How Tos are dedicated to women's health topics ESCAPE TO DELL'OSSO FAMILY FARM
Our new residents are moving into the most exciting senior living community in charming downtown Ripon. The Terraces at Bethany offers gorgeous apartments, wonderful amenities, and friendly neighbors. Best of all, there’s no costly buy-in – one reasonable monthly fee covers almost everything you need. And you’ll also have lifetime access to Bethany’s award-winning continuum of care.
You’re going to love The Terraces. Schedule a tour today! By appointment only.
Homes are priced from the mid $500,000s to over $1,000,000. The Welcome Center is now open from 12-5 daily at 1401 River Islands Parkway in Lathrop.
It’s sunsets over the water. Family. Friends. And a sense of contentment that colors every moment.
Here near the San Joaquin River is a community of distinctive neighborhoods set amongst miles of lakes, parks and trails. Along with three charter schools and a high school, a lakeside restaurant, sports fields, dog parks and more. The Islands are calling.
WHY NOT MAKE THEM YOURS.
from the publisher
CANDY, COSTUMES, & CHAOS
Confession time: I love Halloween. Always have, always will. Some folks say it’s a kids’ holiday, but I disagree—adults just disguise their enthusiasm under “I’m only here for the candy corn.” (And yes, I’m pro-candy corn, even if it tastes like sweetened candle wax.)
Sometimes I wish my grown-up kids were little again, just so I’d have an excuse to knock on strangers’ doors and shamelessly yell “trick or treat!” We’d map out neighborhoods like generals planning a campaign: full-size candy bars here, caramel apples there, skip the dentist’s house— he hands out floss. By the end of the night, the pillowcases sagged, the sugar highs kicked in, and I was secretly the happiest parent alive because… more peanut butter cups for me.
I miss carving pumpkins together, too. The gooey mess of scooping seeds, the friendly competition over scariest face, and that one year my son insisted on carving “Darth Vader” and it ended up looking like a lopsided potato. We displayed it proudly anyway.
These days, my jack-o’-lanterns glow mostly for nostalgic reasons. But San Joaquin County makes it easy to rekindle the magic. Between Dell’Osso’s pumpkin blasters, Lodi’s parades, and Stockton’s festivals, there’s no shortage of thrills and sugar fixes for kids of all ages—including us kids at heart.
Miguel Barajas, Dan Hood, Sarah Martinez, Shannon Rock, Carissa Dugoni
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CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sybil Watson
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ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Michelle Cox
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So go ahead—throw on a costume, raid the candy aisle, and embrace the season. Halloween isn’t just for little ghosts and goblins. It’s for anyone still brave enough to eat six fun-size Snickers in one night.
Sincerely,
TONY ZOCCOLI tony@sjmag.com
Contents
A MILESTONE YEAR
St. Mary’s High School’s history dates back to 1876 when St. Agnes Academy was founded. The school was developed on land donated by Capt. Charles Weber and his wife, Helen Murphy Weber and funded through door-to-door fundraising efforts.
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
WELCOME TO SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY!
Whether you’re new to the region or a longtime resident, the final months of the year are brimming with opportunities to explore, celebrate, and connect. San Joaquin County offers a vibrant mix of events that showcase its heart and spirit BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE TEAM
SPOOKY LAS VEGAS
What’s your favorite October travel destination? If you’re not afraid to lean into the paranormal, pretty freaky, and slightly creepy, we suggest heading to Las Vegas during spooky season. Not only does sin city celebrate all things horror both in October and year round,
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
WOMEN'S WELLNESS HOW TO
Our How Tos are dedicated to women's health topics. well-being, and supportive resources that empower women to thrive at every stage of life.
Established in 1993, we have been representing San Joaquin Valley community members and their families for more than 20 years in catastrophic injury cases. Our offices are in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, not Los Angeles or San Francisco. We are well versed in the local rules and have a deep knowledge of the arbitrators, judges and court system. This unique knowledge and ability to navigate the local system has produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Vally by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.
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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE
COMMUNITY
A Milestone Year
ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES 150TH ANNIVERSARY
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
St. Mary’s High School’s history dates back to 1876 when St. Agnes Academy was founded. The school was developed on land donated by Capt. Charles Weber and his wife, Helen Murphy Weber and funded through door-to-door fundraising efforts.
Two Dominican Sisters alongside Fr. O’Conner, Archbishop Alemany, and Mother Mary Joseph drove around town in a buggy and knocked on neighbor’s doors collecting donations in order to build out the school.
With $22,000 raised, the first iteration of St. Agnes was
built on the south bank of the Mormon Slough. However, in 1914 the campus flooded and a second campus, renamed to St. Agnes High School, was built at San Joaquin and Park streets.
“Over the past 150 years, Saint Mary’s has grown from a small girls' academy to a leading coeducational college preparatory institution,”
The current site of Annunciation School on Lincoln and Magnolia streets would be the school’s third campus, and third rename, this time operating as Saint Mary’s High School. The Roman-Catholic co-educational school represented the merger of St. Agnes Academy and St. Mary’s Boys School to alleviate financial burden.
The campus on El Dorado Street was built in 1956. Still under the name of St. Mary’s High School, the 25-acre campus has grown at its current site for nearly 70 years. At the time, the school was staffed by four Franciscan priests, ten Dominican Sisters, and seven lay teachers.
The St. Mary’s High School we know today enrolls 877 students. President Jim Brusa and President Emeritus Peter Morelli are at the helm. While staff has shifted over the years, the school is still guided by the Salesian Spirituality through the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, with Fr. Mathew Issac serving as chaplain. It is a preparatory school with a long list of influential alumni that are celebrated every year with a ceremony and supreme designation.
“Over the past 150 years, Saint Mary’s has grown from a small girls' academy
to a leading coeducational college preparatory institution,” Jim says.
“Some of our proudest milestones include the opening of our current campus in 1956, the expansion of our arts and athletics programs, the addition of cutting-edge technology, and our ongoing commitment to making an education at Saint Mary’s accessible to and inclusive of students from all backgrounds.”
St. Mary’s continues to provide an education that is rich in the arts, science, math, and extracurriculars, while remaining dedicated to faithbased curriculum and community service. “They learn through their Catholic education that education is more than just math, science, and English,” Jim says. “It's learning to build quality relationships through Salesian teachings.”
“Yes, the location has changed and the current facility has been updated and improved over the years and yes we have lay people teaching our students rather than the Dominican Sisters and Oblates and before that the Franciscans but the goals have never changed,” says Jim. “Saint Mary's has always been student-centered and the education is and has always been rooted in our Catholic faith.”
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Celebrate the anniversary all year at these upcoming celebrations.
Homecoming Alumni and Friends Tailgate October 10, 5 PM, Cortopassi Aquatics Center
Celebrating 150 years of Alumni
Artistry
A musical and theatrical showcase featuring Ram Alumni
January 25, 2 PM, San Joaquin Delta College’s Warren Atherton Theatre
Breaking Bread on the 50-yard Line
A Farm to Fork family style dinner featuring ingredients produced by a vast array of Ram family and friends’ ingredients. May 17, Sanguinetti Field inside the Thompson Family Sports Complex
BY THE NUMBERS
Pumpkins By the Numbers
DELL’OSSO FAMILY FARM UNVEILS NEW ATTRACTIONS
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Dell’Osso Family Farm dates back to 1920, when three brothers immigrated from Italy. Not long after, they purchased the Lathrop plot of land and grew their operations. Over the years the land developed and in 1997, Susan and Ron Dell'Osso started offering themed mazes in the fall, carved by hand out of their towering corn crops.
The pumpkin patch quickly became a one-of-a-kind destination, unveiling new holiday attractions every year and upgrading their corn maze adventures. Today, modern technology including GPS systems
are used to create the maze, which changes annually.
Approximately 150,000 people visit the experience each year.
From Oct. 3-31 the farm is open seven days per week, with 28 attractions included in general admission prices. Consider doing more than meandering through the maze. Stay and play by launching apples into the field, riding the carousel, playing a round of minigolf, and spending time with family in the kid zone.
Dependent on your personal thrill tolerance, there are several attractions that range from not scary at all to very scary.
Scream your way through the haunted castle or come for the entertainment—including daily interactive parades in Teeny Town and pig races.
Dell’Osso hosts everything from train and tractor rides to amusement park-style attractions, including spinning pumpkins. The Haunted Castle is another favorite, featuring live actors that interact with guests and adapt their performances based on visitors’ reactions.
