My Magical Night at the Stockton Lantern Festival

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:
·        Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025!
·        Times: 5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM
·        Location: Banner Island Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton
·        Tickets
o   Ticketmaster.com
o   Adventist Health Arena box office: Mon, Wed, Fri 11AM-2PM
o   Banner Island Ballpark, daily starting November 20.

I recently visited the Stockton Lantern Festival, and it
was an unforgettable evening filled with light, culture, and fun. From the
moment I arrived at the ballpark, I was overwhelmed by this year’s “Magic
Ocean” theme. Each year is a new theme creating entirely new experiences;
this year, we have been transported from the Magic Forest of last year to the
Magic Ocean!

Stunning Lantern Displays
The highlight of the festival was, without a doubt, the
stunning lantern displays. Each lantern is a masterpiece, showcasing artistic
details and vibrant colors. Featuring glowing jellyfish, whales, and vibrant
coral reefs, each display was meticulously handcrafted by lantern artisans
using the ancient technique of traditional Chinese lantern making. Also, some
of them were moving and speaking!

Fun for Everyone
The festival offered something for everyone. While I
walked through the lanterns, I was dazzled by the magical interplay of light
and shadow. The interactive lanterns and activities provide quality
entertainment for families with children, but the hand crafted lanterns also create
an amazing and romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night! I think this
festival is a great option for anybody who wants to make a day special.

Captivating Performances
Another standout feature was the live stage
performances. Traditional Chinese dances, accompanied by stunning costumes and
music, created a special performance that was fun to experience. The energy and
skill of the performers made the show a highlight of the evening. There will be
performances throughout the two-month run of the festival showcasing a vibrant
mix of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Food and Souvenirs to Remember
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious
food, and the Stockton Lantern Festival delivers in the best way. They have
traditional winter offerings like hot chocolate, as well as ocean-themed fare, including
Sand Dollar Cookies, Fishbowl Cocktails, and Fish & Chips. They also offer
unique, hand-crafted souvenirs which I recommend to preserve special memories
of your visit!
As Jason Perry, General Manager of ASM Global – Stockton
shared, the “Stockton Lantern Festival is fun for all persons, regardless of
age and is an experience that will allow you to return again, seeing it through
a different perspective each time you walk the baseball field.  Come
celebrate the winter season at Stockton Lantern Festival while you create
cherished memories and new traditions with your friends and family.”
The Stockton Lantern Festival was a magical experience,
perfect for families, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for a night to
remember, I highly recommend visiting. There are plenty of days left before the
lantern display leaves Downtown Stockton on January 20th, so don’t
miss your chance to experience this highlight of the holiday season!

For more details, visit:
·        Website
·        Instagram & Facebook

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES: December 7th!

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By Zachary Hulsey

  • When: December 7th, 3:00 – 7:30 PM
  • Where: Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center Street

As the December Christmas season approaches, downtown Stockton is getting ready for the annual tree lighting and boat parade ceremony.

Tree Lighting

Beginning on the first Saturday of December (December 7), the tree lighting ceremony will begin when the gates open at 3:00 pm at Weber Point Events Center, located at 221 N. Center St. This year, Downtown Stockton is going to showcase its holiday cheer, with free cookies and hot chocolate, and a festive event where the community gets to see the annual lighting of the Christmas tree, starting at 5:30 pm – two and a half hours after the gates open.

This festive holiday event will consist of many food trucks and vendors – so you’ll have the chance to either start or finish your Christmas shopping spree!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Lynn Hahn Memorial Delta Reflections Boat Parade

Make sure to wear nice, warm, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget to bring your lawn chair to watch one of the most anticipated parades year-round – the Lynn Hahn Memorial Delta Reflections Lighted Boat Parade. This boat parade will begin at 6:30 pm along the beautiful and historic waterway of the Stockton Deep Water Channel and McLeod Lake.

Put on by the Stockton Yacht Club, the boat parade has been a treasure for the Stockton community for over 40 years. The Stockton Yacht Club is organizing this boat parade, and every year it seems to get bigger, better, and brighter!

In a statement from the City of Stockton’s Community Relations Officer, Connie Cochran, she shares, “It’s been part of our tradition for decades, and we have many families that return to the tree every year to take a picture.”

