hotel near some stairs sitting on a small stool smoking a cigarette with bloodied fingers. The music of a piano has been heard coming from the ballroom, but the pianist is nowhere to be found by those who enter to investigate the ghostly tunes.
The Peltier Road Bridge
Lodi The Peltier Road bridge crosses the Mokelumne River just west of Woodbridge. Travelers crossing the bridge at night have reported seeing a man on the side of the road holding a shovel and lantern. The ghostly figure disappears upon a second glance. Legend has it, this is the ghost of a man who murdered his brother and buried him near the bridge.
Byron Hotel
Byron The now abandoned and dilapidated Byron Hotel was once a glorious resort, popular with celebrities in the early 20th century. These days, according to witnesses, the only guests that have yet to check out are the ghosts of a man dressed in rags and a running child. Dragging sounds and voices have been heard coming from inside the decaying building.
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October 14
King of The Wing Orchex National Series Stockton 99 Speedway 4105 N. Wilson Way, Stockton 5pm-10pm Info: 209-482-6969 October 22
Friends of The Fox Presents “The Goonies”
ART
Bob Hope Theatre 242 E. Main St, Stockton 1pm-4pm Info: 209-373-1400
October 5
Sketchy Thursdays Infinite209 522 E. Weber Ave, Stockton 5pm-9pm Info: 409-403-8271 October 6
6th Annual Photography Show & Sale Lodi Community Art Center 110 W. Pine St, Lodi 12am-5pm Info: 209-333-3855 October 6
Lodi First Friday Art Hop Hutchins Street Square 125 S. Hutchins St, Lodi 6pm-8:30pm Info: 209-333-5550 October 7
Free Admission Day
The Haggin Museum 1201 N. Pershing Ave, Stockton 12pm-5pm Info: 209-940-6300 October 13
Summer Art Splash 20 N. Sutter St, Stockton 5pm-8pm Info: 209-464-6868 October 13-22
Stockton Arts Week 38
Participating Venues Info: ana.vera@att.net
October 27
Sky Tours FAMILY October 1
Lodi Street Faire Downtown Lodi 35 S. School St, Lodi 8am-4pm Info: 209-367-7540
Athletics 1 parking lot San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave, Stockton 7pm Info: 209-462-0798 October 31
Read to Rescued Animals
October 4
Wednesday Evening Social Paddle
Cesar Chavez Central Library 6058 N. El Dorado St, Stockton 3:30pm-4:30pm Info: 209-937-8221
Lodi Lake Boat House 1101 W. Turner Rd, Lodi 5:30pm-7:30pm Info: 209-224-8367 $25 rental October 5
Full Moon Riders
Janet Leigh Plaza 222 N. El Dorado St, Stockton 6pm-8pm Info: 209-464-5246
FESTIVALS October 7
Brewfest
October 6-7
Monster Truck Madness Stockton Dirt Track San Joaquin County Fairgrounds 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton Gates open 4pm Show starts 6pm Info: 209-234-1722
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Banner Island Ballpark 404 W. Fremont St, Stockton 11am-5pm Info: 209-644-1900 Tickets: $25 advance $30 day of
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October 7-8
October 4
Weber Point 221 N. Center St, Stockton Sat -General Admission $10 Sun-General Admission $25 Info: 209-651-5550
Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium 525 N. Center St, Stockton 5:30pm Info: 209-416-3301
Stockton Rhythm & Brews Festival VIP $30 VIP $60
October 13-27
Central Valley Cruisers Bagel Express 1461 W. March Lane, Stockton 5pm-9pm Info: 209-598-7955
March of Dimes Signature Chef Auction
October 24-28
The Brubeck Festival
University of The Pacific 3601 Pacific Ave, Stockton 7:30pm Tickets: $10/$15 w/ Student ID Info: 209-946-3196 brubeckinstitute.org
October 5
Oak Grove Regional Park 4520 W. Eight Mile Rd, Stockton 4pm-8pm Info: 209-953-8800 or 916-722-6636
October 5
Stockton Food Truck Mania
Whirlow’s Tossed & Grilled 1926 Pacific Ave, Stockton 6:30pm-9pm Info: 209-466-2823
Live Music
Garlic Brothers 6629 Embarcadero Dr, Stockton 8:30pm-10:30pm Info: 209-466-2823
San Joaquin County Fairgrounds 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton 12pm-8pm Info: 209-688-6918
Stockton Medico-Dental Tower 242 N. Sutter St, Stockton 9am-2:30pm Info: Melissa.vandiepen@hospiceheart.com
19 N. California St, Stockton 6pm-9pm Info: 209-910-9477
Mike, Bobby & Friends Open Rock Jam
San Joaquin Tamale Festival
Over The Edge For Community Hospice & Drop Zone Festival
Deliberation Room
October 5
October 14
October 21
October 4-25
October 7-8
Sabados Tropicales HEALTH October 7
American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Cancer
Chivita’s Salsa & Sports Bar 445 W. Weber Ave, Stockton 9pm-1:30pm Info: 209-271-9105 21+ W/ID
Nelson Park 3755 Bridlewood Cir, Stockton 8am-12pm Info: 209-941-2679 October 7
Free Yoga In Victory Park Victory Park 1001 N. Pershing Ave, Stockton 8:45am-10am
THEATRE October 13
Theresa Caputo Bob Hope Theatre 242 E. Main St, Stockton 7:30pm-10:30pm Info: 209-373-1400 October 22
Stockton Symphony Presents “Pops 1: The Mark of Zorro” MUSIC October 3-31
Karaoke At Whirlow’s FOOD October 1
Mimosa Sunday Brunch University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont St, Stockton 10am-2pm Info: 209-323-3131
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Whirlow’s Tossed & Grilled 1924 Pacific Ave, Stockton 7pm-9pm Info: 209-466-2823 October 3-31
Take 5 Jazz Club
Valley Brewing Company 157 W. Adams St, Stockton 6pm-8pm Info: 209-946-3196 the current
Warren Atherton Auditorium @ San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave, Stockton 2:30pm-5:30pm Info: 209-951-0196 Tickets: $13.50/$62.50 WINE TASTING October 5
Sommelier Boot Camp
Mile Wine Company 2113 Pacific Ave, Stockton 2pm-4pm Info: 209-465-9463 39
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