Erin Doxtader O.D. Katelyn Balancio O.D. Ralph Miranda O.D.
Jennifer Pham O.D.
John Zeiter M.D. Luke Simon D.O.
Stockton Lodi Manteca Jackson Sutter Creek
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 TH , 2026
Illa
Cox FNP-C DNP
Laser
CO2 ABLATION
CO2 FRACTIONAL COOL PEEL
MORPHEUS 8 FACE AND BODY
IPL
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
SPIDER VEIN THERAPY
BODY CONTOURING
VAGINAL REJUVENATION
Beauty
NEUROTOXIN
DERMAL FILLER
PDO THREADS
PRP EZ GEL
VI CHEMICAL PEEL
Health
WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
IV VITAMIN THERAPY
NAD INJECTIONS
VITAMIN B12 AND D INJECTIONS
PEPTIDES
HORMONE PELLET THERAPY
NEUTRAFOL VITAMINS (HAIR LOSS)
I lla Cox is a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner who graduated with honors. She is an emergency room NP, a certified aesthetic instructor, volunteer as the head cheer coach for Jim Elliot Christian high school and a professor at Stanislaus State University. At Cox Medical, Illa believes in continuing education by staying up to date with the latest trends and advancements in the industry. Illa ensures that safety and comfort are prioritized at every stage of the treatment plan. As the owner of Cox Medical Aesthetics, Illa works to help clients achieve the look they desire with a full medical consultation, facial anatomy assessment and detailed plan of care that is dedicated to providing a customized treatment plan that is tailored to what the client desires. The ultimate goal is to exceed client expectations and establish long-lasting relationships built on trust, integrity, and exceptional service.
The DuKıllerEling Pianos 26
Friday, June 26 - 6-9 pm
Bring your dancing shoes, grab your friends, or make it a date night. is duo is the #1 all request, crowd interactive, sing-along, dueling piano show around the globe!
Friday, August 21 - 6-9 pm
A night lled with family fun from live music by the Key of C to the 100ft fun slide, join us and support the Child Abuse Prevention Council’s Ducky Derby.
Friday, September 18 - 6-9 pm
is 14-piece tribute band features three dynamic vocalists and a powerhouse rhythm and horn section. Forverland recreates hits from the Jackson 5 era through the end of the King of Pop’s musical career.
Saturday, October 3 - 9 am-5 pm
You don’t want to miss this ONE DAY shopping extravaganza - featuring clothing, accessories, shoes, gifts, home decor, sportswear - all at amazing prices from our retailers.
SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY STATE OF EDUCATION
ABOUT BLUE PINE HEALTH
ABOUT BLUE PINE HEALTH
ABOUT BLUE PINE HEALTH
ABOUT BLUE PINE HEALTH
Blue Pine Health is a virtual health & wellness
Blue Pine Health is a virtual health & wellness clinic designed to make care more accessible, efficient, and affordable.
We provide direct-to-consumer access to:
Blue Pine Health is a virtual health & wellness clinic designed to make care more accessible, efficient, and affordable.
We provide direct-to-consumer access to:
• Weight management programs (GLP-1s) Starting at $150
EDUCATION
CELEBRATING THE INSPIRING SCHOOLS, INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS, AND DEDICATED EDUCATORS OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY WHO EMPOWER STUDENTS TO THRIVE IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, THE ARTS, AND MATHEMATICS (STEAM).
Discover more about the work districts are doing by visiting our website.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
Blue Pine Health is a virtual health & wellness clinic designed to make care more accessible, efficient, and affordable. We provide direct-to-consumer access to:
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
• Peptide therapies
• Weight management programs (GLP-1s) Starting at $150
• Weight management programs (GLP-1s) Starting at $150
• Peptide therapies
• Peptide therapies
•Nationwide lab testing through our partnership with
•Nationwide lab testing through our partnership with Quest Diagnostics
•Nationwide lab testing through our partnership with Quest Diagnostics
Our platform
No
No insurance. No delays. Just modern, effective care.
• Physician-Led Model – Real clinicians guiding care decisions
• Physician-Led Model – Real clinicians guiding care decisions
Fast turnaround without sacrificing safety
• Direct-to-Consumer – No insurance barriers or gatekeeping
• Built for Speed – Fast turnaround without sacrificing safety
• Built for Speed – Fast turnaround without sacrificing safety
• Transparent Pricing – Simple, upfront costs
• Direct-to-Consumer – No insurance barriers or gatekeeping
• Direct-to-Consumer – No insurance barriers or gatekeeping
• Transparent Pricing – Simple, upfront costs
• Transparent Pricing – Simple, upfront costs
• All-in-One Platform – Care, medications, and labs in one place
• All-in-One Platform – Care, medications, and labs in one place
• All-in-One Platform –
• Local Presence - Team member support local to your community
• Local Presence - Team member support local to your community
your service (weight
or labs)
WITHSTANDING THE TEST OF TIME
GENERATION S OF TRUST IN US
Treasured family traditions are passed down through generations. For 159 years, Bank of Stockton has helped families and businesses succeed and achieve their dreams. If you’re looking for a bank that’s different, one that gets to know you, put your trust in our years of experience and service. We can help you build a tradition of financial success for your generation and beyond.
WITHSTANDING THE TEST OF TIME
19 52
100 YEARS OF SERVICE
In 1926, The United Way of San Joaquin County raised $29,000 for local charities focused on fighting hunger during the great depression. Operating as a Community Chest under President Herbert Hoover at the time, it was the first presence of the United Way that we know today. Over the next 100 years, the United. BY NORA HESTON TARTE
WONDERFUL WINE DESTINATIONS
We are fortunate enough to live in California’s top producing wine region, which means we’re never short on places to explore the local terroir. When we want to taste the bounty of surrounding regions, we’re just a quick drive away. We’ve rounded up some of California’s best wine destinations, regaled not just for what they offer vinophiles but the atmosphere and agriculture, as well. BY NORA HESTON TARTE
ABUELA’S KITCHEN
Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera, owner of Don Luis Mexican Restaurant and Chilango Chido, grew up in Mexico City. Over school holidays his family would often travel to Guanajuto, a more rural part of Mexico, to visit his grandparents. Here, he saw first-hand the traditional Mexican cooking styles that would largely influence his career as a chef. BY NORA HESTON TARTE
YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN REFINED REAL ESTATE
SUMMER OFFICIALLY CLOCKS IN
June has always felt like the month where San Joaquin County collectively decides, “You know what? Let’s just take this whole thing outside.” Suddenly, everything moves outdoors. Concerts. Festivals. Farmers markets. Family barbecues. Kids with water balloons and absolutely no concern for collateral damage. Dads standing in front of grills wearing aprons that say things no one should print on an apron. Somewhere in the distance, a lawn mower starts up at 7:14 on a Satur day morning and a neighborhood feud quietly renews for another summer season.
June carries a certain optimism around here. School lets out and children celebrate with the enthusiasm of inmates hearing the prison gates swing open. Parents, meanwhile, experience about a 48-hour honeymoon phase before realizing they now run a full-time entertainment department complete with snack services, transportation logistics, and emergency conflict resolution.
Miguel Barajas, Dan Hood, Sarah Martinez, Shannon Rock, Carissa Dugoni
CREATIVE TEAM
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sybil Watson
WEB AND EBLAST SPECIALIST: Lucas Zoccoli
MARKETING
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Michelle Cox
ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE
Kelly Moore
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION
DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Ristrim
For those of us who grew up around San Joaquin County summers, June has its own rhythm. It smells like barbecue smoke, sunscreen, baseball fields, and somebody inevitably overwatering their lawn. We know the routine. We chase local events, linger at outdoor concerts, wander weekend festivals, and tell ourselves we'll only stay "for an hour." Three and a half hours later we're carrying kettle corn, listening to live music, and wondering how we somehow spent $27 on lemonade.
