The Downtowner, March 2011

the Free Guide to Downtown Stockton’s Events & Happenings

Celebrate!

EVENTS

IN THIS ISSUE New Eye on Downtown Stockton, page 3 St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, page 16 SMG Names a New General Manager, page 8 Save the Date: Taste of San Joaquin

The Downtowner

www.downtownstockton.org

P. 209.464.5246 F. 209.464.4558 Spanish Hotline 209.888.8637

343 E. Main Street , First Floor Stockton, CA 95202

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID STOCKTON, CA Permit No. 269

page 5

HAPPENINGS

March 2011 - Volume 14 - Issue 3

SPORTS

COMMERCE

REAL ESTATE

ARTS

COMMUNITY

Celebrate!

IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON January marked not only the start of the New Year, it marked a change in the leadership of the Downtown Stockton Alliance (DSA). After serving on the Board of Directors of the Alliance for several years Board Chairman Steve Stevenson announced his resignation.

Likewise, long-time Board members Dan Schroeder, David Qualls, Corie Coleman and Joe Dreagert announced their departure from the Board. During their tenure, the Board recruited a new Executive Director, created standing committees focusing on specific Board priorities and initiated a strategic planning process addressing the needs of the Alliance membership. In recognition of their service, the departing Board members were provided plagues by the Board of Directors acknowledging their many contributions.

In anticipation of these departures, a recruitment process was initiated and appointments to the Board were made at the January meeting of the Board of Directors. Mahesh Ranchhod was elected Chair of the Board of Directors.

Mr. Ranchhod has been a member of the Board of Directors for many years, serving on both the Administrative and Economic Development and Housing Committees. Mr. Ranchhod is an active business and property owner in Downtown Stockton. Additionally, Mr. Ranchhod has also been active in residential development and is a past President of the Building Industry Association. One of Mr. Ranchhod’s primary goals as President and Chair is the creation of an urban downtown lifestyle emphasizing development market rate housing and expansion of downtown’s retail base.

Joining the Board of Directors are Damian Glick, Rick Goucher, Elaine Saculla and Lisa Lee. Damian Glick is currently employed as the Operations Director with the Stockton Record.

Prior to joining the Stockton Record, Mr. Glick was employed with The Wall Street Journal. Rick Goucher is a Senior Real Estate Manager with CB Richard Ellis. Mr. Goucher has also been active in local charities and civic endeavors. Most recently, Mr. Goucher served as President of the Board of Directors of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Elaine Saculla is a Vice President with the Bank of Stockton. Ms. Saculla has also been active in the Stockton Civic Theatre.

Lisa Lee has extensive experience as an educator with the Stockton Unified School District. Ms. Lee is currently employed with the Stockton Collegiate International School and serves on the

School’s Board of Directors.

The vision of Board Chair Mahesh Ranchhod coupled with the varied backgrounds of the newest members of the Board of Directors will serve the membership of the Downtown Stockton Alliance well as the Downtown continues to develop as the regional business, cultural and entertainment destination.

Tim Kerr expressed his opinion that “much of the success of the DSA can be directly attributed to the leadership of former President Steve Stevenson and the contributions made by the departing members of the Board. However, I am confident that the vision of our new Chair, Mahesh Ranchhod, coupled with the enthusiasm of our new Board members and the commitment of the entire Board marks 2011 as a year of tremendous promise for Downtown Stockton.” R

Mahesh Ranchhod, Downtown Stockton Alliance Board Chairman. Photo by Ulmer Photography

From left: Mahala Burns, vice President and Tim Kerr, Executive Director, honor Dan Schroeder for his service to Downtown Stockton as a Board Director. Photo by DSA

New Board Directors, from left, Lisa Lee of Stockton Collegiate Schools, Rick Goucher of CB Richard Ellis, and Elaine Saculla of Bank of Stockton. Photo by DSA

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

www.downtownstockton.org

Tim Kerr

From the Executive Director

Executive Committee: Chair Mahesh Ranchhod, Property Owner Vice-Chair Mahala Burns, Cort Companies Treasurer Jim Donaldson, JF Donaldson Automotive Secretary Benjamin Saffold, Gospel Center Rescue Mission Karl Gassner, Mark-Ease Products

Board Members: Anthony Barkett, Attorney at Law Robert Davis, Robert Davis Construction Kevin Dougherty, First Commercial Real Estate Doug Egbert, Riverrock Properties David Gould, Vision Printing Rick Goucher, CB Richard Ellis

As you can see from many of the articles in this month’s edition of the Downtowner, the New Year has started with a real bang! The DSA has been infused with the vision of our new Chair Mahesh Ranchhod and the enthusiasm of newly appointed Board members Damian Glick, Rick Goucher, Elaine Saculla and Lisa Lee. Additionally, the Board of Directors is in the final stage of developing a strategic plan addressing the challenges of today while positioning the Alliance to take advantage of the opportunities of tomorrow. When complete, the strategic plan will provide a systematic and measurable road map of how the Board’s goals of achieving a heightened level of effectiveness in the areas of Advocacy, Economic Development and Facilitation will be accomplished.

In late 20 0, the Board of Directors created a committee structure that would enable Board members to focus their attention on specific service area priorities. Since their inception the Committees on Administration, Safety

and Economic Development & Housing have convened several times to develop recommendations for the consideration of the full Board of Directors. The Administrative Committee, chaired by Chair Mahesh Ranchhod, has initiated a comprehensive review and amendment of the DSA Bylaws. One of the primary goals of this effort is to provide for more transparency and greater inclusion in the selection of future DSA Board members.

The DSA’s Safety Committee, chaired

by Board member Benjamin Saffold, recently recommended a strategy to enhance safety in the downtown. Board member Anthony Barkett deserves special recognition for his leadership in working with the Stockton Police Department in developing this program.

The DSA’s Economic Development and Housing Committee, chaired by Board member Robert Davis, working in partnership with Stockton City Council member Susan Eggman and advocates of community sustainability is in the process of organizing a Downtown Economic Development Summit on

Executive Director

April 9, 20 .In the weeks to come, look for the Economic Development and Housing Committee to turn its attention to targeting downtown as a viable location for market rate housing.

At this point I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the “changing of the guard” that recently occurred on your Board of Directors. As previously reported, several long serving Board members and Chair Steve Stevenson recently chose to leave the Board to pursue other opportunities. While Board Chair Stevenson and Board members Dan Schroeder, David Qualls, Joe Draegert, and Corie Coleman are gone, their many contributions and long hours of service will not be forgotten. Best wishes as they begin the next chapter of service to their community! R

Damien Glick, The Record Elaine Saculla, Bank of Stockton Lisa Lee, Stockton Collegiate School

Ex Officio Members: Lt. Doug Anderson, Stockton Police Dept.

Alicia Arong, Stockton Arts Commission Dr. Elizabeth Blanchard, Port of Stockton Carl Brooking, Stockton Redevelopment Agency Susan Carson, Stockton Arts Center Alliance Bob Deis, Stockton City Manager Matt Duaime, Stockton Fire Department Susan Eggman, Stockton City Council Member Debbie Hernandez , Cultural Heritage Board Ann Johnston, Mayor City of Stockton Gabriel Karam, SJ County Facilities Management Division Dennis Lee, Central Valley Asian American Chamber of Commerce Mark Martinez, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Dick McClure, Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce Janice Miller, City of Stockton Economic Development Department Don Miller, Stockton Sports Commission Stacey Mortensen, SJ Regional Rail Commission Mike Niblock, Community Development Department

Mimi Nguyen

From the Economic Development Director E-mail, smart phones, and wireless tablets have taken over the business industry, often costing business owners money up front, but streamlining their business in the long run. Each time a new piece of technology is introduced in a tough economy, many people often ignore it due to the high cost associated with an unclear return. How can a smart phone or wireless tablet help your business?

For many of the locally owned independent businesses in downtown, the cost and the hassle of a credit card machine has left them accepting cash only. Start up costs, activation fees, and new phone lines installed are often the hindrances that prevent owners to accept credit cards, the highest method of payment in the United States. Apple, Motorola, Samsung, Dell and other cell phone makers along with the application, Square Up, have made this process much more convenient and cost effective for business owners.

The application requires a download to a compatible mobile device (listed below) and a log onto www.squareup.

com to sign up. Once you sign up, a free card reader is sent to you in the mail.

You can start swiping and accepting credit cards immediately. When the application and device are used, there’s a 2.75% processing fee for each swiped transaction and a 3.5% + $0. 5 processing fee for each keyed in transaction. If no transactions were made, there are no fees associated with the application, the card reader or the service. Within an hour of the transaction, the money is deposited into your bank account.

Phones and devices that are compatible with Square include the following: iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, and iPhone 4; iPod touch (2nd generation or later); iPad; Motorola Droid, Droid X, and Backflip; HTC Nexus One, Droid Incredible, Evo, Desire, and Hero; Samsung Galaxy S series, Nexus S, and Intercept; LG Ally; and Dell Streak.

With the application and the card reader, business owners will have the capability to accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover cards.

Customers can sign for their transaction

Economic Development Director directly on the phone and opt to have their credit card receipt e-mailed to them.

This process is basic, cost effective and allows business owners that participate in fairs, markets and events to also accept credit cards on site. The Square application for the iPad has been a trend for small business owners, as it may act as a custom point of sale device. It has the capability to calculate sales tax, generate e-mail receipts, and batch transactions to keep track of sales.

Other point of sale devices that might offer more features (and may require an application fee) include Ring It Up and ShopKeep.

