valley home sweet home issue 2

The me foc d communit based ma•azine for the California Central Valle

Inside Th^is;^Issue: Understanding Credit Scoring...

Upscale Housing Goes Green

The Shadow and I

Summer Amps

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ADVERTISING IN OUR MAGAZINE, CALL (209)552-9878

www.valleyhomesweethome.com Volume 1 Issue 2

2005 C-6 Corvette Courtesy of Brent Medearis

2007 C-6 Corvette Courtesy of Donnie Dykes

A Real EState Resource See more of Danica's homes inside

-ont.Ltc.851121

1125 LONE PALM AVE. STE. F, MODESTO

209.578.5414

LIFETIME -

WARRANTY!'

F SPECIAL COUPON $200 OFF INSTALLED AWNING I SOLID OR LATTICE PATIOS - CANVAS AWNINGS

WITH THIS AD, LIMITED TIME ONLY! 1

Building for tomorrow starts today...

Your home equity could be the key to his college education.

Building a sound financial future for you and

your family starts with home ownership. We specialize in helping first-time home buyers

select the best mortgage program to meet their long-term goals. If you are currently

paying $1,000.00 per month in rent, you will pay your landlord $60,000 over the next five years.

Call us today for FREE consultation and

we'll send you a copy of our Home Buyer's

Handbook and Credit Scoring Guide.

Lf SMAVP

30 Year Fixed Rate

5.68% I 5.87% INTEREST RATE APR

Rates may be subject to change without notice.

On aal. CA. DEPT of

v REAL

ESTATE Licensed Broker #01380846

Ask about our low- and no-money down programs!

Call today for free consultation!

Chanin Hardison Loan Officer

Email: [email protected]

Cell: (209) 996-3213 Office: (209) 527-0747

Elite Mortgage & Associates 3719 Tully Rd., Ste. A Modesto, CA 95356

A s u BAsTA Quality Assured Pre-owned Used Car Sales EE

Habtamos Espanol — THE AUCTION — arcane rrant,„

221 S. Center Street, Turlock 7,-f°r Life!:

ALBERTO ARMENDARIZ • CONRAD RUEZGA

*Some restrictions apply. Plus Government Fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation change,

and any emission testing charge. REQUIRES CREDIT APPROVAL WITH LENDER. Alt vehicles subject to prior sale.

Chanin's Cents p. 2

THE OLD RECIPE BOX

Grilling For Dad Steaks and Stuff

p. 10

ON THE COVER:

Home listing by: Danica Vanderwaal

A Real Estate Resource p. 8

Understanding Credit Scoring &

Credit Repair P. 3

The Shadow and I Entertainment Review

by: Seth and David Rogers

P. 9

In Memory of Captain

Raymond Dwayne Hill II Back Page

N Sho d I Do A Classic

C Restoration -Or Sh ld I sell It?

by: Terry Bolton

P. 5

Upscale Goes Green: Homeowners Focus on

Sustainable Energy, Renewable Building

Materials by: Aldene Fredenburg

P. 7

in this issue June 2007

GO TEAM: Elite Mortgage Team

Celebrates 2 years p. 11

COMMUNITY CORNER g Summer Camp Fun )10-.

p.12 ,f

"I am so pleased with the business that I have received from advertising in Valley Home sweet Home. As a Real Estate Broker I have many advertising opportunities, I have to decide where I will spend my advertising dollars that will bring me the business that I need. This new magazine has far exceeded my expectations and I

will continue to advertise here because , it has definitely helped me accomplishmy sales goals. Thank you for your support."

Danica Vanderwaal Real Estate Broker

for A Real Estate Resource in Waterford

Dear Reader,

As we grow older, it is an unfortunate fact that our memories fade. I was painfully aware of this fact when I was looking at some pictures from my childhood and couldn't remember the occasion. I

thankfully have siblings I could ask and they remembered for me. It got me thinking and wondering how many wonderful memories I have forgotten. We get so busy with our lives and the day to day we take little time to remember. I think that is a shame. After all our memories and experiences shape who we are.

I t got me wondering what memories will shape my son. He Will have this whole summer off before he starts high school and I am scrambling to make a plan for him. It will be a definite balancing act with

his activities and my work. I want him to have great memories from his summer vacation. Something to write that "what I did during the summer" paper about. More importantly I want to have memories that we can cherish as we all grow older. With that in mind, my husband and I made a pact. We decided that instead of just talking about the things we wished we were doing we were going to just do them. Included in the pact also was a promise to enjoy the moments we're in while we we're in them. It is so easy to let your mind wonder to what you have to do the next day or something you "should" be doing.

Ithink it says a lot that we even had to make a pact to enjoy our lives while we are in them. I think it is so easy to be so involved in work and stuff that needs to be done that we have to talk ourselves into having

fun and taking time for ourselves. That certainly isn't what I want to model for our son. Think about what memories you want to have. Don't just talk about taking that trip to Disneyland, or going to the fair or any other wonderful summer activity there is DO IT! Take the time to enjoy your life, to start crossing things off your "I wish we had time to do that" list. Make time. Set up a mid week picnic night at the park. There are many beautiful ones to choose from in the valley. Re-aquaint yourself with all the fun things there are do in the valley. Make it your goal to go to every fair we have, or every festival. Whatever your choice is, take time for some fun. Give yourself and your family "the best summer vacation I ever had."

