Event in Sacramento

"Anónimo Mortal" day one of the "El Santo" Mexican film series

2009-10-28T05:18:34Z

Monday evening transported me back to high school Spanish class.

At La Raza Galeria Posada, I watched a non-subtitled, and non-dubbed Mexican film for the first time in years. The plot and dialogue were easy enough to follow so I didn't feel completely lost, and the 1970s outfits the women wore also kept me thoroughly entertained (leopard bell bottom pants while walking through the desert, really?)

"Anónimo Mortal," features El Santo, or "the Saint," played by Rodolfo Huerta, who wears his emblematic silver mask in the wrestling ring and as he goes about life, or in this film, as he helps to solve a murder mystery.

El Santo is one of Mexico's iconic figures that many Mexican citizens identified with, said Marie Acosta, Director at La Raza Galeria Posada.

"Santo is popular because he is the working class hero - the superhero," Acosta said. "So much popular culture is exported to Mexico from the United States, he was the first to really have a collective national identity for Mexico."

"Anónimo Mortal" starts out with a bang - literally. Within the first few minutes someone is shot, which began the inquisitive crime-solving sleuthing for the film.

Certain citizens are being targeted in Mexico City, in addition, the ones targeted all receive an anonymous death threat stating that "your turn to die is next." Mario Gaos, a business man, reads about it in the paper and having just received a death threat himself says that instead of the police, "the only person who can save me is Santo."

From then on, it is up to El Santo and his crime fighting associates to investigate the murders.

I was quite surprised that despite having a Mexican wrestler as the protagonist there were actually only a few wrestling scenes. The main plot centered around the murder-mystery or classic "who-dun-it" theme. Eventually it is discovered that the murders end up being from an old Nazi extermination camp commander and other nazi's, relocated to Mexico some 25 years after the war, who wants revenge on those who testified against him in the war crimes trial.

I found the storyline easy to follow, peppered with action sequences of Santo fighting in the ring and against the vilified Nazis. The film quality was relatively grainy, and reminded me of the typical 1970s Bruce Lee action or any other adventure movie during that era. The clothes the women characters Yvette and Ester wore were very fashion-conscious during the time, with high waist jeans, chunky heels and raccoon eye makeup.

Entry and popcorn are free, beer and wine can be purchased for under $5, and donations are always graciously accepted. The Galeria has beautiful works of art in both rooms, so come by a little early and pursue the sculptures before watching the feature.

The El Santo films will continue to be shown all this week. On Thursday, Doctor Dobb, film curator, will speak on El Santo's life and legacy. The free series is sponsored by the Consulate General of Mexico.

"Santo is a national symbol," Acosta said. "It will be great to have Fred [Dobb] curating the Mexican film series and introducing people to this iconic piece of Mexican film history."

The remaining films this week are:

Tuesday: Santo y Blue Demon en la Atlántida (Santo and Blue Demon in Atlantis), subtitled
Wednesday: Santo vs. Las Lobas (Good vs. The Wolf), subtitled
Thursday: Santo en el Museo de Cera (Ghost in the Wax Museum), subtitled
Friday: Santo y Blue Demon vs. Los Monstruos (Santo and Blue Demon vs. The Monsters), not subtitled

Films begin at 7 p.m. at La Raza Galeria Posada, 1022 22nd St. in Sacramento. You can just show up for the film, or place a reservation with Michael by calling 916.446.5133, or by email at michael@larazagaleriaposada.org.

Fighting cardiovascular disease through Start! Sacramento Heart Walk

2009-09-17T06:47:41Z

William Land Park will come alive Saturday with over 3,000 community members walking together to fight against heart disease in the Sacramento Heart Walk. Start! Heart Walk is locally sponsored by Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute, and aided nationally by the American Heart Association. The event is scheduled to begin from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Sacramento community is very much involved, said Kristine Mosqueda-Kelly with American Heart Association. Families and individuals are participating in this event to share their stories and hopefully raise community awareness about the fight against heart disease and stroke. The event is driven by volunteers and walkers to fund lifesaving research in the cardiovascular field.

"The American Heart Association has had a significant impact in the lives of countless families through its research efforts, community education outreach, advocacy and healthcare quality improvement efforts," said Mosqueda-Kelly. "AHA-funded research has contributed to many important discoveries such as CPR, life-extending drugs, pacemakers, bypass surgery, the heart-lung machine and surgical techniques to repair heart defects. These are medical breakthroughs that has saved countless lives and continue to save many lives everyday." Said Mosqueda-Kelly.

One survivor is Grace Brown, age 6 1/2, of Antelope. Brown was diagnosed at 2 1/2 years old with a congenital heart defect called coarctation of the aorta. At only 3 1/2 years old, she underwent lifesaving surgery for her enlarged heart.

"We were told without surgery at some point, she wouldn't survive past her 30s," said Angie Brown, Grace's mother.

Now two years after her surgery Grace has been weaned off her medication and the family is confident that her future will be bright.

"[At the Sacramento Heart Walk] we honor her for her courage and what she went through, " said Brown said. "My father passed away from a heart attack at the same time when she was diagnosed in 2006," Brown said. "I am very passionate about this cause."

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 3 killers in the United States, respectively. "Anybody at any age can have risk factors," said Dr. Maxine Barish Wreden, physician with Sutter Health. "Children or teenagers can have high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, diabetes."

Obesity, can be directly related to the food we eat or don't eat as children, said Wreden. This can be easily preventable by the lifestyle choices we make with proper diet and exercise. The chance for stroke, hypertension and heart is significantly reduced by the type of food we consume, she said.

Along with community awareness, there will also be free health screenings, educational information, and heart-healthy snacks and beverages. Family-oriented activities in the Kids Zone will be providing free activities, such as the milk mustache contest, sponsored by Foster Farms Dairy. There will also be a health fair and free massages. Live bands will provide musical entertainment, as well.

For more information, visit the Start! Sacramento Heart Walk website.

More information about cardiovascular disease can be found at the American Heart Association website.

Kanpai! 5th Annual Northern California Sake Fest

2009-09-28T16:20:45Z

"Kanpai!"

You may hear a few attendees joyously exclaim this Japanese phrase, equivalent to the English "Cheers!" at the fifth annual Northern California Premium Sake Fest. The event kicks off Wednesday at The Sheraton Grand.

North American Food Distributions — importer and wholesale distributor for Asian food retailers — hand-selected over 100 of the finest sake, shochu and Japanese beers to be presented and tasted for this event.

"Shochu is a distilled spirit," said Judy Inaba, event manager for North American Food Distributions Inc. "It is an old-style beverage, very popular in Japan." The drink can be mixed with different juices, much like vodka, for a desired taste, Inaba said.

Each attendee will receive a special commemorative sake cup at the entrance. The cup can be used for all the sake tasting booths.

"It will be like a wine tasting — but with sake," Inaba said.

Local Sacramento sushi cafes and Japanese restaurants will be providing delectable sushi samples and exclusive signature items.

"Each partner company through North American Food Distributions — wasabi, for example — will provide food samples," Inaba said. "The restaurants are very generous [with portions]; One will be providing tuna and scallop wasabi salad."

There will also be fun demonstrations. In one event, aptly named "Fast and Furious," five local chefs will prepare nigiri — sushi rice with a topping of raw fish, normally in pairs — in five minutes. The chef who prepares the most pieces of nigiri is named the winner.

Ross Dreizler, representing Sapporo Grill Japanese Steakhouse, is a first-time sushi chef contender.

"I have been a sushi chef for about five to six years," he said, "[I have] been practicing."

The winner from "Fast and Furious" will win a top-of-the-line sushi knife and bragging rights for a full year.

But the biggest draw for the evening will be the maguro — Japanese for tuna — demonstration. This popular and weighty fish, topping the scales at 200 lbs., will be flown directly from Japan on dry ice and specially prepared by Jimmy Jiang, sushi chef from Akebono.

Jiang said this is the second biggest tuna he has ever prepared.

"I will use a special tuna knife." he said. "A few [I prepared] before were around 135 lbs.," he said.

The special tuna knife looks like a small sword, with an elongated wooden handle and single edged blade, and is specifically designed to cut the delicate tuna flesh without affecting the look of the final presentation.

