Community Events

Music Circus opens for 60th season

2010-07-06T05:14:51Z

The big top is flying up as the Sacramento Music Circus returns to the Wells Fargo Pavilion for its 60th anniversary season and 500th production.

The seven-show 2010 season opens July 9 with Monty Python's "Spamalot" and closes Aug. 29 with "42nd Street."

As always, season ticket holders contribute to the show selection by filling out surveys sent by the Music Circus months prior to the season opening. The highest-rated shows are selected assuming Music Circus can obtain rights to the show. This year "Funny Girl" was the second highest-rated show on the survey, which marketing director Christopher Bower described as "surprising."

"If there is something we're maybe on the fence about but it surveys so well, then we definitely want to do it," Bower said.

Mayor Kevin Johnson will be speaking at the July 14 performance. Johnson will address the 60th year anniversary as well as how important Music Circus is to the community.

The 60th anniversary should be a celebration in itself. The company will not host any special ceremonies or galas, outside of having the mayor as a speaker. The goal for this year is to continue putting on beautiful musical theater shows and regain attendance.

"We've definitely taken a hit (from the economy)," Bower said. "We used to average around 94 percent (capacity) from '99 to 2008. In 2009 we did 74 percent."

This year he remains "cautiously encouraged" as indicators thus far have shown 2010's numbers should be higher, especially because some performances are already sold out.

"We're still here. We're still putting on good shows," he said.

Tickets can be purchased from the Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office located at 1419 H St. Ticket prices range from $41 to $53 for single shows. Three-show packages can also be purchased for $135. Children under 4 are not admitted. For more information visit californiamusicaltheatre.com.

From the California Musical Theatre press release, the 2010 Music Circus season shows include:

"Spamalot"
July 9-18
Adapted from the screenplay "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," Spamalot is one of three premieres for the Music Circus. The show won three Tony Awards in 2005, including Best Musical and was nominated an additional 12 times. The performance tells the tale of King Arthur and the Round Table.

"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"
July 20-25
The biblical story of Joseph, much like "Jesus Christ Superstar" (and from the same creators), features varying styles spanning country and rock'n'roll. The script will be the newest London revised version. Also, never done before, the Sacramento performance will include a chorus of 50 children.

"Oklahoma!"
July 27 - Aug. 1
Returning after a six-year hiatus, "Oklahoma!" is back for its 13th production at the Music Circus. The renowned musical follows the travels of one of America's remaining frontiers as it marches into statehood. "Oklahoma!" has captured patriotic and pioneering spirit for over 60 years.

"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels"
Aug. 3-8
The second of the three premieres for this year's season. "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels", based on the film by the same name, features two swindlers attempting to rob a vacationing woman in the beautiful French countryside. A 10-time Tony Award-nominated show.

"Funny Girl"
Aug. 10-15
Originally performed by Barbra Streisand, "Funny Girl" returns to Sacramento after 18 years. The autobiographical performance is of Fanny Brice and her rise from lowly comical singer to stardom. The show has been nominated for eight Tony Awards.

"The Marvelous Wonderettes"
Aug. 17-22
"Wonderettes" is the third of the three premiers for the 2010 season. Opening off-broadway in 2008, the original New York cast members return to their roles as four high school girls at prom, discussing big-time dreams of the future. The show is set in 1958 Springfield.

"42nd Street"
Aug. 24-29
The 1981 Tony Award-winner hasn't been to Sacramento since 1999. On 42nd Street, one dream-filled girl learns to shine as she is given the opportunity to star in a musical hit about movie musicals and Broadway classics.

All photos courtesy of Christopher Bower of the California Musical Theatre

Benefit concert to "Celebrate America"

2010-06-17T04:52:12Z

Americana music fans will be treated to an early Fourth of July concert, as "Celebrate America" premieres June 20. The event, put on by L17 Community Arts Foundation in conjunction with the Camellia Symphony Orchestra will benefit the Central Downtown Food Basket.

The Sunday concert will feature the Camellia Symphony Orchestra, a Sacramento-based group in existence for 48 years, and a wide variety of local artists performing at the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts on the UC Davis campus.

"We're really excited to perform and play with the other choirs," orchestra executive director Roberta McClellan said. "We're looking forward to the collaboration."

L17 created the Celebrate America concert, its first event since the foundation's inception, for reasons twofold. Celebrate America has the ability to promote local musicians while benefiting the hungry. Proceeds from the event go to the Central Downtown Food Basket, a non-profit organization which feeds about 1,500 people monthly at their L Street location.

"(The goal is to) turn over a sizable chunk to the Food Basket," event planner Alex Zabelin said.

