MODESTO I TURLOCK I CERES I RIVERBANK I OAKDALE CONTENTMENT Health.com

STANISLAUSR E G I O NNovember/December 2014 | ISSUE 13

YOU VOTED, WE COUNTED!

MORE THAN 150 WINNERS including

FAVORITE LOCAL STAR

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feature28 I BEST OF STANISLAUS COUNTY You voted. See who came out on

top in CH’s first annual reader vote for the

Best Of Stanislaus County!

contentment52 I FINDING A COMMUNITY TO LOVE Lynn and Ron Dickerson tragically

lost their son, but they found a home in

Stanislaus County.

health56 I BEWARE THE BUZZ Sarah Fields’

story of recovery highlights the growing danger

of West Nile Virus.

fitness68 I HOLIDAY FITNESS Stay in fighting

shape through the holidays with help from your

friends at In Shape!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER contents

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aesthetics 70 I INSPIRING SPACES: FLYING

TURTLE CONCRETE This local

artisan’s concrete masterpieces will leave

you saying “Wait, this is concrete?!”

art & culture76 I A FUSION OF COLOR Artist

Louise Bogetti brings incredible creativity

to the canvas. See her work inside.

food & wine 80 I HOLIDAY COCKTAILS Indulge

with CH’s guide to fantastic wintery

cocktails in Stanislaus County.

departments 17 I PULSE / of the county

22 I HAUTE ITEMS / Fall for fall items

from great local vendors.

26 I CALENDAR / mydesto.com

82 I HIDDEN TALENTS / Marissa

Russo moonlights as a maker of fantastical

armor you’ve got to see to believe.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER contents

On the Cover:JEREMY RENNERphoto: DFree / Shutterstock.com

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November/December 2014 7

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS

With this issue, we’re proud to continue our tradition of recognizing the incredible businesses, nonprofits and people that make our area great.

Don’t miss the story of Lynn and Ron Dickerson’s survival and homecoming included in this issue. The Dickersons are incredible fixtures in the Stanislaus County community, and we’re pleased to call them friends of CONTENTMENT Health Magazine.

We cherish them and their heart for this community and really feel that their generous spirit and the energy they give to everyone around them embodies what’s wonderful about Stanislaus County.

Their story shows how much this area embraced them in their time of need, but it also shows that when you give as earnestly and selflessly as they always have, you can receive an amazing amount of love in return.

The holidays are always the best time to think about how we can give back to the community. What better opportunity to sit back and think about how we can help our less fortunate community members? Whether it’s simply a donation, a meal or just a kind word shared, everything you do to help those around you can help our community become an even better place.

Stanislaus County has so much to offer. As we have grown, this community has maintained the open, welcoming nature of a small town while building some of the great opportunities you expect in big cities. And so much of that balance is about the phenomenal people you find here. People like you.

You give back to our nonprofits, you support the arts, you take care of the less fortunate. Not because you expect anything back, just because it’s in your DNA.

And we recognize that it’s that amazing spirit that’s makes Stanislaus County an exceptional place to live.

That’s what makes our community unique. We should cherish it and celebrate it. And this holiday season, let’s do everything we can to continue it.

Welcome to CONTENTMENT Health’s first annual Best Of issue!

To all those women working to make our city a better place:

thank you for everything you do!

Whether it’s simply a donation, a meal or just a kind word

shared, everything you do to help those around you can

help our community become an even better place.

David Boring

Julie Orona

CONTENTMENT health8

01268

Before you look into the eyes of your new baby, look into us.You have so much to look forward to when you’re expecting a baby.

Receive the care and guidance you need at Memorial Medical Center’s

Family Birthing Center. Learn about gestation, labor and delivery at

our childbirth education classes. When the big day comes, bring your

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where you can have the birthing experience you want with support

from our skilled staff. Count on us as you adjust to life with your little

one through breastfeeding and parenting classes. Great care for

newborns and new parents: it’s how we plus you.

Call today for a stork tour!(209) 526-4500

memorialmedicalcenter.org

PUBLISHERS / EDITORSDavid Boring & Julie Orona

Never Boring

MANAGING EDITOR

Justin Souzajustin@contentmenthealth.com

COORDINATOR

Jennifer Paughjennifer@contentmenthealth.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

David Boringdavid@contentmenthealth.com

ART DIRECTOR

Julie Oronajulie@contentmenthealth.com

DESIGN / WEB TEAM

Steve Caballero, Megan Ott, Katie Floyd, Jessica Lopez, Loyd Schutte, Gilberto Cisneros

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Warren Groeschel warren@contentmenthealth.com - 380.9690

Karen Olsen karen@contentmenthealth.com - 204.9551

Jeff Orona jeff@contentmenthealth.com - 380.0942

Kristin Bowker kristin@contentmenthealth.com - 423.4940

Tyler de Camp tyler@contentmenthealth.com - 209.605.6252

DISTRIBUTION

Jeff Oronajeff@contentmenthealth.com

SPECIAL CONSULTANT

Tony ZoccoliSan Joaquin Magazine

CONTRIBUTORS

EditorialJustin Souza, Dana Koster, Jacqui D. Sinarle,

Katelyn Goyette

PhotographyPhotos Just So, Haley Brown, Allan Photography,

Featureflash / Shutterstock.com, DFree / Shutterstock.com

CONTENTMENT Health1016 14th Street, Modesto, CA 95354209.526.9136, contentmenthealth.com

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CONTENTMENT health10

Celebrating Healthy Lifestyles Throughout Stanislaus County

2014 SILVER WINNER

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CAPTURED!

COLOR THE SKIESColorful balloons lift off from Ripon’s annual hot air balloon event at dawn on August 31, 2014, which benefits Children’s Hospital Central California and other local youth programs.

CONTENTMENT health12

photo by Haley Brown

November/December 2014 13

CAPTURED!

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November/December 2014 15

FOR OUR FAMILIES.FOR OUR FARMS.FOR OUR FUTURE.

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PULSEOF THE COUNTY

BY JUSTIN SOUZA

You might not know his name, but you already know Brett Nichols.

When Nichols’ star turn in Pittman High School’s talent show this May went viral on YouTube, more than 17 million people saw the redhead bust out one of the world’s best ever Michael Jackson impersonations. Overnight, Brett became the biggest thing to hit Turlock since Kaepernick Fever.

The 17-year-old’s performance has been seen around the world from Turlock to the Netherlands, and has moonwalked into interviews and performances on The View, MTV News, Huffington Post and to live stages across the country. But even five months later, Brett Nichols still seems cool with his sudden burst of fame.

“I had no idea any of this would happen,” Brett confides. “I wanted to impress my friends, I ended up captivating the whole world.” The video blazed across the internet, collecting more than 4 million views within a few hours the morning following the show.

“I went to first period, and a resource teacher of mine showed me a comment where someone told me I'm big in the Netherlands. I was like, 'Oh, that's really cool,’” said Nichols to HuffPost’s Live’s Josh Zepps. By lunchtime, Nichols was a star.

Brett is lightning on stage, but he’s a quiet teenager at home. He sits quietly at his kitchen table, slender and tall with his mop of red hair hanging nearly over his eyes while his mother Donna talks about the whirlwind of publicity the video has brought to their lives. Between Brett’s spate of high profile

TV and stage appearances—including a massive tribute to Michael Jackson where fans begged to touch Brett’s clothes because, as they said, “you’re as close as I’ll ever get to Michael”—to an upcoming performance in YouTube’s yearly Rewind video, it seems hard to believe that the high schooler has even had time to do anything as mundane as attend class. But the now-senior isn’t fazed by the attention. With a future of almost unlimited brightness ahead of him, he’s still sweating the details of his performance and costume, just like he did before the talent show.

Brett picks through a pile of costumes that span MJ’s famous looks, from the black fedora and sparkling glove of Billie Jean to

the red leather jacket of Thriller, pointing out ways he’d like to take the act even further, and striking poses that transform

the lanky 6’3” Nichols suddenly into the King of Pop.

With help from family, friends, well-wishers and fans, Nichols is looking to parlay his single viral video hit

into a brand. And aiming to make Brett Nichols a household name. And from the previews I’ve seen, you’ll want to keep an eye out: Nichols’ upcoming

projects are going to be even bigger—and more impressive—than the performance you’ve already seen.

Brett Nichols:MOONWALKING TOWARD FAME

November/December 2014 17

PULSE TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

If you are fortunate enough to enjoy health and happiness with friends and family members, your joy increases tenfold when you’re able to share the holiday spirit with others.

Spreading holiday cheer is easy, thanks to a number of organizations in Stanislaus County organized to assist the less fortunate members of our community.

SOROPTIMIST COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREENow in its 29th year, the annual Community Christmas Tree sponsored by Sunny 102.3 Radio, Vintage Faire Mall and the Modesto Soroptomist Clubs will make the holidays happier for more than 2,000 local children.

The program provides thousands of children with the only gifts they’ll receive during the year, not only necessities like new clothing, warm coats, shoes and blankets, but also new toys. Children are referred to the program from local agencies including Community Housing and Children’s Services, Haven Women’s Shelter, Hutton House and Modesto City Schools/Child Development.

It’s easy to participate in the program. Just visit the Christmas Tree on the second level of Vintage Faire Mall in Modesto between November 22 and December 19. Volunteers will help you select a tag that includes a child’s first name, age, gift needs and wishes, and provide information on participating store discounts and shopping

instructions. Shop for a gift and return it to the tree and volunteers will wrap and deliver it. Tax deductible cash donations and gifts purchased without a specific child in mind are also accepted to ensure that all children receive a gift.

Giving doesn’t stop at the tree. Here are more easy ways to give in Stanislaus County:

SALVATION ARMYModesto’s Salvation Army provides food programs to assist people in need, as well as energy assistance, emergency disaster services and adult rehabilitation services. The easiest way to give to the Salvation Army during the holidays is to drop your donation into the kettle of one of the local bell ringers, or attend one of the Kettle Kickoff community lunch and fundraising events presented by local chapters in Turlock and Modesto (see salvationarmymodesto.org or salvationarmyturlock.org for dates and details about these events and for info about donating clothing, furniture, cars, money, planned giving or becoming a volunteer).

CENTER FOR HUMAN SERVICESThe Center for Human Services serves tens of thousands of Stanislaus County residents each year by providing mental health services, shelter services, youth services, juvenile justice services, school-based services, substance abuse treatment and family resources, and welcomes online monetary donations as well as gifts of your time and talents and in-kind donations of much-

needed goods and services. For information, visit centerforhumanservices.org.

MODESTO GOSPEL MISSIONLocated on Yosemite Ave. in Modesto, the Modesto Gospel Mission has provided help, hope and rehabilitation to the homeless and in-need population of Stanislaus County for over 65 years. Started as a soup kitchen, the Mission is now a full service recovery facility and shelter that provides services to men, women and children from the very young to the elderly who might otherwise have nowhere to turn. The Mission is supported by year round community donations, but the holiday season is a time of distinct need. For information, visit modestogospelmission.org

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SOROPTOMIST COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE, visit Vintage Faire Mall at 3401 Dale Rd. #483, Modesto, 95356.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SALVATION ARMY, v is i t salvationarmymodesto.org or salvationarmyturlock.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CENTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES, visit centerforhumanservices.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MODESTO GOSPEL MISSION, visit modestogospelmission.org.

BY JACQUI D. SINARLE

GIVING BACK to the

COMMUNITY

SHARE YOUR

HolidaySpirit

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A PROGRAM WITH DANIEL HANDLER(AKA LEMONY SNICKET)November 16, 2 p.m.Mary Stuart Rogers Theater

Fans of humor, irreverence, fine fiction and pen names are invited to spend an afternoon with famous writer Daniel Handler (best known as Lemony Snicket, author of A Series of Unfortunate Events) on November 6 at 2 p.m. The program will pose the question “why does Lemony Snicket keep following me?” In answer, Handler will explain how his pseudonym stole his ideas, blocked his spotlight, seduced his wife, bought him a house and ruined forever his dream of a scruffy, anonymous, bohemian life.

The event also promises plenty of digressions, practical jokes, baseless accusations – and to benefit the Stanislaus County Library Foundation. It will be an afternoon to remember or to desperately forget. Either way, it’s unlike anything you’ve seen at the Gallo Center before. This will be a family-friendly event, with tickets starting at just $15. VIP tickets, which include a pre-show meet and greet, are available for $54.