Jiang boasts being able to prepare a fish of this size in about half an hour, or less. The tuna slices will then be cut into smaller pieces and served to attendees.

Fresh tuna should taste like butter, Inaba said.

In addition to the maguro, local restaurants will have fish flown from parts of New Zealand, Japan, Canada and the East Coast and prepared for this event. Sacramento sushi restaurants will include Akebono, Miyaki, Sapporo Grill Japanese Steakhouse, Hashi, Nishiki, and Sushi Cafe.

Attendees will also get the chance to demonstrate their own Japanese sake knowledge. In a blind taste contest, tasters will sample favorites then attempt to guess the correct type. Prizes will include restaurant gift certificates from Sacramento sushi restaurants.

A silent auction and benefit drawing will include multiple items such as Takara Sake, Iichiko Shochu and Coedo Beer directly from Japan. All proceeds from the auction and benefit will go toward the UC Davis Children's Hospital, and local non-profit organizations such as the Asian Sports Foundation.

The Sacramento Taiko Dan drummers will provide thunderous live music.

This event will be on Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel at 1230 J St.

Tickets can be purchased in advanced for a reduced price of $55. At the door, tickets are $65. Please visit the North American Food Distribution website to purchase. Reservations can also be made via phone by contacting Judy Inaba at (916) 373-1111, ext. 120 or by e-mail at judy@nafdc.com.

An estimated 400 sake and Japanese beer connoisseurs are expected to attend.

All attendees must be at least 21 years old.

Naked Lounge downtown to open music venue

2009-10-07T02:49:10Z

The Naked Lounge is ready to turn it up a notch.

On Oct. 15 at their Downtown location on the corner of H and 11th streets, the coffee shop will roll-up their garage doors for an all ages music venue.

"We opened this coffee house in February," said Jenn Fox, General Manager. "We never wanted music inside the coffeehouse, we focus just on coffee. But then we got to thinking ... it's already next door, it's a great space, let's do a venue."

Over the next few months, the Naked Lounge music venue quickly started to form. The rented space, known as "Retrolodge," is aptly named after the Astro and Elroy motels. The style for both motels was modeled after the 1950s and 60s Palm Springs look. They have since been renovated with their space now being rented to Sacramento business tenants.

"It's a weird spot, really unique," Fox said. "It is really changing the face of downtown. There is nothing like it in Sacramento."

The two locations will be located next to one another, side by side. A roll-up door separates them, but will be open during events. The venue, like the coffee house, is modestly sized and will have an intimate feel seating about 50 people. The coffee house has a unique space with a lounge area, central espresso bar and also seats about 50.

Fox said the music at the venue will be lively and varied, with no heavy metal or DJs performing. There will be folk rock, alternative country like Americana, jazz and blues. They plan on showing local Sacramento bands, but also touring bands from Chico, Chicago and even New York, she said.

"The point is to highlight local acts, but also to get people to come [out] to Sacramento," Fox said. Subscribing to their weekly newsletter located at their website is the best way to follow what bands will be performing, she said.

Alcohol will be served to those 21 and over. Coffee will continue to be served as long as the venue is open, Fox said. Normally, the lounge is only open until 7 p.m. Following the grand opening on Oct. 15, the lounge and venue will stay open as late as midnight depending on the night.

The music venue will also double as a nightlife entertainment hangout spot on nights not performing any music, Fox said.

"There will be some sort of venue six nights a week," Fox said. "Tuesday night is open mic night, Wednesday night is documentary night and Sunday evening there will be a pub quiz."

The pub quiz will not have the traditional feel to it, she said, and the documentaries are especially interesting.

"The first five weeks we will be showing 'Up'," Fox said. "In it the filmmaker follows 14 seven-year-old children in Britain from 1964, and every seven years he has updates with them."

Overall, Fox said she is looking forward to the grand opening experience and what it will bring to the downtown Sacramento night scene.

"There are not too many places in Sacramento you can go with your friends, sit, have a beer and watch something intellectually stimulating," Fox said. "It really is unique."

The Naked Coffee's website will announce upcoming entertainment, or there is a section to sign up for their newsletter.

Local bands can book their performances through Jenn Fox by emailing her at Jenn@nakedcoffee.net.

Photos courtesy from nakedcoffee.net.

A Little naughty with your nice this holiday

2009-11-26T03:15:43Z

Treat yourself to a tasteful helping of holiday humor with the wickedly truthful "The Santaland Diaries."

Presented by Capital Stage in Old Sacramento, "Diaries" focuses on the crazy, "insane things" the holiday season tends to bring out in just about everyone - parents and hired elves alike.

"This is an adult take on how adults act around Christmas," said Peter Mohrmann, Capital Stage manager. "We've told every Christmas story over the last few years, we really wanted to show something different."

Unlike cheery Christmas classics such as "It's a Wonderful Life," "White Christmas" and "Christmas Carol," "Diaries" has more of a "witty, sardonic and unpredictable" aftertaste, according to the Capital Stage website.

Before David Sedaris became the best-selling author and Grammy-award nominated humorist he is today, he was an unemployed, struggling writer in New York. In a desperate attempt to make a few bucks, Sedaris was hired as "Crumpet the Elf" at the famous Santaland Macy's display in New York City. Similar to the movie "Bad Santa," Sendaris experiences the other side of rosy cheeks and cheery Christmas tunes — exasperated holiday shoppers.

"[Sendaris] did a reading of "The SantaLand Diaries" in Chicago in the early 90s on National Public Radio," Mohrmann said. "That is really what brought so much attention to him, it launched his career."

The show became so popular, it is shown across the country and has become a National Public Radio annual tradition, Mohrmann added.

Capital Stage artistic associate Janis Stevens will direct Foothill Theatre Company member Gary Alan Wright in this one-man play. Also, this one-hour play has been recommended for "Mature Elves" due to some graphic language.

In the spirit of giving, Mohrmann hopes the comical play will excite people to see more local performances in and around the Sacramento area.

"It is important to really see all the great theatre performances going on," he said. "That is my wish for the holiday season."

Capital Stage is located at 1000 Front St. in Old Sacramento. "The Santaland Diaries" will hold previews starting Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. Opening night is Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary depending on the date and time. The schedule can be viewed here.

Capital Stage is also running "Dinner & Show" tickets, which features a three-course meal on the Delta King. Tickets range from $49 to $56, not including taxes or gratuities.

Group rates and ticket discounts (students, seniors, preview days) can be viewed here.

Tickets can be purchased here.

"The Santaland Diaries" will conclude on Dec. 27 at 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy Capital Stage website.

Arigato Gozaimasu! Sake Fest a big hit in Sacramento

2009-10-02T04:39:27Z

A large wooden cask, with kanji characters written in heavy black ink brush strokes, sat alone in the middle of the stage — but not for very long.

"On the count of three," said the announcer, "these men will break the top of the cask, symbolizing happiness and good luck. Ready? Ichi ... ni ... san!"

Right on cue Jimmy Yee, County Supervisor, Ryan Garner, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Office of Mayor Kevin Johnson, and Dr. Gary Raff, UC Davis Medical Center Pediatrics, shattered the top of the casket with their wooden mallets. Several watchers exclaimed "Kanpai!" officially kicking off the Fifth Annual Northern California Premium Sake Fest on Wednesday.

Harley and Judy Inaba created sake fest five years ago. The idea initially came to fruition because of their infant son, born 29 years ago, with a congenital heart defect.

"My son was born with a defective heart [called] transposition of the great arteries," said Harvey Inaba, President of North America Food Distributing Company. "The first day of his life he started turning blue. Minor surgery the day he was born saved him."

By his first birthday, Inaba's son underwent surgery to fully repair his heart. That infant is now a healthy young man of 29, who coincidentally also works in health care.

"I am so grateful for the research [UC Davis Pediatrics does], saving my son's life, giving him the chance to survive," said Inaba.

The Inabas decided to combine their love of Japanese cuisine and beverages, alongside their desire to support pediatric heart care research at the the UC Davis Children's Hospital Pediatric Care, and sake fest was born.

With over 400 Sacramento people in attendance, the event continues to grow in popularity each year.

Carole Gan, UC Davis News Service Manager, and Jacquelyn Kay-Mills, Program Director for Children's Miracle Network, both came to support the event.

