A Reflection on My Internship at Downtown Stockton Alliance

Posted on June 5, 2026June 5, 2026 by Intern DSA

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by Rose Son

In the blink of an eye, it feels as if winter skipped over spring and jumped straight into summer. My last week as a digital media intern at Downtown Stockton Alliance has finally come, and I reflect on the experience I’ve had over the first half of 2026. Coming into the internship one-year post-graduation was a unique experience where I was happily greeted with the empowerment and inspiration from my peers to learn something new every day. From my first day in the Belding Building to my last day, I acquired so much knowledge and experience I didn’t know I could gain.

As a digital media intern, I focused on continuing and improving DSA’s external communications. I managed different portions of our website, such as weekly event spotlights, monthly blogs, and business directories. Those responsibilities pushed my creativity and helped me rediscover my love for writing. I did backend research and interviews to ensure that the information featuring businesses and organizations was accurate and resonated with owners’ visions. Being able to translate the shared conversations I had with community members into the blogs I wrote always filled me with joy as I pressed “publish,” allowing the world to see what Stockton has to offer.

Along with the DSA website, I had the greatest opportunity to tackle social media management and content creation. During the five months I’ve been interning, I was able to produce over 100 videos and still posts for all five of our social media channels. I became well versed in software and platforms like SKED Social, Premiere Pro, and Word Press – continuing campaigns like Intern Adventures, Property Mondays, and so much more. I also helped launch our very own Tik Tok page, reaching over 1,000 organic followers in under 3 months. Recording videos has been a hobby of mine since adolescence, so being able to bring that into the work I do makes my time at DSA so much more exciting and memorable.

Aside from the hard skills I picked up, DSA introduced me to a new side of Stockton I’ve never seen. Despite being raised in this city, Downtown Stockton was a foreign place to me. It always served as a passing landmark when heading south on the Interstate 5 Highway, but now I see downtown for what it truly is – a home and a community of passionate families, business owners, and organizers looking to build and expand the city. I had the wonderful opportunity of conducting in-person outreach, meeting community members, and bringing foot traffic downtown. From every wave of hello and every conversation exchanged, I learned that the love and compassion people have for Stockton is much more than the reputation and judgements people are so quick to label the city with.

Invent maintenance hole cover by Molly Toberer.

As I close out my internship at DSA, I’ll be walking away with not only hands-on experience in the marketing industry, but also a newfound appreciation for Stockton. My internship has taught me a lot about myself and the potential I have for accomplishing the things I put my mind to. My time here has helped guide my career aspirations and build within me the confidence to tackle anything I come across in the future.

The DSA wishes Rose all the best on her next adventure. She has been a wonderful help to our organization over the last 6 months. Thanks for everything, Rose! Cheers and hope to see you again!

You can see some of Rose’s Intern Adventures on the DSA Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, and Youtube pages!

If you are interested in an internship with the DSA, contact [email protected].

AAPI Heritage Night: A Day to Remember

Posted on June 2, 2026June 3, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By Andy Nguyen

On May 29, 2026, The Kommunity Hub hosted its Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Night here in Stockton, California, at the Banner Island Ballpark. This event was filled with local food & retail vendors, cultural performances, community resources, children’s activities, and a baseball game to celebrate our night of heritage. Before the baseball game that occurred later that day, a pregame tailgate was in full effect, hyping attendees for what was to come.

The Tailgate – A Field Filled with Activities

The celebration of the heritage night started with an afternoon tailgate, in which attendees could enjoy various foods, drinks, and entertainment.

Many food vendors consisted of delicious Asian cuisine, such as Casa Pinoy’s pancit-pork belly and Kingsley Eats Korean corn dogs. The retail vendors brought a unique variety to modern-day accessories such as Euphoric Sun’s Chinese-inspired makeup and Marahyo Spirit’s Filipino handmade gifts. Community resources provided ways to enhance our well-being, such as Little Manila Rising’s booth informing attendees of their occasional information workshops that happen at 27 N Grant St, Stockton, CA. This was just the tip of the iceberg of all the amazing vendors & resources offered at the event.