He added that they hope the concert will put L17 on the map and create buzz about the company and local artists. L17 intends to hold two art events per year, including an annual summer concert, in partnership with various charities and organizations.

Though the concert and its theme were not intended to be part of any Fourth of July celebrations, Americana music lovers should easily feel a sense of pride and patriotism during the concert.

Participants of Celebrate America can look forward to a showcase of inspirational and uplifting music by American composers from 1850 to 1950, including popular sing-alongs "America the Beautiful," "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." Zabelin described the concert as a "very brilliant musical performance."

"There is great talent, it's well produced and it is a very good selection," Zabelin said.

The Mondavi Center's amazing acoustic sounds and beautiful auditorium made it the obvious choice for the venue, he added.

"We have a wonderful, fast-paced, eclectic lineup, full of beautiful pieces," McClellan said. "It will be very entertaining particularly due to the Mondavi (Center's sound system)."

Celebrate America will be held Sunday at the Mondavi Center, Jackson Hall. The two-hour event begins at 3 p.m, doors open at 2 p.m. General admission for the event ranges from $25 to $45. For more information on the concert visit l17arts.com or the Mondavi Center website to order tickets.

Photo courtesy of Roberta McClellan, Camellia Symphony Orchestra

Residents to discuss city budget at "Community Conversations"

2010-06-11T03:30:38Z

"Community Conversations" will return July 13 to coffee houses all over Sacramento. The conversations are put on by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, Capital Public Radio and The Sacramento Bee with the goal of bringing neighborhood residents together for civil discussion, learning each other's different perspectives on local issues.

Community Conversations began last month offering residents the chance to speak with fellow neighbors in coffee houses in areas such as Natomas, North Sacramento, Midtown, Land Park, Oak Park, College/Glen, Pocket Area and South Sacramento. Each location has one facilitator who keeps the dialogue flowing all while ensuring the house rules are followed and gives an outline of potential topics for discussion.

"It's a great civic model," said Ruth Blank, chief executive officer of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation. "It's not anonymous or online, it's not political. (Participants are) open-minded. They come to hear others' thinking."

The Sacramento Community Conversations follow the model of the University of the Streets Cafe in Montreal, Blank said. She added the motivation is to get people engaged with one another.

"The conversations are about creating civil discourse, to counter the trend of interactions online," said Joe Barr, director of news and information for Capital Public Radio.

Currently there are no plans for how often the Community Conversations will occur. However, Barr said the pilot conversation was well received judging by the amount of positive feedback.

Dustin Littrell, who attended the May 11 conversation at Temple Coffee in Oak Park, said he was "shocked at the number of people from the community."

"It was a great success of bringing a diverse group together," Littrell said. "It's a cool way to get a pulse of where people are, in different financial situations, directly affected (by the same issues). There were perspectives I've never thought of."

The May 11 conversations touched on education, transportation, the economy, local business, employment and local communities. Participants from the first event were invited to partake in an online survey to develop the July 13 topic, which is scheduled to discuss the city's budget cuts.

While Littrell and Barr both thought the first Community Conversation was successful, they also hope there will be a more diverse voice the next time around.

"The goal is to see if we could get people out to the coffee shops," Barr said. "To see how various communities feel about the same particular topic."

Littrell suggested holding the next event in a larger space, with seating in a circle to bring participants face to face with one another, and a longer run time. Currently the format is scheduled to run for one hour, though the May 11 conversations lasted around two.

All Community Conversations begin at 7 p.m. To read recaps from the May 11 conversations or to find locations for the July 13 event, visit the Sacramento Region Community Foundation website.

Images courtesy of Ruth Blank, Sacramento Region Community Foundation

Free midday concert series "Hot Lunch" back for second season

2010-06-03T19:30:23Z

Sunshine, Italian fare and live music - "Hot Lunch" returns for its second season. The free concert series, hosted by Hot Italian, runs every Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning today, for 13 weeks.

Music and pizza lovers can spend their lunch break at Fremont Park across from Hot Italian. This year's lineup includes a wide variety of musical genres including alternative, funk, country and jazz. All talent featured in the series are either local or from the West Coast.

Hot Lunch began in 2009, using the Concerts in the Park event as a similar model. The most obvious difference is that Hot Lunch aims to bring people together for music and food midday. To avoid wasting valuable minutes of hour-long lunch breaks, Midtown workers and residents are able to order Hot Italian paninis and salad directly at Fremont Park and are encouraged to call ahead for pizza orders. The food will be delivered to your grassy seat.