Welcome to Valley Home Sweet Home,

Chanin Hardison, Director of Production and Marketing

a Ile v

HomeSweetHome

Hispanic Account Executive: Amparo Arteaga (209) 552-9076

amparogvalleyhomesweethorne.com

Director of Production and Marketing: Chanin Hardison (209) 996-3213

chaningvalleyhomcsweethome.com

Modesto Marketing Manager: Pamela Baker (209) 552-9878

pamelagvalleyhomesweethome.com Editing Supervisor/ Visual Effects Supervisor/Graphic Artist:

Steve Hardison

Hispanic Account Executive: Lupita Martinez (209)681-8281

[email protected]

Page 2, Volume 1, Number 2, Say you saw it in Valley Home Sweet Home Magazine!

CA Dept. of Real Estate Licensed Broker #01380846

Elite Mortgage & Associates 3719 Tully Rd., Suite A Modesto, CA 95356

(209)527-0747 ou

Understanding Credit Scoring & Credit Repair By Audrey Rushing-McGill, Elite Mortgage & Associates

Credit remediation is a subject consumers often face /with fear and trepidation. With the exception of

recognizing that the best score wins, the average home shopper knows very little about the credit scoring process. Sub-prime borrowers often find themselves at a loss when trying to find ways to upgrade their credit history. The good news is there are ways to improve less-than-perfect credit scores and obtain a loan for the home you really want.

The first step in the process is making sure that you have a current copy of your credit report. Congress recently amended the Fair Credit Reporting Act so that consumers may now receive one free credit report annually. (Go to www.annualcreditreport.com )

Most A-Paper scores generally begin around 680, but don't despair if you come up shy, there is always room for improvement. Increasing your score just 5 points can save a significant amount of money. For example, if your score is 698 and you increase it to 703, then you could save yourself thousands of dollars over time as a result of a slight improvement to your home loan's interest rate.

While credit repair is necessary for some, it's not the only way to increase your credit score. Even if you have

stellar credit, you can enhance your score through these steps:

• Evenly distribute your credit card debt to change the ratio of debt to available credit. If you have debt on only one card, and four additional credit cards with zero balances, evenly distributing the debt of the first card could move you closer, and possibly into, that ideal bracket.

• Keep your existing accounts open and active. The average consumer is usually anxious to close credit card accounts that have zero balances, but doing this can cause them to lose the benefits of a long-term credit history./

• Keep credit inquiries to a minimum. Each inquiry into your credit history can impact your score from 2-50 points. Even though you're only looking for one loan, multiple lenders may request your credit report. To compensate for this, the score counts multiple mortgage inquiries in any 14-day period as just one inquiry.

If credit repair is what you need, and you decide to make your own improvements, visit as many websites as possible to get information regarding credit laws and consumer rights. A good place to start is the Federal Trade Commission's website.

Addressing credit issues can be uncomfortable to say the least. But by taking these steps now, you'll be that much closer to obtaining the home of your dreams!

Audrey McGill Sr. Loan Officer

DON'T MISS OUR NEXT OPEN HOUSE FORUM

SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 2007 1:00 to 3:00 PM

O pen House Forum: Realtor questions. How do I buy a home? How to list a home. How do I repair my credit score? Is

it time to refinance? How can I get a construction loan? Is down payment assistance available? Any questions related to homes will

be answered at our open house. Call (209)527-0747

Senior Loan Officer: Audrey McGill

Loan Officers: Chris DeVaugh, Nancy Perales, Adam Lancaster

Hard Money Specialists

Residential, Commercial and Construction Loans

Realtors: Steve Hyman, Coldwell Banker & Tim Rushing, Prudential

Free Booklets on varied subjects to attendees

Say you saw it in Valley Home Sweet Home Magazine!

Volume 1, Number 2, Page 3

Ready To Move In Little Cottage For Students Or Singles. Stop The Car & Look Inside Newly Carpeted & Painted BA-Remodeled 1BR/1 BA Centrally Located In Town- Investors Welcome. 3920Sq.Ft. Corner Lot. Nice Front Yards Sprinklers Trees Shed For Tools & Outside Laundry Shed.

Cozy 2BR has re-done kitchen with modern appliances open to living rm with laminate flooring. Bath updated with tile flooring, tub enclosure. Dual pane windows, low maintance lot on peaceful lane,-Corp seller motivated-see today!

Light fixer here with some un-finished home repair projects but big stuff done like new oak kitchen cabinets, granite counter in kit., newer appliances, newer dual pane windows, fresh ext. stucco, laminate floorings, & some newer doors-a great value-see today!

Seller Wants FAST SALE! See & Compare To Other Homes! 3 BR, 2 BA, Approx 1826 Sq.Ft., Built In 2001, Immaculate, I-Story, Tile Rook Many Upgrades, Cul-De-Sac Location, Sylvan & Enochs Schools, 10 Foot Ceilings, Inside Laundry, Neutral Tones, Tub & Sep. Stall Shower, You Will Be Amazed! Shows Like Model Home!

