ModestoView June 2023

Photo illustration by Michael J. Mangano

The Rascals

many people like you so let’s connect the dots and Happy Father’s day to my fellow dads.

Graffiti Summer ‘23

Wow, here we are. It’s June Modesto. Graffiti Summer!

It has been crazy as we have been loaded up with so many fun things to do. We haven’t had a moment to rest.  Last month, May the 4th was just a warm up and then we had Modesto’s biggest party with Porchfest. It was so great to see so many people cruising our neighborhoods, loving the local bands, music plus meeting new friends and neighbors. In the blink of an eye, it’s June.       June is Modesto’s month. Modesto’s #1 calling card.  The American Graffiti capital of the world shines bright in June. People from around the world arrive in Modesto, with tricked-out classic cars, a good camera and a great attitude to celebrate our “Classic Car Culture”.  We get to relive our cruising days, showcase it to the next generations and share this with many cultures to enjoy.  Our Graffiti Culture is so much more than just a bunch of old cars. It’s art, it’s music, its chrome, it’s lowriders, it’s customs all to a rockin’ beat with a couple of stops at a drive in. As we build our Graffiti USA Museum it is all about showcasing our culture.  It’s not just a room full of cars, but an experience that takes us to a fun place to celebrate Modesto’s authentic story and welcome people from around the world.     If you are a city or brand, it is key to have an authentic story. It is the cool retro vibe that taps into the things that we love, the

people, the food, the simpler times.  It is our city that inspired George Lucas, American Graffiti and Star Wars.  Oh yeah we feed the world too.  That’s why we are THE Modesto, Modesto USA. Great history and creative people make a great future.

Greetings friends, Contents

June also brings us Father’s Day.  The most rewarding thing in my life is being a father.  I love it and our family means so much.  We have learned a lot, worked really hard and we’ve had a great time through it all.  I was recently asked by a friend how we raised strong and engaged women.  One sure thing is being there, and being present.  Moving to Modesto made that possible.  One of the things I intentionally did was to make Modesto a place that my kids would love and enjoy. We got involved, made a difference and I decided to be a positive messenger for our community. Community service is so very important to learn about our town and work with people that also care.  I am so beyond grateful that both of my girls watched and learned and wanted live here in Modesto.  They have great jobs, and their partners are also engaged and making a difference and they are starting their own families. They see what can be accomplished and how we can all make change.  I would encourage anyone to really take a look around and see what you can do to make Modesto better.  There are

It is good to know the owners of local restaurants as it makes dining so much familiar, know the local store owners that make our local economy work and support each other.  It is important to be familiar with our local officials that are taking our community ideas and crafting policies that can move us forward and break down barriers.   It’s really important to think and live local, even while building a community that is interesting and exiting to the rest of the world.  Our Graffiti culture is a good metaphor, of a simple place where we all know each other and make a difference.  There is really nothing more authentic.      June is Pride Month.  This is really simple.  It is all about basic equality.  Celebrate people as they are, let them love who they want and embrace our diversity.  It’s not much more complicated than that.  No one should get to take anyone’s rights away.   Yeah, I love Graffiti Summer and it really makes what we all do make sense.  Let’s keep the Graffiti spirit alive and share it as far and wide as we can.

With Gratitude, Chris Murphy    Founder & Publisher, ModestoView  chrism@modestoview.com

On the Cover

We love our local Modesto sweethearts Sam Pierstorff and Ruhi Sheikh. These amazing people help present the Ill List, Porchfest, American Laughiti and so many other great local Modesto happenings. Sam, aka Ninja Poet is an MJC English Professor and the President of the State Theatre and Ruhi is part of the Porchfest and ModShop team as well as Stanislaus County Partners in education. They have three amazing and award winning kids, Hakeem, Ameena and Dean.  They are part of the “let’s make sure our kids want to live in Modesto” club, of which we all are a member.

Ruhi is wearing an actual 1962 Downey High Song dress that was provided by Linda Pedigo, Downey 62 and classmate of George Lucas.  Sam is wearing Steve Pedigo’s official REGS jacket from 1961.  There is some real vintage history here in Modesto.

Thanks to MJ Mangano for bringing Burge’s Drive In to life with special messages to Cindy Williams and Olivia Newton John.  Did you see it?

Happy 38th to my dearest Rebecca! So many wonderful years and looking forward to so many more. Love you doll.

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Publisher Information

PUBLISHER

Chris Murphy

chrism@modestoview.com

SALES AND ADVERTISING

Advertising@modestoview.com

Managing Editor

Middagh Goodwin

DESIGN, LAYOUT, & ART

PGrimaldi, Creative

Art Director / Designer

Peter Grimaldi pete@pgrimaldicreative.com

Photo Director

Michael J. Mangano

Production Manager

Abigail Power

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS

Madison Leupp – Adobe Specialist

Brandon Brush - Correspondent

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jim Christiansen

Aaron Rowan

Abigail Power

Eric Benson

Middagh Goodwin

Harrison Power

Efren Martinez

Patty Castillo Davis

Grace McNamara

Salvatore Salerno

Mary Layton

Monica Barber

Brandilyn Mitchell

Tasha Wilson

Carly Russell

Steve Perry

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Efren Martinez

Diane Moody

Michael J Mangano

Philip Johnson

©2023 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The photographs, graphics, artwork and advertisements are the property of Modesto View Magazine. The magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by the advertisers. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflectthe views of Modesto View Magazine or the owners. Modesto View Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. All contributors for ModestoView are independent freelance journalists or photographers. Send ideas, tips & suggestions to: Info@modestoview.com

ModestoView

3731 Finch Rd Modesto, CA 95357

PRIDE VIEW

By Abigail Power (she/her)

While June is a historic time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community with timely celebrations of watershed moments like the Stonewall Uprising and the passing of same-sex marriage in 2015, this community is something we need to celebrate and support all year long! Whether you are an ally, part of the community, needing resources, or interested in learning more, there are so many wonderful people to teach us how we can all be more inclusive and supportive in our daily lives.

We were honored to visit the Rainbow Resource Center at 1202 H Street (you can’t miss it with the “Big Rainbow Flag”)! The Rainbow Resource Center hopes to give those in need of support a “safe space and a soft place to land”. We learned that there are related issues from food insecurity, houselessness, mental health difficulties,

and more stemming from circumstances and treatment towards those not accepted due to their sexuality or gender identity. The incredible staff has created programs such as vaccine clinics, education seminars, counseling, support groups, social events, and a “Free Custom Queer Resource Bags” which are available to those in need. The resource bags are an invaluable, discreet service where someone in need could request the “Green Bag” and receive the “Food Insecurity Bag” with ready to eat/cook bags, CalFresh and food bank information, sanitizer and wipes, snack bars or the “Yellow Bag” for the “Personal Hygiene Bag” with a toothbrush, menstrual products, deodorant, and more to provide immediate and beneficial care for those in need.

There are so many events on their calendar from Bagels for Brains, where the Center takes feedback and input from the community on the most pressing issues and needs in our region, to Queer Cuts, where individuals can get gender-affirming styles for free, to “Let’s Talk Over Coffee” where

the Senior community can find support and connect every Thursday, to shopping days where people can “shop” the donation closet for gender-affirming clothing.

The Rainbow Resource Center wants you to know that you are not alone and that there is a place for you to explore your feelings, get the resources you need, and forge ahead with love and pride in your life.

Thank you, Rainbow Resource Center, for all that you do in the community to support the LGBTQIA+ community and to bring awareness to allies that can help make the change.

Interested in learning more?

Visit www.BigRainbowFlag.org

Donate By Following the QR Code Below!

Rainbow Resource Center

209-408-8848

1202 H Street Modesto, CA 95354

The LGBTQ+ Pride Education Conference promotes the empowerment, education and enrichment of the LGBTQ+ culture throughout our community with an emphasis on the life changing impact of higher education.

Saturday June 24

from 8:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.  MSR located at the West Campus

Don’t Miss the Pride Picnic on June 10th hosted by MoPride in Graceada Park! Enjoy a beautiful Saturday in Graceada Park, shop local LGBTQ+ vendors, let the kids run free with games, and celebrate Pride month with your favorite LGBTQ+ organization and community Central Valley Pride Center – MoPride 209-567-2124

400 12th Street Modesto, CA 95354

ART VIEW Cars and Art

By Jim Christiansen

As we approach the 50th anniversary of American Graffiti’s release, Cars, and the Arts will begin June at Kruse-Lucas Imports Gallery on Tully Road. From June through August, photographer Rick Raef will showcase his Graffiti Car Art Exhibit, celebrating Modesto and California Car Culture. All proceeds from the sales of his work will be donated to the Graffiti Classic Car Museum nearby.

