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SECTION TITLE<br />
Article Title<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> Your Guide To Life<br />
<strong>May</strong>/June 2017 Edition<br />
LEADING LADIES<br />
of San Joaquin<br />
pillars of the community<br />
Workers Utopia<br />
THE PATAGONIA MODEL<br />
retains top talent<br />
GABE<br />
Flores Jr<br />
EXCLUSIVE!<br />
TEEN ENTREPRENEUERS<br />
shape the future of Fresno<br />
How not to get<br />
JUICE JACKED<br />
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The Content of <strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
may in no way be reproduced<br />
in any fashion without written<br />
constent of the publisher. <strong>Karima</strong><br />
<strong>Magazine</strong> is available at more<br />
than 100 local distribution points<br />
in the Central Valley. Anyone<br />
Inserting, tampering with our<br />
diverting circulation will be<br />
prosecuted. <strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
assumes no responsibility for<br />
content of advertisements.<br />
For advertising inquiries, please<br />
contact Marie at (209) 425-7834<br />
Publisher/Founder<br />
Angela Karim<br />
Photography<br />
Editorial<br />
Copy/Content Editor<br />
Lan Cheng<br />
Photographers<br />
Jeep Touch<br />
Chris Cannon<br />
Writers<br />
Lan Cheng<br />
James Brickner<br />
Angela Karim<br />
Dalton Roarke<br />
Contributing Photographers<br />
Tim Ulmer<br />
Robert Sanchez<br />
Marie Enright<br />
Barbara Chacon-Smith<br />
Jeff Rostocil<br />
Matt Freeman<br />
To order a paid subscription,<br />
email talk@karimamag.com<br />
Design<br />
Graphic Designer<br />
Alexandra McBride<br />
FIND US ONLINE<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
Sales & Marketing<br />
Marketing/Account Executive<br />
Lorrie Beausher<br />
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<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 2<br />
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INSIDE<br />
MAY 2017<br />
13<br />
1<br />
2<br />
3<br />
4<br />
6<br />
7<br />
8<br />
11<br />
F i r s tO ff<br />
Publishers Note<br />
In the Know<br />
Word on the Street<br />
Business Best<br />
Patagonia Model: Work Utopia<br />
Local: Organic Produce/ In Season<br />
Local: Coffee with a Cause<br />
Fresno’s Highschool Entrepreneurs<br />
Tech: How Not to Get Juice Jacked<br />
18 39 4<br />
13<br />
17<br />
18<br />
28<br />
32<br />
35<br />
36<br />
Headliners<br />
Fighting for Stockton y familia:<br />
Gabe Flores Jr.<br />
Highlights: Tubbs & Sanchez<br />
Leading Ladies of San Joaquin<br />
Image Shaper, Destiny Maker:<br />
Lee Neves<br />
Female Ninja: Courtney DuBois<br />
Events<br />
Nor Cal Event Listing<br />
Event Photos<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
37<br />
40<br />
41<br />
42<br />
44<br />
46<br />
Taste Buds<br />
Local Eats: Taste of Thailand<br />
Recipes: Vegan Tres Leches<br />
Kombucha Your Life<br />
Body Soul & Mind<br />
Healthy Gut, Healthy You<br />
Do Miracles Still Happen?<br />
Advice with Yessi: Facing Family<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 3<br />
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FIRST OFF<br />
Publisher’s Note<br />
Inspiration All Around<br />
N THIS ISSUE, we have featured a number of inspirational people.<br />
Gabe Flores Jr., is the youngest boxer in the history of Top Rank to<br />
ever be signed and has overcome a lot of hardship in Stockton. We are<br />
anticipating watching his professional career unfold in front of us as he<br />
represents his city and contiunes to fulfill all of his dreams. Then there are<br />
the Leading Ladies of San Joaquin who do so much for the community.<br />
While we couldn’t possibly list all of them, we did feature a handful.<br />
We have a piece on a female jujitsu fighter. Courtney Dubois, holds her<br />
own in a male dominated sport and we can expect to see her more and<br />
more about her as she is only beginning. We are also starting a new<br />
feature that will continue on in future issues. You will have the chance<br />
to read up on someone who has made it on our list of the Most Eligible<br />
Bachelors & Bachelorettes in the Central Valley (full list is coming soon)!<br />
This issue, we delve into best business practices, show what’s great about<br />
exisiting local businesses, discuss the benefits of entrepreneurship<br />
and how one school in Fresno, California is killing it!<br />
Finally, we list upcoming Nor Cal events, bring you info on how to keep<br />
healthy and all kinds of other good stuff. :-)<br />
Until next time-stay positive, follow wisdom, and live your life to<br />
the fullest.<br />
—Angela Karim<br />
Founder & Publisher of <strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
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FIRST OFF<br />
In the Know<br />
IN THE KNOW<br />
IPHONE FOR THE WIN<br />
According to a recent study done<br />
by Piper Jaffray firm, millenials are<br />
choosing the iPhone over the Android.<br />
Findings state that even if millenial<br />
users do not currently own an iPhone,<br />
their next phone is most likely to<br />
be one.<br />
+ Good if you own stock with this company<br />
- Iphones may not be affordable to all<br />
FIDGET SPINNER TOYS MADE TO STOP WAR<br />
Those fidget spinner toys that kids and kids at heart are playing<br />
with these days were originally made by a woman who wanted to<br />
help give Palestinain Children something that would preoccupy<br />
them. She was hoping they would play with her toy and stop<br />
throwing rocks at soldiers and bystanders. Obviously that did not<br />
work, but 20 years later her toy is now a big hit here in the States.<br />
BIOCONCRETE<br />
Self healing, organic concrete<br />
has been created. It heals<br />
cracks, potholes on it’s own<br />
for up to 200 years! Hopefully<br />
California invests.<br />
BEST CAR YET<br />
Start-up company Phinergy,<br />
LLC have created a car<br />
that runs on Aluminum,<br />
Air, & Water. Pretty dope!<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
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<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 5<br />
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FIRST OFF<br />
Word On the Street<br />
What do you think about<br />
the Governor of California<br />
raising our gasoline taxes &<br />
annual vehicle fees ?<br />
WHAT SAY YOU?<br />
FACTS:<br />
Law increases gas by $0.12/gallon<br />
(bringing tax to a total of $0.30/gallon)<br />
Annual vehicle fee will average<br />
$100 extra per vehicle each year @DMV<br />
Electric car owners will pay flat fee of<br />
$100/yr in leiu of tax<br />
Tax monies are earmarked for repairing<br />
roads, bridges, highways, culverts, &<br />
transit projects<br />
David Serrano<br />
Head of Maintenance at<br />
Republic Services<br />
“I think it’s all a<br />
game. It’s just a way<br />
for our Governor to<br />
makemore money<br />
for himself and his<br />
cronies. It’s just a<br />
way to tax the<br />
people and help<br />
make them rich.”<br />
“This is bad. More<br />
money for gas & more<br />
money to DMV for 2<br />
years until minimum<br />
wage gets raised! It’s<br />
not fair. I work so hard<br />
& barely make enough<br />
to survive as it is. My<br />
wife passed away. I<br />
take care of the kids<br />
myself. I don’t care<br />
about a high speed<br />
rail. I’m just trying to<br />
survive and take care<br />
of my family!”<br />
Gerardo Morales<br />
Warehouse Supervisor at<br />
Xelerated Transport Group<br />
Jen Miller<br />
Receptionist at San Tomo<br />
“I think that it’s<br />
better than using a<br />
bond and putting<br />
California more in<br />
debt, but we need<br />
to really keep our<br />
elected officials<br />
accountable. We<br />
need to make sure<br />
they are using the<br />
tax monies for what<br />
they say they are<br />
going to use them<br />
for and nothing else.”<br />
“It’s not like I’m<br />
looking forward to<br />
it (tax hike & higher<br />
vehicle registration<br />
fees at the DMV),<br />
but it’s probably<br />
necessary. I mean<br />
when is the last<br />
time we have had<br />
an increase in<br />
those areas?”<br />
Steve Richmond<br />
Advisor at Richmond Financial<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
Patagonia Model<br />
PATAGONIA MODEL:<br />
EMPLOYEE UTOPIA<br />
BY LAN CHENG<br />
ACCOMODATING Working Parents<br />
Patagonia seems to know how to hold onto it’s best talent and that is by helping their employed parents be the<br />
best they can be to their families.<br />
NYONE RUNNING A BUSINESS knows that<br />
sometimes, good talent is like a mythical unicorn,<br />
illusive and seemingly impossible to find. And<br />
when you do find that coveted prize, the fabled talented<br />
employee, it is best to hold onto them for dear life. So<br />
why then do so many businesses fail to implement<br />
policies that will ensure loyalty from the most up and<br />
coming group of workers, who now comprise nearly<br />
50% of the US workforce?<br />
That’s right! I’m talking about the female half<br />
of the population; given such a large group, there is an<br />
increasing need and increasing calls for US businesses to<br />
improve their archaic family leave policies. But, all is not<br />
lost. Among the many businesses able to retain talent by<br />
being more accommodating to mothers (and fathers!),<br />
one company sets itself head and shoulders above the<br />
rest. What is the name of this company, with invaluable<br />
lessons to teach us on how to foster a supportive family<br />
environment? Patagonia.<br />
Patagonia, a popular outdoor clothing company,<br />
has set the golden standard for how to cater to<br />
employees with families. Not only do they offer a two<br />
month, paid maternity and paternity leave, but their corporate<br />
headquarters in Ventura, California and distribution<br />
center in Reno, Nevada both boast on site childcare<br />
facilities. And, it pays! One hundred percent of mothers<br />
working at Patagonia return to work after maternity<br />
leave, and they have the peace of mind of knowing their<br />
kids are close to them.<br />
Patagonia also offers full company sponsored medical<br />
and paid sick leave. “I didn’t have to choose between<br />
being with my son and having a job. I’m very loyal to<br />
the company,” states Rachel Cantu, VP of supply chain<br />
operations for Patagonia.<br />
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Article Title<br />
Pictured on Right: a Patagonia worker spending time<br />
with his son in the company dining area.<br />
5<br />
While, it may be hard for a small<br />
local business to offer onsite child care<br />
or such generous allotments of sick days<br />
and family leave, there are things you<br />
can do to demonstrate to employees<br />
that you care, and, most importantly, retain<br />
that talent!<br />
HOW TO RETAIN YOUR TOP TALENT<br />
Let’s start with the most obvious: Start a<br />
dialogue with your employees. Find out<br />
what they like and dislike about working<br />
for your company and what they feel<br />
could use improvement. Critically evaluate<br />
that information. Are their suggestions<br />
relevant or are they something you<br />
could implement with ease?<br />
Then, if you cannot financially<br />
swing having a generous family leave<br />
or sick day policy, consider focusing<br />
more on quality, rather than time. Simply<br />
translated, if your employees are<br />
completing all their tasks and projects<br />
and producing quality work, don’t stress<br />
about them meeting the required hours<br />
or if they need the extra hour here or<br />
there to focus on their kids.<br />
And sure, many companies offer<br />
gym memberships, but thinking outside<br />
the box and looking around for local opportunities<br />
may lead to more positive office<br />
morale. For example, it may be possible<br />
to negotiate discount rates for your<br />
employees’ children with local childcare<br />
facilities.<br />
Next, evaluate whether your<br />
employees that are parents are treated<br />
the same their non-parent counterparts.<br />
Are they offered the same opportunities<br />
to move up in the business or included<br />
in outside employee get-togethers? Or<br />
are they easily dismissed cause they are<br />
“parents” or is it assumed that they don’t<br />
have the time or energy? These are issues<br />
that can lead to talent skipping out<br />
on you for greener pastures<br />
Additionally, consider offering<br />
a late-start day, once a week or once<br />
a month, where employees can come<br />
into work an hour later. For parents, it<br />
could really benefit them to not need to<br />
rush to get kids ready, out the door and<br />
to school. Just that small consideration<br />
could really help improve the relationship<br />
between you and your employees.<br />
Remember: employee loyalty is priceless.<br />
Finally, be flexible. Keep an<br />
open mind and door, and consider if<br />
an employee is struggling to maintain<br />
their work/family balance. Think about<br />
whether they have tasks that could be<br />
done at home. If you can offer them<br />
the flexibility of working from home<br />
some mornings or afternoons, that is<br />
a sure path to retaining talented employees<br />
that will be interested in always<br />
doing their best for the company that<br />
shows how much it cares for them and<br />
their families.<br />
And just remember, when in<br />
doubt, just think WWPD: What Would<br />
Patagonia Do? “All of our employees are<br />
people. They’re all human beings with<br />
kids and families and we need to create<br />
a supportive environment for people to<br />
be their best and do their best,” emphasizes<br />
Patagonia CEO Rose Marcario.<br />
In Short<br />
1) Dialogue with your employees.<br />
2) Find out what they like and need.<br />
3) Do not micro manage.<br />
4) Find discounts for your<br />
employees that will benefit<br />
their family.<br />
5) Include parents in all<br />
company activites.<br />
6) Consider late start days or<br />
tele-commuting .<br />
7) When in doubt, think, “WWPD:<br />
what would Patagonia do?”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 8<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
In Season<br />
IN<br />
SEASON<br />
LOCAL, ORGANIC PRODUCE<br />
BY LAN CHENG<br />
ELMING a new business takes persistence and<br />
dedication. Eric Firpo, co-owner of nursery,<br />
produce and gift store In Season, has proven<br />
he has both in abundance, waiting three<br />
years to get a lease on the “perfect place,” right here<br />