"The music is fun and it's a nice place to have lunch," said Jerry Perry, music promoter for the series. "It's a different vibe. In clubs you only really get people who go to clubs. (At Fremont Park midday) we can put bands in front of people that don't usually get to see them."

As for the concept and comparison to the Concerts in the Park series, Andrea Lepore, creative director and development partner of Hot Italian, described the event as "another entertainment option for Midtown."

"There is really nothing else like it," said Lepore, "and Fremont Park is such a good venue." In its second season, Hot Lunch has been extended and begins earlier in the year, Lepore added, to take advantage of the sunshine and avoid the rain.

This year's Hot Lunch performer list:

June 3 - Walking Spanish
June 10 - The Storytellers
June 17 - Richard March
June 24 - Dog Party and Simpl3Jack
July 1 - Synchro
July 8 - The Kelps
July 15 - McDougal
July 22 - Musical Charis
July 29 - Life in 24 Frames
August 5 - Shannon Curtis, JP Spangler and Aaron Beaumont
August 12 - KB & The Slingtones
August 19 - BLVD Park
August 26 - Wahnderlust

Hot Italian is located at 16th and Q streets. Fremont Park, across the street, is on the corner of 16th and P streets.

Photos 1-3 courtesy of Colleen Belcher, Managing Editor for The Sacramento Press.

Photo 4 of Hot Lunch performers (June 10) courtesy of Andrew Heringer and Jerry Perry

Antwone Fisher to speak to youth about perseverance and success

2010-05-27T04:51:24Z

Screenwriter, author and film producer Antwone Fisher will be in Sacramento Friday to speak to adolescents. Fisher's most notable works include the self-titled movie based on his life, written by Fisher and directed by Denzel Washington, and "Finding Fish," the follow-up autobiographical book.

The event, held at the George Sim Community Center from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., is offered free of charge Sacramento's Neighborhood Services Department.

"We know lots of children will be at risk, roaming around this summer with little to no summer school being offered," Neighborhood Services director Vincene Jones said. "The idea is to bring in a positive role model who can tell the kids how to succeed and let them see who he is."

Fisher spent his childhood in various foster homes where he was abused for 12 years by his foster family, before becoming homeless at 17. Surviving the abuse and homelessness, he joined the U.S. Navy and served for 11 years. Soon after, Fisher wrote his life story, a simple action that would parlay into a remarkable career as a writer and producer.

Fisher will be speaking about his success and how to overcome life's obstacles. Former drug trafficker Ricky "Freeway" Ross will also speak to give a different angle.

"(Ross) will speak about what he did and how he got in trouble," Jones said. The idea behind hosting seemingly polar-opposite speakers gives the children "an example of the good and the bad," Jones added.

Jones anticipates 300 people in attendance for the speakers and expects there to be standing room only as the Event Center fills.

The event is open to the public and does not require an RSVP. The George Sim Community Center is located at 6207 Logan Street. For more information, visit the cityofsacramento.org.

Photo courtesy of the City of Sacramento's Neighborhood Services Department

2010 Homeless Connect provides jobs, health and housing resources for homeless

2010-05-19T02:21:50Z

The homeless will find easy access to all the services they need in one location Saturday, as the third annual Sacramento Homeless Connect returns. The event, held at Sacramento City College, will run from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., offering a variety of resources including free haircuts, bicycle and wheelchair repair, California identification cards, job preparedness and even a barbecue lunch.

"Last year we saw 700 people and had 400 volunteers," said Tim Brown, executive director of Sacramento Steps Forward. This year, Brown said he expects to see 800 homeless and about 500 volunteers, due mostly to the increased percentage of homeless.

Sacramento Steps Forward is an initiative started to combat Sacramento homelessness by empowering the homeless and assist them in finding permanent housing. The Homeless Connect event is modeled after San Francisco's project of the same name.

"We're trying to bring community volunteers face to face with the homeless," Brown said. "We want to break through myths of the homeless, raise awareness and show they're not so different from us."

New for 2010, Homeless Connect will be offering more employment resources in response to requests from prior years' events. Programs such as Women's Empowerment and Crossroads Employment Services will be on hand to assist the homeless with workshops such as interview skills, resume critiques, interpersonal communication and dressing for success.

Brown said approximately 60 organizations will contribute efforts toward services Saturday, from local businesses and nonprofits to public-funded programs.

Shuttle services, funded by Sacramento Steps Forward, will be provided every 15 minutes throughout the day, stopping at locations such as Loaves and Fishes between B and C streets, the Salvation Army between Dos Rios and Ahern streets and the Capitol Health Clinic at 1500 C St.

