InterView Modesto is loaded with musical talent. If you are reading this and have not been to one of our restaurants or nightclubs to hear our local bands play, then you need to make a plan this very second to check out the MdoestoView event calendar and go see local music. You will be amazing and the variety and the incredible talent we have here.

One of the most accomplished musicians around is Joe Barretta. Joe has been on the burning up the blues, playing your favorites and deliveringpowerful acoustic performances. I had the honor of having Joe play in our band for a gig we did in San Diego and it was great to get to share the stage with him and see is talent in action and get to know him better. Let’s meet Joe Barretta.

ModestoView: When did you start playing guitar? Joe Barretta: I Started playing and signing around 5 years old. I first startedplaying by ear, then taking lessons around 8 years old.

MV: What song inspired you most when you were young? JB: There were many. The usual of course, House of the Rising Sun, Gloria, Wipe Out. Then on to the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin. The list goes on.

MV:You have recorded in Nashville with some very special people, tell us about that? JB: I played in a band around here in the 90s with Bassist Mark Polack. We became really good friends over the years. Mark moved out to Nashville and startedplaying around Nashville. Mark is also a great recording engineer. Mark hasworked with many wellknown artists. So he is always inviting me out to Nashville to record. I recorded my last 2 records out in Nashville. My latest release was recorded at Lamplight studios. The studio is owned and run by Chad Cromwell. Chad is Neil Young’s drummer. He also has played with Dire Straits and many other great acts. He was nice enough to let me come over there andhang out and record the basic tracks for my latest record called Underneath the Sun.

MV: How has your style evolved over the years. JB: I grew up near Detroit Michigan. When I was young the music there was a biginfluence on me. Detroit had great rock stations to great soul music and jazz. I started out playing in my uncle’s club around age 8 playing CCR, Van Morrison, Johnny Cash. Until the police would politely tell my dad and uncle I had to go because of my age. They would take me out the back door and my payment was anything I wanted to eat. It was great training. I then startedplaying anywhere I could, weddings parties etc. My dad was really supportive when it came to my music. Around age 11, I got the chance to play on Detroit’s local telethon hosted by Soupy Sales. That was a big deal back then. Then I got an offer to play with Sonny Freeman, BB King’s drummer. That was a great experience. The Pips from Gladys night and the pips would come over and watch us rehearse.

I moved to California when I was 19. I lived in the East Bay for many years playing and recording with a lot of great artists. Such as Drummer Chester Thompson for Genesis and Frank Zappa. Sax man Pee Wee Ellis, played with James Brown Various players with Santana and Many others. I have also opened for many great acts. Now I am mainly playing and writing my own music. I am really into being a published songwriter. I have had 2 of my songs from the last album on CBS The Young and the Restless. I also have music that gets frequent airplay all over Europe. I am still pursuing more publishing opportunities. More of a singer songwriter style. Hopefully I can get the local stations here to play my music as well.

MV: You have a big reputation for serious blues, but your new CD has really branched out with really catchy songs. What were you trying to say in your new songs? JB: I have always been all over the map as far as music goes. I still try to keep a little blues in what ever I do. These songs are basically about the Human Condition Lyrically, like the Blues. The music is in more of a rock direction. This gives me a little more freedom to go wherever I want to. I love the blues and I love the challenge of writing a 3 and a half minute song. That has a good chorus and a strong melody and a heart felt message. That’s where my head is at now.

MV: Do you like Acoustic or Electric music better? JB: I love both. The Acoustic is like walking in the country and the Electric is like driving a race car with attitude.

MV: Who would you most want to share the stage with? JB: Right now it would be with Ben Harper or backing up Brett Dennen, or SherylCrow.

MV: Where can people buy your music this very second when they put down this interview? JB: My music is available at ITunes or Amazon .com. Please also visit my website for information and Dates. I would personally like to thank everyone who has come out to the shows and supported me as an artist. www.joebarretta.com

ModestoView Music Review By Chris Murphy>

Joe Barretta has been making amazing music for years around here and he has just released a CD that is very well recorded and produced. He recorded it in Nashville with some of the most experienced people in the business. But best of all, there are some really catchy songs. After all, it is really about the songwriting. Cool verses, and really memorable choruses, Joe has really deliveredsomething that is really artistic, but a the same loaded with songs you want to hear over and over again. I really liked the song Down this Road which is a perfect driving song and Find Your Placewill make you hit replay over and over. Download this album today at joebarretta.com today.