A CHRISTMAS MEMORYDecember 19, 20 & 21Foster Family Theater

There’s no question about it—the Gallo Center for the Arts knows how to do Christmas up right. This year, Arts Education Coordinator Jim Johnson is bringing yet another piece of seasonal literature to life—Truman Capote’s classic short story A Christmas Memory. This holiday musical tells the humorous and bittersweet story of two country cousins living in a small Southern town in the 1930s. It’s about friendship, the joy of giving and the importance of family.

With musical direction by Yohan Partan, choreography by Maggie Sniffen, this event is sure to become one of your most treasured Christmas memories. There will be four performances of A Christmas Memory: at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and a final matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from $12-25.

FOR TICKETS OR MORE INFORMATION and to buy your tickets to these great holiday shows, visit galloarts.org

BY DANA KOSTER

A VERY LiteraryHOLIDAY SEASONCOMING THIS WINTER TO THE GALLO CENTER

PULSE TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

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October 10, 2014

BATTLE OF THE PADDLES

BY JUSTIN SOUZA

Great food and drinks, silent auctions and a tiered tournament to crown the county’s most legendary table tennis player. For nonprofit events, it doesn’t get better than this.

On October 10, the Boys & Girls Club of Stanislaus County hit an ace with the first annual Battle of the Paddles at Modesto Center Plaza.

At the event, which benefitted the Boys & Girls Club’s tremendous after school and summer youth enrichment services, local ping pong champions vied for supremacy in one-on-one games while spectators cheered, noshed and bid to benefit Stanislaus County’s premier youth service program. By the close of the night, MOCSE’s Garrett Mutoza (pictured bottom left) had been crowned the ping pong champion, and the whole community had brought home a major win for local kids.

MORE INFO ABOUT THE NONPROFIT and ways that you can help can be had at bgcstanislaus.org.

PULSE TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

CONTENTMENT health24

Gallo Center for the Arts | 1000 I Street, Downtown Modesto

COMING TO THE GALLO CENTER!

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CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: THE BEATLES ABBEY ROAD11/22 SAT 8 PM

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PULSE TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

NOVEMBER01 SATURDAYDay of the Dead Celebration3 pm, Centre Plaza

Halloween Costume Party 9 am, Red Brick

The Golden Valley Chorus presents An Evening of Harmony!7 pm, Turlock Community Theatre

Many Hands Many Hearts One Mission Gala6 pm, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Mariachi Sol De Mexico8 pm, Gallo Center

02 SUNDAY The Berenstain Bears Live 2 pm, Gallo Center

Toy Trains Operating Society Meeting 10 am – 5 pm, Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

05 WEDNESDAY America7:30 pm, Gallo Center

06 THURSDAY 3rd Annual Finger Painting Face-Off6 pm – 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

06–08THURSDAY–SATURDAYCraft FaireAll Day, Good Shepard Lutheran Church

07 FRIDAYBeethoven & Tchaikovsky 8 pm, Gallo Center

08–09 SATURDAY–SUNDAYCountry Folk Art Craft Show 8 am - 9 am, Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

08 SATURDAY Motown Brewfest5 pm - 8 pm, SOS Club

2nd Annual Holiday Boutique9 am - 4 pm, Enochs High School Gym

Greek Folk Dancers CRAB FEED 5 pm, Greek Orthodox Church

Beethoven & Tchaikovsky 8 pm, Gallo Center

09 SUNDAY Herb Alpert & Lani Hall 3:30 pm, Gallo Center

10 MONDAY Wounded Warrior Golf Tournament 9 am, Turlock Golf & Country Club

11 TUESDAY Veterans Day Parade9 am, Needham Ave. Begins at 10th & O Street

Flea Market8 am – 1 pm, Turlock Sales Yard

America’s Test Kitchen Live 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

U.S. Army Band “Band of the West” 6 pm, State Theatre

13 THURSDAY Men are from Mars – Women are from Venus LIVE! 7:30 pm, State Theatre

18 TUESDAY Modesto’s HIREvent 12 pm – 4 pm, Clarion Hotel

20 THURSDAY 21st Annual Kettle Kick–Off 11:30 am, Centre Plaza

Third Thursday Artwalk5 pm – 9 pm, Centre Plaza

22 SATURDAYTurkey Trot Fun Run 9 am, Donnelly Park

Home for the Holidays and Apple Orchard Brunch 8:30 am – 3 pm, First United Methodist Church

Classic Albums Live: The Beatles’ Abbey Road8 pm, Gallo Center

22–23 SATURDAY–SUNDAY20th Century Arts & Crafts Fair9 am – 4 pm, Hughson High

23 SUNDAYValley Showcase3 pm, Gallo Center

7th Annual Sing-along: “Messiah” 4 pm – 6 pm, Trinity United Presbyterian Church

27 THURSDAYModesto Turkey Trot & Gobbler Walk 8:45 am, Tuolumne River Lodge

29 SATURDAY2nd Annual ModShop6 pm – 10 pm, Downtown Modesto

Riverbank Christmas Festival All Day, Downtown Riverbank

2nd Annual Cowboy Christmas 9 am – 4 pm, Gene Bianchi Community Center

30 SUNDAYSaint Andrew’s Day Dinner6:30 pm, Shangri-la Restaurant

DECEMBER01 MONDAYMichael W. Smith Christmas Concert 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

02 TUESDAYDiamond Rio: Holidays and Hits 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

03 WEDNESDAYA Very Electric Christmas 6:30 pm, Gallo Center

04 THURSDAYGregory Popovich’s Comedy Pet Theater 7 pm, The State Theatre

61st Annual MJC’s Young Farmers Ag Holiday Auction4:30 pm – 7 pm, MJC West Campus

05 FRIDAYFantasy of Trees Holiday Luncheon and Boutique10:30 am – 1:30 pm, Gallo Center

29th Annual Light up a Life Holiday Tree 6 pm, Memorial Medical Center

Holiday Pops! Modesto Symphony Orchestra8 pm, Gallo Center

Diciembre Navideño 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

Warren Miller Entertainment: No Turning Back6:30 pm & 9 pm, State Theatre

06 SATURDAYDiciembre Navideño 2 pm & 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

Fantasy of TreesSanta Shares Breakfast 8 am, Gallo Center

4th Annual Holiday Craft Faire 10 am – 4 pm, Tuolumne River Lodge

Holiday Pops! Modesto Symphony Orchestra2 pm, Gallo Center

Find the can’t-miss events from Modesto’s active nonprofits, the headliners at our entertainment venues, what’s happening at our world class restaurants and get the lowdown on our amazing local music and art scene. For an updated list of activities, visit Mydesto.com.

CALENDAR

CONTENTMENT health26

Warren Miller Entertainment: No Turning Back4 pm & 7:30 pm, State Theatre

Celebration of Lights Parade 5:30 pm, Downtown Modesto

Dickens Faire9 am, McHenry Mansion

07 SUNDAYElves & the Shoemaker 2 pm & 4 pm, Gallo Center

29th Annual Light up a Life Holiday Tree5:30 pm, Memorial Medical Center

09 TUESDAY22nd Annual Christmas Tea at the McHenry Mansion11:30 am – 2pm, McHenry Mansion

Mike Birbiglia: Thank God for Jokes 7:30 pm, Turlock Community Theatre

12 FRIDAYOpus Handbell Ensemble 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

Central West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 7 pm, Gallo Center

13 SATURDAYAn Irish Christmas 2 pm, Gallo Center

Central West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 2 pm, Gallo Center

McHenry Mansion Foundation’s Christmas PartyTBA, McHenry Mansion

5th Annual Spirit of Giving Run 8 am, Downtown Modesto

14 SUNDAYAn Irish Christmas 2 pm, Gallo Center

Central West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 2 pm, Gallo Center

18 THURSDAYThird Thursday Artwalk 5 pm – 9 pm, Downtown Modesto

Holiday Candlelight Concert Modesto Symphony Orchestra8 pm, St. Stanislaus Catholic Church

19–21 FRIDAY–SUNDAYMcHenry Mansion Candlelight Tour 5 pm, McHenry Mansion

Modesto Free Methodist Church’s Live Nativity 7 pm – 9 pm, Modesto Free Methodist Church

19 FRIDAYA Christmas Memory 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

Central West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 7 pm, Gallo Center

20 SATURDAYCentral West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 2 pm, Gallo Center

21 SUNDAYA Christmas Memory 2 pm, Gallo Center

Central West Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ 2 pm, Gallo Center

22 MONDAYDavid Benoit Christmas Tribute 7:30 pm, Gallo Center

31 WEDNESDAY Turlock Pentecost Association New Year’s Eve 8 am, Turlock Ballroom

POWERED BY

Did we miss any events? Tell us about them at facebook.com/ContentmentHealth

The Beach Boys Tribute

MoRo at the Gallo

1505 J Street Modesto 95354209.549.1101 dineatdewz.com

There Are No Don’ts.Only .

From Fine Dining to Fine Wine.

Thank you to our wonderful patrons for voting us best in

Stanislaus County.

2014 GOLD WINNER 2014 SILVER WINNER 2014 BRONZE WINNER

November/December 2014 27

You know them, you love them, you voted for them! Now introducing, the winners of Contentment Health’s first ever reader vote!

Whether they’re old favorites or secret gems, these great businesses are the most vibrant, most customer-focused, most delicious and the best of Stanislaus County. So go ahead, dig in. Stanislaus County’s very best await you inside!

CONTENTMENT HEALTH MAGAZINE’S

NIGHTLIFEBEST BARMinnie ’sTreset t i ’sCamp 4

BEST HAPPY HOURSur la ’sFuzio ’sMichael ’s Pizza

BEST PLACE TO MEET FRIENDS AFTER 10 PMTreset t i ’sFirk in & FoxThe Boardroom

SHOPPINGBEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING RETAILERBonnie JMacy’s Eve & Me

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING RETAILERRossini ’sMen’s WearhouseMacy’s

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING RETAILERRagamuff in

Kohl ’sOld Navy

BEST DÉCOR & HOME ACCESSORIES Lino Bel la Crow Trading Co.At Home

BEST JEWELRY STORE Edwards Jewelry Store Gabr ie l ’s Rogers Jewelry

HEALTH & BEAUTYBEST COSMETIC DENTIST Scott Winter, DDS Glen Hebert , DDSJames Woodbury, DDS

BEST ORTHODONTISTStan Heiner, DDSBrad Pezol t , DDS Ronald Champion, DDS

BEST KIDS’ DENTISTSal ida Surgery CenterKids Wor ld Dental Brewer Fami ly Dent is t ry

BEST DAY SPARenee’s Second Nature Salon Salon

BEST TANNING SALON The Tan Line Planet Beach Aqua Bl iss

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON Surgical Art is t ry Dr. James PayneDr. D. Gordon Anderson

BEST HAIR SALONCreat ionsPanache Salon Salon

BEST OPTOMETRIST Stanislaus Vision AssociatesHinkley Optometry Sylvan Eye Associates

BEST PERSONAL TRAINING FACILITY Hidden Al ley Crossf i t Studio V Brenda Athlet ic Club

BEST HEALTH CLUB In Shape Brenda Athlet ic Club Modesto Courtroom

FOOD & DRINKBEST BREAKFAST Café Deva

The Mediterranean Old Mi l l Café

BEST LUNCH Café Deva Rockin B’s Br ighter S ide

BEST CATERER Bauers 66½ Concetta Greens

BEST DINNER Concetta Dewz Sur la ’s

BEST BURGERSRockin B’sIn N OutWebb’s

FUN & ENTERTAINMENTBEST LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS VENUE Gal lo Center for the Arts Prospect Theater Company The State Theatre

BEST FAIR/FESTIVAL Stanis laus County Fair Graf f i t i Summer International Architecture Festival

CONTENTMENT health28

BEST OF

NightlifeBEST BARMINNIE’S107 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO(209) 524-4621 | minniesmodesto.com

When it comes to drinks, eats, atmosphere and good times, Minnie’s has it all. Established in 1954, Minnie’s has served Modesto and Central Valley customers for nearly four generations. Not only does the longtime McHenry Ave. hangout feature delightfully retro kitsch décor, exotic tropical drinks and tasty Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine, it’s also got a private party room and a great outdoor patio that’s perfect for weddings, reunions, birthdays and holiday parties. Minnie’s often has live music and there’s an open mic night on the patio every Thursday. Try the potstickers for an appetizer and don’t leave without ordering the legendary jerk—a fruity, blended cocktail that features an unexpected kick (a shot of rum floated on top and in the straw!)

