Feel the Holiday Spirit in Downtown

Posted on December 14, 2020 by digitalgear

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’Tis the season of twinkling lights, bright decorations, gift shopping and of course- holiday events! The holidays may look different this year because of the pandemic, but there are still many ways we can bring on the cheer! To help you fill up your calendar for the rest of the month, we’ve compiled a list of just a few things you can do in Downtown Stockton this year. Happy Holidays!

1. Vote in the DSA Holiday Contest

WHEN: Dec.14th – Dec. 17th at noon
WHERE: DSA Facebook and Instagram pages
This year, the DSA is hosting a Holiday Contest to challenge our Downtown Stockton businesses owners to share creative holiday photos featuring their business. Even if you’re not a downtown business owner, get involved by viewing the awesome photos and voting to help your favorite businesses win! To vote, head over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and leave a like on your favorite photos. The voting period begins on Monday, December 14th, and will end on Thursday, December 17th at noon. The photos will definitely have you feeling the spirit of Christmas!

2. Virtual Visits with Santa

WHEN: Book now! Available dates: Dec.16,19, 22 & 23
WHERE: Anywhere you want!
This year, the Children’s Museum of Stockton is hosting virtual visits with Saint Nicholas himself. Create a magical moment for you and your loved ones with a visit from the North Pole right into your home (no milk and cookies required!). Imagine how excited the kiddos will be to see and interact with the one, the only, Santa Claus right in their living room for a personalized visit. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Museum of Stockton and Children’s Museum members receive special pricing. End the year with some magic!

3. Gift Shopping

There are two kinds of people: those who get their Christmas shopping done early, and those who scramble for those last-minute gifts! Whichever you are (we fall into the second category), we’re here to give you some ideas. Our local businesses need our support more than ever, and the holidays are the perfect time to shop local to find fun gifts for your friends and family. Walk into the Freckled Moon for unique gifts and trinkets of all kinds or visit FarOut Foliage to pick up a lush plant that can up the aesthetic of any room. Venture into Edible Arrangements to pick out a beautiful (and delicious) arrangement made of your favorite chocolate covered fruits or opt for a more traditional floral arrangement from Alex Floral. Several downtown restaurants, eatieries, and coffee shops, such as The Downtowner and Trail Coffee Roasters also offer gift cards, which can make great stocking stuffers or gifts on their own. Take a look at our complete directory of downtown businesses to plan your gift search and happy shopping!

4. Treat yourself

Anytime is a good time for self care, but its especially nice to treat yourself at the end of a long year- especially this one! Downtown Stockton is full of salons and barbershops, such as Natural Do and The Golden Rose Barbershop, ready to give you a fresh cut or new look for the holidays. If you’re looking for a refreshing skin treatment, head over to The Beauty Base. During the month of December, 20% from all of their sales/appointments will be used to create care packages for the homeless. Enjoy smooth skin and support a good cause. Speaking of skin, why not gift yourself a brand new tattoo for the holidays? We know you’ve been thinking about it. If you’re unsure about a new hairstyle, facial, or new tattoo, just remember these words: treat yo’self.

5. Indulge in sweets

Add sweet treats to the holiday menu by picking up some scrumptious goods downtown. D’lilah’s Cakery is having their end-of-the-year sale from December 23rd to December 24th from 11am-4:30pm! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to score cupcakes, sweet jars, and cheesecake for some insanely low prices. If you’re looking for some homemade pie to add to the table on Christmas Day, look no further than Trail Coffee Roasters. Choose from sweet potato pie, pear crumble, and mixed berry pie (or get all three) and place your order today. Order by December 17th and pick up at the downtown Trail location on Christmas Eve. Delivery is also available.

Now, we hope you’ve made some new plans for the remainder of December. Thank you for your continued support of our wonderful downtown businesses. We wish you Happy Holidays and look forward to seeing you next year!

