more than
under forty
Publisher
Roger Coover
Publication Director Deitra R. Kenoly
Editor
Carrie Sass
MANAGING Editor
Karen Bakhtegan
Assistant Editor Chloe Diaz
Graphic Designers Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein
Contributing WRITERS
“Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. You will have opportunities beyond anything we’ve ever known.” — Ronald Reagan
I
IT’S TIME.
Contributing Photographers
t’s time – for my favorite issue of Lifestyles,
It’s time – for us “over 40s” to continue
solely dedicated to highlighting More Than 40
mentoring, yet begin stepping aside so our
Under 40 making a difference in San Joaquin
community can embrace these new ideas,
County.
the drive for change and the giving spirit that
It’s time – to grab a cup of coffee, and a
jumps off each page.
tissue if you are so inclined to easily tear up,
It’s time – to express our thankfulness
and sit down in your favorite chair. I promise
and give recognition for the dedication and
this is a good read!
commitment expressed throughout each story.
It’s time – to be encouraged as you read story after story about the difference these people are making in our community. It’s time – to be proud of who is stepping up and representing San Joaquin County.
Molly Bolognini Elizabeth Esau Stephanie Forbus Eunice Green, NHD Nicole Knotts, MD Jackie Kurtzer John McClimans Leah Myers Andi Schloss Jennifer Torres Siders Rachel Telander
I’m encouraged. I’m proud. I’m ready to embrace their leadership. I’m thankful.
Ashlee Blackard Mike Byerly Johnny Chin Elizabeth Esau Laura Godi Cesar Larios Dario Leventini Kelsey McNickle Janda Palmer Geoff Photography Helen Ripken Aaron Sass Jackie Shinn Red Carpet Studios Jeep Touch
I think you will be, too!
Carrie Sass
more than
xoxo
Please continue to forward story ideas to: The Record/Lifestyles Magazine, 530 E. Market Street, Stockton 95202 or call: 209-546-8351; or email: kbakhtegan@recordnet.com
To advertise in Lifestyles magazine, call 209-546-8200 Lifestyles is published six times a year by The Record, 530 E. Market Steet, Stockton, CA 95202. All information written for publication in Lifestyles is believed to be accurate. Readers must assume all responsibility for their own actions based on this information. Occasionally a product or company may be named in an article, but does not constitute an endorsement of said product. Lifestyles assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Photos and content become the sole property of Lifestyles and may be used, published or edited without limit or obligation to the author. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinlifestyles.com.
under forty On the cover: MORE THAN 40 UNDER FORTY BY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
$3.95 Value
CONTENTS
The Magazine For San Joaquin
FEATURE MORE THAN FORTY UNDER 40
9-96
.................................................
HEALTH AND WELLNESS FLIRTING WITH YOUR forties
101
.................................................
eunice green oil pulling
104
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mark the date local activities and events
106
The Magazine For San Joaquin
To advertise in Lifestyles magazine, call 209-546-8200
more than
under forty
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BY LEAH MYERS PHOTO BY MIKE BYERLY
emica Smith embodies what can happen
when you follow your dreams. Ever since her childhood years, she knew she wanted to become an attorney. However, achieving her dream did not come easy – while juggling work, attending college classes and completing homework assignments, as a single parent no less, Smith never second-guessed her ability to handle it all. Raised in Livermore, California, she is also the first in her family to graduate from college. Smith is now a self-employed attorney in Stockton, specializing in criminal defense and family law. Upon graduation from Humphreys College Laurence Drivon School of Law in Stockton, with a Juris Doctor degree, she established her private practice. Smith said her biggest professional accomplishment thus far is “passing the bar exam on the first try.” As a criminal defense attorney, Smith never turns away a case. She is proud to be in a position to help and guide others during their most vulnerable times. A typical day for her might include meeting with clients, researching case law or attending court hearings. On certain days, Smith can’t believe she is actually living out her dream career and managing/operating her own business. When she isn’t working, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her daughter and simply relaxing at home. She gives back to the community by mentoring high-school students in college/ career planning and coaching the Manteca High School cheer team.
Temica Smith
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SELF-EMPLOYED ATTORNEY specializing in criminal defense and family law 10
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Smith is an inspiration to anyone who has a dream – she is living proof of what can be accomplished when you wholeheartedly pursue your passion in life.
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n 1992, Max fled terrorism in Peru and
immigrated to the United States. He was granted political asylum, residency, and in 2001, U.S. citizenship. Max believes, “The seeds for my civic engagement, empathy for others, and the value I place on equality are all rooted in this experience.” Nine years ago Max came to San Joaquin County with a deep-rooted passion in his heart for public service. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in political science at University of the Pacific, and is currently in his final year at McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. Max is Deputy District Director for Senator Cathleen Galgiani, and has worked under the Senator since 2009. His position allows him the ability to participate in and coordinate district operations and outreach. Responding to community issues and assisting in streamlining public policy is one of the many ways Max gives back and fulfills his public service duty. “I have dedicated my education and career to public service not only because it validates citizenship, but because it gives me an opportunity to help other families striving to
Max Vargas28
fulfill their American dreams.” This dedication for the community shows in his involvement with local organizations and committees. He serves
Deputy District Director, Senator Cathleen Galgiani
on the Stockton Public Schools Scholarship
BY JACKIE KURTZER PHOTO BY ASHLEE BLACKARD
Foundation, Stockton Charter Review Advisory Commission and the California Health Care
“Work hard, play hard” is a motto Max and
list than most people do in a lifetime. In the past
Facility Citizens Advisory Committee. Max is
his wife live by. When they get time to relax
few years, the two have ventured on safari in
also the Treasurer for the San Joaquin County
they both enjoy exploring downtown Stockton
East Africa, backpacked through Thailand, and
Democratic Central Committee, the President of
art galleries, Miracle Mile eateries and Lodi
even honeymooned in Egypt. Running with
the Young Democrats of San Joaquin, a Board
vineyards. They share a love of adventure, and
the bulls in Pamplona, Spain is their ultimate
Member for the Truman Club and a contributing
are avid travelers. With their appetite for travel
bucket-list item and will be coming to fruition
writer for Joaquín Magazine.
they have checked more items off their bucket
next year!
lifestyles
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L A W
A
Erin Guy Castillo
35
Parish Guy Castillo PLC
t just 35 years old, Erin Guy Castillo can count name partner and shareholder in a law firm, as well as
obtaining a million-dollar-plus client verdict as professional accomplishments. While these are certainly noteworthy, Erin puts the same dedication into working for the good of San Joaquin County as she does her legal practice. A native of Stockton, Erin attended local schools through community college and currently lives near UOP with her husband and daughter. In her numerous community involvements, a theme of education can be seen throughout. Recently elected vice president of the Mary Graham Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit providing support and scholarships to local-area foster children who have “aged out” of the system, Erin has served on the organization’s board of directors, finance committee, and as co-trustee of the Foundation’s endowment. She has also co-chaired the organization’s annual Kids Art Auction since 2012, and chairs the Outreach Committee, tasked with educating schools about the organization’s many wonderful services.
Blending her passions for the law and education, Erin has also volunteered with the First Impressions program since 2011. Aimed at teaching fifth-grade students about the judiciary branch and the different career opportunities available in the law, each session of the program culminates in a mock trial put on by the students at the county courthouse. The trial is based on the Three Little Pigs story, and Erin loves seeing the kids flourish every year in their roles as judges, attorneys and witnesses. Erin is deeply involved in the San Joaquin County Bar Association and Foundation (charitable arm), serving as secretary and treasurer of the Board of Governors. Her commitment includes mentorship and coordinating continuing education programs for attorneys. Erin also serves on the Executive Committee for the Consuelo M. Callahan Inn of Court. Most recently, Erin was voted in by the Stockton City Council to serve as Councilmember Susan Lofthus’ appointee on the Charter Review Advisory Committee. She is also a 2015 graduate of Leadership Stockton, a prestigious program designed to inspire a new generation ready to assume leadership roles in the Stockton community.
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 had produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Valley by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.
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Aliyah Abdullah
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ATTORNEY
I
am proud to be born and raised in Stockton. My parents were
both born here, and my grandmother (my father’s mother) was born at Dameron Hospital in 1921!
being the commencement speaker for my law school graduation. After law school, my goal was to get involved in my hometown. I applied for the City of Stockton’s Cultural Heritage Board and won the
I attended Stockton Unified public schools for first through twelfth grade and I am an advocate and supporter of public education. I spent
votes from the Planning Commission to get appointed by our mayor at the time, Ann Johnston.
a lot of my childhood at the downtown public library. I was also an
I opened my law practice in the heart of downtown Stockton in
avid performer as a child, was in theatrical productions at Stockton Civic
the historic Hotel Stockton. We have an amazing view of the new San
Theatre, and I was a ballerina at Dorothy Percival’s ballet school.
Joaquin County courthouse being erected, symbolizing a new era of
I received my undergraduate degree in history from the University of
change in our local justice system.
the Pacific, where I was quite busy as a member of the dance team, Tri
I am in court almost every day of the week advocating as a voice for
Delta, and served chair of the United Cultural Council and vice-president
others who need help. I love what I do and am passionate about justice.
of the Black Student Union.
I love people – my clients, my colleagues, our judges, our bailiffs, and our
In law school at the University of California Davis, I was president of the Black Law Students Association, vice-president of the Real Estate Law Association, an editor for the Business Law Journal, champion of the Frances N. Carr trial competition, and had the tremendous honor of
court staff. We are all integral parts of effecting and maintaining law and justice in our community. I envision our city and our county changing significantly in the years to come. I see Stockton as the place to be.
lifestyles
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M
PHOTO BY GEOFF PHOTOGRAPHY
y family and I moved to Lodi in 1997, where I started
my freshman year in high school at Lodi Academy. I graduated from high school in 2001 and attended Delta College for two years before transferring into the University of the Pacific. I was an active member in the fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha, and as a group did a lot of community service activities including fundraisers for the Second Harvest Food Bank. I graduated in the fall of 2005 with my BS in business and a concentration in marketing. At that point I accepted a job with Wells Fargo Bank out of the Sacramento market. I spent four years with Wells Fargo before coming back to Stockton in 2009 when I accepted a job with F&M Bank. I entered the bank’s 18-month-long Executive Management Training Program. Once I graduated from the program I was assigned to the Linden area, where I was located for a year. I was then transferred to the Stockton market, where I have been for the past four years. I choose to live and work in SJC because to me, it is an amazing place. I am close to the majority of my family and friends, along with numerous exciting cities such as Tahoe, SF and the coast, all within a short driving distance. San Joaquin County is full of so much opportunity for young business professionals such as me. There are amazing people to surround yourself with that it is hard to not succeed. Giving back to my local community is important to me. I completed the Leadership Stockton program in 2012, at which time I decided to join the Stockton Rotary Club, where I am now the scholarship chair. I then had the honor of being asked to sit on the board of directors for SJC United Way. I also sit on the board of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce and their government relations committee. To support the banking industry I am a member of the California Bankers Association State Government Relations Committee and have advocated for key issues implicating agriculture, banking and San Joaquin County in both Washington D.C. and Sacramento. I actively support many nonprofits in the area
Jared G. Steinwert
32
both through my amazing employer, F&M Bank, and personally. I
VICE PRESIDENT AND COMMERCIAL ACCOUNT OFFICER
as possible and I feel that I’ve been successful thus far and plan to
think it is our duty to help the local community in as many ways continue down this great path.
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Donnie M. Hernandez
36
I
Certified Public Accountant Croce, Sanguinetti & Vander Veen, Inc.
was born and raised in Stockton and have strong family ties here. Stockton has always been
a place that has provided several of my family members with many opportunities in education and business. I am a graduate of St. Mary’s High School and University of the Pacific. After receiving my education here, I was able to find my own opportunities in establishing my career as a CPA locally. This career in public accounting has allowed me to have an even greater view of the many enterprises and organizations that have flourished in our community. In August of 2013, I made the decision to join five other CPAs in establishing a new local accounting firm in Stockton; Croce, Sanguinetti & Vander Veen, Inc. When I was asked to be a part of this new business venture, I accepted without a doubt as this was probably one of the easiest decisions that I have ever made. I am fortunate to be able to work with an exceptional group of people that are more like a family than co-workers. I am a graduate of the Leadership Stockton class of 2013. This experience definitely expanded my view of our community far beyond what I had already known, and I was able to meet a variety of individuals in our community with a commitment to leadership and making our community a better place. I am proud to currently be a member of the Board of Directors of the Leadership Stockton Alumni Association.
Jaclyn Frenzel
34
Vice President, Business Development and Operations AFM, Inc.
T
he reason I have chosen to live and work in Stockton/San Joaquin County is in a
nutshell, “Life, Love and the Pursuit of Happiness!” My life revolves around community involvement, volunteerism, family and recreational activities. Stockton provides me with multiple opportunities for personal growth through community involvement, happiness through entertainment and friends, and love through the arts and family proximity. My business thrives in an environment that is geographically located to so many modes of transportation and access to clients throughout the state. I have chosen to live in Stockton because it offers an abundance of lively opportunities to succeed in all aspects of my life, and the life of my growing family and business. Throughout the past several years I have volunteered with: Big Brothers, Big Sisters; the Mediation Center of San Joaquin and the Peacekeepers Awards Program; The Marine Corps Toys for Tots program; St. Basil’s annual Greek Festival; St. Mary’s annual Olive Oil Festival; the DSA; Child Abuse Prevention Council; Stockton Asparagus Festival; the San Joaquin County AIDS Foundation; Hospice of San Joaquin; and the Women’s Center. I also support local charities through donation, and I’m a 2007 Graduate of the Chamber’s Leadership Stockton. Through my work as VP of AFM, Inc., I am honored to have received the highest award within our industry as the 2015 Vendor of the Year for the Professional Retail Store Maintenance Association (PRSM). Furthermore, I enjoy empowering young women to promote professional growth.
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We are
San Joaquin
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Megan Cort35 & Zac Cort34
D
By Leah Myers photo by MIKE byerly
owntown Stockton is evolving, and Megan Cort’s vision is
part of the reason why. On August 12, 2015, her dream of opening a leading-edge early childhood development center will become a reality. The Campus, open to children from 18 months to 4½ years old, and located in downtown Stockton, will be housed in the 14,000 square-foot refurbished Newberry department store.
Z
ac Cort is taking the lead to effect positive change in Stockton
Cort’s mother, a teacher, and grandfather, a former high-school
with his real estate development company, Ten Space. As a young urban
principal, inspired Cort to open an educational facility that would
developer from Stockton with a lifelong interest in architecture, Cort
provide children with a positive environment coupled with an innovative
plans to create an eclectic, mixed-use neighborhood in downtown
curriculum. At The Campus, children will learn about everything ranging
Stockton where people can live and work. As a native Stocktonian,
from technology, cooking, to science and foreign language. As the
Cort understands what the city needs, and believes that a strong urban
mother of two young sons named Lincoln and Lennox, ages 3 and 1,
core is paramount for any metropolitan city and added that “suburban
she is working to create a better community for her own family and
sprawl reduces the ability to have a healthier, walkable community.” He
for the next generation. The Campus’ curriculum will offer unique
envisions a vibrant, active downtown where people can interact and
learning opportunities, and encourage children to reach their individual
walk to restaurants and businesses instead of driving 20 minutes to
intellectual and creative potential in a safe, fun and interactive setting.
get there. Through the creation of inclusive, connected communities,
The Campus’ location in Stockton offers an added bonus, as it
the re-use of historic buildings, and utilization of the city’s existing
provides a place for parents to leave their toddlers while they work
transportation infrastructure, Cort believes that Stockton has the
downtown or nearby. Cort explained, “the great thing is that parents
potential to be transformed.
can drop in any time during the day to say hello or check in to see how
When asked what sets Ten Space apart from other real estate
their child is doing.” An after-school study space is also available to older
development companies, Cort explained that his business is focused on
students who attend classes downtown.
people’s needs and creating healthy communities that include a range
To Cort, Stockton’s “big sense of community” is what makes the city
of housing, retail and restaurant options. As other metropolitan cities
a special place for her. While some may have an unfavorable perception
in California have revitalized their downtowns, Cort believes Stockton
of downtown Stockton, Cort brushes off any negative talk, as she boldly
is on the same path. “There is a difference between the perception and
states, “anything is possible.” Her unrelenting optimism and broad vision
the reality of what Stockton has to offer,” said Cort.
for how Stockton can thrive is exactly what the community needs.
Entrepreneurship comes with many rewards and the challenges only fuel Cort’s motivation to work harder. In ten years, his goal is for downtown Stockton to “become the model for revitalizing in the Central Valley, and change the perception of Stockton.” Through Cort’s passion, determination and innovative thinking, the possibilities for Stockton are endless.