> CD cover.

GraffitiView By Chris Murphy

Modesto USA is proud to be the home of American Graffiti, George Lucas’ 1973 film about cruising in 1962. ModestoView is proud to feature the legendary people that were there during those days and that George Lucas built his story upon. As we approach the 50th Anniversary of the Class of ’62, we will introduce you to Graffiti legends and share some fun Graffiti tales. In the April issue, we met the founder of the Faro’s Car Club, Dennis Billington.

This month, we take you on a rare view inside of the legendary Burge’s Drive In. During the late 40’s the contemporary music was on KTRB and then on KBOX. As rock and roll hit the airwaves, KMOD was the hit station that later became KFIV,still on the air today at AM 1360 where you hear the ModestoView morning to do list every day. This was Modesto’s soundtrack and everyone tuned to the same station.

Inside Burges’ there was a remote radio station and a KFIV DJ was there in action. Not only did he broadcast from inside the drive in, he would work the parking lot taking dedications and talking to the cruisers. Burge’s was the place to be and Dwight Case was there in the middle of it all, and spinning the rock and roll hits across the Modesto airwaves. This was truly a legendary time in Modesto. Dwight Case went on to the Sacramento and San Francisco markets and then to RKO Radio and became not only a Modesto radio legend, but a national legend too.

Soon you will see more American Graffiti history on the Modesto Historic Cruise Route coming to 10th and 11th Street beginning June 8. Click on www.modestocruiseroute.com to

Do you have an American Graffiti story to tell? Did you cruise between 1945 and 1965? Do you have any pictures you want to share? Email us or call us so that we can get your story and maybe even a dedication too. 209-534-1704 chrism@modestoview

Photo Credit: Dwight Case courtesy of the collection of Steve and Linda Pedego, Burge’s at night from the collection of Bart Bartoni

In June- ModestoView will have the best and most exciting Graffiti Summer issue ever. Look for exclusive pictures and interview and the stories behind the story of American Graffiti. Make sure you advertise in tho every exciting issue.

The BigView – Monthly Feature

Aventura de Taco Trucks By ModestoFamous

When you decide to make a life here in Modesto you have to realize that at some point someone will ask you to eat Mexican food from a truck. This might scare you at first but you will be just fine.

We just spent a day sacrificing ourselves to dig into the taco truck culture of the Modestoarea for you and we learned about some great places. Have some fun with this. Spend a day getting stuffed and having fun! It won’t cost you much cash and you might be surprised what you find.

Location…Location…Location…

Most newbies to Modesto automatically head over to Taco Truck Row on 8th Street to test out the scene. You will definitely find a great selection of food there but we wentbeyond that particular street a bit. The following are places that we were referred to and places that we simply stumbled upon.

Tacos Vallarta – Corner of 14th and D Streets

This place never seems to close and attracts a vast cross section of Modesto fans. You will find our local police force in line with the suit and tie crowd and the nightclub crowd. Food is cheap and tasty and you get plenty of it for the price. Ask about the phone number that you can use to call ahead. We hear that only their favorite customers get it.

Adrianna’s – Taco Truck Row – 8th Street

Hit this tasty place up for fifty-cent tacos every tuesday, handmade tortillas and a nice spicy kick. We love their sopas!

Alejandra’s – Food cart behind the courthouse downtown on H St.

This is a tamale cart disguised as a hot dog cart. Get their early for tamales that are fresh, hot and thick. The last time that we were there tamales were about $2 each.That is a bargain!

El Mexicano – Taco Truck Row – 8th Street

We were lured in by signs promising homemade tortillas and we are glad that we stopped in. Count on fresh eats that will fill you up without leaving you poor. Be prepared for a bit of a kick in regard to spiciness. It won’t hurt you but it will burn a bit. Best tortillas of the day!

F.K. Jessica’s – Taco Truck Row – 8th Street and Crows Landing Road

Jessica’s seems to be the most famous collection of taco trucks in the Central Valley. This is the place to roll in after a long night at your fav club to eat a $4.50 burrito the size of a newborn. We never hear complaints about these trucks.

