San Joaquin Lifestyles Feb 2013

The Magazine For San Joaquin County

DAVE BRUBECK

HONORING JAZZ ICON’S LIFE AND MUSIC Page 7

CELEBRATING

BLACK HISTORY MONTH See listing of events on page 36

HONORING JAZZ ICON’S LIFE AND MUSIC

Pag

February 2013 ■ sanjoaquinlifestyles.com

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letter

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e d i tor

LOVE IS IN THE AIR Publisher

Roger Coover

The Magazine For San Joaquin County

Publication Director Deitra R. Kenoly

C

Editor

Carrie Sass

hocolate, wine and romantic dinners

The Broadway Tenors. After seeing the pictures

– February is all about love, and love is what

of these three handsome guys, I’ve concluded

makes the world go ’round. From feather beds,

it doesn’t matter if they can sing! I’m bringing

to pairings of wine and chocolate, to romantic

my opera glasses.

getaways, (like Carmel-by-the-Sea) to decadent

…other events coming up worthy of

desserts, and a frivolous stroll on a bicycle built

attending: Empowering Young Women, and

for two – in this issue we have LOVE covered, and

the First Annual Women’s Conference being

then some…

held at UOP –featuring keynote speaker

…like the love of jazz. Our beloved Dave

Condoleezza Rice, and Black History month.

Brubeck recently passed away, yet we know

Lastly, speaking of love, I congratulate

that his legacy will live on through his generous

my beautiful daughter, Andi Lyn, and her new

gift of the creation of the Brubeck Institute. We

husband, Nate, on their recent marriage. It has

are truly blessed that Dave Brubeck believed in

been an absolute blast planning a wedding

our University, and our community – knowing

that was beautiful, yet so very much fun. In

that we would treasure and continue his

typical Sass family style, her wedding vision

legacy. The Brubeck Festival will once again

motto, “If it’s been done before, we’re not

delight all who attend. Let’s pack the theatres

doing it!” was implemented to the nth degree.

and concert halls to honor Dave Brubeck.

Andi Lyn, you were a beautiful bride. We are so

…and of course, I love our Stockton

proud of you and look forward to many, many

Symphony. Purchase your tickets right away

more family celebrations with Nate – your

for the Valentine’s Pops Concert – featuring

wonderful new husband!

— Carrie Sass xoxo and a box of chocolates!

Graphic Designers Jason Ente Dan Loeffelbein

Contributing Writers

Mary Raffetto Jennifer Torres-Siders Michelle Machado Jennifer Langham Charleen Earley Bertrand Johnson Laurie Eager Dennis Hall Joan Heffernan Judi Hachman Michelle Hart Dani Hovatter

Contributing Photographers

David Sowers Amy Phipps

Pam Eibeck Cesar Larios

?

Please continue to forward story ideas to: SASS! Public Relations 2972 W. Swain Road #228, Stockton 95219; or call: 209-957-7277; or email: cmsass@comcast.net

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 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinlifestyles.com.

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On the cover: DAVE BRUBECK Photo COURTESY OF THE RECORD

contents 7

THE ARTS Dave Brubeck Our jazz legend

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SAVOR Decadent Desserts The romance of Valentine’s Day desserts

11 Healthy Cooking Olive oil

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WINE AND SPIRITS Michael David Wine • Cafe • Beautiful grounds

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WINE CRITIC Wine & Chocolate Perfect pairings

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lIVING with style Sweet Dreams Lovely linens for your love nest

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT Junior League 85 years of charitable giving

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OUR CULTURE Black History Month

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Condoleezza Rice headlines First annual women’s conference

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community spotlight Sweet Tooth San Joaquin Dental Society celebrates

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local spotlight Now & Zen

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Travel Near Carmel-by-the-Sea A romantic retreat

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ELITE FLEET

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A Bicycle Built For Two You'll look sweet upon the seat

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Sporting life Ryan Winther Longest drive record holder

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WAG TALES Dottie

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MARK THE DATE

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Scene AND BE SEEN The Stockton Opera Guild

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Dameron Hospital

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Stockton Ducks Unlimited

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Stockton Athletic Hall Of Fame

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The ATHENA Awards

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The Coalition For Higher Learning, Inc.

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Community Foundation Super Bowl Raffle

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Celebrating Dave Brubeck

Brubeck Festival Honors Jazz Icon’s Life and Music

BY jennifer langham PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RECORD

S

imon Rowe, executive director of the Brubeck

Institute at University of the Pacific, has a fond memory of the last time he saw Dave Brubeck, just three weeks before the jazz legend’s December death. “We were sitting around Dave’s dining room table with his wife Iola, sons Chris and Darius and their wives, and with Wynton Marsalis, dreaming up a week of celebrating Dave Brubeck,” Rowe says.

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The 2009 Brubeck Festival at Faye Spanos Concert Hall on the University of the Pacific campus Friday evening, April 3, 2009. The performance opened with a choral piece sang by the Sacramento Mast Singers, titled “Earth Is Our Mother.”

The group was planning the Brubeck Festival, a weeklong event of music, lectures, and family events celebrating the life and music of northern California native and Pacific alumnus Dave Brubeck. The festival is in Stockton this year, while plans are being made for special events in New York City for 2014.

The line-up for this year’s festival, March 18 through 23, includes some of the top names in music: the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, the Tom Harrell Quintet, the San Francisco Choral Artists and the Brubeck Brothers Quartet.

It’s appropriate, says Rowe, that Marsalis, one of the present-day jazz greats, would be here honoring the iconic Brubeck. “Wynton recognizes the importance of the arts – for education, for entertainment, even as a Simon Rowe, executive director of the Brubeck Institute at University of the Pacific

catalyst for social change – and how Dave was a leader in all these areas,” Rowe says.

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Dave Brubeck performs with his Quartet (Bobby Militello, alto sax; Michael Moore, bass; and Randy Jones, drums) at the University of the Pacific as part of the Dave Brubeck Festival in Stockton, CA, Thursday, April 13, 2007.

For this year’s festival, the Brubeck Institute has joined forces with several partners from the public and private sectors to expand access to festival events, and to make the festival a city-wide event. Tom Harrell is performing at Delta College, and Wynton Marsalis will be at the Bob Hope Theatre, with reasonably-priced tickets available for both, says Rowe.

Several evening performances featuring regional artists will be held at Take 5 at the Brew on the Miracle Mile, while the French Quarter Day of the festival will be in downtown Stockton, and Family Day will be on the University of the Pacific campus.

Educational events before the festival will help children learn about Dave Brubeck’s music. The Downtown Stockton Art Contest is open for K-6 students to create original paintings inspired by Brubeck’s music. Delta College is hosting a multimedia concert event for San Joaquin County 3rd-6th graders

Chavez High students play during an assembly for music students on the life and importance of Dave Brubeck.

featuring paintings and an original composition inspired by Brubeck’s music.

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BRUBECK FESTIVAL 2013 March 18-23, 2013

Events to be held around Stockton, including downtown and the Bob Hope Theatre, on the University of Pacific campus, at Delta College, and at Take 5 Jazz at the Brew/Valley Brew.