Super Clean Bright 4/2 Home Features Vaulted Ceilings, Fireplace Fresh Two Tone Paint. Throughout Most Of Home. Front And Back Yards Are Well Manicured & Low Maintenance. Located Two Blocks From Schools & Parks.

Value packed, comfortable home featuring 3 quiet, airy bedrooms, 2 cheery bathrooms to speed everyone happily on their way, a kitchen that is modernized for efficiency & easy care, it has an open view to the spacious family room. This classic home sits on a premium lot with a fully landscaped backyard. If this home meets your needs, we recommend quick action!

Spacious & Open Floor Plan, Corporate Ow ned But Not A Short Sale. 6 Bedrooms With Expansive Mstr Retreat Downstairs Media Niche In Fam Room Adjoining Well Appointed Kithcen. Huge Loft For Bonus/Computer Room. Inside Laundry Off Large 3 Car Fully Finished Garage. Located In Newer Neighborhood On Cul-De-Sac.

A Bedroom For All, In This Corp. Owned 2 Story Home. At The End Of A Peaceful Court. Mstr Down, Media Niche In Fam Rm Open To Modern Kitchen! Upstairs Loft, Neutral Colors, A Winner-Take A Look!

Hm Features Beautiful Views From Most Rooms,Space In Grg For Boat,RV,Has A 14' Tall Roll Up Door,European Hot Water System,Lighted Attic & Crawlspace,Room For Horses,Bose Surround Sound System Inside & Outside Of Hm.All Rooms On Single Level Except Bonus Room Which Is Not Included In Sq.Ft.,Ask For Details.

Steve Hyman

stevehyman©coldwellbankercorn Lic#01429770

Mis


The FIPCT

Racing. Themed Limousine Service

In The Central Valley

CENTRAL VALLEY

Not Just A ... An EXPERIENCE!!

Unique Weddings Trips To Speedways

(Altamont, Luguna Seca, Antioch Raceway)

Proms / Graduations Sporting Events Nights Out On The Town Rate Packages Bachelor Bachelorette Parties & Specials Concerts / Festivals / Conventions Anniversary / Retirement Parties Available

- Kids Birthday Parties Napa Wine Tours www.evrlimos.co ►n

Should I Do A Classic Car Restoration - Or Should I Sell It? by: Terry Bolton

Most of us know people who would like to throw any excuse for not caring for their cars. One

reason might be financial inability; they say that can't afford to restore it and they simply leave it unattended just seeing it rusting in their back yard. After some years of continually increased rust development, the time has finally come for sending it to the crusher rather than see somebody else caring for it or buying it. "If I can't have it, nobody else should!" -reflects a nasty attitude that unfortunately is prevailing in some peoples mind After using the vehicle for years they don't even care about it or even sell it. Classic car restoration is the ultimate way to give your old classic vehicle a lease of life and give it a new look. If you can you should definitely try to restore it, especially if you are a classic automobile lover.

Ihave found a few places on the web to help you sell your car, or to buy one of course, but for now I will

keep harping on the fact that you should not just let your old classic car rot away. What are the reasons for that, you might ask.

3 Reasons For Taking Care of Your Old Classic Auto:

1. The first reason is fairly obvious; they don't build them anymore, and their getting very hard to find in decent shape, people are always looking for the classic American cars (or Am Cars), and as long as their still around, people from all over the world will never stop looking for them.

2. The second reason is this, if these cars just disappear, we lose out on all the class and style that they have to give us, every one of the old cars has its own look and feel, as well as it's own style, unlike the new cars, that all just seem to look alike.

3. The third reason; Imagine you wake up one day, and all the classic cars are just gone, like the dinosaurs that once roamed the earth, what if we wake up and all the cars just look the same, what a boring life that would be, every one looks like the imports do. Well, I can't say nothing but this: don't ever let it happen.

I f you own a classic auto and do not have an idea of restoring it or if you cannot afford to restore it

then better sell it to anyone who is interested in your vehicle.

rrhis would help to have it around somewhere in the 1 world. You should avoid though, to look at it as

your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. I think it would be wiser to think about what you have and the condition that it is in, and do your selling effort accordingly. Keep in mind that most classic car buyers aren't idiots, and you can't slip one by them.

If you plan to sell your classic vehicle You can do a simple

research on it before you announce it for sale. Honesty is the best; don't rip off somebody for just wanting your old classic car. If you sell them what they want and nothing else you have

what you can do, unless you want to restore it yourself There are many quality sites on the web that help you to sell your classic car. Just do a simple search on your favorite search engine, and you will get the information you need and a little bit more.

About The Author Terry Bolton is a writer and internet publisher who likes to publish informative articles about classic vehicles and related issues. Read

more at http://www.11-classic-cars.com .