BEST HAPPY HOURSURLA’S431 12TH ST., MODESTO(209) 550-5555 | surlasrestaurant.com

If you haven’t been to Surla’s for happy hour yet, you should put it on your bucket list right now. With delicious deals on cocktails and a tasty appetizer menu from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, you can’t go wrong! Executive chef/owner John Surla followed his dream to open the 12th St. restaurant in 2009, and he’s been pleasing Modesto foodies ever since with his unique Asian/fusion cuisine. There’s also a great wine list and an interesting selection of specialty cocktails. Make sure you try the most popular appetizer—lumpia, a delicious blend of grilled chicken, shitake mushrooms and pepper jack cheese folded into a wrapper and deep fried, then drizzled with sweet chili sauce and sprinkled with scallions. Simply amazing.

BEST PLACE TO MEET FRIENDS AFTER 10 PM

TRESETTI’S WORLD CAFFE927 11TH ST., MODESTO(209) 572-2990 | tresetti.com

In the mood for an upscale drink and bite to eat after 10 p.m.? Treat your friends to a snack at Tresetti’s on 11th Street. A Modesto institution since 1994, Tresetti’s is sure to impress with its modern, trendy vibe; full service bar (open until 2 a.m.); extensive selection of local and hard-to-find wines, boutique wines and wines from around the world; and late night menu (available from 10 p.m. to midnight). And if you’re part of the downtown crowd enjoying some of the best entertainment the city has to offer, you won’t need to travel far; Tresetti’s is located in the heart of Modesto and within walking distance to cultural events, theater and entertainment venues and live music. See you there!

November/December 2014 29

BEST OF

Shopping

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING RETAILER

BONNIE J1525 J ST., MODESTO(209) 521-2700 | shopbonniej.com

Fashion-forward women of every age and profession adore Bonnie J, the hot spot in Modesto to find affordable and stylish shoes, clothing, handbags and accessories. Owner Lisa Ardis stocks the hip and trendy shop with the latest styles, maintains constant communication with designers, and travels to markets in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and New York in pursuit of cutting edge garments and accessories for her customers. Bonnie J’s skilled fashion experts will make you feel like a celebrity as they assist you in selecting the perfect outfit. You can also shop online and monitor Bonnie J’s Facebook and Instagram feeds for a sneak peek at new items as soon as they’re delivered. It’s a fashionista’s dream come true!

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING RETAILER ROSSINI’S MENSWEAR3224 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO(209) 529-6860 | rossinismenswear.com

Ask most men in Stanislaus County where they got their last tuxedo and they’ll probably name the same place: Rossini’s on McHenry Ave. in Modesto. That’s because Rossini’s has been the area’s source for men’s formal wear, fashion and designer clothing for more than two generations. In addition to renting or purchasing men’s formalwear from Rossini’s, Modesto’s best-dressed males get their suits, coats, slacks, shirts, ties and shoes there, as well as denims, sport shirts and leather jackets. Rossini’s long legacy includes a well-earned reputation for incredible customer service with custom fitting, alterations and tailoring. And if you don’t know how to properly tie a real bow tie, ascot or cravat, the friendly staff will help show you the ropes so you can be red carpet ready for your next special event.

CONTENTMENT health30

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING RETAILERRAGAMUFFINMCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., STE. 24, MODESTO(209) 522-1999 | ragamuffinmodesto.com

If it’s unique and it’s for children, you’ll find it at Ragamuffin in Modesto. Owner Kathie McBroom supplies the McHenry Village shop with a truly delightful selection of children’s clothing (infants to girls size 16 and boys size 10), gifts, toys and accessories for everyday fun and special occasions. Drop by to purchase the ideal outfit for your child’s special family photo or event or a unique baby gift for a friend’s new addition—personally wrapped for your convenience at no charge. Need some help? Ragamuffin’s experienced staff can assist you in selecting the perfect gift and make size and fit recommendations. And don’t forget to sign your child up for the Birthday Club and enter the free photo session drawing.

BEST DECOR & HOME ACCESSORIESLINO BELLAMCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., STE. 62, MODESTO(209) 491-0931 | linobella.com

Close your eyes and picture this: the most beautiful bedding and home accessories you’ve ever seen, all yours for the buying. Now open your eyes and run over to Lino Bella in McHenry Village, Modesto, the ultimate stop for home décor and accessories. You’ll find that while the shop’s beautiful displays draw you in, the friendly and helpful customer service and high quality products will keep you coming back. Lino Bella’s devotees appreciate its fine collection of traditional and contemporary linens for bed, bath and table; designer home accessories; furniture; and tantalizing scents and lotions. Whether you’re hunting for a posh trinket to add a little pizzazz to your boudoir or a gift from the wedding registry, you’ll find the perfect purchase right here.

BEST JEWELRY STOREEDWARDS JEWELERSMCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., STE. 22, MODESTO(209) 577-4626 | edwards-jewelers.com

Diamonds aren’t just a girl’s best friend, they’re everybody’s BFF (along with gold, pearls, and other precious and semiprecious stones and metals, of course!)—especially when you shop at Edwards Jewelers in McHenry Village, Modesto. Founded in 1948, Edwards has a tradition of providing quality jewelry at affordable prices with unmatched customer service. Owners Sam Jennings and Dennis Culbertson and their knowledgeable and friendly staff provide a complete range of services, offering gorgeous jewelry, pearl re-stringing, on-site GIA appraisal services, private jewelry consultations, diamond presentations by appointment and free jewelry cleaning and inspection. Edwards has a great selection of jewelry, but if you want to custom create an original piece of your own design, the experienced staff can help you with that, too.

November/December 2014 31

BEST COSMETIC DENTISTSCOTT D. WINTER, DDS501 E. ORANGEBURG AVE., STE. A(209) 577-4616 | scottwinterdds.com

If you need to choose a dentist, the fates are smiling on you. Scott Winter, DDS is the CH reader pick for Stanislaus County’s best Cosmetic Dentist. Winter’s Orangeburg Ave. office in Modesto is a true state-of-the-art family dentistry solution. From basic checkups to teeth whitening, pediatric dentistry to complex bridges, implants or grafts, the practice aims to provide everything you need to get your teeth healthy and keep them that way, all in one location. The practice even offers the popular sedation dentistry option for those facing anxiety about a procedure.

BEST ORTHODONTISTSTAN HEINER, DDS1540 OAKDALE RD., MODESTO(209) 577-3792 | modestoortho.com

Healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment can give you a smile that lights up a room. Just ask Stan Heiner, DDS, who has created beautiful bites all over town. For more than 30 years, Dr. Heiner—or “Dr. H,” as he’s known to patients—has been practicing cutting-edge orthodontic technology and treatment options and helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, attractive and functional smiles. Located on Oakdale Rd. in Modesto, Dr. Heiner’s office offers Invisalign® and braces for children, teens and adults, in addition to early morning appointments for your convenience. Crooked and crowded teeth are more difficult to clean and maintain, which may increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss, so call today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

BEST KIDS’ DENTISTSALIDA SURGERY CENTER5712 PIRRONE RD., SALIDA(209) 543-9299 | salidasurgerycenter.com

Good news: there’s hope for parents whose children are terrified of dental procedures. The solution is simple: just make an appointment at Salida Surgery Center. The certified and licensed ambulatory surgery center dental group on Pirrone Rd. in Salida provides complete oral and dental care for children ages 12 months to 12 years and disabled young adults who require general anesthesia due to anxiety, fear of the dentist, uncooperativeness or a large amount of dental decay. General anesthesia is administered by credentialed anesthesiologists to produce a deep level of sedation in which patients fall asleep and wake up and have no memory of the procedure. The best part: Salida Surgery Center’s caring and compassionate staff (pictured bottom right) can complete most dental treatments in a single visit.

BEST OF

Health & Beauty

CONTENTMENT health32

BEST TANNING SALONTHE TAN LINE1501 COFFEE RD., STE. B, MODESTO(209) 579-2901

Whether you’d like to erase some pesky tan lines or get some color when the sky is gray, the Tan Line on Coffee Rd. in Modesto has everything you need in quality tanning services. The Tan Line’s skilled staff can help you look your bronzed best with eight state-of-the-art tanning beds, professionally applied airbrush spray tanning services and fantastic monthly specials throughout the year. The salon gets top marks for longevity: it’s been serving local tanners since 1986 and is currently owned by John Borba, who started working there in 2005 and purchased the business in 2012. Regulars love the Tan Line for its clean atmosphere and fast and courteous service. You’ll love looking like you just returned from an expensive tropical vacation!

BEST DAY SPARENEE’S DAY SPA AND SALON1245 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO(209) 341-0551 | reneesdayspa.com

When you need the touch of tender loving care, a visit to one of Stanislaus County’s fantastic Day Spas is your ticket to relaxation. And among all of the area’s fabulous day spas, CH Readers chose Renee’s Day Spa and Salon (pictured above) as the very best. Located on McHenry Ave. in Modesto, Renee’s Day Spa was founded more than 16 years ago by owner Renee Matias. Matias and her staff of more than 20 professionals aim to deliver the ultimate relaxation experience with world-class massages, facials, nail care, makeup, hair removal, microderm abrasion treatments and more for clients in need of pampering. Renee’s also offers a full line of salon services and a huge range of anti-aging, skin care and salon products for sale. When you need some self care, you need Renee’s!

November/December 2014 33

BEST COSMETIC SURGEONSURGICAL ARTISTRY2336 SYLVAN AVE., STE. C MODESTO(209) 551-1888 | surgerytoday.com

When you choose to go under the knife, it’s essential to have a surgeon you trust completely in charge of your procedure. When it comes to cosmetic surgery, there are few surgeons in the country as trusted as the experts at Surgical Artistry. Dr. Tammy Wu and Dr. Calvin Lee founded Surgical Artistry in Modesto 11 years ago. The married pair of ivy-league educated surgeons specialize in a full range of cosmetic surgical options to every patient along with procedures including Botox treatments, vein procedures and even acupuncture. Drs. Wu and Lee are known for their exceptional commitment to their patients and uncompromising pursuit of self-improvement. When you’re looking for fantastic plastic surgery or a cosmetic procedure, look no further than Surgical Artistry.

BEST HAIR SALONCREATIONS SALON2401 E. ORANGEBURG AVE., STE. 540, MODESTO(209) 577-0302 | creationssalon.net

Want a basic haircut? Put a bowl on top of your head and break out the scissors. Want to make heads turn, traffic stop and compliments fly your way? Go to Creations Salon (left). A Central Valley fixture since 1984, Creations is a full service salon with a reputation as a training ground for multiple breakout stars and top salon owners. Creations is centrally located on Orangeburg Ave. in Modesto and provides everything from precision cuts to dimensional color and extensions. They also stock every hair care product that you might need. That’s not all: owners Shante Van Es and Richard Britton are national educators for John Paul Mitchell systems and they’re sure to have a stylist that you—and your hair—will love.

BEST OPTOMETRISTSTANISLAUS VISION ASSOCIATESMCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., STE. 77, MODESTO(209) 524-4626 | stanislausvision.com

Gone are the days when you had to choose between either blurry vision or clunky thick-lensed glasses. Today, you can see your best and look your best, too! Especially if you choose to visit Stanislaus Vision Associates. Modesto’s original optometric practice is conveniently located in McHenry Village and provides comprehensive eye examinations, glasses, contact lenses for every prescription and laser vision correction services. They’ve got the largest selection of frames in town and a staff who’s trained to custom fit glasses for your prescription, face shape, coloring, lifestyle and budget. Need contacts for playing sports? They provide sports vision services for athletes of all ages. Want to ditch your corrective lenses? Schedule a refractive surgery evaluation. When it comes to seeing good and looking good, Stanislaus Vision has it all!

HEALTH & BEAUTY CONTINUED

CONTENTMENT health34

BEST PERSONAL TRAINING FACILITYHIDDEN ALLEY CROSSFIT5225 PENTECOST DR., BUILDING B, MODESTO

The trouble with getting fit is simple: how do you find the time and motivation to make it happen? When getting fit is at odds with the rest of your life (and when is it not), it might be time to put your faith in a personal trainer who can keep you moving toward your goal. And among the many options for personal training, CH readers counted Gio Podesto at Hidden Alley CrossFit as the very best in Stanislaus County. Hidden Alley may be tucked away in a little storefront on Cornucopia Road, but Podesto’s Crossfit and personal training approach is anything but understated. Whether you’re taking your first steps into fitness or training to compete at a high level, Hidden Alley CrossFit is a great solution for you.

