Tied the Knot September 24, 2011 - HER LIFE Magazine

HERLIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2012
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Aggie
KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED
plus
Bonpua &
Taking The Confusion
The spiriT of soulmaTes wines
how To Choose a
remodeling ConTraCTor
ouT of Buying organiC
®

2 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 3

McHenry
6 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Village
According to CNN Money 2010

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 7

HERLIFE | content
content
september 2012
aggie Bonpua: Sharing a meSSage in a Bottle
What do a golf lover, a former casino dealer, a ski bunny and an entrepreneur have in common? they’re all
Aggie bonpua, owner of soulmates Wines. HerLIFe shares the story of this inspirational woman who allowed
the loss of her brother–her true soulmate–to forge her career path and create a living legacy to him through
her company.
Simplify your Beauty routine
A favorite moment in your day could be waking
up to a sunlight-filled room and basking in the
opportunity that lies ahead. A cup of coffee, maybe
a croissant and you’re ready to face all of the
important tasks at hand.
8 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
18
Synowicki’S Jewel Box
125 s. school st.,
Downtown Lodi
(209) 334-0095
22
38
WeLcome 10
HeALtH 14
IntegrAtIve meDIcIne 16
beAuty 18
cosmetIc surgery 20
InspIrAtIons 22
spotLIgHt 26
crAvIngs 28
cuLInAry 30
recIpes 32
WIne 34
spotLIgHt 36
trenDsetter 38
motHer’s perspectIve 48
spotLIgHt 50
green LIvIng 52
WorkIng Women 56
FInAnce 58
Home 62
scene AnD be seen 66
trAveL 70
sHe sAID yes 72
tIe tHe knot 76
In tHe vALLey 80

hot
Licensed and Insured • Daily & Long Term Sitting
Certified through PSI and Animal CPR & First Aid
all god’s creatures
209 505-5924 • www.allgodscreatures.biz
Mention HERLifE Magazine and
receive $5 off any pet sitting service
over $25 or $15 off any pet sitting
service over 5 days. Expires 9-30-12.
Body By Vi
209-259-9100 • inspiredlife@outlook.com
Starting as low as $49 a month. Call
today for FREE consultation. Sign up
and receive FREE Body Fat Analysis.
North America’s #1 Weight Loss &
Fitness Challenge. Expires 9-30-12.
deals iq pest control
209-626-8825 • www.insectiq.net
Mention HERLifE Magazine and
receive your 1st service for only $20
(Reg $95). Includes full service application,
web removal, and written
guarantee. Some restrictions apply.
Call for details. Expires 9-30-12.
manasra aesthetics
medical spa
209-339-3792 • manasramedicalspa.com
1520 Kettleman Ln., Suite C • Lodi
IPL Hair Removal Special!
3 treatments on the underarm, upper
lip or chin - $300 $199. Please call
209-339-3792 to make an appointment!
Expires 9-30-12.
Sign up at herLifemagazine.Com
little Flower shop
209-835-1534 • www.flowersintracy.com
84 W. 11th St. • tracy
Mention HERLifE Magazine and
receive 10% off your Wedding or
Special Event when booked in the
month of September 2012. Call for a
Free Consulation. Expires 9-30-12.
herliFe magazine
www.herlifemagazine.com
Sign up for a subscription in the
month of September and get 12
issues for $20.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 9

HERLIFE | welcome
Autumn
Autumn is my favorite season of the year. Every year, I anticipate
the cool mornings and the warm colors of the leaves as
they start to turn, but more than anything, I love the clothes!
Fall boots, jeans, scarves and pashminas are a passion of mine. Hanging
in my closet is a lineup of cashmere pashminas in every color of the
rainbow, strategically organized, awaiting the weather to change. As I
wait impatiently for autumn and anticipate the debut of a new pair of
boots, the memory of my mom and Aunt Patty having their colors done
back in the 80s comes to mind.
They were obsessed with their “colors.” A color professional would
place swatch after swatch of fabric over your shoulder and hold it close
to your face. She looked at skin tone, hair color and eye color, and then
would determine your color fate—summer, autumn, winter or spring.
From there, you were named forever to a specific season and color
palette from which one should never deviate. These two ladies drank
the colored Kool-Aid and became advocates for color! My mom even
threw a party where a professional color specialist came to our home
and assigned everyone their colors or season. Even the kids weren’t safe
from the color lady, as I called her. I remember sitting impatiently in
a chair in our family room as the color lady placed swatches of fabric
over my shoulders. My mom and aunts would ooh and ahh over the
different fabrics, and I remember there was an excitement in the room
when my color was named—autumn. When we were shopping, my
mom would pull out a color book of mini-swatches she carried in her
purse to compare to a piece of clothing. It didn’t matter how great the
photo by studio mohsoh
outfit was—if it deviated from her “colors,” she would quickly move on
to something else and say, “Nope. Not my color.”
One afternoon, my Aunt Patty received a phone call from her daughter’s teacher. The classroom discussion of the day was focused on ethnicity
and nationalities. As they began to discuss each student’s family backgrounds, my cousin, Shelly, raised her hand and proudly exclaimed, “I
am a Winter!” My aunt tried to politely explain the “color” situation and of course, this became one of our favorite family stories.
My color fate was sealed and autumn has remained my favorite season. Memories of my mom, aunts and cousins are small pieces of my
life that have left a big impression. The Mullen ladies can definitely get carried away with something. Whatever the trend may be, we take it on
with a tenacious attitude and a touch of flair! Thanks for the writing material, ladies. I love you, colors and all.
Join HERLIFE of central valley on Facebook and stay current on the hottest events and biggest deals around the central valley!
10 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
read
share
recycle

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 11

12 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Staff and Contacts
Editor-in-Chief
Kimberly Mullen
kimberly@herlifemagazine.com
209-327-3797
Assistant to Editor-in-Chief
Priscilla Ambrocio
priscilla@herlifemagazine.com
209-981-6948
Account Executives
Katie Atwater
Katie@herlifemagazine.com
209-327-8190
Paula Grothaus
paula@herlifemagazine.com
209-918-4480
Jenny Polhemus
jenny@herlifemagazine.com
209-649-4165
Renee Snell
renee@herlifemagazine.com
209-329-4500
Jami Tanner
Jami@herlifemagazine.com
501-593-7255
Editor
Candi Smith
candi@herlifemagazine.com
Creative Director
Ashleigh Thomson
ashleigh@herlifemagazine.com
Design and Production
Todd Grantham
todd@herlifemagazine.com
Art Director
Elana Bell
elana@herlifemagazine.com
Contributing Authors
Lisa Allen, Fran Benavidez, Beth Blair, Adriana Brogger,
Joseph R. Burlin, M.D., Ann E. Butenas, Lisa Taranto Butler,
Kristen Doyle, Dr. Lisa Hunt, Carl E. Johnston,
Kathleen M. Krueger, Rachel C. Murphy, Linda R. Price, Candi Smith
Contributing Photographers
Bre Baszler, Briggs Photography, Keith Colgan,
Kristen Doyle, Estate Crush, Kristoffer Heacox, Gary Jones,
Dawn Kelly, Studio Mohsoh, Scot Woodman
To contact HERLIFE® Magazine:
2715 W. Kettleman Lane, Suite 203-156
Lodi, CA 95242
For advertising call (209) 224-8810 or (209)327-3797
Fax (866) 665-4499
www.herlifemagazine.com
© 2012 by HERLIFE® Magazine of Central Valley is operated locally by Kimstry, LLC, an independently owned
and operated franchisee of HERLIFE Magazine, LLC. To reach national headquarters, call 913-402-6994.
© 2012 by HERLIFE® Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced
and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.
HERLIFE® Magazine is owned by Kimstry, LLC and is a free publication distributed locally and is supported
by our advertisers. It is available in selected specialty stores, doctor and dental offices, medical spas, hair and nail
salons, tanning salons, public libraries and numerous other high traffic locations. Please call for a location near
you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for
the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscriptions are available for $20 (for 12 issues). Please go to www.herlifemagazine.com
or mail a check made out to HERLIFE® Magazine to the above address.
®

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 13

HERLIFE | health
recognizing
&
genetic diseases are hereditary diseases caused by abnormalities
in the genes. Austrian monk Gregor Mendel is considered
the father of modern genetics. His experiments led to
an understanding of the basic concepts of genetics. However, it was
not until the DNA structure was described in 1953 that an increased
understanding of genes and how they work occurred, and genetics
became an important issue in modern medicine.
Genes are the hereditary segments of DNA located on chromosomes.
Each human cell has 23 pairs of chromosomes, 22 of which
are autosomes or non-sex chromosomes. The remaining pair contains
two sets of sex chromosomes that determine gender. Autosomal genetic
disorders are caused by a problem with one gene. There are over 6,000
known single-gene disorders occurring in about 1 in every 200 births.
Examples of monogenetic disorders include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell
anemia, Marfan syndrome and Huntington’s disease.
Cystic fibrosis is the most common genetic disease affecting Caucasians
in the United States. It is characterized by thick, sticky mucus
that builds up and causes problems in many organs, especially the
lungs and pancreas. Treatment usually consists of preventing damage
to the major organs such as the lungs, controlling infections and providing
nutritional supplements to offset the malabsorption of nutrients.
Dennis Rosen, M.D., Division of Respiratory Diseases, Children’s
Hospital Boston and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Harvard
Medical School, states, “Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects
every cell of the body. The course of the disease is extremely variable.
Doctors try to prevent damage to the organs. Hopefully, one day there
will be a cure.”
14 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
treating
genetic Diseases
by linda r. price
Many disorders are multiple-gene disorders called multifactorial
disorders. People can also have reduced penetrance where the gene is
not wholly dominant or recessive. This person may show milder symptoms
if they have only one recessive gene, but a full-blown disorder if
they have two copies of the gene.
Another class of genetic disorders is chromosome disorders caused
by an extra or missing chromosome. In Down syndrome or trisomy 21,
the patient has three copies of chromosome 21. Other diseases with
chromosome abnormalities include Turner syndrome, Klinefelter
syndrome and cri du chat (cry of the cat or cat’s cry) syndrome.
Occasionally, spontaneous genetic mutations occur. In achondroplasia,
a type of dwarfism, 90 percent of the children born with
the condition have parents without the condition. Yet, when the child
grows up, he or she will pass the gene on to his or her children following
the laws of autosomal dominant inheritance patterns.
“We can’t change our genes, but knowing genetic risks leads to
earlier and better diagnosis, management and treatment,” says David
Stockton, M.D., Chief of Genetic and Metabolic Disorders of The
Children’s Hospital of Michigan, part of the Detroit Medical Center.
Dr. Stockton believes that a key to recognizing and treating genetic
diseases is recognizing atypical symptoms that present. Knowing your
medical history, as well as that of your family, is necessary for any area
of medicine, but especially true when considering whether or not a
disease has a genetic component.
Doctors can evaluate a 20-year-old patient presenting with breast
cancer more accurately if they know whether or not her grandmother,
mother and sister had breast cancer. If they did, doctors would un

doubtedly assume that there is a genetic predisposition to the disease and
recommend a more aggressive treatment than they would for a 40-year
old woman with no familial history of the disease.
In other cases, doctors may be unaware of the genetic component
in a disease or disorder. Patients may have symptoms for years without an
accurate diagnosis being made. In these cases, the patient may engage
in “doctor shopping,” seeking relief without getting results. A good idea
in these cases is to move up the ladder of professionals until you reach
specialists in the specific area, or a teaching hospital where doctors are
more familiar with rare diseases and unusual symptoms. Many times, a
local general practitioner never sees cases of rare genetic disorders.
Many geneticists believe that each human being carries five
to ten defective recessive genes. Future parents may be worried
about having a child with genetic diseases, especially if there is a
family history of a specific genetic disease. For those concerned,
many medical centers offer genetic testing and genetic counseling.
A genetic counselor can help prospective parents determine if they
are at risk of having a child with genetic problems. Genetic testing
provides knowledge, and with knowledge comes responsibility. Many
far-reaching ethical, social and financial effects will undoubtedly
become more important issues to society in the future as genetic
testing becomes more common, and our understanding of how genes
interact with the environment becomes clearer. ■
Sources for this article are humanillnesses.com, medicinenet.com
and children.webMD.com.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 15