And the star of the tailgate show was the live performances throughout the event, with EMCEE Zeps as our host alongside performers such as Siva Ora’s Polynesian Dance and APEX Arts Academy’s Martial Arts. The array of performances combined with the resources & activities held throughout the tailgate made for an unforgettable experience. The fans who stayed also got to experience a magnificent baseball game of the Stockton Ports vs Rancho Cucamonga Quakes and performances that followed before it, most notably Alisah Bonabra singing the National Anthem.

A Celebration that Continues – Barrio Fiesta 2026

With the revitalization of celebrating Asian culture, it was recently announced that the Barrio Fiesta is coming back to Downtown Stockton. On August 15th, 2026, from 10am-6pm at the Decarli Waterfront Square, expect a day full of live entertainment, delicious eats, cultural performances, merch vendors, family fun, and unforgettable memories. Follow their Instagram and Facebook page to stay up-to-date and mark your calendar for this special celebration.

Event Information – Barrio Fiesta 2026

📍Address: Decarli Waterfront Square – 105 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Saturday, August 15th, 2026 | 10AM – 6PM

📸Instagram: @barriofiestastockton

📘Facebook: @barriofiestastockton

🖥️ Website: https://www.barriofiestastockton.com/

Event Information – AAPI Heritage Night 2026

📍Address: Banner Island Ballpark – 404 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Friday, May 29th, 2026 | 1PM – 10PM

📸Instagram: @kommunityhub

📘Facebook: @kommunityhub

🖥️ Website: https://www.kommunityhub.org/

A Bookworm’s Dream turned Reali-Tea

Posted on June 2, 2026June 2, 2026 by Intern DSA

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by Rose Son

What is NovelTea Events and Tea Room?

In a world so entrenched with technology, there is something magical about being able to disconnect from screens, pick up a good book, and sip a cup of freshly brewed tea. At NovelTea Events and Tea Room, they are doing exactly that. This newly opened event and tearoom is transforming the way people view reading and literature.

NovelTea is taking pages of a book and making stories come to life with an immersive high tea experience inspired by classic novels many of us grew up with. Located in Downtown Stockton at the Waterfront Warehouse, NovelTea is much more than just a tearoom – it is a haven for all those who read, dream, and imagine.

A Storybook Experience

Afternoon High Tea

NovelTea’s mission of creating community connection is curated through the literary decor, themed menus, and immersive events that guests are greeted with as they step into this palace. They offer a unique high tea experience to guests as a reminder for folks to slow down and be present with what’s in front of them. There are three different high tea packages to choose from. Whether guests choose to do Table Service, Buffet Style, or the Pixie Dust package, each bite, sip, and conversation exchanged is guaranteed to evoke the sparks we feel in a storybook.

What makes NovelTea unique is its book themed menu. With each course being referred to as “chapters,” it’s easy to get lost in all the magic. All of the menu items are inspired by different classic literature like the Great Gatsby, Little Red Riding Hood, Hunger Games, and more. For little ones that join in on the experience, NovelTea offers a simplified children’s menu to meet their tastebuds.

Along with the tiered menu, the tea blends are also whimsically inspired by literature – making each cup a different journey to another world. For visitors, the experience of pairing pastries and teas becomes a one-of-a-kind adventure and a lifetime memory in the making.

Community Events

NovelTea is on a quest to encourage reading and foster community for all, so they’re opening their space to book clubs, authors, organizations, and even friend groups to come and create an event of their own at the tearoom. Anyone can get their event organized in collaboration with NovelTea with a simple send of a raven on their website.

The Final Chapter

So, if you’re a lover of books, tea, or new adventures, Noveltea is offering you an opportunity to escape from the ordinary. Reserve your slot today to enjoy a world where stories are cherished, conversations are encouraged, and fresh perspectives are celebrated.

Business Details

📍 Address: 445 W Weber Ave, Unit 144A, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Hours: Thurs – Sun, 11:00am – 6:00pm (reservations only)

📞 Phone Numbers: 209.687.7962

🖥️ Website: https://noveltea209.com/

🎭 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noveltea_209

📸 Instagram: @noveltea_209

Novel Tea Grand Opening

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Grand Opening of NOVEL TEA! 🥳 @noveltea_209

Join us as we celebrate the Grand Opening of NovelTea — a whimsical literary tea room where stories come to life through tea, pastries, and a touch of magic. Step into a storybook world filled with cozy corners, handmade details, dragons, books, and enchanting surprises around every page.