The main goal of the event is to increase access to a wider variety of resources in one spot. "We're trying to make it easier to access many different services all in one day," Brown said. Typically, he said, it can take one full day to access just one of these resources.

Sacramento Steps Forward still needs 20 volunteers for the 2010 Homeless Connect. To sign up, or for further information, visit sacramentostepsforward.com. To view the entire schedule of the event's workshop, click here.

Photos from 2009 Homeless Connect courtesy of Tim Brown, Sacramento Steps Forward

Local student filmmakers tackle variety of issues

2010-05-18T02:17:24Z

With family and friends in attendance, 40 aspiring high school filmmakers debuted their documentary shorts at the second annual Documentary Foundation Film Festival Sunday. The Sacramento student filmmakers covered a multitude of issues including racism in high school, legalization of marijuana, pink-slipped teachers and prisoner work programs in Folsom Prison.

The program is taught by Sacramento native documentary filmmakers Keith Ochwat and Christopher Rufo and sponsored by KVIE. The duo created the Documentary Foundation student program as a means to inspire future generations of documentary filmmakers.

"There are so many issues that affect peoples' lives," Ochwat said. He spoke of the importance for the students participating to think critically about social issues. "It's (also) about the journalism (and) the storytelling," he said.

With nine documentaries on the program, the event kicked off with a look at the Sacramento Zoo's lovable red pandas. The short film highlighted the environment the pandas live in at the zoo and their current state of endangerment. The film elicited many "aww"s at the sight of the pandas.

There were less fuzzy feelings during "Nestle Waters," about the debate over a Nestle Corporation Plant coming to Sacramento. The film covered both sides, interviewing both Nestle management about plans to use the American River and an opposing resident concerned about environmental protection.

Two films struck close to home for the students, spotlighting the racism felt and witnessed on high school campuses. "Racism in High Schools" had a clear and powerful message, never disconnect with who you are. The second film, "He Said, She Said" gives insight to the rules of attraction from high school students' perspectives.

"K-9 Angels" showed the benefits of pet therapy for one young patient at the Shriner's Hospital, while "CA in Smoke" touched on the debate over legalizing marijuana, incorporating what appeared to be actual footage of high school students using the drug. Later in the evening, "Folsom Prison" debuted, shadowing one prisoner in a carpentry work program. This was the first time in history Folsom Prison has allowed minors to film inside.

Winning the impromptu Audience Award for sparking the most laughter, "The Last Battle" followed a group of participants during Carmichael's Amtguard games. The game's role-players dress in medieval garb, arming themselves with padded weaponry and duked it out for ultimate Amtguard supremacy. The audience was hysteric over one new young participant, whose goal was to take down the elder, most feared member. Neither side would admit defeat, let alone acknowledge their counterparts' skill level, much to the delight of the crowd.

But it was the last film in the lineup that proved most powerful, winning the Best Picture Award. "Sorry to Inform You" gave a student's view of the current situation involving California teachers and pink slips. Following one beloved teacher from Natomas High School, whose 31-year career had never landed her a pink slip before, the film gave an inside look, showing the effects on the teacher, her students, and the school's principal. Ironically, the same teacher had won the Teacher of the Year Award three days prior to being laid off.

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teacher Nancy Kidd was in attendance for the film and accompanied the students on stage for their award. Afterward, many students took pictures with Kidd, giving hugs and offering final condolences.

"This is why I'm a teacher, this is what makes it (worth it)," Kidd said. "'I just wish all the students continued success. With a little hard work (they) will get there."

Each student in the program wins a framed plaque, and groups that won awards for Best Picture, Cinematography, Editing and Producing received prizes such as gift cards to Best Buy and Dimple Records, weekend passes to the French Film Festival, and annual subscriptions to Filmmaker Magazine.

The Documentary Foundation will offer a third session coming this fall, dates to be announced, as well as a special summer workshop that will pair returning documentary student filmmakers with local nonprofit organizations.

The goal of the workshop is to "teach (the students) how to apply their skills," said Ochwat, "(enhancing) career skills and taking it to the next level."

The program is offered to all Sacramento area high school students. To sign up, or for more information, visit documentaryfoundation.org. Classes for the workshop are held once a week, on Saturdays, during the 10-week program.

Photos courtesy of Keith Ochwat of the Documentary Foundation

Sacramento Zoo hosts California Celebration

2010-05-03T05:28:54Z

As part of its First Saturday series, the Sacramento Zoo hosted California Celebration. The event, included with zoo admission, featured animal showcases, cultural performances and the activity booths of various businesses and groups.