And that's the beauty of summer here. We don't need towering mountains or giant theme parks to create memories. We have our own ingredients: good people, long evenings, community events, and sunsets that somehow convince us to stay outside just a little longer.
So as June arrives, I hope you slow down enough to enjoy it. Go to the fair. Eat something fried that probably shouldn't be fried. Attend a concert. Take the long route home. Make plans and ignore half of them. Summer in San Joaquin County has officially clocked in for work.
Enjoy the issue.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Story ideas, manuscripts, or comments can be emailed directly to the managing editor. Please include your name, daytime phone number, and email address.
E-mail NORA@SJMAG.COM
WRITER’S GUIDELINES
San Joaquin Magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers. Story ideas, email us at Nora@sjmag.com. San Joaquin Magazine also accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.
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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE
100 Years of Service
THE UNITED WAY OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY CELEBRATES ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
In 1926, The United Way of San Joaquin County raised $29,000 for local charities focused on fighting hunger during the great depression. Operating as a Community Chest under President Herbert Hoover at the time, it was the first presence of the United Way that we know today. Over the next 100 years, the United Way has grown, supporting nonprofits throughout the county with unrestricted funds.
It’s a national effort—dating back to 1987 when the United Way Worldwide was established in Denver, Colorado—but one with a local presence that has helped mold and save San Joaquin County again and again.
In all, the organization is responsible for raising more than $100 million for the community and currently raises about $2-3 million per year.
In 1973 the name was officially changed to how we recognize the organization today—United Way of San Joaquin County (UWSJC). Three years later, Donna Ng was hired, and she still works for the organization today, making her the longest running employee of the United Way in the world.
Since 1976 she has witnessed the milestones in her own backyard. In 1981, United Way shifted focus from a fundraising model to actively participating in identifying and solving community problems, starting agencies that serve our unique populations including the Child Abuse Prevention Council, El Concilio, and Hospice of San Joaquin.
impact and align with their personal passions. From there, the funds go into local community initiatives that support the betterment of the county as a whole, as well as the lives of the individuals that call it home.
Kristen Birtwhistle, the CEO and president of the organization since 2018, is responsible for launching the Future is Bolder movement— focused on improving education and reducing homelessness on the local level—as well as the slogan, “United for Good.” She began to bring more nonprofits focused on sustainability into the fold and opened the NEST, a coworking space for nonprofits to conduct their work.
“Common buckeye butterflies begin to come out in late spring, migrating north. By summer some have likely landed in the Central Valley.”
“Our work is a culmination of many small to large actions in support of the most pivotal nonprofits,”
In 2019, as the world changed, she also oversaw United Way’s expansion into the digital space, launching the first online campaign.
UWSJC achieves its goals by acting as connector of the community. By introducing donors, volunteers, and partners to each other, the organization supports financial giving as well as sweat equity. Basically, those who have money to give can work with UWSJC to identify where their funds will have the most
“Our work is a culmination of many small to large actions in support of the most pivotal nonprofits,” Kristen says. UWSJC isn’t simply giving money to nonprofits but helping them create strategic plans to maximize impact.
“We exist to open up opportunities for nonprofits to expand their own internal operations.”
What started with food and hunger programs during the Great Depression has expanded to include other worthwhile causes, including support for veterans and their families during WWII and partnership with social services to address civil unrest.
“We have never strayed from our mission-to mobilize the caring power of our community,” says Kristen. “We exist to work together with employers and our nonprofits
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
On Sept. 26, the United Way is partnering with another local organization celebrating its centennial year. The Stockton Symphony and UWSJC will host a gala to recognize 200 combined years of community support with dinner, dancing, and more.
The event will be held at the Rivermill in French Camp. Tickets go on sale this month.
to address critical issues from housing and homelessness to food security to economic mobility.”
Kristen references programs that support those needs including the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, as well as the organization’s ability to mobilize and assist with emergencies, such as COVID-19. UWSJC works in tandem with city and county leaders to ensure effective and efficient support that drives impact regardless of the call to action.
The current threat to nonprofit funding has only invigorated the UWSJC to strive for more in its next 100 years.
“Our goals are forged in making UWSJC stronger in the face of geopolitical challenges, new competition from other agencies, and maximizing our role as a convener in helping advance our nonprofits from small to large so they can address those social issues that affect our families, individuals, and residents that live across our county.”
In 2026, United Way launched the Next 100 Future Fund. This highlights several initiatives that UWSJC has identified as most paramount in our county. In addition to continuing to support myriad local nonprofits, the UWSJC will use its power to improve education, reduce homelessness, and drive the next century of community change.
On May 28, the 2026 Community Philanthropy Summit at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel invited local donors to gather and invest in the future of local nonprofits, a partnership between UWSJC, San Joaquin Community Foundation, and Lodi Community Foundation, just one step in UWSJC’s path forward. It is the first time that the Summit has worked alongside United Way. A working example of the importance of foundations and nonprofits engaging together for the good of the whole.
Multigenerational Friendships
THE PACIFIC SCHOOL OF PHARMACY IS WORKING TO BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN GENERATIONS
Adedication to the health of aging seniors led the University of the Pacific Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy to develop its Intergenerational Bridges program, an offshoot of its existing Medicare Health Fairs.
Instead of focusing on screenings, however, this new program aims to connect younger and older generations, bettering the overall health of each population by connecting them to programs—and people— that bolster their physical, social, and psychological wellbeing. Specifically, the program addresses a growing concern amongst older adults—social isolation.
“Intergenerational activities have been shown to strengthen resilience, improve well-being, and foster mutual understanding and respect across generations,”
says Rajul Patel, a professor in the department of pharmacy at Pacific.
Activities include game nights, paint nights, multicultural fairs, a spring gala, succulent planting, and more.
“These activities are intentionally designed to move beyond traditional healthcare interactions and instead create meaningful social connections between generations,” Rajul says.
It’s not a one-way transaction.
Both groups are benefitting from the social interactions.
“One of the most meaningful outcomes has been the visible sense of connection and joy that emerges from these interactions,” Rajul says. “Participants consistently engage in ways that go beyond the activity itself… organic conversations flow, relationships form, and there is a genuine sense of shared experience and a healthy respect for one another.”
"The program reflects a growing recognition that health extends beyond clinical care,” – Rajul Patel
Madelyn Pappas, a participant of the program and a student in the pharmacy college, sees these benefits first hand.
“I, along with many of my peers, have the drive to not only bridge the gap between generations but specifically encourage more seniors to be active in their own communities,” she says.
While Madelyn is working toward a career in pharmacy, she says friendship is the number one benefit of the program personally. While she originally attended to help seniors in her community, Madelyn quickly realized how much she was enjoying herself.
“I plan to participate in any and every event I can squeeze into my schedule,” Madelyn says. “These events are such fun times and leave me with such joy and fond memories.”
THOMAS J. LONG SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Get your Smile & Confidence Back!
A Place Where Kids Come First
SARAH COOK IS HONORED AS SJCOE’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Sarah Cook’s classroom is described as bright and colorful with print-filled walls. It’s an environment that fosters comfort and confidence. Students speak of acceptance and encouragement, noting in Mrs. Cook’s room, it’s okay to make mistakes because they lead to growth.
Sarah’s colleagues describe her as eager and dedicated, signing up
These attributes are only a fraction of why both the principal, Brittany Ryan, and vice principal, Ashley Jones, nominated Sarah for the San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year honor—an award she received this year.
