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September 2017
Words printed on recycled paper
SCRIBBLES by Ashlee Blackard
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EDITOR’S NOTE Advertising Director Deitra Kenoly
“The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.” — Mark Twain “My bursting heart must find vent at my pen.” — Abigail Adams “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope. It is a tool for daily life in modern society. It is a bulwark against poverty, and a building block of development, an essential complement to investments in roads, dams, clinics and factories. Literacy is a platform for democratization, and a vehicle for the promotion of cultural and national identity. Especially for girls and women, it is an agent of family health and nutrition. For everyone, everywhere, literacy is, along with education in general, a basic human right… Literacy is, finally, the road to human progress and the means through which every man, woman and child can realize his or her full potential.” — Kofi Annan
“One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for 1,000 years. To read is to voyage through time.” — Carl Sagan
“To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country.” — George Washington
Editor Karen Bakhtegan Cover Artist Ashlee Blackard Graphic Artists Jason LaMasters Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein Advertising Specialist Liz Saldivar Social Media Jason LaMasters Contributors Charleen Earley Melissa Erickson Eunice Green Howard Lachtman Sonny Lucatorto Jorge Ruiz Susan Michener-Spracher
Follow us and share your photos and messages Email: thecurrent@recordnet.com Website: recordnet.com/thecurrent Facebook: The Current San Joaquin Instagram: thecurrentsj Twitter: @thecurrentsj
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08 words - the write stuff - balancing the books - books & crannies - two decades of literacy - the book nook
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s d or
- baby hemingways
18 artbeat - september exhibits
20 rides - all in the detail
22 bites - national breakfast month - what is a reducetarian?
26 the campus - words to the wise
28 paws - health benefits of pet ownership
30 eco - energy saving tricks
32 vibes - peace of mind
34 holistic - which collegen?
36 get out - september events calendar 2017 september
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the write stuff Books Blossom at The Write Place by Susan Michener Spracher
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hen the door opens and Paula Sheil warmly welcomes you, you’re in The Write Place. The openness of the space coupled with downtown historic architecture and large mural painting leads to curiosity. What is this space?
It’s meant to be a place where extracurricular, creative writing occurs, a place to learn and enjoy book arts such as making paper, printing, and book binding. What it’s not is tutoring or a homework center. The Write Place is where kids can come to be separate from school to inhabit their own creativity and imagination, “An antidote for digital,” Sheil says. The venue is also for adults who want to expand their desire to write and create in community with other like-minded individuals. 8
Sheil, a tenured English teacher at San Joaquin Delta College and founder of Tuleburg Press, visited writing centers in San Francisco and Sacramento, and knew instinctively Stockton needed one. Named The Write Place, she was positive it would fill a community need to expand the arts and improve literacy in a unique way. There was never a doubt that downtown was the right location, not only because it’s become a hub for education, with multiple
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schools located there, but also, Sheil says, “Because I believe in downtown. We live downtown, because that’s where the action is.”
photo by Calixtro Romias/THE RECORD
The action has started with BiblioKids, a recently-held summer camp. The program included 59 children who made a minimum of five books each to take home. Volunteer teacher Angie Rodriguez says she got involved by reaching out to Sheil (her former teacher) looking for publishing opportunities. She was happy to get on board because she likes the vision for The Write Place, and the opportunity to work on social issues that concern her. “I see reading comprehension deteriorating and it bothers me” said Rodriguez. “Especially for children.” The Write Place is slated to open in September. Some of the classes for children 3rd grade through adult will include storywriting, creative nonfiction writing, reporting, poetry, and down the road, screenwriting. The center will also offer events such as reader’s series, creative writing studio time, and book groups. Stockton’s Poet Laureate Tama Brisbane has taken residence at the center, making monthly open mic nights a sure thing. Sheil’s vision is, “Within two years people will be able to make their own paper, do their own offset printing, and bind their own books here.” The project is so dear to Sheil that she considers it her legacy and plans for it to be self-sustaining. It’s an incredible bequest to make to Stockton. Support The Write Place by attending their fundraiser, Fully Booked on September 29. For more information go to Facebook/events. Find Tuleburg Press at tuleburgpress.com or email tuleburgpress@gmail.com.
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Balancing
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Our local libraries continue to thrive in a tech-savvy world by Charleen Earley
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he’s been referred to as the loudest librarian ever, but for Suzy Daveluy, that’s a compliment, because libraries are not what they used to be.
“One of the most striking differences is the amount and content of programming,” said Suzy, Deputy Director of Community Services, City Librarian Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library. “Our staff has done an amazing job at listening to the communities we serve and building substantive programs that respond to the expressed needs,” she added. She’s been Deputy Director at the Cesar Chavez Library in Stockton since 2015, but has been with the library system since 1989. Technology has found a home in libraries and within Stockton’s five libraries, Cesar Chavez Central, Maya Angelou, Troke, Weston Ranch and Fair Oaks – all are implementing makerspaces. “They are spaces filled with new technology, such as 3D printers and laser cutters,” said Suzy. “It’s where people can collaborate, explore and create. Some of our libraries have designated makerspace areas, and all libraries are offering makerspace programs.” From learning centers within the library walls for zero to five-year-olds to play and discover, to free internet and Wi-Fi, Suzy said the libraries are rolling out new fax and scan stations at this very moment. “On the online resource side, in addition to Rosetta Stone and Tutor.com, which is free tutoring in just about any subject from 3 to 11 p.m. each day, we recently rolled out Flipster, online magazines, and hoopla, which are downloadable movies, music, ebooks and eAudiobooks,” said Suzy. “All of these electronic resources are free to our library cardholders,” she added.