on Alpine in Stockton. Together with partner Julie<br />
Morehouse, the two self-professed plant people,<br />
possess years of farming and landscaping experience,<br />
which they bring with their passion every day at In<br />
Season. In the sort of tale that could have only sprouted<br />
during the Great Recession.<br />
Firpo and Morehouse both found the lack of<br />
jobs as opportunity; according to Fripo, “I got laid off<br />
and went into farming and realized it would be more<br />
profitable if I had a store front.” Julie’s story is similar,<br />
having previously worked at a local nursery. “So we<br />
decided to pursue our own business venture.”<br />
Other than waiting for the perfect location to become<br />
available, setting everything up required a tremendous<br />
amount of work to get it in shape for their September<br />
16th opening. Other challenges involved searching out<br />
suppliers for the nursery, gift shop and locally grown,<br />
organic produce.<br />
In Season offers supplies and gifts in their shop,<br />
as well as an assortment of organic, non-GMO produce.<br />
“We want people to feel good about stuff they’re buying<br />
and know that this is super healthy food and they<br />
are helping local growers and the local economy.” And<br />
of course, the produce grown by Firpo directly for the<br />
store, “is grown by myself, (so) absolutely no pesticides<br />
are used whatsoever.” In addition to educating customers<br />
on the benefits of buying organic and non-GMO<br />
produce, Firpo is also on the continual search for local<br />
suppliers that offer unusual annuals and perennials.<br />
“The response from the public has been<br />
phenomenal, so it’s really rewarding,” says Firpo. Future<br />
expansions for In Season include a small deli and<br />
eventually a beer garden.<br />
Visit In Season today to learn how to cultivate<br />
and plan your own garden, or to get produce with the<br />
peace of mind of knowing exactly where it comes from.<br />
In Season Organic Produce<br />
215 E Alpine Ave, Stockton, CA 95204<br />
(209) 949-2499<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
Coffee with a Cause<br />
COFFEE WITH A CAUSE<br />
Vine & Branches by Leena Karim<br />
Are you craving a great cup of COFFEE<br />
with a warm and welcoming atmosphere,<br />
where you CAN sit back, relax, and dream<br />
about how you can IMPACT the future?<br />
How about drinking a cup of coffee,<br />
knowing that the proceeds benefit<br />
saving SEX TRAFFICKING VICTIMS in the<br />
San Joaquin County?<br />
Big Vision<br />
If any of that appeals to you, then Vine and<br />
Branches is a must see. The noteworthy<br />
shop is located in downtown Lodi, California.<br />
Originally it began as just a Christian<br />
bookstore, but the new owners had a<br />
greater vision. When Lance and Laurie<br />
Coffman found gigantic pictures of<br />
historical Lodi in their newly purchased<br />
shop they decided that they were too incredible<br />
to keep all to themselves. The<br />
pictures were immediately hung on the<br />
walls for all to see. They created a comfy,<br />
yet trendy space with an industrial feel<br />
to sit and linger over a book and if you<br />
wish—a freshly brewed cup of coffee.<br />
Worthy Cause<br />
And that’s where it gets interesting. You<br />
see, the proceeds of every cup of coffee<br />
purchased goes toward improving the<br />
lives of sex trafficking victims in San<br />
Joaquin County. Laurie started her own<br />
non profit last year to help some of the<br />
most vulnerable in our society and wanted<br />
to raise more awarness for the worthy<br />
cause. But back to the decor. You will also notice<br />
a portion of a wall in the shop covered<br />
with post-it notes that have been scribbled on<br />
by visitors. At first glance you might think it is<br />
just an interesting art project. However, it is<br />
much more meaningful.<br />
Dream Wall<br />
Visitors are encouraged to write down<br />
their dreams and post them to the<br />
“dream wall.” The owners pray over the<br />
dreams aloud on a daily basis with the<br />
expectancy that their agreement will<br />
help the dreams come to life. Vine and<br />
Branches also offers a selection of clothing<br />
apparel, home decorations, jewelry, gifts, music,<br />
and more books.<br />
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<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 10<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
Building Tomorrow’s<br />
Economic Future<br />
BUILDING TOMORROW’S<br />
ECONOMIC FUTURE: HIGH SCHOOL ENTREPRENEURS<br />
A FRESNO MAGNET SCHOOL HELPS STUDENTS<br />
CREATE THEIR OWN AMERICAN DREAM<br />
BY ANGELA KARIM<br />
NEW TYPE of magnet school in Fresno, California<br />
is changing the way high school students learn<br />
about business, by creating entrepreneurs that<br />
will have launched their own start-up company before<br />
even graduating from the 12th grade. According to<br />
Patino School of Entrepreneurs Principal, Brett Taylor,<br />
the goal is to have “students leave school and have<br />
already started a business.”<br />
A big part of how Patino encourages students<br />
to innovate is by doing things a bit differently, starting<br />
with the classroom. On a typical day, classrooms are<br />
vibrant and full of energy: students are getting out of<br />
their seats, writing notes on walls, not about who is<br />
dating who, but about strategy and marketing. They<br />
have their own business groups for collaboration and<br />
connect with each other through affiliations aimed at<br />
enhancing their business acumen.<br />
When Superintendent Michael Hansen of the<br />
Fresno Unified School District first tasked Principal<br />
Taylor with developing such a new type of school,<br />
Taylor knew he needed to do some research. To<br />
accomplish this, he made visits to a number of start-up<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
Building Tomorrow’s<br />
Economic Future<br />
“WE DON’T HAVE MAJOR INDUSTRIES<br />
IN THE FRESNO AREA. THIS SCHOOL<br />
ONLY HELPS BUILDOUR COMMUNITY<br />
AND HELPS THEM (GRADUATING<br />
PATINO STUDENTS) BE INDEPENDENT.<br />
companies looking for approaches<br />
that would help to foster, produce, and<br />
cultivate young entrepreneurs. “We wanted<br />
to throw out all preconceived notions<br />
and be willing to do something different.”<br />
After his visits, he made the decision, that<br />
unlike other traditional high schools, the<br />
Patino school would<br />
be desk free. By<br />
eliminating desks,<br />
students are able<br />
to collaborate as a<br />
team in a collective<br />
space.<br />
However, the advent<br />
of unconventional<br />
ideas didn’t<br />
stop with desks<br />
and shared spaces:<br />
as soon as he<br />
had implemented<br />
changes to the<br />
student entrepreneurs’ work space, he<br />
went out to find real world business<br />
owners who would be able to serve as<br />
mentors to the students. Taylor initially<br />
reached out to community membersand<br />
the response was overwhelming.<br />
Even though everyone was<br />
very eager to help mentor the aspiring<br />
entrepreneurs of tomorrow, there was one<br />
problem: despite the many business men<br />
and women’s accomplishments, they<br />
all worked for someone else. None of them<br />
had the real world experience starting and<br />
running their own business<br />
So, he thanked everyone for their<br />
willingness to support his students and<br />
began to search for others who met the<br />
entrepreneur profile. And eventually Taylor<br />
found the perfect mentors. Some of them<br />
happened to be local, but most were not.<br />
And he describes the search process for the<br />
mentors as a major pay off for the school.<br />
“The day that the students had their first<br />
meeting with the actual entrepreneur<br />
mentors, it became real to them. It wasn’t<br />
just a school project anymore.” The new<br />
students started to see their visions become<br />
a possibility as they interacted and chose<br />
the mentor they believed would best fit<br />
them. Their confidence began to grow and<br />
their drive became stronger.<br />
The high school students’ business<br />
ideas, spurred on by their newly found<br />
confidence, brought them to compete at<br />
San Jose State University’s annual “pitch<br />
day.” Upon entering, three of the Patino<br />
High School teams qualified to pitch their<br />
business ideas. Two of the teams were picked<br />
to place and one team won a prize of $1,000<br />
dollars for their start-up business pitch.<br />
In addition to phenomenal<br />
mentors, Taylor also attributes the success<br />
of his students to the autonomy that is<br />
given to the children in the decisionmaking<br />
process at Patino. “Every idea<br />
regarding the businesses and start-ups are<br />
all student generated.”<br />
The teachers that work with the<br />
children on a daily basis are specially<br />
selected, as well, to help cultivate the<br />
spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship.<br />
“We take the ceilings off for the kids, we<br />
let them know that they can do whatever<br />
they want. We decided early on that we<br />
wanted to create entrepreneurs—not<br />
entrepreneurships.” Said Taylor. The<br />
Patino school requires that teachers must<br />
either have a business/entrepreneurship<br />
background, tech experience, or show that<br />
they can be willing to innovate and learn<br />
from their mistakes. According to Taylor<br />
the last trait has proven to be the most<br />
important among his staff.<br />
And as far as disciplinary issues,<br />
the Patino School of Entrepreneurship<br />
has maintained a 0% suspension rate.<br />
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BUSINESS BEST<br />
Building Tomorrow’s<br />
Economic Future<br />
This was a shock to many observers as it<br />
was quite clear that the incoming Patino<br />
School had accepted children with both<br />
“troubled” backgrounds and suspensions in<br />
their past. But Principal Taylor has a unique<br />
philosophy, “I always think, how would a<br />
business handle this? It’s all about the<br />
connection that you make with the kids.<br />
They feel respected here, they matter, we<br />
trust them.” Taylor refuses to review the<br />
background files on any of his students. He<br />
wants everyone to have a clean slate and<br />
treats them as his own “peer.”<br />
When asked how children are<br />
selected to attend the school, Taylor said,<br />
“There is no lottery system. We allow any<br />
kid who is interested to attend. We realize<br />
that not every entrepreneur is a good<br />
student.” And to ensure equity of access<br />
to children in the Fresno area, the Patino<br />
School has made a few changes to the way<br />
the school operates.<br />
School begins later in the day at<br />
9:20am and end at 4pm. This was done to<br />
make sure that all who need to utilize public<br />
transit will be able to arrive on time. The<br />
Patino School also presents the enrolment<br />
opportunity to every single student within<br />
the Fresno School District. “We take these<br />
extra steps, because we soon learned that<br />
you can have an equitable school without<br />
being truly equitable to all.”<br />
Taylor stated that the Patino School<br />
of Entrepreneurship was made with the<br />
aim to help strengthen the next generation<br />
and the Fresno economy simultaneously<br />
as many kids go to college, graduate, and<br />
flock to other major cities to apply their<br />
expertise. “We don’t have major industries in<br />
the Fresno area. This school only helps build<br />
our community and helps them (graduating<br />
Patino students) be independent.”<br />
Kids have the ability to keep their<br />
newly founded business local. And although<br />
“I THINK SO, (THIS IS THE FUTURE OF<br />
EDUCATION), BECAUSE KIDS GET THE<br />
LIFE SKILLS THAT ARE NEEDED NOW.<br />
THEY BECOME PROBLEM SOLVERS.”<br />
it sounds ambitious, Taylor makes it sound<br />
a lot like common sense. When asked if he<br />
believes this is the future of education, he<br />
replied, “I think so, because kids get the skills<br />
that are needed now. They become problem<br />
solvers.” And what business doesn’t have a<br />
problem that needs to be solved?<br />
10<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 13<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
TECH<br />
Juice Jacking<br />
Learn How to Not Get Juiced Jacked by Dalton S. Roarke<br />
JACKED<br />
11<br />
Juice Jacking happens<br />
anywhere free cell phone<br />
charging is offered. Think<br />
kiosks at airports, concert<br />
venues, libraries, lounges,<br />
malls, car dealerships,<br />
and hotels.<br />
It seems we have been told that the<br />
technological revolution that brought<br />
us into the age of computers, wireless<br />
internet, and chipped credit cards will<br />
make our lives easier and more protected.<br />
And yet nary a month passes where<br />
the media isn’t inundated with reports<br />
of wire fraud, hacked email accounts,<br />
and stolen credit card numbers.<br />
In 2013, it was Target’s card readers; in<br />
2016 it was Hillary Clinton’s server and<br />
Yahoo’s email services.<br />
Now, there’s a new contender for most<br />
irritating cyber exploitation: Juice Jacking.<br />
Juice Jacking is the theft of your<br />
personal data while you charge your<br />
phone at one of those convenient little<br />
charging stations in the mall, airport,<br />
library, or at the car dealership.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 14<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
BUSINESS BEST<br />
Juice Jacking<br />
SPOT<br />
PREVENTION IS KEY<br />
Beware. Data thieves are waiting for you to plug in.<br />
And like credit card reader data theft, thieves<br />
connect their equipment in between the data port<br />
on your phone and an inconspicuously hidden<br />
device. You get your phone charged, and at<br />
the same time, the hidden device drains your<br />
memory – of photos, phone numbers, email<br />
addresses, sticky notes – of anything that dark web<br />
conspirators can use to go for the big money,<br />
like your identity. You’d think that with all these<br />
modern conveniences, the Internet of Things, and<br />
increasing cyber theft, that security of customers<br />
would be a top priority. But alas, the idea that<br />
consumers should be protected from interlopers has<br />
yet to catch on with software companies and their<br />
outsourced programmers.<br />
Juice Jacking, much like<br />