Sarah was surprised with her nomination on Jan. 21. She describes the feeling as “surreal,” and says, “I never anticipated I would win.” Clearly, in this case, Sarah was proven wrong.
On April 9, it was announced by the San Joaquin County Office of Education at the 2026 San Joaquin County Excellence in Education Celebration Dinner that Sarah had won and would be submitted as the county’s nominee for California Teacher of the Year.
“Mrs. Cook's commitment to excellence, her passion for literacy, and her unwavering dedication to students make her an exceptional educator,” – Brittany Ryan, Principal, George Kelly Elementary School
for committees to broaden her impact on students at George Kelly Elementary School in the Tracy Unified School District and continuing her own development with professional courses, modeling what it looks like to be a life-long learner.
“Mrs. Cook creates a warm, inclusive classroom where every student feels safe and valued,” says Brittany Ryan, principal at George Kelly. “She uses engaging strategies that spark curiosity and make learning meaningful, ensuring students are active participants in their education.”
“I feel very honored and humbled to be recognized in this way. There are so many deserving teachers that give their all to their students every day,” Sarah shares. ”I love my job, my team, my school, and especially my kids.” When asked about her teaching philosophies, Sarah said, “Love your kids and have fun with them. Learning should be filled with joy and adventures.”
The honor comes in Sarah’s 24th year of teaching and her 11th in the Tracy Unified School District. While she has taught many levels over her tenure, this school year she led a 2nd grade classroom.
Expanded pediatric care, here at home.
Our enhanced Pediatric Unit is now open.
St. Joseph’s Medical Center is proud to announce the opening of our newly renovated and expanded Antone E. & Marie F. Raymus Foundation Pediatric Unit—the only pediatric unit in San Joaquin County. This $17 million expansion, made possible by generous donors, enhances our ability to provide high-quality, around-the-clock care for children here at home. And because we believe the environment plays a crucial role in healing, our 7,000-square-foot unit is designed with children and their families at heart:
• 18 comfortable beds, including eight double rooms and two private rooms
• Spacious rooms with accommodations for parents to stay overnight
• Colorful, child-friendly decor to foster a positive and comforting atmosphere
• An interactive playroom filled with games, toys and activities
From critical neonatal care to comprehensive inpatient services, our highly skilled team is here to support our youngest patients and their families when they need it most. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/stockton/pediatrics.
Can You Hear Me Now?
PACIFIC’S FREE HEARING SCREENING BRINGS AUDITORY CARE TO UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Hearing loss affects 15 percent of people in the United States, but hearing care can be cost prohibitive. While mild to severe hearing loss can have devastating effects, including difficulty completing tasks and connecting with others, the inability to pay for screenings or hearing aids means some are going without the support they need.
Enter University of the Pacific’s annual free hearing screening event. Each spring the UOP Hearing and Balance Center partners with Stanford Medicine, the Rotary Club of Stockton, the Stockton Sunrise Rotary Club, and the Lodi Sunrise Rotary Club to bring hearing care to all.
This March marked the events’ third year. Gail Amornpongchai, clinical director of audiology for the center, says the team screens between 100-
170 attendees annually. Of those, some are selected for continued care, including free hearing aids.
“The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of hearing screenings and to identify individuals at risk for hearing loss,” Gail says.
Every year, people ages 5 and older can show up for free, check in, and visit the hearing health table. The table gives a brief education on the auditory system, hearing loss, and prevention. After, people are briefed on the screening by graduate audiology students, giving the students hands-on experience.
The quick, non-invasive exam determines if there are hearing deficits by conducting several tests. Students and clinicians work side-by-side to explain results and those who may need additional care can be referred
for a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
“Attendees had the opportunity to ask additional questions, learn about next steps and treatment options, hearing protection, and receive educational materials,” Gail explains.
“Overall, the experience is designed to be supportive, educational, and a helpful first step in understanding and managing hearing health.”
At every health screening, candidates for hearing aids are determined and many are referred for additional care. Free hearing aids are sometimes provided with support from rotary sponsors.
It can be hard to understand the impact of hearing loss until it hits you, but for those that have struggled with deficits, free or upgraded hearing aids can make a world of difference in their ability to connect with the world around them.
PRIVATE FINANCE
Central Valley Strength is Performance Excellence. Ross F.Cardinalli, Jr. created a real estate marketplace dedicated to providing opportunities to the families of California that understand hard work pays off. Arranging a real estate mortgage for the Borrower with an Investor is an act of commerce above the gold standard. Time, Tradition, and Work Ethic is what builds a community. To support a Legacy and service the customers portfolios is our privilege. Apply Online or Schedule with a dedicated Team member. We are honored to serve those that trust in our professional experiences. Los servicios de Español están disponibles.
Portrait by Cece’s Art Studio.
California Urgent Care
THE CENTER SHARES THE SECRET BEHIND ITS SUCCESS
BY REBEKAH MOAN
California Urgent Care Center, with five locations in San Joaquin County, has repeatedly won “Best Of” awards. That’s due to a couple of reasons. The first is great patient care, according to Operations Manager Alina Casas.
“We really do strive to give great patient care,” she says. “We know people are often not feeling their best when they come in, so we work hard to make sure they feel comfortable, cared for, and listened to during their visit.”
Another reason the urgent care center excels is the staff. “Our staff and providers are very knowledgeable, and that truly makes a difference for our patients,” Alina says.
The urgent care center has served San Joaquin County since 2011 with five locations throughout the Central Valley – one in Lodi, Manteca, and Modesto, and two in Stockton. Each center is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, no appointment necessary. Every California Urgent
Care Center accepts almost all insurances and offers self-pay options for those without insurance.
In terms of wait times, those vary. “We always work to keep wait times as short as possible, and in many cases, patients are seen faster than they would be in an emergency room,” Alina adds. “However, because every patient’s medical needs are different, wait times can vary throughout the day.”
There’s a triage system at the urgent care centers, similar to the ER, where more pressing health concerns are seen sooner. That means someone with a broken bone could be sitting next to someone with a cold. “We treat patients for everything from UTIs, STI testing, and cold and flu symptoms to minor procedures,” Alina says. “Our providers do it all.”
Another reason California Urgent Care continues to win “Best Of” is its strong partnerships within the community, including the Stockton Ports, Delta College, local high schools, and elementary schools throughout the surrounding areas.
“We believe in giving back to the communities that support us,” Alina says. “From donating backpacks and school supplies to elementary schools to participating in different drives and community events with local high schools, we always try to stay involved and make a positive impact.”
CALIFORNIA
URGENT CARE
Center, Lodi, Stockton, Manteca, calurgentcare.com
Classic InteriorsDesignProves What’s Possible When You Don’t Quit
FOUNDER TIFFANY GOMES SHARES HER PERSPECTIVE ON THE REMODELING BUSINESS
BY REBEKAH MOAN
It’s been 20 years since Tiffany Gomes started her business, Classic Design Interiors, and she attributes her longevity primarily to refusing to quit. “Failure is not an option for me,” she says. “I’ve been through the wringer, but I know that success is only possible through perseverance.” Tiffany started the business in 2006 because she saw a hole in the marketplace. “There wasn’t really an all-in-one place for people to see designers, a showroom, and staff that did the installation,” she says. Before, people interested in remodeling their interiors visited one place for tiles, the internet for cabinets, a designer somewhere else, and tried to put it all together piecemeal. Classic Design Interiors solves all that – Tiffany expanded from a 2,500 sq. ft showroom when she started to a 6,000 sq. ft one with numerous bathroom and kitchen vignettes, on-site
professional designers, licensed installation for all interior products, and full-time administration and warehouse staff. Customers can find cabinets, countertops, paint, lighting fixtures, plumbing fixtures, and more.