This year Thrill Hill was added to the line-up, a tubing experience similar to their winter adventure where guests can grab a tube and slide down the farm’s hills, screaming all the way.
The farm also upgraded other guest experiences including expanding party areas, adding shade structures and seating options, and installing permanent bathrooms.
Purchase an all-attraction pass to enjoy 28 general admission activities all in one day. There are five additional attractions offered at a cost, including blasters, pony rides, gem mining, pumpkin painting and the carousel.
BY THE NUMBERS
The pumpkin maze is celebrating 29 years this fall. The farm is 120 acres.
Dell’Osso boasts 23 attractions included in general admission.
150,000 attend each year.
2,500 pumpkins are sold annually. The maze takes 20-30 minutes on average to complete.
Approximately 100,000 apples are launched.
Candy Corn-ucopia
STICKY, SWEET, AND STILL TAKING OVER HALLOWEEN
BY SAN JOAQUIN EDITORIAL TEAM
Let’s face it—candy corn is the pineapple-on-pizza of the Halloween world. People either devour it or declare it a dental disaster. Yet somehow, this sugary little triangle of controversy keeps flying off shelves every October like it’s the Beyoncé of seasonal sweets.
IT’S OLDER THAN YOUR GRANDMA’S GRANDMA
Candy corn has been around since 1898—yep, before color TV, sliced bread, or TikTok dances. Jelly Belly (back when it was Goelitz Confectionery Company) was the OG maker, but today Brach’s is the reigning candy corn queen.
IT’S THE ZOMBIE OF CANDY
You can’t kill it. With a shelf life of up to nine months sealed and six months opened, candy corn survives longer than most houseplants. It even shows up for other holidays— reindeer corn, cupid corn, bunny corn—because it’s just that clingy.
DENTISTS HAVE NIGHTMARES ABOUT IT
Want to scare a dentist? Show them a bag of candy corn. It’s made of sugar, corn syrup, fondant, marshmallow crème, and dreams of your next cavity. A single serving has 28 grams of sugar—which is 7.5 calories per kernel. You’re basically chewing sugar sculptures.
IT WAS CALLED CHICKEN FEED
Back in the day, people thought it looked like something you’d toss to a chicken. The name stuck (briefly), but now candy corn rules Halloween—not the henhouse. It’s a Molded Masterpiece
Each colorful kernel is made by injecting layers of sugary goo into molds to get that
yellow-orange-white look. It’s a process worthy of an art museum—or maybe just your snack drawer.
It Even Has Its Own Holiday
Mark your calendar for October 30—National Candy Corn Day. Because nothing says “festive” like celebrating a candy you’ve either been bingeing or avoiding all month
A FAMILY LEGACY Finds New Life
AT VOILA GIFTS AND DÉCOR
BY REBEKAH MOAN:
Retail is in Kathy Duran’s blood. Her family owned Lakewood Drugs and Gifts, a pharmacy and gift shop in Lodi, for over 40 years. “It was a fixture,” Kathy says. “I grew up doing this, and it’s a part of me.”
Despite her background, Kathy didn’t intend to open a store of her own – that was her sister, Lana Carouba’s, idea. “She was in the retail industry and brought me along for the ride,” Kathy says. They started Voila Gifts and Décor as a yearround store in 2010, but unfortunately, two weeks after they opened, Lana was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went through treatment and maintained her involvement in the store for 1.5 years until it became too difficult with her health and also parenting two small children.
“She told me, ‘It’s up to you whether you want to move forward with the store or not,’ and I chose to move forward,” Kathy says. Voila was open until 2019 when Lana passed away and Kathy didn’t have the emotional or physical bandwidth to keep the store open. “But I really missed it,” she said. In 2022, she reopened Voila as a seasonal store with two main sessions: a two-month spring
popup and an extended fall season that runs from early September until the end of the year.
The merchandise includes home decor, gifts, and seasonally-themed items such as pillows, wall art, jewelry, candles, and more. Kathy strives to support local artisans while also stocking Voila with items people can’t get elsewhere. “I go to trade shows and shop online,” she says. “I love to do research and keep things fresh and new, while keeping prices affordable.”
Something that sets Voila apart is the focus on customer service and special orders, according to Kathy. “If we sell out of something and someone wants to buy it, I’ll reorder it for them even if I wasn’t planning on reordering,” she says. “I want to continue to make people happy and provide services and products they want. That’s my main goal.”
For Kathy, Voila feels like home and customers have become friends. “I enjoy it and that’s why I came back,” she says.
A Lasting Impression
For Marilyn Eger, art defines her life.
The Clementsbased oil painter doesn’t even remember when she really got into art but has memories as young as 4 or 5 years old drawing for hours on her grandmother’s living room floor.
“I’ve never been [into] anything else,” she says.
Marilyn teaches two monthly painting classes at the Lodi Community Art Center on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. Oils is her preferred method for painting, but she also uses acrylics, watercolors, and pastels.
The format for her classes are pretty straightforward, and what makes them unique is everyone gets to choose their own painting subject. “In my art class, the students bring their own photo references,” she explains.
She’s seen everything from portraits of family members to animals to seascapes.
“Am I a seascape painter? No. but I know color and I know value,” she explains. “It doesn’t matter what the subject is.”
Marilyn mostly paints what she sees—cows, sheep, vineyards—in an impressionist style.
Marilyn’s teaching background covers more than community art classes. For 25 years she taught ceramics, introduction to art, advanced art, and
advanced placement art at Bear Creek High School in Stockton. In those classes she covered mediums beyond painting including drawing.
For her current classes, she keeps it simple, teaching students how to transfer their photos onto the canvas so they don’t need to draw it freehand.
“I want my students to feel good about what they create,” she explains, adding drawing and painting something over six hours (two three hour classes in the month) would be difficult. The focus is on having fun and feeling proud of the final product.
While Marilyn teaches students to use carbon paper to copy over images onto the canvas, she also says it’s important not to take the projects too literally. She tells students to start with their big paint brushes instead of trying to follow the intricate lines with a small paintbrush.
“You’re not trying to make a photograph, you’re trying to make a painting,” she explains. “It doesn’t have to be exactly like the photograph.”
To sign up for one of Marilyn’s classes, contact her through her website or by phone. All payments are taken through Venmo and Paypal.
BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D MIGUEL BARAJAS
Side Hustle to Downtown Dream
JENNIFER PRATT GREW HER PRETTY THINGS INTO A THRIVING BOUTIQUE
BY REBEKAH MOAN:
It all started as a side hustle.
Jennifer Pratt began creating jewelry in 2014 to make ends meet as a single mom. She worked at a bead shop at the time and began crafting customwire necklaces and stud earrings. From there, she began selling her jewelry line, Her Pretty Things, on Instagram.
While it’s common for a side hustle to stay on the side or lose steam, for Jennifer, business boomed. She began doing popups anywhere and everywhere around San Joaquin County. Then an opportunity fell into her lap in 2018 to rent a space in downtown Lodi, which was the culmination of a childhood dream for the Lodi native.
“In 3rd grade, we took a field trip to a store downtown. It had stickers, stationery, and options to personalize products,” she says. “On that field trip, I said to myself, ‘I want to do this when I get older. I want to own a store like this.’ It’s not lost on me that now I own a business in downtown Lodi near where that store was.”
When she opened Her Pretty Things, Jennifer saved space for other artisans. The store featured her jewelry line as well as items from places such as Fragrant Farmhouse, a business in Acampo. The local artisan business was dubbed “The Local Collective,” and last year it merged with Her Pretty Things to become the Her Pretty Things Boutique.
“I have the ability to pivot when I’ve needed to pivot,” Jennifer says.
“As times have changed, things get a little different and I pivot to customers’ needs and stay in tune with that.” Paying attention to customers’ needs is a part of the boutique’s appeal. It features clothing up to size 3X, which many boutiques don’t.
“That has really been beneficial for us and our customers,” she says.
Jennifer purchases from clothing makers in Southern California and in addition to offering a wide range of sizes, carries options not found in other stores. “My style tends to be on the funky side,” she says. “Sometimes our clothes are out of the box, but customers love that.”
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Time Warp to 1975!
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW BRINGS ITS ANTICS TO A LIVE STAGE OCT. 7
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Don your best fishnets and get ready to dance the Time Warp!
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a cross-county tour of the raunchy cult classic film. For one night only, The Rocky Horror Picture Show: 50th Anniversary Spectacular Tour will take over the Bob Hope Theatre stage on Oct. 7.