Kruse Lucas is located across the street from the Modesto Junior College art department and art gallery at MJC East campus, and is also close to The Silos, artistically rearranged concrete structures of the former Grange Company granary. On June 3, “Props to You,” a Prospect Theater

Project fundraiser, will be held at The Silos with a ticket donation. The event includes dinner, an open bar, an auction, and live music to support local community theater. Last month, I was invited to paint an artist apron for the recent production of “Sight Unseen,” a play themed on art, artists, and art interpretation. I loved seeing my prop in the last scene. I missed a couple of events, including karaoke and live music at PTP’s new artist lab annex, which is now open for events next door. Teen Theater Camp is also offered. http://ProspectTheaterProject.org

On a tip from Mistlin Gallery, I visited the Great Valley Museum at MJC West Campus, where you can see the influence

PATRIOTIC PREVIEW

The 150th Annual 4th of July Parade is coming soon.

Yes, that’s right, the 150th year!

ModestoView will take you right up front at this year’s parade as Chris Murphy is the parade announcer along with DJ Walker from KAT Country 103.  There will be 20,000 of your best friends out along the parade route in downtown Modesto. Plan your summer now and enter a float.  You can do it and be part of the parade with your organization, family, club or business. Look for the ModestoView / Sierra Pacific ship.  It’s a Modesto tradition. The parade starts at 10 am and will feature over 100 entries and prizes for the best of show.  9 am July 4 - www.modestojulyparade.com

of artists’ presentation in the museum field, from the digital photography on display to the stagecraft in displays and detailed ink drawings. Drop in and get familiar with The West Campus. A poster on the door of the museum reminds visitors that the Graffiti Summer Festival Car Show sets up nearby on June 10 and 11. The downtown Car Parade will take place on June 9. It’s an excellent opportunity to admire the many murals downtown as you stroll along the parade route. At 14th and I, the McHenry Museum is hosting the “Image Innovation Exhibit,” sponsored by the Modesto Peace/Life Center and KCBP 95.5 FM. The exhibit features paintings by artists Laura Stokes and Jimmy Abuan and is free to view during the Museum’s weekend hours. The McHenry Museum is also available to rent for meetings, gatherings, and events. Historic paintings are also featured in museum displays, and the front gallery frequently hosts shows of local photographers, as well as this display of innovative contemporary paintings.

Art Walk will take place on June 15. In May, I started at the State Theater to view the five artists showing there and received a tour of the new Intermission event, bar, and gathering spot addition to the State. Nikki West has kept with Art Deco features in a new setting, which is a crowd-pleaser when space opens. I also had a look at the Jewel little film theatre. Artists are back for Art Walk this month in all the venues. Ralston’s Goat, 18Seventy Brewing Company, and the corner at Tresetti’s are good stops. Artists looking for a spot to display and sell their work can contact JB or Kerry at the Peer Recovery Art Project gallery on Tenth Street.

Dragonfly Art for Life has classes and membership spots available for kids and adults, as do Mistlin Gallery and the Chartreuse Muse. After the Mistlin Trash to Treasures show, the “Salon de Refuse” Emerging Artist show will take place, along with a companion open members’ display. A trip to Turlock is a must to stop in for the Carnegie Arts Center Annual juried Showcase.

VIEW

LibaTions aT our LoCaL f ar M er’s Marke T s

The ModesTo CerTified farMers MarkeT is lit - everything from meat, dairy, herbs, eggs, pastries and all the produce you can shake a stick at– right there for your walletemptying pleasure in the heart of downtown Modesto. The only thing it lacks is libations! While you could walk over to a plethora of restaurants to ease your craving and cool your body (hello summer temperatures!), we recommend making these stops at least once this month to blend family fun with beating our summer heat.

By Christopher and Brandilyn Mitchell

It’s MoBand time!

By Chris Murphy

ripon farMer’s MarkeT

Every Thursday night from 5-8pm May-September at

929 W. Main Street

They have 2 alcohol vendors who swap weeks: Tap Travelers and 18Seventy Brewery. This coming week (June 1st) is Tap Travelers, June 8th is 18Seventy, and then switch every other from there! Tap Travelers (owned by Julie Amaral and Monica Farhat) serves local beers, ciders and wines like Tapped Apple Cider, Blaker and Dust Bowl. 18Seventy (owned by Bridgette Berry) is known to feature their beer slushies and , yum! This market is a fundraiser for the non-profit Garden Joy which hosts it. You are allowed to picnic in the garden during the market, and let your kids play and eat and do crafts from the Happy Artists Children’s Creative Studio table. Upcoming crafts include painting and cooking! (Note: During very hot days, they turn the sprinklers on in the garden for kids to run around in.) For more info visit www.gardenjoyca.com/ripon-farmers-market.

TurLoCk

farMer’s MarkeT

Every Saturday 8am-1pm

May-October on Main Street

(between Palm and Center Street)

Dying Breed is the show stopper here. Want a 50/50 Creamsicle

Sour, Shameless Blonde, Wild Berry Seltzer, Made in the IPA or an Old Ebenezer?! They are all phenomenal beers, and you can’t go wrong with anyone you choose. They’ll have cans of all your favorites available for purchase, but please take them home to enjoy them! Owners Joe Novotny and Josh Malcolm co-own Dying Breed with fellow Oakdalian Dan Wood. They built the Dying Breed brewery as a place for the community to come together and simply enjoy each other’s company using the three pillars of good ol’ Oakdale tradition: excellent beer, excellent music, and excellent company. Being available at the market is just another way they want to bring those excellent traditions to you! For more info visit www.turlockmarket.org.

oakdaLe Morning MarkeT

Every Saturday morning from 8-11am May-September on 3rd Avenue

Robert’s Ferry Gourmet is a stop in the market and lucky for you–serves Morning Market specials for only $5! Choose from beers on tap, a beer shandy, a frose (rose wine slushie), a beermosa, or a standard mimosa (orange or cranberry)! All of their drinks are available at their regular price during Morning Market however, including their delicious signature mimosas (rainbow sherbet, seasonal splash, or lavender and lemon infused). The rainbow sherbert is *chef’s kiss*. Treat yourself to a Market Special and get your kiddos a milkshake, too! Enjoy your treats on their covered patio to feel swept away to Paris for the morning! Want more Dying Breed? Catch them here selling cans on their patio on June 3rd & 10th. For more info visit www.oakdalemorningmarket.com.

The time has come Modesto!  Summer is here and it is time for the biggest party all summer long.  Picture this; a big brass band, a bandshell, a park, with food, drink, wine, and fun sounds like the perfect evening and best of all, new seating in Mancini Bowl thanks to a great fundraising effort by MoBand, CANA, Clampers, local donors and the teamwork of the City of Modesto.  Add to this 3,000 of your best friends, blankets, wine, and picnic baskets and you have a hall of fame slice of Americana, or Modestocana as we like to say.  Yes friends, MoBand season is here.

MoBand has been going strong since 1919 and the 2023 theme is Rock On!   Music starts at 8:00 pm   Get your blankets out early. Don’t snooze.

June 8 –   Rockin’ N Rollin’ with a special appearance by American Graffiti film star Mackenzie Phillips

June 15 – Musical G.O.A.T.s – Greatest hits

June 22 – Hippy Dippy – Songs of the 60s

June 29 – Patriotic Fury

July 6 –  American Gems

July 13 – Season’s Hits

July  20-  ROCK ON- Special 7th Fundraiser Concert with Bangarang

Brett Tate, ’86 Founder of Dust Bowl Brewing Co.

Music is the Cure for Those in Need

By Middagh Goodwin

cares about them.

Seeing local performers coming together to help those in need is heartwarming. In mid-April, the house of the Flowers, which was not only their home but also their practice space and home studio, burned down. A benefit show was planned almost immediately, and two GoFundMe campaigns were created. The support from the community was overwhelming and inspiring, with some of the 209 best performers coming to their aid. The Flowers are a young band with immense talent, and they have already significantly impacted the local music scene. This benefit show is a chance to show them that they are not alone in their struggles and have a community that

On June 11th, almost two months after the fire, a benefit show for the Flowers will take place at Ralston’s Goat between 12-8 pm. This is a rare opportunity to see some of the best local performers come together to support The Flowers. The show promises to be a special day, with a rare DAM reunion featuring the drummer of The Flowers, father Mike, and Uncle Russ. Additionally, area favorites Tiffany Rose & the Outlaw Hearts, who have just returned from dates in Oregon, will be performing. Salacious Wizard Cult and Ted Barber will also be performing, featuring current and former bassists of The Flowers. The Graves, ESex, and possibly others will join The Flowers for a day of music, family, and friends. There will be something for everyone at the benefit show, with various musical genres represented. Whether you’re a rock, pop, or alternative music fan, you’ll find something to enjoy at the show. The event will be an excellent opportunity to discover new local artists and connect with other music lovers in the community.

The Motel Phyl-Nor

By Harrison Power

With North 9th Street previously serving as the main route for Highway 99 through Modesto up through the 1960’s, it is not surprising that at one time this stretch of the city was dotted with motor hotels to serve the out-of-towners stopping in Modesto for a rest, and restaurants like the legendary Burge’s Drive In. One of these motels, a holdover from the height of automobile travel, is what’s now operated as the Travelers Motel. In its heyday this motel was the Motel Phyl-Nor, and it was the pride and joy of the Anderson Family who built it, serving weary travelers and making Modesto itself a road trip destination.