Enjoy:
✨ Literary themed tea & food samples
📚 Our handmade book wall photo backdrop
🎟 Raffle prizes
👑 A special appearance from a beloved bookish princess in a golden gown from 1–3PM

We cannot wait to welcome you into the world of NovelTea. 🤎

📍Novel Tea, 445 W Weber Ave Suite 144A, Stockton, CA
🗓️ Sunday, May 31st 2026
🕘11AM- 3PM

#downtownstockton #stocktonca #noveltea #grandopening #tea

Website

Talk to Downtown Episode 76 Blog: Gregory Diederich & Jennie Rodriguez, Community Medical Centers

Posted on May 18, 2026May 19, 2026 by Courtney Wood

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By: Courtney Wood

The latest Talk to Downtown episode featured guests Gregory Diederich, CEO of Community Medical Centers, and Jennie Rodriguez, Director of Development at Community Medical Centers. The interview was hosted by Downtown Stockton Alliance’s Courtney Wood. Read on to hear a few highlights from the interview. To watch the full podcast, click here.

What is the Mission of Community Medical Centers?

During the interview, Diederich shared that the mission of Community Medical Centers is “to ensure that people can access care regardless of income, insurance status, language or other individual circumstances.” He explained that most of those who receive care through Community Medical Centers have Medi-Cal or Medicare. CMC has medical care, dental care, behavioral health care, substance use services, and more. CMC strives to see the individual as a whole when creating treatment or care plans.

Background of the Guests

Prior to his time as the CEO of CMC, Gregory Diederich spent 10 years as Director of the San Joaquin Healthcare Services Agency, and 7 ½ years as Associate Director within the Stanislaus County Public Health System. He shared that he has 30 years of experience in the healthcare sector.

Jennie Rodriguez has been with CMC since 2019. She initially joined as a grants manager before coming into her current position as Director of Development. At one time, Rodriguez was a patient of CMC, so she is familiar with the client experience. Prior to CMC, Rodriguez worked in collaborative courts as a part of the SJ Superior Court System. She also spent time at The Record as a reporter.

What makes CMC So Important for Our Community?

Diederich shared “I think we play a stabilizing role in communities. We provide an access point for people who might otherwise fall through the cracks of a complex healthcare system, foregoing preventative care until they’re in crisis and need emergency intervention, or their disease status [has] progressed [to a point] where it’s more costly.”

What is Something You Think People Would be Surprised to Know About CMC?

“We’re not just health care,” Diederich insisted. He recounted a story about a young girl who came to CMC for a routine sports physical; during her exam, the pediatrician discovered an irregular heartbeat, which ultimately led to a diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome. If this had not been discovered and had gone untreated, the disease could have become life-threatening. He asserts that one of the key aspects of CMC is the fact that they can help people who may not otherwise have access to services receive treatment for conditions before they become critical issues. CMC can help with prevention and early detection, which means healthier and longer lives. During the interview, Diederich also shared a success story about a teen who had gone to CMC for counseling.

Rodriguez noted that people may not know that CMC was one of the organizations which “jumped into action” during the pandemic. She stated that “our staff really became… heroes to the community, to… get out there in the front lines.” She stressed that “we had a team of individuals through our Care Link Program that showed up literally every single day, Monday through Sunday… to local shelters to help screen individuals… to contain the situation.”

What Services Are Offered in Downtown Stockton?

As a community-focused organization, Diederich stressed the importance of CMC being located within the community they serve. Here are several of CMC’s locations, most of which are right here in Downtown Stockton:

747 Channel – Primary Care, Pediatrics, Women’s Health
201 N. Stanislaus – Respite Center, Substance Use Withdrawal Services
701 E. Channel – Family Medicine, Pharmacy, X-ray, Substance Use, Mental Health
545 W. Sonora – St. Mary’s

What’s a New Project Coming from Community Medical Centers?