HERLIFE | integrative medicine
Micronutrient Testing:
Reduce Your Risk of Illness and Disease
by dr. lisa hunt | photo by dawn kelly
Did you know that 50 percent of people taking multivitamins
are STILL deficient?
studies have shown that 50 percent of patients taking a multivitamin
are functionally deficient in one or more essential nutrients that
are vital to long-term health. Many micronutrient deficiencies can
make a person more susceptible to disease, and lead to an overall decline
in the condition of health. Vitamin, mineral and antioxidant deficiencies
have been shown to suppress immune function and contribute to chronic
degenerative processes such as arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular
disease and diabetes.
Each micronutrient plays an individual and indispensable role in
promoting optimal functioning of all our cells. When some of our cells do
not function at their best, the foundation of our health is compromised,
setting the stage for the development of disease. By identifying and correcting
functional micronutrient deficiencies, you are taking an important step
Lisa J. Hunt, D.O., is the Medical Director of Valley Wellness Center in Modesto whose mission “is to build on every level of your
health to achieve the best quality of life.” She is Board certified in Family Medicine and Holistic and Integrative Medicine. She
specializes in anti-aging treatment, natural thyroid replacement, menopause/andropause therapy (including bio-identical hormone
replacement), strengthening the immune system, neurotransmitter analysis/replacement and nutritional support guidance.
16 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
toward long-term maintenance of optimal health.
Micronutrient testing measures your body’s ability to absorb 32
vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other essential nutrients within your
white blood cells. This non-fasting blood test tells you if you have a vitamin
deficiency and gives you a plan for how to correct it, thereby eliminating
your deficiency and any unnecessary spending on costly supplements.
Anyone who is interested in feeling his or her best can benefit from
micronutrient tests. Even people with healthy habits can have deficiencies.
Biochemical individuality, absorption, chronic conditions, age and lifestyle
influence individual micronutrient requirements. Even a healthy-looking
person can have micronutrient deficiencies that may only be revealed
through testing.
More importantly, micronutrient testing can not only help you reduce
the risk of illness and disease, but it can also help to ensure that you are getting
the nutrients you need! ■
Call today to 209-577-2799 to schedule
your micronutrient test!
Dr. Lisa Hunt

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 17

HERLIFE | beauty
simplify your
beauty routine
by rachel c. murphy
A
favorite moment in your day could
be waking up to a sunlight-filled
room and basking in the opportunity
that lies ahead. A cup of coffee, maybe
a croissant and you’re ready to face all of the
important tasks at hand.
Right. Most of us are thrilled about
the coffee, but wake up in a state of panic
at the long laundry list of things that must
be accomplished. Between work, kids and
marriage, making yourself feel beautiful can
come in low on your list of to do’s.
So why not streamline the process? According
to makeup artist Karin Barragato, there
are lots of tips and tricks to help make your
makeup routine a breeze instead of a burden.
One of the easiest, most overlooked ways
to simplify your beauty routine is from the
inside out. “Drink water and eat healthfully,”
says Barragato. While this may seem like common
nutritional advice, this is key to saving
time in the morning.
Barragato says that if the skin is properly
maintained, it takes less time to try and
rejuvenate skin. Part of maintenance is proper
hydration and finding the right products for
one of the simplest
and most overlooked
ways to streamline your
beauty routine is from
the inside out.
18 18 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
HERLIFEmagazine.com
your skin, whether it is dry, combination, oily or sensitive. With regular treatment, your skin’s
glow can be a great base to work from.
One of the most common things that many people forget or get too lazy to do is wash their
face. “You’d be amazed by how many people don’t take their makeup off before they go to bed
and that’s one of the most important things to do,” says Barragato. Starting with a clean foundation
in the morning saves time trying to erase the damage from the night before.
When it comes to makeup, Barragato says to start thinking of your favorite products in
new ways. “By mixing in a little foundation into your favorite moisturizer, you get the same fast
results as a product that’s made to save a step, but you know you like the texture and consistency
of it,” says Barragato. Many of the tinted moisturizers on the market tend to be heavy or oily, but
by mixing your own, you ensure that you’ll be happy with the results.
Other double duty products can include an eye shadow that doubles as eyeliner when
used wet, or blush that adds a flattering lift to eyelids. “Just because you have a powder palette
that you call blush, doesn’t mean that you can’t put it on your eyelids,” says Barragato. She says
that the mineral powders that have gained in popularity recently are particularly great for this

purpose.
Another cheek color trick is using a gel or stain on lips. The rosy
glow of the tint will give a natural flush to lips. Conversely, creamy
lip color can be applied to the cheeks with a dampened cosmetic
sponge. Care should be taken with shades to avoid too bright color all
over the face.
Clear mascara is a lifesaver for a finished look without looking
overly made up. It works to set the lashes and keep powders from eye
shadow from falling into lashes. The same trick works with eyebrows,
making sure your eye-opening arch stays put all day. A little hairspray
on an eyebrow brush will also do the trick, says Barragato.
Some of the old standbys are still in place, she says. For puffy,
sleepless night eyes, a dab of Preparation H will help reduce swelling
and help fake a few hours of sleep. This trick is widely used in the
modeling industry. A quick line of white eyeliner along the inner lash
line will also brighten eyes. The white reflects against the whites of the
eyes making them seem brighter.
Barragato says that a lot of products that claim to be double duty
are simply the same colors in different packaging. “If you’re savvy and
realize that they are marketing the whole kit and caboodle, you can
save yourself a little money in the process,” she says.
Your morning ritual doesn’t have to be stressful. All it takes is a
couple of glasses of water and some smart uses of color and pretty soon,
your face will be polished and professional, with a couple of minutes to
spare for some extra shut-eye. Two goals accomplished!
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 19

HERLIFE | cosmetic surgery
Q: I am interested in liposuction but the more I read about
between them?
A :
it on the Internet, the more confused I get. There seem to
be so many different methods. What are the differences
Liposuction is certainly one of the most popular cosmetic
procedures performed worldwide. The appeal of liposuction
is based on its conceptual simplicity and high rate of patient satisfaction.
Technically, liposuction is performed via the use of a very thin
tube with lots of holes in it (cannula) which is connected to a highpowered
suction machine. In theory, the fat is simply “vacuumed” away.
Because the cannula is quite small, the procedure can be done through
very small incisions. Most surgeons inject a large volume of water into
the area to be treated (tumescent technique) in order to soften the fat to
be removed. Liposuction devices themselves fall into four categories: (1)
basic, hand-powered suction; (2) machine-powered assisted suction; (3)
ultrasound-assisted suction; and (4) laser-assisted suction. The machinepowered
suction machines are “unfriendly” to use due to the intense
vibration of the hand-piece. The ultrasound-assisted and laser-assisted
systems are very expensive, and there is very little consensus among plastic
surgeons that these particular devices are, in fact, any better than the
simple hand-powered system. In fact, a recent plastic surgery journal
article compared the cosmetic results achieved from all of the above
techniques, and found no significant difference between the test groups.
In my practice, I prefer and have had great success with the reliable,
basic suction hand-piece.
20 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Q: I absolutely hate those “smoker’s” lines all around my lips.
What’s worse is that I’ve never smoked. What can be done
to make them go away?
A: Wrinkles and lines around the mouth are one of the most
common problems we see in cosmetic surgery. They result
from three primary causes: decreased volume and thickness of the lips;
loss of elasticity of the lips; and repetitive motion. There is no “one treatment”
that can correct this problem. Instead, it takes a combination of
several treatments to make a true and lasting improvement. We usually
recommend a four-part program: (1) Prevent any further damage by enrollment
in a professional medical-grade skin program which should
include a good protective sunblock, a powerful moisturizer, antioxidants
to counteract damage that has already occurred and special transformation
growth factors to stimulate the formation of new collagen within
the skin; (2) Restore missing “volume” to the lips with a tissue filler like
Juvéderm ® ; (3) HydraFacialMDTM treatments to the area which help
smooth the skin via exfoliation (like a microdermabrasion) but also intensely
hydrate the skin; and (4) Resurfacing treatments which tighten
the skin. There are a number of different resurfacing options including
dermabrasion, chemical peel, laser and electrodessication. Each option
has advantages and disadvantages, and these must be carefully discussed
in detail before moving forward with treatment. In our experience, patient
satisfaction is high, but results can take months to materialize.
If you have questions or would like to hear about a certain topic relating to
cosmetic surgery or skin care, please email your questions to
Kimberly@herlifemagazine.com

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 21

HERLIFE | inspirations
22 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Aggie Bonpua
s h A r i n g A m e s s A g e i n A b o t t l e
Aggie Bonpua, founder of Soulmates Wines, is very much like the
delicious blends she creates: innovative, inspiring, delightful,
engaging, unique, artful, spirited, satiating and, yes, even a bit
intoxicating when it comes to her love of life. When you are with
her, you can’t help but want to know more. Talkative and inventive,
words flow from her mouth with enthusiasm and excitement for every
single aspect of her life. She has traveled a rather circuitous path
to get to where she is today, and not without heartache along the way.
Fueled by her fierce determination to carry out a legacy inspired by
her late brother Louie, Aggie is an entrepreneurial force with which
to be reckoned, yet very much the girl-next-door all at the same time
who, if given the opportunity, would spend every day chasing a little
white ball around 18 holes of lush greens.
“I love, love, love golf,” she emphasized, an honorable infatuation
that was mentioned numerous times during our dialogue.
However, Aggie is more than an amateur golfer. And her story is one
that not only inspires, but leaves you feeling good about life itself.
Born in Cebu City in the Philippines, Aggie and her parents,
along with her 5 siblings, moved to the United States in 1981 when
she was 11 years old, settling in California with promises of a better
life here in America. That agenda, however, was somehow lost on
her initially, as she questioned how, at the time, it was better.
“We came to America, all eight of us, and had to live in a house
that was much smaller than the one from which we came. When I
entered school here, I was already far more advanced academically
than the kids in my grade. It was quite an adjustment for me,” Aggie
recalled, emphasizing that it truly was a humbling experience.
From humble experiences, however, rise great successes. The
youngest of those six kids, Aggie quickly adapted to her new environment.
Despite the inherent challenges that come with integrating
by ann e. butenas
photos by bre baszler of bw black & whites photography
hair and make up by melanie clardy
wardrobe by flair boutique
shot on location at viaggio winery
into a new culture, in retrospect, Aggie is grateful to her parents for
bringing them here.
“I soon grew to enjoy living here, but because I had left the
Philippines at age 10, I was still able to absorb the culture and hold
fast to its traditions, and I can still speak the language fluently,” she
noted. “Throughout the years, my parents gave me the tools I needed
to be successful in life, and for that I am grateful.”
Since 1981, Aggie has returned to her native land three times,
all within the past 18 months. Because she embraced her new life
here, she simply had no time to make that long journey back. Besides,
with Aggie, everything is truly about looking forward.
Aggie attended high school in Stockton and upon graduation
moved to South Lake Tahoe where she resided for nine years. She
worked at Caesar’s Palace as a hostess in a restaurant. “My parents
weren’t too happy about that move,” recalled Aggie. “Educated as
lawyers, they wanted me to go to college. I took a course here and
there to appease my parents, but I found I would much rather be out
on the ski slopes.”
By the time she turned 21, Aggie became a dealer in the casinos
and, as she puts it, “lived the life, I tell you!” Her work gave her the
opportunity to meet celebrities of all kinds and rub elbows with the
elite. She was having the time of her life!
Her social life was also expanding, and she soon met a man
whom she eventually married and with whom she had a child. They
decided to return to California and moved in with Aggie’s parents
while he pursued his nursing degree. Life intervened and the two
later divorced. Aggie stayed with her parents and raised her daughter,
now almost 17, as a determined single mom.
Aggie eventually brought smiles to her parents’ faces as she
earned her degree in marketing from California State University
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 23