the free Wi-Fi exploits that<br />
were big a few years back,<br />
takes something good (mall<br />
freebies meant to keep you<br />
shopping, price checking, all<br />
while making sure you don’t<br />
leave before supporting the<br />
economy) and spoils it by<br />
creating fear and concern.<br />
So, how can you as a consumer<br />
protect yourself from Juice Jacking<br />
and other charger/USB port<br />
invasions while out and about?<br />
ONE<br />
TWO<br />
Bring your own charger— If you plan<br />
to charge your device in a public setting.<br />
(Many of these charging stations<br />
have regular power sockets that aren’t<br />
susceptible to hacking.<br />
Purchase a back-up battery or personal<br />
charger. — Or maybe, just maybe,<br />
instead of surfing the internet while<br />
strolling through the mall, we could<br />
all put our collective phones away and<br />
focus a little more on what matters in life:<br />
people and real, human interaction.<br />
12<br />
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HEADLINERS<br />
Gabe Flores Jr.<br />
“I LOVE MY CITY. I’M JUST TRYING TO DO EVERY-<br />
THING THAT I CAN FOR IT...I LIKE TO GO AND TALK<br />
TO THE KIDS ABOUT THE CONSEQUENCES TO THEIR<br />
ACTIONS, LIFE, AND ANYTHING THAT WILL HELP<br />
THEM STAY AWAY FROM JOINING GANGS.”<br />
13<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 16<br />
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FIGHTING<br />
For Stockton y Familia<br />
Gabe Flores Jr. is no ordinary<br />
teen. By the time he had reached<br />
the age of 12 he had already lost<br />
his uncle and his mother to the<br />
streets of Stockton. Two separate<br />
acts of violence that no one could<br />
really understand, yet he kept<br />
going. With the help of his family<br />
and the help of his Father, Gabe<br />
Flores Sr., he is now the first fighter<br />
to ever be signed by Top Rank<br />
boxing. Meet the young pro who<br />
represents the city of Stockton.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: How long have you been fighting?<br />
I’ve been fighting since 10 years ago- since I was seven<br />
years old.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: How does it feel to be signed to Top Rank<br />
as the youngest fighter ever in the history of their<br />
organization? I mean, no doubt that’s big time. They<br />
have promoted world class fighters like Muhammad<br />
Ali, Oscar De La Hoya, George Foreman, Manny<br />
Pacquiao, <strong>May</strong>weather, and so many more.<br />
Yeah-it feels great. It’s something that hasn’t ever<br />
happened in history before me. It’s somehting new...<br />
it’s never been done. I’m just really grateful for the<br />
opportunity that I’ve been given. And I think that I’ve<br />
been given this opportunity, because of my skill, yes,<br />
but also because of my life. All of the events that have<br />
taken place and everything that I have had to overcome<br />
so far. You know, the story behind me.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: So, then who is your greatest influence in life?<br />
My Father is my greatest infulence. You know, me and<br />
my Pops have a vision of what we want to do in life and<br />
where we want to go. We remind each other every day.<br />
So, I would have to say that it’s him.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Has your Dad always been your boxing coach?<br />
Always-and it’s great. I go to the gym and he’s my<br />
coach. I go home and he’s still my coach. We share the<br />
same goals, the same accomplishments. So, we have a<br />
great understanding.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Do you ever disagree with him?<br />
Of course. Anybody will have disagreements, but we talk<br />
it through...just like anything else.<br />
Photo Credit:<br />
Robert Sanchez at the Los Gallos Boxing<br />
Academy in Stockton, Ca.<br />
14<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 17<br />
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SECTION TITLE<br />
Article Title<br />
15<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Have you always wanted to do what you’re<br />
doing now?<br />
Yeah, ever since I was a kid. I was in Kindergarten and I would<br />
get asked what I wanted to do. I would say, “boxer-I want to<br />
be a boxer.” I would get asked to draw it and I would. Ever<br />
since I was little, that’s all I can remember. I mean, I did play<br />
T-ball. That was my first sport, but other than that, it was all<br />
about boxing for me.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Okay, well let’s talk about something that you<br />
have had to overcome. It’s our understanding that your<br />
Mom was murdered in Stockton a number of years ago<br />
in an act of senseless gang related violence-that she was<br />
in the wrong place at the wrong time. How do you deal<br />
with that?<br />
Uh, you know, just like anything else. I just try to remember<br />
the good memories that we had together. And you know,<br />
I know that she always wanted to see me fight. I know she<br />
wanted me to see me accomplish my dreams. So, I fight for<br />
her, I fight for my city, for the kids, and the kids like me. I<br />
mean, of course it messed me up in my head a little bit, but<br />
I have to be strong minded. I always have my Father to talk<br />
it through with me.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: We know that Stockton is your home. Tell us how<br />
you feel about the city?<br />
I love my city. I’m just trying to do everything that I can for<br />
it. The little things like going over to my former school—<br />
Roosevelt Elementary School. It’s on the Eastside of<br />
Stockton. I like to go there and talk to the kids about life,<br />
that there are consequences to their actions, and anything<br />
else that will help them stay away from joining gangs.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: What do you want the people and the youth of<br />
Stockton to know?<br />
I want them to know that there are opportunities out there<br />
for them. Even more than they can imagine. College offers a<br />
lot. And no matter what they want to do, they’re<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 18<br />
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HEADLINERS<br />
Gabe Flores Jr.<br />
good at something. They just need<br />
to find it. I found what I’m good at<br />
pretty early, but sometimes it takes<br />
time to find it. No matter what, thoughjoining<br />
a gang will get you no where in<br />
life. You’ve got to live and in order to<br />
live, you have to make sure you eat. You<br />
want to enjoy your life and be happy. You<br />
can’t do any of that if you’re in a gang. It<br />
gets you no where.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: So, Gabe-what keeps you going?<br />
Just a love for the sport. That’s why I<br />
came here in the first place, because I<br />
love boxing. And now I can support my<br />
family from it here and there. It’s everything<br />
I want, but most of all I just really<br />
love the sport.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Do you ever have days, where<br />
you want to just go hang our with your<br />
friends or go to the mall instead of training?<br />
Sometimes...it’s rare, though. You got to<br />
know what you want in life. You have to<br />
picture your dream as the most beautiful<br />
thing in life and be willing to make those<br />
sacrifices for it.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Is there anything else you want<br />
to do aside from boxing or is it all about<br />
the fight life for you right now?<br />
Right now it’s all about the fight life and<br />
my family. You know, what I want is to be<br />
one of the greatest, work hard toward it,<br />
and have my family while I’m enjoying it.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: What do you see yourself doing<br />
in 10 years from now?<br />
Ten years from here, I see myself winning<br />
a world title...more than one, actually.<br />
Winning world titles in different weight<br />
classes and probably making it in the Hall<br />
of Fame. And just being an inspiration to<br />
the kids.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: So, let’s just say that you<br />
suddenly make your first million<br />
dollars...what’s the first thing you<br />
would do?<br />
Make sure my family is okay. Make sure<br />
that they’re doing good...my sister and<br />
my brother and make sure that they’re<br />
eating, that they don’t have any trouble<br />
paying their bills. I mean, if I have a million<br />
dollars, then obviously I’m doing pretty<br />
well for myself. I’m well fed. So, I’ll look<br />
out for the ones near me and that’s what<br />
I’ll do.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Okay, what’s the second thing<br />
you’d do?<br />
I’d probably treat myself. You know, but<br />
who know...because we’re not there yet.<br />
But there’s not much more I could want<br />
right now. I’m just focused and ready<br />
to win.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: Alright-I have to ask this question,<br />
because I promised one of your fans<br />
that I would. What’s your favorite thing<br />
to eat?<br />
I love Mexican food. My favorite dish<br />
is camarones rancheros from Nenas<br />
Mexican restaurant. The tortillas there—<br />
everything there is so good. I just love<br />
everything about Mexican food.<br />
KARIMA: Another fan question, do you<br />
have a girlfriend?<br />
No, I don’t<br />
KARIMA: Getting back to boxing...how do<br />
you prepare for your fights? Do you ever<br />
watch videos of your opponents?<br />
Always, always. I look at their mistakes<br />
and how I can capitalize on them. I jump<br />
rope, I shadow box, I hit mits, I hit the<br />
weight bag, I hit the speed bag, I do everything.<br />
I run, because when you are a<br />
boxer-you have to become a runner too.<br />
You got to put all the work in.<br />
KARIMA: Who is you favorite fighter and<br />
why?<br />
Roy Jones Jr., because he is one of the<br />
greatest of all times. I love how he could<br />
fight and how he could show boat-just<br />
everything he did.<br />
KARIMA:Any advice for young aspiring<br />
athletes in Stockton?<br />
At points it’s going to feel like you can’t<br />
do it. There’s going to be times when<br />
you’re striving to reach your goals and<br />
you are going to feel like you can’t, but<br />
those are the times you need to push<br />
harder. Those are the times that are going<br />
to make you better and really make<br />
you successful.<br />
KARIMA: How can people stay updated<br />
about you and your upcoming fights?<br />
On my social media. Instagram<br />
isg_squad_nation and twitter and<br />
facebook, Rephard.com for shirts.<br />
KARIMA: Thank you, Gabe and congratulations<br />
on your success. We look forward<br />
to seeing more and more of you in the<br />
coming days!<br />
YOU GOT TO KNOW WHAT<br />
YOU WANT IN LIFE. YOU<br />
HAVE TO PICTURE YOUR<br />
DREAM AS THE MOST<br />
BEAUTIFUL THING IN LIFE<br />
AND BE WILLING TO MAKE<br />
THOSE SACRIFICES FOR IT.<br />
Pictured above: Gabe Fores Jr. & Gabe Flores Sr.<br />
walking side by side in their custom Los Gallos<br />
Boxing Academy warm-up jackets.<br />
16<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 19<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
HEADLINERS<br />
Community Highlights:<br />
Tubbs & Sanchez<br />
COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS<br />
Quick Talk with Michael Tubbs, <strong>May</strong>or Of Stockton<br />
By: Marie Enright<br />
Stockton’s youngest, first African American <strong>May</strong>or, Michael Tubbs sat down with<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> for a quick chat about his plans for the future of the city. In short<br />
he will focus on the following: Help create better educational and work opport<br />
opportunities for all Stocktonians Give greater attention to the “hot zone” areas in<br />
the city (areas which are high in crime and poverty) Work on ensuring violent crimes<br />
are reduced Work with the county to find a housing first solution for the homeless<br />
population in Stockton Economic development A number of years ago Tubbs’ cousin<br />
was murdered in Stockton while he was away studying at Stanford University. It was,<br />
because of his loss that he decided he would move back to his hometown. Instead<br />
of taking his degree and passion for politics to some other city, he would remain in<br />
Stockton with the intention of “helping Stockton reach its full potential.” The new<br />
mayor also shared with us that he does plan on seeking re-election when his first<br />
term in office is complete. He believes he will need two terms in order to see all of<br />
his plans to come to fruition.<br />
Motecuzoma Sanchez, CEO of SEMILLAS<br />
By: Marie Enright<br />
Director of SEMILLAS nonprofit and community activist, Motecuzoma Sanchez was<br />
recently recognized by Provecto Voz for his work with the Native community in their stand<br />
against the Dakota access pipeline (#nodapl). The Stockton native traveled to North Dakota<br />
with other members of Semillas. The Semillas members took to the front lines with other<br />
protestors. SEMILLAS is a nonprofit which stands for Stockton Educational Movement in<br />
Language Literacy and Scholarship. The mission of SEMILLAS is to increase educational<br />
outcomes through promoting literacy in the San Joaquin Valley. The organization holds<br />
many community events and book drives throughout the year.<br />
What are your thoughts? Tell us what you think! Email us and we will publish your comments<br />
and/or questions. Please direct all communication to: talk@karimamag.com<br />
17<br />
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SECTION TITLE<br />
Leading LEADING Ladies LA-<br />
Article Title<br />
DIES<br />
of San Joaquin<br />
Meet the Leading Ladies of San Joaquin. We profiled these<br />
women, because they not only stood out in their respective<br />
fields of work, but they also lead by example. These women<br />
give of themselves to others and it is clear to us that they<br />
want to make this world, this community to be a better<br />
place for all. They are impressive and we can’t wait for you<br />
to meet them. We have also included two younger women<br />
as it is obvious that they are headed down the same path.<br />
So, we say-Ladies, lead the way!<br />
Pictured: Susan Lenz, Mary Elizabeth Eberhardt, Carol Ornelas, Rima Barkett, Ines Ruiz-Huston, Mimi Eberhardt, Laurie Coffman<br />
T. Denise Manning, Liz Blanchard, & Becky Moffitt Photo: Oscar Chow<br />
