Podcast Stockton: Recent Episodes
Podcast Stockton
Podcast Stockton was the show all about the great life in Stockton, California. Running from 2009 to 2016, our show featured discussion on current events and interviews with people that helped make Stockton a great city!
In April 2010, at the beautiful Banner Island Ballpark, I met Al Wolter from the terrific Barbershop Quartet group, TuneStruck.
I absolutely loved their sound and soon after, I asked them if they would record something for our show. Within a couple of weeks, they had sent me this awesome recording! We played it on episode 38 in late April 2010, but the memory of their recording has lived in my head ever since.
So, here it is.
I love this.
Thanks again, TuneStruck!
You can still find them on Facebook and their website.
Today marks 10 years since the release of the first episode of Podcast Stockton. Aside from my family and my professional career, Podcast Stockton remains one of the greatest accomplishments of my life. Podcast Stockton was a true labor of love for many years... and 107 episodes! I wouldn’t be who am I today if it weren’t for the show.
In response to coverage of my hometown that nearly always focused on the negative, I released the first episode of Podcast Stockton on March 22, 2009. Choosing to focus on the positive side of Stockton, I wanted to bring listeners local business reviews, commentary on local issues, and interviews with local residents.
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 106. For this episode, we pulled out some highlights from a couple of our past shows.
On this episode of Podcast Stockton, we feature a great interview with Brandon Piasecki. Brandon is a high school chemistry teacher at Stockton Collegiate in downtown Stockton, but that barely scratches the surface of who Brandon is and what he does in Stockton.
Brandon Piasecki
Photo by Shannon Lea Rock
As a talented musician, and using the name Mista P, Brandon created some impressive YouTube videos to help teach chemistry principles to his students. He also recently released an EP, Touch The World, recorded at Press Recording Studio in downtown Stockton. The proceeds from which will go toward his Grace Notes Music Project to give local students the chance to record music in a professional recording studio. As the hype man for Channel Brewing, Brandon helped get the Kickstarter campaign off the ground and helps put on events for the brewery.
Brandon is also a member of Little Free Library Stockton and is the host of the Third City Podcast.
Follow Brandon on Instagram @mrp_chemistry and Twitter @mrp_chemistry.
This week, we welcome back an old friend of the show, Gabriel Reyes, as co-host. A talented local artist and former podcaster himself, Gabriel has co-hosted a number of Podcast Stockton shows in the past. It's great to have him back on the show! Gabriel recently took part in the Upside Down art show at Empresso, featuring local art based on the Netflix series "Stranger Things".
The music for episode 105 is "Collide Someday" from Brandon's new EP, Touch The World. Check out the whole EP at brandonjames209.bandcamp.com. We also played a sample of "What's the Table For?", the video is a must-see!
Sharing the positive stories about people in Stockton has long been the goal of Podcast Stockton but we are far from the only ones doing that. Driven by his faith as a Christian and his love for Stockton, Peter Powers started Positive Perspective Stockton magazine two years ago.
Peter Powers
Positive Perspective Stockton is a high-quality, full-color magazine that, just as the title suggests, highlights positive people and stories in Stockton.
Peter's faith, along with his love for Stockton, drives him to publish the magazine, a definite labor of love. Peter is proud to consider his product a faith based magazine but acknowledges that not all of the articles in each edition are specifically Christian.
Not being content with simply telling the stories of the positive side of Stockton, Peter plays an active role in creating more positive stories himself. He recently partnered with Calvary First Church on The Kelley Project to open Heroes Park, a needed community park on Kelley Drive.
Positive Perspective Stockton is published 6 times per year and are available free throughout Stockton. In addition to making the print edition available for free, the magazine is also available online.
Hockey is back in Stockton! The Stockton Heat return to the Stockton Arena for their second season. This season they will be introducing a new goal song and they want us fans to help them pick a song. Visit their website before Wednesday to cast your vote!
And the next time you're at a Heat game, look for Podcast Stockton's own "Hot Rod" Villagomez working another season with the between play entertainment crew.
N. Tyler Young
Photo by Jim Snyder
Local cyclist, Tyler Young, is the leader of the Great Ride Series bike rides from Stockton's Performance Bicycles in Lincoln Center. More than just a cyclist or ride leader, Tyler is one of the most well known cyclists in Stockton. His dedication to his riders is unparalleled. He started cycling again just a few years ago and used it to lose weight and get back in shape. Since then, he has used his passion for riding to encourage people all over Stockton to get out on their bikes.
Every Saturday, Tyler leads a ride from the Performance store. A family-friendly ride that often gets up to 50 riders, Tyler takes his fellow cyclists through north Stockton neighborhoods and on to the Calaveras bike path before heading to University of the Pacific and the turn-around point at Starbucks on the Miracle Mile.
“He doesn’t care if you’re slow or fast, he just wants you to be there.”
— Kiel Penrod, local cyclist
To get an idea of what Tyler means to local cyclists, I spoke with a few of his riders, Kelly Rose, Kiel Penrod and Karen Jordan, during a recent Saturday morning ride.
“I push myself to show up because of Tyler. This has become a big part of my life.”
— Karen Jordan, local cyclist
Tyler's impact on local cyclists is clear. Talk to any of his riders and they will tell you he is the reason they continue to get out on their bike.
Tyler has a ride for all cyclists, no matter what "tribe" they belong to. His Saturday rides have every level of cyclist, from families riding with small children to die-hard lycra-clad road cyclists. He also leads a weekly mountain bike specific ride and a Sunday road bike specific ride of varying distances.
Be sure to check out his ride schedule on Meetup and look for him and the rest of his riders on Strava. Here's a video from a recent Saturday ride.
Follow Tyler on Instagram, @roguefreeman.
The music for episode 103 is "Calaveras Super Highway" by Michael Klooster & Ernest B. Mancuso, featuring Justin Anderson.
There is a new podcast in town, Fat City Establishment. Their first episode was released last week and focuses on Stockton politics. Stockton needs more independent voices and we are excited to have a new show in town. Congratulations to Fat City Establishment on their inaugural show. Listen and subscribe on Soundcloud and iTunes.
Even though Jenny-Faye Klooster and her family moved from Stockton four years ago, her ties to Stockton run deep. She is a multi-generation Stocktonian now living in Southern California but still considers Stockton her home.
A fixture on the Miracle Mile, Jenny-Faye first worked at, and then eventually owned and operated San Francisco Floral.
Jenny-Faye Klooster
After moving, Jenny-Faye started a blog, The Swearing Mom's Guide to Life, what she calls, "A menagerie of opinions and ideas of lifestyle and social relevance through the eyes of a potty mouthed Mama".
Her blog is well-written and full of wonderful food and drink recipes. But its biggest draw is the personal stories and opinion pieces.
On a recent visit to Stockton, Jenny-Faye sat down with Matt. Before they started the official interview, Jenny-Faye made a drink, one that she had recently featured on her blog, a Hard Cherry Limeade.
Jenny-Faye also began releasing videos, showcasing some fun cocktails. Honey Lavender Lemontini, The Ginger Greyhound and Blackberry Bourbon Smash have been very popular.
Amongst the recipes are some very personal posts, such as The Fattest Girl in the Room and A Villain, a Mom and Two Little Boys.
Follow the blog at swearingmom.com and on Facebook at facebook.com/theswearingmom.
The music for episode 102 is "Brand New Revolution" by Icarus Jones.
Stephen Bentley, a deacon at Saint John the Evangelist Episcopal Church in Downtown Stockton recently opened HUB, Helping Urban Bicyclists. A lifelong cyclist and twenty-year resident of Stockton, Stephen has spent years helping the homeless and near homeless members of our community.
Episode 101 of Podcast Stockton is hosted by Susan Spracher and Rod Villagomez.
HUB's Deacon Stephen Bentley at a recent Full Moon Riders ride around Downtown Stockton
Before opening HUB, he would occasionally help people in need by fixing a bike chain or flat tire but he had bigger goals. He set out to open a bike shop downtown that would serve the often forgotten members of our community.
HUB opened in April and, with the help of volunteers and generous donations from the community, he has been able to provide people in need with bike repairs and, in some cases, their own bikes.
Stephen talks with Podcast Stockton's Matt Beckwith about why he started HUB and what it means to be able to provide this service to the people of Stockton.
HUB is always accepting donations of bikes, bike parts and cash. They are located at 131 E. Miner Street, just east of El Dorado Street. It is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 AM to 4 PM and on Wednesdays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Get more information on HUB and read some of the stories about the people they've helped on their Facebook page facebook.com/STOCKTONHUB.
Stephen is also a very talented comic artist and write the daily comic strip, Herb and Jamaal. Matt and Stephen talk about the work involved with hand-drawing and lettering a daily comic strip and if Stephen identifies more with Herb or Jamaal. You can read the daily comic strip at gocomics.com/herbandjamaal.
The music for episode 101 is "Lakeshore Drive (Guitar Jazz Version)" by Stockton based band, Pushers & Thieves. Find them on Facebook and ReverbNation.
Welcome to season three of Podcast Stockton! Our entire team is back and we all are excited to bring you more of the people and the stories that make Stockton great!
Visit Stockton CEO, Wes Rhea
For our 100th regular episode, we are very happy to be joined again by Wes Rhea, CEO of Visit Stockton. We are all thankful for Wes and his incredible supporter of Podcast Stockton since the early days!
Episode 100 is hosted by Susan Spracher and Rod Villagomez.
Matt and Wes discussed what has changed in Stockton, and with Visit Stockton, in the past two-and-a-half years since the last time he was on the show.
They also discussed the bold, new Visit Stockton logo, why it's important to also market Stockton to people in Stockton - "The number reason people visit a community is to visit friends and family", the progress in Downtown Stockton, some upcoming events and more.
There are always so many fun things to do in Stockton and Wes and his team work hard to organize the area's best events calendar. Don't forget to sign up for the weekly Visit Stockton newsletter, you won't be disappointed.
Some upcoming key events:
Stockton Beer Week Brew Fest, September 11, tickets on sale now
Stockton Beer Week, September 16-25
Stockton Arts Week, October 14-23
NCAA Women's Division 1 basketball, March 24-27, 2017
Follow Visit Stockton on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and their website, VisitStockton.org.
Thank you, again, to Wes Rhea for all of your support through the years, for your tireless dedication to presenting Stockton in a positive light, and for being our guest for episode 100.
Music for this episode, "I Told You I Love You, Now Get Out" courtesy of Wendi Maxwell. Visit her website wendimaxwell.com and follow Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz on Facebook.
Smack dab in the middle of Stockton Beer Week, in this week's episode Susan and Matt talk with Lauren Sage, a bartender at The Abbey Trappist Pub, and beer blogger at Beer Up Your Life.
True Beer Geek
Lauren Sage
Lauren talks about the craft beer movement in Stockton and the rest of California.
She also brought along some great California brews for us to sample:
Dust Bowl's Hobo Pilsner
Sudwerk's Dry Hop Lager
Russian River Brewing Co. and Sierra Nevada Beer Camp's Yvan the Great Belgian-Style Blonde
21st Amendment Brewery Brew Free or Die IPA
Lauren works at The Abbey Trappist Pub which has been on the Mile for three years. With eight beers on draft and around 70 different bottles on hand - many of which a from brewers within an hour and a half drive from Stockton - there is a beer there for every type of drinker.
She worked alongside other brewers and the crew at Dust Bowl Brewing to help create Stockton Session, a hoppy red ale available just during Stockton Beer Week. Lauren also helped organize some Stockton Beer Week events like the beer and macaron pairing last weekend (sorry if you missed that one!).
Don't forget to come to The Abbey on Saturday for the Local's Only Beer Fest.
Follow @beerupyourlife and @theabbeytrappist on Instagram.
Stockton Beer Week is still here!From August 22 - 31, the team at Visit Stockton bring us so many opportunities to celebrate beer in Stockton during Stockton Beer Week. There are great events scheduled from Friday through next weekend. Visit stocktonbeerweek.com for all the details.
Leading up to Stockton Beer Week, in this episode, Matt and Rod sit down with Steve Altimari, President and Brewmaster of High Water Brewing.
Beer
Steve Altimari, President and Brewmaster of High Water Brewing.
One of the best things about doing an interview with a brewmaster is, well, the beer. Steve brought some of his beers in to the Outback Studio for us to sample while we talked.
We opened the show with Hop Riot IPA and then moved on to Hop Logic, Aphotic Imperial Porter, and then ended with High Water's best-selling brew, and a favorite of Matt's, Campfire Stout.
Career ChangeSteve started as a home-brewer while working in information technology and then eventually attended America's Brewers Guild at UC Davis before working at Stockton's El Dorado Brewing Company which he eventually bought and turned into Valley Brewing Company. He eventually sold Valley Brew and is now a full-time brewer.
High Water Brewing beers can be found all over Stockton. On the Mile, you can often find a selection at Mile Wine Company and The Abbey Trappist Pub. You can also find High Water bottles at BevMo, S-Mart and even more retailers.
Learn more about High Water Brewing at highwaterbrewing.com.
Stockton Beer Week is back!From August 22 - 31, the team at Visit Stockton bring us so many opportunities to celebrate beer in Stockton during Stockton Beer Week. There are great events scheduled from Friday through next weekend. Visit stocktonbeerweek.com for all the details.
In this episode, Greg and Matt sit down with local comedian and comedy show promoter, Reggie "Thuggdork" Galindo.
"I can do this"
Reggie "Thuggdork" Galindo
Before getting on stage for the first time in San Jose in 1997, Reggie saw a comedian perform at a festival "I can do this".
Even after doing shows locally and out on the road, Reggie doesn't consider himself a comedian. He enjoys doing comedy but doesn't necessarily identify with the title. As an addict in recovery, Reggie tells some personal stories of what his road has been like.
After some time performing comedy, Reggie started promoting shows and found that he could successfully bring in the crowds to see other comedians as well.
Thuggdork is hosting Comedy BASH 2 at Empire Theatre next Friday, July 25.
There are still tickets left, but get yours now before they are all sold out.
Call to get your tickets.
In this week's episode, Matt interviews Tim Viall. After moving to Stockton 23 years ago to work for the Record, Tim went on to work for the Chamber of Commerce, was the first Executive Director of the Downtown Stockton Alliance, and after 10 years, recently retired as the Executive Director of the Emergency Food Bank.
Busy In Retirement
Tim Viall
Tim has remained busy in the community, serving as a board member for the Friends of the Fox Classic Movie Series and San Joaquin Bike Coalition. Tim has also completed the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program.
Last year, Tim started a travel blog, Little Places I Know, where he writes about his trips throughout the country. His travel blog is now featured as a Record Community Blog. Tim has also written several pieces that have appeared in the travel section of the Record's Sunday newspaper (his recent article about Redding).
Tim can be reached by e-mail at tviall@msn.com.
Stockton on another listStockton is no stranger to lists of all kinds. In fact, Podcast Stockton started, more than 5 years ago, as a response to our city being named to a list that I won't bother naming. Throughout the years, Stockton has appeared on many different lists, most of which are probably just designed to get website views for the companies making the lists. Last week, there was a lot of buzz about Stockton being named home to the country's hottest women.
Last week, the Board of Directors for the Stockton Asparagus Festival issued a press release announcing that the 2014 festival, the 29th, was it's final festival. Matt, Susan, Rod, and Greg sat down to talk about what might have happened, and the memories they will cherish. They also had the chance to hear from Podcast Stockton listeners as well as interview Doug Wilhoit and Wes Rhea.
So Long Old Friend
The signature dish, deep-fried asparagus
It really is hard to believe that after 29 years our signature event is no-more. The Asparagus Festival has meant so much to each of us at Podcast Stockton. When the news broke about its end, we wanted to capture our thoughts, and the thoughts of some of our listeners.
We couldn't contain all of the Asparagus Festival talk into just one episode, so we cut it down to two episodes of around 50 minutes each. We are honored to have you join us for this very special episode. You can listen to both episodes below, from iTunes, or Stitcher.
In the first part, Jennifer Boylan opens up with her thoughts. Later, we hear from Chris Kay. Rod had the chance to ask a couple of Stockton residents, Barbara and Roger, their thoughts on the festival. We also heard from Bill Loyko, Eric Johnston, Jenny Klooster, Melissa Wyman, and Don Maszewski.
In the second part, Greg talks with Doug Wilhoit, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Chamber of Commerce and Asparagus Festival board member. Matt sits down with Wes Rhea, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Stockton and Asparagus Festival board member. Lastly, we hear from Tim Nunes.
Here are some pictures of some of the last few years - 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2011 eating competition.