Some events are free.

Tickets for Take 5 events available at the door.

Tickets for other events available at brubeckinstitute.org Visit brubeckinstitute.org for a full schedule of events.

Brian Kendrick, Director of Jazz Studies at Delta and coordinator of the concert event, says, “This is a great opportunity to educate children about this music, and perhaps even to develop new audiences for the arts in Stockton.”

This kind of community-building is exactly what Dave Brubeck had in mind for the festival, says Simon Rowe. “It’s important that the final concert of the festival features two of his sons and performances of Dave’s sacred music. I think Dave would have been pleased.” ❑

Brian Kendrick playing drums at the Big Band Jazz Concert held at the Tillie Lewis Theatre, Delta College

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savor

Decadent Desserts

By Mary Raffetto Photos by David Sower

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n undeniably romantic place year-round,

Towne House Restaurant at Wine & Roses is going the extra mile for its guests this Valentine season, offering decadent desserts, champagne and fixed-price dinners for two. Manager Kathryn Munson says, “We refer to February as ‘Romance Month,’ and treat every day in February as Valentine’s Day so that our visitors can celebrate throughout.” Customers are appreciative, and response has been extraordinary because many couples do not want to venture out on the 14th to compete with mobs of other diners.

Guests can treat themselves sweetly to a variety of superb gourmet dinners and decadent desserts such as exotic, handmade truffles, which they often enjoy with specific wines or champagnes to enhance the flavor of the rare chocolates. Much like a coffee bean, the cocoa beans used in these masterful concoctions are unique.

Some are prized for being shade-grown, while other varieties of cocoa are best grown in the sun, but each variety has special qualities and nuances which are not like the other.

Asked why the restaurant’s name had been changed from “Wine and Roses” to “Towne House at Wine and Roses,” Kathryn Munson explained that the restaurant structure, built in 1902, was home to the Towne family for three generations. “With all the weddings and other special events here, we felt it was the perfect name to differentiate the restaurant from the rest of the buildings, and to honor the family history.”

A restaurant for all seasons, Towne House at Wine and Roses belongs at the top of the list for Valentine celebrations and special events of all kinds. ❑

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A passion for healthy food

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BY charleen earley PHOTOS BY DAVID SOWERS

elationships with those around us can either

be long-term or short-lived, but our relationship with food lasts a lifetime – and for Orietta Gianjorio, teaching us how to have the best relationship with what we eat, is her passion in life.

Born and raised in Rome (Italy), Gianjorio came to the United States in 2008. Her biggest discovery in America was how nutritionists governed how we eat, based on rules, counting calories and negativity towards food.

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“We are pleasure-driven human beings,” said Gianjorio. “I teach

“When we drink sodas, we are killing our taste buds, and iced

people how to involve their senses with eating – touch, taste, sight, and

water makes your taste buds obsolete,” she said. “If you base your

smell. It’s not about what we can’t eat. If it were enough for our doctors

diet on only proteins, that’s boring for your eyes and your mouth. You

to tell us what not to eat, we’d all be healthy!”

need a variety of textures and aromas. We have to go back to a virgin,

A former food and wine editor of an Italian publication, Gianjorio holds a diploma of Sommelier and is the delegate in the greater

clean palate. How to eat – is the secret to how nourishing that food is to you.” ❑ Visit her website at www.orietta.net

Sacramento area for the Italian Academy of Cuisine. She wrote, produced and hosted several TV shows in Italy and America, and is a regular on many TV stations.

“I worked as a journalist in Italy and had my own TV show for four years; something like 60 Minutes here,” said Gianjorio, who is also a judge at University of California, Davis on the tasting panel for olive oil.

Through her olive oil and food tastings, she teaches the public

A healthy relationship with food begins with your senses and good olive oil

about olive oil.

“Everyone tells you olive oil is good for you, but in reality that’s

Local Olive Oil Producers

not true. Only good olive oil is good for you,” she said. “Bad olive oil is like drinking liquid butter, it’s like liquid fat. It’s very important that consumers understand the difference between good and bad products.

I lean towards the side of consumers, because of my journalistic background.”

Good cooking begins with quality olive oil. The following local olive oil producers are Seal Certified by the California Olive Oil Council, and have employed strict international standards of quality to American consumers. Each producer extracts mechanically without using chemicals or excessive heat, and their olives are less than

Her latest book called Coratina: A Little Lost Olive On a Journey of

Discovery, is for children, with an appendix for parents.

.5% free of oleic acid. Start your visit with these local producers below, and for more producers throughout the Bay Area, visit

“There are no children’s books on olive oil! I do olive oil tastings for

http://www.cooc.com/producers_certified.html

kids, too,” said Gianjorio. “My other book, which comes out March this year, is everything about picking good olive oils, cooking with it and pairing foods with wine. It’s basically a guide to olive oil tasting.”

Her healthy relationship with food first began with her mother and

Bozzano Olive Ranch Stockton, CA www.bozzanoranch.com

father, who grew up during World War II, when food was rationed.

“It was a luxury to get food. When my mom and I would shop for food on Saturdays, we’d leave at 8:30 in the morning and come back

Calvirgin Olive Oil owned by the Coldani family www.calivirgin.com

by 1:30 p.m. My mom had to make sure the food was the best,” said Gianjorio. “She transferred all that passion for food to me, and she always told me, ‘the money you spend at the market is less than the

Corto Olive Oil owned by the Cortopassi family www.Corto-Olive.com

money you spend at the doctor!’”

Quality – rather than quantity – is what Gianjorio firmly believes in. But because we live in a fast-paced society, she says “we don’t take time to eat!”

She says we also drown our foods with too much additives – salt, pepper, butter and ranch dressings.

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Lodi Olive Oil who produce Tuscan Style, Ascolano, and Mediterranean Blend. www.LodiOliveOil.com

grapev i ne

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By John McClimans PHOTOS BY AMY PHIPPS WWW.ONTHEPHIPPSIDES.COM

eady or not, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, which

means mushy cards, overpriced flowers and of course, wine. And what better way to celebrate than with a bottle of Lodi wine from one of its best-known wineries, Michael David?

Following the story of many of Lodi wineries, namesakes David

and Michael Phillips are fifth-generation Lodians whose great-great grandparents settled in Lodi in the 1860s. It wasn’t until 1984, though, when they started selling wine. Since then, Michael David has made a name for itself, growing into a global distributor that ships to all 50 states and 16 countries, with eyes to continue expanding.

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This year alone they crushed over 10,000 tons of grapes (that’s around 1.5 million gallons), which will become more than 20 different wines.

“We’re always trying to be creative and try something new,” said David Phillips, coowner and president. “We try to experiment with types of grapes people haven’t heard of before like tannat and cinsault, which comes from a 127-year-old vineyard in Lodi.”

And with so many wines, there is sure to be something to whet the appetite of you and your special someone. David’s suggestion?