Aner and Hallie Anderson had some experience in motel operations, as in the 1930’s they owned and ran the Anderson Motor Court on Highway 99 one block south of the bridge and River Road. The Anderson Motor Court consisted of three cottages and in 1936 Aner, a Swedish-born entrepreneur, added The Orange Bowl as a roadside refreshment stand where you could enjoy fresh orange juice and ice cream. It’s even reported that Clark Gable and Carole Lombard had stopped in on their way back down to Hollywood. In 1944 the Andersons, along with their son, left the modest motor court to expand the business and built a larger motel on North 9th Street. The new location was named the Motel Phyl-Nor, a sweet homage to the two Anderson children, Phyllis and Norman. The Andersons, as trends changed and technologies improved, built on their

UNPLUGGED VIEW

Dance Me To The End of Spring

by Aaron Rowan

success at the Phyl-Nor and expanded amenities available at the motel. In 1956 all rooms were completely refurnished, and in 1960 all rooms received new GE televisions. The central lawn of the Motel was paved, and in 1963 the Andersons built a Toppers Steak House to support additional clientele and travelers. Then, the motel got its own pool for guests, adjacent to the restaurant. When the original Motel Phyl-Nor neon sign was replaced for a taller mid-century advertisement, likely better visible to drivers on the realigned highway in the mid-1960’s, the old neon sign was relocated to the top of the office’s lookout tower. Aner Anderson, after having lived in Modesto for 66 years, passed away in 1967. The Motel Phyl-Nor stayed in the family run by Norman Anderson until 1973, after which point the motel changed names and ownership a few times. Currently there is a proposal for the City of Modesto to purchase the Travelers Motel for conversion to permanent housing units through Project HomeKey to assist in serving those who in the community are homeless or near risk of homelessness. With the proposal keeping the original Phyl-Nor building, and with other efforts currently underway to revitalize this section of Old Highway 99, it would be a wonderful opportunity to renovate the property with features that reference the motel’s previous mid-century flair – neon, pops of color, classic Americana. With these housing plans, renovating the property in a manner that provides essential services to its residents while also being a place that provides dignity in design would be impactful for those calling it home and the community.

Among my assorted side duties as a music curator is the occasional stage-managing shift. One evening, while working in the Bay Area behind the scenes for a friend’s cello-driven band, joined by a full orchestra for this particular concert, I was introduced to someone who would become one of my dearest musical friends. She was an orchestra player named Marie Maxfield, and not only did she happen to be a fellow Modestan, she just happened to live just down the road from me. Marie can play most of the standard instruments on a symphony stage and is one of the busiest, most dedicated musicians I’ve crossed paths with. In the eight years of our beautiful friendship, I’ve made countless appearances to support her making music with the MJC Community Orchestra, Modesto Performing Arts, Playhouse Merced musicals, and various Bay Area orchestras.

Marie has been working as hard as ever as music director for this month’s MPA staging of ‘Billy Elliot,’ the Elton John-scored musical about a young boy pursuing his dream of becoming a ballet star. She’s the backbone of this play: assembling the orchestra; helping with cast selection; teaching the basics of music to numerous cast members; running rehearsals; and will be conducting the orchestra pit and the onstage performers at the same time during the five-show run as spring segues into summer. ‘Billy Elliot’ once held the record for most Tony Award nominations for a musical (it was surpassed by ‘Hamilton’), among many other accolades.

Three evenings and two Sunday matinee shows to choose from, June 17-25. Tickets are $24-$45 at galloarts.org.

On the last night of the first half of this year, I’ll host my latest songwriter showcase with a pair of well-traveled Americana artists I’ve been keen to feature for many months. And how better to slide into summer? With Summer. Rigby Summer. She’s a friend I made around this time last year, whom I haven’t met in person yet but who was immensely helpful during my summer cross-country travels. Rigby weaves an Americana soundscape that reflects the road she’s traveled, from her Kansas City jazz upbringing to the beach pop of southern California to the red dirt roots of her current home in Stillwater, OK. Her debut album ‘Geography’ is fantastic, and her original songs have earned her honors at competitions in multiple states, including the Woody Guthrie Festival Songwriting Contest. Rigby is on tour with fellow songwriter The Dauphin Of Mississippi (Jason Burge), a recent transplant to the Central Valley after hopping around from MS to WY to New Zealand. Jason’s debut record landed at #6 on the Wyoming Public Radio end-of-year listeners list and earned Wyoming CMA finalist nominations for Album, Songwriter, and Americana Group of the Year. Catch these two on Friday, June 30, from 7:30-9:00 at The Dragonfly Art For Life, 1210 J St. $10 at the door. Intimate performances. Infinite playlist. MODESTO UNPLUGGED. www.modestounplugged.com.

FOOD VIEW

By CHris Murphy

Fast Eddie’s is the most legit place, successfully operating in the same place longer than any other restaurant in town. Best of all, it’s a drive in.  A few years ago, “Fast” Eddie Gibson was ready to retire and fortunately, he had some fans.  Most importantly a fan that loved Fast Eddie’s and everything about it.   When Eddie said he was going to retire, Robert Wilson decided it was too good of a place and he needed to keep it alive, and make it better.  These locally owned historic places are the gems we need to support and enjoy so check it out.  Before we move on M.O.A.B. is Meal On A Bun.

“I grew up in this neighborhood, this place was part of my childhood”, notes Robert. This is an iconic place, loaded with great memories, a giant fish tank, airplanes, games, booths and bicycles hanging from the ceiling and Modesto memorabilia everywhere. It is pure fun, so if you are with kids, there is so much to look at, if you are with relative or friends, so much to remember.

I visited Fast Eddie’s with my grandson and he was mesmerized, from the planes, to the fish to the pinball machines.  Pinball?  Yes, a whole room full of them.  More on that below, so let’s get to the food.

First, very important, the original burgers are still the same so you can get your fave Fast Eddie M.O.A.B. Special.  Robert took his experience at his other place, the Devine Swine, and looked to make some new burgers that will excite any foodie of any age.  The new ’52 M.O.A.B.  is a bacon cheeseburger, with a special sauce, loaded with bacon, American and Swiss cheese and a pure Angus burger.  He has taken burgers to the next

level with a Napoleon Dynomite, loaded of course with tots and a creamy jalapeno sauce, and the super tasty Mama Mia, with mozzarella sticks and marinara sauce. Also look for the Crunch Burger, and the Nacho Libre burger.    Wow these are amazing and you are going to have to work your way through these.   Hot Dogs?  Yes, they have an amazing loaded Chicago dog on a nice big bun.  Philly?  Yes, they have a delicious cheese steak. Chicken? They got you with a variety from Teriyaki to hot and spicy.   Did we mention that there are both fries and tots?  Regular fries, spicy fries, curly fries, tots, and even some fried veggies.

What’s new?

First up, you can get a beer or a glass of wine with your Fast Eddie’s special.  There are some of your indie micro faves on the menu in a new glass beer chiller.  Of course, they have the macro beer faves as well in regular and light versions.   Beer and burger is one of life’s great combos, especially with a side of fries or tots.

What’s next?

Shakes. Yes, fresh ice cream shakes.  The strawberry shake is a refreshing dream, but don’t forget the Oreo or the Butterfinger.  New this month will be a new fresh Banana Cream Pie shake. We will be back to check this out.

Eddie’s loves kids.  So much so that every kid’s meal gets a real genuine Hot Wheel car.   A good kid’s menu can be make or break on an evening out and Eddie’s has you covered with grilled cheese, M.O.A.B. Jr burger, chicken strips or mini corndogs for only $8.

Pinball League

If you remember in American Graffiti, Curt and the Pharoahs (Faros) took a break to “play” pinball. Well friends, Pinball is back and there is a whole new Pinball League at Fast Eddie’s.    Robert is a huge pinball fan, so much so that he loaded his dining room with a full wall of pinball machines. They have Star Wars, Foo Fighters

and more.  On Tuesday and Thursday at 6 pm, is league play.   They pick 4 machines, and each player gets ONE full play on each, and they add up the scores.  This is a simple and fun way to play pinball and hang out with your friends. League is $20 to join + cost of individual play.

There are so many reasons to enjoy Fast Eddie’s.  “So great to see the younger people coming in along with our regulars that have been coming for over 50 years.  So great to see these traditions live on”, Robert muses.   We agree, fun is fun, good food is good food and our traditions make Modesto special, especially in Graffiti Summer.

Fast Eddie’s M.O.A.B.

1228 Tully Rd.

Modesto  209-522-9069

Monday – Saturday 11 am to 8 pm

www.fasteddiesmoab.com

@fast_eddiesmoab

Fast Eddie ’ s M.O.A.B. is faster and fresher and “ funner ”

Jeremy Vierra has been in the kitchen for over 10 years and Emily Leal is back from college for the summer with Robert –right.

