Deadline for pretrial conference as of date of last filing (11/1) was scheduled for 12/17 @1:30

In my opinion, I don't see this as any indication that the judge is putting the pressure on.  It was changed to the next day.  Perhaps the judge has a dental appointment LOL.

I agree that the X in front of Civil Criminal indicates that Civil was selected.  May be just a formatting problem. 

If the second motion to stay was for 30 days (and we don't know) perhaps the judge put the pressure on both sides and said he would not grant it unless they both came forth with good reason for a stay.  Consult your oracle for better advice.

Laurie