Business owners in Downtown Stockton interested in utilizing Square or needing assistance can contact the Downtown Stockton Alliance at (209) 464-5246 or mnguyen@downtownstockton.org to schedule an appointment. R

Paul Rapp, San Joaquin RTD Wes Rhea, Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau

Visit Downtown Stockton Online - www.downtownstockton.org

Steve Stevenson, Bank of Agriculture and Commerce

Downtown Stockton is now on

Doris Unsod, Filipino Center Carlos Villapudua, SJ County Supervisors

The Downtowner is published 10 times per year by the Downtown Stockton Alliance.

Annual Circulation: 60,000. Publisher and Editor: Emily Baime. Assistant Editor: Mimi Nguyen. Contributing Writers: Nick Trulsson, and Sylwia Lipiec-Qualls.

Contributing Photographers: Downtown Ambassadors.

Layout and Design: Sylwia Lipiec-Qualls.

209.464.5246, www.downtownstockton.org.

All rights reserved.

Read The Downtowner online at any time www.downtownstockton.org/ downtowner

/Downtown_Stockton_Alliance The Downtowner

2

Sign up for Alliance E-lert Online

Watch videos of past and happening events and concerts or visit downtown business.

E-lert is a bi-monthly electronic newsletter highlighting downtown events and news.

@D_townStockton

/downtownstockton

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

www.downtownstockton.org

Postcards from the Past: Bank of Stockton, 144 Years on Main Street

by William Maxwell, Archives Manager – Bank of Stockton

Strictly speaking, the Bank of Stockton has been on Main Street in Stockton for only 136 years. Founded in 1867 as the Stockton Savings and Loan Society, 29 investors, comprised of prominent local businessmen and farmers, pledged $100,000 in gold to capitalize the bank. From 1867 to 1875, the bank shared space with the Union Copper Mining Company on El Dorado Street, between Main and Weber, then known as Levee Street. For the next 25 years, the bank would occupy the McKee building at Main and Hunter.

By the turn of the 20th century, the bank was ready to build on its success. Thus, in 1903, the bank acquired the “Arcade Property” on the northeast corner of Main and San Joaquin for $75,000. Then, in 1906, the stockholders authorized another $250,000 to build a new bank building on the site. The result, which opened in 1908, was Stockton’s first “skyscraper.” San Francisco architects Henry H. Meyers and Clarence R. Ward combined forces with Stockton architect Edgar B. Brown to develop the Classical Revival style for the building, seven stories tall plus a basement. The steel reinforced structure utilized brick and terracotta from the Carnegie Brick and Pottery Plant, made from clay taken from the Tesla Coal Mine, both in the hills just outside Tracy. The original bank lobby also incorporated marble quarried in Tuolumne County. The main entry featured the first revolving door in Stockton. The top floors were designed to accommodate the Yosemite Club, the oldest chartered men’s club in California.

Today, the building stands as a testament to the Bank of Stockton’s commitment to the community. Although the bank functions may be moving now three blocks to

Construction of the Bank of Stockton building on the corner of Main and San Joaquin. Courtesy of the Bank of Stockton’s Historical Photograph Collection

the head quarters building on Miner Avenue, the Main Street structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and will remain a downtown icon for many years to come. R Bank of Stockton building shortly after completion. Courtesy of the Bank of Stockton’s Historical Photograph Collection

Bank of the West Opens a New Branch Stakeholders Solutions: Customer Service

The new Bank of the West “Stockton Main” branch facility celebrated their Grand Opening on March 2, 2011. The new location at 540 N. El Dorado has about 15 employees and houses the bank’s Stockton Commercial Banking Office.

The new building is approximately 5,000 sq.ft. with an off-street parking for more than 50 vehicles. It facilitates six teller www.downtownstockton.org

windows, a private location for merchant customers and desks for new accounts and financial services. For customers convenience, the branch includes two drive-up windows and one walk-up ATM. For more information, contact Terri Du Vall, the Branch Manager, at (209) 946-5203 or (800) 488-BANK (2265). Photo by DSA

Downtown Stockton has several small businesses that pride themselves on exceptional customer service. They practice certain rules and standards to ensure their customers remain satisfied and return time and time again.

• Start with a positive attitude: look at any customer service situation as a challenge and an opportunity to learn and grow, and take care of the customer’s needs.

• Listen with empathy: put yourself in the customer’s shoes, experience their concern, and communicate to the customer you understand the concern.

• Take ownership: don’t make excuses for what happened if customer is not satisfied; apologize and correct anything that might have caused an issue; let the customer know what you are willing to do to take care of their concerns.

• Take action: this is the most important customer service secret; if you don’t take action, all your efforts and credibility are lost.

• Ask for the customer’s business: express that you value and want their business. This lets the customer know that you don’t take them for granted. It’s even more important after the customer service situation has been resolved.

• Give an extra incentive to the customer: it can be as simple as a discount coupon or some other special offering. R

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

Investors Turn a “New Eye” on Downtown A summit entitled “A New Eye on Downtown Stockton” will be held on Tuesday, April 19, at 8:30 am at the historic Bob Hope Theatre in Downtown Stockton. The objective of this event is to discuss sustainable economic growth and development in Stockton’s historic downtown core.

Tickets are $5 for students and $20 for professionals. Morning refreshments will be provided. $20 ticket holders will also receive parking reimbursement and a lunch voucher. Parking is available in the Ed Coy and Sutter Street Garages.

The Sierra Club, Campaign for Common Ground, A.G. Spanos Companies, Stockton City Council and San Joaquin Council of Governments recently completed a series of workshops called, “Sustainability in San Joaquin County – Exchanging Ideas.” As a result of the dialogue created at this series, the “New Eye on Downtown Stockton” summit was created. The objective of the summit is to identify and discuss the components for a successful and sustainable development in downtown.

It is the goal of this forum to showcase successful past development and plans for future development to provide a clear road map to developers and businesses. Speakers will focus on what

SEE SUMMIT, page The Downtowner

SportsandRecreation Thunder Hockey, Marching On

By Mike Benton

Like many other things guaranteed as spring rolls around, residents of the Central Valley can count on these three things: temperatures warming, asparagus growing, and Stockton Thunder hockey storming.

That “storm” includes a run to first place in the Western Conference. It has set the stage for several important home games for the Stockton Thunder during March. It is a popular time for many fans to take in hockey before the ice melts for the summer and boost the Thunder to another season of averaging over 6,000 fans per game and an exciting, lengthy play-off run.

For as little as seven dollars a ticket, you can start with three games early in the month against the Alaska Aces, March 4 - 6, where a special “Chris Lawrence Poster Giveaway” will highlight Friday’s game at 7:30 pm.

Growing in popularity, gold replica Thunder jerseys will be given to the first 1,000 fans (ages 18 and over) at the Saturday’s game.

Dog lovers will enjoy a highlight of the season on Sunday, March 20 against the Idaho Steelehads, marking the second annual “Pucks and Paws” day.

Similar to “Pets in the Park,” promotions that are staged by minor

The Downtowner

league and major league baseball teams, the Thunder are offering special discounted tickets and special owner/pet seating for the game at Stockton Arena.

As the Central Valley continues to salute its natural resources, the third annual “Thunder’s” Easy Being Green” highlights two weekend games against the Victoria Salmon Kings on March 25-26.

Proud, local companies such as the Port of Stockton, California Serivce Master Clean, The Surtec System, ChemStation of Northern California and others, will be involved with festivities such as green-themed tote bags, kids activity books, and booths placed throughout Stockton Arena to educate fans on how to “go green.”

With the Thunder inching closer to first place and poised to strike, there is no reason to turn down an inexpensive night out and enjoy the party at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder, one of Northern California’s most successful minor league franchises, are offering season, group and mini plan tickets geared to entertain a hockey fan of all ages, for as low as $7 per game. Tickets can be purchased at www.stocktonthunder.com or by calling (209) 373-1500. R

Ports 2011Schedule Promises Variety and Excitement Dallas Braden 209 Bobblehead, Splash’s Birthday Bash and 13 Fireworks Dates Highlight Home Schedule The Ports season kicks off at home with fireworks on April 14 as the Ports take on the Modesto Nuts. This will be a beginning to a baseball season promising a lot of fun and excitement.

The Ports will offer three bobble-head nights throughout the season, including a Dallas Braden “209” bobble-belly giveaway on July 17. This unique bobble-belly features a smiling Dallas Braden lifting his shirt to reveal his “209” tummy tattoo and wiggling at the waist. The Ports will also feature a Trevor Cahill bobble-head and a Grant Green bobble-head on two separate nights.

Fans have more than just bobbleheads to be excited about this season as well. On July 8 the Ports will have a Jeremy Barfield “Rocket Arm” figurine give away. This figurine will feature a buffed up Barfield with a literal rocket for an arm.

“We are very excited about the promotions line up for this summer,” said Ports Director of Marketing, Jeremy Neisser. “From the great give aways, fireworks, day-of-the-week promotions

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

and value based ticket packages, we have something for everyone this summer!”

Additionally, the Ports schedule features several exciting theme nights including Rolling Stones Night and a Father’s Day celebration. Ports fans can also help Splash the Mascot celebrate his birthday on August 7 with a Birthday Bash and a Splash toothbrush holder give away for the first 1000 fans. Several Jersey auctions will coincide with theme nights, including an Stars and Stripes Cap Auction on July 2 for the Independence Weekend.

For more events, fans can visit www. stocktonports.com.

The Ports are also adding two new recurring promotions to their lineup in SEE PORTS, page 17

www.downtownstockton.org

Real Estate Tour Focuses on Properties Near the Bob Hope In an effort to speed turnover of vacant properties, the Downtown Stockton (DSA) is hosting the second of four tours of available commercial real estate. The first tour took place in January attracting high interest from the media and local business owners and investors. Bob Davis, Downtown Stockton Alliance Board Director, enjoyed the tour because “there was a wide variety of participants, including even a commercial banker, and they all seemed to be very interested in our downtown. Thanks to all the DSA people who worked on this and [I’m] looking forward to the next one.”