Here’s A List of Some Good Things Happening Downtown

Posted on July 31, 2020 by digitalgear

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The past few months have certainly been life changing. Living during an ongoing pandemic spanning the globe means we have to face many challenges as we learn to adapt to these unprecedented times. The future may still seem uncertain, but there’s one thing that is for sure: we’re all in this together. Thank you for doing your best to stay safe and for keeping those around you safe.

In today’s blog, we want to remind you of the good that is still happening in our community- how working together (safely and with social distancing in place) uplifts our local businesses, organizations, and community members. So, we made a list of some of the good things happening downtown.

Stockton Community Kitchen at BellaVista

You may have been to BellaVista for a delicious dinner with your friends and family or you may have attended one of their exciting rooftop events (that view though!), but did you know about BellaVista’s partnership with the Stockton Community Kitchen (SCK)? The SCK was created to assist underprivileged entrepreneurs with dreams of launching food-related businesses. During this pandemic, the SCK at BellaVista prepares and delivers hundreds of meals a day to those in need in the community, including struggling families, the elderly, and the homeless.

The Stockton Community Kitchen will also be holding classes for a few weeks starting in August, where they will provide mentorship, skills and business expertise for aspiring food entrepreneurs. If you’re a food enthusiast looking for help to start your own business, here’s your chance! For information about the classes, visit their website.

Revitalization and Beautification of Chun Wah Lane

This July, the DSA’s maintenance crew began work on the planned revitalization and beautification of Chun Wah Lane. Look forward to seeing fresh coats of paint on the poles, new arches, fresh greenery, and an update to one of the most recognizable features of the lane: the fierce, fire-breathing dragon mosaic! We’re excited to show you the progress on the space as we reach the completion of the project to revitalize Chun Wah Lane, so make sure you’re following us on Facebook and Instagram to see our progress photos!

Homeless Facility in the Works

The former Alutzia Hotel and Restaurant, a popular downtown spot in the 1920s, is currently undergoing renovations to become a homeless facility for homeless women and children. Once completed, it will be one of the largest housing facilities of its kind in the nation. The Gospel Center Rescue Mission purchased the building in the 1980s and started raising funds for the project in 2016. The facility’s expected completion is in the fall of this year.

Outdoor Dining Available for Some Businesses

Temporary closure of indoor dining operations mean local businesses need your support more than ever! You can help by placing takeout orders and delivery orders though various food delivery services (DoorDash, Uber Eats, etc.). Additionally, some downtown businesses now offer outdoor seating for visitors to enjoy. Here’s a list of the downtown eateries still open for takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining. Thank you for continuing to support our local businesses!

Outdoor dining area outside of Casa Flores.

Do you have any other good news or stories about downtown to share? If so, please email Jessica Nguyen, DSA Marketing and Communications Director at [email protected]

Takeout Tuesday: Nash and Tender

Posted on July 28, 2020 by digitalgear

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https://www.facebook.com/152150884082/videos/677931916122806

How well can you handle spice? If your answer is not well at all, EXTREMELY well, or anywhere in between, then you’ve got to try Nash and Tender (if you haven’t already)! Known for their delicious hot chicken, you can choose varying levels of heat all the way up to “XTRA HOT” and “STUPID HOT” (but you’ll need to sign a waiver for the latter). Don’t forget to add a side of their seasoned fries for a match made in heaven!

Skip the line and wait by placing an online order through Clover, or stay in your PJs and place a delivery order through DoorDash or Postmates. To stay updated on specials and news, visit the Nash and Tender website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

LOCATION: 222 N. El Dorado Street
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 10am-8pm & Sat-Sun, 11am-8pm

Takeout Tuesday: The Downtowner

Posted on July 23, 2020 by digitalgear

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https://www.facebook.com/downtownstockton/videos/1394222907444015/

The Downtowner specializes in serving up Good Mood Food with a smile! What is Good Mood Food you ask? It’s comfort food with a healthy twist! From delicious and unique dishes to vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone at The Downtowner!