Events like these help organizations with no marketing budget, such as the Discovery Museum, spread the word.

"The zoo and the Discovery Museum are in the same business, science education," said Beth Callahan, director of marketing and development at the museum. "We're trying to get kids interested. Our obligation is to provide a science-literate community." The museum's activity, letting kids add yarn "fur" to a bald woolly mammoth, was a hit. By the end of the day, the mammoth was completely covered.

The zoo's First Saturday series adds another event to its repertoire of family activities. Weather permitting, the event usually increases zoo attendance by up to 30 percent.

"Today was a success in terms of gorgeous weather; people are out here," said event coordinator Marisa Hicks. She said the zoo takes pride in the multigenerational series, pointing out dozens of families that included grandparents as well as children.

The day included more than a dozen activities, including face painting, adding to the Sojourner Truth Art Museum's multicultural mural, or having pictures taken with zoo mascot Gus the Green tree frog. Many groups had a presence: the California State Indian Museum, the Florin Historical Society and the Sister Cities Council. People could receive a "Zoo for Two" pass by registering as a blood donor with Blood Source.

Families spent the warm day watching Highland dancing, taking Polynesian hula lessons and listening to African-American cultural stories. Afterward, it was business as usual, as families stopped by the animal exhibits.

The zoo will host King of Feasts on June 26. The event, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., is one of the zoo's largest fund raisers. A celebration of gourmet food and wine, it will feature live music, a silent auction and a sampling of many Sacramento-area bakeries and restaurants. Tickets are $45 for members, $50 for nonmembers.

19th Annual Feast for the Streets raises funds for the homeless

2010-04-30T04:02:48Z

"Sold!" announced the auctioneer, as one of the 200 available prize packages was claimed for $1,400. The 19th annual Feast for the Streets was in full swing Wednesday night, with more than 700 participants gathering for food, wine, prizes and a silent auction.

Now in its 40th year, Francis House put together the yearly fundraiser, with one simple goal:

"To break $90,000," said Program Director Forrest Reed. Last year, the event raised $88,000, all of which is used directly on clients of Francis House.

The center, located on C Street downtown, sees around 20,000 - 30,000 clients per year, or 1,600 monthly, providing counseling and resources for needy families and individuals. This year, Francis House has seen a 30 percent increase in clients, likely due to the current economic climate.

With a budget of about $633,000 and seven paid employees, four of which are part-time, Francis House relies heavily on community volunteers. On hand to help during the Feast for the Streets event were 60 volunteers, not including the 40 vendors from local restaurants and catering businesses including New Roma Bakery, Tony's Fine Foods, Cupcake Craving, and Pronto's.

For some, the exposure outweighs the cost. "It's a win-win for me," said Jeremy White, director of catering and chef for Event Architects Catering. In some cases, it can cost anywhere from $350 to $500 for businesses to supply the food and manpower for a fundraising event. However, "for someone who works with food, it's an opportunity to share (my craft) with people in an effort to curb hunger," he said.

Besides the silent auction and raffle, Francis House took the time to present a special award to Tina Reynolds to appreciate her contributions in the fight to end homelessness. Reynolds is a Safe Ground board member, and owner of Uptown Studios, a website development and design firm. Uptown Studios designed and donated the website for Safe Ground, a campaign to find space for the homeless.

"Anytime we get a group of like-minded people together to raise awareness, and have some of the homeless here too, it diffuses (fear)," Reynolds said. She said while people are typically afraid of the homeless, she chooses to work with them "because of their passion and hard work." Reynolds was pleasantly surprised at being recognized, stating there were so many people working toward assisting the homeless. "Everyone agrees we need to do something," she said, "but no one will offer up any land."

The annual fundraiser, which has been held at the Scottish Rite Center for the last four years, began in a church basement. Expanding each year, Francis House was able to move the Feast for the Streets, its biggest fundraiser of the year, to the new, larger location.

"Francis House is the real deal," Reed said. "(Of 2,000 like agencies) we're No. 5." The center, supported by 17 church congregations, is one of the oldest known assistance and resource centers. The congregation contributes around 20 percent of the annual needs, while fundraising events fill the remaining gap.

"It's a rarity for nonprofits to last (as long as Francis House has)," Executive Director Gregory Bunker said. "The people here tonight are the reason." Bunker pointed out that even in a down economy, people were still able to find ways to donate, that individuals could still put others' needs before their own. "(The 700 guests) are evidence of that," he said.

To volunteer with Francis House, visit www.francishouse.info for more information.