On behalf of the Podcast Stockton team, both past and present, thank you to Kate Post, Wes Rhea, and the rest of the Board of Directors of the Stockton Asparagus Festival. It is our mission to highlight the great life in Stockton, and for 29 wonderful years, you did just that. We are also very thankful for the support you gave to us since our humble beginning in 2009. When we asked for tickets to give away to listeners, you responded. Every time we asked for interviews, or press access, you granted it with a smile. We did our best to highlight the amazing work you and the hundreds of volunteers do every year and we are truly grateful for the opportunity you gave to us to cover the festival. Stockton is a better place because of each of you that made the Asparagus Festival happen. We have no doubt that our city is better for you and for it, and Stockton will shine even in its absence, even though, for now, as we mourn. Thank you.
To our listeners, what will you miss most about the Asparagus Festival?
In this week's episode, Matt and Greg are joined in studio by musician Michael Klooster.
Still Very Stockton
Michael Klooster
While many people will recognize him as the keyboardist with Smash Mouth, in Stockton, Michael Klooster is much more. Although he and his wife, also a Stockton native, and their two sons recently moved to southern California, he has maintained deep ties to the Stockton music scene. Michael has worked with many local bands including Snap Jackson and the Knock On Wood Players, and The Mundaze. He is in town working as a guest producer at a University of the Pacific summer program.
He is also in town to perform.
Next week, his solo project, Klooster, is playing at The Whisky Barrel along with The Mundaze and Letter Blue. The show is on Tuesday, June 17 at 8 PM.
This summer, he and the rest of Smash Mouth will be joining Uncle Kracker, Sugar Ray, and Blues Traveler on the Under The Sun Tour.
Michael brought his left-handed baritone ukulele and was joined by Klooster guitarist Stanley Raquel on "Give Them A Show" and "I'll Move On".
Downtown Stockton, photo taken July 31, 2010
My friend Wes, the CEO of Visit Stockton, was the first to text me to tell me that my picture had been used in a post entitled “The 10 Most Boring Cities in America”. He wasn’t the only one though. My partners on Podcast Stockton as well as a few other friends also brought it to my attention. I wish I had time to write a response right away, but I didn’t. My wife and I were too busy rushing home from work in time to get ready to go out and celebrate the wonderful work that Puentes is doing with the Boggs Tract Community Farm. We celebrated Puentes, a local non-profit dedicated to spreading the knowledge and the development of sustainable technology through beyond-organic farming, by enjoying a wonderful meal and beer pairing (side note: High Water Brewing is pretty amazing), listening to some wonderful music by Horatio Monroe, catching up with great friends and meeting some great new friends at the Mile Wine Company on the Miracle Mile.
What is really unfortunate is that we really wanted to attend the event at the beautiful Haggin Museum, which they hold every first and third Thursday of the month. Tonight was the Tamara Phelan Trio, a wonderful music group. Sadly, we missed that event in favor of the fundraising event supporting Puentes.
After a long, fun night, we headed home. I was too tired to write and wondered, with all the goings on in Stockton, will there ever be time to write?
When News 10, a station whose morning news program I have watched for most of my adult life, included my picture in the story, I was upset. Especially since the original article used a completely different picture. But now, I am tired of being defensive. I have no time to be defensive. There’s too much to do to get angry about some real estate blog saying we have a boring city. But to have News 10 use my photo? Ouch. I love this city and have dedicated so much to help show it in a positive light.
Well, there’s a Stockton Ports game tomorrow so I better get this post written before I go to bed, otherwise there’ll never be time. And the weekend? Seriously? No way I’ll get time to write then. With the free bike ride sponsored by the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, practice with our local blind baseball team, the California Rays, and Astronomy in the Park on Saturday, it’s too bad I won’t have much time to write. Oh man, the Delta Nights Blues Band is playing at Whirlow’s on Saturday night. Decisions, decisions, decisions. Well, at least we have a couple of weeks before the classic movies at the Fox start up again. What’s that? You’ve never heard of the Friends Of The Fox's Classic Movie Series? I am bummed that we can’t make it to the Maya Angelou celebration this weekend at the library that bears her name.
Besides the ever expanding live music calendar and great restaurants and bars, my wife and I are lucky to have to have very dear friends in this community and we always seem to fill up our calendars with activities with them. By the way, have you seen Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz perform? Seriously, they are hot!
A couple of nights ago, I took my grand daughter and her auntie, the youngest daughter of my wife and I, to the first Concert in the Park of the season. Of course, like we always do, we had an incredibly fun time. Same old story: we saw some great friends and enjoyed meeting new ones. Just another summer Wednesday night in Stockton.
Of course, I could have opted to go to Finnegan’s, or any of the other great bars in town filled with lots of great people, albeit not with the kids. But, as always, there are too many things to do at any given time. What I can always go for is a savory crepe at Midtown Creperie, but again, too many things to do, not enough time.
The team at Visit Stockton maintain the single best events calendar for Stockton. I know, because once, my compadres on the Podcast Stockton team tried to do everything on the calendar in one weekend. We failed. Miserably. Literally. By late-afternoon on that Saturday we threw in the towel. We just couldn’t do it. Clearly we are one of the most boring cities in America. By the way, wasn’t someone working on a sarcasm punctuation mark?
Look, we know we are a city that has bore the brunt of national news media punches about our property values (by the way, did you see this?), crime, foreclosures, and our course, the big one: the bankruptcy. But does that mean we aren't a vibrant city full of people that love it here and love to have a good time? Not on your life.
Clearly, the writers of this meaningless list never subscribed to the Visit Stockton Weekend Activities Guide. And I am not even going to suggest that they do. Screw these lists. We’ve been on enough of them. We know who we are and what we have. Like Red’s Coffee, the best coffee shop in town, we know that. We are tired of being the punching bag for list-makers who are only interested in getting clicks and impressions.
And don’t get me going on our wonderful parks and the delta! The delta. You know, the greatest waterway in Northern California.
What I do want is for the fine folks at News 10 to kindly remove my photograph from their post. I do not want my name and photograph associated with such a post. I understand that my Flickr settings are such that allow them to use my photo in a noncommercial manner with accreditation. They have credited me by listing my name, but since they have advertisements on their page I consider it commercial. Not to mention, using my picture to speak negatively of my city, where I choose to live and raise my family, especially since it was not taken in that spirit, is hurtful. Send a camera down here and capture your own picture. (Update: Ian Hill, Executive Producer of Digital & Social for News 10 sent me a message within a couple of hours of this post letting me know he had replaced the image.)
(But seriously, Dan, Keba, Jeff, Chris, Melissa, Rob… big fan here! And Walt, you too!)
Gotta go. Too much to do. And by the way, I’ve been to Plano (number 6 on that same list). Years ago it reminded me of the Ontario, California of Northern Texas. Not too bad. The trick is dining where the die-hard locals eat. There’s nothing wrong with Saltgrass Steak House, but it doesn’t define that city anymore than Applebee’s defines ours.
Gotta go…
See you around town!
This week, Matt and Rod sit down with Marquis Harris from Marquis Entertainment.
Entertainer
Marquis Harris
Starting his entertainment career organizing and hosting shows in Tracy, Marquis soon found himself performing in bands, hosting fashion shows and emceeing events throughout the area.
A love for basketball brought Marquis to the University of Montana Western on a full-ride scholarship. After college, Marquis returned to Tracy and shortly thereafter, Stockton, where he has made his home ever since.
Since 1989, Marquis has been building a very successful DJ and entertainment business. He and his team have performed at countless weddings and corporate events, as well as regularly hosting karaoke at local bars.
For more information on Marquis Entertainment, call him at 209-951-1982, visit marquisentdjs.com, or find him on Facebook. Learn the steps to Superman Glide by watching this video, or text "supermanglide" to 55469.
This week, Matt and Greg sit down with Officer Joe Silva of the Stockton Police Department.
Stockton Native, Career Police Officer
Officer Joe Silva
A career law enforcement professional, Silva grew up in Stockton, attended Stockton schools, including Lincoln High School and Delta College before graduating from California State University, Sacramento with a degree in Criminal Justice. Officer Silva started with the Stockton Police Department in 1996 and worked as an officer and homicide detective before being named the department's Public Information Officer where he is the department's liaison to media outlets. In this role, Officer Silva also oversees the social media sites for the Stockton Police Department.
As the Public Information Officer, Silva is typically the voice and face of the Stockton Police Department in local media. On Valentine's Day, however, he became part of the news. Officer Silva was off-duty and dining in a local restaurant when an argument broke out in the bar. Officer Silva moved toward the commotion and saw a man wielding a gun. He held the suspect at gun point until other officers arrived.
Keep up with the Stockton Police Department, submit a tip, or learn more about career opportunities by visiting stocktongov.com/police. Also, follow the Stockton Police Department on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The department now has a smartphone app for iPhone and Android.
This week on Podcast Stockton, we ask listeners for their opinion on the state of our city.
On Thursday, the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce hosts the 16th annual State of the City. This year's speakers will include our Mayor Anthony Silva, Police Chief Eric Jones, City Manager Kurt Wilson, and Port Commission Chairman Victor Mow.
There will surely be a lot of coverage during and after the event.
Leading up to that, we asked our listeners to send in their own submissions answering the question, "What is the state of Stockton from your perspective?". We received a lot of great responses.
On today's show we hear from:
- Levi Wells, local photographer (mrmrsphotography.com)
- Benjamin Saffold, tireless community volunteer and advocate (gcrms.org)
- Afex209, local artist
- Ryan Camero, Arts and environmental education advocate, and SJDC student body government member
- Sofia Colón, Stocktonian
- Tom Mondragon, local musician
- David Garcia, blogger (stocktoncitylimits.com)
We appreciate everyone that contributed to today's show. We are sure your comments will resonate with many Stockton residents. We all love our city and are proud call Stockton home and we are honored to share this city with each of you.
The State of the City - May 22, 2014
Register to vote and get details about the June 3 primary election
Boards & Commissions Openings
This week, Matt talks with Michael Brooking, local photographer and proprietor of Red's, the downtown Stockton coffee shop.
Michael Brooking
Michael Brooking
A lifelong Stockton resident, Mike got bit by the photography bug at an early age and has been shooting pictures ever since. You can view many of his photographs on Flickr and his website.
Mike is also the proprietor of Red's, the coffee shop in downtown Stockton. Located at 13 South San Joaquin, Mike serves the downtown crowd mornings, Monday through Friday.
More links from this week's episode:
anotherlevelcrossfit.com
The Bookstore - a set on Flickr
In this week's episode Matt and Rod talk with Miguel Guillen, the creator of the @stocktonca Instagram account.
They also talk about this weekend's Asparagus Festival and the return of Johnny Milford to the airwaves!
Miguel Guillen
In 2012, Miguel started an Instagram account as @stocktonca. He posted one picture and then ignored it for a while. What he didn't realize then was that he was starting to build a community on Instagram, the social media app and website where users share photos and short videos.
The @stocktonca account on Instagram has over 12,000 followers and features photos with the hashtags #stocktonca and #IGersStockton.
Miguel recently helped organize Stockton's second Instameet, where Instagram users got together at the Stockton Arena.
Join the community at instagram.com/stocktonca.
Asparagus Festival 2014This weekend marks the return of the Asparagus Festival. Matt and Rod talk about the upcoming Asparagus Festival. For more information about the Asparagus Festival, visit asparagusfest.com.
Johnny Milford is Back!!!Last September, Matt and Susan sat down with local radio and voice over legend, Johnny Milford for episode 71.
Well, we are so excited because last week Johnny returned to the airwaves as Johnny Stockton on Stockton's new country radio station 105.9 The Bull. Listen to him weekday afternoons 2 PM - 7 PM on 105.9 FM. Visit 1059thebull.com and find them on Facebook.com/stocktoncountry and Twitter @stocktoncountry.
This week Rod catches up with Amanda King and Lucas, the talented on-air personalities of The Morning Block Party on KWIN 97.7 and 98.3 FM.
The Morning Block Party and so much more...
As advocates for local youth and sports, Amanda and Lucas are more than just the talented voices on the radio in the morning. They are both truly passionate about Stockton and their listeners and spend time giving back to the community in many ways.
Find them on the radio, 97.7 and 98.3 FM, on the Morning Block Party, weekdays from 6 to 10 AM. Also, listen live online at KWIN.com and iHeartRADIO.
GSADOThere's less than one week left of the Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out. Once again, Visit Stockton has put together a growing list of participating restaurants for this great local event as the perfect lead up the Stockton Asparagus Festival. Matt and Susan talk about some of the great choices out there. The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out runs until April 20. Check out the participating restaurants at dineoutstockton.com.
In today's episode, Matt and Susan continue their conversation with Bill and Wendi Maxwell. Don't forget to go back to yesterday's show and listen to part one of our conversation.
Wendi and Bill Maxwell
Bill tells the story of how he and Wendi met more than 35 years ago and how he got his start in the book business. Bill also worked in a mortuary before eventually becoming the proprietor of The Bookmark and re-naming it Maxwell's Bookmark. Bill is still an active bookseller and continues his business online. Bill also talks about his current role as Archivist for the Bank of Stockton.
Lastly, Bill and Wendi talk about their thoughts on a renaissance of sorts going on in Stockton today.
For more information on Maxwell's Bookmark, visit maxwellsbookmark.com.
The music on today's show was "Everything I've Got" by Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz. For more information on Wendi Maxwell, visit her website wendimaxwell.com. Also, download the new CD from Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz, Help a Good Girl Go Bad on CDBaby or iTunes. Don't miss seeing her and the band perform live in Stockton. Check out their schedule here. Visit newschoolaikido.com for more information on Wendi's local work in Aikido.
In this episode, Matt and Susan are joined by Bill and Wendi Maxwell, a truly one-of-a-kind Stockton couple.
Wendi & Bill Maxwell
Wendi and Bill Maxwell have each left their mark on Stockton in their own way, and are continuing to bring positivity to our city as active members of our community.
In today's episode, we talk with Wendi about being a musician and her professional life before retiring several years ago. Wendi, who is a fourth degree black belt, was recently named manager of Aikido programs at New School Aikido.
Don't worry, Bill will have plenty of time in tomorrow's episode. Come back then to listen to our next interview and the rest of the Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell story.
For more information on Wendi Maxwell, visit her website wendimaxwell.com. Also, download the new CD from Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz, Help a Good Girl Go Bad on CDBaby or iTunes. Don't miss seeing her and the band perform live in Stockton. Check out their schedule here. Visit newschoolaikido.com for more information on Wendi's local work in Aikido.
For more information on Maxwell's Bookmark, visit maxwellsbookmark.com.
The music on today's show was "Better Than Anything" by Wendi Maxwell and Tres Hot Jazz.
Don't forget to come back tomorrow to hear the second half of our interview with Bill and Wendi.
In this week's episode, Susan and Rod talk with Matt about the 26th annual Stockton Earth Day Festival, which takes place on Sunday, April 6, at Victory Park.
HistoryChristie Kelley from the Peace & Justice Network of San Joaquin County talks about the early days of the Stockton Earth Day Festival and how it grew to what it is today, while keeping true to it's original goal of being an event focused on environmental education.
ArtRyan Camero, a Delta College student, artist, community organizer, and Earth Day Festival volunteer committee member discusses some exciting new art activities for this year's festival. In addition to spearheading fun arts activities for kids and live art exhibits, Ryan helped bring an interactive art scroll, "It's the Same Thing" by New York based artist Rachel Schragis, to Stockton and will have demonstrations throughout the day. Ryan attended Gabfestry, a national art activists conference in Machias, Maine last year and participated in a similar activity with the scroll.
What To Expect This YearSusan and Rod turn the tables on their podcast partner, Matt, and interview him about this year's Stockton Earth Day Festival.
There will be lots of great information booths where kids can have fun while learning ways to protect the environment.
Where's the beef? Just as it has been for the past 25 festivals, the Stockton Earth Day Festival is a no meat event. Food vendors will be serving vegetarian and other non-meat items as a way to encourage festival goers to eat lower on the food chain.
JoDee Eatmon, a passionate local yoga instructor, is back this year to lead yoga at 10 a.m.
Registration for The Family Fun Bike Ride, sponsored by St. Joseph's Medical Center, starts at 10:30 a.m. Ride your bike to the festival and keep it checked in to the bike corral sponsored by the San Joaquin Bike Coalition.
Live EntertainmentThere will be lots of great live entertainment next Sunday on the Cal Water Main Stage.
