Community Gathers for Peace Monument Unveiling in Downtown Stockton

Posted on September 29, 2024September 29, 2024 by Intern DSA

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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.”

👮‍♂️ National Night Out 2024 in Downtown Stockton!

Posted on July 26, 2024July 31, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

National Night Out is back, bigger and better than ever!

Enjoy a day of family-friendly activities that promote unity, love, and community strength. The 2024 Downtown Stockton National Night Out event – hosted by the San Joaquin County Office of Education, Parents by Choice, Stockton Ports, and the Downtown Stockton Alliance — will take place Tuesday, August 6th, from 5:30 – 8:30 PM at downtown’s Banner Island Ballpark, located at 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, CA. There will be carnival games, giveaways, community resources, workshops, music, local mascots, raffle prizes, and much more!

The event takes place the same night of a Stockton Ports matchup against the Lake Elsinore Storm, which starts at 7:05 PM. The first 600 people who attend the event will get in free!

As Stockton continues to grow into an even more amazing city, it is imperative that we actively engage and unite! Some of the organizations which will be represented at this event include: Stockton PD, Child Abuse Prevention Council, Visit Stockton, Stockton Kings, LAZ Parking, San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, Youthbuild San Joaquin, SJ Regional Transit District, DCA, Codestack Academy, Head Start San Joaquin, UOP Athletics, YMCA, Ready to Work, Uplift All, Behavioral Health Services, El Concilio, Harvest Home Animal Shelter, Scottish Rite, SJVV, Girl Scouts, SJC Probation, and Children’s Choice. Through events like National Night Out, we engage families across Stockton; bridge community disconnects; and focus on creating a bright future for our youth. By building a better relationship between law enforcement and residents, we can create a greater sense of community and safety.

So, if you’re planning on attending a National Night Out gathering in Stockton this year, don’t miss the chance to come on out to Downtown Stockton’s Banner Island Ballpark to catch a ballgame and enjoy this extraordinary community event! In addition to all of the activities and resources, you’ll have a beautiful view of the Courthouse and the downtown waterfront. You might even see the Stockton Ports mascot, Splash!

I encourage you all to bring your family and friends to this free community event! See you there, Stockton!

When: Tuesday, August 6th, 5:30 – 8:30 PM

Where: 404 W. Fremont Street, Stockton, CA, 95203 | Banner Island Ballpark

Tickets: First 600 attendees get in FREE! First-come, first-served, so get there early! If you aren’t in the first 600 attendees, here is the link to purchase game tickets.

The Most Anticipated Event of the Year, StocktonCon!

Posted on July 12, 2024July 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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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!

Posted on July 3, 2024July 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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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!

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.

Main Street Market 🎶

Posted on June 11, 2024July 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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🍔 Happening June 11th at 242 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA! 🍻

By Alvin Cho

Hello!

I’m Alvin, the new intern at DSA from Korea. Today, I’d like to introduce you to the Main Street Market, which has become a cultural staple in our downtown area. This market – held outside the Bob Hope Theater and hosted by the Downtown Stockton Alliance, Parents By Choice, and ASM Global – is incredibly popular among both locals and visitors. Its charm can be divided into three main attractions: lively bands, delicious food, and various business promotions.

Lively Bands

The first thing that captures your attention at the Main Street Market is the live music. Several local bands take the stage to perform a wide range of musical genres. From jazz and blues to rock and pop, you can enjoy music that suits your taste. The passionate performances of the bands and the enthusiastic responses from the audience create a vibrant atmosphere. Walking around the market while listening to the music can make all your daily stress melt away.

Delicious Food

Another major attraction of the Main Street Market is the delicious food. The market is dotted with a variety of food trucks and stalls, offering a diverse array of cuisines. From fresh, locally-made dishes to street food from around the world, the wide selection can make it hard to decide what to eat. The handmade beverages and desserts available here are particularly worth trying. Sharing tasty food with friends and family while having a great time makes the Main Street Market a paradise for food lovers. This year, the market also features a beer garden, serving refreshing drinks from 4:30 – 7:30 PM.

Business Promotions

Main Street Market is more than just a marketplace. It’s also a platform for various businesses to promote their products and services. Numerous small business owners seize the opportunity to showcase their brands and directly interact with customers. There are product demonstrations, special discounts, and various activities aimed at business promotion. This not only helps in selling products but also builds trust with customers and contributes to the local economy.

Dates

Main Street Market is happening TONIGHT, June 11^th from 4:30 – 7:30 PM (featuring music by Nick Elwood)!

Come on Out!

Main Street Market goes beyond being just a place to buy and sell goods. It’s a special space where the local community comes together. With lively music, delicious food, and various businesses coming together, it offers visitors an unforgettable experience. If you’re ever downtown, I highly recommend visiting! You’re sure to fall in love with the charm of the Main Street Market.

This has been Alvin, the intern from Korea. I’ll be back with more interesting and informative news next time.

Thank you!

Flavorfest: Foodie’s Delight – Happening TODAY!🍕

Posted on May 19, 2024July 31, 2024 by Courtney Wood

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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!

The Downtown Stockton Alliance booth at Flavorfest - check us out near The Kitchen @ Stonebrier.