That’s true; the tradition of this ceremony is what makes it extra special, given its 40-year annual return. Downtown Stockton is glad to be the home of this ceremony, and with activities like these, it makes downtown’s holiday season truly special.

Photo by Shaun Chatrath
Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Oh What Fun!…

Cochran noted of the December 7th festivities: “We have lots of other activities… We have food vendors and local artist vendors. The kids really love the fact that we have a snow machine.” The news release from the City of Stockton shows us just how much fun and joy we can expect from this event. In addition to the amazing activities mentioned, you’ll be able to take a picture with none other than Santa and the Grinch!

Along with Weber Point, MLK Plaza will have nicely decorated lights on the park trees. The Civic Auditorium, Cesar Chavez Library, and City Hall will all have festive decorations, such as lights and wreaths, that’ll leave downtown Stockton with a Christmas spirit. Families near and far will be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere of downtown, and we at the Downtown Stockton Alliance strongly encourage business owners to decorate their businesses (enter in the Downtown Stockton Business Holiday Decoration Contest!), along with the residents of downtown.

In addition to the Weber Point tree ceremony, various other fun activities will be there. I remember attending this event last year, and they had a carriage ride, festive trees and light poles, a snow machine that sets the mood, and most monumental, when 5:30 PM hits, everyone is staring at the beautifully decorated Christmas tree waiting for the lights to turn on. It was amazing, and it’s a must-see event for all families in Stockton.

Best of all, ITS FREE ADMISSION!

As stated previously, the main tree lighting ceremony and boat parade event at Weber Point Event Center, located at 221 N. Center St., will take place December 7th, beginning at 3:00 pm. The actual lighting of the Christmas tree will take place at 5:30 pm, and the boat parade will begin at 6:30 pm.

Make sure to bring your family and friends downtown for this holiday fun!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Community Gathers for Peace Monument Unveiling in Downtown Stockton

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By Harley Meadows

Designer: HWPL Design Team

On September 5th, 2024, over 100 Stockon and California residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting event to celebrate Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light’s (HWPL) first-ever peace monument establishment in the United States.

DSA Executive Director Mike Hubor with Stockton city officials and HWPL volunteers cutting the ribbon for a new peace monument in Diversity Plaza. Credit: HWPL Volunteers

Stockton – a city once plagued by violent crime – has been undergoing a transformation. Recent violence prevention projects have shown promising results in the decrease of crime and violence. Together, the Downtown Stockton Alliance and HWPL established a peace monument to advocate for a world filled with peace, unity, and harmony. 

The non-profit peace organization Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), established on May 25, 2013, by chairman Man-Hee Lee, is rooted in promoting religious tolerance worldwide, mutual respect and love, and cessation of war. Although this new organization is only eleven years old, HWPL has already administered 32 global peace missions and has partnered with over 400 different organizations worldwide in signing MOUs. 

A dove (symbolizing the desire for peace) soars over the world, symbolizing a beacon of hope for future generations of a community united in love and mutual respect. 

A closeup of the new peace monument. Credit: HWPL Volunteers

The event featured many guests including Harry Black, Stockton City Manager, who spoke on behalf of the City:

“This monument holds great significance for our city,” Black explained during the event. “Not only because it marks a new chapter of peacebuilding, but also because it reflects Stockton’s devotion and unity which is reflected here in the audience today.”

City Manager Harry Black addressing the crowd. Credit: HWPL Volunteers

Mike Huber, Executive Director of the Downtown Stockton Alliance, and Sandy Huber, Director of the World Peace Rose Gardens, also expressed their support for this work of peace. Justin Nailes, a marine veteran and HWPL volunteer, said, “I’ve seen many other young lives sacrificed because of war and violence. Today the need for peace is clearer to me than ever before, and I believe this monument will remind us all of that.”

Ericiliana Franco, a 5th grader who won the 8th Annual Inspirational Message of Peace Contest, shared her poem, Peace Around the World, during the event: 

May the world have peace,

May the world have love,

And make me fearless with help from above.

And I ask again for peace on earth.

Once more, more than once each day.

Thanks to the Downtown Stockton Alliance, HWPL has taken a monumental step towards our shared purpose – to create a city and a world free of war and united in love, peace, and prosperity. 

In the words of Man Hee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL): “Love can unite people in purpose, culture, and peace. Ultimately, it has the power to unite the whole world.”