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A library card is free – the first issue – but if you lose it, there’s a small fee for replacement. Not just for reading, the library hosts book authors such as T.C. Boyle, Sheldon Siegel, and Nina Sankovitch, along with special events and classes. “A couple that caught my attention are Beginning Yoga and Pilates at the Ripon Library on August 30, Junior Makerspace & Tech Time at the Chavez Library on September 2, and Bricks4Kidz Lego Building Workshop at Maya Angelou Library on September 14, registration required for this one!” said Suzy, whose favorite author is James Joyce. “I have read all of Joyce’s major works, including Ulysses and Finnegans Wake,” she said. “His exploration into the human psyche is just extraordinary. For those who have not read Joyce, check out Dubliners, a beautiful collection of short stories, each containing an ‘epiphany.’ Simply wonderful.” Depending on the time of day, the Cesar Chavez library hosts a variety of visitors. Early morning is filled with preschoolers with story time, but late mornings, Suzy said you’ll find retirees who browse the shelves with their reading lists in hand. Teens roll in during the late afternoon, working on homework assignments or just hanging out with friends, and in the evenings, she sees a lot of families. Suzy, who was born and raised in Stockton, feels libraries are immensely important. “The public library is the most democratic institution in society; it is free to all,” she said. “It is the place where all are welcome to come learn, discover, talk, create, dream, envision and be. And we are constantly asking and listening to our community members, and doing our best to respond to their interests and needs with services, resources and programming.” www.ssjcpl.org
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&
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very avid reader knows that keeping the bookshelves stocked with new finds can get pricey, especially for those who breeze through multiple books on a weekly basis. Fortunately San Joaquin County has plenty of used bookstores where you can find real literary treasures without emptying your wallet. If you keep your books in great condition, some locations will buy them back or trade for more selections.
• Miracle Mile Bookstore 2110 Pacific Avenue, Stockton 209-623-8653
• Tom’s Used Books
108 N. School Street, Lodi 209-369-1453
• Friends of the Stockton Public Library Bookstore 1724 Hammer Lane, Stockton 209-476-9033
• Book Exchange
332 N. Main, Manteca 209-823-2938
• Mockingbird Books 51 W. 10th Avenue, Tracy 209-834-5550
• The Book Lady
440 E. Kettleman Lane, Lodi 209-329-4193 12
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T s of
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he 20th Anniversary of the Record’s Family Day at the Park will be held Saturday, September 16 from 9:30 to 2:30 at University Park in Stockton. The event is free to the public. The Record’s signature event, Family Day at the Park provides a full day of fun and educational activities for the entire community.
Nearly 100 businesses and community organizations will provide interactive projects for children and families, including arts and crafts, games, storytelling and recreational activities. Entertainers include mascots, street performers, the Cesar Chavez High School music department, Sparkles the Clown and Ravioli the Magician. In addition to all this awesome entertainment, Snap Jackson and the Knock on Wood Players will perform on the Children’s Stage, sponsored by San Joaquin County Office of Education. Special guest Bari Koral will be performing at 12 p.m. on the Kaiser Main Stage. Bari is a popular children’s artist and yoga instructor. Get ready to move and groove to her catchy, fun tunes for the whole family! Bari’s CDs will also be available for purchase at her booth. The Cesar Chavez Drum Corp will lead the mascot parade to kick off the day’s activities at 9:30. All attendees are invited to join in the fun by marching along in the parade. In addition, children’s authors and illustrators will preside in King Author’s Court throughout the day – reading stories, teaching, signing books and answering questions. The popular Used Book Sale will also provide thousands of books available for purchase as low as 25 cents. University Park is located at California and Magnolia Streets in the Magnolia District of Central Stockton. For further information visit the website at: familydayatthepark.com
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THEBOOKNOOK by Howard Lachtman
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tockton will always be a place that I first entered through the pages of a book,” Karen Schoemer wrote of a memorable tour inspired by our city.
When Schoemer, a Hudson, New York resident and travel writer, visited Stockton for the first time this year, she didn’t come to sample the asparagus, the Ports, the Delta or other local amenities. What she wanted were the sites – and still-visible sights – depicted in Leonard Gardner’s 1969 novel Fat City. She even managed to snag Gardner as her personal tour guide. What more could a Fat City fan want? Accompanied by a New York Times photographer assigned to capture the scenes of her Stockton literary pilgrimage, Schoemer had everything she needed to play the book-inspired tourist. Or so she thought. But even with a living author at your elbow, a quest of this kind is problematic. Can you capture the magic of a favorite book by standing on the ground that inspired it? California provides golden opportunities for readers seeking such connections. You can visit Steinbeck’s Cannery Row in Monterey, explore the seacoast house Robinson Jeffers built in Carmel, and enter the cottage and writing room of Jack London at the state park that bears his name in Glen Ellen. With Gardner at her side, Schoemer was determined to find “the lurid and legendary Stockton of Fat City.” Good luck to that. Time and the city have moved on. The Skid Row of the writer’s youth is long gone. But Schoemer was hunting for whatever she could unearth in her role as literary archaeologist. So she and Gardner spent a long weekend in search of “extant landmarks and relics.” Gardner dutifully pointed out what he could – from faded hotels to Xochimilco Café and Yaqui Lopez’s Fat City Boxing Club – but was it enough? Schoemer wanted more. “Why didn’t you want to write another novel?” she asked. Another Fat City? It was not a question Gardner wanted to hear.
