Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "bars"

The Old School Jukeboxes In Sacramento

2011-08-09T21:17:08Z

There’s nothing cooler than ordering a beer at the bar, walking over to the jukebox, and plunking a quarter into it. Especially when there’s no music playing at all. When the song kicks on, an atmospere is being created. The old school jukebox in Sacramento is becoming an endangered species. Replaced by the internet jukebox, or the “Downloaders” as Irene Doner, owner of the Tallac Lounge calls them. Can you imagine Fonzie banging his fist on an internet jukebox? Not cool. Bad music can ruin a good time at a cool bar. You’re sipping a pint of Newcastle and some drunk chick in a yellow Juicy tracksuit dominates the room with five songs in a row from Pink. Lets get this party started, right? Wrong! I want no part of that. Unfortunately, the internet jukebox dominates Sacramento’s finest neighborhood bars. Even Henry’s Bar downtown has an internet jukebox which doesn’t really go with the popcorn ceiling and gritty interior. When it comes to a jukebox, I like old school. Gimme some Johnny Cash or The Who and I’m a happy guy. I criss-crossed Sacramento to find the best old-school jukeboxes in town.

The Pre-flite Lounge is a vintage gem of a bar tucked beneath the bowels of the Downtown Plaza. It has the most unique old school jukebox in Sacramento. The R-82, as one patron called it, plays strickly vinyl 45’s. This is the mother of all jukeboxes in Sacramento. Arthur Fonzerelli would definitely approve. Some of the greatest music can be found on the R-82. From Fats Domino to Duke Ellington. Willie Nelson singing Blue Skies and Buck Owen’s Crying Time are also on the jukebox play list, and a bargain at 10 songs for a dollar. Crooners like Frank Sinatra and classic rock from the Stones. It’s all good stuff. Even some artists from the 80’s are in there like the Police and Huey Lewis. Luckily it’s a Bangles Free zone at the Pre-Flite. Julie Cox, who’s worked at the Pre-Flight Lounge for 29 years says, “Everything at the Pre-Flite Lounge is old, including me.” Russ the bartender suggested I play song number 169, one of the regulars brought back the Pussycat Song from Mexico. “It’s an adult song” quipped Russ. Uh yeah. A dirty little ditty about a cute little pussy cat, goes perfect with the half naked models on the door. The Pre-Flite Lounge also has a “Last Call” song. It’s Roy Rogers and Dale’s Happy Trails. Til we meet again R-82!

At The Hideaway, the new retro-hip bar in Curtis Park, Johnny Cash filled the room. “Get Rhythm, if you get the blues, cmon, get rhythm”. Mariah, the owner of the Hideaway says she’s “totally opposed to the internet jukebox. A jukebox is important to the atmosphere and you can’t control the atmosphere with an internet jukebox.” The atmospere at the Hideaway also features jukebox tunes from Rockabilly Queen Wanda Jackson, Amy Winehouse, and the Velvet Underground. It’s easily the most eclectic selection in Sacramento. Most of the CD’s in the jukebox are Mariah’s, some of the discs were given to her from friends. I asked if she had a favorite…“They’re all my favorites”, she said. There’s Cash, Elvis, Patsy Cline and even some Motorhead for the Lemmy fans. Plus cool local stuff from Hellbound Glory, and the Go Getters. I was in a Ramones mood:

Ma-ma-ma-mama’s boy
Don’t want to work in a hot dog stand
Be a busboy messenger or a doorman
It’s an abstract world you’re an Abstract man

The Ramones go good with the $2 Olympia.

The Backdoor Lounge in Old Sacramento with it’s red velvet wallpaper and mirrored bar has an old school jukebox to match the interior of the joint. “Music is the world” according to Backdoor Lounge’s irascible owner Gail Dick, or Madame Dick as she told me to call her. I asked her if she’d ever switch to the internet jukebox, “God no!“ The bar in the alley of Old Sacramento has a great selection of artists on the Rowe AMI. Elvis, Orbison, James Brown and even some Barry Manilow for those who like “The Copa”. Have a seat at the bar, order a martini, and play some Sinatra. Or maybe order a Fuzzy Navel to compliment the 80’s vocal stylings of Hall & Oates. My advice is a shot of Tennessee whiskey and the Very Best of Outlaw Country on the jukebox, It’s got “Whiskey River Live” by Willie Nelson.

Whiskey river, take my mind
Don’t let her memory torture me
Whiskey river, don’t run dry
You’re all I’ve got, take care of me

I told Madame Dick she needed to get some Buck Owens in the jukebox and she quipped, “ You want Buck Owens, you buy the place!” Then she proceded to play her favorite song on the jukebox, she cranked “I’m Alive” by Celene Dion. Long live the Backdoor Lounge.

Over at Brownie’s Lounge in South Land Park they have the Saturn 11 CD jukebox. When I got there the jukebox was ready to go with 11 songs courtesy of the bartender Patrick McFarlane. If you like classic rock this is the jukebox for you. Gobs of it. They have Van Halen, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Steve Miller Band and of course, Foreigner’s “Jukebox Hero”. Patrick likes the CD jukebox over the internet because you “control the atmosphere with the music”. Where have I heard that? They had an internet jukebox for a few months and it was rap songs with F this F that the N word would freely fly. They got rid of it and went back to the Saturn by Rowe. They have the country and the crooners and also some Irish flava. The Cheiftans and the Clancy Brothers go good with the corned beef and cabbage. Ali, one of Brownie’s regulars says she likes the jukebox at Brownie’s because “she knows what’s in it”. She used her index finger to select something off Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones.

The Tallac Lounge in Tahoe Park is a friendly neighborhood sports bar in Tallac Village. I was excited because they actually had my favorite local band‘s CD, Jackpot’s “Shiny Things”. Tony Caico, the bartender at the Tallac Lounge says, “The drummer comes in here sometimes.“ I had to play “Psycho Ballerina”. They also had Bob Dylan’s “Modern Times” which was a pleasant surprise.

Thunder on the mountain, and there’s fires on the moon
A ruckus in the alley and the sun will be here soon
Today’s the day, gonna grab my trombone and blow
Well, there’s hot stuff here and it’s everywhere I go

The jukebox was just getting started at The Tallac Lounge. A couple of ladies were playing pool when they bounced over to the bar singing to Led Zeppelin’s When The Leevee Breaks. They have Led Zeppelin 4! A sip of an adult beverage and they both went over to the jukebox to pick out a few tunes. Janet was dancing and twirling to Boston, Dave Mathews Band and Frank Sinatra. Jerry and Karen from Tahoe Park were also enjoying the jukebox. Adding that “the selection is the soul of where you’re at”. They played one of their favorites from Santana, “Maria maria”, because it “makes her cry.” Karen gave him a funny look and said, “Oh it does not!” Lots of AC/DC on the Tallac jukebox, Back In Black and Razor’s Edge. The Doors, Tesla, Queen, Jimi Hendrix and even the spandex rock of Cinderella. This jukebox is definitely rockin’. The perfect ambiance if you’re playing the NASCAR pinball or shootin’ pool. As the night wore on it turned into Jukebox Saturday Night at the Tallac Lounge.

The old-school jukebox is true americana, a trip back to simpler times. Now I must go and drive through the Sacramento Delta to get to Foster’s Bighorn. They have a Rockola

Moonshine cocktail competition at Shady Lady Saloon

2011-07-18T21:47:28Z

Shady Lady Saloon will add a new white whiskey to its menu called Original Moonshine Clear Corn Whiskey, and to help introduce it, a cocktail competition will be held at 6 p.m. Monday.

White whiskey is different from other whiskey in that it hasn’t been aged in the barrel, or if it has, it’s not for very long, Shady Lady co-owner Jason Boggs said.

There are no guidelines for the competition – just that the bartenders use the Moonshine corn-based whiskey as the main spirit.

Three judges will decide which cocktails win first, second and third prizes, with rewards of $500, $300 and $200, respectively.

The three judges are Chris Dooley, ~~head spirits director~~ bar manager at Ella ~~L Wine Lounge~~ ; Sara Berry of Southern Wine & Spirits and Michael Keltsch, a representative from Moonshine.

“For me, it’s going to be hilarious and fun,” Boggs said. “(The bartenders) have been here all last week practicing.”

He said the bartenders will compete, one at a time, to make a cocktail for the judges.

“You’re gonna see all sorts of creative syrups, smoked ice and (homemade) tinctures,” he added.

Dezi Bush is one of the bartenders competing. She has worked at Shady Lady since February.

“I’ve been obsessing over this cocktail and having nightmares about it,” Bush said.

“It was a hard spirit to work with because it’s a corn whiskey. A lot of ingredients I put in it lost the integrity of the spirit,” she said.

“I feel like everyone who works here is a cocktail geek,” she said and added that she thinks there will be some tough competition.

From 4 p.m. - close, there will be five different Moonshine specialty cocktails available for $5:

Virginia Peach – summer peach muddled with Moonshine, fresh lemon juice, Falernum and fortified wine
Dogwood – blackberries, lemon juice, Moonshine and Aperol. Garnished with a blackberry nested in a lemon peel
Swamp Fire – Rosemary leaves, cola syrup, ginger syrup, lime juice, aromatic bitters and Moonshine
Golden Spike – Cognac, Jasmine Tea Syrup, citrus, Moonshine and spiced bitters
Surveyor’s Cup – Mint leaves, maraschino, Orgeat syrup, lemon juice, celery bitters and Moonshine

Patrons can also order any of the new drinks made during the competition Monday and going forward.

“(It’ll be) a great time to see some great bartenders battle it out,” Boggs added.

Shady Lady Saloon is located at 1409 R St.

Editorial Note: A correction has been made to this story after it was published. The incorrect information has been struck out and the correct information has been added.

Friday Night Concerts in the Park launches SCVNGR Trek and Concert Deals

2011-05-13T21:46:40Z

Tonight, the Downtown Sacramento Partnership (DSP) is adding a new twist to the Friday Night Concerts in the Park. Concertgoers can now compete for prizes in a series of challenges and receive special Concert Deals at local businesses on their mobile phones via the SCVNGR app.

Participants start by downloading the free SCVNGR app for iPhone or Android. To play, look for the “Friday Night Concerts” trek and complete a series of quick concert-themed challenges to earn points. Challenges consist of snapping pictures, answering trivia questions, and social check-ins by bumping phones with friends. Challenges will rotate each week throughout the concert series giving players more chances to win.

Downtown businesses are also offering special Concert Deals for event goers with concert wristbands every Friday night via SCVNGR. Participating businesses include 4th Street Grille, Ambrosia Café, Blue Prynt, Dive Bar, Marilyn's on K, Pyramid, and Torch Club.

“It’s our 20th season this year and while we’re sticking to our roots of live local music, SVNGR is a great new addition to the Concerts. It’s a fun platform that will allow people to interact, compete with each other, and win prizes from local businesses,” said Michael Ault, DSP Executive Director. “It’s all the fun of an old-school scavenger hunt with the bells and whistles of Facebook and Foursquare.”

