THE LYTE: DOWNTOWN’S INSPIRING OPEN-MIC EVENT SERIES

Posted on January 28, 2025January 21, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

The Lyte at a Glance:

What: A laid-back open mic event with sultry jazz, local singers,
quick-wit comedy, and more; come as you are and join in if you like!
Where: Huddle Co Work, 110 N. San Joaquin Street, Floor 2,
Downtown Stockton, CA
When: 1st Thursdays on the month, 9:00 – 11:00 PM

About Huddle Co Work, Host of The Lyte

For over ten years now, Huddle Co Work has provided Stockton businesses, nonprofits, and our community with a comfortable, inclusive working space for all. Originally founded to elevate Downtown Stockton’s image and increase its vibrancy, it has successfully done just that. Huddle Co Work has been a huge pillar in Downtown Stockton’s revitalization, helping to build a strong community and to inspire people to reach their full potential.

Operated by Matty Amen and Eric Bodary since 2016, Huddle Co Work has implemented many projects in Downtown Stockton over the years, from hosting events to supporting all communities in Stockton. One of their newest projects is popular open-mic event series The Lyte.

Origin of The Lyte Event Series

Co-founder of Huddle Co Work and co-host of The Lyte, Matty Amen, noticed a need for more experimental opportunities for Stockton’s local music and performance artists; in response to that need, he and fellow host Dante Milano launched recurring jam sessions The Lyte, on the 1^st Thursdays of the month from 9:00 – 11:00 PM at Huddle Co Work, 110 N. San Joaquin Street in Downtown Stockton.

Amen shares, “The Lyte is more than just an open mic; it’s a space where creativity and community collide. Inspired by the need for an authentic platform to showcase raw talent and celebrate art in its many forms, we created The Lyte to give performers and audiences an unforgettable experience.”

The Lyte is THE place to go to experience local musical talent. Describing the origin and growth of The Lyte, Amen states, “This space was created intentionally to center art” and to “contribute to the positive narrative that it’s safe to come to Downtown Stockton past a decent hour.” The event was soft-launched at first and given time to “grow organically by word of mouth before inviting folks via social media—a process that lasted about nine months before we finally started posting to social platforms.” Amen notes that, “Each session is alive with soulful performances, heartfelt connections, and a vibe that radiates positivity and inspiration. Whether you’re on stage or in the crowd, The Lyte offers a space to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”

The Vibe

To attend The Lyte, just come with an open heart and from a place of love. This inclusive and inviting environment makes you feel at home while listening to the performances. There is no pressure to perform, sing, or play an instrument. Although, if you know how to sing, perform, or play an instrument, go ahead – add your name to the list and do your thing!

My mom and I went to one of The Lyte events, and the vibe was just right—it was full of laid-back, relaxing performances. Jazz – one of my personal favorite types of music – was the focus on the night we went. On this occasion, the Edison High School music team performed, and I’ve got to say it was amazing.

This fun event series gives many local musicians and other artists the platform to perform and the chance to be heard by a live audience. It’s a safe place where the Stockton community can go to enjoy creative local jam sessions, art, live music, comedy, and other performances in an inclusive space. Whether you’re new to music or an expert, The Lyte welcomes you to visit and experience one of their jam sessions where you’ll discover and appreciate the talented community that calls Stockton home.

Experience it For Yourself

In conclusion, The Lyte welcomes all people, musicians, performers, and community members. Whether you know how to play or not, The Lyte wants you to feel comfortable and welcome to attend their jam sessions.

The Lyte takes place every 1st Thursday of the month from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Huddle Co Work, Floor 2. The next one will take place February 6^th! To stay up-to-date on future events, admissions, and jam sessions, follow both Huddle Co Work and The Lyte on Instagram and Facebook with their tags below!

@HuddleCoWork
@WelcomeToTheLyte

Hot New Coffee Spot in Downtown: Culebra Coffee!

Posted on January 17, 2025January 23, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Downtown Stockton has welcomed a new coffee gem: Culebra Coffee, located at 110 N. San Joaquin Street – at the corner of Weber and San Joaquin. This café is more than just a place to grab your daily coffee—it’s a blend of culture, passion, and community.

What Makes It Special?

