ModestoView July 2023

Photo illustration by Michael J. Mangano

GREETINGS VIEW

Happy summer and happy Fourth of July

Friends at MoBand is one of the highlights of my year and it was so good to have friends back from all over the USA and have my sister Julie visit and enjoy our ModestoCana too.

It is so great when communities have things that they are famous for or have cool historical significance. We are in the middle of three amazing months, May being May the 4th, our Home of Star Wars heritage. June being Graffiti Summer and celebrating 50 years of American Graffiti with Mackenzie Phillips and Candy Clark here in town. Now here we are in July celebrating 150 years of Fourth of July celebrations and a nearby county fair that’s also over 100 years running.  We are in the middle of the 103rd season of MoBand in Graceada Park.  Modesto has so much great and rich history.

An example of taking our history and making something new is the “American Laughiti” comedy contest at the State Theatre, June 22. This is a cool mix up to blend our stories.  ModestoView is proud to sponsor this event and we hope you will come laugh with us.

But the history really isn’t the most important thing.  It’s how we use our history to make our future better.  We need to use our traditions to make this a better place for families and companies to do business and

guide our priorities.  More great history equal more civic pride.  We need to tell our residents these stories.  The more these positive stories get talked about, the higher they get in internet searches and these then become the first things people read about Modesto.  That’s why is it so important to like, share, forward, link all of the good messages about Modesto.  That is why ModestoView exists, to be a faucet of non-stop flowing positive messaging.  We need you to help spread the word.     Authenticity is the word and Modesto has a great story to tell.  Last month, the newly restored downtown train station was opened. But this isn’t the goal. Now we just need to accelerate our plans to get the ACE train here to town to make some great economic connections and get people in and out of that station and into our downtown.   Who knows, maybe this will accelerate more downtown housing.  It’s the top of everyone’s requests, let’s get it going.

We need to be smart thinkers and get stuff done.  We worked hard to get Measure H passed, so let’s make sure things happen quickly.  Our gateways, our visitor areas, our new museums, our improved parks, roads and smart solutions for the homeless issues that plague many cities like ours.

We know what to do. We just need to have fewer meetings and get these things going.   Our community has given direction in years of community meetings, the feedback is there, now it is implementation and we need teamwork from government, private sector and our non-profits to get the things we have designed done.

Great local stories equal more civic pride and then we have more local businesses to support us.

In the spirit of the 40th Anniversary of National Lampoon’s Vacation, take time to check out the Parade, the Fair, MoBand

and make your own summer vacation a great local road trip that will lead to excitement.  So load your bags on the Family Truckster and make like the Griswolds and hit the open road.  I know I will be hitting many of these places with my family and grandson.  It’s up to us to teach the next generation.

Thanks for reading ModestoView and please take time to share our positive messages so we can improve what people see about us.  I hope to see you out and about.   With gratitude,

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

On the Cover

The globe trotting Foy family is lost in Modesto USA.  Well our Clark Griswold, aka Ryan Foy is trying to hold the luggage up while Ellen, aka Chelsea Foy aka @ lovelyindeed holds the family together.  Russ, aka Henry and Audrey, aka Maggie are completely thrilled about their next adventure.  Check out Chelsea’s new book, the Happy Home, out now on many platforms.   Thanks to the Foy family for being such good sports to bring this fun cover to life and thanks to  MJ Mangano for giving it the Vacation treatment. This cool 1967 Ford Torino Country Squire is for sale at the Graffiti USA Museum.   Check it out and make it your own “family truckster”.

So fun to show Jamie all of our fun Graffiti stories at the car shows.   Thanks Bill Harris for this pic

Publisher Information

PUBLISHER

Chris Murphy

chrism@modestoview.com

SALES AND ADVERTISING

Advertising@modestoview.com

Managing Editor

Middagh Goodwin

DESIGN, LAYOUT, & ART

PGrimaldi, Creative

Art Director / Designer

Peter Grimaldi pete@pgrimaldicreative.com

Photo Director

Michael J. Mangano

Production Manager

Abigail Power

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS

Madison Leupp – Adobe Specialist

Brandon Brush - Correspondent

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jim Christiansen

Aaron Rowan

Abigail Power

Eric Benson

Middagh Goodwin

Harrison Power

Efren Martinez

Patty Castillo Davis

Grace McNamara

Salvatore Salerno

Mary Layton

Monica Barber

Brandilyn Mitchell

Tasha Wilson

Carly Russell

Steve Perry

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Efren Martinez

Diane Moody

Michael J Mangano

Philip Johnson

PARADE VIEW

By Chris Murphy

One of Modesto’s greatest traditions is the 4th of July Parade.  First, if you have never been, it is essential that you give it a try.   Downtown Modesto at 9 am on the fabulous 4th, you can enjoy a big slice of ModestoCana. This month, our HistoryView captures the detailed history of Modesto’s parade, now in the 150th year.   It is amazing that Modesto was on board just four years after it became a national holiday.  When I was growing up, the parade was presented by the Modesto Junior Chamber of Commerce, aka the JayCees. Originally founded in 1925, they presented the Modesto Relays

soon after WW2.  The Jay Cees attracted many of Modesto’s young movers and shakers until they aged out at 35.  Al Menshew, Terry McGrath, Mike McNulty were some of the ringleaders back in the day.  Mayor Lee Davies selected many of the Jay Cees to head up Modesto’s big Centennial party in 1970 and they did so with full gusto and also took over the 4th of July Parade. They JayCees presented a big spectacle with a full party/picnic in Graceada Park. In 2010, the Modesto Kiwanis Club took over.

I am deeply honored to be the current Announcer of the 4th of July Parade.  The legendary radio broadcaster Cal Purviance

lead the charge for many years.  Cal was joined by a new up-and-comer Al Menshew who was an encyclopedia of local history and community connections.  Thanks to Mike McNulty, I met Al in the early 1980s.  Al inspired so much of my love of Modesto history and civic involvement.  In 2011, I was asked by Al Menshew and Jeremiah Williams to take over as announcer.  I was honored as Parade Grand Marshal in 2016 with my family. For this I am grateful and I am grateful for our amazing local service organization the Kiwanis, (Modesto and North Modesto) for all they do to keep these festivals and events alive.    Please join me and my announcing partner DJ Walker of KAT Country 103 was we bring you the Modesto scene at the 4th of July Parade.  This year’s Grand Marshal is the Graffiti USA Museum, Brian and Laura Gini of Collins Electric are the Champion of the Fourth. And new this year, Hometown Hero, Daren Bland of the Dallas Cowboys. I hope to see you there and stop by to say HI at the courthouse lawn and enjoy a big huge helpin of civic pride.

Click on the QR code to learn more about Al Menshew. Parade info –www.modestojulyparade.com

Fireworks at Modesto Nuts game Tuesday July 4, Doors at 5 pm, fireworks after the game.

ART VIEW

Art is Modestocana

By Jim Christiansen

Our Modesto View July theme is Modestocana/Americana, celebrating the history of Modesto.  150th Fourth of July Parade, Graffiti Summer, MoBand, and more.  Images of Modesto icons on display at the Chartreuse Muse with paintings by Bill Harris and Jonathon Troxler with new ceramics by Don Hall, and bicycle and airplane themes of Dean De Cocker  The Muse is expanding classes in ceramics and clay, has other apparel and artists in the mix.

Photographer Rick Raef was featured at the Kruse-Lucas Imports Gallery at 525 Tully Road through August with his Graffiti Car Art Exhibit celebrating Modesto and California Car Culture.  All proceeds from sales of his work will be donated to the Graffiti Classic Car Museum nearby.

Artists Laura Stokes and Jimmy Abuan’s show at McHenry Museum will end July 2, but a visit to the Museum features all sorts of art and Modesto historical exhibits. Modesto’s transformation to the future over at the State Theatre, with a new neon sign facelift with the soon-to-open Intermission bar and gathering spot.  The Jewel still playing host to Kristy Moore and other artists during Art Walk where you can peek into the Jewel’s small theater.  Art Walk

returns on July 20.

Nearby is Dragonfly Art for Life, classes ongoing there all summer, and are a regular gallery and creative studio space to visit during the month.  Art Walk at Ralston’s Goat featured artists are hung in the pool table room and bar all month, and permanent photos are on display in the main dining room. The Goat recently hosted some pop-up art events with the music schedule.  The regulars at the Tresetti’s/Preservation coffee corner at 11th and J Streets added art demos to the Third Thursday sidewalk scene.

18 Seventy Brewing has art displayed on the back counters during Art Walk and the map includes Lo-Fi Cocktails in case you are looking for more than the galleries open on Third Thursday.  Preservation ‘Coffee has art on the walls to look at as you wait for your order, as does Papachino’s and Picasso’s Gourmet Deli and Gallery, Cheroots, though not on the Art Walk maps.  The Art District continues to add murals to visit anytime. Peer Recovery Art

Project on Tenth Street, having an ongoing summer fundraiser with donated art for sale to benefit the program.  First Friday Market is July 7

MoBand Thursdays overlap with Third Thursday, but the crowds visiting Mistlin Gallery was a great turnout for the Emerging Artists, Salon des Refuses, and Members open theme show.  New artists on the walls, new members in the line up in Gallery B, including youngest CCAA member Charles Sperling, age 12 with 3 works in.  The Emergence show is one to see and both displays be up until July 15. New classes at Mistlin Gallery, Dragonfly Art for Life, and Chartreuse Muse will be

going all summer. Inquire at the galleries for details.

Don’t just show up for a one-night art experience. You can access art in Modesto year around.