11:00 a.m. - 11:20 a.m. Kin No Yama Waidaiko Taiko Drums
11:25 a.m. - 12:10 p.m. DeltaNights Blues Band
12:15 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. Stockton PowWow
12:40 p.m. - 1:40 p.m. The Mundaze
1:40 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Teacher Awards
2:00 p.m. - 2:40 p.m. One.Charter Ensemble
2:50 p.m. - 3:50 p.m. Miss Lizzie & Her Cadillac Kings
4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Drummm Circle
For more information about the Stockton Earth Day Festival, visit livegreensanjoaquin.org. Also find them on Facebook.com/stocktonearthday, Twitter @stocktongreen and Instagram @stocktonearthday.
Thanks to three of this year's entertainers, Miss Lizzie and Her Cadillac Kings, Delta Nights Blues Band, and The Mundaze for letting us play some of their music on today's show. We hope you'll all come out and support them at the festival. The Mundaze are wrapping up work on their new album, Love This Life, which will feature the title track heard in today's episode.
Leave us a message, or text us, at 209-565-3229 or send your e-mail to PodcastStockton@gmail.com. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @podcaststockton and Instagram @podcaststockton.
Listen below or click here to download the audio. Or right click / control click to save the audio.
In this week's episode, Matt talks with Super Fan, Eric Kenny aka "Thunder Man." Susan and Matt also chat about Macaronage.
Thunder Man
Eric "Thunder Man" Kenny
Eric explains how he went from a new fan of ECHL hockey to "Thunder Man". He shares with us how with a little inspiration from other fans and the help of his wife, they came up with what would eventually become his signature look.
As a self-appointed hype man for the Stockton Thunder, Eric cheers and hypes the crowd to keep fans involved and in the game.
Although he is not associated or employed by the Stockton Thunder organization, he is a true "Super Fan" and he enjoys being a part of the fun and action that goes on at the arena.
To learn more about Eric "Thunder Man" Kenny, visit him on at facebook.com/thunderman204.
MacaronageSusan talks about how she discovered Macarons and fell in love at first bite. She and Matt talk about their experience when they visited the store and tried their tasty treats. Definitely a hidden gem of Stockton that is worth checking out.
See what Macaronage is all about by visiting them at facebook.com/macaronagebygrace or yelp.com/biz/macaronage-macarons-stockton. And don't forget to stop by the store located in the Hammer Ranch Shopping Center at 7610 Pacific Avenue, Suite B6, Stockton, CA 95210. Call them at (209) 955-0857.
Instameet & Local Food Truck FrenzySaturday, March 29, from 5pm to 8pm, the Stockton Instameet community will have a meet-up behind the Stockton Arena (on Arena Rd). There will be more than 9 different food trucks, contests and live music. This is sure to be an awesome event!
Find out more at instagram.com/p/l3Kq2VNFIS/ and facebook.com/localfoodtruckfrenzy.
Susan interviews Matt Thomas and Mike Linker, the owners of Victory Grill.
Victory Grill
Matt Thomas and Mike Linker of The Victory Grill
Matt and Mike share with us, that with their years of experience in the restaurant business and a love for the community, they chose to open the Victory Grill in the Victory Park area.
Offering American comfort food such as juicy burgers, BBQ pulled pork, roast beef, deli and panini sandwiches served with fries.
Also known for making the largest cheeseburger in 2013, the guys share with us what it takes to "GO BIG!"
The Victory Grill is located at 1765 Monte Diablo Ave, Stockton, CA 95203. You can call them at 209-941-8841.
To learn more about what's going on at the Victory Grill and their community involvement, visit them online at thevictorygrill.com. Or, you can check them out at facebook.com/thevictorygrill.
Susan and Matt are joined in the Outback Studios by television reporter, podcaster, sports commentator, and huge WWE fan, Alan Sanchez.
Alan Sanchez
Alan Sanchez
Alan shares his story about growing up in the central valley, in a family with very little money and material possessions. Early in his educational career he learned about the value of working harder than anyone else, a trait that carried him into his career in broadcasting, eventually to become the youngest TV reporter in the central valley.
Alan spent time as a reporter for a Sacramento morning news program before joining the Stockton Thunder and then the University of the Pacific sports program.
Alan Sanchez is all over the world of social media, where his fans connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, his website, and his podcast, The Alan Sanchez Show.
In this episode, we welcome back a familiar voice, Rod Villagomez, who brings an interview with multimedia professional, San Joaquin Delta College instructor and literacy advocate, Adriana Brogger.
Adriana Brogger
Adriana Brogger
Adriana tells her story of how she came to the United States as a toddler with her mother, only able to speak Spanish. Having spent a lot of time in the library, Adriana loved to read and to learn and would spend hours in the library. Early in her career, she acted in commercials and eventually found herself working as an assignment editor, producer, writer, and reporter for KCRA where she helped tell many positive stories about Stockton.
Adriana currently writes for Her Life Magazine and is an adjunct instructor at San Joaquin Delta College where she also serves as the faculty advisor for Delta College News.
Adriana is also passionate about literacy and volunteers as an adult literacy tutor through the Stockton San Joaquin County Public Library.
To learn more about Adriana, visit her website at adrianabrogger.com.
You can also see what's going on at Delta College's Radio and Television Program by going to deltacollegertv.com or check them out on youtube at DCTV on Demand.
In today's episode, Matt talks with Michael Caponio, the chairman for the San Joaquin Bike Coalition.
San Joaquin Bike Coalition
Michael Caponio
Michael talks with us about the San Joaquin Bike Coalition and their goals of promoting bicycle safety and improving the means to use alternative transportation in San Joaquin County.
He explains how after his discovery of cycling and then eventually building his first bike from the frame up, he felt there was a need to improve the cycling culture here in Stockton.
The SJBC was formed about 3 years by a group of friends that came together and began organizing rides and have been advocating for cycling throughout the San Joaquin region.
Wednesday Night RideThe Wednesday night ride is a free event and takes place every week on Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm. They meet behind the Empresso Coffeehouse. All riders that have basic bike-riding skills are welcome to join in.
Discover more about bicycling in the San Joaquin region and get more information on the SJBC's upcoming events by visiting facebook.com/SanJoaquinbike and their group page facebook.com/groups/sjbikecoalition or visit their website at sjbike.org
To learn more about the Tuolumne River Trust, visit their website at tuolumne.org.
Tony Finnegan Mannor
In this episode, we continue our conversation with Tony Mannor, the proprietor of Finnegan's Irish Pub & Restaurant and Rebels Whiskeyhouse. This episode is the second of two parts of our interview with Tony. If you missed the last episode, you can listen to it here.
To get on the guest list for Finnegan's or Rebels, start by going to 209guestlist.com. You can learn more about Finnegan's by visiting finnpub.com or check them out at Facebook.com/finnpub.
Rebels Whiskeyhouse can be found at facebook.com/RebelsBBQ.
Finnegan's is located at 6002 Pacific Ave. and Rebels is at 6252 Pacific Ave, both in Stockton, CA 95207.
Thank you to Tony Mannor for coming on to Podcast Stockton.
We'd love to hear your comments, feedback or show ideas.
Leave us a message, or text us, at 209-565-3229 or send your e-mail to PodcastStockton@gmail.com. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @podcaststockton.
Tony Finnegan Mannor
In this episode, we are joined in the Outback Studios once again by Tony Mannor, the proprietor of Finnegan's Irish Pub & Restaurant and Rebels Whiskeyhouse. This episode is the first of two parts of our interview with Tony.
Tony tells us how he came from a background in marketing, to opening a bar and eventually expanding by opening a second location, Rebels Whiskeyhouse. Tony shares with us how he was inspired by the love of his hometown to create a positive and safe environment for patrons of his business and his community.
Tony has garnered worldwide media attention for his social media guest list policy. Tony describes his guest list policy as "sort of a reservation program" and explains why and how it started.
To get on the guest list for Finnegan's or Rebels, start by going to 209guestlist.com. You can learn more about Finnegan's by visiting finnpub.com or check them out at Facebook.com/finnpub.
Rebels Whiskeyhouse can be found at facebook.com/RebelsBBQ.
Finnegan's is located at 6002 Pacific Ave, and Rebels is at 6252 Pacific Ave, both in Stockton, CA 95207.
Come back tomorrow to listen to part two of our conversation with Tony.
Visit Stockton!
Wes Rhea
In this episode Matt and Susan catch up with Wes Rhea, CEO of Visit Stockton. Wes is a tireless promoter of Stockton and we are thrilled to share his story with you.
Wes and the team at Visit Stockton spent their time promoting our city, encouraging out-of-towners to come to Stockton (and stay in our hotels) and educating local residents about all of the great things about our city. Wes gives an overview of the Stockton Certified Tourism Ambassador Program, the goal of which is to improve visitation by inspiring anyone who interacts with customers to work together to turn every visitor encounter into a positive experience.
Wes, Susan, and Matt also talk about Stockton restaurants, local sporting events and venues, and the variety of activities and programs going on throughout the area.
If you have ever found yourself wondering, "What is there to do in Stockton?" No worries, Visit Stockton has plenty of suggestions. They have the area's largest events calendar covering Stockton and surrounding cities.
Stockton souvenirs and Stockton related gifts can be found at stocktonsouvenirs.com or purchased at their offices located at 125 Bridge Place, Stockton, CA 95202. They can be reached at 209-938-1555.
Also, be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Podcast Stockton would like to wish you a safe and Happy New Year!!! Susan, Matt, and Greg talk about what they hope to see in Stockton in 2014.
Let's Play Hockey!In this week's episode, the Podcast Stockton Crew have an action-packed interview with the Stockton Thunder broadcasters, Caleb Lamb and Brandon Kisker.
Caleb Lamb and Brandon Kisker
Stockton Thunder Broadcasters, Caleb Lamb and Brandon Kisker come on the show to talk about their careers in sports broadcasting and their journeys to Stockton.
Coming off their best finish last year, when the Thunder won the ECHL Western Conference Championships, the off-season changes have been well publicized. After falling to the Reading Royals in the Kelly Cup Finals, the Stockton Thunder said goodbye to the head coach Matt Thomas and team President Dan Chapman, as well as their play-by-play announcer.
This year, the team went with two very talented broadcasters. Caleb provides the play-by-play and Brandon takes care of the color commentary.
If you have never heard a play called in hockey, you are in for a real treat. If you are a Thunder fan, Caleb and Brandon give us a quick peek behind the scenes of what it's like to handle the broadcasting, media relations and social media for an ECHL team.
Since Caleb and Brandon are both new to Stockton, Susan and Matt asked them about their experiences here so far.
Caleb and Brandon are happy to be in Stockton, and invite everyone to connect with them on Twitter. And don't forget to tell them about your favorite hangout spot or restaurant. Find them at @CalebLambTweet and @kiskerbc.
Visit stocktonthunder.com for ticket and game info, and follow them on Facebook.com/StocktonThunder and Twitter @StocktonThunder.
Go Thunder!
Merry Christmas from Podcast StocktonSusan, Matt, and Greg chat about their favorite holiday memories in Stockton.
This week, we had the pleasure of talking with Paul and Cindi Marsh, proprietors of the Mile Wine Company.
Mile Wine Company
Mile Wine Company is unlike any other place in Stockton. A quintessential wine bar and restaurant that also serves great beers, cheeses, and gourmet seasonally prepared food.
Mile Wine Company offers an exceptional selection of distinctive and eclectic fine wines from around the world, artisan cheese, charcuterie, monthly winemaker dinners, a wine club, and weekly wine classes hosted by Paul Marsh, who is a certified sommelier.
The Brubeck room inside Mile Wine Company is an intimate, private room for business lunches, formal dinners, or private celebrations. It's a perfect room for smaller groups.
In addition to fine wines and great food the Mile Wine Company offers a relaxing atmosphere, outdoor seating and live music by local musicians.
Mile Wine Company is located on the Miracle Mile at 2113 Pacific Avenue, in Stockton.
View their menu or plan your next small event at milewinecompany.com. You can also connect with Mile Wine Company at facebook.com/milewinecompany and @MileWineCompany.
The Music EditionIn this episode, Matt and Susan talk about music. From the genres of music they grew up listening to, to their first live concert. Music has definitely been a huge part of all our lives.
Erin Odessa, hosting Open Mic at Whirlow's on October 30, 2013
Erin OdessaWe are joined in the Outback Studios by local musician, music teacher, and ukulele advocate Erin Odessa.
Erin talks with Matt and Susan about her early start with music, and about her passion for creating music. Erin, an accomplished song writer and performer is also known to scores of children and families in Stockton for The Afternaps, a childrens music program that has been performing for several years. The Afternaps perform every Tuesday at 5 PM inside Yogurt My Way on the Miracle Mile.
Erin is available for ukulele, guitar, vocal, and group percussion lessons. She can be reached by e-mail at afternapsmusic@yahoo.com.
Erin is also the hostess of Open Mic at Whirlow's on the Miracle Mile, every Wednesday night. At a recent Open Mic night, Matt spoke with two performers.
Erin and Daniel Page perform two new original songs, "Won't Be Soon", and "Life Goes On".
Listen to more music by Erin Odessa at soundcloud.com/erinodessa. She can also be found at facebook.com/erin.odessa.
Today we talk with Miranda Winters of the Stockton is Magnificent committee.
Join thousands of proud Stockton residents in celebrating the talent, history and culture of our great city on Saturday, October 5, 2013, from Noon to 3 PM on Pacific Avenue between Alder and Castle streets. This event is FREE to the public.
The event will kick-off at 12:00pm with the Children’s Parade, featuring the Celebrate Stockton Fun Time Band (Jazz Band) and Delta Fusion.
This year’s Big Picture – a photo taken of the whole festival crowd – will take place at 1:00pm at Tuxedo Circle with photographer Steve Pereira.
The Stockton is Magnificent mission is to encourage civic pride, to inspire and educate Stockton residents of the rich and diverse past, present and future of our community.
Visit stocktonmagnificent.com for all the details. You can also learn more about this event at facebook.com/stocktonmagnificent.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Pacific Avenue, (Miracle Mile) between Alder and Castle streets
12 PM to 3 PM
Admission is FREE to the public
We hope to see you there!
Listen below or click here to save or play the audio.
First Jobs. Do you remember your first job? Matt and Susan remember theirs.
Matt got his start at Shakey's Pizza, working in the scullery and Susan started her professional life scooping ice cream at Swensen's Ice Cream. Journey back in time and share their first job experiences.
Boggs Tract Community Farm
Puentes Americas is developing an urban farm and garden in the Boggs Tract area of Stockton. This area is known as a food desert, where residents have no grocery store or fresh food close by. The Boggs Tract Community Farm aims to support local residents with setting up a farmers’ market to generate revenue that will ultimately go towards creating urban farms throughout San Joaquin County.
Recently, Matt spent some time at the Boggs Tract Community Farm and spoke with Harriet, Marty Segal, Shanna Eller, Eric Firpo, Shayne Zurilgen, and Susan Mora-Loyko.
Stockton HarvestJoin the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program for $15 per week ($60 per month) to receive a box of fresh, locally grown produce delivered to your doorstep each week. Becoming a member of the CSA will not only support the farm’s daily operation but provide you with healthy, seasonal foods.
For more information on how you can volunteer, donate or become a member of the CSA program, visit their website at puentes-americas.org
The PUENTES Seeds & Spirits Annual Brunch is Sunday, November 3 from 11 AM to 1 PM. For more information and tickets, please visit eventbrite.com/event/6023659929/ .
French 25Recently opened in 2013, French 25′s cuisine is inspired by the famed French Quarter neighborhood in New Orleans.
With Po'Boys, Jambalaya, and Alligator Bites, will Matt and Susan go back? Ouais. (that's a yes!)
Visit them at french-25.com and at facebook.com/frenchtwentyfive
Music for today's show was "Halfway Gone" by Michael Seymour. Thanks to him for allowing us to use his song. Find him at reverbnation.com/MICHAELSEYMOUR
Listener FeedbackGabriel wrote to us in response to our previous discussion about what we were reading. It's good to know that the Nook offers support for sharing ebooks. Thanks for sharing your feedback!
Back to SchoolIt's that time of year again, all of our local school districts are back in session. Matt and Susan discuss back-to-school as each of them have a high school freshman daughter (which should be easy by now since each of them already had a daughter graduate high school).
Johnny Milford
Johnny Milford
If you have spent any time listening to radio or watching television in Stockton, you have probably heard who we consider one of the greatest broadcast and advertisement voices ever!
Johnny Milford is a voice actor, copy writer, studio engineer & producer, and local radio legend. We were honored to spend some time getting to know the former KJOY and KWIN disc jockey and radio personality.
Yes, he is the same voice as the one in the Big Valley Ford, Food4Less, Rock Bottom World of Furniture commercials.