at Sacramento while simultaneously working as a representative of
Young’s Market, a wine and spirit distributor. “Prior to developing
Soulmates Wines, that was my only experience in the wine industry,”
Aggie laughed.
It was during her time as a single working mom pursuing an
education that her relationship with Louie, the oldest of the Bonpua
clan and six years Aggie’s senior, intensified. “We were always close,”
Aggie reflected. “Growing up, we just seemed to have a natural affinity
for one another. He was a good big brother, always looking out
for me with one of his many lectures, but he was also very funny! He
truly was my soulmate in a way.” That soul mate attraction is what
inspired Aggie to create her Soulmates Wines business.
Louie was a successful business
analyst working in the Silicon
Valley when he was diagnosed with
leukemia in 1997. For five years
he struggled with the disease but
never allowed it to define him. Despite
his illness, he was a champion
among champions and became
very well-recognized in northern
California for his involvement in
the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
(LLS), not only as a face of
the organization, but as a dedicated
triathlete who trained and participated
in more than 15 triathlons
and in an Ironman triathlon in Penticton, Canada, with Leukemia
and Lymphoma Society Team in Training’s San Francisco Chapter.
For Louie, determination, perseverance, endurance and zest for
life weren’t just slogans. They represented a lifestyle—one to which
he remained fiercely loyal until his last breath. It was Louie who saw
the same intense passion in Aggie and who encouraged her to go
out in the world and make her mark, knowing she had what it took
to carry on not only his legacy but to create her own. It is in Louie’s
memory that Soulmates Wines carries on his strength, inspiration
and above all, his love.
And in typical Aggie Bonpua-style, developing her brand was an
adventure all its own. Louie passed away before Aggie graduated from
college, but in his passing left Aggie an inheritance that would allow
her to pursue her ambitions. Louie had no doubt that Aggie defined
success, and even in his death, he still championed and supported
his little sister.
It was about that same time that Aggie’s parents divorced. Her
mom said that Aggie could have the house in which they had been
living. Instead, Aggie sold it and had a larger home built for her
mom, herself and her daughter. It was through that endeavor she met
Paul Alba, now her husband, who, like Aggie, is not afraid to spread
his entrepreneurial wings and soar.
“We own two medical extrusion companies along with the
24 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
wine company,” said Aggie, who noted that after they were married,
they visited Hawaii for a vacation and decided it would be nice to
live there. So, they simply opened a laundromat there to support
that dream.
“We lived in Hawaii and I would fly back to California every
few weeks,” recalled Aggie. However, when that got to be a bit too
much and then she got pregnant with her son, now six, she decided it
would be best to return to California.
Paul then opened his second medical extrusion company while
Aggie pondered what to do next. A fortuitous phone call from an old
high school friend who said he had begun to make wines and suggested
she join him gave Aggie a new path to follow.
“With the money Louie left
me and the proceeds of the house
I sold, I was able to invest in the
business and see what happened,”
she said. But she had one condition:
the wine had to be her creation
using her recipe. Over the
next few months, Aggie blended
wine in the office that she shares
with her husband for up to three
hours a day. “Oh, yeah! That part
was fun!” she joked.
Once the blend was established
and all legal aspects of
the business were covered, it was
time to put it out there. However, Aggie is not one to do such things
minimally. Again, thanks to the gifts her brother left her, along with
a little help from her husband, Aggie was able to choose the most
elegant Zinfandel bottles in which to package her premium bottles
of wine. The tin foil comes from Spain, the labels Aggie designed
were ordered from a Napa company, and even the corks are top-ofthe-line.
“Nothing was spared. Everything was done top-notch,” she
emphasized.
The first bottle was released in December 2010 and has been
gaining recognition ever since. It is enjoyed at the Fairmont Hotels
in Northern California, at a local country club and at a French restaurant
in Stockton. Remaining committed to Louie, for every bottle
sold, one dollar is donated to LLS. Additionally, in honor of the tenth
anniversary of Louie’s death this year, the bottles are being sold for
half-off their usual price.
“Louie was quite the ham,” Aggie reflected. “Through his involvement
in LLS, he became very well-known and there is even a triathlon
established in his name in San Francisco. I am blessed that I now get
to carry on his legacy. Life isn’t always perfect, but it seems to work out
as it should. Louie used to kid me that I would always try to steal his
spotlight. In a way, I do that now. I am the female Louie.” ■
For more information on Aggie, Louie and Soulmates Wines, call
209-462-9463 or go online at soulmateswines.com.
“Growing up, we just seemed to have a
natural affinity for one another. He
was a good big brother, always looking
out for me with one of his many lectures,
but he was also very funny! He truly
was my soulmate in a way.”

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 25

HERLIFE | spotlight
college kids have it so good these days, don’t they? Back in
my collegiate days, I had to live in an old dorm that probably
housed more insects and rodents than it did students. Okay, so I
exaggerate a little, but one peek into the spectacular and sophisticated student
living spaces at the University Lofts and Waterfront Hotel makes me
want to return to school so I can experience the wonder of living in such
classy and elegant digs embraced by a warm and welcoming environment.
If this is college life, I am going for the five-year plan!
Warren Porter, General Manager of the hotel, is just as enthused as
I am, and for good reason. These stunning lofts, adjoining the gorgeous
Waterfront Hotel, are breathing new and vibrant life into the downtown
arena. Just minutes from the University of the Pacific and the San Joaquin
Delta Community College, the staff at the University Lofts invites students
to experience an upscale and sophisticated living environment that bears
little resemblance to your parents’ dorm rooms of yesteryear. In fact, residents
here might just feel as if they have arrived at an exclusive resort.
This seven-story, full-scale residential student housing building sits
on what many consider to be prime waterfront property offering 51 suitestyle
lofts and 42 condo-style lofts. Step into one of the three elegant yet
functional floor plans and try to contain your enthusiasm as you discover
each loft comes fully equipped with a flat screen TV with Blu-ray player
and Bose ® by ann e. butenas | photos by briggs photography
University Lofts
outdoor meeting social space, the outdoor heated pool and spa area and
courtyard, free Wi-Fi and complimentary Starbucks coffee to jump-start
their day or keep them awake as they study for final exams.
Even though this residence does not sit on campus property, students
can still get to class on time without the added worry of relying upon a
vehicle or hitching a ride from a friend. “We offer shuttle service to and
from the school,” noted Warren.
The University Lofts offers three spectacular floor plans: the Mustang
Loft, the Tiger Loft and the Penthouse. At 1,425 square feet, the Mustang
floor plan houses up to four students; at 1,831 square feet, the Tiger Loft
houses four to five students; and the Penthouse, a spacious 2,172 square
feet of living space, accommodates four to five students.
“Each unit comes with a good-sized kitchen complete with a stove
and refrigerator. Each loft has a half bath for guests to use, and each bedroom
has its own bathroom as well,” said Warren.
While one might wonder if hotel guests might take issue with college
students sharing the same building, nothing could be further from
the truth. “So far, everything is going very well. Everyone gets along
great,” expressed Warren, who noted that the lofts enjoy a separate
entrance from the hotel.
It’s worthy to point out that the University Lofts are very quiet and
surround sound. Relax comfortably in the furnished leather highly conducive to studying. What seems to be missing is the noisier
furniture. Enjoy weekly cleaning service and indulge in room service from atmosphere typically associated with on-campus dorms. Perhaps students
the hotel’s restaurant, Delta Bistro and Lounge, at a 20 percent discount. can convince their parents that higher grades will be one of the most
In addition to such exciting amenities, student residents also have promising results of living in the lofts! While some students moved in
access to the hotel’s workout facility, 10,000 square feet of indoor and as early as last March, the move-in date for the upcoming school year
26 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

is August 15, with an academic lease that runs through the end of May.
Semester leases are also available.
Of course, once the studying is done and it’s time to kick back
and relax, the staff at the University Lofts leaves no stone unturned.
“We have an amazing staff that truly makes every day fun for our residents,”
said Warren. “We offer a variety of programs and activities such
as movie nights and meet and greet events. We are focused on building
a strong community here.”
student residents also have access
to the hotel’s workout facility,
10,000 square feet of indoor and
outdoor meeting social space,
the outdoor heated pool and spa
area and courtyard, free Wi-Fi and
complimentary starbucks coffee to
jump-start their day or keep them
awake as they study for final exams.
Enjoy living the high life in downtown Stockton at the University
Lofts. While getting a great education should be your first priority, it’s good
to know that when you need a study break, you are just minutes away from
numerous attractions in the newly-revitalized entertainment district such
as: Stockton Arena; Banner Island Ballpark; Weber Point Events Center;
Bob Hope Theatre; Stockton Cineplex Plaza; and the Miracle Mile.
“When this project was begun, the developer, Patrick Willis, wanted
to provide exciting energy to the downtown area,” emphasized Warren.
“It’s working. People love it here.” ■
For more information, visit the University Lofts and Waterfront Hotel at
110 W. Fremont Street in Stockton, California, call them at 209-323-3056 or
go online at universitylofts.org.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 27