WALK OF FAME

Legendsof the Cruise‘23

By Chris Murphy and the Legends of the Cruise

Back in 2012, George Lucas gave us the thumbs up to create the Modesto Cruise Route to tell the great stories about our community and the people that inspired the movie American Graffiti.  10th and 11th Streets were where it all happened, and the people in our early car clubs, business owners, car hops and the police on the beat were the people that inspired George’s movie.   Our first Legend of the Cruise was George Lucas, presented in 2012.  Since then, we have inducted, film cast members Candy Clark, Bo Hopkins and Paul LeMat as well as Alan Grant, Gene Winfield, Bart Bartoni, Pete Hischier and many more. These people actually made our Graffiti history.  We celebrate each year honoring new legends of the cruise at a celebration park and shine in downtown Modesto.   This year, we celebrate on June 7 at 5:30 pm so please mark your calendar, head downtown and celebrate the new inductees and cheer our other Legends.

This year will be special as we welcome to town, Mackenzie Phillips, who played Carol and spent her Graffiti night in the yellow 32 deuce coupe, belonging to local drag race legend John Milner, played by Paul LeMat.  Mackenzie, has had an amazing career on TV, most notably on One Day at a Time on in Disney’s So Weird and recently in Orange is the new Black as well as film, stage and music. As the daughter of John Phillips of the Mamas and the Papas, she was part of a legendary musical time and her role as Carol in American Graffiti is one of film’s great performances.  Today she is a champion for those in recovery and works daily to help improves the lives of others.  We welcome her to the Modesto Legends of the Cruise.  To read the full interview with Mackenzie, please click the QR Code. Check out George’s video about the Modesto Cruise Route.

Let’s meet the Class of ’23 Legends of the Cruise...

Larry Neville – Downey 1973

Larry has spent the last 50 years as a life-line to our community of cruisers, as a mechanic and second-generation business owner of Neville Brothers Service, an auto-repair shop located at 723 Needham St. Opened by Larry’s dad, Willard, and his uncle Willis, Neville Brothers began operating in 1947 as a Hancock service station, providing fuel, tire, brake, battery, oil, and mechanic services.

Larry’s interests followed suit. Between ages 10 and 12, he became preoccupied with tearing things apart and putting them back together - including toys, bikes, TVs, and radios. Larry was fascinated with figuring out how things worked. After school and on weekends, Larry could be found at Neville Brothers, cleaning windows and fueling cars. At 14, Larry and his dad began working on his uncle’s Late 1947 Chevy Light Duty Pickup. Well-connected with all the local area shops, Larry’s dad helped make his first truck road and car show worthy. In 1980 this truck received a write-up and full back-cover feature in Classic & Custom magazine.  In 1974, shortly after graduating from high school, Larry joined MASRA (Modesto Area Street Rodders Association) Car Club, where he and his friend Aaron Johnson ultimately learned how car clubs run. In 1975 they decided to create the “Modesto Area Truckers” club, and all members were within five years

of one another. While tricked-out vans and buses were on-trend at this time, their club showcased the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s model trucks, with membership growing to as many as 30 people. The 1973 release of American Graffiti brought a cruising renaissance to Modesto. Larry found his weeks consumed with getting cars road ready for Friday night’s cruise as his professional and personal interests aligned. Often returning to the shop on Saturday after closing, Larry and his friends would make last-minute tweaks and modifications before hitting McHenry again on Saturday night, where they would blow it all out and inevitably start the process all over again on Monday.

Larry’s profession has put him in the right place at the right time, allowing him to amass an enviable collection of cars from a wide range of makes, models, and years. As a child in the ‘60s, Larry was enamored with the Corvette. When the 1963 split-window Corvette came out, it was like nothing he had ever seen before, as if it were a car straight from “The Jetsons”. While Neville Bros. occasionally got Corvettes in for repairs, Larry’s dad disapproved of such an impractical vehicle, effectively squashing any dreams Larry might have had for owning one of his own.  In the late ‘90s, Larry began working on a collection of Corvettes owned by a local doctor who prized original factory cars. The collector ultimately decided to part with a ‘71 Corvette that was too souped-up for his tastes, which Larry was able to acquire, finally fulfilling his childhood dream.

Mackenzie Phillips

Photos: Courtesy of Mackenzie Phillips

Dick Braner –Downey High - 1966

I was born and raised in Modesto and graduated from Sylvan Elementary and Thomas Downey High School. Once in high school, I was indirectly bitten by the ‘car bug’ while riding with friends in various cars - till I was old enough to drive.

My dad bought a 1950 Ford for $400.00 from Mel Cardwell Motors, which we all shared, until he later gave it to my brother. I finally got the ‘50 Ford as a senior in high school, following the family purchase of a 1956 Lincoln Premiere. At the time, I couldn’t resist the need to put a different engine and transmission in the car, regardless of my dad voicing “you’ll regret it someday”, which still echoes in my head. Despite enduring the never-ending comments about the ‘50 Ford being my brother’s car, I made the modifications over the years. We still have and drive this car today, with only a few added refinements.

Becoming part of the Graffiti celebration began in the early 1990s with the Mid Valley Chevy Club and has continued to the present day. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to organize tours, attend car shows, and plenty of practice parking event cars. Over the years, we have been fortunate enough to add a couple of other classic cars, but the ‘50 Ford remains the favorite.

On our wedding day (52 years ago), the “50” let us down, as it chose not to start, even though everyone knew what a big deal it was to have that car – on that day. Instead, we drove off in my father-in-laws PURPLE CHEVY IMPALA; lucky me.

We’ve been fortunate to have a great family, kids, and grandkids. Being considered for the Legends of the Cruise, let alone being selected (which never entered my mind), has been overwhelming and humbling, to say the least. This is one of the highlights of my (our) lives. Thank You Very Much for This Honor, Dick & Diane Braner

Craig Powell was born in Stockton, California, in 1950 and moved to Modesto in 1961. He graduated from Davis high school in 1969. His parents started City Tire sales in 1959 on 10th and D St. in Modesto. In 1972 they moved the business to McHenry Avenue, where it still exists. Craig worked at the family business from age 11 until he retired and sold the company in 2018. For many of us in this town, Craig was the go-to guy for your hot rod, custom car, or daily driver for wheels and tires. Besides his love for cars, Craig’s hobbies are dirt bike riding and water skiing, and he now enjoys trap shooting.  Craig also enjoyed his drag car, a 1974 Vega that ran 8:70s at 160 mph. Craig’s first car was a 1940 Ford 2-door sedan which his father purchased from Bill Hughes Used Car for $150 when Craig was 14 years old. The car was purchased to be Craig and his brother Mark’s car, but when Craig turned 16, he bought out his brother for $75. Craig still owns this car today. There was a brief period when Craig sold the car to Allen Beebe in 1992 for $6,500; after regretting that decision, Craig repurchased the car from Allen in 1999 for the same $6,500. Craig is about to finish a show quality restoration on this 1940 after owning this car for over 50 years. Craig’s dream is becoming a reality.

Paul Gissible – Downey 1967

I think I as born a “gear head”.  I was always working on my bike.  I was about 10 years on, I found a lawn mower engine in the alley.  I took it home and made a go cart out of wood, with axles and wheels off of my wagon.  It was good for 20 mph.

My dad, (Ray Gissible) worked for Modesto City Schools Maintenance Dept.  The shop was on Tully Rd, next to Gene Winfield’s shop.  My Mother would pick my Dad up at work and I’d go check out the cars that were being created at Gene’s.  Very soon after that, I heard my dad say “son, saw dust and grease just don’t mix in my shop”.  My buddie’s parents owned the Donut den on McHenry where Jack McCoy and Benny Pearson would hang out.  Benny owned Pearson Body Shop and one day we stopped by to see what was going on.   They were getting ready to paint a Merc Candy Apple Gold. I asked if they would paint my bike.  Ok, they said, but you have to take it all apart and bring it in. I had the only Gold metal flaked bike in town.

I had my first car at 14 years old.   It was given to me by a neighbor, the rods were Walk of Fame is continued on Page 18

Craig Powell – Davis High 1969 by Ron Pippin

BIG VIEW AmericanGraffiti

turns50

...andGraffitiinModestois75!

How did we get to where we are today?

It all started after World War II. Soldiers were back from the war, gas was prevalent, tires were available, streets and highways were being built. Interesting and unique drive-ins like Burge’s lined the highways and main drags luring hungry motorists with quick car hop service serving burgers, fries, chicken and fresh pies. Unlike wartime, you could drive around town, back and forth for no reason at all. With cheap gas, cruising was invented. In 1947 Modesto, the cruise was 10th Street, then called “Dragging 10th”. Soon, after the Modesto Police tried to shut it down by making 10th St one-way, it became a loop on 10th & 11th. The rest is the history. George Lucas once told me when I asked him about how he would describe himself, and he said he is “a storyteller”. American Graffiti was a story about 1962 in Modesto USA. It was a story that was shared by many communities around the USA, but it has put Modesto in a special place in our nation’s history and pop culture. Yes Modesto, we are the #homeofAmericanGraffiti and this amazing history is key to our future. Like Lucas, we, Modesto, have to tell our story. It is something to be proud of, and we must celebrate it by recognizing our importance in the past, but what it can do for our future. Our story is still being written.