Life Drawing sessions are still ongoing at Mistlin Gallery Wednesday nights from 7 to 9 PM.  Knights Ferry Art Studio has a Friday Night, life drawing session including materials for $18.

There is still time to sign up for the Stanislas Artist Open Studio’s, October 21 and 22 weekend.  Artists interested can get details by emailing openstudio. stanislaus@gmail.com

BREW VIEW

Lucca Winery Delights

By Christopher and Brandilyn Mitchell

Lucca Winery is a great little hidden gem in Ripon. If you thought good wine was only in Lodi, I am here to tell you otherwise. You’ll find it nestled in a luscious peach orchard, with plenty of parking, tables and shade. When the weather is too hot to be outside, no worries-delight yourself with flights in the spacious tasting room. When we visited Lucca, we brought our Little and we sat inside. The tasting room has plenty of self-serve snacks, and your eyes won’t lack for things to entertain them such as being surrounded by beautiful barrels, from neat old-timey advertisement posters to the taxidermy birds! (“Those are not birds Mommy, those are dinosaurs,” my Little corrected me.) It’s a nice quiet slice of Italy, just perfect for a date night, a friend hang-out, working on a paper, reading a book-whatever your heart desires, because all of those pair with their great wines. Our Littles favorite part was the resident puppers, Gus. He is a very good doggo!

(Pictured with Mark & Lynnette.)

Lucca Winery is owned by Mark & Lynnette Lucchesi. Lucca not only comes from their last name, it is a city in Italy which they love to visit. Vino Rosso is their table wine-which they decided to offer after a trip to Italy and locals telling them they must offer a table wine! They regaled us

with tales of their travels as we sipped their libations and got to know a little bit about who they are and why they love wine. “I was making jug juice for yearsand I got better and better at it.” Mark said. In 2011, they got their license and started with Zins and Petite Syrahs. In 2017 their gorgeous tasting room opened. We asked them both, “What wine was *the wine* that made you fall in love with wine?”

Mark answered with loud enthusiasm, “Mourvedre! You may not have even heard of it. There’s only 1,500 acres of it grown here. It’s a full bodied delicious wine. Good grapes equals good wine. You have to have good grapes. We love blends. I get so many ideas that I become overwhelmed with my blend ideas. I am also very sentimental about my older varieties and blends.” We totally understand that! Wine is a very sentimental alcohol! Lynette’s gateway was Viognier. We tried both, and although neck-in-neck, the winner by one noodle-length was the Mourvedre!

Where do they get their good grapes?

Lucky for Lucca, Mark’s family is into farming. He gave up farming to become a vintner, but his brother started in the industry and grows their grapes. “We’re very

lucky in that way. I tell him what grapes I want, he grows them!” Why Ripon? “We’ve been here 39 years. We wouldn’t want a winery anywhere else. This is home.”

Flights are $15 ($20 if part of a large group of 6 or more). You choose from the three flight options. The fee is waived if you purchase a bottle. There are 25 different wines available on the flights-you really can’t go wrong. I chose the first menu option, because it featured all whites– including a Moscato and a Viognier. Chris got the third menu option because it was filled with interesting names like an Oreste, Dionisio and Mourvedre. And where do most of their wine names come from? Family members! The Enzo is even named after their oldest grandson. They have 11 grandbabies, so that is a lot of wine naming to do! We’re sure Mark will come up with some delicious new blends to name after them. Keep your taste buds ready-they’ll be adding Brandy to their offerings in the future!

They have a really rewarding Wine Club, too. It’s free to join, and there are release parties for pickups for six bottles of wine, two times per year, in April and November. There’s a 20% discount for purchasing 1-11 bottles and 25% discount for 12+ bottles. Over the summer, there are exclusive events like live music by awesome bands and home-made pizza in their pizza oven. If you want to check them out I recommend attending one of the Summer Concert Series dates below:

July 8 – Foreigner Unauthorized

August 12 – Kalimba – the spirit of Earth, Wind, and Fire

September 9 – Big Band Beat

Check out information on these events, their wine club, wine list, and hours at luccawinery.com. We hope we catch you out there sometime! Sip on, friends! Lucca

MAMA VIEW COUNTY FAIR VIEW

Rock Me Out At The Fair

By Middagh Goodwin

Summer Concert Series at the StanCo Fair

By Middagh Goodwin

For several years, I had booked the Center Stage at the Stanislaus County Fair, providing an opportunity for local musicians to perform and for some to cross something off their bucket lists. In 2020, the fair was canceled due to the pandemic, and I had 50 hours of entertainment canceled. Last year, live entertainment returned to the Stanislaus County Fair, and this year, it’s in full force with a fantastic lineup on the main stage featuring Ginuwine, All American Rejects, and Blue Oyster Cult. Don’t worry, the Center Stage has some great local performers to keep you entertained while you eat that corndog and cotton candy. Kicking things off on opening night from 5:20 pm until 8:30 pm is Tongue & Groove. Their drummer, Dave Rogers, is well known for Drum Love, which is performing at libraries throughout the county in July. On Saturday, make sure to catch the synth stylings of Melynda Rodriguez at 5:20 and Gary Gervase & the Kickstart Blues Band playing some good rockin’ blues from 6:30 pm-8:30 pm. Heavy alt-rockers Aware take the stage on Sunday the 9th at 12:30 pm, along with the pop sounds of Us4Love from 3:50-6:10. I hear that MF Silverado will be bringing Elvis to the fair as part

of their performance on the 10th, from 5:20-8:30 pm. Blues duo Chaz and Jess have a new album and will be sure to play some tracks off it on the 11th starting at 6:50 pm. Don’t miss the current Americana MAMA winner Sweet Mama Rachel & the Homemade Jam Band performing on the 12th between 5:20-8:30 pm. Closing out this year’s Stanislaus County Fair will be a full day of performers from VMI School of Rocks from 12:30-8:30 pm.

Music in the Plaza kicks off on the 14th for Frida Friday with the Wet Banditios, along with some great artists, crafters, and vendors selling along 10th Street. The 21st sees the Vibes bringing great music and good vibes to the Plaza. Closing out the month of July are Dave Dow & Friends performing blues, jazz, pop, Latin, and more. Music in the Plaza is a free event from 7-9 pm, so mark your calendars and make plans to come out and enjoy some great local entertainment.

Help me help you get the word out about your local events. Email events@ modestoview.com and we will put it on the calendar. Who knows? I might feature you on the pages of the ModestoView.

The Stanislaus County Fair concert series is back and better than ever! You will want to experience this year’s exciting lineup, which features a diverse range of talented performers. Mark your calendars and get ready to rock out with some of the hottest names in music:

July 7: Parmalee, an American country rock band known for their catchy tunes and energetic live shows. With their infectious blend of country and rock, Parmalee will surely get the crowd on their feet and sing along.

July 8: Ginuwine, an R&B singer-songwriter and dancer who has been wowing audiences for decades with his smooth vocals and impressive dance moves. With hit songs like “Pony” and “Differences,” Ginuwine will surely bring the house down.

July 9: El Dasa, a Mexican-American musician who blends traditional Mexican music with modern sounds to create a unique and captivating sound. With his infectious energy and charisma, El Dasa will get the crowd dancing and singing along.

July 10: Plain White Tees, an American rock band known for their catchy pop-rock anthems. With hit songs like “Hey There Delilah” and “1, 2, 3, 4,” Plain White Tees will surely bring the crowd to their feet.’’

July 11: Revisiting Creedence, a tribute band that pays homage to the legendary rock group Creedence Clearwater Revival. With their faithful renditions of classic songs like “Fortunate Son” and “Proud Mary,” Revisiting Creedence will surely transport the audience back in time.

July 12: Lit, an American rock band known for their high-energy live shows and catchy hooks. With hit songs like “My Own Worst Enemy” and “Miserable,” Lit will surely get the crowd rocking out.

July 13: All American Rejects, an American rock band known for their emotinged pop-punk anthems. With hit songs like “Gives You Hell” and “Dirty Little Secret,” All American Rejects will surely get the crowd singing along.

July 14: Blue Oyster Cult, a legendary American rock band known for their hard-hitting riffs and theatrical stage shows. With hit songs like “Don’t Fear the Reaper” and “Burnin’ for You,” Blue Oyster Cult will surely deliver a show-stopping performance.

July 15th: Ashley McBryde, a rising star in the country music scene known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. With hits like “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” and “One Night Standards,” Ashley McBryde will surely captivate the audience with her raw talent and authenticity.

July 16th: Los Nuevos Rebeldes, a popular Mexican band known for their unique blend of traditional and modern Mexican music. Los Nuevos Rebeldes will get the crowd dancing and singing along with their infectious rhythms and lively performances.

. Stay tuned for more information as the fair approaches! Don’t miss out on this exciting event that’s sure to be one of the highlights of the summer.

M-F 5 pm-12 am Sat-Sun 12 pm-12 am Music starts at 8:30 pm each night. For more information www.stancofair.com

Local Children’s Author: Amy Phillips

Grips Kid’s Attention with a Unique Character

By Brandilyn Mitchell

Children’s books with a rhyming cadence always caught my attention and have been a foundation in primary classrooms for years. My favorite thing about teaching the younger children is teaching them to read. Rhyming is a very important part of learning how to read, so I intentionally wrote books that rhymed.

MV: What is your favorite breed of cat?

AP: I do not necessarily have a favorite breed of cat, but of the ones I’ve owned in my lifetime, the tabby cat is one I am fond of. Sphynx cats also have a special place in my heart! (Wink, wink!)