Place an order for takeout, call to place an order for pickup, or relax at home while your meal gets delivered to you (if you have trouble deciding what to order, we just want you to know that the Taco Salad featured in the video above was amazing). If you need to feed your entire family, The Downtowner’s family-style meals are the way to go!

To stay updated on specials and news, visit The Downtowner’s website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also learn more about The Downtowner in our past blog.

LOCATION: 40 N. Center Street
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 10am- 6pm

You Don’t Have to Wear A Cape To Protect Others, Just Wear A Mask

Posted on July 22, 2020 by digitalgear

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Today, there are over 400,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in California, and 8,000 confirmed cases in San Joaquin County alone. As scientists and medical professionals work to develop a vaccine to combat the virus, local and state governments are encouraging and implementing safety guidelines in efforts to slow the spread of the highly infectious disease. The guidelines include social distancing, limiting gatherings to small groups, and wearing face masks or face coverings in public settings.

Why Should We Wear Face Masks?

Before 2020, we weren’t used to seeing people outside of the medical community regularly wearing masks. Today, face masks are common and oftentimes even required to enter indoor public spaces.

Some may question the effectiveness of face masks in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Maggie Park, MD, the Public Health Officer for San Joaquin County Public Health Services, addresses these concerns. She states, “I do believe the science at this point supports the use of facial coverings, and that even cloth facial coverings can be effective if worn by a majority of people in the community.” She recommends that, “people wear facial coverings or masks if they have them whenever they are out and about and they’re going to be within 6 feet of other people.”

Do Face Masks Help Us or the People Around Us?

COVID-19 is highly infectious and spreads from person to person though exposure to respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Wearing a face covering can block these droplets from entering your nose and mouth. In fact, several case reports suggest that masks can prevent transmission of the virus in high-risk situations. For instance, a man on a flight with a dry cough later tested positive for COVID-19. Fortunately, none of the 25 people closest to him on the flight tested positive because he wore a mask during the flight.

There is also enough evidence to suggest that wearing a mask can protect the wearer from contracting COVID-19. This is because masks can prevent larger droplets from evaporating into smaller droplets that can travel farther, essentially serving as “source control.” In summary, face masks and face coverings are beneficial both to the people wearing them and the people around them.

Whether they’re blue, green, patterned, or fashioned out of an old scarf, it’s important that we remember to stay safe and mask up when visiting public spaces. Living through a pandemic can be tough, but we’re all in this together.

*A sign outside of the Casa Flores Restaurant in Downtown Stockton.*

Visit Stockton’s Stockton Healthy Pledge

The Stockton Healthy Pledge is a pledge that local businesses can take to show their commitment in doing everything in their power to provide and maintain clean and healthy conditions for their employees and visitors. Taking the Stockton Healthy Pledge means the business pledges to:

Abide by all orders and directives issued by governmental and public health officials
Enhance employee protocols including increased regular education, hand washing, sanitation efforts and social distancing
Clean and disinfect high-tough surfaces frequently, per CDC and Local Health Officials
Require and/or encourage the use of face coverings by staff and customers
Reduce occupancy in common spaces to ensure compliance with CDC and State social distancing guidelines
Encourage customer hand sanitizing and hand-washing, as available

Take the Stockton Healthy Pledge here.

Basket Caravan

Posted on June 29, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

What is Basket Caravan?

Basket Caravan, located on 311B West Weber Avenue, is a shop specializing in custom-made, gourmet gift baskets. Although the storefront may be small, each individual basket is overflowing with creativity and content. Lisa Chalk-Frausto, Basket Caravan’s owner, decided to open a storefront after exclusively taking orders through Basket Caravan’s website. In response to high demand, Lisa decided to open Basket Caravan’s current Downtown Stockton brick and mortar space in late March of this year.

“A Gift of Great Taste!”

Basket Caravan is the only gift basket service in Downtown Stockton. The gift baskets are completely customizable, and may feature anything from chocolate, healthy treats, or coffee, to aromatherapy spa products! Lisa partners with other businesses in the area to include local products in her baskets, such as jam, coffee, oil, and sunflower seeds. In fact, she’s working on the creation of “209” baskets to be released in the near future that will contain and feature local products exclusively.

