Valentine’s Day Weekend in Downtown

Posted on February 11, 2020 by digitalgear

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By Jordan Rosales

Just as the Christmas decorations have finally been taken down, their places have been filled with pink and red hearts, fat babies equipped with bows and arrows, and rows and rows of candy as far as the eye can see. February is here and love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is THIS Friday with plenty of things going on Downtown! While we’re sure you made plans for the special occasion months ago, we know there are some procrastinators out there. Luckily, for those late to the game (and their significant others) we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 ways to spend your Valentine’s Day in Downtown Stockton!

Top 5 Ways to Spend your Valentine’s Day in Downtown Stockton:

Go dancing: Salsa Night
- Although Chitiva’s usually reserves Salsa Night for Thursdays, they are extending it to Friday too for Valentine’s Day. From 8:30-9:30 PM they offer dance lessons and from 9:30-1:00 AM you can dance the night away. Admission is only $10!
See stand up comedian, Frankie Quiñones, at the Bob Hope Theatre
- You may recognize Frankie from Comedy Central, HBO, TBS, Nickelodeon, and his viral YouTube sketches. Not only will you get to see Frankie but his famous characters like Creeper and Juanita Carmelita too! Tickets are only $22 and available through Stockton Live.
Watch the Stockton Heat
- Turn up the heat with the Stockton Heat hockey team. They’ll be playing the Ontario Reign at the Stockton Arena 7:00-10:00 PM you can buy your tickets online or at the arena box office. Tickets range from $15- $38.
Release your inner child
- Let your inner child rule the night at The Deliberation Room. The Deliberation Room will be selling special heart-shaped pizzas and Valentine’s Day cocktails but most importantly, they will be offering FREE pool, air hockey, and arcade games. They’re even inviting Stockton Floral so you can buy some last-minute flowers on site.
Enjoy a romantic evening at the Mexican Heritage Center!
- Friday night at 6PM, head to the Mexican Heritage Center located at 111 S. Sutter St in #DowntownStockton, for Sopas de Amor! An evening featuring EIGHT soups showcasing different regions in Mexico. Cost is $25 per person. To reserve your spot, call or text (209) 969-9306.

Placemaking Award Program

Posted on February 7, 2020 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

Need Funds for a Downtown Project? Apply For Our New Placemaking Award Program!

If you want to bring a Downtown Stockton project to life but are a little short on funds, consider applying for our Placemaking Award Program! Discussions took place between the DSA Board of Directors last year about potentially creating a grant program, and this year, it’s going live! Courtney Wood, DSA’s Economic Development Director, shares that this program was created because, “businesses and events might need a little extra help to get going.” Examples of projects include (but are not limited to) organizing an educational and fun cultural event downtown, adding a small but charming outdoor patio to your restaurant, putting on rewarding workshops or seminars, and adding vivid art installations downtown.

How to Apply

Applications for the Placemaking Awards will be available on the DSA website starting February 1st, and the deadline to turn them in will be April 1st at 4pm. The applications are open rather than restrictive, because we want you to get creative! What would you like to bring to downtown that will attract more visitors? Pop up stores? Musical performances? A butterfly garden? A statue of Danny DeVito? (Okay, probably not that last one).

Criteria

Along with the requirement that the project must take place in Downtown Stockton, there are several other criteria the Board of Directors will consider to determine whether or not you are eligible for a grant:

Does your application demonstrate that you have a clear vision for your project?
Does it seem like you will be able to complete the project within a certain timeframe?
How much will the proposed program or project benefit the downtown community?
How much revenue will the proposed program or project bring to downtown?
How much enthusiasm do you have for your proposed project?

After review by the Board of Directors, final funding discussions will take place in May. On the 1st of June, the DSA will announce the grant recipients. Recipients will receive 50% of the funds upfront, while the other 50% will be in the form of a reimbursement, provided once the project has reached completion. Overall, you can apply for up to $10,000. The Placemaking Award Program has $20,000 of available funds in total.

Excitement for the Future

Courtney, who helped DSA Board Member Jared Rusten design the program, shared, “I’m looking forward to seeing all the creative ideas that people can bring downtown and seeing the DSA having a role in making this happen through the grant.” In addition, she’s excited to see how the community will respond to the implementation of new projects and the economic growth the projects will bring to downtown.

Don’t forget, you can start the application for the grant on February 1st! Start thinking of those ideas, we can’t wait to see them!