There is a new Adolescent Health Center under construction; it is “designed specifically for teens and youth, ages 18 to 25.” This office, located at 701 E. Weber, Stockton, CA, will include medical care, behavioral services, prevention programs, and supportive services for that age group; it is slotted for completion by November of 2026.

Anything Else That the Guests Would Like People to Know?

Diederich said, “hopefully they understand that community health is fundamentally about dignity. There’s dignity in every human life and we honor and uplift that. At the end of the day, health care is not simply about treating illness, it’s about helping people live healthier, more stable, and… hopeful lives.”

Rodriguez noted, “We’re here to be a part of the community’s… solution to provide and ensure that people have the health care that they need.”

How Can You Access Services?

For medical services: 209.636.5400
For dental services: 209.636.5555
Website: cmcenters.org

Work for CMC:

Cmcenters.org/careers/

Donate to CMC:

https://communitymedicalcenters.networkforgood.com/projects/198038-communitymedical-center-inc-general-giving

Watch the Episode Here!

Ability in Disability: DINO’s Sport Club for Special Needs

Posted on April 23, 2026April 23, 2026 by Intern DSA

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BY: ROSE SON

What is DINO?

DINO, or Disabled Individuals Needing Opportunities, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves both the intellectually and physically disabled community of Stockton. They operate as a sports and recreational center, with the mission to empower disabled people through providing a safe space for them to engage in sports and everyday activities.

How was DINO created?

CEO and Director, Letitcia Thompson, founded DINO in honor of her late son who was a part of the disabled community. Her son, Dino, was a sports fanatic who participated in sporting events all over Stockton, and everyone around town knew him for that. Through basketball, bowling, and more, she saw firsthand how physical activities improved his quality of life, which gave Thompson the realization that there was a need for a community space specifically dedicated to disabled individuals. Thus, Thompson created that space herself called DINO’s Sports Club for Special Needs.

The concept of DINO began in 2019. It started as a small get-together with friends of Dino who were interested in sports like he was. Thompson used community spaces like Victory Park and Seifert Community Center as a spot to host their weekly sporting events. Over time, the DINO community grew, and she realized that expansion was a crucial step to sustaining her organization. In 2022, DINO was finally officially recognized as a non-profit organization and found its permanent location at 400 North El Dorado Street, in downtown Stockton.

What makes DINO unique?

Director Leticia Thompson believes that the members are what keeps DINO alive and well. Each day at the office looks different because their daily program is created with the members’ wants and needs in consideration. Thompson and her team ensure to incorporate activities that expose them to independence, socialization, and life skills education. For instance, on days they go off-site to run errands at the grocery store, her team will teach members how to swipe and use a debit card. On other days that are sports focused, members will be active participants in handing out jerseys before the game. Small actions like that lead to bigger developmental wins in the way members integrate into the world outside of DINO.

DINO Sporting Competitions

Throughout the year, DINO hosts Basketball Regional Competitions, Track and Field Meets, Power Walks, and the Special Olympics for members interested in physical activities. These events involve teamwork and communication, which help members learn and practice responding to change in real time. At DINO, sporting events and physical activities act as an outlet to not only improve health and wellbeing but build self-determination and confidence in individuals too.

To learn more about DINO and their services, visit their website here.

Details

📍 Address: 400 N. El Dorado Street

🖥️ Website: https://disabledindividualsneedingopportunities.org/

💌 Email: [email protected]

📞 Phone Number: (209)-405-4789

📸 Instagram: @dinossportsclub

The Founding of the City of Stockton

Posted on April 13, 2026April 13, 2026 by Courtney Wood

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By: Zachary Hulsey

The City of Stockton was founded by Charles Weber.

About Charles Weber

Captain Karl Maria Weber was born on February 17, 1814, in Germany. At just the young age of 22, Captain Weber made the brave decision to immigrate to America in 1836, where he traveled the nation. He spent some time in Texas, Missouri, and traveled through other states. Weber eventually settled in the state of California with the Bartleson-Bidwell Party in 1841, when California was still governed by Mexico.