On Friday March 11, the second tour will kick off at the DSA offices on Main Street and will continue with a behind the scenes tour of five properties: 500 E.

Main Street, 340 E. Main Street, 336 E. Main Street, 6 S. El Dorado Street, and 120 N. Hunter Street.

“This month’s tour focuses on properties surrounding the Bob Hope Theatre. As more resources are focused on promoting the theatre, the demand for these properties will increase. We hope to match investors and business owners with their ideal spaces,” said Mimi Nguyen, Economic Development Director.

Attendees on the tour will receive an informational packet with a promotional DVD, $5 lunch voucher, parking reimbursement and details about financing available to downtown businesses and investors. To reserve a spot, call Downtown Stockton Alliance at (209) 464-5246. R

BUSINESSANDFUN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON MEETING AND RENTAL SPACES

Cancun Restaurant 135 E. Miner Ave. (209) 465-6810 Capacity 150 Casa Flores 201 E. Weber Ave. (209) 462-2272 Capacity 80 Cesar Chavez Central Library 605 N. El Dorado St. (209) 937-8362 Meeting room for 100 (with stage) Children’s Museum of Stockton 402 W. Weber Ave. (209) 465-4386 Capacity 350 Civic Memorial Auditorium 525 N. Center St. (209) 937-8119 jackie.garcia@ci.stockton.ca.us Full kitchen, facilities for 150 - 1,000 CSU Stanislaus Stockton Center Conference Services 612 E. Magnolia St. (209) 467-5300 www.stocktoncsustan.edu Capacity 65 Stockton Yacht Charter Island Girl docked behind the Waterfront Warehouse 445 W. Weber Ave. (209) 639-4808 stocktonyachtcharter.com Capacity 149 Downtown Stockton Alliance 343 E. Main St., 1st Floor (209) 464-5246 Conference room for 35 Filipino Plaza 6 W. Main Street, Ste. H (209) 466-1416

Properties to be toured on March 11: Top from left: 500 E. Main Street, 340 E. Main Street Middle from left: 336 E. Main Street, 6 S. El Dorado Street Left: 120 N. Hunter Street

Gary and Janice Podesto Impact Teen Center 725 N. El Dorado St. (209) 937-7171 Capacity 200 Meeting room 25-30 Goodwill Industries Corporate Office 129 S. Grant St. (209) 466-2311 Non-profits only Greater Stockton Chamber 445 W. Weber Ave., Ste 220 (209) 547-277 Meeting room for 45

www.downtownstockton.org

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont St. (209) 944-1140 waterfronthotelstockton.com Variety of meeting facilities; Spacious ballroom; Outdoor Area for 400 Maria’s Mexican Restaurant 120 E. Market St. (209) 464-4135 Meeting room for 100 Masonic Temple Ballroom with Stage 340 E. Market St. (209) 465-9084 or (510) 813-3942 On Lock Sam Restaurant Banquet Room 333 S. Sutter St. (209) 466-4561 Capacity100 Hotel Stockton’s Sky View Terrace Sass Bar & Grill 110 E. Weber Ave. (209) 808-4058 Capacity 200 - 500 San Joaquin County Bar Association 20 N. Sutter St., Ste 300 (209) 948-8637 ext. 13 Capacity 30 Free rental for members St. Mary’s Church Gymnasium 203 E. Washington St. (209) 948-0661 Capacity 300 Stockton Arena Conference Room 248 W. Fremont St. (209) 373-1400 Capacity 200 Stockton Ports Ballpark Bullpen & Back Porch 404 W. Fremont St. (209) 644-1900 www.stocktonports.com Tidewater Art Center and Gallery 223 E. Weber Ave. (209) 463-4033 www.tidewaterartgallery.org Capacity 50 Weber Point Events Center 221 N. Center St. (209) 937-8958 www.stocktongov.com 9.7 acre outdoor venue

The Downtowner

Save the Date for Coors Light Taste of San Joaquin On Saturday, May 21, the Coors Light Taste of San Joaquin’s Way Out West BBQ Championship will bring 40 barbeque teams and 15 restaurants to Downtown Stockton’s Weber Point Event Center.

“Taste was previously held on the Independence Day weekend. We changed the date to May 21 to attract more visitors and more BBQ teams. We also listened to our local restaurants who indicated they would prefer to support this event in May rather than in July,” commented Emily Baime, Downtown Stockton Alliance Marketing Director.

The fourth annual event will offer samples from vendors for $1. Admission is only $3, and kids under 12 get in free with a paid adult.

The Taste of San Joaquin and Way Out West BBQ Championship will feature locally owned restaurants and will have live rock and blues music.

Strollers, blankets, and low chairs are welcome in front of the main stage.

The Taste of San Joaquin and Way Out West BBQ Championship is also a great fundraiser for local organizations.

In its existence, the event has sold over 100,000 tasting tickets and donated over $10,000 to local charities.

Pre-sale packages are available starting at $20, and include 19 tasting tickets and one admission. For those who want to bring everyone, Family Packs are available for $40, and they include free admission for two adults, free admission for youth 12 and under, two color changing mugs, and 30 tasting tickets.

For more information, visit www. downtownstockton.org or call the Downtown Stockton Alliance office at 209 464 5246. R

Summit,

Plea for Peace Center

by Caleb Mize, DSA Intern

The Plea for Peace has been providing art and music events for all ages since 2008.

“We are a non profit volunteer ran music and art house,” explains owner/operator Middagh Goodwin, “We host live music, art shows and independent films just about any night of the week.“ Plea for Peace reaches out to every subculture willing to participate in “the positive power of music.” Although Plea for Peace mostly puts on music and bi-monthly art shows, other ideas are underway such as an independent film showing. Also in the works is a range of various workshops that will teach the tools necessary to screen print, host events, and tour manage.

It may seem that the Center’s bill is already bursting with events, yet Middagh is always open to serious event coordinators using his venue for all age projects.

“A lot of people have great ideas for events, but very few can actually handle an event - like posting [in social media], making flyers, percent negotiations, [and] booking.”

Reaching out to the youth of Stockton, Plea for Peace plays what the kids want hear, ranging from classical, to Hip Hop, to hard core. In spite of having been open for only two years, the Center has seen bands from all over the world, including Germany, Canada, or Japan. They also hosted renowned American artists such as Alkaline Trio, The Ataris, Against Me, and Rattle Classical, five time Grammy nominated classical guitarist.

By attracting such big names to Stockton, Plea for Peace has had its share in bringing more commerce to Downtown Stockton ”with bands and fans renting hotel rooms, eating at restaurants, buying music equipment, t-shirts.”

Along with music and arts, Plea for Peace has recently expanded its interests and paired up with the San Joaquin Bicycle Coalition, a non-profit bicycle community. Founded late last year by Shaun Jewel, the Coalition has reached out to its community through a Bike Kitchen, located in the parking lot of Plea for Peace, a Wednesday night bike ride, bike races, monthly Critical Mass, bike in movie nights, and a weekly bicycle community discussion also held at the Plea for Peace.

To learn more about the Plea for Peace Center, follow them on Facebook.com/plea4peacestockton. R

French Cassettes perform at the Plea for Peace Center. Photo courtesy of Middagh Goodwin

Kayla Byars checks out prizes at Fair World raffle at the Plea for Peace.

Photo courtesy of Middagh Goodwin

from page 3 downtown has to offer in the way of location, services, historic buildings, employment base and nearby amenities. Opportunities to develop or retrofit downtown business will be discussed with an emphasis on infill housing opportunities.

Event organizers invite builders, developers, the business community, financial institutions, and the general public to hear presentations from Mayor Ann Johnston, Councilmember Susan Eggman, City Manager Bob Dies, Deputy City Manager Mike Locke, Downtown Developer Dan Cort, and Terry Watt and Meea Kang of the California Infill Builders Association. Before and after the event, attendees will have the first hand opportunity to visit booths and speak with successful Downtown Stockton business owners and developers.

Registration, networking and morning refreshments are available beginning at 8 am.

The presentation will begin promptly at 9 am.

Lunch vouchers and parking reimbursement will be provided to $20 ticket holders after 11 am. More information is available from the Downtown Stockton Alliance at www. downtownstocktonforum.com or (209) 4645246. For daily updates on Downtown Stockton,

The Downtowner

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

follow Twitter @D_townStockton or Facebook/ DowntownStockton.

The Summit is hosted by the Downtown Stockton Alliance under the leadership of DSA President Mahesh Ranchhod and Stockton City Councilmember Susan Eggman. Sponsorship (as of February 20) is provided by the Cort Companies, Central Valley Community Bank, A.G. Spanos Companies, the Sierra Club and the City of Stockton.

The mission of the Downtown Stockton Alliance, a non profit organization, is to develop, promote and maintain historic Downtown Stockton as a regional business, cultural, and entertainment destination. R

Top from left: Dan Cort, Downtown Developer; Meea Kang, President of Domus Development.

Bottom from left: Terry Watt, Founder of California Infill Builders Association; Mike Locke, City of Stockton Deputy City Manager.

Photos courtesy of Cort Companies, City of Stockton, and California Infill Builders Association.

www.downtownstockton.org

ARTANDEVENTS

Team Name. Audience members can join in the fun by competing for the Best Costume and Best Decorated Table awards. The evening includes dinner and raffle. For more information call (209) 957-7277.

March 6, Chinese New Year Festival!

The Festival at the Civic Memorial Auditorium brings such attractions as Chinese food, great raffle prizes, and stunning entertainment. $2 donations are requested at the door. For more information call (209) 403-9099 or visit www.stocktonchinese.org/cn yc.php.