This is more than a simple showing of the film. While the movie plays and sound is distributed throughout the theater, a shadow cast adds extra interest with questionable antics. The NSFW show promises even more gasps and gags than the original, with plenty of opportunities for cast participation including a costume contest. There are even several places where the cast not only acts out the scenes in front of the screen but does so with a little extra oomph. Throughout the film, get ready
to hear the crowd yell at the screen. Serious fans have quite a few soundbites they love to repeat at iconic moments. If you’re not familiar, perhaps it’s best to brush up before purchasing a ticket so you can be part of the fun.
If the side-splitting, hilarious show wasn’t enough to get you excited about the creative showing, perhaps the chance to meet one of the original film’s cast members will be. While Susan Sarandon is staying home, Patricia Quinn, who portrayed Magenta in the original film, will be on stage to answer questions from the audience and participate in meet and greets for VIP guests. Patricia is one of several cast members making the rounds during this iconic tour, each taking on their own select list of city stops.
Every ticket purchase comes with a prop bag to make audience participation even more explosive. Plus, everyone will be invited to get up and dance the Time Warp with their friends.
Tickets are already on sale, so head to ticketmaster. com to get your hands on a VIP package before it sells out or purchase from the Adventist Health Arena Box Office. VIP tickets include both premium seating and a meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Patricia. Standard admission tickets are also for sale.at the Bob Hope Theatre
“Durham Ferry gave me the opportunity to work directly with kids, which supports what I’m learning in school by letting me see how kids interact in a learning environment in real life,” -- Sara
says. The youth leaders are seen as relatable role models, creating a welcoming, playful, and supportive learning atmosphere while demonstrating curiosity, teamwork, and stewardship.
“Younger students gain one-on-one encouragement during journaling, games, and hikes, making the learning more personalized and engaging.”
Students Helping Students
MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS IN OUTDOOR EDUCATION BOLSTER STEM LEARNING ACROSS COUNTY
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Within the San Joaquin County Office of Education and the schools it serves, a new initiative has proven invaluable to students in elementary, middle, and high school. Giving high school students the ability to work closely with younger students in outdoor education and STEM fields throughout the county is offering widespread benefits.
“These high school students bring so much energy to the SJCOE outdoor education programs,” says Kristine Stepping, coordinator for the SJCOE STEM department. “While engaging students in grades 4-8 in fun and educational outdoor activities and experiences,
these high school students are also learning and building skills that will help them in whatever career they choose.”
The program is called Learn Through Leading and students from high schools in San Joaquin County are working as youth leaders at the Durham Ferry Outdoor Education Center to make STEM education exciting for younger students.
High school leaders are an integral part of The Great Hike Day field trips, Let’s Play Outside summer camps, and other programs offered through the SJCOE STEM department.
“Younger students feel more comfortable and inspired when guided by older peers,” Kristine
Kristine cites leadership development, career readiness, higher levels of confidence working with children, stewardship mindsets, and community connection amongst benefits for participating high school students selected from Tokay High School’s Children-Centered Careers and Occupational Opportunities (C3O2) Academy and Manteca Unified School District high schools enrolled in Careers with Children (CRTE) or Health Careers programs.
Their participation goes beyond the basics of volunteering to structured coursework that provides real world teaching opportunities.
“Being able to work with kids is my favorite part because it’s something I care for a lot and am passionate about,” says Sara, a Tokay High School junior and youth leader. “I love seeing their smiles whenever I teach them something new or when they're really curious/interested in the activities they’re doing.”
EDUCATION
calendar
DATES: OCTOBER 1–3, 2025
CodeStack Conference 2025
Developers and tech enthusiasts gather for immersive workshops, keynote talks, and networking—spotlighting innovation in software, coding, and startup culture. Adventist Health Arena, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
OCTOBER 2, 2025
Mariachi Herencia de México: La Nueva Generación Tour
Grammy-nominated mariachi group delivers lively instrumentation and harmonies for an unforgettable performance. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy, atthegrand.org
OCTOBER 3, 2025
Paint Night at the Grand
Guided social painting session with refreshments and music—fun for creatives, couples, and friends seeking an interactive evening of art. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy, cityoftracy.org
NORA HESTON TARTE
MARISELA: LA DAMA DE HIERRO CONCERT
OCTOBER 3, 2025
Latin music icon Marisela performs romantic ballads spanning decades, delivering an emotional, soulful, and entertaining concert experience. Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton stocktonlive.com,
DELL’OSSO FARMS PUMPKIN MAZE – SEASON OPENING
DATES: OCTOBER 3–31, 2025
Family-friendly fall festival with a giant corn maze, haunted castle, hayrides, pumpkin picking, and seasonal treats.
Location: Dell’Osso Family Farms, Lathrop. pumpkinmaze.com
STOCKTON PRIDE FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 4, 2025
Downtown celebration of inclusivity with parade, live music, food vendors, and community booths, perfect for families and friends. Downtown Stockton, Stockton, cityoftracy.org
Blindfolded gourmet dinner heightens senses while raising funds for local community programs, offering a unique culinary adventure: Manteca Senior Center, Manteca, manteca.org
FLEETWOOD MASK TRIBUTE
OCTOBER 4, 2025
Tribute band delivers authentic Fleetwood Mac hits with stage presence and musicianship endorsed by original band members. Location: Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
THE EXPENDABLES LIVE CONCERT
OCTOBER 4, 2025
High-energy performance blending ska, punk, surf-rock, and reggae to entertain audiences in a lively, interactive show. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy, cityoftracy.org
ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW – 50TH ANNIVERSARY
OCTOBER 5, 2025
Interactive cult-classic movie screening with costumes, props, and audience participation in a fun, spook-filled night. Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
LODI STREET FAIRE
OCTOBER 5, 2025
Over 500 vendors, live music, antiques, and gourmet bites enliven downtown Lodi for a festive street experience. Downtown Lodi, visitlodi.com
PACIFIC HOMECOMING & FRIENDS & FAMILY WEEKEND (UOP)
OCTOBER 10–12, 2025
University of the Pacific hosts alumni celebrations, concerts, sports, food trucks, and family-friendly campus events. University of the Pacific, Stockton, visitstockton.org
TRACTOR FEST AT LODI LAKE
OCTOBER 11, 2025
Hands-on family fun celebrating agriculture with vintage tractors, crafts, and activities
at scenic Lodi Lake Park.Lodi, sanjoaquinhistory.org
OAK RIDGE WINERY AUTUMN CONCERT –FIRST SHOW
OCTOBER 11, 2025
Vineyard concert with live music, seasonal wines, and scenic outdoor atmosphere for a perfect autumn evening. Oak Ridge Winery, Lodi,
TE FA’A NŌ TEʻORI TAHITIAN DANCE FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 17–19, 2025
Three-day celebration of Tahitian dance, featuring competitions, performances, cultural exhibits, and arts & crafts marketplace.
Adventist Health Arena & University Plaza Hotel, Stockton, visitstockton.org
STOCKTON LATIN COMEDY FESTIVAL 2025
OCTOBER 12, 2025
Top Latin comedians perform live, including a tribute to Paul Rodriguez Sr., providing laughter and cultural entertainment. Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
BLIPPI:
Join the Band Tour
OCTOBER 18, 2025
Interactive children’s show with singing, dancing, and STEMbased fun—perfect for families with young kids. Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
STOCKTON SWAP MEET & CAR SHOW
OCTOBER 12, 2025
Collectors and enthusiasts browse vintage cars, antiques, and unique finds at the fairgrounds in a festive market environment. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, Stockton, stocktonlive.com
SLEEPY HOLLOW (CENTRALWEST BALLET)
OCTOBER 18, 2025
Ballet performance of Washington Irving’s classic with dramatic choreography, costumes, and haunting stage presence. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy, atthegrand.org
HARVEST FESTIVAL 2025
OCTOBER (EXACT DATE TBD)
Family-friendly event with live performances, pony rides, carnival games, food, and community booths celebrating the harvest season.