Taco’s Apatzingan – Corner of Hatch and Crows Landing Roads

Seriously authentic eats designed for folks that either just arrived from Mexico or have the desire to eat like they live there. Try something called a Morisqueta. You will be served a heaping plate of bone-in pork, rice, beans and cabbage. Bewarned – You will feel the burn here!

“Chito” Birria Tatemada- Crows Landing Road

Absolutely the cleanest outdoor dining area that we visited. I never thought I would have the chance to say this – “I ate a goat!” Their goat meat tacos are tender, delicious and spiced to perfection! My health-conscious girlfriend fell in love with the cup of consume (soup) that was served free with our taco. It featured a ton of cilantro and onions swimming happily in a cup of tasty beef broth.This place is amazing!

Mariscos Sinaloa – Crows Landing Road

We had to think long and hard about buying seafood from a truck but were glad we did! One of the best deals that we found all day was the ceviche de camaron tostada that came piled high with shrimp and fresh salsa for $1.25. They also serve octopus, abalone and oysters on very clean stainless steel tables.

El Rey del Taco – Crows landing Road

This truck came highly recommended and did not disappoint. It is hard to beat fifty-cent tacos served all the time. Hot, fresh and packed with flavor!

Super Taqueria – Crows Landing Road

We were tempted by the sign advertising aguas frescas. Order the red one! For less than $2 you get a sweet juicy bucket-of-a-beverage complete with fresh fruit chunks that will quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

Tony’s Tacos – Salida Blvd. in Salida

Relax outside and watch families eat fat burritos at Tony’s that are priced too low to resist. You can take them to go – if you can carry them! Value and freshness is thefocus here.

Impress your friends with this handy phrase guide-

Pollo- Chicken

Asasda/Carna asada- Beef

Cabeza- Cow brains

Lengua- Cow tongue

Birria- Goat

Tripas- Tripe

Pastor- Meat shaved from the bone. Most typically pork.

Carnitas – Fried shredded pork

Mariscos – Seafood

Camaron – Shrimp

How much does it cost? ¿Cuánto cuesta?

What is on that? ¿Lo que hay en eso?

Is it spicy? ¿Es picante?

Help! My mouth is on fire! Ayuda! Mi boca está en llamas!

Where is the bathroom? ¿Dónde está el baño?

AcousticView By Matty Comer

As we jump into May, I can not help but to get a bit exited inside! The evenings are warming up, and people are ready to be outside enjoying themselves. The avenues that we are taking this summer reflect the idea that people should be able to bring their entire families out to as many local music events as possible…PERIOD.

Starting Friday June 1, and going straight through the end of the summer, The Acoustic Rock Society will have an event three weeks a month in Downtown Modesto. We signed up for twoshows a month through the summer with The 10st Plaza Summer Series and Fuzio’s. We also will be hosting three shows at The Queen Bean at 1126 14th St. through the end of August. All are free, all age, early evening shows at amazing spots within our own community.

We are lucky to have so many talented musicians willing to give a little back to our community each month. Its worth is evident as we look out into the crowd and see our children, friends, and families dancing and carrying on. We all love seeing a small child taking ahold of dads leg while he is on stage performing a little! Simply priceless! I hope you are ready for a summer of music in downtown Modesto.

ARTIST OF THE MONTH: TJ Lake TJ Lake played his first show in 1993 at The Eagle’s Hall in a rock band called Man of Straw. He moved on to play drums and sing in a few metal bands before switching full time to guitar. While living in NYC in 2001, Lake met up with two friends from the Modesto/Turlock area also living in the city. The band Gravey was formed and they played such clubs as CBGB’s, Siberia, and B3.

When Lake moved back to Stanislaus County in 2004 he created Hickory, which played through the area up through 2011. Nowadays TJ performs solo and with Dr. Blue as The Dust Bowl Children. Lake also plays guitar and harmonica in Dr. Blue & Bad Medicine. See TJ Lake on June1 at the 10st Plaza Summer Concert Series…7–9pm

Look for our page on facebook/The Acoustic Rock Society for events Email us at acousticrocksociety@yahoo.com

MAMA View By Jill Ferris

May Playlist

Well fellow music lovers of Modesto, summer time is pretty much here. Got to love our little town, its not even June and we have already felt 90+ degree heat. If I know any remedy that can cool us down it’s definitely some hot boys in board shorts playing SKA, Reggae or Punk and, well, that exactly what I am going to give you.