"It is a great cause," Gan said, "it is really a wonderful event and I'm really happy to be here."

"I am excited because of the attention they are bringing to the [Pediatric] program at UC Davis," Kay-Mills said. "It's exciting having people in the community that really give back."

The excitement in the air was palpable as taiko drums reverberated and shook the room within minutes of the event starting. Attendees gathered around the stage to watch the lively drummers, who also played conch shells and shouted words in Japanese.

Each taiko piece played had a special significance.

"The first, Hiyru San Dan Gaeshi, is a traditional piece to pull together the dragon, to circle around three times for good luck," said Sacramento Taiko Don drummer Kris Marubayoshi.

Attendees certainly needed the luck in trying to decide where to start. Japanese beer booths — Coedo, Ecigo and Orion — sat at the entrance. Sake and shochu, a distilled spirit, had sampling booths in the middle. Local Sacramento sushi restaurants — Kru, Nishiki, Akebono, and Miyagi — encircled the outskirts, offering up delicious appetizer portions of soba noodles and aeomono, vegetables with a dressing or sauce, or freshly prepared sushi such as salmon, katsuo and blue nose.

There was also blind sake tasting, a silent auction, and a benefit drawing. Lucky raffle winners could win anything from restaurant gift certificates, four weeks of free martial arts lessons at Kovar, to a grand prize of an overnight stay at Atlantis Casino & Resort Spa in Reno.

Walking shoulder to shoulder with commemorative sake glasses in hand, attendees sampled the exquisite tastes of plum wine, nigori (unpasteurized sake), taru (sake aged in cedar casks) and plum, fuji apple, or raspberry-flavored sake.

"A lot of people have never heard of the different types of sake," said Harley Inaba. "Some never knew they could drink it cold, or [were willing] to try something new with such a delicious aroma. We wanted to educate the public about the different types of sake."

While new patrons might have felt overwhelmed, fifth-time attendee Missy Masudo had no problem navigating for something new to catch her eye.

"I always come to try to find a new sake that I haven't tried before, from a different region." said Masudo. "It's nice that they bring vendors from all over Japan that bring sake that we couldn't [otherwise] buy over here."

Good quality water contributes to the health of the rice and adds to the taste of the sake, said Masudo.

Each of the vendors normally have a map showing in which region the sake was produced.

"They say the more north [you go], the water is more clean and pure," Masudo said.

One of the more northern sake regions, in Shikoku and Konshu, is home to the Japanese "Born" Brewery located in Fukui Japan.

Born's sake "Wing of Japan" has a reputation for quality, clean taste, and a pleasant aroma, Atsuhide Kato said, CEO of Born Brewery.

Wing of Japan is also the only sake to be served on Japan Airlines' new Boeing 777-300ER and for first class executives aboard the Tokyo-New York route, according to a recent Japan Times article.

Wing of Japan also found a place with some top United States officials — from President Clinton to President Obama.

"In 1996, [President] Clinton was at summit in Japan," said Tomoko Morrison, Kato's translator, "he enjoyed the sake so much [at the reception] he ordered it later."

The new Prime Minister from Japan brought this sake as a present for President Obama, said Morrison.

While patrons sampled beverages and food, two main events also had audience members cheering. Chef "Jimmy" from Akebono had the honor of cutting a 200 lbs. maguro, tuna, into fish fillets.

He used a special tuna knife to delicately carve through the flesh, and a smaller blade to hack through the more difficult fish bone. The special tuna knife looked like a small sword, with an elongated wooden handle and single edged blade, and was specifically designed to cut the delicate tuna flesh without affecting the look of the final presentation.

"It's the biggest fish I [have] cut in my life," said Jimmy, "it's so big!"

In the "Fast and the Furious," five local sushi chefs — from Samuri, Nishiki, Miyaki, Kru, and Sapporo Grill — prepared nigiri, sushi on rice, using the tuna slices cut by Chef Jimmy within five minutes. Audience members gleefully cheered for their favorite chef, yelling loudly until an air horn announced the end of the timed event.

Tony Sato of Miyaki Bar & Sushi, with 30 years of sushi preparation experience, ended up winning with 66 perfectly prepared nigiri sushi pieces. Each participant received a special 200 mL. sake bottle.

Audience members got to eat the tuna prepared by the chefs, which vanished quickly.

The three-hour sake and sushi fest concluded at 9 p.m.

Proceeds for the event went to the UC Davis Children's Hospital Pediatric Heart Center, and the Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation.

The North American Food Distribution Co. website can be located here.

Photo credit: anthonybento.com

More photos from the event can be located at Anthony Bento's website.

Sacramento World Music and Dance Festival

2009-09-28T05:44:31Z

High energy and fun brought Old Sacramento to life at the Second Annual Sacramento World Music and Dance Festival.

The two-day festival kicked off Saturday at the Benvenuti Performing Arts Center, which featured Angentine tango champions Miriam and Leonardo. Festivities continued Sunday in Old Sacramento. Both days were a celebration of international cultures through ethnic dancing, musical performances, historical storytelling and traditional reenactments of stories and folktales from all over the world.

Despite the sweltering Sacramento heat, close to 5,000 attendees managed to stay cool under the shade of large tents and trees, and with the aid of popsicles and cold drinks sold by street vendors.

Lina Fat, board chair of the festival and executive chef of Fat's Restaurants, hoped for an even bigger turnout this year by the community.

"Sacramento was named one of the most diverse cities in the United States," Fat said. "We really wanted to showcase the diversity, and one way to really bring people together is through the medium of music and dance."

The creation of the largely tented Global Village area brought children and adults together to learn activities relating to the arts, clothing, writing and traditional music. The Village also functioned as an "international market" for artisans and craftspeople, cultural organizations, and non-profit booths including the Crocker Art Museum, and I Am Peace, Japanese Club, and West African Face Painting.

For adventurous and willing participants, free dance workshops were offered. Audience members could learn everything from West African and Middle Eastern to Irish and old-time European folk dance.

First-time attendee, Maria, participated in manasa, an American tribal-style belly dance.

"I had fun!" Maria said. She enjoyed the natural flow and grace of moving her body, and is considering taking lessons.

Jany Saengsawad, The Anime and Japanese Club from Grant Union High School, assisted children and adults make decorative Japanese-style masks. The masks, according to Japanese tradition, were worn on the face for protection and concealment.

"This is our second year here," said club member Jany Saengsawad. "We are here to promote our club and to just have fun."

First-time attendees Jackie Wait and Katie Hansberry both felt the festival had much to offer to the Sacramento community.

"I really liked the merging of different groups and cultures," Hansberry said.

"I appreciate the diversity of the music," Wait said. "It's neat seeing all these groups of dancers. Without coming out to do this, I didn't even know that some of these dances existed." said Wait.

Two large canvas tents housed all the professional musical and dance performances. At the Passenger Station Stage, located in front of the Discovery Museum, a multitude of ethnic dances troupes included Tong Xin Tai Chi Chinese Team, Kennelly School of Irish Dance and Flamenco Del Oro, which presented both Spanish dance and live music.

The Waterfront Stage, showcased a variety of performances, like Jodama African Drum and Dance, Tezaur-Romanian Dance and Bhaskar's Arts Academy with Indian Dance.

Jodama, who only goes by her first name, calls her North Highland troupe "Sacramento's best kept secret." She felt proud to to have her company show off different cultural dances from everywhere in Africa, she said.

"We have a different variety of ethnic dancers from Ghana, West Africa, South Africa, Morocco," she said.

"If you feel the music, don't be afraid to stand up and dance!" one Jodama dance member shouted from stage.

Thundering drums, whooping and beating of sticks harmoniously on stage, brought many audience members to their feet cheering and grooving in tune with the tribal beats.

"Many of the villages in Africa would play their music loud and strong to communicate with other neighboring tribes," said dance member Joyce, speaking from the microphone. Villages would come together for huge celebrations, such as weddings, and communicate their joy through dance, she said.

"We wanted to show the best performers to really celebrate what each rich ethnic group has to offer," Fat said. "We are lucky to have so many people performing right here in Sacramento."

The Second Annual Sacramento World Music and Dance Festival can be found here.

Jodama's African Drum and Dance website can be found here.