Second Saturday changes coming next month

2011-03-17T01:55:39Z

A few more changes are in the works for the Second Saturday Art Walk in an effort to reduce problems and increase the focus on art, city and business leaders said Wednesday.

The changes will take effect in April, when the event's crowds are expected to grow as warm weather returns to Sacramento. The city's Second Saturday safety team has come up with some modifications in the wake of a fatal shooting in September 2010.

The biggest change is a requirement that vendors, musicians with amplified sound and other street performers who are set up on public property – primarily sidewalks or closed streets – operate from 4 - 8 p.m. Live music is part of a growing music scene that has emerged on Second Saturdays.

City officials want street sales and music that have emerged during the art walk to end earlier to create a "buffer" between Second Saturday crowds and late-night revelers visiting bars and restaurants. The change is expected to make it easier to get minors home by the 10 p.m. curfew and allow art patrons time to enjoy art before crowds grow, said Vincene Jones, director of the city's Neighborhood Services Division.

"The thinking was – on everybody's part, even from the community's side – it will (keep) some of the kids from lingering and just kind of hanging around," she said. "There's not a lot you can stop unless you shut it down. We want it to continue, but we want it to be safe. And sane, so to speak."

City officials will provide an update on Second Saturday and nightlife issues at a meeting of the Neighborhood Advisory Group at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Hart Senior Center, 915 27th St.

The Second Saturday safety team, which has been meeting regularly for years, includes Sacramento Police, the city manager's office, code enforcement, neighborhood services, the Midtown Business Association, parking and transportation department staff. In making the changes, the group used suggestions made at a Sept. 25 forum by city residents, Jones said.

The event traditionally ran from 6 - 10 p.m., but the hours were changed to 5 - 9:30 p.m. after the shooting.

The earlier closing time doesn't apply to businesses with Second Saturday special event permits to serve or sell alcohol, MBA Executive Director Rob Kerth said.

The hours also don't apply to vendors set up on private property, such as parking lots.

The city is also requiring special one-day permits for music and vending this year. The permits will cost $25. Anyone using amplified sound must get a permit and permission from the nearest property owner.

Another change is that the city is now requiring vendors to sell only original, handcrafted items or products made in the region. Nothing that is mass-produced or imported may be sold. Appliances and secondhand goods that were sold by some last year won't be allowed, Jones said.

"We had a lot of people coming out with microwaves they wanted to sell. We don't want it to turn into that kind of flea market," she said. "We want it to be art-related."

Private property owners who allow vendors to sell on their property must get multi-vendor location permits.

Sidewalk vendors must have permission from the property owners and business owners that they set up in front of, Kerth said.

Vendors won't be able to set up on 20th Street between J and K streets, and that block will only be closed to traffic when needed for crowd control, he said.

No serious problems were reported during March's Second Saturday Art Walk last weekend. Police will continue to crack down on problems such as underage drinking, drinking on the street and minors out after curfew, said Sacramento Police Department spokesman Sgt. Norm Leong.

Minors may be cited for violating curfew, which is a misdemeanor, and released, and parents can be held accountable if children are out after curfew, unless the kids are with their parents.

"Parents should be aware that the city has a 10 p.m. curfew," he said. "Their children should be picked up well before 10 p.m."

Other changes may be added in upcoming months if warranted, Jones said.

The city's Special Events Ordinance Review Committee is also considering special events changes that may apply to Second Saturday. The ordinance isn't expected to be brought to the City Council until at least late 2011.

The earlier hours seems like a "smart idea" to help the city and police keep Second Saturday safe and family-friendly, then clear the streets before patrolling for problems with illegal drinking, vandalism, noise and other misbehavior, said Midtown Neighborhood Association Chair Matt Piner.

"I think it's a good idea as a start," he said. "You get bad apples in any crowd. The bigger the crowd, the more bad apples you're going to have."

Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @SuzanneHurt.

A Happier Hour for K Street?

2011-01-31T18:44:55Z

For some time now, K Street has been wavering between its past life as a Sacramento hot spot and its future as a wilting has-been. The busy street is clearly an institution from 9 to 5, but despite the Crest and the constant stream of events, city planners have been struggling to pull in a real evening crowd.

The news is out that a team of fairytale Bay Area developers has joined forces and created Dive Bar, Pizza Rock and District 30. This nightclub-pizza-bar trio hopes to entice the masses for some good old K Street entertainment and after-hours. But is this Bay Area vibe a bit of a stretch in grabbing the attention of the average Midtown resident? Even worse is the grueling task of convincing the average state worker that, despite ridiculous amounts of overtime, they have the energy for just a few more hours after work. Fun it may be, but it still takes energy.

So how will this all shape up? Will we be pleasantly surprised and find ourselves meeting up on K next Saturday? Or will it all be a blur of good press and hearsay, and we'll be left wondering if it will be yet another Subway? Do the mermaids get a pension?

The future is less predictable than we would hope, but I would have to wager that, at the least, Pizza Rock is here to stay. The rock in Pizza Rock is subtle, drawing in those who know trendy and comforting those who don't. A clean, silver chain holding back the heavy floor-to-ceiling black curtains, a Craftsman toolbox serving as the hostess station, and even the bathrooms are tastefully done, with Japanese-esque red walls, weathered framed mirrors and the city-standard 1930s-era hexagonal tile. The Peterbilt barreling out of the wall above the bar is a bit more than subtle, but you have to expect something outrageous from the creators of Dive Bar.

The pizza was dazzling in a way that had me planning my next visit. Five different types of crust, all of them flawless and the perfect blend of real Italian-style pizza and the American level of toppings that we just can't resist. The food was fresh, fast and reasonably priced.

The old-school music had Midtowners and middle-agers alike tapping their feet along with at least a song or two. The beverages were quality and varied with a full bar, a reasonable wine list, and even Bear Republic's Racer 5, a nice nod to the regional craft beer industry that's becoming more popular each day. On the whole, it's stunning that such a well-balanced pizza place was designed by the same people that created a bar with a 7,500-gallon tank filled with scandalously live mermaids.

Hopefully the next newbies on K Street will follow their lead, thinking of all and excluding none, if only so we can wander down the K Street Mall among friends rather than just passing through it on the way home. Currently, it's a bit too much like a deserted rail corridor, where it would be wholly unsurprising to find someone stripped naked in front of Pizza Rock, warming their clothes on the decorative blue flames that were forgotten at closing that night.

Or is a noon rush all that K Street has left?

Holiday drinks: Get 'em while it's cold outside!

2010-12-21T20:55:19Z

Using seasonal ingredients, robust liquors and festive garnishes, bars across Midtown are preparing to fight the bitter cold by adding some new innovative concoctions and classic holiday favorites to their menus.

Designed to warm the belly and lift the spirits, here’s a look at some of Sacramento’s tastiest winter cocktails.

Shady Lady Saloon
1409 R St.

Hot Buttered Rum

1 pound softened butter

½ pound brown sugar

½ pound super fine white sugar

2 teaspoons ground nutmeg

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground cardamom

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 teaspoons ground clove

1 ½ ounces dark rum

Hot water (enough water to fill an Irish coffee glass or mug)

Mix that by hand or using handheld mixer. Store in freezer indefinitely.
Take out 1-2 tablespoons of batter, mix in 1 ½ ounces of dark rum. Fill mug or Irish coffee glass with hot water. Garnish with fresh grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

“People in America were drinking these as early as 1685,” co-owner Jason Boggs said. “Rum was being delivered here and distilled in the early colonies. That was the first way that they were drinking booze. It’s very old.

“That’s the classic hot buttered rum (recipe). Some people add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. We try to keep it classic.”

Lounge on 20
1050 20th St.

Fennel Fizz
$12

1 ½ ounces Lucid Absinthe

¾ ounce lemon juice

1 ounce simple syrup

1 splash of soda water

Shaken with diced fennel, topped with egg white foam and garnished with a lemon twist, fennel sprig and star anise. Served in a Collins glass.

Eastern Promises
$9

¾ ounce Jasmine Liqueur

¾ ounce Ginger Liqueur

1 bag of green tea

Hot water

Garnished with a lemon twist and cinnamon stick.

Spiked French Toast
$10

1 ½ ounces rum

1 ounce milk

¾ ounce 5 Spice simple syrup

Shaken and then steamed to warm, powdered cinnamon sprinkled on top, and served in a martini glass.

Drinks created by Vince LaForm and Renee Fong.

Centro Cocina
2730 J St.

Seasonal Infused Tequila
$8.50

5 bags of fresh cranberries

40 peeled green apples

3 cinnamon sticks

4 vanilla bean

3-3 ½ bottles of Silver tequila

Soaked together in a large pitcher. Served as a 4 ½ ounce shot in a chilled flute, or in a margarita with 1 ounce Triple Sec and 1 ounce of lime juice.

Drink created by Joel York.

De Vere's Irish Pub
1521 L St.

Mother’s Milk
$10

1 ¼ ounces Bushmills Black Bush Irish Whiskey

2 or 3 shakes of whiskey barrel-aged bitters

¼ ounce Creme de Leche

¼ ounce honey syrup

Shaken and then served in a chilled martini glass , topped with fresh ground nutmeg.

Drink created by Henry De Vere White.

Paesanos
1806 Capitol Ave.

Candy Canetini
$4 during happy hour, $6 regular price

¾ ounce Absolut Vanilla Vodka

¾ ounce Creme de Cacao

¼ ounce Candy Cane schnapps

1 ounce half and half

¼ ounce simple syrup

Shaken and served in a red sugar-rimmed martini glass.

XO Mocha
$4 during happy hour, $6 regular price

1 ounce Patron XO Coffee Liqueur (espresso flavored)

½ ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream

½ ounce half and half

Served over ice and topped with whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

Creamsicle shot
$4 during happy hour, $6 regular price

1 ounce whipped cream-flavored vodka

½ ounce orange juice

Shaken over ice, served in a shot glass.

Drinks created by John Hazelton, Erica O’Neal and Amanda Starr.

Red Lotus

2718 J St.

Two Brothers
$9

2 ounces Leopold Bros. New York Apple Whiskey

3 dashes of old-fashioned aromatic bitters

Served in a lowball glass over a signature hand-carved ice block with a lemon twist garnish.

Drink created by Mark Neuhauser.

Zócalo
1801 Capitol Ave.

Homemade Egg Nog
$8

2 ounces Santa Teresa Aged Venezuelan Rum

3 ounces whole milk from Straus Family Creamery

3 ounces half and half from Straus Family Creamery

Shaken, and topped with cardamom, nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

Drink created by Joe Anthony Savala and Dominique Gonzales.

(Speak)Easy skankin

2010-11-23T03:25:12Z

“Once, during Prohibition, I was forced to live for days on nothing but food and water.” ~W.C. Fields

The 18th Amendment, which banned the sale, manufacture and transportation of alcohol in the United States, was ratified on Jan. 16, 1919.

As a result, drinking in the United States stopped almost completely. Drunk and disorderly behavior went the way of the dodo, crime rates sunk like a turd in a jug and America became an idyllic utopia full of stolid, sober, upright men and women who had finally been saved from that liquid Mephistopheles which had held them captive for so long.