Village
HERLIFE | cravings
Baking
Company
28 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by adriana brogger | photos by bre baszler, bw black & whites photography
Located in Modesto’s McHenry Village, Village Baking Company
has been a staple in the community for years. It has been the go-to
place for yummy baked treats, and more recently they added new
delicious lunch fare. I sat down with owner Joanne Ramos to find out
what makes it such a great local restaurant.
Every month I get to eat delicious food artfully prepared by brilliant
and soulful chefs, and sit down with passionate local business owners.
Every experience is a celebration of good food and community. Each of
the stories is unique and memorable. This month, Joanne’s story really
touched my heart and resonated with me as a fellow woman with a
dream. And, that is, in my opinion, the soul of HERLIFE Magazine.
Joanne says that the time she has owned Village Baking Company
has been the hardest working time in her life. “It was a tough transition
but we’ve weathered the storm. I don’t know why my staff stuck it out with
me that first year. I guess it’s just because my attitude was that I can’t fail.”
Joanne was the first person in her family to go college. Throughout
her college career, Joanne worked for an employer who valued community
and education. This employer offered her an amazing deal: stay and
manage his business and he would pay for her education. That experience
helped shape her interactions with employees and her community.
She is eager to be involved and looks for ways to pay it forward.
After years of being a successful accountant and crunching numbers,
the opportunity to own Village Baking Company presented itself.
Joanne weighed the decision carefully and knew that there would be
risk involved, but decided to go for it. “What does that CPA know about
running a restaurant?” That’s what Joanne felt some people thought
about her in the early days. Before she came on board, the baking wasn’t
done in-house. She invested in equipment and local culinary talent. Her
business started out as an uphill battle. But things have improved and
this year’s sales are exceeding last year’s. It’s a trend Joanne wants to see
continue.
She’s learned a lot about the culinary arts. Joanne made it a point to
stock her kitchen with brilliant, creative people. The passion her staff has
for the food they prepare is evident in the taste and the presentation. This
brings us to my favorite part—the food!
One of my favorite dishes was an amazing rustic artisan pizza—
it was phenomenal! Joanne challenged her staff to come up with an
incredible pizza and they delivered. There are seven signature pizzas
on the menu, but you can customize yours to your heart’s content.
The sourdough alone is a two-day process that yields the most incred-

ible and freshest bread around. Do yourself a favor
and try the pizza. We were also served an amazing
spread of salads, hamburgers, pizza, pasta, bruschetta
and more.
Everything that we tried that day was so good.
Joanne and her staff are committed to providing their
guests with the delicious, high-quality food they deserve.
They use local ingredients whenever possible and
maintain high standards with every dish.
Village Baking Company is also known for its
amazing pastries. I now know why because I have
experienced the glory. Oh yeah, the three little words
every girl needs to hear at least once in her life:
Death By Chocolate. For those of you uncommon
creatures who aren’t into chocolate, there are other
cake combinations such as strawberry and basil syrup,
strawberry jam, kiwi and white cake, and the list goes
on! We also enjoyed gorgeous chocolate flower cups
filled with amazing raspberry and chocolate mousses.
Another amazing dessert you can order is French
crepes. Yum!
Village Baking Company also offers AMAZING
custom cakes! Seriously, their creations rival the work
of Food Network pros. Don’t take my word for it—
check out samples of their work on Facebook to see
for yourself.
Village Baking Company has a gorgeous patio
with comfortable seating that provides the perfect ambience
for any occasion. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a
quick cup of coffee with a pastry, a heartier breakfast or
to have lunch with a friend.
Joanne and her staff introduced beer and wine to
the menu this year. Check out their extensive list to find
the perfect complement to your meal. They are also
available for catering and private parties.
I loved the amazing food, the great service and
pleasant surroundings! Even more, I love knowing that
when we eat at these locally-owned and operated spots,
we are helping local families succeed. In this case, we
are helping Joanne Ramos live her dream and support
the sisterhood! ■
Village Baking Company is located at 1700
McHenry Avenue, #18 in Modesto. You can call
them at 209-522-9057 or find them online at
villagebakingcompany.com. Hours are 6:30am–
6:00pm Mondays–Saturdays, and 8:00am–4:00pm
Sundays. Breakfast is served until 1:00pm on
Saturdays and Sundays.
Adriana Brogger is an assignment editor and writer for the #1 rated television news
station in the Sacramento, Stockton and Modesto areas, KCRA – 3. When Adriana is not
working or spending time with her husband and four little boys she is buried in a textbook
as she pursues a Master’s Degree. She enjoys reading, writing, playing with makeup
and watching YouTube tutorials, until her real life of work, dishes, laundry and messy little
boys comes calling! If you know of a great local restaurant that would welcome a visit by
Adriana, please send an email to kimberly@herlifemagazine.com.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 29

HERLIFE | culinary
nuts about
nuts!
by carl e. johnston
I
have fond memories with my first run-in with nuts. I was about 21
years old, and had just started a catering company in Houston, Texas.
I knew this was what I wanted to do, but I didn’t really know how to
do it. When I landed my first job–36 deviled eggs–it took me about a
week to complete the order. After delivery, I made a follow-up call to
ensure everything was up to the customer’s satisfaction. Well, she was so
happy that she asked me if I could deliver 500 boxes of spiced nuts to her
for corporate gifts by December 20. It was Thanksgiving. I said, “Sure,
no problem. ‘We’ can handle that.” I hung up the phone, had a panic
attack and began my education about nuts.
My nuts were the best nuts I had ever tasted. They were inspected
for quality, tossed in egg whites and coated with my own secret spice
mix. They were so good, I decided to branch out and sell my nuts wholesale,
starting with a local gourmet food store. In my research, I learned
that sophisticated people called the part of the nut that we eat “nutmeats.”
My sales pitch to the owner of the gourmet grocery was going to
be that I had the finest, handmade, spiced, roasted nutmeats in Texas,
and that he should sell them. The big moment went something like this.
Him: These are really good. What do you call them?
Me: Um, meatnuts.
Him: Huh?
Me: Spiced meatnuts…and roasted.
Him: Okay, can you leave me five boxes? Thanks. Bye.
30 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
So, now I was a wholesaler. And I needed to know about nuts fast!
I learned that nuts were probably one of the earliest forms of food and
nutrition in our brief history. Nuts just lay there, waiting to be eaten.
They didn’t chase you or run away. As gatherers and eventually hunters,
prehistoric man was either looking for food or conserving energy to look
for more food (and a mate). If you study this lifestyle closely, you will see
distinct similarities between early man and teenagers.
Here are a few tidbits about the more popular nuts we enjoy.
PEANUT. This is not really a nut yet it’s perceived as one. Instead,
it’s a bean or legume. The roasted version is an American favorite at
sporting events, and the butter made from peanuts is an ageless staple in
school lunches. In the South, they are boiled in salt water before they are
fully “ripe” and are a favorite snack during the spring months.
PISTACHIO. These are my all-time favorite. They are grown
primarily in the Middle East yet are growing in popularity as a crop in
California and other Southwestern states. They are high in both potassium
and essential antioxidants.
MACADAMIA. We all know that macadamia means Hawaiian,
expensive and an excellent gift for all occasions and people you don’t
know too well. Did you also know they are high in monounsaturated fat
and considered a heart healthy food?
PECAN. This is the only nut indigenous to the Americas and as far

south as Mexico. The trees, which can be a hundred feet tall and hun-
dreds of years old, grow primarily in the Mississippi River Valley. George
Washington planted pecan trees at his Mount Vernon home. The trees
were a gift from Thomas Jefferson, who is credited with their initial
popularity in the South. And pies, pralines and turtle candies wouldn’t
be the same without them.
WALNUT. This nut was first introduced to the United States by
Spanish missionaries in the early 1800s and established primarily on the
California coast. Today, California is one of the largest producers of walnuts.
Walnuts are both high in protein and fatty acids, and when included
in a regular diet, can improve blood vessel elasticity and plaque build-up.
CASHEW. Originally native to northern South America, cashews
grow from a single seed at the end of a cashew apple. The “apple” is
used for fruit drinks in Latin America, as well being as fermented for
alcohol in India and Tanzania. Cashews are most commonly found in
Indian, Thai and Chinese cuisine. Cashews are high in iron, magnesium,
phosphorus, zinc, copper and manganese, which are utilized in
holistic health solutions and healthy diets.
ALMOND. The almond is primarily grown in and native to North
Africa and Asia. It can be ground and used to make “flour.” Or by adding
sugar, you can make marzipan, a confection used by chefs to form edible
replicas of almost anything. Filled with Vitamin E and proven to lower
cholesterol, the almond is a healthy and versatile nut.
Nuts to you until we meet again! ■
Sources for this article are wikipedia.com and health.com.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 31

HERLIFE | recipes
buffalo chicken Wonton cups
recipes and photography by kristen doyle
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless chicken tenders,
boiled and cubed
24 wonton wrappers
2 containers (6 ounces) plain
Yoplait Yogurt
Instructions:
½ cup prepared Buffalo Wing sauce
1 ½ cups shredded cole slaw cabbage
and carrots (without sauce)
1. Preheat oven to 425° F.
2. Line 2 cupcake pans with wonton wrappers. Bake 3-4 minutes until edges
are brown.
3. In a medium bowl, combine yogurt and wing sauce. Slowly add cubed
chicken and shredded cole slaw cabbage and carrots. Mix until well blended.
4. Place one large spoonful of chicken mixture into each prepared wonton
cup, filling each cup completely.
5. Place in the oven again, baking for 4 minutes or until mixture is warmed
throughout. Serve hot. ■
32 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

sweet and smooth strawberry banana smoothie
Ingredients:
1 banana
6 strawberries
1 cup vanilla yogurt
½ cup milk
2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into two glasses and serve cold. ■
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 33

HERLIFE | wine
Taste Fine Wines and
Create Your Own at
EstatE crush
As you sit there sipping on an alluring Albarino or maybe a
meaty Malbec, have you ever thought of taking your love of
wine to the next level?
Perhaps you’d like to explore a few different varietals that you
can’t even pronounce, or maybe even make your own batch of the
good life! Either way, Lodi’s Estate Crush can open up your palate to a
wine world of possibilities.
“The idea of Estate Crush is to produce small lots by high-end
means to achieve superior fine wines,” explains Bob Colarossi, one of
the managing partners in this one-stop shop, turnkey solution for sourcing
fruit, wine making, blending, labeling, packaging and delivering
finished cases.
Two couples make up the Estate Crush partnership: Bob and
Alison Colarossi, and Nick and Sandy Sikeotis. With an extensive
background in sports management, Bob took his high powered, can-do
mentality and blended it with Nick’s winery operations and financial
know-how and Alison’s communications, consumer brand building
and strategic management skills to create a custom crush facility and
tasting room the likes of which had not been seen in these parts. “We
started in 2009 with only an idea,” says Bob. “We built all of it over 3 ½
years. It’s not like when you buy a franchise from someone where you
buy the book. We wrote the book.”
34 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by fran benavidez | photos by estate crush
Estate Crush offers a large selection of small lot wines produced
onsite at their facility which services anyone interested in producing
their own wine. Bob shares, “We have a variety of different ways that
we work with clients. Some have their own fruit and specifically want
to use their fruit in the process (their Crush-to-Bottle program), while
others are looking for a certain varietal and have us source the fruit for
them. We can help with the legwork.”
The service is available to anyone, whether it’s an individual or a
group of friends who want to go in on a project together to make wine
(Estate Private Barrel program), or grape growers who want to see what
their fruit is capable of producing.
With a total of 16,500 square feet of working space, the facility
packs a punch with two barrel storage rooms, a full lab and production
area. Currently, the winery services about 65 clients making 120 different
wines each harvest. “From Albarino to Zinfandel and everything in
between,” says Bob.
If ever there was a time to consider expanding your horizons
and crafting your own wine, the time is now! Just imagine your ideas
and your palate joined by the powerhouse winemaking team of
Kaleb Vanderham and Senior Consulting Winemaker Heather Pyle
at your side.
Kaleb has worked at such notable wineries as Charles Smith/K-

Vintners in Washington, Angove Family Winery in South Australia and
Trinchero/Sutter Home Winery in St. Helena. As a student, he studied
winemaking in Switzerland, Italy and France, and earned his Enology
degree with a Chemistry minor from Fresno State University
A force in the wine world to be reckoned with, “Heather Pyle is
a highly regarded local winemaking consultant focused on premium
wines,” according to Alison. Her dossier of credits includes her long
and rewarding relationship with Robert Mondavi Winery, where
early on in her career, she was placed in charge of their Pinot Noir
program, followed by the winery’s Cabernet, Merlot and Reserve programs.
After 17 years, Heather left Mondavi to become a consulting
winemaker for start-up wineries in the Lodi appellation, Napa Valley
and throughout California.
After you’ve made your special wine, you might want to highlight
and sell some of it in Estate Crush’s Tasting Room! Located in the
now-defunct Weil Motors showroom, the eclectic interior features a
long tasting bar made of formed concrete with plenty of comfortable
seating that overlooks a cork-popping collection of over 50 wines available
for purchase, all produced at the facility.
A number of tasting flights are available as well as a DIY flight
where the discerning taster can select three samples of their choice.
Selections change monthly and the current list can be found on the
company website. Wines are also available by the glass.
“We really wanted to create a nice environment where you could
come in and have a lot of different wines to taste at the same time, see
the cellar, see where the wines are produced and depending on the
time of year, see the grapes being punched down,” says Bob. “It’s a
really fun business for us because every bottle here has a story. If you
grab a bottle, I can tell you where the fruit is from, what they were trying
to do, why they’re doing it and what it means for them. It makes for
a very unique experience here.”
Visit Estate Crush today and taste what could be your own story! ■
Estate Crush is located at 2 W. Lockeford Street in Lodi. Tasting
Room hours are Friday–Sunday from 12:00pm–5:00pm. Visit online at
estatecrush.com or call 209-368-7595.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 35

