Lincoln Center: A True Community Hub
By Jo Ann Kirby and Isabelle Mello
Stockton’s Lincoln Center is celebrating 75 years as a community cornerstone; it’s where people gather to dine, shop, visit their dentist, get a haircut and celebrate the holidays. It’s a one-stop shopping center that has successfully withstood the test of time by embracing a mix of national chains and independent small business owners.
“Over the years, there have been moments when our team took chances, moments that helped shape who we are today,” said Phil Johnson, president and CEO of Sims-Grupe Management, which manages Lincoln Center and other industrial and commercial properties. “One that stands out is bringing the first Starbucks and Noah’s Bagels to San Joaquin County right here to Lincoln Center.” Not everyone was convinced that it would be a fit. “But we believed in the idea that Lincoln Center should evolve, should introduce new experiences and should always stay just a step ahead,” he continued.
A big part of Lincoln Center, Phil said, are the entrepreneurs who bet on Stockton and are willing to invest in the community. They have been stalwart contributors since the start.
Natalia Dentoni, owner of Best Wishes, said her business benefits from being in Lincoln Center. She cited steady foot traffic and said people are drawn to the well-kept spaces. “Both merchants and customers appreciate the amazing security the center has always provided. Lincoln Center has constantly found different ways to not only take care of its merchants but provide a variety of boutiques and niche shops to its shoppers that they would not find in places like regular strip malls. It is a huge accomplishment for the community, that the center is celebrating 75 years,” she said.
Lincoln Center’s story began when founders Roy Sims and Greenlaw Grupe established Sims-Grupe Management and began developing the planned community of Lincoln Village on 1,600 acres owned by the Holt family. Once the company began purchasing land in stages, homes were built and Lincoln Village began to take shape. These new homeowners would need a shopping center and in 1951, ground was broken for Lincoln Center on the north side of Benjamin Holt Drive. It opened in November 1951 with 12 stores including Village Barber, which remains today albeit under different ownership.
“It’s the best shopping center around, bar none,” said Bobby L. Page Sr., who has owned Village Barber since 2005. “It’s a great location, clean, secure and truly the best.” Bobby said the management fosters a sense of community and he’s grateful they allow him to host an annual celebration for veterans and first responders. This year’s celebration will be the 20th at the center and it’s scheduled for November 7. “I so much appreciate working here and owning a business among all the other unique businesses,” he added.
As the years passed, Lincoln Center grew, encompassing its original north side and expanding the south side. Today it is home to 90 businesses. It includes a mix of medical and professional services, specialty stores, restaurants, fitness, health and beauty outlets, gift shops, clothing boutiques and jewelry stores.
It’s a place where people come to celebrate the special occasions in their life, whether it’s a graduation lunch at a favorite restaurant, a birthday, anniversary or a big promotion. You’ll see seniors meeting for their morning coffee and neighbors taking a morning stroll. Even the holidays at Lincoln Center are extra special when the Easter Bunny and Santa make an appearance. And there’s always something fun on the Lincoln Center calendar such as Summerfest, which takes place August 21 and features live music, a giant slide and more. The event gives attendees the opportunity to support the Child Abuse Prevention Council by participating in their annual Duck Derby with the $5 purchase of a rubber duck.
“I visit Lincoln Center at least a few times a week for errands and social get-togethers with my family and or friends,” Jenna Mello, a Stockton resident, said. “Podesto’s is definitely one of my most frequent stops in Lincoln Center. They have a great selection of meats and cheeses and my family loves their delicious deli sandwiches.” Jenna, who with her husband are parents of a daughter in high school and a daughter in college, said Market Tavern, La Mesa and Papapavlo’s are their definite go-to spots for a night out.
Indeed, there are nearly 30 places to dine in Lincoln Center, and Prime Table is poised for expansion. “That’s what Lincoln Center is all about,” Phil said. “It grows with you. It becomes part of your story and then part of the next generation’s story too.”
Lincoln Center has never just been about shopping or dining, he continued. “From the very beginning in 1951, it was built to serve as a gathering place, a true community hub.”
To celebrate its 75th anniversary, Lincoln Center is hosting a gala to raise funds for the San Joaquin Historical Society’s Pioneer Village. To inquire about sponsorship and ticket information, contact Katie Drebert at katie@lincolncentershops.com.
