The Stocktonia Community Advisory Board is a diverse group of residents from the greater Stockton area dedicated to advancing Stocktonia’s mission of factual, rigorous local journalism.
Established in 2024, the board serves as a connection between the newsroom and the community, providing feedback on coverage, fostering community engagement and prioritizing critical local issues.
The Advisory Board meets regularly to help ensure Stocktonia reflects and serves all members of the community while promoting greater involvement and trust in its work. Members volunteer their time to help shape meaningful initiatives and support Stocktonia’s mission.
Deitra Kenoly, co-chair
Deitra Kenoly is the former president and publisher of Stockton Record; she currently owns Inside Out Lighting & Décor in Stockton. In addition to her nearly four decades in the media industry, Kenoly previously served as president of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce.
Marty Weybret, co-chair
Marty Weybret is the former publisher and owner of the Lodi News-Sentinel. In 2019, he received a lifetime achievement award from the California Press Foundation in recognition of his more than 35 years of contributions to local journalism. He has served on the boards of various organizations, including the Rotary Club and the California News Publishers Association.
Phillip Merlo
Phillip Merlo, founder of Stocktonia, is a local historian and educator currently serving as executive director of the San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum. Merlo is a fifth-generation Stocktonian and graduate of Franklin High School and UC Berkeley. He also works to strengthen the region’s nonprofit and cultural infrastructure through service on the Stockton Cultural Heritage Board and the board of directors for Little Manila Rising and the United Way of San Joaquin County.
Are you interested in learning more about the Community Advisory Board, applying to join or nominating a community member? Email Scott Linesburgh at scott@stocktonia.org.