Happy 209!

Posted January 7 at 06:57 AM

So I was in a bit of a funk over the holidays, which I guess is what happens when the project you've worked hard on for two years gets eliminated. It's also why you haven't heard from me on this blog in a bit.

But yesterday, I snapped out of it. I'm feeling gregarious again - upbeat, even - and I've got what I think are some exciting plans and ideas for the 209 in 2009.

And I've got Shelby to thank for it.

Or rather, I've got my friends who told me about Shelby to thank for it. After all, I don't watch ABC's "The Bachelor," on which Shelby is a contestant. I figure there are better things I can do with my Monday nights, like watch anything else, or go to a bar and get drunk. (Not that there's anything wrong with my friends who watch "The Bachelor.")

Anyway, Shelby is described by the show as a Stockton native living in Fresno. Apparently, when first asked where she was from, Shelby refused to acknowledge Stockton. (I haven't been able to find a transcript or video clip of the episode online, which may say something about its current popularity.)

When pressed on the matter, Shelby finally mumbled Stockton, adding that the city isn't that special. This from someone now living in Fresno.

Well, you know what, Shelby?

F**k you.

You're an idiot, and not just because you were willing to sell your soul and perhaps marry some random guy you met on a reality show (and who earned some of my respect by eliminating you.) You're not even that special for being on "The Bachelor" - by my count, 17 residents or natives of the 209 have been on reality television. (Which makes you wonder, what was the deal with the hype about Queen Emily?)

I live in Stockton, I like living in Stockton, I know many others who like living in Stockton and I think the city has a lot going for it. Does the city have its problems? Of course. But if it didn't have problems, it'd be a fake plastic town like Disneyland.

And Disneyland sucks.

I like the fact that Stockton residents tend to be honest, hard-working, friendly people. I like the city's diversity. I love its neighborhoods, its bars and its food; I grew up on the East Coast, and I don't know of any mid-size city there where you can find good Mexican, Indian and Thai cuisine.

And I absolutely love Stockton's music.

I love Hallway Productionz, NSane, Radio, OkWeRdZ, The Tones, Icarus Jones, Greyspace, Neglected, Doja Clik and others for helping to build the reputation of Stockton's urban scene while staying committed to their hometown.

I love French Cassettes, Travis Vick (yes, I consider them part of the Stockton scene), The Second String Quintet and the guys in Filbert for their willingness to experiment, take risks and create exciting music.

I love the Blameshifters and The Outlaw Dance Society for their dedication to the punk ethos.

I love La Circa, We're Not Friends Anymore, A Skylit Drive and all the other young bands who treat their fans like their best friends and kick ass on stage.

I love and respect anyone who is working hard to show off their talent here - even if we've disagreed about how I write about that talent.

And that respect is what's got me thinking big about this year.

So you know what Shelby? Stay in Fresno. I'm going to remember what you said about Stockton.

When this city (and Modesto, for that matter) finally blows up, and you come back trying to claim your birthright, I'll be first in line to tell you to go to hell. - Ian Hill / 209Vibe editor (and proud of it, goddamn it.)