The Most Anticipated Event of the Year, StocktonCon!

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By Zachary Hulsey

This weekend, visit StocktonCon, presented by Utility Telecom, where you’ll find a huge variety of comics, games, collectibles, anything anime, costume contests, and maybe even meet some great actors from your favorite TV show! The two-day event takes place at the newly named Adventist Health Arena in Downtown Stockton. The doors will be open to the public on July 13th and 14th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the best part is, kids under 12 are free to enter StocktonCon with a paid adult!

Let’s not forget about our food and drinks now. At StocktonCon, you’ll find many different types of treats, ranging from fresh hotdogs to delicious cotton candy!

Looking for trading cards, artwork, action figures, and other comic memorabilia? This family event has hundreds of small vendor businesses that I know you will absolutely love.

Stockton’s Annual Pop-Culture Convention is aimed at bringing the community together for a two-day festival of anime, comics, and creative costumes! So, get your family and friends together and gear up for one of the most anticipated events of the year, StocktonCon!

If you’re looking to attend StocktonCon for one day, buy the one-day ticket for $15 plus fees, and you’ll be able to attend on Saturday or Sunday. If you’re looking to attend both days, buy the 2-day ticket, which is $20 plus fees. And remember, kids under 12 are free if accompanied by a paid adult!

Enjoy a full weekend of comics and fun!

Buy Tickets Here

Click Here for Parking Information

Independence Day In Downtown!

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By Zachary Hulsey

There’s no better way to celebrate our national Independence Day than in downtown Stockton with your beloved family and friends, located at our Weber Point Event Center for the annual 4th of July parade and festival.

Hosted by the United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County, this perfect day of festivities and fun will begin with an annual 4th of July parade show in the morning at 11:00 a.m. At 12:00 p.m., the gates of the Weber Point Event Center will open up, where you’ll find a mix of diverse food trucks, creative vendors, a special guest, live band music, constant entertainment, and various other family-friendly activities!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath
Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Then later on in the evening, at 9:30 p.m., the amazing firework show will begin and last for approximately 20 minutes. This event is the perfect time to engage with your diverse local community for an entire day of fun, festivities, and the best entertainment activities!

Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to celebrate our national independence here in downtown Stockton with your family and friends! The weekend after the 4th of July festival only gets better.

The Fourth of July weekend is full of many creative and fun things to do here in downtown Stockton. On Saturday, July 6th, the Stockton Ports have a ball game against the San Jose Giants. From 7:05 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., you can attend this game to cheer on the Stockton Ports! Lots of food and drinks will be available at this game; there will also be a great view of the downtown Court House and the Waterfront.

Later the next day, Coach’s Lounge in downtown has open-mic smooth jazz music with the Sizzle Band. If you love jazz, head on over to the Coach’s Lounge from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 7th.

Flavorfest: Foodie’s Delight – Happening TODAY!🍕

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By Courtney Wood

🥓🥙This weekend is the third year of Stockton Flavorfest! If you’re looking for something fun to do this Sunday, come to Weber Point to experience this Visit Stockton-hosted festival full of food and fun! 🧁🍻

Tickets:

Buy tickets here.

Adults/Seniors: $10.00 Saturday & Sunday ($12 at the gate)

Age 6 – 17: $5.00

Kids 5 & Under: Free

When:

Sunday, May 19th, 12 PM – 7 PM

Where:

Weber Point Events Center

221 Center Street

Stockton, CA

Parking:

Surface level street parking and all-day (starting at 9 AM) $10 garage parking is available at Coy Garage and SEB Garage. View the Park Mobile App and the Downtown Parking Guide for more parking information.

ABOUT FLAVORFEST:

With art vendors and exhibits; live entertainment and workshops; over 30 food trucks and booths; a beer and wine garden; and the beautiful Downtown Stockton waterfront, Flavorfest is the best way to spend a mid-May weekend. The event started May 17th, and is running through TODAY, Sunday the 19th!

Director of Marketing & Communications, Amy Alpers, from Visit Stockton shared that “Stockton Flavor Fest is a celebration of the culture, community, and cuisine of our region, and Visit Stockton is so excited to bring back this award winning event to Weber Point Events Center May 17-19.” To her, Flavorfest “is a labor of love from us to Stockton, and we are proud to highlight the diversity and creativity that makes this place a wonderful place to visit, live, and grow. The event is meant for everyone…we can’t wait to welcome everyone!”