2020: The year of the Library

Posted on January 24, 2020 by digitalgear

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By Jordan Rosales

It may already be 2020, but 90’s nostalgia is at an all-time high and right now no other after school cartoon is remembered quite as fondly as Arthur. Arthur was always there to make us laugh and teach us valuable life lessons. Among the lessons on how to spell your name and how to be a friend, one of the most important things that Arthur taught us was that having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card! Luckily for us, there’s a fantastic library right here in Downtown Stockton and getting a library card is incredibly simple! All you need to do is walk into the Cesar Chavez branch with your ID. If your current address is different than the one listed on your ID simply bring something with your correct ID and if you are under 17 years old an adult needs to come with you to sign up.

Fun for Everyone!

Without a doubt, you will find traditional shelves of books on every subject imaginable at the Cesar Chavez Library, but you will also find that they offer fun programs and activities for the entire family! To view the programs simply go to the San Joaquin Library website at SSJCPL.org. From there you’ll want to click on the events calendar page in the dropdown menu labeled “programs.” Once you’re in the calendar, click limit by location and select the Cesar Chavez library! Just click go and you’re in!

The library offers multiple events almost every day of the month for every age range. Regular activities include free computer classes for seniors, genealogy helpers’ events for adults, teen SAT/ACT prep workshops, and preschool playtime/storytime for kids!

One upcoming program the library is especially excited to offer throughout the month of February is the Volunteer Income Tax Association (VITA) Free Tax Services offered every Tuesday from 10 am ‑ 7 pm. VITA helps people prepare for tax season! All you need to do is call them at (209) 483 – 4190 and book an appointment.

The library provides a wonderful sense of community through its many clubs: chess club, book club, coloring club, Lego club, and more! Not only that, but you are BOUND to make lasting family memories by attending one of their craft nights, where you can make things ranging from valentines to mugs! They also offer a bilingual storytime called Vamos A Leer. The best part of it is that all these programs are completely free with your library card!

The World at your Fingertips

While the staff at the Cesar Chavez Library would love to see you in person, they want to remind you that there a ton of online services they offer too. With just your library card, you have access to educational tools across the internet. Thousands of magazines await you with Flipster. You can stream critically acclaimed blockbusters like Lady Bird and Moonlight along with educational documentaries on Kanopy. Hoopla offers free e-books and free audio e-books perfect for long car rides like commutes and road trips. Tutor.com offers one on one chat to help kids with their homework in every subject all the way through their senior year of high school. Having a library card even grants you access to Rosetta Stone which will help you tackle that New Year’s resolution of learning a new language or prepare for a trip overseas.

If you thought libraries were a thing of the past, welcome to 2020. The Cesar Chavez library is so much more than a building with books – it offers community, education, and fun. So, if you’re ever bored and looking for something to do, just remember what your old pal Arthur said, “Having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card!”

Deliberation Room

Posted on December 12, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

Downtown is coming alive right before our eyes. And it’s because of good-hearted Stocktonians like Jacob Benguerel, owner of the local hotspot, Deliberation Room, who can see a better future for our city before it’s ever even in plain sight. Benguerel opened up shop not too long ago and he shares, “Deliberation Room was something that I decided to do because, as a kid, I saw what Modesto went through when it was worse than Stockton is now. My dad owned a business downtown and they had the same struggles we have, but it all began to turn around when restaurants and bars moved in. Being a big part of the downtown Stockton turnaround, I decided, ‘Why not?’”

That same care hasn’t changed for Benguerel as he understands that what’s “most important is that right now downtown businesses have to be a destination.” He’s been paying attention to the needs and wants of the community and states that they “are trying to respond to what [their] customers have told [them] they want.” Since taking notes on what their regulars are looking for, DR has gone through a bit of a transformational process, only making it an even better place to spend nights and weekends locally. “I’ve always been conscious of the fact that we need to be willing and able adapt in order to survive in the early stages of the revitalization process,” says Benguerel, and he’s not all talk. They’ve recently added an adult arcade (AN ADULT ARCADE!!!) “on top of the craft cocktails and handmade pizza” (yum) they’ve got going on, which truly “makes [them so] much more of a destination” nowadays.

Bringing life and excitement to Downtown

DR brings so much life and excitement to our community downtown. “Historically [they’ve] done drag shows, comedy shows, costume parties, live music, paint parties…” which naturally promotes the ever-growing nightlife scene in the area. As they’re getting ready to celebrate their “three year anniversary this coming New Year’s Eve,” Benguerel says, “We are looking at our events calendars starting next year to see what events we might carry over and if there are any new events we wanna bring in like arcade tournaments….” (and if that happens, we are so here for it).