Johnny talks about his early days of radio as well as some of his thoughts on the current state of the business. He shows off some of his many amazing voices and impersonations. As a life-long Stockton resident, he also tells the story about how he joined the Stockton Ports as an announcer and shares what he enjoys about our city.
Visit his website, prodgod.com , to hear more samples.
Music for today's show was "The Lawn" by Filbert. Thanks to them for allowing us to use their song. Find them on Facebook at facebook.com/filbertmusic. You can also hear their music on GoLocal Radio.
What are you reading?Susan and Matt discuss what they've been reading. Since the two co-hosts originally met at a literacy fundraiser, the subject of what each is reading tends to come up a lot. Susan is currently reading Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald and Matt is enjoying on Sugar, Fat, Salt as well as the Peter Criss autobiography.
Both are big fans of our wonderful Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library. Did you know you can search the library catalog online and even reserve a book and have it pulled and ready for you at your local branch? Also, did you know that you can check-out e-books and audio books from the library, too. Go to ssjcpl.org for all the information.
What are you reading?
Derron Lee
Derron Lee
We interviewed local optometrist and entrepeneur, Dr. Derron Lee. Derron and his wife, Dr. Leanne Lee, were high-school sweethearts long before they went to college and became optometrists. Their practices, Midtown Optometry in Stockton and Manteca Optometry in Manteca, strive to bring the best in eye-care and customer service to their patients.
As a Stockton native, Derron strives to be "loyal to the soil" as can be seen in his charity work. Derron started a "White Goldrush" campaign to collect donations of new socks and undergarments for St. Mary's Dining Hall. He also started the Comeback Scholarship program to offer scholarships to local area high school students that pledge to return to the area once they've finished college.
To help fund his charitible ventures, Derron has joined Ambit Energy, a retail electricity and natural gas provider. For more information on this venture, visit energysource.biz.
For more information on Dr. Lee's optometry practice, visit midtownoptometry.com and mantecaoptometry.com and find them on Facebook at facebook.com/midtownoptometry and facebook.com/mantecaoptometry. You can also reach Derron on his personal phone, 209-986-1880.
"Inside Man: Bankruptcy" Profiles Stockton Matt and Susan talk about Morgan Spurlock's "Inside Man" episode about the City of Stockton bankruptcy.
Here are a couple of clips: inside-man-bankruptcy & morgan-spurlock-stockton-guardian-angel
Did you watch it? Share your thoughts in the comments below, call or text us at 209-565-3229, or send an e-mail to podcaststockton@gmail.com.
Music for today's show was 209 Party by The Mundaze. Thanks to them for allowing us to use their song. Find them on Facebook at facebook.com/TheMundaze .
Today we talk with Matt Miller from Ask Stockton, a question campaign to reinvent Stockton.
From August 1 through 25, Stocktonian's are being asked to donate a question on how we as a community can reinvent Stockton.
Volunteers have been hard at work collecting donated questions from all over the city.
With only a few days remaining you still have a chance to donate your questions for consideration. You can call or text 209-275-1190 or donate your questions via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or email your questions to questions@askstockton.net. You can also visit AskStockton.net and fill out the "Ask Stockton Question Donation Form."
So, what's YOUR question on how to reinvent Stockton?
Listen below to learn more about the Ask Stockton Question Campaign.
This Saturday is Stockton Pride 2013. Once again, It will be held at Oak Grove Regional Park from 11 AM to 7 PM.
The Stockton Pride Festival is the only event of it's kind here in Stockton. Last year, the turnout was greater than expected and event organizers are planning for more for this year's event.
Nicholas Hatten, Executive Director of San Joaquin Pride Center described this year's event as "The year of more. More entertainment, more activities, more food, more vendors and booths."
When asked about the importance of having an event like Stockton Pride in our community, Hatten said, there is "still a fear of the unknown" as it relates to the LGBT community and that events such as this give everyone a chance to see their culture and see them as individuals as well as members of the community.
"In Stockton, we have a long way to go for equality. We're not San Francisco, we're not Sacramento", said Hatten. Not getting as much support as larger cities is one reason that this event is important. Hatten continues, "Our kids are most at risk". Stockton Pride creates an environment of tolerance and understanding that can lead to meaningful conversations about diversity and help educate the public about the importance of respect, tolerance and equality.
Stockton Pride is a family event and will feature a teen area and children's zone ran by the San Joaquin Pride Center youth group.
Join in the food, fun, entertainment. You can also help support the Stockton Pride Festival and have a chance to win some fabulous prizes by purchasing a raffle ticket for $5 .
Admission is free, and entrance to the park is only $6 per car.
For more information on the San Joaquin Pride Center and tomorrow's Stockton Pride 2013, visit sjpridecenter.org and stocktonpride.weebly.com. Also, be sure to Like Stockton Pride on Facebook at facebook.com/StocktonPride.
We hope to see you Saturday at Oak Grove Regional Park!
Golf Anyone?Matt and Susan talk about golfing in Stockton. Maybe a Podcast Stockton Golf Tournament someday???
Stockton offers two well known municipal 18-hole golf courses, and a Par 3 Executive Golf Course for your golfing pleasure. Swenson Park Golf Course and Van Buskirk Golf Course. Both are easily accessible from Interstate-5.
With other courses like The Reserve at Spanos, Elkhorn and others, there's lots of opportunities for great golf in town.
To find out more about golfing in Stockton visit stocktongolfcourses.com
Let's Talk Dogs!Susan and Matt both try Casey's Hot Dogs and meet with the owner, Peter.
Recently opening on July 4th, Casey's Hot Dogs is the newest restaurant on the miracle mile.
The name Casey, of course, comes from "Casey at the Bat" following the theme of "The Might Casey at the Bat".
Enjoy gourmet hot dogs and catch a baseball game on the flat screen TVs.
Casey's Hot Dogs is located on the Miracle Mile at 2311 Pacific Avenue, between La Palma Mexican restaurant and the new location of Mid Town Creperie.
Stockton City LimitsIn this episode, Matt and Susan are joined in studio by David Garcia the author of the blog, Stockton City Limits.
David Garcia
Stockton City Limits is a blog about growth and development in Stockton. David earned his Master’s Degree in Public Policy with an emphasis on Urban Policy from the Johns Hopkins Institute for Policy Studies. He works as a researcher/analyst for a Congressional research agency in Washington, DC.
We hope you'll visit the blog and read his thought-provoking and data driven research that touches on many facets of urban planning, growth, and development.
To learn more about Stockton City Limits visit the blog at stocktoncitylimits.com and continue the conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/stocktoncitylimits and Twitter @STK_City_Limits.
This morning, the Podcast Stockton team challenged the California Rays Beep Baseball team. The home team has a new name (they were formerly known as the Stockton Stingrays) but the result was exactly the same as every other time these two teams have squared off.
In case you don't know about beep baseball, here's a brief primer: Beep baseball is an adaptive version of baseball played by athletes that are visually impaired where all players wear blindfolds.
We started off with a two-run lead in the first inning with runs from Shawn (our most consistent hitter and scorer) and me (yes, Matt actually scored a run, his first one ever). The Rays blanked out in the bottom of the first inning and we all thought this was our year!
But then, fresh off her trip to the 2013 NBBA World Series in Columbus, Georgia, team captain Jennifer Boylan connected on her second pitch and had no problem scoring.
Jennifer scored another run and Luke came out of retirement to add two runs as well. Rays rookie, Miguel, who has shown incredible skills during practice this year, scored his first run.
The final score was 2-5. But for those that have heard us talk about beep baseball before you know that is not the end of the story.
In the sixth and final inning, the Rays allowed us to hit sighted (did I mention that we play with blindfolds) . This tradition of allowing the sighted team to hit without blindfolds has yet to change the result of the game, but this year we felt different. Although our first three batters were able to connect with the ball, none were able to get to the base before being fielded out by our opponents. Shawn even knocked the BEEP out of the ball, and I'm not censoring, he literally knocked the BEEP out of the ball! They even gave us go through our entire rotation and still, none of us were able to score. Eric, who also played in the 2013 NBBA World Series, made a few putouts look easy. Jennifer and Terrence also helped ensure we'd score no more runs, and Miguel, gets his first putout!
Stay up to date on the California Rays by liking them on Facebook at facebook.com/blindbaseball.
Thank you to the California Rays for taking the field with us: Jennifer, Eric, Luke, David, Miguel, and Terrence. And thank you to the wonderful volunteers: Robert, Rosemary, Josie, Araceli, and Terrence Jr.
And thank you to the rest of our team: Manny, Greg, Missy, Rod, Shawn, Shawn Jr., and to everyone that came out and watched us.
Check out the pictures at Facebook.com/PodcastStockton.
Hopefully, you had a chance to attend last Sunday's Stockton-Con at the Stockton Arena. Mike Millerick and the rest of the Stockton-Con and Stockton Arena teams put on an amazing show.
Until next year's event, stay up to date on all things Stockton-Con with the Stockton-Con Podcast. Mike Millerick and J.D. Fox continue the conversation even after last weekend's successful event with recent guests such as comic book artists, Tony Fleecs, Tone Rodriguez, and Dan Parsons, and cosplay artist Ivy Doomkitty.
Check out their show at stocktoncon.com/blog.And here are some great pics and videos to help you re-live Stockton-Con 2.0:
James Vallesteros on Facebook
The_Con_Fluence Covers video
The Examiner
Nerdophiles.com
While there has not been a date set for next year's event, it seems certain there will be one.
See you all at next year's Stockton-Con.
Matthew O'Connor as Alien
Today we talk with Mike Millerick, Director of Stockton-Con.
After a very successful inaugural event last year, it's time for the second annual Stockton-Con.
Come dressed up in your favorite costume and surround yourself in the worlds of comics, card games, video games, anime, science fiction, toys, television, and movies.
With lots of guests from all sides of pop culture and lots of amazing local artists, there's something for everyone.
Tickets are on sale throughout the central valley until Saturday and available at the door. Don't forget to bring your gently-used clothing to donate to St. Mary's Dining Room and save $4 off the ticket price.
Visit stocktoncon.com for all the details.
Sunday, August 4 10 AM to 6 PM Stockton Arena
We hope to see you there!
What is Podcast Stockton?Podcast Stockton is a blog and podcast all about the great life in Stockton, California. Our focus is on the positive side of Stockton by bringing to our listeners local business reviews, positive commentary on local issues and interviews with local business owners, city officials and residents.
We introduce Greg the Producer and Manny the Webmaster, the "behind the scenes" members of the Podcast Stockton team.
Café Coop Brings Innovation and Collaboration Downtown
Esperanza Vielma
We talk with Esperanza Vielma, founder and Executive Director of Café Coop.
With memberships starting at $25, Café Coop offers a collaborative workspace that is high on energy, enthusiasm, and creativity.
They are located at 235 N. San Joaquin Street and can be reached at info@cafecoop.org. Visit cafecoop.org or facebook.com/cafecoop for more information and to find out about upcoming events.
Let's Talk Stockton EventOn July 17, Square and Twitter founder Jack Dorsey led a discussion at Valley Brewing Company about starting and growing business in Stockton. Short presentation followed by Q&A.
Jack Dorsey, Twitter @jack
We also had a chance to hear from...
Marianne McCarroll, (Marianne's Pantry, www.mariannespantry.com)
Mimi Nguyen, (Miracle Mile Improvement District)
Emily Ritter, (Square.com)
Click here to watch Square's post event video.
Learn more about Square at squareup.com.
Music for this week's show is "The Pieman" by Mykal Parsons Project. You can like them on Facebook and listen to their music at facebook.com/MykalParsonsProject. You can also find Mykal Parsons Project on GoLocal Radio at golocalradio.net.
originally published on mattbeckwith.com
Last night, our city council took the first step toward bankruptcy. By the end of the week, Stockton will be the largest US city to file for bankruptcy protection.
All of a sudden, being labeled "America's Most Miserable City" a couple of times by some magazine doesn't sound so bad.
We ran out of money.
There are many reasons why. Our city leaders made poor decisions during the economic boom. Unscrupulous mortgage lending practices flooded the central valley with home buyers leading to increased property values which swelled the city with the sweet nectar of property tax revenue. We banked on this gravy train continuing forever.
Then of course, it did not.
Now, Stockton's favorite pastime is the blame-game. So many of us want to point the finger at someone.
The police and fire unions, previous mayors and council members, former city manager Mr. Milne, and even city employees themselves have all been the target of someone's blame.
We need to stop blaming. We've already diagnosed what happened so we can be pretty sure it won't happen again, blaming people isn't going to solve anything.
We certainly cannot blame city employees. They did exactly what we would all do. Well, I'll speak for myself here. I would have done the same thing. Even the double dipping. Given an opportunity to advance economically, in a way that seems completely healthy at the time, we'd all do it! Plus, most city employees are hard working people that care deeply about our city.
As are the members of our city council and our Mayor. If you don't like what they're doing, vote for someone else. Otherwise, find a productive way to help. Our council members have a difficult task; I can't imagine why anyone in their right mind would want that job. I am grateful that some people choose to do it and I appreciate their strength in the face of such adversity.
Facing a budget shortfall of $26 million, and ballooning debt in the hundreds of millions, it seems the city made the best choice.
Now, it's time to get on with making Stockton great. Do we have an uphill battle? Oh hell yes. The likes of which most of us could have never imagined. But we can do it.
We can overcome this.
We know there are many great things about Stockton. Let's keep our cool and not let the stigma of bankruptcy distract us from making our city a place we can be proud of. We need to continue to shop locally and do our part to make our neighborhoods safer and stronger.
Most of all, we need to get involved. Talk to our neighbors. Talk to our council members. Attend council meetings, or watch online. Ask questions. If we spent the last 20 years watching our local leaders as much as we have during the last few months, we likely wouldn't have been in such a mess.
Let's make it great, Stockton! The future of our city depends on it.
With all of the emotion of the last couple of days, this made me laugh:
http://twitter.com/RealDlHughley/status/218192121889435649
Welcome back to Podcast Stockton! After nearly two years, we are back!
On this episode:
We welcome our new co-host, Susan Spracher, a lifelong resident of Stockton. Susan is also a freelance writer, magazine columnist & creator of the blog, "The Four O'Clock Martini".
Looking for Live Music in Stockton?
Visit www.visitstockton.org and check out their calendar of events for a complete schedule of concerts in the park.
Other venues where you can find great live music and food...
Whirlow's Tossed and Grilled located on the Miracle Mile.
Take 5 Jazz Club
The Plea for Peace Center Stockton
The Bus Stop
The Victory Grill
Rod Villagomez
We catch up with Rod Villagomez and talk about GoLocal Radio.
GoLocal Radio showcases a wide variety of local music from throughout the Central Valley, providing a place for local musicians to have their music heard.
GoLocal radio can be found at Facebook.com/golocalradio as well as their website at golocalradio.net.
Music for today's show is "Shoebox" by BrokeNote UnderTone. You can like them on Facebook and listen to their music at facebook.com/BrokeNoteUnderTone
As John De Lancie's character Q said to Patrick Stewart's character Jean-Luc Picard in the similarly named series finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation, all good things must come to an end. Today, we bring you the final episode of Podcast Stockton.
I registered the domain name and built the first version of the website on January 3, 2009. A month later, Stockton was named the most miserable city in America. The first episode of Podcast Stockton, episode zero, was released on March 22, 2009. My goal was simple: to share the stories about the good life in Stockton. With the help of so many wonderful people, we accomplished that.
I am so proud of what Podcast Stockton became. What started as a one-man operation grew to include many others. Podcast Stockton would not have been possible without the help from Rod Villagomez for coming on the show as co-host back in late 2009; Wes Rhea from the Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau for all of his wonderful support on the show, Jon Remington from Closet Goodies for giving us our first regular "commercial"; Greg Bahr and Andy Pinasco for being great confidants and helping to introduce us to so many special people in Stockton; Omar Vargas for creating the awesome Podcast Stockton logo and artwork; Tom Mondragon for his years of friendship and for being the inspiration for the show; Wes Johnson for building our iPhone app; Lowell Tuckerman for doing the sports segment; Mr. Story for all of his trusted advice; Manuel for all the help with content ideas, technical support and guidance, and Gabriel for his support, content, show ideas, and giving us our very first review.
Meeting Rod and having him join the show was exactly what I needed. His experience and ideas were a welcome shot in the arm and with his guidance, we did so much more than I could have ever done by myself.
When Rod wasn't available, it was an honor to co-host the show with Manny, Chris the Greek, Lowell and Gabriel. Thank you so much guys! Also, big thanks to Lowell, Wes, Manny, Jon and Gabriel for helping us put on Podcast Stockton Live last year. What a blast that was!