Why is Downtown Stockton a Great Location for Basket Caravan?

According to Lisa, “the location is perfect.” Many people who were previously searching for gift shops in Downtown Stockton now have access to unique gifts that are perfect for every occasion. Lisa often has last-minute shoppers who drop by in search of the perfect gift for their family members or friends. Because Lisa has also lived in Stockton for over 40 years, the city has a special place in her heart and she, too, wishes to dispel the myth that Downtown Stockton is a place to be feared. In reality, she believes that in Downtown Stockton, “people are very nice and friendly.” She especially enjoys the atmosphere of live music events that take place in the area.

Lisa also loves “watching the new businesses [in Downtown Stockton] start to prosper and making it like 20 years ago where it was booming. [She]’d like to see it happen again.” Just in the few months since Basket Caravan opened, Lisa has noticed a marked increase in Downtown Stockton foot-traffic and is enthusiastic about the future.

For more information or to place an order, visit Basket Caravan’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Bikes & Blessings: Deacon Steve and the HUB

Posted on June 15, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

What is the HUB?

The HUB, or Helping Urban Bicyclists, provides FREE services for those who need assistance with bike repairs and maintenance. Operated by Deacon Steve, a well-known and respected leader in the Downtown Stockton community, the HUB is a reflection of his relentless love and compassion for members of the Downtown Stockton community.

Why was the HUB created?

Prior to the existence of the HUB, Deacon Steve worked for years repairing and maintaining bicycles. He noticed that people who couldn’t afford bike parts or repairs were turned away. Out on the streets, he knew there were individuals who had squeaky, derelict bikes as their sole means of transportation. Some resorted to theft as a result of lacking funds to spend towards repairs. Deacon Steve felt inspired to help, stating “we needed to be compassionate.” He decided to create a place where people could receive free bicycle assistance, providing them with the ability to continue traveling to their jobs, doctor’s appointments, and community activities. For those who can’t afford cars, Deacon Steve knows that bikes can serve as vessels to increased mobility, independence, and self-improvement.

Bikes & Blessings

The HUB is a neighbor to the Saint John the Evangelist Episcopal Church, where Deacon Steve serves as (you guessed it!) Deacon. It isn’t surprising then, to learn that the church and the HUB both resonate similar values. In fact, the HUB’s sign depicts the gears of a bicycle around the flag of the church, representing their close tie. But don’t worry- the HUB welcomes anyone and everyone – regardless of religious background. The HUB’s main purpose may be to repair bikes, but people find their way in for various reasons. Inside the HUB, weary bicyclists can find light refreshments (including freshly popped popcorn!), water, and a space to find a moment of peace. Often, individuals will come by to seek guidance from Deacon Steve, or to have a talk with him about spiritual matters while he tinkers away.

Why is Downtown Stockton a Great Location for the HUB?

Deacon Steve believes the HUB’s location allows it (as well as the church) to “stretch their hands of love and compassion to reach people” – and that’s exactly what it does. The HUB’s services are entirely free, as the business relies completely on donations and community partnerships to help others. Since its inception, they’ve assisted countless under-employed and homeless Downtown individuals with their transportation needs. Along with Deacon Steve’s visible love of and devotion to his work at the HUB, he also feels strongly about Stockton as a city. In regards to the stereotypes that often shroud the Downtown Stockton area, he asserts that it is “a myth we need to change- [Downtown Stockton] is not a place to be feared, but a place to be celebrated.” In the 20 years that he’s been here, he’s witnessed the continued revitalization of Downtown Stockton as housing, new restaurants, and small businesses have made Downtown Stockton their home.

The HUB & Full Moon Riders

The HUB is very collaborative and involved with community events, and will even be leading an upcoming Full Moon Riders bike ride. Deacon Steve enjoys this event because, “everyone participates, and that’s the beauty of the Full Moon Riders.” At the July 27^th ride, there will be a bicycle blessing with oils blessed by the bishop. There will also be T-shirts for sale, adorned with an image of Madonna del Ghisallo, the Saint of Cycling. All proceeds will go to the HUB in their continued mission to serve the community.

