ModestoView August 2024

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August 3rd Rock Fest at Twin Rivers Saloon

August 9th Banda Los Recoditos at Gallo Center for the Arts

August 11th Modstock at Gallo Center for the Arts

August 11th December 63 Tribute to Frankie Valli at the State Theatre

August 11th Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo at Gallo Center for the Arts

August 16th Marlene “La Guera del Acordeón” DeHerrera at the State Theatre

August 17th Tuolumne River Fest at Tuolumne River Lodge

August 23rd Farm2Fork Market at Sciabica’s Olive Oil

August 23-25th Sierra Bigfoot Music Fest at Eproson Park, Twain Harte

August 24th Ric James at Modesto Centre Plaza

GREETINGS VIEW Hello friends...

Wow, what a July. We certainly had a hot time in the old town last month, but there were so many more things that made it good and special.  Even though it was hot, there are many traditions that persevered and that is a testament to the great people of Modesto.  There were huge crowds for the 151st 4th of July Parade, fans supported and cheered the last MoBand concert with George Gardner as conductor and those who live here know we always seem to get a nice breeze in the evening.

It’s so crazy now that Becky and I are already thinking about back to school times again now that our grandkids are approaching that elementary age.  Not worrying as much as our kids are, but we are thinking about what they will need, but TK is still a year away.  They are really making the most out of their pre-school time, when life is still really carefree.  Next year will come soon enough and we need to make sure that the kids here in town go back to school with the resources they need and checking out the teachers wish lists.  Having time with my family, kids and grandkids is the most important thing in my world.

ly Companies for all they do to improve Modesto.  Learn about our Champion Jeff in this issue.

I and my band Third Party had a blast playing in 10th St Plaza for the annual Music in the Plaza series.  It was a beautiful night and as usual, we got the breeze and it was great to see people in the Plaza, the patios busy and people roaming the streets under the new 10th Street twinkle lights we put up for the summer.  It felt good, but I feel there is more “we” all need to do.    Over the past year, I have seen some of our favorite places like Ralston’s Goat,

that were true champions of live music, fall off the map.  As we are planning the 25th Anniversary MAMA Awards, it got me thinking about what we need to do to make our local music scene exciting again.  This scene is kind of symptomatic of some of the other creative scenes that need a pick me up.  What do we do as a community to make sure that there are places to play.  How to we make sure that our local bars, cafes and venues see a return on their investment to hire bands? What do we need to do to really be a creative city, where musicians and artists can flourish and the arts are considered as important to our cultural relevance?    I invite ideas and we ask some of these questions in our Big View this month.  There are so many things that make Modesto great, but every once in a while, we need to take stock, see where we are and change course how to make it better. I am one of those people that feels that everything is broken in some way and there is always a better way to do it. How can we embrace change, and have some clear direction of what can be done and measure some outcomes?  Are you with me on this?   I am a downtown fan.  I love downtowns everywhere I visit.  I look for ideas and try to bring those back here.  I don’t stay in the suburbs, but walk the streets of downtown, where these cities were born.  Our Downtown needs a push.  There are zones of Modesto that don’t seem to connect.  The east / west traffic north of Briggsmore and the Standiford / Sylvan corridor seem busy. The north /south of Oakdale Rd. is hoppin’, and the area around the mall and Pelendale is always busy.  What does downtown Modesto need to do to get the mojo and energy back?  Lighting? Safety? More events? Festivals? More retail? More music? More restaurants? More offices don’t do the right thing as they are closed and roll up at night and weekends.  I want to find solutions so we need to find the right questions.   I am working on how we can make Rockin’ Holiday, May the 4th and other things we do, better, more inclusive and exciting for Modesto.  I would love your ideas.    A special acknowledgement to Saul Trujillo and the Brenden Theatres who bring hundreds of thousands of people to downtown annually, and operate every day of the week.  How can we do a better job to engage these visitors?  This is really an important economic engine.   This month we celebrate Jeff Reed of the Reed Fami-

This is all about sustainability. How do we help our locally owned businesses thrive.  How do we make a place that is exciting to attract our next generation?  How do we develop the next wave of philanthropy and get more people involved?  Our locally owned business are the key to cultural independence.

This month we celebrate and thank Jeff Reed of the Reed Family Companies for all they do to improve Modesto.  Learn about our Champion Jeff in this issue as they are an example of a locally owned, family business that changes things both internationally and here at home.

We have so much going for us.  Thanks to all that are donating in the many ways to the Graffiti USA Museum.  This is a cultural game changer along with MoChiMu, the Gallo Center and the State Theatre.  Modesto on Ice is planning their upcoming season to draw more people into downtown so let’s make the best of it. A very special thank you to the local business and organizations that advertise in Modesto allowing us to design, print and distribute 65,000 copies and mail 44,000 of those through US Mail.  We are working hard to get positive news, events, ideas and discoveries out across our region.

And most of all, thank you for reading The View.

With Gratitude,

Chris Murphy, Founder & Publisher-

ModestoView chrism@modestoview.com

On the cover

As we continue our tribute to great film anniversaries, we blend a few of our favorite things. The 85th anniversary of the amazing  Wizard of Oz.  This film changed the way we looked at the movie screen in bright vivid color. Elton John was changing rock and roll when he released his double record set Goodbye Yellow Brick Road released in 1973. Modesto’s number 1 rocker Doug Robinett, of Triple D brings these two legends to life as he walks into an imaginary Modesto Emerald City.  This whimsical image was created by Michael J Mangano and has inspired this August issue.  Check out Doug at @doug.robinett.96/ and @dougrguitar

Budget Friendly Summer Fun?

Central Valley, California

SAVE YOURSELF THE SEARCH.

Back to school and end of summer getting you down? How about a fun itinerary to make the most of the time left and enjoy these last few weeks of summer. Check out our listicle blogs filled with couple, family and friend To-Do lists. We’ve already built your plans, you just pick one (or two). Scan the code and check out what to do that matches your vibe and what’s fresh right now too!

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

Savanna Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael J Mangano

Efren Martinez

CONCERT VIEW

By Chris Murphy

One of Modesto’s traditional ways to close out the summer season is the annual Modesto Symphony Picnic at the Pops.   Join 4,000 of your local friends on the lawn of the Gallo Winery, for a great evening of gathering, fun and music that combines our Symphony with some of the greatest popular showcases.

BASEBALL VIEW

This year the event  promises a full-evening symphonic tribute to the magic of Motown, feature the exceptional talents of your Modesto Symphony Orchestra led by Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray, and the vocals of Chester Gregory, Crystal Monee Hall, and Terron Brooks, performing smash-hits made famous by artists like Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, the Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.   Everyone will be Dancin’ in the Steets.

You can bring your own food, but wine and adult beverages must be purchased at the event as this is as fundraiser for the Modesto Symphony.   The support of the Gallo Winery has been huge for the Picnic at the Pops tradition.  There are no bad seats, but you can get VIP that has premium parking and seating locations.

The Symphony is hoping for a nice evening and that the rain will stay away.

September 7,  7:30 pm.

Gallo Winery

More info and tix at www.modestosymphony.org

End of the Nuts

Sadly, Major League Baseball required $32 Million of investment for Modesto to keep our local baseball team.  FYI, the Seattle Mariners are worth $2.2 Billion.  The only realistic response was no.  I don’t know if there is any last-minute salvation of our baseball tradition that began in 1872 as a community league, becoming the Red Caps in 1909.  Modesto even hosted a World Series showcase in October, 1962.  Generations of Modestans grew up at the ballpark that has hosted many future baseball stars.  Maybe there is a chance to attract a team in the Pioneer League and create something new.  While we work on plan B, or maybe even a soccer team, enjoy the next two months of baseball as the Nuts are playing great.  Enjoy it while you can.

There at 16 Nuts games to choose from in August as the Nuts host the Inland Empire, Visalia and San Jose.  Weekend games start at 6:05 pm and weekday games at 7:05pm  So take yourself and your friends out to the ballgame and enjoy the rest of summer.

Get tix – www.modestonuts.com

The 1962 World Series was memorialized in Ken White’s novel, Getaway Day.  You can find his book at Bookish or online,

ART VIEW

August arrives with about the same hot temperatures as July, and there are a few cool things in the arts.  One of them is a request for Artists to submit proposals for the 150th Modesto Anniversary Mural.  The proposal deadline is November 14.   https://vendors.planetbids.com/portal/14999/bo/bo-detail/119772 for information.

Sam Pierstorff announced his new Arts nonprofit, Modesto Artists Movement, or MAM, at www.modestoartistsmovement. org. The Official rollout involves comedy, poetry, and music via Off the Air, which will be accessible, inclusive, and collaborative programming that will help celebrate people, elevate art, and build community. Visual Art Was not mentioned in the rollout, but I have shown art at various music, poetry, and even theatre events. To that end, I am offering art for sale at the next two Red-Tie Arts concerts at Lucca Winery in Ripon.  The next show is on August 17.  I enjoyed selling art during the July Art Walk with the Peer Recovery Art Project.  Still a destination terminus on the Art Walk map, artists are outside on the sidewalk, inside the PRAP gallery, and performance spot. Always an active vendor venue on Third Thursdays.  I will be back in August, and understand, music on the

End of Summer and Autumn Art

By Jim Christiansen

stage. Reminder: PRAP is also an exhibition gallery that is open all month. Artists seeking a spot should inquire with Irene Hooper Gomez or JB.

Look up Stanislaus Arts Council and Visit Modesto for Third Thursday’s participating Art Walk venues and artists and the downtown Restaurant enticements. The art walk is on August 15.

Dragonfly Art for Life is an Art Walk stalwart but also offers classes with membership and some drop-in events. Friday night, Sip and Paint parties, watercolor, cartoon and animation, printmaking, sewing classes, and young children’s art and process learning groups are included in their class schedule. www.Thedragonflyartforlife.com Modesto Art Academy also offers classes at 500 Scenic Drive. www.moartacademy.org   Stanislaus Arts Council is hanging its” Abstracts, Impressions and Fantasy” show at Showtime Studios, across the alley from SAC offices at 1315 J Street. Showtime Studios is an Art Walk Venue, and this show will be held during their regular business hours.

Down in Turlock, the Carnegie Showcase Exhibition is Open to September 7. Fifty artists from 21 different Northern and Central California communities are on the Ferrari Gallery walls. This Showcase has

paintings, watercolors, drawings, ceramics, wood, photographs, fiber arts, collage, and other mixed media. www.Carnegieartsturlock.org  at 250 N Broadway in Turlock Stanislaus Arts Council has a call for artists for the Fall show.  The Autumn Art Exhibition, previously open only to members, is now open to artists of all backgrounds and mediums. Welcomes water, media, oil, pastel, graphics, mixed media, and sculpture submissions. The deadline to enter is August 16. From September 5 to October 11, Knights Ferry Art Studio and Gallery has a call for artists. Join the freaks for the “Freak Show” Fall Art Show in October 2024.  Submissions are due August 30. 209-247-7643 or email knightsferryartstudio@gmail.com. Cricket’s Hope ARK project, showing, and art auction fundraiser returns in October. If you are interested in participating as an artist, contact cindy@cricketshope-hope.org. The Kruse Lucas Imports Gallery Graffiti Summer display concludes with the last month of Bill Harris’s art and photography.  Carolyn Rossman’s art will be displayed starting September 1 through the end of November.

Mai Tai’s

Here at the View, we love a good Mai Tai. Not just any Mai Tai, a GOOD Mai Tai. Go to a bar and order a Mai Tai and 9 times out of 10 you will get a blend of juices shaken with some rum and served in a glass with an umbrella. It will be nothing that resembles the actual Mai Tai that was created in 1944 by Victor Jules Bergeron aka “Trader Vic” at his restaurant in Oakland, CA. Alongside ‘Don the Beachcomber’, these two dudes are responsible for the entire Tiki culture we know today. Due to the initial popularity of the Mai Tai the 17-year-old rum Vic used, J. Wray Nephew, became so scarce Vic decided to trade it for a 15-year-old rum. Eventually, the 15-year-old rum also became scarce which made Vic have to adjust his recipe yet again. He started making the Mai Tai with his own rum, a Jamaica rum, and now as long as the drink is made with Jamaican rum  (Appleton is the preferred brand), it’s a Mai Tai. Smith and Cross is another great rum brand.

Brandon Dodge and Danny Zeng opened Kimoto in October 2015. Dodge isn’t just an owner, he is also the head bartender and creates delicious libations to go with his plates. Dodge fell in love with Tiki culture

in 2004 during a resurgence. He went to LA to visit several well-known Tiki bars and find ingredients to recreate the drink at home. “The Pineapple version-our ‘Hawaiian’- was invented in 1953-54, and is often the one people think of when you say ‘Mai Tai.” says Dodge. His favorite rum to sip happens to be the Appleton 12, but for cocktails, he likes Plantation or Hamilton Ministry of Rum. If you’re looking for something easy to find, though, you can’t go wrong with Sailor Jerry to sip.(It’s not Jamaican, so for Mai Tai, it’s not the best option.) “If you mix Sailor Jerry with diet, it’s perfect. Not too sweet, just right. If you drink it with regular soda, it’s way too sweet.”

This month’s focus will be various Mai Tai’s to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Mai Tai on August 30th. If you can’t celebrate exactly on the 30th, feel free to get one on National Rum Day which falls on Friday, August 16th. The ViewCrew tried their “Hawaiian Mai Tai” which is a dreamy tropical treat as well as the “The 44”, which was a refreshing and complicated masterpiece made as close to the original recipe as you can with modern ingredients. You can’t make a bad choice

Celebrate the Mai Tai’s 80th Anniversary at Kimoto Sake and Sushi

between the two, both are truly delightful. Kyle Owens, another bartender on staff said, “You can get a Mai tai at Chilli’s or Applebee’s, but it is not the same as our ‘44’. You’re going to be disappointed.”

But if you want something different, that’s ok! Kimoto has the biggest selection of Japanese Whiskey in the valley. As of this writing they have 57 bottles for your drinking pleasure. Or try the Manhattan East- a refreshing beverage made with whiskey, sake, and ginger. It is the perfect way to follow up a wonderful dinner of sushi and rolls. If you prefer to eat your calories rather than drinking them, you can’t go wrong with an order of fried oreos for dessert.

Why a Japanese pub in Modesto? Because

By Brandilyn & Christopher Mitchell

it’s different! Who doesn’t love drinks, sushi and hanging out with people you enjoy? With elements of Japanese culture, large TVs for watching sports, a relaxing atmosphere and mouth-watering food you are sure to have a great izakaya experience right here in your own city. Some come in to eat creative and delicious plates of food, ranging from small bites like pineapple salmon to the large plates like the Fuji Mountain, while some of us come for the Mai Tais. You can also find them on the Doordash app to have food delivered right to your door! Sip on, friends!

Kimoto Sake & Sushi 1809 McHenry Ave B Modesto, CA 95350

GO MODESTO

Go Music in the Plaza

We have some great acts scheduled for the August dates of Music in the Plaza, and we hope the weather cooperates. On August 9th, Valley Heat will be out playing a Rock and roll-packed night of music. G Street Revolution, a seven-piece Funk, Rock, Jazz, and Blues band from Merced, brings a big sound to any stage and will play the Plaza on the 16th. Hit Replay will take the stage on the 23rd and play the hits of the eighties. August 30th sees the return of local rock and blues favorites, the Rob Hill Band, to the 10th Street Plaza. Come out early for a spot on the Fuzio or T-Cups patio, or bring your lawn chairs and set up in front of the stage for a great night of music, 7-9 pm, and as always, free thanks to our sponsor

VIEW

Journalism & Television Classes Are Back at MJC

By Jay Freeda, MJC, Instructor

Exciting news emanates from Modesto Junior College as film and television classes have officially resumed and are in full swing. In the spring of 2011, MJC closed all television and journalism classes, but thanks to a redesign by a small group headed by former Dean Michael Sundquist, these classes have been reinstated. Thanks to an endowment, the students will be equipped with the technology they need to learn how to become content creators. The benefactor behind this endowment is a local business owner named Alicia H. Shepheard, who generously donated a million-dollar endowment to bring back Journalism and Television classes at Modesto Junior College. As a gesture of appreciation, MJC renamed their production studio the “Alicia H. Shepheard Production Studio.” The newly established department, FTVE (Film, Television, and Electronic Media), is overseen by instructors Sky Tallone and Janeiro Freeda Sr., in collaboration with the Dean of Arts, Performance and the Humanities, Robert Stevenson and Emily Lawrence, Executive Director of the MJC Foundation. Mrs. Tallone has served as a video production specialist for the Yosemite Community College District for nearly a decade, while Mr. Freeda has been the General Manager of the local public access station (MyTV26) for over ten years. Additionally, Mr. Freeda, an alumnus of Modesto Junior College with a degree in

Television, was involved in the television program before its closure, making his role in reinstating the program particularly meaningful. Mrs.Tallone also played a vital role in developing programs that MJC has since reintroduced.

MJC is renowned for its grassroots approach to staff recruitment and program development, a tradition that will continue to ensure that Mrs. Shepheard’s endowment directly benefits MJC students. Rather than offering scholarships, the college has opted to provide students with stipends. While scholarships generally cover educational expenses at accredited institutions, stipends can be utilized for a broader range of expenses. For students, this means that upon completing the required classes, they can gain real-world experience by working in the community, with their wages covered by the college. This arrangement is advantageous for students who gain practical experience and local businesses that receive quality video and commercial content. For further information, business owners or event coordinators are encouraged to contact Emily Lawrence, Executive Director of the MJC Foundation. Before the Fall semester begins, we will be involved in recording a Netflix Comedy Special. Please come out and show your support for Modesto’s own local comedian, Ric James. This event will be held at the Double Tree Hotel on August 24th.

MO BAND VIEW

Thank you George Gardner

By Chris Murphy

MoBand, aka, the Modesto Band of Stanislaus County is part of Modesto’s musical fabric. It is the result a great community spirit for over 100 years, and the strength of music in the schools that teach trumpet, tuba, flute, drums, and so much more. I was a proud MoBand participant back in my high school years in the late 70s and these 6-weeks in the summer bring our Modesto together. For the last 46 years, George Gardner has been the conductor and this July, he conducted his last show as head conductor.  We were all there to celebrate with him and we took a minute to catch up with George as he looks back on his MoBand years.

MV: Greatest MoBand memory?

George Gardner: There are so many great memories. As a college student my first conducting experience was with MoBand. Getting hired as the conductor in 1979. MoBands Europe tour was a highlight as well as having Carol Channing perform three different times with the band. But to be honest, the best memories are standing in front of such wonderful musicians and friends each week and making beautiful music and then being able to share it with the people of Modesto.

MV: What does MoBand mean to Modesto?

GG: Moband has been a part of the fabric

of Modesto for over 100 years. It has not only provided quality music but i feel that it has been a source of civic pride for our great city. Very few communities can boast of civic band as large as MoBand. Additionally, we offer the opportunity for musicians to perform for a lifetime.

MV: What advice would you give to new band director?

GG: Brad Hart and i have been working closely for the past two years to help prepare him to follow me. He comes to the job with a ton of experience as well as a past history with the band. During these past two years we have each learned a lot. I have no doubt that under Brad’s leadership the band will continue to be successful musical organization. If i had one piece of advice it would be,  “Don’t screw it up”

How important is music in the schools? Music in the schools is where it all begins. Music teaches us skills such as interaction, feelings of involvement, and accomplishment. Music stimulates mental and physical skills in a positive way. Being a member of a musical organization gives one a sense of belonging. Almost every member of MoBand over the past 105 years got their start in our public school system.

Learn more at www.moband.org You can donate to help support this wonderful organization and tradition.

GO MODESTO

Family Movie Nights in the Park

There is nothing like creating family memories, and what better way to do that than by enjoying a family favorite movie in the Park?

Make plans to bring the kids to Graceada Park starting August 16th. Kicking things off with Super Mario Brothers 5 on the 16th, Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie will be shown on the big screen on August 23rd, and Migration will be shown on the big screen on August 30th. September 6th is Elemental, September 13th is Kung Fu Panda 4, and September 20th is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem at Mancini Bowl at Graceada Park. Movies start at dusk, approximately 8 p.m.

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HISTORY VIEW

The California Ballroom

By Harrison Power @historyharrison

When it comes to the Modesto music scene, there is a place that stands out as integral to the city’s music lore: the California Ballroom, a long-time venue for music and dancing in Downtown Modesto. Completed for use by the Pentecostal Portuguese Association in 1927 as its meeting hall, it first “opened” its doors as the California Ballroom in 1929. The venue has hosted numerous notable performances and has provided Modestans with nearly a century of live music. The California Ballroom, which has withstood waves of changing music styles and dancing fads, remains a connection to how music and social gathering can foster a strong sense of community, Built at the corner of Sixth and E Streets in 1927, the California Ballroom and Portuguese Hall was nearly a decade in the making. Plans for a lodge to be built by the Portuguese Hall Association of Modesto date to 1919, when the organization was authorized to raise capital funds to finance the construction of a hall. By March 1920, the design was announced with construction anticipated, but that organization dissolved in 1922 and it appears little progress was made. However, the Pentecostal Portuguese Association was formed and ultimately built the hall in 1927 as originally planned.

admission for men was $1.10 and women had free admittance, those who wished not to dance but still hear the music could park outside, as Muncy and Hill broadcasted the music for anyone to hear. The venue was billed as “Modesto’s most modern ballroom” and as having “the finest and largest dance floor in the San Joaquin Valley.” By 1968 the dance floor, well worn, was fully replaced, and was celebrated by a “Portuguese Chamarita and American Dance.”

Now Playing: FATAL VEE & “White Lighter” SONGWRITER VIEW

By Mattéa Overstreet

The local gig circuit is extra loaded in the summer months, and nearly every working musician in the area is pulling through long sets in the blistering heat, delivering high-quality entertainment and extra good vibes to your favorite hangouts multiple times a weekend. Three cheers and free beers to all the hustling bands and soloists for always doing the best work no matter what challenges each season brings.

Stevie in different directions over the years.

“Life has transformed my view of things, and I am here as a different persona - Fatal Vee - and my new album “White Lighter.”’

“This album is a means to reach you where you are, in the dark.”

Opening night of the Portuguese Hall was celebrated with a ball on August 20, 1927. With the new hall opened, the PPA regularly held public dances in addition to using the hall for their meetings, and hosted balls for business and community organizations. Dances were managed by Muncy and Hill, who continued managing events for the hall after it began operating as the California Ballroom.

Opening night of the California Ballroom was March 23, 1929, and music was played by Polly Watson and His Band. While

Performers ranging from widely known to locally known have graced the stage of the California Ballroom bringing the whole musical spectrum to Modesto, from jazz to big band to rock n’ roll. Some of these notable performances include: Maddox Brothers and Rose (1947), Earl Bostic and His Orchestra (1955) Fats Domino (1955 and 1960), Kent Whitt and the Downbeats (1959-1962), Jerry Lee Lewis (1960), Jim Burgett (1960-1963), The Ike and Tina Turner Revue (1962), and Bobby Freeman (1962). Though not a music show, Ronald Reagan addressed a dairy association’s annual meeting held in the Ballroom in 1964, and later as Governor would attend Clare Berryhill’s victory party at the Ballroom celebrating Berryhill’s election to the State Assembly in 1969. For many, the California Ballroom and Portuguese Hall has been a downtown staple for generations. From live concerts, to crab and cioppino dinners, to the Modesto Portuguese Pentecost Association’s annual Holy Spirit Festa, the California Ballroom continues to bring people together and supports a vibrant community. To learn more about upcoming events, you can visit https://www.mppa-events.com

It’s been lovely spending my off time by the pool or hanging by the air conditioner while I make playlists and scope out new music. Recently, my feed gave me a promo for a new album by Fatal Vee, and I was like “Hey, I know him. That’s the singer from the band AWARE.” Then I popped into the Speakeasy Open Mic on a Monday, where he played a few songs from the record, and I was like, “Wow, there’s people that need to hear this stuff.”

Fatal Vee aka Stevie Vasquez, has been sharing original music since 2013, starting with the Queen Bean open mic era where he “found the crowd to be supportive and eager for what I could bring to the table creatively.” After working the gig circuit and writing with different bands, he took home Best Male Vocal Performance at the Valley Talent Project in 2018.

Music and songwriting never left the artist’s daily life, even as the journey took

Listening to the album, you can hear the pages turn with each track, like a different chapter is being exposed. There is also a sense of reclamation and closure as each song weaves to the next. It feels like saying goodbye to what no longer serves you. Vee says, “Reliving every moment in life that has impacted you and having that all be on display like a funeral.”

“The first track is a soft instrumental that eases you into your seat and throws you off because you aren’t expecting the hit that comes next, but no one expects life to hit you when it does.”

I asked Fatal Vee what his secret is to unlocking this honesty and vulnerability in his songwriting, and he said “the fastest way to write good music is to write about reality. For me the best songs have always been the ones that break you. So this album is my homage to the emotions that sculpted me.”

I highly recommend you support the honesty, talent, and hard work that went into producing this album “White Lighter” by Fatal Vee. Scan the QR code to listen

FOOD VIEW

Two Words -  Killer Bacon

If you know what I am talking about, you know where this is going.

I am a big fan of Greens on 10th. and have known Ann Endsley since our kids were in dance at Juline’s.  Ann opened and operated Greens Market many years ago in the former Royal Robbins building where Camp 4 is today. It was a game changer, Amazing baked goods, ready to go entrees, incredible cheese section and specialty beverages.  The organic produce was supplied by Ann’s own Four Seasons Farms and it was a great gathering space.

Soon they outgrew this location and there was an opportunity to move on to 10th St with a huge commercial kitchen that would support a growing catering business and provide food for many locations, including the short lived Greens Table on Bangs.  Greens on 10th was evolving and stunningly remodeled with a café and event center, banquet rooms, specialty dining rooms and even a basement speakeasy.

Ann hired specialty chefs that were creating delicious baked goods and would create one of Modesto’s most legendary bites, Killer Bacon. Ann’s expertise in creating special events led to an event rental company (Event Collection) and a venue/cooking class space named Gather out on McHenry.  This delicious bacon would appear at special events, was available on the menu and would be an instant sellout at the Modesto Farmer’s Market.  Since then, we have gone through Covid and a lot of changing dining habits.  Our company had Greens delivery breakfast burritos daily during the shelter in place days to support our essential worker team.  They were great.

Many people ask me, how do you get or order Greens food.  Well friends, it is easier than you think and there are many items that I didn’t know existed.  Spending an afternoon at a table in conversation with

greens on 10th

Ann is always fun. But when you can learn how she has evolved the business, teaming up with Legacy Alliance Project to hire formerly incarcerated people, and diving into specialty menus and meal prep and special events and classes at Gather, it is truly amazing.  Four Seasons Farm is growing nearly all of the fresh certified organic produce used at Greens and Gather.

There are a lot of options and for business or event catering, you can really get whatever you need for any audience. What I wanted to know is how a regular person can get Greens amazing food.  This leads to the Underground Kitchen.

You have heard about places like this; amazing kitchens that prepare the best food without a dine in restaurant in front.  There is a large menu with something for everyone and you can order 1 or 2 or 20 or 30.  You can schedule a complete meal to pick up or be delivered.

This kitchen under the guidance of Connie Gonzales with team support by Patience Yarborough, Angel Cardoza and D.E. Cutler. (local music fans will recognize this name).  They are wizards of variety with the highest quality ingredients. There are special diet/detox and fitness programs from Angela Burge, or medical prescription diets like HCG or even gluten free or Whole 30.  In addition, there are just AMAZING things like lasagna, enchiladas, fine entrees, family style trays, Greek salads, ready to cook quesadillas, meatloaf, deviled eggs and so much more.  You can get a sample of many of these at the Modesto Certified Farmers Market where Greens has a stand.    Soon, you will be able to enjoy bone broth at the market and is available at Greens on 10th by preorder.

By Chris Murphy

Ann will tell you, the magic is made in the kitchen and her team is really dialed in together, She has long relationships with suppliers and customers and her team is dedicated.  Ann has a big vision, the ingredients are premium and the standards are high.

You can become a fan of Greens and try this food for yourself.

Go to wwws.undergroundkitchen.net and fill out a customer profile.

Tab through the menu and add them to your cart.  You can add special instructions.   This is a expansive menu and that explains the need to pre-order.  Because everything is made to order you need to plan a few days in advance.  Simply place your order and the system will give you the date you can pick up or have your order delivered.  If you need it sooner just give them a call and they will do their best to accommodate you.

Once you have your Greens profile, you can go back for more.  Which leads us to dessert.  Besides the traditional desserts, you can get take and bake cookie dough

and brownie batters.  Oh yes, just try to get this home without diving in. I delivered some to my kids but there were bites out of it before I got there.

Greens is truly an experience and it gets really special in the holidays.  There are cooking, decorating and design classes at Gather and you can order food for your friends, company, parties at Greens and it’s all handled.

Try it, you will really like it.

Greens is open for pick up only. Gather is open for food pick up and boutique shopping Monday through Saturday 10 to 5.

The Event Collection Showroom at 2424 McHenry shares the same space and hours as Gather and is full of event rentals for every occasion.

You can book parties and events in one of the many Greens and Gather event spaces

Greens on 10th

www.greensontenth.com

953 10th St Modesto 209-324-6880

Ann Endsley

Connie Gonzales Patience Yarborough

Chris loves Killer Bacon

Ann & D.E. Cutler prep meal

YOSEMITE VIEW

By Chris Murphy

You can never get too much Yosemite.  Besides being one of the most beautiful places in the world, 2 hours away from Modesto, it has been captured by thousands of artists and photographers. The 39th Annual Yosemite Renaissance exhibition will be on view in the Lobby Gallery at the Carnegie Arts Center from August 6 through October 5, 2024. A free public reception will take place on Friday, August 9, from 5-7 p.m 250 N. Broadway, Turlock www.carnegieartsturlock.org Painting by Marek Matusz

GO MODESTO

Want something fixed in Modesto?

FALL

Tree down, junk car on the road, tagging, stop light out? You can let the City of Modesto know so they can send people out to fix it. The ViewCrew have used this ap with good success. You will have to download the new ap, in our case, we had to set up a new account. For residents to access the new GoModesto! app they will need to upgrade the application on their mobile device. Go to your phone provider ap store and look for GoModesto! It’s free, its updated and it works. Don’t complain, just use the ap and let the City know. Let’s make Modesto better!

Art

INTER VIEW

Modesto is very unique when it comes to community volunteerism.  There are some amazing things that happen, whether it be for arts, music, education, our local non-profits, the homeless and our local children. We have done big and bold things like the Gallo Center for the Arts, Modesto Children’s Museum and the under-construction Graffiti USA Museum.  The State Theatre has been completely restored and expansions are underway. Our community has supported the Boys & Girls Clubs, Salvation Army, CASA, Hope Haven, Haven, Center for Human Services, Dry Creek Clean up, 9 to 99 and built Hospice and Habitat for Humanity homes and so many others, too numerous to list here.  So much has been done, but with every project, you learn there is so much more needed, but at the core is this; we have amazing volunteers.

We are so fortunate to have great locally owned companies that can help do the heavy lifting needed. One of these companies has a name that most people probably know from all of the work in our streets, parking lots, freeways and more.  The George Reed Company has built much of our community.  But it is so much more than a paving company. The Reed Family Companies are involved not only in paving and grading, but actual development and manufacturing of paving equipment, gravel, rock, concrete and asphalt production and mega project construction.  Based here in Modesto, there are operations across the USA and there are job openings in many different states.  Founded by George Reed in 1944, with his wife Rose, this company expanded into many different facets of road work. Wendell Reed joined the company in 1953 and with his wife Norma, diversified into many different areas, gravel pits, quarries, and real estate. In 1976, Jeff Reed

Hometown Hero - Jeff Reed

joined and spurred pavement preservation, the development of construction equipment, advanced products and international expansion.  His wife Margaret, a chemical engineer, after a 25 year career with Shell Oil joined in 2006.  The next generation is now in leadership and the commitment to technology, excellence and the community is even stronger.  Just recently, the Reed Companies, led by Matthew Reed, delivered an impressive parking lot project at the Graffiti USA Museum, a very generous contribution and investment in Modesto culture. The family was recognized as a 4th of July Champion and their love of vintage and classic cars is legendary and a passion they share with the community. The Reed Company Core Values are “Drive Excellence and Innovation while treating all with Integrity and Respect.”

Let’s learn more about community roots from Jeff Reed.

ModestoView: You really care about the community; how do you think this blends with running a strong business?

Jeff Reed: The Reed Family Companies motto is “Caring for our People, Customers, Communities, and Environment.” The strength and success of our business is intimately tied to our employees. Our connection to Community starts there. Fostering our folks contributing and being involved in our local communities is the heart of our outreach. Years ago, in honor of my parents, we established Reed Community Day where all employees could take a day off work to volunteer and the Companies would cover their missed wages. We back this up with matching their donations to non-profits from the Foundation we established. All of this helps create a strong positive culture of support which

translates into a successful business culture where we are all pulling on the rope in the same direction.

MV: How have you relied on technology to become a world leader in paving construction?

JR: Much of our success has come about because we didn’t know we couldn’t do it. We are in industries that for years saw very little innovation and we have relished the role of being the disruptive innovator. Our construction equipment manufacturing is a direct result of being an industry game-changer. We originally innovated new equipment to solve our own problems and the next thing that happened was competitors were knocking at the door asking us to build machinery for them.

One, however, must be careful as being on the cutting edge can also be the bleeding edge. We brought Microsurfacing road resurfacing to the Unted States from Europe 45 years ago and it took over a decade to build a market.

MV: What are some of the most important things that you learned from your parents?

JR: The one word that comes to mind is Perseverance. It was embodied in everything my parents and grandparents went through and stood for. Integrity is the other. Living up to your commitments is sacrosanct.

Dad also used to say that “Every day you will have opportunity doors in front of us and every day you will need to check if they open or not. Don’t despair if locked. The one locked today may be the one opened tomorrow.’ In building our Companies there were many hard times. Dad always saw that the employees came first even if he skipped a paycheck himself. I think both

By Chris Murphy

our Grandparents and Parents would be proud of the businesses they persevered to build.

MV: You were educated in different parts of the world.  How do you bring that learning back to your community?

JR: So, Mother sent me off as a 10 year old exchange student to Modesto’s sister city, Barranquilla, Colombia in 1965 to ”Broaden my horizons”. I later went back at 14 and also spent my last year of high school in Spain. All of these events opened my eyes to the wider World and gave me a comfort level in different cultures. Our international business can be directly attributed to these early experiences. Now I don’t recommend sending your children off into the World at that young an age but I do believe that it’s a parent’s and communities’ duty to prepare our children with a well-rounded education full of opportunities to succeed.

MV: You are a proud graduate of Gonzaga. Are you still involved with your college connections?

JR: I graduated in Civil Engineering with an MBA from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA nearly 50 years ago. I still sit on the Engineering Advisory Committee there and am just finishing my term as the Chairman of the Board of Regents. Gonzaga Basketball is the only sport I follow and do try to make it to as many games as possible. Gonzaga is a Jesuit institution, and it is interesting that one of Jesuit education’s greatest mantras is “People for Others”. Four years of Jesuit philosophy Core classes has done more to influence me than I admit.

MV: One of interesting things to me

Jeff and Margaret Reed

was Wendell’s musical background and his proficiency on keyboards.  How did that influence you?

JR: Dad had a band in High School and College. He played piano and was once offered a position with Maddox Brother and Rose in the 1940s. He was friends with another Modesto great, Chester Smith, and his first cousin, Jimmy Maxwell, played trumpet with Benny Goodman and on the NBC band. As children we all were required to take piano lessons and I played the Cornet for a while. Saturday morning Dad would turn on his stereo system and we’d be indoctrinated with 1930 and 40s Jazz. I remember rummaging with him in old dusty store bins on 7th and 9th street for jazz 78 records as a kid and we still have many of them in the Carseum. To this day Saturday mornings are still devoted to 30s40 jazz and blues. Unfortunately, my own musical talent stopped early.

MV: What has been the most amazing accomplishment of Reed Family Companies?

JR: To survive to pass this legacy on to the 4th generation. Less that 4% of businesses make it this far. We have grown and prospered and support over 900 families. That is a responsibility we take very seriously and negates ever becoming a role up in some disconnected private equity group.

MV: How do you think that Modesto can do a better job in connecting our industries and commerce to making the community better?

JR: Think local. Support local. Find a local need and rally your folks in supporting it. We have an amazing community. Our service clubs are outstanding. We all have an amazing story to tell.

MV: Describe the effect of S.E.R.V.I.C.E. on your company, your employees and the community?

JR: S.E.R.V.I.C.E. : The “S” stands for Stewardship, Safety, and environmental Sustainability’

the “E’ stands for Empowering our Teams,

the “R” stands for Reliable in our people, performance, and products,

the “V” stands for Viability, being the low-cost producer, strong dedicated workforce, and reinvestment in the future,

the “I” stand for Innovation, leveraging technology and encouraging new ideas,

the “C” stands for Caring for our People, Customers, Communities and Environment,

the “E” stands for Excellence, and our commitment of ethical behavior and integrity in all our endeavors.

These values are instilled in our actions and communications with our people to become our overriding culture.

MV: What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs?

JR: Perseverance. You cannot have true success without tasting failure. Ray Kroc, who built McDonalds was 52 when he came across a small hamburger stand in San Bernadino and saw opportunity after a lifetime of small jobs. He said “Luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.”

MV: Just recently, you have a new grandchild, your fifth, how does being a grandparent change your outlook?

JR: When all is said and done, and it is time to leave the best we can hope to be remembered that we left this place a little better than we found it. That is the measure of success in life that we should espouse to accomplish. I can only hope that my grandchildren will see their responsibility to the family business. There is no retirement as we die in the saddle in this family. Growing up we were told we can be anything we want to be as long as it is an engineer first. My indoctrination of the next generation is coming.

MV: Describe your ideal Modesto day?

JR: I’d start with a temperature in the 80s (particularly this summer). Our La Loma neighborhood celebrates Community with a Summer tradition of Wine Wednesdays

at the neighborhood green grass park. Everyone brings their favorite beverage and appetizers to share and we have great conversations. It’s our version of sitting on the porch together.

MV: And our signature question, Beatles or Stones?

JR: Beatles. In May, 1967 the album Sgt. Pepper was released. I bought it while living in Bogota, Colombia. We wore it out playing it and memorizing every lyric. Every time I hear a track from that album it captures that time and place, mood and smell that transcends the ages.

Learn more about Jeff and the Reed Companies at www.reedcompanies.com e-mail: jeff.reed@reed.net

BIG VIEW

By Chris Murphy

There is one global truth: Music is the spice of life.

From prehistoric times, through ancient civilizations with flutes made from bones 50,000 years ago through horns in the bronze age to the Lute, the distant relative of the guitar, to the modern day synthesizer, music is a vital part of our lives.   Everyone has a song that takes them back to a certain place.  For my wife Becky and me, it is Never My Love by the Association from our wedding and the sounds of the 80s when we were young marrieds living in Seattle.  Still a classic Mozart, or a Glenn Miller song will take you do a different place. Beatles’ music fills in most of the other gaps and those that choose the Stones feel the same way. For every person that chooses Grandaddy, Flying Blind or Foo Fighters, Billie Eilish, Madness, Metallica, Charli XCX, St. Vincent, Norah Jones, Taylor Swift or even the Backstreet Boys or ABBA, there is an amazing memory attached. I admit, that Danke Schoen by Wayne Newton, takes me back to the fun of Ferris Bueller.

Modesto is loaded with musical talent   Fortunately, our local school districts still have music in the schools and this is one of the reasons today that we have MoBand each summer.  Music builds creativity and studies show that that students who read and play music can perform better academically. This foundation is so key to the future.

August is the Summer of Rock!

Music fans are going to love August as we kick off the month with RockFest on August 3 at Twin Rivers Saloon. Doug Robinett and Nate Wilson are presenting a Modesto showcase of Rock beginning at 4 pm. Twin Rivers is a great bar with a good restaurant and a party festival space behind on the edge of Modesto out Maze Avenue at Hart Rd.

This will be one of the most fun rock evenings so bring your air guitar, friends, family and your rockin’ spirit to this event. The rock will be hot and the beer will be cold, What’s not to like? Check out Triple D, Third Party, Autumns Garden, Vintage Youth, Emerson Biggins, TMR, Aware, and The Vibes.

Get your tix at www.eventbrite.com/e/rock-fest-tickets-928010212527

RockFest – Aug 3 4 pm Twin Rivers

Modesto’s Music Festival

ModStock has become one of the best music festivals on the west coast. Why? Local pro bands will be sharing the stage with brand new bands that are the future of our music scene. Hosted and presented by VMI Rocks and Roberts Auto Sales, this will be a 90-band-multi-stage event with food and beverage vendors, and bands from VMI Rocks and Gordon Kennedy Music. There will be a metal set on the GK stage and the RMG will host many local faves. There is a main stage at Mancini Bowl that will feature SIXTY student bands from 9:30am –7:30pm with Blue Line headlining, the pro bands on the ModestoView stage and two other stages. Music all day long beginning at 9:30 am through 8:30 pm on August 11 at Graceada Park – This is a free event thanks to generous sponsors. Everyone in town should support this and go see an amazing smorgasbord of bands.

ModStock – August 11 9:30 – 8:30 pm www.Modstock.org

Johnny Cash Birthday Bash

David Perez Band

Amie Astelle

Horizon Point

Josh Rosenblum Band

Call to rock!

Promotion and hustle.

Fundamentally, some of the most creative cities are those with a strong live music culture.  We have had some really strong scenes, and some times we have to wade through until we make it better again.  We need to get to that great space again.

In 2000, Chris Ricci and I started the Modesto Area Music Awards to showcase the amazing music we had in town. Over the years, things exploded, with the Red Pepper Grill, Mustang Club, Dirty Duck, Charlie’s, the Fat Cat, Music in the Plaza, X Fest, Summerfest, Acoustic Christmas and so much more. There were many restaurants, bars and cafes that hosted live music, mostly without a cover charge.  New bands popped up, country, pop, punk, ska, indie, metal, acoustic and more.  Matt Nathanson and Megan Slankard got their start here and Granddaddy was always more famous around the world than here at home.    Sadly, XFest was shut down by the City of Modesto, Fat Cat and Hero’s closed, and corporate radio took a lot of the local programming autonomy out of the local stations like B93 and streaming took a big bite out of artist promotion budgets that ended shows like Summerfest, Acoustic Christmas and the Underground Lounges.

Places like Ralston’s Goat became a haven for local band showcases and then Covid took a hammer to live venues across the nation.

Sounds grim right? As we ramp up to the 2024 MAMA Awards, our 25th Anniversary, we need to take stock about where we are and what we have to do to rebuild a live and local music back to the top of our entertainment choices.  MAMA and ModestoView have been working hard to support Blue Monday, Music in the Plaza, Rockabilly Shows, local shows and focus on promoting live music and musicians, but a bigger team effort is needed and we need all of you.

So now, here we are, what are we going to do?

- First, we need to go see bands whenever we can.

- Second, we need more places for bands to play.

- Third, we can’t expect everything for free.

For a band to grow, develop, and record, they need to have a good sound, get a following, sell merch, songs and get paid to play by places that benefit from live music.

See where I am going here?

MAMA winning promoter Middagh Goodwin will tell you that good old-fashioned promo, post cards, posters, flyers are still very effective in addition to your social media. Venues will hire bands that draw a crowd. Does your band draw a crowd that will come and buy food and drink to make it worth the while of a venue owner?  This is an important key.  A band is a draw to the venue.  So build your following, use your social media, and bring your fans to a gig.

City of Modesto Cooperation

The City and County need to realize that live music is a social asset, not a nuisance.  It should be EASY and affordable to get an entertainment permit for your place. This permit will allow you to have music, a dance floor and ways for music to a part of your local marketing. This needs to be  extended to outdoor patios in downtown.  Downtown Modesto is an entertainment district and there needs to be multiple options on any given night. Cool jazz vibe, acoustic guitar, singer songwriter, classic rock, SKA, Punk or Metal?  All of these genres have an important role in our cultural scene, along with open mics for music, or poetry and even Haiku. We need downtown to be a good, welcome, well-lit, safe and exciting destination.

Finally, Music has Value.

Creative things to do will draw creative people. The more we have to do culturally, makes it more likely that people will venture out to find something to do, to eat, or to listen to.  Modesto needs to figure out that a $5 or $10 cover is ok. Want more music? Then convince venue owners it is worth their while to add more music or even open a new venue.  We can be our own catalyst, but we have to work together to make it work.

like Ray Ray Sheen have been hosting Open Mic Nights, Dave Dow hosts a Jazz Jam and Eric Benson has been presenting Blue Monday Jams that are a good way to get more people playing. You gotta show up, bring your song and spread the word.

Where can you enjoy some great music?

There are some really good things happening. Dying Breed is really happening, and they created a space with a stage, lights and an easy place to draw a crowd. Blaker Brewing has been hosting some great shows. Persuasion brewery has been presenting Ska, Punk, Metal, Rock and a variety of fun shows and festivals. Off the Air brings cool indie shows to the underground bar at Greens. 108 in Riverbank is ramping up more live shows and Twin Rivers is hosting some festivals like RockFest on Aug 3. Porchfest is Modesto’s largest spring showcase of local music on the porches of over 60 local homes.

Music in the Plaza

Started by Kate Trompetter and Thomas Lopes of Fuzio fame, this was a sponsored music series in downtown’s 10th St Plaza that showcases local bands each summer Friday. 10 years ago, the Modesto Area Music Association teamed up with the downtown plaza merchants and increased the number of summer shows.  There is a great line up of bands from May to October thanks to generous sponsorship.  This gets people downtown to enjoy our music and also patronize our downtown restaurants, bars and theatres.   We are hoping to expand Music in the Plaza for 2025   Check it out at @musicontenth

More Big View continued on page 17...

People

Doug Robinett & Darin Morris

Triple D

Ray Ray Sheen

Call to rock!

How do we jump start this?

First – Learn to play.  Stap on a Strat and play your first chords.  There are Green Day and Ramones and a million blues songs that are three chords, heck, Dreams by Fleetwood Mac is two and Tomorrow Never Knows is One.  Anyone can do this if you want to play and our friends at Valley Music Institute (VMI Rocks) or Gordon Kennedy can teach you how to rock, in a band, created just for you.    If you want to learn the foundations of music, take music and band lessons at our local schools.  Modesto City Schools has a music program from grade school through high school. Here you will learn how to read music, be a part of a band or orchestra and make some great music.  From here, you can learn to play anything.  Randy Rhodes, the late ace guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and Brian May of Queen studied classical music that dramatically enhanced their playing and made them true rock legends.  If you are a parent, have your kids learn piano. It will be the foundation of so much they can do.  Get your kids in band at school at a local school of rock.  Making music is magic.

Where to buy or rent instruments for band at school.

Gottschalks – 133 Burney St, Modesto  209- 523-5326

Ingram and Brauns Musik Shoppe- 1709 Yosemite Blvd, Modesto 209-571-0133

Langlois – 1700 McHenry Ave Ste 78, Modesto   209-524-1355 Barker’s Music -  3125 McHenry Ave – Ste F, Modesto 209-526-0347

Where to learn to rock

VMI Music Institute. 1220 J Street Modesto  209-543-2066 Gordon Kennedy Music -  977 Center St, Manteca 209-923-4121

Share your ideas @ mama@modestoview.com

Should we have a local musicians forum?  Yes? No? Let us know so we can take action.

SPORTS VIEW

Basketball Contentment & Health

Some years ago, I was told that “we don’t need a basketball gym in our city, instead we need a space for education, youth development, career readiness and life-skills development.” Great basketball programs not only build basketball skills, but also life skills. Modesto isn’t a “basketball city” so I get that many people do not understand the gravity of the long-lasting benefits of basketball. I hope to change that perspective.

An obvious benefit is physical development: building muscle, improving balance and coordination, and developing cardiovascular endurance that helps burn calories and develop fundamental movement skills.

Another benefit is social skills: learning how to work with others, building relationships and being a team player.

A not-so-obvious benefit to non-hoopers is emotional intelligence: developing self-discipline, concentration, and self-esteem; as well as improving the ability to deal with stressful situations.

Basketball is a platform for inspiration, networking and connection, social justice and much more. I am a testament of that.

Though I no longer compete as an athlete, I compete as a coach. Through every transition in life basketball has been a constant, whether it be on the court or off the court.

For years it has sustained my physical and mental health.

I am grateful for Modesto basketball programs, which some of them have been around for thirty and fifty years. They have provided avenues for professional athletes and thousands of college athletes. The younger our youth start, the better equipped they are to succeed in and off the court.

Mysterious New Artist...

Do you love the old pulp novels and detective stories?  There is a new dark noir sound emanating from a secret remote outpost in the Modesto area. These are cool songs, with a dangerously good sound.  Get yourself a dirty martini, hide in a dark hallway and check out the music of Tele Ignites   https://teleignites.bandcamp.com/album/judgment-day

by Savannah Williams

HOOP-SOURCE

Modesto Magic Basketball Camps | Tournaments | Leagues | Travel Teams

Elementary & High School Levels | Boys & Girls www.modestomagic.com

Modesto Slam N Jam Camps | Leagues | Training | All-Star Games

Elementary & High School Levels | Boys & Girls www.modestoslamnjam.com/

Modesto Youth Basketball Camps | Leagues | Training Elementary & High School Levels | Boys & Girls www.modestoyouthbasketballleague.com/

Stanislaus County PAL (Police Activities League) Leagues

2nd - 7th Grade | Boys & Girls www.stancopal.org/basketball

Next Level Sports Leagues

2nd - 8th Grade | Boys & Girls www.nextlevelsports.com/Default. aspx?tabid=863218

Modesto Blast Leagues | Training

High School Level | Boys https://www.instagram.com/ modestoblast94feetoftraining?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Hotwheel Foundation

Tournaments | Wheelchair Leagues High School Level | Adults | Male & Female www.hotwheelfoundation.org

GO FOOTBALL

High school football is incredibly fun: the excitement of the games, the stadium’s energy filled with cheering fans led by your schools cheerleaders, the vibrant performances by the marching bands, the food from the concession stands, and the overall atmosphere of community and enjoyment. Modesto Varsity Football’s highly anticipated season kicks off on August 23rd, promising thrilling matches and memorable experiences for everyone involved. Check out www.maxpreps.com for your team’s schedule.

Tony Trevino & Rockin’ Rick Torres

Connie Hightman, Kent & the late Bob DeLeon

Claudia and Shelly Streeter

COMMUNITY VIEW

Hello Nurse

In the heart of Oakdale, California, Nurse Practitioner Marc Stoner at Pathway Healthcare has become a source of hope and healing for countless patients, myself included. For more than a decade, I battled excruciating back pain, dismissed by other medical facilities as a product of aging. It was Nurse Stoner’s determination that unearthed the true cause of my suffering, ultimately leading me to undergo a necessary Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery at the renowned University of San Francisco (UCSF). After enduring years of debilitating pain and feeling unheard by previous healthcare providers, Nurse Stoner’s expertise was my light. Without him, I could never have imagined being where I am now. His unwavering commitment to uncovering the

By Tasha Wilson

source of my persistent pain marked the beginning of my path to recovery.

Nurse Stoner first referred me to Dr. Jeffrey Levin, MD FAAN, a leading local neurologist at Doctors Medical Center in Modesto, California. In Dr. Levin’s office, I received a proper diagnosis and the next steps for treatment at UCSF. Still, it was Nurse Stoner’s empathy and genuine concern that made the most significant impact on my life during this journey. His persistence in alleviating my suffering and instilling hope during this challenging period was truly remarkable. I felt valued and supported throughout the entire ordeal.

In addition to Nurse Stoner, I also want to acknowledge the kindness and professionalism of Nurse Practitioner Dayna Iverson, whose invaluable support complemented Nurse Stoner’s care. She is another exceptional Nurse Practitioner who provides outstanding care to her patients. There is no way to fully express Nurse Practitioner Marc Stoner’s expertise and compassion in my situation. His focus and attention played a pivotal role in improving my health and well-being. His personalized approach and commitment to eliminating my pain have made a lasting impact on my journ

GRAFFITI USA VIEW

Explore Graffiti USA

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is thrilled to announce the parking lot project is now complete! Visitors will now be welcomed with a spacious and beautifully landscaped parking area. The museum reopens on August 9th, 2024, with limited hours on Fridays and Saturdays until the second phase of construction begins.

In the meantime, Graffiti USA is excited to offer special event bookings from September 2024 through January 2025. Be sure to join the Museum mailing list or follow Graffiti USA social media for information on upcoming pop-up events, including Cars and Coffee, food trucks, special exhibits, and more!

Private tours are available by appointment on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Call or email to schedule your visit.

The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum will begin Phase 2 of construction in early 2025 with the help of donations and grant funds. Phase 2 includes the construction of the museum’s new entrance, lobby, restrooms, dining space, central heating and air conditioning, the California Welcome Center, museum store, exhibits, and Education Room visual and audio system upgrades.

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is actively engaging with potential donors to raise $2.5 million to complete Phase 2 construction. Every dollar brings the museum one step closer to completing this monumental project. All donations exceeding $1,000 will be permanently recognized in the museum. Donors may choose to make a one-time donation or smaller recurring donations through the museum’s recurring donation program.

DONOR NEWS

Rod DeHart’s Annual Legends of Under the Oak Tree Concert was an overwhelming success! Attendees enjoyed a fun-filled evening at Del Rio Country Club, rocking out to favorites from Creedence Clearwater, Bob Seger, and Journey while raising money for the State Theatre and Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum. The Museum is thankful for the attendees and sponsors whose support raised over $32,000 combined for the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum and State Theatre!

FUNDRAISER FEATURING WAYNE CARINI

Buy your tickets now to Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum’s upcoming fundraiser, “Hagerty Presents an Evening with Wayne Carini.” On Friday, October 4th, 2024, “Chasing Classic Cars” television personality and American car restorer Wayne Carini will spend the evening with Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum patrons for a 3-course fine dining experience, live auction, and presentation to raise funds for the Museum’s Education Center. VIP guests and sponsors will enjoy a meet and greet, autographs, photos, and more! Purchase your tickets via the Museum QR code, website, or call for sponsorship opportunities. Tickets are limited and will sell out quickly.

Join the Museum mailing list, follow on socials, or donate using the QR code below!

Please visit our website for more opportunities, upcoming events, classic cars for sale. www.graffitiusamuseum.com

Please follow us on social media @graffitiusamuseum

Rod DeHart presents a check to Chris Murphy (l) & Cecil Russel (c)

POETRY VIEW

By Sam Pierstorff & Chris Murphy

Poetry in August is on fire, starting with acclaimed poet Joaquin Zihuatanejo who takes the stage at the Prospect Theatre on Wednesday, August 7th, 7:30pm to read from his powerful new collection, “OCCUPY WHITENESS.” Born and raised in the barrio of East Dallas, Joaquin went on to become Dallas, Texas’ first poet laureate, a World Cup of Poetry Slam Champion, and an HBO Def Poet among many other accolades. His work delves deep into themes of identity, culture, and resilience, offering a voice that’s both raw and profoundly insightful. Hosted by MJC English Professor Sam Pierstorff, the evening will also spotlight the incredible talents of local

New Poetry Book

Modesto Poet Laureate Salvator Salerno has published a book of his works, entitled “After Thoughts”.  Sal has been a regular published poet in ModestoView and his involvement with our local nature and birding community provides good insight.  The price of After Thoughts  is 15.00 ($3 extra for shipping).  After Thoughts is available at Bookish, Modesto McHenry Museum; Great Valley Museum, and Carnegie Arts Center.

The People’s Poet

Then on Wednesday, August 14th, the illiterists at Burn & Rave are back at LoFi to host Poetry Night and an “Anything Goes” Haiku Battle! These ruckus nights of poetry come with a free kazoo to blow for your favorite haiku. It’s not a poetry reading. It’s a poetry party and an inspiring night that celebrates people, elevates art, and builds community!  For more information visit: modestoartistsmovement.org

Don’t miss and unforgettable evening as acclaimed poet Joaquin Zihuatanejo takes the stage to read from his powerful new collection at the Prospect Theatre, Aug 7.  From the barrios of Dallas Texas, he will read about Occupy Whiteness with a Q & A.  Local poets Angela Drew aandVielka Solano will also perform. Aug 7 – 7:30 www.prospecttheatreproject.org

poets Vielka Solano and Angela Drew, adding their unique voices to this literary celebration.

PERFORMING VIEW

The new seasons are starting now!   This fall will be a fun time here in the greater Modesto area. If you haven’t looked at the line ups for the season, you may miss out on some of the popular shows.  There’s a lot of new things happening and and make sure that you are check out the ModestoView calendar for local live music and updated list of things that pop us since this issue is printed.   Most importantly, go see something, go listen and bring your friends.

The Gallo Center is going full speed. Make sure that you become a Friend of the Center so that you get the first notices for pick up shows and updates.   The season is off to a good start with some epic shows.

Beauty and the Beast

Modesto Performing Arts presents the story of Belle, a young woman who discovers a castle full of enchanted objects, and a Beast who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. To break the spell, the Beast must learn to love and be loved before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose. This delightful musical is sure to enchant audience members of all ages.   Aug 10,11, 16, 17, 18

Pat Benatar

I don’t know about you, but Pat Benatar is the voice of the 80s baby and her video was the 2nd video ever shown on MTV in August 1981.  As much as her husband and guitarist Neil Geraldo wants it to be about him, it’s really about her powerful operatic vocals.  Heartbreaker, You Better Run, Love is a Battlefield, Hell is for Children, We Belong to the Night and so many more.  Makes you want to rewatch every John Hughes movie.

August 11

Donny Osmond returns to Modesto. Audiences love his show last year and Donny is back to sing all of your faves.  Don’t miss out on some good ole Puppy Love.  Donny is part of the American music fabric and his voice and performance skills still shine.   August 16 www.galloarts.org

State Theatre

The State Theatre is on a roll!  Cool film theme parties in the Intermission and a great line up of live shows in August, beginning with a really cool show featuring the music of film maker Ennio Morricone (High Plains Drifter, Josie Wales) presented by Montopolis Aug 7.   We Own the Laughs,

By Chris Murphy

Wild Latina Ladies – Aug 9.   December

63 is a tribute to Frankie Valli on August 11,  Toby Kieth by Hollywood Yates, and Piano Men Generations Elton and Billy Joel – August 23.

Do NOT miss Modesto’s own Marlene “La Guera del Acordeón” DeHerrer.

She has been performing across the USA and internationally and is now performing with Banda La Nueva Villa and Mariachi La Union.  With international fame, she will be doing a special show on Aug 16.

West Side Theatre

There is a great line up of tribute shows this month and there are three straight weekend to enjoy and make the trip over to Newman.   There is a full bar, snacks are available as well as other dining options in downtown Newman.

Boys of Summer (Eagles) - Aug 3

Maroon Vibes (Maroon 5) Aug 10

Travelling Willburys Revue – Aug 17 Shows are at 8 pm and are $25 and $30 www.westsidetheatre.org

Prospect Theatre Project

This is one of Modesto’s best secrets.  Full plays are written, staged and performed locally in a cool intimate setting in their theatre on K Street. There is a full bar at the Prospect and every seat is good. There is a special Season Sneak Peak on August 18 at 2 pm. Great way to learn about the theatre and meet new arts centric friends.

2024 Artist Showcase – Aug 24 6:30

a one-of-a-kind, 100% locally grown, performance. This project allows budding artists to share their work with the community and shine on the Prospect stage. www.prospectytheatreproject.org

Red Tie Taylor Made Tapestry

This is a special evening under the stars that is an excellent tribute to Carole King and James Taylor, performed by Carla Buffa & Stephen Bock. Dinner service is available as well directly from Lucca. There are new SJ County parking restrictions so please try to carpool.

Saturday August 17.  Doors open at 6:00 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM Lucca Winery in Ripon Tix & info www.Red-Tie.org

Sierra Repertory Theatre

If you haven’t been up the hill lately to see a show in Sonora or Columbia, you need to do it.  We saw Route 66 last month and it was amazing.   Check out Taylopr Rodriguez as Elvis at the East Sonora Theatre on a variety of days in August. www.sierrarep.org

Turlock Community Theatre

This non-profit theatre will roll their season out show by show this year. They have also added film presentations weekly in August.  1st show this season is Frankie Quinones, Sept 14. www.turlocktheatre.org

High School Drama- Help us help you. Drama teachers, music teachers, school PR people, please send me info for school plays, presentations, choir and music performances so we can add them to our calender and get info here in the view.  Email>. events@modestoview.com

Let’s Go Out Modesto!

National Night Out - August 6th

Have you met your neighbors lately?  Need to get out and socialize and find the bonds we have between us?

National Night Out is coming August 6.  From 6 to 9 pm in parks and neighborhoods across Modesto and other communities in our area, residents in neighborhoods throughout Modesto and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights, and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police. Many neighborhoods throughout Modesto will be hosting a variety of special events such as block parties, cookouts, visits from police and city officials, flashlight walks, contests, and youth activities.  My band Third Party will be playing Lakewood Park on Eastridge Drive, at an event championed by Modesto Deputy Fire Chief Darin Jesberg complete with classic cars and food trucks.  Check for the NNO event in your neighborhood. See ya out and about.

ROCKABILLY VIEW

Before there was Elvis, before Bill Haley, before Ike Turner, there were the Maddox Brothers and Rose.  Simply but, this is the foundation of Rock n Roll and the birth of Rockabilly.  Fred Maddox founded a band with his brother Clay and his then 11 year old sister Rose that would but the ROCK in Rock n Roll with the slappin’ bass sound that would inspire later early rockers, like Elvis.

You can learn how this band came to be at a special free Staged Reading of $35 and a Dream: The Maddox Brothers & Rose on Saturday August 3rd at 1:00PM

Written by Arnold Anthony Schmidt and Ken White and directed by Jim Johnson, $35 and a Dream takes your from their Dust Bowl beginnings to the Grand Ole

By Chris Murphy

Opry.  This Central Valley family act revolutionized American popular music, influencing Country, Rockabilly, and Rock ‘n Roll. For four decades starting in the 1940s, Rose Maddox played with Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Buck Owens, Elvis Presley, and Bob Wills. Come see their story as they rise from poverty, encounter success, and become legends. And hear some of the music that made them famous! The reading will take place at The Little Theatre on Modesto Junior College’s East Campus, 435 College Avenue.

Finish off this August with Modesto’s Rockabilly sound of Tony Trevino and the Pendletons as they rock the Speakeasy with Los Pistoleros at 9 pm at the Speakeasy. The Pendletons have been touring across the USA and have been bringing some of the best Rockabilly to town and recording for Wild Records.

Start your day with the history of Rockabilly and then go out and experience it for yourself.

Learn more about our Rockabilly heritage at www.modestomusichistory.com

BEE COOL

with a Professional

2024–2025 Recycling Collection Calendar

2024–2025 Calendario de Recogida de Reciclaje

Your black garbage and green organics containers are ser viced weekly. Your blue recycling container is ser viced ever y other week based on your address number.

Sus contenedores de basura negro y orgánicos verde reciben ser vicio semanal.

Su contenedor de reciclaje azul recibe ser vicio cada dos semanas según su número de dirección.

Odd Addresses

Addresses ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are odd and ser vice will be on your regular collection day in the weeks shaded below in gold. Domicilios impares: domicilios terminando en 1, 3, 5, 7 y 9 son impares y ser vicio sera en su dia de coleccion regular, las semanas son indicadas abajo en dorado.

Even Addresses

Addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 are even and ser vice will be on your regular collection day in the weeks shaded below in yellow. Domicilios pares: domicilios terminando en 0, 2, 4, 6 y 8 son pares y ser vicio sera en su dia de coleccion regular, las semanas son indicadas abajo en amarillo.

March/Marzo

For more information, please contact the Solid Waste Division at 209-577-5494, swm@modestogov.com, or scan here: Para más información, por favor comuniquese con la División de Derechos Sólido al 209-577-5494, swm@modestogov.com, o escanea aquí:

Quarter Century of Supporting Local Entertainment

By Middagh Goodwin

On October 15th, the Modesto Area Music Awards will celebrate twenty-five years of music and live entertainment in the 209. Over the years, thousands of acts, venues, and events have been nominated, and you, the fans, have chosen the winners. This year, on top of a new batch of MAMAnees, we will look back on the last twenty-five years, from the beginning at Club Maxx to Fat Cat and the Gallo to the State Theatre. Celebrating the big and small events and series, and everything from rock to Jazz, Americana to unplugged.

Who would have imagined in 2000 that twenty-five years later, the MAMA would still be going strong and become an annual event so many people look forward to and are so passionate about? Both Chris Murphy and Ricci have championed music in Modesto and the surrounding areas, from X-Fest to the ModestoView, creating and sponsoring events incorporating all styles of music and hosting the annual awards show.

This year, we are very excited to have some special performances planned. A look back

over the last twenty-five years, celebrating the past, present, and future. Check out all the nominees, go out to the venues, cafes, and bars, see the artists perform, and then vote. You will have a month to cast your votes, and you will have more than one friend or family member ask you to vote for them. A couple of great opportunities to catch some nominees will be at Rock Fest at Twin Rivers or Porchfest in Ripon on August 3rd, Black Bomb Festival at the Game Room in Sonora on the 10th, Modstock at Graceada Park on August 11th, or a show at one of the many craft breweries that host live entertainment. Remember that you can only vote once, so look at all the categories and click your choices. After you are done submitting your votes, make sure you verify your email. Voting will be live at www. modestoareamusic.com on Sunday, September 15th at Noon; you are the academy, and your votes choose the winners.   The Modesto Area Music Awards is free but, unfortunately, only for the MAMAnees and their guests. It is streamed live on the ModestoView website, so you can tune in and watch it to see all the excitement. Everything will take place at the State Theatre on October 15th, the one night of the year when Punks and Metalheads, Bluesmen, and singer-songwriters all get together for a night to celebrate each other. Performers and venues, send your gigs to events@modestoview.com to stay on the radar and be included in the calendar.

MAMA VIEW HOW TO VIEW

It is unlawful for any person to own, conduct, operate, maintain, or participate in any place of entertainment in the City of Modesto without obtaining an Entertainment Permit. Failure to obtain an Entertainment Permit can result in penalties under Municipal Code 4-1.420. You must complete a Business Entertainment Permit Application to get your Entertainment Permit. The entertainment permit costs $250 plus a $25 application fee. Expedited permits are $650. Nonprofits pay $25 or $400 for expedited service. You can apply 60 days in advance to avoid extra fees. All fees are non-refundable and apply to both events and festivals. The process involves a review by the Entertainment Commission, which meets twice monthly. In my over 8 years on the commision, no permits have been denied; we aim to help. If you would like more details, you can contact Erica Hunt at ehunt@modestogov.com.

Some businesses that are exempt from an entertainment permit include:

• Any establishment, venue, or assemblage of seventy-five persons or less, as

By Middagh Goodwin

described in the maximum occupancy load of the business.

• Entertainment is provided for guests at a private event, such as a wedding reception, banquet, worship services, or where the event takes place at a residential property.

• Entertainment consists of ambient or incidental music provided for guests or patrons by musicians such as a piano player, harpist, strolling violinist, mariachi band, traditional jukebox, karaoke, guitarist, or band. However, if an admission charge is required to observe or attend such entertainment, the music will not be considered ambient or incidental.

I am currently the acting Chair of the Entertainment Commission until a replacement is appointed. If you want to join the Entertainment or any other Modesto Commission, you can apply here: www.modestogov.com/2762/Application-for-Boards-Commissions-Commi. Get involved and be part of a better Modesto. More information on fees: https://www. modestogov.com/2451/Fees-for-Entertainment-Permits

To apply online: https://mode-trk.aspgov. com/eTRAKiT/

D

Hot August Daze!

ays and nights, August brings with it the heat along with the final days of summer before school starts. Ms. M is in a complete daze trying to stay cool and keep busy, much like everyone else, lately. Today, she finds herself sipping a Sparkling Cold Brew from Penny University while catching up on some summer reading and wishing she could just wish the heat away. While you may not be able to stay cool, you can save while out having fun. Here are some things that won’t ruin August’s budget. National Night Out is held every year on the first Tuesday in August. This year’s event will be on August 6th. The event encourages neighborhoods to be proactive in stopping crime in their areas. Through events that seek to promote community self-awareness, the National Night Out assists in preventing crime in the neighborhoods. On this night, Modesto area residents and neighborhoods nationally are encouraged to go outside their homes, turn on lights, and host events to get to know their neighbors. Events are held from  6 to 9 p.m., and they can include full-block parties or barbeques. Info: https://www. modestogov.com/295/National-Night-Out

On August 11th, the 14th annual Modstock returns to Graceda Park from 10 a.m. to dusk. This free event is one of the area’s renowned live events because it supports local youth musicians playing their best covers of classic songs and originals and a ton of local and professional musical acts throughout the day. This year’s lineup

By Monica Barber

boasts over 10 bands on four stages. The event includes food, arts and crafts, local vendors, and more. VMI rocks produce most of the youth acts. This year, the organizers are hosting a virtual tip jar for the probands who have donated their time to this event. Info or donation:  http://www. modstock.org

A great way to spend a summer evening is to see a movie under the stars. Family Movie Nights in the Park returns for the 2024 season on August 16th. Every Friday night, starting at dusk through September 20th, a different family film will be shown at Family Film Nights in the Park for free. Bring your friends and loved ones, blankets, and snacks weekly to enjoy a different movie. The first movie of the series on August 16th is Super Mario Bros. Info: call: (209) 577-5344 or Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/modestoparksandrec/ posts/1063861698709358

Music is powerful. You can’t keep people away from it. Drum Love holds its free monthly drum circle every third Saturday in the MoRo Music Garden at the Gallo Center. This month, it will fall on August 17th from 11 am to 12:30 pm.  The family-friendly community drum circle allows people to connect and create music in the moment. All attendees are welcome to bring a drum/percussion or found sound or use one of theirs. Info: https://www. facebook.com/events/837082061815716/

GO OAKDALE

Music in the Park.

ALL AGES VIEW BARGAIN VIEW

Hey Modesto! Happy August

By Grace McNamera

I hope you have been enjoying the warm summer. I leave for college next month, and I could not be more excited. I will be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and majoring in journalism. I’ve always had a love for writing and sharing stories which is why I am so excited to be studying what I love. I have enjoyed being the writer for the All Ages column in the ModestoView. It has given me new insight into the world and helped me gain more positivity in life. Writing for the View has given me even more love than I already had for Modesto. I plan to bring this positivity and passion I have for community in San Luis Obispo. It has been an honor being your writer for the

Get ready for an unforgettable summer of music at Dorada Park, Oakdale, every Friday, 6:30-8:30 pm; free, family-friendly concert in the park. August 2nd, Remedy, with their unique blend of rock, pop, blues, and funk, take a musical journey through the decades, from the ’60s to today. August 9th, Oakdale native Chris Farris gives his take on folk-rock and percussive acoustic guitar. He brings a unique style to the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s covers. August 16th, Barbara Findlay and Jim Ramont, the beloved local soft rock and country duo, return to the Concerts in the Park. August 23rd, Alex Lucero, a musical anomaly. His humble soul and outstanding musical talent make him and his band a mustsee show for music lovers. Ending the season is The Fabulous Blue Notes on August 30th, specializing in classic rock hits and dance music from the decades.. oakdaleevents.com

All Ages column, and I will miss it more than ever.  I want to give a huge thank you to Chris Murphy for giving me this opportunity and running such a wonderful magazine.

Since I have one month left in this amazing city until I start school, I want to share my favorite things about Modesto. The first thing I cherish is the community we have here. There is no community better than Modesto. Everyone is constantly supporting each other and helping out. I will miss the delicious food we have here like the pizza at Fuzios, the Mac n cheese at Tresetti’s, and the Tomato soup at Picasso’s deli. I will miss watching movies at the State Theater and seeing shows at the Gallo Center.

Most of all, I will miss how beautiful Modesto is each season. The gorgeous fall leaves in the fall and the almond blossom flowers in the spring never fail to amaze me. While I am excited to attend college, Modesto will always be home to me, and I cannot wait to return! I wish the best of luck to the new writer for the All Ages column. I know they will capture the inspiring spirit of our city!

Chris’ Note:

Thank you so much Grace for giving ModestoView your time and perspective.  We are all so very excited for your college experience and it is wonderful that you are going into journalism. Journalism is such an important part of the American democracy with traditions to our founding leaders.  Again, thank you and we wish you the best and I know that your writing here will inspire more of our next generation to invest in Modesto.

ZEN VIEW

By Mary Layton

So much in our world has become difficult and uncomfortable. The weather is heating up again. The news are disturbing.  Prices are higher. We deal with so many uncertainties on the world stage.  We are too busy with too many things. Most of who I talk to feels a sense of anxiety and irritation. What can be done?  There are some things we can do to cope.

medieval Europe had an important role in the King’s Court. Jesters were partially entertainers, and sometimes confidants of the king or queen. Known for their wit, humor and ability to speak the truth in a more direct manner, they could at times hold significant influence in the court.  The point I am trying to make is that it is quite important for us to keep our minds from getting too dull and bogged down with the same old same old. We all need a fresh new look at things, learn something new.  Break an old pattern.  It calms us down, and can inspire us to be better humans to face whatever lies ahead. For more info go to taichi4modesto.com or call (209)572-4518

We can lighten up. Change our mind. Does your mind get the nourishment it needs? I think mine seems to need something very specific. I need to laugh more. Not take everything so seriously.

So the other day, I went to the library to look for something funny to read.  I picked out a bunch of books, also a couple of audio books that the super nice librarian thought would get me laughing. I was truly grateful holding these books in my arms.  Life might now get to be fun again. Libraries and book stores are wonderful places to change one’s mind, our mind needs new input sometimes. The fool or jester in

CALENDAR VIEW THE BEST ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE IN THE 209

Music in the Plaza

Aug 2nd -

First Friday NAACP

Aug 9thValley Heat

Aug 16thG Street Revolution

Aug 23rdHit Replay

Aug 30thRob Hill Band

Sept 6th -

First Friday NAACP

Sept 13thRemedy

Sept 20thOrquestra Dharma

Sept 27thNeon Radio

Shop Greater Modesto, Online

Do you like the convenience of online shopping but want to support local business and artisan vendors? The Modesto Chamber of Commerce had teamed up with the business community to create a new on-line destination. Learn about new businesses and find something unique and know your dollars are staying local.

https://www.shopgreatermodesto.com/

August 1st

Bonnie & The Boys Out Back Band

Clovis

Live Music

Modesto Certified Farmers Market Nuts vs 66er’s

Ripon Famers Market

Salsa Night

Sandy

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Persuasion Brewing, Modesto

El Torito, Modesto

Torii, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Modesto Public Library

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Crooked Spur, Oakdale

Downtown Ripon

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

The Game Room, Sonora MoRo Music Garden, Modesto Eagles Hall, Modesto

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

Downtown Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Unitarian Church, Modesto, CA

Nino’s, Modesto

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Secret Garden, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

Obrians Tavern, Modesto

The Reef, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca 10th Street Plaza, Modesto

Stevinson Bar & Grill, Stevinson

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Nations Burger, Modesto

Dorado Park, Oakdale

Johnny’s Club, Patterson

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

The Great Valley Museum, Modesto

Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

West Side Theatre, Newman

Lo-Fidelity Laboratories, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Secret Garden, Modesto

Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Moose , Modesto

Modesto Public Library

The Press Wine Bar, Tracy

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Knockin Boots, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee House, Modesto

Nino’s, Modesto

Ripon

Twin Rivers Saloon, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Five Eye Brewing, Ceres

Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale

lo fi lounge, Modesto

The Post Restuarnt, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

Masonic Hall, Modesto

Del Rio Country Club, Modesto

Eagles Hall, Modesto

CR2 Bar, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Reef, Ceres

Secret Garden, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto

Johansen HS, Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Pesuasion Brewing, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Donoby’s Bar. Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

The Goat Bar, Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Wildfire Pub House, Modesto

Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto

The Partisan, Merced

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto Eagles Hall, Modesto

Modesto Centre Plaza

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Clovis

Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto

Splash Bar, Modesto

Obrien’s Tavern, Modesto Secret Garden, Modesto

108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank

Bookies, Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

Deaf Puppy Comedy Club, Manteca

3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank

The State Theatre, Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Vault Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

Persuasion Brewing, Modesto

El Torito, Modesto

Torii, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Modesto Public Library

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

Twisted Pig, Modesto

The Crooked Spur, Oakdale

Downtown Ripon

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Twisted Pig, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

MoRo Music Garden, Modesto

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Dorado Park, Oakdale

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Rivits American Grill, Modesto

Unitarian Church, Modesto, CA

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca

Secret Garden, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

Obrians Tavern, Modesto

The Reef, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Ironstone Amphitheatre, Murphys

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

Black Sheep, Riverbank

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Nations Burger, Modesto

Johnny’s Club, Patterson

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

SpeakEasy Lounge, Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

The State Theatre, Modesto

McHenry Bowl, Modesto

The Game Room, Sonora

The State Theatre, Modesto

Contentment Brewing, Modesto

Windmill Cove, Stockton

Spotlight Lounge, Modesto

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca

Secret Garden, Modesto

Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Torri, Modesto

The Moose , Modesto

West Side Theatre, Newman Modesto Public Library

Gallo Center for the Arts

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Knockin Boots, Modesto

Valley Brew, Stockton

Spotlight, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

McHenry Museum, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale

Twin Rivers Saloon, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

Crocodiles, Modesto

CR2 Bar, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Reef, Ceres

Secret Garden, Modesto

Karaoke

Karaoke

Modesto Skate Nights

ModStock

MPA Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Nuts vs Rawhide Open Mic

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto

Johansen HS, Modesto

Graceada Park, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Pesuasion Brewing, Modesto

CALENDAR VIEW OVER 500 LOCAL EVENTS LISTED EVERY MONTH

Gallo Center for the Arts

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto

Bookies Bar & Grill, Modesto

Donoby’s Bar. Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Wildfire Pub House, Modesto

The Partisan, Merced Touloumne River Lodge, Modesto Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Splash Bar, Modesto Obrien’s Tavern, Modesto Secret Garden, Modesto 108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank Bookies, Modesto Tap In Wine Down, Ceres Deaf Puppy Comedy Club, Manteca LoFi, Modesto 3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank Denny’s, 1525 McHenry, Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto

Downtown Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Persuasion Brewing, Modesto El Torito, Modesto Torii, Modesto Main Street Inn, Ripon The Udder Place, Turlock

The Brave Bull, Modesto Dust Bowl, Turlock

Modesto Public Library

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres The Crooked Spur, Oakdale

Downtown Ripon Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Dorado Park, Oakdale

MoRo Music Garden, Modesto Knockin’ Boots, Modesto Gallo Center for the Arts

VFW Post 3199, Modesto 108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank Unitarian Church, Modesto, CA

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Modesto Senior Citizens Center Secret Garden, Modesto Torri, Modesto Obrians Tavern, Modesto

The Reef, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto The State Theatre, Modesto Gallo Center for the Arts 10th Street Plaza, Modesto Nations Burger, Modesto Nino’s, Modesto Johnny’s Club, Patterson

The Fruit Yard, Modesto Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center Stanislaus County Veterans Center

KCBP 95.5 FM

Modesto Public Library MoRo Music Garden, Modesto Tuolumne River Lodge, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Tin Pin Fun Center, Turlock

Persuasion Brewing, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Cloud 9 Collections, Merced

KCBP 95.5 FM

The Moose , Modesto

Deaf Puppy Comedy, Manteca Gallo Center for the Arts Secret Garden, Modesto West Side Theatre, Newman

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto

Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale Lucca Winery, Ripon 10th Street, Modesto

Knockin Boots, Modesto Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Torri, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

August 19th

Gotcha

Stanislaus

August

Palladium Nightclub, Modesto

Prospect Theater, Project

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

CR2 Bar, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Reef, Ceres Secret Garden, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto

Johansen HS, Modesto Gallo Center for the Arts

Pesuasion Brewing, Modesto

Bob Hope Theater, Stockton

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

Donoby’s Bar. Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto Food Fix Butcher, Modesto

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Modesto Senior Citizens Center

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

The Goat Bar, Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Wildfire Pub House, Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto

The Partisan, Merced

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto

Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Splash Bar, Modesto

Obrien’s Tavern, Modesto

Secret Garden, Modesto

108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank

Bookies, Modesto

Round Table Pizza, McHenry, Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

Deaf Puppy Comedy Club, Manteca

3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank

Ironstone Amphitheatre, Murphys

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Persuasion Brewing, Modesto El Torito, Modesto Torii, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Modesto Public Library

John Thurman Field, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Crooked Spur, Oakdale

Downtown Ripon

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Dorado Park, Oakdale

KCBP 95.5 FM

MoRo Music Garden, Modesto Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Five Eye Brewing, Ceres Unitarian Church, Modesto, CA Whiskey River Saloon, Atwater Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Secret Garden, Modesto Torri, Modesto

Obrians Tavern, Modesto

The Reef, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto McHenry Museum, Modesto 10th Street Plaza, Modesto

John Thurman Field, Modesto Nations Burger, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto

Johnny’s Club, Patterson

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Sciabica’s California Olive Oil, Modesto Eproson Park, Twain Harte

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Stanislaus County Veterans Center

Prospect Theater Project

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale

The Boardroom, Modesto

Virginia Trail, Modesto

Spotlight Lounge, Modesto

Secret Garden, Modesto

Frontier Club, Patterson

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Moose , Modesto

McHenry Museum, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

Modesto Public Library

John Thurman Field, Modesto Knockin Boots, Modesto Modesto Centre Plaza

Spotlight, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto Eproson Park, Twain Harte

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto CR2 Bar, Modesto

Torri, Modesto

The Reef, Ceres Secret Garden, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto McHenry Museum, Modesto Johansen HS, Modesto John Thurman Field, Modesto Pesuasion Brewing, Modesto Eproson Park, Twain Harte VFW Post 3199, Modesto Donoby’s Bar. Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Modesto Senior Citizens Center VFW Post 3199, Modesto Strings Italian Cafe Modesto The Udder Place, Turlock Low Key Saloon, Modesto Wildfire Pub House, Modesto The Partisan, Merced Stanislaus County Veterans Center

EP Release

Tea Noelle

The Rag Tag Allstars

Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Splash Bar, Modesto Obrien’s Tavern, Modesto Secret Garden, Modesto 108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank Bookies, Modesto Tap In Wine Down, Ceres Deaf Puppy Comedy Club, Manteca 3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank Denny’s, 1525 McHenry Ave, Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto Stanislaus County Veterans Center Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Persuasion Brewing, Modesto El Torito, Modesto Torii, Modesto Main Street Inn, Ripon The Udder Place, Turlock The Brave Bull, Modesto Dust Bowl, Turlock Modesto Public Library Tap In Wine Down, Ceres The Crooked Spur, Oakdale Downtown Ripon Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto MoRo Music Garden, Modesto Eagles Hall, Modesto Knockin’ Boots, Modesto Dorado Park, Oakdale VFW Post 3199, Modesto Unitarian Church, Modesto, CA Modesto Senior Citizens Center Secret Garden, Modesto Torri, Modesto Obrians Tavern, Modesto The Reef, Modesto Low Key Saloon, Modesto P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto 10th Street Plaza, Modesto Nations Burger, Modesto Johnny’s Club, Patterson The Fruit Yard, Modesto Stanislaus County Veterans Center Stanislaus County Veterans Center The Boardroom, Modesto Five Eey Brewing, Ceres Secret Garden, Modesto Frontier Club, Patterson Low Key Saloon, Modesto Torri, Modesto The Moose , Modesto Modesto Public Library Knockin Boots, Modesto Spotlight, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto Persuasion Brewing, Modesto Oakdale Morning Market Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale

Middagh Goodwin: 5