Thank you to all of you that gave us access to your businesses, organizations, events. We have met some very incredible people in this city and have had the opportunity to interview a great list of Stocktonians, including:
Zenet Negron,Cari Giannecchini, Jennifer Boylan, Pat Filippone, Emily Ballus, Susan Mora-Loyko, Benjamin Saffold, Alice van Ommeren, Jeff Gamboni, Adam Messinger, Matthew Farnsworth, Frank Stone, Chris Freeman, Rick Corduck, Lee Neves, Jared Foster, Leona Marino, Levi Wells,Clarence Henderson, Dr. Derron Lee, Dawn Correll-Cruz, Tera Moore, Jason Roth, John Clauser, Diana Lowery, David Mckeever, Emily Baime, Kate Post, Timm Quinn, Chris Juenke, Justin Farry, Dr. Robert Shapiro, Susan Spracher, Joni Bauer, Dwight Richards, Michael Seymour, Tod Ruhstaller, Kenny McCann, Chris the Greek, Gillian Murphy, Susan Eggman, the cast and crew of Broadcasting Sunshine, Patrick Giblin, George Ruiz, Slick Diaz, Jon Remington, Ronnie and Yolanda Cunningham, Greg Bahr, Gabriel and Devin, Mike Fitzgerald, Dawn Beckwith, Shawna Cavender, Andy Pinasco, Mike Bravo, Bill Ries-Knight, Tony Mannor, Tom Moccia and Tom Mondragon.
Thanks to Mike Klocke at The Record as well, for all of his support and kind words through the last couple of years. And to David Siders, formerly of The Record, for helping spread the word when the first episode was released. I never told him this, but when I first met him I stuck my hand out and introduced myself. When he heard my name he said "oh, Podcast Stockton". I was star-struck. David Siders knew who I was! Also thank you Adrianna Brogger for getting us on TV! Thanks to Tim from Illinois, formerly from Stockton, for always reminding us that former Stocktonians still care about the city. Thanks to Benjamin Saffold for being one of the most giving people in our city and for bringing me on to the Earth Day Festival committee, one of the greatest experiences and honors of my life.
Thank you to our listeners. Of course, without you, there would have been no show! I am eternally grateful to you all!
Stockton, with all of our problems, is still a vibrant community. There are many reasons to love it here and we are so proud to have shared the stories of Stockton with you for the past 71 episodes.
If you want to know about goings on in Stockton, visit these sites regularly:
VisitStockton.org
Mom About The Town
Port City Sun
Breaking News Stockton
The Record
Again, thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to share our stories, and the stories of Stockton with you. It was truly one of the most rewarding projects of my life.
Lastly, thank you to my family. They afforded me the time and support for me to continue my hobby. Without them, Podcast Stockton would have never been.
I am going to keep this website up indefinitely, and may even get the bug to blog from time to time. Please come by now and then to say hello!
Keep makin' it great Stockton!
We hope you enjoy our final show.
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. On this week's show:
Welcome to May 23rd!! Glad to see you are all still here!
This weekend starts the Memorial Day weekend and it is a busy one in Stockton; among the many events on the schedule are:
The 3rd Annual Mayor's Hike & Bike kicks off the weekend at UOP.
Hikers and bikers can have a great time and help to raise money to benefit the nutrition programs of Catholic Charities and the Emergency Food Bank. Bikers can pick from three different routes and walkers will make their way to Banner Island Ballpark. For more information visit their website.
Banner Island Ballpark will host it's first ever Brewfest from 5pm to 9pm.
Come out and enjoy a night at the ballpark while sampling several frosty adult beverages, live music and more than likely amazing Stockton weather. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 the day of the event. Check out the official Brewfest page, or "RSVP" on their Facebook page.
Delta College Radio, Television & Film students showcase their work at Mediafest III.
Check out some of the productions from the talented young ladies and gentlemen of the Delta RTV&F department. Every media genre will be represented in this star studded affair. Festivities kick off at 5pm with a chance to meet and greet the minds behind the works as well as several industry professionals. Check here for a full schedule of events as well as more information on the entries.
An interview with Zenet Negron & Cari Giannecchini.
Zenet Negron & Cari Giannecchini
Zenet and Cari host a series of interviews on YouTube with some of Stockton's most interesting and influential figures, including our own Matt Beckwith. They are also the operators of Breaking Stockton News, a website that combines real time info from Twitter to keep Stockton residents in the know about the goings on in the city. On top of all that, the two own First Priority Financial, a business dedicated to assisting home buyers through the sometimes daunting real estate process.
Follow us on Twitter at @PodcastStockton and @rjvillagomez (and be sure to catch him on the air on KWIN and at the Ports home games)
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. On this week's show:
We hope everyone enjoyed their Mother's Day.
Cinco de Mayo. One of us ate pizza, the other ate Mexican food.
Jennifer Boylan
An interview with Jennifer Boylan from the Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Jennifer is the captain of the blind baseball team but also does marketing and community relations for the Blind Center. Her organization helps visually impaired people learn new skills to help them live more independent lives. They have a couple of great events coming up. This Sunday, come out and join the Indian Association of San Joaquin County in a walk along the beautiful Downtown Waterfront Promenade. With proceeds benefitting the Blind Center, we really hope to see you out there.
Fore! Golfers can help send the Stockton Stingrays to the National Beep Ball Association World Series. The annual tournament is being held on June 11 at Oakmoore Golf Course. For info or to pay by credit card please contact Bonnie (209) 466-3836 or print a flyer & registration form here.
Pacific Students make documentary response to Forbes list. Out of Our Misery - Stockton's Saga as the Most Miserable City is a great perspective on the criteria used by the editors at Forbes to create their Most Miserable Cities list. Check out the video here, and the University of the Pacific news release.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Running time: 28 minutes, 30 seconds
Listen Here
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. On this week's show:
The Stockton Weekend Activities Guide from Wes Rhea and the Stockton Conference and Visitor's Bureau. Be sure to sign-up for their weekly e-mail newsletter.
A review of last weekend's Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. The 4th annual event put on by the Women's Center of San Joaquin County was last weekend. See the last post for links to pics.
An interview with Stockton Ports President, Pat Filippone. Rod sat down with Pat to discuss minor league baseball and your Stockton Ports.
A few things to do on Cinco de Mayo. Lots of great places to hang out with friends on Cinco de Mayo.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Today, I walked a mile in her shoes. This was my second year participating in this event in Stockton which was, once again, held at the Banner Island Ballpark. Although this was Stockton's fourth annual Walk A Mile event, the event's roots go back to 2001. My brother and I arrived at the home of our Stockton Ports this morning just after 8 AM and each picked out a pair of gorgeous pumps. Since I don't know all of the lingo, let's say they were high and they were skinny.
Before the walk began, all of the men gathered in one section of the ballpark and heard from Amanda King from KWIN and Joelle Gomez, Women's Center Executive Director. We also joined Lt. David Sant, from the Tracy Police Department, in a pledge to do our part to end sexual violence. Amanda King read a letter that was sent to the Women's Center by a rape survivor. It told of how she was poisoned, raped and left for dead. She made it to the hospital where they treated her physical trauma. She credited the Women's Center for saving her life. It was a somber moment for us all and a good reminder of why we were walking.
This year, the walk went around the ballpark three times (twice last year) which was right at one mile. JR and I started around the middle of the pack but ended up coming in last. Once again, there was a lot of support along the way. And we needed it! The crowd yelling by the starting line really helped with each lap.
We had a great time and only hurt a little at the end. It's always great to see the community come out and support causes like this, even though I'd prefer to live in a world where this type of event wasn't needed.
Check out the pictures from today (graciously taken by my wife) - Facebook or Flickr.
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. On this week's show:
Rod, Splash and Matt
Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. The 4th Annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes is this Saturday, April 30, 2011 at Banner Island Ballpark. Every 90 seconds a woman is raped in this country. This event asks men to come walk a mile in her shoes to protest rape, sexual assault and gender violence. And by "walk a mile in her shoes" they literally mean a mile in ladies shoes. Matt sat down with Lisa Jordan from the Women's Center of San Joaquin County to talk about this great event as well as the history of the center and what services they offer.
Last year, Matt and Rod both walked the mile, in pointy toe and spiky heal shoes. Registration starts at 8 AM and the walk starts at 9 AM. Come out and walk a mile in her shoes, or come out and watch Matt and friends try it without falling. Walkers receive a free event tee shirt and a voucher for a Stockton Ports game. For more information on the national movement, visit walkamileinhershoes.org.
The 80th Annual Strawberry Breakfast is this Sunday at UOP. The University of the Pacific Center for Community Involvement (CCI) is hosting its 80th Annual Strawberry Breakfast Sunday, May 1st, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at University of the Pacific's Regent's Dining Room. This annual event normally happens on Mother's Day but was moved one week early this year.
The return of Sports with Lowell Tuckerman.
The 1st Annual Steelhead Festival is this Sunday! This inagural event is this Sunday 11 AM to 4 PM at Tuxedo Avenue, right off the Miracle Mile. The Steelhead Festival is a free community event to help educate citizens on issues affecting our local water ways. There will be slow-cooking demonstrations and live music (including The Afternaps and Mom's Chili Boys). Here's a link to the schedule of events. Also, on Monday, May 2, the Friends of the Lower Calaveras River are hosting a State of Our Rivers Symposium at the San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG) Regional Building at 330 E. Channel St.
Prowlin' Pacific was last Saturday. Matt gives his review of last weekend's event. Yet another free community event, this year on the grounds of the University of the Pacific. There was a car show, lots of games and things for kids to do, and some great live local music (including Matt's favorite local band, Snap Jackson & The Knock On Wood Players and Latin Magic). Check out the pictures here and a short video here.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Joey Chestnut, Asparagus Festival
A wrap-up of the 26th Annual Asparagus Festival. Matt talks to the champion, Joey Chestnut, and Matt Stonie who took third-place in the deep fried asparagus eating contest. With great weather this past weekend, the crowds were out in force this year. Check out the rest of the pictures here and a short video featuring The California Repercussions.
What's the best Pizza in Stockton? We ask our Facebook fans about their favorites and the winner, so far, is Michael's Pizza. Add your vote!
Stockton is Magnificent! The Miracle Mile is hosting this event to show just what we think of their list. Matt sat down with Danielle, a student from Pacific that is helping with the event. Learn the flash mob dance here.
We talk sports with Lowell Tuckerman. SJ Delta Girl's Softball goes undefeated! And the Stockton Ports.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Joey Chestnut did not disappoint his many fans in Stockton today. He easily beat out the rest of the field this afternoon and earned a new world record. At the end of 10 minutes, he had consumed 9 pounds, 5.2 ounces of deep fried asparagus. Chestnut, the 27 year old competitor from San Jose who took the stage amidst cheers from the crowd, has held the world records for eating pork ribs, steak, chicken wings and Krystal burgers. He already broke the asparagus eating world record in 2008 when he ate 8.6 pounds of our favorite fried veggie.
For those of you that never seen competitive eating up close and personal, here's a short video I shot.
Stonie, Chestnut, and Bertoletti
Matt Stonie, the 18-year-old new-comer from San Jose, debuted today on the competitive eating scene and took third place just behind second place finisher, Patrick Bertoletti. Come back on Monday for our next episode of Podcast Stockton to hear from Joey Chestnut and Matt Stonie.
And check out the pictures from today's event.
Baseball is back in Stockton. Tonight, the Stockton Ports defeated the Modesto Nuts 3-1 in their 2011 home opener.
After the Stockton Thunder lost to the Utah Grizzlies in the first round of the ECHL playoffs, and we all find ourselves with a hockey hang over, it's time to go out and root for our boys of summer.
I love going to opening day. Running in to old friends and seeing the crowd cheer for their local team is always awesome. And don't forget about the great food (Kinders and How Ya Bean are my favorites) and Kids Zone. Tonight my daughter and I each tried out the Speed Pitch. With my three pitches at 44 MPH I doubt any scouts will be calling me.
With almost 70 home games between now and the beginning of September, make sure you get out to a game! Go Ports!
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. This week, we are joined by three special guests. In this episode:
The Asparagus Festival is this weekend! Rod sits down with Kate Post, Asparagus Festival Executive Director, to talk about what's new for this year's event. The 26th annual Asparagus Festival runs Friday, April 15 through Sunday, April 17 in downtown Stockton. Nothing says springtime in Stockton like deep fried asparagus, and our new favorite, asparagus ice cream! For more information, visit asparagusfest.com.
The Great Stockton Asparagus Festival Dine out was a hit with Matt! There was not enough hours in the day to sample all of the great asparagus dishes at the 25 participating restaurants. There was time, however, to visit Angelina's, Whirlow's and Midtown Creperie & Cafe for some excellent dishes. What a perfect way to lead in to the Asparagus Festival.
Emily Ballus joins Matt to talk about the launch of Q Productions and a couple of concerts coming to the Stockton Empire Theatre. After spending some time with the California Cougars and the Miracle Mile, Emily is now focused on bringing entertainment events to Stockton. This Friday, Q Productions, Food 4 Less and Rancho San Miguel present country music recording artist, Mark Wills.
Mark Wills
Country Music recording artist, Mark Wills calls into the show to discuss his start in country music and his concert this Friday at the Empire Theatre. His hits include "Jacob's Ladder", "Don't Laugh At Me", "I Do (Cherish You)", and "19 Somethin'". His newest song is "Looking For America". Of course, you can find his music on iTunes. For tickets and information on his show on April 15 at the Stockton Empire Theatre, visit qproductionsco.com or call 209-594-1669.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, the show all about the great life in Stockton, and a day early this week. In this episode:
The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out. With the Asparagus Festival just around the corner, now is a great time to get out to some of our great local restaurants to try some amazing dishes featuring locally grown asparagus. The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out runs through April 10. Check out all of the great menu items here.
Susan Mora-Loyko joins us to talk about the 23rd Annual Stockton Earth Day Festival. This year's festival is on Sunday, April 10 at Victory Park. The festival kicks off with yoga at 10:00 AM and the family fun bike ride at 10:30. There's a ton of great entertainment with The Bad Goods, Baraata, Odessa and Sugar Water Purple. Jeni Swerdlow from DRUMMM will end our event again with her awesome drum circle. Admission is free and there are lots of fun (and educational) things for kids. Oh, and did we mention that Matt will be the emcee again this year. Bring the whole family for a fun day!
Terrestrial radio is still out there. Rod reminds us that radio stations still matter and they're out there in the community with free stuff!
A couple quick things:
The New Life Project Stockton CD release event is this Friday, April 8. Tickets are $10 which includes a copy of the CD.
Stockton City Councilmembers are hosting budget town hall meetings. This week, Dale Fritchen on Monday, April 4 and Paul Canepa on Thursday, April 7. The other councilmembers will be holding there meetings later in the month, be sure to check the schedule.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton. If you're new here, Podcast Stockton is the show all about the great life in Stockton, California. We don't need no stinking lists! There are a lot of great people and a lot of great stories in our city and we love sharing them both. In this episode:
There's lots to do at the Stockton Libraries. Check out the events at the Stockton San Joaquin County Public Library. Barnes and Noble also offers story telling.
Stockton is a sports town! The Stockton Thunder are in the post season again! The Stockton Ports are gearing up for opening day! The Stockton Wolves are coming!
Benjamin Saffold
An interview with Benjamin Saffold. His resume is filled with Stockton involvement. He currently does Marketing, Outreach and Events at Gospel Center Rescue Mission, an organization providing shelter and services to Stockton's homeless community since 1939. He is also part of the The New Life Project Stockton which is holding the public debut of their CD on Friday, April 8, 2011. Benjamin also serves on the boards of the Stockton Arts Commission and The Friends of the Fox, as well as many other charitable and arts organizations. You can find Benjamin on Facebook and Twitter.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome back to Podcast Stockton. Two years ago today, Podcast Stockton episode 000 was released into the wild! And after our longest absence ever, we're back. In this episode:
Our take on the Forbes list.
83 Seconds intimate beta.
Broadcasting Sunshine at the San Joaquin International Film Festival.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with local history enthusiast, Alice van Ommeren.
In this episode:
The Amazing Fist reaches its funding goal. Adam Messinger is one amazing step closer to publishing his first full length comic thanks to over 100 backers on Kickstarter.com.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
A review of Clear's ClearSpot and Rover Puck. WiFi on the go is available in Stockton. With several product and service options, Clear has a strong showing in the mobile wifi service in Stockton.
Stockton Thunder take the ice! Tomorrow, the Stockton ECHL franchise takes the ice in a pre-season bout against Ontario. Next Friday, they meet up again in the Thunder homer opener of the regular season.
Did you miss the Tweetup? Follow @StocktonTweetup on Twitter to hear about the next one!
