My Internship With The Downtown Stockton Alliance

Posted on August 27, 2024August 28, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

Downtown Stockton is a unique component of Stockton, California, and San Joaquin County. Everything, from its large, beautiful, historic buildings to its amazing, small, and unique businesses – such as Cast Iron Trading Co. and Cooper’s Coffee Co. – contributes to a vibrant downtown business district.

Within the boundaries of Downtown Stockton, there’s a 501(c)(6) nonprofit called the Downtown Stockton Alliance (DSA). The DSA has various departments working to keep downtown safe, thriving, and better, every day; they offer support to downtown businesses and property owners to maximize their profits. For example, they partially reimburse broken business window repair costs and have community ambassadors who patrol downtown Stockton, keeping it safe. Don’t forget about the maintenance team! The DSA maintenance team patrols Downtown Stockton, picking up trash and other objects that detract from its beautiful scenery. With them in place, Downtown Stockton is cleaner and more appealing to visitors and residents.

By working together, we can create a better, more beautiful, and thriving Downtown Stockton for everyone, and that’s why I was excited to join the Downtown Stockton Alliance as an intern throughout the 2024 summer. During my internship, I had the opportunity to write multiple blogs about local events, history, and more – including this one! I wrote about events at the Fox Theater, Independence Day, and the National Night Out 2024 event here in downtown. Additionally, I wrote a submission to Visit California regarding one of Stockton’s best restaurants, Cast Iron Trading Co. I also contacted property owners to inform them about the recertification process for the Downtown Stockton Alliance in the coming years. I got to go out into the streets of downtown to research and update the directory for several large office buildings. Doing so, I was able to discover Cooper’s Coffee (great coffee), just as I checked the directory for the California Building. I also have a great memory of tabling as a vendor for the DSA at the Mexican Heritage Center’s Christmas in July event.

I’ve always had a great love and admiration for Downtown Stockton, and I strongly believe that when any city’s downtown is doing well, the rest of the city will experience prosperity as a result—the domino effect. Like any other downtown, we have our issues, but the more important part is how we are building that bridge to solve our issues – and the DSA works as much as they can to provide downtown Stockton with the support it needs. Repairing and maintaining the reputation of any downtown isn’t easy, but with the “Talk to Downtown” podcast and series by the Downtown Stockton Alliance, people can watch the amazing individuals who contribute to the growth of Downtown Stockton.

If it weren’t for the DSA, Downtown Stockton wouldn’t be what it is today. Without that extra support, Downtown wouldn’t be able to thrive to its fullest extent. The DSA works directly with business owners, the city, and other entities to ensure Downtown Stockton has an advocate and a supporter willing to help mold, restore, and revitalize Downtown Stockton into what we all envision it to be. The Downtown Stockton Alliance and its executive director work hard with various entities to do what’s best for Downtown Stockton. During my internship with this great organization, I’ve gotten to learn more about the structure of the DSA and what exactly they do; interning with the DSA opened my eyes to a new landscape of downtown.

It was a pleasure to help the Downtown Stockton Alliance over my summer break, and I look forward to other projects and programs they will create to continue to support our beloved downtown Stockton business district. I will continue to be active in Downtown Stockton events, activities, new businesses, murals, and other projects just like I have been over the last year.

In conclusion, I absolutely love Downtown Stockton, and I truly believe it is a fabulous place to spend your time, money, and energy to create memories that’ll last a lifetime. I see Downtown shaping into a beautiful place where families across San Joaquin County would want to visit. We have made major progress here, from the newly built Grand View Village 75-unit apartment complex to the brand-new, amazingly well-painted, monarch butterfly mural where we just had the ceremony this morning, my last day as an intern. Downtown Stockton is genuinely a nice place, and I encourage everyone to stop by sometime to visit the great businesses that call Downtown Stockton home. Without the Downtown Stockton Alliance, Downtown Stockton wouldn’t be nearly in the shape it is today, and I’m proud to say that I’ve been able to help them in daily assignments as a DSA intern! I look forward to seeing you all sometime here in Downtown!

Thank you, Zach, for all of your hard work! We wish Zach all the best in his new endeavors, and you may see a few more blog articles from him in the future! Zach founded the organization Save Downtown Stockton – check out his page to follow the work he will be doing through that non-profit.