Wine and Beats pours local Sacramento wine alongside good vibes

2009-10-25T03:53:08Z

Wine and eclectic beats never sounded so good. Design Within Reach, a trendy art furniture studio Downtown, came alive Wednesday evening, providing a popular hot spot for the first ever Wine and Beats event, created and hosted by Rai-Mon Nemar.

Nemar, founder of LEGENDmag and budding sommelier, has a contagious passion for both wine and music. Nemar said he noticed subtle changes to the characteristics of wine while listening to albums.

"I was writing an article one day reviewing an album, sipping on wine," he said. "By the time I completed the article I thought, 'All I need in life is wine and beats.' So I started comparing bottles of wine to certain albums and was amazed at some of the pairings."

The aesthetic feel of the wine is best paired with the type of music being played, he said.

"I want to make sure that wine is approachable," he said. "So I compare different types to music to get friends interested."

An eclectic functional space was also key to create an inviting atmosphere, he said.

"Clubs and bars already have their own atmosphere," he said. "Design Within Reach is unusual; most people walk right by and look inside but never really go in. I could manipulate the atmosphere here with the music, lights and surroundings.

First-time attendees Melissa Sais and Michelle Maghari both stopped in after hearing the music from outside.

"I love this space," Maghari said. "I really enjoy the energy. You wouldn't expect to see music from a design store."

"The music and the DJs are awesome," Sais said.

Though the event was free, attendees could make a donation to sponsor Sol Collective, a local non-profit organization that promotes mentoring and marketable skills for youths in disadvantaged communities in exchange for their community involvement.

"Sol Collective provides music production, multimedia arts and graphic design skills," said volunteer Estella Sanchez. "In exchange, youths then provide community service. It inspires young people to be active for change within their own community."

Sanchez was looking forward to the turnout Friday for Wine and Beats.

Local DJs Billy Lane, RiffRaff and Crush Delight spun music while three wineries, two Sacramento locals, poured wine all evening. Rail Bridge Cellars and Revolutions are the only two inner-city wineries located in Sacramento. Both wineries served blended wines which contained cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc.

With more Wine and Beats planned in the future, Nemar hopes Sacramento will respond well to his passion.

"I like giving Sacramento a chance to step out of its boundaries," Nemar said. "I think Midtown and Downtown needs to see something different, and that's what I am hoping to give with Wine and Beats."

Future Wine and Beats events and tours will eventually be located here.

Holiday music at the Capital

2009-12-03T04:27:54Z

Get into the holiday spirit by listening to musical productions at the State Capitol running until Dec. 23.

"This has been an annual tradition at the Capitol since 1996," said Erin Renfree, California State Capital museum supervisor. "We will have musical presentations everyday of the week, except on the Governor's Christmas Tree lighting day on Dec. 10."

Holiday floral arrangements of chrysanthemums and holly, provided by the California State Capital Museum Volunteer Association, will fill the Capital's Rotunda area, Renfree said. Lighted decorations and vintage floral set the stage to create a holiday atmosphere for the musical performances. All performances will be held in the Rotunda on the first floor of the Capital.

"We only have about 50 seats set up in the Rotunda, but visitors are also welcome to stand, or walk up to the second floor and look down on the group," Renfree said.

There will be a variety of holiday musical entertainment. From the traditional Victorian quartets, bells ringers and concert choirs, and even the not-so traditional folk rock, flute choirs and accordion ensembles.

"The State Capital museum, California State Parks, and Governors Office have worked together to restore a variety of holiday traditions inside the Capital," said Renfree.

On Dec. 10, Governor Schwarzenegger will light the Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m. Free hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. Attendees can also observe Hanukkah with the lighting of the first Menorah candle at 10 a.m. on Dec. 11.

Renfree hopes that attendees will enjoy the holiday musical performances at the Capital, and also take advantage of all the other museums downtown explaining California's rich historical culture.

"The Capital has been here since 1869, it is home to the laws of California and definitely not just a pretty Victorian building," she said. "Visitors can listen to the holiday music programs, then go on the free hourly tours to see how our legislature system works."

The Capital is located at 10th and L streets in Downtown Sacramento. Driving directions and a map can be located here.

The 2009 Holiday Music Schedule can be viewed at their website located here, or below. All daily performances are subject to cancellation due to Capitol operations.

Photo courtesy California State Capital museum website.

Dec. 3: 11 a.m - noon High Voltage (El Dorado Musical Theater)

Noon - 1 p.m. Ray Anthony Trujillo, Violinist

Dec. 4: 11 a.m - noon Forest Lake Christian School Chamber Choir

Noon - 1 p.m. Cosumnes River College Choir

Dec. 5: Noon - 1 p.m. Sacramento Valley Concert Choir

1 - 2 p.m. The Music Room Band

2 - 3 p.m. Capitol City Seventh Day Adventist Choir

Dec. 6: Noon - 1 p.m. Mission Oaks Strings

1 - 2 p.m. Bensing & Gramire ( Folk Rock)

Dec. 7: Noon - 1 p.m. Sacramento Community Home School Choir

1 - 2 p.m. Profound Sound Band (North Steps)

Dec. 8: Noon - 1 p.m. Davis High School Madrigals

Dec. 9: 11 a.m. - noon Sacramento Philharmonic

Noon - 1 p.m. Sacramento Capitolaires

Dec. 10: 5:30 p.m. Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting (No Music)

Dec. 11: Noon - 1 p.m. Capital Valley Harper’s Circle

Dec. 12: 11 - noon Camellia City Flute Choir

Noon - 1 p.m. Sacramento City College Choir

1 - 2 p.m. We Bones, Trombone Trio

Dec. 13: Noon - 1 p.m. Michelle Lajeunesse, Vocalist Beverly Wanner, Pianist

1 - 2 p.m. Anna Lisa Poganski, Vocalist

Dec. 14: Noon - 1 p.m. “I” Street Chamber Ensemble

Dec. 15: 11 - noon Lincoln HS Select Choir

Noon - 1 p.m. Roseville Sun City Singers

 Dec. 16: 11:30 - noon US Army Corps of Engineers

Noon - 1 p.m. Cal Trans Choir

Dec. 17: 11:30 - noon Silver Swans (Madrigal Chorus

Noon - 1 p.m. Sacramento Valley Chorus

Dec. 18: 11 - noon Sutter Middle School Band

Noon - 1 p.m. Sambandha, (World Music)

Dec. 19: Noon - 1 p.m. River Bells (Bell Choir)

Dec. 20: Noon - 1 p.m. Carol Khim Harp Studio

Noon - 1 p.m. Silver Bows String Ensemble

Dec. 21: Noon - 1 p.m. Davis Chorale/Davis Children’s Chorale

Dec. 22: Noon - 1 p.m. Davis High School String Quartet

Dec. 23: Noon - 1 p.m. Golden State Accordion Club

Valerie Fioravanti brings writing workshops to Midtown

2009-09-10T05:48:57Z

As a published writer, teaching instructor, writer's coach and newcomer to Northern California, Valerie Fioravanti now brings her years of teaching experience to the Sacramento community.

Fioravanti is offering Midtown Writing Workshops for beginning and advanced writers. Her workshops include small group meetings or private tutoring, with instruction and feedback on stories, novels, multi-genre and flash pieces.

"I think there are a lot of writers in [Sacramento]" she said. "In any city of this size, there are going to be two different types of people," Fioravanti said, "aspiring writers and people looking for self-expression, for creative expression."

Fioravanti has experienced the defeat of receiving rejection letters and not finding the constructive criticism she craved. In her writing workshops, she aims to cut the fluff of pretty writing; instead, she wants to get down to the basic fundamentals and help groom aspiring writers towards a professional career.

"You are going to get what I didn't get in workshops until I attended graduate school — you are going to get the truth," Fioravanti said. "You are going to get [the criticism] of what it takes to be a professional."

The "truth" she learned in graduate school gave her the push she needed in her writing. Eventually, she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree in fiction writing from New Mexico State University.

"Until you learn how to tell a story, you are going nowhere - ," she said. "It's a hard truth. And as soon as I addressed [this,] my work started going from rejections to actual acceptances."

Born and raised in New York City, it was only through the suggestion from a friend that lead her to Sacramento after first viewing Davis.