An interview with Alice van Ommeren, author, local history enthusiast and instructor. After purchasing a vintage postcard from a local antique shop, Alice set forth to publish Stockton in Vintage Postcards. Alice, a former board member of the Stockton Cultural Heritage Board, is now teaching Stockton’s Golden Era, an extension course at Pacific, running for 5 weeks starting Oct. 14.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Links The Amazing Fist on KickstarterThe Amazing Fist on FacebookRover Puck by Clear
ClearSpot 4G Stockton Thunder Sons of Thunder Alice van Ommeren on Facebook Pacific Extension Courses
Stockton History on Facebook Stockton Historic Landmarks San Joaquin Historical Society Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Stockton Vintage Postcards on Facebook
At the last minute, and thanks to the Downtown Stockton Alliance Facebook post about available tickets, my wife and I decided to take our daughters to the Carrie Underwood concert. We got to our seats in section 212 just before 7:30 and just before Sons of Sylvia took the stage. The Clark brothers from Virginia opened up with Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll.
They entertained as the audience filed in and even played a short "bluegrass picking" tune that didn't seem to be a big hit with the crowd but, as a bluegrass and newgrass fan I enjoyed it.
Billy Currington took the stage later in the night and the opened with "How County Boys Roll". The ladies seemed to go nuts every time his face (and his curls) showed up on the video screen at either side of the stage.
The crowd noise level went up when he performed "People are Crazy", especially during the "... beer is good" part. He closed his set with my personal favorite "Good Directions".
Underwood took the stage a little after 9 with "Cowboy Casanova".
After a couple of songs she told the crowd that she likes to learn about the cities where she performs by looking at Wikipedia. She asked, "you guys have an Asparagus Festival?" and the fans cheered! She said they celebrate Okrafest back in her home town of Checotah, Oklahoma.
She performed favorites like "Wasted", "Some Hearts", "Temporary Home", "All American Girl", and " So Small". After walking off the stage, she returned in the bed of a blue pickup truck (complete with "Carrie" on the tailgate) and was hoisted above the audience while she sang John Denver's hit, "Country Roads". Judging by the crowd, "Undo It", with it's chunky and distorted resonator guitar rhythms, was certainly a favorite.
Carrie Underwood, Stockton Arena
Underwood took a few breaks to talk to the audience and told of how she grew up singing everywhere. The Arena got louder with every mention of American Idol. She said that if her life hadn't turned out the way it did she would've likely still been singing, maybe even at the Asparagus Festival. I always enjoy it when artists talk to the crowd and she seemed to do so often and comfortably.
My favorite performance of the night was "Jesus Take The Wheel" with a few lines from "How Great Thou Art" at the end. She sang it masterfully and was full of emotion. I also think that, besides the very end of the show, the crowd was at its loudest at that point.
She brought Sons of Sylvia back on stage and performed the duet "What Can I Say" from her 2010 release Play On. She payed homage to The Grand Ol' Opry when she performed "I Told You So" with Randy Travis on video.
She closed her set with a very loud "Last Name" before coming back for an encore with "Before He Cheats" and "Songs Like This".
We were all glad we went. It was an awesome show. Great music and theatrics! I'm no fashion expert but Underwood looked exquisite, especially in the dress that lit up. Our daughters had a great time and there seemed to be a pretty diverse cross section of music fans there. I even spotted Thunder President Dan Chapman and United Way of San Joaquin CEO Andy Prokop. I've not yet seen how many tickets were sold but it looked to be just short of being sold out.
This show, and last week's Snoop Dogg / Ice Cube show, are exactly what make Stockton great!
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Jeff Gamboni, President of Stockton Beautiful. In this episode:
Pacific students use their skills to make cardboard and duct tape float. The University of the Pacific's annual Engineering Cardboard Regatta is once again taking place at the Kjeldsen Pool. Students are challenged to make, and float in, boats made entirely of duct tape and cardboard. To find out more about this event, which takes place October 1st at 2:30pm visit their information page (link below). Want to see them in action? Check out the video from last year's regatta.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Stockton tweeps unite once again for STU #3. The third installment of the Stockton Tweetup will take place Wednesday, September 29 from 5:45 PM to 8:00 PM at the Lexington Hotel in Downtown Stockton. Be sure to invite your non-social media friends to the party...maybe you can convert them!
Roll out the barrels! It's time for Oktoberfest on the Mile. Get out the lederhosen and grab the stein, Oktoberfest is coming back the Miracle Mile Thursday, September 30th. Enjoy the live entertainment as well as the food, and of course, the beer.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Jeff Gamboni, President of Stockton Beautiful. Next week, on September 29, Stockton Beautiful and the Downtown Stockton Alliance are hosting TREEmendous at Sass to raise funds to plants trees in downtown Stockton. Tickets are still available for $25.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Links Cardboard Regatta at Pacific 10/1 Video from the 2009 Cardboard Regatta Stockton Tweetup #3 info@StocktonTweetup on Twitter Oktoberfest on the Mile 9/30 ClosetGoodies.comStockton BeautifulTREEmendous at Sass 9/29
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with the creative team behind the comic book, The Amazing Fist. In this episode:
Rod returns to Podcast Stockton. Now that the Ports regular season has come to a close, Rod is back in the co-pilot seat and ready to fill you in on how his first season as the Director of Fun and Games/On-field emcee went down as well as fill you in on the Ports amazing second half turnaround.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Get back to shape with Rod and Gold's Gym. Gold's new permanent home is now open and waiting for you to get in and "Know Your Own Strength." Located at 1822 E Hammer Lane, the new facilities are a great place to get going on your 2010 goals to get back in shape...just like Rod is doing.
Manny Montes talks to Mario from Silver Back Clothing and Serious Ink about the Revival at Chitiva's this Friday. Get your tickets online at serioussilverback.ticketleap.com/the-revival/. Tickets are also available at X Spot and El Camino Tire.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Adam Messinger, Matthew Farnsworth, and Frank Stone, creators of the comic book,The Amazing Fist. Matt talks to the men behind a new comic book, the Amazing Fist, and how they are using Kickstarter.com to get financial backing.
Couple more things...
The date for Stockton Tweetup #3 has just been announced. The event will beheld on September 29, 2010 at the Lexington Hotel in Downtown Stockton. For more information, follow Stockton Tweetup on Twitter, or at the website.
If you are interested in backing The Amazing Fist go to their Kickstarter site to learn more.
High school football is back in full swing and Rod and the newly reformed Valley Sports Network crew are looking for schools who want Internet radio coverage of their Friday nights. Contact the show if you know anyone who might be interested.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Chris Freeman, City Librarian.
This week's show is co-hosted by Chris Kotsoglou. Read his blog and follow him on Twitter.
In this episode:
Catch up time with Chris the Greek. Chris is more than half-way through Stockton's Biggest Loser. Read about all of the other contestants here.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Lincoln Center Live and Miracle Mile Night. On back-to-back nights, Stockton had two awesome events. Car shows, live music, great food - these two events did not disappoint. In its second year, Miracle Mile Night, organized by friend of the show, Greg Bahr, grew by a few blocks, two stages, and a handful of cars. Port City Marketing Solutions brought back the very popular Pin Up Girl competition and even brought out a surprise special guest to kick off the event.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Chris Freeman, Stockton and San Joaquin County Public Library City Librarian. I met with Chris in his office at the Chavez Library in Downtown Stockton to find out a little more about our libraries, how we became a librarian and how Stockton has surprised him. Visit Chris's blog, civillibrarian.com and follow him on Twitter and Facebook. Also visit the library's website at stockton.lib.ca.us and follow the SSJCPL on Twitter and Facebook.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Rick Corduck from Clear.
Wes’s Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Also visit their awesome blog, ourstockton.com.
This week's show is co-hosted by Manny Montes.
In this episode:
National Night Out.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Clear announces CLEAR 4G in the Stockton area. I sat down with Rick Corduck, local General Manager of Clear to talk about the announcements made this week. Also check out their coverage map.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
A restaurant review of Flip's Burgers. They are open Monday - Saturday 11 am - 8 pm and located at 2503 Waterloo. Join them on Facebook and tell them that Podcast Stockton sent you!
Come out on Saturday, August 7, 10 am at Atherton Park as Team Podcast Stockton plays a re-match against the Stockton Stingrays.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring a short interview with Lee Neves, the recently appointed Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the California Cougars as well as a return visit from Jared Foster and Leona Marino from Web World Talent.
Wes’s Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Also visit their awesome blog, ourstockton.com.
In this episode:
This week's show is co-hosted by the voice of Podcast Stockton sports, Lowell Tuckerman.
Congratulations to Rod and Linda on the birth of the beautiful daughter, Keira Page.
A review of Midtown Creperie and Cafe. Visit their website and find them on Facebook and Twitter. If you are looking for a taste of genuine French crepes and other fine French treats, I highly recommend Midtown Creperie.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
A short interview with Lee Neves, the recently appointed Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the California Cougars, Stockton's professional indoor soccer team. The regular season starts in early November and home games are played at the Stockton Arena. Find them on Twitter, Facebook and their blog. Additionally, check out Lee's blog, Valley Sports Spot.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Jared Foster and Leona Marino from Web World Talent. Are you a singer? Want your shot to win $25,000? Well, it all starts here. Attend Web World Talent's first talent search audition on Saturday, July 24, 2010 from 9 AM to 9 PM. Listen in for the all the details.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Levi Wells and Clarence Henderson from 83 Seconds.
Wes’s Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Also visit their awesome blog, ourstockton.com.
In this episode:
What's new on the Miracle Mile. Greg Bahr fills in for Rod and fills us in on what's new on the Mile. The Ave and MidTown Creperie have opened. And don't forget, Miracle Mile Night is coming soon. Follow Greg on Twitter @Griffin209 and @MiracleMileNite
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Photo contests sponsored by the Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau and The Record. Summer is a great time to go out and take some pictures. For tips on getting some great shots we spoke with local photographers Dennis Johnson, Patrick and Kati Giblin, and Manny Montes. Here are some of the shots Patrick mentioned (shopkeeper mopping, Stuff I think is good set, fiddle player). Besides these great photographers, check out Michael Brooking's Flickr and Clifford Oto's blog.
A quick review of Podcast Stockton Live at the Taste of San Joaquin!
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Levi Wells and Clarence Henderson from 83 Seconds. This new social networking (it's not social, it's networking, with a purpose) site is coming soon and Levi and Clarence come into the studio to tell us what it's all about. The two of them are running the company from Stockton, and along with their business partners from southern California, they are looking at making a splash in the online world of social networking.
A few quick things:
Rod and Linda's newest addition, another daughter, is expected to make her arrival any day. The rest of the Podcast Stockton crew is eager for her arrival!
The 2nd Annual Internet Marketing Conference is July 21 from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM at the Stockton Hilton. Tickets are $125. There are only 10 spots left and Mayaco is donating 100% of the proceeds of these final 10 tickets to the St. Joseph's Cancer Center. This year's keynote speaker is Microsoft Executive, Alpa Agarwal.
The Record's editor, Mike Klocke, held a live web chat this afternoon. Besides mentioning Podcast Stockton, Evil Chef Mom and Reclaiming the Title, Mike fielded some great questions from the community.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Last Saturday, we took the show on the road with our first Podcast Stockton Live at the Taste of San Joaquin / Way Out West BBQ Championship. It was another awesome year for this event with tons of great food and music. Stockton's own Smokin' Yankees took home 3rd place in pork and ribs, 8th in brisket, 1st place (by one point) in the People's Choice category and 3rd place overall! Congratulations Smokin' Yankees!
Rod was not able to join us so Gabriel stepped in as fill-in co-host. With Manny running sound, we were joined by our usual guests, Wes Rhea, Lowell Tuckerman and Jon Remington. We also did a trivia segment and gave away some great prizes to one lucky audience member. We also did an interview with Ric Gilbert from Way Out West BBQ Championship.
We were not able to record the audio from the live show but we did capture a little video and Manny did the editing and production... thanks guys!
Also check out pics from our show here.
Big thanks to Emily from the Downtown Stockton Alliance for giving us the opportunity to do our show live.
Gabriel, Manuel, Jon, Lowell, Matt
On July 3, 2010, we did a live version of our show at the Taste of San Joaquin and Way Out West BBQ Championship. In the video I kept calling it the "2nd annual...". It was actually the 3rd annual Taste of San Joaquin and the 2nd annual Way Out West BBQ Championship.part 2 of 2 On July 3, 2010, we did a live version of our show at the Taste of San Joaquin and Way Out West BBQ Championship. In the video I kept calling it the "2nd annual...". It was actually the 3rd annual Taste of San Joaquin and the 2nd annual Way Out West BBQ Championship.
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Dr. Derron Lee from Midtown Optometry. Wes’s Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
In this episode:
Rod returns to the show during the Ports All-Star break.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Matt has finally joined the world of Foursquare. Find out where he has checked in from and see if you can beat him out as Mayor of the "bump" at Eight Mile Road here.
Safe and Sane fireworks are legal in the City of Stockton this year. For the first time ever, fireworks will be sold inside city limits. Several local non-profits will have booths set up around town. You can find a list of all the participates and the locations of their stands at the Stockton Fireworks website.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
An interview with Dr. Derron Lee from Midtown Optometry. Visit their website, midtownoptometry.com and Facebook. Also see their reviews on Yelp.
A few quick things:
The Podcast Stockton iPhone app is almost ready for Beta! Thanks to Mr. Wes for all his great work on this project.
Podcast Stockton Live at the Taste of San Joaquin!
Don't forget to bookmark OurStockton.com.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Dawn Correll-Cruz and Tera Moore from Stockton's Relay For Life. In this episode:
This week's special guest co-host is Gabriel, aka Abraxas579.
The San Joaquin County Fair opened this week. Follow the fair on Twitter and Facebook.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
Review of Siamese Street Thai Restaurant at 3236 Pacific Avenue. Check out their menu here and read the reviews on Yelp.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com
Happy Fathers Day!FatherFest is this weekend, as is Red Circle Father's Day Powwow. There's a lot of other things going on this weekend. Check VisitStockton.org for the area's largest events calendar.
An interview with Dawn Correll-Cruz, Fight Back Chair, and Tera Moore, Event Chair, of Stockton's Relay For Life. This year's event is June 26-27 in downtown Stockton. For more information, visit their website. This year, participants will have the opportunity to take place in the history Cancer Prevention Study 3.
A few quick things:
Please keep sending us your interview and event suggestions! We appreciate your support!
iPhone 4 is almost here. If you get one on launch day we want to see it!
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Gabriel
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Jason Roth and John Clauser from Port City Marketing Solutions. In this episode:
Today, we welcome friend-of-the-show (and my wife) Dawn Beckwith in as our fill-in co-host. Follow her on Twitter @PGHDawn.
The Downtown Stockton Alliance and the Gospel Center Rescue Mission team up tomorrow for the Sing for THEIR Supper karaoke fundraiser. During Friday's extended Certified Farmer's Market, singers will be singing to raise money to help the GCRM raise funds to feed individuals and families in need. Follow @D_townStockton and @GCRMS on Twitter. There are still openings to sing or sponsor. For more information, call 320-2329 or e-mail events@gcrms.org.
The Stockton Rod & Gun Club are hosting the Annual Walter K Banks Fishing Derby on Saturday, June 12 from 7-11 AM. Kids 15 and under can come fish, or learn to fish, for free. If they don't have fishing equipment, the club will provide cane poles. There will be food and prizes and visits from the CHP, Thor and Hometown Bee. For more information, call Mario at 479-4412.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman
iPhone was announced this week. Lots of comments on Facebook about it here. What do you think?
What's new on Closetgoodies.com
An interview with Jason Roth and John Clauser from Port City Marketing Solutions. Visit them on Facebook.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Diana Lowery, City Council Member. In this episode:
Rod was not able to join the show today so Manuel Montes stepped in as a fill-in co-host. Visit his blog, Flickr and Twitter.
The Island Girl Delta Discovery Cruise is sailing from Downtown Stockton. Check out the video of the vessel here and visit the official website.
Matt & Rod at San Joaquin Delta College's Second Annual MediaFest. This great event gave students the opportunity to show off their projects and be critiqued by professionals working in their given industry. Let's Play Guns 2 in 3D. Mark your calendars for the opening of Broadcasting Sunshine, August 27, 2010 at Delta College.
An interview with City Council member, Diana Lowery. Visit her website and her page on the City Council.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Manuel
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an exclusive interview with Leona Marino and Jared Foster, introducing WebWorldTalent.com.