🍙 FOOD VENDORS 🥟

Here are a list of some of the mouth-watering food vendors you can enjoy at this year’s event:

  • Bangin’ Bowls
  • Black Kat Cafe Company
  • Bubble Express
  • Bubble Hive
  • Casa Pinoy
  • Chefomeezie Ultimate Comfort Food
  • Charlie’s Fruitilocos
  • Cousins Maine Lobster
  • Cruising Cones 6
  • Don Tomas Pizza Fever
  • Drea’s Kitchen
  • El Parcero Empanadas Colombianas
  • Flavors Of Chef Nessa
  • Foxy’s Toffee
  • Fruitopia Fruit Bowls
  • Fudging Around
  • Grajedas Mexican Grill
  • Hawaiian Honey Cones
  • Hawkins Burgers On Wheels
  • Hella Good Kettle Corn
  • Hyderabadi Eatz
  • Jeeroz Mediterranean
  • Jerk Street Tacos
  • Mely’s Churros
  • Mike & Niki’s Honey Co.
  • Miss Dulcelicious
  • Mr. Jalepeño
  • Panda’s Smoke Shack
  • Patrick’s House Catering
  • Pinorrito
  • Pizza Lovers Sac
  • Problem Baker
  • River City Snowie Shaved Ice
  • Salmon Going Nuggetz
  • Saucey Oysters
  • Snappers Seafood
  • Street Philly Truck
  • Supreme Musubi
  • Sweet Berry Lyfe
  • Taqueria El Trebol
  • Taste of Curry Fiji Style
  • The Drunken Dumpling
  • The Sweet Life
  • Treats by Ness

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Sunday afternoon itinerary for you to ponder:

  • Buy your ticket online for easier check-in and a cheaper price.
  • Park at SEB Garage or take the bus, if you’re inclined.
  • Check in at the entrance booth and take a selfie next to the giant Stockton letters near the main stage!
  • Browse through Art Alley to have your portrait drawn, and maybe get a psychic reading.
  • Start your foodventure off right with an iced coffee from Mely’s Churros and a healthy fruit cup from Fruitopia Fruit Bowls.
  • Stop into The Kitchen @ Stonebrier tent to see what you can learn and sample in their demo kitchen.
  • Peruse the vendors nearby, and wave hello to us at the Downtown Stockton Alliance booth, where we are selling our brand new merchandise – Bob Hope T-Shirts, Chung Wah dragon T-Shirts, Rainbow tank tops, hoodies, and more!
  • Enjoy a vegan dumpling from the Drunken Dumpling (pictured below – very tasty 😋)!
  • Walk through the shopping vendor aisle near the Back Porch and pick up some Flavorfest gear.
  • Pop into the Back Porch beer garden to sip while listening to the styles of CalFamous, Chloe Alexis, or Mundo, and gazing upon the water glittering gently in the background.
  • Check out the food truck ring behind the Michelob Ultra stage, and try a goodie or two.
  • Head to the main stage area to dance to the tunes of The Outlaw Mariachi.
  • Now that you’ve worked up your appetite, finish your experience with a personal pizza from Pizza Lovers Sac and a uniquely shaped treat from Hawaiian Honey Cones.
  • Roll yourself to your car and dream about what you will try next year!

WRAP UP

🌯🍤Flavorfest comes but once a year, so bring yourself out to enjoy this incredible food truck extravaganza while it lasts! The foodie in you will be living a candy-coated, caramel-glazed, ice cream dream. 🍧🍦

The Stockton Lantern Festival: A Central Valley Wonderland

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By Shaun Chatrath

There’s a magical event taking place at Banner Island Ballpark in Downtown Stockton, California this year. The Stockton Lantern Festival is a celebration of culture, art, and storytelling that illuminates the city and creates an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Each display at the ballpark is hand-crafted by lantern artisans using the ancient technique of Chinese lantern merged with the technological evolution of LED lighting.