1939 Chevy two-door sedan ready for the car show. Car restored by local Adam Haston and his father. It took them five years and thousands of well-spent dollars.

done



Frit riock, ( 'A 9;7)38.2 \r■ \CI) rut IFIttsiiillg.cono

Prudential CSIt. RHIN

( rusIii -tici fo rril.eorn

--eres---$309,000 --$S-548z8v7146,'VRM This One-Of-A-Kind Custom Home is ready for your move-in! Enjoy quality handcrafted construction throughout this Energy efficient jewel with it's Vinyl Windows, Tile Floors, Stylish Kitchen, & Up-graded Light Fixtures. You also get RV Parking & an Over-Sized Garage w/ Commercial Grade Rollup Door! Call Today.

—Turlock $399,000-$458 876 VRM- Slr to respond to offers from 399,000-458,876.This Semi-Custom home is still in great condition w gourmet kitchen & is an entertainer's delight. A Granite/Tile entry floor welcomes you home to a cozy fireplace. The rooms boast designer ceiling fans & pristine white Plantation style shutters cover all windows

Turlock $309,000 - $358,876 VRM Seller will respond to all offer between $309,000 - $358,876. This home was remodeled aprox 3 years ago with all new vinyl windows, Quality Berber carpet, custom paint, comp roof, & designer ceiling fans all on an over-sized lot.

This Gated-community condo is perfect for the college student or a first time buyer with it's newly tiled floors, & the new Custom Oak Kitchen cabinets. The Coreon counters add style & class. The mstr bath has been updated with a new shower & tub unit that adds value and convenience.

13V-91 9(1 Great duplex property for the savvy investor. One side has a newer room addition done with permit, tile floor in kitchen and many nice upgrades. This is the perfect opportunity to own a great rental w/income potential or live in one side & rent the other. It's a great time to buy real estate! Rates are low!

IIIIIMMTtiplaekd-iv1929900--=igwimdi= - se

Move-in-Ready! This well-kept home has it all with RV access, Quality Custom Oak kitchen cabinets, a bright open floorplan and is just one block from CSUS. Students will love the close proximity to their classes and savvy Parents will realize the investment potential of this sparkling clean home. Call Today!

For Free Home Searches . . . Visit www.TurlockRealty.com


OFF OUR ALREADY LOW PROGRAMMING PRICES AFTER $10 A MONTH CREDIT FOR 10 MONTHS

erica's Top 100 100 favor.. creanneN

<sp"re < SPAM O.... agnM/CIO ' S.M. gall

■Mi afnI"," Erigntrm 2,At.-C-9. 2,„

teCT, LIVOL kRte, "3. lafttv "

PLUS PICK" ONE PRE -4/1.1114

STARK' :ID MIME 3 MONTHS HB igit

nrq HD RECEIVER UPGRADE

W -gg- tar 160fh>> .A40

/5x4P?›.-Plt

FIC

sa.

•

/mo SAVE $200 STARTING AT

ON HD CHANNELS C tvente channels

IA213 2919')

$42.99/mo HOME dEr co,

I IV CP Pia

America, ...Everything'. Pak Ses.ssen. ;;Z:11°4:ZrAT=LVigal:Ve; maw

PAUSE LIVE TV

CREATE INSTANT REPLAYS

RECORD UP TO 100 HOURS WITHOUT VIDEOTAPE

SKIP RECORDED COMMERCIALS

OM. rrlurl ,

d sh AUTHORIZER RETAILER

dy you ,dVV It III vcinuyI I

WUUI Lill le iviHyclLmel

CZEg, KIRK BROWN (209) 545-6800 (877)-347-4486

5321 Pirrone Rd. Ste. B, Salida 95368

VCEUIIIU IVUITIO&I z, rage 11- A

STANDARD PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION

CONNECT UP TO 4 ROOMS • NO EU/PPR/0E1MT TO BUY

2 Room DISH DVR RECEIVER UPGRADE

Upscale Goes Green: Homeowners Focus Increasingly on Sustainable Energy, Renewable Building Materials

by: Aldene Fredenburg

quiet revolution is going on in the eal estate sector. Many successful

professionals are putting considerable money into building their own dream homes, and many of those professionals are choosing to build according to green principles.

perhaps the first decision these new I homeowners face is how to heat and cool their homes. Before even considering what sort of heating and cooling system they will choose, they need to decide on a design and materials for the exterior structure. Alternative building methods including rammed earth, straw bale, and flying concrete construction feature thick walls, often over a foot thick, which conserve heat in the winter and keep the home cool in the summer. Some homeowners are even opting for subterranean dwellings, using

the natural insulating quality of the earth to lessen their need for additional heating. Even when opting for conventional wood structures, homeowners are choosing the latest insulation materials, which offer optimal heat conservation with little to no outgassing of toxic fum

F

es.

inergy-conserving heating systems, some of which create radiant heat

from hot water pumped through pipes beneath the floors, save on energy; passive solar construction - homes with south-facing exposure and large windows - allows the sun to warm the home. Solar panels provide electricity for lights and electrical appliances, and gray water systems recycle used water for additional use in the home. Some homeowners in colder climates opt for wood- or wood-pellet-burning furnaces rather than the conventional oil furnace, installing modern furnaces designed to minimize emissions.