Through March, Exhibit of Portrait Drawings at the Tidewater Art G a l l ery! March show features monumental portrait drawings by wellknown Turlock artist Don Hall. His super realistic drawings are large scale portraits of faces of people varying in age from one to over eighty. The pieces are completed using pastel on paper.

Hall is an art history instructor at Delta College and a drawing instructor at Modesto Junior College. Don’s art work has been exhibited locally as well as in Southern California, Nevada and Oregon since the 1960s. A recipient of numerous awards, his work is regularly featured in books and periodicals. For more information call (209) 463-4033 or visit www.tidewaterartgallery.org.

www.downtownstockton.org

March 11, Annual Trivia Bee “The Roaring 20’s!” This fun and competitive evening filled with team and audience participation raises money for the Stockton Literacy Foundation. Celebrating their 20th anniversary, the 2011 theme is “The Roaring 20’s” and will be held at the Civic Memorial Auditorium. Each team of contestants will have the opportunity to win the award for Best

March 11, Vertigo, Classic Movie!

Friends of the Fox present this psychological thriller from Alfred Hitchcock at the historic Bob Hope Theatre. Originally considered a commercial and critical flop, today the movie is ranked as one of the director’s masterpieces. James Stewart and Kim Novak roam the San Francisco Bay Area in search of themselves within: a twisty-turny plot so seductive you will want to see it again. The feature is proceeded by a concert featuring Tom Thompson on the Mighty Morton organ. For more information call (209) 337-Hope or visit www. bobhopetheatre.com.

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

March 12, Musical History of California! The Seaport Woodwind Quintet will present “The Musical History of California” for children and families at the Cesar Chavez Library.

This group of symphony musicians will bring us from our state’s beginnings to present day California with an emphasis on the San Joaquin Valley and our own Stockton. The group features clarinet, flute, bassoon, French horn, oboe, and also guitar, wash tub bass, wind flute, chimes and percussion (including spoons!). This program is made possible through a grant from the Stockton Arts Commission. For more information call (209) 937-8221 or visit www.stockton.lib.ca.us/chavez.

March 12, St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations! For the active kind, Downtown Stockton has an annual Shamrock 5k Run starting at DeCarli Square. For those who like to celebrate tasting green beer while listening to live music, Bradley’s American Bistro invites to their street faire. Find out more on page 16.

Continued on page 17

The Downtowner

Commerce BUSINESS BRIEFS • BUSINESS BRIEFS The City of Stockton, in partnership with the NEC Small Business Development Center-San Joaquin Delta College, will present the Mayor’s Economic Development Summit, with Stockton Mayor Ann Johnston, Tuesday, March 8 from 8:30 am to 11 am. The Summit will be held at San Joaquin WorkNet, 56 S. Lincoln Street in Downtown Stockton.

Enhance your business opportunities by understanding the complexities of local and federal business taxes. Get answers to your business tax questions.

Presenters include: Jane Kalfsbeek, CPA, Kalfsbeek & Company; Internal Revenue Service; California Franchise Tax Board; California Board of Equalization; City of Stockton; SBDC; San Joaquin Enterprise Zone; and, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. The Summit is free and open to the public. Register online at www. mayorssummit.eventbrite.com or call (209) 954-5089. R The Small Business Micro Loan Program offers loans of up to $30,000 through its Small Business Micro Loan Program for existing and start-up businesses located within the Stockton city limits. Interest rates begin at the current Prime Rate, plus 2% with a

The Downtowner

SAVE THE DATE March 3, 5:15 pm Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce Networking Mixer Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 West Fremont Street

March 17, 8:30 am San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Latina Business Luncheon & Conference Hilton Stockton 2323 Grand Canal Blvd

maximum loan term of 5 years. Funds may be used for operating capital (including permit and license fees), furniture, fixtures and equipment, inventory, minor rehabilitation, and manufacturing equipment. A $25 application fee will apply and businesses receiving a loan must create at least one part-time or full-time equivalent position depending on the loan amount.

For more information, contact the Economic Development Department at (209) 937-8530. R

Mike Cera Named General Manager of SMG Stockton Venues

On December 1, 2010, the San Joaquin County Enterprise Zone voucher application fee increased from $75 to $80. The State of California hiring tax credit voucher fee has increased by $5.

The State receives a portion of each fee with the balance used to fund local staff processing applications. From July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2010, 8,563 vouchers were issued to 647 employers within San Joaquin County. Downtown Stockton businesses actively participate in receiving zone tax benefits. If your business has purchased new equipment or hired new employees, contact Connie S. Rill, Enterprise Zone Specialist at (209) 468-3529 for more information.

R

S M G , Wo r l d w i d e Entertainment and Convention V e n u e Management, announced the appointment of Mike Cera as General Manager of the Stockton Arena, Stockton Ballpark, the Bob Hope Theatre, and the Oak Park Ice Arena.

Since joining SMG in 2000, Mr. Cera has worked in a series of advancing positions in the sports and entertainment facility management industry.

“I am extremely excited and honored

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

to have been selected as the General Manager of the Stockton Arena, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton Ballpark and Oak Park Ice Arena. They are outstanding facilities and I look forward to working with the community to help these facilities realize their full potential. The SMG staff and I will work diligently to bring quality entertainment to Stockton,” stated Cera.

SMG reached an agreement with the City of Stockton to provide booking, programming and general operations for the Stockton venues, effective February 25, 2011. The Stockton City Council unanimously approved the five-year Management Agreement, with a five-year renewal option, on January 25, 2011. R

www.downtownstockton.org

GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON WITH A SMART PHONE, SCAN THE QR CODE NEXT TO ONE OF THE PROPERTIES. BARCODE SCANNER APPLICATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED FREE FROM YOUR APP STORE,

LEASE 6 S. El Dorado Street

Use: Office

Sq. Ft.: 25,628 Amenities: On site security, covered parking, professional management company, health club.

Contact: Brian Peterson, CB Richard Ellis (209) 476-2907; brian.peterson@cbre.com

25 S. Hunter Street

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 2,550 LR: $1.20 psf Amenities: Reception area, multiple private offices, conference room, 2 bathrooms, basement for storage; lease includes 2 on-site parking spaces, 3 nearby parking spaces and discounted pricing in the neighboring parking garage.

Contact: Joe Crist, Lee & Associates (209) 983-1111; jcrist@lee-associates.com

27 Hunter Square

Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 5,000 LR: $5,000/mo Contact: Jim Martin, Lee & Associates (209) 983-1111; jmartin@lee-associates.com

www.downtownstockton.org

LEASE 42 N. Sutter Street

LEASE 120 N. Hunter Street

Elks Building

Use: Office/Restaurant Sq. Ft.: 188-8,000 LR: Competitive Amenities: A variety of office sizes and full floors, gr. fl. renovated restaurant space; Tenant pays PG&E and janitorial; Central Parking District; Proximity to Courthouse and government offices.

Contact: Mahala Burns, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 2,200 LR: $1.25 Full Service Lease Amenities: 3rd floor, can be divided; Furnished offices; Use of shared kitchen and copier; Half block to County Courthouse; Next to parking garage; Views of Delta.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

222 N. El Dorado Street, Ste F

123 E. Lindsay Street

Use: Auto Repair LR: $2,500/mo Amenities: Smog & Auto Repair Shop move-in ready Contact: (530) 751-2249

110 N. San Joaquin St.

Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 1,200 LR: $1.50 psf, NNN ($0.33 psf) Regal Theaters 16 screens, 3,400 seats; Close to parking structures, high traffic counts.

Contact: Andy Hodgson, Colliers International (209) 475-5129;ahodgson@colliersparrish.com

225 E. Weber Avenue

Belding Building

Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 244 - 4,000 LR: $1.15-$1.50 psf Amenities: Completely renovated. Reasonable tenant improvements included. Adjacent to two large parking garages.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

Use: Retail Sq. Ft.: 2,880 LR: $1,750 per month Contact: Craig Moore, cmoore9004@aol.com C: (209) 639-3238, O: (209) 466-5135

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

LEASE 229 E. Weber Avenue

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 3,000 LR: Call for rates and possible sale Amenities: 1st floor has 2 offices; 2nd & 3rd floors each have 3,000 sq.ft. of office space with 1,300 sq.ft. of common area on each floor, conference room; building completely retrofitted; across the street from County Court house Contact: Craig Moore, cmoore9004@aol.com C: (209) 639-3238, O: (209) 466-5135

235 N. San Joaquin Street

Vision Plaza Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 3,500 LR: 2nd fl $1.25 psf Amenities: Indoor private parking, tenant move-in allowance negotiable Contact: Zac Cort, The Cort Group (562) 537-3692; zcort@thecortgroup.com

322 N. California Street

Use: Social Program/Medical Rehab Sq. Ft.: 20,100 LR: Negotiable Amenities: 3 double-storied buildings; full kitchen and dining hall.

Contact: Navin Patel, navin_patel@sbcglobal.net C: (209) 481-3328, O: (209) 472-7762

  The Downtowner

GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON WITH A SMART PHONE, SCAN THE QR CODE NEXT TO ONE OF THE PROPERTIES. BARCODE SCANNER APPLICATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED FREE FROM YOUR APP STORE,

LEASE

336 E. Main St.

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 5,952 LR: $1.25 NN PSF Amenities: Single story with basement, close to Courthouse, and county offices.

Contact: Brian Peterson, CB Richard Ellis (209) 476-2907; brian.peterson@cbre.com

336 E. Market St.

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 3,500 LR: Negotiable Amenities: New paint, electrical, and heat /air, bathrooms are ADA; original 1921 hardwood floors refinished.