"I am a city girl at heart," she said. "Davis is lovely, but I walked around [the city center] in five minutes. Midtown Sacramento was her backup plan for me. Sacramento was perfect. It was exactly what I was looking for," said Fioravanti.

Since settling in Sacramento for a few short months, Fioravanti decided to open up Midtown Writing Workshops. She already teaches short stories and multi-genre writing classes online for UCLA Writer's Extension Program. However, she is ready to branch out into her own teaching curriculum and begin mentoring in the Sacramento community.

"I have been teaching writing since 2000," she said. "I have learned what works for me, what works for students, I am ready to do it my way."

Fioravanti believes that Sacramento has a particularly thriving art community, but it lacks a strong community for writers. The demand will grow, she said, eventually creating a haven for writers. She envisions herself in the forefront, hoping to encourage and support ambitious beginning writers, and publication guidance for seasoned writers.

"I think with a city of this size there is potential," said Valerie, "I think it's really just a matter of getting the word out."

Fioravanti's long-term goals include creating a non-profit writing center in Midtown. She has already contacted the Sacramento Arts Council to see about grant money to begin offering scholarships. While living in New York as an aspiring writer, having the writing community and workshops was a place to fit in. It was there that you felt among your people, she said.

"There are some [writing] venues for poets, and the California Lecture series, but we don't have anything really focusing on Sacramento community writers," she said. "I would love to see a thriving writing community."

Workshops start in October continuing on until November, located at 17th and H in Midtown. Fioravanti classes are primarily for young adults, professionals and retirees.

Please check Valerie Fioravanti's website for workshop times and dates at Midtown Writing Workshops.

Ozomatli to perform at Sacramento State University

2009-10-29T03:57:35Z

The Grammy-award winning Latin fusion band Ozomatli will be performing at the Sacramento State campus, in the University Union Ballroom, on Oct 29.

Ozomatli's music is known as an urban-Latino-and-beyond collision of hip hop and salsa, dancehall and cumbia, samba and funk, merengue and comparsa, East LA R&B and New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga and Indian raga, according to the band's website.

More than a decade ago, 14 years to be exact, Ozomatli formed in Los Angeles to play at a labor protest. Since then they have been involved with "community activist events, protests, and city fundraisers," their website states.

Ozomatli's indigenous LA music has been played by The Los Angeles Dodgers, The Los Angeles Clippers and lately played at the LA figures images campaign "We Are 4 LA" on NBC.

"This band could not have happened anywhere else but LA," said saxophonist and clarinetist Ulises Bella. "Man, the tension of it, the multiculturalism of it. LA is like we're bonded by bridges."

Initially starting out as Los Angeles grassroots musical heroes, Ozomatli has produced four studio albums and are now U.S. State Department Cultural Ambassadors. Aside from their political activism, Ozomatli keeps a relentless touring schedule to promote and perform their music.

"Just being who we are and just doing what we're doing with music at this time is very political," said bassist Wil-Dog Abers. "The youth see us up there and recognize themselves. So in a playful, party-type of way, I think it's real easy for this band to get dangerous. We are starting to realize just how big of a voice we actually have as a band and how important it is for us to use it."

Ozomatli will be performing at 7:30 p.m. on Oct 29 at Sacramento State’s University Union Ballroom. Tickets are $15 for Sac State students (with ID) and $20 for the General public and are available at the University Union Box Office or Tickets.com.

For more information, visit www.SacStateUNIQUE.com or call (916) 278-6997.

Picture courtesy from the Ozomatli website.

Battle of the Badge VI: Raley Field Rumble

2009-10-12T03:27:11Z

Once the sun set in West Sacramento, the stage lights flickered on and the red boxing gloves came up.

Saturday's Raley Field Rumble pitted firefighters, corrections officers and law enforcement officers from all over Northern California against one another, all in the name of Sacramento charities.

"We like to support different charities each year," said Isreal Montes Jr., creator of the event. "We keep it local in Sacramento. This year we're supporting the Firefighters Burn Institute, Sheriff Toy Project and Sacramento Fallen Officers Resource Fund."

Correction officers Montes and Yvonne Vasquez, from California State Prison Sacramento, started the city's "Battle of the Badges" in 2003. The inspiration for it struck Montes after he won a gold medal at the Western States Police and Fire Games that same year.

He never imagined the event would become as big as it has. More than 3,500 people attended this year.

"It started at the Boys and Girls Club in downtown Sacramento," Montes said. "There were maybe a few hundred people and we had no budget. Every year since it has grown more and more popular."

The event started with correctional officers competing and helping local charities, Montes said. In 2004, firefighters got involved. Fliers and word of mouth spread the word. Last year, the event was held at Memorial Auditorium and drew more than 3,000 spectators.

"What's great about this thing is that it builds a lot of camaraderie among us," Montes said. "People have come up to me to say, 'Wow, what a great fight!' Contenders are coming from seven different institutions, like CHP officers or Sacramento City firefighters, to compete."

Officer Debra Salvo, Folsom Police Department, was on hand to support friend and co-worker Officer James "Lights Out" Dorris, also from Folsom Police.

"He spent a lot of time working out. His biggest problem was not being able to snack," Salvo said of Dorris. "He is a huge junk food eater. He can't wait to be able to eat again!"

Concession stands offered typical ballpark fare: hot dogs, burgers and alcoholic beverages. Commemorative shirts and red boxing gloves were on sale for $15.

First time attendees Jeff and Mike Gerbers said they were proud to support the event.

"I'm a huge boxing fan," Jeff Gerbers said.

Mike Gerbers, who has lived in Sacramento 42 years, said he was eager to see the event grow locally.

"I love the sport, and I'm so glad to have come out," he said. "The more [boxing] events we have in Sacramento, the better!"

Roxanne Devera, a sophomore at Franklin High school, opened the event by singing the national anthem.

A moment of silence followed a three-gun salute, and taps honored the men and women in uniform.

"We can't forget the sacrifices made for us," said the announcer. "God bless this country."

Sixteen bouts were scheduled. Youngsters from the Sacramento Boxing Group fought in the first three matches. Parents could be heard shouting words of encouragement to the young contenders.

The first fight card event, between Raymond Cancel, who works at California State Prison Sacramento, and Ken Amodo, a corrections officer at Deuel Vocational Institution in Tracy, ignited the crowd. Raley Field erupted in cheers and screams.

Amodo delivered a hard left hook to Cancel's temple 30 seconds into the first round, and almost got a knockout. Cancel swayed on his feet for a few seconds.

Then he fought back. The crowd jumped up, shouting words of encouragement to both contenders.

Amodo was named the winner after three rounds. Both contenders received a standing ovation.

The fights concluded at 10:30 p.m.

Montes said he hopes the next event will be even bigger.

"I need a year off," he laughed, "but I am proud of it, it was great. It took six years to get to this point."

Montes then spoke of his dream.

"I am hoping in 2011, on the 10-year anniversary of 9/11, I can bring firefighters and policemen from New York to compete, but nothing is planned quite yet."

"I am just happy everyone had fun this year," Montes said.

Charities benefiting from the event included The Firefighters Burn Institute, Sacramento Sheriff's Toy Project and the Sacramento Fallen Officers Resource Fund.

Photos courtesy of anthonybento.com. Please see his Web site for additional photos from the event.

Natalie Cole Louie Anderson performing Hope in Harmony

2009-11-19T04:28:50Z

The late John Denver once said, "Music does bring people together. People everywhere are the same in heart and spirit." The Hope in Harmony benefit concert embodies the same spirit for one challenging goal — how to raise money and awareness for children.

Both Emmy award winning comedian Louie Anderson, and Grammy award winning singer Natalie Cole will be performing Nov. 20 at the Memorial Auditorium. Anderson will be performing his comedy act before Cole takes the stage. Cole will also be performing with local Sacramento musicians.

"Natalie Cole will be performing with Sacramento trumpeter Larry Lunetta and other members of the local musical theatre scene," said Jolanie Collins, marketing volunteer for Hope Productions.

Hope Production Foundations is a nonprofit organization founded by Sacramento business leaders which supports children's charities that focus on education, at-risk youth, wellness, advocacy, youth development and illness/research.

"Hope started in 2008," Collins said. "Its mission provides [free] business development, training and financial support to existing nonprofit organizations that may need an extra hand in helping to raise funds and awareness."