"Is this Heaven?" people were known to ask one another. "No, it's just government-mandated Prohibition" someone would reply, knowingly.

Yeah, I’ve got jokes.

Of course, what really happened is the 18th Amendment created a hugely profitable and violent black market for alcohol where organized crime ran rampant while corrupt law enforcement agencies looked the other way, and otherwise law-abiding citizens were made into de facto criminals.

The drinking continued, unabated, it just went underground, and the speakeasy was born. Underground drinking clubs were everywhere. For every legitimate saloon that was forced to close, a half dozen clandestine establishments sprang up. By midway through "The Roaring Twenties," there were supposedly 100,000 speakeasies in New York City alone.

At any given time during Prohibition, Sacramento, one of the "wettest cities in the union" had 200-plus operating speakeasies. I know this, because last Saturday night I went on The Old Sacramento Speakeasy Tour, offered by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

I arrived at the River City Saloon 20 minutes before the tour’s scheduled 6 p.m. start. It didn't take long to ascertain who would be guiding the tour. If Shawn Peter’s dapper, striped, not-quite-zoot-suited (But not-quite-not-zoot-suited) appearance wasn't enough to give him away as our fearless leader, the clunky off-white lunchbox (construction worker, not preschooler) sized portable speaker to which he was strapped was.

I introduced myself, and he encouraged me to grab a cocktail while we awaited the rest of the group. I decided on an Irish Coffee, ’cause there had been a sign outside that had said "Irish Coffee" on it, and, apparently, I'm a sheep.

It took me a few minutes to gain the bartender’s attention, so I passed the time by eating peanuts that I found at the bar, because that's what I do to peanuts that I see sitting on bars. Thankfully, the young lady to whom the peanuts belonged was very understanding when she returned to her seat to find a pile of shells in front of me and a half-empty basket in front of her.

By the by, peanuts and Irish Coffees are an awful mix. Just terrible.

At a little after 6 p.m., Shawn gathered us up in the back of the saloon, which, though less than 2 years old, is very reminiscent of how a typical 1920s Sacramento speakeasy would have been.

"Sacramento has always been a drinking town. . ." Shawn began, to assorted hoots and hollers from the gathered throng of about 20 or so men and women, just about all of whom were clutching a drink of some sort. "And it wanted nothing to do with Prohibition."

He went on to give us a brief history of Old Sac and the town’s hate/hate relationship with Prohibition and its total refusal to comply with the federal law.

There was a saying in Prohibition-era Sacramento that "if you couldn't find a drink, you were dumber than a halfwit."

After a fascinating and in-depth (Shawn and partner Mike Munson spent years researching 80-plus-year-old city and police records before beginning to offer tours) history lesson, we left River City and headed around the block to the Speakeasy Lounge, Shawn pointing out locations of interest along the way.

The Speakeasy Lounge is underneath Cafe New Orleans and was an operating speakeasy during Prohibition. It was attached to a series of tunnels that, at the time, went from the waterfront all the way to 12th and J.

Unfortunately, owing to a miscommunication, the bar downstairs was closed. If I had been working, I'd have eschewed the tumbleweeds and crickets in the upstairs dining room for a few minutes in order to fix some cocktails for our raucous group of amateur speakeasy enthusiasts downstairs, but that's just me. I guarantee we would have bought more alcohol in 20 minutes downstairs than they sold upstairs all night.

Did I mention that the Speakeasy Lounge was turned into a dance club in the ’70s, so it mixes a 1920s basement speakeasy setup with 1970s sensibilities (complete with a raised, lighted Plexiglas disco dance floor). When and if it ever opens, (Their "website" is a myspace page that says it's "in" hiatus. I'm not holding my breath) it immediately becomes my favorite bar in Sacramento.

Up next on the tour was the Delta King, which was a floating casino/speakeasy/liquor transport during Prohibition. They used to offer passenger fares to San Francisco. The 10-hour trips would rapidly degenerate into wild parties.

In the ’20s, the bar area would be hidden. Today it is in the Pilothouse, where we mingled with a bunch of hotel residents and visitors eagerly anticipating the Delta King Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. After a couple of drinks on the Delta King (we had to make up for the aborted trip at the last place), we ventured back out into the dark and stormy night, headed for our final destination of the evening, (and our guide's favorite) the Back Door Lounge.

I'll admit it, this is where my recollection gets a tad fuzzy. I can tell you that it was an operating speakeasy in the ’20s, and it was also a Saltine Cracker Factory. Or maybe it was next to (under? in cahoots with?) a Saltine Cracker Factory. I can tell you that they serve a ridiculously strong cocktail at the Back Door Lounge, and apparently they do a mean breakfast as well.

I can also tell you that if you enjoy a little history with your cocktails, (or a lot of cocktails with your history), you will absolutely love The Old Sacramento Speakeasy Tour. I may do it again next month. I wanna see that dance floor fully operational.

Hip hop music not the problem, panelists say

2010-11-10T02:25:15Z

The key to successful and safe hip hop events in Sacramento is to focus on the music, an expert panel said Tuesday.

Sacramento needs club owners and promoters to give hip hop artists doing good music a chance – working together rationally to overcome stereotypes or solve problems. What the city doesn't need is people who bring turf wars or personal drama into clubs, said hip hop artists, promoters and a historian gathered at the Crest Theatre.

One panelist, rapper B-Smoove, acknowledged that problems can arise if gang enemies who normally don't cross paths suddenly wind up at the same club. He’s established a reputation for hosting problem-free hip hop nights by reminding his audiences that everyone was there for the music, not drugs or violence.

"When it's all about the music, all the B.S. goes by the wayside," said hip hop DJ and promoter Mic Jordan at an event organized by the Midtown Business Association, Downtown Sacramento Partnership and Old Sacramento Business Association.

The panel was part of a series of workshops on nightclub safety and state laws and city regulations for bars and nightclubs. On Nov. 16, the business organizations are hosting the third Pubs, Clubs and Bars Security Training workshop on bar security and operations from 2 - 5 p.m. at the California Military Museum, 1119 Second St.

The free workshops are open to businesses, DJs and club promoters in Old Sacramento, downtown and Midtown.

Hip hop started largely because New York gang lords wanted to create places for their kids to have positive experiences. There may have been war in the streets, but that wasn't allowed at such events, Jordan said.

"They used their muscle to enforce these hip hop events as safe zones," Jordan said. "As artists, that's part of our responsibility. That's what we can do at the clubs."

Panelists discouraged marketing efforts that exploit violence, such as promotional fliers with gunshot holes used recently here by one promoter. Sacramento's hip hop scene has remained largely unrecognized, and artists aren't given opportunities because of problems with violence that have been blamed on the music, they said.

"Our underground music scene is as good as anybody across the board," said Jordan, adding that the city doesn’t have enough club owners who trust artists or have established clientele.

Hip hop educator Michael Benjamin II recommended clubs play more diverse hip hop and use diverse DJs and musicians. The crowds will come for events featuring hip hop’s golden era in the 1980s and 1990s, he said.

"I've never understood a club owner complaining about violence at their club and they're playing all violent music," he said.

Some but not all panelists say troublemakers might be weeded out with dress codes, which could add a more sophisticated vibe inside clubs and prevent gang colors from being worn. Problems might also be prevented by no longer making people line up outside and wait to be chosen to get in, B-Smoove said.

The practice may work in cities like Los Angeles and New York. But here, customers are likely to become unhappy if someone else is allowed in when they’re not, he said.

“In Sacramento, that tactic don't necessarily work,” B-Smoove said.

Some clubs are only concerned about filling up with customers, so they aren't weeding out bad people, said DJ Katz, an underground electronic DJ who joined about 25 other people in the audience. The crowd included bar owners, DJs, promoters, police and security personnel.

"It's desperation time right now. There's crickets," he said.

But Swiff, a musician who does hip hop, rock and R&B, said rules that force people to wear expensive clothing may start more fights because a guy who gets a drink spilled on his expensive shirt will be more angry than if he was just wearing a T-shirt.

The panelists suggested Sacramento clubs hire more security for events. Bouncers should be trained professionals – polite and well-dressed, yet tough when needed, so they themselves don't initiate violence with disrespectful behavior. They should also work at the same clubs repeatedly so they recognize people who've caused problems in the past, panelists said.

Swiff said he's OK with having police officers sitting outside clubs to keep troublemakers or "outside scum" away. What he doesn't want is people leaving one of his events vowing never to return because they're afraid for their lives.

"That's what’s wrong in Sacramento: We're letting the scum beat us," he said.

Workshops tackle safe bar operations

2010-11-05T00:53:02Z

Nightclub safety will be discussed at upcoming workshops offered by local business organizations.

The Downtown Sacramento Partnership, Midtown Business Association and Old Sacramento Business Association are hosting two sessions this month.They are part of a series aimed at educating bar and restaurant owners and staff about their responsibilities, as well as state laws and city regulations.

The free workshops are open to businesses, DJs and club promoters in Old Sacramento, downtown and Midtown.

Rapper B-Smoove and other experts in Sacramento's hip hop scene recently agreed to lead a panel on managing hip hop nights so that they stay free from the violence that shut down clubs like Elements. Other discussions will tackle many "gray areas" involved with bar operation, entertainment permits and special events, said DSP Director of Community Services Ryan Loofbourrow.

"We plan on doing this on a regular basis, so as trends happen or new regulations take effect, we can include those," he said Thursday. "We want to make sure all of our establishments are up to date on all the procedures."

On Nov. 9, a hip hop panel will talk about how business owners can build successful clubs and reputations by enforcing tight security at the door, banning bad behavior inside clubs and offering "true" hip hop – rather than gangsta rap or other music with violent lyrics, MBA Operations Manager Aja Uranga-Foster said.

B-Smoove will be joined by Michael W. Benjamin II of Low End Theory Collaborative, hip hop club promoter Mike Jordan and Brian "Abs" Washington, a musician, promoter, personal trainer and bouncer. The panel will be held from 1 - 2 p.m. at the Crest Theatre, 1013 K St.

Some bars have stopped offering hip hop events, while others have developed bad reputations and even lost permits or licenses for repeated violence. The panel will discuss how music lyrics and beats can influence mood and behavior inside a club, she said.

Two people were shot and killed outside Elements, 805 15th St., in 2004. Robert Zarco was gunned down in revenge after he shot and killed 26-year-old Elias Sanchez in front of his wife. The club stopped holding hip hop nights after the shooting. Its permit was later revoked. The club was sold and the place reopened as Avalon.

"They're going to talk about how to maintain a high standard and play good hip hop that doesn't just appeal to a 'low-end crowd,' " Foster said. "They themselves (the panelists) don't go out to clubs because they want to hear true hip hop, but they don't like the behavior that is allowed at some clubs."

That panel will be followed by a workshop on responsible beverage service from 2 - 5 p.m. Jerry Jolly, the former director of the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, will explain state regulations involving alcohol sales and promotions, how to turn away intoxicated customers and how to communicate with ABC agents.