(14 _reen-building homeowners and more and more developers opt for natural

and sometimes manmade materials created from renewable resources, materials which do not expose residents to health risks. Vinyl, which is infamous for outgassing toxic fumes, is rejected in favor of safer materials; hardwood flooring, much of it harvested from old-

growth forests, is replaced with materials like bamboo, and cork, two renewable materials providing two very different, attractive looks in flooring.

hose not in the position to design and build their own home still have the

option of "greening" an existing home, using a wealth of safe, nontoxic natural materials. Conventional plywood, which is manufactured using urea formaldehyde, can be replaced with a number of new, safer materials, including "Plyboo," created from bamboo. Kiln-fired clay tiles, wood from sustainable forests, natural, safe interior and exterior paints, and a host of other materials help create a clean, healthy home environment.

B uilding and renovating green currently costs more than using conventional

materials; some green builders estimate the difference at about 15 percent. However, recently wood prices have soared, and increasing transportation costs due to the rising cost of gasoline and diesel has impacted the price of building materials, so the difference in cost between conventional and green building may well even out. As it stands now, increasing numbers of prospective homeowners are willing to pay a premium for a home made of attractive, sustainable and healthy building materials.

REALTOR

Waterford 3 bed 2 bath 3 car garage 1614 sq ft $339,000

13106 Yosemite Blvd Waterford commercial 12013 Yosemite Blvd Commercial 1/2 acre 1/2 acre corner $290,000 2/1 home 4/2, hwy Frontage must see $385,000

[email protected] www.danicavanderwaal.com 2 0 9 - 3 2 4- 9 8 7 8

A REAL ESTATE RESOURCE 13027 YOSEMITE BLVD.

WATERFORD, CA BUYING SELLING

swum BROKER Aid

A Real Estate Resource will be sponsoring Adult Safety Hands-on Practical Self-Defense classes every Thursday 6 pm to 9 pm at $20.00 per person. Classes taught by 5th degree black belt Diana Parker of 1st Southern Babtist church Health Ministry in Waterford. Please call to reserve your spot. 209-324-9878. At A Real Estate Resource we do more than just write the contract for you. We work with Elite Mortgage and offer free prequalification to help you figure the top price you can offer on your next property. We will figure your bottom line before you sell to show all of the costs involved and give you an idea of time frames to help meet your goals. You get the financial calculations on paper in front of you so you can see the full picture of time and money to make your decisions.

12799 Goldmine Ave, Waterford 3 bed 2 bath 1097 sq ft dead end street. $275,000

312 Fearl Dr, Waterford 3 bed 2 bath 1600 sq ft. priced at $329,000

1412 Clovewood, Modesto 3 bed 2 bath Sylvan area Everything new $380,000

2830 Morrill Rd, Riverbank 3 Bed 2 bath fireplace 13709 Brook Way, Waterford Gated community 1830 Maria Ct, Modesto 3 bed 2 bath La large covered back yard patio 1340 sq ft. $299,000 5 bed 3 bath 2917 sq ft $ 479,000 Loma area in-law quarters $ 299,000

12240 Terrace View Ln, Waterford 3 bed 2 13605 Rivercrest Dr, Waterford gated community 602 Cinnabar Wy, Waterford 3 bed 2 bath 1280 bath close to shopping $305,000 Immaculate lots of upgrades 5 bed 3 bath $399,000 sq ft Corner location Price reduced $295,000

201 N Pasadena, Waterford 4 bd 2 bath 2700 sq ft almost acre.

2 garages & large shop, pool $587,000

1726 tully Rd Hughson 4 bd bath former model 2687 Sqft Every

upgrade $480,000

gimitet

1710 Bonnie Brae, Modesto 1 bed 1 bath R-2 lot $199,000


Seth on Fairway: "Kinda Good."

The Shadow and by David and Seth Rogers

Welcome to the show. Each month we will review and analyze different local entertainment events, ranging

from live bands to theater productions and every now and then a motion picture. What makes this particular column unique is that the event will be reviewed by my 6-year-old shadow Seth, and myself, a lifelong Modesto resident who has been playing music for about 20 years.

"go fish", his attention started waning, the chocolate was in full force.

In a nutshell, I loved the fact that they didn't take themselves too seriously, and these guys have awesome potential. It

was a great night, Seth won his game of "go fish", and you should really catch Fairway, you won't be disappointed. Here is the website were you can sample some of their tunes, and show times: http://www.myspace.com/projectfairway . For more show information at the Queen Bean check out http://www.myspace.com/queenbeancoffeehouse . Support local music!

ordered a couple of coffee and sandwiches.

So for the inaugural piece we went to

everybody's favorite coffee house, the Queen Bean, to catch a band called Fairway. They opened the show playing with local (and soon to be national) act Solar Powered People, and the explosive Solare. The original intent was to review the whole show, but we all know the attention span of a 6-year-old boy. So we

drinks (hot chocolate for the kid)

The first thing I noticed about Fairway was their confidence. Being fairly young, they seemed very

comfortable on stage. It's not like they were playing the Fillmore or anything, but there are always some nerves when you play in front of an audience.