Picture non-boring hangs with all the nostalgic feels playing retro games, drinking through their “good selection of signature cocktails.” Nothing quite beats that set-up, especially with your fave hype (or chill) crew. There’s always a reason to come in as “Melanie is always coming up with different drinks each week using fresh produce,” says Benguerel. As far as the changes go, what he enjoys “the most about the new concept is that [they] have this mixture of a completely unique ambiance, great pizza and awesome craft cocktails.” He tells us that “the two most popular [are] the ‘Stop and Frisk’ and the ‘Barely Legal,’ so go give those a try if you haven’t treated yourself to them yet.

Since all of this is legit not fake news or even too good to be true, this is your cue to accept the open invitation to make face at the newly remodeled downtown destination we’re so stoked about. We’ve made it easy for you with all this cool info. Actually, they have (with all the fun additions), so no need to deliberate, just grab some friends and celebrate all the fun changes. Really, now the only thing missing at the Deliberation Room, well, is y-o-u!

(More “deets” about DR, take notes)

Big changes

“Deliberation Room in Downtown Stockton has undergone big changes while maintaining its unique environment and decor. They have installed an adult arcade, pool table, air hockey table, dart board and jukebox. The arcades have ALL of the classic games that you grew up playing…Pacman, Centipede, NBA Jams, Mortal Combat, Street Fighter and many more. Also new to Deliberation Room is a full menu of fresh, hand made pizzas that will soon be available through Grubhub and DoorDash. As always they also have great craft cocktails, craft beer and over 50 different whiskeys! The Deliberation Room is open for happy hour and dinner each Tuesday through Friday and each Friday and Saturday ’till 2am. The new additions make it a perfect spot to host your next business event or to go out with coworkers for happy hour. You will be the hero when your coworkers are introduced to the new Deliberation Room and find out that it was your idea to bring them!”

Downtown Fast Q&A:

What’s your go-to Downtown coffee spot?

“I don’t drink coffee but if I did it would obviously be my neighbors…Trail Coffee!”

2. What Downtown winter event are you most excited about?

“The boat parade. Its a pretty awesome experience down there at the waterfront!”

3. What is Downtown’s Spirit Animal?

“It’s gotta be the racoon….totally shocked the 1st time I saw a racoon run through the city streets!”

4. Describe Downtown in one word.

“Changing”

Connect with them on facebook or on instagram!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeliberationRoom/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deliberationroom/

‘Tis the Season in #DowntownStockton

Posted on December 3, 2019 by digitalgear

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’Tis the season to string up Christmas lights, nimbly wrap gifts, enjoy the company of family and friends, and plan a trip to Downtown Stockton to celebrate the holidays! From the Tree Lighting Ceremony to the many Christmas shows featured at the Bob Hope Theater this month, there is something for everyone — both young and old — this holiday season.

Cort Companies Holiday Open House

December 5th, 2019
10 AM – 2 PM

We know you probably hardcore feasted for Thanksgiving, but the holidays aren’t over yet! Kick off the last month of 2019 with food, music and crafts provided by various Downtown Stockton merchants and businesses. Hosted by Cort Companies, the Holiday Open House will be held on the ground floor of Cort Tower, located at 343 E. Main Street. Enjoy some holiday cheer and prepare to indulge in some last minute shopping- come early though, because the Stockton Chorale will be sharing their harmonious vocals to kickstart the event! Cort Companies is excited to feature some of downtown’s finest businesses: JoDavi music, Tuleburg Press and the Write Place, In Season, Heinzen Studio, Squire and Co,. The Bead Fool, GFAF Bakery, and Trail Coffee. If you haven’t had the opportunity to check out all of these businesses yet, now’s your chance! Wondering what other treats and surprises are in store at the Holiday Open House? Come and find out!

Navidad en el Valle Tamale Dinner

December 6th, 2019
11 AM – 8 PM

One of the best parts of the holiday season is the opportunity to give back to the community. Join El Concilio on Friday, December 6th for their annual Navidad en el Valle Tamale Dinner and Drive-Thru Lunch at the Stockton Civic Auditorium. The event is free to the public, and will include live music, local entertainment, dancing, and photos with Santa for the little ones! Also, for just $10, you can get a Tamale Dinner of two tamales, Mexican rice and beans! All proceeds will help fund Christmas food baskets for families in the community who are in need. Getting a tamale dinner while simultaneously donating to those in need during the holidays? What a great way to spend the holiday season!