The interior design space has changed in other ways since Tiffany started. These days, people are interested in “smart” devices – smart toilets, smart thermostats, smart fridges. “Anything that plugs in, people are looking for more of that,” she says. Modernity applies not only to electronics but also to aesthetics. Gone are the grape motif and Tuscanyinspired décor. These days, people want more sleek and less ornate.
Also, the internet has made it easier than ever before to generate inspiration for home design and despite the plethora of home improvement shows, most people understand you can’t leave for a weekend and come back to a completely remodeled home, Tiffany says. “They’ve started to realize the home improvement shows are 90% fantasy,” she says. “In real life, people encounter things they didn’t expect, like termites or dry rot that makes the remodel last longer than they planned.”
In terms of what’s next for the business, Classic Design Interiors has recently expanded into Nevada. If business keeps going the way it’s going, Tiffany plans to open a satellite office in the state. CLASSIC DESIGN INTERIORS
Brookdale Kettleman Lane
Kitchen & Bath Remodeling & Floor Covering Store
Custom Blinds
Three "yard clutter" items that all have mosquito eggs on them, which just look like specks of dirt. Those items can all become sources of mosquitoes once they fill up with water and the eggs hatch.
HEALTH
MOSQUITO CONTROL agency partners with the Red Cross
THE TWO ARE PARTNERING TO BRING AWARENESS TO MOSQUITOES AND SUPPORT BLOOD DONATIONS
BY REBEKAH MOAN
For the first time, the San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive on June 25 during Mosquito Awareness Week. The blood drive intends to bring awareness to mosquitoes and mosquitoborne diseases, plus support blood donations, according to Sumiko De La Vega, the public information officer of the SJC Mosquito & Vector Control District.
“Because protecting public health is rooted in community partnership, we wanted to support a local cause while also raising awareness about mosquitoes, prevention, and the diseases they can transmit,” she says.
There are several diseases mosquitoes carry, including the West Nile Virus, which has been found in San Joaquin County. “While our staff is in the field every day conducting surveillance and control activities, residents also play a critical role in preventing mosquitoes from developing in their own yards,” Sumiko says. To that end, the District encourages residents to check their yard once a week, and “tip and toss,” which means emptying or removing anything that can hold even a tablespoon of standing water.
“The most effective mosquito control starts before mosquitoes become flying, biting adults,” she added. That aligns with the theme of National Mosquito Awareness Week. Taking place June 21 through 27, this year’s slogan is, “Spot the source. Stop the swarm!” Mosquitoes can develop in even the smallest amounts of water collected from rain, sprinklers, or watering plants. Examples include bottlecaps, plant drainage saucers, kids' toys, trash, and pet bowls. Because of their egg-laying behavior, residents need to check their yards once a week to find any sources collecting water.
In terms of public sources, the District monitors those and conducts weekly mosquito surveillance of over 100 trap sites throughout the county, as well as disease testing. It also has 19 state-certified mosquito control technicians who monitor and treat over 7,600 known mosquito sources throughout the county, such as rice fields, pastures, irrigation ditches, and more.
“We live and work in the communities we serve, and mosquito prevention is a shared responsibility,” Sumiko says. If residents experience a mosquito problem, they can schedule a yard inspection for free by placing a service request through the District website or by calling the office.
A technician treating a heavily vegetated area near the river where mosquitoes develop in the flood and seepage areas.
One of the District’s technicians inspects a water sample for mosquito larvae.
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WHAT TO SEE AND DO THIS MONTH
JUNE 3
Terry Fator: Pure Imagination – Once Upon a Voice
America’s Got Talent winner Terry Fator delivers an evening filled with comedy, celebrity impressions, live music, singing, and his world-famous ventriloquism talents. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy
JUNE 4
Yukito Matsuyama on the Koto
Experience an elegant evening of traditional Japanese music as acclaimed musician Yukito Matsuyama performs breathtaking compositions on the ancient koto with remarkable artistry and emotion. Haggin Museum, Stockton
JUNE 5
LeAnn Rimes
Grammy-winning country superstar LeAnn Rimes brings powerful vocals, chart-topping hits, emotional storytelling, and an unforgettable live concert performance to downtown Stockton audiences.
Bob Hope Theatre Stockton
JUNE 6
ANNUAL CATFISH DERBY
Anglers of all ages gather for a fun-filled fishing competition featuring prizes, outdoor recreation, family-friendly activities, and exciting community fun throughout the scenic park grounds.
Oak Grove Regional Park
Stockton
JUNE 6
ROOTED AND RISING
This uplifting community celebration highlights culture, empowerment, and connection through inspiring speakers, live entertainment, local food vendors, educational resources, and family-friendly experiences.
Banner Island Ballpark
Stockton
JUNE 7
THE SKEDADDLE BUBBLE RUN
Participants race, walk, and laugh through colorful clouds of bubbles during this energetic community fun run designed to entertain children, families, and active participants alike.
Michael Faklis Park
Stockton
JUNE
7
ANNUAL JEWISH FOOD FAIR
Enjoy authentic cuisine, cultural entertainment, homemade desserts, live music, and cherished community traditions during this beloved annual celebration of Jewish heritage and hospitality.
Temple Israel
Stockton
JUNE 7
FESTA ITALIANA
Celebrate Italian culture with delicious food, lively music, wine, dancing, artisan vendors, and festive family entertainment honoring generations of treasured Italian tradition and heritage.
Lodi Grape Festival Grounds
Lodi
JUNE 13
RACES AT THE STOCKTON 99 SPEEDWAY
Feel the adrenaline as drivers compete in an exciting evening of high-speed racing at Stockton’s legendary hometown speedway.
Stockton 99 Speedway
Stockton
JUNE 13
FATHERFEST 2026
Celebrate dads with live music, local food vendors, games, entertainment, activities, and community fun designed to honor fathers and families throughout San Joaquin County.
Victory Park, Stockton
JUNE 13
TASTE OF THE MILE – BOOT SCOOTIN’
Miracle Mile transforms into a lively western-themed street celebration featuring local food tastings, craft drinks, live music, dancing, shopping, and vibrant nightlife energy.
Miracle Mile District
Stockton
JUNE 18 – AUGUST 16
THE ART OF TONY DEZUNIGA
Explore the remarkable work of legendary comic book artist Tony DeZuniga through a captivating exhibition celebrating illustration, visual storytelling, creativity, and pop culture artistry.
Haggin Museum
Stockton
JUNE 18
BILLY BOB THORNTON AND THE BOXMASTERS
Actor and musician Billy Bob Thornton joins The Boxmasters for an energetic evening blending rock, Americana, storytelling, and vintage country-inspired musical performances.
Grand Theatre Center for the Arts
Tracy
JUNE 19
ANNUAL WINE TASTING BENEFIT AT PIXIE WOODS
Sip exceptional local wines while supporting beloved children’s park Pixie Woods during this elegant evening featuring entertainment, food, fundraising, and community connection.
Pixie Woods
Stockton
JUNE 20
ANNUAL STOCKTON JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Celebrate freedom, culture, history, and community with live performances, educational exhibits, local vendors, family activities, inspiring speakers, and entertainment throughout the day.
San Joaquin County Fairgrounds
Stockton
JUNE 25 – JULY 12
SONGS WE SHOULDN’T SING
This hilarious musical revue delivers outrageous comedy, unexpected song choices, playful performances, and laughout-loud entertainment guaranteed to delight audiences throughout its theatrical run.
Stockton Civic Theatre
Stockton
LOCAL FUN
JUNE 13
Boots and Bubbly
Country flair meets sparkling wine during this lively evening featuring dancing, signature drinks, live music, fashionable western-inspired fun, and memorable moments with friends.