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. 🍧🍦

My First Stockton Kings Game

Posted on April 5, 2024June 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Alvin Cho

On April 4^th, I went to see a Stockton Kings play-off game against the Santa Cruz Warriors, that started at 7:00 PM. There was plenty of parking nearby, so it was easy to park in Fremont East Lot, which has a clear view of the freshly updated Stockton Kings crosswalk mural.

As soon as I entered the Adventist Health Area, the home of the Stockton Kings, I was given a free T-shirt with the Stockton Kings logo on it. The arena was a bit smaller than a regular NBA arena, but thanks to that, I could see the players and the game closer. The person I was with said that you can buy seats right next to the court at an affordable price.

Various performances for the audience were held during the game; during a few of them, the audience could participate directly on the court to win prizes. The best performers were the athletic Stockton Kings dancers.

The end of the game was the most exciting, with everyone yelling and cheering for the home team’s victory. Fortunately, the Kings took the win, 112-109! They are officially moving forward in the G-League play-offs.

For those who find the price of attending NBA games burdensome, or who are eager for a close-up view of competitive basketball players, coming to Stockton’s Adventist Health Arena is a great option. The next Kings play-off game is happening this Sunday, April 7^th, @ 6:00 PM. Be sure to buy your tickets below! To learn more about the Stockton Kings, check out our recent Talk to Downtown interview with Aaron Morales, VP – Business Operations, Stockton Kings.

For April 7^th Kings Tickets: https://gleague.nba.com/game/2042300311?view=pre-game

For 2024-2025 Season Stockton Kings Tickets: https://stockton.gleague.nba.com/season-ticket-memberships

Stockton Kings website: https://stockton.gleague.nba.com

DSA’s Stockton Kings business listing: https://www.downtownstockton.org/businesses/stockton-kings

The Stockton Lantern Festival: A Central Valley Wonderland

Posted on November 30, 2023December 1, 2023 by Shaun Chatrath

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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

Sometimes It’s The Simple Things

Posted on August 12, 2022March 15, 2023 by digitalgear

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by Gynae Davalos

A refreshing, warm shower is sometimes the only thing one wants to recharge, rejuvenate, and relieve the body, mind, and spirit. For those in our community with no home in which to shower, Downtown Stockton Alliance provides a free Portable Bathroom Shower Unit (PBSU) right behind St. John’s Episcopal Church on El Dorado Street.

^{A simple shower can make a huge difference}

Monday through Friday starting at 8:30am, anyone needing a bathroom or warm shower can sign up, reserve a time slot, and freshen up. Through generous donations, food, beverages, and clothing are often also available, as well as access to a washing machine and dryer.

SJ Public Health is also on site once a week providing free COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, in addition to other health services.

The PBSU shuts down at 4pm.

“I’m disabled and it has a shower for the disabled,” said Jesse Tora who frequents the PBSU.

DSA staff member Shirley Griffith and her team manage and maintain the unit, providing not only an essential need to the unsheltered community, but social support as well.

“A lot of them are appreciative; they’ll thank us over and over,” Shirley explained.

_{Music by S.T.A.T.I.K.}

“The people are always so nice and respectful – love the fact we have longer time and they don’t play favoritism. They treat everyone the same,” commented Lisa Yoder.

In 2021, the PBSU served 887 individuals who took about 7,444 showers. The unit is funded through a combination of ESG-CV and CDBG grants obtained from the City of Stockton and San Joaquin County. Since 2020, over $350,000 total grant dollars have been secured and devoted to PBSU operation.

“It’s available 5 days a week and it’s convenient for afternoon showering. They feed you and they make sure everyone gets in the shower,” said Yujmon Charles.

It’s easy to take the simple things in life for granted, until they are no longer easily accessible. The Portable Bathroom Shower Unit is just one action Downtown Stockton Alliance takes to support and uplift everyone in our community. Do you have ideas to help make Downtown Stockton the best it can be for everybody?

Best. Job. Ever

Posted on July 11, 2022March 15, 2023 by digitalgear

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by Gynae Davalos

Getting paid to do what you enjoy is a lifelong goal for many. But what happens when you actually DO reach that goal? Well, I just got this job and I’m freaking out.

What’s this place? Who owns this building? What was this before? Is it for lease? So many questions. . . .

I have to show and tell how awesome Downtown Stockton (and subsequently the whole city) is. I have to give reasons why everyone should come downtown more often. I have to encourage entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses to open or expand their companies downtown. I have to reassure the public that downtown is safe. I have to shine some light on businesses and services that may be on the brink of going out in hopes of possibly saving them. I have to inspire and motivate ideas to fill all the empty buildings and spaces speckled throughout downtown. I have to harness enough energy through my adventures to help revitalize all of downtown as soon as humanly possible.

But I only get 5 hours a day.

Good thing I’m on skates.

I’ll do the best I can do Downtown Stockton, but let’s help each other out! Events, meetings, celebrations, announcements, specials – I need to hear about ALL of it. PLEASE send me an email, a direct message, call me at the office, hand a DSA Safety Ambassador a flyer to give to me – however digitally or physically I can retrieve info, the sooner I can share and let everyone know about all the cool happenings downtown and continue to show and tell how awesome downtown is and is becoming.

I was born in Stockton and I’ve spent the majority of my life here. The grass is NOT greener on the other side. Everything we need to grow and flourish is right here. And I hope everyone rolls right along with me to help Downtown Stockton and the rest of our fine city continue to blossom and thrive. Because this is the best job ever and I love it here!