Another Pubs, Clubs and Bars Security Training workshop will be held on bar security and operations from 2 - 5 p.m. Nov. 16 at the California Military Museum, 1119 Second St. Sacramento Police Sgt. Monty "Max" Maxwell, with the department's entertainment team, will cover city entertainment permits, requirements for security operations, how to recognize people too intoxicated to buy more liquor, fire safety and other issues, Loofbourrow said.

"Bars are responsible for the behavior of customers," he said. "This will help bar operators and security know what to look for."

Photo by Brandon Darnell.

Where To Go Halloween Weekend And Not Lose Your Wallet

2010-10-27T22:46:50Z

Cancelation of the long running Exotic Erotic Ball in San Francisco? Are Sacramento's Exotic Ball ticket sales going to be down due to the economy?

It seems as Halloween is upon us many Sacramentins are looking for more economical night time parties this year and I thought I would take the time to give out some information on some upcoming night time events in the Sacramento area that wont break your wallet.

Saturday Night:

The 5hundy.net / calpubcrawl.com group will be having there annual pub crawl starting in midtown, then snaking its way into Old Sacramento. The Crawl starts at 6.30 at Shady Lady and ending in Old Sacramento at River City Saloon & Vega's. Details at http://www.calpubcrawl.com/

98 Rock will be down at the New Shenanigans Pub in Downtown on J Street for " Halloween Mayhem on J Street " details at http://www.jstreetshenanigans.com

Halloween at the Hive, a sober party 7pm to midnight @ the Urban Hive 1931 H Street Sacramento, Ca

Hollow’s Eve Red Carpet Halloween Ball at the Shady Lady Saloon More information: www.metrospark.net

Halloween with Radio Static at Marilyn’s on K. details at http://www.marilynsonk.com/events.htm

Halloween Night - "Sunday Night"

Old Sacramento Halloween Block Crawl, Old Sacramento Halloween Block Crawl. Why party at only one place on Halloween night when you can party at six, all on one block. With no cover charge, drink specials, music, contests and more. Details at http://www.OldSacramentoBars.com

WARNER DRIVE AT SHAKERS PUB in Citrus Heights. Band plays original and covers and talk about cheap drinks at this neighborhood hangout.

Haunted Halloween Night Party at the 7440 Club in Citrus Heights with DJ, Costume contest at midnight!! $100 first place
$3 Cover after 9pm Details at http://www.rockys7440club.com

So there are a few alternatives to the high priced parties this weekend, feel free to comment other night time activities.

Disclosure: Sean Derfield is the owner of River City Saloon

Where are you watching the World Series?

2010-10-27T21:12:03Z

If you aren’t one of the lucky fans who will actually be at the 2010 World Series, then you’ll probably be like the rest of us rooting for the Giants at local watering holes.

Don’t worry though, there are more than enough flat-screens and drink specials to go around. So pull up a stool, grab a beer, and pick one of the places below to cheer on the Giants!

Basic, 112 Pacific St., Roseville
5 flat-screen TVs
$1 shots every time the Giants score

Brew it Up, 801 14th St.
4 HD flatscreen TVs, 2 additional CRT TVs in bar
World Series specials:
$4 3 Olives flavored vodka cocktails
$3 Kraken dark rum and Cokes
$10 64-oz pitchers of Brewery Fest beer

Buffalo Wild Wings, 6301 Sunrise Blvd., Citrus Heights
61 TVs
“Boneless Thursday” for Game 2: 60 cent boneless wings

Cheers Bar & Grill, 1620 W El Camino Ave. # 130
Two big screen TVs
Regular happy hour 4 - 7 p.m.
50 cents off well drinks
25 cents off drafts

Cheaters, 3221 Folsom Blvd.
16 flat-screen HDTVs
Free hot dogs and snacks during games
$3 well drinks
$2 Pabst

Coaches, 5681 Lonetree Blvd., Rocklin
8 42-inch screen TVs
2 12-foot screen TVs
$8 pitchers
Regular happy hour, 4 - 7 p.m.

Elixir, 1815 10th St.
2 flat-screen TVs
Game 1 falls on their “Humpy Hour”
Happy Hour 4 - 7 p.m.
Call drinks $4.00
Well drinks $3.00
All Pints $3.00
Bottled Beer & PBR $3.00

Fox and Goose, 1001 R St.
No specials but showing games

Golden Bear, 2326 K St.
Regular happy hour 4- 7 p.m.
$1 off any drink

Hangar 17, 1630 S St.
8 TVs
Regular happy hour 3 - 6 p.m.
$3 well drinks, $2.50 domestic beers, $3.50 premium beers, $3 selected wine
“Five for $5” happy hour food
Beer specials T.B.A. during games

Limelight Bar & Cafe Card Room, 1014 Alhambra Blvd.
8 TVs
Drink specials TBA

M.V.P.’s Sports Grill, 2110 L St.
16 TVs
Happy hour until 7 p.m. throughout World Series
$2 beers, $4 well drinks

Oshima Sushi & Sports Bar, 2071 Natomas Crossing Dr.
13 TVs (6 inside bar area)
Regular happy hour 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Special pricing/menu on rolls in bar

Pine Cove, 502 29th St.
12 TVs
Regular happy hour Wednesdays
$3.00 Kamikazes or Cosmpolitans
$2.00 Pints of beer
-Pabst
-Blonde
-Anchorsteam
-Steelhead Pale Ale
-Shiner Hefeweizen

Players, 4060 Sunrise Blvd., Fair Oaks
River Cats hosting party with Brad Kilby signing autographs and appearance by Dinger the mascot

Powerhouse Pub, 614 Sutter St., Folsom
15 TVs total
2 6-foot projection HDTVs
2 50-inch TVs

River City Brewing, 545 Downtown Plaza, Ste. 1115
4 TVs in the bar, 1 in dining room
Happy hour until 6 p.m.

R15, 1431 R St.
14 42-inch plasma-screen TVs
Regular happy hour until midnight

Stingers, 7890 La Riviera Dr.
7 TVs
50 cent Jaeger/Red Bull shots every time the Giants score

Streets of London, 1804 J St.
3 TVs, shot specials and extending normal happy hour throughout entire game
Regular Wednesday night “Pint Night”: $5 gets the glass, $4 gets a refill

Streets of London, 2200 Lake Washington Blvd., West Sac.
3 TVs
Regular happy hour 4 - 6 p.m.
$4 pints
$1 off house wine and well drinks

Sudwerk Riverside Restaurant and Brewhouse, 9900 Greenback Ln., Folsom
5 50-inch flat-screen TVs
Happy hour pricing during all games
$1 off all beer, well drinks and house wine
$1.50 off all appetizers

Sweetwater, 1901 S St.
2 TVs
$3 premium draft beers
$5 appetizer specials

Zebra, 1900 P St.
7 TVs
Kitchen open during games
$1.75 Bud, Bud light Coors Light and Pabst

Zocalo, 1801 Capitol Ave.
4 TVs
Regular happy hour, 3 - 6 p.m.
$2 Naco Taco
$3 XX lager, XX amber, Santa Rita Merlot, Stone Cellars Chardonnay
$5 House Margarita, Mojito, Caipirinha
$7 Hand-Crafted Margarita, Blackberry Margarita

If there are any we missed, please leave it in a comment below!

Photos by Jonathan Mendick

An Evening with The Brubeck Brothers Quartet at Harlows Friday Oct. 15

2010-10-13T20:13:04Z

Can there be anything better on a mid-October Friday night than some smooth, mellow jazz music conveniently placed in a stylishly intimate club?

If you're underage – probably. But for those applicable, the show will be about
the genius of jazz.

Collaborating with orchestras including The Sacramento Philharmonic, selling out concerts and Jazz festivals across America and Europe, The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, featuring Daniel and Chris Brubeck, will be filling up the evening with plenty of reasons to
ditch out on Netflix and that cheap bottle of wine.

These versatile musicians, accompanied by guitarist Mike Demicco and pianist
Chuck Lamb, have been received nationally for their contagious energy and
creativity with hits like "Intuition" and "Classified."

All About Jazz raves, "There's really nothing out there that comes close to their unique brand of inventiveness.'"

With a full bar and the already-engaging atmosphere of Harlow's Restaurant and Nightclub, the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the band will be memorable as they bring back all the rhythmic force Sacramento's Midtown can handle for one night to Harlow's Friday October 15 at 7:30 pm.

Managing 'hospitality zones'

2010-10-02T05:08:42Z

Sacramento’s “hospitality zones” became classrooms Thursday night.

Nearly two dozen people visiting Sacramento for the California Downtown Association’s 2010 annual conference took a walking “Nighttime Economy Tour” through parts of Old Sacramento, downtown and Midtown. Most in the group help manage downtown business districts.

Stopping in bars from Vega’s at Old Sacramento’s historic waterfront to de Vere’s Irish Pub near 15th and L streets, people learned best practices, as well as what to avoid, to successfully set up and manage hospitality districts – concentrations of bars, restaurants, café-lounges and other entertainment businesses.

Officials with cities and business improvement districts have many more tools at their disposal than they realize, said Allison Harnden, vice president of Santa Cruz-based Responsible Hospitality Institute. She led discussions on the tour.

One is to make sure visitors have plenty of convenient transportation options, such as “safe ride” programs, taxi stands, pedicabs, late-night public transportation and safe neighborhoods to walk in, so they can leave bars safely and quickly.

“This is your biggest bang for the buck,” said Harnden, whose group was established to help communities plan and manage entertainment zones. “If you can clear the hospitality district at closing time, you won’t have noise, you won’t have fights, you won’t have bottle throwing.”

Melissa Martinez, executive director of the Old Sacramento Business Association, and Aja Uranga-Foster, programs manager with the Midtown Business Association, led a four-hour tour to 11 establishments. Several were located at 20th and K streets.

Public urination after closing is a common problem because many cities don’t have enough public restrooms near these areas.

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control doesn’t like to give out liquor licenses for businesses close together. But concentrations of bars are easier for police to manage, she said.

The institute encourages cities to establish staggered closing times so police aren’t overwhelmed trying to manage crowds at closing, she said outside de Vere’s, where a crowd of patrons waited to enter at 11 p.m.

Another way to prevent many problems in such districts and to create more financially successful zones is to recruit a mix of businesses meeting needs and schedules of all four adult demographic groups, rather than just single 20-somethings, she said.

That group tends to drink too much because they’re insecure about socializing. Guys that age are most likely to fight. They may not spend much money at businesses, preferring to spend time “displaying and promenading” in groups, she said.

“You really want to start filling in some of these things to attract other people,” Harnden said.

Sacramento might learn from Chicago events

2010-09-22T06:56:08Z

Sacramento isn't the only city grappling with violence and other problems at special events.

Chicago has had similar problems with festivals such as the Taste of Chicago, the city's biggest special event. The Taste draws about 3 million people to lakefront Grant Park for the 10-day summer festival each year.

The Camellia City can take some cues from the City of Big Shoulders. Chicago Police and the Mayor's Office of Special Events, which runs the event with help from other departments, constantly fine-tune operations for the Taste to handle problems as they emerge.