BEST HEALTH CLUBIN SHAPELOCATIONS THROUGHOUT STANISLAUS COUNTY | inshapeclubs.com

If you’ve been searching for a conveniently located health club with the perfect blend of strength training and cardiovascular workout options, skilled personal trainers and family-friendly amenities, you’re in luck: you’re never far from an In Shape Health Club! With locations throughout Stanislaus County and six clubs in Modesto, In Shape can help you exercise the safe and healthy way with a host of amenities like top-of-the-line cardio machines and weight training equipment, pools and spas, free weights, a variety of exercise classes from beginner to advanced levels, racquetball courts, tanning beds, saunas, steam rooms, childcare provided by professionally trained staff, 24 hour access and more. Note that the features of each club vary, so check inshapeclubs.com to see if your local club has the features you need!

November/December 2014 35

BEST BREAKFAST &BEST LUNCHCAFÉ DEVA1202 J ST, MODESTO(209) 572-3382

Here’s a recipe for how to start the day right: do not pass go, do not pick up a coffee at that chain shop, do not opt for that doughnut. Instead, go directly to Café Deva on J Street in Modesto. From freshly made waffles topped with fresh berries to egg or tofu scrambles customizable with a wide selection of add-ins, owners Lorena and Jamie offer a huge breakfast menu that is primed to please. Of course, you can also grab a cup of some of the best coffee in town to help wash down your delectable meal. Plus, if you happen to stop by on Sunday morning, you can enjoy great live music from local singers or bands while you eat. It’s a win-win.

BEST CATERERBAUER’S 66 1/2(209) 409-4258 | bauerscnc.com

There’s nothing better than hosting a party featuring fresh, scratch-made dishes that your guests adore—unless it’s one where you don’t need to do the cooking! Fortunately, that’s what Bauer’s 66 1/2 does best. Chef owners Tye Bauer and Liz Bauer have more than 20 years of restaurant, winemaking and fine dining experience between them and provide the ultimate in buffet and family style catering, craft services, and personal chef services from the Central Valley to the San Francisco Bay Area. With a variety of menu options that include barbecue favorites, build-your-own burritos, Mediterranean pitas, Italian and Spanish dishes, California cuisine, and vegan and gluten-free items, Bauer’s has something to please every palate, event, occasion and budget. Need we say more?

BEST OF

Food & Drink

CONTENTMENT health36

Kristin Reza AVP/Community Branch Manager Modesto-J Street 209-557-2203

Alan Morris AVP/Community Branch Manager Modesto-Dale Road 209-522-7286

Doug Eddy VP/Business Banking Center Manager Modesto-J Street 209-557-2266

Friends you can bank on.

Member FDIC

Friends are always interested in your dreams.

Our loans help them come true.

• Home Loans• Equity Lines• Car Loans

• Boat and RV Loans• Personal Loans

Kristin Reza Alan Morris Doug Eddy

November/December 2014 37

FOOD & DRINK CONTINUED

BEST DINNERCONCETTA1205 J ST, MODESTO(209) 529-3282

The Spanish tradition of tapas, in which diners make a meal of a wide selection of dishes served on small plates, has taken the world by storm. Here in Stanislaus County, your options for tapas may be limited, but we’re lucky to be home to a true jewel: Modesto’s Concetta. Where the cozy J Street eatery once specialized in gourmet pizzas, it now draws crowds with an ever-shifting menu of exquisitely crafted foods served in small portions. From light vegetarian fare like freshly baked bread and selections of olives to customer favorites including an incredible baked egg and brussels sprouts that will make you a convert for life, Concetta turns local food into an art form. Gather some friends and call ahead. You’re guaranteed a dinner you’ll never forget.

BEST BURGERSROCKIN B’S222 MCHENRY AVE, MODESTO(209) 524-7656

If you love burgers, you owe it to yourself to get to Rockin B’s Burger Company in Modesto immediately. Since opening the McHenry Ave. burger shop’s doors in 2013, owners Shana and Barry have quickly secured a reputation for serving up the juiciest, most delicious burgers anywhere in the county. The rustic storefront is all charm and the menu offers everything from classic and dressed up burgers to wedge salads, on occasion small batch BBQ and garlic fries that are sure to please. In the mood for a taste sensation? Belly up to the bar and order the Shay Shay burger, garlic fries and one of their selection of on-tap beers. Go ahead. You can thank us later.

CONTENTMENT health38

Creations Salon

Our team of highly skilled stylists can give you the look you want at a price you can afford.

SPECIALIZING IN:Color | Extensions | Cutting | Latest Trends

Be your own kind of beautiful at Creations Salon.

2014 GOLD WINNER 2401 E. Orangeburg Ave., Ste. 540, Modesto RESERVATIONS: 209.577.0302

www.creationssalon.net

LIKE US ON FACEBOOKfacebook.com/creationssalonmodesto

Thank you for voting us #1!

2014 SILVER WINNER At the office of Brad E. Pezoldt, DDS, MSD, Inc. we provide state-of-the-art orthodontic care in a family-oriented and professional environment. Contact our office to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation and learn about all your treatment options.

1316 Coffee Rd., Ste. D-10, Modesto | 209-524-8381146 N. Maag Ave., Oakdale | 209-847-7014

pezoldtorthodontics.com

Thank You For Voting Us Best Orthodontist in Stanislaus!

© n

ever

bor

ing

.com

(209) 577- 4626 | edwards-jewelers.com | facebook.com/edwardsjewelersMcHenry Village | Corner of Briggsmore and McHenry Ave.

Mon.-Fri. 10am-5:30pm, Sat.10am-5pm

Thank you to our loyal customersfor voting us best in Stanislaus!

2014 GOLD WINNER

Make her holiday bright

November/December 2014 39

BEST LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS VENUEGALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS1000 I ST., MODESTO(209) 338-5000 | galloarts.org

In the seven years since the Gallo Center for the Arts opened on I St. in Modesto, it’s become the region’s favored venue for arts, entertainment, multicultural programming and educational activities. Within its comfortable and elegant interior, the Gallo Center hosts regional artists and performers and top-flight arts and entertainment programs from across California, the USA and the world. The Center’s November and December calendar has something for everyone: there’s the Berenstain Bears Live and Shrek the Musical for the kids; America’s Test Kitchen Live for foodies; Beethoven & Tchaikovsky and Diamond Rio for music aficionados; and the Holiday Pops and Nutcracker ballet for holiday performance lovers. Tickets and schedules are available online at galloarts.org, so it’s easy to plan your own entertainment calendar in advance.

BEST FAIR/FESTIVALSTANISLAUS COUNTY FAIR900 N. BROADWAY, TURLOCK(209) 668-1333 | stancofair.com

Families, couples and singles have looked forward to their annual pilgrimage to the Stanislaus County Fair in Turlock for more than 100 years — and it’s still going strong! The fair’s official mission is to provide a family and community oriented experience promoting agriculture, entertainment and technology. In our opinion: mission accomplished! With a multitude of animal, art, craft and horticulture exhibits, plus carnival games and rides, fair festivities can keep kids and adults entertained for hours. The fair is also a great place to meet friends for a concert, motorsport event or a beer; or just to take a casual date to hold hands on the ferris wheel and grab a snack. When it comes to local traditions, the Stanislaus County Fair can’t be beat.

BEST OF

Fun & Entertainment

CONTENTMENT health40

FAMILY OWNED FAMILY RUNFRESH GROUND PREMIUM BEEF AMAZING SERVICECOME AND TASTE LOVE IN A HAMBURGER FOR YOURSELF!

Monday through Saturday 11am - 7pm 222 McHenry Ave 209.524.7656On Facebook Rockin B's Burger Company

2014 SILVER WINNER2014 GOLD WINNER

2014 GOLD WINNER

5225 PENTECOST DR., BLDG. B, MODESTO(209) 614-6558 | facebook.com/HiddenAlleyCrossfit

instagram: @hac_barbell

Step through the door today. See why CrossFit is forging elite fitness. New to CrossFit?

Ask about the ONRAMP Program!

M-F: 5AM-12PM & 4PM-7PM | SAT: 8-9AM

November/December 2014 41

FAVORITE LOCAL BOY MADE GOOD

JEREMY RENNER

Did you know that before The Hurt Locker, before The Avengers and way before the Academy took notice, superstar actor Jeremy Renner was just a local boy? It’s true! He may have become a household name as an A-list actor with a long train of critically-acclaimed performances and well-deserved awards behind him, but Jeremy Renner started off right here in Modesto.

The son of proud parents Lee Renner and Valerie Cearley has come a long way from his time at Beyer High in Modesto and Modesto Junior College, and he’s definitely paid his dues over the last twenty years in showbiz, but Jeremy Renner will always be one of Stanislaus County’s favorite sons. That’s why we knew that when we launched our first Best Of issue, we simply had to feature Jeremy on the cover. Because no matter where his career takes him, Jeremy Renner will always be one of Stanislaus County’s favorite sons.

But Jeremy Renner is more than just a movie star, he’s also a great human being. He sings, he dances...and he supports local nonprofits in his hometown. From appearing at events at the Gallo Center for the Arts to a video appearance (inset, left) in support of the recent Boys & Girls Club of Stanislaus County event Battle of the Paddles (turn to page 26 to find out more about this event and visit contentmenthealth.com to see the video), Renner often takes time out of his superstar schedule to help throw his considerable support behind some of Stanislaus County’s best nonprofits.

Now that’s star power.

FAVORITES FROM

The EditorOur Editor’s Favorites are our awesome picks for the untapped local gems that help make it easy to find your own contentment and health here in Stanislaus County.

Check them out, then hit us up at contentmenthealth.com to share your favorites!

photo: Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

CONTENTMENT health42

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FAVORITE DREAM KITCHEN SUPERSTOREDIRECT APPLIANCE 2424 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO(209) 238-3000 | directappliance.com

If you love to cook, chances are you daydream about getting the chance to do it on a high end, exceptional-quality stove. And here in Stanislaus County, there’s one store that everyone swears by for all their appliance needs: Direct Appliance in aModesto. At Direct Appliance, you can get that stove of your dreams and the rest of the kitchen to go with it! Since 1976, Direct Appliance has satisfied the stove, dishwasher, range, refrigerator or any other appliance need for people throughout the Central Valley along with handling remodeling projects, countertops flooring and more. From low priced models to the highest-tier commercial options, Direct Appliance’s unparalleled selection means you can find, try and take home exactly what you’re looking for today!

FAVORITE OUTDOOR CLOTHING RETAILERROYAL ROBBINSMCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., STE.31, MODESTO(209) 522-3500 | royalrobbins.com

As anyone who’s visited our office knows, plaid is practically a religion around here. And when it comes to flannel, cords and chunky sweaters (our whole weekend wardrobe, basically), Royal Robbins is a one-stop-shopper’s dream. On weekdays, the stylish comfort of their clothes makes tight magazine deadlines a little more bearable—plus, it’s easy to transition to after-work adventures. And on our days off, Royal Robbins has something for every level of outdoorsy, from the casual hikers among us to the early-morning anglers to the hardcore woodsmen and woodswomen. And we have to admit, the prices sure don’t hurt the pocketbook.

FAVORITE NATURAL HEALTH PRACTITIONERSECOND NATURE225 E. GRANGER, STE. 2, MODESTO(209) 549.0450 | terissecondnature.com

Natural health is closer than you think. That ideal state is the mission of Teri O’Neal-Boring, owner and Wellness Coach at Second Nature in Modesto. With nearly 30 years of experience in holistic health, Teri has dedicated decades to her understanding of natural health. A master of Philosophy, Iridology and Nutrition, she specializes in helping patients reach a state from which the body can heal itself. She advocates natural healing which harnesses the powers of healthy food, exercise, herbal therapy and a balanced lifestyle. Second Nature’s McHenry Village suite is also home to a wealth of other Natural Health Practitioners including Certified Massage Therapists, Neuro-Reflex Therapists, a Certified Rolfing Practitioner and more.

CONTENTMENT health44

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FAVORITE WINE DESTINATIONDEWZ1505 J ST., MODESTO(209) 549-1101 | dineatdewz.com

It’s not just the location—a convenient two blocks from our editorial office—that keeps us coming back to the Dewz Wine Shop. We’ve got two words for you: wine robots. Okay, so Dewz doesn’t literally have wine robots, but it does feel that way sometimes. Their state-of-the-art Enomatic wine delivery system allows patrons to taste 2 oz. portions of a constantly-rotating stock of dozens of high-end wines. Just fill up a prepaid Dewz card, stick it in the machine and press a button—suddenly, you’re sampling that $80 Pinot you’ve always dreamed about (for the price of a trip to Starbucks).