Smiling father and two daughters shopping in a vendors booth during the Holiday Stockmarket — 2018 Holiday Stockmarket. Photo by @une.femme.drea

Holiday at the Point

December 7th, 2019
Starts at 3 PM

The Stockmarket has partnered with the City of Stockton to bring exciting events to downtown this holiday season, all on the same day! Stop by the Weber Point Water Front on December 7th to enjoy the 5th Annual Holiday Stockmarket, Stockton Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the 37th Annual Lighted Boat Parade by the Stockton Yacht Club! There’s no fee to attend so come by to purchase local gifts, listen to local bands, and eat and drink from local eateries and breweries. The festivities don’t stop there- there will also be free horse carriage rides, crafts, and a visit from Old Saint Nick himself! Doors open at 3pm, the Christmas tree will be lighted at 5:30pm, and the Boat Parade will arrive at 6:30pm.

Bob Hope Theater Events

There are a lot of shows during December, so we did the work of compiling a list of them all for you here:

Cirque Dreams Holidaze — 12/06 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- The Cirque Dreams Holidaze is both a Broadway musical and new Cirque adventure spectacular! Buy your tickets today to see these critically-acclaimed and unforgettable performances with the entire family.
Classic Movie: White Christmas — 12/08 2 PM – 4 PM
- Need some of the classics to complete your holiday season? The Bob Hope Theater will be showing White Christmas, a 1954 American musical film starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. Nothing beats the oldies!
Johnny Mathis Concert — 12/12 7:30 PM – 10 PM
- Catch Johnny Mathis performing his iconic Christmas Concert, featuring classic holiday favorites and some of his greatest hits, like “Chances Are”, “It’s Not for Me to Say”, and “Misty”. Sure you hear Christmas songs on the radio, but there’s something much more satisfying about hearing them live!
Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey Celebrate Christmas Tour —
12/15 6 PM – 9 PM
- More Christmas performances? Yes, please! Natalie Grant, a seven-time Grammy nominated Christian and Gospel artist and Danny Gokey, a Grammy nominated artist and a top 3 finalist on season 8 of American Idol, will be gracing the Bob Hope Theater for their Christmas Tour! Don’t miss this talented duo.
The Brian Setzer Orchestra: Christmas Rocks! Tour — 12/17 7:30 PM – 10 PM
- Rock into the holiday spirit with iconic guitarist, songwriter, vocalist, and three-time Grammy Award winner Brian Setzer and his 19-piece orchestra! Prepare to be entranced by some retro holiday cheer and sing along to some of his various hits.
Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2019 — 12/22 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Jazz music is great all year, but it’s even better during the holidays! Come see nine-time Grammy nominated saxophonist Dave Koz and his friends as they continue their annual holiday tradition and celebrate the magic of the holiday season.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage — 12/28 6 PM – 9 PM
- Everyone’s favorite Peanuts television special comes to life on stage at the Bob Hope Theater this holiday season. Bring the kids to see Charlie Brown and the rest of the gang from the timeless television classic in a stage adaptation that the entire family can enjoy.

Mexican Heritage Center Events

There are also several events at Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery, be sure to check them out!

Nacimientos at the Mexican Heritage Center — 12/9-12/27, M – F, 7 AM – 4 PM, Closed Christmas Day.
- Stop by the Mexican Heritage center to see the nacimientos (nativity scenes) on display from various parishes and individuals from the community.
Posadas y Nacimientos (Nativity Exhibit) — 12/20 at 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Join the Mexican Heritage Center for a night of singing around Downtown, a blessing & viewing of the nacimientos, and a short singing program. There will be Mexican Hot Chocolate, and pan dulce (sweet bread) for free for all participants. There will also be tamales available for purchase. $2.00 each or $20.00 a dozen.

Thanksgiving Run & Walk Against Hunger

Posted on November 1, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

Spooky season felt short-lived, wouldn’t you agree? Candy bowls are emptying and now we’re settling into November and all things festive for the quickly approaching holidays. A sense of gratitude and thankfulness fills the air as full as the turkeys fill our freezers and we’re beginning to plot the best way to fill our plates with all the faves. Families all around are ramping up their annual traditions or starting new ones, and some people are already decked out for Christmas! But, let’s not be so quick to skip over Thanksgiving and a very special tradition held in our own downtown backyard—the annual Thanksgiving Run & Walk Against Hunger!

Flyer for 15th Anniversary of the Thanksgiving Run & Walk Against Hunger. Thanksgiving Day. Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont St.

Crisp Morning in #DowntownStockton

Each year, people look forward to this 5k or 10k run. It’s the perfect break away from the hustle and bustle of prep and cooking where thousands of people come together to join in on the fun during the crisp, cold “Turkey Day” morning in support of a treasured cause. Even if you’re not quite a morning person, this one is worth getting up for—keeping in mind the joy it brings to the families this whole this is all about! As the leaves fall, so does a lot of the stress and anxiety for the individuals the fundraiser supports.