Well, nothing is more appropriate for Valentine’s Day than a bottle of Lust. At $60 a bottle, it goes great with a juicy steak, and even better with chocolate.

grapev i ne

If you’re looking for something less expensive,

and Chocolate Weekend, taking place February

you can never go wrong with 7 Deadly Zins,

9-10. You’ll be able to enjoy a sampling of some

Michael David’s flagship and top-selling wine.

of their many wines while enjoying special food

At just $16, you don’t have to feel bad enjoying

pairings and live music.

more than one bottle of this seductive zinfandel.

But at the end of the day, for David and his

It’s zinfandels, after all, that Lodi is best

brother, it’s all about the spreading their love of

known for, accounting for 70% of all production.

But it’s not the only type of grape growing in the local vineyards.

Lodi’s wine.

“Twelve years ago there were only seven wineries in Lodi, and now there are 85,” said

“Lodi grows 60-70 types of grapes,” said

David. “Lodi has grown, but we’re still down-

David. “We have more than 100,000 acres

to-earth. If you don’t know anything about

of grapes grown here. Twice as much as all of

wine, don’t be afraid of it. That’s what Lodi is

Oregon and Washington combined. There’s

all about!”

bound to be something for everyone.”

You can purchase Michael David wines in

And what better way to try some Michael

most area grocery stores, online and at their

David wine than joining them and over 40

tasting room and cafe located off of Highway 12

other Lodi wineries at the 16th Annual Wine

between I-5 and Lower Sacramento Road. ❑

Pairing Red Wines grapev i ne

with Chocolates

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STORY By Dennis Hall PHOTOS BY CESAR LARIOS

ebruary is our celebrated month of

expressing love for our valentine. A decadent indulgence is celebrating love by pairing multiple courses of delicious, sweet, red wines with milk chocolate to chocolates with richer blends of chocolates of cocoa. Pairing wine with chocolates at its heart is about companionship, and fosters romance, along with tasty adventure and mysterious intrigue.

Grins, giggles and joyous butterflies begin the joyous journey. Spark the mood with tall, slender candles’ glowing light illuminating your elegant setting of wine and chocolates. An hour or so before your indulgences, uncork each of the red wines, allowing them to breathe, enhancing each wine’s unique flavor. Before tasting, freshen your palates and awaken your taste buds by sipping and swirling cool water served in champagne glasses.

For elegant setting, arrange four Lodi Appellation red wines in a semicircle around a plate adorned with a range of chocolates, from milk chocolate to dark chocolate: Pinot Noir from Woodbridge

by Robert Mondavi for milk chocolates or truffles, Merlot from Toasted Toad Cellars for chocolates that are a bit more rich than milk chocolate, Cabernet

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Sauvignon from Cycles Gladiator and Zinfandel from Fields Family

range of chocolates it makes from bean to bar on-site, and allowing

Wines for more rich, darker chocolate, and ultimately Zinsation from

you to buy chocolates there, or order online. In the Napa wine country,

Harmony Wynelands, a sweet dessert wine for rich, dark chocolate with

there is Kollar Chocolates in Yountville, a chocolatier offering many

a high cocoa percentage in the seventy-percent range of blend. Each of

extraordinary and sexy assortments of chocolate treats from their

these vintners has a tasting room in the Lodi Appellation, allowing you

store’s showroom or online. The Vintage Sweet Shoppe in the city of

to sample their wines and buy for your pairing.

Napa allows you to taste a range of wines with their uniquely blended

With each pour and pairing with chocolate, gently inhale a bit of the bouquet levitating above the wine in the glass, following on with a tipping of the glasses, sipping and swirling the wine in your mouth to

chocolates made on the premises – again a sexy array of treats to please your valentine.

Enjoy your indulgences of pairing wines with chocolates!

drench your taste buds, savoring your wine before swallowing. Nibble the chocolate and allow it to melt, and provide a wonderful mouth feel before again tipping your glass and sipping another small portion of the wine. The experience evokes smiles and joyous comments as the adventure unfolds.

Stores all throughout San Joaquin County sell a wonderful variety of chocolates, including those with organic ingredients, and there are opportunities in Northern California to visit some chocolatemaking companies with tasting rooms, and chocolatiers, too.

Rocky

Mountain

Chocolate

Factory at 115 South School Street

in

downtown

Lodi

contributed elegant examples of festive, scrumptious truffles and milk and dark chocolate hunks for delightful pairing.

Stores sell chocolate brands such as See’s, Lindt, Dove, Godiva, Hershey, Nestle, and Ghirardelli, but it is especially fun and romantic exploring the

alternative

offerings

of

chocolates as well sold alongside these brands. All of these options allow you to tailor your selection of chocolate by percentage of cocoa. If you want to extend the range of your chocolate pairing adventure, there is Dandelion Chocolate in San Francisco, that has a tasting bar for sampling the

Dennis Hall is a free-lance writer, author, entrepreneur, and San Joaquin County advocate. Dennis and his wife Dana founded Sip California, a wine industry business.

Dennis.SipCalifornia@gmail.com 916-541-1992

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The Stockton Opera Guild

Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

The Stockton Opera Guild presented “The Curtain Goes Up” on November 1 at the Stockton Golf and Country Club.

The evening featured a delicious dinner, and musical concert. This year, Erna Murphy was honored for her volunteer work. Proceeds from the evening benefited the Stockton Opera Guild’s Kathe Underwood Scholarship Fund.

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A Tom and Lori Murphy. Ben and Delores Ehrler, Esther and Greg Aghazarian, Erna, Mandy,

Margo and Chester Murphy. Max and Ben Aghazarian, Ryan Murphy B

Joyce Harris, Stan Steele, Jan and Mike Quartaroli

D Daine and Wayne Lowery

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JoAnne Lynch, Vicki Dockery and Baita Harvie

Elizabeth Alvarez and Betty MacRae

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Eberhard and Cecilia Schwierzke

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Dameron Hospital

Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

Dameron Hospital celebrated its 100th birthday on November 3 at the home of Alex and Faye Spanos.

Students from Stockton Civic Theatre gave a presentation on the history of Dameron Hospital. It was a wonderful celebration!

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Dr. Nicholas Dah, Cathy and Zach Birlew

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Blake and Trina Eagal

D Annie Stevonson, Susanne Brown and Diane Vigil

Ethan Alvale, Alyssa Kimball, Layla Yu and Madison Chim

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Marilyn and Dennis Shore, Leslie and George Campbell

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Feather

Your (Love) Nest

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by MARY RAFFETTO Photos by David SOWERS

ith the season of romance all a-flutter (Hello, Valentine… chocolate-covered

strawberry?), not to mention white sales galore, it’s a wonderful time to completely re-feather our lovenests, or at least glam them up a bit. Think cushy down pillows, silky-soft sheets, high-quality candles, and beautiful music for a come-hither room you’ll never want to leave.

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When it comes to improving your bedroom or guestroom, it’s Out-WithThe-Stressful and In-With-The-Delightful. Clear the way by deciding which things really must go, such as clutter, which can make anyone feel aggravated, disorganized and unsettled. Give careful consideration to items – even furniture – which make you feel bad or remind you of unhappy times, and decide whether to give those things away or relocate them permanently. With these simple improvements made, the room’s potential will begin to emerge.