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DOWNTOWN VISIONARIES
Tim Egkan
32
Chief Brand Officer – Ten Space
I
’ve always been drawn to a challenge. I love the story of an underdog overcoming
obstacles to achieve something great, and in this case, Stockton is the underdog and this city is indeed on the road to reclaiming its prominence. In March of 2013 I moved to Stockton to play a role in this city’s rebirth, which I believe will be driven by the revitalization of downtown Stockton, by becoming a hub for arts, culture, community, and commerce. Having grown up in San Diego with stints in Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, and Australia, Stockton wasn’t the first place I’d imagine to call home, but the people and possibilities in Stockton overwhelmed me and now I am very proud to be a part of this community. In my role with Ten Space, I work every day to ensure that downtown Stockton realizes its immense potential. On any given day you can find me in the office, working on our marketing strategies and driving other creative aspects of our company or meeting with clients on the site to ensure their retail or commercial space buildout is going smoothly, on time, and exceeds their expectations. I thoroughly enjoy working with architects and contractors in the adaptive reuse of buildings such as the recent renovation of the Newberry Building, or the development and launch of Huddle, a coworking and shared office space. I love meeting and working with the array of creative, driven, and talented people in the region. I’m very fortunate to have been welcomed into this community and awesome city called Stockton. I am thankful for today, and looking forward to what the future holds.
David Garcia
30
Director of Community Development – Ten Space Founder and editor – Stockton City Limits
S
tockton is my hometown and I want to play an active role in its transformation.
I lived on the east coast for 7 years in Baltimore and D.C. and witnessed firsthand how those cities overcame challenges much more serious than what Stockton faces today. Those experiences opened my eyes to the potential for revitalization in the core of Stockton, which boasts beautiful architecture, incredible diversity, proximity to the water and an ideal street grid layout. Last year I was very fortunate to join the team at Ten Space where we work every day to turn downtown Stockton into a thriving urban center. I give back through my advocacy work. Part of my role with Ten Space is to advocate for
smart growth policies in Stockton and the Central Valley. We need to invest in our existing communities before expanding Stockton’s boundaries. I also serve on the board of the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, where I advocate for a stronger cycling culture in Stockton. The thing about Stocktonians is that we’re fiercely loyal to this city, even when we move away. There is a large population of ex-past Stocktonians out there that would love to come back if only the city finally realized its potential. I’m proud to be working with a team that is working diligently to create a city that we can not only be loyal to, but also proud of.
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photos by MIKE byerly
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DOWNTOWN VISIONARIES
Amy Sieffert
Katie Macrae
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Co-founder – Stockmarket Owner, Something Borrowed – Vintage Clothing Store Co-Owner, Goodstock Productions Events & Marketing
29
Co-founder – Stockmarket Community Manager at Huddle
B
founding Something Borrowed in 2010. My main avenue of business
last 8 years traveling and working around the world, before settling in
is online and pop-up shops. As a vendor, for years I’d travel to events
Stockton in 2013.
orn and raised in Stockton, I worked in retail for 7 years before
I
’m from Manchester, England originally, and I’ve spent much of the
in neighboring cities because of Stockton’s lack of opportunities. I’ve
Having helped start Huddle, a shared workspace in downtown, I
seen the positive impact that markets have on communities and I think
was taken with how many creative people I met, including Amy Sieffert,
it’s part of the change that Stockton needs. So, in early 2015, my friend
owner of Something Borrowed vintage boutique. We connected when
Katie Macrae and I created Stockmarket: Stockton’s first marketplace
we planned a month-long pop-up boutique at Huddle.
combining an eclectic mix of local makers, artists and curators of unique,
Together we decided to create an event which would bring the
handcrafted and vintage goods. I have a vested interest to see growth in
community together, encourage local commerce and celebrate creativity,
this community, for myself as well as future generations.
and thus the idea for Stockmarket was born. With the support of
Since 2011, I’ve held ‘Style Swap’ events, giving a no/low cost
downtown developers, Ten Space and nonprofit Downtown Stockton
means for local women to enliven their wardrobes, while connecting in
Alliance, Amy and I were able to launch the event in May 2015. The
a welcoming atmosphere. Unclaimed clothing is donated to Women’s
pop-up marketplace showcased 50 regional vendors alongside two live
Center – Youth & Family Services. In 2014, 22 bags were donated.
bands, a DJ, food trucks and craft drinks. We had nearly 1,000 people
I’ve also provided firsthand experience to aspiring fashion models for Something Borrowed’s seasonal look-books.
attend the event in an otherwise quiet and abandoned part of downtown Stockton, with an overwhelming amount of positive feedback. It gave me so much hope and encouragement for this city that’s translated into
photos by MIKE byerly
a enormous sense of purpose for me living here in Stockton.
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DOWNTOWN VISIONARIES
Gianna Vicari
Age: 25
Favorite vacation destination: Big Sur, CA.
Occupation: Owner and barista at The Alley (located inside Jesus Mountain’s Coffee Roastery)
Hobbies: Traveling to new places, crafting, gardening, cooking, yoga, making coffee!
How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: I moved back to Stockton about a year ago after living in Tucson and NYC for some time. But I grew up here, my heart is in the Central Valley!
Sports I enjoy: Bowling, swimming, volleyball.
The people who mean the most to me: My family and friends mean the world to me! I really hit the gold mine to have this many generous, kind and fun-loving people in my life! Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Downtown Stockton! Grab a coffee at the Alley and show them all the other cools things going on down here! A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: Leaving my little haven in Brooklyn and opening up The Alley with my family. It’s a constant learning experience and can be tough at times but that is never overshadowed with the amount of fun it has been! My bucket list includes: Taking a cross-country road trip, learn how to speak Spanish fluently, see the Rolling Stones live. Favorite sports team: The Giants! What I’m reading now: Debating whether or not to start the Game of Thrones novels…
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Pet: Pizza, the cat. Favorite food/dessert: A good cheese and charcuterie plate with an old-fashioned cocktail. I “give back” by volunteering with: I like to give back to our city by volunteering most of my time and energy to the downtown Stockton revitalization. I was a founding committee member in downtown’s first pop-up market, Newberry+Goods that promoted local artists and businesses within our community. I have organized and promoted events such as Yoga in the Alley, where all proceeds were donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Humane Society. As for Jesus Mountain, we make donations to the St. Mary’s Dining Hall on a regular basis, as well as supplying coffee to local events and other charities like March of Dimes. We are also excited to share that we are currently in the process of re-branding and expanding our company in the downtown by early next year! It will be called Trail Coffee Roasters and located on the corner of California and Main Streets. I am thrilled to share my love and passion for specialty coffee with the rest of our community. Stay tuned!
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DOWNTOWN VISIONARIES
tockton is filled with people who truly
care about our community. Luckily, I was exposed to a diverse group of mentors from a young age. I attended Lincoln High, Delta College, and Pacific, so I guess you could say I’m a Stockton girl through and through. I began a career in sales and quickly made my way up the corporate ladder, which in turn, moved me away from Stockton. But in my travels, I noticed that every city has its own share of troubles and the grass really isn’t greener. Stockton has potential; I’m here to help others realize it. I actively volunteer with several organizations including Rotary Club of Stockton, Reinvent South Stockton Coalition on the housing and economic development committees, as well as the Youth Council, in addition to various community projects focused on revitalizing downtown Stockton. I’m always looking for new ways to give back to others.
Jasmine Leek
25
Executive Director, Huddle
When I first moved home I wasn’t really sure how to get involved, and I didn’t know that there were organizations that did the kind of work I was interested in. If there’s anyone reading this that feels that way – who wants to get involved but doesn’t know how – reach out to me.
photo by MIKE byerly
Janelle Meyers29
Project Manager, External Affairs University of the Pacific
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creating a sense of community By Jennifer Torres-Siders PHOTO BY RED CARPET STUDIOS
F
or many reasons, San Joaquin County has experienced the benefit
they were going through as a family. Cancer affects so many people,
of talented young professionals returning to the area seeking job
and this event brings the community together in support of such a good
opportunities and growth. Janelle Meyers not only experienced a positive
cause.”
experience by returning home; she continues to grow in her career.
Meyers helped plan other events that brought attention and resources
For more than five years, Janelle Meyers has worked as marketing
to a range of local causes. For example, the Lincoln Center LIVE! series,
director at Stockton’s Lincoln Center. She found that public relations and
with events in June, July and August, includes an annual wine stroll that
marketing isn’t just about customers and buzz, it’s about bringing people
supports a local nonprofit (this year, Child Abuse Prevention Council),
together for shared experiences and opportunities to connect.
and a classic car show (August 21), that raises money for the Lincoln
“Lincoln Center has a real sense of community here,” Meyers says,
Center Scholarship Program. The scholarship program, which Meyers was
referring to Lincoln Center. “A place for people to come and make
instrumental in creating, along with assistance from the San Joaquin
memories.”
County Office of Education, is open to high-school seniors in San Joaquin
Sitting in the shade on Lincoln Center’s signature Brickwalk on a summer afternoon, Meyers looked ahead to winter, one of her favorite seasons in the center, where families come to buy Christmas gifts for loved ones and introduce their children to Santa.
County who have maintained at least a 3.0 grade point average. (More details are available at lincolncentershops.com/scholarship-program). Last year, $5,000 in scholarships was awarded. Meyers and fellow scholarship committee members enjoyed lunch with the honorees at
“It’s such a special place during the holidays,” she says. “I love that this center has been built on so many traditions.”
Lincoln Center. “The intelligence, the hard work, the promise of these students really blew us away,” Meyers recalls. “They give back so much
Meyers grew up in Lodi and graduated from Lodi High School. She moved to Southern California to study communications and business at
of their time, and many of them want to come back and work in their community after college.”
Azusa Pacific University. After launching her career in Newport Beach, she
And when talented professionals have the drive and passion to keep
returned to San Joaquin County to be close to family and spent almost six
growing, they are open to new experiences and challenges. As this story
years working for SASS! Public Relations, which oversees marketing for
was written, Meyers was offered a position to do just that. Beginning
Lincoln Center.
in August, she is moving to project manager in the External Relations
“I love being back in the community where I grew up,” Meyers
Department at University of the Pacific, working from all three campuses
explains. “I’ve been blessed to work with all these inspiring entrepreneurs
– Sacramento, San Francisco and Stockton. She will work to strengthen
at Lincoln Center and throughout the county.
and support Pacific’s relationships with local officials, business leaders
She has been responsible for managing the monthly Lincoln Center
Chronicle publication and the center’s website and social media,
and community partners, especially as it launches new programs in Sacramento.
overseeing events and promotions, public relations and a comprehensive
Meyers looks ahead to these new exciting opportunities and
marketing program. Throughout her career, she says, community has
challenges. “When opportunity knocks – and God presents new
remained at the heart of her work. This year, she chaired the Moonlight
opportunities for growth – well, that’s a call I had to answer. Leaving
Gala benefit (August 1 at Oak Farm Vineyards in Lodi) on behalf of the
Lincoln Center has been bittersweet. I’ll always be proud of what I helped
American Cancer Society in San Joaquin County. She was moved to get
create during my time here, and in a way Lincoln Center will always be
involved after watching a friend struggle with cancer: “I watched what
considered home.”
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2 01 5 2nd Annual Ducky Derby Hope Floats Child Abuse Prevention Council
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Vince Rosato, Patti Gulick and Dan Smith Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN
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Jeff Gilbert Age: 24 Occupation: Founder and CEO of Verve Networks How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: All my life; 39 years. The people who mean the most to me: My family: my lovely wife of 14 years, Christina, and my four rambunctious boys, Caden, Nicholas, Tyler, and Chase. Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: We have so many great choices here! We enjoy taking friends to a Ports game at Banner Island Ballpark, or to one of the many great summer events at the Lodi wineries. Drinks at Midgley’s Public House is a great way to finish the day! A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: I started Verve and my family at the exact same time – both could reasonably qualify as growing experiences. Both have taught me more about myself, my strengths and weaknesses, my true motivations and fears. I wouldn’t trade the experience of both for anything. My bucket list includes: Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, visiting Europe, surviving parenthood, and starting a few more businesses. Favorite sports team: Not a huge sports fan, but I’ve always been a 49ers fan! What I’m reading now: The Game of Thrones series, and Business Adventures by John Brooks Favorite vacation destination: Maui! Hobbies: Poker, snowboarding, and camping Sports I enjoy: Golf, volleyball, and soccer Pet: We have a pet turtle named Speedy! Favorite food/dessert: Ice cream I “give back” by volunteering with: The Y of San Joaquin County and the Downtown Stockton Alliance. PHOTO BY ASHLEE blackard
Excelie Bonjoc
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Executive Administrative Assistant Grupe Commercial Company
H
ome is where the heart is! According to Google, this means your
home will always be the place for which you feel the deepest affection no matter where you are. Moving back to Stockton in 2014 gave me the opportunity to express that affection at work and outside of work. Stockton is my home, and there’s no better place I’d rather be! On my own time, I collect clothes and canned food from my family and friends to donate at St. Mary’s Dining Room. Employees at work, including my boss share different opportunities to get involved within the community. I am thankful for the opportunities! My job gave me the opportunity to be involved with the University Park World Peace Rose Garden, which will take bloom at University Park located in midtown Stockton in Spring of 2016. Look out for the new garden! Passion for peace in Stockton is what we should all be striving for.
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of life/mind-changing events, the opportunity arose to move back home where my roots and passions lie. With my work and life experience, I can now contribute my skills and charisma to the community that made me who I am today. Small businesses, agriculture, family, and comradery are what fulfill me in a profession, and I find that right here in the Central Valley. I am an advocate of what this community has to offer, and I use my network of friends and colleagues to encourage others to support the businesses and events happening in the 209. My current goal is to apply for the Leadership Stockton Class of 2016. I tap-dance and love Disneyland. ;)
Karen Amestoy
Bay where I was able to complete my degree and achieve my goal career level. After a series
Entrepeneuer
fter deciding to pursue a career in hospitality, the adventure led me to the East 34
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Angela R. Rosenquist
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Business Owner, Entrepreneur
I
am proud to live and work in the Central Valley for so many reasons, first and foremost being
the people – great family, friends, neighbors and business associates who robustly contribute so much to the heart of the Central Valley and to mine as well. It is a hard-working community that has put a tremendous amount of effort into entrepreneurship and growth… and it shows! You can always find something to do with a constant stream of events: backyard barbecues, water recreation, farmers’ market, creative (and affordable) restaurants, concerts, and sporting events from the University of the Pacific, Stockton Thunder and Tour of California. Over the years, I have been involved with Saint Mary’s Dining Room More Than Meals, Financial Center Credit Union, United Way, Saint Mary’s High School, University of the Pacific, and others. The passion behind those who serve creates synergy between community leaders and volunteers alike. Volunteers in the Central Valley are unique. Not only do they provide countless hours of service, but they also recruit and teach future generations to ensure the pipeline of volunteers is always being filled. That is a critical piece that many times goes unnoticed. It is leaders like Andy
Prokop of United Way, John Vera with Mary Graham’s Children Shelter, and Joelle Gomez representing the Women’s Center that influentially lead the way. I tend to work harder than I play, so plenty of time with family and friends is on my calendar. As the incoming chair of the Eberhardt School of Business Advisory Board at University of the Pacific, I am ready to tackle projects that will strengthen the campus and student core. I have a few adventures on my bucket list to plan as well! Last year it was Tokyo to meet and eat at Sukiyabashi Jiro, learn how to stand-up paddleboard, and attempt barre method yoga. This year it is to finish my doctorate, attend an executive course at Harvard, and head to our 15th annual spring training trip to Arizona. For now, I am excited for autumn in the Central Valley!
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SHOPS AWAIT YOU!
stocktonmiraclemile.com
Nate Schloss Age: 34 Occupation: President, Smart Pay (Merchant Services) How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: 2 years The people who mean the most to me: God, wife and son, and my grandfather. Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: The gauntlet is as follows: Midgley’s for asparagus cigars and inappropriate jokes from the chef, the Delta for boating and, drinks on the patio at Garlic Brothers. A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: Three years ago my grandfather passed away – I lost my mentor, an unwavering advocate and the patriarchal figure who consistently modeled the discipline required to achieve success, in its many forms. Learn from your elders. Wisdom is supreme – so acquire wisdom, and whatever you acquire, acquire understanding. I look forward to instilling these character-building traits in my children the same way my grandfather did, by edifying them in my own life as best I can. My bucket list includes: Spearfishing the isles off Croatia, diving the Seychelles with my wife and seeing (what’s left of) Lynyrd Skynyrd live, in the deep South. Favorite sports team: I'm more a fan of individual athletes, Magic Johnson and Eddie Aikau being two. But if we're going with teams: the Giants. What I’m reading now: Mindset by Carol Dweck, Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman, The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis… yup, I have pretty bad ADD. Favorite vacation destination: Taha’a, French Polynesia Hobbies: Changing poopy diapers. Sports I enjoy: Surfing, spearfishing, diving, working on golf… Pet: Leroy and Carl. Favorite food/dessert: A great hamburger, with bourbon for dessert. PHOTO BY ELIZABETH ESAU
I “give back” by volunteering with: Through my Rotary chapter, Rotary Club of Stockton and my church, Lakeview Assembly. 29
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Triple M Custom Farming
Garrett Mussi32 Nathan Mussi33 Nicholas Mussi37
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By molly bolognini PHOTO BY laura godi
riple M Custom Farming has deep roots in the farming business which date back to 1932, when the Mussi family first created their agriculture
footprint. Three generations later and countless seasons of producing agriculture commodities, brothers Nicholas and Nathan Mussi, along with their cousin Garrett Mussi, are continuing the family farming tradition. This farming triple threat are grandsons to Adolfo and Nelly Mussi, a couple with roots in the small, mountainous town of Roncone, Italy. Building the family legacy wasn’t easy. At the young age of 16, Adolfo came to live with a family friend in Calistoga, California. He landed in Stockton in the ’30s and started growing tomatoes and asparagus on a tiny plot of land. He was soon married and had two sons, Lory (Nicholas and Nathan’s father) and Rudy (Garrett’s father). Adolfo continued to acquire land, piece by piece and started to develop a successful diversified farming business. He mentored his two sons and helped them form their company, L & R Mussi Farms. 75 years later, Adolfo and family were proud to see the third generation of Mussi
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men put their dreams into motion. A custom hay baling business, Triple
for ways to grow their business. Garrett explains, “We are constantly
M Custom Farming was established in 2007 by Nicholas, Nathan, and
facing change and creating a more efficient process. That’s the way we
Garrett. Like most family-run businesses, skills and technical knowledge
set ourselves apart from others – we ultimately want to be baling more
are passed on from parent to child, and in this case these skills have been
hay and at a faster rate.”
imperative to running and operating a new, effective farming business.