Benjamin Bratt attends "La Mission" screening at Crest Theatre

2010-04-26T01:55:11Z

With several Mission District natives in attendance, Peter Bratt's "La Mission" made its Sacramento debut Saturday. Held at the Crest Theatre, the screening was sold out, as audience members anxiously awaited the opportunity to get up close and personal with actor Benjamin Bratt, also on hand for the debut.

"La Mission" tells the story of Che (Benjamin Bratt), who has recently returned to his lifestyle and culture in San Francisco's Mission District, fresh from doing time. Just as he settles back in, Che learns of his son Jes' (Jeremy Rey Valdez) homosexuality, a discovery that threatens to rip the family apart. Now faced with a lifestyle-threatening decision, Che is forced to choose: continue in his traditional ways to keep the community respect he once owned, or adapt and accept his son for who he is.

The film produced much laughter, sometimes from genuine amusement and, at other times, uncomfortable giggles. Regardless, the message of "La Mission" was clear: Homosexuality does exist, in every community.

"The first step is to acknowledge the issue," said Director Peter Bratt. "We have been in denial that (homosexuality) exists." The inspiration for the film began with a desire by both brothers to tell a story about the place they called home. Peter described making a movie about the Mission District as "transformative" with the feeling that the most powerful threat to a respected man in the community would be to have a gay son.

The film almost did not happen for that reason. "We got a lot of nos (for funding)," Benjamin said. They were told "the gay issue has already been dealt with." Studio executives believed there would be no audience for this type of story. However, the two were set on making a film about homosexuality with a less superficial backdrop, using a minority culture.

Audiences are clearly on board with the film and its message. In the Mission District alone, "La Mission" is currently the highest-grossing film in the city.

"People are coming three or four times to see the movie, bringing their grandmothers and children each time," Benjamin said. "They seem to be receiving it." In fact, all three daytime showings in Sacramento were sold out.

"It is inspiring," said fan Rosa Garcia afterward. "There is more to the culture than violence, than (the common) stereotypes. We have a bond, a tradition of sticking with family and culture through hard times." In attendance with her husband Richard, the couple has ties to the Mission District as well. The husband and wife were in for a special treat, as Benjamin and Peter stopped at their row to take a personal picture.

Although the issue of homosexuality is uncomfortable to most, the Bratt brothers said they hope that "La Mission" will inspire some to at least start the conversation, using the Che character as a model.

This is the second collaboration between Peter and Benjamin, and the first of newly formed 5 Stick Films, created by the brothers and producer Alpita Patel. "La Mission" will be screening all over California through May 7.

Photos courtesy of Richard and Rosa Garcia

Sacramento architect David Mogavero speaks at Time Tested Books

2010-04-19T19:26:55Z

It was a packed crowd Sunday night, as about 50 people gathered to listen to the fourth installment of Time Tested Books' Living Library series, co-sponsored by Midtown Monthly. Sacramento architect David Mogavero was on hand to share a special presentation of his career designing structures and developments all over Northern California.

Mogavero began about 30 years ago, joking that it was while working with hippies that he was able to create fresh ideas.

"I was working all over Northern California in different scales and contexts," he said. He described the excitement of putting developmental resources into new projects, especially the suburbs.

"I really believe the greatest opportunity in America is retrofitting the suburbs," Mogavero said. He went on to explain to the audience that location is key to green building and spoke of ending urban sprawl.

The spotlight was on underutilized areas in Sacramento, filled with parking lots, abandoned land, and other missed opportunities. Mogavero said in some places, it is enough space to create hundreds of thousands of new housing units. The architect specializes in infill development, new development (ie: housing units) in pre-existing subdivisions.

He noted that in the suburbs especially, there are many benefits.

"(Infill development in the suburbs) reduces the cost of living, the cost of doing business," he said, "[It] reduces operation costs and makes the U.S. more competitive internationally." The idea is to get people closer to goods and services, cut down travel expense and oil dependency, and create a stronger sense of community.

Mogavero cited statics showing that people in places of higher foot traffic such as New York weigh on average 8 to 9 pounds less than suburban residents. Another study stated that compared to the Arden area, there are 87 percent less travel accidents in the central city, thus this type of development provides the benefit of better health and safety.

The presentation, ran in dialogue format, fielded lots of questions from the audience ranging from what role parks play in building subdivisions to the challenges of where to invest resources and increase investment. Former Sacramento mayor Heather Fargo, attending as a spectator, was on hand to contribute her own answers and opinions.

Afterwards Fargo said, "It's really encouraging that we're spending time thinking about how to fix the suburbs." When asked if she could see this change occurring in Sacramento soon if at all, she replied, "There is lots of opportunity here. I think people are getting it, the cost of sprawl is too expensive and there are better ways to build."