Harvest Church Ministries, Stockton, visitstockton.org
decades in a high-energy, emotionally resonant show. Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, visitstockton.org
LODI COMIC CON FALL
OCTOBER 25, 2025
Pop-culture festival with cosplay, exhibitors, artists, gaming, and family-friendly activities at the Lodi fairgrounds.Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, Lodi, visitlodi.com
MONSTER MASH HALLOWEEN BASH AT PIXIE WOODS
OCTOBER 25, 2025
Kids’ festival with costumes, magic, crafts, and pumpkin giveaways for a fun, safe Halloween. Pixie Woods Children’s Park, Stockton, visitstockton.org
STOCKTON SMPHONY: “LEGENDS” – CENTURY OF MERRIMENT
OCTOBER 25, 2025
Orchestral classics and pops favorites delight audiences in this festive and lively symphonic performance. Location: Bob Hope Theatre, Stockto, stocktonlive.com
CANDY CRAWL (DOWNTOWN TRACY)
OCTOBER 25, 2025
Free community trick-or-treating, live music, and games along downtown streets for families and children .Downtown Tracy, Tracy, cityoftracy.org
TRACY HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL & COSTUME CONTEST
OCTOBER 26, 2025
Rides, games, haunted attractions, and a costume contest make for a festive, family-friendly celebration. Tracy Community Center, Tracy, cityoftracy.org
LODI GHOST WALK & HISTORY TOUR
OCTOBER 27, 2025
Lantern-lit downtown stroll sharing haunted stories, forgotten legends, and historic anecdotes in Lodi’s historic district. Downtown, Lodi, visitlodi.com
MANTECA FOOD TRUCK FRENZY + LIVE MUSIC
OCTOBER 28, 2025
Park-filled evening featuring gourmet food trucks and live music performances in a family-friendly community gathering. Library Park, Manteca, manteca.org
PACIFIC TRICK-OR-TREAT (UOP)
OCTOBER 29, 2025
Safe campus trick-or-treating with decorations, candy, and family fun hosted by University of the Pacific.Stockton, visitstockton.org
TRICK-OR-TREAT TRAIL AT LODI LAKE
OCTOBER 30, 2025
Decorated trail trick-or-treating for families with volunteers, seasonal activities, and scenic views at Lodi Lake Park. Lodi Lake Park, Lodi, visitlodi.com
STOCKTON LIVE! HALLOWEEN NIGHT CONCERT
OCTOBER 31, 2025
Downtown bands perform Halloweenthemed sets; costumes encouraged, making it a festive night of music and fun. Downtown Stockton, Stockton, stocktonlive.com.
SECOND ANNUAL
An Enchanting Evening Under the Stars
Join us at the stunning private estate of Capecchio Ovest for an unforgettable night beneath the stars. Guests will enjoy a curated selection of local wines, gourmet appetizers, a delicious dinner, and both a live and silent auction. The evening will be filled with music, dancing, and moments to remember.
This WOW Gala supports our expansion campaign, helping to bring our vision to life—and so much more.
PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS EARLY BY VISITING wwww.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-wow-gala or scan the QR Code Below
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11TH 2025 5:30-10pm @ CAPECCHIO OVEST TICKETS: $150 PER PERSON
Crete Family Foundation
EXPLORING SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY!
CITY GUIDE
TRACY
Whether you’re new to the region or a longtime resident, the final months of the year are brimming with opportunities to explore, celebrate, and connect. From pumpkin patches and wine strolls to dazzling light parades, concerts, and cultural traditions, San Joaquin County offers a vibrant mix of events that showcase its heart and spirit. We’ve compiled an exciting guide to the season’s most anticipated happenings, along with local attractions and venues that bring our communities together. Turn the page and discover how to make the most of October through December in the 209!
CARNEGIE STATE VEHICULAR RECREATION AREA (SVRA)
Just east of Tracy, Carnegie SVRA spans more than 1,500 rugged acres designed for off-road adventure. From beginner dirt bike trails to challenging 4×4 climbs, it offers year-round excitement for offhighway enthusiasts. With campgrounds and training areas, it’s perfect for both day trips and weekend getaways.
Carnegie SVRA • Tracy OHV.Parks.ca.gov
GRAND THEATRE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Tracy’s cultural hub showcases live theater, dance, music, and visual arts in a beautifully restored historic venue. The fall and winter season brings musicals, symphony concerts, and holiday productions. With classrooms and galleries, the Grand is both a performance space and a community arts center. Grand Theatre Center for the Arts • Tracy AtTheGrand.org
TRACY FARMERS’ MARKET – FALL SEASON
Every Saturday morning through midNovember, downtown Tracy comes alive with local produce, artisan goods, flowers, and baked treats. Food trucks and live music add flavor, making the market a weekend tradition where newcomers and residents mingle under crisp autumn skies. Saturdays, October through Mid November
Downtown Tracy • Tracy TracyCityCenter.com
DOWNTOWN TRACY CANDY CRAWL
On October 25, downtown Tracy transforms into a safe trick-or-treat wonderland. Families parade through shops and businesses collecting candy, while local merchants decorate storefronts and host kid-friendly activities. Costumes are a must at this festive, family-friendly Halloween celebration. Oct 25, 2025
Downtown Tracy • Tracy DowntownTracy.com
LATHROP
LATHROP HOLIDAY TREE OF LIGHTS
Hosted by Hospice of San Joaquin, this heartfelt December ceremony brings the community together at City Hall. Families dedicate lights to honor loved ones, while carols and cocoa create a warm and reflective evening filled with holiday spirit. Dec 2025 Lathrop City Hall • Lathrop HospiceSJ.org
TRACY HOLIDAY PARADE & TREE LIGHTING
The first Saturday of December, downtown Tracy lights up with a holiday parade featuring bands, floats, and community groups. The evening ends with the ceremonial lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and a joyful gathering filled with music, cocoa, and cheer. Downtown Tracy • Tracy CityofTracy.org
TRACY COMMUNITY BAND & ORNAMENT STROLL
Join us for a holiday concert by the Tracy Community Band. The Grand will also be a stop at the Tracy City Center Association’s Downtown Tracy Ornament Stroll. Nov 22, 2025
Grand Theatre • Tracy AtTheGrand.org
DELL’OSSO FAMILY FARM PUMPKIN MAZE
Every October, Dell’Osso Farm becomes a seasonal playground filled with family fun. Wander through the massive corn maze, take hayrides, fire pumpkin blasters, or try the rope course and zipline. The pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and weekend attractions make it one of the Valley’s most beloved fall destinations. Oct 3–31, 2025
Dell’Osso Family Farm • Lathrop PumpkinMaze.com
MOSSDALE
CROSSING REGIONAL PARK
Located along the San Joaquin River, this 100-acre park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, boat launches, and open fields. Families enjoy fishing and strolling the shaded trails, especially during the crisp fall months when the waterway is alive with migratory birds.
Mossdale Crossing Regional Park • Lathrop
LathropGov.org
RIVER ISLANDS HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR
Each December, River Islands becomes a winter wonderland as neighbors compete in spirited decorating contests. Streets shine with elaborate light displays, drawing families from across the county for evening drives filled with holiday sparkle and festive cheer.
Dec 12–24, 2025 (evenings)
River Islands Community • Lathrop RiverIslands.com
LATHROP GENERATIONS CENTER TRUNK OR TREAT
This lively October festival brings games, arts and crafts, food vendors, and music to the Generations Center. Families enjoy safe seasonal fun with pumpkin decorating and kid-friendly contests in a festive community atmosphere.
Oct 18, 2025
Lathrop Generations Center • Lathrop LathropGov.org
RIVER ISLANDS FARMERS’ MARKET
Held monthly into November, this outdoor market highlights farm-fresh produce, artisanal baked goods, seasonal décor, and handcrafted gifts. As the holidays approach, it’s an easy stop for local shopping paired with music and small-town charm.
Oct–Nov 2025 (Sundays)
River Islands • Lathrop RiverIslands.com
WICKED LODI WINE STROLL
One of Lodi’s signature fall events, the Wine Stroll invites guests to sample wines from more than 25 local wineries while enjoying small bites, boutique shopping, and live music downtown. A perfect evening for exploring wine country with friends.
DATE COMING
Downtown Lodi • Lodi LodiChamber.com
LODI
LODI PUMPKIN HARVEST FESTIVAL AT JESSIE’S GROVE
Families gather at historic Jessie’s Grove Winery for hayrides, artisan booths, pumpkin picking, kids’ train rides, and live entertainment. This October festival captures the region’s rustic charm and pairs perfectly with Lodi’s famous wines.
Oct 11, 2025
Jessie’s Grove Winery • Lodi VisitLodi.com
LODI PARADE OF LIGHTS
This beloved holiday parade fills downtown with lighted floats, marching bands, dance groups, and Santa himself. Families sip cocoa and line the streets early to witness the city sparkle during this magical December evening tradition.