When the Mussis aren’t working 12-hour days 6 to 7 days a week,
Triple M was formed after years of the Mussi men maintaining an earnest
they enjoy spending time with their growing families. Nicholas and his
passion and dedication to their families and to the farming culture.
wife Celisa have three beautiful children, Garrett and his bride Ashley
All three men attended Annunciation school, spending their
have one son, Lorenzo, and one child on the way, and lastly, Nathan and
afternoons and weekends ingesting the routines of farm life. Side-by-side
his wife, Kate, are expecting their first child any day now! When asked
with their father and grandfather, the Mussis were shown at a young age
about a possible fourth generation of Mussi farmers, Nathan clarifies, “My
what hard work is all about. “We would be on the ranch every chance
kids will surely know about hard work and the routines of a family farm,
we got! Homework had to be finished first, but next came… baling hay,
but I won’t force it to be their livelihood – they will have to make that
fixing the broken machinery, and filling in wherever our dads needed
decision on their own.” The families all spend time together water skiing
extra hands,” Nicholas explains. The boys continued their education at
and wakeboarding on the Delta waters, and vacationing in Capitola and
St. Mary’s High School, where they played sports such as football, soccer,
Aptos. The Mussis reminisce about Sunday-night dinners at their Nonna
and volleyball. All three Mussis pursued degrees in agriculture; Garrett
and Nonno’s (Italian names for Grandma and Grandpa) home. Although
attended California State University, Fresno, and Nathan and Nicholas
it’s hard to maintain Sunday-night dinners today with their growing
attended California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Post-
families, the four generations of Mussis continue to spend holidays with
graduation, all three men moved back home to the peaceful Delta soil of
one another.
Roberts Island. In combination with working for the family business, the
They stay updated with farming-related issues by volunteering for
Mussis knew they wanted to do something that they could call their own.
farming associations such as Roberts-Union Farm Center. The three
It was in 2007 that they saw their opportunity to start their hay baling
cousins helped in the rebuilding of the event center after a devastating fire
business. They purchased their first machine and starting baling hay for L
that took place in 2005. Nicholas currently holds the role as chairman of
& R Mussi Farms, then a neighboring farm, and so on. Customers of Triple
the board and both Nathan and Garrett participate in the organization’s
M, who farm straw, oats, and alfalfa predominately sell their hay bales to
annual crabfeed. In addition to the Roberts-Union Farm Center, the
dairies. Today, Triple M manages approximately 30 employees and bales
Mussis are involved with the San Joaquin Farm Bureau and the California
more than 75,000 large bales of hay annually. They are always searching
Waterfowl Association.
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Garret Schaefer
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FARMER
was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but was raised in Stockton, where my family has
lived for two generations. San Joaquin County and the Stockton/Lodi area being just an hour or two away from all the destinations that people come from around the world to see, there is not another place that my wife and I would want to raise our two children. Farming keeps me busy; however, I have been involved with Zoo Lights at Micke Grove Zoo along with other fundraising projects for the Zoological Society. I have also assisted my wife in the Little Hands Can Help project, where students raise money to purchase sock monkeys for children going through chemotherapy treatments. I owned a construction company for 10 years before being given the incredible opportunity to farm wine grapes as the operations manager for Moore Vineyards in Lodi. Moore Vineyards has been farming in Lodi for several generations, and I am honored to be a part of their operations. Farming is tough, honest work, and I cannot imagine doing anything else. I enjoy knowing that what we grow makes people smile every time a bottle of wine is opened.
I
recently joined the team at Valley Vision as Program Manager for the Energy Careers Experience Program and Climate Action Planning Initiatives
in the San Joaquin Valley. I have over 13 years of experience in sustainable community development, nonprofit management, community organizing, environmental advocacy, and sustainable agriculture systems development. As a former Peace Corps volunteer, I lived and worked in Panama for over 4 years. I founded the regional nonprofit PUENTES, which manages Boggs Tract Community Farm in Stockton, CA. I have a B.A. in humanities from California State University, Chico, and my passion is sustainable community development. I grew up in Stockton, and have advocated for wildlife and wild places in San Joaquin County as a community organizer for Defenders of Wildlife for over 6 years. During my time with Defenders, I founded the watershed group Friends of the Lower Calaveras River, organized the Stockton Steelhead Festival, and helped
Jeremy Terhune
36
NONPROFIT Manager
develop a 3-acre native grass restoration project on the Calaveras River and placed watershed signs throughout San Joaquin County. I
also
give
back
to
the
community
by
serving on
the Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee, and the San Joaquin Multiple Species Habitat Technical Advisory Committee. I coordinate the San Joaquin State of Our Rivers Symposium and am a member of the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation and the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. I met my beautiful wife in Panama and am the father of two wonderful children. I love taking my family hiking and backpacking, boating on the Delta, and I play the drums in a local blues band.
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We are
San Joaquin John Shinn
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Farmer (wine grapes)/Custom Vineyard Management
here is just something about Lodi and San Joaquin County. Aside from all of my family (and
family property) being here, it is just a great place to work and raise a family. We live on the same property my family settled here in the 1850s. The funniest thing I realized is that people from other areas of the state and outside California are coming here to go winetasting and for tourism. That’s pretty cool! There are several local and international ministries that we love to support. The One-Eighty Teen Center, Pregnancy Resource Center and Salvation Army are some of our favorite local ones. I am also involved in Celebrate Recovery and helping others see their lives transformed and healed from all kinds of hurts, habits and hang-ups. I actually never wanted to be a farmer. I wanted to work in an office at some big corporation. I tried that for a few years. Funny how plans change. Now I love what I get to do everyday, and feel incredibly blessed being able to farm our own land and manage vineyards for other people.
Matt Shinn
37
I
Farmer (wine grapes)/Custom Vineyard Management
have lived in San Joaquin County for all 37 years of my life. Farming has been an important
part of my family for six generations, so I chose to continue that tradition as a farmer and vineyard manager. I have always loved farming and am blessed to be here doing what I love! The most meaningful part of my life is my family, which includes my wife, two daughters, and dog. When I’m not busy working, there are many activities I enjoy doing. Some of my favorites are watching Giants games, reading the Bible, golfing, skiing, working toward my pilot’s license, and vacationing to Tahoe. Another activity I enjoy is taking friends to local wineries when they come to visit. This can probably be attributed to my love for wine, which I consider to be my favorite “food.” I am an active member of my church and also enjoy volunteering at charity events that support local causes in Lodi, such as at the Salvation Army or with my wife’s organization, Omega Nu.
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PHOTO BY JACKIE SHINN 35
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Dario Leventini
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PHOTOGRAPHER
ario Leventini is a lifestyle and wedding photographer based in the Central Valley as well as San
Francisco. He has an eye for emotion in his wedding work and is always anticipating the next moment to capture! His love of people, emotions, and connections is what has pushed him to have a successful career for the last 7 years running f3 studios photographers. He has an office located in Lodi. ď Ž
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Tom Mangrich
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Field Manager/ Customer relations
B
orn and raised in Lodi, I’ve always
loved the small-town feel, fresh agriculture and family-friendly feel. When I met my wife Tasha, a Stockton native, we decided to stay in San Joaquin County to start our own family. I currently work for OG Packing, which has been a perfect fit that allows me to work outside in our great Valley weather, yet still work one-onone with great people in our community. In our home, my wife and I spend a good amount of time focusing on reading skills with our 3 girls: Addison, 6, Avery, 3, and Ashlynn, 10 months. Though a basic skill, literacy is an important tool that all children need in order to thrive. I take great pride in my involvement with The Record’s Annual Family Day at the Park, an event that promotes the importance of literacy. I plan to continue my involvement each year, and hope the event allows others to encourage literacy in their own communities.
PHOTO BY Aaron sass
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Story by andi schloss PHOTO BY Aaron sass
hen Matt Shih left Stockton to attend college, he was certain
that his days working with the family business had come to a close. GK Mongolian BBQ on Grand Canal Boulevard opened for business in 1984 under the ownership of Matt’s parents, Ronnie and Shao-yeen Shih. With locally-grown vegetables, a variety of meat and sauce choices, and chefs grilling up savory Mongolian bowls in front of anticipating customers, it is no wonder why this all-you-can-eat spot has been a Stockton favorite for decades. Matt and his siblings were raised at the restaurant; they cleaned after closing, and spent summer breaks working in the kitchen and with guests. While the experience taught each of them strong work ethic, dedication, and business savvy, it also exposed them to the long hours and unsteady nature associated with restaurant ownership. After graduating from Lincoln High School in 2001, Matt enrolled at UC Davis and double majored in sociology and psychology – fields far opposite from restauranteering. Three years later, after several trips home to manage the BBQ while his parents were away, Matt’s entrepreneurial interest peaked at the possibility of continuing the family business. “I surprisingly started to enjoy it,” Matt said. After meeting with a contractor to review blueprint plans and cost, his vision to own and operate a GK Mongolian BBQ was
Matt Shih32
in motion. As a college student, however, Matt lacked the funds to build. “So, I
owner, gk mongolian bbq
walked into a bank at 21 years old, and they gave me half of the money I needed,” he laughed in a surprising tone. Matt’s friends were taking advantage of bank loans by purchasing boats and homes; Matt knew
what his father taught him many years ago: the only controllable expense
this was his opportunity to invest in his future. Feeling spontaneous (and
is labor. Matt operated the locations alone until the tables started filling
a little lucky), Matt then called the father of a childhood friend whom he
again in 2009. They filled so rapidly, in fact, that Matt was able to launch
hadn’t spoken with in years. “I asked him to be a partner, and told him I’d
3 new restaurants in Modesto, Manteca, and Roseville. Plans to open
need the remaining cash. He gave it to me, too!” Shih said with a giggle
additional locations in the Sacramento area are in place.
of disbelief. Shih, along with his new business partner Larry Dalonzo,
Matt is candid about the trials and tribulations that have led to the
opened their first GK Mongolia BBQ in Tracy in 2006. Matt worked 15
success of his restaurant. “Sometimes you will work your tail off, and a
hours a day, lived at his parents’ home, and saved his income to open a
location will still close.” But he has avoided this common small business
Stockton location of his own in 2008.
occurrence with a few simple practices: “Always surround yourself with
With two restaurants under his belt (or apron, I should say), Matt began to experience the turbulence of restaurant ownership. “In 2008, we were losing up to $7,000 a month.” Matt’s only option was to implement
good people. Promote from within, and give everybody a chance.” Matt currently employs 80-90 people at 6 locations. GK Mongolian BBQ continues to grow, and still supports local vegetable farmers.
lifestyles
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C H E F S
M
ike and Laci Midgley, owners of Midgley’s Public House on the Brick
Walk in Lincoln Center, serve a Texas Spicy Chili in their restaurant. But before it was a favored dish of the restaurant, it was a secret recipe served at every family occasion. Emma Midgley, Mike’s grandmother, was the first to make the “famous chili” before the renowned chef put his own spin on it. This full-bodied chili is now known to many Stocktonians. Please enjoy this family favorite.
Michael Midgley
Texas Spicy Chili
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midgley's public house
RECIPE ON PAGE 108
C
ast Iron Cheese is an up and coming catering and mobile food company
made up of two high-school friends who have long been inspired by stories of famous restaurants, both classic and inventive cooking, and of course, the Food Network.
They decided, “We can do that!” Tommy Mogan and Eric Lee, with almost entirely on-the-job training, have been successful with pop-up restaurants, in-home catering events and weddings. Now, with the building of the Cast Iron Cheese food cart, they will be featured at Farmer’s Markets and other like events, including the very popular Stockmarket; molding the menu with each event to best suit the atmosphere and experience. A very popular sandwich from CIC's first pop-up is the “Provinçal Pig,” a delicious French-inspired grilled cheese sandwich invented while Tommy and Eric played with leftovers from a Super Bowl party.
Tommy Mogan Eric Lee
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Provinçal Pig RECIPE ON PAGE 108 a u g u st /sep temb er 2 0 1 5
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graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Dawnelle
O’Brien joined Wine & Roses/Rosewood as pastry chef in 2014. Growing up watching her grandmother patiently bake beautiful pies, handcrafted cakes and breads, O’Brien developed a passion for baking at an early age. She has experience working in the James Beard Award-winning restaurant, Canlis, in Seattle and The Rainier Club, a three-star private club. Now, back in her hometown of Lodi, O’Brien is baking more than pies and cakes; she handcrafts delicious desserts using one consistent ingredient in each one she makes – a whole lot of love.
Dawnelle O’Brien
Cherry Pie A la Mode
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PAsTRY CHEF AT WINE & ROSES/ROSEWOOD
RECIPE ON PAGE 109
A
lex Moreno first realized culinary was his passion when he filled in for a
line cook at a Sizzler in Manteca when he was 17. He then went on to pursue culinary school at the California Culinary Institute in San Francisco. He was the director of Culinary at the Institute of Technology in Modesto before moving to Lincoln Cellar in 2014. Alex and his family currently reside in Manteca.
Alex Moreno
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LINCOLN CELLAR executive chef, lincoln center
Sweet & Spicy Orange Stir Fry RECIPE ON PAGE 109
lifestyles
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C H E F S
C
hef Roberto Pedrini born to Italian immigrants and raised in Stockton.
Roberto was brought up with his brother and sister in an Italian home where Italian was the primary language, family was everything, and the food was never-ending and always made fresh from scratch. Roberto continues to reside in Stockton with his wife Andrea and son, and what he soon hopes to be his second adopted son. This dish was named after his son, who fell in love with it after he had made it the first time at home. Roberto is currently the executive chef at the Elkhorn Grill & Banquet, and is the owner of Chef Pedrini Catering.
Roberto Pedrini
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owner of Chef Pedrini Catering, Executive Chef at Elkhorn Grill & Banquet
Gnocchi RECIPE ON PAGE 110
A
lex Urbano started Papa Urbs’s Grill with his father, Audie Urbano, in
October 2010. Chef Robert Menor joined the Papa Urb's team in 2014. Both have deep roots in the Filipino culture and cuisine in Stockton. Papa Urb’s Grill delivers Filipino food with a new twist – combining Filipino food staples with American, Mexican, and other cultural influences. The goal was to introduce an unfamiliar cuisine through familiar vehicles such as the taco, slider, rice bowls, and much more. “Inihaw” is a term used to describe excellent grilled Filipino food. The following recipe for Chicken Inasal is sure to give you a great "Inihaw" experience just in time for summer. Enjoy!
Alex Urbano Robert Menor 27
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Chicken Inasal RECIPE ON PAGE 110
PAPA URBS grill 42
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A D V E R T I S I N G
S U P P L E M E N T
DINING local restaurants
To advertise in
CALL 209-546-8200 The Magazine For San Joaquin
Heather Duffett 28
Creative Director
N
ot only do I work in Stockton, I work for Visit Stockton – the official
nonprofit marketing organization for the city! I choose to work in Stockton because the city has always been a big part of my life, and I enjoy shining light on all the positive, unique things it has to offer. I also enjoy bringing the community together to support local businesses through great events like Stockton Restaurant Week! I give back to the community through my volunteerism with the Read to Me, Stockton! program – an initiative created in 2011 by former mayor Ann Johnston, which promotes literacy by delivering free books to children ages 0-5 in Stockton through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
April Morse
36
Custom wood products manufacturer
I
was born and raised in Lodi, and it has always been home to me. I
graduated from Lodi High and went to college and graduated with a liberal studies major in order to become an elementary-school teacher. While I was in college, I worked for my dad part-time in his cabinet shop. I really loved working with my dad – he is a very talented woodworker and one of the kindest men I know. He asked me to stay and work for him part-time and I really could not see myself going into teaching after that. I am constantly learning new things about the woodworking, and it is never boring. I love being able to see my dad every day and working with him. I would not have it any other way. We love to donate our cutting boards to various charity auctions, school silent auctions, and fire station crab feeds. I have been asked by various different people to donate for their charity, and I am happy to do it every time. Just this year we built some wine crate boxes and large utensil boxes for the kitchen counter for West Elm and FEED Projects. FEED is a nonprofit that uses the sales of its items to feed hungry children throughout the world.