Fargo believes there has been success in this area of development, noting the areas of 9th and J streets and the Railyards. Time Tested Books will be hosting a roundtable of four former mayors next month, featuring Fargo, Burnett Miller, Phil Isenberg, and Anne Rudin.

"I anticipate a turn away crowd," said owner Peter Keat. Keat suggested seating for the event, set for 7p.m. on Sunday May 16th, might be filled by 6:30 if not earlier.

The Living Library series will run through June, and return for another season, likely beginning in August.

"This has really exceeded our expectations," said Tim Foster of Midtown Monthly and host of the series, "The seats are full, participants are engaged and asking questions. Added Keat, "It is reassuring that people come not for superstars but for local experts."

For a full list of events visit www.timetestedbooks.net.

Saturday at the Film Festival

2010-04-19T06:13:01Z

Sacramento continued its two-week-long film festival at the Crest Theatre on Saturday. The evening began with a short film remembering former Sacramento Mayor Joe Serna Jr.

The short, "Joe Serna Jr. Tribute" called Serna a champion of school reform, a "public servant, not a politician." Serna, who was inspired by Cesar Chavez, may be remembered most for his passion for education and community work. He was an inspiration to immigrants and younger generations, according to the film.

The tribute to Serna was followed by "Third World America," a documentary by Costa Mantis about Sacramento's Tent City.

The film, which ran about an hour, shed new light on Tent City and its residents. While there seem to be assumptions about the homeless -- they're disabled, they're lazy -- residents of Tent City described themselves as "happy, loving, joyous and kind." Some own cars, have jobs, and pay taxes. A few residents said it was up to them to take the first steps out of homelessness.

"What's the point?" residents asked when being told they had to move yet again. Tent City was previously set up on land owned by Union Pacific and SMUD.

"If you don't look at it, it's not really there" one resident said. "If you don't see the people, they aren't a concern." Organizations such as Loaves and Fishes and Safe Ground Sacramento want to bring Sacramento's homeless issue front and center to find a long-term solution.

"Third World America" is part of Mantis' Searching For Safe Ground series, about the plight of the homeless in the Sacramento area. The films focus on real people in real time.

"The Invited" premiered at 9 p.m. to a nearly full house. A chilling tale that will make one rethink playing with a Ouija board, the film tells the story of a couple who moves to Northern California only to unlock an ancient evil.

Director and Sacramento native Ryan McKinney answered questions after the film.

"It's time Sacramento takes (the movie industry) back," McKinney said. "We have to kick the L.A. comparison. This is an amazing city to shoot, an amazing locale, we just need the infrastructure," he said.

"We're not trying to re-create Hollywood," added another Sacramento native, actor Christopher Holley.

A fan asked if McKinney had any advice for aspiring filmmakers. His answer was simple.

"Do it," the director said. "It's as simple and easy as that ... and it'll make Sacramento a better place."

For more information on the film festival, visit www.sacramentofilmfestival.com.

Photos 1 and 2 courtesy of TheCrest.com. Photo 3 courtesy of Agnus-Dei Farrant.

Food editor/author gives food writing workshop

2010-04-14T19:14:42Z

The Sacramento Press hosted its first-ever "Food Writing" workshop Tuesday night to teach aspiring journalists how to write about food. The event's presenter was food editor and author Elaine Corn, who currently works for Capitol Public Radio.

The former news editor described her unique journey into the world of food. "(While working for the Dallas Morning News Austin American-Statesman) I developed an undying, indestructible interest in food," Corn explained, "but there was no food section in the paper."

After becoming the food editor in Dallas Austin, Corn quit her job and traveled to Europe, heading to Greece and ultimately landing herself a cooking job on a yacht in Turkey. "It (was) dirty work. When you volunteer they give you the onions. But eventually you stop crying," she told the audience of about twenty. "Then the next day they give you the bell peppers."

Eventually Corn found herself in Sacramento, working once again as a food editor, this time for the Bee. A look of surprise and shock filled the room as she gave a fun fact, the Bee's food section used to be 32 pages long and split into two sections.

The workshop continued with many insights and answers as Corn passed around a few examples of her work. "You have to find a way to get into the story, not let it be cliche, find your own passion," she said.

"I make a judgment without calling myself a critic," Corn told the crowd. She advised not to be judgmental as a reporter, warning that too harsh a critic can lose good standing in the future with a particular restaurant.