DECEMBER
Downtown Lodi • Lodi VisitLodi.com
JAPANESE GARDEN AT MICKE GROVE PARK
Retreat into serenity at this 3-acre Japanese stroll garden in Lodi’s Micke Grove Park. Originally designed by Duke Yoshimura and inspired by Nagao Sakurai’s work at Japan’s Imperial Palace, it features koi ponds, elegant bridges, cherry trees, and a traditional tea house. Ideal for peaceful walks, photos, and quiet study. Japanese Garden • Lodi SJparks.com
SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY PARKS
Adventure is closer than you think when you explore San Joaquin County Parks! From the shady oak woodlands of Oak Grove Regional Park to the koi ponds and Japanese Garden at Micke Grove Park, these outdoor gems offer something for everyone. Reel in trout from stocked lakes, kayak quiet waters, or challenge friends to disc golf. Picnic shelters, event pavilions, and lush gardens make them perfect spots for birthdays, reunions, or weddings. And don’t miss seasonal happenings—like Zoo After Dark, Holiday Lights at the Zoo, and fishing derbies—that keep families coming back all year long.
San Joaquin County Parks • Stockton & Lodi SJParks.com
STOCKTON FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & BOAT PARADE
This waterfront tradition sparkles as lighted boats cruise the channel in December. Families gather along the promenade for food vendors, live entertainment, and dazzling reflections on the water. It’s a magical highlight of
The Stockton Symphony fills the Atherton Auditorium with joyful sound during its annual Holiday Pops program. A mix of classical pieces, jazzy renditions, and carol sing-alongs makes it an uplifting night for all ages. Dec 7, 2025
Home to more than 90 larger-thanlife statues, this Cambodian Buddhist temple is one of Stockton’s hidden gems. Open year-round, it offers cultural events and a peaceful place for reflection, especially striking during fall sunsets. Wat Dhammararam • Stockton VisitStockton.org
HAGGIN MUSEUM
Set in Victory Park, the Haggin Museum blends art and history. Its galleries showcase European paintings, California landscapes, and rotating exhibitions. Family-friendly activities and seasonal holiday programs make it a cultural jewel for all ages. Haggin Museum • Stockton HagginMuseum.org
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL
Celebrate Mexican culture with altars, mariachi music, folklorico dancers, artisan vendors, and delicious food at Stockton’s vibrant Día de los Muertos celebration. Families honor loved ones while embracing community and tradition in the heart of downtown.
Nov 1, 2025
CITY GUIDE
Downtown Stockton • Stockton VisitStockton.org
STOCKTOBERFEST FESTIVAL
Come hang out on the Miracle Mile for Stoktober Fest, a free, all-ages event packed with good vibes, great cars, and something for everyone. Enjoy live music, local food, family activities, and a street full of classic and custom cars. It’s the perfect way to spend a fall day in Stockton, bring your friends, bring the kids, and enjoy the fun.
Oct 11, 2025
Miracle Mile • Stockton VisitStockton.org
OAK GROVE REGIONAL PARK & NATURE CENTER
This 180-acre park offers fishing, picnic areas, and paddle boat rentals. The Nature Center features hands-on exhibits with reptiles and local wildlife, making it ideal for family outings year-round. Autumn colors and crisp air make fall especially inviting.
Oak Grove Regional Park • Stockton
VICTORY PARK
Home to shady lawns, duck ponds, and the Haggin Museum, Victory Park is Stockton’s most beloved green space. Families gather for walks, picnics, and concerts under towering trees that glow with fall foliage in October and November.
Victory Park • Stockton StocktonCA.gov
CHILDREN’S
MUSEUM OF STOCKTON & PIXIE WOODS
These kid-friendly attractions delight younger visitors. The museum offers hands-on learning through exhibits in science, art, and play, while Pixie Woods is a whimsical amusement park filled with storybook rides and seasonal decorations.
Children’s Museum & Pixie Woods
OAK PARK ICE RINK
Stockton’s premier indoor ice skating arena features a full-size sheet, pro shop, figure skate and hockey lessons, birthday party rooms, and community leagues. Open August through May, it’s a favorite year-round venue for public skate sessions, curling, and seasonal events—even in the sunny Central Valley.
Oak Park Ice Rink • Stockton OakParkIceArena.com
PIXIE WOODS CHILDREN’S PARK
Stepping into Pixie Woods is like entering a storybook. This fairytale themed park includes vintage rides like a paddlewheel boat, carousel, miniature train, play structures, and storybook gardens. Open weekends through fall, it’s a beloved Stockton jewel for kids, birthday parties, and nostalgic adventures.
Pixie Woods & Children’s Museum • Stockton VisitPixieWoods.com
BIG LEAGUE DREAMS SPORTS PARK
Manteca’s Big League Dreams brings Major League Baseball magic to young athletes and casual players alike. With replica stadiums modeled after Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park, batting cages, and picnic areas, it’s a year-round hub for youth leagues, adult softball, and family fun.
Big League Dreams • Manteca BigLeagueDreams.com
MANTECA PARK GOLF COURSE
This affordable public course offers a country-club atmosphere without the price tag. The tree-lined, 18-hole layout challenges golfers of all levels, while the driving range and putting greens make practice easy. Seasonal clinics and junior programs welcome new players to the game.
Manteca Park Golf Course • Manteca MantecaParkGolf.com
MANTECA PUMPKIN FAIR
Held the first full weekend of October, this beloved fair transforms downtown into a harvest celebration. Expect pumpkin-themed food, live music, artisan booths, classic car shows, and children’s activities. It’s a community tradition that attracts thousands each year.
Oct 4–5, 2025
Downtown Manteca • MantecaMantecaPumpkinFair.org
MANTECA HOLIDAY PARADE
Ring in the season with Manteca’s annual holiday parade along Yosemite Avenue. Local schools, dance groups, festive floats, and Santa himself march through downtown, spreading cheer on the first Saturday of December. Families line the streets early to enjoy the show.
Hosted by Hospice of San Joaquin, this heartfelt ceremony at Doctors Hospital of Manteca brings the community together to honor loved ones with symbolic lights. Seasonal music, refreshments, and a touching atmosphere make this December event both meaningful and festive.
Dec 3, 2025
Doctors Hospital • Manteca HospiceSJ.org
mgzoo.com
NAVIGATE A Cancer Diagnosis
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
So, you found out you have cancer. What now?
Ernie Gallardo, patient cancer navigator at St. Joseph’s Cancer Institute at St. Joseph’s Medical Center says it’s important to give yourself time to process the shock. “Practically, your immediate focus should be understanding your diagnosis – ask key questions about cancer type, stage, and next steps for testing/consultations. Seek a second opinion if desired for clarity and confidence. Most importantly, don't go it alone; reach out to a trusted loved one as you begin to gather information and build your medical care team,” he advises.
At St. Joseph’s Cancer Institute, the team developed a navigator program to ensure no one feels alone while going through treatment. Patients benefit immediately with navigators tasked to help them understand their diagnosis, coordinate appointments, connect to outside resources, and facilitate communication with the medical team. When treatment feels overwhelming, the team is there to make sure you stay on track and to provide
necessary support. “Our goal is to simplify the complex process, allowing you to focus on your health,” Ernie says.
All St. Joseph’s Cancer Institute patients receive assistance at the beginning of treatment that continues throughout their cancer journey, which can look like initial consultations, a dedicated social worker to facilitate access to relevant resources, ongoing counseling, and longer-term community-based services. Patients can also join in-person and online support groups with Dignity Health, the American Cancer Society, CanCare, and CancerCare.
For those with a more severe diagnosis, palliative care is available, focused on improving overall quality of life for incurable illnesses, often provided by a nurse or social worker by phone. If quality of life is your sole focus, and you’ve decided to forgo additional treatment, hospice services are available. “Hospice offers more involved support with a team assisting the patient, family, and caregivers,” says Ernie. “The level of support is adjusted as the patient's or family's needs change, with around-theclock phone availability.”
While patient care is top of mind, additional resources for patient families are also available through the St. Joseph’s Cancer Institute , San Joaquin County’s only accredited cancer center. A navigator can help connect families with support groups and hospice providers are there to offer free and unlimited grief counseling when needed. At the end of the day, a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming regardless of its severity and treatment should acknowledge the whole body. While doctors handle the cancer itself, additional support services ensure patients can thrive mentally and emotionally during this difficult time. To get in touch with one of St. Joseph’s cancer patient navigators, please call 209-939-4526.
Navigating cancer is a big journey. A personal guide is a big help.