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Brandon C. Leake
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Entrepreneurial Spoken-Word Artist and Community Health Outreach Worker
Stocktonian Born and raised on the south side of Stockton Told my self I’d find the key to the city so I would never get locked in Got away for four years to pursue a form of academic excellence my family had never achieved And when the mission was complete I knew that my duty was to put my feet back to the street To show these younger reflections of me That this life is filled with choices So choose to become who you are destined to be I made the choice for myself To represent for my city All-American was the goal Through bilingual poetry I knew that was one way I could give back To the community that poured into me so much So here I am A 23-year-old man With a perfectionist mind state And ambitions to become great But with God as my witness I know He will make a way ’Cause when the fog sets in And the path is unclear I put my trust in He and move without fear This poetic journey I hope will grant me wings to fly the friendly skies To foreign lands But always to return to the 209 where I make my stand Brandon was the lead choreographer for the award-winning 2015 All-America City competition. lifestyles
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Laura Godi
33
Artist/ Photographer
I
love Stockton; I feel lucky to have lived
here my whole life. My husband, Mark, and I love that we can raise or daughters where we were raised, surrounded by friends and family. Stockton has some amazing schools. I have had great teachers, and mentors that have helped me become a successful artist. People often ask me why I don’t move to another area where I might demand more for my artistic services, but I simply enjoy living here. There is a lot of beauty in Stockton that people tend to overlook. As an artist, the Valley is a great background for images, from beautiful oaks, farmland and the Delta beauty all around us. The weather is pretty good year-round, too. There are such great things in this city, from museums to Pixie Woods. Now as a mom, I am excited to share these same places I enjoyed with my children. It has also been great to see how this city has grown in the last 30 years. I can’t wait to see what’s next. Being an artist, I love to help do anything creative. Lately I have been volunteering at my kids’ preschool, photographing events. I have also enjoyed tutoring young artists. I love sharing what I love to do with others.
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’m a native Stocktonian and no matter how far I travel,
Stockton is home. My grandparents moved here from
Escrow Support Processing at Fidelity National Financial Custom Floral Designer at Michaels Arts & Crafts
Hawaii and the Philippines and worked as farm laborers. I recall as a child going to farms with my grandfather. My grandparents and parents are my role models in work ethics as well as my life. A big aspect of my life is doing what I love; my passion is dancing and teaching Hula and Ori. “Hiva Nui” is a community-based Polynesian Dance Company since 1995. Our Halau embraces the diverse cultures in Stockton and beyond, having 50 students, ages 4 years and up. As practitioners of the Polynesian culture, our mission perpetuates history and arts in dance. We educate sharing the “Aloha Spirit,” in being humble and respectable toward each other with respect to the Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. We share the ways of life back in Hawaii, to understand the love of hula, kaona and protocols instilling our lineage as it continues to be taught to us with high regard. Grooming the haumana on the impact they have for Stockton’s commerce and community involvement of the Polynesian Cultural Arts. Our halau is under the tutelage of Kumu Hula, Blaine Kamalani Kia of Ka Waikahe Lani Malie and founder of Lauakea Foundation with hula retreats held annually in different locations globally. Kumus lineage stems currently under Loea Kawaikapuokalani Hewett and late Na Kumu Hula Darrell Lupenui, John Kaimikaua. We share class with an Ohana atmosphere in a noncompetitive environment. Our dancers participate in competitions including those of Kiki Raina, Heiva I Reno, San Jose Tahiti Fete, Ia Oe e Ka La, Heiva San Diego and others. Our community involvement has been performing for local events, such as Asparagus Festivals, Waterfest, Stockton Rod and Gun Club, and Retirement Communities. This year we are part of SJRTD’s 50th anniversary. We are involved in not just our community, but the surrounding Bay Area and San Diego.
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Special Events Director/Leadership Stockton Program Director for the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
I
have chosen to work and live in San Joaquin County because it is my home. I grew
up here and still have a lot of family and friends here. I can raise a family and live a nice comfortable life. Even though it’s a big city it feels like a small town. Being a 4thgeneration Stocktonian, my family has a long tradition here. My grandfather, Thomas B. Quinn, was a local judge; his father and brothers owned Quinn’s Stationary on Weber Avenue; my great-grandfather was B.C. Wallace, who opened Park View Cemetery, built Wallace-Martin Funeral home and served as SJC coroner for 8 years. I am the program director of Leadership Stockton, a program of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Each year the class does a community service project. I am also a United Way Keel Club member since 2013. My wife, Amanda Quinn, is special education teacher at Julia Morgan Elementary, and was born and raised in Stockton. We have a 4-year-old son, Braden, who is a 5th-generation Stocktonian. I have worked at the Stockton Chamber since August 25, 2005.
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Office Manager and CTA Program Coordinator
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tockton is my hometown and it’s a passion of mine to celebrate this
city and its people. At Visit Stockton, I work with a team every day to show visitors and fellow community members how vibrant and beautiful Stockton truly is. I love sharing local events, attractions, and restaurants with others and helping to shift their views of a city that really deserves so much more. We are a city made up of hard-working, passionate, and talented people – and the product of that work is definitely something we should be proud to share with others. I am proud to be a Wild Guide at Micke Grove Zoo where I help to teach visitors about the unique animals at our local zoo, promote the zoo’s exceptional educational programs, and assist with birthday parties and special events. I love Micke Grove Zoo!
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Hutchins Street Square Coordinator City of Lodi
andi Dumlao has worked for the City of Lodi at Hutchins Street Square for over
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nine years, starting out with facility rentals and then quickly moving into presenting her first concert in 2010. “I wanted to bring something to the Square that I felt was missing; something culturally different. I saw an opportunity to bring the first Hawaiian artists to the Square. I asked my then director if I could try it. I thought he was joking when he said sure, if I put my job on it! He wasn’t joking.” Cecilio and Kapono made a successful debut in Lodi at the Charlene Powers Lange Theatre on September 11, 2010. The Hawaiian pop duo’s music was something Mandi held dear to her heart as her husband dedicated their songs to her and introduced her to the Hawaiian culture. Mandi followed up the C & K show with John Cruz, Raiatea Helm and Cecilio and Kapono again in 2011. Whether it’s researching and selecting which shows to present, or working with promoters and community groups to bring concerts in, one thing remains true, Mandi feels it is vital to the future of Hutchins Street Square to be diverse and culturally aware, and is always looking for ways to connect with every audience member, community resident and future supporter of Hutchins Street Square.
A key event that had an impact on Mandi was working with Mr. Steve Jordan of Liberty High School and his students on bringing back Haunted Hutchins. Planning for the haunted house began as far back as August. The students that were involved were very hard-working and dedicated. It was amazing to see their talents come out through costume making, make-up, music and just working together. To start something from an idea and to see the pride in their faces after the successful completion of the final product was very fulfilling, and will be always be a proud moment for Mandi. Mandi’s greatest accomplishment is finishing her B.A. while working full-time and pregnant with her fourth child. Now working on her 25th show at Hutchins Street Square, Mandi hopes to continue working on her goal of a complete season full of diverse music, shows and events.
Lauren Marie Falk
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Customer Service Representative at Oak Valley Community Bank – Manteca Branch Manteca Chamber of Commerce Lead Ambassador Award Winner
y family moved from South Dakota in 1989. The only time I left was to attend Washington State
University and to take a job as a crew member on a 46-foot Island Trader sailboat for two and a half years. I returned to Stockton because of the people. I met inspiring people every place I’ve worked. I love my Oak Valley Community Bank family and my friends in the nonprofit world. I want to help Stockton to continue its rebound from the recession and bankruptcy, and live up to its name, the All-America City. Volunteerism is my passion in life. I am an ambassador for the Manteca Chamber of Commerce, and was recently named Lead Ambassador. My primary focus is to recruit members and ambassadors, organize chamber events, promote the chamber and lead mixers in local businesses. United Way, UW Community Councils in Stockton, Manteca and Lathrop, Second Harvest Food Bank, Lathrop Sunrise Rotary, Pacific Golf and Baseball are some organizations where I volunteer. Providing services for people who can’t afford to board their pets for vacations and non-medical services is my heart’s work.
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I am
Chris Ramirez
San Joaquin
Age: 36 Occupation: Affordable-housing developer How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: 2 years The people who mean the most to me: My daughter and my family. Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Yogurt My Way (sad to hear they closed), Valley Brew, Mile Wine, and the Breadfruit Tree. A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: The day my daughter was born was the day that I truly realized, it’s not about me. This little person was counting on me. It was humbling, exciting, and a bit daunting. The impact of that little girl has spread to other facets of my life and has opened my eyes to see how truly blessed I am to have the love and support of my family and friends. This event has also shown me time and time again how important family and friends can be. Their support reminds me how truly blessed I am. My bucket list includes: Skydiving, piloting a sailplane, brew beer, meet a U.S. President (past or present), write a book, learn to play guitar and sail around the world, visit all 50 states, attend a Super Bowl with the Chargers in it, World Series, and NBA Finals. What I’m reading now: Scientific Secrets for Raising Kids Who Thrive and Stephen King’s The Gunslinger (Full disclosure: they’re audio books; I’m in the car A LOT) Favorite vacation destination: What’s a vacation? Hobbies: Cooking, mountain biking, motorcycles Sports I enjoy: Soccer and football Favorite sports team: San Diego Chargers Favorite food/dessert: Seared ahi and Tiramisu… in different dishes
PHOTO BY cesar larios
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Randy E. Burns
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Fire Captain with the Waterloo-Morada Fire District
am a born and raised lifelong resident of the city
of Stockton. I am a graduate of Stagg High School (diploma) and San Joaquin Delta College (Associate of Arts – business). I enjoy living in Stockton because I have numerous family and friends here, and I am always meeting new people at various community events. They always say that 90% of having fun isn’t so much what you do, but who you do it with. I am very proud of our city. Our city has seen some difficult times and faced them head-on. I feel we are progressing every day to improve quality of life for all residents. This is a very exciting time to be a resident of Stockton. I also feel blessed to work as a firefighter for the community which I live in. I hold a stake in our community and am very much honored to serve here. Being a participant of Leadership Stockton Class of 2014-15, I learned a great deal about various community organizations, and have a deep understanding in the importance of giving back. As a member of the Knights of Columbus Presentation Council 10478, I spend a great deal of time volunteering for nonprofits within our community, from making food deliveries, serving at St. Mary’s dining hall to fundraising for scholarships. We are constantly giving back. Growing up a foster child, the greatest honor and privilege I have had to serve came recently when I was voted on to serve on the board of directors for the Mary Graham Children’s Foundation. I cannot begin to express how excited I am to serve an organization that hits so close to home for me. I believe we are obligated to instill hope and encouragement to our youth as they are the future of this community, and it starts with each and every one of us leading by example.
I
was born and raised in Lodi, and graduated
from Tokay High School in 1998. I was hired as a police officer by the City of Lodi in May 2003. I have had many assignments since I’ve been with Lodi PD. I was a K-9 officer, worked as a detective in both general investigations
Juan Carlos Fuentes
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Corporal Police Officer with the Lodi Police Department
and special investigations, am a member of the honor guard and SWAT team. I am currently assigned as a corporal on patrol where I am a field training officer.
I take pride in my hometown and community, and believe that I am giving back to my community by providing the citizens of Lodi with the best customer service that I can. I pride myself with being from Lodi, and want to help keep the citizens safe. As my new role as a corporal with our department i help train new officers that are hired with our department. I instill my pride in our community and work ethic into our new officers so they can continue to serve the citizens of our community with the same morals and principles that I have. I have a lot of family in friends that live in this city and county, and want them to have security and faith in our police departments and feel safe in our county. I love being from San Joaquin County and enjoying all it has to offer. I love spending time in Lodi’s downtown as well as Lincoln Center and the Miracle Mile in Stockton. I’m very passionate about music and would have to say that my favorite store in the area is Rasputin Records in Lincoln Center. In the summertime I love how our county has the Delta, where you can go cool off or you can even kayak down the Mokelumne River and into Lodi Lake. These are just a few of the reasons why I love our county.
Chris Kay Age: 31 Occupation: Director of Marketing, SMG How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: Most of my life, although I did spend time in Greece The people who mean the most to me: My wonderful, beautiful, and supportive wife, Kristen, and my mom, Cynthia, who has always set a great example for me. Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: Wine country! A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: Living in Greece gave me a chance to see how other cultures are and the desire to travel. My bucket list includes: Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain and seeing K2 in person. Favorite sports team: The unfortunately terrible Sacramento Kings. I’m a glutton for punishment. What I’m reading now: Anything that can help me decode how everyone is related in Game of Thrones Favorite vacation destination: The Homeland! Crete, Greece and Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Hobbies: Public address announcing! I work with Pacific Athletics and San Joaquin Delta College Sports I enjoy: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Pet: Lola, a 13-pound terrier mix. Someone threw her out of a car in downtown Stockton when she was four months old, but she’s a spoiled princess now. Favorite food/dessert: Ceviche I “give back” by volunteering with: Leadership Stockton and the Haggin Museum PHOTO BY ASHLEE BLACKARD
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y husband, Dustin, was born and raised in Stockton and our
children are fifth-generation Stocktonians. When we decided to start a family, we discussed our priorities and desires for the future and realized very quickly that we were ready to leave San Francisco and put our roots down in a place where we felt connected with family and friends, and where we could truly become part of a community. Stockton is a place where we feel invested, and it is important to us that we work to contribute to make it an even better place for our children. The people that make up our Stockton community are the most generous and genuine people I have had the pleasure of calling friends. We are truly blessed to be a part of such a dynamic and caring community.
Genesta Jackson
The Stockton community is extremely important to me. I have immersed
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Dean of Students/Instructor in Religion
myself in our parish at Annunciation Cathedral where our oldest son, Ronin, goes to school and our younger son, Cormac and daughter Brigid will attend
as well. We, as a family, participate in parish and school activities and make it a priority to help those who need it most. As Dean of Students at Saint Mary’s High School, I am a part of many fundraising events where I am constantly inspired by the motivation and dedication of our student body. They remind me on a daily basis how blessed we are to be a member of this community and how important it is to raise up those around us. I am proud to say that I am a member of the Stockton community. Being a part of the Saint Mary’s High School community has been one of the
can be a place of opportunity. While my dad was born in the Philippines and my mom in Nebraska, the Central Valley was a place for their families to obtain a strong education and join the middle class. I work in Stockton because I want to ensure that all of our young people have access to the same high quality education I received. I am proud to be one of many hometown kids who have moved back to contribute their skills to our city and who are working to reinvent Stockton. Outside of my role as a high-school teacher and coach, I work with Reinvent South Stockton to build our youth programs. Our Youth Council of high school and college students works to empower their peers and
Teacher and Community Organizer
aving been born and raised in Stockton, I know how this area
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most amazing blessings of my life. As we celebrate our 140th year I am humbled by the people who have come before me, and inspired by the future.
improve outcomes for young people in South Stockton. The Reinvent South Stockton Coalition is always looking for volunteers – people who can help us identify new ways to grow our schools and communities. Anyone interested in learning more information or joining one of our issues groups should visit reinventsouthstockton.org or send an email to reinventsouthstockton@gmail.com.
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Justin Belcher
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Realtor at Werner Properties PROFESSIONAL Model
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tockton has always held a special place in my heart, and I’m
I volunteer at The Table Community Foundation which is a nonprofit
excited to be back. I’m happy giving back to the community that has
organization started by my friend Tyronne Gross. It was created to impact
provided me with many special memories and opportunities during
our communities through positive changes in our youth. I especially look
my upbringing. I hope to follow in former Stocktonian of the Year, my
forward to the annual free football camp held at the end of June.
grandmother Mimi Eberhardt’s footsteps in serving and giving back to
The vast difference between the real estate and modeling world has
Stockton. I believe Stockton is a great place to call home, and I love that
kept life exciting and fresh. I enjoy dealing with people from all walks of
my job allows me to help more people do just that. Living here also gives
life, and both of these professions have provided that. I look forward to
me the freedom to continue working with my modeling agency based in SF.
sharing and learning from each person I work with.
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e’ve both grown up in Stockton and have seen the changes the city
has endured. We see potential in Stockton and want to be a part of the positive change the city is currently going through. The majority of our friends and family are here as well; this city is our support system and our home. As a new company we are working on ways to give back to our community. We want people to see that the people of Stockton have the potential to do great things. Port City Pomade recently participated in a local Stockton event called The Stockmarket which drew people to downtown Stockton. Events like that help bring the community together. We look forward to participating in more events in San Joaquin County. You can pick up Port City Pomade products at Cal-Pine on The Ave Barber Shop, or shop online at Etsy.com/shop/Portcitypomade and for future events visit our Facebook page Port City Pomade and our Instagram @Portcitypomade.