Budding journalists were then treated to a demonstration, invited to ask questions, and write a mock article of their own. Corn went through a seemingly simple task of cutting up an onion, pointing out her various knives and overall technique.

One participant asked if there was a technique to avoid crying while cutting an onion. "There is no cure. You just learn to do it faster." This naturally sparked a discussion about crazy food myths.

Once the demonstration was finished a few brave volunteers read their mock articles aloud. The interpretations varied wildly from the onion becoming a muse to the marvel at the sound the knives made as they were sharpened.

"Food writing is not just about cooking but really want to learn about a culture," Corn said as the evening came to a close, "We use food as a window. We learn about people through food as a base."

After an evening filled with food and laughter, one thing was clear: once cried over, Corn had now made the onion something to laugh at.

Crowd roars for "Beauty and the Beast" opening

2010-04-13T02:01:54Z

The B Street Theatre lies discreetly tucked in behind the Stanford Park Baseball Fields. Inside, the scene is small and intimate, half the cast made up of acting interns, seating practically on stage allowing the audience of about 50 people to be incredibly close to the live action. But do not let its quaint appearance fool you.

"Beauty and the Beast," by Charles Way, opened with a roar Saturday. This is the B Street Theatre's third and final show of the 2009-2010 family series, completing its eighth season.

Advertised as "Beauty and the Beast with some punk," the show produced a fresh take. While the plot may deviate from the wonderfully loved Disney classic, the end result was still the same.

After a daring gamble gone wrong, Belle's father Godwin must move the family, including sister Cassandra, to a new location -- one not as rich as the family is accustomed to. On a tip, Godwin looks to retrieve some fortune, only to lose his way and find himself in the clutches of a Beastman. Once there, Godwin agrees to exchange one of his daughters to spare his own life. It is only after living with the Beast that Belle is able to understand and accept him, ultimately falling in love with him.

No story would be complete without a life lesson, and this one bears plenty. The plot is overwhelming with reminders to avoid jealousy and replace it with kindness instead, and teaches kids (and even adults) that sometimes it is okay to follow your heart over your head.

The show was a bit scary at times, packed with plenty of screaming, growling, thunder and lightning. Yet through the frightening sound effects, children fell fast in love with the cast, from the beautifully costumed Belle to the strong and powerful Beast.

While most comedic spots were aimed at the adult audience, the show had everyone giggling with joy during one particular scene. As the Beast sat to play a piano and Belle squeaked out the first few notes of song, the audience erupted with laughter.

Afterward, children were heard outside exclaiming their enjoyment over the show, and were overcome with excitement as they were each personally thanked by the cast.

When deciding whether to take your family out, it is as the Beast says: "Sometimes it is better just to act, otherwise we'd all be in bed still."

The Beauty and the Beast will be showing Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm and 4pm from April 10-May 23, . Ticket prices for the event are $15-$22. The B Street Theatre is located at 2711 B St. For more information on this show, and others, call 916-443-5300.

Dig This! Tahoe Park Community Garden Opens

2010-04-12T03:19:38Z

Tahoe Park residents braved wind and cloudy skies Saturday to attend the grand opening of the Tahoe Park Community Garden. Wielding golden scissors, a team including Congresswoman Doris Matsui and Sacramento City Councilmember Kevin McCarty cut the ceremonial red ribbon.

"This will only enhance your neighborhood," Matsui said, "this gives you a gathering place." She went on to say that community gardens reduce crime and vandalism "because everyone now has a stake in the community."

The garden, which is on the campus of Tahoe Park Elementary, was created as a means to fight obesity and promote healthy lifestyle choices and eating habits. "Young people sometimes think food comes from McDonald's, and not from the dirt" said McCarty.

Added Matsui, "It teaches self-reliance. You don't have to rely on supermarkets."

McCarty explained that the $20,000 for the garden came from cell towers. "There is a city fee on all cell phone towers," he said. "We used the proceeds (for the creation of the garden)."

Home Depot donated the flowers that community members planted at the opening and the vegetables were donated by Bill Maynard of the Community Coalition. Maynard also designed the garden.

After brief opening remarks the festivities began. Matsui and McCarty shook hands and answered questions as residents roamed the garden and visited vendor booths. Balloons and a bounce house kept the kids happy.

"This really brings the community together for a place to garden," McCarty said. "Partnering with schools and kids, teaching children about health and nutrition, is so important."

Heather Hutcheson of the Tahoe Colonial Collaborative summed up the neighborhood: "In Tahoe Park there are no strangers, just people we have not met yet."

Plots will be sold individually at the Tahoe Park Community Gardens. For more information, call the Department of Parks and Recreation, 916-808-4943.