Capoccio Ovest
Stockton
JUNE 27
209 FIGHT SERIES
Top regional fighters step into the ring for an action-packed night of intense matchups, athletic competition, crowd energy, and thrilling combat sports entertainment.
Stockton Civic Auditorium
Stockton
JUNE
(VARIOUS WEEKENDS)
LIVE MUSIC AT LODI WINERIES
Local wineries host outdoor concerts, wine tastings, food trucks, dancing, and relaxed vineyard evenings throughout Lodi’s vibrant and entertaining summer wine season.
Various Lodi Wineries
Lodi
JUNE (RECURRING EVENTS)
DOWNTOWN LODI SUMMER NIGHTS
Historic downtown comes alive with boutique shopping, patio dining, tasting rooms, live music, entertainment, and community gatherings throughout warm summer evenings.
Downtown Lodi
Lodi
JUNE (SELECT DATES)
WINE & ROSES SUMMER EVENTS SERIES
Enjoy seasonal wine experiences, spa events, live entertainment, culinary gatherings, and relaxing summer celebrations at one of Lodi’s premier resort destinations. Wine & Roses Hotel & Spa
Lodi
JUNE (MULTIPLE DATES)
JESSIE’S GROVE WINERY CONCERT SERIES
Outdoor vineyard concerts combine live music, dancing, local wine, and laid-back summer vibes beneath the winery’s towering historic oak trees.
Jessie’s Grove Winery Lodi
JUNE (RECURRING WEEKLY EVENT)
LODI FARMERS MARKET
Browse fresh produce, flowers, artisan goods, local foods, handmade products, and live entertainment while enjoying charming downtown community atmosphere and shopping.
Downtown Lodi
Lodi
JUNE (VARIOUS DATES)
LODI WINE TASTING EXPERIENCES
Award-winning wineries throughout Lodi Wine Country offer seasonal tastings, vineyard tours, food pairings, relaxing hospitality, and memorable outdoor wine experiences. Various Lodi Wineries Lodi.
Since
FROM VOWING NEVER TO RETURN TO BEST REALTOR
LANCE MCHAN SHARES WHAT LED TO THE TURNAROUND AND WHAT HE’S DOING NOW
BY REBEKAH MOAN / D MIGUEL BARAJAS
Realtor Lance McHan vowed after the 2008 market crash never to return to real estate, but not only did he return, he’s won Best Realtor in San Joaquin County for multiple years in a row. “It’s funny because the first time I heard I was nominated for Best Realtor, I said, ‘I didn’t put my name in. Who did that?’” Lance says. Over and over again, people wrote Lance’s name for that category.
When asked why, he said, “I think it’s because I’m out in the community. People see that I care about the community where we live and I give back.” Part of that giving back stems from the fact Lance is a San Joaquin County native, and he attended San Joaquin Delta College. He started working as a real estate appraiser around 2006, but then lost everything during the Great Recession.
“It was eerie,” he says. “Everything stopped in real estate overnight. I tried to hold on to the things I had, but I couldn’t do it.” That’s when Lance returned to school and picked up a student loan, which he used in part to fund a down payment for an apartment building that needed numerous repairs. While undergoing the renovation process, he started frequenting a Starbucks on his way to the apartment building and ran into a high school friend.
The friend was in Title and Escrow and introduced him to a real estate broker and convinced Lance to get his license, which he did in 2021. “I knew I wanted to be different than most realtors,” he said.
“Different” for Lance means putting the client first, not the paycheck. “I’m someone who truly cares about my clients,” he says. It’s also what led him to become a divorce real estate expert. During his first case of selling a house for a divorcing husband and wife, the husband called Lance and said, “This is the first time my ex-wife and I have had a civil conversation in over a year.”
For Lance, that made sense because when someone feels like they’re getting a fair deal from a neutral party, the walls tend to drop and people become more amenable. Following that real estate deal, Lance sought out education and training to become a certified divorce real estate expert. “I like helping people in those situations because I want them to feel like someone is fighting in their corner, and I am,” he says.
Sometimes fighting in someone’s corner means being direct, which can land the wrong way. “I shoot people straight and I’m not telling them something they want to hear,” he says. “I think people appreciate someone telling them the truth even when it doesn’t fit their narratives.”
That can also mean walking away from listings because the price is out of line with others in the neighborhood, or the client is asking for something unreasonable.
Rather than “the client is always right,” Lance isn’t afraid to push back. “It’s hard some days,” he says. “What you see on TV isn’t real. Real estate is not all it’s cracked up to be –you may not get a paycheck for six to eight months.” However, what’s also true is “you get what you put in,” and Lance puts in the effort. He creates videos of listings, 3D walkthroughs, professional photos, and runs advertisements to generate buyers. “I’m trying to bring a buyer in myself,” he says. “I’m not waiting for a buyer to come to me.”
In terms of what’s next, Lance continues to grow his business and has hired his son, Harrison, and daughter, Jordan, to work for him. Doing so means Lance has more time to focus on his clients because he’s not consumed by paperwork. “I can answer the phone more readily because I don’t have so much on my plate,” he says. “I can be more intentional with people.”
REALTOR LANCE MCHAN
KEEPER OF History
THE SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
The 60th anniversary of the San Joaquin County Historical Museum just so happens to coincide with the county’s 175th, creating a milestone year of celebration throughout SJC. In addition to planning their own events, the museum had a heavy hand in observing the county’s achievements, as well, and bringing all of the fanfare to the general public. Perhaps what is most impressive, however, is the growth of both.
“We’ve grown from one building full of agricultural implements to a campus with 80,000 square feet of exhibit space,” says Phillip Merlo, executive director of the museum.
“We have world class exhibitions [on] indigenous peoples in the region, the development of the
California industrial model, innovations in agriculture and manufacturing, and the many diaspora communities that call this region home.”
Over the past 60 years, the museum has acquired historical buildings throughout the region and brought them to the Lodi campus for safe keeping— and for the public to enjoy.
SJCHM also recently took ownership of the Kress, a historic property in downtown Stockton that will be built out into a second campus.
Growth Mindset
New this year, SJCHM gave itself a birthday present. In July, they will complete a long-awaited construction project, bringing the Pioneer Village Living History Center to life with a grand opening slated for July 25.
GRAND OPENING
FOR JULY 25, 2026
“[It] will be a wild-west themed townsite at our Micke Grove Campus, complete with a saloon, blacksmith’s shop, printers shop, leatherworks, and bank,” Phillip says. “All of the stations will be available to visitors and will supplement our Valley Days and Pioneer School field trip programs.”
On the same day there will be a 60th Birthday Carnival. Later this fall, look for a gala dinner to continue the festivities.
Honoring the County
At the museum, there is a retrospective exhibition to commemorate the 175th birthday of SJC titled “San Joaquin County: 175 Years of Growing Greatness,” which explores the county’s unique history through photos, artifacts, and historic documents. The
project, created in partnership with the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, is open in the Helen Weber Kennedy Gallery.
The museum has also participated in several events related to the 175th including the State of the County, a birthday gala at the Haggin, and an opening event at the museum. Phillip himself hit the road with the county supervisors to speak at city council meetings in every city in SJC about the history of our region. They were even information gatherers behind the scenes, providing research support to county agencies and departments that were creating their own historical exhibits and presentations about SJC’s storied past.
“All in all, we did a lot,” Phillip boasts.
UPCOMING EXHIBITS
August will see a new showcase at the museum. Come by to learn about the county’s Sikh community in an exhibition titled, “The Sikhs in America: Faith, Resilience, and Power.”
A MUSEUM FOR ALL
While sights are set on future growth, celebrating what the museum has always offered is still top of mind.