HERLIFE | spotlight
Sutter HealtH Centers
by ann e. butenas | photos by kristoffer heacox of lemonbread photography
Sutter Gould Medical Foundation, a Sutter Health affiliate,
has been providing quality healthcare to families in Central
Valley communities for over 60 years. As healthcare options
evolved, Sutter Gould ensured that its patients would have access
to care at their convenience. Urgent Care centers provide an option
for busy families and active lifestyles by providing care after hours
and on weekends. As a not-for-profit health care organization, Sutter
Gould Medical Foundation is home to a network of over 260
physicians and 26 specialties in the Central Valley–from obstetrics
to pediatrics to geriatrics–these compassionate individuals provide
services and technologies while adhering to the highest level of
safety. The Sutter Gould Medical Foundation remains fully vested
in the members of the communities it serves.
Danielle Powell, RN and Urgent Care Supervisor, oversees the
three Urgent Care centers serving the Central Valley in Stockton,
Modesto and Turlock. Danielle noted, “Each location offers an
extensive number of services, including treatments for sore throats,
ear infections, dehydration, rashes, broken bones, sprains and IV
medications. Each center also has full X-ray and CT scan capabilities
and labs. We keep up-to-date on all of the equipment to provide
the best in technologies.”
Supervising a staff of 50 between the three locations, Danielle
comments on the strength in those numbers. “We all work closely
36 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Urgent Care
together. It’s essentially a large team of leaders, each bringing to the
table their own set of skills, expertise and knowledge, and combining
those to benefit the patients,” she said. “Our number one priority is
patient care and satisfaction. However, we don’t just try to meet that
goal. We work to exceed that standard each and every day.”
It’s no surprise that accidents, injuries and illnesses do not
always occur at convenient times. They can happen anywhere, at
any time and on any day of the week. The dedicated staff members
of the Urgent Care centers understand this, and are there when
you need them. With extended hours throughout the week and
generous weekend hours, you can be seen by a qualified healthcare
professional in a timely manner. Their ability to accommodate
your busy lifestyle will put your mind at ease and give you one less
thing about which to worry when time is of the essence and feeling
better can’t wait. Consumers can also check wait times online at
sutterhealth.org. Their goal is not only to ensure your continued
good health, but to do so in a highly efficient, safe and satisfactory
manner. Providing online wait times and electronic features like
My Health Online connects patients to their provider and healthcare
information.
In fact, based upon responses generated through random
surveys completed by patients, the Urgent Care centers develop
continuous improvement measures from those responses. “We defi-

“Each location offers an extensive number of
services, including treatments for sore throats, ear
infections, dehydration, rashes, broken bones,
sprains and IV medications. Each center also has
full X-ray and CT scan capabilities and labs.”
nitely take the responses to those surveys quite seriously,” Danielle emphasized.
To uphold those high standards, continuing education for the entire staff is a top
priority. Their monthly training programs focus on patient care and satisfaction in which
teams work together to solve problems, address changes and implement improvements.
“The entire staff, from receptionists to physicians, all take part in our extensive continuing
education programs offered on-site through Sutter,” Danielle expressed.
As a supervisor, she champions her staff for their excellent work yet continually motivates
them to go above and beyond patient expectations. “We are never satisfied. There is
always room for improvement,” Danielle added. “The best part about this organization is
interacting with the patients, talking to them and giving them the exact care they need to
get them on the road to recovery and feeling better. That’s what it is all about for us.”
Just as compassionately as they give to their patients, Sutter Gould Medical Foundation
also extends a generous heart through their ongoing charitable endeavors. “Sutter
Gould Medical Foundation is community-focused and all of our Urgent Care centers cater
to each individual community, with hours and locations aimed at serving the needs of those
communities,” said Danielle. ■
For more information, visit the Sutter Health Urgent Care locations in Modesto at 600
Coffee Road, 209-550-4777, in Stockton at 2545 West Hammer Lane, 209-954-4040, and in
Turlock at 1015 East Main Street, 209-632-3909. Or go online at suttergould.org.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 37

HERLIFE | trendsetter
synowicki’s
Jewel box
125 s school st.,
downtown lodi
(209) 334-0095
38 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
photography by briggs photography
hair and make up by jessica van ruiten & melanie clardy
of perfect balance day spa
model noelle haddad of cast images

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 39

model melissa synowicki ezell
40 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

idal gown provided
by the elizabeth
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 41

42 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

wardrobe provided
by the elizabeth
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 43

wardrobe provided
by the elizabeth
44 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

idal gown provided
by the elizabeth
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 45

46 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 47

HERLIFE | mother’s perspective
How to combat Lice
and other cooties
school: the ideal picture is that our children leave us in the
mornings and enter a place that fosters their intellectual curiosity,
their creative natures and their social needs. With images of
amicable soccer games and melodic concerts, the ideal school day consists
of a solid balance of learning, friendships and individual growth.
Until that dreaded note comes home, the note that says another child
in your child’s class has the most dreaded of all cooties: lice.
Lice, the common and pronounceable name for over 3,000 species
of winged insects of the Phthiraptera order, are scavengers that feed on
the skin of their hosts. Humans can suffer from three forms of lice: head
lice, body lice and pubic lice. Most often, children are affected by head
lice. Schools, birthday parties and daycare centers are places that make
easy transfer from one infestation to another person and children who
commonly share hats, brushes and combs can share the creatures without
intentionally trying to.
Some symptoms of lice infestation include itching, swollen
glands in the back of the neck, a foul smell of the hair
and stretch marks along the hairline and on the
neck. An unmistakable sign of head lice
infestation is the presence of nits, defined
as eggs of a louse. Nits cluster close to the
scalp and might be difficult to see with just
a cursory glance. Many of those eggs will never
hatch, and an infestation is classified as the presence
of crawling lice. Schools typically have a school head
lice policy that dictates when all children are inspected for
lice, how parents are notified and when children who have
been affected by infestation are allowed back in school.
Often diagnosed by a school nurse, lice are highly
communicable and proper care must be taken at home even if it is
not your child who was diagnosed with an infestation. Most schools
will send home specific care instructions to help you eliminate nits
and the possibility of infestation, but there are a few general rules to
follow.
Inspecting the hair for nits is the first step. Sometimes gray in
color, the nits might also be pink or red and, if live, will be moving,
but do not jump or fly. Removing the nits with a special comb is
typically recommended, but some people use tape or tweezers to
remove nits as well. It is vital to check everyone in the house, as lice
are highly communicable.
48 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
at school
by lisa allen
some symptoms of lice infestation
include itching, swollen glands in
the back of the neck, a foul smell
of the hair and stretch marks along
the hairline and on the neck. An
unmistakable sign of head lice
infestation is the presence of nits,
defined as eggs of a louse.

Using a commercial lice shampoo is the next step for many people.
It is important to follow the directions exactly as prescribed, or to follow
the directions of your health care provider. The pesticides in some
treatments can be harmful if used incorrectly. A natural alternative that
some have tried with success is olive oil. The oil is thought to suffocate
the nits. Saturating the hair and scalp with olive oil and allowing it to sit
as long as possible before working through with a fine tooth comb might
be an option for some families.
Head lice can also attach to eyebrows and eyelashes, so it is
important to inspect and treat those areas as well. Coating the areas with
petroleum jelly works similarly to olive oil and might kill live nits and
allow for easier removal.
Another important step is to clean all bedding, stuffed animals, pillows
and other soft surfaces so that nits cannot thrive. Washing in a hot water
cycle and drying with high heat are recommended. Thoroughly vacuuming
carpets and upholstered furniture is also recommended.
Rechecking and watching for additional signs of nits is important,
as reinfestation is not uncommon. Typically checking every day for at
least a week is recommended. Of course, preventive measures should
be taken and include not sharing hats or head gear, stuffed animals,
clothing, brushes or combs. ■
Information for this article was gathered at wikipedia.com, cdc.gov/
parasites/lice/ and ehow.com. The information here should be verified with
your health care provider before taking a specific action.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 49

HERLIFE | spotlight
It seems that the most dynamic businesses stem from rather humble
means. Such is the case for Michele Salinas, owner of Live Well
Be Strong Fitness Studio in Stockton. As one who has always loved
working out, Michele decided to turn her guest bedroom into an exercise
room a few years ago, not only for herself, but to train a few friends.
“I obtained my personal training license at the time and basically
turned that room into a workout studio, asking one of my close friends to
be my guinea pig as I trained her initially,” recalled Michele. “After two
months of working out with me, she looked amazing.”
Those results provided the fuel Michele needed to summon the
courage to become a full-fledged personal trainer. Sooner than she expected,
that former guest room became the daily 5:30 p.m. class to a host
of friends as they all began to see exciting transformations in their bodies.
Michele was convinced! She would open her own fitness facility. The
guest room just couldn’t hold all of the interested participants.
“I had about ten people at a time working out in my home, and after
several months, I realized I needed to find a bigger place,” Michele noted.
“So, I rented 800 square feet of space in a local gymnastics building.”
While her clients got smaller in size, her classes grew larger, and
that space was quickly outgrown. “That was when I decided to bite the
bullet and open my own studio,” said Michele, who is also certified in
nutrition counseling.
In July 2010, the dream born in the guest room came to full fruition
with the grand opening of Live Well Be Strong. “It’s awesome,”
50 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by ann e. butenas | photos by briggs photography
Live Well Be Strong
Michele beamed. “I feel so blessed to be working with such an amazing
group of people. This is truly my calling—to work out and motivate
people to improve their fitness levels and health.”
It’s not just Michele’s naturally high level of energy, enthusiasm
and oh-so-approachable personality that draw people to her studio. It is
also the variety of classes, the quality of instructors and the results.
“We work with each individual to create a system, targeting weekly
fitness and nutrition goals,” explained Michele. “I am a firm believer
that once you see yourself at a certain place physically, mentally and
emotionally, you are halfway there.”
No excuses are necessary at Live Well Be Strong. In fact, they are
not allowed in the door. Embarrassed to work out in a group? Not sure
what to wear? Uncertain about how to use certain equipment or do
certain moves? Push those worries and fears aside. Michele and her
dedicated team work with you in a warm, welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
You never have to feel self-conscious here. Instead, you will feel
energized, renewed and excited about achieving your goals.
After your first free class, unlimited workouts start at just $45 per
month and you will be on your way to feeling your best! Among the
exciting classes offered include Turbo Kick, which marries kickboxing
moves with dance moves for a great cardiovascular workout; Turbo Fire,
a 30-minute, no-impact, intense turbo workout; Circuit, a self-paced way
to go through the circuit training; Piyo, which uses elements of Pilates
and Yoga to improve flexibility; Hip Hop Hustle, a fun and “no experi-