50 Years of American Grafftiti

George Lucas’ American Graffiti was released in 1973 and since then, Modesto USA has been immortalized in one of the top 100 films of all time. There were so many people, cars and experiences that George drew inspiration from and these were all put together for this legendary film. For years, Modesto has been working on a variety of ways to celebrate our classic history, educate the public and draw tourists from around the world. The film’s re-release is reportedly scheduled for August 30 in 4K.

Our Streets Have a Story

Located on 10th St, the street of the original drag is home base to the Modesto Historic Cruise Route and Walk of Fame founded in 2012. Like the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, there are nearly forty Classic Tailfin Markers on the sidewalk and plaza between J and K streets featuring Modesto’s Legends of the Cruise. The first marker was presented to George Lucas in 2013. Stars of American Graffiti, Bo Hopkins, Paul LeMat and Candy Clark are on the Walk of Fame. This year, Mackenzie Phillips who played Carol Morrison will be inducted along with the Class of 2023.

This is also the starting point for the Cruise Walk Tour featuring 25 interactive kiosks loaded with Modesto, music, car and cruising history. To learn more, visit www.modestocruiseroute.com for pictures, video and history.

The future?

Thanks to the success of American Graffiti, George Lucas was able to produce the film he always wanted to make. From his comic book days and his imagination, he wanted to make his own Buck Rogers. Out of this came Star Wars and the entertainment world would never be the same. From the yards on Ramona Avenue, to 10th St and to galaxies far far away, Modesto’s George Lucas changed the world.

Hey Kids

.................... I’m Rodney!

I want to introduce you to the reason Modesto is so awesome! It’s our classic cars like me, Penny, Tina, Chuck and others and we are all shined up, ready to cruise and are all powered up for Graffiti Summer and heading to the Graffiti USA Museum. I hope you enjoy everything we have going this year and make sure to check out the Cruise Route, Graffiti USA Museum, view our classic murals and enjoy the car shows and check out the chrome. We even have a new coloring book for your summer fun.

Download the coloring book for free at www.modestoview.com/graffiti-fun-coloring-book-free/

Cool Graffiti Gifts!

If you are in town for Graffiti Summer, don’t forget your Graffiti gifts and souvenirs. Stop by the Graffiti USA Museum store and you can take home a part of Modesto USA with great t-shirts, Graffiti wine, fuzzy dice, shot glassed, cool model cars, jackets and even send some postcards from Graffiti USA! Take a walk around and check out the progress of the museum

By Chris Murphy

Burge’s Drive-in 1947

Walk of Fame Markers

Thanks so much to Mat Rogers and the crew at Flying Turtle Concrete for making our tailfin markers. Also, a Flying Turtle fun fact, Mat used to be lead singer for a band called the Cadillac Kids. Right on!

Please check out Flying Turtle at www.flyingturtleconcrete.com

Thank you City of Modesto

Thanks for letting the streets of Modesto be the star and for allowing the Historic Cruise Route and the Walk of Fame to be a big part of our Modesto culture. Thanks to Visit Modesto for helping tell our amazing stories far and wide. Soon, Modesto will be a California Welcome Center at the Graffiti USA Museum and we will be showcasing our Graffiti heritage to the whole world.

www.modestogov.com

www.visitmodesto.com

Start Your Engines!

Vrooom Vroom. The first big show out of the gate this year is the Modesto Street Rods Graffiti Classic show at McHenry Village. You will see a huge special show for the 75th anniversary of the Corvette. There will be food, music, chrome, lots of Corvettes and more. Check out the info on this show and the activities of this very active car club. This is a FREE show.

June 34 – McHenry Village 9 – 3 pm http://www.modestoasra.com/

The Big Show

June 9, 10 & 11

The North Modesto Kiwanis Show is the show of shows in our region. The sweetest street rods, race cars, a huge vendor area and food of all types and a big stage with classic tunes from local bands like The SuperAvengers and Overdryve all weekend long and you can try to pick which cars will be the winners of this legendary Modesto car show. Go meet Candy Clark and Mackenzie Phillips as well as our greatest car people from all over the world. Don’t miss the amazing low riders and check out the famous Rosemary and many others. There is a new section for some of the new newer specialty cars (Coffee and Cars) on Sunday morning. The car show is an important fundraiser for non-profits in our region and the quality of this show draws the best cars from all over the western USA.

June 10 9-5, June 11, 9-3pm Lots of easy parking. MJC West - Tix at www.americangraffitifestival.com

Big View is continued on Page 18

June 2023 Graffiti Events Calendar

June 3rd

Car Show & 50s Festival at 50s Roadhouse, Knights Ferry, 9 am-3 pm

Juline School of Dance At The Hop at The Fruit Yard, 6:30 pm

June 4th

Graffiti Classic at McHenry Village, 9 am-4 pm

June 5th

Mid Valley Chevy Park n’ Shine at American Chevrolet, 5-8 pm

June 6th

Mid Valley Chevy Park n’ Shine at Century Center, 5-8 pm

June 7th

Legends of the Cruise Walk of Fame and Car Show in Downtown Modesto 5-9 pm

June 8th

Mid Valley Chevy Park n’ Shine at Cool Hand Luke, Riverbank, 5-8 pm

MoBand Rockin & Rollin at Mancini Bowl 8-10 pm

June 9th

Open House at Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum 10 am-4 pm

Music in the Plaza with Gary Gervase & Kickstart Blues 6-9 pm

American Graffiti Cruise 6-8 pm

June 10th

Open House at Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum 10 am-4 pm

American Graffiti Car Show & Festival at MJC East Campus 9 am-5 pm

Grease Sing-a-Long at the State Theatre, 2 pm

June 11th

Open House at Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum 10 am-4 pm

American Graffiti Car Show & Festival at MJC East Campus 9 am-3 pm

The Rascals at Gallo Center for the Arts 5-7 pm

June 17th

Back to Graffiti at The Fruit Yard, 9 am-3 pm Cars at The State Theatre, 10 am-12 pm

June 23rd

Graffiti Night with the Nuts at John Thurman Field, 6:00 pm Game Starts at 7:05 pm

June 21st

Fabulous 50s Car Show at the Park at Modesto, 4-6 pm

June 25th

Rod & Custom Car Show at the Elks Lodge, 9 am-3 pm

Tuesdays

Tuesday Night Car Show at Pioneer Market, Waterford, 5:30-8:30 pm

Fridays

A&W Cruise-In & Karaoke at A&W Restaurant 5-9 pm

Cruise-In at Valero Gas, McHenry, 5-7 pm

BIG VIEW

Continued from Page 17

GRAFFITI USA MUSEUM

Join the Graffiti USA Museum for Summer Fun!

By Carly Russell

The Cruise is King

This event kicks off 6:30 pm Friday night, June 9 in Downtown Modesto with the famous American Graffiti Cruise Parade, open only to cars exhibiting in the car show, 1979 and older. The cruise starts at 5 Points with introductions of the Cruise Champions at 6 pm. The cruise goes up and down McHenry, like we used to do and then loops J 10th /11th and I street and back to 17th. This is a family fun night in downtown Modesto and out McHenry. Make sure you get out early to see parade and see Cruise Champions and American Graffiti film stars Mackenzie Phillips, Candy Clark and Gene Winfield. 2023 Grand Marshal is John Kearney.

To get details and exhibit info, http://www.americangraffitifestival.com/ Exhibitor info, check in and festival host location:

Graffiti Groovin’

Let’s get Groovin’ on a sunny afternoon!

Please welcome the original Rascals to a special afternoon show at the Gallo Center. Original Rascals Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish are Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, Grammy Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame and Songwriter Hall of Fame members, The Rascals are widely considered the best ‘blue-eyed soul’ group to come out of the 1960s and their music is the soundtrack of a generation. The Rascals have 17 Top 20 hits, seven Top 10 hits, and three No.1 hits: “Groovin’,” “People Got To Be Free” and “Good Lovin’.” Enjoy the sounds of Rascals on Sunday June 11– Gallo Center for the Arts

Sing-A-Long Grease

Summer Lovin! This will be one of the most fun events as you can get all dressed up, bring the family and see a movie that you know you love, and sing every song at the top of your lungs, along with a packed theatre of Graffiti friends. They even have the words on the screen for the Grease Sing A Long. You need to do this. The State does have a martini bar so it could even be more fun. June 10 - 2 pm Tix $6 www.thestate.org

Classic Hits

George Lucas built American Graffiti around some of the best songs ever. The music was so important to him, that he spent nearly 10% of the total budget to make the film on music rights. It was the first movie to be built around pop songs as most movies and musicals had songs written for the story. To this day, the songs in the Graffiti soundtrack are some of the best. Many of these are based on the hits of legendary local musician Roddy Jackson, the Central Valley Fireball. Sadly, we lost Roddy this year, but his music will go on forever.