18 21<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 21<br />
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N<br />
Rima Barkett<br />
RIMA BARKETT—Owner/Chef of Bella Vista<br />
Cucina Italiana Restaurant Devoted Wife,<br />
Mother, Founder of Ambassadors of Peace,<br />
other nonprofit organizations. By Angela Karim<br />
All Around Awesome<br />
If anyone has met Rima Barkett, they know that she has a<br />
huge heart and would give you the shirt off of her back if you<br />
needed it. She has continually given back to her community<br />
in so many ways and is a humble soul, who never seeks recognition<br />
for any of her good deeds. What you also know (if<br />
you have ever had the pleasure of meeting her) is that she is<br />
an amazing chef and the food she prepares will make your<br />
mouth water, begging for a second bite…and then another<br />
and another.<br />
Family Traditions<br />
Her grace and culinary skills are by absolutely no happenstance.<br />
She credits her mother for instilling within her the<br />
great values she has and igniting a special passion for cooking<br />
that you will see in every one of her carefully prepared<br />
dishes. She recalls the many days and nights in Tuscany, Italy,<br />
where she grew up, watching her mother create healthy, simple,<br />
and tasty dishes for family and friends. Rima began to<br />
view cooking as a way of expressing love and found it to be<br />
a great vehicle for bringing people together as they enjoyed<br />
a meal.<br />
Cooking Up More Skills<br />
In 2002 she opened her first authentic, northern Italian<br />
restaurant in Stockton, California. Her restaurant, Café Luna<br />
Spaghetteria caught the attention and taste buds of many locals.<br />
As a result she grew a loyal following of many “foodies.”<br />
Four years later she moved to Rome with her husband and<br />
daughter, where she would find herself working on the World<br />
Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates. Somehow in between her<br />
busy schedule, she managed to work on perfecting her culinary<br />
skills at the internationally acclaimed Cordon Bleu in<br />
Florence and the Gambero Rosso in Rome. Rima has since<br />
prepared meals for many notable and distinguished guests<br />
inside of her home in Italy. Some of these guests include<br />
George Clooney, Don Cheadle, Jimmy Wayne, and a number<br />
of Peace Nobel Laureates.<br />
Taste of Italy<br />
Now Rima is back in California and has recently opened up<br />
her latest culinary expression. Bella Vista Cucina Italiana<br />
restaurant is located in downtown Stockton next to the Regal<br />
Stockton City Center Stadium 16 & IMAX. Bella Vista Cucina<br />
restaurant has only been open for a very short time and already<br />
receiving rave reviews.<br />
Rima is the founder of Ambassadors of Peace, California,<br />
which the President of Architects of Peace Onius in Rome,<br />
Italy, President of A Tavola Together, LLC, VP of A Tavola<br />
Together Foundation, Stockton, a board member of the<br />
Child Abuse Prevention Council, a trustee for Dameron<br />
Hospital, Vice President of the California State Fair, a board<br />
member of Transitional Learning Center.one, a former executive<br />
and Institutional Relations Officer for the Summit of Nobel<br />
Peace Laureates.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Follow your heart and find your passion, give<br />
what you can to others and you will see a reward,<br />
and make sure to foster the gift inside of you, because<br />
the world is waiting on you to enter into<br />
your destiny.<br />
19<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 22<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
Susan Lenz<br />
Susan Lenz—Devoted Wife, Mother, Business<br />
Woman, Council Woman, Philanthropist<br />
By Lan Cheng<br />
New Leadership<br />
Lenz is a familiar name to many in the city of Stockton. In 1993<br />
she became a business partner with her former professor,<br />
creating the Iacopi, Lenz, and Company Accountancy<br />
Corporation. This last election year she decided to run for<br />
a spot on Stockton’s City Council and was elected to the<br />
position. She ran for office not, because she wasn’t already<br />
busy. She really wanted to help improve the quality of life for<br />
all Stockton residents. “I feel that our city needs fiscal responsibility.<br />
I believe that my experience will make Stockton a better<br />
place for future generations, ” stated Lenz.<br />
She is extremely motivated to help make Stockton become<br />
a city that retains its educated work force. Lenz and her<br />
husband are long time Stocktonians, who have two children<br />
that currently live in San Francisco. “I would love for them to<br />
come back and live here. This city needs to be a place that is<br />
supportive of our young people. I want them to be able to<br />
stay,” said Lenz.<br />
Example to Others<br />
Additionally, Lenz has been a member of the Lincoln Unified<br />
School Board for 10 years and is a current member of the John<br />
Mc Candless Stem Charter School Board. In 2007 she was<br />
an Athena Award recipient for her community service and<br />
mentorship with young women in the Stockton community.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Be yourself and others will follow your lead. Plant the<br />
seeds that you want to one day see blossom.<br />
Mom to Many<br />
In addition to being a business partner and Stockton City<br />
Council woman, she is a current member of Stockton’s Mary<br />
Graham Children’s Foundation. In this position she helps<br />
raise college scholarship funding for former foster children<br />
(or those who have just aged out of the system). When asked<br />
why she chose to get involved with this particular cause she<br />
replied, “My heart just went out to the kids. If you hear their<br />
stories and what they have been though in life-some of them<br />
have been through hell and back. I wanted to help them<br />
succeed in life.”<br />
Lenz also serves as a life advisor to some of the former foster<br />
children involved with that program. “It really is an honor to<br />
be there for them,” said Lenz. “A lot of times they have no<br />
one else that they can go to for life advice, things that a lot<br />
of others take for granted. I love watching them accomplish<br />
their dreams.”<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
20<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 23<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
Mimi Eberhardt<br />
MIMI EBERHARDT —Devoted Wife, Mother,<br />
Business Woman (Banking), Philanthropist<br />
Advice for those Desiring to Start a Business: Mimi had this wisdom to share with us<br />
regarding anyone who is considering entrepreneurship. “It’s the hardest thing you probably<br />
will ever do, but the most rewarding as well. Don’t give up!<br />
21<br />
Background<br />
Mimi Eberhardt was a native of San Francisco who moved to<br />
Stockton after marrying her husband. Upon marriage, Mimi<br />
quickly realized that she would play dual roles as she helped<br />
her husband at home as well as in the market place. “I got<br />
into banking when I married my husband, Bob Eberhardt,<br />
who was the 7th President of the Bank of Stockton in its 150<br />
year history, His father was President of the bank before him,<br />
and when I married Bob, I became a banker’s wife, and accompanied<br />
him to many conferences, as well as became very<br />
involved in the local community, helping many great causes,”<br />
said Mimi.<br />
Finding Balance & Navigating Tough Times<br />
As the mother of four daughters, Mimi had to had to figure<br />
out how to balance family while continuing to be the face of<br />
the bank with her husband. “Bob was a very busy man, not<br />
only as President of the Bank, but as an avid outdoorsman<br />
who was very involved in Ducks Unlimited, and University of<br />
the Pacific, as well as the Community Bankers Association, to<br />
name just a few. Sometimes it got hectic, but looking back,<br />
those were fun days. The way to overcome difficulties is to<br />
havea positive attitude and keep moving forward.” And when<br />
faced with the loss of her husband, she did just that, “We unexpectedly<br />
lost Bob in 1994, and it was very difficult, but my<br />
brother-in-law, Douglass, took the helm to run the Bank of<br />
Stockton, and we moved forward as positively as we could,<br />
and Bob would be very proud of all of us.”<br />
A Heart to Help<br />
Mimi’s compassion and commitment to her community has<br />
touched countless lives. She was the co-chair of the M*A*S*H<br />
party held at the Stockton airport, which raised money for the<br />
Medi-Flight helicopter at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She was the<br />
founding Director of “Hug Me Bears, “which provided teddy<br />
bears for abused children. She was also a founding member<br />
of University of the Pacific’s “Orange Aid,” a women’s group<br />
that assists with community relations and welcomes perspectivestudents.<br />
She is a founding member of Friends of<br />
the Blind Center, she is a co-founder of group that is named<br />
“Ruffled Feathers.” It is the ladies auxiliary of Ducks Unlimited<br />
and acquires funding to help maintain and develop habitats<br />
for waterfowl species.<br />
She has also held the position of director of Goodwill<br />
Industries. She is a founding member of Haggin Museum<br />
Junior Women’s Group, director of Allen Short Gallery, a director<br />
of “Sunflower”, and active at the Children’s Home. She<br />
has raised funds for the Easter Seals Society, Special Olympics,<br />
San Joaquin County Parents of Deaf Children, and the<br />
Hanot Foundation.<br />
When asked what inspired her to give so much of herself<br />
to so many amazing causes, Mimi said, “My family and my<br />
husband’s family—and my own heart.” Clearly Mimi finds<br />
it very rewarding to help others in need. “When you are<br />
involved in the greater good as a significant business in town,<br />
you are called upon to do many things. We can’t do them all,<br />
but we sure try to do as many as we can. It’s just great knowing<br />
you helpedmake a difference. It takes a village, and no<br />
one can do it all alone—(I suggest anyone wanting to make a<br />
change) get a good group together with a lot of energy and<br />
the help you can give is amazing.”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
A woman wears many hats, keep it going…even in tough<br />
times, get a group of like-minded people together for a<br />
greater cause, follow your heart, and never ever quit.<br />
*Editor’s Notes: Only a number of Mimi Eberhardt’s commitments to<br />
her community and accomplishments were listed in the above article.<br />
She is truly a gem and if we had mentioned them all, we could have<br />
written a book.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 24<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
Mary Elizabeth<br />
Eberhardt<br />
MARY ELIZABETH EBERHARDT— Director<br />
of Community Banking at Bank of Stockton,<br />
Devoted Wife, Mother, Business woman<br />
(banking), philanthropist<br />
Background<br />
Mary Elizabeth grew up in a family of<br />
bankers. “My grandfather was the 6th<br />
president of the bank [Bank of Stockton]<br />
in its history, and my dad was the 7th, and<br />
after he passed away, my Uncle Doug<br />
became the 8th. I grew up in a family of<br />
bank presidents, ” said Mary Elizabeth.<br />
Her first job was working as a Clerk Typist<br />
in Operations Installment Loans at Bank<br />
of Stockton. After, she decided to pursue<br />
her education at University of the Pacific,<br />
where she earned her bachelor’s degree,<br />
also obtaining a California single subject<br />
teaching credential.<br />
Mary Elizabeth taught physical education<br />
and reading at an area high school.<br />
After a few years of teaching, her Alma<br />
Mater offered her a position as the Director<br />
of Promotions and Coordinator<br />
of Fund Raising for Women’s Intercollegiate<br />
Athletics. She accepted. However,<br />
throughout college and her first two<br />
jobs, she maintained her banking position<br />
as the clerk typist. Eventually, Mary<br />
Elizabeth left Pacific to pursue a full time<br />
career in the family business as the Assistant<br />
Vice President of Commercial Loans.<br />
She never left, and currently holds the<br />
position director of community banking.<br />
On Work & Family<br />
When asked how she has managed to<br />
maintain the balance between work<br />
flow and family life she replied, “As women,<br />
it’s not always easy to balance work<br />
and family, but the best way to do it is to<br />
have a supportive family at home and a<br />
great husband who helps as well, like a<br />
team. My husband, David, has been a<br />
great dad. Together, he and I have raised<br />
our son, Nevin and the entire time, I’ve<br />
worked full time and been very involved<br />
in the bank and the community. The<br />
secret is teamwork, and to have great<br />
people around in terms of family at<br />
home, and loyal people at your work that<br />
you can depend on.”<br />
Philanthropy<br />
Community involvement is second<br />
nature to Mary Elizabeth. From an early<br />
age, she was encouraged by her family<br />
to give to others and the community at<br />
large. “I was born knowing it was right<br />
to give back to the community. My<br />
family set the example before I was even<br />
a twinkle in their eyes, and we, as the next<br />
generation of Eberhardts, proudly continue<br />
in that tradition of philanthropy,”<br />
said Mary Elizabeth.<br />
Mary Elizabeth is the founder and member<br />
of the Board of Directors of the<br />
Children’s Museum of San Joaquin County,<br />
whose goal is to provide safe, fun,<br />
and educational experiences for families<br />
in the surrounding area. She is also an<br />
Advisory Board Member for University of<br />
the Pacific’s Educational Equity Program,<br />
which strives to provide the under represented<br />
with access to higher education<br />
and support services that foster endurance<br />
and success. She is a representative<br />
of University of the Pacific’s Beyond the<br />
Gates Initiative, which works to improve<br />
the social and economic health of the<br />
local region by educating children and<br />
preparing them for the future. She is<br />
an advisory board member of the Eberhardt<br />
School of Business, which boasts<br />
full accreditation from the AACSB, and<br />
provides students with access top notch<br />