Hearing the words “you have cancer” can be overwhelming. At St. Joseph’s Cancer Institute, our patient navigators can answer questions, explain treatment options, and help guide you through your cancer journey. St. Joseph’s is the only accredited cancer center and NAPBC®-accredited breast center in San Joaquin County. With certified oncology specialists, state-of-the-art technology, and comprehensive support services, you can be assured St. Joseph’s is the right place for care.
Learn more at dignityhealth.org/stockton/cancercare or call our Cancer Patient Navigator at (209) 939-4526.
For millions of people who rely on glasses or contacts every day, LASIK is a great option for many to obtain clear vision. At Zeiter Eye Medical Group, patients discover freedom from their corrective lenses. The joy of waking up and seeing clearly, playing sports without glasses, or traveling without contact lens supplies can be life changing. How LASIK Works
Normally, clear vision occurs when images focus directly on the retina at the back of the eye. With myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism, that focus is off, leading to blurry sight.
LASIK corrects this by using a computer-guided pulsing laser to gently reshape the cornea. The laser removes precise amounts of tissue, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. The result: sharper, more accurate vision with significantly less dependence on corrective lenses. The procedure itself is quick and comfortable, typically lasting just 10 minutes per eye. Most patients are amazed at how easy the process feels—and even more thrilled at how quickly they see results. In fact, many are back to work and daily life within just a few days. Who Is a Candidate?
Not everyone is suited for LASIK, and that’s why a thorough evaluation is key. Ideal candidates are preferably over 21 years old with prescriptions that haven’t changed significantly in the past
Ditch Your Glasses For Good
BY ZEITER EYE MEDICAL GROUP
year. Your cornea must be healthy and thick enough for treatment, and it’s important to have realistic expectations about what LASIK can and cannot do. Safe, Effective, and Personalized Every LASIK procedure at Zeiter Eye Medical Group is tailored to the patient’s unique vision needs—whether correcting one eye or both or addressing moderate to significant refractive errors. LASIK is a low risk procedure that remains one of the safest, most effective vision correcting options available to patients who desire independence from glasses or contact lenses. Take the first step toward clear vision today. Schedule your LASIK consultation
with Dr. Luke Simon at Zeiter Eye Medical Group and see what life looks like without glasses or contacts.
Age Gracefully While Still Looking Natural
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
If the goal is to look youthful without being overdone, focus on subtle enhancements instead of an all-over overhaul. “In a world where cosmetic enhancements are more accessible than ever, the goal for many clients has shifted: they don’t necessarily want to look younger—they want to look like the best, healthiest version of themselves,” says Illa Cox of Cox Medical Aesthetics. Aging gracefully doesn’t mean refusing all cosmetic procedures. Instead, it refers to choosing the right treatments, in the right way, to preserve your natural beauty. With the right balance of procedures and appointments, you can achieve a fresh, rested, and natural appearance.
For subtle results that will have you looking refreshed without plastic, Cox recommends using Botox only in moderation to soften expression lines alongside conservative dermal fillers to
restore volume in cheeks, under eyes, and lips. The goal is to shave a few years off of your appearance without drastically altering your reflection or causing an overfilled look.
Other supportive procedures include Sculptra to stimulate collagen, Morpheus8 Microneedling for natural skin rejuvenation, CO2 Fractional Ablation to improve skin tone and texture as well as reverse sun damage, PDO Threads for an instant face life and gentle tightening of the skin, and PRP/PRF and PDGF Treatments that use your body’s own natural responses to regenerate skin, especially under the eyes.
“Aging naturally with help means regular, small touch-ups rather than major overhauls,” reminds Illa.
Whether you want to avoid or limit injections, focus on improving skin quality with regular appointments for VI Peels, HydraFacials, and microneedling.
Hormone therapy can offer a full-body approach to managing age-related hormone changes that affect skin, energy, and mood while IV Vitamin Therapy, NAD+, and Glutathione supports cellular health to increase energy and detox the body. This artful combination will naturally lead to brighter skin.
“Graceful aging isn’t about fighting time—it’s about working with it,” Illa says. “With the right treatments, performed with artistry and restraint, you can look refreshed, confident, and entirely like yourself.”
BEAUTY
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)
Gift Certificates Available
lla Cox is a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner who graduated with honors. She is an emergency room NP, a certified aesthetic instructor, 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.
Illa Cox FNP-C DNP
Support Female Reproductive Health
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Supporting a healthy pregnancy starts before conception. Bridget Norman-Malme, MD, FACOG, assistant chief, Department of Women’s Health, Kaiser Permanente Central Valley, says women should start taking supplements and schedule wellness appointments as soon as they decide they want to conceive.
Women should be in optimal health before pregnancy to reduce risk of complications such as hypertension of diabetes. A well-woman exam and cervical cancer screening should both be up to date before getting pregnant. Women can also consult with a primary care doctor to assess risk of developing diabetes or hypertension during pregnancy. If a woman already has one of these conditions, an appointment
to check blood sugar and blood pressure levels is needed.
“Women with health problems other than diabetes or hypertension should immediately talk with their doctor about their desire to become pregnant, to optimize their health before the pregnancy begins,” Dr. Norman-Malme says.
At home, prenatal vitamins are important not just during pregnancy, but before conception, as well. If a woman waits until pregnancy is
confirmed, the fetus will have already missed out on some of the necessary nutrients including folic acid, which can prevent birth defects in the first trimester.
A healthy diet pre-pregnancy is also important. Women often struggle to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Dr. Norman-Malme blames processed foods and sugary drinks.
“Many women eat large servings of processed foods which increase the chance of developing diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy,” she says. “This type of diet also causes women to struggle with weight gain and they tend to gain weight with each pregnancy.”
Keep in mind that half of each plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables and sugary drinks like juices, coffee, and tea should be limited to one per day. Women should aim to eat three servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables each day.
Regardless of health, the one question every woman should be asking her doctor either at her first prenatal appointment or before she conceives is, what is the most important thing I can do to have a healthy baby?
PERFECT YOUR Smile Without Surgery
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
What’s your favorite childhood memory? Think about the impact each of your five senses had on that moment. Maybe you recall the smell of freshly baked cookies or the sound of the ocean, but chances are what stands out most about that moment are the things that you saw.
Our ability to see the world around us dictates our ability to interact with it. The way we learn, communicate, work, and go about our daily lives are dependent upon having healthy eyes and clear vision. Yet, somehow eye health is often overlooked and changes in vision go unaddressed throughout life.
Fortunately, many eye conditions are preventable or treatable, starting at a young age. At Zeiter Eye Medical Group, routine eye care ensures any vision changes are
addressed and developing eye conditions can be caught early.
“Children should have a vision screening by age four, even if the child has no complaints,” says Dr. John Zeiter, the managing physician at Zeiter Eye Medical Group. “Young adults should be checked every year if they wear glasses or contacts and adults over 40 should be seen by their eye doctor at least every two years to check for glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal problems.”
As Dr. Zeiter mentioned, vision problems can start early and often
have no obvious symptoms. In fact, vision problems are growing among preschool-aged children, a trend that is only expected to continue. Luckily, the most common problems can be corrected with glasses and can help head off any visionrelated learning problems.
Eyesight will continue to change through puberty and teen years, stabilizing in the mid- to late-twenties. But eyes naturally start to change again with age, particularly between 40 and 50. For most people this just means reading glasses, but more serious conditions can develop with age, even if you’ve had great vision all your life. Some eye problems that appear later in life can run in families, such as glaucoma, a degenerative condition where pressure on the optic nerve results in vision loss. Other conditions are complications of existing health problems, like diabetic retinopathy where perpetually high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels at the back of the eye, leading to vision loss. While neither of these conditions can be cured or the damage reversed, they are manageable if caught early by your eye doctor.
REDUCE EVERYDAY Stress
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
The health of our hearts is intricately bound to the health of our minds. Research has shown that individuals who experience chronic stress may experience inflammation in their arteries, plaque buildup, and other risk factors that contribute to heart disease and heart attacks. This makes stress management an important part of reducing heart disease risk.
There are a lot of methods for reducing stress in your life including meditating, therapy, and making life changes. Many of these remedies take time. Exercise, however, can begin today and greatly reduces stress—physical, emotional, and mental.
Exercise produces endorphins. These endorphins not only increase our moods, which helps to reduce stress, but also lead to better sleep, which is another surefire way to feel better day in and day out. As an added bonus, exercise also leads to
better overall physical health including weight loss, lower cholesterol, and less ailments such as diabetes—all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.