MV: Do you have any more stories you feel compelled to share with children that we may hope to read soon?

AP: I am working on a third book in the Harry series. I hope to have it come out by the end of the year.

Amy will be back at the Ripon Farmers Market on July 13th and August 10th from 6pm - 8pm. Come out for story time, and snag the special market sale of both books for $15, and she will gladly autograph them for your Little!

Lastly, if you have a child from age 1 day to 5 years old, please sign them up for the Imagination Library. Sponsored & created by Dolly Parton, this non-profit gives each child one book every month until they are five years old. Great books like, “The Little Engine That Could”, “The Rabbit Listened” and “There’s a Monster In Your Book”. It is free to sign up, and the requirement is not based on anything other than your child’s age. Sign up at imaginationlibrary.com. Follow Amy on her Insta (“author_ amyphillips”) or Facebook (“Author Amy Phillips”) to keep up with book signings, story time readings and more!

The Ripon Farmers Market is *the market* to bring your kids to. Not only because of the huge grassy area for them to play tag, ball, gymnastics or what have you-but the story time area, the Montessori kitchen, the fairy garden-they’re all exciting things for your kids to do while you eat your wares from shopping.

During one of the recent story times, Amy Phillips was the guest author. She has been an educator for over 17 years and has taught preschool, kindergarten, first and second grade. Currently, she is a high school assistant principal for an online charter school. It was while working with this age group, that she saw the importance in teaching young children about how to be kind and not biased or prejudiced, and started writing children’s books.

Amy read her books, “Harry the Hairless Cat” and “Harry’s Clean Up Day” to over a dozen children, eager to hear about this strange “naked cat”. The stories are silly but with good life lessons hidden in the rhymes. Lessons like accepting others who may be different, building self-esteem, and helping our friends and community. With so many cat breeds represented, I am sure your child will connect with these books. I guarantee they’ve seen most of them and will recognize them and say things like “That’s just like Auntie’s cat Oreo!” or “She looks like Pappa’s cat Molly!”. Reading to your kids is so important-not just for the educational aspect of letter recognition, learning sight words or phonics, but the VERY important aspect of connecting with your child. Giving them that oneon-one time every night to bond with you and build lasting memories is irreplaceable and priceless. I highly suggest adding these sweet books to your collection and making them a part of your bedtime story library. You can buy her books on Amazon. Or if you’re local to Ripon you can find them at Sheboba’s Tea and Austin’s Coffee.

ModestoView: Hi Amy! Thanks for taking time out to talk to ModestoView about your books. Please tell us about your beloved character Harry!

Amy Phillips: Harry is an indoor cat that discovers there is a big exciting world outside to explore. Once outside, he meets other cats and realizes that he’s different. It doesn’t take him long to realize that he is being judged by how he looks and that by being himself, a kind and helpful cat, that other cats will see he’s not so different from them. Harry teaches others how to be kind to others in the first book and then how to be kind to our earth in the second one.

MV: Did you always want to be a children’s author, or did something pull at you as an adult to get these stories out?

AP: Yes, I have always wanted to be a children’s book author, but I never had a compelling story to tell until now. Harry came to me when I was visiting a friend who had just gotten a Sphynx cat. Being a cat lover myself, I was interested in meeting this very unique cat! At the same time, I was also not very eager to pet it or actually engage with it because of how it looked and how I perceived it to feel-not soft and fluffy! I realized soon after that I had a bias toward these cats and I didn’t even give them a chance! I kept my distance and sadly, was not very friendly to Mike, the Sphynx cat. It didn’t take me long to see how this translated to our current state of our world, where bias and prejudice are at the forefront of many of our problems today. That is how Harry’s story came to be!

MV: Your rhyming scheme is awesome, as a result it’s really fun to read these stories. We have such an enjoyable time reading your books, and my daughter has learned new words. Was that something you were aiming for, or was it happenstance as you wrote them?

AP: I have written rhyming poems at various times in my life. It’s come easily for me.

GO MODESTO

Drum Love is a 501c3 organization that provides drum circles to promote individual wellness and strong relationships. The organization is going on tour and will be visiting the Stanislaus Library circuit in July. Dave Rogers will be hosting drum circles at all 13 libraries between July 17th and 29th. Bring your kids and join the rhythmic fun!

Monkeying Around

GO MODESTO GO MODESTO

On Sunday, July 9th, Monkey returns to Modesto to entertain with their high energy, horn driven ska sounds. Joining them are Franks and Dean from Las Vegas, who started out as a Rat Pack cover band, messing up songs your grandmother loved. They haven’t strayed too far from that formula over the years. Opening up is Modesto’s own Rocksteady sensation The Bracers always keeping the vibe and the groove moving forward(while respecting the deep tradition of the source material.) Ralston’s Goat 6-9 pm $10 and make sure to bring some extra cash for merch and something to drink.

MUSIC IN THE PLAZA

Music in the Plaza the free concert series, continues to bring some of the most talented players to the 10th Street Plaza on Fridays 7-9 pm. Kicking things off on Friday Friday, July 14th, is The Wet Banditos, playing latin and classic rock and roll. On the 21st catch the Vibe playing bring a diverse mix of favorites from several decades. Closing out the month on the 28th is David Dow & Friends who always mix it up with latin, jazz, pop and rock. Make sure to come out early for a good spot on the patio at Fuzio or Ralston’s Goat or just bring your lawn chairs.

UNPLUGGED VIEW

The Patzer’s Playlist

by Aaron Rowan

sassy rebuttal against someone who’ll never be her king. Diana sprinkles her own flavor of sweetness onto the bluesy sound.

Pops Series Concerts:

» Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live to Film

» Holiday Pops! with Ashley Brown

» Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

Six months ago I began to get heavily into the cosmic game of chess. It is said that there are more possible permutations on the 64 squares than there are atoms in the known universe. The strategy and geometry involved here are endlessly fascinating. I’m no Magnus, but I’ve had a few beautiful and brilliant moves and have played most days this year, working to sharpen my game. What music pairs well with a good chess match? Studies suggest that classical music can temporarily boost IQ and spatial reasoning - certainly worth trying. It turns out, though, that there’s a nice little soundtrack of chess-related songs by artists from my own concert series; so here are a few suggestions to help get you into the chess mindset and discover some sweet new music at the same time.

We begin with my singing southpaw friend Glitter Rose, once a country & southern rocker,  now a pop artist based in Texas. One of her recent originals is titled ‘Chess Piece,’ a smackdown of a pawn trying to claim her as his queen when she’s already got a king in her life. It’s not yet recorded but a live version exists online; you can find a Youtube video link (unlisted on Youtube itself) by way of her Facebook page @nameisglitter.

I’m not much of a blues enthusiast, but Romanian rocker Diana Rein was a blast on one of the very few occasions when I hosted that genre. The title track to her album ‘Queen Of My Castle’ is another

My favorite selection on this list is a ballad by our very own The Good Luck Thrift Store Outfit called ‘Gypsy Queen.’ This is one of the best lyrical compositions by Chris Doud, who I’ve long called the finest songwriter in our county. Doud’s poetic prowess is at its peak in this story song about watching “the fairest in all the encampment” from afar as she dances. It’s a refreshing slow-dance tune by the normally high-energy Americana outfit.

I’ve got to give some love to the minor pieces as well. Adam Bishop, formerly of the Modesto music scene, has done good work in folk & Americana styles, and now devotes himself to gospel music; but it’s his orchestral folk project Buffalo Buffalo that I enjoy best. ‘Schools And Prisons’ is a highlight from their album ‘Everyone You Love Is Going To Die.’ It’s a political semiparody filled with lively strings and horns. The whole album is fun and upbeat and well worth a listen.

Finally, to end this playlist (and a chess game) in proper fashion, there’s ‘Checkmate’ by The Jakobs Ferry Stragglers, a bluegrass outfit out of Pennsylvania. This short and sweet number is a story song about living a hard life on the road, something I know a tiny bit about given my long hauling across the country as a tour manager.

Next month, we’ll get to know the star of my next Young Artist showcase, who’s putting together his own vocal program for the first time in mid-August. Enjoy the fireworks and the rest of your summer festivities - and a friendly game of chess or two if that’s your jam - and stay tuned for more of the most eclectic live music programming coming to downtown.

FOOD VIEW

By Chris Murphy and the ViewCrew

Who wants Hot Dogs? We all want hot dogs!

This is summer in Modesto and one of the best and easiest foods you can get is a good ole’ hot dog. It really doesn’t matter how you do it, you just need to enjoy it. Best of all, there are so many local places where you can get the most amazing dogs, with little or no effort on your part. Going to the Modesto Nuts game? Hot dogs are essential. At the Grub Hub? Essential hot dog. Cruising in your car? Essential to find a drive in. Friends, I love to grill my own dogs, grill the onions, and slather with Sauerkraut, but really, it is so much better to be able to order a dog on the go, at a drive in, restaurant, street vendor or wherever you can get one. Let’s get into the summer hot dog groove.

As we enjoy the “fabulous 4th, the Stanislaus County Fair or just an evening cruising McHenry or 10th, you need to know where you can score a great dog that will soothe your jones for a fresh Hot Dog. Regular dog? Foot Long? Chili? Sausage? There is really something for everyone. So let’s check out just a few of our local treats. If you have your own fave, please share it @modestoview You can dine in, sit in your car, or eat out, it is up to you.

Let’s start with one of Modesto’s originals...