With over eight years of experience in the coffee industry, the owner I.J. has dedicated his career to mastering every aspect of coffee—barista skills, roasting, and even packing coffee for celebrities. You can see this expertise in every cup served at Culebra Coffee. Using freshly roasted, high-quality beans from Moschetti Coffee, this café offers an exceptional coffee experience that reflects I.J.’s passion.

From Popup to Permanent

Culebra Coffee’s journey began as a popup at the Stockton Farmers’ Market in April 2024. Thanks to a collaboration with Huddle CoWork, the café found a permanent home in Downtown Stockton. This transition marks a significant milestone for I.J. and his mission to serve top-quality coffee to the community.

Must-Try: The Churro Latte and more

First-time visitors should try Culebra Coffee’s signature “Churro Latte”. It strikes the perfect balance between cinnamon sweetness and coffee bitterness! They have quite a few unique and original drinks. I tried “The Bite,” one of their special coffees – it was coffee with vanilla cream. I found it better than a similar coffee from a large coffee chain.

Downtown Stockton: A Perfect Fit

Why Stockton? For I.J., the decision was simple. As a native of the 209 area, he felt a strong desire to give back to his community. After spending time in the Bay Area for school and work, he returned to the Valley, recognizing its potential to become a coffee hub. His dream is to elevate Stockton’s coffee culture, attracting people from neighboring cities like Modesto, Sacramento, and Tracy.

Dreams for the Future

In the short term, I.J. plans to expand the menu with breakfast burritos, pastries, and innovative drinks. Long term, he hopes to host latte art competitions, coffee parties with DJs, and more events to foster a thriving coffee community in Stockton.

Visit Culebra Coffee and experience a cup of coffee with heart and culture. They have so many dreams and ambitions for the next year. So keep an eye on Culebra Coffee and follow them on Instagram for updates and upcoming events!

Information

Location: 110 N San Joaquin St, Downtown Stockton, CA 95202
Phone: 209.482.5342
Reasons to Visit Culebra Coffee:
- Specialty Coffee: Culebra Coffee’s menu features unique coffee options that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Expert Craftsmanship: With over eight years of experience, owner I.J. brings a level of professionalism and skill to every cup.
- Modern and Inviting Atmosphere: With its modern design and comfortable seating, the welcoming vibe makes it perfect for meeting friends or finding a quiet corner to work.
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Instagram: @‌culebra_coffee

January 2025: Kick off the New Year with These Dazzling Downtown Events!

Posted on January 16, 2025January 16, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

2025 is here! Downtown Stockton has several fantastic events happening this month to start your year out right! From exciting and hilarious shows to family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. Let’s check out what’s happening in January 2025!

1. Stockton Kings Basketball Games

Location: Adventist Health Arena, 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
Enjoy exciting Stockton Kings’ basketball games. Some games offer special themes or celebrations!
- Stockton Kings vs. South Bay Lakers – Education Appreciation Night, January 22, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Stockton Kings vs. Texas Legends: January 23, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Stockton Kings vs. Texas Legends – Dunkson’s Marvel Birthday, January 26, 2025 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Stockton Kings vs. Grand Rapids Gold: January 28, 2025 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) & January 30, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Website

2. Stockton Lantern Festival

Date: Through January 19, 2025 (5:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
Location: Stockton Ballpark, 404 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
An exciting Magic Ocean-themed interactive lantern experience for the whole family! It’s only here for a few more days, so be sure to capture this wonderful, memorable event while you can.
Instagram / Facebook

3. Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs

Date: January 16, 2025 (7:00 PM)
Location: Adventist Health Arena, 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
You’ll see all the amazing basketball spins, slams, and dunks, plus new trials as players face-off to see who can pull off astonishing trick shots and more from the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters!
Website

Martin Luther King Jr. Event

Dates: January 20, 2025
Downtown Location:
- Civic Auditorium: 525 N Center St, Stockton, CA 95202 (Unity March & youth program)
Honor Dr. King’s legacy with a Unity March, speeches, and a special youth program.
Flier

Bored Teachers: The Struggle Is Real! Comedy Tour

Date: January 25, 2025 (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Location: Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202
This is a comedy powerhouse anyone who’s ever been in a classroom can relate to! Even non-teachers have reviewed it as one of the funniest comedy shows they’ve ever seen.
Website