Nonprofit organizations can apply for this fundraising, marketing resources and training on their website, said Collins.

Since Hope Production's inception, seven nonprofit organizations have been chosen, said Collins. Three charities benefiting from the concert Friday evening are KidsFirst, Roberts Family Development Center and Special Olympics of Northern California.

Corporate partners and sponsors are privy to the exclusive VIP pre-concert reception with appetizers prepared by Paragary's Restaurant group followed by dinner within the Memorial Auditorium.

"There will be live music and nine wineries at the pre-party event," said Ancelle Contreras, Director of Corporate Alliance and Communications. "There will be a three-course meal, an auction and a special program that will highlight all of the charities involved."

After the sit-down dinner and concert, there is a planned after-party at Spataro Restaurant and Bar, Contreras added.

But even non-VIPs can feel special. All ticket proceeds are supporting local nonprofit children's charities for this musical and comedic event, said Contreras.

"It is a collaboration bringing the nonprofits together," Contreras said. "By all working together we become all strong as one."

Hope in Harmony begins at 9 p.m on Friday Nov. 20 at Sacramento's Memorial Auditorium. Doors open at 8:30 p.m.

All tickets are 50 percent tax deductible and cost between $50 - 150. Tickets can be purchased by going here.

VIP and corporate tables of 10 are available starting at $5,000 or $500 per seat. Special hotel room rates are available at the Hyatt Regency and Sheraton Grand.

Please contact Hope Productions at (916) 782-4673 for any questions, or visit their website.

Photos courtesy Hope Productions.

12th Annual Sacramento Reptile Show at the Convention Center

2009-09-27T02:55:12Z

Creepy, crawly, slithery critters abound! The reptiles at the 12th Annual Sacramento Reptile Show were the stars at the Sacramento Convention Center. The show, which began Saturday, will continue through Sunday and should average about 10,000 reptilian enthusiasts and animal fans alike over the weekend.

With strollers packing in the 15,000 square-foot Exhibit Hall, people of all ages appeared amazed at the wide selection of chameleons, bearded dragons, pythons, and poison dart frogs. Vendors with colorful signs were selling everything from reptilian food, assorted enclosures and incubators. Many of the vendors were offering promotional discounts for this special show.

Jeremy and Angel Epstein, of Upscale Reptiles and Pets to Go, began the Sacramento Reptile Show to help educate the public on how to responsibly care for their pet reptiles. Started in 1998 as a 10-vendor show at a hotel, the show has proven to be immensely popular, now averaging about 3,000 reptiles, 80 vendors and 40 professional reptile breeders with educators and suppliers.

"We really do our best to reach out to the families," Angel Epstein said. "That is our future. We are very excited about the industry. We want the hobby to continue."

Vendors and breeders play an important role speaking directly to families about buying pet reptiles so they know exactly what they are getting into, she said. This helps families plan a budget on what they will spend on their reptile, and how large the animal will grow, she said.

Dave Collings, breeder with Rainbows-R-US Reptiles, promotes two different types of snakes: the boa constrictor and rainbow boa.

The price of snakes depend on the breed, the sex and the coloration, he said.

"Exotic males tend to be worth more at first than the females, then as time goes on the females become more valuable," he said.

With corn snakes or leopard geckos in the $25 to $30 price range, families will find a reptile within their budget. However, all native species or venomous or imported animals are not for sale.

Reptile newcomer Elisa, and mom Glenda chose to purchase a baby corn snake at the show.

"Originally, it was going to stay at school with her [eighth grade] science class," said Glenda, "but at the end of summer it will come back to [our] house," Glenda said.

"My cousin got one and I wanted to get one," Elisa said. The corn snake will live for about 10 to 15 years, she said.

Fostering respect through education was an important message throughout the show. Julie Allen, naturalist and environmental educator at Nature's Critters, performed an hour-long demonstration bringing out normally "scary" creatures for children to touch and hold. Allen's educational programs and activities encourage young children to appreciate and question the world around them.

"When you are a young child and you love animals, it carries on into your adulthood," Allen said.

Allen spoke of her belief that people should not be afraid of reptiles and crawling critters.

"I teach kids to not get [certain] animals as pets," she said. "And when they do adopt a pet, I teach them to care for them."

"The children learn to value life," she said. "When they see a snake or a spider, they don't scream and want to kill it; instead, they appreciate the animal and leave them alone."

These values are exactly what Christian is hoping to teach his 3-year-old daughter Pandora.

"I am an animal enthusiast, all around," he said. "Any opportunity to get out and see cool animals is great."

Along those same lines, Laurel Peterson, a biology teacher at Salida Middle School in Salida California, began the Reptile Education Club to nurture her love of reptilian creatures, and inspire her students to be involved with wildlife wonders.

"I love snakes," she said. "A principal came to me with the idea of starting my own club. I have been doing this for 21 years now."

Peterson's club members are mostly sixth graders. All of the students, and parent volunteers, handle snakes, geckos, and lizards while answering questions and letting other children hold the animals for the very first time.

Mya, 7, appeared thrilled to hold a snake at the Reptile Education Club booth.

"It was cool!" she said. She also described the snake as heavy and is considering getting one as a pet.

"You have to be passionate," Allen said. "Every animal I have is precious. I think if you have that kind of enthusiasm for all animals, it gets to be contagious."

The 12th Annual Reptile Show will continue Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sacramento Convention Center, 1400 J St., Exhibit Halls C-E. Ticket prices for one-day admission are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free.

Upscale Reptiles' website is located here.

All photos by Kassandra Perlongo.

Sacramento's Gold Rush Days

2009-09-03T05:46:39Z

Old Sacramento will be transported back to the mid-1800s once again for its 10th Annual Sacramento Gold Rush Days this Labor Day weekend.

Two hundred tons of dirt will transform this already rustic landmark heritage site into the appropriate mid-1850s California Gold Rush setting. Walking along the dusty trail, be prepared to witness a flurry of time-piece bands, costumed Wild West reenactors, horse-drawn carriages and Gold Rush activities for all ages — such as gold panning.

Sloughs for gold panning will be located in a few different locations, by the Railroad Museum and Wells Fargo Museum. Bits of real gold can also be found for the lucky few, according to Mike Testa, vice president of communications for the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau.

"This is a great place to get entertainment," Testa said. "If you have never seen Old Sac before, it is worth seeing it during this time," said Mike Testa.

This free event will be spaced out over four days starting September 4th. Returning attractions include gunslinging reenactors along K Street, such as the Blue Canyon Gang and the Black Coat Sierra Nevada Guns for Hire. Don't worry about missing a performance, they will be performing every day at almost every hour.

"All of the [gunslingers] are hired guns," Testa said. "Some of them do this professionally for a living. Some in fact have worked in Western movies out of Hollywood or in Universal Studios," explains Mike Testa.

The event kicks off on Friday with music on the Embarcadero Stage, located in front of the Railroad Museum on I Street, along with gunslingers and street performers. A lot of the special events are on going all day and will repeat each hour. Tents will be set up with vendors, period artifacts and storytelling. Storytellers are all local volunteer docents with a wealth of knowledge and collaborative love of the Gold Rush Era.

Attendees can expect a tantalizing feast of barbecue meats and grilled vegetables at the surrounding eateries. All the restaurants will be open in Old Sacramento, along with Old West-style cooking demonstrations.

"Unfortunately, we can't sell the [demonstration] food because of health food regulations, but we can demonstrate how it was prepared," Testa said.

Quite a few of the restaurants will be running specials to coincide with the Western theme. The Delta King on the Sacramento River will be providing some specials, as will the famous burger joint Fanny Anne's.

But really, "All of the [restaurants] in Old Sac get involved in something fun," Testa said.

The cultural and ethnic performances have also expanded this year. At the Embarcadero Stage, some of the cultural variety pieces being presented will include European, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, African-American and Native Californian, according to the Gold Rush Days website. All of the performances will be done in authentic Gold Rush-era garb.

Dancing and musicians will be on hand to create a lively, Wild West atmosphere. According to Testa, a crowd favorite return will be the Johnny Cash Tribute Band performing on the Save Mart Stage on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The Pony Express will be running the streets approximately three to four times per day. Visitors can expect uniformed postal workers on thundering horses galloping through the streets. A cannon-firing will take place each day at high noon at the Embarcadero Stage.