Contact: Bob Aunchman, House Proz (209) 957-7700; bob@houseproz.com

338 E. Lafayette Street

Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 5,200 LR: $2,000/mo Contact: Patricio Vicuna, Hardin Animal Hospital, (209) 464-4521

The Downtowner 10

LEASE

338 E. Market Street

LEASE

400 E. Main St.

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 2,200 LR: Negotiable Amenities: Upgraded new electrical, new heat /air, bathrooms ADA compliant, new paint Contact: Bob Aunchman, House Proz (209) 957-7700; bob@houseproz.com

340 N. California Street

Use: Retail or Office Sq. Ft: 1,500 LR: $0.50 psf Amenities: Storefront property ideal for showroom, retail, government, office or service industry. Basement storage more than 2x the premises. 3 blocks from County Courthhouse and bus terminal.

Contact: A.I. Holdings, 888-602-8935 Jamie@aiholdingsllc.com

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 2,000 - 25,000 LR: Negotiable Amenities: 8 story office building with secured underground parking Contact: Brian Peterson, CB Richard Ellis (209) 476-2907; brian.peterson@cbre.com

401 N. San Joaquin Street

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 200 - 4,000 LR: $0.80 psf Fair Share Agreement Amenities: Utilities, security, gated parking, custodial.

Contact: Emily Barnett, (209) 468-9015 ebarnett@sjcoe.net

634 Main Street

340 E. Main Street

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 13,358 LR: $1.25 NN PSF Amenities: 2 stories with basement; close to Courthouse, county offices; Basement; Fwy access.

Contact: Brian Peterson, CB Richard Ellis, (209) 476-2907; brian.peterson@cbre.com

Use: Office/Program Sq. Ft.: 4,950 bottom floor and 4,925 upper floor LR: $0.50-$0.75 psf Amenities: Building in good condition, new paint Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

LEASE

705 N. Union St.

Use: Industrial Sq. Ft.: 1,400 LR: $2,300/mo. Negotiable Amenities: Lot size is about 10,000 sq. ft with 2-two car garages Contact: Anthony M. Budhai, (209) 948-2705 ambudhai@yahoo.com

802 E. Weber Ave.

Use: Commercial/Light Industrial Sq. Ft.: 5,000 LR: $2,250 per month Amenities: Corner lot with 5,000 sq.ft. fenced parking lot adjacent to building; 1/2 in offices/1/2 warehouse. 2 blocks from Ace Rail Depot, 3 blocks from Crosstown Fwy. Contact: Mike Griffin, Coldwell Banker Commercial (209) 466-5311 ext. 223 mikegriffin@coldwellbanker.com

836 E. Weber Avenue

Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 1,800 LR: $0.70 psf Amenities: 2 story charming Victorian converted into offices; central heat/air, full kitchen with stove and fridge; on-site parking. Commercial tenants only.

Contact: Ken Taylor, (916) 813-2283 Kjtaylor_99@hotmail.com

www.downtownstockton.org

GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON WITH A SMART PHONE, SCAN THE QR CODE NEXT TO ONE OF THE PROPERTIES. BARCODE SCANNER APPLICATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED FREE FROM YOUR APP STORE,

LEASE

LEASE

Bank of America Building

110 E. Weber Ave. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 3,565-4,918 LR: Negotiable Amenities: Suite with private elevator, 3 offices.

Contact: Joe Crist , Lee and Associates (209) 983-1111; jcrist@lee-associates.com

Bank of Stockton Building

311 E. Main St. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 160-4,949 LR: $0.95 psf Amenities: Directly across from the Courthouse, close to banks, restaurants & government offices Contact: Suzanne Stone, RT Yee and Associates (209) 473-3799; suzanne-stone@comcast.net

Historic Budd Building

333 E. Channel St. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 3,000 on the 2nd floor LR: $1,300 for the first year if taken “as is” Amenities: 8 offices, library, 2 bath. New plumbing, seismically retrofitted, fully sprinklered; Elevator and stairway access to 2nd floor, 8 x 10 dry storage. Adjacent to 2 major parking garages.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222; mburns@cortco.com

www.downtownstockton.org

Historic California Building

11 S. San Joaquin St. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 180-200 LR: $1.00 psf, 1st month free with year lease Amenities: Conference room available to all tenants, PG&E and janitorial included Contact: Angie Parham, (209) 463-3569 angie_cbbuilding@yahoo.com

Cal-Weber Building

LEASE

Historic Cort Tower

343 E. Main St. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 140-22,500 LR: $0.95 psf one month free with one year lease Amenities: Single offices from 140 sq.ft. to 22,500 sq.ft., three contiguous floors at +/7,500 sq.ft. totaling 22,500 sq.ft. Office suites can be combined for desired square footage.

Tenant pays PG&E, owner pays janitorial.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222; mburns@cortco.com

Council of Governments

512 E. Weber Ave. Use: office/retail/entertain. Sq.Ft.: 384 gr. fl.

1,835 mezzanine, 13,000 upper floorsx2 LR: Negotiable Amenities: Parking lot behind building; New travertine tile and oak flooring throughout Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

555 E. Weber Ave. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 10,000 LR: $1.65 psf Amenities: Large copy/project area; seminar meeting area/conference room; reception area/ break room; Contact: Wendy Coddington, Lee and Associates, (209) 983-1111, wcoddington@lee-associates.com

Historic Hotel Stockton

Cassidy’s Building

393 E. Market St., 2nd Fl. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 2,500 LR: Negotiable Amenities: Five offices, main reception area, two baths; proximity to parking & freeway access.

Contact: Tim Cassidy, (209) 462-7593 cas12744@aol.com

141 E. Weber Ave. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 1,323 LR: $1.50/sf modified gross Amenities: New reception area, conference room, private office, cubicle office area, server room and break room. Common area rest rooms.

Contact: Andy Hodgson, Colliers International (209) 475-5109; ahodgson@colliersparrish.com

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

LEASE

McKeegan Building

520 – 534 E. Weber Ave. Use: Retail/office/entert. Sq. Ft.: 1,800-10,000 LR: Negotiable upper, $.75 - 0.95 psf gr. fl.

Amenities: Spanish revival architecture; open floor plan with stage on upper floor ideal for entertainment, programs or church space.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222, mburns@cortco.com

Sutter Office Center

242 N. Sutter St. Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 280-4,000 LR: $0.75psf & up Amenities: All spaces except retail include utilities Contact: Sharlene McLemore (209) 943-7308; soc242@yahoo.com

Waterfront Towers

501 W. Weber Avenue Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 600-11,300 LR: $1.45-$1.65 psf full service Amenities: 600 sq.ft. high density storage space on ground floor; Contact: Jerry Butterfield, Croce and Co. (209) 460-3233; info@croceco.com

11 The Downtowner

GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON WITH A SMART PHONE, SCAN THE QR CODE NEXT TO ONE OF THE PROPERTIES. BARCODE SCANNER APPLICATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED FREE FROM YOUR APP STORE,

LEASE Waterfront Office Tower

509 W. Weber Avenue Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 1,400 2nd fl.

LR: $1.40 psf Amenities: High profile, 5-story office building on the waterfront, multiple private offices and ample windows. Free gated parking for employees and clients.

Contact: Wendy Coddington or Joe Crist, Lee & Associates, (209) 983-1111 ext. 220; wcoddington@lee-associates.com

Historic Waterfront Warehouse

445 W. Weber Avenue Use: Office/Retail/Restaurant Sq. Ft.: 1,766-5,000 LR: Negotiable Amenities: Great water views; private, gated parking.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222; mburns@cortco.com

The Metro Building

109 N. Sutter St. Use: Retail Sq. Ft: 1,200 LR: $1,200/mo + utilities Contact: Zac Cort, The Cort Group, 562-5373692, www.TheCortGroup.com 347 E. Weber Ave. Use: Office Sq. Ft.: 300-6,500 LR: $.99 psf Contact: Joe Crist, Lee & Associates (209) 983-1111 ext. 217; jcrist@lee-associates.com

The Downtowner 12

SALE

SALE 333 E. Channel Street

33 N. American Street

630 E. Main Street

Budd Building

Sq. Ft.: 2,800-5,000 Price: $550,000 Amenities: Retail on gr. fl., offices on 2nd fl.; Proximity to 2 parking lots, 4 existing tenants generating $2,850/mo in income; Enterprise Zone; use City’s Facade Program to renovate exterior.

Contact: Andy Hodgson, Colliers Int., (209) 475-5129, andy.hodgson@colliers.com

347 E. Weber Avenue

Sperry Building

Metro Building

Sq. Ft.: 5,050 Price: $725,000 Amenities: One story office building with parking; Unobstructed view of the waterfront.

Contact: Brian Peterson (209) 476-2907; brian.peterson@cbre.com

322 N. California Street

Sq. Ft.: 20,100 Price: $ 2,500,000 Amenities: 3 double-storied buildings; full kitchen and dining room Contact: Navin Patel, (209) 481-3328 or (209) 472-7762; navin_patel@sbcglobal.net

La Estrella

Sq. Ft.: 3,000 2nd fl.

Price: $350,000 Amenities: 8 offices, library, 2 bathrooms. New plumbing, seismically retrofitted, and fully sprinklered, elevator and stairway access to second floor, 8 x 10 dry storage available. Adjacent to two major parking garages.

Contact: Mahala Burns or Peggy Massey, Cort Companies, (209) 235-5222; mburns@cortco.com

146 W. Weber Avenue

Sq. Ft.: 1,400 Price: $595,000 Amenities: Lot size is about 10,000 sq. ft. with 2-two car garages Contact: Anthony M. Budhai, (209) 948-2705; ambudhai@yahoo.com

901 E. Miner Avenue

525 E. Channel Street

Use: Office/Entertainment Sq. Ft: 7,500 Price: $199,000 Amenities: Large older building with front office, 3 rooms and large hall. MLS#10022826 for more pictures and information.