SJCHM aims to engage and inspire the public through the preservation and showcase of local history, they serve as the county’s official historical institution and archival repository (literally in charge of keeping SJC’s history safe and sharing it when asked), bringing educational programs to the people such as Valley Days, Pioneer School, and Farmto-Fork, and playing host to events that bring the history of SJC to life through historical narratives and community involvement.
“We have so many ways to get involved,” Phillip says. “We have rotating exhibits on a quarterly or semi-annual basis… We also have our Docent Council program, where folks can learn local history and volunteer their time to host our educational programs. Lastly, if you ever have questions about local history or your genealogy, you can make an appointment with our archivist and dig into the county’s archival records.”
WHAT COULD Possibly Go Wrong
BECAUSE EVEN PERFECTLY PLANNED
“I
DO’S”
COME WITH PLOT TWISTS—AND
A LITTLE CHAOS MAKES THE BEST STORIES
BY MARGOT ELLISON
1. Weather With Opinions Sun? Not today. Wind? Aggressive. Rain? Cinematic.
Fix: Backup plan. Tent, indoor pivot, or simply lean in. Wind-blown veil photos look like editorial spreads. Own it like you hired the weather.
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There’s a moment in every wedding planning journey when everything feels perfectly aligned. The venue is booked, the dress fits like a dream, the playlist could rival a Vegas residency. You sip your coffee, glance at your checklist, and think… we’ve got this.
That’s adorable.
Because weddings, like life, have a mischievous little habit of tossing banana peels onto otherwise polished floors. But here’s the twist: the best weddings aren’t flawless. They’re the ones where chaos shows up uninvited and gets politely handed a champagne flute.
Let’s walk through ten classic “uh-oh” moments and how to outsmart them like a well-dressed ninja.
Funny Moments
"Our flower girl sat down halfway down the aisle and announced she was tired."
2. The Dress (or Suit)
Betrayal
Zipper jams. Button launches into orbit. Fabric decides today is its rebellion era.
Fix: Emergency kit, always. Safety pins, fashion tape, needle and thread. No time? A strategically placed shawl, jacket, or bouquet turns disaster into “intentional asymmetry.”
3. Vendor Vanishing Act
Your DJ ghosts. The cake is… spiritually late.
Fix: Assign a “fixer” friend. Meanwhile, a Bluetooth speaker and a crowd favorite playlist buys you time. Guests don’t need perfection, they need a vibe.
Quick Fix: Best man bribed her with gummy bears and an emergency cupcake. – Chloe
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The Unexpected Hall of Fame
THE DRUNK UNCLE SPEECH THAT WON’T END
Solution: DJ fades in music like it’s the Oscars. Gentle applause. Curtain closed.Flower Girl Gone Rogue She sits down mid-aisle. Or runs backward.
Solution: Let it happen. Guests love it. You just got free entertainment.
The Officiant Freestyle
They start adding “personal touches” you’ve never heard before.
Solution: Smile, nod, and remember… you’re still getting married at the end of this plot twist.
LAST-MINUTE GENIUS HACKS
Wrinkled dress? Hang it in a steamy bathroom. Instant spa treatment for fabric.
Forgot vows? Speak from the heart. It beats paper every time. Stained outfit? Club soda and a napkin. Bartenders are secret stain ninjas.
THE “NOBODY NOTICED BUT YOU” LIST
The slightly off-center centerpiece
The playlist hiccup
The groomsman who stood on the wrong side
Here’s the truth: if it didn’t stop the music, delay the food, or cancel the kiss… it didn’t matter.
Funny Moments
"My dad walked me halfway down the aisle then whispered, 'I think we're early.'"
Simpler look. Natural always photographs like a dream.
6. Timeline Meltdown
Everything is late. Everything. Even time itself feels delayed.
Fix: Trim speeches, streamline transitions, skip fluff. Guests remember energy, not timestamps.
7. Family Drama Premiere
Someone brought emotional baggage… and unpacked it.
Fix: Deploy a “family whisperer.” A calm, respected relative who can gently redirect or relocate the storm cloud.
8. Shoe Regret
Those stunning shoes now feel like medieval punishment devices.
Fix: Backup flats or sneakers. Comfort is charisma. Limping down the aisle is not the aesthetic.
9. Cake Catastrophe
Leaning, melting, or sliding into existential crisis.
Fix: Slice it early. Serve it fast. Nobody critiques cake geometry after two glasses of champagne.
10. Emotional Overload
Suddenly, it’s a lot. The noise, the expectations, the everything.
Fix: Step away together. Five minutes. Just you two. Reset. This is your day, not a performance review.
The Real Secret
Perfection is a mirage. It shimmers beautifully from a distance but disappears up close. What actually makes a wedding unforgettable is the texture of it all:
• the laugh when something goes sideways
• the glance you share when chaos taps your shoulder
• the way you both choose joy anyway
Think of your wedding less like a movie set and more like a live concert. There might be a missed note, a feedback squeal, a moment where the spotlight flickers. But the crowd? They’re there for the feeling, not the flawlessness.
And here’s the kicker: years from now, you won’t reminisce about the napkin folds or the exact timing of the first dance.
You’ll remember the stories.
“The wind tried to steal my veil.”
“The cake leaned like it had secrets.”
“We laughed through all of it.”
So plan well. Prepare smart. Pack your emergency kit like a tiny superhero utility belt.
And when something inevitably wobbles, grin like you knew it would happen all along.
Because the only thing that truly needs to go right… is that you both show up, look at each other, and say yes.
Everything else?
Just a really well-dressed adventure.
5 WONDERFUL Wine Destinations
EXPLORE CALIFORNIA’S OTHER PREMIUM WINE REGIONS
We are fortunate enough to live in California’s top producing wine region, which means we’re never short on places to explore the local terroir. Lodi is known mostly for its ripe and juicy zinfandel varietals with several old vines growing throughout the AVA, but it’s Mediterranean climate also makes it a stand out for cabernet sauvignon, petite sirah, albarino and tempranillo. When we want to taste the bounty of surrounding regions, we’re just a quick drive away. We’ve rounded up some of California’s best wine destinations, regaled not just for what they offer vinophiles but the atmosphere and agriculture, as well.
BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D MIKE ALT
A HIGH-END TIME IN HEALDSBURG
Personally, Healdsburg is a must for me when picking a wine weekend away. Located less than an hour from more prominent destinations, Healdsburg holds on to its laidback approach to wine tasting even as it grows to house premier labels.
The newly unveiled Appellation Healdsburg property (a sister property to our own Appellation Lodi) was built by Charlie Palmer and his hospitality team, a large, open-air estate with comfortable rooms and breathtaking views. You can swim in the pool, attend events on the lawn, or dine on Charlie’s finest creations. One of the best experiences is late night bites and cocktails on the rooftop, Andy’s Beeline, where we are personally enjoying caviar toast and sparkling wine as a nightcap.
It’s a convenient home base to the surrounding vineyards where Foppiano boasts views of the rolling green hills and the promise of the Russian River in the distance. When the weather is warm, take a seat on the patio and stare off into the distance while you cheers with the region’s standouts—chardonnay and pinot noir (and perhaps a boxed lunch from a nearby bakery)
At Bricoleur Vineyards we suggest saving room for lunch. There are many ways to enjoy the estate, surrounded by towering trees and expansive lawns, but eating your way through the chef curated ‘Rooted’ experience is a personal favorite, pairing the line-up of elegant wines with tastes fit for a white tablecloth.