If you have any interest in serving an unpaid internship at the Downtown Stockton Alliance, please contact [email protected].

Alvin the Intern’s Farewell Blog

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

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By Alvin Cho

This week, we have a farewell blog from Alvin (Youngbeen) Cho, the DSA’s recent Korea WEST exchange program intern:

Hello. I’m Alvin from Korea, and I completed a 4-month internship at the Downtown Stockton Alliance from March 17th to July 3rd. During this time, I had the pleasure of working with amazing colleagues who made my experience enjoyable.

As a foreigner, having the opportunity to work in the United States was incredibly valuable to me. Who else gets to have such an experience?

I worked on various tasks as a marketing intern, including taking photos downtown for social media uploads, modeling company apparel for posters, setting up booths and selling clothes outdoors, and more.

I met wonderful people who made my internship fulfilling: Mike and Courtney who always checked in on me; Johnny and Charisse, who greeted me warmly every morning; Shaun, who I could chat with like a friend; as well as the community ambassador and maintenance teams, who were always friendly. I feel confident that future Korean interns will have a great experience too.

Initially, I was a bit disappointed when I first arrived in Stockton, as it’s not a big city like LA or San Francisco, and I feared it might be boring. However, my perception changed in less than a week. I now see Stockton as a small, but beautiful city. Even now, when I walk along the delta in front of the company, I think how beautiful it is.

I’ll be leaving for New York soon, but I know I won’t forget the happy time I had in Downtown Stockton.

Thank you all.

The DSA wishes Alvin all the best on his next adventure. He was a huge help to our organization. Thanks for everything, Alvin! Cheers!

To learn more about the Korea WEST exchange program, click here: https://www.icceusa.com/programs-in-the-usa/korea-west/

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

My First Time in an American Movie Theater 🍿

Posted on July 18, 2024July 26, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Alvin Cho

I recently had the pleasure of watching “Kung Fu Panda 4” at the Regal Stockton City Center, conveniently located just a short 3-minute walk from my house in Downtown Stockton. The proximity alone made the experience incredibly convenient and hassle-free.

Upon entering the theater, I was pleasantly surprised by the cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interior was well-maintained, and the layout made it easy to navigate. What stood out the most were the seats—they were exceptionally comfortable. I could easily recline and stretch out my legs, which added to the overall enjoyment of the movie.

The screening I attended was scheduled for 6 p.m., a perfect time slot for unwinding after a day’s work. Despite the theater being smaller than some of the larger multiplexes, the intimate setting actually enhanced the viewing experience. It felt more personal and less crowded, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the film.

Before the movie started, I had a chance to explore the amenities. There was a game arcade and a snack bar offering a variety of treats. I opted for a bag of Cheetos and a drink. The convenience of having snacks available right there was a definite plus!

After the movie, my friends and I were quite hungry; thankfully, there were several Downtown Stockton restaurants nearby offering a variety of dining options. This proximity to dining choices added another layer of convenience to the overall outing.

In conclusion, my experience at Downtown’s Regal Stockton City Center – located at 222 N. El Dorado Street – was positive and enjoyable. The combination of convenience, comfortable seating, and a cozy atmosphere made it a great place to catch a movie. I recommend this theater for your next movie outing!

Click Here to See What’s Playing Now at Regal Stockton City Center

The Most Anticipated Event of the Year, StocktonCon!

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

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By Zachary Hulsey

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy a full weekend of comics and fun!

Buy Tickets Here

Click Here for Parking Information

Independence Day In Downtown!

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

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By Zachary Hulsey

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

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

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

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

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

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

Main Street Market 🎶

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

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

By Alvin Cho

Hello!

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

Lively Bands

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

Delicious Food

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

Business Promotions

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

Dates

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

Come on Out!

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

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

Thank you!

Main Street Market 2024

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Looking for amazing local eats, vendors, and great live music performances? Main Street Market is your go-to event.