Jillian Barlich Steven Herder
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OWNERS AND CREATORS OF PORT CITY POMADE
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Nicole Bojorques
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make-up artist
tockton has roots, a foundation. My family is here and they have been my
inspiration to get involved and stay active in my community. We have resources here, and when utilized, those resources and programs benefit us all as a community. I have carefully chosen over the years which organizations to donate my time to: American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Hospice of San Joaquin and Saint Mary’s Interfaith Dining Room, to name a few. All are remarkable organizations, which have both directly and indirectly made a difference in my life as a child growing up in this community, and now as an adult raising my son here. Currently The First Tee of San Joaquin County has my heart. Working with this organization for the past 3 years has shown me what the power of positive role models and life skills can do for our community’s children. My son has been a participant in the program for 3 years and looks forward to every new tour he starts. Anthony Bojorques III is age 10 and will be starting fifth grade at Don Riggio School. Anthony is currently participating in TFTSJ and is in the par level 3 class at Swenson. My two stepchildren (twins – also 10 years old) are Michael and Mykeal Quedens.
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Izamar Rodriguez
Kathy Vang
Visual Merchandiser Supervisor
Visual Merchandiser
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Thuytien Nguyen
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Graduate of SJDC
Merchandiser; Graduate of SJDC
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anting to pursue a career in fashion, Kathy Vang, Thuytien Nguyen, Izamar Rodriguez, and Alyssa Gibson all chose to major in both fashion
merchandising and apparel design at San Joaquin Delta College. Uncovering that the fashion program there was one of the greatest gemstone finds; they were exposed to many different philanthropic works that gave them a chance to give back to the local community. With SJDC fashion program director Leslie Asfour they have helped raised donations towards breast cancer through Lee Denim Day, walked and raised monetary funds to support the March of Dimes, promoted the importance of “going green” by designing eco/recyclable fashion designs, raised heart disease awareness through the American Heart Association by designing symbolic red gowns, and participated many times in producing other events that brought the community together. Now graduated from the fashion program with both degrees each, the students are continuing to further their education into pursuing their next degrees. With their own unique design aesthetic, Kathy’s feminine style infused into textured and detailed designs, Thuytien’s ready-to-wear approach, Izamar’s evening-wear aesthetic, and Alyssa’s dark era-inspired designs, the four have already designed multiple runway collections in multiple fashion shows. They wish to influence the continuation of artwork through their fashion designs. With the experience they have gained, they hope to inspire others in the community that not only should you create and live out your own dreams, you can also inspire dreams into realities for anyone through your own profession.
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y wife and I relocated to
Stockton from midtown Sacramento in order to decrease my commute. After two years of living here, we have found that we really enjoy living in Stockton because we found a very good, supportive network through work, school, and church. In addition, I work to improve South Stockton, and I do this work because I really believe in the residents. There is so much resiliency, strength, and potential in this community that it has led me to be very passionate about this community. We’re proud Stockton residents and choose to live here. As a social worker, I am very fortunate that my professional and my volunteer worlds are the same. I spend my time working and volunteering to reinvent the South Stockton community in partnership with Councilmember Michael Tubbs, numerous organizations, government entities, residents, and hundreds of volunteers. Collectively we can succeed. A community is built by people – people like Pastor Amelia Adams, Councilmember Michael Tubbs, and countless volunteers who have taken the initiative to stay or return to work and improve South Stockton have given me a love and passion for this community. That’s why I feel at home here.
Gabriel DeAnda
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OWNER, PURE PANTRY & PURE NUTRITION
I
have 3 jobs currently. I am a major accounts district sales manager with ADP. I also
own 2 businesses in Stockton: PURE Pantry (meal prep business) and PURE Nutrition (nutrition club). I was the third generation in my family to be born and raised in Stockton. I grew up here, went to Delta, went to UOP, worked here all through high school and college, and started two businesses here. I recently got married and bought a house in Lodi to be close to my work and businesses. Although I have had opportunities to move elsewhere, I have always loved having a lot of friends, family, and a strong connection to my community. This is home and I plan on staying here for a while! I am very involved with Horizon Community Church in Lodi at the One-Eighty Teen Center. I lead worship and have volunteered with this church for over 9 years. I have also
done homeless outreach, youth events, and senior living community visits in Stockton, Lodi, and surrounding areas. Where you are from has nothing to do with who you can become in life. It’s all about the path you choose and the people you surround yourself with. My goal is to always work hard and have integrity in everything I do. Success will come if God allows it.
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DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC
n the San Joaquin Valley, the number of health care uninsured and underserved is staggering,
which is one of many reasons why Dr. Jesus Cazares has made it his mission to provide the best chiropractic care. Growing up in Stockton where his family settled after moving from La Piedad Michoacán, Mexico, Dr. Cazares understands firsthand the importance of living a healthy lifestyle as his mother passed away at a very young age due to cancer. Dr. Cazares, who now practices at Premier Chiropractic in Stockton, has dedicated his career to educating patients on the benefits of chiropractic care and overall health. He has strong roots in the community. As a member of the San Joaquin Hispanic Chamber, he is determined to help those in need. His passion is to improve his patient’s quality of life, to optimize their level of functioning, and to personalize treatment to help his patients get well and stay well. Dr. Cazares, now a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician, says he “feels honored to be able to volunteer, travel and help countless of patients throughout the world with his mind, heart and hands.” He is currently the sports chiropractor for the Stockton Thunder professional hockey team, and has donated his time and expertise in numerous community events including the St. Mary’s clinic. He has traveled to El Salvador to treat the community of San Salvador, and was part of the medical crew in the Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico in 2014. Chiropractic care not only helps with common conditions such as headaches, neck and low back pain, but extends to general health issues, as well, since our body structure affects our overall function. Dr. Cazares says, “It’s about giving back to those in need so people can have a fighting chance at optimal health.”
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Practice Administrator for Valley Oak Dental Group
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STORY AND PHOTO by STEPHANIE FORBUS
or Maya Reft, Stockton hasn’t always been home. Maya was born and raised
in Uzbekistan. She moved to Stockton in 1999 as an exchange student. It was in high school that Maya met her future husband, Shaun. After graduating from Bear Creek High School, she continued her education at University of the Pacific, where she earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration. After graduating Maya decided to make Stockton her permanent home. Maya and Shaun love raising their daughter, Isabella, here in this tight-knit community. Cathedral of the Annunciation plays a special role in this young family's life. Maya says, “Being involved and giving back to our community through our church is extremely important to my family and I.” Not only do they attend church and volunteer at Annunciation, but Maya and her husband were married there, their daughter was baptized in the church, and it is also where she attends elementary school. Maya is the practice administrator for Valley Oak Dental Group in Manteca.
Through Valley Oak Dental Group, Maya loves volunteering at community events such as the Great Valley Bookfest and the Pumpkin Fair. They love taking their daughter to some of the many family-friendly events our community has to offer, especially the Asparagus Festival.
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Mimi Tran Age: 32 Occupation: Speech-language pathologist (SLP) in the home health setting. Also clinical supervisor for graduate students at UOP. How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: All my life! Lincoln High School and University of the Pacific, B.S. and M.S. The people who mean the most to me: My family and close friends. My parents are from Vietnam. They left their homeland during the war and sacrificed so much to flee to the U.S. and build a new life. Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: I like to stroll down Miracle Mile and support small businesses. I also like to go winetasting and explore the various vineyards in Lodi and Acampo. A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: In the 10 years that I have been practicing, I feel that I have learned just as much from my patients as they have learned from me. I have learned to not be discouraged when there seems to be little hope left. I have learned to not take things personally, as people have their own secret battles. Lastly, I have learned to trust my instincts. My bucket list includes: More international travel and running a full marathon. What I’m reading now: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand Favorite vacation destination: Oahu, Hawaii. Hobbies: I love to travel! I have been to Japan, New York, Orlando, Hawaii, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Pennsylvania in the last 2 to 3 years. I also enjoy running and participating in local 5Ks. I have also completed Disney run events at Disney World in Orlando and completed my first half marathon last November in Disneyland. I also like to read and oil paint in my spare time. Pet: Maia, 6-year-old French Mastiff and Cheeze, 13-year-old Corgi. Favorite food/dessert: Ice cream cake from Baskin Robbins! I “give back” by volunteering with: I give back to the UOP SLP Alumni Association, as it benefits endowed scholarships and alumni events. I feel that it is my duty to support the future of speech-language pathologists at Pacific. I know that if I had not received financial assistance during my years at UOP, I would not be where I am today. I am forever grateful to be a part of the Pacific family. PHOTO BY ELIZABETH ESAU
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s an adult, I’ve lived all over California and traveled to other countries, but something
Matt Young
always keeps me coming back to Stockton. I grew up here, so I guess I have a deep connection
owner and audio engineer, The Press Recording Studio
market is affordable, there’s no traffic, and I have lifelong friendships, among other reasons.
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with this city. I also choose to live here because it’s a great place to run a business, the housing I give back to my community by being a mentor to aspiring audio engineers and sharing my knowledge of recording techniques, studio business, and personal experiences. The San Joaquin Valley is saturated with talented musicians and I’m passionate about giving these artists high-quality audio recording without them having to leave the area. That’s why I moved my studio (The Press Recording Studio) here. This is a full-time job for me and I work with artists all over the world, but what I enjoy most is helping LOCAL artists take their music to the next level.
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Miguel Francisco Guillen
25
I
Web Content Coordinator and Social Media Manager
am fortunate to have been born and raised in Stockton, California. I like to call Stockton a
“Little Big City.” When I think of Stockton I see a city with so much potential. The job market plays a vital role in determining where you will live and Stockton’s geographical location makes it a prime area to live, work, and play. To live between the Bay Area and Sacramento Valley, the city provides easy access to an abundance of opportunities within the fast-developing technological computer and high-tech agricultural industries. With the help of the community, I help provide information to fellow Stocktonians that there is always something to do every day of the year! Stockton is unique in that its residents come from a culturally diverse background. It has always been a place filled with great dining, music, art, family fun and entertainment for all age groups to enjoy. All I have done is enhance the perception of Stockton by the use of social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Tumlbr, Facebook, Snapchat, and Vine with the hopes of creating a community spirit that would venture out and uncover new places to eat and explore. As the curator of the @StocktonCA Instagram account, I aspire to encourage the community to come out and explore this beautiful city. There is so much to do! Find out for yourself and discover firsthand all the wonderful events that are happening in our city.
Shane Williamson
31
I
videographer/associate producer/film editor
chose to work and live in Stockton/San Joaquin because I love the area and believe there is
a ton of talent here. I was given the opportunity at the San Joaquin County Office of Education directly out of high school to gain access to equipment I never or couldn’t afford. This opened up tons of opportunities for me, and ever since then I wanted to make sure local youth had the same opportunities. Teaching and mentoring local youth is very important because they are our future, and we want them to come back to make films here in San Joaquin. I give back to my community through the youth. Every project that I’ve worked on throughout my career I’ve given opportunities for youth to work on every facet of production. I also work on their projects and coach them up. I believe empowering the youth and encouraging them to succeed at whatever they want to accomplish is so important. One of my overall goals is to make and bring films here to San Joaquin County. This process was ramped up last summer when we filmed an entire feature film in San Joaquin County. While key crew members and talent came up from Los Angeles, youth were placed in production roles to help make the film successful. The feature film is in production and will be released this coming year.
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Dylan O’Byrne Student/Musician
D
ylan Nicole O’Byrne, known by her stage name Dyli, is an American pop artist and songwriter.
Born in Stockton, she became interested in performing music after she received her first guitar at the age of six. Dylan began performing at a young age in various talent shows and open mic venues throughout San Joaquin County. Influenced by such artists as the Dirty Heads, Meghan Trainor and Imagine Dragons, Dyli’s music predominately consists of the sub genres of pop, rock and reggae. In the summer of 2014, Dylan was introduced to BMG songwriter Josiah Rosen of the Sony Records group Augustana. Together they write lyrics that reflect her love of life and all things California. Music producer and composer Ruwanga Samath, who has produced Kesha, Meghan Trainor and the soundtracks for Fast Five and Ted, makes life a perpetual vacation by brilliantly bringing her songs to life with a Southern Cali/Reggae sound. Born and raised in the sunshine of the West Coast, Dylan is a true California girl and is infatuated by the SoCal way of life. Whether riding her skateboard or spending time at the beach, Dyli truly embraces the Golden State lifestyle. Her new singles, “We In Cali” and "Gold Coast" are a tribute to everything she loves about California. In addition to her love of music, Dylan has developed an interest in learning sign language and helping the hearing impaired children of disadvantaged families. Recently, she has had the opportunity to volunteer some time with a friend who teaches in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing preschool program at Montezuma Elementary School in Stockton. Dyli is currently working closely with her to help develop a fundraising organization that will benefit the children in need.
I
Riley Jane Richmond Student/Musician
love living in San Joaquin County. My parents grew up here, we have lots of family
nearby, and I was born here. In August, I will be a freshman at Bear Creek High School. I feel so lucky to live in a community that has supported me and given me opportunities to perform at my age. A couple of my favorite events have been the Lincoln Center Wine Stroll and recently at Hutchins Street Square during the Amgen Tour. I also love singing the national anthem at local sporting events like the Stockton Ports or at the University of Pacific basketball or baseball games. I feel so thankful for my family and friends who are always there to cheer me on! I am definitely blessed. I give back to my community through donating my time and talents to causes I care about. I love to sing at my church, Lincoln Presbyterian and am looking forward to performing at the American Cancer Society Gala in August. Last March, I went on my first mission trip with the LPC Youth Group to San Francisco and Oakland, where we learned more about the problem of homelessness, helped in a couple of food banks and played with the kids at a daycare. It was an awesome and eye-opening experience! I have always loved to swim. I swim year-round for Bear Creek Aquatics and during summer for the Spanos Park West Wahoos. I am looking forward to swimming and playing water polo in high school. In addition to playing music and spending time in the pool, I absolutely love to shop! One of my favorite stores is Zuesters in Lincoln Center.
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Ian Bender
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Director of Marketing and Design at Peltier Winery & Vineyards
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PHOTO BY dario levEntini
orn and raised in the Lodi/San Joaquin County area, my bride and I moved to
the Bay Area in our mid 20s, where I became the worship & creative arts pastor of a local church. When Amanda and I found out we were expecting our first child, we both felt a very strong call home to our families because there is no better place to raise a family and plant roots than in the beautiful city of Lodi. Now I have the joy of working for a local winery that prides itself on exceptional wine and farming sustainably for future generations. My wife and I support our community through our local church and random acts of kindness. Community starts in our homes, and with that we strive to open our home as much as we can to share, help and love our neighbors. I believe we can change this world by putting other people’s needs before our own, one person at a time. When we think more highly of others than we do ourselves, a heart is transformed, and where a heart is transformed, it is filled with compassion. This is when a community thrives. ď Ž
Rodrigo Villagomez
39
Master Of Ceremonies/On-Air Radio Talent
F
amily has always been the number-one driving force in my life. Having spent
the first 10 years of my adult life in the Army bouncing around, I started to miss my hometown and the ones I left behind. I moved back to Stockton to start my own family and to be close to my dad, brother, sister, grandparents and the many, many uncles, aunts and cousins that live in the area. My years away from California helped me to appreciate what the Valley has to offer and how good we truly have it here. For the last several years, I have been involved with amazing nonprofit events as the master of ceremonies. These include StocktonCon, Stockton Earth Day Festival, and the Child Abuse Prevention Council Duck Derby. In 2009, I was selected to be the broadcast partner for the World Series of Beep Baseball. I very much believe that Stockton is a great place to live and play. As co-host of Podcast Stockton, I have seen much of what the city has to offer and love to help people see it the same way I do. ď Ž
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Dan Natividad
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hen we were kids, the phrase “Stockton’s Great! Take a Look” was a source of civic pride. It used to be painted on a huge water tank off
of I-5 for the whole world to see. Unfortunately somewhere along the way the community stripped the phrase of its original intentions and replaced with it with ironic humor. The words that were once a rallying cry for our hometown had become a punchline: “City goes into bankruptcy? Stockton’s great, take a look.” That’s the reason why we started the 209 Take A Look project; a project that highlights the interesting people and hidden gems that make this region great. We want to reclaim the phrase, “Stockton’s Great! Take A Look.” We want to restore every last drop of civic pride back into that phrase. Our hope is that our 209 Take A Look stories will inspire people to seek out greatness in our region and to challenge the naysayers. Our hope is that slowly but surely our community can say, with no tinge of irony, that “Stockton is Great, Take a Look.” 209 Take A Look is a collaboration between local director Andrew Blankenship and the partners at Port City Marketing: Erin Diego, 35, Kristen Dyke, 33, and Dan Natividad. Andrew, Erin, and Dan are lifelong Stocktonians who attended high school at Stagg, Lincoln, and St. Mary’s respectively. Kristen and Dan also graduated from University of the Pacific. An accomplished local director, Andrew’s films have won awards at the Sacramento Film and Music Fest and the Sacramento International Film Festival. His work has also been screened at the Sacramento Horror Festival. He has also had the opportunity to work for brands like Visit California, TBS, Hanes and Budweiser. Prior to joining Port City Marketing, Dan was Blue Shield of California’s director of strategy, integrated marketing, and client experience, where he was responsible for driving marketing strategy and overseeing campaign implementation. He has over 13 years of experience implementing strategic marketing plans for organizations in the energy, healthcare, construction, and pharmaceutical industries.