If getting a fresh start means a fresh coat of paint, now’s the time to go for it. Make it manageable by breaking the job into doable phases. Wash and prep the walls one day, carefully tape them off the next, and then paint to your heart’s content. Choose a reasonably neutral wall color that pairs well with your bedding and flooring – this is no place to express your inner vixen; you can let her pick out the lingerie.

Consider a good quality down comforter for warmth without weight, and, if an electric blanket isn’t in the picture, you can count on coziness by giving sheets a quick blast of the hairdryer to make them super-snuggly before turning in on cold nights.

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Since the bed is most often the focal point of the entire room,

done within sleeping quarters to create a romantic ambiance. Candles

you’ll want to choose a duvet (the decorative, removable cover which

do double duty by providing magical lighting as well as a soft fragrance

envelopes the comforter and keeps it clean) or bedspread that you love,

to the room. Another option might be to use uplights beneath a potted

and then coordinate the other items in the room to go with it. If you

tree, or flameless candles. Sound can be your choice of music, a small,

are lacking a headboard, you can mimic the look of one by using three

tabletop “waterfall,” or recorded sound-scape such as ocean waves. As

26-inch “European square” pillows against the wall, and placing your

for touch, if you’ve selected bedding which has you fooled into thinking

regular pillows in front of them.

you’re floating on a cloud, then you’ve already appealed to the sense

Once the scene is set, it’s time to accessorize! Remember the five

of touch, which brings us back ‘round to taste: a little chocolate on the

senses: sight, smell, touch, taste and sound. In much the same way one

pillow like they do in some hotels, and a bit o’ bubbly would be lovely,

might appeal to those senses when serving a fine meal, the same can be

because let’s face it, we had you at chocolate-covered strawberry… ❑

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The Magazine For San Joaquin County

Celebrating 85 years of Service Junior League of San Joaquin County (formerly Junior Aid of Stockton)

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Recognizing a need in the community and stepping in to fulfill it – this singular goal is the common thread woven throughout the illustrious history of The Junior League of San Joaquin County (formerly known as Junior Aid of Stockton). This year marks the 85th year.

Story by Laurie Eager Photos Courtesy of Junior League

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omen of our community have joined

together to provide much-needed assistance to a myriad of worthy causes. They will celebrate past successes, and toast to the future at an Anniversary Gala to be held Saturday, March 2 at Stockton Golf and Country Club. A peek into scrapbooks, binders of notes and newspaper clippings reveals how these women have responded to changing times with projects and funding that have had lasting impact on countless lives in our area.

From their early beginnings as founders of the Stockton Day Nursery, created to care for children whose mothers had to enter the workforce during World War I, to modern-day working women with widely varying careers, a dynamic group of women have met monthly to identify and serve the needs of the people of San Joaquin County. Projects as diverse as the women themselves fill their archives, and have netted a total of more than $1,000,000 donated to local charities. A few, including the Janet Ditz Doll (complete with an exquisite handmade wardrobe, and raffled off each Christmas) and the wellknown annual rummage sale, endured for

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decades. Others – such as the one-time guest appearance of Martha Stewart, elegant dinner galas, kitchen and garden tours, and follies – came and went throughout the years.

Currently the group is focused on literacy and programs for school children. Unchanging, however, is the level of style and commitment evident in everything the group undertakes.

In addition to raising money and granting funding to worthy charities, Junior Aid members have contributed in excess of one million volunteer hours to actively serving those agencies as well.

From the early days of the organization to its present, the goals of this group were closely aligned with those of the Association of Junior Leagues around the world. Junior League trains women for effective leadership roles, and empowers them to have a meaningful impact on their communities. Recognizing this similarity, and the benefits that come from associating with a larger network of like-minded groups, Junior Aid of Stockton voted on and undertook affiliation with the Association of Junior Leagues several years ago. Many women have used their Junior Aid experience to found, lead and impact other non-profits, as well as fill leadership roles in business and government. The group actively seeks new members who are interested in helping improve lives in San Joaquin County, gaining valuable leadership training, and creating lifelong friendships in the process. San Joaquin County joins in appreciating and celebrating the contributions the Junior League has made to our region. ❑

Dozens of charitable organizations have benefitted Junior Aid / Junior League funding, including: • Oak Park Senior Center • UOP Speech and Hearing Clinic • St. Raphael’s Dental clinic at St. Mary’s Dining Hall • Partner with St. Joseph’s Hospital for its first heart monitoring system • The Women’s Center • The Child-Abuse Prevention Center • The Transitional Learning Center For additional information and membership application, please see the website jlsjc.org

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By Jennifer Torres Siders PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RECORD

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n South San Joaquin Street in Stockton stands

the home – registered as a historical landmark – that Moses Rodgers built for his wife and five daughters in 1898. Rodgers, who had been born into slavery in Missouri, came to California in 1849, at the start of the Gold Rush. He would gain prominence as an expert mining engineer, and is now regarded as among the most notable of the region’s black pioneers.

Since Rodgers’ death in 1900, many more influential leaders have emerged from within San Joaquin County’s black community, from Wilhelmina Henry, who in 1947 became the Stockton Unified School District’s first black teacher (an elementary school campus has since been named in her honor); to Dr. Bryant Williams, whose upbringing in the segregated South did not stop him from becoming a pediatrician and opening a Stockton practice, which he ran for 50 years, inspiring generations of patients to fulfill their own potential; to Andre Phillips, a track and field star who won Olympic gold at the 1988 games in Seoul, South Korea, and now serves as principal of Stockton’s Stagg High School.

According to estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 60,000 San Joaquin County residents – or, about 8 percent – are black. And Black History Month, observed in February, offers the community as a whole the opportunity to celebrate their contributions, their history and their culture.

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UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC

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Grammy Award-winning

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer

Anthony Hamilton

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

to lecture, perform

to lecture

Thursday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m.

Bob Hope Theatre

Faye Spanos Concert Hall

“It’s really just about getting folks to learn

“We feel that Black History Month is an

Hamilton is set to lecture on the CASA program

about black history, and encouraging people

opportunity to say, ‘Here are some things we

as well as to perform a short set of songs on

to get involved in the movement to make

can do for the community – to hopefully bring

February 7. His appearance will begin at 7 p.m.

this community a better place,” says Randall

some light and some inspiration,’” Ogans

at the Bob Hope Theatre.

Ogans,” who serves as co-chair of University

explains.

“The way he gives back inspires hope,” Ogans says of Hamilton’s work.

of the Pacific’s Black History Month committee.