faculty and state of the art technology.<br />
She is a member of University of the Pacific’s<br />
“Leading with Purpose” Campaign,<br />
which seeks to provide the very best<br />
educational experience as well as ensuring<br />
students are prepared for “lasting<br />
achievement” and become responsible<br />
leaders in their careers and communities.<br />
Finally, she is a member of the San<br />
Joaquin County Partnership, whose aim<br />
is to attract new businesses to the community.<br />
“It makes us all better people to<br />
give back and help others. It is very gratifying<br />
to be able to do that. I’m proud of<br />
my family history in the community and<br />
look forward to continuing the tradition.<br />
Whether you can give money, time or<br />
talent, everyone has something to give<br />
to help, and together, we can make our<br />
community a better place.”<br />
Business Advice<br />
Lastly, Mary Elizabeth had this advice to<br />
give to those who would like to start their<br />
own business, “Go for it! Plan ahead,<br />
write a good business plan, know what<br />
you want and then get a good banker,<br />
one from the Bank of Stockton!”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Persistence will open up doors for you<br />
to bigger opportunities, build your<br />
own support system, be a team worker,<br />
everyone has something that they can<br />
give (money, time, or talent).<br />
22<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 25<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
Ines Ruis-Huston<br />
INES RUIZ-HUSTON—Latina/o Community<br />
Outreach, External Relations/Student Life at<br />
University of the Pacific, Devoted wife, mother,<br />
educator, Social Justice Warrior<br />
23<br />
Favorite Quote:<br />
“Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You<br />
cannot un-educate the person who has learned to read.<br />
You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. And you<br />
cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore.”<br />
—Cesar E. Chavez<br />
Anyone that has ever met Ines knows that she goes far beyond<br />
her call of duty in order to help others. Her focus is<br />
on developing the next generation and preparing them for<br />
their future. She currently works at University of the Pacific<br />
as the Latina/o Community Outreach Coordinator. “I was always<br />
involved since middle school in student government<br />
and through college. In college, I was involved with the Association<br />
of College Unions-International and other organizations<br />
that believe in social justice. My mentors in college<br />
encouraged me to get my master degree in College Student<br />
Services and Administration. I loved it!’” said Ruiz-Huston.<br />
When she is not helping students at Pacific, she can be found<br />
helping various nonprofit organizations. She is a committee<br />
member of the Reach for the Stars Jose Hernandez Foundation,<br />
which helps educate students and the community<br />
about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)<br />
fields. It also aims to ensure that all students will have the<br />
opportunities to pursue their educational and professional<br />
goals regardless of obstacles via scholarships.<br />
She is a member of the League of United Latin Citizens of<br />
Stockton, whose mission is to provide youth leadership,<br />
education, and academic scholarships. She is a committee<br />
member of University of the Pacific’s University Wide Diversity<br />
Committee. The committee exists to assist in the development<br />
of programs, projects and policies which will enhance<br />
the diversity infrastructure at the University of the Pacific.<br />
Ruiz Huston is also a National Council de La Raza member.<br />
The council seeks to serve millions of Latinos in the areas of<br />
civic engagement, civil rights and immigration, education,<br />
workforce and the economy, health, and housing. She balances<br />
her work life and family very carefully. “I am blessed to<br />
be married to my other half who helps me with our children<br />
as well as my close friends. I give it my all at work and in the<br />
community as time allows. When I am with my children I try<br />
to ignore everything else so my time is totally dedicated to<br />
them,” says Ruiz-Huston.<br />
When asked what inspired her to give back to her community<br />
Ruiz-Huston replied, “I don’t forget the past and what our<br />
civil rights leaders have done to open the doors for others<br />
so it is our turn to make sure those doors stay opened and<br />
that we stay involved and help others along the way. I love<br />
our community and it’s important to give back and make it<br />
better. Education is key!”<br />
Her professional and community involvement extend beyond<br />
years and years of activity with numerous organizations<br />
locally and nationally. Ruiz-Huston holds a doctorate in Educational<br />
Administration and Leadership. She has been recognized<br />
and honored throughout her career more than 30<br />
times for her achievements. The advice she would like to give<br />
readers is, “Keep you mind open and you will be surprised<br />
where it will take you. Work with your passion and you will<br />
love what you do.”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Make sure to educate yourself in whatever you plan on<br />
doing, follow your passion and you will find happiness,<br />
invest in others and you invest in yourself.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 26<br />
5/21/17 5:07 PM
Carol Ornelas<br />
CAROL J. ORNELAS—By Anna Sassa<br />
Carol J. Ornelas is a visionary and advocate for providing<br />
quality “affordable housing” for families within the Central<br />
Valley Fresno, San Andreas, San Joaquin, Sacramento, and<br />
Stanislaus. For the past 30 years, she has been the Chief<br />
Executive Officer for Visionary Home Builders of California,<br />
formerly ACLC, Inc.; a non-profit residential development<br />
company headquartered in Stockton, California. A licensed<br />
general contractor and an expert in her field of development,<br />
Carol is highly recognized as a leader within the community.<br />
Her strength is in building and creating partnerships with<br />
citizens of the community, and collaborating with local city,<br />
state officials and other agencies to provide quality “affordable<br />
housing” for the communities she serves. Under Carol’s<br />
direct leadership, Visionary Home Builders has built and rehabilitated<br />
more than 1200 units of rental housing and more<br />
than 700 residential homes for first time homebuyers within<br />
San Joaquin, Sacramento, Stanislaus and Merced County.<br />
Through the VHB Homeownership and Rental Center, educational<br />
opportunities are available to members of the community<br />
seeking guidance on purchasing a home, with special<br />
emphasis on financial responsibility, understanding mortgage<br />
and lending, as well as general education for sustaining<br />
a healthy home and lifestyle. The VHB Homeownership and<br />
Rental Center has also assisted thousands of families through<br />
the foreclosure or loan modification process with HUD certified<br />
counselors. Stockton has received national attention<br />
and has been considered “ground zero” of foreclosures. To<br />
help combat this situation, VHB received funding to implement<br />
the Neighborhood Stabilization Program for the City of<br />
Stockton and the County of San Joaquin.<br />
that her organization has the resources to provide quality<br />
housing for the “underserved”. This allows her to continue<br />
Visionary Home Builders mission, “to focus on a clear vision<br />
of providing “balanced” communities that incorporate housing<br />
and child development services for its residents”. A perfect<br />
example of Visionary Home Builders is its work with the<br />
County of San Joaquin in the development of a community<br />
of 76 units of housing for Farmworker families who live here<br />
all year round. The community includes childcare with an<br />
emphasis on earlydevelopment, social services and a medical<br />
clinic. The project was recently awarded “Best Affordable<br />
Housing Project” in its category in the nation by Affordable<br />
Housing Finance magazine. Through her leadership, she has<br />
been able to bring over $600 million dollars in grants and private<br />
dollars to develop affordable housing in the San Joaquin<br />
Valley.<br />
Carol is very involved within the community and serves on<br />
numerous boards and committees. She is a 1999 Recipient of<br />
the Susan B. Anthony Women Achievement Award was most<br />
recently given with the Athena Award winner of 2016.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Turn your passion into your occupation. Hard<br />
work always pays off. Anyone can get it!<br />
Carol is one of 49 leaders nationwide selected for the NeighborWorks®<br />
Achieving Excellence in Community Development<br />
program in collaboration with Harvard University’s<br />
Kennedy School of Government. She completed this course<br />
in the fall of 2012.<br />
Carol is passionate about her work and the work that her staff<br />
accomplishes on a daily basis. She takes pride in knowing<br />
24<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 27<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
T. Denise Manning<br />
T. Denise Manning—Community Engagement<br />
Coordinator & Program Assistant for the Office<br />
of Violence Prevention for the City of Stockton,<br />
US Veteran, Public Service, Entrepreneur, Life<br />
Coach, & Author<br />
Favorite Quote:<br />
“Failure is not an option, success is the best revenge.”<br />
Turning Scars into Stars<br />
T. Denise Manning is no stranger to hardship. She was born<br />
to a single mother, where she was raised in one of the most<br />
troubled sides of town in Stockton, California. It was through<br />
her struggle that she dreamed of creating a better life for herself.<br />
She felt strongly that education would be a key factor in<br />
her ability to move forward and as she focused on her goal,<br />
she was able to graduate from high school with honors. Upon<br />
graduation, she enlisted in the military and served a total of<br />
13 years in the United States Army, including a one-year tour<br />
in Iraq (Operation Freedon, OIF 09-10). “The military gave me<br />
an opportunity to pursue my education without any interruptions,”<br />
said Manning. It also afforded her the ability to visit<br />
many different countries, where she was able to put her skills<br />
to use. During her stay in Tanzania, Manning served as a motivational<br />
speaker, advisor to Eco Youth Development nonprofit<br />
and life coached youth to success. While in Sri Lanka and<br />
India, she served as a life coach and motivational speaker for<br />
over 450 youth learning English. Finally, in Japan, she served<br />
as a life coach to military families, but that’s not the only thing<br />
that happened while she stayed in the land of the rising sun.<br />
“I had ‘thrifted’ all over the world and it became a pastime for<br />
me while living in Japan. I’ve had an entrepreneur spirit my<br />
entire life and I felt a need to open my own thrift boutique<br />
because of my passion for ‘thrifting,’” said Manning.<br />
New Business<br />
In February of 2017, she did just that. She opened up her<br />
own upscale thrift boutique right in the heart of downtown<br />
Stockton. “ I wanted to offer affordable prices and be able to<br />
engage and empower women,” said Manning. In addition to<br />
opening her own boutique, she still remains employed by the<br />
City of Stockton at the Office of Violence Prevention as the<br />
Program Assistant and Community Engagement Coordinator.<br />
She maintains a healthy balance by practicing what she<br />
calls, “self-care.” “Self-care is entirely important to me. Many<br />
of my hats bleed over and a huge part of my work is a way of<br />
life for me. It helps that I consider what I’m doing a calling,”<br />
said Manning.<br />
Practical Advice<br />
Manning advises that anyone wanting to start their own business<br />
should do their due diligence and “self-educate yourself<br />
on all matters pertaining to your line of work. Be intentional<br />
and consistent. Try hard to obtain your own funding. I’m<br />
self-funded and I don’t rely on anybody but myself for my<br />
capitol.” When asked what moved her to do all that she does,<br />
Manning replied, “I decided to relocate back home (Stockton),<br />
because of the need and desire to effect change where<br />
I come from. Obtaining my education, serving in the army for<br />
13 years, traveling the world, and living abroad provided me<br />
with a world view that enables me to think out the box and<br />
develop strategies to assist in the progress of where<br />
Stockton is headed. I was that little girl that grew up on the<br />
south side of Stockton that was told she wouldn’t amount to<br />
anything and I want to show others that you can prove them<br />
all wrong and beat the low expectations that others place on<br />
you because of their own limitations.”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Don’t let your past dictate your future. If you can<br />
dream it, you can be it. Your victory is someone’s<br />
inspiration.<br />
25<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 28<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
Liz Blanchard<br />
Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Blanchard—Devoted to<br />
Family, Friends, & Community. An Educator,<br />
Businesswoman, Leader, Psychologist, and<br />
Living Inspiration.<br />
Dr. Blanchard has been a long time educator in the Stockton<br />
community. Upon retiring from her own psychology practice,<br />
she accepted a post as a professor of psychology and<br />
taught classes at San Joaquin Delta College. She was the<br />
Assistant Dean of bilingual education at University of the<br />
Pacific. Her involvement with her community has always<br />
been remarkable. She is the current president of the Chinese<br />
Cultural Society of Stockton as well as the Cathay Club and<br />
Disabled American Veterans Charities of San Joaquin County.<br />
Whenever help is needed, she is ready to lend a hand.<br />
Blanchard is known for giving wisdom to those in need of<br />
guidance. She is a strong believer that no matter what has<br />
happened to you in life and no matter the family you were<br />
born to, and regardless of life’s circumstances- “you write<br />
your own script for life.” She advises others not to allow<br />
anything from their past to stop them from achieving all of<br />