Behind the Scenes

According to Tim Pasisz, Director of Sports & Tourism Development at Visit Stockton, who’s running the Turkey Trot, “The event is a fundraiser for the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton/San Joaquin. The event serves not only the dedicated runners who are here to compete in the 5k and 10k runs, but also families and friends who have made the Run and Walk Against Hunger their Thanksgiving morning tradition. A large contingency of the anticipated 5,000 participants is made up of families participating in the 5k walk. The event has continued to evolve over the years, initially the finish line was at home plate on the Stockton Ports Baseball field, however as the Run and Walk Against Hunger grew, it became to difficult to manage the finish line in that small of an area.”

Get Involved

There are so many reasons to get involved with this once-a-year experience: QT making memories with family, friends and loved ones, time enjoying the beautiful outdoors running (or walking!!), and last but not least supporting a great cause. Pasisz shares that it all started out because “Emergency Food Bank Board Members and Community Volunteers wanted a memorable way to not only have an event for the community but also to serve as a fundraiser for the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton/San Joaquin.” They nailed it, hitting multiple needs in our community.

Pre-race Activities

And this year, as “the 15^th Run and Walk Against Hunger,” Pasisz tells us that “the event is expanding to a larger lifestyle festival pre-race with tons of vendors and area businesses showcasing their products in the ballpark parking lot. Interested parties can always bring canned food on race morning to donate to the Food Bank as well.” All of the changes add to the excitement and only make this day better. If you haven’t experienced it yet, this would be the year to check it out.

Sign Up NOW!

Per Pasisz, “Registration is easy – it can be done online at www.runagainsthunger.org, or people can show up on Thanksgiving Morning at the start location (Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W Fremont St) beginning at 6:00am to register.” Though many have already been counting down the days till 2019 Turkey Trot, there is plenty of room for you and your family. In fact, it won’t be the same without you 🙂 Sign up, it’ll be such a great opportunity to start the holiday off on the right foot and to work up that appetite for the rest of the day’s delicious festivities.

Let’s Get Spooky Downtown

Posted on October 18, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

It’s October… you know what that means: SPOOKY SEASON! Time to carve those pumpkins, buy Halloween candy, indulge on pumpkin pie, turn up Thriller on your speakers, and find the perfect costume! And yes, a white sheet with eye holes counts if you’re pressed on time — we understand! Looking to do more this month? We’ve compiled a list of several Halloween events happening around downtown in the upcoming week! Make sure to check our social media pages to stay updated on any new Halloween events that may be added.

Freak Night

This 21+ event is perfect for an exciting night out with friends. And the best part? You get to come dressed in a Halloween costume! Adorn yourself with sleek cat ears, fake blood splatter, or a high-necked cloak and get ready to party (but don’t come as a skeleton, or you’ll have no BODY to dance with!). This upscale Halloween event will take place at the Stockton Area in The Record Press Club on Saturday, October 19^th from 9pm to 12:30am, and will feature DJ Manuel C, DJ Monstermack, and drummer Ken ‘Kumbia Kenny’ Crosby. Bring your friends and dance through the witching hour!

Boozy Pumpkin Carving

It’s Halloween, what better excuse to carve pumpkins and get tipsy? Trail Coffee is hosting Boozy Pumpkin Carving on Tuesday, October 29^th from 6pm to 9pm. There will be pre-gutted pumpkins ready to be carved up to your wildest imaginations (Trail will also have stencils, so no pressure). Your ticket also includes a complimentary alcoholic apple cider and there will be small bites such as freshly roasted pumpkin seeds to snack on. If pumpkin carving with friends, alcoholic cider, and munching on treats aren’t enough of an incentive, the most creative pumpkin of the night will win a free bag of coffee! Don’t forget to RVSP to this event and maybe find some pumpkins to practice on.

2019 Dia de los Muertos Street Fiesta

Although this event isn’t exactly Halloween related, it’s one of our October events that you wouldn’t want to miss! This colorful, lively, and family friendly Fiesta hosted by the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery will take place Saturday, October 26^th from 11am to 5pm. They’ll be shutting down 4 blocks of Sutter Street and Market Street just for this event! There will be art exhibits, live bands, food vendors, kids activities, a car show, and much more. ¡Feliz día de los Muertos!

Friends of the Fox

Posted on October 11, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

What good is money in your wallet if you don’t know it’s there, right? Well, downtown has a particular gem you may not even know about yet and it’s hosted monthly at Stockton’s very own Bob Hope Theatre. You may enjoy your regular visits to the local Regal cinema (and by all means, keep it up!), but every month Friends of the Fox presents the Classic Movie series you’ll want to take advantage of if you’re not already. Seriously, it will take your normal movie-going experience up several notches—so much so, we recommend permanently adding this ongoing event to your monthly calendar.