THE SUPERVILLAINS!! – May 14th Fat Cat (930 11th st Modesto)

Yes you heard right the Florida based Ska/ Punk/ Reggae band is heading out this way and not only around here they are playing at our very own Fat Cat Music House and Lounge.

They are no amateurs in the music scene they have toured frequently with Pepper, Slightly Stoopid, Fishbone, Streetlight Manifesto, The Expendables, Mad Caddies and more. They are signed to the Hawaiian based record label (owned by Pepper) Law Records. They are one of the nation’s top names in the Ska/ Reggae genre. You can expect the sweet sounds of Reggae/ Ska mixed with their unique southern harmonies. There is never a dull moment with these guys. Their songs speak of girls, drinking and other types of good times!

My favorite songs:

Moving Out (Anthony’s Song) The Pit I HateEverything CrispyWeed

Find them here: http://blog.thesupervillains.com/ Like them here: http://www.facebook.com/TheSupervillains RSVP for May 14th here: http://www.facebook.com/events/336236609763060/

Those are just a couple of my favorites but let me know what yours are here: http://www.facebook.com/jillferrisbooking

Now for some LOCAL talent of the same genre.

Braata Definitely one of my favorite local bands and so much fun to watch live! The charming front woman, Amanda Grey, is just mesmerizing to watch jump around on stage and sing her heart out to her bands amazing ska, reggae and just a tad bit of funk music. This band may be young but don’t let that fool you, they have won several competitions over the last couple years and I would put my money on them having a very bright future.

Songs to check out: Know Gnomes Skag Soup

Find them online and take a listen! http://www.facebook.com/Braata6/app_2405167945

This show is just one of three big Ska/ Reggae/ Punk shows to be coming up this summer. Stay up to date on these shows and so much more by finding me on Facebook..http://www.facebook.com/jillferrisbooking

Thank you and enjoy the music!!

By Mike Vanek An Interview with a Loser JOJO RUSH OF NOTHING BUT LOSERS

This month I submit to my readers an interview with a true Modesto Heavy Metal Icon and one of my best friends. Jojo Rush is the frontman for Modesto’s most hated band NOTHING BUT LOSERS. You may see him down town covered in blood wearing his trademark white scrubs covered and or horror movie T-shirt and think toyourself oh my god who is that and will he kill me?? No he won’t… what people don’t know is he is a quiet and very nice guy and a father of 5 kids that he takes care of every day. Jojo and his fellow Losers have made quite the name for themselves and have played hundreds of shows here in the MO and they have sold thousands of dollars worth of tickets for promoters and clubs all overtown and are most likely the hardest working band in town. Here is a closerlook at the frontman for Modesto’s most hated band!!

MV-Congratulations on celebrating 10 years of Nothing But Losers!! How did you guys come up with the name?? JR-Well we had a list of names like Power Bomb ,All Virgin Tw*t etc, but Nothing But Losers seemed to fit the personalities of the band members.

MV-What does being in NBL for 10 years mean to you?? JR-Man it does not even feel like its been ten years. I actually had to be reminded that it had been ten years. but it’s cool to still be around and kicking. There were a lot of great bands that we had out lasted, I mean I never imagined us lasting this long its been a fun ride.

MV-What have been some challenges that NBL have encountered over the last ten years?? JR-Well, line up changes was our biggest issue for a long time. That, and people did not really warm up to us at first, but we got a solid line up and started catching on. Then the worst happened. Chuck got hit by a car and all most lost his leg it was a huge ordeal as not only was our drummer hurt but our brother was hurt really bad. It was hard to come back from and I think it would have broke most bands.

MV-What has been some highlights for you as front man for Nothing But Losers?? JR- Just getting to share my art with people and have them into it is the best. You can’t beat that. Then playing with bands I grew up on and all the cool people I’ve met. It’s a bit surreal at times.

MV-How would you compare the metal scene now compared to 10 years ago when the band started?? JR-. First of all, it’s gotten a lot more tight knit. Bands actually get along and support each other and you never saw that ten years ago, at least I didn’t.

MV-Who are your top 5 favorite local bands to play shows with?? JR- First off, I think this question sucks, so I’m not going to make a list of top five, but I will name drop bands like Levee, Zombie Death Stench, Calimed, Hang the Code, Stag, This Times Brutal, Better Left Unsaid, Warpath Assasins. Hex Pop, Shay and Nate. Well if I could, I would say every band in Modesto. This spot is loaded with talent.