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Lynell Hamilton29
CEO, Fast Play Athletics
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ynell Maurice Hamilton was born and raised on the south side of
Despite a college career plagued with injuries – five surgeries on his
Stockton. He is the youngest of three children born to Leo Sr. and Veronica
legs to be exact – determination, discipline and a will to succeed earned
Hamilton. Despite growing up in a community that would appear more
him his ticket to what NFL players refer to as “The Show” – a shot at the
eager to expect failures than support successes, Lynell was remarkably
next level and a chance to become a professional at the game he loved to
able to do just that. With constant encouragement from parents who
play. Lynell was signed by the New Orleans Saints as a free agent in 2008,
promoted a “never say ‘I Can’t’” work ethic, a solid family support system
and in 2009 he played an active role in the running back corps. Lynell
and an unwavering faith in God, Lynell grew up believing he could.
scored the first touchdown to launch the New Orleans Saints’ post season
And so… he did.
en route to the Saints’ Super Bowl championship win.
From the young age of 9, Lynell developed a passion for football
Following the 2010 Super Bowl win, Hamilton became a first-time
that his father nurtured. His parents believed it would be football that
father, and lists that as one of his greatest accomplishments. It was the
served as the distraction needed to keep him off the streets and out of
idea of becoming a father that inspired what would later become the
trouble. Lynell would eventually become one of the top prospects ever to
Hamilton’s Heart Foundation.
come out of his hometown, but his parents also assured him that without
Retiring because of injury in 2011, he returned to Montezuma Mesa
an education, his successes in life and in football would be short-lived.
as an assistant coach all while continuing his education earning a master's
Lynell had a remarkable high-school career and was listed by almost
in post-secondary education from San Diego State University in 2014.
every recruiting service as one of the nation’s top 15 running backs. He
Shortly after graduating Lynell took an intern coaching position
graduated from Edison High School in 2003 with honors and more than
with the Oakland Raiders. It was during this time that he and a former
58 scholarship offers, which included some of the nation’s top universities
teammate, Brett Swain, would create a nationwide forum for current
and multiple Ivy League colleges.
and former professional athletes to present themselves as coaches,
In 2003 he signed a letter of intent to play football for San Diego
emphasizing their expertise at specific positions, and Fast Play Athletics
State University, where he would go on to start at running back as a
was born. The company and its website are designed to connect agents,
freshman for the Aztecs, earning three Doak Walker Award nominations
speed companies, athletes and their parents with position-specific
(top collegiate running back), Mountain West Conference freshman of the
coaches whose on-the-field expertise adds extra depth to their experience
year and just the second player in league history named first-team all-
and understanding of the preparation needed for success. The Fast Play
conference as a freshman… He was also the only offensive player in the
Athletics website currently hosts over 100 current and former professional
country to make first-team all-league as a frosh in 2003.
athletes.
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Christine Zador
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President and CEO of San Joaquin Rifle & Pistol Range Christine@LindenGunRange.com
I
live and work in Linden because this
is where my family settled when they emigrated from Europe. My father was an Olympic champion water polo player for Hungary, famous for the historic “blood in the water” match when their team defeated the Soviets in 1956 during the time of the Hungarian Revolution. My father, Ervin Zádor, founded the San Joaquin Rifle and Pistol Range in 1979 after purchasing this property from the County of San Joaquin. He made this his home, his business, and even his school to teach swimming to budding athletes, including Olympic champion Mark Spitz. I give back to the community by carrying on my father’s legacy. He passed away in 2012, followed soon after by my mother and I continue to operate and develop the range today. I coach water polo and make donations through my corporation. There is a community garden I would like to get involved with. Recently all my focus has gone to a big fundraising event we have coming up on June 7 – Our Equal Access Project. The money raised will go to fund numerous construction projects that will benefit those with disabilities by providing safe paths of travel, parking stalls, upgrading the plumbed bathrooms, and improving the range as a whole. I also have plans in the works to offer free youth instruction on the range and some parental gun awareness courses. Our facility is a familyfriendly place where you can exercise your Second Amendment freedom!
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Tim Pasisz
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Visit Stockton Director of Sports & Tourism Development
S
tockton is one of the best cities for sports in the state. There are not many places
you can see a minor-league baseball game, minor-league hockey game or division 1 NCAA sporting event all within a couple blocks of each other. This, combined with the Delta and wide variety of things to do outdoors, is what brought me here and what keeps me here. Being a sports guy, much of my life revolves around events and activities. Growing up, I always was involved in youth sports, and do what I can now to give back to the leagues and events in town. Other than that, I have also volunteered for the Emergency Food Bank and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. ď Ž
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OWNER, ALL STAR SPORTS/CLUB ALL STAR OPERATOR, BILLY HEBERT FIELD
JD Hardcastle39
by John McClimans PHOTO BY CESAR LARIOS
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hat started as a way
to make some money during the off-season as a minor-league baseball player has transformed into an opportunity for JD Hardcastle to help train the baseball stars of tomorrow. Hardcastle, owner of All Star Sports, first offered training lessons during the five years he played in the minors for the Chicago Cubs organization. “It’s tough to find a job in the off-season – no one wants to hire someone for just a couple of months,” said Hardcastle. “So I started teaching kids how to hit and pitch. I kind of just fell into what I’m doing now.” Once he finished playing professional baseball, he and his wife, Danielle, who met as students at University of the Pacific, found themselves back in Stockton.
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When the opportunity came to buy some batting cages on Lower
After winning the bid to take over operation and maintenance of
Sacramento Road in 2003, Hardcastle decided to take a chance. Since
the field from the City of Stockton in 2011, Hardcastle transformed
then, he’s grown All Star Sports from a few batting cages into a suite
the run-down field into a modern facility. In 2013, the infield was
of training programs. From one-on-one instruction to competitive
renovated and artificial turf was installed, making it easier to host
traveling teams, Hardcastle has made a name for himself in the Central
baseball and softball games for all ages.
Valley. “This year we had five of our guys drafted during the MLB draft,” said Hardcastle.
Since then, Hardcastle and his team have hosted Friday Night Lights – a program allowing every little league in town the chance to play games for free at the ballpark.
Two of those players were Brett and Tyler Sullivan, brothers who
“No one normally gets to play in this cool of an atmosphere
played for University of the Pacific. Over the past 15 years, 20 of his
at that young of an age. We really try to give the kids a big-league
players have been drafted by MLB teams and over 100 kids have
experience,” said Hardcastle. “We announce their names, play walk-up
moved on to the college level.
music and make them feel special. We get to see them excited about
In addition to helping kids improve their game, Hardcastle has
the game of baseball.”
helped provide the opportunity for the Stockton community to “play
That excitement is one of the reasons Hardcastle keeps going.
ball” at its most historic ballpark.
“I love the game of baseball and I love teaching the game of
Built in 1953 in Oak Park, Billy Hebert Field hosted some of
baseball. I truly believe that if these guys work hard, they’ll have the
baseball’s greats, including Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. It was also
opportunity to be like the guys who’ve been drafted,” Hardcastle said.
home to the Stockton Ports and Pacific Tigers. But once the Ports and
“If it’s somebody’s dream to go to the next level, we want to help them
Tigers built stadiums of their own, the field became neglected.
achieve that. We want to help them maximize their abilities.”
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PHOTO BY KELSEY McNICKLE
grew up in Stockton and ended up back here by chance – the
economic crash conveniently coincided with my graduation from UC San Diego. I had sworn I’d never move back, so after a slice of humble pie and having made a life here for several years now, I’m grateful that things happened the way they did. One of the advantages to living in Stockton is that if you have the right mix of determination and patience (or in my case, stubbornness) there is a great opportunity to effect positive change in the community. Through my work at the San Joaquin Council of Governments in the Commute Connection program, I’ve become involved with the San Joaquin Bike Coalition and it’s been incredibly rewarding. Something so simple as choosing how we get around town can make a big impact, and SJBC exists to help make those choices easier and safer for all. But mostly, we just want people to come “play bikes” with us!
Kari McNickle
28
Program Specialist
Aaron & Anna Sass
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8TH-GRADE TEACHER
32
MARKETING MANAGER
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e decided to move back
to San Joaquin County after finishing school at CSU Monterey Bay. We knew that it would be the perfect place to start our careers and raise a family. After visiting Vinewood Community Church in Lodi, we felt God was leading us toward Vinewood’s Youth Ministries. We quickly got on board, and are now helping lead our high-school kids. On Tuesday nights, we play games and lead lessons. While we have put a lot of time into the lives of our students, it has become very clear that God was using these kids to further our walk with Him. Eight years later, Tuesday nights are just as much fun as they have always been. We continue to enjoy being a part of our students’ lives past high school and
We are
San Joaquin
college. It is important to us that our children, Caden, 5, and Leah, 2, know what it means to serve. We encourage them to come with us whether we are raising money for the Lodi Cancer Kids, helping Dad with school dances at Morada Middle School or donating toys. There are so many wonderful organizations in our community who need support and we would like to challenge everyone to give back to
PHOTO BY JANDA PALMER
San Joaquin County and help us create a community that our children can be proud of.
Ponnie Jackson
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S
Chief Executive Officer
tockton has been home to me for the past 30 years. I attended grade school, middle school, high school and college in Stockton. I graduated
from the University of the Pacific. After graduation, I was able to gain employment at the UOP Psychology Department. With the experience and knowledge that I gained, my late husband and I established our own business. For about 10 plus years now, I continue to provide resources, services, support and training for children and adults with special needs. My late husband and I have 3 active children. Bobby (age 14) plays basketball and baseball at St. Mary’s High School. He also plays year-round travel baseball. Hopey (age 12) is active in travel volleyball and plays in her school band. Jamison (age 8) is active in gymnastics, volleyball and music. In the interest of our children, we believe the Central Valley provides a positive atmosphere, diversity, culture and community for raising our children. Our children are 4th-generation Stocktonians. Mahatma Gandhi states, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” I have always been involved in giving back to the community from an early age. However, the value and importance of volunteerism became more prominent in my life within the last 4 years. My life and my children’s lives changed in a blink of an eye. With that experience, we have learned to be humble and grateful for the life we live. Some of my passions that I am actively involved in are March of Dimes Signature Chefs, University of the Pacific Orange and Black Ball, Jackson 3 Foundation and University of the Pacific/Iota Gamma Alpha Phi Red Dress Gala.
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Corinne Seaton
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Director of Adult Programs and Services, United Cerebral Palsy of San Joaquin, Calaveras, and Amador Counties
I
PHOTO BY CESAR LARIOS
moved to San Joaquin County from the Bay Area in order to pursue a master’s degree
in vocational rehabilitation counseling at California State University, Sacramento. After graduating, I began my career of working with people with disabilities at United Cerebral Palsy of San Joaquin, Calaveras, and Amador Counties. I am passionate about serving people with disabilities and supporting them as they pursue their academic, employment, and life goals. As the director of adult programs and services, I oversee five adult day programs and our respite, supported living, and supported employment services. I volunteer with the Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Joaquin County during their fundraising events, which supports programs to improve the protection and safety of children. I also volunteer at United Cerebral Palsy fundraisers to ensure children and adults with disabilities have the opportunity to live “Life Without Limits!” I am truly blessed to work at United Cerebral Palsy, which is committed to the mission of people with disabilities having the opportunity to live a “Life Without Limits.” I embrace that mission by enjoying activities, including skydiving, working out with my boyfriend, and travelling to New Zealand and Fiji.
~ CELEBRATING ~
YEARS 2015 IN
Favorite Works MUSIC
Through November
Opening Reception
FOOD
Wednesday, October 7th • 4:00 ~ 7:00 pm at
Cece’s Art Studio 2324 Grand Canal Boulevard #10 • Stockton
cecesartstudio.com • (209) 951-4130
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Meredith Baker
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Development Director, Community Partnership for Families of San Joaquin
I
am a 7th-generation San Joaquin County
girl who is both proud and honored to continue serving this beautiful city of Stockton as my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents have done before me. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities that Community Partnership has bestowed upon me for the past four years. Robina Asghar, my executive director, is my mentor, an inspiring leader and has truly become a friend and confidant. It is the youth; the children and families that we serve that inspire me and drive me daily. They keep me humble and dedicated. I as see our youth conquering their past and finding their own inner drive and ambition, I am reminded every day that life is precious and that it is only that “fire in the belly”– as my dad would say – that allows us to achieve our dreams. The absolute best part of working with our youth and families in San Joaquin County is having the opportunity to participate with them in community events. One of the most powerful events I attended was a dialogue between a group of young individuals on probation and our district attorney, Tori Verber Salazar. Witnessing
My job is not always easy, it is not always
at CPFSJ, my family, my ever-supportive, ever-
youth express with poise their opinions, their
fun, and sometimes it gets downright hard.
patient, always loving husband and my two
fears, their dreams, and their hopes for Stockton
I would not have the strength to fulfill my
sweet princesses that keep me laughing daily.
to our DA was extraordinarily powerful.
dreams if it were not for our incredible team
But most importantly I have GOD on my side!
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Uyen Do
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Development Officer Gospel Center Rescue Mission
I
C H A R I T Y
chose to live and work in Stockton/San Joaquin while a student at University of
the Pacific, where I made lifelong friends through InterVarsity Christian Fellowship (now Pacific Christian Fellowship). Upon graduation, the fellowship’s staff members challenged my friends and me to stay in Stockton to help make a difference in the city. So we moved into a home in downtown Stockton and began tutoring neighborhood kids and getting to know their parents. I eventually fell in love with the people and places of Stockton. Stockton has such rich cultural diversity and a loving church community! I have had the privilege of volunteering with local nonprofits, including Gospel Center Rescue Mission (where I also work as Development Officer, helping homeless men, women and children), Peniel Mission (with kids of south Stockton), San Joaquin Justice Coalition (with sex-trafficking victims) and at REACH Worship Center (teaching kids). The best part about being in Stockton is seeing the smiling faces of the homeless men, women and children at the Mission every day and knowing that we are providing the services needed to help them to become sober and independent. ď Ž
Frances Richardson34
Cortopassi Foundation
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STORY BY RACHEL TELANDER PHOTO BY ASHLEE BLACKARD
orn and raised in Stockton to a loving Catholic family, Frances
grew up learning the value of education, creativity, hard work, and compassion from both her parents. These values shaped her and fueled her drive, and she used them to build a life that gives to others as well as herself. Through her job at the Cortopassi Family Foundation as a scholarship manager and through her numerous volunteer positions, she submerges herself in the life of the county and is one of the people that gives San Joaquin its heartbeat. When she graduated from University of the Pacific, Frances knew she wanted to commit herself to causes that would both ignite her passion and utilize the skills she had learned throughout her life, both in her job and in the rest of her time. Her job at the Cortopassi Family
for youth inside and outside of the womb, and WWIP has partnered with
Foundation led her to look into the Child Abuse Prevention Council for
different programs that pursue this same goal. They have fundraised for
San Joaquin. There, she realized she had found the perfect fit in CASA:
foster youth through several of these programs, including Case 4 Kids and
Court Appointed Special Advocate. Frances explains, “As a national
the Pajama Program. Their last large fundraiser was a princess tea party,
court-appointed special advocate for children, I am a strong advocate for
which involved foster kids, and gave them an event that included them,
the best interests of abused and neglected children in courtrooms and
as well as benefitted them. Their next scheduled event is a fun run at Lodi
communities empowered directly by the courts… to ensure that each
Lake, with a superhero theme, through CASA on October 15, and she is
child’s rights and needs are being met while in the foster care system.”
looking forward to participating in it with WWIP.
By becoming a CASA, she was able to combine her compassion for youth with her passion for justice and education.
Through her multiple volunteer involvements and her job, Frances is a voice for those who need to be heard, dedicating her time and energy to
Frances is also the Director of Operations and Vice President of
insuring that their needs are met, whether in the court or in the classroom,
Women Walking In Purpose (WWIP), which is closely associated with the
and making the world a sweeter place for those who have experienced
Child Abuse Prevention Council and with CASA. Her goal is to be a voice
its bitterness.
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Brandie Owusu-Spencer
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Education Consultant Owusu-Spencer Consulting
I
am an advocate for education, young people, community involvement, scholarship,
and leadership. I am the founder and executive director of Empowering Young Voices, Inc (EYV). EYV teaches life skills and leadership training to low-income, at-risk youth through the usage of workshops, lectures, performing arts, social media, and events. I am a graduate of the University of the Pacific, where I received my bachelor's degree in sociology and ethnic studies and was selected to deliver the prestigious Pacific commencement speech, making me the first African American student in Pacific's history to deliver a commencement speech. I am currently the "acting" president of the African American Chamber of Commerce of San Joaquin and the director of Owusu-Spencer Consulting, an education and event planning consulting group. I chose to live and work in Stockton primarily because my parents moved my older brother and I here in 1997 – while I was still in middle school. Since then, I attended high school, junior college, and college here. I felt it would be advantageous to further my professional career here and further cultivate the relationships I developed while growing up. Moreover, I wanted to give back to the community that has given me so much! =) I give back to my community primarily through the workshops, youth-focused events, graphic design work, and DJ services I donate to the organizations, businesses, and schools I work with, including; The Impact Teen Center, Stockton Black Family Day, NAACP Stockton Youth and College Division, Inner City Theater, Franklin High School, San Joaquin Delta College, University of the Pacific, San Joaquin Elementary, and more.