A&W DRIVE-IN

In downtown Modesto, at 14th & G Streets, open 11 am daily , is the legendary A&W. One of Modesto’s oldest drive-ins, this is the quintessential place to enjoy food in your fine classic car. I recently (and regularly) stop by A & W for two of my favorite things, a Coney Dog and a frosty root beer in a chilled frosty mug. This is really as good as it gets. Sitting under the shade, with a tray at my window, with a giant foot long dog, smothered with chili and cheese and a mug of root beer at the ready to wash down my dog, it’s amazing and takes you to another time.

BOBS GIANT BURGER

WIENERSCHNITZEL

It’s a classic McHenry Avenue staple. While there are many a Wienerschnitzel in Modesto, the A-Frame classic on the main cruise drag is the place to stop for a delicious dog. Our favorite? The Chicago Dog. The Chicago Dog is a grilled hot dog with fresh tomato, onions, pickle spear, relish, peppers, mustard, sprinkled with delicious celery salt. Whether you are cruising along McHenry in your classic car or there to stay to enjoy the iconic atmosphere, 204 McHenry Ave is the place to be! Open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

KREPE DOGS

By Harrison Power By Abigail Power

If you’re looking for wild and crazy hot dogs to satisfy even the most insane cravings, Krepe Dogs located in Grub Hubs at 621 9th Street is the spot you gotta check out. We were feeling extra crazy and tried the “Hot Cheeto Dog” which was topped with grilled onions, hot nacho cheese, topped with crunchy Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. It was just the kick this View Crew needed! While you’re there make sure to check out the Elote Fries with grilled corn, crema, and chili powder for a unique refreshing snack. Open 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM Sundays

FOOD FIXX

By Middagh Goodwin

Originally, I planned on getting the Chili Cheese Dog at Bob’s Giant Burger, a classic 50s-style diner. However, when I saw they had a Bacon Wrapped Dog, I immediately changed my mind. Who can resist an all-beef hotdog wrapped in bacon and cooked on the griddle? This delicious dog is topped with bell peppers and onions and placed on a bun heated and browned on the same griddle. Topped with ketchup and mayo, it bursts with flavor. And all this for just $8.99! The restaurant is located at 1801 H St B-5, Modesto, and is open from 10am to 9pm every day of the week. If you drive your classic car over, they’ll even take your picture and put it on their wall. So if you’re looking for a taste of nostalgia and some seriously delicious food, head over to Bob’s Giant Burger and try their Bacon Wrapped Dog. You won’t be disappointed!

By Jennifer Mullen

A Unique and Delicious Dog: The Slaw Dog

If you’re looking for a hot dog that’s truly something special, look no further than the Slaw Dog from Food Fix in Downtown Modesto. This mouth-watering creation features a Miller’s 100% Angus Beef Hot Dog, topped with yellow mustard, sweet & sour slaw, and served on a fresh baked bolillo roll with a crusty exterior and a soft and pillowy inside.

What sets this hot dog apart is the quality of the ingredients. Founded in Oakland, CA, Miller’s has been producing top-notch hot dogs and sausages for over 100 years, using fresh cuts of premium meats and a special blend of seasonings. The addition of Food Fix’s house made sweet & sour slaw takes this hot dog to the next level. The tangy crunch of the slaw perfectly complements the savory richness of the hot dog, creating a flavor profile that’s truly unique. Enjoy included sides like Jalapeno Popper Mac, Fix All Fries, or Fixed Potato Salad, and a wide variety of ice-cold brews, and a delicious dessert while you’re there!

938 11th St, Modesto, CA, Open 7-days, Monday-Thursday 11AM-9PM, Fridays & Saturdays 11AM-10PM and Sunday 11AM-4PM

The Griswolds, aka the Foys, enjoy some tasty hot dogs and root beer.

SCENIC DRIVE-IN

By Carly Russell

While Scenic Drive-In is well-known for its Knock Out burger, the Knock Out Hot Dog is equally deserving of culinary praise. Serving customers since 1956, Scenic Drive-In has crafted the epitome of a “California Dog” with its innovative combination of flavors. This includes avocado, freshly chopped jalapenos, shredded cheese, tomato, crisp lettuce, salt, pepper, and mayo on a fresh wheat bun. These ingredients blend seamlessly, creating an incredibly delicious experience that is bursting with flavor and some real heat!

At just $7.99, it’s a great value and the freshest-tasting hot dog in town! Beat the heat and skip the jalapenos if spicy food isn’t your thing. While you’re there, enjoy one of the 22 flavors of shakes, including pineapple - my favorite! Located at 1151 Scenic Drive, Modesto.

Open Monday-Friday 11AM-6PM and Saturday 11AM-3PM.

SMOKYS

By Steve Perry

A Classic Modestocana Dish

Smoky’s 1/3 lb chili cheese dog is a mouth-watering dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger cravings. The hot dog is made with the highest quality ingredients, including premium beef and a special blend of seasonings, ensuring a delicious and juicy taste in every bite. The chili con carne is cooked fresh onsite, with its savory and rich flavor, perfectly complements the hot dog and adds an extra layer of depth to the dish. This classic Modestocana dish is not only delicious, but also a great representation of the local cuisine that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, you won’t be disappointed with this delectable treat from Smoky’s.

501 Bangs Ave, Modesto

Open 9am-3pm Monday-Friday.

EL HOT DOG

By MJ Mangano

El Hot Dog Street Dogs is an excellent place to enjoy a satisfying meal that caters to all your taste buds. With the Flaming Dog, their signature spicy 100% all-beef dog (which comes wrapped in crispy bacon), you are sure to enjoy a tasty and filling meal. The dog is then topped with a blend of spicy Cheetos, Takis dust, red pepper flakes, grilled onions, house mayo, mustard, ketchup, and habanero, making for a flavor explosion that is hard to forget. You can find them conveniently located at: 100 S Lee Ave Oakdale, and they are open from 11:00 am to 9:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday.

MODESTO NUTS BALLPARK DOG

Basic of the basics....You have to start somewhere. If you are getting ready to catch a foul ball, or the 7th inning stretch, get a Modesto Nuts ballpark dog and the rest is up to you. Mustard? Relish? Onions? It is all so easy and every good hot dog starts like this.

HISTORY VIEW

MODESTO’S 4TH OF JULY PARADE

Not long after Modesto was first founded, Modesto and the citizens of Stanislaus County held the City’s first Fourth of July Parade in 1874. Now in 2023, Modesto is gearing up for its 150th Independence Day Celebration. Across the country, a town’s Fourth of July celebrations may be the epitome of quintessential Americana – the annual holiday celebrating the declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, a show of patriotic dedication and American progress. For most, it is at least a day surrounded with stars and stripes, with the scent of grilled food and fireworks filling the air. The core ideals at the heart of the National Holiday are what citizens of Modesto have celebrated for the last 150 years, and will continue to do so for the next 150 years. While the past century and a half of history and anecdotes of Modesto’s Independence Day celebrations could surely fill an entire edition of the ModestoView, we hope you enjoy the following highlights of Modesto’s past parades and those involved in maintaining the tradition.

MODESTO’S FIRST PARADE

The U.S. Congress established Independence Day as a federal holiday in 1870. Four years later, the citizens of Modesto and of the greater Stanislaus County area held the community’s inaugural parade on July 4th, 1874. While many of the sounds and sights of the parade would have been indicative of what we now come to expect from a Fourth of July parade, some early traditions of those civic celebrations have fell out of modern norms. The Parade started on H Street in front of the Court House, the procession began at 10:00AM with George Buck serving as Marshal of the Day. Leading the lineup was the Modesto Brass Band, and following behind them was a carriage that held the ceremonial representatives: Isaac Perkins was President of the Day, Reverend J.H. Sheldon was Chaplain, L.C. Branch was the Reader of the Declaration, and A.W. Roysdon was Orator. Behind the honorary officials was pulled a platform on which children dressed in red, white, and blue represented the 37 States. Then followed a variety of children and adults marching, some riding on horseback, and other carriages and wagons. After winding through the streets of downtown Modesto, the parade concluded at Huffman’s Warehouse at Front (9th) and I Streets for a grand assembly, which was called to order by Perkins and opening prayer delivered by Sheldon. There were three performances: A girls’ choir performed “Banner of the Sea,”

an original poem “Memories of ‘76” by V.E. Bangs was recited by J.T. Davies, and the “Star Spangled Banner” was sung by the Modesto Glee Club. Branch then publicly recruited the Declaration of Independence, and Roysdon ended the assembly with a civics address on individual liberty, education, and government which lasted over an hour long. A grand dinner was held, and a celebration ball was held by a Mr. Ross at the Eastin’s Hall, with festivities continuing on until midnight.

THE PARADE PLANNERS

Over the years, the traditions included in and the scope of the parade evolved based on changes in fashion and focuses of the era, and so did the actual responsibility

for planning and organizing the parade. From the first Fourth of July in 1874 to 1912, committees of prominent local and county leaders oversaw planning and advertisement of the public celebrations when there was a parade. During this time, it was not uncommon for other cities in the County or neighboring counties to share in the patriotic pageantry, leading their own parades in lieu of parades in Modesto. In this case, even if Modesto forewent a public parade for the holiday, Company D of the California National Guard still paraded from the Armory to honor the holiday in Modesto under the direction of Colonel R.K. Whitmore. From 1913 to 1969, the responsibility for planning the

By Harrison Power

parade shifted to the Modesto Chamber of Commerce after it was established. From there it transitioned to the Modesto Junior Chamber of Commerce, the ”Jay-Cees,” who oversaw the parade from 1970-2010. During this era of the parade, with shifts in liability coverage and funding requirements, the Jay-Cees were able to step in on numerous occasions to ensure the City of Modesto would not go without its Fourth of July Parade. This was in large part due to the fine approach and genuine love of the community brought to the planning table by Al Menshew, longtime parade announcer and organizer. It was Al Menshew who was approached by Mayor Lee Davies to assist in planning Modesto’s Centennial celebrations that led to the Junior Chamber taking on the Fourth of July Parade. The Jay-Cees ultimately went defunct in 2010, at which point the charge of carrying on the tradition of Modesto’s Fourth of July parade transferred to the Modesto Kiwanis Club, who still are the primary hosts and sponsor of the parade.

HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS

With so many parades, Grand Marshals, and stories throughout the last 150 years, Modesto and the surrounding area certainly had no shortage of Fourth of July celebrations, balls, and shenanigans. To that end, just a selection from the historical record is outlined below for your enjoyment. In 1878 no formal public celebrations was announced for Modesto due to the need of local farmers to be working their crops, so many in town left for Stockton to view the parade there. However, the Modesto Hook and Ladder Company took it upon themselves later in the day at 4:00PM to parade the streets in honor of the holiday led by Foreman Ben Ducker.

In 1884, James R. Briggs served as Grand Marshal of the parade riding on horseback. Briggs was a Civil War veteran who came to California in 1864 following his service to the Union.

In 1886, the role of President of the Day was given to the Honorable C.C. Wright, who was soon after elected to the California Assembly and went on to succeed in passing legislation that allowed the formation of localized irrigation districts.

In 1913, Modesto boasted one of the area’s largest Fourth of July Parades up to that point. One of the great spectacles was a statewide road race from Los Angeles to Sacramento that went through Modesto on that day. Coming through town, the automobile racers crossed the through the

1934 – Photos Provided by McHenry Museum & Historical Society

July 4th, 1972, Modesto, California. Ed Mapes Grand Marshal - Photo by Al Golub

July 4th, 1880, Modesto, California

Modesto Arch as their local check point of the race.

In 1933, Modesto had revived its Fourth of July parade after a pause of many years. The holiday celebrations coincided with the dedications of the Lake Modesto Dam and a new bridge over the Tuolomne River. Governor James Rolph attended Modesto’s parade that year riding in an antique phaeton from Sonora. A year later in 1934, the parade included 398 horses along with stagecoaches, floats, and covered wagons. Ed Mape, prominent local cattle rancher, had the distinguished honor of being Grand Marshal for 25 years, including in Modesto’s 1970 parade honoring the city’s Centennial and Fourth of July.

Local farmer Lester Stein first entered the “Grapes of Wrath” Model A parade entry in 1969, which is currently the oldest continuously entered parade “float” with the 2023 parade being its 55th Parade. Lester, along with his family, was Grand Marshal of the parade in 2000 and he passed away in 2007. Look out this year for the oldest entry in the parade!

In 1970, Modesto’s Centennial Celebration coincided with the Fourth of July Parade, in which an 1860’s Wells Fargo stagecoach carried Centennial Chairman Terry McGrath, Mayor Lee Davies, and the Centennial Queens with Vice-Mayor William Mitchell riding shotgun. The parade was reported to be over 10 miles long with 215 entries and attracted some 20,000 spectators on a day that reached 100 degrees!

History Resource

ModestoView appreciates the teamwork from the McHenry Museum Historical association.  They offer so many great resources to learn about our community story. Click this QR link that will take you to the current McHenry Museum Newsletter.   If you can, please join the museum and help us celebrate our history for our future.

James R. Briggs as Grand Marshal, 1884

The Great Modesto Area Road Trip

By Chris Murphy

The road is wide This i s a BIG summer!..

There is so much to do in and around the greater Modesto area.   Locally, we have some amazing things, like the Stanislaus County Fair, our local rivers and waterways, our local Modesto Nuts baseball team, and great concerts with our own local MoBand and big events at the FruitYard and the granddaddy of them all, the 150th 4th of July Parade.   Yes, the 4th happens right at the beginning of the month, but it just sets the tone for a great Modesto road trip.  Why is the road trip important?  Heck, the highways after World War II lead to the amazing drive-ins like Burge’s, Mel’s and destinations like Little America and Stuckey’s (remember the pecan logs) across the USA.

Also, one of our favorite movies EVER is National Lampoon’s Vacation. Yes, friends, this movie has turned 40 years old!   On July 29, 1983, America was introduced to the Griswold family vacation, a journey that all future road trip vacations would be judged against. Who can forget Christie Brinkley, Aunt Edna or Cousin Eddie?   My own family had a Volkswagen bus and an Olds Vista Cruiser, complete with the rear-facing seats that would lead to carbon monoxide inhalation. But no vacation since would be the same since the introduction of the “Family Truckster”, as recreated by our friends at the Graffiti USA Museum, our local one-stop-shop of car and travel memorabilia. We are working with the State Theatre for a screening of Vacation.  Stay tuned.

So what can you do around here, that is a Truckster trip away, without breaking the family bank and ending up at a closed-for-repair Wally World?

We have amazing local destinations, like Moaning Caverns, Yosemite (for which people travel all the way around the world to visit, free flowing white water (running high this year so check with local companies)  to our local County Fair and our local baseball team, the Modesto Nuts.   There is a local destination for everyone.

First off, 150 years.  Think about that. For 150 years, Modesto has hosted a 4th of July Parade.  Even during COVID, there was a parade and from a humble beginning to a huge event that attracted entries from all over our region, the Modesto 4th Parade is a true slice of ModestoCana.  With over 100 entries, marching bands, local companies and a tribute to our Graffiti USA Museum, this is a “do not miss” event.  4th of July is a holiday, and you need to be in Downtown Modesto.  Many of your local restaurants will have coveted patio space and the Stanislaus County courthouse lawn is where ModestoView’s Chris Murphy and KAT Country 103’s DJ Walker will be announcing the festivities. You simply have to be there.

10th St, to J Street, to 11th St to I Street is the course, so get your space early, Downtown Modesto July 4. 9:30 am.

No need to slow

What’s the best kind of baseball?.. Local ball!

Minor league baseball is the place where up and coming players look to make their mark.  Are they going to the big show?  Is there a big-leaguer that has been sent down for some rehab or training?  You never know.  The Modesto Nuts are a farm team for the Seattle Mariners and there is always some great action at John Thurman field, our local ballpark.

If you have a family or company event, book a group night at the Nuts game and have a blast.   Don’t miss the opening pitch or the 7th inning stretch.  Oh yeah, as you read in our FoodView, you can get a great hot dog at the ballpark.

Modesto baseball started here in Modesto in 1872 and soon after, they adopted the name Modesto Red Caps, later becoming simply the Reds.  By 1910, they got pretty good and the Chicago White Sox came all the way out to play them.  Over the years they would be associated with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Milwaukee Brewers and more. An association with the Oakland A’s lead to renaming the As and then in 2005 became the Nuts.

On October 14, 1962 the World Series came to Modesto due to a rainout and flooded Candlestick Park.  An impromptu practice workout was played in Modesto where over 6000 people vied to get the 2500 tickets available.  This day is captured in Ken White’s novel, Getaway Day.  The Yankees would go on to win the 1962 series.

More Modesto baseball can be found at www.historicmodesto.com

Check out the 2023 schedule at www.modestonuts.com

Just open your eyes

MoBand

There is not really much more that shouts ModestoCana than the annual MoBand (Modesto Band of Stanislaus County) Concerts in the Park.   For six amazing Thursdays each summer, the sounds of a big concert band entertain thousands in Modesto’s Graceada Park Mancini Bowl.   There are new benches in the bowl, thanks to a huge local fund drive.   Picnic Blankets are out early, crowds gather around 6, wine starts flowing soon after and the music starts at 8 pm and wraps around 10 pm.   This is one of Modesto’s great gathering events.  If you haven’t been to one, you have 2 more chances on July 6 and 13th.  If you don’t think you will know anyone, don’t fear, you will have many new friends after just one visit.

There will be a special fund-raiser event on the 20th with Bangarang in the bowl.  These are free events thanks to generous local patrons and sponsors.  See the schedule, and become a donor, please visit:  www.moband.org

Stan County Fair

What’s more iconic than a county fair?

Movies are made about these annual gathering events that feature animals, food, fun, rides, music, history and ag exhibits and so much more.  The Stanislaus County Fair has been a part of our county fabric since1911, when it was the Turlock Melon Carnival. The local 4H clubs are on display, and a walk down the fairway, by the ferris wheel, or the zipper, or even the duck races. Eat a hot dog, funnel cake, crepe, grilled corn, and of course a giant corn dog and many more deep fried treats.  All fun, all affordable and it is clean and nice.

One of the highlights of the Stan Co Fair is the free concerts on the main stage. Kicking off the season is Parmalee on July 7, Ginuwine-July8, El Dasa – July 9, Plain White Ts – July 10, Revisiting Creedence – July 11, Lit – July 12,  All American Rejects – July 13, Blue Oyster Cult – July 14, Ashley McBride – July 15,  Los Nuevos Rebeldes – July 16 July 7 – 16 www.stancofair.com

Fruit Yard

And enjoy the show

Over the last few years, Modesto is becoming a place for the performing arts, music and other entertainment.  XFest in 2001 and the Gallo Center in 2007 started bringing larger performances to our area.  Since the end of XFest, there were few large capacity touring concerts until the Fruit Yard built an amphitheater. With over 4,000 capacity, the Fruit Yard is now on the country and rock circuits. Owner Joe Traina makes sure that not only does the Fruit Yard host these large sold out shows, there is a focus on local organizations that are able to use this big professional stage.  Best part is, when the show is over, you are mere minutes from home.