During the first song, I asked Seth what he thought so far. "Kinda screaming, kinda good", Seth said.

Personally, I thought the vocals were very strong, definitely sung with emotion. I then asked him what made it "kinda good?" He said, "what makes them good is the drums". I thought the drummer did a good job of being aware of his sound, which is always a tough lesson for young musicians to learn. The band as a whole did well with their volume and the mix was just about right.

F airway definitely plays with a youthful energy to which my shadow remarked, "they made me

want to dance pretty much", and even though they are young, I thought the song construction was mature and the chord progressions were interesting.

Technique-wise these guys are individually good 1 players, though at times they weren't always

together, and they never lost face; just smiled and moved on to the next bar of music. I also thought that the songs as a whole lacked some uniqueness; there wasn't really one song that stood out to me. Sethy-poo also said, "sounds like lots of bands other bands already wrote" (whatever that means). The set continued and Seth got involved in a serious game of

COMPLETE BANQUE-T-FA ,GIL+TIES & CATERING

SPECIALIZING IN: 1*

FULL COURSE FAMILY STYLE DINNERS SINCE 1454 COCKTAILS - DINNERS - EANQLIETS

ALITHENIC CANTONESE CUISINE SELECTION OF MANDARIN DISHES

AMERICAN DISHES Food To Go

524-4621 POLYNESIAN PATIO open for special events

LUNCH (mos it3DAK- 2:00 P

DINNER Tuesrio..as 5 ,910 FR1 -SAT. 'SUNDAY 4 TA930PM

COCKrAiLS ■ 11 30 A ti To CLOSit0

vvvvw rninniesmodesto. coo,



Y(S ko[i (02 Grilling for Dad clu()

Steaks & Stuff

Paul Bunyan Burger 2 1/2 pounds lean ground pork 2 teaspoons garlic pepper 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce 1 round loaf (24-ounce) French or Italian bread, cut in half horizontally

Prepare medium-hot fire in kettle-style grill.

In large bowl mix together pork, garlic pepper and hot pepper sauce. Pat mixture into a round that measures about 11 inches--or one inch larger than your bread.

Carefully place giant burger over hot coals--place burger on a flat baking sheet for transferring to the grill--and grill for about 10 minutes per side. Turn the burger over by sliding in onto a baking sheet, using a second baking sheet to help push it on. Sandwich the burger between the two baking sheets, hold them together and invert the patty. Slide the big burger onto the grill, cooked side up.

When done, slide the burger onto the bottom of the loaf, top with top of loaf and cut into wedges to serve. Serves 8.

Patio Potatoes

4 potatoes, sliced 1 envelope dry onion soup mix 1 pint sour cream 4 tablespoons milk

Mix soup, milk and sour cream. Place potato slices on foil and cover with sour cream mix. Close foil securely. Grill 45 to 50 minutes.

Blue Cheese Steaks 4 individual serving-size steaks 1 clove garlic 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 ounces blue cheese 4 teaspoons plain yogurt 2 teaspoons minced green onions Dash white pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

Heat grill. Rub both sides of each steak with garlic clove and set aside.

In small bowl combine cream cheese, blue cheese, yogurt, onions, pepper, salt and parsley. Set aside.

Grill steaks for 6 minutes on one side. Flip and top each steak with the cheese mixture. Grill second side for about 7 minutes or until done to your taste. Serves 4.

8 large ears sweet corn

8 slices bacon

2 tablespoons chili powder

Wrap each ear of corn with a slice of bacon. Place each one on a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Sprinkle with chili powder. Wrap securely, twisting the ends to make handles. Place uncovered over medium-hot grill for 20 minutes or until corn is tender and bacon is cooked, turning once.

To submit recipes contact Chanin Hardison at


Elite Mortgage Anniversary, Modesto Chamber of Commerce Mixer March 2007

by: Brenda Verdugo

On March 15, 2007, Elite Mortgage & Associates celebrated their 2nd

anniversary in business. It was a gala event with more than 350 people in attendance, many of whom arrived in limousines. The party was held at the Elite Mortgage & Associates office and was in conjunction with the Modesto Chamber of Commerce monthly Mixer. Elite Mortgage & Associates had the event catered by BBQ by Randy of Modesto. Randy served barbecue tri-tip & barbecue chicken along with potato salad, green salad, cowboy beans, & bread. The beautifully catered dinner was topped of with a custom cake made by Tigger's Cakes & More. The cake had five layers; chocolate, white with strawberry filling, carrot, lemon, and another layer of chocolate.

he evening's listening and dancing 1 entertainment was provided by

an R&B band from the Sacramento area, "Movement". The lead singer Shadia Powell also doubled as MC for the evening. Wine & beer were part of the evening fare and the bar was tended by Jorge Ochoa of El Nogal of Modesto. Elite Mortgage & Associates had many door prizes donated by local companies including Abbra Cadabra, Ward Promotional, Modesto Steam Laundry, Chili's, North American Title Co., Alliance Title Co and A Place To Relax. There

was also a massage therapist on-site, Laura Norton of Valley Laser Care. The evening was capped off with popular comedian Huck Flynn. The decorations and interesting center pieces were done by My Little Balloon Company of Modesto. "Planning for this event was like planning a wedding without the bride and groom . . . this took a year of planning," said Brenda Verdugo, Office Manager of Elite Mortgage & Associates. "Next year's event will even better (as) we have already started planning for it."