Leonard Gardner
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“I’m sure I wanted to,” Gardner replied testily. But what would he write about? He could hardly improve on the California classic he’d already done. And having lived for so long out of Stockton, he had little connection with the city of today. His one and only novel said it all simply, eloquently and perfectly. Schoemer claimed she found what she was looking for in the space between “the tangible world outside and the inner layout of the mind.” She went home happy. Maybe Gardner did, too. At the end of the tour, Schoemer noticed him “holding a pocket notebook that I didn’t even know he was carrying, and he was writing.” Writing what? She didn’t ask, and Gardner didn’t say. But one can’t help wondering. Was the author making notes for a new novel, or a memo to remind himself not to guide visitors in search of literary Stockton? Of course, there is a far easier way to find Fat City than searching for relics and ghosts. Simply open Gardner’s novel, begin to read, and you are there. ■
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Toddlers may grasp writing earlier than previously thought
Hemingways by Melissa Erickson
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our toddler’s first attempts at writing may seem to be silly nonsense words or a mish-mash of letters, but new research suggests that these early scribbles may show your little one is learning basic rules of reading and writing. Children as young as 3 can begin to recognize letters that go together, patterns and other rules governing the English language, said Rebecca Treiman, a professor of psychological and brain sciences in Arts & Sciences at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri. The study, which was published in the journal Child Development, analyzed the spellings of 179 children from the United States (age 3 years, 2 months to 5 years, 6 months) who were prephonological spellers. That is, when asked to try to write words, the children used letters that did not reflect the sounds in the words they were asked to spell, which is common and normal at this age. “Our results show that children begin to learn about the statistics of written language – for example, about which letters often appear together and which letters appear together less often – before they learn how letters represent the sounds of a language,” Treiman said.
Mistakes make sense The concept that a letter makes a sound – an important part of learning to read and write – is hard for children to grasp, Treiman said. Children often begin to show this knowledge around ages 5
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or 6, when they produce spellings such as BO or BLO for “blow.” It’s easier to understand the visual aspect of words and what letters go together. For example, a toddler may not know how to spell a word, but they can recognize that “no word has four As in a row. They don’t know the sounds yet, but they know what doesn’t look right,” Treiman said. Common knowledge believes that learning to spell doesn’t really begin until children start inventing spellings that reflect the sounds in spoken words – spellings like C or KI for “climb.” These early invented spellings may not represent all of the sounds in a word, but children are clearly listening to the word and trying to use letters to symbolize some of the words within it, Treiman said. As children age, these sound-based spellings improve. For example, chil dren may move from something like KI for “climb” to something like KLIM. “As they grow older, they write letters that make sense with the sound of words. It suggests they’ve been
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paying attention to the sound,” Treiman said. In other words, their mistakes make sense. “This is pretty interesting, because it suggests that children are starting to learn about one aspect of spelling – what words look like – from an earlier point than we’d given them credit for,” Treiman said.
How to help Exposure to written words during the 3- to 5-year age range may be important in getting children off to a strong start with their reading, writing and spelling skills. Parents can help: Ask a child to draw a picture and try to write a description. It might look like a bunch of scribbles, but maybe it’s smaller than the picture because a child knows writing is smaller, such as in picture books, Treiman said. “Find ways to praise and encourage,” Treiman said. Point out a nicely-formed letter or writing that follows a line. “You’re not trying to teach a 4-year-old to read and write. Have fun with it,” Treiman said. ■
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artBeat
7th Annual Adelita Awards September 9
The Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery brings Mexican visual and performing arts to the Stockton Community. 6:00 p.m. Social (No Host Bar) 6:30 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Ceremony Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery 111 South Sutter Street, Stockton mexicanheritagecenter.org
Juried Art Exhibit September
Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery is hosting a juried art exhibit in September. It is their 5th Regional Fall Juried show. The juror for this event is David Peterson, a Sacramento watercolorist. David will be reviewing the works (digitally) beforehand, making a decision on accepted pieces, then viewing those pieces in person to determine awards. Cash awards for this show total $2300 and are given for each media category. Exhibit will run entire month of September with reception and awards ceremony held on Saturday, September 9 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
American Ballads: The Photographs of Marty Stuart
September 21 through November 19 Although known primarily as a country music star, Marty Stuart is a master storyteller not only through his songs, but also through his revealing photographs. The Haggin Museum 1201 North Pershing Avenue, Stockton hagginmuseum.org
Art Expressions of San Joaquin- Stephenson Scholarship Fundraiser Friday September 22 6:00pm to 9:00pm
A fun-filled evening of food, music, and art to raise funds for the Stephenson Scholarship University of the Pacific Alumni House 3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton More information: www.artexpressions.org
Are you hosting an art exhibit in October? Email details to: thecurrent@recordnet.com
Reception open to the public and free admission. Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery 1902 Pacific Avenue, Stockton stocktonartleague.org
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Cosmetic beauty for your car at the annual Stockton Auto Show & Family Festival by Charleen Earley
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nless your car sits in a garage 365 days a year, it’s nearly impossible to have a dent-free, scratch-free and ding-free vehicle on the road.
sector, I wanted to create a business that provides convenient cosmetic repairs for car owners. Drivers, especially here in California, want their vehicles to look sharp,” he said.