Fitness Studio
ence required” dance class; Piloxing, which incorporates Pilates and
boxing moves for a one-of-a-kind, high-intensity, body-sculpting workout;
Sculpt and Tone, which helps tighten those muscles once you have
burned off the fat; and Brazilian Bootie whose name speaks for itself. You
can also take part in the ultimate Boot Camp workout! If you prefer oneon-one
sessions as opposed to group classes, Michele will work with you
there, too. “I am all about motivating people, whatever it takes,” she said.
Always thinking forward, Michele is continually re-inventing herself
and is designing her own workout routine she calls D.I.V.A. - Desire,
Inspire, Visualize, Achieve. After all, if you can see it, you can achieve
it, and Michele will be with you every heart-pumping, pulse-pounding,
sweat-inducing step of the way.
If you truly desire to kick start your workout routine, get that body
you always wanted and feel like a million bucks, then be sure to give
Michele a call.
“I was formerly in the Army, and during my service, I was forced to
really push myself physically,” noted Michele. “However, I am not perfect.
I have my days. Just like any other person, I will gain a few pounds
every now and again, but then I just get back into my workout routine
and am right where I want to be. Besides, it’s also about having fun. We
offer plenty of that here.” ■
For more information, visit Live Well Be Strong Fitness Studio
at 7135 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California, call 209-472-1586 or go
online to livewell-bestrong.com.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 51

HERLIFE | green living
by lisa taranto butler
taking the confusion out of buying organic
Are you in an organic panic? Confused about which products
to ponder when it comes to natural, untreated and unrefined?
Don’t even know what organic means? If you answered
‘yes’ to any of the previous questions, you are not alone. Many savvy
shoppers are organically challenged.
As defined by the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic
refers to the way agricultural products–food and fiber–are grown and
processed. Organic food production is based on a system of farming
that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic
and persistent pesticides and fertilizers. To the average shopper, this
means that foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients,
preservatives or irradiation to maintain the integrity of the food.
With that in mind, eating healthy can be frustrating and time-consuming.
With all the organic goods on the market, buying pesticidefree
can be puzzling. But not all organics are created equal. In an
uneasy economy, most families must pick and choose their health
battles. Organic foods are good for you and good for the environment,
but they can be tough on the pocketbook, so choose wisely by buying
organically the foods with a high pesticide residue.
Here are some of the foods that are best bought organically, and a
few reasons that make all the organic hoopla worthwhile.
APPLES
An apple a day does not keep the chemicals away. This is one
food very susceptible to large amounts of sprayed pesticides as farmers
try to keep insects and fungus at bay. The apple’s sisters–apple juice
52 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
and applesauce–are also pesticide perpetrators. Peeling apples reduces
residue, but also takes away beneficial nutrients, so buy organic just to
be sure.
PEACHES
This tree fruit with slightly hairy skin harbors pesticides. Fresh
peaches taste so good, but canned peaches have less chemical residue.
Opt for organic or safer options like watermelon, tangerines, oranges or
grapefruit.
CELERy
We love to crunch on this green go-getter, but recent United
States Department of Agriculture (USDA) tests have found more than
60 different pesticides on celery. If you can’t find organic celery in your
market, try a safer, crispy substitute like radishes, broccoli and onions.
NECTARINES
Nothing beats a little fresh nectarine juice running down your
chin after a juicy bite, but imported nectarines are highly contaminated.
Buy domestic for less pesticide residue, but choose organic
for overall health. If organic nectarines are hard to find, try mango,
pineapple or papaya for a change of pace.
STRAWBERRIES
In a study conducted by the USDA, 90 percent of the strawberries
sampled were found to be contaminated with pesticides. Safer choices

the clean 15
Organic foods can cost 20 to 100 percent more than nonorganic.
If purchasing pesticide-free has you pinching your
pocketbook, then consider buying more of these products that
the USDA considers safer from contaminants:
1. Onions
2. Sweet corn
3. Pineapple
4. Avocado
5. Asparagus
6. Sweet peas
7. Mango
8. Eggplant
are kiwi and pineapple since each have skin that can be peeled which
keeps contaminants from penetrating to the edible part of the fruit.
IMPORTED GRAPES
If you are a grape lover, stick to munching the local kind. Because
they are not monitored as well as the domestic varieties, most imported
grapes house more bug repellant on their thin skin.
SPINACH
9. Cantaloupe (domestic)
10. Kiwi
11. Cabbage
12. Watermelon
13. Sweet potatoes
14. Grapefruit
15. Mushrooms
When it comes to leafy greens, spinach ranks high for pesticides.
Continued on page 54
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 53

54 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Instead of opting for the canned version (not so tasty), go for organic.
Even frozen spinach is found to carry countless chemicals.
POTATOES
When it comes to one of America’s favorite veggies, the spud is no
dud. We like our potatoes—baked, fried, hashed and mashed. But those
tots can be hot with residue. Aim for organic taters or try sweet potatoes
which are healthier and carry less chance of pesticide remains.
Other foods that make the “buy organic” list include cherries,
lettuce, pears, milk, peanut butter and beef. However, most experts note
that the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables–whether organic
or not–outweigh the risks of consuming pesticides so aim to get as many
servings as possible while still being cognizant of the contaminants.
GO LOCAL
An easy way to ensure you are getting the best for your body and
the environment is to buy local. While the taste and nutritional value of
organic food is superior to the processed industrial kind, the impact on
the environment is less as well. Shipping produce internationally is not
only unnecessary but it’s unhealthy since planes, trains and autos churn
out polluted air. Buying local ensures a safer, tastier crop, and gives
neighboring farmers a chance to thrive. ■
Sources for this article are ota.com and thedailygreen.com. To find a
farmer’s market near you, visit localharvest.org and type in your zip code.

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 55

HERLIFE | working women
Comparing the Pay
of Women and Men
there’s the old saying, “The more things change, the more
they stay the same.” Despite the rise of women to C suites
and executive offices, and press that touts the power of
women in business and the near-world-domination of Oprah Winfrey,
when it comes to the pay differences between men and women,
the gap is alive and well.
President Obama announced the release of a new report by
the White House Council on Women and Girls, titled “Keeping
America’s Women Moving Forward,” at a White House Forum on
April 6, 2012. At the time, President Obama acknowledged the
continued pay gap between men and women, saying, “Overall, a
woman with a college degree doing the same work as a man will earn
hundreds of thousands of dollars less over the course of her career.”
President Obama has said that closing the pay gap is about more than
just equity in compensation; rather, he says, it is about strengthening
56 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by lisa allen
families, community and the economy at large.
Statistics have remained largely unchanged in the recent past.
In 2010, women’s earnings were 77.4 percent of men’s, compared
to 77 percent in 2009. Both men’s and women’s earnings showed
slight increases from 2009 to 2010 with men earning an average of
$47,715 to a woman’s $36,931. According to Census data, 50 years
ago women earned 61 percent of what men earned. While full-time
working women earn less than full-time working men in every state,
the wage gaps vary. The District of Columbia boasts the smallest
wage gap, where women earn 91.4 cents to a man’s dollar, while
Wyoming claims the most disparate rates. Women in Wyoming
represent only 63.8 percent of men’s earnings.
Not all women earn less than their male counterparts, however.
Data compiled by Bloomberg showed that female personal care and
service workers, which includes the likes of butlers, valets, house sitters
and shoe shiners, earned $1.02 for every $1.00
their male counterparts made in 2010. That
job category, which includes 38,210 full-time
workers in the U.S., was the only one of 265
major occupations where the number of
both female and male workers exceeded
10,000.
On the opposite end of the spectrum,
the six occupations with the largest pay gaps
are in the financial sector. Insurance agents,
managers, clerks, securities sales agents, personal
advisers and other specialists comprise
this group. A chief reason female professionals
earn less in the financial sector
is that they tend to take lower-paying
positions such as public finance,
rather than more lucrative roles
like trading desks. The lack of
transparency is also an issue;
much of Wall Street salaries
are based on bonuses that are
kept under wraps.

Advanced-degreed professionals didn’t fare much better in
recent reports. Female doctors made 63 cents for every dollar earned
by a male physician. Among advanced-degreed professionals, female
lawyers report annual median earnings of $97,964, which is 78 cents
for every dollar earned by their male colleagues. Female university
professors, with a median salary of $55,282, earned 80 cents to their
male counterparts’ dollar.
Taking time off to care for children and aging parents is cited as
one reason female salaries suffer. Lower pay for female physicians has
long been attributed to an assumed prevalent choice of lower-paying
primary care specialties, yet a February 2011 Health Affairs study
by researchers at the University of Illinois – Chicago, Northwestern
University and Yale University found that the pay gap was consistent
even though fewer women join the ranks of primary care providers
now than in the past.
The job title of secretary might be the most illustrative of the
continuing battle for equal pay. Although 96 percent of the 2.6 million
secretaries and administrative assistants in the U.S. are women, they
are paid 87 cents for every dollar made by a male with the same title.
Female butlers currently buck the trend, earning slightly more
than their male counterparts. Unlike hairdressers, flight attendants
and registered nurses, all of whom make significantly less than males
in the same industry, the demand for female butlers seems to be on
the rise. ■
Sources for this article are pay-equity.org and businessweek.com.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 57

HERLIFE | finance
should your teen
It’s one thing to have a credit card, yet quite another to understand
the long-term impact of short-term credit card debt, interest, fees
and the like. In today’s plastic world, most teens are accustomed
to using a debit card rather than cash. Making the leap to a credit
card, however, is what some teens see as a rite of passage. Parents
might see it as more of a horror story waiting to happen, but knowing
when your teen is ready can help quell those fears.
A 2005 study by the Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy
revealed that about 32 percent of high school seniors use a credit
card. Half of those hold cards in their own names, and the rest use
a card issued in their parent’s name. Perhaps more sobering is the
statistic from Richmond Credit Abuse Resistant Education (CARE)
Program that the number of 18- to 24-year-olds declaring bankruptcy
has increased 96 percent in the past 10 years. Additionally, according
to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, more people filed for
bankruptcy than graduated from college in 2002.
The Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure
Act of 2009 (the Credit CARD Act), which was signed into law
by President Obama on May 22, 2009, was designed to eliminate
unfair credit card practices that had resulted in thousands of
complaints to regulators and legislators. The Credit CARD Act
requires credit card issuers to verify proof of income, or alternatively
require a co-signer, before issuing a credit card to
anyone under the age of 21. Issuers are no longer allowed
to send prescreened card offers to anyone under the age
of 21 unless they have consented to receive such offers,
and card issuers cannot raise the credit limit on an account
for persons 21 or younger with a co-signer without written permission
from the co-signer.
Perhaps one of the most notable changes is that card issuers
are now prohibited from providing free incentive items in
exchange for applications, as was the practice on so many college
58 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Have a credit card?
by lisa allen
campuses in years past. Despite the tightened restrictions, however,
the real issue is whether or not your teen is ready for the responsibility
of a credit card.
The upside for teens of obtaining a credit card in their own
name is the ability to establish a credit history earlier rather than
later. This only happens, of course, if your teen is responsible

enough to manage credit wisely. While it’s impossible to issue
a blanket statement that will apply to all teens, there are a few
guidelines that will help you determine whether the time is right
for your teen.
Evaluate how your teen has handled money in the past. Have
they saved their allowance, deposited birthday gift money and
dropped coins from their lemonade stand into their piggy bank? Or
were they ready to spend before it was even really theirs to spend?
The best time to instill sound budgeting principles is long before
they hit their teenage years.
the upside for teens of obtaining a
credit card in their own name is the
ability to establish a credit history
earlier rather than later.
Does your teen understand basic money management? Have
they worked through a budget, understand the concept of savings
and realize that income is subject to taxes? Credit cards are an
advanced subject that should be preceded by solid basic education.
Do they understand that credit cards are not free money?
They must realize that there are fees for delaying payment by bor-
Continued on page 60
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 59

60 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
rowing money from yourself in the form of a credit card. Do they
understand that credit card purchases should still be part of their
overall budget?
Have they mastered the concept of interest? Can they explain
why something costs more if they take longer to pay it off? Do they
realize that making a minimum payment can make an item exponentially
more expensive than the original sticker price?
The smartest way to understand whether or not your teen has a
solid grasp of these concepts is to make them privy to your budget.
By seeing actual figures and equations in play, they can understand
the tangible effects of credit rather than talking in vague terms.
Walking your teen through the specifics of each step of a
credit card transaction, from purchase to payment, can help them
understand not only the effects of credit but the logistics of managing
their credit history. It is vital to talk about the potential negative
impact poorly managed finances can have on their future, and to
ensure they understand that, when used wisely, stellar credit can
ease some of life’s financial challenges. By teaching them through
your example in ways big and small, from making online payments
before the due date to monitoring your credit card issuer’s Terms of
Use, you can not only set an example for financial responsibility but
truly understand when your teen is ready to undertake the responsibility
of a credit card. ■
Sources for this article are bankrate.com, money.usnews.com,
dfi.wa.gov and credit.com.