Walking through the Lantern Festival, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Koda, a fearless adventurer as he journeys through a magical forest in Caballococha, Peru. Each sculpture and light fixture is strategically placed within Banner Island Ballpark’s playfield to further the story of Koda’s quest. Some of these art displays include butterflies, owls, and even a smoke-breathing dragon. In addition, live stage acts including a wide range of musical talent, dance, and acrobatics complement the visual experience of the Magic Forest.

“This was all about creating a safe, fun and family friendly event that would welcome the Stockton community and beyond” said Jason Perry, General Manager ASM Global.  “From the moment one walks into the ballpark we want them to feel transformed to a magical place that is filled with bright lights, interactive lanterns and something awing at each turn.  It is all about new traditions being made, life long memories that we can share for years to come.”

Moreover, for those looking for delicious specialty meals and drinks at the festival various Peruvian-inspired dishes are available for sale at each food stand around the Ballparks concession stands. These dishes include Peru Tacos made with seasoned ground chicken, tomatoes potatoes, green olives, jack cheese, and onion cilantro mix all on a flour tortilla. Top this dish off with delicious fruit spears covered in Tajin and Chamoy and you have yourself a recipe for an immersive experience. Don’t forget to also keep an eye out for souvenirs ranging from miniature art displays to festival merchandise available for sale around the ballpark.

The Stockton Lantern Festival is an extraordinary celebration that blends artistry, culture, and community spirit into a dazzling display of light. From the captivating lantern displays to the immersive cultural experiences, this festival offers a little something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of the Stockton Lantern Festival. It’s an event that will leave you feeling inspired, connected, and in awe of the power of illumination and artistic expression.

Tickets:

Children ages 2-12 start at $19

Adults start at $23

Special Discounts:

Military/Veterans: Save $5 with Valid ID with Proof of Service at Box Office.

Students: Save $3 at the gate on Wednesday’s only with your student ID at Box Office.

Groups: A $3 per ticket discount is available for groups of 10 or more. Call 209-373-1400 or email [email protected] to purchase.

Ticket Locations:

Adventist Health Arena Box Office – 248 W Fremont St. on the North Side of the building.

Monday 11am- 2pm

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 11am- 2pm

Thursday: Closed

Friday: 11am- 2pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Stockton Ballpark Box Office – 404 W Fremont St.

11/25 – 1/14: 2pm to 9pm

Online Tickets are available at stocktonlive.com.

Festival hours/times:

5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM. Please give yourself around 1 hour and a half to enjoy the phenomenal view.

Acrobatic Stage Performance Times:

Mon to Thurs – 5:30, 7pm and 8:30pm

Fri-Sun- 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30pm

Location: Stockton Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton, Ca 95203

Parking: City Lots $15

Wheelchair Access: Yes. Please take note that the event is on grass and dirt.

Website Links / Sources:

http://www.stocktonlive.com

https://www.downtownstockton.org/businesses/banner-island-ballpark

www.visitstockton.org/events/stockton-lantern-festival

Business Highlight: Makers Made

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By Shaun Chatrath

As you traverse through the sprawling urban landscape of Downtown Stockton, California, you will stumble upon a treasure chest of creativity – a vibrant and booming hub of artists, craftsmen, designers, and innovators. This creative cornerstone is none other than Makers Made – a nexus where artisan’s dreams take flight, crafting unique items that beat with the heart of the city.

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, Downtown Stockton has always been rich with history, culture, and a sense of community. This homegrown spirit is amplified at Makers Made, nestled amidst the lively Courthouse Plaza.

Makers Made Address:

306 East Main Street, Suite #207

Stockton, CA, USA

Makers Made, as the name suggests, is a woman/minority/veteran-owned downtown business where products are handcrafted by local artists, makers, and designers. Here, innovation and creativity meld to bring forth a vividly diverse variety of products, from unique handcrafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind household items and fashionable clothing. In addition, Makers Made sells a variety of plants that will give life to your space.

Central to Makers Made’s ethos is sustainability. Products there are not just made; they’re made responsibly. Many of the artisans prioritize eco-friendly methods and materials. With an emphasis on reducing waste and promoting sustainability, they bring to the table a range of products for the eco-minded shopper. In addition to amazing products, all new customers who shop in the store get a $5 coupon.

Makers Made owner Rochelle Brown stated the following: “We’ve expanded the amount of vendors we feature. We’re also located in a family-friendly environment [Courthouse Plaza]. You can go to the arcade, play games, eat, and shop in this space.”