The Graffiti Spirit is good for our soul, it is good for our economy and it makes us a special place that should be a destination for people around the world and Graffiti Summer is our time of the year. People from around the world come to Modesto to get their own slice of ModestoCana, feel our Graffiti spirit and be a part of our Graffiti

Get ready for a summer full of fun and excitement with the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum! We are thrilled to announce that we are participating in over ten classic carthemed community events throughout June! The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum volunteers offer free interactive kid’s activities, including crafts, a scavenger hunt, dress-up, and more! We will also launch some exciting new branded merchandise for purchase, including limited-run waterproof Pendleton blankets and thermoses that are perfect for all your summer road-tripping adventures! We are also introducing some new colorways and designs for hats and t-shirts. These items are perfect for showing off your Graffiti Summer spirit! By grabbing some of our merchandise, you can take home a piece of Modesto’s classic car culture while supporting our cause simultaneously!

Don’t miss our community outreach booths at the following events:

• June 3, 2023, 9AM-3PM, 50’s Roadhouse Classic Car Show & Festival in Knights Ferry

• June 4, 2023, 9AM-3PM, Graffiti Classic at McHenry Village

• June 5, 2023, 5PM-8PM, Park N’ Shine at American Chevrolet

• June 6, 2023, 5PM-8PM, Park N’ Shine at Century Center

• June 7, 2023, 3PM-9PM, Legends of the Cruise Event & Park N’ Shine, Downtown Modesto

• June 8, 2023, 5PM-8PM, Park N’ Shine at Cool Hand Luke’s

• June 10-11th, 2023, 9AM-5PM, American Graffiti Car Show & Festival

• June 17, 2023, 9AM-3PM, Back to Graffiti Car Show at the Fruit Yard

• June 25, 2023, 9AM-3PM, Rod and Custom Car Show at the Elks Lodge

Visit Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum - Graffiti Festival Weekend!

We are also excited to offer sneak peeks of our construction progress at the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum! Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum will be opening our doors to the public for the American Graffiti Festival weekend! On Friday, June 9th, from 9AM-12PM, 610 KFRC will broadcast live from “The Sturgeon” mobile studio from our parking lot. This is your chance to see what we’ve been working on and to learn more about our museum. You can also visit our gift shop to purchase your Graffiti themed memorabilia. Visit Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum June 9th-11th from 9AM-4PM for this one-weekend-only event!

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum at the State Theater

On Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 9AM-10AM, we will be sponsoring a kids’ craft event at the State Theater before the showing of “Cars,” the movie. Kids can customize their own matchbox-style car, pick up coloring pages, get their Graffiti Summer passport stamped, and more!

Support Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and we rely on our community’s and donors’ generosity to bring our vision to life. All our board members, advisors, and volunteers are unpaid, donating their time and services to promote Modesto’s classic car culture. By donating, you can help us complete the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum construction. We appreciate your support! Scan the QR code below to donate.

Graffiti USA

Go Modesto

Father’s Day – June 18

There is no better time of the year to be a Daddy-O. I think that this is just about the best feeling you can get, and when it is Graffiti Summer, it’s even better. Great time to be a father and when you have great kids, it is amazing. We celebrate those moms who are also dads and send much love to those that have lost their kids. On Father’s Day, we are all there for each other

Go Modesto

Little Free Libraries Need You

Make sure you stop by your local Little Library and restock it with books. We hear that some are in need and if you have books to donate, it would be great. To find a Little Free Library – www.facebook. com/modestofreelibraries

CORRECTION

Last month we ran a fun “Did You Know” feature about the Pecan. We listed it as “the official state nut”, but this was incorrect. It is one of FOUR official nuts along with the famous almond, walnut, and pistachio. Although not high in volume, it is the only native nut to the United States so it was included. It is also a low water nut, so maybe it will get more popular and we can make local Pecan Logs, like Stuckey’s is famous for.

Continued from Page 15

knocking and it took two years to do the repairs.  At 16, I had a driver.  My buddies and I would be uptown every night cruising to check to see who’s there. Cars or chicks?

In 1967, I bought myself a graduation present, a 1965 Dodge with a 426 engine, 4 speed. Now, I could finally keep up with the other street racers.  After a 2-year stint with Uncle Sam, I bought a 55 Chevy to do a little drag racing at the Kingdon Drag Strip in Lodi.

Nowadays, I have a 50 Chevy convertible, restored by myself and my wife Theresa and I have travelled across the USA several times with a stop at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, the White House. Many more memorable trips in the ’68 Camaro SS, ’29 Ford “Rusty” truck, Old Blue the ’55 truck and new to the collection, a ’30 Model A 4-door soon to be on the road creating new adventures.

Sam Autry – Downey 1967 by

Gene Hein

Sam was born in Modesto and graduated from Downey High School in 1967.  When Sam was eleven, an uncle took him for a ride in a ‘31 Ford Roadster.  The Roadster was bright red, had six carburetors, and made a lot of noise.  That began a lifelong love of hot rods and classic cars.  Sam never passed up an opportunity to work on vehicles, learning more with every project.  Sam enjoys memories of working with his stepdad on restorations of a couple of older Ford pickups.

Sam started participating in cruising when he was 15 years old. He would drive his aunt, who was only 11 months older than him, and her friends on the uptown 10th and 11th street route.  Sam’s grandmother would not let his aunt go “cruising” unless she took Sam as their chaperone.  Sam would drive the cruise route while his aunt and her friends flirted with the other cruisers and sang to the music on K5 Radio.  The only trouble they ever got into was spilling a full milkshake on his Grandmother’s car floor.

In January 1968, Sam joined the Air Force and spent four years on small military sites with hobby shops where many off-duty hours were spent working on his projects and helping fellow servicemen with theirs.  Sam did a frame-off restoration of a 56’ Ford pickup in his last year of service.  He did all the bodywork and used a crisp 327 engine and a Muncie four-speed transmission.

After discharge from the Air Force, Sam continued working on car projects.  He completely restored a 35’ Dodge pickup that was later featured in a 1977 car magazine.  Sam has built and driven five off-road cars in off-road rallies for over 20 years.  In addition to car projects, he has made and raced a flat-bottom boat.  Sam enjoys fabricating parts for his projects and owns the machine shop equipment required for most upgrades.

Sam joined Mid Valley Chevy Club in 1997 and is a past Club President.  He has been active in helping to organize many rod runs and car shows, including the annual Park and Shine shows during Modesto’s Graffiti Week.  He has hosted a monthly breakfast for car enthusiasts for 24 years.

Sam’s ‘54 Chevy Belair is a regular at most local car shows and has won many awards as an outstanding entry.  Sam’s ‘62 Impala is undergoing restoration and will soon sport a 409 engine and a five-speed manual transmission.  A 1931 Ford five-window coupe is next on the list to be completed.  The coupe, already on wheels, has a Chrysler Hemi and will have three two-barrel carburetors behind a 1932 radiator and grill shell.

Since retiring from MID in 2010, Sam continues to enjoy his hobby and volunteers at the Graffiti Museum, all to keep the Graffiti Spirit alive in Modesto.

SONGWRITER VIEW

The Rainbow Chorus-Inclusion Through A Musical Prism

By Patty Castillo Davis

“If you want to sing, join a chorus. If you want to change the world, join a gay chorus.”-Gary Miller, a founder of the New York Gay Men’s Chorus.

It all started with a text.

And then a lull.

And then another text.

And then a lull.

Until the universe opened up, the stars aligned, and the dots were connected.

Holly Grace Currie, a Behavioral Health Clinician at the Center for Human Services reached out to me-“I honestly don’t need much to say in any of it- I just want to join a secular choir with diverse members and sing my heart out. And one doesn’t exist yet.”

An all-volunteer LGBTQ+ choir, including Allies, singing inspirational Pride-themed songs in queer and non-queer spaces, demonstrating harmony. ( literally ), in a time when this is most needed.  Check. She asked if the Rainbow Resource Center might host, sponsor, and promote the effort.

So After the holidays in December 2022, a planning meeting was organized at the RRC space, and close to a dozen people came to discuss what a Queer choir might look like. The room was enthusiastic as each person introduced themselves and gave some information on their choir experience.

An alternative safe space was procured for the rehearsal hall, and details and dates were aligned. Matthew Mason, Chorus Manager,  handles the Venmo and emails and is a singer and support to Director/Accompanist Lisa Baptiste. Baptiste chooses the choir arrangements based on difficulty looking for a positive upbeat crowd pleasing queer anthems.

Today the Rainbow Chorus boasts a membership of up to twenty-five talented singers. This is an ebullient group of people who are super supportive of each other, a constant

source of joy, and where neurodiversity is recognized and appreciated. The Rainbow Chorus can also say that they are the only non-classical and secular ( non-religious ) choir.

All are welcome.

Just show up and sing. There is no audition process, just a tiny, straightforward voice placement effort in a relaxed atmosphere. Auditions are held for solo opportunities within a piece. All voice parts are queer and gender inclusive. For example, if I want to come and join and sing the bass part, I would be encouraged and embraced. The Rainbow Chorus has an open membership and is rehearsing its debut performance at the State Theater on June 17 during the “What A Drag!” show and fundraiser. The chorus will also be performing at Modesto Pride 2023 in the Fall. This will be a “coming out” like no other.