After his arrival in California, Karl began calling himself Charles. Captain Weber then went to work for a man named John Sutter, who showed great support for “Carlos Maria Weber” to the Mexican authorities. In 1842, Captain Weber settled in the Pueblo of San José, where he became a trusted business partner of William Gulnac. William Gulnac was born in Hudson, New York, in 1801 and was an experienced blacksmith and fur trapper who had also settled in the Pueblo of San José in 1833. Weber and Gulnac owned and operated multiple businesses, ranging from selling soap and shoes to mining salt, operating a bakery, and more.

First San Joaquin Settlement

Gulnac, a naturalized Mexican citizen on account of his marriage to Maria Cesena, petitioned Governor Micheltorena of California for a tract of land for the benefit of himself and eleven other families who were to assist him in forming a settlement. Governor Micheltorena granted this land to Gulnac – a spread of over 48,000 acres in the area that is now San Joaquin County. The name of this tract of land was Rancho Campo de los Franceses (Ranch of the French Camp). After breaking away from his partnership with Captain Weber in 1843, Gulnac’s attempts to settle the land – in the area still known today as French Camp – failed. Eventually, in 1845, Gulnac sold the land to Captain Weber, who attracted multiple settlers to locate on the ranch a year later. Soon after, the Mexican-American War broke out, and Weber later became a cavalryman for the United States. After becoming a cavalryman for the United States, Captain Weber lost respect and trust from those who sided with the Mexican army.

The Start of Tuleburg

Captain Weber relocated the primary settlement of the grant northward near what is now called the Stockton Channel in 1847; in 1849, he laid out a town that he named Tuleburg. The small town Captain Weber established grew at a rapid rate and gained notoriety for being a gold miner’s supply point.

The Shift to “Stockton” and a History of Commodore Stockton

By 1850, Weber changed the name of the town to Stockton. Why Stockton? He did this to honor Commodore Robert F. Stockton, who had played a major role in the naval success of the American army in the Mexican-American War. Commodore Stockton was born in 1795 in Princeton, New Jersey. Commodore Stockton lived his life with long military service, a short political career, and lots of business experience. On July 23, 1846, Commodore Stockton arrived in Monterey, California, where he took over command of the Pacific Squadron of U.S. naval forces in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of California. He eventually gained the high position of senior military commander and military governor. It’s safe to say that Commodore Stockton spent a great deal of time and effort in capturing California during the Mexican-American War. After the war, California became a part of the United States of America largely because of Commodore Stockton.

Commodore Stockton later resigned from the Navy in May of 1850. After his resignation, Commodore Stockton returned to his business and political interests. He was elected to represent New Jersey in the United States Senate but resigned to serve as president of the Delaware and Raritan Canal Company, where he served until 1866. Commodore Stockton was also a delegate to the Peace Conference of 1861 that tried to settle the secession crisis. Although the Peace Conference was unsuccessful, he gained the position to command the New Jersey militia after the start of the American Civil War. During this war, he fought against the Confederate Army as they tried to invade the state of Pennsylvania. After living an adventurous, brave life, Commodore Robert F. Stockton died in 1866 in Princeton, New Jersey, the same city he was born in. Commodore Stockton is buried in the Princeton Cemetery.

Commodore Stockton’s adventurous life caught the eye of Captain Weber, which led Weber to name the small town after him.

Weber’s Family & End of Life

Captain Weber married Helen Murphy in 1850. Captain Weber and Helen Weber later built a house on a piece of land surrounded by water, which is known today as Weber Point. They had three children: Charles Martin Weber, Julia Helen Weber, and Thomas Jefferson Weber. Captain Charles M. Weber later died in May of 1881 due to pneumonia. Captain Weber was buried in the same city he built from scratch, Stockton, CA. He is buried at the San Joaquin County Catholic Cemetery.

A Credit to Weber

As we know, the current city of Stockton has grown significantly. From a small town used for gold mining, settlement, and exploration to the 11th largest city in California (approaching 400,000 citizens), Stockton has grown significantly thanks to Captain Weber’s vision and leadership. As this city continues to grow, we should all remember the rich history that lives here. If it wasn’t for Captain Charles M. Weber and many other leaders along the way, the City of Stockton wouldn’t have grown into the city we know today.