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 61

HERLIFE | home
62 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by kathleen m. krueger
the fall and winter months are often considered the prime time
of year for home remodel projects. Summers are busy with
weddings, family reunions and vacations, and spring is the
time when weather conditions, regardless of the climate, are at their
peak. It is a time for enjoying the fresh warmth of the sun, and planting
of gardens and flower pots. But any remodeling contractor will tell you
that fall and winter are their busiest seasons.
Because of that, finding a reputable remodeling contractor is
not something you will want to put off until the last minute. The best
contractors will generally have no trouble filling their schedules with
referrals from their past clients. If you have a remodeling project in
mind, it is best to begin your search for a contractor as soon as possible.
At the same time, be wary of being in too big of a rush to sign a
contract. Making the wrong choice in a remodeling contractor can
have devastating consequences. If you want to prevent your remodel
project from turning into a real-life sequel to the movie The Money Pit,
you should get referrals, develop relationships and do your research.
REFERRALS FROM FRIENDS
How to
choose a
remodeling
contractor
Ask friends, neighbors and coworkers for recommendations on
remodeling contractors that they have personally used. A firsthand
recommendation is still the best source you can get. Ask them about
items such as quality of work, timeliness in completing the project and
fairness in pricing. Also ask whether the contractor provided a written
contract, how he handled changes in the scope of work and whether
they were provided lien waivers for the work completed.
There is one important caution to follow when asking for referrals
from those you know. If the person is recommending a contractor
who is also one of their relatives, it should be noted that this is not an
unbiased recommendation. Be sure to seek out other references before
considering a contractor based on the words of a related party.
RELATIONSHIPS COUNT
It is easy to assume that the only thing that matters in a client/contractor
relationship is the price, quality of work and the timeline. But a good
communication channel with your contractor can be just as important,
especially when it comes to remodeling. Having a contractor who is accessible
and easy to communicate with regarding concerns and the progress
of your project can alleviate some of the stress that is a natural part of any
major project. A personality clash or poor communication between the
contractor and the homeowner will always be a detriment to the trust relationship
that is extremely important when having remodel work performed
in or on your home.
RESEARCH AREA CONTRACTORS
Recommendations and an amiable personality are great starting
points for choosing a remodeling contractor, but any reputable contractor
will not be the least offended by your taking time to research their reputation
and the facts that are presented in their portfolio. Verify with your
local building authorities that the contractor is indeed licensed to perform
work in your area, or ask them to provide a copy of any applicable state
and local licenses. Also, require a certificate of insurance be sent to you
directly from their insurance company before beginning work. A copy of
an insurance policy or a certificate of insurance provided by the contractor
themselves does not guarantee that the policy is still in force.

Angie’s List has become a reputable resource for finding the truth,
good and bad, about area contractors. It may provide the names of contrac-
tors in your area to add to your list of potentials and ones to avoid, but it
does require a membership fee to join the site and access that information.
If you choose to simply contact former clients from your contractor’s
reference list, ask that the references be ones that have had contracted for
a similar remodel. A reference from someone who had siding and window
replacement done may be of little value to you if your project is a kitchen
remodel or a porch addition.
Don’t limit your research to the remodeling contractor either. Be sure
to ask about subcontractors that may be performing portions of the work
such as plumbers, electricians, painters, etc. Asking for a list of the names of
subcontractors and material suppliers before the work begins also provides
you with a checklist for lien waivers that the remodeling contractor should
be supplying to you before you make your final payment on the project.
CONCLUSION
A remodel project requires many decisions, a significant amount of
expense and a period of disruption to your home. Taking the time to do
the three Rs of Referral, Relationship and Research will help minimize
your stress and the level of risk related to engaging a contractor to work on
your home. ■
Kathleen Krueger has over 20 years experience working in the construction
industry and frequently writes on construction topics for a variety
of sources.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 63

DOWNTOWN
L • O • D • I
BUSINESS
PARTNERSHIP
64 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 65

HERLIFE | scene and be seen
Lodi memorial Hospital Foundation summerFest 2012
photos by keith colgan
Lodi memorial Hospital Foundation hosted their annual
summerFest event on July 14 at Woodbridge Winery.
guests enjoyed gourmet food from local restaurants
and caterers, paired with wine donated by mondavi. the
evening was also filled with live entertainment, a raffle and
silent auction. For more information on Lodi memorial
Hospital Foundation, please visit lmhfoundation.org. to view
more photos from summerFest, visit lodi360.com.
van ruiten Winery Hosts rib cook-off
photos by kristoffer heacox
van ruiten Winery hosted its First Annual rib
cook-off on July 28. the event was sponsored by
Fat city griller supply as 30 teams competed in
the cook-off. guests enjoyed van ruiten wine, live music
by group therapy and great food! For more information on
events at the winery, please visit vrwinery.com.
66 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 67

unique boutiques–cash mob
photos by dawn kelly
the power of the purse cash mob at unique boutiques was held
in modesto on July 24. Lisa beers, the owner of unique boutiques,
and all of the local artists who sell their work out of unique
boutiques, were happy to support the power of the purse. twenty percent
of all sales made during the cash mob were donated to the power of the
purse. the power of the purse is a fantastic committee run by the Women’s
Leadership council of united Way. they support young people who have
aged out of the foster system, through the pathways program of center for
Human services, as well as many other programs focused on women and
youth. For more information, please visit modestouniqueboutiques.com.
LIve! At Lincoln center “recycle”
photos by gary jones
LIve! At Lincoln center “recycle” event on July 20 was
a blast for everyone who attended. the free Family
bike night & green Fair featured a 30-foot tall jumbo
slide, face painting, balloon animals, clowns, a party hopper,
and live music. Families rode their bicycles to the center, and
three lucky attendees won new bikes from performance bikes!
customers also enjoyed checking out the green expo, which
featured local companies that offer energy-efficient products
and services.
68 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 69

HERLIFE | travel
Little Known
Romantic Getaways
In the world of romantic getaways, there are two classifications. First,
there’s the destination that everyone at the cocktail party and their sister
has visited. You may recall having that moment when you mention a
certain place on your upcoming agenda and everyone within earshot starts
offering advice on where to go, stay and eat.
But then there’s the other category—the secret getaways that none
of your friends have been to. Luckily for you, we know of some of these
dreamy locations…
FORT BRAGG, CALIFORNIA
Ambiance is one of the most important details of a romantic getaway,
and you will certainly be enveloped by it in Fort Bragg, California. Between
the soft ocean breeze and blue waves crashing against the jagged rocks,
there’s something soothing about the Mendocino Coast.
The slow pace of this region makes it an ideal setting for enjoying the
simple things in life, like a fresh scoop of premium ice cream at Cowlick’s
Ice Cream Café, exploring the 100-year-old Point Cabrillo Lightstation
or taking a ride on the Skunk Train through the looming California
Redwoods. There are plenty of coastal nature trails providing wonderful
opportunities for sea life watching, including harbor seals, sea lions and the
seasonal migrating whales from December through April. It’s unlikely that
any other botanical garden has views comparable to the property of the 47acre
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Couples can easily spend hours
strolling through the forest trails, fern canyons, bluffs and colorful gardens.
As for where to retire for the evening, there are a number of bed and breakfasts
and inns, including the Victorian-style Little River Inn which has been
owned by the same family for five generations.
LAkE PLACID, NEW yORk
While Lake Placid hosted two Olympic Winter Games, you don’t
have to be an athlete to appreciate this charming Adirondack Mountain
town. However, if you and your sweetheart are active, this may be your
paradise. During the winter months, the atmosphere is full-on fun as it transitions
to a booming ski resort, while over the summer the region becomes
a glorious outdoor haven with near-perfect temperatures and endless oppor-
70 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by beth blair
tunities for fishing, boating, hiking, biking and even Olympic bobsledding.
The Lake Placid Olympic Museum celebrates the momentous moments
of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics and is open year-round.
Don’t miss the scenic drive up Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway
to the top of the 4,867-foot high Whiteface Mountain to explore the
native stone castle and hike to the peak for gorgeous 360-degree views.
LAkE CHARLES, LOUISIANA
The state of Louisiana has one of the richest cultures in the coun-
try. And while certain major cities tend to claim the spotlight frequently
throughout the year, this Cajun region has plenty of other welcoming
towns including the Festival Capital of the State, Lake Charles. Their
calendar is filled with 75 fair and festivals, which means there’s always
something going on. The outdoors draw is also pretty impressive, especially
on the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Often referred to as Louisiana’s
Outback, this rugged 180-mile trail welcomes guests to appreciate
all the region has to offer including wildlife habitats and estuaries and, not
surprisingly, alligators. Another trail that’s especially tempting for foodies is
Louisiana’s Seafood Sensation Culinary Trail featuring the best of southwest
Louisiana’s seafood concoctions.
LExINGTON, kENTUCky
Behind the miles of elegant white fences in Lexington, Kentucky, are
three things that thrive thanks to the limestone beneath the ground’s sur-
face: strong thoroughbred horses, aces of bluegrass and the state’s legendary
bourbon. The latter of the three lends itself to a special attraction called
the Bourbon Trail. Guests can dance from distillery to distillery to learn
about bourbon history, see the process in action, taste-test the end results
and enjoying the lush scenery and rolling bluegrass hills between stops.
The oldest and smallest distillery in Kentucky is Woodford Reserve, and in
addition to the Bourbon Discovery Tour, guests can enjoy the picnic on the
porch special to this location.
QUéBEC CITy, CANADA
It ends up that crossing an ocean in search of cobblestone streets and
foreign language isn’t necessary. Québec City, Canada’s first European
settlement, has managed to keep its French heritage intact even after 400
years, as you will see in the Historic District of Old Québec which was
formerly a “walled city,” though the ramparts still stand.
Overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the buildings’ old stone and
detailed architecture help keep the historic impression intact, as do the
delectable restaurants and shop offerings, with the highlights being the
Gulf of St. Lawrence shellfish, cheeses, maple syrup and, one of the most
popular offerings, ice cider. During the coldest months, located on the
outskirts of town, is Hôtel de Glace, an inn completely constructed of snow
and ice. The interior features dazzling crystalline ice sculptures, and ice
beds topped with reindeer pelts. There’s even a chapel for a romantic wedding
ceremony if you feel inclined. ■
Sources for this article are fortbragg.com, whiteface.com,
visitlakecharles.org, visitlex.com and bonjourquébec.com.