So here’s your chance to spruce up your car at the Fix-It Fest booth at the 2nd Annual Stockton Auto Show & Family Festival, slated for September 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cosmetic repairs at the San Joaquin Fairgrounds on S. Airport Way will be free, with the opportunity to donate to United Way.
“We are doing minor cosmetic repairs, such as small dents and dings (two-inch range), alloy aluminum wheels (curb-rash), small windshield chips, interior repairs, headlights and small vinyl and leather repairs,” said Earl “Sticks” Brown, owner of Radiant Ride. Born and raised in Stockton, Earl earned the name “Sticks” from playing percussion with the Stockton Commodores Drum & Bugle Corps, and golf at the Brookside Country Club. His passion is cosmetic care for car owners. “With an extensive background in the vehicle appearance 20
“We will be asking the public to make a donation to United Way at our event, in support of their annual campaign,” said Sticks. “During my college years, I had my first internship with United Way and worked up close with staff and community. Their mission and community involvement activities impacts hundreds of lives.” Sticks’ mission at Radiant Ride impacts car owners who don’t have a lot of time on their hands. “I started Radiant Ride to fill a niche and create a ‘one-stopshop’ solution for car owners. Our business model delivers convenient cosmetic repairs,” he said. “They simply schedule an appointment for an oil change, dent fixed and windshield chip
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repaired – all in one visit at Big Valley Ford Lincoln. Saves a lot of time.” Sold as an add-on to new car buyers, customers can include Radiant Ride in the purchase of their new vehicle at delivery. Depending on the length of coverage, three to five years, dealer retail cost averages $795 to $995. “Most new car buyers have a desire to maintain the appearance of their cars – it’s a big investment,” said Sticks. “Maintaining the appearance of your car will delay the normal course of wear and tear,” he added. “It also preserves the value and helps with resale and trade-in value when you’re ready for your next car.” Their dealership networks include Sacramento, Modesto and Fresno, with a complete list of dealerships found on their website. “We plan on entering the Bay Area market this year,” he added. “If you’re looking for a fun-filled event for the family and your car is in need of minor cosmetic repairs, this event is the ticket for you!” said Sticks. “While we pamper your car, you and the family can check out some the best show cars in the region, and new cars, displays, plus interesting exhibits.” www.facebook.com/RadiantRide www.radiantride.com
sy Radiant Ride
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est
September
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is National Breakfast Month
We took to social media to find the best breakfast spot in San Joaquin County according to Current readers.
…and the winner is
CHUCK’S C
huck’s has been serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for generations, but as most Stocktonians will tell you, they are masters in the art of first meal. If you haven’t experienced breakfast at Chuck’s, what are you waiting for? Even Guy Fieri couldn’t resist Chuck’s when he came to town. 5939 Pacific Avenue, Stockton Sunday through Thursday 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 209-473-9977 • chuckshamburgers.com
Runners Up: Omelet House 3455 Cherokee Road, Stockton Daily 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 209-941-2750
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UJ’s Restaurant 7628 Pacific Avenue, Stockton Daily 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 209-957-2081
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? N A I R A T E C U RED What is a
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by Melissa Erickson
hen it comes to diets, “all or nothing” is a hard motto to live by. For example, think of the person who could be a vegetarian but just can’t give up bacon, or the vegan who occasionally slips up. A new movement – reducetarianism – aims to be mindful of eating less meat but not cutting it out altogether. The term “reducetarian” was coined by Brian Kateman, an instructor in the Executive Education Program at the Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability at Columbia University. He also co-founded and is president of the nonprofit Reducetarian Foundation, and author of The Reducetarian Solution. “A reducetarian describes a person who is mindfully eating less meat – red meat, poultry and seafood, as well as less dairy and fewer eggs – regardless of the degree of reduction or motivation for cutting back. They play around with Meat less Mondays, veggie-heavy lunches, smaller protein portions, vegetarianism and veganism to see what works best for them,” Kateman said. Good for you, the planet Reducing the amount of meat you eat is good for your health and for the planet, Kateman said. A study by Loma Linda University, a Christian health sciences school in Califor nia, found that among 73,308 SeventhDay Adventist men and women, compared to typical omnivores, those who ate less meat had up to a 15 percent lower risk of death.