First off, who doesn’t love a good classic? Nostalgia makes us all want to go back in time to the good ol’ days, but since that’s not a legitimate option, Friends of the Fox (FOF) does us a solid by consistently hosting the Classic Movie series. Showing hits like Gone with the Wind, Young Frankenstein and Star Wars, you can pretty much expect to have a good time enjoying the show, especially since they make it a point to go above and beyond a typical screening.

The Full Experience

According to David Scheffer, a member of the FOF movie selection committee, “For the price of admission [details listed at the end of article], attendees are treated to live music in the lobby along with complimentary snacks and drinks (wine, soda, bottled water), a live Theatre Organ experience, and a classic file projected on a giant single theater movie screen with a fully realized sound system all in a beautifully restored movie palace.” Live music and complimentary snacks (and wine!?)—that alone should bait anyone, but the fact that it’s held in one of downtown’s most prized buildings makes it all the more special.

The Bob Hope Theatre wasn’t renovated to simply collect dust during off seasons. Scheffer adds, “The goal [of the Classic Movie series] is to provide Stockton with the opportunity to visit the Theatre and experience its use as it was originally intended with an authentic historical movie-going experience. That would include a live Theatre organ concert, classic movie trailers, and a cartoon, along with a master of ceremonies introducing the films just as it would have been when the theatre was first opened. The advantage of the low ticket price allows more people to attend and see the Theatre would to attend a live concert. In the very early years after the renovation, the goal was also to ensure the Theatre would be utilized when it was not regularly being used.”

Original Goal

FOF upholds the original intent of the Theatre by creating a safe and fun space for moviegoers to enjoy something different downtown, and they take it seriously. Scheffer explains, “A movie selection committee meets every six months to choose films to be shown. The committee is made up of both FOF Board members as well as patrons that attend the films. A suggestion box is filled regularly with desired films by our attendees at the monthly showing as well as on our Facebook page. These requests, along with past films’ attendance figures are used to create a proposed list. This list is presented to the full board with alternative choices and is voted upon formally by the board.”

It all sounds too good to be true, but it’s a real treat locals and even visitors can experience. On behalf of FOF, Scheffer tells, “We are extremely happy that the current management of the Fox/Bob Hope Theatre has scheduled so many live shows and that it appears to be thriving. We would love for more people to be aware of our classic movie series in hopes that they will attend and enjoy the Theatre in its glory. Many cities have long since demolished their movie palaces and we offer an experience that is a rare commodity for today.”

So, here’s your cue to say “yes” to a good time. Go ahead 🙂 rally up your friends and fam and get your tickets for the next showing, a Halloween special—Beetlejuice, on October 13th. Spread the word (maybe even become a member) but most importantly, get out of the house and treat yourself to an amazing, one-of-a-kind experience that FOF has to offer. Those comfy, red, velvety seats (and all the complimentary things) will be waiting for you!

For more information, please visit https://foxfriends.org/.

Thanks to David Scheffer, here are some fun facts about how the Classic Movie series came to life…

THEATER HISTORY/TIMELINE:

1916: On same site, T&D Photoplay Theater opens (constructed by the Wilhoit Family). It is renamed the California Theater after purchase by Fox West Coast Theaters, Inc. in 1921.
1930: The T&D Photoplay is leveled and the Fox California Theatre opens on October 14 showing “Up the River” starring Spencer Tracy and Humphrey Bogart.
1973: The Fox California closes its doors due to lack of business.
1981: Sporadic live concerts and attractions play the Fox.
2000: The Merlo Family (the owners at the time) donate the Fox to the City and renovation begins with local funds, congressional funds, support from the Spanos family, and the support of the Friends of the Fox Theater.
2003: The Fox California Theater is renamed The Bob Hope Theater after Alex Spanos’ good friend.
2004: The renovated Theater opens with a live show by Jerry Seinfeld.
2004: The Friends of the Fox decide to show classic movies (first on an irregular basis) after the renovation to ensure the Theater is being used and the public is aware of this jewel. It begins as a monthly event in May 2006 with “Casablanca” (which is our November 2019 attraction!).

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PRICING

Ticket Prices are: $8 for adults and $4 for students. Books of 10 tickets are available for $60, which can be used for any of the shows.