6. Edén Muñoz Concert

Date: January 26, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Location: Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202
Enjoy live music with Edén Muñoz, a popular artist in the regional Mexican music scene.
Tickets

THE NIGHT SHIFT AT FED

Date: Every Saturday (9:00 PM – 2:00 AM)
Location: FED, 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202
Get ready for a lively night of house music and dancing every Saturday at this popular Downtown venue.
More information

8. Family Game Night

Date: Every Thursday (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Location: The Underground Arcade, 123 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202
Bring the family for an evening of fun and games at the local arcade! Only $5 for entry for diverse activities.
More information

For more details on these events, check out the event calendar here.

I hope to see you there!

My Magical Night at the Stockton Lantern Festival

Posted on December 18, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:
·        Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025!
·        Times: 5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM
·        Location: Banner Island Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton
·        Tickets
o   Ticketmaster.com
o   Adventist Health Arena box office: Mon, Wed, Fri 11AM-2PM
o   Banner Island Ballpark, daily starting November 20.

I recently visited the Stockton Lantern Festival, and it
was an unforgettable evening filled with light, culture, and fun. From the
moment I arrived at the ballpark, I was overwhelmed by this year’s “Magic
Ocean” theme. Each year is a new theme creating entirely new experiences;
this year, we have been transported from the Magic Forest of last year to the
Magic Ocean!

Stunning Lantern Displays
The highlight of the festival was, without a doubt, the
stunning lantern displays. Each lantern is a masterpiece, showcasing artistic
details and vibrant colors. Featuring glowing jellyfish, whales, and vibrant
coral reefs, each display was meticulously handcrafted by lantern artisans
using the ancient technique of traditional Chinese lantern making. Also, some
of them were moving and speaking!

Fun for Everyone
The festival offered something for everyone. While I
walked through the lanterns, I was dazzled by the magical interplay of light
and shadow. The interactive lanterns and activities provide quality
entertainment for families with children, but the hand crafted lanterns also create
an amazing and romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night! I think this
festival is a great option for anybody who wants to make a day special.

Captivating Performances
Another standout feature was the live stage
performances. Traditional Chinese dances, accompanied by stunning costumes and
music, created a special performance that was fun to experience. The energy and
skill of the performers made the show a highlight of the evening. There will be
performances throughout the two-month run of the festival showcasing a vibrant
mix of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Food and Souvenirs to Remember
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious
food, and the Stockton Lantern Festival delivers in the best way. They have
traditional winter offerings like hot chocolate, as well as ocean-themed fare, including
Sand Dollar Cookies, Fishbowl Cocktails, and Fish & Chips. They also offer
unique, hand-crafted souvenirs which I recommend to preserve special memories
of your visit!
As Jason Perry, General Manager of ASM Global – Stockton
shared, the “Stockton Lantern Festival is fun for all persons, regardless of
age and is an experience that will allow you to return again, seeing it through
a different perspective each time you walk the baseball field. Come
celebrate the winter season at Stockton Lantern Festival while you create
cherished memories and new traditions with your friends and family.”
The Stockton Lantern Festival was a magical experience,
perfect for families, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for a night to
remember, I highly recommend visiting. There are plenty of days left before the
lantern display leaves Downtown Stockton on January 20th, so don’t
miss your chance to experience this highlight of the holiday season!

For more details, visit:
· Website
· Instagram & Facebook

Come to a Hello Kitty Wonderland at The Pink Corner!

Posted on December 15, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Location: 445 W. Weber Ave, Suite 132, Stockton, CA, 95203
Reasons to visit The Pink Corner
- Diverse Products: The store offers a wide range of Hello Kitty and character items, including stationery, clothing, plushies, and toys!
- Ideal for Gifting: You can find perfect gifts with customizable wrapping options.
- Seasonal Items: You can discover exclusive themed products that change with seasons.
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-4pm / Fri-Sun 10am-6pm
Instagram: @‌thepink_corner_

Located in the Waterfront Warehouse in Downtown Stockton, new business, The Pink Corner, is a paradise for Hello Kitty fans of all ages. This store offers nearly everything you could want, from adorable stationery and stylish bags to cute clothing, toys and plushies. Also, it’s not just Hello Kitty – other Sanrio characters are waiting for you.