I
Katie Drebert
31
American Cancer Society
was born and raised in Stockton but went to college in San Diego. After six
years of living in San Diego, I was starting to miss home (hard to believe when living in San Diego, right?) My roots were embedded in San Joaquin County, as I often found myself wanting to return to be surrounded by family and lifelong friends. I love the sense of community we have here San Joaquin County, which makes our big city seem small. I’m fortunate enough as a former American Cancer Society volunteer to now work for the local organization and oversee our annual Moonlight Gala. I’m grateful to have a career that enables me to support and empower cancer patients throughout their cancer journey. I also volunteer with other local organizations to support and learn about their efforts to better connect our community. I encourage everyone in our community to get involved. There are plenty of opportunities to give back, whether it be celebrating our breast cancer survivors at our Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in October, or giving up an hour of your day to drive a patient to their lifesaving treatment.
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Tim and Judi Hachman
Alexandra (Allie) Hunefeld
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UOP student
llie Hunefeld is an amazing volunteer! She has committed more an 300 hours
to Shriners Children’s Hospital, Painted Turtle Camp – a medical camp founded by the late Paul Newman for children with health conditions – and Delta Gamma sorority, whose philanthropy is children with visual impairments. Allie is a senior at the University of the Pacific, majoring in psychology. Her aspiration is to be a child life specialist – a pediatric health care professional who works with children and families in hospitals to help them cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and disability. Named the 2015 Volunteer of the Year by Delta Gamma at UOP, next year she will continue her passion for volunteerism at the Dameron Hospital Young Scrubs program – a behind-the-scenes hospital tour. Young Scrubs is an educational program for community children with a focus on healthcare careers.
Anthony Nguyen Age: 17 Occupation: Student How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: Since birth; 17 years. Why I choose to live in San Joaquin County: I am a Northern California boy, born and raised. The support from this community holds a prominent impact on why I was able to grow into the man I am today. The people who mean the most to me: My parents – for all the love and support they give me, for the values of responsibility, work ethic, initiative, honesty, and perseverance they have instilled in me, and for all of the sacrifices they have made in order to give me a better opportunity and education here in America. My teachers – for being such prominent aspects in my academic career, helping me build confidence, and teaching me to always strive for excellence. My favorite place to go in SJ County: The University of the Pacific in Stockton. This college has given me some of the best memories as the host of multiple Jon Schamber Speech and Debate Invitationals, where I have been blessed to be crowned as the 2014 Varsity Original Prose and Poetry champion to honor my hard work and accomplishments in speech and debate. This beautiful campus was also the host of multiple MESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement) and Science Olympiad competitions that I have loved attending and has held some of the best memories I remember to this date. Hobbies and interests: Speech and debate team captain, vice president for the Pacific Outreach for Youth Services and Education, Key Club International student volunteer, American Red Cross student volunteer, HeadStart (preschool program) student volunteer, Taiko drummer, Polynesian (Tahitian/Haka) dancer, Vietnamese (Lion/ Traditional) dancer, Lion Dance choreographer, Swing Club dancer, Japanese Chinese Korean Club traditional dancer, National Honors Society, California Scholarship Federation, MESA – Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement, Creative Writing Club and Chua Nghiem Buddhist Association Temple attendee and volunteer
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How I “give back” to my community: I know what type of person I am – one that aspires to give back to his community whenever he can. Even as a student, I am an avid student volunteer in numerous service organizations ranging from Key Club International to the American Red Cross. Every Tuesday, I volunteer at Creekside Elementary in Stockton as a HeadStart preschool student volunteer to assist teachers in the upbringing and care of preschoolers. As team captain of my speech and debate team, I have worked endless hours to help my fellow peers and classmates overcome their speech anxiety and glossophobia, their fear of public speaking. Since the start of the year, I have helped my peers grow not only as speakers, orators, actors, and debaters, but also as confident people unafraid to voice their opinions. As vice-president of the Pacific Outreach for Youth Services and Education, I have helped spark interest in higher education in my fellow students by coordinating free field trip tours to UC Davis and UC Berkeley, providing College of the Month presentations with guest speakers from various UCs, CSUs, private universities, and vocational schools, providing scholarship notices and opportunities, and providing community service opportunities. Favorite SJ County memories: Stockton Ballroom – Vietnamese Lunar New Year Celebration, Stockton Earth Day Festival, Stockton Asparagus Festival and Cal Expo – California State Fair Other interesting information about me: Gates Millennium Scholar 2015 and 4th Top Ranked Speaker in Original Prose and Poetry in all of California for Speech and Debate
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“One of my favorite places in Stockton is the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel. The hotel has a gorgeous view of the waterfront as well as the Delta Bistro restaurant. I love how the patio of the hotel has a relaxing pool along with pool tables to enjoy. Their Sunday brunch is definitely a must!” — Johnny Chin
Johnny Chin
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over of iced tea/coffee, photography and random
adventures. What I love most about the San Joaquin County is that even though I’ve lived here all my life, I’m constantly rediscovering things, whether it be a new restaurant or a hidden gem. San Joaquin County is rich with diversity, a beautiful blend of cultures and plenty of wonderful activities to enjoy with your family. San Joaquin County is home.
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Contributors
Introducing the people behind this issue of Lifestyles
Janda McManus-Palmer33 PHOTOGRAPHER
I was born and raised in Stockton and attended Lincoln High. Twelve years ago I married my high-school sweetheart. Five years ago, when my son was born, I picked up a camera and haven’t put it down since! I get to see life come full circle as I photograph the children of friends that I’ve known my entire life. I enjoy giving back to my community by participating in several philanthropic efforts such as St. Joseph’s Tiny Toes – a fundraiser to benefit their NICU, and Women Walking In Purpose Princess Tea Party to benefit local foster children. When I’m not busy photographing children ranging from 4 days old to high-school seniors, I enjoy supporting my community by attending Ports games, catching a concert at the Arena or picking fresh produce at a local farmers market.
John McClimans30
PHOTOGRAPHER
Kelsey McNickle24
WRITER
Growing up in Stockton was a budding photographer’s playground: open landscapes, beautiful oak trees, colorful murals, and of course the vibrant people. I am excited to be working once again in the San Joaquin Valley during this time of growth and reinvigoration in the arts.
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Since moving to Lodi five years ago, my wife and I have experienced much of what the Stockton area has to offer – winetasting, live music and great restaurants – but having a young son has opened our eyes to a whole new realm of possibilities. From swinging with the monkeys at Micke Grove Zoo, to walking along the waterfront quacking at the ducks, I’ve quickly learned that San Joaquin Valley is full of things for all ages. This is just one of the many reasons I’m proud to call the Valley my home.
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assistant editor
WRITER
Andi Schloss32
I am proud to be employed with The Record as the Lifestyles Magazine Assistant Editor. Working for this great company has given me many opportunities in the areas I am most passionate about in a job. In my first big project, I was awarded the cover for the June/July issue of Lifestyles! What a tremendous privilege that incorporated my passion for modeling and photography! Growing up in the Peninsula Bay Area, I moved to Stockton in 2004 without any plans of settling down. Here I am, 11 years later, living and thriving. I am proud to call this diverse city my home, where I have made some of my greatest accomplishments. In addition to raising my children in the north side, I graduated from both San Joaquin Delta College and University of the Pacific with my A.A. and B.A. degrees in communication in 2014. I give back to my community by volunteering my time and skills to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Delta Blood Bank and Kaboom. Making a positive difference in the lives of others gives me a strong sense of purpose in serving those in need. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the solid support from my community members, who were family, professors and mentors, just to name a few. I love that Stockton has places like Lincoln Center, which offers a unique blend of family-owned shops and fine dining that are both welcoming and inviting. If you are a boating enthusiast and love water activities like myself, the Delta waterways are a wonderful place to explore.
As a Stockton native, I always imagined Stockton being a place I’d visit from time to time. I attended college in Los Angeles, and relocated to the Bay Area for a career in medical device sales. Once I married my husband, Nate, he and I took a leap of faith and moved “home” in 2014. Since settling in Stockton, Nate launched Smart Pay, a merchant processing business. We also welcomed our new baby, Bodee, in January. And now, I enjoy writing for Lifestyles! You’ll often find us at Lincoln Center, either chowing at Midgley’s and Squeeze Burger, or burning off the calories at Ben Mackie Fitness! We also enjoy staying involved in our local community; Nate is a member of the Rotary Club of Stockton, and I volunteer at Lakeview Assembly Church.
Ashlee Blackard24
Photographer
Jackie Shinn37
Photographer
I was born and raised in Stockton, California. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School, I received my bachelor of science in art and design from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Next, I earned a teaching credential in art from CSU Stanislaus and a master of science in school counseling from University of La Verne. Over the years, I have worked as a graphic designer for the San Joaquin Regional Transit District, as a freelance designer, as a high-school graphic design teacher for Tracy Unified School District, as a teacher at Delta College, and as a Why Try counselor for Lodi Unified School District. I currently am a high-school graphic design and digital photography teacher. Although work keeps me very busy, I find true passion in my life as a wife, a mom, and a follower of Jesus.
I have been interested in art since I was a child. I love all forms of art – painting, sketching, fashion, makeup and photography. I got really into photography around my freshman year in high school. I took photo classes and fell in love with it! I bring my camera with me almost everywhere I go. I am currently attending school, working towards my bachelor of arts degree. I am so thankful for the opportunity to work for Lifestyles magazine. It’s great making money while doing something you’re so passionate about.
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C O N T R I B U T O R S
Stephanie Forbus25
WRITER
WRITER
Leah Myers38
San Joaquin County has been a special part of me long before I moved here. I spent countless hours “helping” in my grandma’s first-grade class, playing with the kids in the neighborhood and enjoying all that Stockton has to offer. When I moved here before starting high school, Stockton already felt like home. Since then, my job has introduced me to the best people, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations in San Joaquin County. Recently I have gotten involved with Habitat for Humanity of San Joaquin County, where I enjoy volunteering my time with such a wonderful organization focused on giving back to our community. The area’s world-famous wineries and our close proximity to the most amazing vacation spots make this wonderful place we call home that much sweeter!
Jackie Kurtzer32 WRITER
I was born and raised in Stockton. Having my family and friends here made the decision of staying, attending school and raising my own family here an easy one. My family frequently catches the “travel bug,” so we enjoy being in such close proximity to so many different and exciting places. Our community is rich in culture and diversity, and has embraced the idea of charity and giving back. Doing my part in the community is a priority of mine. I’m proud to be apart of Lambs, a group of women dedicated to raising money for charities and making a difference in our community. I’m also on the committee for the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction 2014. I’m proud to live in San Joaquin County, and to raise my son in such a great community!
While I am not a native of Stockton, I have lived here for many years and graduated from University of the Pacific with a B.A. and M.A. degree in communication. In my spare time, I love to read, travel and go winetasting. I also happen to be a major fashion and beauty enthusiast – spending way too much time at Sephora. Earlier this year, I began volunteering at the Lodi Public Library as a literacy tutor and social media instructor, as my way of giving back to the community. Favorite words of wisdom: “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” —C.S. Lewis
Molly Bolognini32 WRITER
A motto that my mom lived by during her two-year cancer diagnosis was “Hand in Hand, Strength in Numbers.” She would end her blog postings with this and remind me to embrace the motto when referring to raising my two busy boys, Luke (5) and Matteo (3). This community has a similar vibe as the motto! The amazing people who live here support one another during times of need and praise each other during times of joy or accomplishment. To this day, I enjoy seeing familiar faces whether I’m running errands around town or having a date night with my husband, Jeff. We are both proud third-generation Stockton residents who are choosing to raise our children here. My husband runs a small local business, Gian’s Deli, which is celebrating its 43rd anniversary. I enjoy writing for Lifestyles magazine because I get to learn about people’s lives and businesses, their passions and interests and what makes them “tick.” It’s fascinating and a constant reminder of the wonderful people I am surrounded by in San Joaquin County.
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Elizabeth Esau26
WRITER and photographer
Cesar Larios33
photographer
I was born and raised in Stockton. I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a double major in psychology and communication. My passions in life are fashion, food and photography. I enjoy going to movies and spending time with my family. My dream is to travel the world with my camera in hand and experience all that life has to offer.
I moved to Stockton in 2009 from Southern California and have lived here ever since. Although the move was meant to be temporary, I grew to love and appreciate the city and what it had to offer. Strong family, good friends, and a sense of belonging are all traits I have found while living here. After moving here, I decided to put my visual arts degree to good use. Currently I work for SASS! Public Relations as a graphics and web designer. I also occasionally work as a professional photographer. I have been truly blessed to work at SASS!, with a great group of peers, dedicating my time to help some amazing clients in our community. During my off days, I enjoy spending time with my lovely family, and gardening, which is another passion of mine. Hopefully, in the near future, I can pursuit my next passion… motorcycles.
Rachel Telander19
WRITER
Rachel Telander was raised in San Joaquin County, and now attends Biola University in Southern California, where she is pursuing a degree in liberal arts with a focus on history. She hopes to obtain her master's. In her spare time, she is usually writing, studying, reading, hiking, or spending time with her loved ones. You can usually find her in a bookstore or coffee shop, pen in hand.
Jennifer Torres-Siders35 WRITER
Jennifer Torres is the author of Finding the Music, a bilingual picture book, inspired in part by the Stockton community and published this past spring by Lee & Low Books. Her middlegrade novel, Stef Soto, Taco Queen, is due out from Little, Brown in winter 2016. She works at University of the Pacific, where she coordinates the Beyond Our Gates outreach initiative. Before joining Pacific, Jennifer worked as a reporter for The Record newspaper, covering education, diversity, children and families. Originally from Southern California, she has lived in Stockton for the past 10 years with her husband, David, and daughters Alice and Soledad.
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Victory Park, Stockton “No matter which path I choose to run, both will lead me to victory. Within Victory Park you can find yourself surrounded by an abundance of palm trees, a rose garden, and a pond. A perfect park for all to enjoy.” — Jeep Touch
Jeep Touch
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an Joaquin County is AMAZING! The nightlife is lively and
the daily events are crowd-drawing. Our fairground alone is home to many special events. Our stadium brings talents from all around the world. Last but not least, our Weber Point brings water fun for the hot days and romantic strolls for the cool nights. I love my city, and I love my county, San Joaquin.
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lifestyles
Flirting with Your Forties
Health Tips for Women Approaching Forty
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By Nicole Knotts, MD
any things change for women when we hit our 40s...
Our bodies are different, our moods are different, and our outlook is
flexibility work, and equilibrium-building exercises are all vital past the age of 40.
different… If you’re about to turn forty, or if you’re flirting with your
Forty is the magic number for mammograms. As a physician, I
forties as I like to call it, take time to assess your skincare regiment,
strongly advise women to begin getting annual mammograms to screen
update your workout, and schedule an appointment for your ever-so-
for breast cancer at 40, and even earlier if someone in your family has
important yearly mammogram.
had breast cancer. The fact is that nearly one out of every eight women
It’s not too late to take care of your skin. The single greatest cause
is likely to develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Like all cancers, early
of age-related skin changes is due to sun damage. Years of unprotected
detection of breast cancer greatly improves the chances that it can be
sun exposure will likely leave you with sun spots and discoloration,
treated successfully. A mammogram is designed to help find breast
wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dark and leathery skin. Of course,
cancer before it starts causing symptoms, so do not wait until you
sun exposure also puts you at much greater risk for skin cancer. If you
suspect symptoms of cancer to get a mammogram. Celebrate turning
are already seeing the effects of aging, there are steps you can take
the big 4-0 by going out for a mimosa with your girls, scheduling a
to slow down the process. First, see a physician to rule out a serious
relaxing massage, and getting a mammogram. It could quite literally
skin condition such as melanoma or other skin cancers. Second, always
save your life (the mammogram, not the mimosa).
use sun protection. Your sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30
Saying goodbye to your thirties and hello to the start of middle age
with the main ingredients of titanium or zinc oxide. Third, moisturize!
is an important transition in a woman’s life. Make the transition with the
Aging skin loses its ability to retain water, which results in dry skin and
seasoned style that only a woman who’s soared through her twenties
worsened skin deterioration.
and rocked her thirties can do, by remembering to take care of you.