Coming this month, Train – July 20, Parker McCollum – July 23 (sold out) and Air Supply – August 19. A BEATLE is coming to Modesto!  On September 16, Ringo Start will bring his All Starr Band to the Fruit Yard.  I for one am VERY excited to see a Beatle in Modesto and plan on being right there in the front row!  Don’t miss out on tickets.

Get tix and see the schedule at www.thefruityardevents.com/  The FruitYard restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring Prime Rib and Crab nights, Sunday Brunches and live music on the weekends. www.thefruityard.com

Farmers Markets

Saturday morning in Modesto should start at the Modesto Certified Farmers Market. Take the shopping bags, the kids, the family and stock up on the freshest produce, eggs,  baked goods, fresh flowers, local crafts and even ready-to-eat food from local favorites.

Open 8 to 1 pm on Thursdays and Saturdays all summer long.

Located on 16h St between I and H Streets.

For detailed hours, themes and specials:  www.modestocfm.com

Ringo Star

AmericanGraffititurns50LEGENDS VIEW

American Graffiti Film Star

Mackenzie Phillips inducted to Modesto’s Walk of Fame.

By

It was a legendary night in Downtown Modesto. It was great to celebrate our American Graffiti culture and honor our 2023 Legends of the Cruise. Modesto USA is the home of American Graffiti and is loaded with wonderful people, who made our history and inspire our stories.

American Graffiti star Mackenzie Phillips was inducted into the Historic Cruise Route, Legends of the Cruise Walk of Fame.  She gave a great welcome and thank you speech to the large crowd assembled and shared some stories of the filming of American Graffiti in 1972 when she was 12 years old.  She recalled the fun times and long nights inside the yellow deuce coupe with actor Paul LeMat who played John Milner, being directed by George Lucas, hanging on the side of the car.  American Graffiti was filmed in less than a month, all at night.

The other 2023 Legends inducted were Sam Autry, Dick Braner, Paul Gissible, Larry Neville and Craig Powell who were all in attendance and shared stories from their early cruising and hot rod days.

Cruise Route Founder and Graffiti USA Museum board member Chris Murphy exclaimed to the crowd, “American Graffiti is our story and our unique place in the world and we are all working hard to tell the world about how cool Modesto USA is.”    The large crowd agreed.

During the ceremony that included

representatives of our US and California elected officials and a strong contingent of the Modesto City Council, Mayor Sue Zwahlen shared her cruising stories and help present Mackenzie’s award.  The Modesto FAROS also presented a $15,000 to the Graffiti USA Museum to help with building the museum.

Thanks to all that came down and rocked the plaza with music from Third Party.

It is so great to have these great positive things about Modesto for our past, present and future.

#modestousa #americangraffiti

For More Information  Chris Murphy  209-534-1704

Chris Murphy

Photos by MJ Mangano.

Vive Le 14 Juillet!

We are so excited this year that the State Theatre is bringing back its tradition of celebrating Bastille Day on July 14th! The theatre will be showcasing widely loved American films that romanticize and pay tribute to France with a showing of An American in Paris at 4:00 PM and Midnight in Paris at 7:00 PM. Sponsored by ModestoView, Modesto Sister Cities International, and New Bridge Management, the event will highlight French snacks, music, and wine and will be a perfect Friday night for Central Valley Francophiles. Tickets are $9.00 for the early show and $11.00 for the evening celebration. Get yours online today or at the box office on July 14th!

If you haven’t heard of Bastille Day or “La Fête Nationale” as it’s more commonly called in France, let’s do a little history lesson! Essentially, it is similar to America’s 4th of July celebrations as it marks the symbolic start of the French Revolution. The Bastille was a medieval fortress outside Paris that was used to house political prisoners or other enemies of the King and on July 14th 1789, a mob captured the prison and released the prisoners inside. The “Storming of the Bastille” became a symbol

for change and the end of the monarchy in France. We are lucky to be hosting representatives from our Sister City in Laval, France this summer and they will be there at the festivities to celebrate with us as we pay tribute to the friendship between our two countries.

See you there - ce sera magnifique!

July 14th @ 4:00 PM An American in Paris, 7:00 PM Midnight in Paris at the State Theatre”

Summer Road Trip?

1700 McHenry Ave., Suite 58

(209) 577-NUTS

Open Monday-Tuesday 11am-7pm, Wednesday-Saturday 11am-8pm, Closed Sunday

Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum Celebrates 4th of July with Grand Marshalls and Museum Preview

By Carly Russell

We’re excited to announce that this year’s 4th of July Parade in Modesto will be led by a very special group of Grand Marshals - the current and past chairmen of the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum, Brent Burnside, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and John Sanders, past Chairman. The Graffiti USA Museum has become a well-known supporter of all things Modesto, even while still under construction, and has grown its presence in the community as a round-the-clock partner to a wide variety of organizations and local non-profits. It’s been providing a venue for fundraising, meeting space, and more.

To celebrate our selection as Grand Marshalls, the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum will be showcasing classic cars driven by board members, advisors, volunteers, and friends of the Museum during the 4th of July Parade. Visitors to the parade will get a chance to see some of the most iconic and beloved cars of the past, as well as some of the Museum’s newest acquisitions. We hope to see you there!

At Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum we’re so much more than just a museum - we’re a community partner. Our team works tirelessly to support local organizations and non-profits as they seek to raise money, awareness, and improve their footprint within the community. By supporting the Museum, you’re not only helping to foster the future of car culture in Modesto, but you’re also helping us build a dynamic and flexible venue space with a wide range of uses. These include activities designed to increase tourism to our area, educational events, annual fundraisers like crab feeds and benefits for the Arts, and much more. Thank you to the hundreds of groups that have considered partnering with us to help shape the future of our community!

The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is an excellent example of how businesses and organizations can collaborate to improve our community. Thanks to community partnerships, the museum provided kids aged 2 to 15 with inspiration, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and play activities throughout the month of June. These activities were available at over twelve Graffiti Summer Events, the State Theater, the Modesto Nuts, and more. Over 500 kids participated in the scavenger hunt and summer passport activities, earning gift certificates to Funworks, Boomers, McHenry Bowl, the State Theatre, Yogurt Mill, Galaxy Riverbank, Sno-White Drive-In, and the Great Valley Museum. We are grateful to these sponsors for making this summer even more special for the hundreds of kids who attended these FREE events in our community. We had an overwhelming response from kids and parents alike as they were thrilled to have the opportunity to earn rewards while exploring and developing a newfound interest in the classic cars displayed throughout our community.

Interested in becoming a business sponsor or donating to the on-going construction of the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum? Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization. All of our Board Members, Advisors, and Volunteers are unpaid, providing their skills and expertise to advance our community experience and generate increased interest in what makes Modesto so great! Become a Founding Donor and help us reach our funding goal of $5,000,000.00. All proceeds support the continued development and completion of our 50,000 square foot Museum space, located at 610 North 9th Street, Modesto. Scan the QR code below or email Contact@ graffitiusamuseum.com for more information or to get involved!

Come in and see what we’ve accomplished so far! Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is open to the general public Fridays and Saturdays 10AM-4PM July 1st through the end of Summer! Set up a private tour, book a an event, or test-drive one of our cars for sale by appointment, email: contact@graffitiusamuseum.com

HIP HOP VIEW

By Joseph “PSUNO” Zimmerer

There is hope for a younger generation of hip hop dancers in Modesto. I recently caught up with Grim Boogie, a member of the Modesto Fire Squad, and got some insight on how this young man became so active, dancing and competing in some of the biggest battles in the world.

Yo

Grim What’s Poppin!?

( Dad Pun Landed )

How long have you been dancing?

I’ve been dancing since I was 6 years old. I used to try to imitate Michael Jackson as a kid when my family would play his music videos. I’m 20 years old now and I never stopped dancing so about 14 years!

What are some things that influence your style?

Some things that influence my style are other dancers specifically the Electric Boogaloos. One of my crew mates TekBoi, who’s another dancer from Modesto, has also influenced my style a lot.

Tell us when you started taking dancing seriously ?

I started taking dancing seriously in the end of 2018 when I was introduced to the battle scene. It was just a lot of fun and I wanted to see how far I could take it.

I see you have entered quite a few competitions that last couple years. Were there any events that really stood out?

Freestyle Session! That’s the one that stood out to me the most. Everyone there has the same goals and it just feels like a world of dance once you enter the venue. It gets you the more recognition from the popping scene than most if not all of the other competitions in the country. It’s also a great opportunity to compete against some of the best dancers.

What does the future hold for Grim Boogie?

in the future I plan to compete in bigger events internationally and eventually start teaching people how to be a dope popper.

Where can we catch up with you? Social Media Links?  Catch up with me on Instagram where I post all of my battles @grimboogie_

INTERMISSION VIEW OPENING SOON!

By Chris Murphy

If you are as excited as the ViewCrew is about the Intermission being ready to open, read this great note from State Theatre president, Sam Pierstorff.

Thanks to the support of our very generous community, The State Theatre is slated to complete its new cocktail lounge and community space, Intermission!

Staying true to the State’s Theatre’s art-deco, 1930’s theme, Intermission will be a captivating cocktail lounge with state-of-the-art lighting, projection, and sound that will not only be a vibrant gathering place for our community but also a classroom space for the State Theatre’s film school, a captivating event venue for local groups, and a great place to take a break from the daily grind.