A Place of Belonging: San Joaquin Pride Center

Posted on March 27, 2026March 27, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By ROSE SON

What is the San Joaquin Pride Center?

The San Joaquin Pride Center (SJPC) is an organization in Downtown Stockton that provides holistic resources for all members of the LGBTQ+ community based in the Central Valley. Everyone, regardless of their identity, background, or experiences, is welcomed, safe, and respected in this space. Their mission is to create a community where people can thrive and live authentically without compromising their unique identities. They offer educational, emotional, and mental health resources that are influential for the LGBTQ+ community.

What programs do they offer?

Community Building

The SJPC recognizes that space plays a crucial role in an individual’s sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community. They believe that by opening up their space as an inclusive environment for all, people will feel valued and protected. To foster belonging in the Pride Center, they make an effort to host monthly recurring events that center around community building and connection.

Every first and third Wednesday of the month, they facilitate a Mental Health Peer Support meeting for young adults looking for a space to cultivate sincere, unfiltered conversations over lived experiences. On the first Thursday of the month, SJPC arranges a community potluck where members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies come together to make meaningful relationships over a shared meal. To conclude their monthly agenda, the SJPC hosts SpeQtrum Youth Night on third Fridays. This event is geared towards youth searching for a third space to have fun, play video games, and surround themselves with great company.

Each of these programs are organized with the very intention to provide feelings of inclusion, acceptance, and validation that spaces outside of the organization might not offer to the LGBTQ+ community.

Transgender Support Services

In addition to recreational programs, SJPC offers transgender-specific support services to anyone in search of accessible, affirming transgender care.

On the second and third Thursday of each month, SJPC organizes a peer group, called Transform, that provides transgender individuals a safe haven and opportunity to strengthen their well-being through social networks. They also guide the trans community in making legal name and gender marker changes on official documents. SJPC understands that legal steps like those can be difficult to navigate so they do their best to support and remove barriers in the process. The Pride Center also has a Queer Closet where people can receive free clothing and trans affirming garments to relieve gender dysphoria. The closet is open year-round and accepts donations of new or gently used clothing items for anyone interested in supporting.

SJPC dedicates itself to empowering the transgender community by ensuring specialized care is accessible to their trans members.

Counseling

What makes SJPC special is their no-cost counseling department. Their on-site therapists and clinician interns have the expertise and empathy to address unique needs of the community. Sessions are available to anyone even without proof of insurance, and meetings are held both in person and virtually to prevent any obstacles getting in the way of care. This resource is vital to reducing the harm, anxiety, and isolation that results from being marginalized members of society. Their counseling program is solutions-oriented and designed to meet LGBTQ+ members with the utmost respect and compassion.

Why is SJPC important?

The San Joaquin Pride Center is more essential to its community than ever in the wake of rising tides of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The existence of the SJPC is a form of resistance and empowerment in itself because it’s where LGBTQ+ individuals live freely and take up space in the face of oppression. It’s a place of hope, belonging, and power. People have a right to affirming care, community, and the ability to express themselves and their identities without compromise.

To learn more about SJPC and its mission, visit their website here.

Details

📍 Address: 145 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA 95206

📅 Hours: Mon-Fri, 9AM – 5PM

📞 Phone Numbers: (209) 565-5023

🎭 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sjpridecenter

📸 Instagram: @sjpridecenter

TALK TO DOWNTOWN: THE DOWNTOWN STOCKTON ALLIANCE PODCAST

Posted on March 2, 2026March 13, 2026 by Courtney Wood

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By: Courtney Wood

Have you ever watched the Downtown Stockton Alliance podcast, Talk to Downtown?

This series is intended to connect our business owners, property owners, visitors, and residents with the organizations, people, and resources which impact our community!

Read on to learn more about Talk to Downtown in this article by the podcast host and DSA staffer, Courtney Wood.

How Did The Idea for the Talk to Downtown Series Come About?

As a public-facing entity, the Downtown Stockton Alliance has fielded many questions over the years. We receive daily calls from people wanting all kinds of information. They want to know things like:

Is the Downtown Stockton Alliance a branch of the City of Stockton?