Happy Pride!

If you would like to join the Rainbow Chorus, rehearsals are held every first and third Tuesday from 7 to 8:30 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County located at 2172 Kiernan Ave. in Modesto. For further information, reach out to: rainbowchorusmodesto@ gmail.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2023

Hey folks! Blue Monday Party needs you! We have received the green light that COVID restrictions are lifted, and it is time to get back to our routine, at least until the next catastrophe comes along.

We host Blue Monday on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month at Café Urbano, where you can enjoy great food, a full bar, and a swinging band with special guests each month. In the band, we have John Ady and Conrad Johnson on bass, John Burt on sax, Cortez Flores and Dave Hawks on drums, and Eric Benson on keys. We play a variety of genres, including jazz, funk, Latin, rock, and blues (not necessarily in that order) for listening and dancing. So please be like alpha beta and tell a friend. We thank Chris Murphy and Gary Nelson for their love and

By Eric Benson

support of the Blue Monday scene, which we truly appreciate!

Blue Monday is happening with great music and attendance. The house band features John Burt on sax, John Ady and Conrad Johnson on bass, Dave Hawkes and Cortez Flores on drums, Eric Benson on keyboards, Natalia Alexandra as the vocalist, and special guests at each event. The jam is open, so come out June 11th and 25th. Café Urbano has DJ dancing from Tuesday through Sunday, featuring Latin-based music. The Creole Jazz Kings also continue to play at Café Urbano and will be back this month, so swing by!

The farmers’ markets are back, music in the plaza is starting, and school is out for summer. We hope to see you out and about! There are some great shows at the Gallo Center. Still, we also recommend checking great venues out of town, such as Yoshi’s Oakland for the best jazz shows, Khumba Music Center in Santa Cruz, Piedmont Piano Company, the Back Door, and the Sound Room in Oakland. Please continue to come out, folks, as we can’t do it without you!

PERFORMING VIEW

By Chris Murphy

There is a lot of great performance options this month.   The Gallo Center as just announced their 2023/24 season and there is something for everyone!   But first, there will be an EPIC Star Wars Modesto Symphony presentation of Empire Strikes Back fronted by the full symphony.  Don’t miss this on June 2 &3

Modesto Performing Arts presents the smash Billy Elliot.  Music by Elton John and over 14 Tony Award nominations, this show of dance and accomplishment set in urban England should not be missed.     June 17, 18, 23, 24, 25.

There are a couple of great shows to close out June with YES Companies, Addams Family coming up in July.  The new full season goes on sale this month and there will be great shows from Daughtry, Donnie Osmond, Martina McBride and the Monkee’s Mickey Dolenz.   Don’t miss Smokey Robinson, Ryan Adams, Lupita Infante, Clint Black, Ramon Ayala and so many more.   Stop this minute and check out the Gallo Center site and check out the shows coming up and get your tix early and get great seats.    www.galloarts.org

It is summer season at the Prospect Theatre Project.  There are some really cool artists labs where there are interactive drop-in sessions, including improvisation, classes for kids and teens.  This is a great way to get into performing and theatre and everyone should learn improv.    There will be a really cool Radio Cavalcade featuring Good Sam on the 10th.   If you can please support Prospect Theatre’s season at a fundraiser at the Silos on June 3.  This will be a great time with fantastic food.    Please check the calendar at www. prospecttheatreproject.org

What a Drag

Think of “Dancing With the Stars” paired with “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in Modesto, Ca. Local area drag experts will be partnered with local area community leaders (a.k.a. drag novices) to teach the novices a dance/ lip sync routine, provide them with a drag name, and assist with costuming and make up. Presented by Kappa Epsilon raising funds for local orgs HARRT, The Place and Women Techmakers.   Enjoy “novices”: Damon Robbins, Dave Rogers, Joe Sisemore, Karhla Davies, Kate Trompetter, Kaye Osborn, Claudia Linares

June 17, 7 pm   State Theatre  -  $ 25- 65 VIP

Summer

Protect Yourself Against Skin Cancer

have hair up there, I was protected. I was wrong.

Summer is here, and it’s going to be hot! In this FitView, I want to share a personal experience to help bring awareness to others regarding outdoor fitness and the sun. Let me start by saying that the photo here looks harmless, but you don’t see a very bright and silent danger upon me: the sun. We all need a healthy dose of sunshine; we thrive in it. However, we must be aware of the danger of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can cause skin cancer. Although melanoma is treatable if caught in time, it can also be deadly. When I head outdoors for fitness, I always take precautions to protect myself from the sun and those pesky mosquitoes. I train quite a bit outside with cycling, running, and swimming. So when I developed a dark blemish on top of my head, I was surprised. I always wear a visor to protect my face, but I forgot to cover the top of my head. Since I

My wife noticed the dark spot on my head eight months ago while cutting my hair. I didn’t think much of it until it started to grow and bulge out like a growth or pimple. It wasn’t a pimple! Still, I didn’t pay much attention since I couldn’t see it. Out of sight, out of mind. It wasn’t until this spring when it became very noticeable. I shampooed my hair, and it started to bleed. At this point, I decided to have it checked out by my doctor. Could it be cancer? The biopsy of the blemish was nothing but a growth caused by the sun and not cancerous.

Friends, I was concerned and should have had it checked out sooner. Whether you train outside or spend time outside in the sun, remember to protect yourself. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer this year. This summer, layer yourself and your family up with sunscreen and wear a hat, not just a visor. Train outside before 10 am and after 4 pm. That way, you can avoid the times when the sun’s rays are most harmful. Happy Summer!

Monday-Saturday 1:00-4:00pm Saturday 5:00-7:00pm

Monday-Saturday 1:00-4:00pm

Graceada Park Pool Graceada Park Pool

Monday-Friday 1:00-4:00pm (swimmers ages 12 & under)

McHenry Avenue 4120 Dale Road 1200 I Street

BARGAIN VIEW

Summer Mode

By Monica Barber

ALL AGES VIEW

Summer Sun Shines

By Grace McNamera

always look forward to it! In addition to the delightful concerts, there’s another exciting event happening in Modesto this summer. American Graffiti! The car show itself will take place downtown and along McHenry Avenue, starting at 6 pm. As you wander through the streets, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of classic cars, each one a testament to automotive craftsmanship and history.

June marks the start of summer mode, a time to enjoy and have fun. Ms. M has begun reading the first book on her Summer Reading list at the Stanislaus County Free Library. She believes that how you spend your summer is not important, be it reading books, swimming, or relaxing at the cinema. What matters is spending time with family and friends. Here are some tips to help you manage your summer expenses. MoBand’s Concert in the Park is returning on June 8th with a new look. The seating at Mancini Bowl has been improved and is ready for the summer season of concerts. MoBand’s annual free concert series is a summer tradition as important as the American Graffiti Festival. You can enjoy the show from the grass by bringing a blanket, snacks, or a picnic with friends. Arrive early, as seating fills up quickly. The music starts at 8 pm. Visit www.moband.org for more information.

Cars and cruising are synonymous with summer in Modesto! The American Graffiti Festival and Car Show are returning on June 9th. The Modesto Kiwanis Classic Car Parade is a Modesto favorite and cruises through downtown Modesto followed by a Car Show on June 10th-11th at the West Campus of Modesto Junior College. The parade is free and starts at 6:00 pm.

However, arrive early as streets close and spaces fill up quickly. Tickets for the Car Show cost $10 on Saturday from 9 am-5 pm and Sunday from 9 am-3 pm. Visit http:// www.americangraffitifestival.com/ for more information.

School’s out, and summer family movies are back! Regal Cinema offers a weekly family favorite feature movie for $2 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays all summer long as a part of their Summer Movie Express. Both movies will be shown on both days. On June 13th and 14th, Sing! and The Spongebob Squarepants Movie: A Sponge Out of Water will be shown. The cinema is located at 3969 McHenry Blvd. Modesto, CA 95356. Check out the full schedule at https://www.regmovies.com/static/en/us/ promotions/summer-movie-express

Summer is a time to play outside and stay cool from the heat. The City of Modesto Parks and Recreation Department hosts several outdoor splash grounds throughout Modesto parks, open all summer through Labor Day. These splash grounds are free and available for families and children from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. It is recommended that children are supervised by parents or guardians when using the sites For more information, visit https://www. modestogov.com/543/Splash-Groun

As the summer sun shines upon us, it’s time to embrace the vibrant energy that June brings to our beloved city.. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the June delights awaiting you in Modesto!