Dr. Ramin Manshadi explores the link between exercise and heart health in his book The Wisdom of Exercise Health: Feel Better Than Ever While Protecting Yourself Against A Wide Range of Illnesses. As a practicing sport cardiologist, interventional cardiologist, and the founder and president of Manshadi Heart Institute, Inc., Dr. Manshadi is an expert in the field of heart health.
His recommendations are to start small. If you haven’t exercised in a long time, it may be necessary to consult a physician before starting a new routine to ensure you don’t overdo it. When you’re ready, commit to 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise per day (something that gets
your heart pumping). Your first exercises may be simply walking or lightly jogging. Then, work your way up to a run or a bike ride. Even activities such as weight lifting are good for the heart.
In addition to science, Dr. Manshadi’s book is steeped in personal experience, making it an accessible and relatable read for the average consumer. And as an added bonus, all of the proceeds from Dr. Manshadi’s book go to purchasing AEDS, or automated external defibrillators, devices used to assist those who go into sudden cardiac arrest
MANSHADI HEART INSTITUTE
ESCAPE
Spooky Las Vegas
THE MOST FRIGHTENING TIME OF YEAR IS HERE…
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
What’s your favorite October travel destination? If you’re not afraid to lean into the paranormal, pretty freaky, and slightly creepy, we suggest heading to Las Vegas during spooky season. Not only does sin city celebrate all things horror both in October and year round, but the weather is prime for visiting Nevada’s most entertaining destination. While the temperatures cool from the triple digit summer heat by fall, it’s still warm enough to don a skimpy costume on the strip. Read on to build your own sinister itinerary based on personal thrill tolerance.
Not Scary At All
Embracing the Halloween spirit doesn’t have to mean putting your nerves on edge. If heart-racing, screaming, sweaty palms-inducing activities aren’t your idea of a good time, you can lean into the costume-y fun of Las Vegas without any spook.
Netflix BITES has quite a buzz around it, open for brunch, lunch, and dinner inside MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. The entire eatery is focused on Netflix hits with towering tea service for Bridgerton fans and southern delicacy Ginny & Georgia’s Peaches Foster. But October calls for leaning into the network’s darker masterpieces. There’s plenty of nods to “Stranger Things” on the menu as it prepares for its final season. Eleven’s Fried Feast offers a theatric
Tom Devlin's Monster Museum
display of chicken and waffles with a bright and cheery plate on the top and a bottom section doused in black to represent the upside down. “Squid Games” fans can play their own game of roulette by spinning a wheel that dictates which sauce you’ll have to dip your fried chicken in—green offers no spice, yellow is on the cusp, and red will have you reaching for your "Squid Game"-inspired Pink Soldier cocktail to handle the heat. Even “Wednesday” is getting some love on the menu with Nachos Nevermore. And as an added bonus, costumed characters from the screen interact with guests throughout their meal at select times throughout the day.
A night at Caspian's Rock and Roe’s Yacht Rock Night is a good excuse to don a sailors cap and bop along to 1970s and 80s soft rock classics while sipping a smoked old fashioned and dining on caviar. Caspian’s is known for its high-end drink menu and delicious caviar bites but it’s the speakeasy’s yacht rock night that really brings the good times. This attraction is open year round, tucked behind a painting in an unsuspecting casino floor bar inside of Treasure Island. Every
Thursday the atmosphere transforms for Sailing Club. Outfits are encouraged so you can really get into the mood as the band plays hits from Toto, Steely Dan, and Hall & Oates. Perhaps the best excuse to dress up in Las Vegas, however, is at DISCOSHOW. At the LINQ Hotel, this Spielgelworld production is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. They call it an experience—and that makes sense. Transport yourself from the casino floor to a subway station in New York City. You’ll move in both time and space for this 1970s-themed attraction. There are no seats so everything is general admission, but you’re welcome to grab a drink and hit the dance floor while watching roller blade-wearing dancers perform under strobe lights on moving platforms. Everyone is invited to get into character, and
Zak Bagan’s The Haunted Museum
Netflix Bites
Doberman Room
Diner Ross Steakhouse
Caspian's
regardless of the season you’re sure to see some attendees go all out, embracing their inner flower child or dancing queen.
Don’t cut the night short. Book dinner before or after the show at Diner Ross where one of the performers just may take a seat—in full character—and hang out for part of your meal. All of the food is exceptional, and definitely not what you’d find in a 1970s dinner, but the atmosphere feels like transportation. Before you leave, check out both resident bars—99 Prince and The Glitterloft. Zombie Burlesque—located in the Miracle Mile Shops at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino—isn’t scary at all... but it is very weird and definitely for adults only. The show is exactly what it sounds like—a Las Vegas style burlesque show starring a team of zombies. The end result may leave you confused as braineating, scarred women in lingerie dance provocatively on stage, but the humor makes it all work. You’ll be laughing as you down Jello shots during the 18+ performance.
Scary
If you can handle a few jumps, this section is for you.
Las Vegas is home to a lot of escape rooms and plenty of them have sinister themes that can add a dose of fright to your vacation. PanIQ Escape Room and Lounge inside of the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort has a couple of themed rooms that fit the bill—Haunted Manor and Zombie Outbreak. Before heading in, down some liquid courage. One of the aspects of PanIQ that make it extra fun is the included bar and drink holders in each room so you can sip as you go. Be prepared for scary sounds and gruesome themes before entering. And if that sounds like too much, the family-friendly Wizard Trials room might be more your speed.
If you’re interested in scary movies but want to stay away from jump scares, head to Tom Devlin's Monster Museum in Boulder City. The monster museum is a cool walk-through experience that
champions Tom Devlin’s own brand of low-budget horror films while also showing off props, posters, and plenty of signed paraphernalia from horror’s biggest names. From classics made in the 1950s and even before to the scream queens of the 1990s and early aughts, the museum has a little of everything for horror fans, including life-sized replicas of our favorite monsters.
Just down the street, Tom Devlin recently opened a second location, this one focused on the paranormal. Outpost 51 Alien Museum focuses on real life accounts of alien encounters including some that happened in and around Area 51, plus the Roswell site, and more.
While the two museums are open every season, just for fall Tom Devlin opens up new attractions. Flashlight tours through the museum’s creature collection are part of the Nightmare at the Museum event while The Fright Zone is a separate haunted walkthrough with jump scares.
Very Scary
Not for the faint of heart, these experiences pretty much promise screaming, running, and maybe even hyperventilating. Only true horror fans and those who admittedly don’t scare easy should embark on these adventures; everyone should proceed with caution.
Not all escape rooms are created equal, and escape rooms with live actors promise a different level of fright. Escape IT is a two-room event with movie set quality production. Each room has multiple live actors that really commit to their roles. The actors are there to guide you through the rooms at a reasonable pace, but the guy dressed in a Pennywise suit—yeah, he’s just there to chase you. Meander through a mirror maze with Pennywise on your tail, play carnival games while he watches from the window, and run screaming down hallways as he follows behind just barely out of reach. Those with coulrophobia—a serious fear of clowns—or claustrophobia—a fear of tight spaces—should really consider their
What’s New Horror aside, Las Vegas is always coming up with something new. Check out these new-ish attractions on your next visit.
Pinky’s at Flamingo Las Vegas is Lisa Vanderpump’s newest Las Vegas spectacle and it doesn’t disappoint. Every new restaurant she opens is different from the next but offers the same level of over-the-top opulence. The longer you look at the décor, the weirder it gets. Always order the Goat Cheese Balls, Deviled Egg Gardens, Mini Lobster Rolls, and Pull Apart Bread to share. For cocktails you really can’t go wrong with anything but we live for her espresso martinis, and the mocktails are delicious, too!
Blake Shelton’s new Las Vegas attraction Ole Red is a multi-story indoor/outdoor bar with a mix of rock and roll and country cover bands taking the stage, plus occasional line dancing lessons on the roof. A replica of his popular Nashville bar, the atmosphere doesn’t change just because it’s October, but it is a place on the strip that donning a cowboy hat and Wranglers will always be acceptable.
In the Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas, Doberman Drawing Room is an upscale bar in an unsuspecting neighborhood. The social club has a creative drinks menu and a membership option. Not sure what to order? The helpful staff is there to guide the way, choosing cocktails based on both spirit and mood LPM has been open for almost two years, but it’s in a secluded spot on the Cosmopolitan’s third floor that makes it feel very in-the-know. The French Riviera-inspired restaurant has an impressive international wine list, fresh shareables like sweet corn salad and oysters, and a decadent tasting menu that lets you sample a little of it all.