Several shootings have occurred near the Taste in the last seven years. Three teens were stabbed in a gang fight near the event on July 1, shortly after closing. In 2008, a 20-year-old was killed and three teens injured in gang shootings that broke out in the Loop as a mass of people left Grant Park after the July 3 fireworks.

"You're trying to do something nice for 99 percent of the public and that one percent just makes things difficult," said Cindy Gatziolis, spokeswoman for the Mayor’s Office of Special Events in Chicago.

Some of the Taste's problems — as well as benefits — have come from its popularity, similar to the Second Saturday Art Walk in Sacramento. On Sept. 12, a 24-year-old Sacramento man was killed and three others injured in a gang shooting after the official close of the popular monthly event, which is drawing growing crowds.

This year marked the Taste of Chicago’s 30th anniversary. The event began July 4, 1980, with 36 restaurants selling food from tents after Chicago restaurateur Arnie Morton convinced the city to close a six-block stretch of downtown's Michigan Avenue. At least 150,000 people turned out, leading the city to move the event to Grant Park the next year.

"They thought Michigan Avenue would be great, but (the Taste) was too big," Gatziolis said. "So it was a victim of its success."

Following the recent shooting, Sacramento City Councilman Steve Cohn is hosting a community forum on Second Saturday Art Walks at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Hart Senior Center, 915 27th St.

An estimated 20,000 are drawn to Midtown for Second Saturdays. The event is built around an art walk that's grown into a street festival, with musicians and DJs in parking lots and outside storefronts, sidewalk vendors selling T-shirts and jewelry, and restaurants selling food. The event's hours have been 5-10 p.m., but crowds remain longer in an area with bars, restaurants and house parties.

Responding to complaints, Sacramento Police cracked down on problems at the most recent Second Saturday. They arrested 17 minors for 10 p.m. curfew violations and took them to police headquarters until parents came. Police cited about 40 more people, including business owners, for alcohol-related violations including underage and public drinking, plus public intoxication and urination.

Now billed as the world's largest outdoor food fest, the Taste of Chicago grew to 70 restaurants, though now it is limited to 53. Free music at several stages have led to another description as “the world's largest free mosh pit.” About 300,000 people attend on busy days. Until 2010, 1 million people have gone to the Taste on July 3 for Chicago's legendary fireworks, set off above Lake Michigan next to Grant Park.

Last summer for the first time, the fireworks were held July 4th at three other lakefront locations downtown and on the North and South sides to spread out crowds, cut costs, make management easier and ease pressure on city services including police, fire and paramedics. This year, the city also closed the Taste early on July 3 — at 7 p.m., rather than 9 or 9:30 p.m.

"July 3 was often very overwhelming," Gatziolis said. "I think we decided this was too many people for one spot."

Multi-departmental meetings are held months in advance to strategize for each Taste of Chicago.

The Taste is held in a 24-square-block area centering on Grant Park between Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue. Smaller cross streets are closed to cars.

For the last two summers — since the fatal shooting — the area has been fenced to create a contained area and controlled entrances, where police and private security can watch for disturbances and things that are illegal or might cause problems. Fencing has enabled police and organizers to manage the event more like a concert pavilion than open city streets, Gatziolis said.

Some bands will draw more teens or 20-somethings to the Taste. At entries, security checks bags for alcohol and illegal substances. People 21 or older get wristbands to buy beer and wine at seven booths. Security stationed near those booths guard against people buying alcohol for minors.

The Chicago Police Department's Special Events Unit creates deployment orders for city-sponsored festivals including the Taste and nearby areas as crowds leave such festivals. Special Events may employ uniformed and undercover officers from all units, including tactical officers, gang units and other specialized teams.

Officers are deployed on foot, bikes and horses. Undercover police watch for concealed weapons. Surveillance cameras are also used.

The recent violence has primarily happened after closing, when crowds dispersed on city streets or the "L," Chicago's rapid transit system. After closing, police line some streets and are dispersed around the area, while others patrol "L" trains and stations.

"The overall safety strategy for all festivals, including the Taste of Chicago, is to have a strong police presence in areas where we anticipate large crowds," said Roderick Drew, director of the Chicago Police Department's Office of News Affairs. "This includes public transit hubs and ingress and egress routes for pedestrians."

The city has inscribed all light poles in the area with numbers so safety and health incidents, which can include Chicagoans who've gotten dehydrated or too hot, can be reported and paramedics or police can respond quickly.

To combat Chicago's heat and humidity, the city sets up misting tents, and the Chicago Transit Authority brings out buses with air conditioning. Announcements are broadcast to remind people to drink plenty of water.

Mayor Richard Daley said in late August he's considering privatizing management of the Taste, music festivals and some other city services.

Chicago also hosts 200 to 300 independently organized neighborhood festivals, art fairs and music events each year. For such events, police request site and security plans, designated command posts, security guards or others assigned to monitor patron conduct, and a communications system between monitors and the command post.

Three festivals are held one June weekend in a five-block area in the Old Town neighborhood on the North Side. All three events are held in contained areas. They also keep troublemakers away by charging entrance fees in the form of $5 to $10 donations.

Adam McLain, a mortgage banker headquartered in Old Town, said he's never seen anything more than "a push or shove from drunken people" at any of the festivals he's attended annually for nearly 20 years.

"The reason why Taste of Chicago has problems is because it's free," said McLain, 47.

The Old Town Art Fair has brought artists from around the country to a historic residential district for 61 years. Using 750 resident volunteers, a neighborhood organization called the Old Town Triangle Association sets up booths, a food court, a music stage and a children's art program along four streets in a barricaded area with controlled entrances.

"It's a smaller area, but we pack them in pretty tight," said Emily Rose, general chair for the 2011 art fair. "We can't ask our whole neighborhood to shut down."

The event is built around fine art selling for $500 to $3,000 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. to draw a crowd — 50,000 in a weekend — that wants to view and buy art or take a garden walk at 50 homes.

"There's not as much day drinking or hanging out to cause a ruckus," Rose said.

Eight off-duty, non-uniformed beat and patrol officers who know the area and the people — and who are permitted to carry guns — are hired to work at each entrance, while six others watch money and patrol. Five guard the site overnight. Association dues and fair proceeds fund the officers.

If something even looks "uncomfortable," officers can escort people out. On-duty officers are called via 911 if there's an incident or suspected incident. The fair hasn't had any violence or major problems in at least 20 years, partly because they "don't mess around" with private security guards, said Dan Baldwin, chairman for grounds and security since 1990.

"I think the word's out with the bad guys that we have real Chicago police," Baldwin said. "My advice is hire the local cops, 'cuz they know who the creeps are. Creeps get 20 feet from the gate and they see the beat cops and they don't come in."

The 36-year-old Wells Street Art Festival draws about 100,000 for art and music, as well as food and drink from booths or restaurants and bars along a six-block or half-mile commercial stretch. The fest is open until 10 p.m., with continuous music from street musicians and a main stage.

The crowd is very social, made up of people who like to hang out at Wells Street bars and restaurants. Booths sell beer and wine. Restaurants with liquor licenses must have private security during the fest.

Chicago Police provide 20 to 25 on-duty officers for the event. Organizers hire 35 more people, including undercover off-duty cops. Recent problems have included "gypsy bands" of four or five well-dressed people who employ someone to engage an artist while cash and valuables are stolen.

A few years ago, cash and jewelry were stolen from an artist's parked car a few blocks away after someone followed her from the festival, said Henry Zemola, head of Special Events Management, which manages the festival.

Affluent Wells Street borders one of Chicago's worst gang areas, connected to the Cabrini Green housing project. Known or suspected gang members will be stopped at the festival’s entrances and asked where they're going and what they're doing, which often intimidates them enough they'll leave. Police will also blatantly tail people through the fest.

"You can bring a nice audience, which we do. We still get the element of undesirables that will come," Zemola said.

The Old Town Merchants & Residents Association has 37 years of experience organizing the event and engaging residents and business owners in a give-and-take process.

“That's a lot of time to figure out what's working and what's not," said John Blick, the association’s executive director. "It's a difficult balance — because you do need the crowds and you do need the enthusiastic people."

Security may be easily overlooked or sacrificed when special events are problem-free, but good security is key to an event running smoothly, Baldwin said.

“You don't need it until something goes wrong,” he said. “What we're trying to do is have an event that’s fun for the artist, fun for the residents, and one where there's not any issues.”

Taste of Chicago photo provided by the Chicago Mayor's Office of Special Events. Old Town Art Fair photos provided by Old Town Triangle Association.

They say breaking up is hard to do. . .

2010-05-01T02:23:08Z

Dear "Cheaters",

There is no easy way to say this, so I'm just gonna spit it out: I've been seeing someone else.

I want you to know that I'll always have love for you. When I was new to town, you took me in, and I'll never forget that. We'll always have Oregon basketball; who knows, maybe we can ring in the new arena together next fall.

You need to understand that it's not you, it's me. Please, don't cry. Stop it. You're a still wonderful bar, I've just found someone I'm more compatible with.

It's been going on a few weeks now. I wanted to watch the Giants game and grab a beer, but it was raining, and I didn't want to go all the way down Folsom to do it. I'd noticed this place on 19th that looked pretty cool. I went in, had a drink and, well, one thing led to another. Next thing I knew, the Giants game was over and the NBA playoffs had started and I was still there, having a great time. It was as if we'd known each other our whole lives.

O.K., O.K., I'll tell you who it is, but you have to promise not to make a scene. You probably know her, and this is already awkward enough. Are you gonna be chill?

It's The Zebra Club. I'm sorry, it just happened! I think I may be in love. Don't say that. Please don't cheapen what we had. Fine, you wanna know why? I'll tell you why:

The Zebra has everything you have: the flat screens, the sports packages (all of them), the Golden Tee, the wireless, the jukebox, the darts, the hugely eclectic group of regulars, the friendly bartenders playing dice with the customers for drinks. It has all that, and it's right in the heart of Midtown!

No, I'm not too lazy to go across town. If it were just that, I'd be comfortable with a long(er) distance relationship. The Zebra has plenty of things you don't: a large, covered patio out back complete with plenty of tables and an outdoor big screen.

Inside, to go along with the Golden Tee, there are two pretty sweet old-school pinball machines. Sometimes, I like to get my "Simpsons Pinball Party" on, and I just can't do that with you.

Also, the drinks are a little cheaper, and they have, like, 20 beers on tap. You don't have an answer to $1.75 draft PBR, do you? And don't tell me about $2.25 Olympia cans. I don't want to hear it.

All these things are nice, but what really sets the Zebra apart is the tiny kitchen and the fantastic pub fare that flows from within.

On the day I had lunch, the specials were spaghetti and meatballs, a chicken club, and a pastrami and bacon cheeseburger. I saw all three, and they looked great, especially the burger, but I went with the New York steak sandwich. The garlicky steak was as tender as can be, smothered in grilled onions and mushrooms and served on a toasted soft roll. I got it with a crisp green salad as well as a side of very well prepared fries. Thanks, Bert! I got all that and six PBRs for under 20 bucks. You can't beat that with a stick.