To learn more about the HUB and their events, follow their Facebook page.

Fun, Family-Friendly Summer Activities & Events in Downtown Stockton

Posted on May 21, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

Soon, 90 degree temperatures will be heading our way, and you know what that means- summer is almost here! Luckily, there are plenty of family-friendly summer activities and events for you and your loved ones to enjoy in the Downtown Stockton area. Whether you want to cool off from the heat or stay out of the sun, these Downtown Stockton events and activities got you covered (no pun intended)!

Arts & Entertainment

To start off, the Weber Point Event Center is a family favorite! Throughout the year, the Event Center is home to festivals, concerts, and community celebrations as well as a colorful play area for children. In the summer, there is a free interactive water feature for all to enjoy (edit: unfortunately, the water feature will be closed this summer but will be re-opening next year). If getting wet is not for you, feel free to take a leisurely stroll along the water instead and enjoy the view or have a nice lunch in the nearby picnic site. Starting in June, the Event Center hosts Movies at the Point, where family-friendly films are projected onto the outdoor canopy in the evenings. These events are free to the public, so don’t hesitate to bring blankets, snacks, or even dinner to enjoy while watching movies under the summer night sky full of stars.

Speaking of films, don’t forget to stop by the Regal City Centre Stadium 16 & IMAX with the family to see highly anticipated summer movies such as Hotel Transylvania 3 and The Incredibles 2.

If live performances or conventions are more your style, come relax and enjoy bands and artists scheduled to perform at the Bob Hope Theatre such as The Monkees, Jake Shimabukuro, and Benise. Over at the Stockton Arena, the first ever Kidz Expo will take place on July 21st, and will include vendor booths, inflatable bounce houses, face painting, magicians, and much more – a great opportunity for you and your family to spend time together. Continue making memories with your loved ones at StocktonCon, an event that showcases talented artists in the San Joaquin Valley Area and promotes awareness of popular culture. Come dressed as your favorite movie, anime, video game, or comic book character!

Educational Activities

Downtown Stockton also offers entertaining, educational activities for youth. For example, at the Children’s Museum of Stockton, kids can enjoy over 40 interactive exhibits, including a Reptile Display, an Eye Exhibit, a Magnet Exhibit, and a fort with a slide. Admission is only $6, and children aged 2 and under are free!

Another option is a visit to the Cesar Chavez Central Library, which offers internet access, free classes, and workshops. Programs for children include: Preschool Playtime, Family Storytime, Family Game Time, and a LEGO Building Club.

Sports

And of course, we can’t forget about sports! Don’t forget to come cheer on our Stockton Ports baseball team at Banner Island Ballpark! In addition to spectating, kids can play with games, inflatable bouncers, and a giant slide located past the outfield along the seawall. There are also batting cages along the first base line for those who want to practice their swing.

Also, join us, the Downtown Stockton Alliance, for our free, trademark event, Full Moon Riders! Bring your family and bicycles for casual evening rides along the Downtown Stockton Waterfront. After the event, riders meet at participating downtown restaurants. The rides are scheduled on nights of the full moon, and the first one is coming up on May 29^th! The ride theme is Flower Child Pedal, so wear some flowers in your hair or on your wheels to celebrate the Full Flower Moon!

Each Full Moon Riders event has a different theme, so remember to gear up, decorate your bikes, and have fun!

To keep up on family-friendly summer activities happening in Downtown Stockton, check out our Events Calendar!

From the Love of Coffee & Stockton

Posted on May 15, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Laura Garcia, Terra Coffee
& Sylwia Lipiec-Qualls,
Communications Manager, Downtown Stockton Alliance

Efrain and Laura Garcia have always loved coffee. Efrain moved here in 2014 while Laura was born and raised in Stockton. A small counter top roaster was always in their kitchen until in 2016 they finally decided to follow their dream and started Terra Coffee Roasters.