Serving as keynote speaker of the

Over recent years, Ogans and colleagues

university’s Black History Celebration is

Part of Pacific’s Black History Month

have worked with other organizations and

Anthony Hamilton, a Grammy award-winning

programming for more than a decade,

agencies – including San Joaquin Delta

singer who also serves as national spokesman

Gospelfest is another opportunity to foster

College and Progressive Community Church –

for Court Appointed Special Advocates, or

hope and inspiration, and to honor what has

to plan a month of programming that unites

CASA. The program, managed locally by the

long been a deep source of strength within

the community in a celebration of history and

nonprofit Child Abuse Prevention Council,

the black community, Ogans adds. This year’s

culture.

sends specially trained volunteers to meet

concert is planned for 7 p.m. on February

This year, he says, organizers also aim

regularly with children in foster care, giving

15 at Progressive Community Church on B

to empower participants – of all races and

them the kind of support and attention that

Street in south Stockton – the venue itself an

ethnicities – to improve their neighborhoods.

social workers aren’t always able to provide.

opportunity expand the reach of Black History

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Gospelfest • Reach Out And Praise

Gospelfest

JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise

Anita Wilson

to perform

to perform

Friday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m.

Progressive Community Church

Progressive Community Church

time leading scorer and played in 1,560 NBA

Month events.

games – he also is an accomplished historian.

For a full listing of

African-American

He has written seven books, including What

Black History Month programming,

community,” Ogans says. “There’s a lot of

Color is my Word? The Lost History of African-

and for ticket information

different things you can get from gospel

American Inventors. Abdul-Jabbar’s first work

visit http://go.pacific.edu/blackhistory

music. It just helps to enliven the community.”

for children, the book follows fictional siblings

Headlining this year’s concert (tickets are $10)

Ella and Herbie as they learn about innovations

are Grammy-nominated artist Anita Wilson,

developed by black Americans.

“Gospel has always been a strong foundation

for

the

along with J.J. Hairston and Youthful Praise.

“Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is an American

Then, later in the month – at 7 p.m. on

icon who has demonstrated that, through hard

February 26 – Pacific will host Kareem Abdul-

work and determination, anything is possible,”

Jabbar at the campus’s Faye Spanos Concert

Ogans says. “He is an amazing athlete and

Hall. The lecture is free and open to the public,

role model to people all over the world. He has

though tickets are required. While perhaps best

dedicated his life to learning and writing about

known for his basketball career – Abdul-Jabbar

history, promoting literacy and celebrating

is the National Basketball Association’s all-

cultural diversity.” ❑

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...and our local community leaders ➤ 37

making a difference today in San Joaquin County

Dr. Moses Elam Physician-in-Chief The Permanente Medical Group, Central Valley Service Area

Michael Tubbs

man

Stockton City Council

Constance Smith Western Area Director LINKS

Marcia Elam President, LINKS

Ben Reddish Esquire Club

Bishop Troy Dockery Greater Christ Temple Church

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Bobby Bivens

Pastor Glenn Shields

President, Stockton NAACP

Progressive Community Church

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 3

Andre Phillips

Olympian and principal of Stagg High Sc hool

Dr. Patricia Hatton, MD Obstetrician and gynecologist

Deitra Kenoly Director of Advertising, The Record

Tama Brisbane

Doug Martin

d draft pick

2012 NFL first-roun

Founder of WOW, With Our Words

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LEADING WOMEN W

omen account for about half of all degree holders in San

Joaquin County, and dominate in fields including education, social service and health care support.

Nonetheless, the average San Joaquin County woman earns about $5,000 less each year than her male peers.

In part to draw attention to such disparities – but also to

celebrate women’s contributions to their communities and to inspire a new generation of strong, dedicated female leaders – the Forum on Advancing Women’s Leadership has been planned for March 21 at University of the Pacific.

The half-day event starts at 9 a.m. at the Alex G. Spanos Center and features keynote speaker Dr. Condoleezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State.

Now a senior fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, Rice served as Secretary of State from 2005 to 2009, in the administration of President George W. Bush. She had previously served as President Dr. Condoleezza Rice

Bush’s National Security Advisor, the first woman to hold that position.

Opening the Forum on Advancing Women’s Leadership, meanwhile, will be Christy Haubegger, founder of the groundbreaking Latina Magazine. Haubegger now sits on the board of Management Leadership for Tomorrow, an organization that works to increase the number of minority MBA candidates at the nation’s top business schools.

The forum also will feature a panel of local women leaders who will share their experiences in achieving career and education milestones.

They are: Regan Porteous, a current college student and graduate of St. Mary’s High School; Nikki Lowery, youth pastor and director of women’s ministry at First Baptist Church of Stockton; Tori Verber-Salazar, a deputy district attorney for San Joaquin County; and the Hon. Connie Callahan, judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

General admission tickets are $25 and will be sold through the Pacific Box Office. Proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Stockton and the university’s Women’s Resource Center. ❑

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Stockton Ducks Unlimited Dinner Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

The Annual Stockton Ducks Unlimited Dinner was held on November 8 at the Stockton Civic Auditorium. It was a funfilled evening for everyone in attendance!

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Bill, Tom and Michael Burch

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Stockton Athletic Hall of Fame

Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

Stockton Athletic Hall of Fame’s 48th annual awards dinner was held on November 14 at the Civic Auditorium. Six people were inducted into the Hall of Fame, and awards were given to outstanding athletes and teams over the past year.

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Nyia, Na’im and Danita McGee

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Debbie Lee, Sam Dickerson, Nicole Noack and Teresa Robinson

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Bob Chinchiolo, Debbie and Jeff Greenberg

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I am

San Joaquin PHOTO BY DAVID SOWERS

Jennifer Preszler, L.E. Age: 29 Occupation: Medical Aesthetician for Vu Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, 1617 St. Marks Plaza #E-F, Stockton, CA 95207 How long I’ve lived in San Joaquin County: I was born and raised in Lodi. In my early twenties I moved to San Francisco for advanced medical skincare training. In 2009 after receiving a “too good to pass up” offer from Dr. Vu, I returned to Lodi, and have been his skin care specialist ever since. It’s ironic – when you are younger you think of all the reasons it would be great to move away; as times passes you realize all of the reasons this county is so special. The small-town comradeliness is so unique about Lodi; I have officially become my mother, talking to strangers in line at the grocery store!

The people who mean the most to me: FAMILY! I come from a very close-knit household, but am blessed to consider other people family as well. Helping clients on a very structured skin rejuvenation plan means they are coming in very regularly to see me. There is a sense of trust that they are placing in my hands to improve the quality of their skin; in the process a very special “family” bond is formed. Also, my church family – never in my life have I been so welcomed and loved by complete strangers, which has forged into lasting relationships.

Favorite SJ County place to take friends when they come to visit: I love to take them on a walk from my house to downtown Lodi – School Street. The local shops, restaurants and wineries really capture the heart of my hometown.

A key event in my life and the impact it had on me: Taking a leap of faith to go back to school for medical skin care.

There is something about that first step that is intimidating.

Finding a career that you genuinely enjoy and are passionate about is priceless. It makes going to work exciting, and there is nothing more rewarding for me professionally than helping others feel better about themselves. There was a client who was never able to hug her daughter due to painful scars on her body; with Dr. Vu’s and my help she finished treatment, and told me she was finally able to hug her daughter for the first time in five years with out it hurting. Stories like this validate my career path.

