Empowering kindness through rebellious roles

Matthew Modine was honored at the conclusion of Cinequest on Sunday evening, receiving the film festival’s prestigious Maverick Spirit Award following the premiere of his latest film, Hard Miles. Scheduled for release on April th, the movie features Modine in the role of a strict yet compassionate cycling coach who leads four incarcerated youths on a challenging -mile journey to the Grand Canyon. Inspired by true events, the character portrayed by Modine, Greg Townsend, is based on a real individual from RidgeView Academy, a correctional institution in Colorado. During an engaging discussion with Modine and director R.J. Daniel Hanna on stage, the audience gained insight into the making of Hard Miles and Modine’s portrayal of the inspirational figure, Townsend.

During my moderation at the California Theatre, the actor expressed his belief that directors have begun to cast him in roles with a more rebellious edge, such as Dr. Brenner in Stranger Things. This change in casting direction is a departure from his earlier screen appearances and stems from his personal aspiration to spread kindness in the world. Modine graciously signed autographs and posed for photos with enthusiasts at the California Theatre, expressing his delight at returning to Cinequest after being honored with the Maverick Innovator Award a decade ago for the innovative app-umentary adaptation of his Full Metal Jacket Diary, a multimedia presentation detailing his experiences on set.

The renowned Stanley Kubrick film is well-known for its cinematic brilliance. While the in-person aspect of Cinequest has come to a close, the virtual counterpart, Cinejoy, will be taking place from March -. To view the selection of films offered, please visit creatics.org/cinejoy. STRIDING TOWARD CIVIC PRIDE: I must admit that running is not my preferred form of exercise. However, my admiration for San Jose and the organizers of the various races held throughout the city motivates me to participate. This is why I joined nearly , individuals in running, jogging, and walking through downtown.

The sixth consecutive Shamrock Run was held to raise funds for the San Jose-Dublin Sister City Program’s scholarship fund. Mayor Matt Mahan of San Jose welcomed participants with a speech at the commencement of the event, followed by a performance by the San Jose Police Emerald Society bagpipe and drum band. The route provided a unique perspective of downtown, passing iconic Silicon Valley locations such as Adobe and Zoom headquarters, as well as cultural landmarks like the Tech Interactive, Caravan Lounge, Plaza de Cesar Chavez, and San Pedro Square. To conclude the event, participants were treated to a complimentary glass of Guinness.

Complimentary food and beverages will be provided to all runners over the age of at O’Flaherty’s Pub. The upcoming running events that have come to my attention include the Heart and Soles Run scheduled for April , the San Jose K and Half-Marathon Race to the Row in June, and the Stars and Strides Run on June . Additionally, the Italian American Heritage Foundation in San Jose will host a St. Joseph’s Day event on March , featuring a free pasta lunch prepared by volunteers after an a.m. Mass officiated by Rev. George Aranha.

Please join us at N. Fourth St. for the upcoming St. Joseph Day celebrations. For more information, please visit our website at www.iahsj.org. It is customary to bring a gift of pastries or desserts to contribute to the festivities. Monetary donations will also be accepted and distributed to local charities. Each attendee will receive a traditional take home bag containing a prayer card, an orange, a piece of bread, and three dried fava beans. This custom is inspired by the story of people surviving on fava beans during a drought in Sicily in the Middle Ages, which ended after prayers were offered.

Learninng Outcome

In conclusion, there are plenty of exciting running events coming up in the San Jose area, including the Heart and Soles Run, the San Jose K and Half-Marathon Race to the Row, and the Stars and Strides Run. Don’t forget to refuel after your run with complimentary food and beverages at O’Flaherty’s Pub. And for a cultural experience, be sure to check out the St. Joseph’s Day event at the Italian American Heritage Foundation for a free pasta lunch and a morning Mass officiated by Rev. George Aranha.