Audrey McGill, Owner of Elite Mortgage & Associates, was

extremely pleased with the attendance and was happy to see so many people turn out to help celebrate Elite Mortgage & Associates' anniversary. Each year gets "better and better" said Audrey, "I owe my success to my parents, Tom & Betty Rushing, and my staff and loan officers." Audrey's business standards in customer care, consumer education, community involvement, honesty, integrity, team work, and good old fashioned hospitality have propelled Elite Mortgage & Associates to the top of the local lenders list for Modesto and the surrounding areas. "We conduct our business planning to be around

for a long time", remarked Audrey, a Modesto native. "We only hire Loan Officers who share our vision so we are all moving in the same direction. We have Loan Officers and staff to help

clients to whom English is a second language." "Let's face it, we're selling the same products as everyone else," said Brenda, "what makes us different is our approach to how we treat our clients . . . we take the mystery out of the loan process."

F lite Mortgage & Associates doors are always open to anyone who just wants to stop by for a cup of coffee or with questions about their loans. We hold Open Forums at our office once a month to answer loan

questions for clients & pre-qualify borrowers; we have hot dogs, soda, and bounce houses for the kids.

For more information on the Open Forum contact our office 209-

527-0747. To talk to a Loan Officer call for an appointment or just stop by Monday — Friday 8 am to 5 pm. Saturday & Sunday by appointment.

0 There is a $15 supply cost due the first ‘100 day of camp.

* KALEIDOSCOPE LITTLE KIDS CAMPS*

KALEIDOSCOPE KIDS CAMPS

Special! Sign-up for one camp and get

$10 off additional camps*.

* Must sign-up for all camps at the same time.

Spa Kids Day Camp

Spend the week making fragrant and colorful bath & body products! Each day, participants will learn about a new product, its history and why we use it. Afterwards, that knowledge will be put to work by actually making the product! On the last day, each participant will use all of the products they've created to make a special gift basket.

Campers will use a host of skills includ-ing of course, creativity. Bring a small (ap- ing math, science, reading, writing and,

(ap-prox. 70 page) spiral notebook and a sack lunch each day.

INSTRUCTOR: April Richmond LOCATION: Boy Scout Club House 400 Enslen Avenue, Modesto

# 30569 9 — 12 yrs 5 sessions / $75 Jun 25 — Jun 29 Mon-Fri, 9 am-2 pm

* KALEIDOSCOPE LITTLE KIDS CAMP*

Splish Splash!

Beat the summer heat with a week of water fun and activities! Children will participate in activities that enhance their development, encourage their cu-riosity, expand their interests and recog-nize their potential.

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Egesdal LOCATION: Woodrow Park 3101 Sherwood Avenue, Modesto

# 30567 3 — 5 yrs 5 sessions / $60 Jul 16— Jul 20 Mon-Fri, 9 am-noon

* KALEIDOSCOPE LITTLE KIDS CAMP*

Move & Groove

Shake the wiggles out! Make new friends and get your body moving while you play outdoors. Learn new skills to keep you active and healthy.

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Egesdal LOCATION: Woodrow Park 3101 Sherwood Avenue, Modesto

# 30568 3 — 5 yrs 5 sessions / $60 Aug 6 — Aug 10 Mon-Fri, 9 am-noon

Kaleidoscope Kids Day Camps

Nature and environmen- tal study, day hikes, simple science experiments,

crafts, games, swimming and special events will all be part of this exciting day camp

season. Beyond the fun and exciting activities, camp influences self-esteem, respect for others, patience and good manners. There are six different weeks to choose from and one is sure to be just right for you! Campers are asked to bring their own lunch Monday through Thursday. All campers will be provided a T-shirt, two snacks daily and a B-B-Q lunch on Friday. Space is limited. Par-

ents, be sure to pick up your child's nec-

essary packet of forms when registering at

1010 Tenth Street, suite 4400. If register-

ing online, parents are asked to arrive 30

minutes early on the first day of camp to

fill out necessary forms.

* KALEIDOSCOPE KIDS DAY CAMP*

Double Dare 2007

Let's get messy! A Kid-centric week of trivia, obstacle courses, water games and slime.

LOCATION: E. La Loma Park 2001 Edgebrook Drive, Modesto

# 30351 6 — 12 yrs 5 sessions / $120 Jun 18 — Jun 22 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm

* KALEIDOSCOPE KIDS DAY CAMP* Tidal Wave V: I‘out!!!