My bucket list includes: Mission trips. Every six months, Dr. Vu closes down the surgical side of his practice for a few weeks, and travels to different countries to perform reconstructive surgery. This was very enticing to me when I took the job with him; I can’t wait to use the tools I have acquired to help with skin deformities in needy communities.

Favorite sports team: San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants. No fair-weather fan here, my dad raised me to appreciate sports (even though I may not be the most coordinated athlete). I absolutely won’t miss these two teams games.

What I’m reading now: I love self-improvement books.

Professionally I’m reading a book a client gave me called Feed

Your Face by Jessica Wu, M.D. – it’s about the relationship of our skin and our diet. Personally I’m reading a book called

Power Thoughts by Joyce Meyers. It’s amazing how our thoughts can affect our lives, and learning to control how we think is powerful.

Favorite vacation destination: Having a 2½ year old son makes long vacations sparse. I appreciate the San Joaquin Valley for its central location, making day-trips abundant. Lake Tahoe in the summer or winter is always full of fun activities for all ages.

Hobbies: Pinterest is the “angel and devil” on my shoulder.

I love to do crafty projects and bake; it is finding the time to execute all my ideas that is the trouble!

I “give back” by volunteering with: Through work, our office donates “Day of Beauty” services to many local charities and fundraisers. My church Lifesong’s Bread of Life food ministry gives away 1,000 + groceries to needy families every third Saturday. I try to set a good example for my son, and live by the pay-it-forward motto in everyday interactions.

Quote to live by: “Without great tests we would never have testimonies.”

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A Century of Smiles

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Dental Society Marks Anniversary With Service to Community

by Bertrand Johnson

he San Joaquin Dental Society marked its 100th anniversary this

medical clinic operated by Dr. Bruce Toy and a small group of fellow

past summer, celebrating a century of serving dental professionals and

SJDS members. By 1994, the Society had become fully invested in the

the public of San Joaquin County and beyond. Founded in 1912, the

clinic, with dozens of members donating their time to meet the high

Society has always provided support for its members, and opportunities

level of demand. In the same year, the clinic received its own building

for them to stay current with their profession. However, the SJDS was

thanks to a donation from the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, for

also founded with the ideal of public service. Its mission statement

whom the clinic was named. Now, St. Raphael’s has five exam chairs

declares that the Society is “committed to improving the community’s

and a large volunteer staff of dentists, hygienists, dental assistants and

oral health through information, education and service,” and these

interns from dental education programs throughout the area.

are not idle words. The Society sponsors Give Kids a Smile, an annual

Dr. Lester Low, the director of St. Raphael’s, says the Society wants

health fair at the University of the Pacific’s School of Dentistry, where

to give people a “dental home,” where they can come when they need

an all-volunteer staff of dentists, dental assistants and hygienists offer

care. “For some segments of the population, it’s the only home they will

free dental screenings, cleanings and other treatment for children from

ever have,” he explains. Dr. Low points to the lack of a dental safety

low-income families.

net for those without private insurance, who would normally be forced

The San Joaquin Dental Society also sponsors St. Raphael’s Dental

to seek treatment in hospitals for dental emergencies. “For SJDS, St.

Clinic, located on the campus of St. Mary’s Dining Room in Stockton.

Raphael’s is a spotlight for the state to provide access to care,” he says.

The clinic is open year-round, between three to five days a week to

The Society’s work through St. Raphael’s, which treats approximately

provide dental health care at no charge for the uninsured. Started

2,000 patients every year, is unique in California and demonstrates a

in 1987, St. Raphael’s was just a single exam chair in the St. Mary’s

true commitment to the health of the community. ❑

feb r u a r y 2 0 1 3

Eyelid Surgery Nose Surgery Facelift Liposuction Breast Enhancement Breast Reconstruction Tummy Tuck Injectible Fillers

Artistry.

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Results.

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transformation trust.

Start your

in 2013

with a doctor you can

Impress Your Valentine!

20% Off Spa Services & Gift Certificates.

Some restrictions apply.

Call for details. Exp. 2/28/13

1617 Saint Marks Plaza • Stockton, CA 95207 209.476.7074 • www.vuplasticsurgery.com

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The ATHENA Awards

Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

The ATHENA Awards were held on November 15 at the Stockton Golf and Country Club. Phyllis Grupe was awarded the Athena Award, and Jennifer Torres Siders received the Athena Young Professional Award.

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Doug Wilhoit and Claudia Pruett

Suzy Davely, Lani Schiff Ross and Jose Rodriguez

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Jackie Sahargun and Teresa Mandella

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Jennifer Torres Sider, Lori Gray and Carl Toliver

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The Coalition for Higher Learning, Inc. Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

The Coalition for Higher Learning, Inc. Jeans Bling 3 was held on November 17 at Brookside Country Club. The evening featured hors d’oeuvres and dancing, and Proceeds are used for scholarships.

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Sheila Nath, Deanna and Tony Solina, LaNitra Curtis E

Jana and Jeff Durham

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D Marcia Elam, Michael Tubbs and Kim Lee

Cynthia Thomas and Max Alcaraz

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by Judi Hachman Photos by Amy Phipps www.phippsphotography.com

ll men – and women – are created equal. NOT! And no one

knows this better than Deb Marweg of Now and Zen Yoga Studio in Lodi.

What one student does with ease may not even be on the radar screen of the next person. Nor should it be. “Listen to your own body,” is her mantra. In every class with every posture she stresses proper and safe body alignment, walking through the group to adjust an unsafe position.

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Marweg’s studio holds classes seven days per week, and since its 2004 opening, has grown to nine instructors with 240 students. Since yoga is a totally noncompetitive, inwardly focused personal discipline, classes and teaching styles vary immensely. Each instructor is acutely aware of the strengths and limitations of each student.

Beginning students learn basic yoga poses with explanations of their benefits, as well as proper alignment and modifications for each pose. The level of difficulty increases with length of practice, and enhancements are explained and encouraged along the way. During the classes, Marweg and her instructors explore a bit of history and philosophy of the discipline.

Yoga is a connection of the mind and body. Marweg teaches proper breathing technique to bring out the most benefit from each pose.

Following the general philosophy of BKS Iyangar, she is a believer in the use of props such as blocks and blankets, which, along with mat,s are available in the studio.

Deb started her practice at home with a video in the early 1990s!

She was hooked, and soon wanted to teach. She is a Registered Yoga Instructor with the Yoga Alliance, an international governing board, and continues her studies on a regular basis at retreats and conferences.

She holds a Yoga Alliance ERYT 500 certification, and conducts teacher training instruction. Currently, Deb is training to become a yoga therapist.

A native of Ohio, she and her endodontist husband, Bill, live in Woodbridge, and have two grown children, Brad and Amanda.