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“In fact, eating less meat and more whole, plant-based foods is one of the lifestyle habits that unites the people living to 100 and beyond in hot spots of longevity… . Reducetarians enjoy these benefits by setting manageable and therefore actionable goals to gradually eat less meat. For example, they may forgo eating meat for lunch if they will have it for dinner, skip eating meat on Mondays, or eat it only on the weekends,” Kateman said. From an environmental standpoint, a study conducted by the University of Minnesota calculated that if people ate more plant-based proteins versus meat, it could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 55 percent. How to start Registered dietitian nutritionist Sharon Palmer, author of Plant-Powered for Life (sharonpalmer.com), says, “I believe that everyone can gain health benefits by cutting back on animal proteins and eating more whole, minimally processed plant foods. The research strongly supports this style of eating for reducing the risk of heart disease, obesity, cancer and type 2 diabetes.” Cutting back on animal foods can also make a big difference in lowering your carbon footprint. “By opening up plant-based eating to a broader definition, such as reducetarian, we can be more inclusive of healthy plant-based diets that support eating less animal foods and more plant foods,” Palmer said. “Not everyone may be ready to eat a 100 percent plant-based diet, but everyone can cut back on animal foods. “We have a long way to go in the U.S. We are the top consumer per capita of meat in the world, so what if every one cut their meat intake in half? That would make a huge impact on health, the environment and animal welfare.” For people interested exploring and succeeding at a new diet, try to make small changes, step by step, Palmer said.
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“For example, you could start with Meatless Monday. Eat completely plant-based one day a week, and then when you have that mastered, you might make another small change, such as switching to whole grains, including pulses (beans, lentils, dried peas) at least a few times per week in place of meat, eating more vegetables. Aim for six servings a day,” Palmer said. ■
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WORDS TO THE WISE Terms to know before applying to school by Melissa Erickson
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tress runs high for both parents and students when thoughts turn to college. According to The Princeton Review’s 2017 College Hopes & Dreams Survey, 76 percent of the over 10,000 respondents reported high levels of stress – 4 percent more than last year’s survey respondents, and 20 percent more than in the survey’s initial year, 2003. One surefire way to reduce stress and anxiety is through knowledge. Before heading to school this fall, get to know some college lingo and terminology, provided by the U.S. Department of Education’s glossary. Academic year This is the amount of the academic work you must complete each year, and the time period in which you are expected to complete it, as defined by your school. For example, your school’s academic year may be made up of a fall and spring semester, during which a full-time undergraduate student is expected to complete at least 24 semester hours (usually called credits or credit hours) over the course of 30 weeks of instructional time. Academic years may change from school to school, and even from educational program to educational program at the same school. Associate degree An undergraduate academic degree granted after completion of two years of study. Community colleges and career colleges gener ally award associate degrees. Award letter An offer from a college or career school that states the type and amount of financial aid the school is willing to provide if you accept admission and register to take classes at that school. Bachelor’s degree An undergraduate academic degree awarded for a course of study that generally lasts four years. Colleges or universities generally award bachelor’s degrees.
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Early action A college admission policy that allows applicants to apply and receive notice of their admission early. Applicants accepted under early action are not under a binding agreement to attend that school and may submit applications to other schools. Early decision A college admission policy that allows applicants who commit to attend that school to apply and receive notice of their admission early. If the applicant is accepted, he or she agrees to attend that school and must withdraw all other applications. Elective A class that is not required for your major or minor. Generally, electives are taken for fun or interest. Examples could be public speaking, art history or a fitness class. FAFSA Stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is the form used to apply for grants, loans and work-study. General education course “Gen ed” courses cover the core academic subjects such as science, math and literature. Students must take one or more of these in major academic disciplines. Merit-based Based on a student’s skill or ability. Example: a merit-based scholarship might be awarded based on a student’s high grades. Need-based Based on a student’s financial need. Example: a need-based grant might be awarded based on a student’s low income. Office hours These are the times when a professor or teaching assistant is available to discuss material covered in class, related interests or offer guidance. Room and board An allowance for the cost of housing and food while attending college or career school.
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by Melissa Erickson
Health benefits of pet ownership
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ets make their owners feel special, but the benefits of pet ownership are so much more than unconditional love and someone to greet you at the door when you arrive home. There is much research that shows owning a pet makes people happier and more physically healthy. Recognizing this, modern pet owners want their animals to feel special, too. “Young Americans are less likely to be homeowners or parents than previous generations, but one category they lead in is pet ownership,” said Brandie Gonzales, pet lifestyle expert for Rover, a services site for dog owners. “They shower their dogs with attention and splurge on expensive gifts because their dog is their best friend, and they want to be their dog’s best friend, too.” Not surprisingly, all this love and affection lead to a variety of benefits. According to a recent Rover survey on dog ownership:
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94 percent of pet owners consider their dog family.
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29 percent post more photos of their dog on social media than of their family, friends or themselves.
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79 percent of people said they would include their dog in family moments like holiday cards, vacations and marriage proposals.
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More than 25 percent of pet parents have brought their pet on a date.
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3 out of 4 dog owners have used their dog or a dog video as a pick-me-up when they’re having a rough day.
In addition to increasing a person’s well-being and outlook, owning a cat or dog brings plenty of health benefits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets can decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as feelings of loneliness. One study of older men and women found that owning a cat or dog helped maintain or even slightly enhance their Activities of Daily Living score. Pets can also increase your opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities. By the numbers: 367 – That’s the number of extra steps that kids with dogs take versus kids who do not have dogs, according to a study from the American Public Health Association.