No. We are a 501 (c) 6 non-profit organization. We are not the City of Stockton.

How do I report a streetlight that is not working?

Use the City of Stockton’s tool Ask Stockton.

Who empties Downtown’s trash cans?

The Downtown Stockton Alliance.

Who can remove graffiti on buildings?

This is a private owner’s responsibility.

Who manages the sidewalk weeds?

The Downtown Stockton Alliance maintenance team.

Who has purview over parking spaces in Downtown Stockton?

The City of Stockton Economic Development Department.

Who manages the parking garages?

LAZ manages them through a contact with the City of Stockton.

How can I host an event at a City-owned venue?

Contact the City of Stockton Special Events Department: 209.937.8119

I have a small business. What resources are there for me?

The DSA has resources for Downtown Stockton small businesses here; you can also use this Entrepreneur Ecosystem Map or contact the City of Stockton Economic Development Department or the SJC Economic Development Department.

These are just a taste of the types of questions DSA staff typically fields. Some questions are related to things the DSA has purview over/has the ability to address, while other issues are completely outside our scope of work/must be directed to another organization/entity.

Given the frequent inquiries received by our office, in 2019, the DSA Executive Director and staff decided that it would be great to have a podcast series which would help clarify who exactly is responsible for what in our community; help people stay in the know about events or organizations that impact our Downtown; and help connect the community directly with the people who can answer their questions in a LIVE format. In a world of misinformation and misunderstanding, our podcast series could be a straightforward channel of transparency, fact, and clarity.

The Launch

We settled on a podcast name, chose a logo (thank you, Alex Arango!), arranged our first few guests, and launched Talk to Downtown in January of 2020 with an episode on the topic we were most often asked about – Parking. Our very first guest was Tina McCarty – at the time the Parking and Venue Manager at the City of Stockton; she is now the Economic Development Director at the City of Stockton. Although the first few episodes were in-person interviews at the DSA offices, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March led staff to shift to an online interview format which is still used today.

Since 2020, we have aired 74 episodes to date, with our most recent episode featuring Tony Mannor, Public Information Officer for the City of Stockton City Manager’s Office! As the host of Talk to Downtown, I have been lucky to interview so many interesting and informative guests. The podcast has evolved to include not only representatives of public agencies, but also non-profit representatives and independent individuals whose work has impacted Downtown Stockton.

Some of our guests are located within the Downtown Stockton PBID, while others may not be physically located in Downtown, but their work impacts the Downtown Stockton community – business owners, property owners, visitors, or residents – in some way. We aim for at least 12 episodes each year; our December episode always features the DSA Executive Director, Michael Huber, and an update on DSA’s services and yearly accomplishments. A full list of guests can be found below.

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

Tony Mannor, City of Stockton City Manager’s Office

The Interview

Each and every interview is its own, original experience.

Before the interview, I draft a list of questions for the guest touching upon the guest’s organization or projects, but also touching upon things I am curious about or that I think viewers may be interested to know. Guests receive my questions ahead of time so they are given a heads-up of the direction of the interview.

After my intro speech at the top of each episode, I give guests an opportunity to introduce themselves and explain their roles, ensuring listeners understand the context behind titles like ‘Senior Planner’ or ‘VP of Special Programs. My goal is to make the interview easy for someone from any background to understand.

Throughout the interview, it’s my goal to actively listen to the guest and build upon what they are saying if possible, which sometimes leads to additional questions that I hadn’t initially planned to ask. Each guest is unique in the energy they bring to the interview and their approach to being interviewed; some prepare their answers very thoroughly and type them up in advance, while others take a more “off the cuff” approach, creating their answers right there on the spot. I especially love when a guest has anecdotes or stories sprinkled throughout their answers, as it makes for a very fun, informative interview.

Going Live

Going live is an adventure each time! We’ve made changes to the streaming platform, camera, intro speech, lighting, and more over the years. We’ve also handled many tech issues and other difficulties; it’s all a part of the experience. We want viewers to have the chance to type in their questions for the guest directly, and maintaining a live format – no matter the challenges – is essential for providing that opportunity.