Keeping mind and body in sync is the key to good health and wellbeing. Working with the strengths and limitations of each person’s body is the single most important factor of a good yoga practice. Deb Marweg and her staff deliver this instruction with clarity, grace and a well-developed sense of humor. ❑

www.nowandzenlodi.com 617 South Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi 95242 209-369-7841 • Gentle yoga

CLASSES

• Beginning yoga

• Prenatal/postnatal yoga

• Mixed level yoga

• Yin yoga

• Flow yoga

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E scapes escapes

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Valentine Getaway E scapes

C

by Joan Heffernan

armel-by-the-Sea – so close, but a

different world. It’s perfect for a Valentine getaway. No matter how many times you’ve visited, the first impression is always of its quaintness. Even on the main street, Ocean Street, you see cottages. Many of the stores and restaurants have a cottage quality about them.

It’s a stroller’s domain, an unhurried atmosphere, so different from the big city rushed feeling. Here you are invited to slow your pace, and let your eye linger on flowers and gardens. And the ocean.

That main beach stretching North and South at the end of Ocean Street is one of Northern California’s most beautiful sights, with its rolling surf and expansive white sand beach.

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E scapes escapes

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E scapes

Fr. Serra extolled the beauty of Carmel when he discovered a spot

Today Carmel boasts a myriad of lovely accommodations. For a

in Carmel Valley to establish one of his missions in Alta California.

bed and breakfast experience, try the English Tudor-styled Vagabond’s

That was 1771. By 1835 the mission grounds were secularized, and

House Bed and Breakfast Inn. It’s nestled in a courtyard under a

its land holdings divided among several large ranchos. The mission

spreading oak, with cascading waterfalls and a profusion of camillias,

buildings suffered deterioration until a major restoration began in 1931.

rhododendrums, and hanging ferns. Located in the midst of downtown

Today, Carmel Mission is a treasure from the past, with a lovely serene

with lovely, well-appointed rooms, it is convenient to shopping, or

courtyard and a working church, which invites a visit.

inviting to those who want to read or doze in a beautiful, nature-filled

The Carmel Development Company began a marketing campaign

atmosphere.

aimed at “the schoolteachers of California and other Brain Workers

For a truly luxurious stay, there’s Bernardus Lodge. Located in

at indoor employment.” Their selling points were Carmel’s seaside

Carmel Valley, it offers 57 luxurious rooms, each with a cozy fireplace,

location and great affordability! What a lot has changed! Then, though,

a sumptuous feather bed replete with Italian linens, and oversized tubs

sales were slow at first until a group of artists were lured by Carmel’s

for two. Fresh flowers grace the rooms, as do French doors which open

beautiful surroundings and once again its affordability. They were the

onto spacious terraces or balconies with sweeping mountains or garden

“bohemians!” Jack London and Sinclair Lewis were in their numbers.

views.

They were free spirits who often gathered on the beach for abalone

Today’s dog lovers will find Carmel a welcoming, pampering place

feasts, conversation and a few libations. They initiated a vibrant artistic

for their pets. Not only do dogs get the run of the beach, they’re welcome

element in the sleepy village.

in many inns and restaurants. 27 Carmel restaurants advertise their

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E scapes escapes

dog friendliness. Some offer patio seating, but PortaBella restaurant on Monte Verde has an indoor patio where guests with pets fill the room and spend time comparing the beauty of their four-footed prizes. Doris Day loved dogs and designated her Cypress Inn to be a dog-friendly establishment. Now owned locally, The Cypress Inn is warm, with antiques and a #4 ranking on TripAdvisor for dog friendliness!

Carmel is both a destination and an experience. Its beauty and atmosphere encourage romantic thoughts. Its unhurried pace allows the mind the peace and quiet so missing in most of our daily lives. â?‘

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el i te

fleet

...You’ll look sweet, upon the seat of a

bicycle built for two Every sweetheart, couple, and pair searches for a Valentine experience they both can share.

Perhaps the gal wants to stroll handin-hand, while the boy thinks that far too bland.

One may have the thought to play a sport, while the other disapproves, not wanting to fall short.

But if the couple cannot settle the matter, then the boy might as well remain a bachelor.

Here’s a suggestion on which they can both agree, but still perhaps keeping the adventure just as cheesy.

They can take a ride on a tandem bike and let cupid’s little arrows strike.

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E l i te

I

fleet

by Dani Hovatter

n the late 1800s, a young Englishman who loved bikes wanted

bike does best: it attracts attention. So if you want to show off what

to change up the activity a bit. He invented a way to unite two biking

you got, then take your girl to greet the neighborhood on a tandem,

experiences, creating the tandem bike. Not long after this, the tandem,

perhaps even sporting matching T-shirts.

as well as the sociable, was marked as a means for courting. Part of this

Apart from the amusement, tandem bikes provide a mutual

was due to a song, written by an English songwriter who wrote about

experience, where neither party will fall behind. More even, it can do

Daisy Bell, the lucky girl that “looks rather sweet upon the seat of a

the relationship good, improving non-verbal communication, empathy,

bicycle built for two.”

and trust. While learning to synchronize, the couple can benefit from

Now romance doesn’t exactly spell out a man taking a woman in a

aerobic exercise, each others’ company, and double-pedaling power.

white dress off into the sunset, balancing on two thin wheels. In fact, it

Tandem bikes are the most entertaining way to keep couples literally

would warrant many stares from spectators. But that is what a tandem

together and in unison. ❑

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KRANK IT UP!

By Michelle Hart Photos courtesy of Ryan Winther

I

t’s a chilly morning. A few of us gather

at the Brookside Country Club in Stockton to watch 29-year-old Lodi resident Ryan Winther hit a golf ball at the speed of approximately 230 miles per hour! Currently the RE/MAX World Long Drive Champion and a Guinness World Record holder, Ryan hit the five longest balls ever recorded in a world championship in one day: 469, 469, 468, 464, and 462 yards!

We watch Ryan take a few practice shots until

Good Day Sacramento arrives, and it’s time to get the show on the road! 6’4”, 252-pound Ryan steps up to the tee, swings his club and smashes the ball! The small crowd utters a chorus of “ahhhs,” and the sport reporter’s

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sport i ng

jaw drops! It’s truly indescribable, the speed and force with which the ball takes off. (One of Ryan‘s claims to fame is being able to hit a golf ball through a 300-page phone book!)

Fortunately, I was able to catch up with Ryan a few weeks later, and talk to him about his success.

l i fe

What would you say is the biggest obstacle you had to overcome?

What advice do you have for the people of San Joaquin?

One word… doubt. When I got into long

a game. It teaches you about etiquette,

drive competition I had to quit my job and

discipline and focus. I wouldn’t be where I

focus solely on my training. I had a house payment, car payments and the general

Why did you get into Long Drive Competition?

I played baseball up until I was 25 years old.

At that time I played for an independent league. I led the league in hitting, home runs and RBIs. When I didn’t get picked

expenses of life. My wife Cassie stepped up to the plate and supported us during the years it took to prepare me to be a champion. Friends doubted me, family members doubted me, and sometimes I

Get out and golf! It’s so much more than

am physically, emotionally or financially if it wasn’t for this sport!

What does your future hold?

Worldwide travel and my own video game being released in the spring! I will be touring Korea, Malaysia, China, Japan, London, Scandinavia, and Sweden. My video game, called Long Drive Golf 3D

up by a big league team I thought it was

doubted myself, but I didn‘t want to sit

featuring Ryan Winther, will be released

time to move on. A friend of mine – Chris

back and let life pass me by. I am living

this February with the goal of having over

Kinsey, who was playing for the Arizona

proof you can chase your dreams.