Turning Parking Spaces into Social Spaces

Posted on September 16, 2019 by digitalgear

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PARK(ing) Day in Downtown Stockton

By Jessica Nguyen

Just like it sounds, PARK(ing) Day is an event dedicated to parking spots, but probably not in the way you’re thinking- these aren’t spaces you’d want to back your car into! PARK(ing) Day is a one ⁠— day event that encourages people to rethink parking spaces as public places by temporarily transforming them into unique installations and social spaces. Instead of occupying land with vehicles, PARK(ing) Day explores the plethora of possibilities the space could instead be transformed into when it’s not being occupied by a car- a mini lounge area, gaming space, succulent garden, outside library, art corner, golf course, outside yoga studio, or playground just to name some examples! The goal is to utilize these spaces to activate our streets and create new opportunities for social interaction between members of our community.

The idea of PARK(ing) Day originated in 2005 by an architecture group based in San Francisco. Since then, the annual event has been adopted by cities worldwide and is always held annually on the third Friday of September. First established in Downtown Stockton by the San Joaquin Bike Coalition (SJBC), this year will be downtown’s third annual PARK(ing) Day event. This year, it will take place on Friday, September 20^th, and spaces will be set up throughout the day between the hours of 10am and 2pm.

Why is Park(ing) Day held in Downtown Stockton?

Kari McNickle, Board President of the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, explains that downtown, “offers a great density of businesses, employees strolling on their lunch hour, and an opportunity to really rethink how we use our streets.” In addition, organizations, local artists, and other Park(ing) Day participants get the chance to showcase their creativity when converting the parking spaces into more interactive experiences. In past years, downtown spaces have been turned into art lounges, game rooms, and there was one year where a DJ setup was featured! Don’t miss the opportunity to spend your Friday taking in the experiences born from Downtown Stockton’s creative energy. As Kari says herself, “the creativity is pretty impressive.”

There is so much to get excited about when visiting downtown, and Park(ing) Day is definitely one of them! Kari loves, “seeing people stop on their walk around downtown and engaging with the spaces. It’s a friendly and fun way to disrupt the routine and help people think differently about a street they may stroll down every day.” Parking spaces take up quite a bit of space (think of all the public spaces taken up along entire streets, parking lots, and even garages!), so it will be refreshing and interesting to see some spaces conceptualized in completely new and unique ways. The creativity adds color and excitement to parking spaces that otherwise exist solely for functional purposes.

From Installation to Application

There is even potential for permanent transformation: some Park(ing) Day installments find their forever home. For example, since Downtown Stockton’s first Park(ing) Day, downtown has had its first parklet installed in front of Trail Coffee. The space now serves as a vibrant outdoor seating area (if you haven’t seen it already, you should really check it out, it’s adorable!). Offering these outdoor spaces, such as outdoor seating for restaurants or cafés, make the entire street feel safer and much more lively- hopefully this is the start of a new trend! These outdoor spaces would be a great way to foster social interactions. This year, there will be at least five transformed spaces downtown. Interested in knowing what they are? We’re not telling you, because as Kari says, “you’ll have to come see to find out!”

Refreshing Drinks to try in Downtown

Posted on August 23, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

What a bummer that summer is only with us for another month! BUT, all the more reason to make the best of it. Beer week was a splash and Stockmarket was such a hit, why stop the party? Grab your friends (or make new ones) and head downtown to start making your rounds. There’s a few fun spots we love, serving up refreshing drinks that’ll help you forget that the summer days are about to end.

BELLAVISTA ROOFTOP & EVENTS

Part on the rooftop every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday! They’ve got Happy Hour from 5pm-6:30pm and the dance floor’s open from 7pm-10pm. Yeah, they’ve got beer and wine, but maybe venture out and give one of their signature cocktails a try (yumm!).

Try them all for only $6 each:

Terrace Breeze Punch (Rum, blue Curaçao, lemonade, pineapple juice)
Watermelon Margarita (Tequila, lime juice, watermelon puree, agave)
BellaVista Pop (Prosecco poured over Paloma popsicle)
Berry Happy Together Red Sangria (Red wine, brandy, orange juice, mixed berries)
Summer Sunset White Sangria (White wine, rum, lemon, apple, strawberry)

CHANNEL BREWING CO.

“If you like beer and bomb pizza this your place! Good prices, friendly service and hella chill,” one Yelper comments. This is one of the most chill spots we’ve got on our blocks; if you haven’t popped in yet, now’s your chance. Craft beers are their specialty and when you start feeling those munchies, they’ve got your back with their mouth-watering specialty pizzas…#sorrynotsorry if we’re making you salivate. Check ‘em out! They’re open later on Fridays and Saturdays (10pm). Let those quality craft brews satisfy you.

