Good morning, Stockton.

Krista Fiser has been named CEO of St. Mary’s Community Services and will take over on June 2 (succeeding Petra Linden, who led the nonprofit for nearly three years) as she works to expand shelter services and community care in Stockton.

Today, Stockton hosts a busy weekend with events including a jiu jitsu tournament at Adventist Health Arena, a free family festival at Pixie Woods, a cherry festival with a parade at Linden Elementary School Grounds, and dirt track races at Delta Speedway (general tickets are $10 and local specials apply). Other events include a Children’s Dance Theatre performance of Beetlejuice scheduled for May 18 (tickets range from $24 to $44) for families seeking creative shows.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture forecasts a 3% increase in California almond production this year, with output expected to reach 2.8 billion pounds thanks to a good winter and more orchard acres—marking the third straight year of growth.

Almond growers in San Joaquin County may benefit even as other crops face tougher conditions.

Julius Cordes Elementary School Team 9 won first place at the county math tournament for seventh and eighth graders held at the San Joaquin County Office of Education on May 10.

More than 190 students from 35 teams competed and 13 students earned top individual honors including a perfect score by Vedant Tadimalla.

San Joaquin Delta College hosted a free fashion show on May 1 where current apparel design students and alumni showcased their collections on the campus quad after a long COVID-19 break.

Associate professors said the event strengthened hands-on learning & provided entrepreneurial insights & highlighted the program’s impact on local skill development.

City leaders say Caltrans has been slow clearing homeless encampments since Gov. Newsom ordered state agencies to act last summer, leaving cities frustrated with delays that sometimes last months—officials now back a Senate bill that would require the agency to hire a liaison and set clear timelines while letting local staff help clear camps and possibly receive reimbursement. The proposed bill aims to improve communication and efficiency in addressing the ongoing issue of public encampments on state property.

Amtgard Live Action Role Playing

12-3 p.m. — Victory Park — Free entry — Engage in live action role playing with the Valonde guild in the heart of Stockton.

Lad Zeppelin Tribute Band

12-1 p.m. — Windmill Cove Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy a tribute to Led Zeppelin while starting your boating day with delicious breakfast options.

San Joaquin County Fair

4 p.m. – 12 a.m. — San Joaquin County Fairgrounds — $10 parking per vehicle — A festive weekend of entertainment, food, and exhibits for all ages awaits at the San Joaquin County Fair.

Autism Therapy Open House

4-8 p.m. — Autism Therapy Clinic — Free entry — Celebrate the grand opening with fun activities and learn about ABA therapy services for children with autism.

50th Annual Jewish Food Fair & Temple Israel’s 175th Anniversary

Celebrate 175 years of Temple Israel and 50 years of Stockton’s favorite Jewish Food Fair! Enjoy homemade Jewish cuisine, Israeli dancing, music, a gift shop, historical exhibits, and more. Fun for all ages!

Concerts in the Park

6-8 p.m. — Victory Park — Free entry — Enjoy a lovely evening with free music, picnics, and friendly vibes in the park.

Annual Catfish Derby

6 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Shumway Oak Grove Regional Park — $5 permit required — Compete for prizes in a community fishing event with over 1,500 lbs. of catfish stocked for anglers.

Festa Italiana

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Lodi Grape Festival Grounds — $15 admission, kids 12 and under free with an adult — Celebrate Italian culture with food, wine, and fun activities for all ages.

Second Annual Port of Stockton Golf Tournament

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Stockton Golf and Country Club — $250 for one golfer, $1,000 for a foursome — Swing for a cause at this community golf event with sponsorship opportunities available.

Stockton Art Night

4-7 p.m. — Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium — Free entry — Explore a vibrant evening of local art, performances, and creativity in downtown Stockton.