In this episode:
A Bay Area casting agency is looking for Stockton talent. On May 22nd, American Eagle Casting will be holding an open audition for roles in the second season of the Investigation Discovery Channel's series, "I Almost Got Away With It." The casting calls will be held in Patterson beginning at 10AM and American Eagle Studios has asked specifically for participation from anyone interested from Stockton.
Our thoughts on Mayor Ann Johnston's State of the City Address. Last week the Mayor gave her Stockton State of the City Address speech. She talked about what Stockton needs to do in order to shake it's national reputation. Dallas Braden was also brought up as an example of the kind of person she is looking to to help change the "attitude" of the city. You can read the text of the speech here.
The Stockton Stingrays vs. Podcast Stockton beep baseball rematch you have all been waiting for. We recently took on the Stockton Stingrays beep baseball team. The Stockton Stingrays are still looking for six-person teams to play them on Saturdays at Atherton Park. Contact the Community Center for theBlind and Visually Impaired for more information at 209-466-3836 or info@communitycenterfortheblind.org. Check out the pics here.
An interview with Leona Marino and Jared Foster from WebWorldTalent.com. WWT will be looking for talented individuals to compete for cash and prizes. Later this summer, they will begin by filming audition videos for local singers. Check out their website and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
Couple more things...
Don't forget to check out visitstockton.org for what is going on this weekend, there are a ton of things happening so stay informed by visiting the website.
The Haggin Museum A la Carte is taking place this Saturday from 6-9.
Check out the Port City Roller Girls in their first bout of the season.
Don't miss the Stockton Ports as the honor Dallas Braden and his perfect game on Saturday.
Join Delta College for their 2nd Annual Medifest starting at 10am in Upper Danner.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with David Mckeever, creator of "365 Things To Do In Stockton." In this episode:
Stockton's very own Dallas Braden pitches a perfect game. On May 9th, 2010, Dallas Braden became the 19th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to pitch a perfect game. Since then he has been featured on David Letterman, ESPN's Sportcenter, as well as several other media outlets including Slick Diaz's blog, "Reclaiming The Title."
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
Delta College is hosting a Mediafest this weekend. The Delta College Radio and Television department is hosting their 2nd Annual Mediafest on May 22nd. Mediafest is an event put on with the sole purpose of introducing college media students to the professionals in their crafts. Several local leaders of the industry will be be represented this year including those from radio, television, film, journalism and graphic arts. Matt and I will be the emcees as well. This event is open to the public. If you are interested in attending and would like more information visit their website.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com
An interview with David Mckeever creator of 365 Things To Do In Stockton, Ca. Over a month ago, local Realtor David Mckeever created "365 Things To Do In Stockton," a site spotlighting things to do in Stockton for every day of the year. Each day David posts another suggestion of a fun thing to do in town. Look for them on his website and follow them on Twitter, or become a fan on Facebook.
This week's question of the week. What are your suggestions for a cheap (but fun) date in Stockton?
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, featuring an interview with Emily Baime, Marketing Director for the Downtown Stockton Alliance. A quick look at the news:
Fireworks are now legal
The downtown Stockton Certified Farmers Market is open for the season.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Be sure to listen, there may be another giveaway.
In this episode:
A couple of places with open mic in Stockton.
The Stockton Thunder in the playoffs!
A review of Yogurt My Way.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
An interview of Emily Baime, Marketing Director of the Downtown Stockton Alliance. Check them out at downtownstockton.org, on Facebook and Twitter..
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton for Friday, April 30, 2010. On this episode, we cover:
This Saturday, May 1, is Free Comic Book Day. Stockton comic creators, Adam Messinger and Ramon Villalobos will be out in Tracy giving away autographed copies of Frank and Elenore in "It's Raining Blood on Prom Night!". Go support Adam and Ramon at King's Comics and Games at 245 E. 11th St in Tracy from 11 to 6. You can find Spectacle Press (Adam) on Facebook and Twitter, follow Ramon on Twitter.
Sports update with Lowell Tuckerman.
Come join Podcast Stockton as we take on the Stockton Stingrays in their first exhibition practice game. Saturday, May 8, at 10 AM at Atherton Park. For more info on the Stockton Stingrays from the Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, visit their website.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com.
Restaurant review of Pho Saigon Bay Restaurant at 5756 Pacific Avenue.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton for Wednesday, April 28, 2010. On this episode, we cover:
Wes’s Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
A recap of the 22nd Annual Earth Day Festival. Matt and I were emcees at Stockton's Earth day festival hosted by the Peace and Justice Network of San Joaquin Valley. There were several bands and performing artists that participated in the event including The Afternaps and Tara Tinsley from Musicians for a Better Planet. Several teachers were given awards as well as a grant and Congressman Jerry McNerney and City Council Member Susan Eggman addressed the attendees. If you want more information and to find out about next year's Earth day festival visit http://livegreensanjoaquin.org.
The Courage Campaign of San Joaquin is hosting a Mardi Gras party. On Friday April 30th at 6:00pm, the Courage Campaign of San Joaquin will be putting on a Mardi Gras party in an effort to raise awareness of their organization. The event will be held at Valley Ministries MMC in Stockton and is free to attend.
Help save "Music in the Park."A 58 year old tradition is on the verge of ending as the City will no longer be able to support the "Music in the Park" program held at Victory Park. Thusday, April 29th from 5:30 to 7:30, there will be a fundraiser to help continue this event. Bring your chair and your checkbook and enjoy the music of local artists "Next Door Neighbor;"
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton for Friday, April 23, 2010. On this episode, we cover:
The 25th Annual Asparagus Festival is here. There's still two days left to go out and enjoy the Asparagus Festival.
Sports update from Lowell Tuckerman
Rod and I walked a mile in her shoes to help raise money for the Women's Center of San Joaquin County. We also spoke with Pat Francis from S-Mart Foods, Wes Rhea and Jennifer from the Women's Center. Check out the pics here. Also, check out the video done by the multimedia crew from the Record.
Interview with Miko Jaleel from Delta College TV.
Thanks to TuneStruck Quartet for recording the great stinger for this episode.
What's new on ClosetGoodies.com..
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, the real episode 34, featuring Timm Quinn from Leadership Stockton. In this episode:
Jennifer Boylan, from the Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, talks to Matt about the upcoming 3rd Annual Health & Vision Fair on Saturday, April 10 from 10 AM to 3 PM. The CCBVI is located at 130 West Flora Street.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
We're back! Yesterday, we released a special episode in honor of April Fool's Day. Thanks to Gabriel, Devin, and Lowell Tuckerman for their help with this special episode. Check out Gabriel and Devin's podcast, The Single Malt Versus.
Rod has finished the audition video for Smokin' Yankees BBQ in their quest to be on BBQ Pitmasters on TLC. We really want to see them on the show. To help out, please go to the Discovery website and tell them, "I want to see Smokin' Yankees from Stockton on BBQ Pitmasters!" Let's help get them on national TV. The Smokin' Yankees have their new website up and also, check them out on Facebook.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
Andy Pinasco, aka @brewery33, will be making good on his trash bet and will be spending one hour (from 8 AM - 9 AM) picking up garbage at Janet Leigh Plaza. Look for him downtown on Saturday 4/10 or 5/1. We'll be sure to let everyone know exactly which day he chooses. So, join him if you'd like, or just enjoy downtown Stockton and congratulate him when he's done.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com
We asked for your ideas for future Questions of the Week? Next week's QOW, courtesy of Amy Farry, is: If you are employed, do you commute, and if so, where to? Call our listener line and leave us a message, send us an e-mail or leave a comment on our Facebook page.
Matt interviews Timm Quinn from the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Stockton. Since 1981, over 600 locals have completed the 11 month Leadership Stockton program. The deadline is fast approaching for the 2010-2011 class. Applications must be received by June 18, 2010. Visit Leadership Stockton website and also on Facebook. Since coming into the Outback Studios, Timm has joined the Twitter ranks, follow him @LeadershipStkn
A couple more things: Rod and I will be emcees at the 22nd Annual Earth Day Festival on April 18; vote for Stockton resident, Cheri on Maxim; the Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out has begun.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton for Thursday, April 15, 2010. On this episode, we cover:
The return of the Stockton Ports. Thursday is the first regular season home game for the Ports as they take the field against the Visalia Rawhide at 7:05 PM. Rod will be there, in his first regular season game as the director of on-field entertainment. Come out and support Rod and the Ports.
The Asparagus Festival is fast approaching. We asked our Facebook fans what they like about the Asparagus Festival. We are also giving away a family four pack of tickets to the event. Listen to the episode to find out how.
Help support Autism Awareness. Patt from Elegant Essence is holding a fund-raiser on April 23 5:30-8:30 PM.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 35, featuring Rod's interview with Kate Post, Executive Director of the Asparagus Festival. A quick look at the news:
Stockton foreclosure rates are starting to decline.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is helping tax filers, for more info call 209-644-8600.
The US Census Bureau is still encouraging people to return their census forms to avoid a personal visit to your home. Visit 2010.census.gov for more info.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Be sure to listen, there may be another giveaway.
In this episode:
The Podcast Stockton iPad review.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year's theme is Don't Stand By, Stand Up. For more info on events going on this month to raise awareness of sexual violence, visit the Women's Center of San Joaquin County website.
A mini-interview with Susan Mora-Loyko, event co-ordinator of the Stockton Earth Day Festival. This year's event will be held on Sunday, April 18 at Victory Park. Come out and learn how we can help protect our planet and stop by and say hi to us, we'll be emcees!
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
Restaurant Review - Fon Wong's Deli located at 3201 West Benjamin Holt Drive, (209) 952-6886, open Mon-Sat 11am-8:30pm.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Rod's interview of Kate Post, Executive Director of the Asparagus Festival. This year, the Asparagus Festival celebrates its 25th year. Visit their official website, blog, Twitter, Facebook or YouTube.
This week's question of the week: Do you commute?Plus listener voicemails from Andy. Andy Pinasco, aka @brewery33, will be making good on his trash bet and will be spending one hour (from 8 AM - 9 AM) picking up garbage at Janet Leigh Plaza. Look for him downtown on Saturday 4/10. So, join him if you'd like, or just enjoy downtown Stockton and congratulate him when he's done.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 33, featuring returning guest Wes Rhea. In this episode:
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
Stockton Tweetup #2 was held this week at the Stockton Hilton. Check out the pics on Flickr or Facebook. Check out StocktonTweetup.com and follow @StocktonTweetup to find out about the next Stockton Tweetup. Big thanks to all the local companies that donated some great raffle prizes - Haggin Museum, John's Incredible Pizza, Finnegans, Elegant Essence, Closetgoodies, Midtown Optometry, Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Submarina and the Stockton Hilton. You can see the attendees and sponsors by checking out the @StocktonTweetup lists.
Rod hangs out with Smokin' Yankees BBQ at Oak Grove Regional Park and filmed some footage for their BBQ Pitmasters entry video. Best of luck to those guys as they try to get on the TLC show. Also, check them out on Facebook.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Wes Rhea from the Stockton Conference & Visitors Bureau drops by the Outback to talk about the Great Stockton Asparagus Dine out, a perfect pre-lude to the 25th Asparagus Festival. The Dine Out runs April 1-11 and features asparagus entrees, appetizers and cocktails at some great local restaurants. Visit dineoutstockton.com for more info.
Do you back-up your computer?
Next week, we want to know what you want us to ask for the question of the week. We have some ideas, tech and non-tech, but we want to hear from you. Call our listener line and leave us a message, send us an e-mail or leave a comment on our Facebook page.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 32, featuring an interview with Joshua Rodriguez, Ryan Dinkel, Octavio Rodriguez and Tyrone Wise who are doing the Ride 2 Recovery. In this episode:
A quick look at the news.
A review of the 19th annual Library & Literacy Foundation Trivia Bee.
Fox40 reports from Stockton.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
Mini-interview with Chris from Smokin' Yankees BBQ at the MDA fundraiser. Check them out on Facebook.
Restaurant review of Seoul Soon Dubu on the Miracle Mile.
Music from Sunday night's house show.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Rod's interview with Joshua Rodriguez, Ryan Dinkel, Octavio Rodriguez and Tyrone Wise who are preparing to do the ride to recovery ride.
Stockton's hidden treasures.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
Next week, we want to know about your back-up. Do you back-up? You computer, we mean. In this digital age, we all have tons of pictures, videos and music on our computers, and sometimes our computers crash. We want to hear from you. Call our listener line and leave us a message, send us an e-mail or leave a comment on our Facebook page.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
On Friday evening, Rod and I, along with our friend Fred, participated in the 19th Annual Trivia Bee put on by the Library & Literacy Foundation for San Joaquin County. While this was my third time competing in this event and Fred's second time, it was Rod's first Trivia Bee. This years event, the first to sell-out, was held inside the A.G. Spanos Center at University of the Pacific after many years at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium.
We arrived shortly after noon to claim our tables on the stage and in the audience. The prime spots went first to the teams that were able to set up early. We set up shop on the back row, which was perfect since I was afraid my hat would block someone from being seen by the audience.
After eating a great dinner catered by Angelina's, we went to the top deck for pictures. While we were waiting in line, we met the threesome with the Stockton Rotary team. After a few minutes, we figured out why one them looked familiar: he was one of the men that stands behind the goal at the Stockton Arena and hits the buzzer when there's a score.
The teams took the stage shortly after 7 PM and were introduced one by one. Then, the hard work began. The first question asked what suspense film maker inspired a Lady Gaga song. I don't know much about Lady Gaga but guessed at the right answer: Alfred Hitchcock. Needless to say, we went crazy celebrating the fact we were 1 for 1. Our fans out in the audience (Linda, Dawn and Flower) also cheered us on. The next 29 questions were not as easy. Most of the time, only one of us knew the answer to each question. At the end of round one, we had amassed 17 points. More than half, and one more than the couple of teams in last place!
The second round proved to be much more difficult with more questions about movies and literature. We only answered 9 of 30 correct for a total score of 35. The Friends of the Library team won the competition with a total of 65 points. Our only goal for the night was to not end up in last place. Thankfully we did better than last place.
We got a chance to talk to other Bee goers such as city council members Susan Eggman and Dale Fritchen, Vice Mayor Kathy Miller, Public Information Officer Connie Cochran, Foundation Executive Director Susan Spracher, SBDC Director Gillian Murphy, Record Editors Mike Klocke and Don Blount, Sheriff Steve Moore, Dwight Richards and many more.
The spirit award of the night, however, has to go to the local high school teams. There were teams from a few local area high schools but the teams represented by St. Mary's, Lincoln and Stagg were energetic and excited to be competing. We sat next to the St. Mary's team and had a great time getting to know them. One of the students had learned, as we were in the middle of competition, that he was accepted to UCLA. Fred snuck a note the master of ceremonies and an announcement was made, to thunderous applause. Later, when we asked him if was going to go there, he said, "No, I want to go to Stanford."
Kudos to the Library & Literacy Foundation staff for putting on another fantastic Trivia Bee. Congratulations to the Friends of the Library team for taking home the Bobblehead Bee trophy.
Click here for the pictures we took at the event.
We will be back in 2011.
Fox 40 sent their evening news broadcast crew down to Stockton today. They ran segments on headlines and the "bad stuff". In a segment titled, A Positive Look At Stockton, Rod got a chance to say why we started Podcast Stockton.
Big thanks to the Fox40 team for coming down to Stockton! Great coverage and cool concept! Doing the whole show from Stockton was awesome!
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 31, featuring an interview with Justin Farry from Google Fiber for Stockton. In this episode:
Short show this week, an out of town trip cut in to our pre-production time.
Rod lands the job as the Director of Fun & Games at the Stockton Ports. Check out the Record video from the tryouts.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
E-mail comments from Bob Morgan and John Schwabauer. We welcome your comments and show topic suggestions. Send your comments to mail@podcaststockton.com.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Rod's interview with Justin Farry from Google Fiber for Stockton. Also follow him on Twitter @FiberStocktonCA.
Couple more things...
Podcast Stockton turns 1 on March 22. What was your favorite episode of the show? Who was your favorite interview?
A reminder that Stockton Tweetup #2 is coming on March 23.
Watch Fox40 news at 5:30 pm tonight. You just might see someone you know.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
Next week, we want to know about interesting things in Stockton you only recently discovered. We are always discovering things in Stockton that we, quite frankly, were surprised we didn't know about before. Does that ever happen to you? We want to hear from you. Call our listener line and leave us a message, send us an e-mail or leave a comment on our Facebook page.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 30, featuring an interview with Dr. Robert Shapiro from HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive Rehab. In this episode:
A quick look at the news: Bass Masters "duel on the delta" begins March 11th, Delta College dedicate their new track, Stockton celebrates the Chinese New Year
Stockton named to another list, America's Most Obese.