MV-What advice would you give to a young band just starting out?? JR-just do it go out play in front of people put yourself out there. You will learn how to play along the way

MV- How do you come up with the lyrics and imagery for NBL?? JR-Well as most can tell, I have a huge horror influence and it comes out in the imagery, You know the whole band helps come up with ideas for costumes and what not and the lyrics can come from any where anything from a real life experiences or maybe a movie I just watched. We keep it dark because its just really in our nature. I could not see me writing about puppy’s or butterflies.

MV-What do you like doing when not working on NBL?? JR- Honestly for the most part, I take care of my family. I’ve got five kids and a wife and I’m telling you that’s a lot harder job then NBL. Other then that, I have been working on my comic books. Me and my boy Shane should be done real soon. I also do a lot of community service to help out around the town

MV-What’s coming up in the near future for Nothing But Losers?? JR- Just doing our thing, working on a record. We’ve got the ten year show planning out going to go big with this one. Lots of special guests coming on stage with us that and we have a Make A Wish deal we are doing today. We have a sixteen year old autistic kid coming to jam with us tonight he wanted to play with a real band and some one thought we are a real band so yeah we have more stuff like that coming up

That’s it for me this month!! As always keep one foot in the gutter and onefist in the gold!!

RockabillyView: By Jennifer Allsup

BARNYARD FROLIC RADIO SHOW

Have you ever came across a radio show called “Barnyard frolics” ? In the 1950′s, out of Little Rock, Arkansas.this radio show is where Elvis Presleymade his debut at the ripe young age of 19. At the time, no one knew that Elvis would become such a “pelvis thrusting” idol that he once was, and for memories of most, still is. Elvis was there along, with A.C. Lynch and the Drifters, Maddux Brothers and Rose, Dick Hart, Maxine Brown just to name a few.

How I came to learn about the “Barnyard Frolics” and all the amazing Country Rockabilly greats, is Joyce Lester Usiak, grandmother of Shaylin Nichole Usiak. Joyce was a back up singer for the Barnyard Frolics Radio Show in the early 1950′s.

Being part of this radio show, Joyce was able to meet and sing with other talented musicians like Bobby Wayne and Glenn Stepp. Joyce truly wanted to become a “pop star”, though her efforts pop music was to hard to get into so Joyce took up country singer for she always loved the gospel music.

Joyce Lest Usiak, was born in Sacramento, Ca and moved to Arkansas in 1937, then back to California 1957 when she decided she was done with the Barnyard Frolics and was ready to raise a family. Sometime later in the 1970′s, The Test Tubes Radio Club inspired Joyce again and even gaveherself a trucker handle “California Dreamer” (lol). Around the 1990′s Joyce also use to sing at the Eagles hall on Camilia and Yosemite Blvd, Modesto Ca.

Sitting down with Joyce was a most pleasant experience. She shared so much history along with photos and old recorded vinyl. I was in AWWWEEE!! to say the least. If you want to know more about the Barnyard Frolics check out Maxine Brown’s website. www.maxinebrown.com for more past history or country and rockabilly music.

Leaving you with a fond memory of my encounter Joyce Lester Usiak. The GLEAM in Shaylin’s eyes listening to her grandmothers stories of her musical past is differently …..

Smiles Jennifer Allsup 209-214-0317 facebook.com/jenniferallsup

UrbanView By T.L.

“Urbanos 5 De Mayo Weeknd” and Top Picks

Cinco De mayo Lands for the first time in four years on Sat 5-5-2012. Thanks to the leap year. Across the nation a lot of you will be glued to your TV 5-6-2012 for Seven-time world champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather which has never tasted defeat vs. Miguel Cotto, the Pride of Puerto Rico who wears the Super Welterweight crown. In addition, Mexican phenom and champion, Canelo Alvarez battles the legendary “Sugar” Shane Mosley on pay per view.

In Modesto (Savado/Sat)

Sat 5/5/2012 Morning the annual Crows Landing parade will be held on Crows Landing Rd from 11am to 1pm.

The Fiesta does not stop there. If you’re looking to go all out and dance the night away, than we recommend the CINCO de MAYO Block Party at PALLADIUM Saturday May 5th 2012. Palladium is located at 950 10th St. Modesto, Ca. Blocking off the street with an outdoor stage for everyone to dance & party from 8pm-2am. Don’t worry about the troublemakers, there will be plenty of security & MPD on hand.