Tune In, Learn, & Ask Your Questions Live

I hope that everyone who has seen a Talk to Downtown episode has learned at least one new thing. I know I learn something from each guest, and am grateful to each and every one of them for taking the time to be on the podcast. There are so many resources, tools, and organizations in our community; I really enjoy being a part of getting that knowledge and information out to everyone – from how to access business resources, to how to contact your public officials, to understanding who is responsible for event permitting, to learning how zoning decisions are made, and beyond. Informed people are powerful people.

Talk to Downtown typically airs the 2^nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM on the DSA Youtube, Facebook, and LinkedIn platforms. The next one will take place March 11^th.

I encourage anyone who is interested in local news or learning about local resources to tune in and ask your questions live!

Have a great day, Downtown!

Information

Talk to Downtown Playlist
Platforms: Youtube, Facebook, LinkedIn, & Spotify
Day: 2^nd Wednesday of the Month (typically)
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 AM
Latest Episode: Episode 74 with Tony Mannor, Public Information officer, City of Stockton City Manager’s Office

A Taste of Little Manila at Ging’s Chicharon

Posted on February 24, 2026February 24, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By Rose Son

Did you know that during the 20^th century, Downtown Stockton was home to the largest Filipino migrant population in the United States? Although only remnants of their enclave exist in the area today, a Filipino-owned business in downtown called Ging’s Chicharon brings back memories of the once bustling Little Manila.

Flavors of the Philippines

Located in the middle of Filipino Center Plaza, Ging’s Chicharon pays homage to its community through food. They carry an abundance of authentic Filipino dishes that are bound to bring warmth to both the heart and soul. As you walk through the entrance door, you’re instantly greeted with a vibrant orange interior that perfectly reflect the flavors of the Philippines. Savory, garlicky aromas permeate the air from the diverse entree selection at the food bar. It’s a paradise for people who love options because of the variety of stir fry, soup, and small bite possibilities, but come early because they are quick to sell out.

Offering a brunch and lunch menu, customers can come in as early as 10:00AM for a true Filipino breakfast plate of tocino and eggs with rice or as late as 4:00PM for a lunch plate of pancit paired with barbeque skewers. Their menu is not fixed, and it rotates depending on how many people there are to support the back of the house, so be sure to be mindful when arriving.

During my visit to Ging’s Chicharon, I got a lunch plate with half rice and pancit paired with menudo. Even though I only went with the one entree plate, my take-out container was filled with enough for two. The rice came warm out of the rice cooker. The pancit was nice and peppery with seasoning. The menudo, the star of the show, was jam-packed with rich umami flavors and a slight hint of sweetness. Ging’s is not a fusion inspired place, so you’re guaranteed to be introduced to flavors unlike before if you’re new to Filipino cuisine like me.

Comforting Recounts

When speaking with the worker, I learned that the restaurant opened their storefront in January of 2025, and previously operated out of a location in Lathrop, CA. They occasionally participate in community events where they sell their most beloved item, chicharon or crispy pork skin. However, in stores, they said their best sellers are chicken adobo and lumpia.

A customer I spoke to regularly comes to Ging’s Chicharon from Lodi, CA. She said that it’s worth the drive to Downtown Stockton just to get her fix of Filipino food. Another customer that I mingled with shared that she’s of Filipino American descent, and she feels more connected to her community just knowing that there’s Filipino businesses in the Stockton. It’s clear as day that Ging’s Chicharon’s presence in Downtown Stockton brings many people feelings of comfort and home.

Bookmark and Bring a Friend

So bookmark Ging’s Chicharon on Beli, a restaurant-focused social media app that allows users to share and rank food spots with friends. The next time you want to treat yourself or a friend out to a meal, come to Ging’s Chicharon for authentic and community-loved Filipino food. The people, food, and atmosphere make the experience a heartwarming one. Show them love at 6 West Main Street in Downtown Stockton. Support local, you won’t regret it!

Information

📍 Address: 6 West Main Street, Stockton, CA, 95202

📅 Hours: 10:00AM – 4:00PM on Tues-Fri, 10:00AM – 3:00PM on Sat

📞 Phone Numbers: (209) 475-8352

🎭 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gingschicharon/

📸 Instagram: @gingschicharon