Contact: Tony Ippolito, (209) 688-3888; aixcpa@aol.com

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

Use: Office/Retail Sq. Ft.: 15,000 Price: $995,000 Amenities: Retail/office; basement sprinklers; open floor space; new roof; 2nd floor ideal for ballroom; possible owner finance.

Contact: Jimmie Rishwain, (209) 747-7863

705 N. Union Street

Sq. Ft: 300-6,500 Price: $980,000 Amenities: 3-story, multi-tenant office building; common area restrooms; completely renovated; rent incentives available to qualified tenants Contact: Joe Crist, Lee & Associates (209) 983-1111 #217; jcrist@lee-associates.com

LEGEND: Sq. Ft. - Square Feet LR - Lease Rate

SALE

psf - per square foot gr.fl. - ground floor

Sq. Ft.: 10,000 Price: $325,000 Amenities: Limousine size paint booth, across from the new Ace Train station.

Contact: Patrice Chavez, (209) 808-2161; patern7910@peoplepc.com Need help selling or leasing your downtown building? Call Downtown Stockton Alliance, for a free listing in The Downtowner at (209) 464-5246 or email mnguyen@ downtownstockton.org. www.downtownstockton.org

www.downtownstockton.org

Commerce Small Businesses Workshops The Northeastern California Small Business Development Center-San Joaquin Delta College (SBDC) provides free individualized business consulting for existing and potential business owners and a broad range of free and lowcost business workshops. For more information and registration, call (209) 954-5089 or visit www.sbdc.delatcollege.edu.

The following workshops are held at WorkNet, 56 S. Lincoln Street, Stockton.

Web Design Workshop March. 15 or April 12, 9 - 11 am Registration is $40 Get your business online by building and lunching your own website. The tools are simple: point, click, drag, and drop images and text. Upon completion of the workshop you will set your website live! Participants must meet with a SBDC consultant to outline their website needs and gather the necessary information prior to the workshop.

Starting and Financing Your Own Business Workshop March 9 or April 13, 4:30-6:30 pm March 23 or april 27, Noon – 2 pm Registration is $25 Start smart by attending an informative, workshop outlining legal requirements and regulations, business planning, sources of funding, determining funding needs, and preparing a funding request.

www.downtownstockton.org

Pricing Your Product or Service Effectively Workshop March 22, 2-4 pm, $40 (additional persons from same business $20 each) This workshop will explain and help the business owner apply key aspects of setting the right price for any product or service. Business owners will also learn strategies to increase prices and improve margins, how and when to offer discounts or similar offers, and more.

Marketing Your Business Effectively April 19, 9 - 11 am Registration is $40 (additional persons from same business $20 each) A key aspect for business growth and success is effective marketing. Learn how to identify targeted customers, assess customer needs, evaluate the competition, and effectively communicate what your business has to offer. Reservations required.

Watch Out for Fraudulent Fire Extinguisher or Extinguishing Systems Service Companies One or more persons are contacting local offices, stores, or restaurants offering to service their fire extinguishers or to perform service work on kitchen extinguishing systems. Fraudulent inspectors have been using high-pressure sales tactics and other deceptive methods to convince businesses to pay for fire protection equipment services that are often not necessary. Watch out for individuals with the following suspicious characteristics: • Wear uniforms with patches similar to those worn by Fire Department staff which gives the impression that they are a Fire Department employee.

• Claim they are Fire Marshals and are authorized to close the business if they are not permitted to do an inspection of the fire protection system and make subsequent repairs.

The Stockton Fire Department does not endorse, recommend, or send any fire protection service companies to local businesses. These services are requested by business owners when the services are required.

The goal of the Stockton Fire Department is to keep business, their employees and clients safe and protected from fire. Fire protection systems and fire extinguishers that are properly installed save lives and protect property.

For more information, contact Stockton Fire Department at (209) 937-8271. R When choosing a fire protection service company:

• Be sure that the service

technician has proper identification and that he or she is from the company that you contacted.

• Claim they need to service fire extinguishers or hood and duct systems prior to the service tag date found on the devices.

• Ask the company to verify they

• Claim they are there to provide service on extinguishers or hood and duct systems that have previously been serviced by another company.

• Do not permit a service company

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

have a current business license, which is valid and current in Stockton.

to provide service that you did not request or that is not required.

13 The Downtowner

The Downtowner 14

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

www.downtownstockton.org

DOWNTOWN EVENTS This event calendar is a product of the Downtown Stockton Alliance. It is not a complete listing of downtown events. To include your event in this calendar e-mail: events@downtownstockton.org or call (209) 464-5246.

March March 6 Chinese New Year Festival Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium 10 am - 5 pm, $2 For more (209) 403-9099 March 8 Mayor’s Economic Summit WorkNet Building 8:30 am - 11 am, Free For more (209) 954-5089 March 11 Meet the Artist Reception Tidewater Art Center and Gallery 5 pm - 8 pm, Open to public For more (209) 465-4386 March 11 Trivia Bee, ‘The Roaring 20’s Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium 5 pm - 8 pm, $20 For more (209) 957-7277 March 11 Vertigo, Classic Movie Bob Hope Theatre 7 pm - 9 pm, $8 For more (209) 337-HOPE March 12 Annual Shamrock Run DeCarli Square 8:30 am - 11 am, Registration fee For more (209) 464-5246 March 12 St. Patrick’s Street Party Bradley’s American Bistro 11 am - 4 pm For more (209) 464-1295 March 12 Musical History of California Cesar Chavez Central Library 2 pm - 3 pm, Free For more (209) 937-8221 March 12 Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitan Bob Hope Theatre 8 pm - 10 pm, $80, $70, $60, & $50 For more (209) 337-HOPE March 19 Eddie Griffin LIVE! Bob Hope Theatre 8 pm - 10 pm, $55.50 & $39.50 For more (209) 337-HOPE March 25-26 Big Valley Black Expo Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium 11 am - 4 pm For more (209) 525-1249 March 26 Book into Film Series Cesar Chavez Central Library 1 pm - 3 pm, Free For more (209) 937-8221 www.downtownstockton.org

April April 1-10 The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out O’Ryleigh’s Tavern See venue for hours For more (209) 462-6530 April 8 Tour of Commercial Spaces Free tour starts at Downtown Stockton Alliance’s Office 9:30 am - 12 pm, Free For more (209) 464-5246 April 8 Meet the Artist Reception Tidewater Art Center and Gallery 5 pm - 8 pm, Open to public For more (209) 465-4386 April 9 Haute Couture Société 43rd Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel 9:30 am - 2 pm For more (209) 477-6496 April 10 Gone with the Wind, Classic Movie Bob Hope Theatre 2 pm - 4 pm, $8 For more (209) 337-HOPE April 14 Stockton Ports Baseball Game Ports’ Baseball Stadium 7 pm - 10 pm, $7-$15 For more (209) 373-1700 April 15-17 Asparagus Festival Weber Point Events Center 10 am - 7 pm, $7-$12 For more (209) 644-3740 April 16 Great Spear-It Run Weber Point Events Center 8 am-9 am, Registration fee For more (209) 644-3740

April 30 Book into Film Series Cesar Chavez Central Library 1 pm - 3 pm, Free For more (209) 937-8221

Ongoing Events Art Exhibit Tidewater Art Gallery Open to public, 10 am - 5 pm For more (209) 465-4386 Art Exhibit San Joaquin Law Library at Kress Legal Center Open to public, 9 am - 5 pm For more (209) 468-3920 Thursdays Preschool Story Time Cesar Chavez Central Library Free, 10:30 am - 11:30 am For more (209) 937-8221 Kick-Back Nights Taste Ultra Lounge, 10 pm - 2 am FREE admission For more (209) 888-7282 Computer Classes Cesar Chavez Central Library Free, 11 am - 12 pm For more (209) 937-8221

Banner Island Ballpark Thursday, April 14, 7 pm Friday, April 15, 7 pm Saturday, April 16, 7 pm Sunday, April 17, 2 pm Monday, April 18, 7 pm Tuesday, April 19, 7 pm Wednesday, April 20, 7 pm Monday, April 25, 7 pm Tuesday, April 26, 7 pm Wednesday, April 27, 7 pm Thursday, April 28, 7 pm Friday, April 29, 7 pm Saturday, April 30, 7 pm More info at (209) 373-1700 www.stocktonports.com

STOCKTON THUNDER HOCKEY GAMES Stockton Arena

Friday, March 4, 7 pm Saturday, March 5, 7:30 pm

Fridays Latin Nights Taste Ultra Lounge $10, 9:30 pm - 2 am For more (209) 888-7282 Saturdays Open-Air Asian & Farmers Market Crosstown Freeway, 6 am - 10 am For more (209) 943-1830 Saturday Salsa at Chitiva’s Chitiva’s Salsa & Sports Bar & Grill $10, 8 pm - Until Closing For more (209) 941-8605

April 16-17 Pacific Rowing Regattas – Deep Water Dash Downtown Stockton Marina 9 am - 3 pm For more (209) 817-2656

March 12 Shamrock Run DeCarli Squre

April 19 Downtown Stockton Summit Bob Hope Theatre 8 am - 11 am, $5-$20 For more (209) 464-5246

April 16 & 17 Pacific Rowing Regattas – Deep Water Dash Morelli Park and Joan Darrah Promenade

April 29 Josh Turner, Concert Bob Hope Theatre 8 pm - 10 pm, $55.50 & $44.50 For more (209) 337-HOPE

STOCKTON PORTS BASEBALL GAMES

Sunday, March 6, 4 pm Friday, March 18, 7:30 pm Saturday, March 19, 7:30 pm Sunday, March 20, 4 pm Friday, March 25, 7:30 pm Saturday, March 26, 7:30 pm Sunday, March 27, 4 pm Wednesday, March, 30, 7 pm More info at (209) 373-1700 www.stocktonthunder.com