Of course, the square is a can’t miss; downtown Healdsburg is brimming with cute boutiques, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants that match the city’s quality and ease. Dinner at Bistro Lagnaippe has both indoor and outdoor seating with a beautiful patio set behind the restaurant. The menu works with the best of the season and the region, turning out spectacular renditions of cassoulet and the best smoked trout I’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to start with an order of pomme frites and end with brown butter ice cream and chocolate pot de crème.
Before dinner explore one of the many tasting rooms walking distance to the restaurant. Martha Stoumen serves natural wines on a patio overlooking the hustle and bustle of the square and the Healdsburg Bubble Bar feels like Healdsburg in Paris.
WINE AND WELLNESS IN CALISTOGA
This small Napa Valley city is where wellness and wine collide. The region is known for its natural hot springs and uses the local phenomenon (plus soil) to create healing mud baths in various venues.
Start with the wine. LOLA Wines is a hidden gem off the main stretch of Foothill Boulevard. The tasting room is built into its owners former residence with a quaint back patio where tasting wines feels both romantic and idyllic. We recommend grabbing a few small bites and trying the bottarga (salted, dried, and pressed fish roe) over baguette and butter.
Hot springs should always be on the itinerary here. Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs and The Roman Spa both offer traditional mud baths and other spa services including impressive and customized facials at Dr. Wilkinson’s and therapeutic massages at The Roman Spa. Both also offer accommodations on site and pools made from the local hot springs so you can stretch your healing journey throughout the weekend.
Restaurants are aplenty in this charming destination, including Mexican fare (get the chips and guac) at House of Better, on-site at Dr. Wilkinson’s, and the quintessential small-town, diner experience at Café Sarafornia. The real culinary gem, however, is the newly opened 8 North, brimming with California cuisine. Every meal should start with both the sourdough focaccia and Bagna Cauda, crudites meant to be dipped in a syrah verjus, not unlike a mild fondue experience. From there you really can’t go wrong. The rest of the menu includes everything from southern classics such as shrimp and grits to seafood delicacies, plus of course several steak entrees.
SIP AND SAVOR IN SONOMA PROPER
Sonoma County is a sprawling region within California’s northern wine country; a neighbor and frequent comparison point to Napa Valley. But Sonoma proper is the town itself, a way to enjoy the local bounty without jetting all over the place (a serious buzzkill when you’re trying to wine taste).
In Sonoma’s square, start at La Prenda. Bursting with approachable sips, the bright and airy space is conveniently located steps from other prime destinations without losing its distinct identity. La Prenda’s vineyards are sustainably farmed and the passion of the wine makers is abundant in the vast array of vinos they produce. The brut rosé , the Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir, and 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon are just a few of the must sips before moving on.
For a wine break, Pomme Cider is a fun and funky option. In addition to a varied display of hard ciders, the destination has
made a name for itself with its tinned fish pairings. A large wall of options begs guests to pull a few and let the owners work their magic. They will assemble your selections on a snack board with accoutrements and then suggest pairings to accompany each.
Other dining options? Tasca Tasca is a tapas restaurant where every menu item is the same set price and pay is based on how many you order. Sonoma Cheese Factory is part wine shop-part restaurant. You can sip through a tasting of 100% Sonoma wines or share a bottle while eating some of the city’s best barbecue (as recognized by Sonoma Magazine).
Accommodations at El Dorado Hotel are equal parts charming and luxurious. Located right in the middle of Sonoma Plaza, the location is prime for exploring the square. If you don’t stay the night, come for dinner. The large patio under twinkling lights, wrapped in warm blankets under heat lamps when it starts to chill, is the
experience we’re begging for every time. It hardly matters that the menu is divine, serving seasonally driven California cuisine often made from ingredients grown right in Sonoma.
If you want to escape into the countryside, Bartholomew Estates takes advantage of its lush surroundings for a tasting that is equal parts measured and magical. It’s the atmosphere that really warms the experience, tasting through the estate’s more popular offerings.
If we have our pick of any accommodations, we’re booking a room at The Lodge at Sonoma. The picturesque resort features cottage-style rooms, many with private “backyards.” The rooms are so spacious, it’s hard to want to leave, but the outdoor pool and spa and bustling dining room will pull you from your slumber. And if you get the urge to explore, free bike rentals are parked outside.
APPROACHABLE AND FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES IN PASO ROBLES
A touch further south but fully worth the drive, Paso Robles maintains its approachability. The city provides every creature comfort we could possibly need, with high-end touches that don’t feel out of reach.
We’re calling the Ava Hotel homebase here. Located just steps from the downtown Paso Robles square, you can see the entertainment options from the rooftop pool or bar. Everything feels new and bright, with a swimming pool and lounge chairs set in the clouds and Esperanza, the rooftop bar, serving late night drinks with a view. The jungle-like atmosphere brings ambiance to the space, punctuated by fire pits.
Downstairs EMRE is the restaurant’s fine dining concept. Accessible to the public with a separate outdoor entrance, it’s more than a hotel restaurant; it’s a destination all its own. Mediterranean dishes abound like lamb kefta and warmed olives (a hard-to-pass-up starter). The wood-fired souvlakis are a stand-out, offering jidori chicken, Iberico pork, and wagyu beef, kissed by oak and fire. There’s always a fresh catch and divine desserts, plus a caviar menu that is not to be missed.
In the mornings, walk to the square and explore various museums, art galleries, boutiques, and more. Studios on Park is an eclectic art gallery with purchase-able goods and Pasolivio sells California olive oils pressed in Paso Robles.
Hope on Park is Austin Hope’s clever downtown tasting room, serving wine to guests at a walk-up bar and offering a caviar pairing with a price point that makes exploration easy. There’s also an inside space for appointments and special events but in general you’re drinking at the electric walk-up bar on the street.
Tank Garage continues the funky wine tasting atmosphere with its alternative approach to wine. It feels a little rock n roll inside, but the wines don’t read any less elegant than others nearby.
If you’re looking to escape downtown, head out to Alta Colina, where Rhône wines reign supreme. You’ll certainly feel like you left the city behind as you explore estate wines and admire the abundant wildlife.
When hunger strikes, Della’s is our number one pick. The wood-fired pizzeria serves some of the best food I’ve had in wine country. The pizza is, of course, a must. But get one to share and then work your way through the other offerings. I cannot talk about the Spring Pea Risotto enough—an expert blend of English snap peas, mascarpone, lemon, and grano Padano. It’s creamy and fresh with more flavor than I would have ever imagined. I would go back to Paso just for this dish.
For lunch, consider Mexican fare at Finca where you can get an ice-cold beer with duck tacos, or try the fresh ceviche. Don’t leave town without stepping inside the Paso Market Walk where several tasting rooms share space and there is a business upstairs where you can blend your own wines. It’s not unlike the new construction on Railroad Street where several tasting rooms share a common space for gathering but also have their own tasting rooms with barndoors and garage door rollups to create a communal wine tasting experience. The Rhône varietals at the modern Nenow Family Wines pulled us in with their small-lot wines and adorable shop dog.
BE A PART OF SOMETHING EXCEPTIONAL
Give Your Business The Results It Deserves!
WINE WITH A VIEW IN SANTA BARBARA
What wine list is complete without Santa Barbara? The coastal influence and unique mountain juxtaposition in the area makes for distinct wines, specifically chardonnays and pinot noirs that love a cool ocean breeze.
Stearns Wharf is a solid starting point for any Santa Barbara adventure. You can get wine immediately by stepping into Deep Sea Winery, a nautical-themed wine tasting room overlooking the water. Sip through a tasting flight before taking a coastal cruise off the wharf on Azure of the Seas. Expert Tip: you can purchase a bottle of sparkling wine to sip as you sail.
When you’re done, stroll, shop, and consider a visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Sea Center.