DJ 9T9from HOT 104.7 FM will be one of the DJ’s on stage. He was the official DJ for Angelina, Dev, & Baby Bash in their previous Modesto appearances. DJ 9T9 will be doing a special “ANGELINA, DEV, BABY BASH” mix on HOT 104.7 FM, Friday May 4th from 5pm-6pm to promote the event. Performing artists: Angelina (I Don’t Need Your Love, Release Me), Dev (Dancing In The Dark, Naked, G6), Baby Bash (Slide Over, Go Girl, Suga Suga) Banda La Unica & special appearance by Brittanya from VH-1′s “ROCK OF LOVE”.

Sunday May 6th If you’re like most. than you will still have energy left for round 3? The Sunday Flea Market Off Crows Landing offers many Mexican cultural traditions and agood place to enjoy that continue the festivities . The Urbano will be out in full force! Buy local music at Non Stop Beats, or just enjoy Mexican food. Special event planed that Sunday! Floyd “Money” Mayweather vs Coto

Check out the Crows Landing every weekend. Music, food, fun. 3113 Crows Landing Rd Modesto, CA 95358

Sundaynight at Club Circus Cesar Gutierrez will be Performing live @ the Circus Night club along with other bands. Latin music every weekend and house DJs on Friday nights at Prescott and Briggsmore.

Special Birthday wishes to Geraldine Sanchez Happy Birthday Prima! Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by theobstacles which one has overcome.

Special UrbanView Shout Out: This will be Angelina last Performance in Modesto. According to my sources, she is retiring to work in the Educational System. The Urban and the Modesto view would like to Give her the Best of Wishes and luck for her and her family.

BarView

Modesto Margarita Marathon By Kate Serpa (and guest-starring Carlos Rodriguez) Due to an unforeseeable unfortunate turn of events, interview plans were changed very-last minute. As a result, Carlos (camera man-extraordinaire) and I were left up to our own devices to find a suitable May bar to bother for a few hours. The end result? The first, and likely last (as I cannot drink that delicious and poisonous tequila): Modesto Margarita Marathon, or the MMM. Say it with me: MMMmmmm…margaritas…. Two people, fighting dinner rush on a Saturday afternoon, venturing out to find the best Modesto bars willing to be photographed, interviewed, and videotaped on a completely spontaneous basis. Not all bars, mind you, were up to par. The three bars that came out as the lead contenders: Tresetti’s, Damian’s, and the Boardroom. So now, ModestoView Reader, I will do the unthinkable. I have thrown my tried-and-true regular bar-review agenda out the window in order to attempt to cover three very excellent and very obliging bars in one solitary article and with a deadline rapidly approaching—and three massive cocktails deep. And now for something completely different: Bar Uno: Tresetti’s World Café Vodka Cucumber Mint Margarita What you need: -Mint -Limes -Cucumber -High Roller Vodka -Simple Syrup What you do: -Slice up them mint leaves, limes, and cucumber. -Put the above into a glass with some simple syrup and muddle everything. -Add a healthy dose of High Roller vodka, a bit of fresh limejuice, and a dash of simple syrup. -Shake it, baby. – Pour the delicious mixture into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with alime, and enjoy the hell out of it. I’ve never had anything but good things to say about Tresetti’s; it’s one of my Modesto-favorites as it always has amazing cocktails, excellent bartenders, and consistently non-lame clientele. Ms. Natalie Worden not only whipped up a fantastic original cocktail, she was also a total champ about being the first bartender on our Modesto Margarita Marathon expedition. Her original vodka-based margarita was not only made with local liquor, but was also a refreshing heat-beater. Be sure to stop in to see Tresetti’s renovated interior. 927 11th St., Modesto, CA 572.2990 Bar Dos: Damian’s Damian’s Cadillac Margarita What you need: -Fresh limejuice -Jose Cuervo Tradicional -Simple Syrup -Grand Marnier What you do: -Fill the biggest glass you have in the house with ice. -Squeeze fresh limejuice over the ice. -Add in the Jose and a bit of Simple Syrup. -Float with Grand Mariner. -Stick a straw on that sucker and a lime wedge. -Drink the entire thing in one go. No cheating! Many a time I have driven past Damian’s, but since I am zero fun and am impartial to trying new places, had never ventured in. Thus, I was pleasantly surprised with the festive décor, the delicious margarita, and bartender Alejandra Castillo who was as lovely as she was accommodating. Damian’s Cadillac Margarita is the Mexican restaurant’s most popular, and it’s easy to see why. Even though it is NOT in my best interest to be imbibing in the tequila, I decided against my better judgment, figuring it was well worth such a tasty drink. 2705 W. Orangeburg Ave., Modesto, CA 526.3800 Bar Tres: The Boardroom What you need: -Avion Anejo (the tequila from Entourage) -Cointrieau -Grand Marnier -Fresh limes for squeezin’ -A bit of margarita mix What you do: -Build the Avion, limejuice, Cointreau, and the mix in a shaker. -Shhhhake it. -Pour in salt-rimmed, ice-filled glass. -Float of Grand Mariner. Garnish with lime wedge. -It might be hard, but try to pace yourself. They’re delicious, but they start to go to your head after about nine of these. Not that I would know…geeze. The Boardroom was another new bar-stop for me, and what a lovely closure they were to the MMM tour. The charismatic Sean Devlin rose above-and-beyond the occasion with his top-shelf Cadillac, thus delivering me the last bit of delicious tequila I could consume before hitting the ‘danger zone.’ The Boardroom’s interior is sleek, the bartenders are all attractive AND nice (they must be up to something), and the cocktails are ideal. It was agood thing I had a one-drink-per-bar limit in place, else I might still be there now. 1528 J St., Modesto, CA 409.8665