Refresh your workout routine. What worked for us in our 20s and 30s just isn’t going to work for most women when we are in our 40s. Whether you are a longtime exercise fanatic or you are new to the gym
Dr. Nicole Knotts is a family practice
and would like to improve your fitness, there are things you can do to
physician with Dignity Health Medical
make the most of your post-40s workout. Turning forty means you may
Group Stockton, a network of health
start losing about a pound of muscle and – I’m so sorry to tell you –
professionals providing high quality
gaining a pound of fat per year. Strength training can help to offset this.
and compassionate care. To make an
Get yourself some weights and start pumping some iron! It’s not just
appointment with Dr. Knotts or one of our other primary care
your heart that needs exercise when you are over 40. The weight room
physicians, call 209-475-5500 or visit DHMF.org/Stockton.
is just as important as those familiar cardio machines. Strength training,
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fact that most people are very dehydrated. This encourages the growth of bacteria that not only cause problems with our teeth and gums, but also with a wide variety of other diseases. Brushing only reaches about 60 percent of your teeth; that is why oil pulling can be so effective. So, what is oil pulling? How is it done? Oil pulling is really very simple. Put a spoonful of vegetable oil and swish it in the mouth; keeping your lips closed, work the oil in your mouth, suck, push and pull the oil through your teeth and over every surface of your mouth. Keep it working for 15-20 minutes – the longer the better. You can do other things while you are doing this. Do not
OIL PULLING THERAPY
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By Eunice Green, NHD
Sometimes when you begin doing this you may feel a bit nauseous. If you start to gag, spit it out and try again. As you swish the oil it mixes with your saliva and turns a milky white color. If it doesn’t get milky white, you didn’t swish long enough. You can do the oil pulling any time of the day. It is recommended that you do it first thing in the morning, before your brush your teeth. You may want to rinse your mouth out a bit after spitting it out. Always spit the oil into a trash can or a plastic bag. Don’t spit it into the sink as over time it could cause a clog in the drain. Which oil to use? As I said earlier, many vegetable oils were recommended in the past.
il pulling is not a “new” treatment – this therapy began in
India and is a part of Ayurvedic medicine and dates back many, many,
The “new” oil pulling method is recommending liquefied coconut oil. Coconut oil has many added benefits.
many years. Long ago, Ayurvedic practitioners discovered that washing
How often should I pull?
the mouth with vegetable oils would clean the mouth and also detoxify
It is suggested that you pull at least once a day, about the same
the whole body and prevent many infections and diseases. Many
time. If you have an active infection in your mouth, you can pull two or
practitioners feel that all disease begins in the mouth and that oil pulling
three times a day. This should speed the healing process. What if I hate the taste of coconut oil, or any of the other oils?
can have an effect on many systemic diseases. In the past, a variety of vegetable oils have been used – sesame oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil and even olive oil. Dr. Bruce Fife began
I would recommend adding a few drops of peppermint oil – this will also freshen your breath.
conducting research on oil pulling a few years back and conducted
Good quality essential oils – doTerra brand in particular, as they
many clinical trials, and developed a new oil pulling method that has
are OK for consumption, can be added as well. On Guard, Oregano, or
been widely successful. He found that using coconut oil created the best
Melaleuca can be added to the coconut oil as they are well known for
results and has really concentrated on using this therapy for oral health.
being antibacterial. If there is infection with pain, adding a couple of
He concentrated on oral health as the mouth is full of bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. The bacteria in the mouth like all the foods that we put in there – especially sugar – and they thrive on that. Oral health is really regulated by the types of food that we eat, and by the
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gargle the oil, and don’t swallow it. The oil is full of toxins and bacteria.
drops of clove oil can ease the pain. I felt terrible when I started oil pulling-does that mean it’s not good for me? Oil pulling can have a powerful detoxifiyying effect – heavy
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cleansing that could make you feel like you have a bad flu. You may also have sinus draining, a sore throat, diarrhea, aches and pains. These cleansing reactions are normal and will go away after a few days. Not everyone has a crisis reaction, but if it happens, don’t despair. Eating a healthy diet, staying away from sugar and adding a good detox tea can enhance the effects of the oil pulling. For good oral health, I feel that CoQ10 (ubiquinol form) is also very beneficial. For consistent dental problems, opening a capsule of CoQ10 and adding it to the coconut oil can also heal the gum tissue. Oil pulling is a harmless and very beneficial therapy. Give it a try and you might be amazed at the results. It can be very helpful if you have bad breath, bleeding gums, cavities, are prone to gingivitis or have tooth pain. It is also a wonderful tooth whitener.
Eunice Green NHD Green’s Nutrition 1906 Pacific Avenue • Stockton 209-464-5738 www.greensnutrition.com
August ~ Mark the date National Night Out
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Join “America’s Night Out Against Crime” on Tuesday, August 4 from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the corner of DaVinci Drive and March Lane for games, food, music and information on neighborhood security. For more information, call 209-954-0246.
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Hospice of San Joaquin Butterfly Auxiliary celebrates their 13th Annual Moonlight Sip & Stroll on Saturday, August 15 at the Brookside Estates from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Sample local wines, fine brew and culinary favorite from local restaurants. Proceeds benefit Hospice of San Joaquin’s Hospice House. For more information, contact jstarbuck@hospicesj.org or call 209-922-0380.
Concerts in the Park
Spend an evening listening to great music featuring local artists on Wednesday, August 5 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Victory Park. Grab your picnic baskets and lawn chairs and head over to the park. For more information, visit www.visitstockton.org/events/ concerts-in-the-park.
14th Annual Taste of the Delta
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Enjoy live music and auctions while sampling wines and food on Saturday, August 8 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Tower Park Marina and Stockton Delta KOA. Proceeds benefit the California Delta Chambers. For tickets and more information, contact aray@pacific.edu or call 916-777-4041.
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Lincoln Center LIVE! Classic Car Show
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The Lincoln Center LIVE! Classic Car Show is here! Check out more than 200 classic cars, live music, food and much more on Friday, August 21 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Proceeds raised benefit the Lincoln Center Scholarship Fund. For more information, contact info@lincolncentershops.com or call 209-477-4868.
StocktonCon
Stockton Pride Festival
Celebrate all things pop culture from comics, card games and video games to anime, toys and television on Saturday, August 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For tickets and more information, contact info@stocktoncon.com.
Orange & Black Ball
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Celebrate diversity and our LGBTQ community at the 4th Annual Stockton Pride Festival on Saturday, August 22 at Oak Grove Regional Park from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Come and enjoy food, fun and live entertainment. For more information, visit www.stocktonpride.weebly.com or call 209-466-7572.
The 16th Annual Orange & Black Ball is Saturday, August 22 at the Jannsen-Lagorio Gymnasium at the University of the Pacific from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. The night will include winetasting, live and silent auctions, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and dancing. Proceeds raised benefit Pacific’s 18 Division I intercollegiate athletic teams and the PAF Scholarship Fund. For tickets and more information, contact mbecker@pacific.edu or call 209-946-2591.
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Moonlight Sip & Stroll
Solar Day at the WOW Science Museum
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Learn about the wonders of solar technology through Solar Day at the WOW Science Museum on Saturday, August 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Watch and participate in human sundialing, solar race cars and cooking with the sun. For tickets and more information, contact education@wowsciencemuseum.org or call 209-368-0969.
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September ~ Mark the date
STOCKTON BLACK FAMILY DAY CULTURE FEST 2015
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Stockton Black Family Day – celebrating 47 years – prides itself on developing programs to educate and empower the community. This event takes place Monday, September 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center Street, Stockton. For more information, call 209-482-0505 or visit StocktonBlackFamilyDay.com
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56th Annual Greek Festival
The annual Greek Festival will be Friday, September 11 through Sunday, September 13 at Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church in Stockton. This event features an assortment of Greek food, music, dancing and games. For more information, contact office@gosaintbasil.org or call 209-478-7564.
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Lodi Grape Festival
Join the annual celebration of the Lodi Grape Festival Thursday, September 17 through Sunday, September 20 at the Lodi Grape Festival grounds. This fun event will feature winetasting, food, carnival rides, live entertainment and much more. For tickets and more information, contact info@grapefestival.com or call 209-369-2771.
Family Day at the Park
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Come out to University Park on Saturday, September 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to support literacy. This is a free event! More than 80 businesses and community organizations will provide interactive projects that include art projects, storytelling and much more. For more information, contact carrie_sass@sasspr.com or call 209-957-7277.
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Enjoy the beautiful sounds of Gershwin and Kevin Cole on Saturday, September 19 at 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 20 at 2:30 p.m. in the Atherton Auditorium. Maestro Peter Jaffe conducts an all-Gershwin program, from Porgy & Bess to Rhapsody in Blue. For tickets and more information, call 209-951-0196 or go to stocktonsymphony.org.
Ironstone Concours D’ Elegance
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The Ironstone Concours d’ Elegance is an antique and classic car show that benefits the young people involved in agriculture, 4-H clubs, Future Farmers of America, and the California State Scholarship Fund. This wonderful event takes place at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys on Saturday, September 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 209-269-6950 or go to www.ironstoneconcours.com
October ~ Mark the date 3
Stockton’s Oktoberfest Celebration is Saturday, October 3 at the Waterfront Warehouse from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. Model the traditional German lederhosen and dirndl, and enjoy bratwurst, beer and dancing. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more information, call 209-464-5246.
lifestyles
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CHEF MICHAEL MIDGLEY
CHEF’S Tommy Mogan & Eric Lee
Texas Spicy Chili
Provinçal Pig
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Wesson oil 3 pounds beef filet cut into ¼-inch cubes 1 bunch of cilantro diced, including stems 1½ cups white onion finely minced 1 cup chopped red onion 1 diced bell pepper 8 finely minced garlic cloves ¾ teaspoon garlic powder 1 can (15.8 oz) chicken broth 1 can (14 oz) of tomato sauce 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes 2 Corona beers (12 oz each) 3 tablespoons of ground cumin 1 can (4 oz) of chipotle chilis in adobe sauce 5 tablespoons of mild California chili powder 4½ tablespoons of medium New Mexico chili powder 1 tablespoon hot New Mexico chili power 2 teaspoons salt ½ teaspoon meat tenderizer ½ teaspoon light brown sugar 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
Ingredients: 4 slices of good sourdough bread 4 slices Black Forest ham 4 slices crispy cooked bacon 4 slices prosciutto 1/2 Brie cheese wheel, sliced 3 sliced Havarti cheese 2 tablespoons apple chutney – buy in a specialty food market, or make your own 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Herbs de Provence
Directions: In a large pot, cook the onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, cilantro and chipotle chilis in a bit of oil. Add the chicken broth and Corona and cook for 10 minutes. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and all the dry spices except for the meat tenderizer and brown sugar. Mix well. In a separate pan, brown the meat in the Wesson oil and drain well. Sprinkle the meat with tenderizer and add it to the large pot of other ingredients. Simmer for two and a half hours. Add more beer if it’s too thick. Mix in the brown sugar and Tabasco just prior to serving.
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Directions: Heat a large cast-iron skillet on medium heat. Spread the mayo on one side of each piece of sourdough. Place two slices, mayo side down, into the pan. Begin assembling your sandwich: Place 2 slices of Black Forest ham, 2 slices of bacon, 2 slices of prosciutto, a tablespoon of apple chutney, 1 and ½ sliced havarti and 3 slices of Brie cheese on top of each piece of bread (put the cheeses on the bottom and top, closest to the bread). Top each sandwich with the remaining piece of bread, mayo side up. Once the bottom piece is crispy and brown, carefully flip the sandwiches over and sprinkle the cooked side with the Herbs de Provence. Press lightly with a spatula on the sandwich to help hold the sandwich together and melt the cheese. Remove from skillet once the bottom half is crispy, and slice diagonally to expose the beauty inside. Show off your delicious sandwich.
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CHEF Dawnelle O’ Brien
CHEF Alex Moreno
Cherry Pie A la Mode
Sweet & Spicy Orange Stir Fry
Ingredients: Cherry Pie Filling 2# asst. pitted cherries 1½ cup sugar 1 ea vanilla bean ¼ cup tapioca flour Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and let macerate for at least 2 hours.
Cinnamon Pie Dough 5 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1# butter, cubed, chilled (freezer) ¾ cup ice-cold water ½ cup crystal sugar Directions: Place all dry ingredients in food processor and slowly add chilled butter cubes. Add ice-cold water and let food processor mix until dough is formed. You may need to dump dough out onto a floured surface and finish by hand. Roll dough out and cut 1-inch strips. Make the lattice crust 4x4 and to be the size of the serving dish. Brush with a little water and sprinkle crust strips with coarse sugar. Bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until dough is done.
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ½ pound chicken (sliced thin, seasoned with salt & pepper) 1 head baby bok choy ½ each carrot (peeled, thinly cute into ovals) 4 spears asparagus (thinly sliced) 2 oz chicken broth 4 oz orange sauce 1 ½ cup orange juice ¾ cup sugar 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar ¾ tablespoon soy sauce ¾ tablespoon chili garlic sauce
Ingredients: Corn Ice Cream 1qt half-and-half 2 ea ears of sweet corn, shucked 10 oz sugar 12 ea yolks
Directions: Combine all ingredients into a small saucepan and reduce until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Heat oil in a large non-stick pan. Add chicken and sear on both sides. Add carrots, bok choy, asparagus and cook for two minutes, or until desired doneness. Add chicken broth and orange sauce. Allow to simmer until chicken is
Directions: Place half-and-half and corn cobs and bring to a boil. Let steep for about an hour. Meanwhile, crack egg yolks and place yolks and sugar in a bowl. Set aside. Place shucked corn in a pan with a little butter and brown sugar and cook until nice and seared. Set aside. Bring cream back to a boil and strain out corn cobs, discard cobs and slowly temper the cream with the sugar and yolk mixture. Place back in the pot and on very low heat cook the custard for another 5 minutes. Immediately chill custard and when ready, freeze in ice cream maker. Assembly of dessert: Place 1½ cups of cherry pie filling in a bowl and heat up. Place a lattice crust on top of cherries, canal a scoop of corn ice cream on top of lattice, and sprinkle seared corn pieces around bowl and a few on top of ice cream.
fully cooked. Serve over steamed jasmine rice.
lifestyles
109
CHEF Roberto Pedrini
CHEF’S ALEX Urbano & ROBERT MENOR
Gnocchi All’ Angelo
Chicken Inasal
Ingredients: 2 pounds medium-large Yukon Gold potatoes 1 large egg 1 teaspoon salt 2½ cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons chiffonade (thin slices) basil Serves 6 3 tablespoons shredded pecorino-cheese Sauce: 4 tablespoons butter 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons slivered garlic ½ cup grape tomatoes, halved ½ cup pitted Mediterranean olives, sliced Directions: Place potatoes on a lightly oiled pan and bake in a preheated 400°F oven until tender, about 40 minutes. Let potatoes cool enough to handle. Peel potatoes and press through a potato ricer. Allowed the riced potato to cool completely, spreading them on your work surface. In a small bowl whisk egg, then add basil and salt. Pour egg mixture over your potatoes and mix. This process should be completed quickly – the less you agitate the potatoes, the fluffier your gnocchi will be. Knead in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and pecorino cheese, reserving a half cup for rolling. Do not overknead the dough; it will require more flour if kneaded too much (causing it to be a heavier gnocchi). The dough will stick to your hands and work surface – it is important to scrape your work surface and hands occasionally (to help prevent clumping). Lightly flour your hands and work surface with some flour, and divide dough into eight equal portions. Begin to roll the dough into penny-size ropes, then cut the ropes into ¾-inch rounds. Sprinkle flour over the rounds to prevent sticking. Thumbing gnocchi: To begin the process of rolling (thumbing) the gnocchi you will need to sprinkle flour over your rolling surface. With the tip of your thumb, press the rounds lightly against the surface and move your thumb forward until it wraps around your thumb. Set on a lightly floured platter and continue to roll the remaining balls. When complete, you must cook the gnocchi immediately, or freeze. In a large saucepan over medium heat add the garlic, tomatoes, olives and olive oil. Stirring occasionally, cook until garlic starts to brown (about 4 minutes), then add butter and allow to melt completely. Add your already-cooked gnocchi and serve.
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Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs 2 stalks of lemon grass 1 thumb-sized knob of ginger ½ cup of garlic cloves ½ cup lemon juice ¼ cup calamansi juice (use 1/4 cup more lemon juice if no calamansi juice is available) ½ cup lemon grass ½ cup of garlic cloves 1 cup lemon soda (7 Up is fine) 2 cups soy sauce 1 cup brown sugar
Baste ingredients: 1 packet of achuete powder (found in Asian stores or some ethnic grocery aisles in major retailers) Jufran banana ketchup (also found in Asian grocery stores) margarine cooking oil Directions: Marinade: Mince garlic and ginger, and mix with all liquid ingredients, brown sugar and chicken. Pound lemon grass stalks on chopping board until they open. Place lemon grass stalks in marinade and let the chicken marinade for an hour to overnight. Baste: mix 1 tablespoon margarine, achuete packet, a few dollops of banana ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Grill thighs on both sides until grill marks form. Turn over twice, basting each side until a char and a reddish orange coloration on the meat for “inihaw” flavor. Make sure thickest part of meat is cooked. Enjoy on a skewer, plate of rice, or in fresh grilled tortillas. Kain Na!
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