FAVORITE SPOT FORLOCAL BEERDUST BOWL BREWING COMPANY200 W. MAIN ST., TURLOCK(209) 250-2042 | dustbowlbrewing.com

It’s the brewery that started a movement. That’s right: our favorite local taproom is also the maker of our favorite local beer. Dust Bowl Brewing Company’s industrial, hobo-chic décor, inventive twists on classic bar food (try the Okie Nachos—seriously) and location in the heart of revitalized downtown Turlock make this category an easy choice. Just don’t ask us to pick a favorite brew—there are too many good ones to choose from. Newbies should spring for the tasting sampler, which lets guests taste five different 5 oz. beers in one sitting.

FAVORITE CLEAN MEALSURLA’S RESTAURANT431 12TH ST., MODESTO(209) 550-5555 | surlasrestaurant.com

We may be the creators of a health (and lifestyle) magazine, but we’re not ones to skimp on flavor—that’s why we flock to Surla’s Restaurant for all of our editorial planning meetings. In honor of his 95 pound weight loss, Chef John Surla has playfully titled a section of his menu “Never Trust a Skinny Chef” and filled it with healthy menu options that taste positively decadent. Our favorite, the Clean Meal, fuses the kick of a cilantro lime chicken breast with the protein-rich superfood benefits of quinoa. Add in some cranberries, kale, fresh herbs and a low salt lemon vinaigrette and you’ve got guilt-free deliciousness on a plate. No wonder we keep coming back.

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CONTENTMENT health46

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FAVORITE HEALTHY TAKE ON CLASSIC FOODLA MO CAFE310 E. MAIN ST., TURLOCK(209) 632-6655

Whenever a story takes us out to Turlock, we thank our lucky stars. With a little luck and creative scheduling, a story on the latest world-class art at the Carnegie Arts Center can also mean a transcendent lunch at La Mo Cafe (right). There’s nothing like eating a perfectly-balanced chicken mole tamale and knowing that it’s good for you, too. The ladies of La Mo – Brityn, Hillary and Gloria – believe that Mexican food doesn’t need to be fatty in order to taste good. By using only the freshest seasonal ingredients and creative cooking solutions (like a blend of summer squash and fresh corn in that aforementioned tamale’s masa), they’ve created a restaurant we’d go to every day that doesn’t make us feel bad about our waistlines later.

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A MEAL ON THE RUNFAST EDDIE’S MOAB1228 TULLY RD., MODESTO(209) 522-9069

When you’ve got a really packed schedule, sometimes you’ve only got a few minutes to grab a bite for lunch or dinner. On days like this, we’re so grateful for Fast Eddie’s Meal On a Bun! Known to regulars as MOAB, this long-running burger shop on Tully Road in Modesto is a perennial favorite of locals and visitors alike. From a classic burger to an amazing philly cheese steak, served alongside a heaping pile of perfectly cooked fries, onion rings or even fried zucchini or mac and cheese bites, Fast Eddie’s MOAB is a tasty choice when you’re on the run.

FAVORITE LUNCH SALADHARVEST MOON1213 I ST., MODESTO(209) 523-9723 | harvestmoonrestaurant.com

It’s not just the size of Harvest Moon’s salad selection that makes it stand out from the standard lunch fair—though the size is considerable—it’s the sheer amount of creativity. Where else can you get greens covered in a Warm Prawn Reduction on Monday, a feta-covered Mediterranean salad with grilled lamb on Tuesday, a Prawn and Crab Louie on Wednesday and still have enough remaining options to order a different salad each day for the next month? The build-your-own Foundation Salad has add-on offerings ranging from bison patty to seared ahi to grilled portabella mushrooms—truly, the possibilities are endless. Needless to say, we’re smitten.

EDITOR’S PICKS CONTINUED

CONTENTMENT health48

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FAVORITE FOOD FOR A GOOD CAUSEHOWARD TRAINING CENTER1424 STONUM RD., MODESTO(209) 593-5633 | howardtrainingcenter.com

Since 1953, Stanislaus County’s Howard Training Center has been providing direct and support services to adults with developmental disabilities. You might already know and support HTC’s mission, but did you know that there is a facet of the nonprofit that also provides exclusive catering services with a huge range of options sure to please? From HTC’s 4,000 square foot commercial kitchen, Arc Catering offers a huge range of delicious food options to suit any event, all in support of HTC’s supported population. So next time you need some great food, why not also help develop and improve the skills of people with disabilities?

November/December 2014 49

FAVORITE SOURCE FOR FURNITURE THAT LASTSSLATER’S HOME FURNISHINGS1605 J ST., MODESTO(209) 522-9097 | slatershome.com

For over a hundred years, Slater’s Home Furnishings in Modesto has been offering customers everything they need to deck out their homes in style that will last a lifetime. But don’t let the store’s age fool you. Slater’s offers an incredible range of furnishings, from couches constructed with old world craftsmanship to tables graced with the most modern style. Slater’s provides a huge showroom that balances its upscale vibe with small town customer service. The store’s on-staff interior design consultant, the “gentle touch” delivery service and an impressive variety of fabrics and styles to choose have kept customers rolling in for decades. The thing that makes Slater’s our go-to furnishing source, though, is the quality. When someone from the office buys a couch from Slater’s, you know that thing is going to be a mainstay in their living room for decades to come—and it’s going to be looking good doing it.

FAVORITE PLACE TO GET OUR CHRISTMAS ONWESTURF NURSERY1612 CLAUS RD., MODESTO(209) 576-1111 | westurf.com

Christmas comes early at Modesto’s Westurf Nursery (below, left). Starting with an open house from 6-9 p.m. on November 20, the Claus Rd. nursery will celebrate the Christmas season with festive decorations, lights, music, cider and cookies, visits from Santa and a whole lot more throughout December. For our part, we love the way the nursery makes the most of the early evenings to showcase their spectacular holiday displays all lit with warm gorgeous light sure to get you in the spirit of the season.

FAVORITE WAY TO RELAXMASSAGE WORKS730 W. F ST., OAKDALE(209) 840-9024

Here’s a peek behind the cover: about two weeks before each issue of CH Magazine hits your hands, our whole office is basically knotted shoulders and stiff necks from wall to wall. Thank goodness for the folks over at Massage Works in Oakdale! When it comes to relaxation, they are our one-stop solution. Owner Kari McLean is devoted to promoting full body wellness through certified massage therapy as well as full-featured fitness coaching. Trust us, you’ll want to make an appointment as soon as possible. We’ll meet you there.

EDITOR’S PICKS CONTINUED

CONTENTMENT health50

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November/December 2014 51

CONTENTMENT

On July 29, 2007, Ryan Hunter Dickerson drowned at a summer camp in Texas.

Ryan was a graduate of Modesto High School’s International Baccalaureate program. He was less than a month from his first day of college at Washington University in St. Louis.

He was 18 years old.

Ryan’s mother Lynn answered the phone at the family’s Sacramento home that night, and remembers Ryan’s counselor from Camp Champions, who had led her two sons through a dozen summers before this, asking for her husband Ron. She realizes now how nervous he was, how hard the next words were to force out. “There’s been an accident,” he said. “Ryan drowned.”

“I can’t even describe what it felt like,” recounts Lynn now. “It was like an out of body experience. Just bees buzzing in my head. All I could say was ‘this can’t be true.’”

A few hours later, when Lynn broke the news to Ryan’s father Ron, she said “the worst thing that could ever happen to us has happened.”

“I know,” the Counselor had said to her on the phone. “I loved him too.”

Everyone did.

Picking Up the PiecesIN LOSING A SON, LYNN AND RON DICKERSON FOUND A COMMUNITY BY JUSTIN SOUZA

CONTENTMENT health52

Where Ryan’s story of unlimited promise ends, his parents’ story of recovery begins.

Lynn Dickerson was a superstar in the newspaper industry at the time. Following a successful six-year turn as publisher of the Modesto Bee, she had been promoted to Vice President of Operations for McClatchy in 2006. At 49, she was in charge of almost a billion dollars in revenue, 3800 employees and had just been elected President of the California Newspaper Publishers Association.

The Dickersons were transplants from Texas. They’d spent six years in Modesto. They had flourished here. Ross and Ryan, Lynn and Ron’s two sons, had both attended and graduated from Modesto high schools. During high school, Ryan was a star on the waterpolo team and Homecoming King his senior year, he’d brought

home phenomenal grades and a never ending list of new friends. He was one of those people who could light up a room with a smile, one of those few who seemed to be almost instantly loved by everyone he met. “He just loved life,” remembers Ron. “He lived more in his 18 years than many people do in 80.”

After his death, Lynn and Ron were hollowed out. They’d lived in Sacramento for 10 days. Their dream home, still filled with boxes and the detritus of moving, had become what Lynn describes as a big beautiful house of sadness. They didn’t know anyone in the area. Their first call was to friends in Modesto.

“We got the call about Ryan at 7 p.m.,” says Lynn. “By 8:30, 10 of our Modesto friends were in our house helping us cope.”

In the days, weeks and months that followed, the grieving parents were barely functional. The Modesto community helped prop them up and propel them forward. “We were like zombies, but our friends from Modesto were so wonderful to us. We didn’t have to spend a day by ourselves. They helped us make funeral arrangements, offered cars and vans to bring family in. They opened their homes for family to stay in. I’ll always feel tender to my Rotary Club, which wasn’t even my Rotary Club anymore. They passed the hat that Tuesday and collected money that they used to buy sandwiches for the reception.”

“Modesto just embraced us and loved us and took care of us.”

For two years after Ryan’s death, Lynn and Ron continued their lives in Sacramento. Stumbling from day to day on autopilot. Going through the motions but not really there. Throughout that time, the Modesto community continued to provide the support they needed to keep going.

When the newspaper business started its precipitous decline and McClatchy offered Lynn an exit, she took it. In 2009, Lynn and Ron left that big house and they headed back to Ryan’s town, to the community they loved.

“The community welcomed us with open arms. We loved Modesto when we left, we really loved Modesto when we came back,” says Lynn. “The opportunity to come back was the greatest thing. We wanted to be among people that we loved, and Modesto was that place for us.”

Lynn accepted her position as CEO of the Gallo Center for the Arts while Ron founded Oodles Frozen Yogurt.

“Coming back has been an enormous blessing in our lives. This job really brought me back to life and opening Oodles did the same for Ron,” says Lynn.

“After Ryan’s death, we thought that we’d never have fun or feel joy again. But in Modesto our lives have become richer and better. We still cry, and we still miss Ryan so much. But we have social lives now, and we have really rich relationships. And we do have fun again.”

Continued on page 58

“THE COMMUNITY WELCOMED US WITH OPEN ARMS. WE LOVED MODESTO WHEN WE LEFT, WE REALLY LOVED MODESTO WHEN WE CAME BACK.”LYNN DICKERSON

November/December 2014 53

“I thought for a while that grief was like carrying this giant boulder with me everywhere I went. At first, it was the size of a building. With time, it got a little smaller and a little smaller. Now, it’s like a pebble that I carry around in my pocket. It will always be with me, but it is no longer weighing me down and crippling me,” says Lynn.

“There’s no getting over grief,” adds Ron. “It’s always there. You can scar over, you can heal somewhat, but it’s always with you.”

Today, Ryan is remembered in monuments throughout the city that he loved. Inside the Modesto branch of the Stanislaus County Library, a huge tree spreads its branches above the children’s area in Ryan’s memory. A fountain and garden at the corner of H Street and Burney that Ryan landscaped for his Eagle Scout project now bears a plaque in his memory. The Dickersons also present yearly scholarships and awards to students in Ryan’s name.

“We’ve done all of these things because we don’t want him to be forgotten,” says Lynn. “All the things we have done to memorialize him we have done in Modesto because he loved this town. Modesto was his town.” He wasn’t born here, but Ryan Dickerson made Modesto his home.

And since their lives were changed forever in 2007, Lynn and Ron Dickerson have made it theirs as well.

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CONTENTMENT health54

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BY JACQUI D. SINARLE

HEALTH

It didn’t take a diagnosis of West Nile virus to teach Modesto’s Sarah Fields about the value of friends and family, but the illness has made her treasure them even more.

And while her health care team has been essential to Fields’ battle with West Nile, the support of her family and friends has also played a priceless role in her recovery.

“Without a doubt, hope, support from loved ones, and my faith have helped me through this journey,” Fields says. “Of course, finding a medical team that was willing to truly care for my health and partner in my recovery process has been a tremendous blessing and critical element. My recovery has had so much to do with a combination of hope, faith, professional treatment and hard work.”

Fields was a full-time vice president of marketing for a national company, an actively involved member of the community, and a busy wife and mother of two young children when she was diagnosed with West Nile virus in June 2014.