Chef View By Dana Johnson

Food Fiesta!!

Cinco de Mayo, yes, May 5th is observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican Heritage and pride. It commemorates the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War celebrating a military victory over the French. Cinco de Mayo is no exception to the rules of celebration as it revolves around indulging in an abundance of authentic Mexican foods!

It’s was my challenge to choose one Mexican restaurant in all of Modesto to feature this month. Many Modesto View fans shared their pic faves with me, thank you! Modesto is well covered when it come to choices for great Mexican food and drink! One of my faves is Damian’s! It has a bit of everything; an authentic Mexican menu, a full bar with several tequilas to choose from, a lively atmosphere, and family friendly service!

Jose Martinez, owner and executive chef has been in the restaurant business for 21 years and has had Damian’s for the past 9 years. Chef Jose is fit at 52, happily married to wife Rebecca since 1982, has children Rebecca Hope, manager and Jose Damian working in the family restaurant. Hope’s boyfriend, Daniel Balison, also works in the restaurant and is the artist for the menus. ChefJose starts his workday at 4am making carnitas, while he still finds time to go to the gym and plays soccer twice a week! Chef Jose told me he has to stay active as he likes to eat a lot, just like me! Unlike me, he’s a Raider fan, but admits he’s embarrassed to say so!

At Damian’s you will be pleased to find a large variety of selections on the menu including, breakfast all day, separate lunch, kids, and dessert menus, too.Chicken milanesa, posole, tacos, taquitos, and the ever popular burritos arejust a plate away. I was thrilled to find a Mexican restaurant that has cabbage and flour chips upon request. But the most Dana~licious would have to be the green sauce! Nothing quite like a grilled chicken or cheese enchilada smothered in this sassy-smooth green sauce! I actually got a container to go, too! Thanks Chef Jose! I owe you a Corona!

So I directly looked at Chef Jose and asked him to think about music, Beatles orStones? He wisely said both! He did lean towards the Beatles as he prefers older music. Then Chef Jose revealed his love of music is found in romanticMexican classics, aaah! He is as soft as the flan on his dessert menu!

Chicken Milanesa

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Flour Eggs Dry Bread Crumbs Vegetable Oil Salt Pepper

Butterfly chicken breasts across, but do not cut all the way through. Open each piece and cover with parchment; pound thin. Season each cutlet with salt and pepper. Coat cutlets in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Heat vegetable oil over medium to medium-high heat, for shallow frying. Add chicken and cook 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Serve with fresh limes, rice, and beans.

2075 W. Orangeburg Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 526-3800 Hrs. M-Thurs. 10am to 9pm Fri./Sat. 10am to 10pm Sun. 10am to 9pm Happy hour: Everyday 3-8pm Margaritas & tall drafts $2.95