A GREAT PLACE FOR GIFTS!

If you’re searching for a gift, The Pink Corner is the perfect spot. Many customers visit to find presents; the store even offers customizable gift wrapping to add a special touch. Another fun feature is their $12 mystery boxes, which let you enjoy the thrill of opening a surprise. It’s good for those who love a little excitement while shopping!

The spacious, well-organized store creates a pleasant shopping experience, and the friendly staff is always ready to assist with any questions or recommendations. Currently, with the holiday season approaching, The Pink Corner has Christmas-themed Hello Kitty products. It’s exciting to imagine what new seasonal items they’ll have after Christmas!

To explore their collection further or stay updated on the latest arrivals, check out their Instagram page (@‌thepink_corner_). Whether you’re a big Hello Kitty fan or simply looking for a unique shopping experience, The Pink Corner is a must-visit retail destination in Downtown Stockton!

A Showing of Home Alone at the Historic Fox Theatre!

Posted on December 13, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

The Fox Theatre in Stockton is playing an iconic movie you can’t miss! On December 15th, the theatre will be playing the 1990 family comedy, Home Alone. The doors of the Fox Theatre will open to the public at 1:00 pm. A live concert played by Dave Moreno on a 1928 fully refurbished organ will begin at 1:30 PM. At 2:00 pm, the movie starts to play on the big screen. Invite your family and friends to this amazing experience within the walls of the beautiful historic theatre. There will also be a tour after the film has ended. This classic holiday film is a must-see!

I have gone to the theatre a few times, and it is absolutely gorgeous. It’s one of those things where, to understand how beautiful the place is, you have to visit it yourself.

A Bit of History

The Fox Theatre is known for its beautiful walls, entertaining shows, and rich history. In this blog, we will dive into the nearly century-long history of the Fox Theatre. The historic Fox Theatre only took 9 months and $5,000,000 to construct, regardless of its hand-made designs. The Fox Theatre was first constructed in 1930, when Fox West Coast Theatres leased the property for 50 years. At its first opening in 1930, around 20,000 people attended to view the masterpiece in person. Yet, originally, the seat capacity was only 2,500, 8 times below the number of people who showed up. But that’s no surprise – lots of people wanted to visit the carved ceiling beams, gold-leaf proscenium arches, and their marble masonic floor. The Fox Theatre certainly has one of the most beautiful interiors in Stockton.

In 2004, the Fox Theatre was completely renovated, which cost approximately a total of $8,500,000. The Fox Theatre is still one of the most visited historical sites in the city. Since its renovation, the Fox Theatre regularly features shows, live organ concerts, vendors, and all kinds of live performances. When the theatre is about to play a movie, you can tell by the recognizable, beautiful lights on the marquee that display the movie title and other information. The Fox Theatre is managed by ASM Global, a venue and event management company based in the city of Los Angeles. Almost a century later, the Fox Theatre still stands as an iconic symbol for Stockton.

Friends of the Fox

While ASM Global manages the theatre, non-profit organization, Friends of the Fox, plays a significant role in the preservation of the theatre. Founded in 1995, the Friends of the Fox was intended to support the theatre by regularly projecting classic films. Today, the Friends of the Fox continue to support and preserve this theatre on a fully volunteer basis. As a part of their mission, they regularly maintain the theatre. The Fox Theatre, as we know, is an iconic landmark in Downtown Stockton, thanks to this wonderful organization that deeply cares about preserving and enhancing the well-known and beloved venue.

Renaming the Theatre

In the mix of renovations in 2003, the Stockton City Council voted to rename the Fox Theatre to the Bob Hope Theatre, named after a successful comedic entertainer. Bob Hope was a British-born American entertainer who delighted audiences for 80 years. Bob Hope starred in 54 short and feature films, while he appeared in 74 in total. He built his career as an amazing comedian and actor, well-known for his rapid-fire jokes. After living an entire century, he died in 2003 of pneumonia in Toluca Lake in Los Angeles, CA. One year after his death, the Stockton City Council took steps to rename the iconic Fox Theatre the Bob Hope Theatre in recognition of his respected comedic career. Soon after, in 2004, the newly named Bob Hope Theatre opened up with its first show starring Jerry Springfield.