She credits Tremayne Medical Center with developing a comprehensive plan for her recovery, including appropriate pain control and therapies to improve her symptoms which included extreme fatigue, pain and limited use of her left foot and leg.

“The treatment plan was not only beneficial to me physically as my muscles had begun to atrophy and tighten causing even further limitations, but the ongoing treatment and follow up has been a tremendous encouragement to me emotionally,” Fields explains. “It helps to keep me motivated and working toward a full recovery.”

Three months after the West Nile diagnosis Fields was preparing to return to work and continuing the recovery process with chiropractics/neuromuscular therapy, stretching, core strengthening exercises, yoga and Pilates.

“When you’re facing a time of recovery from any illness, be cautious to maintain boundaries and allow your body to fully recover before really engaging in full-time life or before allowing life to creep back in and take over,” she advises. “It’s so important to allow your body to get well.”

Fields hopes that increased public awareness of West Nile will prompt communities to prevent mosquito infestations; drive patients to seek comprehensive recovery plans that include therapy, nutrition and supplements; inspire physicians to offer comprehensive medical advice; and spur researchers to develop a human vaccine to protect vulnerable populations.

“It’s also important to be aware of those suffering the repercussions of the virus, or any heath issue

for that matter,” she adds. “I was blessed with an incredible network of friends and family who offered extensive support.”

“People need other people in order to maintain a positive outlook and push for recovery,” Fields concludes. “It is a lesson I won’t forget.”

THE BEST WAY TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS IS TO AVOID MOSQUITO BITES.

WestNile.ca.gov recommends:

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET to exposed skin when you go outdoors, and stay indoors during peak mosquito biting hours from dusk to dawn.

• Mosquito-proof your home by draining standing water and installing or repairing door and window screens.

• Reduce the threat of West Nile in your community by reporting dead birds to local authorities, participating in your local mosquito control program (in Modesto, it’s the East Side Mosquito Abatement District) and joining neighborhood cleanup days to control mosquito breeding sites.

RecoveringFROM WEST NILE VIRUS

CONTENTMENT health56

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Prevention is the best medicine.

Kaiser Permanente is well known for its emphasis on

prevention and wellness. And while we have the expertise

and facilities to care for our patients when they get ill, we

would much rather focus on health care, instead of sick

care. This has been our mission from the very beginning.

On the next several pages, you can read about some of

the steps Kaiser Permanente has taken here in San Joaquin

and Stanislaus counties to promote the overall wellness

of our members and the communities we serve. From

aggressive cancer screenings, to education and outreach

about strokes, sports injuries, and more, we are committed

to helping prevent illness and disease so that our members

and patients can live healthier lives, and remain able to

pursue the things that make them happy.

We hope that you can benefit from this information,

whether or not you have Kaiser Permanente as a health

provider. Because it’s in our mission to provide high-quality,

affordable health care services and to improve health — not

only of our members, but also the communities we serve.

For more information about Kaiser Permanente, visit us

online at kp.org/centralvalley.

Yours in good health,

Moses Elam, MDPhysician-in-ChiefCentral Valley Area

Deborah G. FribergSr. Vice President/Area ManagerCentral Valley Area

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 1 10/3/2014 3:26:33 PM

stages, which offer services that span an adult’s lifetime.”

The three distinct stages are:• My Values: First Steps

planning is appropriate for healthy adults and those with well-managed chronic conditions.

• My Choices: Next Steps conversations are for patients with chronic conditions and are experiencing complications or functional decline.

• My Care: Advanced Steps conversations focus on end-of-life planning. This stage

is appropriate for individuals whose life expectancy is 12 months or less.

“Expressing our health care wishes is one of the most important rights we have as patients,” said Jan Houser, MD, Sub-Chief of Medicine for Elder Care. “Having a life care plan in place enables us to remain in control of our health throughout our lives. It’s one of those things that you hope will never become necessary, but if it does, your health care providers and those who care about you will be able to respect your decisions.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/ lifecareplan

Life Care Planning is something every adult should consider — so don’t wait until you’re old to start thinking about it.

It’s usually a subject that most people would like to avoid or ignore — but it could be one of the most important things we can do for ourselves and our loved ones.

Thinking through and formally establishing health care directives before the need arises is an opportunity for discussing your wishes with your loved ones who might someday find themselves in the position of making decisions on your medical treatment if you are unable to do so for yourself.

As a service to its members, Kaiser Permanente has developed the Life Care Planning process, which is an organized engagement and communications process to help its adult members understand, think about, and discuss future health care decisions that reflect their values and beliefs. This program also helps Kaiser Permanente employees and physicians understand and honor members’ health care wishes at every stage of their adult lives.

The process results in thoroughly preparing an individual’s physician and health care agent (someone designated to speak for the member if he/she is unable to speak for him- or herself), to make future health care decisions consistent with the individual’s preferences.

A written plan, stored in the member’s electronic medical record, captures their decisions and will help care providers remind family members of these decisions when necessary. Life Care Planning is distinguished from, but can be related to other established services such as palliative care, hospice, and end-of-life care.

“All adult members may benefit from Life Care Planning conversations because it isn’t just a one-time event or end-of-life activity,” said Paul Luong, MD, Palliative Care physician. “It is comprised of three distinct

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Above: Jan Houser, MD; Below: Paul Luong, MD.

LIFE CARE

PLANNING

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 2-3 10/3/2014 3:26:36 PM

stages, which offer services that span an adult’s lifetime.”

The three distinct stages are:• My Values: First Steps

planning is appropriate for healthy adults and those with well-managed chronic conditions.

• My Choices: Next Steps conversations are for patients with chronic conditions and are experiencing complications or functional decline.

• My Care: Advanced Steps conversations focus on end-of-life planning. This stage

is appropriate for individuals whose life expectancy is 12 months or less.

“Expressing our health care wishes is one of the most important rights we have as patients,” said Jan Houser, MD, Sub-Chief of Medicine for Elder Care. “Having a life care plan in place enables us to remain in control of our health throughout our lives. It’s one of those things that you hope will never become necessary, but if it does, your health care providers and those who care about you will be able to respect your decisions.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/ lifecareplan

Life Care Planning is something every adult should consider — so don’t wait until you’re old to start thinking about it.

It’s usually a subject that most people would like to avoid or ignore — but it could be one of the most important things we can do for ourselves and our loved ones.

Thinking through and formally establishing health care directives before the need arises is an opportunity for discussing your wishes with your loved ones who might someday find themselves in the position of making decisions on your medical treatment if you are unable to do so for yourself.

As a service to its members, Kaiser Permanente has developed the Life Care Planning process, which is an organized engagement and communications process to help its adult members understand, think about, and discuss future health care decisions that reflect their values and beliefs. This program also helps Kaiser Permanente employees and physicians understand and honor members’ health care wishes at every stage of their adult lives.

The process results in thoroughly preparing an individual’s physician and health care agent (someone designated to speak for the member if he/she is unable to speak for him- or herself), to make future health care decisions consistent with the individual’s preferences.

A written plan, stored in the member’s electronic medical record, captures their decisions and will help care providers remind family members of these decisions when necessary. Life Care Planning is distinguished from, but can be related to other established services such as palliative care, hospice, and end-of-life care.

“All adult members may benefit from Life Care Planning conversations because it isn’t just a one-time event or end-of-life activity,” said Paul Luong, MD, Palliative Care physician. “It is comprised of three distinct

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Above: Jan Houser, MD; Below: Paul Luong, MD.

LIFE CARE

PLANNING

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 2-3 10/3/2014 3:26:36 PM

convenient for the patient.”Of course, it’s always better to

avoid getting injured in the first place, and Dr. Wilkins, along with Sports Medicine Sub-Chief Eric Larson, MD, (a swimmer and basketball player), spend a lot of time in the community educating athletes on how to protect themselves from common sports injuries, such as tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), sprains, and more. Kaiser Permanente doctors serve as team physicians for sports

programs at some local high schools and are even part of the physician pool for the University of the Pacific’s athletic program.

“Education is a big part of what we do, which is aligned with Kaiser Permanente’s focus on wellness and prevention,” Dr. Larson said. “When we can teach an athlete how to stay well and avoid injury through proper stretching, good nutrition, and developing optimal muscle balance, it helps them excel so they can keep playing the sport they love.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/sportsmedicine

Kaiser Permanente’s team of experienced and dedicated Sports Medicine physicians help athletes of all levels stay in the game

GOOD

SPORTS

Above: Eric Larson, MD; Below: Kip Wilkins, MD.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Fall and winter are very active sports seasons, with high school, college, and recreational athletes everywhere breaking a sweat playing football, soccer, baseball, basketball, and many other sports. While individual and team sports are a great way to stay fit and get plenty of exercise, they do come with inherent risks of injury, including pulled muscles, sprained ligaments, and sometimes even broken bones.

To rehabilitate a sports injury and prepare the athlete to return to the field or court takes special care and attention – the type that’s provided every day by a committed team of Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine physicians.

The Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine team is a sub-specialty of the Orthopedics department, and features six dedicated doctors – three orthopedic surgeons and three certified sports medicine specialists – all with the specialized skills, training, and passion to cater to athletes of

every stripe.Kip Wilkins, MD, is the Chief of

Orthopedics in Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Service Area, and a Sports Medicine surgeon. An avid athlete himself – he enjoys cycling, swimming, and running – he understands how frustrating it is to be sidelined with an injury. The goal for his team is to coordinate the care that the patient needs, in the safest and most efficient way possible.

“Kaiser Permanente is a great place to practice sports medicine, because our delivery system lends itself to the type of coordinated care that helps get athletes everything they need,” Dr. Wilkins said. “We’re able to put all the pieces of the patient’s care plan into place – from primary medicine, to orthopedic care and surgery, to rehabilitation – quickly and easily because all of those services are right here under our roof. This integrated model of care helps to speed the healing process and ends up being more

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 4-5 10/3/2014 3:26:40 PM

convenient for the patient.”Of course, it’s always better to

avoid getting injured in the first place, and Dr. Wilkins, along with Sports Medicine Sub-Chief Eric Larson, MD, (a swimmer and basketball player), spend a lot of time in the community educating athletes on how to protect themselves from common sports injuries, such as tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), sprains, and more. Kaiser Permanente doctors serve as team physicians for sports

programs at some local high schools and are even part of the physician pool for the University of the Pacific’s athletic program.

“Education is a big part of what we do, which is aligned with Kaiser Permanente’s focus on wellness and prevention,” Dr. Larson said. “When we can teach an athlete how to stay well and avoid injury through proper stretching, good nutrition, and developing optimal muscle balance, it helps them excel so they can keep playing the sport they love.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/sportsmedicine

Kaiser Permanente’s team of experienced and dedicated Sports Medicine physicians help athletes of all levels stay in the game

GOOD

SPORTS

Above: Eric Larson, MD; Below: Kip Wilkins, MD.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Fall and winter are very active sports seasons, with high school, college, and recreational athletes everywhere breaking a sweat playing football, soccer, baseball, basketball, and many other sports. While individual and team sports are a great way to stay fit and get plenty of exercise, they do come with inherent risks of injury, including pulled muscles, sprained ligaments, and sometimes even broken bones.

To rehabilitate a sports injury and prepare the athlete to return to the field or court takes special care and attention – the type that’s provided every day by a committed team of Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine physicians.

The Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine team is a sub-specialty of the Orthopedics department, and features six dedicated doctors – three orthopedic surgeons and three certified sports medicine specialists – all with the specialized skills, training, and passion to cater to athletes of

every stripe.Kip Wilkins, MD, is the Chief of

Orthopedics in Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Service Area, and a Sports Medicine surgeon. An avid athlete himself – he enjoys cycling, swimming, and running – he understands how frustrating it is to be sidelined with an injury. The goal for his team is to coordinate the care that the patient needs, in the safest and most efficient way possible.

“Kaiser Permanente is a great place to practice sports medicine, because our delivery system lends itself to the type of coordinated care that helps get athletes everything they need,” Dr. Wilkins said. “We’re able to put all the pieces of the patient’s care plan into place – from primary medicine, to orthopedic care and surgery, to rehabilitation – quickly and easily because all of those services are right here under our roof. This integrated model of care helps to speed the healing process and ends up being more

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 4-5 10/3/2014 3:26:40 PM

sigmoidoscopies and colonoscopies. Relative to those, the FIT test is pretty low-key.

“Colorectal cancer can occur in both men and women, and across all ethnic groups,” added Dr. Sogge. “That’s why it’s important to get screened, especially if you have a family history of this type of cancer.”