A restaurant review of Ghinggis Khan Mongolian Barbeque at 7840 West Lane and 2233 Grand Canal Boulevard.
Sports with Lowell Tuckerman
Stockton on the Web. There are a lot of great bloggers in Stockton. No matter where your interests lie, chances are there is a local blogger that you might find interesting. Some of our favorites are:
- Reclaiming the Title
- Sterni's Web Universe
- Brewery33
- Chris the Greek
- Lincoln Village One
- Manuel Montes
- Caravan News
Also, in the left column of this web page, we have a bunch of other local bloggers, be sure to check them out. If you have a blog and we don't have you listed let us know. If you'd like to be a guest blogger on Podcast Stockton, just let us know.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Matt's interview with local chiropractor, Dr. Robert Shapiro from HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive Rehab. His office is located at 4565 Quail Lakes Drive, Suite A1.
Do you shop online? RizzoTees.com
Couple more things...
PS feedback - what do you like? dislike? We are interested in your feedback about all aspects of the show. Call us, e-mail us, or send a carrier pigeon.
We were featured on News 10 earlier in the week.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Don't forget to complete the Best of San Joaquin survey.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Rod and I had our second television appearance in as many weeks yesterday. Last week, Anne Makovek from News 10 came to the Outback Studios to learn more about Podcast Stockton. This morning, they ran the story, "Podcast Stockton Shines Light on Good in Stockton". You can also click here for just the video. We were thrilled to, once again, have the opportunity to share Podcast Stockton with more people.
For five episodes now, a young man has been bringing you the highlights from the Stockton sports scene on Podcast Stockton. We now realize that we pretty much threw him at you with no ado. Allow us to correct that mistake by formally introducing you to the voice of Stockton Sports....Lowell Tuckerman. Lowell is a product of the bay area and has, as of September of 2009, began to call Stockton his home. He comes to us by way of the Delta College Radio and Television department where he has hosted a sports talk program since his arrival in the spring semester of 2008.
During his tenure as the end-all-be-all of the Delta sports talk scene Lowell has made regular guest of such prominent bay area sports writers as the beat writers for the San Francisco Giants, the Oakland A's, and the Golden State Warriors. He has also played host to Damon Bruce of KNBR fame and even had the opportunity to interview Gary Radnich on his own show. And last but certainly not least he has chatted poker as well as life with ESPN's World Series of Poker analyst Norman Chad.
Lowell Tuckerman is for real folks. You can still find him roaming the airwaves of Delta College's Internet radio station iDPower on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2pm until 4pm.
Over the course of his stay at Delta, Lowell has earned two certificates in both radio and television while adding an Associates Degree in Communications with a concentration in Radio. He remains at Delta to finish his general education classes on his way to transferring to a four-year University.
According to Lowell he is enjoying his time as a member of the Podcast Stockton crew and is thrilled to be a part of what he calls a "legit operation." He has appreciated the opportunity to work with myself and Matt stating that being on this show has made him "proud of Stockton and proud to be part of the Podcast Stockton team."
Lowell is looking to take his Podcast Stockton experience as well as his time at Delta to move up the ladder of the sports talk world. "I would like to someday be a sports talk show host in a big market like LA, New Orleans or Miami, and while I may be doing radio now, don't get me wrong, I would love to do some television as well."
Please join us in welcoming Lowell Tuckerman to the Podcast Stockton family. We look forward to our continued partnership and appreciate the great things he has done for us thus far.
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 29, featuring an interview with Susan Spracher, Executive Director of the Library & Literacy Foundation for San Joaquin County. The foundation is gearing up for their 19th annual Trivia Bee on March 12. In this episode:
A quick look at the news: Congressman McNerney to Hold Small Business and Economic Development Workshop at Pacific; Congressman McNerney attended Delta College’s Veteran Resource Center “Grand Opening” on Monday, Feb. 22; Port of Stockton, city leaders celebrate news of stimulus money.
Podcast Stockton makes our TV news debut. KCRA invited us live in studio last weekend to talk about the show and our thoughts on being named the second most miserable city. In case you missed it live, you can watch it here.
Restaurant review of Yen Du at 702 Porter Avenue. Read their Yelp reviews here.
Stockton sports update from Lowell Tuckerman.
The Stockton Stingrays are looking for volunteers to help out on the field. If you'd like to help the Stingrays by being a catcher, field spotter or second pitcher. Also, if you'd like to experience the NBBA world series in a unique way, consider volunteering to be an umpire or scorekeeper. This year's NBBA World Series is 8/1-8/8 in Rochester, Minnesota. For more information on either volunteer opportunity, call Jennifer at the Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired at (209) 466-3836 or visit their website.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Susan Spracher
Rod's interview with Susan Spracher, Executive Director of the Library & Literacy Foundation for San Joaquin County. The foundation is gearing up for their 19th annual Trivia Bee on March 12 at the Alex G. Spanos center at University of the Pacific. Tickets for the show, and an awesome dinner, are still available. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased by calling 209-937-7196, visiting sjcliteracy.org or going to the Friends of the Stockton Public Library at 1724 West Hammer Lane. We'd love to have our listeners come cheer us on as we compete in the event.
Do you watch TV on your computer? We hear from many Facebook friends and received voicemails from Gabriel and Andy.
StocktonTweetup #2
Rod wants to start a roller hockey league.
Listener Fred will be joining our team at the Trivia Bee.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Don't forget to complete the Best of San Joaquin survey.
Next week, we're talking about online shopping! Do you shop online? Does Amazon and eBay frighten you? Do the malls frighten you?
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
This morning, Rod and I had the chance to go on KCRA News to talk about Podcast Stockton. Thank you all for watching and for helping us get the word out. We appreciate your support more than words can say. Click here to watch the video - Podcast Stockton Encourages Civic Pride
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 28, featuring an interview with Joni Bauer from the Community Center for Blind and Visually Impaired. The CCBVI is sponsoring the second Pedaling Paths to Independence bike ride on Saturday February 27.
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In this episode:
A quick look at the news: San Joaquin County Hospital facing deep losses; student artists are encouraged to submit artwork to The Ports; Stockton is now the second most-miserable city in the US.
What to look forward to when the weather gets better?Asparagus Festival, Way Out West BBQ Competition, Podcast Stockton vs. Stockton Stingrays exhibition game May 8, 2010, Stockton Trojans football,
Stockton sports update from Lowell Tuckerman.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Matt's interview with Joni Bauer, Orientation & Mobility Specialist with Community Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Hear how Joni got involved in this line of work. Joni is the driving force behind the Pedaling Paths to Independence on Saturday February 27. There are two routes, 67 and 25 miles. This is an awesome pre-season century. If you are interested in doing this ride, you can still sign up on BikeReg.com. Matt rode it last year but will be volunteering this year at one of the rest stops. If you see him out there be sure to say hi!
Google Buzz? 4 Square?Formspring? Are you using these new social media services? Formspring Matt or Rod.
It's tax season. How do you prepare your return? Fill out the forms yourself? Have an accountant? TurboTax? We hear from some of our Facebook friends as well as Mike and Gabriel.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook. Don't forget to complete the Best of San Joaquin survey.
Next week, we're talking about TV on the internet! Do you watch TV on the internet?
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Forbes Magazine issued it's list of America's Most Miserable cities today. Stockton is no longer at the top of the list. We were displaced by Cleveland, Ohio. Besides being the TV home for the Drew Carey show, and home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the NBA Cavaliers and NFL Browns, Cleveland can now lay claim to being atop a list it would likely rather not be.
I do not dispute the methodology used by Forbes for this annual study. I think it is important to examine taxes, crime rates and commute times. What I do not understand, though, is the adjective (or better put, label) miserable.
If miserable is to be in a state of misery and misery is great unhappiness, I think it is impossible for an entire city (or, in actuality, all of its residents) to be miserable. That is too wide a net to cast over a quarter-million people.
I do not discount our crime rate, unemployment or taxes. Those are all very serious matters that need our attention. Those characteristics, however, do not define who we are as a city. Stockton is full of loving and caring people that care deeply for their neighbors. Podcast Stockton was born from last year's Most Miserable list. Over the last year I have become more convinced that Stockton is full of positive people, people that wake up everyday wanting to do good. We are hard-working, chip-on-our-shoulder, charitable, family focused people that don't beat ourselves up for being on a national magazine's naughty list. Each week on Podcast Stockton, we strive to bring you the positive stories of our town and hope that you enjoy listening to them as much as enjoy doing them. Throughout 28 episodes, we realize more than ever that Stockton is not miserable.
Thank you Stockton.
The picture above is of my youngest daughter playing in the water at McLeod Park in downtown Stockton. It was taken on September 16, 2001. Even though the world was falling apart all around us, she seemed to be having a lot of fun that day. If you'd like to see the rest of the miserable time we had at the park that day, click here.
Enough misery. I think it's time to go the Haggin Museum for the 3rd Thursday event.
We are excited to be attending the 19th Annual Library & Literacy Foundation Trivia Bee on Friday, March 12. Rod and I will be competing against other local groups and have a seat open at our table. So, are you good at movie trivia? This year's theme is Lights, Camera, Literacy so we assume it will be movie trivia.
The Library & Literacy Foundation is one of our favorite local organizations and are thrilled to help their cause. We want to make a big splash (not a belly flop) at this year's event.
We have already paid the registration fee and have an extra ticket for our teammate to bring a guest, so there's no cost to join us.
If you're interested, leave us a message at 209-565-3229 or send an e-mail to mail@podcaststockton.com.
See you there!
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 27, featuring an interview with local musician Michael Seymour. In this episode:
What to do on Valentine's Day in Stockton?
Matt's review of La Palma Mexican Cuisine, located at 2301 Pacific Avenue, on The Miracle Mile and can be reached at (209) 941-4179. Matt's rating 4/5.
Sport, sports, sports. An update from Lowell Tuckerman, the Trash Bet is over and are you going to the Thweetup on Friday?
A mini-interview with Dwight Richards. With unemployment rates soaring, some job seekers will go to great lengths to get noticed. Matt spotted Dwight on corner of Pacific Avenue and Ben Holt Drive wearing a sandwich board proclaiming, "Will Work For A Career". Hear Why Dwight is looking for work and what kind of job he is looking for. If you'd like to reach Dwight, call him at 209-423-6304. News10 also ran a video story about Dwight.
Matt's interview with local musician Michael Seymour. Michael is currently preparing his new CD, Searching For. This Saturday night, he's playing at Plea 4 Peace. He stopped by the studio for an interview and brought his guitar. Hear what he has to say and two of his songs, Searching For and More Than Rain. You can listen to more of his music at Myspace.com/suddenlyseymourrocks and YouTube.com/BOOGMON88. Follow him on Twitter as @Suddenly209 and Facebook.
What was your first tech toy or gadget? Tim's Coleco and Rod's football game.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CA on Twitter and on Facebook.
Next week, we're talking about taxes! How do you prepare yours? Are you old-school with a pen and forms? Do you have someone else do them for you? Or are you part of the growing number of 2.0 people that do your taxes online? Let us know.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 26. In this episode, Matt and Rod sit down with Tod Ruhstaller, CEO of The Haggin Museum.
In this episode:
A couple of items from the news: In honor of Black History Month, Stagg High School students will participate in Lend Your Hand’s (501c3) National Black History Bee (NBHB) competition. For more information, call Andres Uyeda or Kathy Davis 209-933-7445 ext. 8471. This Saturday, February 6 at 12 PM, there is a rally and petition signing at the Tuxedo Park Station. The event will be held at 2616 Pacific Avenue. If you cannot attend, but would like to sign the online petition, visit stocktonmiraclemile.com.
Will Susan Eggman shave her head for $5,000? Sparked on Twitter, Council Member and friend of the show,Susan Eggman said she would shave her head if Stockton Twitter users raised $5,000 for kids cancer research.
Thunder + Twitter = #thweetup. Come join local Twitter celebrities, @MikeBravo11, @Abraxas579, @omardesign209, @griffin209, @PGHMatt and more on Friday, February 12 as the Stockton Thunder plays host to the Ontario Reign. Discounted tickets are $7. Visit stocktonthunderandlightning.com/thweetup to get yours!
The sports update with Lowell Tuckerman.
Lights, Camera, Literacy! You are cordially invited to attend the 19th annual Trivia Bee put on by the Library & Literacy Foundation for San Joaquin County. We will be there to support one our favorite charities in Stockton. We need one more person to complete our three-person team. Are you good at movie trivia? If you're interested, send us an e-mail or call Matt at 483-5199. We are paying the $550 entry fee and if you're selected, we'll pay for your guest to attend as well. Check out the official brochure here and visit sjcliteracy.org. Come help the Library & Literacy Foundation raise some much needed money!
Interested in becoming HAZWOPER certified? Green Works Environmental Services has a couple of spots open for the 40 hour training that starts Monday, February 8. The class normally costs $750 but you can get in for $150. For more information, call Dawn at 603-7104.
Our interview with Tod Ruhstaller, CEO/Curator of History of The Haggin Museum. Learn about the 1st and 3rd Thursdays program and the 79th Annual McKee Student Art Exhibition, visit hagginmuseum.org. Also, follow them on Twitter and Facebook.
What's the one piece of tech you can't live without? We get some great responses on Facebook and some voicemails from Kraig, Devin and Gabriel from The Singlemalt Versus Podcast, Jon, Andy.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com
Next week, we want to know what was your first gadget or electronic toy?
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 25. This week, Matt sits down with Kenny McCann, the creator of Petros.tv. In this episode:
First, the news: Stockton has to cut another $14 Million from the budget. The Stockton Stingrays begin batting practice. The Lexington Hotel hosts the HIREvent job fair.
Trash Bowl 2010 is half over.Andy Pinasco will be doing his part to clean up Stockton with the NY Jets's loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Will Matt join him? Not if the New Orleans Saints win the Superbowl.
Review of Chuck's Hamburgers. Gabriel and Matt recently met for breakfast at the long time Stockton establishment. Chuck's can be found at 6034 Pacific Avenue and can be reached at (209) 473-9977. Check out Gabriel's podcast at TheSingleMaltVersus.com.
Apple announces the iPad. On Monday, January 27, Apple announced the iPad. As a follow up to what we were hoping to see, we discuss what we like and what we don't like about the new product.
Where do you get your tech news?Andy calls in with his thoughts on the tech news scene.
- BuyMeAniPhone
- @garyvee
- Mac OS Ken
- Mashable
- TWiT
- Totally Cool Tech
- Tech Crunch
- @jason
- CNET
- TUAW
- Technorama
- TechSpot
- Engadget
- Revision3
- Andy Ihnatko
- Typical Mac User
- Diggnation
- Like Totally Awesome
- Apple Insider
- Wired
- Gizmodo
An interview with Kenny McCann from Petros Media. Check out Petros.TV and follow him Twitter @petrosmedia.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Matt fills in for Wes for the Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CVB on Twitter and on Facebook.
Next week, we want to know about the one gadget you can't live without.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod
Welcome to Podcast Stockton, episode 24. In this episode:
First, the news: Jon and Christie Remington from Closetgoodies.com make a donation to the Women's Center. KWIN deejays brave the weather to collect donations for Haiti from the Applebees parking lot.
Oh, the weather. Stockton is hammered with some horrible weather. Follow PG&E on Twitter @PGE4Me
Matt and Andy are talking trash, literally. Friend of the show, Andy Pinasco, has thrown down the gauntlet. Andy is pulling for a NY Jets Superbowl victory. Matt, on the other hand, is certain that the New Orleans Saints will win it all. With such differing views, you know there's a bet! The loser has to pick up garbage at a location picked by the winner, and blog about it. If neither team wins, we will both pick up trash at a location chosen by our listeners. So, the real winner is Stockton. Go Saints!
What will Apple announce next week? Rod and Matt talk about what they, and some of our listeners, think about what Apple might be announcing on January 27. Nearly all rumors point to a Mac tablet and iPhone OS 4.0. Here are some of the stories we referenced:
- @macrumors
- Mashable
- Wall Street Journal from 9-to-5 Mac
- Fox News
- The Street
- AppleInsider
- BuyMeAniPhone.com
An interview with Chris the Greek from University of the Pacific's KPAC 91.9 FM. Check out Chris's blog and follow him Twitter @Chris_the_Greek.
What's new on Closetgoodies.com.
Wes's Stockton activities guide. Go to VisitStockton.org to sign up for the weekly events e-mail and follow @Stockton_CVB on Twitter and on Facebook.
Next week, we're talking about the tech news. Where do you get your tech news fix? Magazines, websites, podcasts? We want to know.
Until next time, make it great Stockton!
- Matt & Rod