Rochelle also stated that 20% of Makers Made sales go to the Parents by Choice Foster Youth Foundation and that Makers Made does Instagram live sales every Wednesday from 6 PM – 8 PM.

Furthermore, Makers Made fosters a sense of connection between the makers and the consumers. The direct discourse that can occur between the creator and the consumer – discussing the process, the inspiration, or even potential customization, instills an intimate dynamic that is far removed from the typical retail experience.

Regular events, workshops, and pop-up shops at Makers Made offer an exciting avenue for community engagement too. Through these activities, it introduces people to the rich network of talent within the city. The next time you find yourself in Downtown Stockton, make a point to explore Makers Made. Find a unique gift, meet an artist, take part in a workshop, or simply immerse yourself in buzzing creativity.

To contact Makers Made call: (510) 735-1333

Instagram – @makersmadellc

Faccebook – @MakersMadeLLC

Hours:

Tuesday – Friday (11 AM – 6 PM)
Saturday – (10 AM – 2 PM)

Business Highlight: AirRaid Airbrush

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By Shaun Chatrath

AirRaid Airbrush is a local business in Downtown Stockton, CA that specializes in custom airbrushing services. Whether you’re in need of a personalized t-shirt, a custom-designed helmet, or even a full vehicle wrap, AirRaid Airbrush has you covered. 

One of the things that sets AirRaid Airbrush apart from other custom airbrushing shops is their attention to detail. They take the time to listen to each customer’s individual needs and work with them to create a unique design that perfectly captures their vision. Their talented artists expertly bring that design to life in stunning detail, ensuring that each piece they create is a work of art that customers will be proud to show off.

With a staggering variety of customization options, AirRaid Airbrush offers clients the sensational ability to choose precise colors and fonts or to add intricate details and designs. Each piece they create is truly one-of-a-kind.

Another factor that makes AirRaid Airbrush stand out is their commitment to using only the highest-quality materials and equipment. This means that their finished pieces are not only visually impressive, but also durable and designed to last.

In addition to top-notch airbrushing capabilities, this company provides a range of other services, including vinyl printing and laser engraving. They are equipped to handle a diverse range of creative projects, no matter how big or small.

But it’s not just the quality of their work that sets AirRaid Airbrush apart – it’s their dedication to their community. They have a long history of supporting local organizations and events and are always looking for ways to give back to the community that has supported them over the years.

AirRaid Airbrush truly is a top-notch custom airbrushing shop in Downtown Stockton, CA. With their impressive attention to detail, commitment to quality, and dedication to the community, they are a great choice for anyone looking for custom-designed art that truly stands out. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a way to make a statement with your personal style, be sure to check out AirRaid Airbrush at 233 E. Market Street, Stockton, CA 95202.

Sources

Airbrush Custom AirRaid Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/AirraidAirbrushing/

Murals Making Moves in Downtown

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by Gynae Davalos

New Mural! Find it on the side of 707 E. Main St

It’s the colors and size of a mural that easily captures our attention roaming anywhere downtown. And the latest installment up at the side of 707 E. Main St. is no exception.

This giant work of art is to honor Devone Boggan, CEO of Advance Peace, an organization dedicated to ending cyclical and retaliatory gun violence in American urban neighborhoods. For all his endless work enriching young people’s lives, he was named an Ashoka Changemaker in 2021 and was named a recipient of an Irvine Foundation Leadership Award this year. The James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards recognize individuals advancing breakthrough solutions to critical issues facing California. 

John Horton is the multidisciplinary artist selected to create and produce the mural. He’s titled it: Transforming Lives. A resident of Sacramento, John’s Instagram profile showcases his awesome artistry of digital graphics, canvas work, and other commissioned projects. He’s been creating murals all over the state for about 6 years and he really likes our downtown.

“I like the architecture and the pace of it here. It’s pretty cool.”

John has very simple advice on how to put your art out there and have your work commissioned: “Be involved in your community and opportunities will arise from that.”

With so much work to be done to keep our downtown moving, John had a great suggestion, “Everything starts with the youth. So any programs that can inspire the next generation, that’s the only way you can get good change for longevity.”

Want more murals in Downtown Stockton? All you have to do is ask. [email protected]

Revised 3/15/2023