There is nothing fancy about the menu. For lunch, they've got burgers, hot and cold sandwiches, hot wings and a couple of salads. That's it. The chefs, Bert and Eric, don't do too much, but that which they do, they do very well. A huge plate of the wings just walked right by me. They look and smell amazing.

And they are awful accommodating. I was there in the late afternoon two weeks ago, and one of the regulars returned from the coast with a bunch of seafood he'd picked up. Bert took it back into the kitchen, and emerged an hour later with piping hot bowls of cioppino, complete with crusty slabs of garlic bread. Maybe one day I'll go to the coast and get some seafood. You'd probably kick me out if I pulled a stunt like that.

Oh yeah, did I mention that The Zebra is open for breakfast every day? Breakfast? At a dive bar? Yeah, breakfast. At a dive bar. And you know what? It's fantastic. Jess and I went in around 11:30, but Eric was happy to prepare us breakfast even though the lunch crowd had started arriving. We split the chicken fried steak and eggs and the biscuits and gravy. They were among the best examples of each dish I'd ever had. The biscuits were perfectly fluffy, and the sausage gravy surprisingly light and tasty. My only complaint is that I didn't get quite enough of the creamy goodness atop the lightly breaded steak, so I had to steal some from the biscuits. Kinda like stealing from Peter to pay Paul, but I couldn't help myself.

We got all that and a PBR for $15.00, including tip. Game. Set. Match.

I'm sorry "Cheaters," but I just couldn't go on living a lie. Good food is a trump card that you just can't beat. And, let's be honest, you're called "Cheaters" -- you probably should have seen this coming. I hope we still can see each other from time to time. I mean, college basketball season will be here before you know it. Until then, well, you know where to find me.

If you can't find me at The Zebra, you can always try lindol@gmail.com

Hiatus for Old Sacramento bars

2010-03-25T21:28:10Z

You may have wanted to get a margarita at Brickside or Novo in Old Sacramento recently and found you couldn't.

Here's what we found: Liquor licenses for both were suspended by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.

Novo's was suspended March 2 for not serving food, a condition of the license, said Lori Ajax, administrator of the Sacramento ABC office. Novo, 926 2nd St., had been rebranded from Tunel 21, which had been operated by Vlade Divac, his wife Ana and her sister, Jelica Orbovic. Orbovic took over operations when the Divacs left Sacramento.

Novo's license suspension was lifted last week after Orbovic got the restaurant up and running, Ajax said. The establishment is now required to make at least 50 percent of its profits from food.

The license of Brickside, 106 J St., was suspended Jan. 21 after a hold was placed on it by the California State Board of Equalization for failure to pay taxes, Ajax said. Information about any possible taxes owed cannot be released to the public, according to the tax board.

Richard Mendoza of Mendoza Properties owns Brickside. Neither he nor Orbovic could be reached for comment.

Photos by Suzanne Hurt, a staff reporter who covers business and development for The Sacramento Press.

Golden Bear renovation soon complete

2010-03-12T05:18:54Z

With its remodel nearly finished, The Golden Bear is expected to host a grand unveiling as early as St. Patrick's Day on Wednesday.

Owners Jon Modrow and Kimio Bazett said they hope to have the work done by Monday. But the bar in the converted house at 2326 K St. must still undergo final inspections from the city and county, so the exact date for a reopening party has not been set.

Crews were busy Thursday completing renovation of the kitchen, bathrooms and an enclosed, covered back patio. Aqua couches, white tables and modern light fixtures with dimmers have been installed in the back room to create a clean, light ambiance, free of artwork. The idea is to showcase people "at their best," Modrow said.

"You're not going to be looking at art. You're going to be looking at people," he said. "It's all intended to be very social."

The room also serves as the smoking area. Vents were built in the back wall near the ceiling, and two powered exhaust fans will recirculate air every four minutes, he added.

The kitchen and bathrooms have doubled in size. The kitchen now has a range stove. Billy Zoellin, who worked previously at The Grange, Biba and Mulvaney's B&L, will create small-plate appetizers, an expanded weekend brunch and lunch Monday through Friday.

"We're becoming more of a gastro-pub," Modrow said.

The beer is also improving. A new draft beer system will pour Guinness with nitrogen and cool beers to about 35 degrees. It's a much higher-end system than what you'd find "in a frat boy's garage," he added.

The bathrooms now feature glass sinks, ceramic tile floors and waterfall faucets, where water pours from a fixture about a foot above the sink.

The front of the bar will be cleaned up, but no changes are expected there. The renovation, which had been slated for completion by the end of January, took longer after the county health department required a change in the water heaters, Modrow said, adding that he and Bazett then added other changes as well.

The staff is expected to grow from 20 to nearly 30. The bar has been open during the remodel. Food will start being served once the reopening party is held.

Photos by Suzanne Hurt.

Stuff I Like

2010-03-06T17:25:51Z

In the two and a half weeks that I've been a Sacramentan, I've discovered many things that I like. Some of these things I have included in my series of "Discovering Sacramento" articles. I really like taco trucks. I like sports bars in general, and Sneakers in particular. I like the Garden Highway, and I'm pretty sure that I'm going to like the Virgin Sturgeon. But there are a lot more things that I like, which haven't made it into my articles. With this fact in mind, I have decided to begin a new storyline. I'm calling it "Stuff I Like". I'm going to try and keep these posts brief and to the point. This is what I like, heres why, badda bing, badda boom. Short attention span reading for those of you in a hurry. You can get in and get out, like a successful jewelry heist. Only instead of diamonds, you're fleeing the scene with knowledge, the knowledge of what I like. And you can't put a price tag on something like that. Or go to prison for it. So, without further ado, here is some stuff I like.

I like hotel bars, and I like places with history, and I like 2 dollar beers on draft. So imagine my glee when I stumbled in to the Clarion Hotel for happy hour, and got a hat trick. The Clarion Hotel, born "The Mansion Inn" in 1957, was once the only game in town. Before the Marriott, before the Hyatt, there was the Mansion Inn. So named due to its location right across the street from the former Governors Mansion, it has played host to presidents and visiting aristocracy, as well as some of the greatest stage actors from New York and LA . It may have lost a bit of its luster since its 1960's heyday (the carpet is downright garish, and the downstairs hallways where the bathroom is located, are eerily similar to the hallway in The Shining. . . you know the one with the twins? Redrum, Redrum), but it still has an old school style and grace that you won't find in the more modern super hotels. It's easy to imagine Don Draper smoking a cigarette and hitting on a statuesque redhead at the end of the bar, and I like that about the place. And my love for all things 60's chic aside, I like, nay, I love, their happy hour. 2 dollar draft beers (Shock Top, complete with an orange slice, and Coors Light), 2 dollar house wines, and 2.50 well drinks. You can't beat that with a stick. So, if you like good drinks at a good price, good service (thanks Dana!) and good single serving friends (the easiest strangers to meet are those who are traveling, 'cause everyone is a stranger to them), you'll like the Clarion Inn from 5 to 7pm, every day of the week. And if you don't like those things, well, I don't think we can be friends anymore.

S.W.M, 31, Seeks Sports Bar for Committed Relationship. . . No Weirdos.

2010-03-01T21:43:05Z

Hi, my name is Lindol, and I am a sportsaholic. It's been 15 minutes since my last fix. It was an Oregon Duck basketball game, possibly my favorite of them all. We (I graduated from the U of O in 2001, kind of by accident, but that's a story for another time) beat UCLA at home. If there is one thing I love more than a victory for one of my teams, its a victory for one of my teams over a team from Los Angeles. BEAT LA. I am a die hard Oregon football fan, I almost cried when "we" got smoked in Boise the first game of the season this year. I couldn't bear to watch the end, so I saved myself the misery of watching the Legarrette Blount meltdown live. Of course, I couldn't avoid the replays. I live and die for Oregon sports, but thats not my only poison. . . not by a long shot. Heck, I drove from Menlo Park to El Paso to see Stanford play in the Sun Bowl over New Years, and I'm not even a Stanford fan. I never miss a Niners game. One of my very first memories (not just of sports, but of anything at all) is of "The Catch" Montana to Clark, NFC Championship game at the Stick. January, 1982. I was three and a half. I don't actually remember the play, but I distinctly remember my parents raucous reaction to it. It totally disrupted my game of "Hungry, Hungry Hippo". I must admit I lost some of my fervor from ages 4 to 6, being more focused on, I don't know, eating grass and legos (building with them, not eating them. . . . well. . . .sometimes eating them.) I can, however, vividly recall Super Bowl XIX. Thanks to football I knew my latin numerals all the way up to L years before being taught them at school. That day was cake. The Niners played in Super Bowl 19 against the hated Miami Dolphins. Dan the Duck (my dads nickname for Marino, owing to the way he waddled around in the pocket) and the Marks Brothers (Duper and Clayton) got their butts handed to them by Joe Cool and the boys, right in my backyard. I grew up 2 miles from Stanford Stadium. When they released thousands of helium balloons during the presume show, I could see them floating away from my front yard. I think thats when the obsession began in earnest. I also am a huge Giants fan. HummmmmmBaby! I probably watch or listen to 150 S.F. Giants games a year. I camped out on the streets of San Francisco to get Giants playoff tickets in 2002. Damn you, Dusty Baker, its all your fault! Who gives out a game ball in the 7th inning? Honestly? JT shoulda let your kid get trucked. I even love the Golden State Warriors but, good lord, there is only so much punishment one man can take. The point is I love sports, maybe as much as I love taco trucks. And I frigging LOVE taco trucks.

Being that I am such a rabid sports fan, I tend to spend an inordinate amount of time in sports bars. Actually, one particular sports bar. I'm fairly monogamous when it comes to sports bars, I don't really like to play the field. I find a place that suits my needs (close to home, has all the games, plentiful TVs, strong drinks, convivial atmosphere, preferably a bit divey) and treats me well (takes requests, amiable service, turns the sound on, a drink on the house every so often), and Im like a penguin. . . I mate for life, or at least until I leave town, or they do. I used to get my mail sent to The Old Pro in downtown Palo Alto. Many a night I'd help them bring chairs in from the back patio when last call had come and went. The drinks are more expensive than I'd like, but the hands are heavy and the waitresses suffer from selective memory loss. When I went to school in Washington DC, Babe's Sports Bar (may she rest in peace) was the only one for me. 5 dollar pitchers and 25 cent wings, all weekend long. I happened to be there during football season, and there is a lot to be said for football in the Eastern Time Zone, at least for the 18 to 25 age bracket. On Saturdays, the games start at noon, and run till 1:30 AM. I could wake up from the previous evenings shenanigans at 11:30AM and be comfortably posted in front of one of their plentiful big screens by 11:55. More than one Saturday I ate all three meals there. My Duck games would often not start until 10:30 at night. One such game, against Arizona State, went to to double overtime. They stayed open till 2:20 AM so that we were able to watch the end (We won 56-55 after being down 2 scores with 4 minutes left. Joey Harringtons coming out party.) . I was back the next day at 12:55 for the first NFL games. "Babes" had numerous other perks such as Golden Tee, several pool tables, and a great jukebox (which, unfortunately, featured "Who Let the Dogs Out?" It was the year 2000, and not a day went by where it wasn't played at least once. Sometimes, after particularly stellar Oregon victory, I'd run around screaming "Who Let The Ducks Out? Quack, Quack, Quack, Quack Quack! Im not proud of it, but the fact that they didn't forcibly remove me from the bar that instant speaks to how well I was treated there-in). Man, I loved that place. It's astonishing that I was able to get any work done at all that semester.