Intermission at night, with a full bar and an elegant interior, will be a place for game nights and jazz nights, poetry and open mics, date nights, themed movie nights, comedy nights, and tastings. The opportunities for Intermission are endless, but our primary goal is simple: We want to make Intermission the best part of your day. We look forward to opening our doors in late July and serving our community at Intermission soon! www.thestate.org

JAZZ &BLUES VIEW

Graffiti Weekend was a lot of fun until I had to find my way home. I drove around in circles so much that I thought about renting an apartment to be home. There is a lot to do with summer festivities, the fair, farmers’ markets, and Music in the Plaza.

The Blue Monday Band had a blast playing for the Prospect Theatre Fundraiser last month. We hope to do more for Prospect in the future! On a sad note, Chef’s of New York on 12th Street has closed again. This time it looks like it’s for good. We have lost a great restaurant and venue for music. My peeps are returning to the Blue Monday Party Jam, and we are grateful.

We host Blue Monday on July 10th and 24th at Café Urbano, with great food, a

Got Blues You Can Use

By Eric Benson

full bar, and a swinging band with special guests each month. In the band: John Ady and Conrad Johnson on bass, John Burt on sax, Cortez Flores and Dave Hawks on drums, and Eric Benson on keys. We play jazz, funk, Latin, rock, and the blues, not necessarily in that order, for listening and dancing. So please be like alpha beta and tell a friend.

We thank Chris Murphy and Gary Nelson for giving their love to support the Blue Monday scene, which yours truly appreciates! Café Urbano also has DJ dancing Tuesday through Sunday, featuring Latin-based music. The Creole Jazz Kings continue to play at Café Urbano and will be back this month, so swing by.

Some great shows are at Gallo Center, but also check some great venues out of town: The Newman Theatre, Yoshi’s Oakland for the best jazz shows, Khumba Music Center in Santa Cruz, and Piedmont Piano Company, the Back Door, and the Sound Room located in Oakland.

Please continue to come out, folks, as we can’t do it without you

PERFORMING VIEW

We are in for a great summer treat for our performing arts season.  The Gallo Center and the Turlock Community Theatre have released their new season, the Prospect Theatre has a new season in the works.  This, along with the Modesto and MJC Performing Arts, YES Company, Central West Ballet, Opera Modesto, VMI Rocks, and our school drama programs, Modesto really has an amazing performance scene.  Make sure you check out the new season and get your tix in advance so you don’t forget.  Bluey is in on tour January at the Gallo Center so you parents and grandparents, you’ve been warned so better not miss out.

This month, the YES Company, the innovative SCOE & Gallo Center youth performance company will be presenting the amazing, haunting and clever Addams Family.  Thanks to Jay Casey moving for the assistance in getting the elaborate set to Modesto.  It is so great to see the acting and musical performances from our youth.  Shows are July 20, 21, 22, & 23.  Don’t miss this amazing performance.   Tix at www.gallocenter.org

By Chris Murphy

There are a couple of great highlights you won’t want to miss this season

Coming in August, Carla

Morrison – 5th , August

MPA presented White

Christmas, Donny Osmond

Aug 10, Josh Turner Aug 9, Martina McBride – Sept 10, Mickey Dolenz of the Monkees Sept 14.  Check out the season calendar and keep your eyes peeled for added shows during the season.  www.gallocenter.org

Can you say Dye-No-Mite?

Yes, that Jimmie J.J. Walker will be bringing his stand up comedy to the Post. If you have not been out to the Post Restaurant in North Modesto, you need to check it out.

It is built in a streetscape and for the last few years as been featuring great comedy under the guidance of Roman “Roman on the RIVR” Guzman. For info and tix, call 209-818-3032.   The Post Restaurant July 22, 5801 Stoddard Rd. 8 pm

Do you want to be part of the drama?

Check out the innovative Murder Mystery coming to the Downtown Century where you will meet the Morales family. Hector and his wife, Carmen, manage the household. Be advised to avoid getting on the wrong side of their family. With a family full of secrets, it’s bound to be someone’s last supper. Meet the family and the rest of the cast at “The Last Supper”, a murder mystery dinner show! Dates are July 7th, 8th, and 9th with tickets available at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/thelast-supper-2202169

Turlock Community Theatre is bringing the hits this season right away.   Five for Fighting is coming up in September,  Los Lonely Boys- Oct 5,   Christopher Cross -Oct 22 and the show I am looking forward to the most, Marty Stuart and the Superlatives, October 28th.

The State Theatre is jumpin’ with new events like American Laughiti comedy contest sponsored by ModestoView and

Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group.  This will be to comedy what the poetry slam is to poetry.  Audience scored

judging will determine the winner.   Please plan on supporting these local comics as they try to make you bust it up.  July 22.  Tix at www.thestate.org

Prospect Theatre Project

Water by the Spoonful, by Quiara Alegría Hudes presents the boundaries of family and community that are stretched across continents and cyberspace as birth families splinter and online families collide. Water by the Spoonful is a heartfelt meditation on lives on the brink of redemption.  July 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30 Get tix and see showtimes at www. prospecttheatreproject.org

Stay Tuned – The Prospect Theatre Project will be announcing their 23/24 season.  School drama teachers, please send your plans for fall shows. events@modestoview.com

Check back at www.modestoview.com for regularly updated event information 24/7

Sandy Fitness

By Efren Martinez

It’s summertime, and many of us are either heading out or on vacation. However, keep in mind that vacation does not mean taking a break from your workout routine. Your workout should go with you, but it does not need to be the same. Just like vacation, everything is different, and your workout can be incorporated into part of your fun. Recently, I found myself at a beach resort where summer sports were all the rage. What a great opportunity to get in some fitness! I’m not talking about the resort’s gym; I’m talking about the beach. Beach volleyball was happening everywhere. Make no mistake, beach volleyball will give you an extreme workout. The fun thing about any netted sport is that it can be played with 2 or more players. If volleyball

isn’t your thing, you can also use the net and play badminton. Other sandy beach sports could include Frisbee, surfing, boogie boarding, cornhole, catch, or simply anything you can think of. What makes any sport challenging on the beach is the sand. Have you ever tried running or walking on the sand? You know it takes twice as much energy to run on it compared to running on a track or pavement. So this summer, while you’re on vacation, skip the resort’s gym and get in your fitness on the beach with your family. Remember, it’s essential to play smart at the beach, so don’t forget the sunscreen, know where the lifeguards are, and pay attention to the signs and posts for the beach and water. Safety should always come first. Happy Summer Fitness!

BARGAIN VIEW ALL AGES VIEW

Summer of Fun

By Monica Barber

Planetarium will have shows at 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Entrance fees for the museum and planetarium are $5 each, and $4 each for children, seniors & veterans. YCCD/ Students & GVM rates vary. https://www. facebook.com/events/778769090445216/

The summer season brings the heat and tons of fun things to do inside and outdoors. Ms. M’s idea of summer fun is just a nice relaxing day by the pool with a good book but that’s not everyone’s cup of iced tea. Here are a few things to do in Modesto this July that will save you some money but not leave you short of fun.   Summertime just wouldn’t be the same without celebrating this Patriotic day. It’s a day to mark our country’s independence, gather together with family & friends, enjoy fireworks and of course watch the Independence Day parade in Downtown Modesto. The 4th of July parade has been a local tradition in the city of Modesto celebrated annually since 1874. The parade route follows its long-established path through the streets of downtown with entries of classic cars, parade floats, local groups, schools, marching bands, and more. Hope to see you there! Info: http://www.modestojulyparade.com/

Summer sizzles when Science Night at the Museum returns on the first Friday of the month, July 7thwhere you will be delighted to a free telescope viewing on the rooftop observation decks. This free family-friendly event is hosted by The Great Valley Museum during the evening hours from 7-10 PM. Additionally, the Luebke

Going into its third season, the Gallo Center’s Brown Bag Concert Series continues to become a great way to enjoy new local musical talent during lunch. The free music lunchtime concerts take place every Friday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Gallo Center’s outdoor Modesto Rotary Music Garden. The series has been known to feature some of the area’s local new and established musical acts. July 14th welcomes Zoey Rae, to lift your spirits with her soulful eclectic sound. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch and a blanket or towel to sit on while they enjoy the music. Check out this popular series. Info https://www.galloarts. org/AboutUs/MusicGarden.aspx

If you’ve ever wondered if there’s an artist in you, now is the time to find out. Chartreuse Muse is hosting a Play With Clay single-day class every Saturday in July. The class will allow you to learn hand-building techniques while being instructed step by step on a ceramics project. The projects are open for your creative spirit to enjoy and have fun with the process. Bring a friend and spend your Saturday getting in touch with your inner artist. Families are welcome. The class is a drop-in but requires pre-registration to save your spot. $30. https://thechartreusemuse.com/adultclasses-2/

It’s my favorite month of the summer, July! It’s time to embark on new adventures and make the most of what our vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, there are plenty of exciting activities awaiting you in Modesto this July. From cultural events to outdoor fun, here’s a curated selection of things to do that will keep you entertained all month long.  The 4th of July is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than a parade? Since 1874, Modesto has celebrated the 4th with a parade downtown! Celebrate Independence Day with a bang at Modesto’s annual July 4th Parade and Fireworks display. The parade will begin at 9:30. Join the festive

By Grace McNamera

parade filled with colorful floats, marching bands, and community groups.  Don’t forget to buy some fireworks as well to watch the night sky light up!  Please don’t do illegal fireworks, keep it safe and sane.