Stay afloat with a week of water sports, ocean crafts and sand castles. Discover the fun!


kiti SUMMER 2007 ACTIVITY GUIDE

PH. 209.577.5344 FX 209.342.4705 WWW.MODESTOGOV.COM/PRND


# 30352 6 —12 yrs 5 sessions /$120 Jun 25 — Jun 29 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Face your fears with a week of things

that go bump in the night! Glow in the

dark crafts, campfire songs, owls, mon-

sters and bats! Don't miss the fun!


#30353 6 — 12 yrs 5 sessions /$120 Jul 9 — Jul 13 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Come make your home out on the

range! Saddle up for plants, animals

and our environment - country style!


# 30354 6 — 12 yrs 5 sessions / $120 Jul 16 — Jul 20 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Surf and Turf

Heat up and cool down by land and

by "sea". Enjoy a week at the "beach"

in Modesto by participating in groovy

crafts and sand 'n "sea" activities.


#30355 6 — 12 yrs 5 sessions / $120 Jul 23 — Jul 27 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Wild and Crazy Kit

Don't just sit there! Come for a week

of crazy crafts, wild walks and scrump-

tious snacks. Don't miss out on a siz-

zling good time!


SKYHAWKS SPORTS CAMPS

Soccer Camp

Young athletes learn the fundamental

skills of soccer through fun games and

exercises, then get a chance to test their

new expertise in skills and strategy with

interactive group activities, games and

scrimmages. Participant-to-coach ratio

is approximately 14:1. Participants re-

ceive a t-shirt and athletic ball. Regis-

trants must complete Skyhawks Sports

Academy Registration Form to officially

register. Information.. 1-800-804-3509

or (209) 577-5428.

LOCATION: Woodrow Park 3101 Sherwood Avenue, Modesto

# 29326 7 — 14 yrs 5 sessions / $121 Jul 23 — Jul 27 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Basketball Camp

Designed for beginning and intermedi-

ate basketball players, participants learn

new skills while building upon basic

fundamentals. Participants have a great

time as they refine their passing, shoot-

ing and dribbling skills. Participants put

these abilities to the test at the end of the

week tournament. Participant-to-coach

ratio is approximately 10:1. Participants

receive a t-shirt and athletic ball. Regis-

trants must complete Skyhawks Sports

Academy Registration Form to officially

register. Information: 1-800-804-3509

or (209) 577-5428.

LOCATION: Roosevelt Gym 801 W. Orangeburg Avenue, Modesto

# 29322 6 —12 yrs 5 sessions / $121 Jun 25 — Jun 29 Mon -Fri, 9 am-3 pm

LOCATION: La Loma Gym 2001 Edgebrook Drive, Modesto

# 29323 6 —12 yrs 5 sessions / $121 Jul 9 — Jul 13 Mon—Fri, 9 am-3 pm


Mini-Hawk Camp

An introductory program for young

children, Mini-Hawk helps children

explore soccer, baseball and basketball

in a day-program setting. No pres-

sure, just lots of fun while these young

athletes participate in all three sports

through unique Skyhawks games. Our

Mini-Hawk coaching staff is trained to

meet the special needs of young chil-

dren. Staff is committed to helping chil-

dren start off on the right foot, as they

take their first step into athletics. Par-

ticipant-to-coach ratio is approximately

8:1. Participants receive a t-shirt and

athletic ball. Registrants must complete

Skyhawks Sports Academy Registration

Form to officially register. Information:

1-800-804-3509 or (209) 577-5428.


# 29325 4 — 7 yrs 5 sessions / $105 Jul 16 — Jul 20 Mon-Fri, 9 am—noon


Multi-Sport Camp

Skyhawks Multi-Sport program con-

sists of soccer, baseball and basketball.

This fast-paced program is designed to

teach the basic skills and fundamentals

in a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. Par-

ticipants are challenged daily in each of

the three sports by structured exercises

and fun games. Participants receive a t-

shirt and athletic ball. Registrants must

complete Skyhawks Sports Academy

Registration Form to officially register.

Information: 1-800-804-3509 or (209)

577-5428.


# 30301 7 — 14 yrs 5 sessions / $105 Jul 16 — Jul 20 Mon-Fri, 1 pm-4 pm

# 30356 6 — 12 yrs 5 sessions / $120 July 30 — Aug 3 Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm

OF MODESTO PARKS, RECREATION AND NEIGHBORHOODS DEPARTMENT

IN Vt_EVIORY AND HONOR OF

CAPTAIN RAYMOND DWAYNE HILL II

CAPTAIN RAYMOND DWAYNE HILL II GAVE HIS LIFE

IN THE LINE OF DUTY SERVING IN OPERATION IRAQ FREEDOM

OCTOBER 29, 2005

RAY WAS DETACI IEDFROMTHE 1/487TH FIELDARTILLERYBATTALION

IN OAHU, H I TO THE 1/184TH INFANTRY REGIMENT CALIFORNIA

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD.

HTTP://WWW.WEBDEVA.COM/RAY/

US

PO

STA

GE

PR

SR

T S

TD

PE

RM

IT 63

7

ST

OC

KT

ON

, C

A

valley home sweet home issue 2

Documents

real estate resource

home listing

valley home sweet home

home equity

home ownership

home buyers handbook

firsttime home buyers

credit scoring guide