As part of its PROMPT program of preventive screening, FIT tests are automatically sent to all Kaiser Permanente members ages 50 to 75. Patients also will be reminded if

a colorectal cancer screening is due whenever they visit their doctor, and physicians will also proactively call their patients who are behind on this screening.

“There is no reason why a person needs to suffer, and perhaps die, of colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Nallani. “It’s one of the most easily detectable and curable cancers — and that’s why we work tirelessly to ensure that our members get screened so we can help them to live better lives.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/prevention

Colorectal cancer may be curable if detected early. Kaiser Permanente is working hard to make a difference through education and preventive testing.

PREVENTING

CANCER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States — but it’s also one of the most preventable. When detected early, this type of cancer is a lot more likely to be curable.

That’s why Kaiser Permanente is going after colorectal cancer as aggressively as it does breast cancer — because preventive screening works!

“Most colorectal cancer develops very slowly, sometimes over the course of many years,” said Vijaya Nallani, MD, a family medicine physician and co-champion of colorectal cancer screening for Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Area. “With regular screenings, if anything abnormal is detected, it’s usually still very small and can easily be removed, often leading to a full, cancer-free recovery.”

Dr. Nallani recommends that all men and women get screened annually for colorectal cancer once they hit age 50. She said that home

screening tests — called FIT, or fecal immunochemical tests — are available and take less than five minutes. Patients provide a small stool (fecal) sample in the included container and mail it back in a postage-paid envelope.

“Some people find the test a little icky,” admitted Merle Sogge, MD, Assistant Chief of Gastroenterology, and co-champion for colorectal screening. “But it’s actually clean and quite simple to perform. Plus the benefit of detecting cancer early certainly outweighs any small discomfort about the process.”

The FIT test detects blood in the stool, which could be an early indicator of colon or rectal cancer. A positive result requires patients to undergo further testing, but a negative result usually means a person is good to go until their next annual test.

Before the home FIT test, colorectal cancer screening used more invasive procedures, like

Above: Vijaya Nallani, MD; Below: Merle Sogge, MD.

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 6-7 10/3/2014 3:26:44 PM

CONTENTMENT health64

sigmoidoscopies and colonoscopies. Relative to those, the FIT test is pretty low-key.

“Colorectal cancer can occur in both men and women, and across all ethnic groups,” added Dr. Sogge. “That’s why it’s important to get screened, especially if you have a family history of this type of cancer.”

As part of its PROMPT program of preventive screening, FIT tests are automatically sent to all Kaiser Permanente members ages 50 to 75. Patients also will be reminded if

a colorectal cancer screening is due whenever they visit their doctor, and physicians will also proactively call their patients who are behind on this screening.

“There is no reason why a person needs to suffer, and perhaps die, of colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Nallani. “It’s one of the most easily detectable and curable cancers — and that’s why we work tirelessly to ensure that our members get screened so we can help them to live better lives.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/prevention

Colorectal cancer may be curable if detected early. Kaiser Permanente is working hard to make a difference through education and preventive testing.

PREVENTING

CANCER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States — but it’s also one of the most preventable. When detected early, this type of cancer is a lot more likely to be curable.

That’s why Kaiser Permanente is going after colorectal cancer as aggressively as it does breast cancer — because preventive screening works!

“Most colorectal cancer develops very slowly, sometimes over the course of many years,” said Vijaya Nallani, MD, a family medicine physician and co-champion of colorectal cancer screening for Kaiser Permanente’s Central Valley Area. “With regular screenings, if anything abnormal is detected, it’s usually still very small and can easily be removed, often leading to a full, cancer-free recovery.”

Dr. Nallani recommends that all men and women get screened annually for colorectal cancer once they hit age 50. She said that home

screening tests — called FIT, or fecal immunochemical tests — are available and take less than five minutes. Patients provide a small stool (fecal) sample in the included container and mail it back in a postage-paid envelope.

“Some people find the test a little icky,” admitted Merle Sogge, MD, Assistant Chief of Gastroenterology, and co-champion for colorectal screening. “But it’s actually clean and quite simple to perform. Plus the benefit of detecting cancer early certainly outweighs any small discomfort about the process.”

The FIT test detects blood in the stool, which could be an early indicator of colon or rectal cancer. A positive result requires patients to undergo further testing, but a negative result usually means a person is good to go until their next annual test.

Before the home FIT test, colorectal cancer screening used more invasive procedures, like

Above: Vijaya Nallani, MD; Below: Merle Sogge, MD.

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 6-7 10/3/2014 3:26:44 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Often called a brain attack, stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No matter your age, race, or gender, anyone can have a stroke. Quick treatment can help limit the damage to the brain and increase the chance of a full recovery. If you suspect a stroke in yourself or someone you love, check for these signs F.A.S.T.:• Face: Does the face look

uneven? Ask the person to smile.• Arms: Does the arm drift down?

Ask the person to raise both arms.• Speech: Does the speech sound

strange? Ask the person to repeat a phrase.

• Time: Time lost is brain function lost. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

“Kaiser Permanente in the Central Valley has developed a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the Emergency

Department,” said Deepinder Singh, MD, Stroke Program Medical Director in the Central Valley. “Identifying the risk factors are key, and we want everyone to know that they may be able to save the life of a person experiencing a stroke by just knowing the signs and understanding that every minute counts.”

Kaiser Permanente’s Manteca and Modesto hospitals have received the American Heart Association Gold Plus Award, which recognizes their commitment and success in ensuring stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted evidence-based treatment standards.

Risk factors for strokes include high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. These risk factors are very similar to those for heart attacks and heart disease, as well.

SIGNS OF A

STROKETime is of the essence when a stroke occurs. Know the signs and act quickly — and you may help to save the life of someone you love.

Deepinder Singh, MD

LEARN MORE:

kp.org/stroke

2014-10-03_Advertorial section_CHMag.indd 8 10/3/2014 3:26:44 PM

CONTENTMENT health66

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The holidays are that wonderful time of year where we look forward to spending time with loved ones, eating lots of yummy food and taking a break from the responsibilities of daily life. However, we all know there are consequences to eating too much and not maintaining our regular workout routines. Here are some tips on how to avoid the most common side effects of holiday excess, and to staying on track during the season. Keep these few tips in mind, and your holidays will be merry and you will be light.

The key to making it through the holidays is portion control. Heaping plates of holiday goodies are hazardous to your waistline. So consider swapping the traditional large dinner plate for a salad or dessert plate that is usually about half the size. This simple switch will reduce your probability of overeating and, as a bonus, keep you from feeling like you need to hibernate after finishing your meal. Remember, if you are still hungry when you finish your plate, you can always go back for more.

As a matter of fact, there is absolutely nothing wrong with seconds. Let’s be real, we all love that

second helping of amazing holiday food! However, if you approach seconds as another meal to be eaten a few hours later rather than right after your first serving, it will help your metabolism burn off that first serving of food. Eating too much food too soon is like throwing too many logs on a dying campfire. There is not enough fire (in this case, muscle mass) to burn all of that material!

Some of us even skip meals in anticipation of a big holiday meal. Maybe we want to save room for an extra helping of our favorite dish, or maybe we are just working too hard to create the perfect meal for our family. However you must remember that a holiday is no different than any other, and you need to start it right by eating breakfast. Eating a good breakfast, and making sure to eat a snack or a small meal every 2-3 hours, will help to boost your metabolism. It will also reduce the likelihood of overeating during the main meal as you won’t feel as hungry.

We are faced with decisions that influence our health on a daily basis, and holidays are no different. A pattern of bad choices can lead to a bad habit that can be extremely difficult to

combat. So stop it before it starts. When you’re standing over the pie table and tempted to make a bad food choice, try drinking a big glass of water first. Remember, our bodies are mostly water. Sometimes, when we think we are hungry, we are actually thirsty. Not only will that big glass of water hydrate your body, you’ll save some calories, and keep yourself full and satisfied for a little while longer. Saying no is hard, but you can do it!

There’s no better time of the year than the holiday season to add fun to your regular fitness regime. Dance the night away at the office holiday party. Take a stroll in the California sunshine with your favorite pup. Hit the slopes or have a snowball fight with friends. Take the kids to the local ice rink. You’ll increase your heart rate and burn calories while making beautiful memories with those you love.

Most importantly, don’t wait until New Years to make your resolution. Resolve to have a happy and joyous holiday season filled with family memories, good food and lots of fun now. Happy Holidays!

Your Holidays CAN BE Happy AND HealthyBY KATELYN GOYETTE, IN SHAPE HEALTH CLUBS

CONTENTMENT health68

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November/December 2014 69

AESTHETICS

Make someone’s holiday….Think Giving.

Flying Turtle Cast ConcreteShowcase Home

INSPIRING SPACES

Mat Rogers is having a love affair with concrete. To hear the Designer, Owner and Chief Craftsman of Flying Turtle talk about the material he’s made famous with his exquisite installations—15-foot-long white counters with slot drain sinks integrated right into the design, loam-colored kitchen islands with inlaid gems and leaf imprints that evoke the lively, earthy feel of a creek bed—you’d never guess he was talking about the same substance that makes up the standard sidewalk.

For people like me who have never heard of concrete as a luxury building material, Rogers is

more than happy to offer enlightenment. “It’s a medium that’s incredibly versatile. It will take on the subtlety of a feather,” he says, miming the action of placing a feather into wet concrete. “It has all of the imprinting characteristics of fine plaster of Paris, but you can also get it to almost any color—as red as a Ferrari or as yellow as a lemon.”

Rogers designed and crafted his showcase home in the heart of Modesto’s quiet Enslen neighborhood to demonstrate his medium’s versatility, and boy does it. In a sense, Rogers’

creation is the Ferrari of home design: sleek, luxurious and—dare I say it—sexy. He tells me that unlike granite, which has a shiny, speckled harshness to it, concrete takes on a gentle, human feel. And he’s right. When I run my fingers over the surfaces in the Flying Turtle Showcase Home, be they the ammonite-inlaid slate grey counters or the show-stopping center fireplace dividing the dining room from the living room, I’m struck by how supple they are. “Concrete has a feel almost like fabric, even though it’s hard,” Rogers says. “People really pick up on that. They like the even, soft quality.”

BY DANA KOSTER

Photo by Allan Photography

CONTENTMENT health70

Make someone’s holiday….Think Giving.

INSPIRATION Q-AND-A WITH MAT ROGERS OF FLYING TURTLE CAST CONCRETE

DK: How would you describe your style?MR: I would say I tend to prefer more clean, contemporary design. Something elemental and simple.

DK: Where do you find inspiration?MR: It comes through meditation. I’m always engaged in a process that is re-inspecting and clear-ing out and looking at reality through many different lenses. That work is incredibly clarifying and empowering and it allows for inspiration to emerge, to appear.

DK: What are the benefits of good design?MR: There’s a quality of presence that can be communicated by a well-designed, well-executed project. Well-designed spaces do arrest people in a certain way. They provide something that is un-seen, that’s maybe indescribable, but it’s undeniable. Whether it’s through mundanely attending to details or just coming up with beautiful juxtapositions of materials, you should do so in a way that brings out the beauty in each material. It’s often a process of eliminating rather than putting things in.

DK: What’s your best advice for people looking to update their space?MR: To be honest, I think people are better off talking to design professionals. Find one that you like, even if it means just paying them for consulting – you don’t have to necessarily buy off on them doing your entire project, but to consult with you, I think that’s worthwhile.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit flyingturtlecastconcrete.com.

Photo by Allan Photography

November/December 2014 71

HOME GUIDESPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONThey say home is where the heart is, but what

do you do when your space feels more like a

chore than it does a refuge? Inside this special

section, local industry experts provide tips on

making your bedroom, bathroom, kitchen,

living room and garden into something you’ll

be proud to call home!

CONTENTMENT health72

HO

ME

GU

IDE

When you drive down McHenry Ave. in Modesto, look out for a new face on an old favorite. Direct Appliance has just finished a major remodel that puts some major shine on the venerable retailer’s long time location.

“We just finished a huge remodel,” says owner Colleen Winter, “along with all our new signage and décor, we also made the store even easier to navigate. We really made it look great inside and out!”

Direct Appliance is already known as Stanislaus County’s premiere inde-pendent source for appliances, décor and expert kitchen remodeling, but the new look brings the McHenry Avenue storefront into line with the shop’s sterling reputation.

The growth of so called big box store competitors including Home Depot and Lowes have put the pinch on many independent appliance stores over the last few decades, but Direct Appliance has stayed vital since 1976 by going above and beyond for its customers. For nearly 40 years, Di-rect Appliance has remained a family-owned superstore serving Stanislaus County and beyond with low prices, incredible service and unparalleled expertise on appliances, laundry, refrigeration, cooking, remodeling, flooring and countertop products and much more.