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300 per week – The number of minutes walked by dog owners compared to 168 minutes walked per week by non-dog owners, according to a study by the University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. 15 minutes – in a quiet room with your dog can lower blood pressure by 20 percent, according to a study from University of Missouri-Columbia. •
A pet can also help you be more socially connected. People who walk with their dogs report increased interactions – up to 21 times more often – especially with strangers, according to a study published in the British Journal of Psychology.
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Four-legged friends can also help improve cardiovascular health, according to the National Institutes of Health. One study looked at 421 adults who’d suffered heart attacks. A year later, the scientists found, dog owners were significantly more likely to still be alive than were those who did not own dogs, regardless of the severity of the heart attack.
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Children living in homes with dogs are less likely to develop allergies – by as much as 33 percent – than kids who don’t, according to research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Children who had a dog at home as newborns were much less likely to have atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema (12 percent versus 27 percent) and wheezing (19 percent versus 36 percent) by their third birthday. ■
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L
ook around your house. If you have to replace a leaky faucet, install new win dows or tackle other home improvements, it pays to go green. A first step to finding the biggest bang for your buck for your specific home and climate zone can be obtaining a home energy assessment, according to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. A certified home energy professional evalu ates the home and identifies and prioritizes improvements, which usually includes sealing air leaks before adding insulation materials.
tricks by Melissa Erickson
For many homes, particularly older homes, this first step has the greatest impact and best return. The priority list you get from an energy assessment should guide your home energyefficiency improvements going forward. Here are some suggestions from the EERE that will lower utility costs: 10 to 15 percent Replacing old room air conditioners or central air condition ers with Energy Star models can reduce your energy use by 10 and 15 percent, respectively. 10 percent You can save as much as 10 per cent a year on heating and cooling by adjusting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day from its normal setting. The per centage of savings is greater for buildings in milder climates than for those in more severe climates.
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1/3 to 1/2 If you cook small meals, use toaster or convection ovens rather than your large stove or oven. A toaster or convection oven uses onethird to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven. Use pressure cookers and microwave ovens whenever it is convenient. They will save energy by significantly reducing cooking time. 10 percent Use advanced power strips that can prevent electronics from drawing power when they aren’t being used. Features such as timers, activity monitors and remotes provide options that make it easy to save energy. Many consumer electronics continue to draw power even when they are switched off. This could add an extra 10 percent to your monthly utility bill. 18 to 30 percent Set your television to the “home” or “standard” setting to reduce the brightness and reduce your TV’s energy use by 18 to 30 percent. 20 to 25 percent Replace your incandescent light bulbs with CFLs or light-emitting diodes. Energy Star-qualified LEDs use only about 20 to 25 percent of the energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Be sure to read the packaging to make sure the lighting product is designed for the fixture or lamp you intend to use it with. Recycle If you have an old second refrigerator or freezer, recycle it, particularly if you don’t store very much in it or if it is in unconditioned space. These are big energy hogs. If you aren’t using it at all, at least unplug. ■
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e c a Peof d n i M Insight Meditation
by Jorge Ruiz
M
indfulness meditation is being used in healthcare, corporations, schools, and even in parenting. Locally, people are meeting to sit together and practice insight meditation, which includes mindfulness. I asked two local meditation teachers about their meditation group and their practice: Lori Wong of Insight Meditation Central Valley, and Dorbea Cary, LCSW who facilitates a meditation group at The Yoga Center in Stockton, CA. What is insight meditation? Lori: “The purpose of this type of meditation is to have insights into the three characteristics taught by the Buddha that can lead to the end of suffering. These three characteristics are: anicca (impermanence), dukkha (unsatisfactoriness), and anatta (notself).” “One way we suffer is that we identify with our things (I am my job) or we believe we own something (my partner) or we cling to an identity of who we are (I am a Warriors fan) and when those things we identify with change or when our roles change, we can experience a lot of suffering. The goal is to realize these insights so we no longer look for happiness in these changing things.” What brought you to meditation? Dorbea: “A number of years ago I was diagnosed with celiac disease. It can be aggravated by stress, so I decided that I needed to change the way I was relating to stressors in my life. I began getting very serious about my practice. I discovered that not only was meditation great for reducing stress, but I also found I was feeling a lot more joyful and it brought a lot of happiness into my life.” What is the goal of your meditation group? Lori: “In 2009, I decided it was time to start a group. The vision behind it was to have a community here in the central valley like the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, CA, and people living here could experience a place to practice and to have a community like IMC. We offer everything on a dana basis