their goals and reaching their dreams.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Never let your past dictate your future. Be who you want<br />
to be. Write your own story.<br />
She is currently a board member of the following organizations:<br />
Port of Stockton Commission, Chair, San Joaquin<br />
Delta College Foundation, Crime Stoppers of Stockton,<br />
Chinese Benevolent Association (parent of all Chinese family<br />
associations in San Joaquin County), where she also served<br />
two terms as the president. Asian Chamber of Commerce,<br />
American Filipino Educators Association, Filipino American<br />
Lion Club, Central Valley Asian Pacific Islander American<br />
Public Affairs Association, the Community Education<br />
Foundation (APAPA-CEF), American Legion Women Auxilary.<br />
Blanchard has received many awards and honors for her<br />
outstanding service and most recently was nominated for<br />
Stocktonian of the Year.<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
26<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 29<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
Becky Moffi tt<br />
Becky Moffitt—CFO of Tuleburg, Life Partner, Mother, Business<br />
Woman, Entrepreneur<br />
Becky Moffitt is originally from Oregon. She moved to Stockton<br />
to attend University of the Pacific. She earned her bachelor<br />
degree and went straight into the work force. “I’ve always<br />
been in sales, marketing, and business development. I was at<br />
New York Life/NYLIFE Securities for seven years before, Jason,<br />
the CEO of our company, and I joined forces to start our own<br />
firm. I’ve always wanted to create something bigger than, and<br />
be used for a larger purpose. We have the best team, and serve<br />
the most incredible clients which allows us to use our minds at<br />
the level they are designed to function,” said Moffitt.<br />
Managing Self<br />
When asked how she maintains a good balance between work<br />
and family she replied, “I try to maintain positive internal dialogue<br />
that it’s okay for me to be out of balance. I don’t ever feel<br />
“balanced” and that’s me. There are some days I am at the office<br />
far longer that I wish to be, or attend important functions<br />
that keep me away from our kids. Or, I’m too tired to get to<br />
Bikram...OR, I just stay home and hang with my babes. For me,<br />
it’s the constant focus (or re-focus) of being present and com-<br />
mitted to what is most important: my family and our company<br />
and those families we are responsible for as a result.”<br />
Following in Mom’s Footsteps<br />
Moffitt credits her mother for her love for giving back to her<br />
community. “My mom got my sisters and I involved in our<br />
community (in Oregon) at a very young age. My mom has the<br />
most incredible heart and I wanted to grow up and mirror a lot<br />
of her ways. I thought if I cared and gave half of what she did,<br />
then I would be making a difference in this world. I started by<br />
giving my time because that is all I had. I’ve been fortunate to<br />
work alongside a man who embodies the same philanthropic<br />
beliefs as we continue to build our business in an effort to be<br />
able to give more.”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Your children are watching you. Be who you want<br />
them to become. Be willing to take calculated risks<br />
in order to achieve your goals.<br />
Laurie Coffman<br />
LAURIE COFFMAN—Director of Hope Initiative-Devoted Wife,<br />
Mother, Spiritual Leader, Business Owner<br />
27<br />
Laurie currently co-pastors Innovation<br />
church with her husband, Lance and<br />
another couple. They have been copastoring<br />
in the Lodi/Stockton area for<br />
the last 17 years. They felt compelled<br />
to show others the same love that they<br />
experienced when they first came to<br />
know God. “We are not perfect, but we<br />
try to love the way that we have been<br />
loved by God and that is with a lot of<br />
grace and compassion,”said Laurie.<br />
Together Laurie and her husband have<br />
three children. Their family recently<br />
purchased the Vine and Branches bookstore<br />
in downtown Lodi from a long time<br />
mentor who is described by the pair<br />
as, “family.”<br />
Laurie also launched Hope Initiative,<br />
which is a nonprofit geared toward fighting<br />
sex trafficking in the Central Valley.“<br />
The mission and heart of Hope Initiative<br />
is to bring awareness to minors about<br />
the dangers of sex trafficking, to provide<br />
shelter to those who have been trafficked,<br />
counseling, and rehabilitation for<br />
victims of all ages,” said Laurie.<br />
Customers of Vine and Branches bookstore<br />
in Lodi are able to contribute to<br />
the Hope Initiative every time they purchase<br />
a beverage from their coffee bar in<br />
the store. “We decided that we wanted<br />
to give a portion of our proceeds from<br />
coffee sales directly to the Hope Initiative.<br />
We call it ‘coffee with a cause,” said<br />
Laurie. Eventually Laurie would also like<br />
to open up a rehabilitation home that<br />
teaches life skills and offers supportive<br />
services. “I want the survivors to be able<br />
to go to a safe place, where they can<br />
come and begin to heal. I want to build a<br />
place where they can begin to put pieces<br />
of their lives back together, where they<br />
can begin to hope and dream for a better<br />
future life and we (my husband and<br />
I) want to be there to help walk them<br />
through it.”<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> Take Away<br />
Who says you can’t do it all?<br />
One door may open up another<br />
door, but you first must walk<br />
through it.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 30<br />
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HEADLINERS<br />
Lee Neeves<br />
IMAGE SHAPER,<br />
& DESTINY MAKER<br />
LEE NEVES, 41<br />
28 31<br />
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Article Title<br />
Talking to a camera man for Fox 40 news.<br />
Lee Neves has made it on our list of<br />
Most Eligible Bachelor’s of the Central<br />
Valley. He is a first generation American<br />
from Hilmar, California. Both of his<br />
parents came from Portugal. “My Mom<br />
picked strawberries for fifty cents a<br />
basket and my Dad used to milk cows.<br />
When he would finish, he would go<br />
and help my Mom pick strawberries.,<br />
said Lee.<br />
His parents’ great work ethic<br />
paid off as all of their children are doing<br />
well. Lee, who is the middle child runs<br />
Cross Currents, LLC consulting firm with<br />
his partner. His older brother is a police<br />
officer in Turlock and his younger sister<br />
works for Gallo wine.<br />
Lee originally came to Stockton<br />
to attend University of the Pacific, where<br />
he earned his Bachelor of Arts in History<br />
and went on to Mc George School of<br />
Law to receive his Juris Doctor, Law;<br />
Governmental Affairs.<br />
Upon leaving school, he worked in<br />
politics for some time. He was the<br />
Political Director for Dick Monteith’s<br />
Congressional campaign, the Executive<br />
Director of the Republican Party of the<br />
Central Valley, and ran political races in<br />
Merced and Stanislaus Counties.<br />
After five years he decided that<br />
he needed a break from politics and<br />
accepted an offer at Barnes & Noble as<br />
thier Community Relations Director.<br />
29<br />
“ONE OF THE KIDS SAID HIS MOMMY TOLD HIM THAT THEY DIDN’T<br />
HAVE ENOUGH FOOD TO EAT BREAKFAST THAT MORNING AND IT JUST<br />
KILLED ME. THAT EXPERIENCE AND OTHERS HELP ME TO SELECT THE<br />
BEST CANDIDATES. I DON’T JUST THINK ABOUT HOW MUCH MONEY I<br />
CAN MAKE. I PICK CANDIDATES WHO ARE DOING THE RIGHT THINGS<br />
FOR THE RIGHT REASON, WHO ARE REALLY HELPING. ”<br />
“When you go from law school directly<br />
to politics, it’s like you live in a bubble.<br />
I needed a change. That position really<br />
helped me engage with the community<br />
in a way I never had before. It was a<br />
great experience.”<br />
We (Barnes & Noble) delivered<br />
10,000 books a year to Stockton kids. I<br />
would sometimes get to read to kids.<br />
I remember one time I had to go to an<br />
elementary school in Stockton and read<br />
to a class. I started off telling the kids that<br />
I had eaten cold pizza for breakfast and<br />
asked all of them what they had eaten.<br />
One of the kids said his Mommy told him<br />
that they didn’t have enough food to eat<br />
for breakfast that morning and it killed<br />
me. That experience and others help<br />
me to select the best candidates. I don’t<br />
just think about how much money I can<br />
make. I pick candidates who are doing<br />
the right thing for the right reason, who<br />
are really helping.,”stated Neves.<br />
Lee has a long list of clients<br />
whom he has helped get elected. Some<br />
you might be familiar with are San<br />
Joaquin’s current District Attorney, Tori<br />
Verber Salazar, San Joaquin County<br />
Superintendent, of schools James<br />
Mousalimas, and a number of Stockton<br />
City Council Members.<br />
In addition, he has recently<br />
worked to get Stanislaus’ Monteith<br />
and Merced’s Lloyd Pereira elected, an<br />
Orange County Supervisor, the<br />
Auditor/Controller of Alameda County,<br />
and pushed countless initiatives through<br />
in Calaveras County and San Joaquin<br />
County. He has also worked to get<br />
measures passed in Stanuslaus and<br />
Merced Counties.<br />
When asked how it feels to help<br />
shape the image of men and women<br />
who are contending for a political seat,<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 32<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
HEADLINERS<br />
Lee Neeves<br />
“IT FEELS GREAT KNOWING THAT<br />
I CAN HELP MAKE SOMEONE’S<br />
DESTINY BY SHAPING PUBLIC<br />
POLICY WHEREVER MY CLIENTS<br />
ARE. MY ACTIONS HAVE A DIRECT<br />
EFFECT ON THE WAY A CITY OR<br />
A COUNTY GOES.”<br />
Q&A with the Bachelor<br />
<strong>Karima</strong>: What are you looking for in<br />
a mate?<br />
I am looking for someone who can put<br />
up with me (chuckles).<br />
he replied, “It feels great knowing that I can help make someone’s<br />
destiny by shaping public policy wherever my clients are. My actions<br />
have a direct effect on the way a city or a county goes. It does get<br />
stressful at times, but it’s fun. I enjoy it. It doesn’t feel like work.”<br />
Lee’s most memorable moment in politics is when he was<br />
consulting for former Senator, Dick Monteith, who was running for a<br />
county supervisor seat. “Election night came and it was almost tied.<br />
It took three weeks to count the votes. I was at a Sacramento King’s<br />
game and got a call from Dick’s wife. We won by 16 votes! So, next<br />
time someone says their vote doesn’t matter, I tell them this story,”<br />
said Lee.<br />
What do you do for fun?<br />
I love UOP basketball and am a rather<br />
large supporter of the team. I am on the<br />
PAF Executive Board & Coach Damon’s<br />
Exclusive Circle to help him recruit some<br />
of the best players and make the team<br />
successful. I enjoy wine tasting, visting<br />
the Bay Area and the Central Coast, Big<br />
Sur, and Ventana. I like to go watch SF Giants<br />
games, soccer, spin class.<br />
Are you involved with any charities?<br />
Yes, I am. I am on the Executive Board/<br />
Chair for the March of Dimes, on the<br />
Committee for March of Dimes Signature<br />
Celebrity Chef Auction, I am a former Rotarian,<br />
I have been Santa Claus for the last<br />
3 for Central United Methodist Church.<br />
Cleavland Elementary School and Angel<br />
Families come see me.<br />
Do you like kids?<br />
Yes, I do. I have two nieces and a nephew.<br />
They are great.<br />
What is the most romantic thing you<br />
have ever done for someone?<br />
I wisked a woman away to San Francisco<br />
to go see Phantom of the Opera and after<br />
a dinner at Kuleto’s. It was a surprise<br />
and she loved it.<br />
Lee at a SF Giants game with Chris Lynn.<br />
You can only take 3 things to a stranded<br />
island...go.<br />
My phone, Kate Christianson, & a grill so I<br />
could catch fish and grill them.<br />
30<br />
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Article Title<br />
34 31<br />
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SECTION TITLE<br />
Article Title<br />
FEMALE NINJA<br />
COURTNEY DUBOIS<br />
35 32<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 35<br />
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Jujitsu is a male dominated sport.<br />
What made you decide to pursue jujitsu?<br />
My father had been training for several years and<br />
his gym decided to start an all women class and he<br />
Is your family supportive?<br />
My family is SOOO Supportive. They train with me,<br />
they attend all of my tournaments, and they even<br />
help me strategize. This goes beyond my parents.<br />
talked me into going. Not even a week later all the I consider all of my teammates to be an extended<br />
other girls stopped Jujitsu showing is a male up dominated and I was sport. forced What to made you family Is your at family Stockton supportive? Jiu-Jitsu and I wouldn't trade<br />
decide to pursue jujitsu?<br />
My family is SOOO Supportive. They train with me,<br />
decide between training with the guys, or not at all<br />
them for the world.<br />
My father had been training for several years and his they attend all of my tournaments, and they even<br />
and I was fascinated gym decided so I chose to start to an learn all women more. class and he talked<br />
me into going. Not even a week later all the other I consider all of my teammates to be an extended<br />
help me strategize. This goes beyond my parents.<br />
girls stopped showing up and I was forced to decide family at Stockton Jiu-Jitsu and I wouldn’t trade them<br />
between training with the guys, or not at all and I was for the world<br />
fascinated so I chose to learn more<br />
What are the biggest misperceptions that people Are you afraid to “roll” with the guys?<br />
have about women doing jujitsu?<br />
Never. This is a really big thing for me. Being afraid<br />
What are the Most biggest males that misperceptions enter the gym for the first that time might Are to you learn jiu-jitsu afraid with to men "roll" or women with is crazy the to guys? me.<br />
think that because I am small, and especially, because Yes, men can be stronger but it is all the same. Any<br />
people have about women doing jujitsu? Never. This is a really big thing for me. Being afraid<br />
