The Sacramento Press is all about providing an outlet for everyone in the community. We hit the street recently to get people's opinions about Second Saturday. This week's question: What do you like about Second Saturday and what would you change?

Alice Popejoy, 22
Recent Graduate, Hamilton College
Curtis Park

What do you like?
"Before I went away to college, Second Saturday wasn't much — a few people walking around looking at art galleries. Now it just seems like there's so much youth and music and people out enjoying the new restaurants in Sacramento. It's just great to see people outside."

What would you change?
"I'd probably block off the streets so there wouldn't be any cars, because it's kind of crowded on the sidewalks. That would facilitate movement and there'd be more room for vendors. More art, and outside, not just in the little galleries that are hard to get into. You have to stand in line. You don't have the time."

Jonathan McCarty, 26
My BBQ Spot Co-owner
Lawrence Park

What do you like?
"People come down to meet and greet with other people and see art. It's a good mix for Sacramento to get everybody really friendly with each other. It's a real family event."

What would you change?
"There isn't much in this area (25th and J streets). We set up a stage and had a couple of hip-hop artists just to liven things up around here."

Shannon O'Connor, 47
Artist
Midtown

What do you like?
"It gives people the chance to be opportunistic to show their art. It gives all the suburban people a chance to come down and spend money."

What would you change?
"I think it should be every Saturday. Do you know how many artists there are? My god. There are so many stupid rules (for artists)."

Charles Brooks, 64
Retired
Midtown

What do you like?
"I like that they have bands down there — the entertainment and stuff that they be selling. Plus they have the belly dancers around the corner. They're pretty good."

What would you change?
"I wouldn't change anything."

Natalia Deardorff, 27
State Employee
Midtown

What do you like?
"I like the number of musicians and artists you're exposed to, especially at the last one. I thought there were a lot more musicians out on the street."

What would you change?
"I guess the city could do better to plan for crowd control and traffic, especially in Midtown. It's impossible to find a parking space in your neighborhood those days."

Jarred Gay, 27
J-Rod Productions Owner/Handyman
Midtown

What do you like?
"The increase in people on the streets. The opportunity to see more art without having to go to an art gallery. It's more available. There's always a lot of hot chicks out. It's like the city's own little class show."

What would you change?
"Making it more than just Second Saturday. Make it an every Second Sunday event, too, for people who can't make it Saturday. I'd start it earlier and promote the art earlier."
 

We welcome your suggestions for future "Street Interview" questions. Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. She can be reached at suzanne@sacramentopress.com or 804-2856.