For a complete listing of performance times and scheduled events, please check the Sacramento Gold Rush website at Sacramento Gold Rush Days. Programs and walking maps will also be provided.

To help minimize parking issues, Testa encourages patrons to park at Downtown Plaza or use Regional Transit.

Photo courtesy of Sacramento History Museum.

Women's Empowerment Fits Gala Gowns for Former Homeless Women

2009-09-17T17:37:50Z

In front of a full-length mirror, a woman twirled around in her white satin ballgown with an excited grin on her face. Delighted squeals and laughter reverberated throughout the building as women perused the colorful assortment of ballgowns organized on dress racks.

"I love that he is taking pictures of me, — I feel like a model!" Kim Wesley said as she struck a pose for a photographer. Tosh Olive, a volunteer and professional seamstress, offered dress adjustments, while volunteers advised on accessories and shoe choices.

Wesley, alongside other former homeless women, will take part in the eighth annual Women's Empowerment Gala on Oct. 1st. Of the 500 people who will attend the gala, around 140 will be graduates and the rest will be supporters and volunteers. The Gala will take place at The Grand Ballroom, in Downtown Sacramento.

Women's Empowerment is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2001 by executive director Lisa Culp. Nominated as the 2009 nonprofit of the year, Women's Empowerment works specifically with homeless women and their children to help break the cycle of poverty, getting women the life skills needed to find employment and a permanent home. According to their website, over 566 homeless women and 593 children have benefited since the inception of the program.

Women's Empowerment's eight-week program offers a holistic approach toward breaking the cycle of poverty. They look toward an inside-out system offering services such as daycare, transportation assistance, addressing causes for homelessness, long-term stability, job readiness, a central location near Loaves and Fishes for hot meals, and women's empowerment. The empowerment aspect entails leadership training, and learning to mentor and coach other women who are facing similiar situations and struggles.

Culp credits Moe Mohanna, one of Sacramento's biggest property owners, for contributing as a benefactor and helping to create the initial stages of the gala.

"He wanted to do a really beautiful special celebration," she said. "[He] said, 'How about if every year we hold a fundraising event for Women's Empowerment - ? We already get clothes donated. I bet we could get Gala gowns!'" said Culpa.

The call to the community for support has been really positive, Culpa said. This year alone, Sacramento locals donated over 700 ballgowns.

"People really care about the clothes they have worn," she said. "They really want to make sure that it goes to someone that feels as special and appreciated as they did while wearing it." said Culpa.

Michaela Durbin, a first-time volunteer, donated seven dresses and two pairs of shoes.

"I liked the mission of the organization," she said. "It is really hard for these women to overcome certain circumstances and the way they were forced to live. They need recognition and reward[s]."

Kathryn Fukasawa, a graduate from the Women's Empowerment program, is proud to take part in the event. She currently works as an assistant manager for Goodwill Industries.

"I went through a full transformation [myself]," she said. "I learned to embrace the friendship of other ladies."

Fukasawa also spoke about the importance of feeling a connection to the other women, and learned she wasn't the only one who struggled with poverty. The biggest positive, Fukasawa said, was the ability to speak out and rebuild her self-esteem.

"The success rate is high, almost 84 percent have secured housing and found employment or received more schooling." said volunteer Kristine Theabaud. "It is amazing to see the women transform," she said.

Brandye Carmona, 29, is the Women's Empowerment's 600th program graduate. Carmona spoke about her newfound confidence and willingness to attend school in the future.

"I graduated one week ago," Carmona said. "I was accepted into three housing programs, and had two job interviews. I feel great about the program."

"These women really long to be a part of the community," Culpa said, and participating in the gala is one step in that direction.

"It is a unique fundraising event because the recipients are actually there," Culpa said. "The community can really see in a very tangible way the benefits of their support."

Sponsor tickets can be purchased to attend the gala at the Women's Empowerment website. The Grand Ballroom is located at 1215 J Street, Downtown Sacramento.

Wine and hor d'oeuvres will be served along with a gourmet dinner.

Midtown Jazz will provide live entertainment, as well.

Auto show revving its engines in Sacramento

2009-11-12T04:51:18Z

Car enthusiasts and gear heads unite! The Sacramento International Automotive Show is coming this Friday through Sunday at Cal Expo.

The auto show has been held in Sacramento for more than 25 years, according to Stacey Castle, president of Castle Communications and producer for the international show. The show this year will be larger than ever before, she said.

"The Auto Show is the largest show that takes place in Sacramento, other than the State Fair," Castle said. "It takes all 13 buildings at Cal Expo, plus the three on-site 'Ride N Drive' test tracks."

The European-spec 2010 Ford Fiesta and redesigned 2010 Mustang will be two of many cars available. Attendees can visit the "Ford Ride N Drive Corral," located outside building D, for the entire line up of vehicles. Chevrolet will also be featuring models to test drive. Participants must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license to drive on the test tracks.

Attendees can expect to see the upcoming 2010 models and private collection cars from EuroSunday, and many other collector car clubs, such as Corvette and Mustang to name a few.

"EuroSunday is bringing an elite collection of 30-plus exotics in a benefit for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society," Castle said. "Show-goers can fill out a people's choice ballot for their favorite exotic. The car owner with the most votes will have a $3,000 donation made on their behalf to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society courtesy of the auto show."

Infineon and Mazda Laguna Seca race vehicles along with alternative transportation, such as scooters, golf-carts and ATVs, will be on site. The Howlin' Alan band will also be performing at the General Motors stage. In addition, there will also be a car sale.

"For the first time ever we are having a Classic Car and Rod sale," Castle said. "This year's show is offering a terrific mix of the new [car] products, plus close to 200 individual collector vehicles which include rare exotics, club cars, street rods, race cars and historic cars."

The Auto Show is kid-friendly and family encouraged. Building A will feature the "Kids Time's Out," with bounce houses, lounge areas for parents and movies to watch. This year, there is also a "Meal Deal" coupon available online, and Sunday is "Family Day" with free admission to kids 16 and under with a paying adult. Proceeds are being donated to local charities, and Sacramento high schools and community colleges to further promote automotive education.

More than $1 million has been donated to date, Castle said.

"The local area high schools with automotive programs will receive benefit," Castle said. "We have a mobile 'lending library' of automotive equipment that we trailer to the high schools because they can't afford to buy these pieces. The schools check them out, and then we pick them back up."

Local high schools and community colleges also receive scholarships and additional equipment, Castle added.

Despite the bleak economic outlook especially when it comes to purchasing new vehicles, Castle said she remains optimistic.

"I certainly believe the automotive market has shifted a bit this year," she said. "But Americans have always had a love affair with their cars, whether they are in the market to buy or not."

The Sacramento International Auto Show is Nov. 13 to Nov. 15, with the doors opening at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door. $10 for adults; children 12 and under are free Friday and Saturday. Sunday is Family Day with a parent's paid admission, kids under 16 are free.

The link for the print-at-home $3 off admission and $5 meal deal coupon can be found here.

Photos courtesy Sacramento International Car Show website.

Slow Food to prepare fall harvest dinner

2009-10-30T04:05:08Z

Slow Food Sacramento presents its third annual Fall Harvest Dinner on Monday. Chef Patrick Mulvaney, of Mulvaney's B&L restaurant, has created a special fall foods menu. All of the food is grown and cultivated locally.

About 120 people are expected to attend, and the previous two years sold out, said Melinda Beer, Slow Food event coordinator.

"It will be held in a brick building next to Mulvaney's restaurant," she said. "The space is urban looking, with concrete floors, long tables and brick. The front also opens up, which is European-style."

The event is hosted by Slow Food Sacramento. Slow Food, a nonprofit that was created in 1989, has members all over the world. It was founded to "counteract fast food, the disappearance of local food traditions, and people's dwindling interest in the food they eat and where it comes from," according to its Web site.

Part of Slow Food's mission is to encourage the use of seasonal items in cooking. Jim Mills, Slow Food event coordinator, facilitates the discovery of local produce farmers.

"Apples, pears, pomegranates, persimmons and seasonal greens are considered fall foods," said Mills. "Basically, any of the fresh fruits and vegetables you can find at any of the Sacramento farmers markets during this time of the year."