It’s officially Concert in the park season! Get ready to groove to the rhythm of live music in the great outdoors! Every Thursday evening throughout June, and some of July, Graceada Park comes alive with the sounds of talented musicians. From blues and rock to soulful jazz, these concerts cater to diverse musical tastes. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic basket filled with tasty treats as you relax under the starry sky. Graceada park just got brand new seating too! Concert in the park is one of my favorite activities during the summer time, and I

From vintage beauties to iconic roadsters, there will be hundreds of awe-inspiring vehicles to admire. To add to the festivities, the MJC West Campus will be hosting a vibrant festival on June 10th and 11th, starting at 9 am. This two-day extravaganza promises an array of exciting activities for all ages. Explore the various food vendors, offering delectable treats to satisfy your cravings. Discover a diverse range of crafts and artisanal goods, perfect for finding unique souvenirs or gifts. The festival will also feature captivating live performances, showcasing talented artists who will keep you entertained throughout the day. And, of course, cars will take center stage, with an amazing showcase of classic automobiles. The American Graffiti festival and car show, combined with the lively festivities at the MJC West Campus, have become cherished traditions in Modesto. Year after year, locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage and passion for automotive history. It’s an event that brings our community together. Make sure to mark your calendar and join in on the fun – you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic experience!

Time to Travel

Summer travel has started and I’m one of the lucky ones getting away for a a couple of weeks. I will be seeing my family in Germany and look forward to being reunited with everybody.

It’s a lot of work though, finding a flight, finding out how to get to the airport and back, figuring out where to stay and what to do once you reach your destination. With weather being unpredictable at this time of the year, the next challenge is how to dress up. So I pack a little for all weather conditions. The idea is to have fun in the future and to relax. But it’s always an effort to pull it off. To get all the chores done so I can leave.

Personally, for me travel preparations are thrilling but also make me feel a little anxious of all the many factors that are out of my control. What will I encounter? The best I can do is imagine what things might be like and not get too hung up on what I imagined.  Most important thing is that I got a ticket and a passport and that I will not miss my

plane, right?  I will do my best to accomplish that. Beyond that I will hope to take it easy and to let go of perfection.

There’s an art to traveling. To some of us it comes more or less naturally. Knowing what might make one’s trip comfortable and enjoyable from start to finish is helpful. A good book, a game to play, or a movie to watch on the long hours of sitting immobile in one place. Traveling puts me in touch with who I am. Once I sit in my seat and we are getting ready for take off, I know that I have been able to make a zillion of complex choices.  I thank God that he’s got my back, no matter what.  Sitting with all the other fellow travelers on my plane I feel free and am ready to surrender to the big unknown.  Confined in a small space, I’m thinking of my trip as a spiritual experience that makes me feel the Zen of it all.

For more info go to taichi4modesto.com or call (209)572-4518

CALENDAR VIEW ENJOY MODESTO NIGHTLIFE • HAVE FUN

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Papapavlo’s Mediterranean Bistro & Bar, Modesto Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

The Brave Bull, Modesto Dust Bowl Brewing, Turlock

Stanislaus County Library, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Stanislaus County Library Facebook

KCBP 95.5 FM

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

Patterson

KCBP 95.5 FM

Mislin Gallery, Modesto

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Valero, McHenry, Modesto

A&W All-American Food, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

The Post, Modesto

Retro Lounge, Modesto

Downtown Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Modesto

Go StanCoFair

Senior Citizens Center

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Gallo Center for the Arts

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Patterson

Modesto Toyota

Murphy’s Irish Pub, Murphys

50’s Road House, Knights Ferry

Peer Recovery Art Project, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

KCBP 95.5 FM

Retro Lounge, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Eperson House, Twain Harte

KCBP 95.5 FM

Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Modesto Public Library

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

Stanislaus State University

Gallo Center for the Arts

Knockin Boots, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee House, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Mislin Gallery, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

The Stanislaus County Fair concert series is back and better than ever! You will want to experience this year’s exciting lineup, which features a diverse range of talented performers. Mark your calendars and get ready to rock out with some of the hottest names in music. The StanCoFair goes from July 7-16th and is open 5-12 pm M-F and 12 pm-12 am Saturdays and Sundays. This year’s concert lineup is as follows, July 7th, Parmalee, 8th Ginuwine, 9th El Dasa, 10th Plain White Tees, 11th Revisiting Creedence, 12th Lit, 13th All American Rejects, 14th Blue Oyster

Cult, 15th Ashley McByrde & 16th Los Nuevos Rebeles; the music starts at 8:30 pm each night.

Tickets are $12 adv/$15 for Adults and for Children/Seniors $5 adv/$7. Carnival wristbands are $35/40. For more info: www.stancofair.com

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP Radio 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Dying Breed, Oakdale

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

Patterson

KCBP 95.5 FM

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

McHenry Village, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto

Johansen HS, Modesto

The Century, Modesto

Zoom

VFW Post 3199, Modesto Rancho Fresco, Patterson

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Donoby’s Bar. Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

American Chevrolet, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

The Twisted Pig, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Century Center, Modesto

Urbano, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto

Dying Breed , Oakdale KCBP 95.5 FM

Splash Bar, Modesto

Bookies, Modesto

Bookies Bar, Modesto

Downtown Modesto 10th Street Plaza, Modesto Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

SpeakEasy Lounge, Modesto 3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank KCBP 95.5 FM KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Gallo Center for the Arts

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Papapavlo’s Mediterranean Bistro & Bar, Modesto

Persuasion Brewing, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

The Valley Inn, Escalon

Cool Hand Luke, Riverbank

Graceada Park, Modesto Stanislaus County Library, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Stanislaus County Library Facebook

KCBP 95.5 FM

Gallo Center for the Arts

Rivits Grill, Modesto Modesto, CA

KCBP 95.5 FM

Eagles Hall, Modesto

The Post, Modesto

Valero, McHenry, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto Knockin’ Boots, Modesto VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum, Modesto

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

FM

KCBP 95.5

Retro Lounge, Modesto

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum

The Fruit Yard, Modesto 19750 N Ripon Rd, Ripon

The Game Room, Sonora P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto SpeakEasy Lounge, Modesto Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

Modesto Junior College West Campus

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto Carnegie Art Center, Turlock

KCBP 95.5 FM

Retro Lounge, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

The State Theatre, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

50’s Road House, Knights Ferry

The Boardroom, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Modesto Public Library

Knockin Boots, Modesto Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum

Nino’s Place, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto Mislin Gallery, Modesto Prospect Theater Project, Modesto Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

The Fruit Yard, Modesto Dying Breed, Oakdale

Lucca Winery, Ripon Chartreuse Muse, Modesto 19750 N Ripon Rd, Ripon Modesto Centre Plaza

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP Radio 95.5 FM

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto Modesto Junior College West Campus

KCBP 95.5 FM

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto The State Theatre, Modesto Johansen HS, Modesto Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum

Zoom

VFW Post 3199, Modesto Modesto Centre Plaza Gallo Center for the Arts

Bookies Bar & Grill, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Donoby’s Bar. Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM KCBP 95.5 FM

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Modesto Senior Citizens Center The Twisted Pig, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto The Udder Place, Turlock Urbano, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock Dying

Modesto Irrigation District has various programs that can help you unplug to conserve energy and plug-in to sustainability.

hands. www.mid.org

3 17 21

Objects in the Rear View Mirror are larger than they appear! So much going on in our community. This month went by so fast. Make sure you tag your pics #modestoview and they might appear here and on our website and Facebook.

1. The MoBand board of directors celebrate the installation of the new benches at Mancini Bowl. Thanks to all of the donors.

2. It’s not every day you see buttery pancakes walking around Earth Day

3. Joe Barretta jams at Porchfest

4.  Jennifer Mullen educates about the Graffiti USA Museum

5. Kaitlyn Cavanaugh makes a “adult” blue milk treat for May the 4th

6. Dustin Lynch wows the packed house at the Fruityard

7. X Wing fighter pilots need to start young

8. Thanks Love Modesto volunteers!

9. Jedi Chris Murphy, One Solid Tony Serrano and Obi-Juan Alanis at May the 4th

10. @thatonebeergal enjoys the Central Valley Brewfest

11. These are the droids you are looking for.  Obi-Juan Alanis, Asst. Chief Valencia,  Jeremiah Williams, Jedi Murphy, Chief Gillespi & Barbara Alanis attempt to evade capture.

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REAR VIEW

Credits: MJ Mangano: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 22

Steve Perry: 21

Chris Murphy: 5, 15, 16, 19, 20

Middagh Goodwin: 4

Brandon Brush: 1

12. Eli Allsup performs for Porchfest

Doug Robinett of Triple D has the moves at Porchfest

Fans are getting ready for REO Speedwagon at the Fruityard

Chad Johnson & Kelly Gregerson, our May cover couple at May the 4th

Rick Fletcher & Patty Castillo Davis open for Music in the Plaza

Bruce Hall & Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon rock the Fruityard

Steve Ashman and Brett Hughes catch a moment at Porchfest

Shauna Verscheldon and Chris Murphy celebrate with Dale Boyett at the Make Dreams Real fundraiser that raised nearly $300,000 for local charities.

Joe Wagner is catching up with ModestoView at Ralston’s Goat.

Steve Perry, Marjorie Sturdy and Lauri Maki celebrate Porchfest

KAT Country’s DJ Walker and Joe on the Go get ready for the Dustin Lynch concert at the Fruityard.