I am a women that I will be an “Easy” fight for them. time you are put into a submission, or even just a<br />
Most males that What enter people the gym often for forget the is first that time to learn jiu-jitsu with men or women is crazy to me.<br />
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu spot that makes you feel uncomfortable, all you have<br />
might think that was because designed I for am the small, smaller and opponent especially, to overcome<br />
Yes, to men do is can tap. be Once stronger you tap but you it can is start all the over same. fresh, Any<br />
the larger opponent. With a solid technique, there no harm done. Also it helps you to learn faster how<br />
because I am a women that I will be an "Easy" time you are put into a submission, or even just a spot<br />
really is no reason that a women could not beat a to not be put into those places again. Training with<br />
fight for them. What people often forget is that that makes you feel uncomfortable, all you have to do<br />
man in this sport. It happens on the daily.<br />
the guys I feel also makes you tougher. They don’t<br />
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was designed for the smaller is tap. want<br />
Once to tap<br />
you to a<br />
tap girl,<br />
you so you<br />
can have<br />
start to work<br />
over harder<br />
fresh, on<br />
no harm<br />
opponent to overcome the larger opponent. With done. your Also technique. it helps you to learn faster how to not be<br />
a solid technique, there really is no reason that a put into those places again. Training with the guys<br />
women could not beat a man in this sport. It<br />
I feel also makes you tougher. They don't want to tap<br />
happens on the daily.<br />
to a girl, so you have to work harder on your<br />
technique.<br />
33<br />
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<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 36<br />
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HEADLINERS<br />
Courtney Dubois<br />
What do your friends think about you being a<br />
kick ass girl?<br />
My friends are extremely supportive of me fighting,<br />
but then again most of my friends are training along<br />
side me everyday.<br />
Tell us about your technique...<br />
So they say in Jiu-Jitsu that everyone develops their<br />
own “game” or “style”. If I had to describe my own<br />
style I would say that its very involved. I am constantly<br />
using every part of my body to execute techniques. I<br />
am pulling with my arms and pushing with my feet always.<br />
The great thing about Stockton Jiu-jitsu is that<br />
we have excellent coaches of all body sizes that teach<br />
the same moves from each perspective. No matter<br />
what technique we are learning, I am confident that<br />
our coaches will modify it to fit into my game as well<br />
as all of my other teammates and friends.<br />
What do you plan on doing with your jujitsu skills &<br />
what do you hope to achieve with this sport?<br />
For now I am really interested in competing. I want<br />
to support all of the local tournaments that allow<br />
the sport to keep growing. Other than that, I intend<br />
to keep practicing and becoming better and better<br />
each day.Aside from the belt that I’m after, I also<br />
one day would like to earn a black belt and pass my<br />
knowledge on to other women.<br />
Have you done any fights? What is that like?<br />
I have never done any MMA style fights, or even any<br />
big jiu-jitsu super fights, yet! I actually have a pretty<br />
big one for the WFC approaching and its pretty nerve<br />
wracking but its a good feeling. It really pushes my<br />
training and I can’t wait to get out there and show<br />
everyone my jiu-jitsu.<br />
What do you want people to know about jujitsu?<br />
It really is for everyone. Some days you are going to<br />
get beat up, other days you might be the one beating<br />
up others. The most important thing is to stick with it.<br />
Every day that you show up, you improve. Hard work,<br />
focus, and dedication will determine your jiu-jitsu.<br />
To read more on Courtney Dubois go to our<br />
website & read the full interview.<br />
“What people often forget is that<br />
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was designed<br />
for the smaller opponent to<br />
overcome the larger opponent.”<br />
If you know an athlete that we should profile,<br />
let us know at talk@karimamag.com<br />
34<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 37<br />
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EVENTS<br />
NorCal Event Listing<br />
EVENTS<br />
Editor’s Picks<br />
JUNE<br />
1 Stockton Food Truck Mania<br />
Located at Regional Oak Grove Park and open to the public.<br />
Will have children’s entertainers, balloon artists, face painters,<br />
bounce houses, music and more! Fee is $5.oo per vehicle.<br />
Food trucks accept cash and cards.<br />
4520 W. Eight Mile Rd., Stockton CA/4-8PM/(916) 722-6636<br />
1 Stockton Live Jazz with Randy Sandioli, pianist/<br />
composer @ the Haggin Museum. Performing original pieces<br />
and standards.<br />
Complimentary wine from Weibel & snacks courtesy of Junior<br />
League Women’s Group— Adults (ages 18-64): $5/Seniors<br />
(ages 65+): $5 Youth (ages 10-17) and Students (with valid<br />
school ID): Free<br />
1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, CA/6:30-9PM/(209) 943-6315<br />
17 Lodi Craft Beer Festival<br />
@Lodi Lake Park featuring unlimited craft beer tasting from<br />
over 50 tasteful craft brewers, with each brewery bringing at<br />
least two varieties of their best craft brews for your tasting<br />
experience. Also hosting games, food vendors, & live music.<br />
Parking is free. General admission tickets are $35.00 in<br />
advance and $45.00 day of event. Purchase your tickets online<br />
at www.LodiCraftBeerFestival.co 3-7PM/(209) 229-1515<br />
29-July 3 THE MOVING WALL<br />
The traveling half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans<br />
Memorial is coming to Stockton. The Moving Wall will be on<br />
display and is free and open to the community, 24 hours a<br />
day staffed by Veterans and civilian volunteers, who will<br />
assist in locating names, accompanying individuals or<br />
families to the Wall, helping with taking a “rubbing” of a<br />
name or just being available as a “silent partner” at the Wall.<br />
StocktonTheMovingWall2017@gmail.com.<br />
3 Lodi Taco Truck Cook Off<br />
@Hale Park Featuring up to 12 taco trucks competing for the<br />
people’s choice “Best in Lodi” award. All ages welcome.<br />
Hosting art booths, mariachis, folkloric and Aztec dancers.<br />
21+ can enjoy the Beer Garden.<br />
209 E. Elm Lodi, CA/11-2PM/ 209-365-9010<br />
4 Stockton Annual Jewish Food Festival<br />
@Temple Israel featuring live music, traditional Jewish<br />
food, bakery, dancing, Deli Brunches for sale, Judacia shop,<br />
micro brew tasting and more. Free Admission & Free Parking.<br />
5105 N. El Dorado St. Stockton, CA/9:30-2:30PM/<br />
(209) 477-9306<br />
10 Stockton Annual Philippine Independence Day<br />
@Weber Point featuring food booths, entertainment, cultural<br />
dances and exhibits, motorcycle and car displays.<br />
221 N. Center St., Stockton, CA/11-6PM/<br />
info@pidcofcentralvalley.org<br />
35<br />
14-18 San Joaquin County Fair<br />
@the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds in Stockton. Featuring<br />
main stage entertainment, concerts, rides, a carnival,<br />
agriculture, livestock, food, live entertainment, and exhibits.<br />
1658 S. Airport Wy., Stockton, CA/(209) 466-5041<br />
For Full Listing of Events, Please Visit Our Website<br />
WWW.KARIMAMAG.COM<br />
OR every Friday on our Facebook page...<br />
https://www.facebook.com/karimamagazine/<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 38<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
EVENTS<br />
Event Photos<br />
PHOTOS FROM THE KARIMA LAUNCH PARTY,<br />
WOMEN IN BLUE, AND THE HOSPICE ENGLISH TEA<br />
www.karimamag.com<br />
36<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 39<br />
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SECTION TITLE<br />
Article Title<br />
Taste of Thailand<br />
BANGKOK<br />
RESTAURANT<br />
40<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 40<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
TASTE BUDS<br />
Local Eats<br />
FOODIE BREAKDOWN<br />
As I walked into Bangkok Thai Restaurant in North-<br />
Stockton, I immediately picked up on the subtle scent<br />
of sweet jasmine rice and exotic spices from the East. I<br />
was quickly greeted by a friendly woman<br />
who told me where to be seated. As I looked around<br />
the room I noticed that there weren’t many open<br />
tables left and I took that as a good sign. The<br />
restaurant was filled with families and some couples. As<br />
I picked up the menu and browsed through it, I realized<br />
that coud probably use some help figuring out what to<br />
order. The Bangkok menu is not exactly small. I asked<br />
a man who was sitting with his family what he woud<br />
recomend. He told me everything was good. So, I did<br />
what most people would do in my situation. I ordered<br />
my basic pad thai, added shrimp. but I didn’t stop<br />
there. I went with everything the waitress told me was<br />
the most popular, called my friends, had them meet<br />
me and we had a feast. And just like the other tables<br />
around us, every one of our plates looked like it had<br />
been cleaned.<br />
PICTURED ABOVE: PAD THAI WITH SHRIMP AT BANGKOK RESTAURANT<br />
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BANGKOK...<br />
CUSTOMER FAVORITES<br />
Vegan friendly<br />
Stays open from 11am-9pm (we really like that) &<br />
closed Mondays<br />
Your server will ask you how spicy you woud like<br />
to have your food prepared<br />
Child friendly, priced moderate $$<br />
Beef laap<br />
Pad thai<br />
Red curry beef<br />
Basil chicken<br />
Chicken Wings<br />
Hot & sour chicken soup<br />
Peanut butter curry<br />
Green curry<br />
Yellow curry<br />
Spareribs<br />
Casual atmosphere, serves beer, wine, & traditional<br />
Thai drinks<br />
Bangkok Restaurant<br />
3255 W. Hammer Ln, Ste 18, Stockton, CA 95209<br />
(209) 476-8616<br />
38<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 41<br />
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SECTION TITLE<br />
Article Title<br />
I L<br />
IACOPI, LENZ & COMPANY<br />
Accountancy Corporation<br />
John T. Iacopi, CPA<br />
Susan H. Lenz, CPA<br />
Michael S. Butler, CPA<br />
Michael D. Luis, CPA<br />
James J. Acosta, CPA<br />
Michael P. Anselmo, CPA<br />
Amber E. Hibbs Bell, CPA<br />
Paula M. Frago, CPA<br />
Constance D. Logan, CPA<br />
James H. LaForest, CPA<br />
Tami K. Horita Louie, CPA<br />
Tax Planning & Preparation<br />
Accounting & Auditing Services<br />
Business Consulting<br />
Budgets & Forecasts<br />
Business Valuation Services<br />
Litigation Support Services<br />
Marital Dissolution Accounting<br />
Evening & Weekend Appointments<br />
Available Upon Request<br />
Dina P. Marasigan, CPA<br />
Kathy L. Morris Marr, CPA<br />
Kathleen M. Solari, CPA<br />
Revo Somersille, CPA<br />
Sunny Y. Williams, CPA<br />
Christina Faria<br />
Patricia Melton<br />
Michael Solari<br />
3031 W. March Lane, Suite 300E<br />
Stockton, California 95219<br />
Telephone: (209) 957-3691<br />
Fax: (209) 957-0841<br />
Website: www.iacopi.com<br />
42<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 42<br />
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TASTE BUDS<br />
Recipes<br />
RECIPE<br />
Tres leches Vegan Cupcakes<br />
Spiked Cocunut Whipped Cream & a Cherry on Top<br />
Why is this good? It’s not just, because it’s vegan/<br />
animal product free. Nope-this is good, because<br />
there are some people who cannot stomach<br />
lactose, which is found in regular milk. This recipe<br />
calls for other milks, one of them being coconut<br />
milk, and it just so happens to be hailed by many<br />
as a super healthy thing to consume. This is also<br />
not your every day, boring kind of recipe. I mean<br />
we could have given you a recipe for cherry<br />
empanadas (which are b sically cherry hand pies),<br />
but we figure that’s pretty basic and most likely<br />
you already know how to make those. So, why<br />
not impress your friends with som thing new? And<br />
really—who doesn’t love cupcakes especially when<br />
they are spiked with cherry rum....<br />
What You Need:<br />
For the Tres Leches<br />
Cake Batter...<br />
1 cup plain, unsweetened<br />
soy milk<br />
2 tsp vinegar<br />
1 1/2 cups<br />
all-purpose flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp kosher salt<br />
1/3 cup vegetable oil<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
1 tbsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp almond extract<br />
For the pour over syrup:<br />
1 cup vegan sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 14- oz . can full-fat coconut milk/<br />
refrigerated overnight<br />
Your favorite Cherry flavored rum<br />
Fresh Cherries with stems in tact.<br />
actual cupcakes!<br />
What you have to do:<br />
In a mixing bowl, stir together the soy milk<br />
and vinegar.<br />
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and prep<br />
your cupcake pan.<br />
In a separate bowl, whis the flour, baking soda,<br />
baking powder, and salt.<br />
Then add the soy milk, oil, sugar, vanilla extract, and<br />
almond extract.<br />
Whisk well to combine. Stir in the dry mixture and mix<br />
until no lumps remain.<br />
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick<br />
inserted into the center comes out clean.<br />
(Wait until at least 15 minutes before<br />
opening the oven door at all). Take<br />
cupcakes out of oven when done and<br />
letting them cool. Prep your syrup now<br />
by mixing ingredients.<br />
Make sure to scoop out the cream on<br />
top of the coconut milk and reserve for<br />
whipped topping. Now poke holes in<br />
cupcakes with a tothpick. Now pour milk<br />
mix over cupcakes.<br />
These cupcakes are best served cold, just like revenge.<br />
For topping, whip that cocunut fat and whip it good.<br />
Pour in some azucar, add some cherry rum (to taste of<br />
course), and pipe onto your cupcakes.<br />
Finally, top with a season ripe cherry and viola!<br />
You’re done!<br />
40<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 43<br />
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TASTE BUDS<br />
Kombucha For Life<br />
KOMBUCHA<br />
FOR LIFE<br />
EASTERN TEA PROVES MUCH MORE THAN<br />
JUST BASIC DRINK<br />