Jeff Rieger, from Penryn Orchard Specialties, will supply Maru and Tsurunko, or Cinnamon and Chocolate persimmons respectively. He has supported Slow Food events for years, and is an expert on California's fruits and vegetables, he said.

While Mills helped create Sacramento's Fall Harvest Dinner, the menu is Chef Mulvaney's, and it will use local foods. The night will begin with a sampling from Revolution Wines, a downtown urban winery. The first course will feature Reiger Rare & Heirloom persimmon salad, complete with Silva walnuts and Shaft blue cheese. The second course will be Del Rio's big cheese squash pasta, with Fiscalini Farmhouse cheddar. The next offering will be Grilled Snake River Farms beef, served with Sacramento Valley rice and greens from Riverdog Farms.

Dessert will be persimmon toffee bread pudding topped by a triple play of Chocolate, Cinnamon and Cream persimmons.

"The reason they call them Chocolate, or Tsurunko, is not because of the flavor," said Rieger. "It is because of their color; they are brown inside. This happens with the pollination-variant and non-astringent persimmons."

It will be a relaxed family-style dinner, said Slow Food coordinator Beer, with food acting as the perfect ice breaker.

"This is a great opportunity to meet new people, share some food and talk to Chef Patrick [Mulvaney] and other Sacramento growers," she said. "There is a very communicative and common binding with good food."

The event will be at Mulvaney's B&L, 1215 19th St., on Monday at 6 p.m. Cost is $45 for Slow Food members, $55 for non-members. Price includes tax and tip, wine is extra. Tickets are available online at Brown Paper Tickets, here.

For more information, call Melinda Beer at (916) 717-1621, or e-mail melinda_beer@yahoo.com.

The Slow Food Web site can be located here.

Local purveyor Penryn Orchard Specialities can be located here.

Revolution Wines can be located here.

Photo courtesy Slow Food Sacramento.

Muay Thai "Battle at the Wat" tournament

2009-09-20T07:24:46Z

"Block the leg! Kick the inside! Knee, knee!"

The fervor of audience commentary, at times simultaneously, made it difficult to hear individual commentary, unless it quieted down for a moment.

On Saturday, Sept. 19, male and female warriors sparred in front of an energetic audience at the first amateur "Muay Thai Origins: Battle at the Wat" tournament in South Sacramento.

Promoted and sponsored by Andy Kensamphaph, founder of Sacramento's Muay Thai Lao Kickboxing Academy, the event took place at Wat Lao Saoputh Buddhist Temple in South Sacramento. As a non-profit fundraiser, all proceeds went to the temple.

South Sacramento resident Tommy Prongfah brought his children to show them traditional Muay Thai, and support the event. Prongfah hopes to enroll his children into Kensamphaph's Muay Thai Lao gym the following year.

"I wanted to support the cause," he said, "it seemed like good entertainment and [we] wanted to have a good time."

Muay Thai, or "art of eight limbs," includes hands, elbows, knees, and feet. By International Kickboxing Federation rules, Amateur Thai boxing bouts last for three rounds of two minutes. Thai boxing shorts are mandatory, as are gum shields and head guards. Thai fighters enter the ring wearing traditional garb — the mongkon, a circular headband, and a prajed, or woven armbands. The headband is removed before the beginning of the match.

Punches, kicks, and knee strikes are all allowed in amateur bouts. Elbow strikes to the head are only allowed in professional matches.

The Battle was held outdoors behind the actual temple, under a large tent canopy. About 500 people were in attendance, which increased by a few hundred more throughout the day.

"[This type] is the traditional temple Sunday fights in Southeast Asia," said Kensamphaph. The family orientated atmosphere also contributes to these traditions, said Kensamphaph.

Along the outside of the tent were health and fitness training booths by Body Kore, selling male and female apparel. Food vendors cooked Traditional Lao and Thai cuisine, such as chicken thighs with sticky rice, which filled the air with barbeque smoke. Attendees could lounge at tables and benches. No alcohol was allowed on site.

The event kicked off with a "Young Warrior's" youth tournament at 8:30 a.m. All youths were between the ages of five and fifteen years old.

"It has been our tradition to start children at an early age in competition to develop good sportsmanship and confidence," according to the Muay Thai Lao website. All matches were purely for exhibition, with no winners or losers. All demonstrations were approved by The California State Athletic Commission.

The adult tournament began at 1 p.m, with each winner receiving a 26-inch trophy designed by Kensamphaph. Eighteen fights were scheduled with weight classes to include — featherweight (female), super lightweight, light middleweight, welterweight, cruiserweight, and heavy weight.

Jacob Lomomto, 19, from Main Street Kickboxing in Hollister, and Josh Krestschmann, 28, from Muay Thai Lao in Sacramento, light middleweights, were first to fight. Despite losing to a TKO after 1:42 in the first round, Lomanto enjoyed his fighting experience.

"I have only been fighting for two and a half to three years," Lomanto said, "once I tried Muay Thai I was hooked. [I was] disappointed today, [but] I still want to see where [competition fighting] takes me." he said.

Cassandra Denies, from Condition and Competition in San Jose, and Gladys Malave, from Muay Thai Lao in Sacramento, featherweights, got the crowd to its feet with thunderous applause. Malave won by majority decision by the officials after three rounds. This made her second amateur bout, and first actual win. She held her trophy proudly while posing for photographers.

"[Denies] had lots of experience, [but] I worked hard." she said, "I gave it my all."

Kensamphaph's new students were also in attendance to support Muay Thai Lao. Nicole Douglas of Sacramento enjoyed watching Malave fight.

"I have only been [training] for a month and a half." she said, "Initially it was for fitness, now I want to learn style. There is [still] a lot to learn."

Medical personnel were needed during the light cruiserweight fight between Johnathan Samuals and Edward Mukhamshin. Samuals received a hard blow to the head by Mukhamshin. Paramedics were needed, but refused to comment on whether or not he received a concussion. One man also complained of shortness of breath, but did not need to be taken to the hospital.

The Battle concluded at 5 p.m. All of Kensamphaph's students from Muay Thai Lao won their respective matches.

The International Kickboxing Federation website can be located here.

Andy Kensamphaph's Muay Thai Lao Kickboxing Academy website can be located here.

Photos courtesy of Jonathan Mendick.

Second Saturday Michael Himovitz Dedication

2009-09-12T09:04:03Z

This month's Second Saturday event will pay tribute to founder Michael Himovitz, who pioneered the Sacramento arts showcase before losing his battle to HIV 15 years ago.

Julia and Lucas Himovitz organized this special Second Saturday to honor their father's legacy.

Nine Sacramento art galleries will be dedicating their shows to Himovitz. In each gallery a mounted display along with a donation box for Center for AIDS Research, Education and Services will be set up. The CARES Are You the Difference campaign is working to end all new cases of HIV in the Sacramento area within the next five years.

"He was very passionate about what he did," Lucas Himovitz said. "He wanted to educate and connect people through discussing art. He really helped to bring more art awareness to Sacramento."

Michael Himovitz created Second Saturday over 20 years ago after visiting art galleries in San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. He used these cities as models for Sacramento.

Since then, Second Saturday has grown and evolved in the Sacramento community. Now a number of area art galleries — in Downtown, Midtown, Uptown and East Sacramento — present an array of art pieces accompanied by a festival-style social atmosphere. Attendees will normally walk along the streets while also listening to music and indulging in food and wine.

Despite the party vibe, the original grassroots feel — people discussing and enjoying art — is still prevalent thanks to Himovitz.

"Michael encouraged new artists, and helped bring a level of understanding and appreciation of art to the public," a Michael Himovitz dedication flier said. "He was dedicated to AIDS prevention, helping organize various events in the community," Lucas Himovitz said.

"I am extremely proud of what my dad did," Lucas Himovitz said. "We want people to remember this and to honor him. He is my hero."

The nine galleries involved in Michael Himovitz's dedication are:

Axis Gallery
B. Sakata Garo Gallery
Jay Jay
Skinner Howard Art
Solomon Dubnick Gallery
Verge Gallery and Studio Project
A Bitchin' Space
Crandall Bear Studios
Vox Sacramento