71 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFE | she said yes
Jackie Jeremy
and
Jackie and Jeremy were both hired as teachers at the same
school. Jackie was the junior high teacher, and Jeremy was
the music teacher.
Jeremy proposed by reenacting their first date. They went to
San Francisco for the day, and saw an afternoon performance of the
San Francisco Symphony. Jeremy drove across the Golden Gate
Bridge into Sausalito, and found a spot with a nice view of the bay.
This was where they had their first kiss. For the proposal, Jeremy
drove Jackie back to that same spot to “take a picture.” He set up a
tripod, and hit “record” instead of the timer. He then got down on
one knee and popped the question.
Their relationship is unique because Jackie and Jeremy grew
72 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
by candi smith | photos by scot woodman photography
Date of proposal:
May 20, 2012
up around many of the same people, without ever knowing each
other. For example, their photographer, Scot, grew up with Jackie,
and was Jeremy’s roommate when he met Jackie.
The happy couple will tie the knot on December 30, 2012. It’s
important to both of them to celebrate their new life together with
family and friends. The wedding is not just for the bride and groom,
but also for everyone who is there in support of them.
They are getting married in the winter because both Jackie and
Jeremy are teachers, and have winter break until the second week
of the New Year. Since it’s a winter wedding, both the ceremony
and reception will be indoors, and one of the main decorations will
be twinkle lights. ■

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 73

209.836.6062
APAULMITCHELLEXPERIENCE.COM
20 W. 10TH ST. TRACY, CA 95376
74 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 75

HERLIFE | tie the knot
Dana &Greg
Dana Lynn Swanson is 28 years old, and was born and raised
in Stockton her entire life. She graduated from Lincoln
High School, and continued her education at University of
the Pacific (UOP) where she graduated with a degree in Business
Administration. Dana is a Vice President - Commercial Loan Officer
for F&M Bank in Lodi.
Gregory John Swanson (nicknamed Swanny) is 33 years old,
and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. He continued his
education at California Polytechnic State University where he
graduated with a degree in Agricultural Business. Greg works for
Simplot’s Wholesale Division as an Area Manager.
76 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Tied the Knot September 24, 2011
by candi smith | photos by briggs photography
Dana and Greg met at a wedding in February 2006 where Greg
was a groomsman and Dana was a bridesmaid. Greg asked Dana
out on a date that night, and they have been together ever since.
Greg proposed to Dana at the top of Sterling Vineyards in
Napa on July 17, 2010. It was Dana’s first trip to Napa. They rode
the gondola to the top, and began the tour and tasting. Greg is not a
Chardonnay drinker…so Dana should have known something was
up when he downed the ENTIRE pour without batting an eye. Moments
later, he got down on one knee and asked Dana to marry him.
The happy couple tied the knot on September 24, 2011.
Dana’s Maid of Honor was Anna Bashaw, her Delta Gamma sister

from UOP. They met on the Dance Team at UOP their freshman year, and have been
friends ever since. Her Matron of Honor was Carlyn Altheide, wife of one of Greg’s Best
Men, Kory. They met shortly after Greg and Dana started dating and instantly bonded. Carlyn
is the big sister Dana never had, and her wedding planning experience put her at ease.
Dana’s bridesmaids were Audrey Zunino (Greg’s lifelong friend from high school who has
always been there for the couple); Christina Belen (another Delta Gamma sister of Dana’s
from UOP who lived in the same dorm); and Katie Pruden (Kory’s sister who’s also like a
sister to Greg, and is Dana’s co-worker).
One of Greg’s Best Men was his brother, Jeff Swanson. His other Best Man was Kory
Altheide, Greg’s lifelong friend. His groomsmen were Pablo Zeiter, Greg Gonsalves and
Roberto Pedrini, all of whom are lifelong friends of the groom. Greg’s nephew and niece,
Continued on page 78
local BuSineSSeS that
Shared in the loVe
Bridal gown:
gonzales bridal boutique, Lodi
(alterations done by the elizabeth
bridal salon)
BrideSmaidS’ gownS:
J’aime bridal,
pleasanton
hair Styling:
Jessica Adam of exhale salon,
oakland
photography:
briggs photography
floriSt:
san Francisco Floral,
stockton
dJ:
David Allen khram
with gypsy express
caterer:
scooters california grill and
catering company,
Lodi
cake:
specialty cakes,
Lodi
Venue:
oak Farm vineyards,
Lodi
rentalS:
guiffra’s party rentals,
Lodi
wedding planner:
Whitney nelson of Whitney
nelson events
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 77

78 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
Brayden and Summer Swanson (Jeff’s son and daughter), were the
ring bearer & flower girl.
Some special features about the wedding included Dana
wearing her late grandmother’s rosary around her bouquet as her
‘something borrowed.’ The couple wrote their own wedding vows
and the ceremony was officiated by Dana’s aunt, Jackie Huerta.
Since both Greg and Dana are of Filipino descent, they served
homemade lumpia as a late-night snack to their guests. They also
served Sterling wine (from the winery where he proposed) along
with Van Ruiten (from Audrey Zunino’s family winery). The
signature cocktail was vodka and lemonade, which is the couple’s
favorite summer drink (also known as SWANSON-AIDE). Greg
had flowers delivered to Dana while she was getting ready on their
wedding day with the words, “I love you—Greg.” The couple had a
sparkler send-off. And Greg’s 96-year-old grandmother, Melencia,
was having so much fun that she even made her way to the dance
floor to boogie with her newly-wed grandson.
The newlyweds honeymooned in Aruba. Since they both have
family in Maui, they are already spoiled with an annual trip there.
They wanted to experience something tropical but different. It was
the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. ■

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 79

HERLIFE | in the valley
calendar of events
NOTE: All calendar events must be received by August 25th for the October issue and adhere to our guidelines.
Email kimberly@herlifemagazine.com for guidelines and to submit entries.
september 7
53rd Annual Saint Basil’s
Greek Festival
DATES: September 7–September 9
TIME: 12:00pm–8:00pm
LOCATION: Saint Basil Greek Orthodox
Christian Church, 920 March Lane, Stockton
DETAILS: This popular festival celebrating
Greek culture features delicious Greek food
and pastries, music, dancing and games for
kids. Admission can be purchased at the
entrance.
Threshold at Stonecreek
Village
DATE: September 7
TIME: 6:00pm–8:00pm
LOCATION: Stonecreek Village Shopping
Center, Pacific & Robinhood Drive, Stockton
DETAILS: Enjoy some musical entertainment
at our outdoor concert series when the classic
rock band Threshold performs live! Bring
your family and appetite. Stonecreek Village
restaurant food and beverages may be brought
into the concert area. No lawn chairs, coolers
or outside food allowed. For more information,
contact cathy.grebe@stonebrosmgmt.
com or call 209-478-1791.
september 8
Tracy Dry Bean Festival
DATES: September 8–September 9
TIME: Saturday, 10:00am–7:00pm; Sunday,
10:00am–6:00pm
LOCATION: Downtown Tracy, 10th &
Central
DETAILS: The Tracy Dry Bean Festival is
80 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
a celebrated community tradition of fun,
families, and of course, beans! We are proud
to celebrate 26 years of “Fun in the Sun”!
We welcome you to participate in this year’s
festival, browse our website to learn more
about all the free music, food and fun to come
this year! There will also be a run, car show,
bean burrito eating contest and lots more!
Parking will be on 6th Street and Central
Avenue. Contact info@tracychamber.org or
call 209-835-2131 for more information.
Pickin’ & Sippin’ at the Park
DATE: September 8
TIME: 3:00pm–7:00pm
LOCATION: San Joaquin County Historical
Museum, 11793 N. Micke Grove Park, Lodi
DETAILS: Several bluegrass, country and jazz
bands will perform throughout the afternoon and
early evening, complemented by more than a
dozen wineries from the Lodi area and Calaveras
County. They will be pouring their wines for tasting
and the Museum will serve light appetizers.
There will be a raffle and craft boutique. Tickets
are $35 per person. To purchase tickets, call
209-331-2055 or visit the Museum office. This
fundraiser benefits the Raise the Barn Education
Building. For more information, contact
robinwood@sanjoaquinhistory.org or call
209-331-2055.
september 9
The Costa Family Foundation
presents The Community
Brunch Serving YOUth
DATE: September 9
TIME: 10:00am–12:00pm or 12:00pm–
2:00pm
LOCATION: John Thurman Field, Modesto
DETAILS: We invite you to support The
Salvation Army Red Shield Team, including
Chef Stan Dimond of Toscana’s and Roman
Wagner of The Boardroom, by purchasing
tickets to this great event that will feature five
gourmet brunch stations, live music, a silent
auction and much more! Adult tickets are
$50, youth (13-17) are $25 and children (12
and under) tickets are $15. For more information,
call 209-262-0479 or visit the website
thecommunitybrunch.eventbrite.com.
september 13
10 Things Every Woman
Needs to Know About Her
Vehicle
DATE: September 13
TIME: 6:30pm–9:00pm
LOCATION: Chase Chevrolet, 6441 Holman
Road, Stockton
DETAILS: Attention all women! Come join
us for an evening full of demonstration,
giveaways and entertainment. This event will
answer all those pressing car questions that every
woman should know about her car to stay
on the road safer and longer. There will be a
giveaway goodie bag for the first 100 women.
This event is free but is scheduled to be full of
valuable information. See you there! For more
information, email
Priscilla@herlifemagazine.com.
september 21
Garratt Wilkin & The
Parrotheads
DATE: September 21

TIME: 7:00pm (Gates open at 6:00pm)
LOCATION: Hutchins Street Square, 125 S.
Hutchins Street, Lodi
DETAILS: Calling all Parrotheads! Join The
Square to celebrate the last day of summer
with an outdoor celebration of Jimmy Buffet’s
music featuring Garratt Wilkin and The
Parrotheads. We will be selling cheeseburgers,
margaritas and other fare to usher in an
evening of fun. Adults $18.00 (at the door
$23.00), Children (under 12) $8.00. Please
visit hutchinsstreetsquare.com or call the Box
Office at 209-333-5550 for more information.
september 27
Lodi Musical Theater
Presents Godspell
DATES: September 27–September 30
TIMES: Various
LOCATION: 1371 E. Pine Street, Troupe
Cabana Studio, Lodi
DETAILS: For all those musical lovers out
there, the Lodi Musical Theater presents their
take on the classic Godspell. General Admission
is $15, Seniors $13 (Children under 4
will not be admitted). For tickets, contact
troupecabanastudio@gmail.com or call 916-
719-6465.
september 29
Stockton is Magnificent
Event
DATE: September 29
TIME: 1:00pm–4:00pm
LOCATION: On the Miracle Mile, Stockton
DETAILS: Celebrating all the good that Stockton
has to offer. Come out with your family,
your pets and friends to spend an afternoon
full of live music, demonstration, dances, arts
and crafts.
**SAvE THE DATE**
october 14
American Cancer Society’s
Second Annual Making
Strides Against Breast Cancer
5K Walk
DATE: October 14
TIME: 8:00am
LOCATION: Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I
Street, Modesto
DETAILS: It’s a celebration of survivorship, an
occasion to express hope and a shared goal
to end a disease that threatens the lives of so
many people we love. The journey to end
breast cancer starts with a single step. Sign
up, invite your friends, fundraise and take that
step with us. There is no registration fee or
minimum fundraising amount. People of all
ages are welcome to participate in this walk
and help raise funds. Join our efforts to help
end breast cancer. Visit our website to register
online at makingstrideswalk.org/modesto or
call 209-524-7241 for more information.
HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 81

82 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM