ModestoView December 2011

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DECEMBER 2011

FREE take one

THE

GIVING

ISSUE

LOCAL

PAULEY SHORE is cool with TACO TRUCKS STEALING XMAS Can the Grinch JUST DO IT? CENTERFOLD Local Gifts under your TREE Serving the Central Valley Since 1997

Mike and Jennifer Allsup Photo by Diane Moody

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TOP

10 December 2011

Dec 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11 – Jacques Brel is alive and Living in Paris – Prospect Theatre Dec 7 – Kottonmouth Kings- Fat Cat Music House Dec 9,10,11,16,17,18 – Gallo Center – Nutcracker Dec 10 – B92.9 Acoustic Christmas Featuring Parachute & Theory of a Deadman- Modesto Center Plaza Dec 10 – Pauly Shore – Fat Cat Music House Dec 10 – The Ill List – Poetry Slam State Dec 16, 18 – State Theatre - NotCracker Dec 17 – Latin Jingle Jam w/ Angelina and Fiesta Boyz- State Dec 20 – Arron Neville Louisiana Christmas– Gallo Center Dec 20 – Modesto Symphony Holiday Candlelight – St Stanislaus Church

www.modestoview.com

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EDITOR’S VIEW

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Greetings Modesto Fans!

Welcome home for the holidays in Modesto.

At the heart of Modesto is the McHenry Mansion and this month we take a special look at “Modesto’s Home” and encourage you to visit and support both the Mansion and the McHenry Museum. As we blaze our trail to the future, we should always do so with great respect for our past.

To me, the best time of year around here is when it starts to get foggy, cold and rainy.

Don’t get me wrong, I love our spring and fall days in the 70s and 80s but there is something about Winter which makes us switch gears. The early evening darkness brings us all a little closer. Kids are coming home from college for the break and with the exception of basketball, school sports are drawing to a year-end close. Skis are getting waxed in anticipation of mid-December ski area openings and Modesto’s alreadyvibrant volunteer community is kicked into overdrive.

Our great local holiday traditions make Modesto feel like home for so many. From the wealth of holiday music events, treelightings and festive decorations to the Dickens Faire, craft boutiques and Gallo Center happenings, the sense of community and good will around town seems all the more pronounced. Be sure to make the time to enjoy and celebrate all the holiday cheer that Modesto has to offer.

We also know that there are many families in need this year, so if you see the red kettle

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of the Salvation Army, remember that nearly every penny from your donations goes directly to the people in need. We can all “Do the Most Good” for our friends, family and our community.

We wish you, our amazing and loyal readers Happy Holidays and thank our dedicated writers and advertisers for making ModestoView YOUR VIEW and sharing the good things about our community. As always, remember to tell us what you like and what you want ModestoView to be. It is for you.

Best to your family from our family.

Chris Murphy Publisher, ModestoView

PUBLISHER’S INFO PUBLISHER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chris Murphy chrism@modestoview.com

Jim Christiansen

GENERAL MANAGER

Eric Benson Mike Vanek Kay Osborn

Greg Cobb greg@modestoview.com

Jennifer Alsup

SALES MANAGER

Efrin Martinez

Kyle Cobb kyle@modestoview.com

Shasta Boss

DESIGN, LAYOUT, & ART Republic Marketing

Content Director Todd Aaronson

Art Director/Designer Antonio Grajeda

Associate Designers

Ruben Poras Kate Serpa

FiestaBoyz Abbey Murphy Dana Jonson Brad Gibson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Diane Moody Efrin Martinez

Donnie Conner

GUEST COPY EDITOR

SOCIAL MEDIA

Jules Vilmur Hope we kept your red pencil and coffee busy.

Madison Murphy Ruben Porras

©2011 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The photographs, graphics, artwork and advertisements are the property of Modesto View Magazine.

The magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by the advertisers. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflectthe views of Modesto View Magazine or the owners. Modesto View Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO

A Classic American City

CONTENTS 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16-17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26-29 30 31

CHEF VIEW DINING VIEW BAR VIEW ART VIEW ALL AGES PAGES FEATURE VIEW - PAULY SHORE URBAN VIEW NON-PROFIT VIEW FASHION VIEW LOCAL GIFT GUIDE INTER VIEW METAL VIEW PERFORMING VIEW FIT VIEW FAMOUS VIEW JAZZ & BLUES VIEW PLAY VIEW / TOUR VIEW COMMUNITY CALENDAR GODOWNTOWN MODESTO REAR VIEW

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Mr. and Mrs. Claus come to life this month thanks to Modesto’s rock and roll couple, Jennifer and Mike Allsup. They “are” local music and fun. They present Luckyfest, Sweet Pea Knicker Productions, the band DAM, the band Levee on top of the monthly Sloshball events, in addition to raising a family and being a huge part of our community. Jennifer is also our RockabillyView editor. The photo was taken by local photographer Diane Moody who can be found at events all over Modesto and online at www.facebook.com/msmoodyphotos

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CHEF VIEW

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Fruit Yard

By Dana Johnson

In Modesto’s Backyard you will find The Fruit Yard!

Built on the historic landmark location of the Old Foamy Drive-In (1959 - 1976), The Fruit Yard opened in May of 1977.

Owned by brothers Joe and Willy Traina of Traina Foods (trainafoods.com,) The Fruit Yard serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, but that’s just the beginning. They also boast a full bar, salad bar and bakery, as well as a market stocked with their famous dried fruits, nuts, gift baskets, and general grocery items.

The Fruit Yard’s banquet facilities, completewith a beautifully manicured garden and duck pond are host to frequent weddings, corporate parties, car shows, concerts, and special events. TheirSunday Brunch is a grand tradition and the Seafood Buffet, held on the first Friday each month is quite a hit.

I was fortunate enough to sit down with Joe Traina to discuss The Fruit Yard’s tasty treats (keep an eye out for their new all-natural toaster tart) and dedicated staff. Teresa Brasil has been at The Fruit Yard for more than twenty years. She is currently the general manager and works 5-6 days a week, running at full speed. According to Teresa, the bestpart of her job is the customers. “So many regulars ... that’s why I’m here.” She also recommended the smile. Her favorite menu selection is the Chicken Jerusalem, a boneless breast of chicken, sautéed in butter and wine with garlic, mushrooms, lemon and artichoke hearts.

Executive Chef Gil Flores is 33 years old, born in Michoacan, Mexico and came to

Relationships often come apart

Mediation is an alternative to costly court battles.

www.PMGMediation.net 209.529.9128 | 1600 G. St. Modesto, CA 95354

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DINING VIEW

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Open Thursday Through Saturday Until 9pm�

New Tapas Style Dinner Menu� “Small Plates, Full Flavor”� Live Entertainment Every Friday Evening�

“An Affordable Luxury”�

1700 McHenry Avenue, In McHenry Village�

and a Movie Dinner for *Price is per person and based , on our selection of entrees $10.50 and less with a soft drink. Brenden Theatre tickets are $6.75 , each with purchase of any entree.

only $

the USA when he was 18 years old. He attended culinary school in LA and became a chef in the Bay Area before coming to The Fruit Yard, six years ago.

He has two children, a son who is 14 and a daughter, age six. As a full-time chef, his time with family is scarce, so he makes the most of it, hanging out with his family at Modesto A’s games, catching movies when he can at Brenden Theater and relaxing at McHenry Bowl. Besides cooking, Chef Gil is passionate about pop music and salsa.

Chef Gil spoiled me with many tantalizing culinary dishes. From a taste of The Fruit Yard’s signature Lobster and Prime Rib dinner to their delicious peppercorn NY steak and a dazzling deep friedpork chop with a dried cherry glaze. Everything was off the hook! I also sampled their NY steak with fig sauce, and wow! Chef Gil’s advice to customers is “Just because it’s not on the menu; don’t be afraid to ask for it. When I’m cooking for customers it’s like I’m cooking for my kids. It’s from the heart.”

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Look for me, Chef Dana, working alongside Chef Gil at The Fruit Yard’s decadent dinner on January 20, 2011 hosted by Kendall-Jackson Winery. You can purchase tickets for this event by stopping in at The Fruit Yard or calling (209) 527-0225. Space is limited and tickets are 1st come 1st serve, so don’t wait!

Beatles or Stones: For Joe Traina it’s no contest. The Rolling Stones through and through. Chef Gil also prefers The Stones but Theresa chose The Beatles. Still, I’m thinking that a Rolling Stones concert at the Fruit Yard is in order!

7948 Yosemite Boulevard, Modesto, CA 95357-1852 (209) 527-0225 Open 7 days a week 6am to 10pm Sunday Brunch 9am to 2pm Seafood Buffet every 1s Fri. of the month 5pm to 9pm Modesto View Food/Dining Expert Email: askDana@live.com FB: Dana’s Family Kitchen Youtube.com

“

It’s like I’m cooking for my kids

”

Parmesan Crusted Bonein Pork Chops

2 4 oz. Bone-in pork chops 3 tbl Trainas dried cherries 1 tsp brown sugar 2 tsp unsalted butter 1 tsp crusted almonds Pakco 2 tsp parmesan cheese 1 tsp Italian herbs 3 oz. white wine Breading in a bowl mix with panko, parmesan cheese and herbs

(Dana’s Family Kitchen) FOX40 every 3rd Mon. 9:45 am Dana’s cooking segment

Heat butter, add julienne cut traina dried cherries, brown sugar, almonds and white wine

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BAR VIEW

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Brave Bull

By Kate Serpa

Ladies and Gentlemen: Presenting the World A detour past the usual downtown bar circuit and a brief trip down the 9th Street bridge will lead you head-first straight to a glowing pink martini (on your righthand side) and your new holiday star destination. I’ve heard the Brave Bull be called many things, and truthfully, they’ve not always been good, but in my honest opinion, I genuinely believe the Brave Bull to be, above anything else, a really, really fun place with really, really fun people. The Brave Bull is not a serious place, or a quiet place, and may not be themost ideal location to take your grandmother out for her birthday.

However, if you’re into dancing, drinking, and enjoy people who are into the same, and if you aren’t afraid to take it all with a heavy shot of sarcasm from Kaysi, the bartender, you might find a new favorite at the Brave Bull.

The two people you really don’t want to mess with are father and daughter duo Casey and Kaysi respectively, who have chosen to omit their last names, stating: “We’re just like Cher.” Together they, along with Suzanne and Gary, operate huge venue featuring two pool tables, a gratuitous dance floor, tons of disco balls, a stripper dance pole, a heavily stocked bar, a scattering of flat screens, an (unrelated) taco truck parked out front, a sizable back patio, oldschool Pac-Man and Centipede arcade games, and a partridge in a pear tree.

The Brave Bull is the longest running stillstanding disco nightclub in California, featuring a neon pink-triangle-bearing disco booth that Donna Summer would be proud to rock. The venue opened in 1973 on, bluntly, one of Modesto’s meaner

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streets. The Brave Bull was previously the Klassy Kat, which was what a klassy person such as myself would refer to as a strip joint.

Where did the name ‘Brave Bull’ come from? Casey stated they wanted a simple, catchy name, and for some reason ‘bull’ seemed to be memorable for people. I have no idea why.

Caseyoriginally launched the bar because his gay friends had nowhere to go. We courage that can coax even the most forget sometimes that the openness we timid individuals into a good time. And have in our society now (though still speaking of… not completely open, and I hope that will be resolved soon) was not always As I rule I do not dance, but I have the same way. The Brave Bull opened danced at the Brave Bull; and if you at a time when two men couldn’t dance were unawares, it’s an excellent place together in clubs and Casey wasn’t able to dance. When the DJ starts playing, to advertise or order entertainment for the dancers don’t get off and the dance the establishment. “It wasn’t easy,” he floor stays packed all weekend. “And stated. “There was a lot of gay bashing we play dance music, “ states Kaysi, “no for a while. We didn’t let that go on very trance, no house… we play dance music.” long.” Despite up-tight speculation, And though the music can sometimes the Brave Bull is a safe bar. legitimately be heard from the 9th There’s one bouncer, Street Bridge, “We’ve never had a noise and that happens to complaint.”

be the owner.

“This will be your bar if you come and

The lovely lady dance with us one night.” True story behind the bar people; I’ve been three times this past nearly every week and I am currently typing out this night is Kaysi article like wild-fire because I’m going to who, once you get the drag show tonight as soon as I finish. into a conversation, The Brave Bull is open and welcome to will unhinge all sorts everyone: straight, lesbian, gay… Anyone, of interesting facts “Who isn’t an *******,” says Casey, is and salacious stories. welcome. If you haven’t been, I think it’s Kaysi states: “Bartending is the best time you tried something new. job. Through the fighting and the crazy **** that goes on, you still have a great And good news: I finished this baby with time.” She and her no-sass attitude do an enough time to make it to the show!

excellent job of pouring out the liquid-

Fun Fact: Famous people who have dropped by the Brave Bull include Harvey Milk and Divine (who visited more than once more than once).

Wed: Karaoke Thurs-Sat: DJ Sun: DJ O, best Drag Show around HappyHour: Tues-Thurs 8-10 pm, featuring $2.50 well

For December:

The Brave Items you will need: - A glass. Any size will do.

- Ice - Kahlua - Tequila This is a complicated one, kids, so pay close attention.

Get your glass.

Fill it with as much ice as you please.

Fill half the glass with Kahlua, and the other half with tequila.

Stir/shake.

You’re done!

Why do they call it the Brave Bull?: “Finish that one and they try to order another.”

Open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Annual Enormous New Years Party$10 cover (the only night there’s a cover charge at the Brave Bull all year) Check out their Facebook for more information www.facebook.com/thebravebull 701 South 9th Street Modesto, CA

209.529.6712

ART VIEW

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By Jim Christiansen

Modesto’s December schedule is chock full of holiday craft and art sales, but first, a special shout-out to Aaron Vickery whose mural was recently displayed at Facebook headquarters in Palo Alto and is now being transported to its new home in Atlanta. Special thanks go to Modesto Arts Booster, Tony Serrano who recommended Aaron for the job, proving that we are not just an Arts destination, but an exporter of art as well.

The Chartreuse Muse continues its “In Focus” show through the end of the year, along with its Tuesday night Life Drawing sessions. Artist Corey West, featured in the “ In Focus” show, has

put together a kick-starter project to fund a $25,000 art installation at the Family Justice Center on 16thand I St. Corey got involved with the Center through Muse owner Sandra Veneman, and his piece which will become a focal point in The Center’s upstairs lobby has morphed into a larger project titled “Butterfly Rain”, http://www. kickstarter.com/projects/1393306886/ butterfly-rain intended to inspire kids.

The pledge deadline for the project is December 12th.

Mistlin Gallery will showcase the Central California Art Association Holiday Member’s Show through January 11th.

The gallery is holding special gift box and trunk shows on December 3rd and 19th. In addition to paintings, sculpture, ceramics and photos for sale, there will be special opportunities to purchase art jewelry and smaller “gift box” items.

Mistlin Gallery gift certificates will also be available.

This month’s Art Walk will be held on December 19th. All the usual suspects will be on the roster, including Chartreuse Muse, Mistlin Gallery, Serrano Social Club, Gallery 909, Anderson Gallery, Barkin’ Dog Grill, Intrinsic Elements, and artist Mark Holden featured at Crow Trading.

Tokyo Express, Azucar, and Trey Reed (now showing some great art in the old gallery at 13thand J St.) will join in as well as additional local artists with work for sale. For the official map and listing, see http://modestoartwalk.com.

December 3rd, is the Dickens’ Faire at McHenry Mansion, running the full day, from the opening of The Farmer’s Market up to Celebration of Lights parade. The parade starts at 5 pm, and stretches from the Library to Tenth St. and back. There will be an Artists of Modesto entry again this year. You can also visit the Artists of Modesto Facebook page and keep up on local events.

One unusual and exciting event going on is Artel Art Center’s studio rental, where artists can rent studio time in 3-hour blocks. Artel is in McHenry Village, and their locally-owned art center has plenty of supplies on hand.

Think art for holiday gift-giving. For

more information on studio rental and Artel’s regular class schedule, call 209 527 5678.

January items to note include the closing of the Ansel Adams Show at Carnegie Art Center in Turlock.

Younger artists should be preparing the annual “Young Masters” show at The Mistlin Gallery, coming up in January. Also, your last chance to get yourself on the Stanislaus County Artist Open Studio event Map is January 6.

Open Studios will be happening in April and the entry fee for artists is only $20 with no commission on sales. For more information on Open Studios, visit their website at http://stanislausaos. wordpress.comor call 209 222-TOUR. Look for some new art to start

appearing at Café DEVA. Thursday nights there recently have been devoted to the Thursday Night Acoustic Ramble, incorporating live podcast with art as stage back drop. If you have a visual arts event you’d like us to cover, send me an e-mail at mercenary_graphics@yahoo. comand be sure to check the event listings in the Calendar for more detail

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ALL AGES PAGES

By Abbey Murphy

Things on my list this month are: Del Osso Holiday Winter Farm, the snow slide is a blast.

Walk through the winter wonderland at Morris Nursery, so many lights, trees and decorations The Nutcracker at the Gallo Center, yes I used to be a marshmallow in this ballet when I was little, so I have to go see it every year. The sets get nicer every season and the Gallo Center is so festive.

The funky event this month is the Santa’s Cool Holiday Film fest at the State on Dec 11. Lots of fun little movies, Santa vs the Martians and more. You have to check it out.

I love the movie Polar Express and there is nothing like seeing it in the Beautiful State Theatre on Dec 4. Yes, there will be hot chocolate!

December Music I am always looking for all ages things to do. So much of the local music is at the nightclubs and we can’t go, but there are some places you have to check out and some new places you need to know about.

The Off The Air Shows at Deva are a perfect place to hang out. This month Not An Airplane is releasing a new CD on Dec 16.

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Josh Rosenblum Band plays every Friday night at the Material Grill in Salida. Good food too!

There is a new place in Salida called the Warehouse. It is run by the band Stop Motion Poetry and this month they have a show with a local band that has been touring all over the world this last month in Paris, Zurich, London called Evaline and they will be playing a homecoming show with Stop Motion Poetry and Atlas on Dec 17. This will be an amazing show.

Queen Bean really makes it fun for all ages show and this month there is a real special eventDec 23- Queen Bean Christmas Special Trinity Marquez, Molly Gibson, Brandon Sutton, Josh Rosenblum, Brad Clark, Sara Lee. This is an amazing line up of local and national musicians and the event isfree.

All you need to do is bring blanket, jacket, cans of food or toys. Queen Bean will be giving all donations to: World Relief Modesto http:// worldrelief.org/modesto If you need a New Year’s Day plan, there is a new Kids Karaoke at Yosemite Winter is the time to start a garden and you can do it with the Peace Life Center.

Continuous: Seeds of Peace Community Garden. 30 plots, each 19x19 feet with own water spigot for rent to grow fruits, veggies, flowers. Each plot is 19x19 feet and has its own water spigot. Occasional gardener events. Free seeds at sign up, scholarships available! Info: Leah, (209) 523-1438 or visit www.modcob. org

GO MODESTO! Go Bowling: This is a family and friends event that is always fun. This holiday season, Yosemite Lanes is open for your bowling fun, nomatter what day or night.  Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day:  Bowl - open all day and night - $2.50 games-$2.50 shoes Â

Ramble Time: Looking for a fun weekly things to do and enjoy some of the best local music in a relaxed setting? The Thursday Night Ramble is the place to be. Deva is always good for great food and drink and thanks to Lorna and Jamie Loftis for always welcoming our local arts and music community. Plan on rambling this month.

{ 2011/2012} THE

December feels like the home stretch.

It is crazy busy and we just had Winter Formal. In school there are so many tests and papers due but the holidays make it feel different. I watch my favorite movies like Christmas Vacation and Family Stone and my sister is home from Berkeley and it is chill time. But all around me, so much is going on and there is so much to do.

...................... SEASON AT

THE GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1000 I STREET, DOWNTOWN MODESTO (209) 338-3134 | GALLOARTS.ORG

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FEATURE VIEW M

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Five Questions w/ Pauly Shore

& The best thing to me about being a writer is having access to people that helped shape my life in one way or another. Some of you may know that I am also anamateur (really, really amateur) comedian. Today I had the chance to interview 90’s comedy superstar, Pauly Shore. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but he did not disappoint. He is still very much “The Weasel.”

MF: Have you ever visited Modesto before? We know about your amazing

farming abilities from “Son in Law.” Do you have any advice for our local farmers? When was the last time you rode a pig?

Shore: I was in Modesto 5-7 years ago at the State Theater and I remember a rowdy crowd. As far as farming goes, I would tell you to farm whatever is awesome.

Personally, I would grow turnips. Turnips are awesome! Yeah buddy! As for the pig, that was a stunt pig. It rode me!

Pre School

Building communities one connection at a time.

Youth Sports

P

Day Camps

Child Care

lease join us during our Open House on January 7th, 2012 from 10 AM until 2 PM. We will have games, activities and refreshments for the whole family.

Sign up for one of our programs during this event, and you will receive a $10 discount on your registration fee!

2630 W. Rumble Road Modesto, CA 95350 connectionsfc.org (209) 593-5837

Interview Conducted by ModestoFamous

MF: Celebrities will occasionally have lofty demands. What is the most unusual item on your tour rider? Do we need to get you a pet sitter or maybe an all access taco truck pass? We do what we can!

Shore: I don’t need much. I only make demands when the city that I am in has crusty food. I hate crusty food. I’m cool with taco trucks, but I really love tuna cans! Bring me some tuna cans!

MF: Do you feel like you have to live up to a certain stereotype? How much of you is real and how much is your character? I mean, do you walk around Trader Joe’s saying things like- “Granola! Yeah buddy!”

Shore: I’m a regular guy unless people get silly. You are silly! I like silly! You can be silly with me! Let’s get silly! Silly brings out the funny! Yeah buddy!

MF: Modesto is famous for American Graffiti, George Lucas and Jeremy Renner.

Are you familiar with us? Where are you

from? Do they celebrate you? Will they erect a statue of you one day? Are you their Rocky Balboa?

Shore: Modesto is cool. I liked it there.

I’m from Los Angeles. That’s not very exciting. I won’t have a statue. I will have a pinata and when people hit me I will say, “Owww buddy!”

MF: I just saw some of your press photos.

What would I have to do to become such a sexy manly beast?

Shore: Shave your well, you know and pluck your chest hair! After that, use spray paint and paint your hair black!

You will be sexy like me buddy! You will be The Weasel!

GO MODESTO! Check out Pauly Shore live at the Fat Cat on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $22. Visit www.paulyshore.com for more details and to buy tickets The December Festival Lighted Bike Ride: Decorate and Light your bike for a Leisurely YET Attention-Grabbing Ride through downtown Modesto. Go all out with tinsel, ornaments, stuffed animals, streamers, ribbon, fabric, etc. Fully altered mutant bikes encouraged! Thiswill be a night ride so light up your bike well! Starts at Serrano’s Social Club at 6 pm

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URBAN VIEW

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By Fiesta Boyz On December 17th, The State Theater is bringing the sensational Latin songstress Angelina to the stage and you’d be a fool to miss it.

It was the mid 90’s, Khaki pants, white on black, crazy hair and dance music.

Beneath all this trendiness was an inspiring singer named Angelina. She had always loved singing anywhere at any time and while decorating for a M.E.Ch.A. fund-raiser at Santa Clara University, the event’s DJ heard her singing and suggested that she attend the Upstairs Records auditions the following day. “On a whim I decided to go.” Angelina says, “Especially since the new semester was coming up, and I needed money for tuition and books. I never thought it would lead to anything, but it just goes to show, you never know. Don’t let random opportunities pass you by.”

She nailed the audition and in 1996 she signed a contract with Upstairs Records. She then recorded “Release Me,” produced by Noel Saucedo of the Haus-a-holics, and the song was featured on the two biggest radio stations in the Bay Area (KYLD and KMEL). “Release Me”quickly reached the top 10 in the US. And her first album, titled simply “The Album”, was one of the top Dance albums of ‘96.

“It was incredible to start my career.”

Angelina says.

For the first 5 years she toured all over the US and Internationally, but all too soon, the Dance craze was over and Hip Hop was in. Angelina had to evolve with the industry, and in 2000 she started working with NB Ridaz, and eventually created the New Ridaz.

In 2006 Angelina had just finished her 4th Studio album when a sudden tragedy struck her and her family.

“My brother was killed in a random shooting. It was a horrible time for my family. I kind of stopped for a while after that. You know, nothing really matters when something so tragic happens. I took time to be with my family, and to be with my parents during the trial, etc.“ Despite the unfortunate downs, Angelina’s recovery and comeback are underway. She continues to tour across the country and had this to say when

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we asked about her future plans, “Even though I left the industry for a while after my brother’s passing, I still had music and ideas swimming around in my head. New lyrics, new melodies that never goes away. So when I finally got into the studio in 2010, songs just flowed. I experimented a lot in the studio, and I have done some of my best work. But I’m debating whether I should release it or not. Maybe a few songs on iTunes, not a full album. I’m still not sure. I kind of like writing for new artists, and developing the next generation of talent. I have been so blessed, to have done this as long as I have, it’s incredible. I have loved every minute of it. But maybe this next year will be my last.”

I recently asked Angelina if there was a particular moment that stuck out for her during her experiences in the studio and on tour. “The stories that mean the most to me, are when people tell me that my songs, or my journey, have inspired them in some way. I got into the music industry because I wanted to be a positive role model, and make a difference. When I am told that I have affected people in some way, it makes me want to keep going! I love that my music has been a part of so many people’s lives, and brings back so many

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Doing the most good

By Chris Murphy Do you have a hard time this time of

use their services. It is for everyone in

year, deciding what charities to support

our community. If you want to support

and how you can make the most

families in need, this a great way to do

difference with each precious dollar? I

it. If you really want to feed people that are hungry and will “work for food”, donate to the Army. Meals are served 6 days a week to anyone in our community in need. Here are a couple of facts.

The Salvation Army uses 83 cents of every dollar you donate to directly supportservices in 5,000 communities nationwide.

The red Christmas kettle debuted in San Francisco in 1891 in the guise of a crab pot. A depression had thrown many out of work,

know I do and I want to help as much

including hundreds of seamen and

as possible, but I want my donation

longshoremen.

dollars to do the Most Good. Salvation

Army delivers and I trust them. My

The Salvation Army assists more than

family and business has supported the

14.6 million people with basic social

Salvation Army for years. My band

services each year, thousands are

Third Party has raised money from our

served here locally, every single day.

gigs for Salvation Army. As a Rotarian,

we have prepared and served meals for

So drop your extra cash in a kettle,

Salvation Army and our kids as part

donate on-line, donate your stuff to

of Interact have supported Salvation

the stores or donate your time to help.

Army. We all work hard and want our

Everyone can do something and this is

donations work hard. You don’t need

the best way to reach the people truly

to be religious to support the Army or

in need.

Social Services is located at the Modesto Citadel Corps and can be reached at: 209.523.7577.

Volunteer and donate online at http://www. salvationarmymodesto.org/donations/volunteer

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FASHION VIEW

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Keepin’ It Local Autumn’s leaves are falling and winter is peeking out from right around the corner. With a new year approaching, celebrations are always in the works.

When gift shopping we should make the choice of doing it all locally. The Farmers Market is an easy weekly routine and it goes on through mid December (Saturdays only until it ends on the 17th). If you think that all the Farmers Market has to offer is food type items, you are in for a treat. You can find Bre’s Floral arrangements, plants, unique jewelry pieces, glimmering Swarovski crystal items, candles from Desert Garden, Inland Fog’s natural vegan homemade bath soap, wood works, crafts, and more. The downtown street market supplies the community with a huge variety of the freshest food products including baked goods, nuts, and dairy

By Shasta Boss makeupboss@gmail.com

products. So many taste testings can be found throughout the market from hummus, to clam chowder, handmade caramels, jams, salsas, fruits, nuts, kettle corn, Bolani breads and spreads, Murphy’s Mustard, Edith’s Bread treats,

butter toffee glazed almonds from Four K Farms. They sell all kinds of sweet and savory flavoredalmonds and some seasoned walnuts (honey sesame are delish too), plain almonds, dried fruit, and pistachios. My family loves to mix the

jewelry products. Donna’s Designs also displays beautiful jewelry items handmade and uniquely designed. Silk Bloomers create handmadecraft items and wreaths focusing on the seasons and upcoming holidays. Cosmic Popsicle

and much more.

One of my favorite food items are the

butter toffee almonds with Dale’s Kettle Corn for an easy and delicious movie or dessert snack. Bava Farms has great prices on tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, and peppers. John, the owner or “The Pepper Guy” as I like to refer to him, has a nice variety of habaneros, Anaheims, bells, and other different varieties of peppers. Jammin’ Jams have a good variety of jams and pickled items. Taste a bunch and pick up a few for gifts since they are jarred up with a cute piece of fabric to top it off. Edith’s chocolate zucchini bread, peasant bread, and ciabatta rolls are scrumptious. Sciabica Olive Oil offers flavored oils that can be a perfect gift for any chef or food lover. Jer M Designs makes painted wooden banks, toy cars, and other quality made items. Everyone has to eat, so don’t be shy giving out these delicious treats as gifts.

Recently, I have came across a few new boutique style booths.

Ultimate Elegance carries elegant and unique items made with Swarovski crystals and other

is a new and emerging company based in Turlock. They sell handmadebath, body, and skin care items, whipped body butters, and mineral makeup. These are all upscale gift items that are made locally and that will work within the budget.

The Dickens Victorian Faire takes place December 3rd on 15th Street where the usual market will be combined with morelocal craft booths aimed at holiday gifts.

Support our local farmers and artists by stocking up on goodies at The Farmers Market. Fill up a few gift baskets for your loved ones of locally made and grown quality items.

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the modesto view

HOliday LOCAL

gift guide

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Ruben says: Get a camera from the Camera Center and create your own adventure

Chris says: Send a vintage postcard from the McHenry Mansion Gift Shop

Chris says: You can put Modestoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home on your tree at the Mansion Gift store

Dana says: I have two words Pink Diamonds from Ciccarelli Jewlers

Dana says: Stop by and get some Christmas Yogurt Parfaits at the Yogurt Mill

Shasta says: Check out where Bliss meets at Bling at Intrinsic Elements

Shasta says: Crow Trading has cool cast iron light covers and towel hooks

Chris says: Coffee is always the amazing treat at Serranoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Chris says: Check out the Christmas Cottage behind the Mediterranean Mkt

Chris says: The Chartreuse Muse is so beautiful during Christmas

Efren says: Go get a special lb of coffee from the Queen Bean

Todd says: Hilmar Cheese has amazing pepper jack and marbled chedder

Todd says: Uniques Chanukah Gifts at Congregation Beth Shalom

Chris says: Give a night out with State Theatre Gift Certificates

the modesto view

HOliday LOCAL

gift guide

Ruben says: The pottery at Lopez Imports in Escalon is really unique

Todd says: Spreading local love for decades Sciabica Olive Oil

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INTER VIEW

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Home for the Holidays We all like to feel at home for the Holidays.

MV: How many people visit the McHenry

order to maintain the Mansion as a legacy

There are places that just feel like home

Mansion during the holidays?

for the community to enjoy.

no matter where you grew up. There is

LC: Last year during the months of

one place in Modesto that is “Modesto’s

November and December there were

MV: What is one thing that people

Home” located at 15th and I Street. The

approximately 6000 visitors including

probably don’t know about the McHenry

128 year old McHenry Mansion stands

school tours

Mansion.

proud today as a symbol of our past and

LC: This Victorian home is the only

the respect of the present has rallied

MV: What are the special events the make

mansion from that era that remains today

fashioned Christmas tree decorated with

our community to embrace it, upgrade

the Mansion special during the holidays?

in the city of Modesto. The Mansion is

popcorn string.

it, restore it and treasure it.

Starting

LC: During the holiday season there is the

available for weddings, receptions and

Faire,

traditional Christmas Tea, the Dickens

other events.

the McHenry Mansion symbolizes the

Faire, and the annual Christmas party

Christmas Holidays for so many, from the

held at the Mansion with the holiday

MV: What is your favorite room in the

December 5: Christmas Tea

Candlelight tours, to the photos in front

decorations in all the rooms that depicts

Mansion?

December 10: Foundation Christmas

of the tree and the special “tea” events,

the Victorian era of the Mansion.

LC: I really enjoy how the front parlor is

Party

decorated for the holidays, with the old

December 15 & 17: Candlelight Tours

with

the

Dicken’s

Christmas

the McHenry Mansion is home for many of us. December is the perfecttime to take

MV: How do you keep the Mansion going?

a tour into our past and take yourself

LC: I believe that the 130 docents

home. The decorations are amazing and

we have serving as volunteers keep

you will feel at home.

the Mansiongoing.

We took some time to speak with the

organization, it depends highly on its

current

volunteers who guide visitors through the

President

of

the

McHenry

Mansion foundation, Lucy Conkey.

As a non-profit

house and also spend time working at the Visitors Center and Gift Store.

MV: Why does the McHenry Mansion feel like home to so many?

MV: What does the McHenry Mansion

LC: I believe it’s the atmosphere of the

need from our community?

building. The feeling is it takes you back

LC: Because it is non-profit, the Mansion

to our childhood with a warm and inviting

depends on financial support and on

cozines, then it makes a connection to

Foundation membership dues. Because

how our community lived their lives.

of budget cuts by the City, the Mansion

Events scheduled for December are: December 3: Dicken’s Christmas Faire

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METAL VIEW

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2011 The Year in Metal

By Mike Vanek 2011 in Modesto metal was a year of ups & downs.

We saw venues make efforts to reach out to the all ages crowds and their favorite bands. We saw bands that have spent years working on their craft reach epicheights in our local metal scene.

Better Left Unsaid embarked on a nationwide tour with Mushroomhead. The Burden We Bear emerged as the top crossover band in the scene mixing their contemporary hardcore sound at metal shows earning a name for themselves all over the area. They have also been bitten by the touring bug.

The biggest story of the year is “Modesto’s Most Hated Band” has become Modesto’s best band. Nothing But Losers attacked 2011 playing epic shows, earning a slot at X-fest alongside the best hardrock/metal bands in town for the 1st time since the State Theater incident years ago. NBL also won the MAMA AWARD FOR BEST METAL BAND!!

2011 hasn’t been all Mai Tai’s & Yahtzee.

With a limited amount of bands in the scene and a growing amount of metal promoters in the scene, it has gotten pretty bad with behind the scenes drama. History has shown that people that can’t get along with the established companies just don’t last, so we’ll see what happens. This is a community and we all need to make it work.

2011 we saw great bands emerge like Beneath The Embers, Warpath Assassins, Cursed, Genghis Khan, This Times Brutal and many more.

Last but not least I want to give props to CVDM. Central Valley Death Metal has emerged as the 209’s only underground Death Metal club and they have continued to wave the flag for underground metal and they support REAL Death Metal bands like Forever Obscured & Decomposition.

We take our hats off to them!!

We look forward to a great 2012 and as always “Keep one foot in the gutter and one fist in the gold!”

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PERFORMING VIEW

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By Kaye Osborn

The twelfth month has arrived! There are lots of local events that will enrich your holidays! I know things can become busy with parties, shopping, decorating, and cooking but do find time to attend a live show. Merry Holidays!

Dec. 3- Dicken’s Faire 10AM-4PM Come enjoy local crafts, musicians, actors and food. Take time to tour the

beautifully decorated McHenry Mansion and the McHenry Museum. Children’s activities will be available at the mansion and the museum. Children ages 12 and under are invited join me at the McHenry Museum from noon to 3PM to decorate a gingerbread house and make an ornament. What a great free family event!

Don’t forget the Christmas parade begins at 5:00 PM!

1-800-CLEAN UP

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Celebrating the Season: Christmas for Kids: Dec. 4 State Theater The lobby magically becomes the North Pole where friendly elves serve hot chocolate and candy canes to children who visit Santa Claus. Local storyteller Karen Williams-Walter will tell a holiday tale and the Oscar-nominated movie “The Polar Express” will be shown.

Noon; 1PM film $3 for children 12 and under, $6 for others

Gallo Center for the Arts Elves and the Shoemaker: Dec. 4 2PM and 4PM: Two merry elves arrive at a small village in the Black Forest to discover a poor, gentle, kind shoemaker who needs assistance.

For grades K-5. Tickets $8-$15

The Nutcracker Dec. 9-11, 16-18 A delightful time-honored tradition, this

ballet includes Clara, the Rat King, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and her kingdom of engaging characters.

2PM and 7PM Tickets: $19-$54

A Tuna Christmas Dec. 9-11 The Gallo Center and the Theater Department at CSUS team up to present the sequel to Greater Tuna. Two actors portray all 22 of Tuna’s eccentric citizens.

2PM and 7PM tickets: $8-$15 Strut Studio of Dance The NOTcracker Dec 16th “Through Clara’s Eyes. Not to be confused with the annual ballet of similar title. Aan exciting glimpse into the fantastic dream of Clara, the heroine of the time honored classic- a dazzling visual production that will both captivate and delight.

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FIT VIEW

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GRINCH

KOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ed

at Christmas

Last year I happened to be in the right place at the right time to catch this exclusive shot of a certain green fuzzy guy trying to steal Christmas from my friend Jackson Carota. As you can see, things didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work out quite like The Grinch had planned. Rumor has it that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be up to his old tricks again this year and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a plan to stop him. But first, I want to check in with you on the current state of your fitness lifestyle.

During this Holiday Season, temptation will be all around you. I have faith that you will pass on those second helpings and remember thatalmost everything in life is good in moderation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to recognize this is a challenging season

By Efren Martinez

and take an extra spoonful of daily discipline to avoid those unwanted Holiday pounds or a lull in your workout regimen. Perhaps though, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working out hard, eating right and still, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve somehow ended up in a rut. If your workouts have become boring, it might be time to change things up and one great way to do this is to get a new fix on your workout soundtrack. Try loading a new mix in your mp3 player to motivate you to the next level.

Being a DJ, I have somewhat of an advantage in being able to keeping it fresh all the time. Several of my friends have asked what music I work out to, so I created The Quake DJ Fitness page on

Facebook to share what motivates and inspires me. Everyday I log in and post at least two songs that get me moving during my workouts. So far the site has been a useful tool for many of my friends and I invite you to check it out and see what this DJ in training moves too.

You may be surprised by what you find there, a combination of Rock, European Retro and some digitally re-mastered mixes by The Quake DJ. Come on over to www.facebook.com/QuakeFitness and take what you want. You can also

The 2ndannual Spirit of Giving Run and Bike Ride. Enjoy some Holiday fitness, while raising funds for our City Parks & Recreation Scholarship Fund and Interfaith Ministries. Also, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to bring your canned food donations for

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Fat Cat - Talk of the Town Party Clarion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; KHOP Fire and Ice $199 room and party package available Copper Rhino â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sweat Entertainment and Conseeded New Years Party Brave Bull â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bash - $10 cover Aqua- Masquerade Ball Ninoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s - New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bash with Emerson Biggins DoubleTree â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Comedy Jam FOR THE LATEST HOLIDAY PARTIES, GO TO: ModestoView.com leave suggestion for others and mention whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s working for you in your workouts.

It has been fun sharing a variety of highenergy music with friends and Quake fans. Break the lull in your workouts and give it a try. Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve plugged in with a new playlist, you may well find yourself moving in a new direction with great results!

Now, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get back to that Grinch and his plans to wreak havoc on Modesto once again. As you may know, last year The Grinch was spotted at the Spirit of Giving Run, trying to steal Christmas.

Modestoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children nearly caught him, but at the last minute, he jumped on a motorcycle and escaped scot-free. Word on the street is that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be back in full force this year with a whole new game plan. So join me on December 10thfor

The Modesto Gospel Mission. For more information on The Spirit of Giving Run and Ride, log on to the Shadow Chase website at www.shadowchase.org or contact Andy Johnson at ajohnson@ modestogov.com. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knock out the Grinch once more and save Christmas for Modesto kids, big and small!

FAMOUS VIEW

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By Ruben Porras

11th STREET WEDDING There are some months when I really struggle to come up with ideas for this column but this month the problem is that there is really so much stuck in my head that I am struggling with trying to present it all. I suppose that I will just start and move forward. Stick with me. You might learn something interesting.

So, I was walking down McHenry Ave. last night on the way home after the Third Thursday Artwalk and a woman appeared out of nowhere and scared me a bit. If you have ever walked alone at the end of McHenry Ave. in the middle of the night near Wienerschnitzel you may understand my fear. I am a rather funky-looking little man and I am a bit on the chubby side.

If I had to run for my life I would be in some trouble but that is not what I want to mention here.

It turns out that the woman that I came across that was wielding what I thought was a weapon turned out to holding a paint roller and some brown paint. She is apparently some sort of middle-ofthe-night angel that spends her time covering up graffiti that she hates to see marking up her neighborhood. Like Batman or Superman, she would not reveal to me her true identity but she did let me know that the City of Modesto Parks and Recreation Department will issue folks paint and supplies if they want to help clean up their neighborhoods. I love this idea. I may become a painter soon. We all need to be good humans.

That lesson got me thinking. I need to do more for my community than just write words. I need to get out and explore more and try to make good things happen.

Are their things that you need done? Is there an agency that you know about that needs some help? My email address is at the end of this column every month. Let me

know how I can help.

It is hard to believe that December is here again. It has been almost three years since I had my liver transplant and life sure has changed since then. Major situations like that change people. It took three years for me to find out how amazing life can be if you surround yourself with good people in a place that you want to always call home.

That is how I feel about Modesto. I won’t ever leave here. I really love this crazy wonderful place.

This month will be a fun one. There are so many things that I would love to do. I want more than anything to grab a frothing cup of goodness from Serrano’s Social Club and enjoy the annual Celebration of Lights downtown on December 3rd, laugh with my 90’s comedy hero, Pauly Shore at The Fat Cat on December 10th, jam along with the poets and hipsters at the State Theater on December 10th at the annual Ill List poetry slam invitational and sit quietly and get lost in the amazing music of Aaron Neville at the Gallo Center for the Arts on December 20th.

More than anything, I want to walk down J Street on December 26th with my girlfriend (who if I have my way will marry me on the corner of 11th and J Street one day) and my kids and reflect about where I was on that same day in 2008. I don’t need nurses and doctors to keep me alive anymore. I need color, music, an old bicycle and good friends.

Have a wonderful Christmas out there. Do something special for someone that needs a smile, provide for a child that needs to see that joy itself is a wonderful gift and eat something decadent that your diet usually forbids. Life is good. Enjoy it!

Keep in touch with me via email at eachdaycounts@me.com, find me on Twitter as @Modestofamous or put me in a circle on Google+ by navigating to gplus.to/rubenporras

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JAZZ & BLUES VIEW

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By Eric Benson

POETRY & JAZZ

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Once again it’s time to hoist a glass

Chefs of New York showcases Cathy

Castro Band on Dec. 9th, Tower of Power

The

of cheer and toast the end of one and

Canales

Galletto

on the 29th, Harmonica Blowout on

celebrating

beginning of another. Hopefully you’ll

Ristorante’s Friday and Saturday cocktail

Jan. 26th and Eric Johnson on Jan 27th.

influential singer/songwriters with the

make time to slow down, enjoy family

hours feature Natalia on the grand piano

Rumor has it that The State may start

musical revue, “Jacques Brel is Alive and

and friends and be thankful for what ya

& sultry vocals.

having dance space for some of these

Well and Living in Paris,”. Brel’s songs

got. This year one thing to be thankful for

The Deva Café’s Thursday Night Ramble

shows where doing the bar-stool boogie is

are breathtaking and reviews of the show

has got to be local girl Mrs. Marirose of

has house band Big Earl & Poorhouse

cruel and unusual punishment. Check out

have been favorable. Performances are on

Marirose and the Gypsies, who won Best

Millionaires hosting an acoustic jam

www.thestate.org for the lowdown.

Fridays, Saturdays and a Sunday matinée

Female Vocalist and best Americana,

with 2 bands each week. The Boardroom

The Clarion Hotel & Shooters out on

through December 11th. Call (209) 549-

Blues and Roots singer at the 21st annual

continues their ambitious schedule of live

Sisk Rd. have Open Mike Mondays,

9341 for more info.

Los Angeles Music Awards. Also topping

music 4 nights a week. They’ve got Tim

Wednesdays with the Creole Jazz Kings,

One final note, in an effort to keep the

that list would be Modesto’s local music

Allen on Tuesdays, Neil Buettner and

Thursdays Vibes & Verbs with the fine

music flowing, I’ve been conspiring with

scene, virtually busting at the seams with

Matt Harrington on Thursdays, Friday’s

line, and every third Sunday feature trad-

some friends to put together monthly

smokin’ live shows.

dynamic duo of Johnny & Kelly, and a

Jazz jammers. Sips Bistro and Wine shop

house parties, or as they were known

The Barkin’ Dog Grill continues live

rotating Saturday line-up which includes:

over on N. Carpenter also features Jazz

in the jazz era, “Rent Parties”. If you’re

music in an all-age environment. The

MCW Band, Strange Brew, The Nines,

at their Sunday evening wine tastings.

interested in becoming a co-conspirator,

Jazz Jam on Thursdays features David

& Public Domain. (Don’t forget The

Regulars on Sips music menu are:

hit me at:mbenson@fire2wire.com, or

Dow; a great event for musicians looking

Boardroom’s Dress Code on weekends)

Jazzoni, Michele Richardson, and Dave

give me a holler at (209) 918-7033.

to network or sit in. Camp 4 Wine Café

The State Theatre has a strong line up

Bagget.

All the best, Eric Benson, peace out.

has Scott Bartenhagen on Wednesdays,

for the coming months, with The Tommy

on

Saturdays

and

Prospect

Theater

one

of

Project

France’s

is

most

PLAY VIEW

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JILL’S PLAYLIST

Hello again!

The months seem to be going by at an alarming speed but December is here and it’s one of my favorite months. Not only because Christmas but there is just something about going out to see live music in the cold and curling up in a venue with a nice adult beverage. This is the month that friends and family come to visit and what better way to show them your home than taking them to see some great local musicians? Here are just a few that have been on my mind lately.

Myosin- Indie- Spaceman Very cool band! They will put you on a musical trance whether you are listening

By Jill Ferris

to them in your quiet bedroom or live at a crowded club. Extremely creative yet will have you bobbing your head to the catchy beat. A must hear band! www.myosin.net

top around! If you don_ t know them then you should definitely take a listen also. A very energetic band with one hell of a live show. Their front man, Jones, looks like he was born with a mic in his hand. So natural and very fun to watch! http://earlband.com/

Shaylin NicholePart Time Lovers.

Folk/ Acoustic A very talented musician that will definitely warm you up while watching a live performance. One of this years MAMA winners and very deserving!

I choose this song because it has a very 90’s feel to me. My favorite decade for music and in my opinion a great time for female artists. www.reverbnation.com/shaylinnichole

Broken Trojan- January Fog Alt/ Punk A very tight band with the kind of punk vocals you would have heard in the heart Punk/ Alt movement. The song I choose really hit me while they were playinglive at one of my shows. Usually during my shows I am running around answering questions and keeping a schedule but this song made me stop in my tracks. Very powerful. www.facebook.com/brokentrojan

E.A.R.L- Slip Her The Disk.

Pop/ Punk/ Rock My Mom ended up with one of my E.A.R.L. shirts and her Boyfriend always teases her asking “ Who is Earl??” Well I put his questions to rest and I would not be surprised if he starts wearing that tank

Bring in this article and get in 1/2 price!!

Happy Holidays!!

Weekly Issue at the Copper Rhino Friday Nights.

Dec 2 - City Psychology, Josh Rosenblum band, Myosin, Cities (LA) Dec 9 - Shadowgod, Sonic Shift, Bully The Kid, Third Wheel Dec 16 - Dogs life string band, TBA Dec 23 - Moonshine Bandits, Dam, Disturbing The Peace, TBA Dec 30 - Country Trash, Roy Dean, Little Fuller Band, TBA

Thank you so much for reading and please go out and check out the live music here in Modesto. Make a point to “like” these musicians on Facebook or do even one better and come out and check out a show. Every Friday at the Copper Rhino you can find local musicians on our brand new stage for The Weekly Issue.

TOUR VIEW

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Songwriting:

How to Nip Writer’s Block in the Bud

By Tara Tinsley Songwriting comes just as natural to some of us as breathing, but to others, it’s more of a challenge. For songwriters and musicians, songs are our products. The more we write, the more we sell and the longer we keep people interested.

Here are some tips to get you movin’.

Get Out More. Not just to play shows but to experience life. Do something you’ve never done or reconnect with a favorite pastime. Challenge one of your

fears. When we getstuck in routine so does our inspiration.

Slow Down. In this fast paced world, where time seems to fly faster than subatomic particles, we tend to fill our lives to the brim with this thing called “being busy”. Try meditation, get reacquainted with yourself and the world around you. Remember that life is short and appreciate every moment.

Expand Your Mind. Pick up a new instrument, take a class, or add a new skill to your collection. Sometimes expanding

ourselves technically can inspire us creatively.

Challenge yourself. When I went through a long period of writer’s block, I challenged myself to write 1 song a day for 7 days. It might sound crazy (and it was) but after I was finished, I had 7 new songs. Some of us work better under pressure and deadline. You can start small or go big but either way, you might surprise yourself.

Set Yourself Free. Sometimes we get in the mode of constantly wanting to write our next hit but we have to face it, not every song will be a hit or good for that matter. Sometimes you have to knock out 10 mediocre songs to have that hit surface. Set yourself free of expectation from yourself and others. You can have a goal in mind for the song but if it doesn’t turn out to be the next best thing you’ve written, that’s ok. Put it on the side to improve later and move on to the next.

Remember that not everyone is going to like your song but a lot of people might.

Either way, what we do is magical. We take silence and make it into something more. A song can make someone dance, lift someone’s spirits, change someone’s life, or just remind them, that they aren’t alone and someone else has been there too. I wish you the best in your writing adventures.

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CALENDAR VIEW

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Thursday, December 1 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Dave Dow Open Jam Session Metal Jam Open Jam Night 2 for 1 Thursdays Melancholia Poker Tourney Rachel Renae Live Thursday Ramble - Patty & Tom MJC Fall String Recital Ramble w/ Patty Castillo Davis Tom VandenAvond B a c h a t a S u a v e s i t a Salsa Johnny & Kelly Pint Night 80s DJ Drew Blum Karaoke Night Caliente College Nights Flyboys House Party Karaoke Time Minnie’s Patio Thursdays Neil and Matt Live Karaoke Skewers Style Azucar Thursdays

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters State Theatre The Other Place Fuzio Universal Pasta Deva Cafe MJC Recital Hall Deva Cafe King Kabob P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy Clarion / Shooters Midway Lounge Studio 47 Copper Rhino Skewers Kabob House Minnie’s Restaurant The Boardroom Skewers Kabob House Azucar Latin Grill

Friday, December 2 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Warren Miller’s Film Fundraiser 2 shows David Bagget No Curfew Metal wBlackwoods+++ Like there’s no tomorrow Doc Holiday Live Music Fridays at the Bakery Lysistrata by Aristophanes Piano Class recital Friday Night Live & Local Music Holiday Pops Josh Rosenblum Band Live Solar Powered People,Built Like Alaska. Medusas View the Skies Karaoke Night The Nines Live DJ Dirty D Birthday Bash DJ Will Like there’s no tomorrow Live Local Bands MCW Band Richard Vission Skewers Dj Party

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor State Theatre Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters State Theatre Nino’s Place Village Bakery MJC Auditorium MJC Recial Hall Material Grill Gallo Center Material Grill The Warehouse, 5660 Pirrone Road MJC Science Lawn Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Aqua Lounge Bacchus State Theatre Speakeasy The Boardroom Aqua Lounge Skewers Kabob House

Saturday, December 3 Book Club in a Box Modesto Certified Farmers Market Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Modesto Certified Farmers Market Saturday Group Run Breakfast with Santa Dicken Faire & Victorian Farmers Market Art Class- Watercolor for Adults Bilingual Story Time Christmas Car Show In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Vintage 54 Winter Festival Holiday Gift Art Faire Kindergarten Readiness Holiday Pops Turlock Christmas Boutique Womens MJC Basketball vs Marin YES Company - Gift Of Song Like There’s No Tomorrow Warren Miller’s Film Fundraiser 2 shows Festival of Trees Celebration of Lights Parade Johnny Rocket and The Thrust Rock Lobster Bellydancing Josh Rosenblum Live Lysistrata by Aristophanes

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All Library Branches Downtown Modesto Carnegie Arts Center 16th Street between H & I Streets Mr T’s Donuts - Tully Senior Center 15th St Bet I & J Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Regal Theate 3969 McHenry Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor 1029 Sierra Drive Turlock Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Gallo Center Spiritual Church of Turlock MJC Gym Gallo Center State Theatre State Theatre Assyrian American Civic Club Downtown Modesto Barkin’ Dog Grill Nino’s Place Skewers Kabob House Fuzio Universal Pasta MJC Auditorium

For more updates join us on Facebook at facebook.com/modestoview Saturday, December 3 Continued Latkes and Vodka Festival Karaoke Night Research & Development Brodie Stewart Band DJ Kevin & DJ Chopstiques DJ Slick D Live Local Bands Skewers DJ Party

Congregation Beth Shalom Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub The Boardroom Bacchus Aqua Lounge Speakeasy Skewers Kabob House

Sunday, December 4 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Sunday Group Run In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Music Sundays at the Bakery Soroptimist Giving Tree Youth for Christ Open House Kids! Celebrate Christmas at the State Lysistrata by Aristophanes Melancholia Minnie’s Christmas Decorating Party Karaoke Pro Wrestling Banda Sunday Nights Karaoke Night

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Save Mart Scenic&Oakdale Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Village Bakery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor YFC Office 918 Sierra Dr State Theatre MJC Auditorium State Theatre Minnie’s Nino’s Place Fat Cat Music House Palladium Nightclub Midway Lounge

Monday, December 5 Book Club in a Box Free Pool Ansel Adams of California Exhibition In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Wiggle Worms Story Time Melancholia Monday Night Football Monday Night Football Chess and Vinyl Record Night The Skin I Live In Opens MJC Symphonic Band Fall Concert Karaoke Mondays

All Library Branches Nino’s Place Carnegie Arts Center Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Modesto Library Riverbank Library State Theatre Your favorite local watering hole Material Grill Camp 4 State Theatre MJC Auditorium The Boardroom

Tuesday, December 6 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show MJC Mens Basket ball Tourney Preschool Story Time Soroptimist Giving Tree Wiggle Worms Preschool Story Time Hughson Library book sale The Skin I Live In Tuesday Track Workout Fat Cat Welcome Party Preschool StoryTime Bluegrass Jam Men’s Intrinsic Shopping Night Closely Watched Trains Poker Night Salsa Dancing & Lessons Stanislaus Civil War Association Meeting Trivia Night Masterworks Chorus & MJC Community Orchestra Tim Allen Live Karaoke Night Miki Industry Night T’s Night Out Trevelling Circus

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery MJC GYM Waterford Library 324 E St Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Modesto Library Ceres Library Hughson Library State Theatre MJC Track Fat Cat Music House Modesto Library Queen Bean Coffee House Intrinsic Elements State Theatre Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters St. Pauls Episcopal Church P. Wexford’s Pub MJC Auditorium The Boardroom Midway Lounge Miki Japanese Restaurant Ts Cocktails, 710 9th Street Speakeasy

Wednesday, December 7 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition In Focus Art Show Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool StoryTime Soroptimist Giving Tree Wiggle Worms Story Time Turlock Library Book Club Toddler Storytime Preschool Story Time Knitting and Crochet Classes 5 Points Peace Vigil

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Chartreuse Muse Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Salida Library Modesto Library Turlock Library Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Empire Library Waterford Library 5 Points-McHenry and J St

Get Listed! Send us your listings at events@modestoview.com

Wednesday, December 7 Continued Citizens Districting Commission Forum Wine Tasting & Food Sampling Karaoke Stress Management Clinic Wine Tasting - Gallo Creole Jazz Kings Melancholia Fall Piano Program Recital MJC Community Concert Band Fall Concert Jason Gully Live Karaoke Night Neil Buettner Live Johnny&Kelly

Freedom Elementary School Bacchus Nino’s Place Modesto Library Bacchus Clarion / Shooters State Theatre MJC Recital Hall MJC Auditorium The Boardroom MIdway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy

Thursday, December 8 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Soroptimist Giving Tree Preschool StoryTime Young Farmers 58th Annual Holiday Auction Dave Dow open jam session Metal Jam Open Jam Night 2 for 1 Thursdays Poker Tourney Rachel Renae Live The skin I live in Opens Thursday Ramble -Josh&Ryan MJC Community Concert Band Fall Concert B a c h a t a S u a v e s i t a Salsa Johnny & Kelly Pint Night 80s DJ Karaoke Night Caliente College Nights Flyboys House Party Karaoke Time Minnie’s Patio Thursdays Neil and Matt Live Karaoke Skewers Style Azucar Thursdays

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Hughson Library MJC Ag Pavilion Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters The Other Place Fuzio Universal Pasta State Theatre Deva cafe MJC Auditorium King Kabob P Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy Midway Lounge Studio 47 Copper Rhino Skewers Kabob House Minnie’s Restaurant The Boardroom Skewers Kabob House Azucar Latin Grill

Friday, December 9 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Gottchalks concert band Tequila Mockingbird Live Music Fridays at the Bakery THE NUTCRACKER Holiday Festival of Choirs Lysistrata by Aristophanes MAPS-The Neandertal Genome MJC Guitar Final Recital Friday Night Live&Local Music Josh Rosenblum Band Live Tommy Castro Band Karaoke Night Research & Development DJ Playboi DJ Will Johnny&Kelly Live Live Local Bands MCW Band Weekly Issue Live

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Barkin’ Dog Grill Nino’s Place Village Bakery Gallo Center MJC Auditorium MJC Auditorium MJC Forum 110 MJC Recital Hall Material Grill Material Grill State Theatre Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Aqua Lounge Bacchus The Boardroom Speakeasy The Boardroom Copper Rhino

Saturday, December 10 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Modesto Certified Farmers Market Spirit of Giving 5K Run, Walk and Ride Spirit of Giving Run/Walk Bilingual Story Time Buddhist Approach to Living Free Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree SOS Club Open House Sloshball Zombie Christmas Winter Craft Extravanganza The Nutcracker 4th Crossing Band A Night In Hollywood Live Adam Bishop, Dandelion Massacre Tongue & Groove Josh Rosenblum Live Live Irish Music Lysistrata by Aristophanes The Ill list 8: A Poetry Slam Karaoke Night Steve Kenworthy Live

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center 16th Street between H & I Streets Start/Finish Line- 11th and M Streets Downtown Modesto Modesto Library Doctors Medical Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor SOS Club Enslen Park Salida Library Gallo Center Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters St Claire Theatre Nino’s Place Fuzio Universal Pasta P. Wexford’s Pub MJC Auditorium State Theatre Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub

Saturday, December 10 Continued BAY AREAs HUSALAH (MOB FIGAZ) Pauly Shore Live DJ Kevin & DJ Chopstiques Live Local Bands MCW Band Live Big Earl/Roy Dean Live KAOS House Nation Party

Fat Cat Music House Fat Cat Music House Bacchus Speakeasy The Boardroom Cow Track, Oakdale Copper Rhino

Sunday, December 11 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Sunday Group Run Jim Christiansen Art Show Music Sundays at the Bakery Soroptimist Giving Tree Santa’s Cool Holiday Film Festival Lysistrata by Aristophanes The Nutcracker Santa’s Cool Holiday Film Festival B929 Acoustic Christmas Karaoke Banda Sunday Nights Karaoke Night

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Save Mart Scenic & Oakdale Deva Cafe Village Bakery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor State Theatre MJC Auditorium Gallo Center State Theatre Modesto Center Plaza Nino’s Place Palladium Nightclub Midway Lounge

Monday, December 12 Book Club in a Box Free Pool Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Story Time Wiggle Worms The skin I live in Opens MondayNight Football MonNight Football Chess and Vinyl Record Night Melancholia Karaoke Mondays

All Library Branches Nino’s Place Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Riverbank Library Modesto Library State Theatre Your favorite local watering hole Material Grill Camp 4 State theatre The Boardroom

Tuesday, December 13 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Salida Library Book Club Soroptimist Giving Tree Wiggle Worms Preschool Story Time Tuesday Track Workout Carl Robinson Birthday Reunion Jam Preschool StoryTime Bluegrass Jam Wintertime Tales: An Evening of Storytelling 2nd Tuesday-Open Mic Poetry Salsa Dancing & Lessons Trivia Night Tim Allen Live Karaoke Night Miki Industry Night T’s Night Out Trevelling Circus

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Waterford Library 324 E St Salida Library Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Modesto Library Ceres Library MJC Track St Claire Theatre Modesto Library Queen Bean Coffee House MJC Little Theatre Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters P. Wexford’s Pub The Boardroom Midway Lounge Miki Japanese Restaurant Ts Cocktails 710 9th St. Modesto, CA Speakeasy

Wednesday, December 14 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool StoryTime Soroptimist Giving Tree Wiggle Worms Story Time Toddler Storytime Preschool Story Time Knitting and Crochet Classes Wine Tasting & Food Sampling Karaoke Midwinter’s Night Dream Book Discussion Creole Jazz Kings Jason Gully Live Karaoke Night Neil Buettner Live Johnny&Kelly

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Salida Library Modesto Library Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Empire Library Waterford Library Bacchus Nino’s Place Casa De Jennifer Modesto Library Clarion / Shooters The Boardroom Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy

Thursday, December 15 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool StoryTime Soroptimist Giving Tree

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor

Get Listed! Send us your listings at events@modestoview.com

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Friday, December 16 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree $500 Battle of the Bands The Sensations Unleashed Nurse Pinning Ceremony Live Music Fridays at the Bakery The NotCracker The Nutcracker Friday Night Live&Local Music Josh Rosenblum Band Live Off The Air - Not an Airplane (CD Release)+more Karaoke Night The Nines Live DJ Will Live Local Bands MCW Band Live Weekly Issue Live

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Fat Cat Music House Barkin’ Dog Grill Nino’s Place MJC Auditorium Village Bakery State Theatre Gallo Center Material Grill Material Grill Deva Cafe Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Bacchus Speakeasy The Boardroom Copper Rhino

Saturday, December 17 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Modesto Certified Farmers Market Bilingual Story Time Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Soroptimist Giving Tree Margin Call The Nutcracker Gordon Kennedy music presents Rockhaven Very Fat Christmas Comedy Fest Gold Rush Christmas-Black Irish Band Mariane Machado -Patsy Cline Tribute 3rd Annual Holiday Show Fundraiser Evaline Homecoming Show w/ Stop Motion Poetry Latin Jingle Jam DJ Splyce Karaoke Night Research & Development StrengeBrew Live DJ Dan Glaude’s Birthday Bash DJ Kevin & DJ Chopstiques Live Local Bands Rockhaven Live

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center 16th Street between H & I Streets Modesto Library Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor State Theatre Gallo Center Barkin’ Dog Grill Nino’s Place Fat Cat Music House Sonora Opera Hall Clarion / Shooters Deva Cafe The Warehouse, 5660 Pirrone Ave. State Theatre Aqua Lounge Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub The Boardroom Fat Cat Music House Bacchus Speakeasy Nino’s Place

Sunday, December 18 Book Club in a Box Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Sunday Group Run Jim Christiansen Art Show Music Sundays at the Bakery Santa’s Cool Holiday Film Festival Soroptimist Giving Tree The NotCracker The Nutcracker St Claire Community Drum Circle Karaoke Banda Sunday Nights Karaoke Night

All Library Branches Carnegie Arts Center Save Mart Scenic&Oakdale Deva Cafe Village Bakery Brenden Cinemas Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor State Theatre Gallo Center St. Claire Theatre Nino’s Place Palladium Nightclub Midway Lounge

Monday, December 19 Book Club in a Box Free Pool Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Free Christmas Movie w Canned Food Jim Christiansen Art Show Santa’s Cool Holiday Film Festival Soroptimist Giving Tree Story Time Wiggle Worms The Skin I Live In MondayNight Football MonNight Football Chess and Vinyl Record Night Take Shelter Karaoke Mondays

All Library Branches Nino’s Place Carnegie Arts Center Brenden Cinemas Deva Cafe Brenden Cinemas Vintage Faire Mall 2nd Floor Riverbank Library Modesto Library State Theatre Your favorite local watering hole Material Grill Camp 4 State Theatre The Boardroom

Tuesday, December 20 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Free Christmas Movie w Canned Food Jim Christiansen Art Show

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All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Brenden Cinemas Deva Cafe

For more updates join us on Facebook at facebook.com/modestoview Tuesday, December 20 Continued Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Wiggle Worms Preschool Story Time Guitar Pick Craft Take Shelter Tuesday Track Workout Family Movie Night - Salida Preschool StoryTime Bluegrass Jam Salsa Dancing & Lessons The Way Trivia Night Holiday Candlelight Concert Tim Allen Live Karaoke Night Miki Industry Night T’s Night Out Trevelling Circus

Mistlin Gallery Waterford Library 324 E St Modesto Library Ceres Library Waterford Library State Theatre MJC Track Salida Library Modesto Library Queen Bean Coffee House Clarion / Shooters State Theatre P. Wexford’s Pub St. Stanislaus Catholic Church The Boardroom Midway Lounge Miki Japanese Restaurant Ts Cocktails 710 9th St. Modesto, CA Speakeasy

Wednesday, December 21 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Free Christmas Movie w Canned Food Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool StoryTime Wiggle Worms Story Time Toddler Storytime Preschool Story Time Knitting and Crochet Classes Margin Call Wine Tasting - Holiday Bubbles Karaoke Creole Jazz Kings The Way Jason Gully Live Karaoke Night Neil Buettner Live Johnny&Kelly

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Brenden Cinemas Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Salida Library Modesto Library Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Empire Library Waterford Library State Theatre Bacchus Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters State Theatre The Boardroom Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy

Thursday, December 22 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Free Christmas Movie w Canned Food Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Preschool StoryTime Take Shelter Dave Dow Open Jam Session Metal Jam Open Jam Night 2 for 1 Thursdays Margin Call Poker Tourney Thursday Ramble- Eli Lester Night B a c h a t a S u a v e s i t a Salsa Johnny & Kelly Pint Night 80s DJ Karaoke Night Caliente College Nights Flyboys House Party Karaoke Time Minnie’s Patio Thursdays Neil and Matt Live Karaoke Skewers Style Azucar Thursdays