Laura and Efrain Garcia, the founders of Terra Coffee Roasters. Photo by CVBJ

“Terra Coffee was built from the love of coffee and our town – Stockton. Right after we started the business, we knew we wanted to have our first brick and mortar location in Downtown Stockton,” reminisces Laura. “The first location to ever serve our signature Cafe de Olla blend was at the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery in early 2017. We wanted to get down to Efrain’s roots and get an honest opinion on our take of the traditional Mexican coffee. We never thought that a year later we would be partnering up with this non-profit to open our cafe.”

Terra Coffee Roasters started as a Cottage Food Operation regulated by the California Homemade Food Act which allows certain foods, known as Cottage Foods, to be made in private homes and sold to the public. The Garcias source coffee beans around the world and micro-roast them at home weekly in six-pound batches, making every batch with the utmost care.

At first, Laura and Efrain only catered at local events and venues while keeping a look out for a permanent location. They finally put down their roots in the artsy, colorful space at 111 South Sutter Street where the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery had been located since 2011.

Terra Coffee opened their brick & mortar location at the Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery.

“It was a long and patient wait to find our downtown location. We knew that we wanted to be part of the downtown revitalization and when the Mexican Heritage Center heard we were looking for a place, they reached out to us and in January 2018 we opened our doors,” fondly remembers Laura.

The cafe is open from 7 am to 4 pm on weekdays and for special events at the Gallery. Terra’s freshly roasted artisan coffee, hand-crafted drinks and locally sourced pastries have already earned them a strong following. The Garcias take pride in their business and product and it shows!

Asked for a piece of advise for other small businesses, Laura offered: “While our story is definitely a unique one, we hope to inspire our community to follow their dreams and to be a part of their town, Stockton. Whether it’s buying from a local business or starting their own.”

Book Lovers Paradise in Downtown Stockton

Posted on May 7, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Paula Sheil,
Tuleburg Press & The Write Place

Nestled in the center of Downtown Stockton is a welcoming book lover’s paradise. Inside are shelves bursting with poetry and art books, vintage printing presses and book binding equipment, polished and brought back to life, and floor-to-ceiling murals depicting Stockton’s lush natural habitats. This book lover’s oasis – The Write Place – is a legacy project of Tuleburg Press.

The mission of Tuleburg Press is to foster literacy in our diverse community by identifying, publishing, and/or mentoring emerging, talented, local writers, especially those who write about life in the Central Valley. The Write Place is where we make that happen.

Located at 343 E. Main Street, The Write Place is a studio workshop that offers classes in book binding, letter press printing, and so much more. During the week, book arts and creative writing classes take place, while on the weekends the center hosts authors and artists who showcase their work.

*Artist Saul Serna works on a linoleum block print in a Delta-inspired environment realized by muralist Armando Perez*.

From cover to cover, Tuleburg Press is all about the book. But more than a book publisher, we host classes where students can create their own books from making the paper, to assembling the book structure, sewing up the book, and filling its pages with creativity!

*Instructor Angie Maxson helps Paige and (mom) Sabrina Wold make junk journals.*

Poets can work under the tutelage of Stockton’s poet laureate Tama Brisbane on Tuesdays. Writers in other genres meet the second and fourth Mondays of the month at our Writers Exchange, where they explore prompts and share their work.

We hold a multitude of different book arts classes throughout the month. Review our schedule and enroll for the classes on our website.

In addition to our regular classes, we often host special events for schools, businesses, and individuals. Schools make hour-long field trips to tour the facility and engage in book arts activities, including book making and creative writing. Businesses have used our services as a company team building retreat, where employees can attend a private workshop in which they learn to make paper, make journals, or learn to bind books. We are always happy to hold birthday parties for bibliophiles; all of our offered classes can become a private party.

To discuss setting up a special event at The Write Place, please contact us via email at [email protected] or via phone 209-949-2233.

We hope to see you soon!