After arriving in Sacramento and getting settled, one of the first things on my agenda is finding a new sports bar that I can call my own. To have and to hold, in sickness, and in health, for as long as we both shall live (in Sacramento). And I am happy to report, that I've met someone, and I think she could be the one. (hope,hope, hope, crossing fingers and toes) The lucky lady? "Cheaters" on Folsom. I was introduced to her by a friend of a friend (yelp) who was sure we'd hit it off. Boy was she right. I went there on Saturday afternoon for the aforementioned Duck game against UCLA. I'd received phone confirmation that they had the game. They have all the packages except for hockey, and I can live with that. Although Im a Shark fan, I really don't watch hockey until playoff time. Unless its an Olympic year, cause how awesome was that tournament, especially the gold medal game? I even got Jess to watch, and she was soon nearly as into it as I was. I called my mom to tell her to turn it on and she answered the phone with "are you watching?" Olympic hockey is phenomenal. It must be, my mom and my girlfriend were both enthralled by it, and the last thing I'd call either of them as a "sports fan". But I digress, I was headed into "Cheaters" when I noticed a thrift store next door. Being a thrift store aficionado, I popped in for a moment, to give it a once over. I noticed a Tee Shirt clearance rack to my right, and was amazed to see a bright yellow Oregon Duck shirt at the front of it. It was about a half size too small, which is to say it fit perfectly. I coughed up the buck oh nine and headed next door with my new purchase in hand, feeling quite good about the way my day was going.

I walked in to a madhouse. Actually, I walked into a yoked gentleman with slicked back hair, an Ed Hardy Tee-Shirt, and a name tag that read "Dookie". Another fellow, similarly dressed and built, with a name tag introducing him as "The Predicament" hollered "The bus is about to leave, finish your $%&#ing drinks." The place was wall to wall Guidos and Guidettes on a "Jersey Shore" pub crawl. And, I must say they had gone all out. They were having a grand old time, and the bartenders seemed to be enjoying the rush. The regulars, who were easy to make out, seemed a little unsure what to make of the hubbub. They watched the rucuss going on behind them with an amused curiosity, particularly that involving the leopard printed, spandex wrapped, cleavage laden Guidettes. I was able to find a seat at the back (next to the Golden Tee and jukebox!) and gain the attention of the bartender without much trouble at all. I ordered a drink, and asked about my game. Two minutes later I was watching my game and sipping a stiff Makers Mark and Ginger Ale. After about 20 minutes, The Jersey Shore party managed to stumble it's way out and back on their bus, and aside from a few stragglers running back in to reclaim their forgotten credit cards, things were back to what I would guess is normal. About 15 regulars sat at the bar, some of whom were playing dice and trading jibes with the bartenders. The 2nd bartender, Jeff, saw me watching the Duck game, and asked me if I was "the fella who'd called earlier". "Sure am" I replied. "Glad you made it" he said as he turned the volume up on my game. Well played good sir, well played. We were up 16 early on in the second half when UCLA went on a run. With about 5 minutes left they had come all the way back to tie it. I knew then what i had to do. I ordered another drink and put my new "Extra Medium" Yellow Oregon shirt on over the top of the green Duck shirt I'd worn in. As Jeff handed me the drink, we regained the lead and all was once again, right in the world. We managed to eke out a victory to complete the season sweep of the LA schools, (EFF! U! C! L! A! if only we weren't 2-10 against the rest of the league. . . ) I paid my tab, (9 bucks. . . or the price of one drink in PA) was congratulated for "my" victory, thanked for my patronage, and told to come back soon. Thanks fellas, I plan on it.

Now, I am not saying that I've decided for certain that "Cheaters" is the one, but it has passed it's initial test with flying colors. Its very name, however, screams for me to be wary, to see what else is out there before I commit. And I probably will. If you, dear reader, have any thoughts on the matter, I would love to hear them. I think you know what Im looking for, and it has to be reasonably close to 18th and G. Remember, though, we are on deadline. There are only two short weeks until March Madness. Or as I like to call it, mating season.

Home Sweet. . . . Sacramento?

2010-02-24T18:48:19Z

"You moved where?"

"Sacramento"

"Why?"

Sacramento is not thought of very highly by a lot of Bay Area-ites. I'm not entirely sure why. I suppose many cannot separate the town from the stink wafting up from the State Assembly and Capital. Politics as a whole is repugnant to your average person, and California's is especially loathsome. It's an unfortunate metonymy, "Sacramento" for the sludge that leaks out of the State Assembly, but it is to be expected. When one considers "Washington DC", its a rare soul who thinks of the Smithsonian first and the politics second. I grew up in Menlo Park, decidedly Bay Area-centric. In the circles I came of age in, Sacramento wasn't thought of negatively so much as it wasn't thought of at all. To many, it was simply a road marker, signaling the halfway point to the slopes or the lake house. That may sound snobbish and condescending, but so is Menlo Park.

Up until a week ago I was living in Menlo Park. I had moved back in with my folks in November. The plan was to help them finish an addition that my stepdad has been building since the mid 1990's so that they could sell and enjoy their retirement in the peace and tranquility of the midwest. My stepfather, Pieter, was born in Holland and grew up in South Africa. He moved to the States when he was 15, lied about his age in order to join the Marine Corps just after his 17th birthday. He is a veteran of two tours in Viet Nam. He was involved in Operation Phoenix and the Tet Offensive. He lived in Hell's Kitchen in the '70's. When we met him, in '86, he was an inpatient at the Menlo Park Veterans Hospital. . . the setting for Kesey's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest". Books could be written about the crazy crap that he has done and seen in his life, but that isn't the point right now. The point is, he is a hard man. . . a good man. . . .but a hard man. I love him, he loves me, but we have had more than our share of problems in the last 20 odd years. And a week ago one such problem reached a boiling point. The living situation became untenable. I had to leave. Sacramento was my port in a storm. I left the next day.

Sacramento , despite living just 2 hours away for most of my life, is a place that I had visited exactly twice. The first time was for a Phish show at Cal Expo in '95. (http://http.phantasytour.com/phish/shows.cgi?showID=1006) I enjoyed the hell out of this visit, but Sacramento had very little to do with it. The second visit was this past november, when I spent a day and a night visiting an ex-girlfriend in LandPark. (The ex, Jess, is the reason I moved here this week, we are giving it another shot). I had a nice time, we had a lovely dinner at her aunt and uncles who spoke very highly of their adopted home. Second Saturday was brought up more than once. The next morning, Jess and I went to breakfast at Tower, then wandered around Old Town for a bit. I ate a chocolate covered cricket at one of the candy stores. Then I left.

Thats it. Until one week ago today, when I packed up my crap and moved here. . . . Sacramento. . . . . Midtown. . . my new home. I've decided to document and share my upheaval and subsequent discoveries, with all of you lovely people. It's a unique situation I find myself in, had you told me 2 weeks ago that I would be here today I would have scoffed at the notion, and yet here I am, with an open mind and open heart. Alright Sac. . . . show me what you've got.

Super Bowl Spots This Sunday

2010-02-03T05:02:15Z

Super Bowl Sunday is just around the corner. If you also have a crotchety dog who bites your friends, a television with a butt, or an aversion to sharing your beer, check out some of these spots on game day.

Hilltop Tavern (4757 Folsom Blvd.) is hosting its second annual Super Bowl Sunday Mac-and-Cheese-Off, where local contestants will be bringing their best dishes to the bar for sampling.

INK Eats & Drinks (2730 N St.) is offering 25-cent wings, $1 Pabst Blue Ribbon beers and $3 drafts.

Mikuni's (1530 J St.) is offering a Super Bowl Sunday prize raffle and all-you-can-eat sushi buffet. Adult tickets cost $30, senior tickets (+55) cost $20.

Old Tavern (1510 20th St.) is hosting a Super Bowl Sunday Chili Cook-off.

Hotshots Billiards (1721 Bell St.) is offering food and beer specials ($1 hot dogs, $1 chili, $1.50 draft beer) 30 minutes before the game, and free pool from 2 to 4 p.m.

Hangar 17 (1630 S St.) and R15 (1431 R St.) are offering drink specials and lots of flat screens.

MVP Sports Grill (1629 Capitol Ave.) is hosting a free viewing party with tri-tip and pizza.

Round Corner Tavern (2333 S St.) is hosting a Super Bowl Sunday potluck; people coming for the game are encouraged to bring a dish.

Woody's Grill (2316 Watt Ave.) is offering all-you-can-eat "Hearty Super Bowl Bites" for $12 per person, 23-ounce "mondo" beer at pint prices and discounts on their signature cocktails.

The MiX Downtown (1531 L St.) is hosting a Big Game Bash with $5 Bowl Bites including sliders, hot wings and super nachos. Drink specials include $15 Corona Buckets.

Torch Club (904 15th St.) is offering drink specials, a complimentary half-time dinner and an after-party featuring The Nibblers (a funky local soul band) at 8 p.m.

Riverside Clubhouse (2633 Riverside Blvd.) is hosting appetizer and drink specials with raffle prizes at every quarter.

Monkey Bar (2730 Capitol Ave.) is offering happy-hour domestic beers and well drinks for $2, festivities including surprises throughout the day from a number of beer distributors, and snacks like quesadillas, pizzettas, calzones and hot dogs.

Pinecove Tavern (502 29th St) is hosting its annual party and potluck with themed shots, a bar swag drawing and drink specials determined by the game score after every quarter of the game (aka drinks as low as 75 cents each).

Or for the less gluttonous, there is also the Super Bowl Sunday 10 k, which begins at 9 a.m. at Sacramento State, costs $30 and includes a tailgate theme complete with beer, brats, wings and pre-game broadcasts.

Old Ironsides ends month-long 75th anniversary celebration in style

2009-11-23T23:07:32Z

To commemorate the end of a month-long celebration of its 75-year existence, the historic bar Old Ironsides held a final party on Sunday.

The Sacramento institution melded new and old, representing the vast changes in culture from its 1934 founding though the rest of the 20th century.

“Old time” drinks from each decade were back on the menu to give patrons a taste of what past generations enjoyed. Obscure concoctions such as the Moscow Mule (a 1940s drink with vodka, lime and ginger beer) were suggested alongside more popular fare like the Harvey Wallbanger (1970s) and the Washington Apple (2000s).