April 9th (Music performance by Bananafish (Cover Rock))

May 14th (Music performance by Touch of Magic (Latin))

June 11th (Music performance by Nick Elwood (Cover rock))

Downtown Stockton Parking Guide

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by Shaun Chatrath

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By Shaun Chatrath

Downtown Stockton General Parking Information

Downtown Stockton is made up of 3 types of parking options: MONTHLY LOTS, DAILY LOTS, AND HOURLY SPACES.

HOURLY SPACES, also known as STREET PARKING, are along the curbsides throughout downtown and can be paid at the parking meter nearest to the space.

You may also use the ParkMobile Parking App to pay for these meters.

NOTE: Payment is only required for hourly street spaces and curbsides in downtown Stockton on Monday – Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.

STREET PARKING IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON IS FREE ON.

Downtown Stockton Parking Lots

Downtown Stockton has 7 garages/lots open to the public to use for daily parking. This does not include the arena and ballpark lots that are open only during events at these specific venues.

Various businesses such as the movie theater, validate parking. So, we recommend asking the business that you are visiting if they do so. The lots that are open to the public are below:

Coy Parking Garage

Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Lot F

Lot J

Lot K

Lot L

Lot O

Downtown Stockton Parking Map

Below is a map of all the lots in Downtown Stockton, with each public parking lot marked with a RED DOT:

Downtown Stockton Parking Cost

Cost varies per lot and event. For example, Fourth of July parade parking might be slightly higher than your average cost on another day.

Most parking lots range between:

$1.50 – $3.00 for hourly parking

$5.00 – $12.00 for daily parking

$10.00 – $25.00 for special event parking

Card, cash, and the ParkMobile Parking App are all accepted as payment. However, we recommend having 2 out 3 of the options ready to pay on the rare chance the payment system is down.

Downtown Stockton Parking Recommendations

Regal Cinema and nearby restaurants/shops – Coy Garage and Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Bob Hope Theatre, Courthouse Plaza, and nearby – Lot F

RTD, Cort Tower, and nearby restaurants/shops – Lot J

Trail Coffee, The Razr, and nearby restaurants/shops – Lot K

Businesses and locations with onsite parking lots:

7-Eleven
BAC Community Bank
Bank of Stockton (301 E Miner Ave)
Chase Bank
Children’s Museum of Stockton
Dutch Bros
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Filipino Plaza

McDonald’s
PNC Bank
Robert J. Cabral Ace Train Station
Saint John the Evangelist Episcopal Church
Sonic Drive-In
Starbucks
Stockton Marina
Stockton Police Department

Studio 6 Suites Stockton, CA – Waterfront
Sunshine Hawaiian BBQ
The Store Bar
University Plaza Waterfront Hotel
Valley Strong Credit Union
Waterfront Warehouse
Weber Tech.
Wells Fargo Bank

Arena, Ballpark, Civic Center, and Weber Point

Adventist Health Arena – Arena Garage and Fremont East Lot

Banner Island Ballpark – North Lot and West Lot

Stockton Memorial Civic Center – Civic Center Lot

Weber Point Events Center – Coy Garage and Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Downtown Stockton Parking Links

ParkMobile Parking App | Find & Pay for Parking | On-street & Reservation

Talk to Downtown Episode 1 – Understanding Downtown Parking with Tina McCarty!

City of Stockton parking webpage

The Stockton Lantern Festival: A Central Valley Wonderland

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

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By Shaun Chatrath

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets:

Children ages 2-12 start at $19

Adults start at $23

Special Discounts:

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

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

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

Ticket Locations:

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

Monday 11am- 2pm

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 11am- 2pm

Thursday: Closed

Friday: 11am- 2pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Stockton Ballpark Box Office – 404 W Fremont St.

11/25 – 1/14: 2pm to 9pm

Online Tickets are available at stocktonlive.com.

Festival hours/times:

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

Acrobatic Stage Performance Times:

Mon to Thurs – 5:30, 7pm and 8:30pm

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

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

Parking: City Lots $15

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

Website Links / Sources:

http://www.stocktonlive.com

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

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

Business Highlight: Makers Made

Posted on October 18, 2023October 18, 2023 by Shaun Chatrath

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By Shaun Chatrath

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

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

Makers Made Address:

306 East Main Street, Suite #207

Stockton, CA, USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Instagram – @makersmadellc

Faccebook – @MakersMadeLLC

Hours:

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