San Joaquin County businesses can learn how to use artificial intelligence to grow their operations at the AI Emergence Conference, a free two-day event Oct. 13–14 at Hutchins Street Square in Lodi.
AI conference at Hutchins Street Square
The conference, organized by Open Innovation Centers, the Lodi Chamber of Commerce and other community partners, will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and does not require a technical background. The first day will feature industry talks, hands-on workshops with AWS partners and networking opportunities. The second day will include a pitch event where attendees can present ideas for using AI in their businesses and compete for proof-of-concept funding.
The top three pitches can receive up to $25,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively. That funding is not a cash prize; it is intended to support the development of an approved proof of concept with an AWS partner and is not meant to cover AWS usage or cloud bills. The event will be held at Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St. Registration is free; register at tinyurl.com/bde6ar3w.
Goodwill launches Halloween departments
Goodwill Industries of San Joaquin Valley has opened Halloween departments at all 14 of its stores, including its Lodi location, offering new merchandise and pre-owned clothing, accessories and home décor. Selections include wigs, vampire teeth, feather boas, fishnet stockings, pirate hats and other accessories, alongside items such as tie-dye shirts, leather vests and black capes that can be used to create costumes. Costume sections feature themes including witch, hippie, vampire, devil, pirate and cowboy; merchandise varies by store. Goodwill stores are open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Goodwill SJV operates 14 stores from Lodi to Visalia, with revenue supporting workforce development programs for people facing barriers to employment. The nonprofit also operates 15 donation sites, offers courier pickup through Resupply and has an online store. For more information, visit goodwill-sjv.org.
Sprouts grant supports youth nutrition programs
The Lodi Boys & Girls Club received a $5,000 grant from the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation to support its Nutrition to Grow On and Healthy Habits programs. Those programs teach children about healthy eating and the importance of an active lifestyle, and the club said the grant will help promote healthy habits among local youth and contribute to a healthier community.
Hernández Mexican Catering opens in Lodi
Hernández Mexican Catering will celebrate its grand opening on Monday, Sept. 28, at 504 W. Lockeford St. The business will offer $1 tacos all day, including asada, pollo and pastor, along with other items from its regular menu. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