CALENDAR OF SPORTS EVENTS 2011 IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON

April 16 Great Spear-It Run,Part of the Stockton Asparagus Festival Banner Island Ballpark

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

May 4 -7 FLW National Guard Series Western Division Bass Tournament Weber Point Event Center May 28 Mayor’s Hike and Bike October 16 Head of the Pacific Rowing Regattas Morelli Park and Joan Darrah Promenade November 24 Run Against Hunger Banner Island Ballpark 15 The Downtowner

SPOTLIGHT ON DOWNTOWN STOCKTON BUSINESSES

Psychedelli Smoke Shop is located at 612 E. Weber Avenue. Customers can brows through a varied selection of items such as incense, body jewelry, daytona helmets, and other novelties. Photo by DSA

American Furnishings is downtown’s newest furniture store. Located at 415 N. El Dorado Street, the business offers a wide selection of living room, dining room and bedroom furniture. Photo by DSA

Allied Document Services relocated recently to 134 E. Weber Avenue. The business specializes in providing legal assistance and self-help direction for the public. Photo by DSA

Electric Tattoo recently relocated to 506 E. Weber Avenue. The shop specializes in American traditional tattooing, and picked downtown as their business location because of its history and architecture. Photo by DSA

Events 411: from Commercial Spaces Tours to St. Patrick’s

by Christos Kotsoglou, Event Coordinator

The event calendar fills up in March with a wide array of diverse events.

On March 8, Mayor Ann Johnston will be hosting The Mayor’s Economic Development Summit at WorkNet on 56 S. Lincoln Street. Attendees will learn how to enhance business opportunities by understanding the complexities of local and federal business taxes. Experts will be available to answer questions, including those about available tax credits.

Continuing the theme of economic development, the Downtown Stockton Alliance will host its second Commercial Real Estate Tour on March 11. Starting at 9:30 am at the Alliance office, 343 E. Main Street, attendees will be shown five properties available for lease near the Bob Hope Theatre. Included with the tour is free parking and coffee, and a $5 lunch voucher good for lunch at one of the participating local restaurants. For more details about the tour, see page 5.

On Saturday, March 12, everyone’s favorite green holiday, St. Patrick’s Day, will be celebrated in downtown. Starting at 8:30 am, Fleet Feet of Stockton is hosting the Shamrock 5k Run & Walk.

This is the first of an age-graded race series, where runners are broken up into The Downtowner 16

categories and compete against their peers versus the entire field. For more information on the run or to register, visit www.fleetfeetstockton.com. Participants in the Shamrock Run can use their bibs from the run to gain no-cover access to the following festivities. Bradley’s American Bistro will be hosting beer garden with live music and traditional Irish fare starting at 11 am.

On March 17, O’Ryleigh’s Tavern will be hosting a dual celebration, as they not only bring on St. Patrick’s Day, but they celebrate their one-year anniversary in Downtown Stockton.

They will have live music and drink specials all night long.

Big Valley Black Expo brings to downtown a two-day event that will offer workshops on housing, business, health, and green opportunities for the African-American community, March 25-26. For more information about this event, call (209) 525-1249.

For more events in Downtown Stockton, visit www.downtownstockton. org under What’s Happening, follow Facebook.com/downtownstockton or call Downtown Stockton Alliance at (209) 464-5246. R St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Downtown Stockton will include a street faire in front of Bradley’s American Bistro on Hunter Street. Photo by DSA

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

www.downtownstockton.org

ARTANDEVENTS Continued from page .

March 12, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitan! Long standing Mexican group was formed in 1898 in the town of Tecalitlan by Gaspar Vargas, Manuel Mendoza, and by two violinists. Mariachi Vargas appeared in almost 200 movies and recorded multiple records featuring pasodobles, valses, bailables, polkas, and danzones. Today, they will bring their lively performance to the historic Bob Hope Theatre. For more information call (209) 337-Hope or visit www.bobhopetheatre.com.

BAGEL EXPRESS

Deli Cafe

MON-FRI, 7 AM - 4 PM

March 19, Eddie Griffin LIVE! You have seen him in “Undercover Brother,” “Norbit,” “Dysfunctional Family,” and a number of award winning comedy specials - now see him live for one night only at the Bob Hope Theatre. For more information call (209) 337-Hope or visit www. bobhopetheatre.com.

Fresh bagels made the old-fashioned way $5.95 Lunch Special (with drink) Tri-Tip sandwiches Wed - Fri

March 25-26, Big Valley Black Expo! This is a not-to-be-missed event at the Civic Memorial Auditorium. The “America Back to Work” national tour will be on hand hoping to bring employment opportunities to Americans. This special session features information and resources like learning how to interview, meeting companies willing to prepare you for hire, registering for schools, colleges and universities and more. Learn about jobs created by the green economy and find new careers for those 55 and older. For more information call (209) 525-1249.

March 26, Book into Film Series!

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini will be a feature at this free event hosted at the Cesar Chavez Library.

The Film Series delves into the relationship between text and film.

Each program in the series will be comprised of a free showing of the film adaptation followed by a discussion about the book and how it was interpreted in the film. Books will be available for check out at the Library. For more information call (209) 937-8221 or visit www. stockton.lib.ca.us/chavez.

231 E. Weber Ave., Downtown Stockton, (209) 466-3000 TWO BANQUET ROOMS AVAILABLE

Ports, from page 4 2011 with the introduction of $2 Buck Mondays and Ports Tuesd-A’s. On these nights tickets, drinks, and hot dogs all cost just $2 bucks a pop.

This season, the Stockton’s team will team up with their parent affiliate, the Oakland Athletics, to offer a unique $15 ticket package which will include an MVP ticket to a Tuesday Ports game and a plaza outfield ticket to an A’s weekend game.

For a complete promotions schedule, visit www.stocktonports.com or call (209) 644-1900 for more information.

R

www.downtownstockton.org

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

17 The Downtowner

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON ALLIANCE SERVICES & UPDATES Who We Are

Staff Members

Our Mission To develop, promote and maintain historic Downtown Stockton as a regional business, cultural and entertainment destination.

Timothy Kerr Executive Director 209.888.8624 tkerr@downtownstockton.org

Nick Trulsson Ambassador Coordinator 209.888.8630 ntrulsson@downtownstockton.org

Our Goals To provide advocacy for property and business owners, we host the public policy committee and engage politicians in the interests of our stakeholders. For more information, contact Tim Kerr, Executive Director.

Emily Baime Marketing Director 209.888.8621 ebaime@downtownstockton.org

Sylwia Lipiec-Qualls Graphic Design 209.888.8626 squalls@downtownstockton.org

To attract and retain businesses and investors, we provide assistance to start up/relocated businesses, promote available real estate, provide loan funds and generate micro enterprise endeavors. For more information, contact Mimi Nguyen, Economic Development Director.

Mimi Nguyen Economic Development Director 209.888.8623 mnguyen@downtownstockton.org

Charisse Lowry Administrative Assistant 209.888.8625 clowry@downtownstockton.org

To market the downtown, we host events and activities, provide the monthly Downtowner, and work with media to attract visitors and locals.

For more information, contact Emily Baime, Marketing Director.

Ron Burton Maintenance Coordinator 209.888.8628 rburton@downtownstockton.org

To increase safety and welcome visitors, we have a staff of downtown ambassadors, host historical tours, provide escort services, and reach out to the community. For more information, contact Nick Trulsson, Ambassador Coordinator.

Christos Kotsoglou Event Coordinator 209.888.8627 ckotsoglou@downtownstockton.org

To maintain Downtown, we remove graffiti, power wash and provide cleaning services. For more information, contact Ron Burton, Maintenance Coordinator.

AMBASSADORS: Shirley G. 209.888.8631 Manuel L. 209.888.8622 Johnny P. 209.888.8633 Gus S. 209.888.8632 Luis V. 209.888.8635 ambassador@downtownstockton.org

SAVE THE DATE Bob Hope Theatre 8 am - 11 am downtownstocktonsummit.com

For reservations (209) 464-5246

Downtown Stockton Alliance Public Policy Updates Business Recruitment: Tim Kerr, Executive Director, and Emily Baime, Marketing Director, met with Emily Barnett of San Joaquin County Office of Education to begin promoting available commercial spaces and assisting with parking research.

On January 14, Downtown Stockton Alliance staff and board members, brokers and agents, stakeholders, bank representatives and other interested parties gathered at Vision Printing for a commercial property tour. The walking tour included access into the Metro (109 N. Sutter Street), the Belding Building (110 N. San Joaquin Street), 400 E. Main Street, Cort Tower (343 E. Main Street) and Vision Printing (235 N. San Joaquin Street).

Mimi Nguyen, Economic Development Director, met with owners of Lavish Cookie, a bakery interested in locating in Downtown Stockton. A business plan and outreach for space is in progress. Lavish Cookie representatives attended the commercial property tour in January for more information on the downtown area.

Business Retention: Forty Five Cocktailers for a Claus spent over $1,500 at Bradley’s American Bistro, O’Ryleigh’s Tavern, Misaki Sushi and Bar, and the Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel at the Cocktail for a Claus in December 2010. Over $300 was raised for area nonprofit organizations.

The Downtowner 18

Emily Baime met with City of Stockton Economic Development Staff to review grant funds for downtown blight removal.

Mimi Nguyen attended the Stockton Collegiate International Schools (SCIS) board meeting. SCIS K-5 students have completely moved in the Weber Avenue location, with room for a reading room and a physical education area. The application process and enrollment for 2011 are open. Applications are being accepted for both schools, grades K-12.