Don’t Forget Kevin! Get in the Holiday Spirit

If you have never attended a show at the Bob Hope Theatre, this is your perfect opportunity to do so. The theatre has been the gem of downtown Stockton for many decades, and if you’ve never been inside the actual building, you’re missing out! Everything, from the chandeliers to the golden pillars to the red velvet seating and state-of-the-art sound, is a valuable and rich piece of Stockton’s long history.

By attending the Friends of the Fox’s projection of Home Alone, you can relive the ‘90s Macauley Culkin classic and get yourself in the holiday spirit in a gorgeous and historic setting. It’ll be a memorable experience for both you and your family to enjoy on December 15^th. The ticket prices to enter the theatre are $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 (not including facility fees). You can buy online ahead of time here. In person, both cash and cards are acceptable payment methods. Don’t know where to park? Check out our Downtown Stockton Parking Guide.

So if you’re ready for an experience of a lifetime, visit the historic, luxurious Bob Hope Theatre!

See you there, Stockton!

P.S. If you already have plans on the 15^th, check out the Friends of the Fox’s other upcoming movie showings here!

THIS WEEKEND: Santa visits the children’s museum of Stockton!

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

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By Sungyeon Park

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 14th, because Santa is coming to the Children’s Museum of Stockton! This event, now in its fourth year, has become a popular holiday event. From 12 PM to 4 PM, bring your little kids to meet Santa and capture those precious holiday memories in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. This event is completely free for photos with Santa – just make sure to bring your own camera, as there won’t be professional photography services this year.
The museum will be filled with holiday decorations, making it the perfect place to enjoy the Christmas mood. The kids can enjoy the joyful atmosphere and have a chance to meet Santa close, and you’ll have good opportunities to snap the perfect seasonal family photos.
For those who’d like to explore more of the museum, admission is free for the day! It is a great opportunity to show your children a place full of fun and learning while celebrating Christmas. So, Head to 402 West Weber Avenue and join us for a joyful time and lasting memories. See you there!

Information

Date & Hours: Saturday, December 14th 12pm – 4pm
Location: 402 West Weber Avenue
Price: FREE!
Note: Please bring your own camera as we will not be providing professional photography this year.

Opening Night Thrills: Stockton Kings vs. Salt Lake City Stars

Posted on November 22, 2024November 28, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Reasons to Watch a Stockton Kings Game
- The Stockton Kings game delivers thrilling basketball action with high-level plays.
- There are fun events throughout the game such as halftime shows and giveaways.
- The games are affordable and family-friendly.
Tickets: here

On November 13th, I had the exciting opportunity to attend the Stockton King’s Opening Night for the 2024-25 season at the Adventist Health Arena. The way that fans filled the arena with energy and cheering was amazing!

The Stockton Kings are more than just a basketball team; they are part of the NBA G League, the official minor league of the NBA and affiliated with the Sacramento Kings. It was my first time watching a G League game, and it was quite fast and thrilling. The Stockton Kings faced off against the Salt Lake City Stars in a well-matched competition.

The halftime show was a highlight of the night! Christian and his adorable dog Scooby amazed the crowd with their entertaining tricks and performance. It was a delightful break that left everyone smiling. To add to the excitement, I was lucky to catch a free Stockton Kings mini ball during one of the game’s many fun events. I also received a complimentary Stockton Kings T-shirt just for attending—what a great way to kick off the season!

For those who plan to catch a game, I recommend buying some delicious snacks from the arena. You can also stop for meals or snacks at one of Downtown Stockton’s restaurants before or after the event. Supporting local restaurants while enjoying the game is a win-win!

Sometimes, the players will sign autographs and take photos with fans after the game, so keep a look out for this chance if you are a fan of any of these amazing players. Catch them now before they really hit the big time!

Don’t miss out on the fun at the Adventist Health Arena. Whether you’re a big basketball fan or just looking for a fun night out, Stockton Kings games offer something for everyone. Come experience the thrill and explore everything Downtown Stockton has to offer!

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].