Without leaving the Wharf, dine at Moby Dick’s. The Oyster Bar within the restaurant opened in 2024, shaped like a giant oyster to allow ocean views on three sides. Start with oysters (save money by coming during Happy Hour) and dive into a menu rich in seafood favorites. Our pick? The Grilled Citrus Salmon Bowl loaded with fresh ingredients.
The Wharf is walking distance to the harbor, just a short 20-minute stroll along the waterfront. Come here for the Maritime Museum, free views of the harbor from the top story, and the waterfront dining.
A few blocks inland you’ll unlock another side of Santa Barbara. One where wine tasting rooms abound. The electric atmosphere at Paradise Springs Winery is fueled by a lively events calendar and friendly staff. The walls are packed with varietals both well-known and peculiar, and everything is more delicious than it has a right to be. If you want a party, come when the DJ is in town. If you want a quieter—but equally appealing—experience, book the private tasting room. If you haven’t eaten yet, this is the place to grab heavy snacks while you sip.
Frequency Wine Company dials it back, a family-run winery that will walk you through several varietals in a peaceful outdoor setting. Finish with dinner at bouchon, dedicated to fresh and local fare. The romantic atmosphere feels like stepping off the streets and into a dream. Prepare for a multi-course experience focused on seasonality. Quaint tables glowing by candlelight feel like the perfect après as you reminisce of the events of the day over a glass of wine from the curated list. While the menu may change, the seasonal iterations of steak and duck are always crowd-pleasers. And we highly recommend you don’t leave without dessert.
IN SEASON
Three Plant-Based Grilled Meals
Plant-Based Grilled Tempeh Salad with Tahini Balsamic Sauce
Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Ingredients
1 peach, sliced
8 c. mixed greens
1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ c. shelled pistachios
5 basil leaves, minced
2 tbsp. avocado oil
2 tbsp. coconut aminos
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
14 oz. plain tempeh, sliced in 1x3" pieces
Sauce:
4 tbsp. tahini
4 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 tsp. raw apple cider vinegar
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. pepper
½ tsp. garlic powder
Directions
Add balsamic tahini sauce ingredients to a bowl. Whisk until well-combined. Set aside. Add salad ingredients (except peaches) to mixing bowl. Toss. Heat grill or cast-iron skillet to mediumhigh. When hot, place sliced peaches on grill. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side. Add to salad. Add tempeh ingredients to mixing bowl. Toss well. Place tempeh on grill or cast-iron skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. Add tempeh to salad. Toss well. Serve with balsamic tahini sauce. Store leftovers in fridge for up to two days.
PHOTOS AND STORY BY SARAH STEFFENS
Plant-Based
Grilled Tofu & Veggie Skewers
Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min + 30 min to marinate
Equipment
8 wooden or metal skewers
Ingredients
Skewers:
1 lb. extra-firm tofu, cubed in 2" squares
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 red onion, peeled and quartered
1 zucchini, ends removed and sliced in 1" rounds
2 c. cremini mushrooms
Sauce:
4 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. lime juice
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
1 scallion, minced
½ c. cilantro, minced
Directions
Soak wooden skewers in water for five minutes. Skip if using metal skewers. Add marinade ingredients to a bowl. Whisk until well-combined. Add skewer ingredients to mixing bowl. Toss. Marinate for 30 minutes. Thread tofu and veggies onto skewers. Heat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high. When hot, place skewers on grill. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Mix sauce ingredients in bowl. Serve with grilled skewers. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days.
Grilled Eggplant Boats with Chickpea & Cherry Tomato Salad
Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 45 min
Ingredients
Eggplant:
2 eggplants, halved lengthwise
2 tbsp. avocado oil
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. pepper
Salad:
4 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. raw apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp. lemon juice
Zest from ½ lemon
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. garlic powder
1 c. cooked chickpeas
2 c. cherry tomatoes, quartered
½ c. parsley, minced
5 basil leaves, minced
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 F (205 C). Place halved eggplants on baking sheet. Rub with avocado oil. Bake for 30 minutes. Add chickpea and cherry tomato ingredients to bowl. Toss. Remove eggplants from oven. Heat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Place baked eggplants flesh-side down on grill or pan until grill lines have formed, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and repeat on opposite side. Place on a serving platter. When cool enough to handle, season with salt and pepper. Mash with back of a fork. Spoon chickpea and cherry tomato salad into each eggplant and serve. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days.
FEATURE
ABUELA’S Kitchen
RECIPES PASSED DOWN WITHOUT MEASUREMENTS
BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D MIGUEL BARAJAS
Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera, owner of Don Luis Mexican Restaurant and Chilango Chido, grew up in Mexico City. Over school holidays his family would often travel to Guanajuto, a more rural part of Mexico, to visit his grandparents. Here, he saw firsthand the traditional Mexican cooking styles that would largely influence his career as a chef.
Cuate’s recipes at both restaurants are influenced by his ancestors. While he enjoyed training in America and Italy, it’s the methods he learned as a young boy that have perhaps the most influence on his menus.
But those recipes look different than most. There may not be measurements telling you how much of each ingredient goes into the pot. And in many cases adjustments have to be made to accommodate the local agriculture, which is vastly different than Mexico.
Instead, Cuate says he was taught how food should taste. He knows when meat is overcooked or when flavors are ever-so-slightly off. The water here is different and the chiles pack different flavor profiles, but he knows when he’s gotten it just right—because he can remember from his time as a little boy what food is supposed to taste like.
“It’s part of your history,” he says. “You remember all of those flavors.”
Recipes aside, the techniques learned at home make all of the difference.
“The grandmas used to stay in the kitchen for four to five hours to do the meal,” he remembers. “When you cook it slow, you get more flavors.”
Cuate says most ingredients were available right on property. There was a small store where additional items could be purchased but his grandparents raised the chickens to slaughter and milked the cows and used the skin in their cooking. They also grew the chiles that act as the base for so many dishes, selected for both flavor and color—”every chile has their authentic kind of flavor and then their color,” he says.
Cooking at home was never rushed. Before making mole, walnuts were roasted long and slow over an open flame. The plantains were carefully toasted. Meat burned at low temperatures for hours. He recalls his grandmother grinding spices by hand and creating pastes the day before they were needed.
One of Cuate’s favorite foods is his mole sauce. No one makes mole the same, but it’s these “secret” recipes that he says make all the difference. It isn’t custom to share recipes with the masses; instead, they travel through lineage getting repeated over and over again and always bringing the same nostalgia of home.
While he’s using the same recipes— adapting them to larger portions and new regions—as his ancestors, he admits it’s different today. Technology means food cooks faster—and commercial kitchen laws prohibit some of the kitchen heirlooms including copper and clay—but it doesn’t
mean you rush.
He still lets his beans simmer and slow cooks meats in the oven for 12+ hours. It comes down to respecting the food, according to Cuate. Mistreating food looks like burning it, drying it out or oversalting or seasoning.
Everything Cuate has learned from his parents and grandparents has stayed with him, meaning meals cooking in an industrial kitchen in 2026 still carry traces of those small adobe kitchens filled with clay pots.
“I continue to pass it to my kids,” Cuate says of his cuisine and history. If they want, they can take the family recipes and open Don Luis all over the country and they will all taste the same. “It’s supposed to taste like it did when I was little.”
He likens it to popular fast food restaurants where just saying the name McDonald’s or KFC evokes memories of a specific taste. Regardless of location or the person making it, it will have the same distinct flavor you remember.
If his six children choose different careers, they’ll still get the recipes, cooking in small portions for family the way his grandparents once did.
“You follow the secret recipe that is passed around from family to family,” Cuate says. “It’s unique. It’s delicious. It’s beautiful.”.