Alliance staff, Mimi Nguyen, Charisse Lowry, and Sylwia Qualls, attended the Souper Supper on February 18, a fundraiser for the Tidewater Art Center and Gallery.

Public Policy: DSA Economic Development Committee began the partnership and planning process to create a Business Summit for April 2011 in partnership with the Sustainable Development Series.

Chris Kotsoglou, Event Coordinator, attended the annual Diversity Mixer presented by the Chamber of Commerce at the Haggin Museum.

Downtown Ambassadors promoted Downtown Stockton at the San Joaquin Human Resources Conference.

At the February 16, 2011, regular meeting of the Board of Directors the Board unanimously approved a recommendation from the Safety

Committee to contribute $1,586 to fund one-half of the cost of providing t w o a d d i t i o n a l P o l i c e O ff i c e r s Friday evenings in the vicinity of the downtown cinemas. The remaining cost will be provided by cinema area businesses. This program has been initiated on a trial basis through March 2011. At the conclusion of this trial, the Stockton Police Department, downtown businesses and the Downtown Stockton Alliance will determine whether the additional patrol should be continued on a permanent and/or expanded basis. Anthony Barkett, DSA Board member and local business man, is to be commended for his leadership in developing this program in conjunction with the Stockton Police Department.

DSA President and Chair Mahesh Ranchhod and Board members Mahala Burns, Robert Davis and David Gould joined staff members, Tim Kerr, Emily Baime, Mimi Nguyen and Chris Kotsoglou, at the Downtown Sacramento Partnership State of the Downtown presentation on January 11.

At the State of Downtown, participants explored the concept of “Next-Cities,” places that have attributes to become talent magnets, and what contemporary issues civic leaders must address to remain relevant for the 21st century entrepreneurs and business owners.

The Stockton City Council recently appointed Executive Director Tim Kerr to a two year term on the City’s Climate

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

Action Plan Advisory Committee. The Committee’s goal is to insure that all aspects of the community are taken into consideration before adopting a Climate Action Plan for the City of Stockton. The goal of the Climate Action plan is to help mitigate the amount of greenhouse gas emission within the City of Stockton.

Media and Marketing: Communications were issued regarding January’s 2nd Friday’s commercial tour, Celebrate Love, Singles Crawl and St Patrick’s Day. Bulk advertising was purchased from San Joaquin Magazine, The Record, Citadel Radio, Big Monkey Group and others.

A radio station in Ohio is basing a program on research Emily Baime and Wes Rhea completed on a variety of music equipment and visitor kiosks. The Haggin Museum is in the process of installing banner poles around the museum and the Downtown Stockton Alliance together with the Stockton Conference and Visitor Bureau will be coaching them through the franchise process.

Tim Kerr and Emily Baime have been working with Comstock’s Magazine and KVIE public broadcast television on stories each media outlet is preparing to highlight Stockton. Comstock’s Magazine will focus primarily on Downtown Stockton, while KVIE is preparing a documentary on Greater Stockton which will include coverage on the Downtown. R www.downtownstockton.org

26th Stockton Asparagus Festival Brings Energy and Excitement With a fresh, energetic logo for the 20 Stockton Asparagus Festival, organizers have been hard at work with plans for another exciting year of entertainment and activities.

This year’s festival falls a week earlier than usual, due to Easter weekend. This year’s dates are Friday through Sunday, April 5,through 7.

The festival promises three exciting days of entertainment on the Main Stage at Weber Point, sponsored by Bud Light.

All performances are illuminated on the huge LED screen.

Starting off the power-packed weekend on Friday at pm is Caravanserai, a Santana tribute band performing music to satisfy Santana fans young and old.

They will be followed at 4:30 pm with the headliner Pride and Joy. This group is the Pride and Joy of the Bay Area presenting the most timeless pop/soul music of our time in an electrifying high-style show.

Following the Michelob Ultra Great Spear-It Run Saturday morning at 8 am, and the Deep Fried Asparagus Eating Competition, sponsored by Bud Light, at noon at the Main Stage, Department of Rock takes over the stage at pm. defending your right to party. You will rock out hard to the best rock music of the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and beyond. At 4:30 pm. Smash Mouth commands the Main Stage. A quick listen to their music and you realize the multi-platinum Smash Mouth, from San Jose, is a 60’s influenced garage band with a keen pop edge…a style they have created and that is all their own.

Main Stage entertainment kicks off again at pm on Sunday with Life in the Fastlane, an Eagles tribute band. A new twist to a show of Eagles music is having a female vocalist singing songs like “Desperado,” “I Can’t Tell You Why,” and “Love Will Keep Us Alive.”

Then we turn Country at 4:30 pm with Little Texas, an American country music band founded in Nashville, Tennessee in 988, releasing its debut album First time For Everything. The album’s lead off single, “Some Guys Have All the Love,” reached a peak of #8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks charts.

The beautiful, shade-covered waterfront venue at DeCarli Square features a full schedule of local and regional entertainment. Entertainment on the DeCarli Square Community Stage, sponsored by Foresters, kicks off on Friday at :30 am with John Covert and Crystal Image followed by The Advocates from Person Centered Services, Finding Stella, City Tappers, and concluding with Geri Eckert and Steppin’ Out. Saturday entertainment begins with the rousing drumbeats of Stockton Bukkyo Taiko at 0 am and followed by the KAOS Dance Company, Ed and the Educators, Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani, Children’s Home Band, The Old Pinoys, and Ballet Folklorico de Frank Zapata. The Mike Torres www.downtownstockton.org

FAMILYANDFUN

Band wraps up the day’s entertainment starting at 4:30 pm. The Caesar Chavez High School Band opens the DeCarli Stage on Sunday at 0 am, followed by Los Danzantes del Puerto, Bahala Na – Multi-Style Escrima, Loki Rhythms, The Caesar Chavez Mariachis & Show Choir, Dance Extreme, and ending the weekend with Latin Magic at 4:30.

Another highlight of the annual Best of the West Food Fest is the Celebrity Kitchen presented in the main hall of the Civic Auditorium. Sponsored by Delta Health Systems, the three day schedule will feature several KCRA celebrities along with some noted Stockton area chefs. San Joaquin Delta College Culinary Arts Instructor Mark Berkner will be a major feature on Friday and Saturday representing his two restaurants: Taste in Plymouth and The Volcano Union Inn in Volcano. In addition, his Delta Culinary department will perform culinary feats during two sessions each day. Other spotlighted chefs will include Chef Julio of Califas Café & Bistro in Lodi, Chef Richard Hyman of Mezzo, and Chef Lance Hatcher of Le Bistro, both in Stockton.

The Foster Farms Chickens return this year on Saturday only, and on Sunday you can enjoy the musical antics of The California Repurcussions as they stroll the grounds. Then there’s Velocity Circus sponsored by University of the Pacific, Sea Lion Encounters sponsored

by Village West Marina, Skyy Dogs and Tyson the Skateboarding Bulldog sponsored by Toyota, and much, much more. Visit the festival’s website at www.asparagusfest.com for all the details. R

506 E. Weber Avenue Stockton

209-467-4062

Haggin Museum hosts an evening of art and history featuring complimentary wine, music, and light refreshments on the first and third Thursdays. The Haggin Museum, an art and history museum, has been referred to by Sunset magazine as “one of the under-sung gems of California.”

Museum’s general admission is $5, kids 0- 7 and seniors are $2.50. For more information call (209) 940-6300 or visit www.hagginmuseum.org.

EdZOOcational Programs at Micke Grove Zoo! New educational programming for children in grades Pre K through 6th will offer a variety of engaging, interactive programs for school groups and teachers including g u i d ed zo o t o u rs , l i v e a n i m a l encounters, and fun, informative talks. Register a class or group today!

For more information call (209) 33 2 38 or email zooed@sjgov.org.

March 9 - April 3, “Stop the World - I Want to Get Off” at the Stockton Civic Theatre! A thought-provoking tale about the fleeting nature of worldly success, the play is set against the backdrop of a circus. For more information call (209) 473-2424 or visit www.sctlivetheatre.com.

March 9, Recycling Exposition VII at Hilton Hotel in Stockton!

San Joaquin County’s largest green exposition will educate on topics such as electronic waste and clean Styrofoam collection, clean energy, or benefits of being a leader on climate change. The day-long event will also include exhibits and a raffle. For more information call (209) 547-2763.

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

March 10 & 12, Stockton Symphony’s Symphonic Spice Concert at the Atherton Auditorium, San Joaquin Delta College! Chilean-born flautist, Viviana Guzmán, who has performed in eighty-five countries and on all seven continents, will join the Stockton Symphony in its fourth Classics Concert in the 20 0- season. For more information call (209) 95 -0 96 or visit www.stocktonsymphony.org.

March 12, Astronomy in the Park at Oak Grove Regional Park! Stockton Astronomical Society hosts these popular astronomy-themed activities and crafts inside the Nature Center.

Volunteer staff will provide telescopes for stargazing. Activities are free and open to people of all ages. Oak Grove Regional Park entrance fee of $5 is required per vehicle. For more information call (209) 953-88 4 or visit www.mgzoo.com.

March 31, screening of the “Sowing the Seeds of Justice” at the Mexican Heritage Center! The movie paints a portrait of Cruz Reynoso, a man who felt the sting of injustice as a child and later, as a lawyer, judge and teacher, fought for over five decades to eradicate discrimination and inequality for all. The film maker, Abby Ginzberg, will be present. For more information call (209) 547-0792 or visit mexicanheritagecenter.org.

Baseball Season starts at the University of the Pacific! For game schedule visit www.pacifictigers.cstv. com.

9 The Downtowner

The Downtowner  20

Downtown Stockton Alliance 209.464.5246

www.downtownstockton.org