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(donation) making it as accessible as we can to people who want to come.” Dorbea: “We’ve been meeting in Stockton for about two years and my vision for the group is that it’s a group where people who are interested in sustaining a meditation practice can come for support and encouragement. Mindfulness isn’t a quick fix. It’s something that takes time to develop. It was hard for me to maintain motivation on my own at home. This meditation group is a place where people can come on a weekly basis and support each other in maintaining their mindfulness practice.” Where did mindfulness originate? Can you give me one example of a study in which the benefits of mindfulness has been seen? Lori: “In a secular context, mindfulness, as most people know it, developed out of an 8-week program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn to reduce stress and manage chronic pain. Jon’s program was run out of the basement of the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, where the doctors would send patients they couldn’t treat with traditional medicine. He taught them mindfulness practices which actually helped in reducing stress and chronic pain for this population.” Dorbea: “Jon Kabat Zinn’s program is one of the most heavily researched programs on the positive benefits of mindfulness. Since then the research has just exploded. There was a Harvard study that showed how the gray matter concentration in the hippocampus (the part of the brain associated with selfawareness and compassion) increased for people after just an 8-week mindfulness course. At the same time the gray matter concentration in the amygdala (the part of the brain associated with stress and anxiety) decreased.” What would you say to someone who’s interested in the meditation group but who’s uncertain of attending because they’re not Buddhist? Dorbea: “Mindfulness practice was developed over 2600 years ago by the Buddha, but it’s a practice that can be done by anyone. The mindfulness I teach is a secular mindfulness. It’s not about following a particular religious ideology. It’s about being able to
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become aware of what you’re sensing and experiencing moment to moment.” Lori: “I think anyone can come. You don’t have to ascribe to Buddhism. The Buddha actually didn’t teach anything about metaphysics or about not accepting other religions. His teaching is about suffering and how to be free of it. It’s very pragmatic. Anyone who wants to find some way to be caught in less suffering or less stress is certainly welcome to come, and can derive a lot of benefit.” Meditation can be beneficial for our mental and physical health, but is not a panacea. Meditation may have harmful effects on some people, which is why it’s important to have trained teachers and instructors. The reason for practicing differs from person to person. Some practitioners meditate for relief from stress, while for many, they consider the practice part of their path towards liberation from suffering.
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Practicing meditation: It’s time for you to sit, meditate, and look inward now. You might feel fidgety at first. Your shirt might be touching you in a way that you disapprove of (it sounds silly, but it happens). You tug on your shirt and fix that. Okay, now you’re here with the teacher guiding you. As you meditate, your mind wanders off plenty of times, and that’s just normal. That’s what minds do. You gently bring your mind back to paying attention to your breath. You’re training your mind to settle and to pay attention in a specific way. This training allows your mind to develop insights into your behavior and how you relate to the world, as well as to see the nature of your experience. The end of the session is signaled by three resonate rings of a meditation bell, calling you back to this moment. Insight Meditation Central Valley: imcv.org. Meditation Group at The Yoga Center: contact Dorbea Cary at pacecary@gmail.com.
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Which Collagen
by Eunice Green, NHD
R
ecently collagen has become a real buzzword in the health and nutrition industry. Almost every supplement manufacturer has come out with a collagen, and trying to decide which one to use can be very confusing. There are liquids, capsules, different “types” and different strengths.
?
Collagen has been touted as being beneficial for joints, bones and recovery; it also is advertised as helping with beautifying hair, skin and nails, as well as burning fat and reshaping the body. It sounds almost too good to be true – that one supplement could help with such a wide range of issues. The answer really is in which collagen supplement is used. If you are taking a prescription-strength, Type 1 collagen protein, one that is hydrolyzed and predigested, and taking it in liquid form, the benefits are amazing. Next to water, collagen is an essential substance in the body. Many types of collagen have been tested by scientists, but it has been found that Type 1 collagen has the ability to surround our organs and is a major component of ligaments, bone, tendons, muscle fibers, blood vessels, eyes, hair, skin and nails. It is truly the glue that holds our bodies together. Around the age of 30 we start losing about 1% of our collagen per year, and our ability to produce it goes down. Sugar, coffee, smoking and alcohol furthur damage our bodies’ collagen. There is good news, though; supplementing with prescription-strength, Type 1 collagen peptides in liquid form can provide the body with the precise amino acids that will both maintain the collagen in the body as well as help to generate new collagen production.