by Angela Karim<br />
Kombucha is available in many different flavors and is easy<br />
to find in case you don’t have the time to make it yourself.<br />
A Mango Habanero<br />
KOMBUCHA combination<br />
found at Safeway,<br />
S-Mart, Target,<br />
Smart & Final,<br />
& Walmart.<br />
A ginger flavored<br />
KOMBUCHA tea found at<br />
Winco, Walmart, S-Mart,<br />
Safeway, Target, & Raleys<br />
A Maca Berry flavored<br />
KOMBUCHA tea found at Safeway,<br />
Artesian Health Foods, &<br />
Sonshine Nutrition.<br />
OMBUCHA is a fermented beverage that<br />
consists of black tea and sugar. The sugar<br />
that makes up the drink can come from<br />
any number of sources such as honey, cane<br />
sugar, or fruit. Once the sugar is combined with<br />
the tea, the bacteria and yeast (aka SCOBY)<br />
begin the fermentation process. After the drink<br />
ferments, it becomes carbonated. When it<br />
carbonates, you know magic has happened. The<br />
drink then contains vinegar, b-vitamins, enzymes,<br />
probiotics and a high concentration of acid (acetic,<br />
gluconic and lactic). This is good, because those help<br />
with detoxing, cleansing the body, boosting your<br />
immune system, improving digestion, increasing<br />
energy, losing weight, fighting cancer, and reducing<br />
joint pain. While it only costs under $5.00 to make<br />
your own Kombucha, there are many stores that<br />
carry a number of Kombucha varities. Drink up and<br />
drink to life!<br />
44 41<br />
DIY KOMBUCHA RECIPE<br />
NEED:<br />
Gallon size glass jar<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
13-14 cups of water<br />
2 cups starter tea or white vinegar<br />
a SCOBY (can purchase SCOBY or<br />
ask someone for a baby SCOBY<br />
or make your own)<br />
Fermentation Cover or coffee<br />
filter or thin cloth a<br />
rubber band to secure cover<br />
*traditional recipe calls for black<br />
tea<br />
HOW TO:<br />
1) Combine hot water and sugar<br />
the glass jar. Stir until the sugar<br />
dissolves. The water should be<br />
hot enough to steep the tea but<br />
does not have to be boiling.<br />
2) Place the tea or tea bags in the<br />
sugar water to steep.<br />
3) Let the tea cool to room<br />
temperature (It needs to be<br />
completely cooled down.)<br />
4) When tea is cool, remove<br />
tea bags.<br />
5) Add your starter tea. If no starter<br />
tea then add the vinegar<br />
6) Add an active SCOBY<br />
7) Cover the jar a cover, cloth, or<br />
coffee filter, and secure it with<br />
the rubber band.<br />
8) Then put the jar in a warm<br />
corner of the kitchen 65-85<br />
degrees is the best for the brew.<br />
Let the liquid ferment for 7-10<br />
days out of direct sunlight.<br />
9) Keep your SCOBY and enough<br />
liquid to use as a starter for your<br />
next batch.<br />
* the finished kombucha can be flavored<br />
and bottled, if desired, or enjoyed plain.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 44<br />
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BODY, SOUL & MIND<br />
Healthy Gut, Healthy You<br />
Healthy Gut, Healthy You<br />
MANUKA HONEY & ACV Elixir Recipe by Barbara Chacon-Smith<br />
If you would like to stay healthy all year long, then I’ve got a great recipe for you that only calls for<br />
four ingredients. It not only tastes good, but will help you keep the cold, the flu, and other sicknesses<br />
away. How, you may ask? By helping you maintain a healthy gut.<br />
INGREDIENTS:<br />
-8oz. filtered water (preferably alkaine water)<br />
-1 Tbsp of Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar (you want<br />
the Bragg’s unfiltered organic brand)<br />
-1 tsp Manuka Honey (purchase at Trader Joe’s or<br />
a specialty store)<br />
-1/8 tsp organic Cinnamon<br />
DIRECTIONS:<br />
Pour water into a pot and bring to a boil. In a cup add 1/8<br />
teaspoon of organic cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of Bragg’s<br />
Apple Cider Vinegar. Pour the boiled water into cup and then<br />
add teaspoon of Manuka Honey. Stir and enjoy. You can drink<br />
this cider several times a day.<br />
Barbara Chacon-Smith is a<br />
Naturopathic Doctor, a Certified<br />
Health Coach, and a Certified<br />
Colon Hydrotherapist in the<br />
Manteca, California area.<br />
Contact Barbara at:<br />
CoachBarbaraSmith@gmail.com<br />
For more recipes and health<br />
and wellness coaching,<br />
check out her website at:<br />
ActiveAndLiving.com.<br />
Benefits of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar Scientific evidence<br />
proves that apple cider vinegar has been used to improve<br />
the immune system. However, it is important to get the<br />
apple cider vinegar that has the cloudy strands, which are<br />
referred to as Dzmotherdz probiotics. The strands are bits<br />
of live yeast. Yes, they are “alive.” The cloudy yeast strands<br />
contain the bacteria that once entered into the body and<br />
they provide various healing benefits. One of the best<br />
brands that I recommend purchasing is Bragg’s Apple<br />
Cider Vinegar. It is raw, unfiltered, organic, and is<br />
non-GMO certified.<br />
Manuka Honey Sweet Healer<br />
I added Manuka honey to this recipe, because it provides<br />
a wonderful, sweet taste that will curb the tartness of<br />
the vinegar. However, it is also an amazing healing food.<br />
For example, if you have a cold, flu, or sore throat, then<br />
you would definitely want to add the Manuka honey<br />
to this drink. Research shows that Manuka Honey stops<br />
the growth of sore throat-causing strep bacteria. I prefer<br />
using Manuka honey over other honey as the nutritional<br />
content is up to four times that of normal flower honeys.<br />
Just make sure that when you go to purchase your<br />
Manuka honey, that it has at least a 10+ rating. While you can<br />
always use any other type of honey, it may not be as<br />
potent as the Manuka.<br />
One interesting fact about honey is that the<br />
National Cancer Institute reently approved honey to be<br />
used in healing inflammation in the throat caused by<br />
chemotherapy. The proof is out there folks. Honey is a<br />
natural medicine.<br />
Cinnamon as an Additional Spice Aid<br />
Finally, I added cinnamon to this recipe, because of its<br />
antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. Researchers<br />
have identified over seven kinds of flavonoid compounds<br />
alone in cinnamon, which are highly effective at fighting<br />
dangerous inflammation throughout the body.<br />
Helathy Gut, Healthy You Everyday<br />
Studies show that 75% of your immune system is in<br />
your gut, So remember that it is important to keep your<br />
gut healthy all year around. If you slowly begin to make<br />
healthier choices throughout the year and improve<br />
your gut health, then you will be ready for cold season!<br />
Preparation is key to a healthy life! Cheers to a healthy you!<br />
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<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 46<br />
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DO MIRACLES<br />
STILL HAPPEN?<br />
ONE MAN’S TAKE ON MODERN SPRITUALITY<br />
Two and a half years ago my wife was driving home<br />
late one night from Petaluma, CA with our three<br />
children. They were traveling eastbound on highway<br />
37, a two-lane road connecting Novato and Vallejo, near<br />
Sears Point.<br />
Suddenly, the driver’s side front tire blew<br />
at 60 mph, sending the vehicle into a tailspin.<br />
Striking the center- divide, our Chevy Suburban<br />
flipped, rolled, slid and came to an ominous halt<br />
upside-down on the freeway. My wife called out<br />
to the kids from the front seat. They all three were<br />
hanging upside-down in their carseats like little<br />
bats in pajamas. They were awake, frightened but<br />
uninjured. Meljoné had the presence of mind to<br />
instruct them to unbuckle their harnesses and climb<br />
out of any one of the shattered windows of the<br />
vehicle. Bystanders came to the rescue and assisted<br />
them, including two smiling, young men who<br />
helped unbuckle their seatbelts and escort them to<br />
a safe area. Later, looking to thank them, they were<br />
nowhere to be found.<br />
Meljoné crawled out as well only to discover<br />
blood streaming down her left arm. Her body was thrust<br />
against the driver’s side window as it slid across the pavement,<br />
ripping open her arm and exposing her tendon.<br />
When I arrived an ambulance was on scene. She had to be<br />
taken to a local hospital where they performed surgery to<br />
remove the glass from her arm and stitch her up. It was a<br />
horrific accident. We were all shaken up, but it could have<br />
been a lot worse. Amazingly, my family walked away from<br />
the accident under their own power. It was miraculous! Or<br />
was it?<br />
Are miracles real or perceived? Are they acts of a<br />
Higher Power or convenient coincidences contrived in the<br />
minds of well-meaning, gullible people?<br />
44<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 47<br />
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BODY, SOUL & MIND<br />
Do Miracles Still Happen?<br />
Pictured: Jeff Rostocil (author), Meljone<br />
(author’s wife), and their children.<br />
Are miracles real or<br />
perceived? Are they acts<br />
of a Higher Power or<br />
convenient coincidences<br />
contrived in the minds<br />
of well-meaning,<br />
gullible people?<br />
45<br />
Surprisingly, science doesn’t rule out what we<br />
might consider a miracle. We know that matter can be<br />
converted to energy. This is easy. Every time we enjoy a<br />
campfire, wood (matter) is being converted into energy<br />
(heat). But can energy be converted back into matter? Science<br />
says yes.<br />
While it would take an astronomical amount<br />
of energy to do so, it is theoretically possible that<br />
energy can be converted into matter. This means, given<br />
the right amount of energy, doctors could grow fingers,<br />
toes, ears and organs if they had the technology and ability<br />
to harness that energy. This is beyond our current medical<br />
capabilities, but imagine the medical possibilities.<br />
So, when my wife’s leg grew out on our first date<br />
while I prayed for her. When a deaf mute could hear and<br />
speak her name for the fist time at a prayer meeting in<br />
Lamin, Gambia. When three-month old Katie Metro’s organs<br />
came to life in Lodi, CA as we gathered around her<br />
hospital bed in prayer. It all could be coincidence, yes. It all<br />
could be explainable, sure. Or it all could be scientific. Perhaps<br />
just enough universal power was released to make<br />
a leg grow out, cause deaf ears to open and bring a child<br />
back from death’s door.<br />
And what about those two smiling young men<br />
who assisted my children out of the wreckage only to vanish<br />
into the night air. Angels perhaps?<br />
Try to say otherwise to my kids. Whether<br />
you are a scientist or an atheist, when you’ve seen<br />
too many of these coincidences you cannot rule<br />
out the God-factor. Given the evidence, it would be<br />
foolish and unscientific for me not to consider that<br />
maybe there is an all-powerful, universal God who sends<br />
angels and works miracles on our behalf.<br />
Jeff Rostocil travels full-time as a Kingdom communicator speaking<br />
to adults and youth nationaly and internationally. Jeff has written two<br />
books: Unshakable: Living Your Life Anchored To God’s Kingdom (2009)<br />
and Bulletproof: Accessing The Favor And Protection Of God In The Secret<br />
Place (2013). He founded SoleQuest International in 2002 and holds a master<br />
degree through Wagner Leadership Institute. He and his wife Meljoné live in<br />
the San Francisco Bay Area with their three children.<br />
<strong>Karima</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.indd 48<br />
5/21/17 5:08 PM
BODY, SOUL & MIND<br />
Q&A with Yessi<br />
Q/A<br />
Working for his parent’s American dream<br />
night and day = burn-out<br />
If you would like to ask<br />
Yessenia to give you some<br />
advice with something that<br />
you are facing in life, then<br />
please send an email to the<br />
following address:<br />
talk@karimamag.com<br />
Dear Yessi,<br />
I have a dilemma. My mother and<br />
father own their own business, which<br />
I’ve been helping them with now since<br />
I was younger. I’m now 33 and have<br />
never taken a vacation, because I’m<br />
always there at the restaurant helping.<br />
Don’t get me wrong I love the family<br />
restaurant and I even love to cook, but<br />
I would like to be able to take a few<br />
days off at least. I feel like the restaurant<br />
won’t run without me, because they<br />
gave grown dependent on my help. Do<br />
you have any advice for me. I’m also their<br />
only son and their only child.<br />
Signed, Seriously No Time For Anything<br />
Else (from Stockton)<br />
Dear Energizer Bunny,<br />
The company, Energizer would like you<br />
to believe the “Energizer Bunny” keeps<br />
going and going. But, the batteries eventually<br />
will die out and that’s why it’s important<br />
to take some time to re-energize.<br />
In your case, setting boundaries is going<br />
to be key. You see, most gardens have<br />
fences to keep those pesky animals out<br />
who would love to eat the gardener’s<br />
crops.You may not be an actual gardener,<br />
but you do have a garden to tend to<br />
and protect. The garden represents all<br />
the things that are of value to you -your<br />
time, what you enjoy doing, and your<br />
rest. The fence represents a boundary,<br />
a guideline of how you expect others to<br />
treat you and how you respond when<br />
someone crosses the line. The animals<br />
represent people who take advantage of<br />
your time, your skills, and so on. Sadly,<br />
people will walk all over your garden and<br />
destroy it by taking and taking IF YOU<br />
allow them. Boy, it’s time you put your<br />
foot down (boundaries) and take care of<br />
your garden! Start by having a business<br />
meeting, wine and dine them (a little<br />
extra on the wine, but don’t get crazy *;)<br />
winking). Propose a plan that will ensure<br />
everyone gets some time off and explain<br />
the benefits. If this discussion starts<br />
to appear like a reunion on the reality<br />
show, Love & Hip Hop (if you aren’t familiar<br />
with the show look it up online, it’s<br />
one of my guilty pleasures, don’t judge<br />
me), seek out a mediator or consultant<br />
who can ensure a win-win for everyone.<br />
46<br />
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