CHARLIE’S BAR & NIGHTCLUB

#savewaterdrinkbeer Maybe you finish up at Channel, but you and your buddies don’t want to head home just yet. Wed-Sun, Charlie’s is open till 2am. Pop a few more beers, brush up on your pool skills and even get your karaoke on. They always know how to have a good time—go join ‘em.

DELTA BISTRO & LOUNGE

This one-of-a-kind spot has a great list of signature drinks. Give yourself an excuse to lounge around and treat yourself to a Dirty Shirley (Grey Goose cherry noir, grenadine, Sierra Mist w/a cherry on top) or a Portside Cooler (Midori, Absolut vodka, Peachtree schnapps, layered perfectly w/three juices). Great location and a great way to end your summer nights (open till 9pm every day)!

CHITIVA’S SALSA & SPORTS BAR

Cool down by the Delta after work at this local fave! There’s a lot of hype about Chitiva’s. One reviewer on FB says, “Reasonable prices on drinks and delicious tacos made by Martin! Gabriella is a wonderful bartender who knows how to make drinks! Carlos the owner is a great man. We use to drive to SF till we found this place in Stockton. View by the water, free parking, no issues. What more could you want? Love this place!” Most days, they’re open past midnight. Sounds like an invite—grab a cocktail and salsa your way late into the night.

DELIBERATION ROOM

They are always coming up with something new, you’ll for sure want to try what they’re mixing up on the daily. Their recent refreshing cocktails have the new Absolut Juice (all natural flavored) in them. Stay cool and quench your thirst for delicious drinks—Fri-Sat they’re open until 2am.

DESEO NIGHTCLUB

Another hot-spot right here every Fri-Sat from 10pm-1:30am. They don’t play around; they even have VIP bottle service if that’s more your style (have your bottle…and drink it, too, with some friends!). Make it a lady’s night out or just pop in on a whim. If you make it there on a Saturday before 11pm, you can get in for free! Save that money so you can spend it on your fave drinks instead. They’ve got First Fridays events and hot things happening pretty much every weekend. Here’s your personal invite to go live a little and have some fun. You deserve it.

THE DOWNTOWNER

This spot just celebrated its 1 year anniversary in Downtown Stockton! They pride themselves on offering some of the best #goodmoodfood, including lots of vegan options all week long, but that’s not all! They recently installed a bar and are serving a wide range of Blood Marys, custom mimosas, local & international beer, AND they serve wine on tap. But what’s better than wine on tap? Happy Hour! The Downtowner understands how hard Mondays can be so they offer Happy Hour all day long! They are open 8AM-8PM, Mon-Fri, and are open 10AM-8PM, on Sat-Sun. So head over for Sunday Bruch and order yourself a custom

MR. D’S PIZZA

This local dive bar is one of the most inviting treasures to discover. For one, they’ve got the pizza and burgers to satisfy those cravings. But their amazing prices and great service take their refreshingly cold drinks to the next level. Get more familiar with downtown streets and make your way to Happy Hour after work. They’re so friendly and welcoming, we won’t be surprised if you stay till closing.

MISAKI SUSHI BAR

You don’t even have to be a sushi lover to enjoy yourself at this place (but, I mean, who doesn’t love sushi?). Try their Mai Tai, Mary Jane or AMF drink…or any of their other specialties. They’ve got a lot going on; the locals will prove it, keeping them busy especially during Happy Hour Mon-Fri from 4pm-6pm. Catch a movie and make it an even more special date to celebrate summer at this fave.

NENA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Oh, this spot though. Some of the best Mexican food your tastebuds will ever experience. Make a trip before summer ends and cool off with one of their specialty margaritas or micheladas. They also have draft beer if that’s the mood you’re in. Saturdays, they’re open an hour later until 10pm. Mmmm, go-go-go!

PORT CITY SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Thur-Sat, they keep their doors open past midnight. Everett Hunter, Promotions Manager, gives us the 411 on what they’ve got going on. He tells us the top drinks are Lit, Mai Tai, AMF and Sex on the Beach (#sogood). The “local favorites [are] Trash Can and Long Island” and his “favorite is 1 of 15 different types of cold beer on tap.” Super friendly and helpful, you likely will keep coming back. Say “What’s up!” to Everett next time you’re in. They’ve got cool things going down every month and they “are open 11am to 9pm Mon-Wed, Thurs-Sat 11am to 1:30am” and they even have special hours “Sunday. . .for football season 9am-9pm.” This is the place to be right here.

Sooo, thirsty yet? Don’t let the final days of summer fly by without having some refreshing fun drinking all over downtown. The options are endless; there’s plenty to go around and who knows, maybe you’ll make Happy Hour part of your normal schedule from now on. And remember, drink responsibly!