Where to Stay
Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino has perhaps the most perfect seasonal palace for your October stay. The Halloween Suite is near the strip and fully dives into the fun. Available 365 days per year, it’s not just expertly themed—it’s lavish. The room includes a living room, separate bedroom, and two full bathrooms, as well as a wet bar. The thrills don’t come cheap here. Black wallpaper and furnishings feel expensive but still spooky, cob web-clad pillows adorn the king-sized bed, and ominous skull artwork livens up the space dressed mostly in dark hues and with pops of red.
And if you’re looking for the same high-end experience without the spook, consider staying in the property’s Day of the Dead suite instead. While still expertly themed, it’s more vibrant.
life choices before embarking on this horror-themed adventure that transports you right into the movies.
If clowns aren’t your cup of tea, there are also SAW and Blair Witch themed rooms from the same company.While the escape room is all fun and games, Zak Bagan’s The Haunted Museum might be more real than you think. The entire premise of the museum is to invite ominous spirits into the space and see if their energy can be harnessed or guests can make a connection. The museum houses real items from exorcisms, haunted houses, and even weapons used by serial killers to bring dark spirits to this little corner of Las Vegas. Many who visit have experienced paranormal activity, fainted or gotten dizzy during a tour, or even promised evil spirits have followed them home. Do yourself a favor and read the reviews before you enter—even writing this is giving me the heebie jeebies,
or perhaps it’s PTSD.
Circus, Circus has long held Halloween-centric events in its Adventuredome, but it’s been on hiatus for a while. Returning in 2025 with a new name, Fear Dome is a reimagining of Fright Dome, which ran for 15 years. The ticketed experience will debut Sept. 26 and features haunted houses, scare zones, live scare actors, and a dark coaster. There will be multiple themed areas, live actors, high-tech special effects, and quality movie-style sets.
Lastly, there is Universal Horror Unleashed. This nightmarish playground is planning a year-round exhibition, but it makes its first kill this fall. The highend, hands-on experience features four themed haunted houses—Universal Monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Scarecrow: The Reaping, and Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer. Every room has its own fully immersive area outside of the haunted doors featuring live horror experiences, themed food, and more.
ZakBagan’s Haunted Museum
Nestled at 1035 N Central Ave, in the vibrant heart of downtown Tracy, Tracy Thai is a beloved, family owned gem serving genuine Thai cuisine since 2006. Founded by Gesaranee Wongphiboonrat, this warm and inviting spot continues to shine as a community mainstay—a delightful destination for locals and newcomers alike.
The art of Thai cooking lies in its harmony of simple ingredients, bold spices, and delicate aromatics. Dishes span four core categories: tom (soups), yam (spicy salads), tam (pounded fare), and kaeng (curries)—each shaped by influences from neighbors such as India, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Meals are paired with fluffy jasmine rice (with brown or wild options available upon request), so you can meld your proteins, veggies, and sauces into every bite.
From the moment you step inside, the calming ambiance takes you far from everyday life. Dark wood paneling, mustard yellow plush chairs, and spacious seating arrangements set a cozy, welcoming tone for gatherings of all sizes. Hand carved and beaded wall art evokes exotic travels. Adjacent, the bar invites guests to linger with a picturesque cocktail—perfect with any dish.
“All of our menu items are made fresh from scratch,” Gesaranee shares. “We prep veggies daily, craft our sauces in house, and hand wrap each egg roll and spring roll.” This commitment shines through in their ever popular offerings like the Tom Kha Gai—a creamy coconut soup with chicken, galangal, mushroom, and lemongrass, harmonizing sweet and sour notes—and the Crying Tiger, featuring steak strips in a savory, garlic pepper sauce atop green beans and rice.
Start your culinary journey with appetizers such as the Crispy Vegetarian Rolls, packed with silver noodles, cabbage, carrots, taro, and corn, served with a tangy sweet sour dip. Other excellent introductions for newcomers include Yellow Curry, Basil Chicken, Chicken Satay, and Garlic Prawns.
Returning guests often rave about the Kiew Soup, brimming with wonton, chicken, shrimp, and a medley of vegetables in a rich broth, or the Oriental Chicken Salad, a refreshing mix of crisp lettuce, marinated chicken, apple, cashews, tomato, onion, cucumber, and crispy noodles, all dressed in a chef crafted vinaigrette.
For a taste of fans’ favorites, try the vibrant Mango Salad or the savory Salmon Salad Gesaranee’s personal picks include Eggplant with Pork, sautéed with chili, garlic, bell pepper, and sweet basil, as well as the BBQ Pork, grilled and kissed with chili garlic marinade.
Can’t eat gluten or prefer vegetarian? No problem. “All our dishes can be customized for dietary needs—just let us know, and we’ll happily accommodate,” says Gesaranee.
IN SEASON
Sophisticated Spooky Nibbles
BY SARAH MARTINEZ
BACON-WRAPPED BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 min
Bake Time: 20 min
INGREDIENTS
Brussels Sprouts:
16 Brussels sprouts, ends removed
8 slices of bacon, cut in half
Aioli:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. black pepper
½ tsp. garlic powder
Zest from ½ lemon
1 whole scallion, minced
¼ cup parsley, minced
2 Tbs. bacon grease
October brings crisp air, amber leaves, and the thrill of spooky gatherings. No celebration is complete without treats that are festive, and delicious. This month, we have Halloween-inspired nibbles perfect for adults who don’t want only buckets of candy. From savory bites to a grown-up sweet treat, these recipes are a perfect balance of fun, and flavor. Feast your googly eyes on smoky bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts as the perfect party-starter. For a Spooktacular centerpiece, roasted jack-o-lanterns filled with seasoned cauliflower rice add charm, and nutrition to the table. To end the night on a sweet note, our brownie ghost pops are sure to hit the spot. Whether hosting a party, or cooking for your family, these recipes promise to keep spirits high, and taste buds delighted!
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 F (177 C)
Wrap a ½ piece of bacon tightly around each Brussels sprout, and place on a baking tray.
Bake in oven for 15-20 minutes, or until bacon is done to desired crispiness, and Brussels sprouts are soft. While baking, prepare your aioli by mixing all aioli ingredients together until wellcombined. Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven, and serve with aioli, storing any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
STUFFED JACK O’ LANTERNS
Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 min
Bake Time: 25 min
INGREDIENTS
:
Cauliflower Rice:
3 Tbs. butter
½ medium onion, peeled & diced
3 garlic cloves, peeled & minced
1 cup cremini mushrooms, chopped
1 tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. dried oregano
3 cups cauliflower rice
1 cup shredded cheese
¼ cup parsley, minced
Bell Peppers:
4 orange bell peppers
INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare your bell pepper by slicing off the tops. Set the tops aside. Remove the core, and seeds from each pepper, and discard. With a paring knife, carefully cut out Jack O’ Lantern shaped faces in each bell pepper.
Preheat your oven to 350 F (177 C).
Add 2 tablespoons of the butter to a large skillet, and bring to medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add sliced mushrooms, and continue to sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Season with sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Add cauliflower rice, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Turn off the heat, and stir in shredded cheese, and parsley. Fill each bell pepper with the cauliflower rice mixture, packing each tightly.
Bake in the oven on a tray for 25 minutes.
Remove from the oven, and serve, storing any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
BROWNIE GHOST POPS
Serves 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
8 prepared 1.5 oz brownies, crumbled
4 oz dark chocolate, rustically chopped
¼ cup coconut butter, melted ½ cup dried & unsweetened shredded coconut
Additional chopped dark chocolate to use as “eyes”
8 cake pop sticks
INSTRUCTIONS:
Assemble a double broiler by filling a small saucepan halfway with water, and setting a heatproof glass bowl on the saucepan.
Add the dark chocolate to the glass bowl. Bring to low heat. Stir often until melted. Add the crumbled brownies into the melted dark chocolate. Remove from the heat, and when cool enough to touch,
form into 8 balls. Carefully stick a cake pop stick in the center of each ball. Place on a plate, and chill in the freezer to cool for 10 minutes.
Remove from the freezer, and carefully roll each ball in melted coconut butter until it is coated, then roll around in shredded coconut. Use your fingers to make sure that the coconut sticks to each ball.
Carefully stick two small chocolate pieces in each ball as your ghosts’ eyes. Place in the fridge for about 20 minutes, or until each Ghost Pop is firm, and chilled.