One of my favorite summer memories in Modesto is heading to the Modesto nuts games.  Take yourself out to the ballgame and cheer on the Modesto Nuts, our local Minor League Baseball team. Grab a hot dog, root for the home team, and experience the thrill of a live baseball game at John Thurman Field. It’s a fantastic way to spend a summer evening with family and friends. These are just a few highlights of the exciting events and activities taking place in Modesto this July.

Be sure to check local listings and community calendars for more information on other happenings throughout the month. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply looking for a way to connect with your community, Modesto has something for everyone. Embrace the summer spirit and make July a month to remember in our wonderful city. Happy exploring, Modesto!

Hello, Modesto!

GO MODESTO

Modesto

Grill, Modesto

Public Library Knockin Boots, Modesto The State Theatre, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto Queen Bean Coffee House, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto Barnes & Noble, McHenry, Modesto The Boardroom, Modesto Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Place, Modesto

95.5

Radio 95.5 FM The Post Restaurant, Modesto Dying Breed, Oakdale

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

95.5 FM Eagles Hall, Modesto Harvest Presbyterian Church, Ceres KCBP

July is really big for Women’s Soccer. The amazing World Cup action will come to the State Theatre on July 21 with USA vs Vietnam and July 26 for USA vs Netherlands. Come see the action on the big screen of the State Theatre and cheer Team USA with all of your friends. Needless to say, the bar will be open. Both games are 6 pm local time. State Theatre 1307 J St Modesto. Tix are $20 adults and kids $12 includes Hot Dog, Soda & Chips. www.thestate.org

Karaoke in Modesto

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Nino’s Modesto

Tuesday

Twisted Pig, Modesto Low Key, Modesto Udder Place, Turlock

Wednesday

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Splash Bar, Modesto Bookies, Modesto\ Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock

Thursday

Donoby’s Bar, Modesto Main Street Inn, Ripon Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

Friday

Donkey Bar, Modesto Frontier Club, Patterson

Saturday

Low Key, Modesto Frontier, Paterson

Sunday Low Key, Modesto Speakeasy, Modesto

Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock Blaker Brewing - The Tarmac, Atwater Urbano, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM KCBP 95.5 FM KCBP 95.5 FM Eagles Hall, Modesto Urbano California Bistro, Modesto Ten Pin Fun Center, Turlock KCBP 95.5 FM Donoby’s Bar, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Splash Bar, Modesto Bookies, Modesto Bookies Bar, Modesto Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres 3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon Ralston’s Goat, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Mancini Bowl, Modesto

Stanislaus County Library, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Brave Bull, Modesto Main Street, Ripon

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto Stanislaus County Library Facebook

Mistlin Gallery, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Dorada Park, Oakdale

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

Downtown Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Del Rio Country Club, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

The Post Restaurant & Bar, Modesto

Stanislaus County Fair

Dying Breed Brewing, Oakdale

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

The Great Valley Museum, Modesto

Stanislaus County Fair

The Century, Modesto

Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

The Udder Place, Turlock

Ceres River Bluff Regional Park

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP

KCBP 95.5 FM KCBP 95.5 FM Nino’s Place, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Stanislaus County Fair Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon Ralston’s Goat, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar, Modesto Main Street Inn, Ripon The Udder Place, Turlock Dust Bowl, Turlock Mancini Bowl, Modesto Stanislaus County Library, Modesto Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Brave Bull, Modesto Main Street, Ripon Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto Stanislaus County Fair Stanislaus County Library Facebook KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

The State Theatre, Modesto Stanislaus County Fair

Eagles Hall, Modesto Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto Graffiti Usa Classic Car Museum, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto Low Key Saloon, Modesto KCBP 95.5 FM The Fruit Yard, Modesto Dorada Park, Oakdale Stanislaus County Fair P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto SpeakEasy Lounge, Modesto Martin G. Petersen Event Center, Modesto Prospect Theater Project, Modesto 10th Street Plaza, Modesto Nino’s Place, Modesto Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto Stanislaus County Fair

The State Theatre, Modesto Dust Bowl, Oakdale

KCBP

CALENDAR VIEW AND BE SAFE • DESIGNATE A DRIVER

KCBP 95.5

Key Saloon, Modesto Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto Johansen HS, Modesto The Fruit Yard, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto Gallo Center for the Arts Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

KCBP 95.5

Bel Passi Baseball, Modesto

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

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

2023 EVENTS

July 4th-4th of July Parade in Downtown Modesto

July 7-16th-Stanislaus County Fair

July 14th-Frida Friday in the 10th Street Plaza

July 8-9th StocktonCon Summer at the Stockton Arena

August 1st-National Night Out

August 6th ModStock at Graceada Park

September 22nd-Latino Heritage Festival in the 10th Street Plaza

Bookies Bar, Modesto

Food Fix Butcher & Baker, Modesto

Dying Breed, Oakdale

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

SpeakEasy Lounge, Modesto

3600Santa Fe St, Riverbank

Denny’s, 1525 McHenry Ave, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

The State Theatre, Modesto

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

Mountain Mike Pizza, Ripon

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto

Keyes Public Lirbrary

Ceres Public Library

KCBP 95.5 FM

Grains of Virture, Oakdale

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

September 30th Lodi Comic Con Fall at Grape Festival Grounds

October 1st-6th DoMo Walls in Downtown Modesto

October 14-15th-Riverbank

Wine and Cheese Festival

October 14th-Main Street Day Ripon

October 17th Modesto Area Music Awards at the State Theatre

Passi Baseball, Modesto

Veterans Center, Modesto

Mike Pizza, Ripon

Ralston’s Goat, Modesto Grayson Public Library

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Stanislaus County Library, Modesto Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Main Street, Ripon

Mancini Bowl, Modesto

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Stanislaus County Library Facebook

Gallo Center for the Arts

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Bel Passi Baseball, Modesto

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Dorada Park, Oakdale

Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

Strings Italian Cafe Modesto

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

108 Sports Lounge, Riverbank

The State Theatre, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto Ranch Hand, Hughson

Bel Passi Baseball, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Newman Public Library

Turlock Public Library

Nino’s Place, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Blaker Brewing, Ceres

Ironstone Amphitheatre, Murphys

The Game Room, Sonora

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto Frontier Club, Patterson

KCBP 95.5 FM

Modesto Public Library

Knockin Boots, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Modesto Centre Plaza

Barnes & Noble, McHenry, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Gallo Center for the Arts

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP Radio 95.5 FM

Dying Breed, Oakdale Prospect Theater Project, Modesto Rancho Fresco Cantina, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Bel Passi Baseball, Modesto

KCBP 95.5

Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar, Modesto

Main Street Inn, Ripon

The Udder Place, Turlock

Dust Bowl, Turlock

Stanislaus County Library, Modesto

Tap In Wine Down, Ceres

The Brave Bull, Modesto

Main Street, Ripon

Crocodiles Nightclub, Modesto

The Fruit Yard, Modesto Zoom

Stanislaus County Library Facebook

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

10th Street Plaza, Modesto

The Boardroom, Modesto

Knockin’ Boots, Modesto

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Modesto

Dying Breed, Oakdale

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Modesto Senior Citizens Center

Stanislaus Veterans Center, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donkey’s Bar and Grill, Modesto

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Dorada Park, Oakdale

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

The State Theatre, Modesto

West Side Theatre, Newman

Five Eye Brewing, Ceres

KCBP 95.5 FM

The Boardroom, Modesto

Empire Public Library

Hughson Public Library

KCBP 95.5 FM

Spring Creek, Ripon

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Frontier Club, Patterson

KCBP 95.5 FM

Modesto Public Library

Knockin Boots, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

Ripon, CA

The Fruit Yard, Modesto

Barnes & Noble, McHenry, Modesto

Chartreuse Muse, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP Radio 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

P Wexford’s Pub, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

Nino’s Place, Modesto

Queen Bean Coffee, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

Low Key Saloon, Modesto

Speakeasy Lounge, Modesto

Johansen HS, Modesto

Eagles Hall, Modesto

Zoom

VFW Post 3199, Modesto

Prospect Theater Project, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Donoby’s Bar. Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

Nino’s Place, Modesto

The Smart Axe Modesto, Modesto

KCBP 95.5 FM

KCBP 95.5 FM

October 21st-Dia De Los Muertos in the 10th Street Plaza

November 11th-Veterans Day Parade

November 25th-ModShop in Downtown Modesto

December 2nd-Celebration of Lights Parade Downtown Modesto

December 2-3 Model Train Show at Stanislaus County Fairgrounds

Dec 2nd-23rd-Rockin’ Holiday in 10th Street Plaza

Thurs-Sat

December 9th-Spirit of Giving Run in Downtown Modesto

April-October DoMo

First Friday in Downtown Modesto

Third Thursday Art Walk in Downtown Modesto

JULY FOURTH EVENTS

July 1st Fourth of July Parade DowntownTurlock Ca 10 am

July 1st Fireworks Show Woodward Reservoir – Dusk

July 3rd SF Giants and Fireworks at Excite Ballpark, San Jose 6 pm

July 4th Fourth of July Parade, Downtown Modesto  9:30 am

July 4th Fireworks at Big League Dreams Manteca CA 9:30 pm

July 4th Modesto Nuts vs Stockton Port, John Thurman Field followed by Fireworks

PRINT& DIGITAL

July 4th Atwater Run for Independence, 7:30 am Parade at 9 am

July 4th Fourth of July Festival Ralston’s Park Atwater 9 am-4 pm

July 4th Concert and Fireworks Castle Commerce Center, Atwater, 6-10 pm

July 4th Parade 5th Street Gustine

July 4th Festival

Henry Miller Park Gustine 12-5 pm Fireworks Gustine High School 9 pm

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

The power is in your hands. www.mid.org