100 million users worldwide!

Diamondbacks at the time – invited me out for a round of golf and I never looked back!

I figured it was time to stop doing what I wanted to do and start doing what I was meant to do!

To what do you attribute your success?

A lot of hard work and a team approach.

I train all year long, forty hours a week. It really takes a toll on your body. I credit my personal trainer, Louis Morales, my physical therapist, Dr. James McDonald, and Mark Sarale of Max Muscle, who provides my supplements for being able to compete at the world-class level.

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Community Foundation Super Bowl Raffle Photos bY HELEN RIPKEN

The Community Foundation Super Bowl Raffle was held on December 19 at The Reserve. Six winners received two tickets to the Super Bowl and $2,000 in cash. Other great prizes were awarded as well!

Proceeds from the raffle benefited 25 local charities.

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Andy Prokop and Donna Ng

Duane Isetti

Wag Tales

Joaquin Dogs

Dottie I am a: Pomchiweenie – half Pomeranian, a quarter Chihuahua and a quarter Dachshund Where I’m from: Stockton, and I was born from the Empleo family Favorite place to hang out: The kitchen Most recent accomplishment: I just recently learned how to play fetch Favorite place walk: I love to go on walks in Crescent Mills, California Guilty pleasure: Wearing dresses Naughtiest deed: I beg for human food Obsession: Cheese – obsessed, totally obsessed Where I go to get beautiful: I go to Paw Prints to get beautiful (more beautiful than I already am…)

Any other interesting info about me: My name is Dottie because my beautiful coat sports sixteen dots!

Human parents: Jena MacLean

Mark the date

February

7-10 Disney on Ice

Disney on Ice will present “Dare to Dream!” at the Stockton Arena from February 7-10 at the Stockton Arena. All of your favorite Disney princesses will take to the ice at this fun-filled event. For more information or tickets, visit www.stocktonlive.com or the Stockton Arena box office.

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Wine & Chocolate Weekend

9-10

The Lodi Wine & Chocolate weekend will be held on February 9 and 10. Visit over 40 Lodi appellation wineries, and sip delicious wines paired with chocolate.

Tickets are $45 in advance or $55 at the door, which includes two days filled with wine tasting!

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.lodiwineandchocolate.com or call 209-365-0621.

9-10

Valentine Pops: The Broadway Tenors

On February 9 and 10 the Stockton Symphony will present “Valentine Pops: The Broadway Tenors” at the Warren Atherton Auditorium at San Joaquin Delta College. Three of Broadway’s leading men will join the Symphony for a great night of music! For more information or to purchase tickets, call 209-951-0196 or visit www.stocktonsymphony.org.

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3rd Annual Strolling Bridal Faire

On Saturday, February 23 (10:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m.) Lincoln Center will host its 3rd Annual Strolling Bridal Faire, sponsored by San Joaquin Media Group, San Joaquin Woman magazine and Lifestyles magazine.

Brides and those that accompany them will enjoy a relaxing day strolling from store to store to find everything needed to make their wedding day unique and worry-free. The day will be filled with special offers, fashion and fun. Brides will find everything, from their engagement to the honeymoon, at one place! Participating businesses will hold trunk shows, raffles, modeling and all kinds of in-store promotions. Brides won’t want to miss this event! The cost for brides is $15, with $10 of that good towards lunch at participating Lincoln Center restaurants.

For more information, visit www.LincolnCenterShops.com

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the Grand Theatre

On Saturday, February 23 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Mark W. Curran & The Suspicious Minds Show Band with special guests The Memphis Soul Singers will be performing at the Grand Theatre. Enjoy a unique narrative, multimedia and live performances with five costume changes; this show covers many of the greatest hits of The King, highlighting a phenomenal career. For more information or tickets, call 209-831-6858 or visit www.atthegrand.org/OfficeTickets.

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Mark the date

Stockton Concerts

Empowering Young Women

St. Mary’s High School will present its 2nd Annual Empowering Young Women dinner event at the Stockton Golf and Country Club on February 28. Throughout the day, students at St. Mary’s High School will experience breakout sessions to encourage female students to think about societal norms, media messages and peer pressure. In the evening, the dinner will honor Patricia Ann Hatton M.D., Doctor of Obstetrics.

Proceeds from the dinner will benefit student scholarships.

For sponsorship opportunities or tickets call 209-957-3340 ext. 195 by February 18.

Carrie Underwood will be at the Stockton Arena with special guest Hunter Hayes on Tuesday, February 26 at 7:30 p.m.

B.B. King will be performing at the Bob Hope Theatre on Wednesday, February 27 at 6:00 p.m. His special guest will be Tommy Castro & The Painkillers. For tickets and more information to either show visit www.stocktonlive.com.

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Stockton Symphony Classics

March

The Brubeck Festival will take place from March 18-23 at various locations in Stockton. The annual cultural celebration highlights some of the best jazz musicians, lectures and panel discussions. Don’t miss Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on March 22 at the Bob Hope Theater or the Tom Harrell Quintet on March 21 at San Joaquin Delta College.

For more information visit www.brubeckinstitute.org.

Trivia Bee

The Library and Literacy Foundation of San Joaquin will host the 22nd annual Trivia Bee on Friday, March 15 at the Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium. This year’s theme is “Bee a Good Sport.” A fun and competitive evening filled with team and audience participation, the Trivia Bee is an annual Stockton favorite! Purchase a table, sponsor a high school team or form a team of your own! For more information, please call 209-957-7277 or anna_sass@sasspr.com.

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The Royal Comedy Tour

18-23

Brubeck Festival

On March 14 and 16, the Stockton Symphony will host their fourth Classics concert this season presenting Christina Mok on violin. The concert will be held at the Warren Atherton Auditorium at the San Joaquin Delta College campus. For more information or to purchase tickets call 209-951-0196 or visit www.stocktonsymphony.org.

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The Royal Comedy Tour will be at the Bob Hope Theatre on Sunday, March 17 beginning at 7:00 p.m. The show is the longest-running and most successful urban comedy tour, and includes Bruce Bruce, Sommore, Mark Curry and Tony Rock. For tickets or more information, visit www.stocktonlive.com.

Lodi Spring Wine Show

22-23

The Lodi Spring Wine Show will be held on March 22 and 23 at the Ole Mettler Grape Pavilion at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds. Enjoy over 40 wineries under one roof! There will also be gourmet olive oils, cooking demonstrations and grape-themed vendors! Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.grapefestival.com/LodiSpringWineShow.

23

“The Voice of Nature”

The Stockton Chorale will present “The Voice of Nature” on Saturday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m. The Master Chorale and Youth Chorale will come together and sing about the glories and mysteries of nature. Tickets are $20 for adults or seniors, or $5 for full-time students. For more information or tickets, call 209-951-6494 or visit www. stocktonchorale.org.

lifestyles

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lifestyles

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