This type of collagen has a multitude of anti-aging benefits – weight loss, skin appearance, daytime energy, bone health, connective tissue, metabolism, muscle retention, quality of sleep, exercise recover and tissue repair. What is so wonderful is that it is natural to our bodies, so there are no food allergy concerns. This collagen is a little pricier than many products on the market because the quality is so superior. The low-priced products may often look attractive, but they lack the “true” collagen that will produce results. The liquid collagen is so easy to use, and it is suggested that it be taken at bedtime. Most people find that they sleep really well and wake up refreshed. Weight loss is often a result, but more important, inches are lost as muscle tone is improved. It gives the skin the appearance of youthfullness, tightening and toning; it produces great results with hair, provides relief from joint and muscle aches, and improves sleep. If you would like to slow down the aging process, this would be the most helpful product to try. We will not live forever, but as long as we are here, wouldn’t it be great to look and feel our best? ■
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September 2
September 16
The Haggin Museum 1201 Pershing Avenue, Stockton 12 to 5 p.m. Info: 209-940-6300
University Park Magnolia & California Streets, Stockton 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Info: 209-957-7277 familydayatthepark.com
September 2
September 30
Stockton 99 Speedway 4105 N. Wilson Way, Stockton 5 to 10 p.m. Info: 209-482-6969
San Joaquin County Fairgrounds 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 209-466-5041 Tickets: stocktonautoshow.com
Free Admission Day at the Haggin Museum
Tri-Holiday Series Round 3 ART September 8
Artsplash
20 N. Sutter Street, Stockton 5 to 8 p.m. Info: 209-464-6868
September 6
Family Day at the Park
Stockton Auto Show & Family Festival
Full Moon Riders
September 30
September 9
Oak Grove Regional Park 4520 W. Eight Mile Road, Stockton 6:50 p.m. Info: 209-462-0798 or 209-462-0798 Email: spacecadetdoug@ stocktonastro.org
Janet Leigh Plaza 222 N. El Dorado Street, Stockton 6 to 8 p.m. Info: 209-464-5246
Hot Hula Hukilau presented by the Rotary Club Of Stockton
Astronomy In The Park
University Waterfront Plaza Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton 5:30 to 7 p.m. – $75 per person Info: 209-607-2627 corie@gemcorp.com
FAMILY September 1-3
Annual Labor Day Stockton Community Pow Wow University of the Pacific 9/1 – 6 p.m., 9/2 & 9/3 – 11 a.m. 3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton Info: 209-662-3131
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September 9
War Comes Home: The Legacy
The San Joaquin County Historical Museum Micke Grove Park 11793 N. Micke Grove 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 209-953-3460
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FESTIVALS September 8
Central Valley Cruisers
Bagel Express 1461 W. March Lane, Stockton 5 to 9 p.m. 209-598-7955
september 2017
September 8-10
Greek Food Festival Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Christian Church 920 W. March Lane, Stockton Info: 209-478-7564
September 23-24
Earth’s Treasures Gem, Mineral, Jewelry & Bead Show Lodi Grape Festival Grounds 413 E. Lockeford Street, Lodi 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – $6 per person Info: 209-369-2771
September 9-10
Baconfest
Dell’Osso Family Farm 501 Manthey Road, Lathrop 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets: 209-982-0833 baconfest.com September 10
El Grito Fest
Mexican Independence Festival Waterfront Amphitheater 445 W. Weber Street, Stockton 2 p.m. September 14
Lodi Grape Festival & Harvest Fair
413 E. Lockeford Street, Lodi 9/14 – 4 p.m. 9/15, 16, 17 – 12 p.m. Info: 209-369-2771 grapefestival.com
FOOD September 7
Stockton Food Truck Mania
Oak Grove Regional Park 4520 W. Eight Mile Road, Stockton 4 to 8 p.m. Info: 916-722-6636
September 16
The StockMarket
Caldwell Park Pacific & Alpine Avenue, Stockton 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 209-322-7624 September 16
Falling Out of Summer Music Festival Klein Family Field at University of the Pacific 3611 Pacific Avenue, Stockton 2:30 to 9:30 p.m. Info: 209-607-5431
HEALTH September 2
Free Yoga in Victory Park
Victory Park 1001 N. Pershing Avenue, Stockton 8:45 to 10 a.m.
September 16
International Day of Peace
University Park, World Peace Rose Garden Grant & Magnolia Streets Info: 209-473-6201
2017 september
September 5
Paddle Board Yoga
Headwaters Boat House at Lodi Lake 1101 W. Turner Road, Lodi 5:30 p.m. $25 w/rental $15 w/own equipment Info: 209-224-8367
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September 21
September 27
Windmill Cove Resort & Marina 7600 Windmill Cove Road, Stockton 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. 18+ only Info: 209-948-6995
Bob Hope Theatre 242 E. Main Street, Stockton 8 to 10 p.m. 18+ only Info: 209-373-1400 marketing@smgstockton.com www.magicmenlive.com
Sounds of Summer “S.O.S.�
Magic Men Live!
September 22
Summer Concerts
Stone Creek Village Pacific Avenue & Robinhood Drive, Stockton 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Info: 209-474-1634
MUSIC September 24
Jazzin the Courtyard Presented by Inner City Productions
University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton 5 to 8 p.m. Info: 209-482-8754 or 209-483-1980 Tickets: at University Plaza Waterfront Hotel or online @facebook.com/ InnerCityProductionsPresents Tickets not sold at door.
WINE TASTING September 9
Sommelier Boot Camp at Mile Wine Company 2113 Pacific Avenue, Stockton 2 to 4 p.m. $20 per person Info: 209-465-9463
THEATRE September 8
Movies at the Point: Moana Weber Point Events Center 221 N. Center Street, Stockton 6:30 to 9 p.m. Info: 209-937-8206
September 30
STEERS AND BEERS Join The ARC of San Joaquin for the 3rd Annual Fundraiser Saturday, September 30, from 4 to 8 p.m. at 41 West Yokuts Avenue in Stockton. Enjoy the evening with a delicious barbecued tri-tip and chicken dinner, no-host beer and wine bar, dancing to live music from the Out and About band, car show and raffle prizes. Shop at the ARC craft boutique for unique items made by our clients. For the past 63 years, The Arc San Joaquin has provided services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, autism and other disabilities. Proceeds from this event will go toward operating services such as supported employment, adult life skills, and community integration to empower our clients to achieve their highest potential. Tickets are $30. Call 209-955-1625 for tickets and information. Visit us on facebook.
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