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Brenden Cinemas Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Hughson Library State Theatre Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters State Theatre The Other Place Deva Café King Kabob P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy Midway Lounge Studio 47 Copper Rhino Skewers Kabob House Minnie’s Restaurant The Boardroom Skewers Kabob House Azucar Latin Grill

Friday, December 23 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show The Way Dominique and the family the Banjo Queen Bean Christmas Special Live Music Fridays at the Bakery Take Shelter Friday Night Live&Local Music Josh Rosenblum Band Live Moonshine Christmas w/Dam & Toy Drive Karaoke Night Research & Development

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery State Theatre Barkin’ Dog Grill Queen Bean Coffee House Village Bakery State Theatre Material Grill Material Grill Copper Rhino Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub

Get Listed! Send us your listings at events@modestoview.com

Friday, December 23 Continued DJ Will Johnny&Kelly Live Live Local Bands MCW Band Weekly Issue Live

Bacchus The Boardroom Speakeasy The Boardroom Copper Rhino

Saturday, December 24 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Bilingual Story Time Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Santa’s Cool Holiday $5 Film Festival Take Shelter The Way Karaoke Night DJ Kevin & DJ Chopstiques Live Local Bands

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Modesto Library Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Brenden Cinemas State Theatre State Theatre MIdway Lounge Bacchus Speakeasy

Sunday, December 25 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Music Sundays at the Bakery Santa’s Cool Holiday $5 Film Festival Merry Christmas Karaoke Banda Sunday Nights Karaoke Night

All Library Branches All over the world Village Bakery Brenden Cinemas All over the world Nino’s Place Palladium Nightclub Midway Lounge

Monday, December 26 Book Club in a Box Free Pool Hanukkah Kwanzaa Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Wiggle Worms Story Time Take Shelter Chess and Vinyl Record Night The Way Karaoke Mondays

All Library Branches Nino’s Place All over the world All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Modesto Library Riverbank Library State Theatre Camp 4 State Theatre The Boardroom

Tuesday, December 27 Book Club in a Box Hanukkah Kwanzaa Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Wiggle Worms Preschool Story Time The Way Tuesday Track Workout Preschool StoryTime Bluegrass Jam Salsa Dancing & Lessons Take Shelter Trivia Night Tim Allen Live Karaoke Night Miki Industry Night T’s Night Out Trevelling Circus

All Library Branches All over the world All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Waterford Library 324 E St Modesto Library Ceres Library State Theatre MJC Track Modesto Library Queen Bean Coffee House Clarion / Shooters State Theatre P. Wexford’s Pub The Boardroom Midway Lounge Miki Japanese Restaurant Ts Cocktails 710 9th St. Modesto, CA Speakeasy

Wednesday, December 28 Book Club in a Box Kwanzaa Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool StoryTime Wiggle Worms Story Time Toddler Storytime Preschool Story Time Knitting and Crochet Classes Margin Call Karaoke Creole Jazz Kings The Way Jason Gully Live Karaoke Night Neil Buettner Live Johnny&Kelly

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Modesto Library Salida Library Modesto Library Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Empire Library Waterford Library State Theatre Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters State Theatre The Boardroom Midway Lounge P. Wexford’s Pub Speakeasy

Thursday, December 29 Continued Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Preschool StoryTime Dave Dow open jam session Metal Jam Open Jam Night 2 for 1 Thursdays Poker Tourney Thursday Ramble - Jake Murray+ B a c h a t a S u a v e s i t a Salsa Johnny & Kelly Pint Night Tower of Power 80s DJ Karaoke Night Caliente College Nights Flyboys House Party Karaoke Time Minnie’s Patio Thursdays Neil and Matt Live Karaoke Skewers Style Azucar Thursdays

Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery Turlock Library 550 Minaret Ave Hughson Library Barkin’ Dog Grill Clarion / Shooters Nino’s Place Clarion / Shooters The Other Place Deva Cafe King Kabob P. Wexford’s Pub State Theatre Speakeasy Midway Lounge Studio 47 Copper Rhino Skewers Kabob House Minnie’s Restaurant The Boardroom Skewers Kabob House Azucar Latin Grill

Friday, December 30 Book Club in a Box Kwanzaa Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Jim Christiansen Art Show Members Holiday Art Show The Way Exp Being Elmo: A puppeteer’s Journey Live Music Fridays at the Bakery Friday Night Live&Local Music Josh Rosenblum Band Live Melancholic, Rockaholic......Destruction Karaoke Night Research & Development DJ Will Johnny&Kelly Live Live Local Bands MCW Band Weekly Issue Live

All Library Branches All over the world Carnegie Arts Center Deva Cafe Mistlin Gallery State Theatre Nino’s Place State Theatre Village Bakery Material Grill Material Grill Fat Cat Music House Midway Lounge P Wexford’s Pub Bacchus The Boardroom Speakeasy The Boardroom Copper Rhino

Saturday, December 31 Kwanzaa New Year’s Eve bash wit Emersson Biggins

All over the world Nino’s Place

Sunday, January 1 Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Sunday Group Run Music Sundays at the Bakery Karaoke Banda Sunday Nights Karaoke Night Happy New Year Kwanzaa

Carnegie Arts Center Save Mart Scenic&Oakdale Village Bakery Nino’s Place Palladium Nightclub Midway Lounge All over the world All over the world

Monday, January 2 Free Pool Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Wiggle Worms Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey Chess and Vinyl Record Night Margin Call Karaoke Mondays

Nino’s Place Carnegie Arts Center Modesto Library State Theatre Camp 4 State Theatre The Boardroom

Tuesday, January 3 Ansel Adams of California Exhibition Members Holiday Art Show Preschool Story Time Preschool Story Time Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey Tuesday Track Workout Preschool StoryTime Bluegrass Jam Salsa Dancing & Lessons Stanislaus Civil War Association Meeting Trivia Night Tim Allen Live Karaoke Night Miki Industry Night T’s Night Out Trevelling Circus

Carnegie Arts Center Mistlin Gallery Waterford Library 324 E St Ceres Library State Theatre MJC Track Modesto Library Queen Bean Coffee House Clarion / Shooters St. Pauls Episcopal Church P. Wexford’s Pub The Boardroom Midway Lounge Miki Japanese Restaurant Ts Cocktails 710 9th St. Modesto, CA Speakeasy

Thursday, December 29 Book Club in a Box All Library Branches Kwanzaa All over the world

Get Listed! Send us your listings at events@modestoview.com

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Open early!

Many restaurants start serving dinner early so that you can get a nice meal in before the shows and movies that begin at 7 or 7:30.

Open Late!

Downtown Modesto is the place to be late Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. There is live music every night of the week in one of our great clubs or restaurants. After the show, stop and enjoy a nightcap.

Parking There are parking garages at 9th and L Street, 11th and K Street, 11th and I street, and 12th and H Street. Parking is close to all the restaurants!

Try a cab It is getting easier to catch a cab, both to downtown and home from downtown.

Why deal with driving and parking? Take the easy way.

A touch of Class 575-0690

Checker Cab 1-888-487-5441

City Cab 818-4144

County Cab Company 442-0392

Metro Cab 523-3333

Modesto Cab Company 521-7320 Red top taxi 524-4741

Quality Cab 552-9898

Taxi taxi Cab Co. 756-1035

Yellow Cab of Modesto 544-8294

United Cab 888-8888 Find local restaurants, www.modestoview.com

Locally Owned Most all of the down restaurants are locally owned. They hire local people and the money you spend stays right here in town. Local restaurants purchase from local farmers and feature local ingredients.

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What’s in the Rear View from NOVEMBER? First Strip The fall colors in Modesto were amazing this season!

Blake Steward and Dan Walsh get in the racing groove at Senna at the State Greg and Julie prepare for HandBorn Elvin Bishop out in the crowd at the State Theatre Winemaker Michael Martini meets David Bradford

Second Strip Newsman Carlos Rodriguez and Apollo Tull get ready forTwilight premier Eva, Kathy, Nicole and Becky get ready for Elvin Bishop Jenn, Steve and JoJo do Day of the Dead Sloshball at Enslen Park ModestoFamous Ruben Porraas and Dawn Quinn at Minnie’s

Third Strip Nick Shattel is Not an Airplane live in concert Ron Jackson greeting the crowd for the 100 Year party for M&ET Railroad Brenden’s Saul Trujillo, Jake Callizo, Abbey Murphy and Parker Steward at Twilight Gary Nelson, Thom and Lorraine Cardoza & Susie Fagundes at Il Vino Habitat benefit 209 Metal Man Mike Vanek

Fourth Strip Incredible violin work from Jennifer Frautschi with the Modesto Symphony The Grinch shows up at the Turkey Trot Alejandro Garcia and Lucas Velasquez sprint at the Turky Trot Angie and Madison out on the town MAMA singer, Marirose Powell, receives L.A. Music Award Chief Mike Harden at Turkey Trot

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Ali Chilles� Kris Tackett� Kristy Flora� Stacy Rose-Beason� Dr. Yakligian� Laura Cobb� Paula Hinshaw� Cristina Garcia�

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our� many patients for entrusting us with their care.� You have made the last seven years in Oakdale� a success!� Thank you for your loyalty and we pledge to� continue to provide amazing dental care for� many years to come.�

190 South Oak Avenue, Oakdale� www.OakdaleSmiles.com�

If you are looking for a caring doctor and team,� please call us today...� Proudly Serving Oakdale Since 2004�

We can’t wait to meet YOU!�

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