The store’s long time membership with the independent BrandSource buying group has meant that it has been able to consistently go toe to toe on price with the big box stores and still save their customers money, even on high-end brands including Dacor, Viking, Sub-Zero and Jenn-Air. “People come in and are surprised that our prices are the same or better than box stores,” says Winter. “That’s because BrandSource gives us access to rebates that the big guys just don’t have!”

Direct Appliance is also one of the few surviving appliance sellers with its own in-house service department, so customers can rest easy knowing that the appliances they buy will be well taken care of for years to come. The locally-owned shop keeps duking it out with big box retailers, but with bonafides like these, it’s clear that Direct Appliance will be a major player in the appliance market for many years to come.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit DirectAppliance.com.

special advertising section

DIRECT APPLIANCE BRINGS MCHENRY STORE UP TO DATE

directappliance.com

November/December 2014 73

When you grow past Ikea’s disposable-quality furniture and are ready to furnish your home in a way that will stand the test of time, where do you turn for stylish home furnishings that can last a lifetime? For over a century, customers throughout Stanislaus County have trusted Modesto-based Slater’s Home Furnishings to provide the highest quality furniture available anywhere in classic styles that look as good today as they will in fifty years.

Recently, the 102 year old home furnishings store announced the introduction of a new line of products sure to please a wide range of customers for decades to come: Stressless by Ekorness.

Whether you’re reading a book, watching TV, catching a quick nap or just enjoying a moment of silence, the Stressless chair is engineered to keep your body in complete comfort. From upright to nearly horizontal, the Stressless chair cradles you, providing ideal support, exceptional softness and legendary durability that will keep you in comfort for decades to come.

This comfort is more than temporary: the Stressless is the only chair recommended by the American Chiropractic Society for back support. The nearly forty-year old line of chairs is an icon of modern style that is constructed in Norway of the finest materials. “The way the Stressless chair is made, it’s going to maintain a high level of comfort and support for an extremely long time,” said Tom Slater, owner of Slater’s Home Furnishings.

The Stressless is a natural fit among Slater’s existing product lines, says Slater. “Quality and service are our focus, and the Stressless chair fits in with our ideals of exceptional quality and timeless design. We strive to show the highest quality manufacturers we can for every price range.”

“If you care about what your home looks like, care about being comfortable and care about quality, you have to come in to try out the Stressless line of chairs.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit slatershome.com.

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STRESSLESS CHAIR PROMISES LIFETIME OF COMFORT AT

SLATER’S HOME FURNISHINGS

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When it comes to decorating your home for Christmas, you have a lot of options. From department stores to the local supermarket, it seems like everyone is jumping to sell you a thousand different decorations throughout the season.

But your home is your castle, so why adorn it with just any mass produced decoration? When you need heirloom quality decorations that reflect your style, you need to get to Morris Nursery in Riverbank.

For 30 years, Morris Nursery has brought Christmas Magic to Stanislaus County with an elaborate Christmas extravaganza that is a feast for the eyes and heart.

According to owner Ron Hoffmann, Morris Nursery staff starts planning the next year’s elaborate Christmas display as soon as the holiday is over. And it shows. The Patterson Rd. nursery’s Christmas village is an unparalleled wonderland with 18 professionally decorated trees reflecting unique themes from Mark Roberts to Old World and religious and displaying ornaments you can’t find anywhere else.

In addition, the store has the largest Department 56 display in the area. The popular model village set is realized in its truest form in Morris

Nursery’s display, which includes five whole villages connected by three LGB model trains running through the display. The whole nursery gets in on the Christmas spirit, with live garlands and wreaths, table pieces and candle holders displayed tastefully around the grounds. The cyclamen will be blooming throughout the season and will be joined by hand picked poinsettias in traditional red and more unique colors.

“Our Christmas wonderland brings back memories of old Christmas days,” adds Hoffmann. “We have customers who have been coming since they were kids who now bring their own kids to experience it. You’ve really got to come down to see everything we have here!”

Morris Nursery’s Christmas display will celebrate its annual open house during the Thanksgiving weekend. The event will feature a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as a train engineer running the trains through the display. Bring your cameras and join Santa and Mrs. Claus for photo ops by the nursery’s time machine Christmas sleigh.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, call Morris Nursery at 209.527.5553 or simply visit the Christmas wonderland yourself at 1837 Patterson Road in Riverbank.

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YOUR CHRISTMAS HEADQUARTERS

November/December 2014 75

ART & CULTURE

At Surla’s Restaurant in Modesto, diners come for the food, but they often stay for the art. And incredibly, the lush, vibrant pieces adorning the walls

of this local hotspot are the work of only one talented local artist: Louise Bogetti.

Bogetti has studied and worked in a variety of media including watercolor, oil, encaustic and acrylic. She also has a background in graphic design and photography. Her signature style of bold strokes, applied with a brush or pallet knife, is immediately recognizable. It has been noted that Bogetti's style, instead of being tied to a subject matter, is identifiable by the way she moves the paint on the canvas.

The Bogetti pieces collected at Surla's Restaurant are very eclectic, which reflects Bogetti’s creative process. The pieces currently displayed in the bar area were done after a vacation in the tropics which inspired her to work in rich blues and gold. In contrast, the paintings featured in the Surla’s banquet room have an earthy, mineral feel.

BY ANNE MARIE BERGTHOLD

A FUSION of COLOR ARTIST LOUISE BOGETTI

AS AN ARTIST, BOGETTI FOCUSES ON WHAT SHE DESIRES TO EXPRESS, RATHER THAN TRYING TO PREDICT WHAT IS GOING TO BE POPULAR.

Bogetti explains that she chose to work in acrylic paint for the pieces for Surla's because acrylics afford “the freedom to add all kinds of different elements to get different textures.”

Her process for creating commissioned pieces is to first visit the client's home or business. In order to provide the freedom to explore the subject, a prerequisite of her commissioned work is to not be tied to a very specific subject. Rather, clients can give her directions by setting the parameters of size and color palette. Visiting the space is an integral part of the process and she will often take blank canvases of different shapes and sizes with her in order to get a feel for the dimensions of the art that the space could allow. Bogetti acknowledges that “art is very personal” and thus she typically has an agreement with the client that if they are not happy with the final result then they are not obligated to purchase the commissioned piece. Additionally, she often creates two to three pieces for each commissioned work and will let the client choose his or her favorite.

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Photos by Photos Just So November/December 2014 77

CAMP 4wine café

A REFUGE FROM THE WORLD OUT THERE.

camp4wine.com

People are often surprised to learn that the pieces on display at Surla's Restaurant were created by the same artist. Bogetti is constantly trying new techniques in order to avoid becoming stagnant. Lately, she has been working with tools as diverse as encaustic oil—essentially hot wax filled with rich pigments—and blow torches. She is also a member of the prestigious Oil Painters of America and American Women Artists organizations. As an artist, Bogetti focuses on what she desires to express, rather than trying to predict what is going to be popular. “I paint for myself,” says Bogetti, adding that she has reached a place in her art where she’s at peace with that stance. By painting for herself, she has transformed blank canvases into works that are visually engaging with their implied movement and fusion of color.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BOGETTI'S WORK visit bogettiart.com. Surla's Restaurant is located at 431 12th Street, Modesto. For hours, go to surlasrestaurant.com.

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In 2012, Susan Davis received a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer. As a trauma nurse at Doctors Medical Center Modesto, she knew she could count on her colleagues for expert care. Today, Susan is back on the job treating patients, leading women’s support groups and happily, cancer free. • Nursing staff, chemotherapy-certified by

the Oncology Nursing Society

• Integrated team of surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists and pathologists collaborate weekly on complex cases Proud recipient of the Silver Accreditation Award for its dedication to Patient-Centered Care by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, the Community Cancer Program at DMC provides nationally-recognized care to more than 600 patients a year throughout Stanislaus County.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, comprehensive treatment in a convenient and comfortable setting is available right here at home at DMC.

Susan Davis, RN and Cancer Survivor

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1.888.708.3638 dmc-modesto.com

Take a FREE breast cancer risk assessment at dmc-modesto.com

GIVE BREAST CANCER A PINK SLIP.

FOOD & WINE

Crackling fires are great and all, but I find that when the weather outside is frightful, there’s nothing like a beautiful cocktail to warm me up and lift my spirits.

This winter, Stanislaus County eateries are serving up a huge selection of beautifully handcrafted cocktails based on local ingredients, fresh flavors and some of the most inventive liquors we’ve ever seen.

So belly up to the bar or grab a cocktail menu at your favorite spot, then order up one of these gorgeous drinks that are sure to please.

MAKE WINTER A LITTLE WARMER WITH THESE

Handcrafted CocktailsBY JUSTIN SOUZA

La NaranjaEl Tesoro Silver Tequila mixed with fresh blood orange puree, agave nectar and fresh squeezed lime juice. Topped with Chile Piquin rim.

MEMO’S COCINA & TEQUILA BARTurlock

George CarlinSweet Tea flavored vodka, Strawberry Mint Hey Honey! Lemonade, fresh mint, orange slices

10 EAST KITCHEN & TAP HOUSETurlock

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Fresh & SpicyHouse made lemon infused vodka, fresh lemon, grapefruit bitters, ginger beer, Firestone Pivo

DEWZModesto

The BeastHouse made lemon infused vodka, fresh lemon, grapefruit bitters, ginger beer, Firestone Pivo

DEWZModesto

HAVE A FAVORITE HOLIDAY COCKTAIL? Share the recipe with us at

facebook.com/ContentmentHealth!

November/December 2014 81

IF YOU HAVE A HIDDEN TALENT, submit it to editor@contentmenthealth.com.

HIDDEN TALENTS:

PEOPLE NORMALLY KNOW ME AS...

Manager at Cold Stone Creamery. I’m also a musician; I make my own music and play piano and guitar.

BUT WHAT THEY DON’T KNOW IS THAT I...

Make Cosplay helmets. They start as a program called pepakura, which is papercraft. You sort of mold paper into different shapes and then cover it with fiberglass and Bondo and sand it down to make these incredible realistic movie prop helmets. Every time I create something, it’s a new experience: new materials to use and different things to try—my Maleficent helmet is vinyl and Worbla, which is a thermoplastic. When you heat it up with a heat gun, you can mold it and once it cools, it stays in that shape.

I GOT STARTED WITH MY HIDDEN TALENT WHEN...

My friends and I fell in love with the movie Dredd last September. I wanted to be Dredd for Halloween, so I looked online for how to make the costume and thought: I could probably do that. I’ve worked with fiberglass before, and I made everything within a month. I had the helmet, the whole costume; I even made a gun out of cardboard!

WHAT ELSE DO YOU DO?

I’m currently making armor for Prospect Theater Project’s production of Julius Caesar. I’ve made full armor pieces out of cardboard. The armor is articulated, so it moves, and once it’s painted it looks like hammered metal. I’m also making four helmets the same way I make the Cosplay helmets. I have about ten full head-to-toe pieces.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE SEE YOUR WORK?

Onstage at Prospect Theater and MJC. I also have an Etsy Shop, Marissa’s Custom Designs (www.etsy.com/shop/MarissaCustomDesigns), where I’m selling the Maleficent headpiece.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO DO IN THE FUTURE?

I would love to do this for a living. I would love to work on movies and build props and armor and helmets.

WANT TO GET STARTED CREATING COSPLAY COSTUMES? JUST START BY…

Doing your research. When you pick a costume you want to recreate, you’ve got to do your research and see what other people have done. Seeing their techniques really helps you create your own.

MARISSA RUSSO

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At Kaiser Permanente, we believe your total health is what matters most. We also believe the things you love can lift much more than your spirits. By providing thorough preventive care measures like screenings and health classes as well as investing in the communities we call home, Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping you thrive. Every way we can.

Join us at kp.org

Music can lower blood pressure.

UKULELES= HEALTHY

KP UH Contentment Health Magazine 9x11.indd 1 1/14/14 4:26 PM

We could mention our custom burners that deliver a full spectrum of heat output from a tender flame to an intense blaze. Or reference the carefully handcrafted construction. But that’s not what makes the 48" Pro Range a perfect centerpiece for your kitchen. It’s the fact that you don’t even need to know all this to fall in love with it.

Real beauty speaks for itself.

monogram.com

DEALER IMPRINT AREA

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Visit us to see a working Monogram kitchen and to sign up for holiday cooking demos!