A few waiters kept a constant rotation of sampler platters circulating the two main rooms. Modern sandwiches like sun dried tomato garden burgers mixed with classic crinkle cut French fries and hamburger patties on toasted sourdough to provide a balance for partygoers old and young.

Nostalgia ruled the day, fueled mostly by a flat screen TV in the barroom running a slide show of photos spanning every decade since Old I’s inception. Crisp, digital images from the not so distant past were bookended by fuzzy Polaroids of heavily sideburned patrons from the 70s and black and white, magnesium lit windows to Sacramento’s bar scene a half century ago.

In the second room, a DJ spun classics from each decade, switching CDs between each tune to ensure a variety of eras. Frank Sinatra’s iconic rendition of “Let’s Fly Away” clashed with funk numbers like “Brick House” and Buddy Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day” had people breaking out their best malt shop moves. The patrons, perhaps fueled by the irresistible $1 Pabst Blue Ribbon deal, danced with equal energy to every track.

There was a fairly consistent flow of attendees the entire afternoon, many staying for all five hours. If the crowded dance floor, packed booths and innumerable empty martini glasses and beer bottles were any indicator, this local hangout will stay afloat for another 75 years.

Live Band Karaoke at Marilyn's a great way to spend a Tuesday night

2009-11-12T08:00:01Z

If your friends have ever tried to get you to sing karaoke but you’ve been intimidated by the fear of being onstage alone, Rockstar Live Band Karaoke has eliminated your last excuse.

Every Tuesday night at Marilyn’s on K, a live band takes the stage to provide backup for anyone who’s had enough liquid courage to sign their name to the sheet and belt out a selection from a growing list of more than 200 popular songs. The band, who also performs as a cover band by the name of Johnny Favorite, is made up of:

Adam Donald: guitars and vocals
Scott George: lead guitars
Gerry Pineda: bass
Larry Shiavone: drums and vocals
David Van Dusen: keyboards and vocals

After a few warm-up tunes beginning at 9 p.m., the band finally kicks into the real set, drawing from a massive repertoire of songs from every genre of music.

Tuesday, Nov. 10 alone yielded such club singalong classics as Steve Miller Band’s “Joker,” Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” the last of which had the brave singer’s friends arm in arm on the dancefloor swinging their pints to the rhythm.

The house band isn’t afraid to branch out, either, offering Tool’s brooding “Sober” and Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb,” the former sung by a stalky 20-something with a shaved head, and latter being a new addition for the week.

Donald, the band’s unofficial frontman, raises his glass between each song, giving a mandatory “cheers” to everyone in the bar and encouraging the more timid patrons to find a favorite tune and get on the list.

“Chickening out” is highly frowned upon and results in the would-be performer’s name being unceremoniously crossed out from the list.

With no cover charge or commitment to actually participate in the festivities, Live Band Karaoke is just about the most fun you can have on an otherwise uneventful Tuesday night.

Midtown Cocktail Week is Back

2009-08-05T23:01:55Z

It's back: Midtown Cocktail Week, slated for August 10-16, 2009.

As its website notes http://midtowncocktailweek.org/, "Midtown Cocktail Week Sacramento launched in 2008 as the brainchild of mixologist Erick Castro, President of the San Francisco chapter of the USB, and restaurant maven Joe Anthony Savala from Zocalo. These two friends and colleagues noticed what was happening in San Francisco with an entire city celebrating the cocktail and the people who create them. Now, MCW has grown into a collaboration that will provide a wonderful experience to everyone that attends."

The event kicks off at L Street Lounge at 6 on August 10th, with the night wrapping up at a penthouse party across the street at the L Street lofts. The next night things move to the Lounge at 20 for a cocktail contest. On Wednesday, Mulvaney's will feature a pig roast with "harvest drinks." Events the next night move around the corner to Zocalos for tequilas and more. Friday night will be time for a "punch party," which is described as a "communal drinking experience."

Then it's double the pleasure on Saturday night. There's a cocktail class (limit 25 participants) from 4 to 6 p.m. at Dragonfly. And then the party moves to Ink at 6 p.m. for a combo drinks/chow extravaganza.

There will be no resting on Sunday: the closing party will be at Mix downtown. Bartenders and who is ever left standing from a week of cocktailing will gather for food, drink, and dance.

(As an added incentive to get there early, the first 200 at each event get a free bottle opener.)

If this all sounds too much, Yellow Cab has signed on as the official cab company of the event. And better yet: proceeds go to Sacramento anti-drunk driving efforts.

The Sacramento Press is listed as a media partner for the event.

Thursday happy hour thriving Downtown

2009-07-29T17:40:31Z

Happy hour is alive and well in the Downtown Sacramento area on Thursday nights.

While there are countless restaurants offering discounts on food and drinks for varying days and times, eight of the grid's Thursday happy hours stood out from the pack.

Heading off the list is the Dragonfly Japanese restaurant. Located at 1809 Capitol Ave. and voted "Best New Restaurant" by SN&R, the Dragonfly offers some impressive deals during happy hour. Running from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m., the restaurant offers half-off sushi rolls, $2 sake bombs, $3 drafts and half-off well drinks.

Another good place to kick back and enjoy some good deals on food and drinks is Level Up Lounge at 2431 J St. Their happy hour runs from 5 to 8 p.m.

"Everything is $2 off," said manager Suleka Lindley. "A beer is $2 domestic, $3 premium and well is $4.50. Appetizers are $4 to $6, which include hot wings, sweet rice, lettuce wraps and the sweet rolls, which people like to get a lot."

Another laid-back spot with a great happy hour is the Fat City Bar and Cafe, which offers half-off on any appetizer on the menu. Patrons can enjoy discounted tomato basil crostini, chicken pot stickers, sweet chili chicken wings, garlic fries and crab and artichoke dip, to name a few.

One of the best happy hours in town goes to Il Fornaio Restaurant and Bakery at 400 Capitol Mall. While the $1 off drafts and well drinks and $6 glass of wine may draw people on its own, Il Fornaio's biggest appeal is its free table of appetizers from 5 to 7 p.m. These complimentary samples include pizza, Italian rolls and deviled eggs, among other finger foods.

For those interested in a little more exotic flavor for their happy hour, the Kasbah Lounge at 2115 J St. offers just that. There's a long list of discounted food and drinks, including $3 Armenian beer, $3.50 sangria and $12 pitchers, $4 white wine and $4.50 red, $5 mojito, $6 habibi, $2 hummus and pita, $2 marinated olives, $3 french fries and $3 chicken wings. Deals run from 5 to 7 p.m.

Another spot with some foreign appeal is de Vere's Irish Pub at 1521 L St. Their happy hour runs from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. and offers food and drink specials, including $3 to $5 appetizers on chips and dip and sausage rolls, $3 house drafts, $4 well drinks and $4 cider. The pub offers a wide selection of Irish beers on tap, which is their biggest draw during happy hour. This includes Guiness, Smithwicks, Harp, Murphy's Irish Stout, Stella Artois and de Vere's own Irish Lager and Red Ale, among many other beers.

For people wanting more of a variety of foods, McCormick and Schmick's restaurant on 1111 J St. is a good place to be from 4 to 6 p.m. Although they do offer good deals like the $1.95 California roll among other sushi entrees, a $1.95 pan-fried mozzarella and a $3.95 quesadilla, their best offer on the menu is an old American favorite.

"We're famous for our $2.95 cheeseburger with fries, which is something that's been in the company for a long time," said manager Richard Kyle. "We've also got sushi, and we're adding more. We got egg rolls, we got chicken wings, quesadillas and other things."

And for the lovers of microbreweries who enjoy trying the local ale, Brew It Up! Brewery & Grill on 801 14th st. brews many of their own ales and lagers, all at a discount during happy hour. Drafts, ciders, house wines, cocktails and well drinks are $1 off from 4 to 6 p.m and 10 p.m. to midnight. Also, all appetizers, including fries, onion rings and taquitos, are $3, with $5 burgers and $10 pitchers offered during the late happy hour.

Other happy hours for Thursdays, as well as any day of the week Downtown can be found at sacmix.com

The River City Saloon opens doors to public and brings patrons back into time

2009-05-11T06:13:02Z

Before opening to the general public, Old Sacramento's western-themed River City Saloon hosted two preview parties late last week for two nights of wild wild fun. The saloon officially opened its doors on Saturday, May 9.

On Thursday, the Saloon hosted an open house with 25-cent beer and free appetizers. The next night was an invite-only soiree for friends, family, and neighboring businesses. The cash registers were ringing and the bartenders got plenty of practice in preparation for business in coming days. The parties, held in the evening, were aimed mainly at the over 21 but patrons of all ages showed up to sample their bar and menu offerings.

While the first night of business was rather mild, owner Sean Derfield is looking forward to increased business as the word is spread around. The saloon will be hosting a grand opening celebration next Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16 and a restaurant and bar industry party on Sunday.

It's easy to forget that 2009 lies just outside the entrance. Even the bar has historical significance, coming from a hotel in New York in the early 1900s. Before it was demolished, the Brunswick bar was rescued and brought from an Atlanta auction to its final destination in the saloon. Barrels line the wall as makeshift bar tables and billiard tables at the back are waiting to be played.

The staff play a major role in transporting patrons back into time as well, with waitresses decked out in cocktail dresses and feathers in their hair and waiters donning suspenders. The costume department has pulled out all of the stops for the employees on hand to pose for pictures with customers. The ladies are outfitted in bustles, petticoats and ringlets on top of their heads and the male characters sport top hats, trousers, and monocles.

After selling his half of Citrus Heights' popular bar Shakers Pub, owner Sean Derfield decided to invest in the saloon. The building, nestled in Old Sacramento's historic district, was previously home to Earl Gray Tea Manor before Derfield came across it and decided to turn it into the saloon. It neighbors a variety of tenants, such as Candy Land candy shop, Fulton's Bar and Grill and Cali 10 clothing shop. The saloon is also only a street away from the California Railroad Museum, making the bar and eatery a prime location.

The saloon's MySpace page boasts a "family friendly time during the day and a rocking good time for adults at night." To welcome tourists and families into the bar during the daytime, Derfield has plans to have staff dressed in period attire pass out wooden coins good for soft drinks once doors have been opened for a little bit longer.

He's already gotten to work on the "rocking" part for the nighttime scene as well. In addition to a piano to entertain the daytime set, the bar will host bands from many different musical genres at night. There are several live-music performances lined up for the next couple of months, including a Bob Marley tribute on May 16 and funk/reggae group "The Bad Fish Band" on May 22.

Not just a watering hole, the saloon’s menu offers an extensive spread of sandwiches and burgers to go with its beer, whiskey, and wine offerings. The saloon also has Sarsaparilla on draught for only a quarter, which is a drink similar to root beer, for those under 21. Baskets of peanuts are on the bar with hopes that shells will be discarded on the ground. While there are only a few lonesome piles of peanut shells on the ground so far, it is likely that the floor will be completely covered in the next few months.

The River City Saloon is located in Old Sacramento at 916 2nd St. For information on upcoming music performances, visit myspace.com/therivercitysaloon.

Drunk in Public

2009-04-20T02:52:41Z

Posted by dvh123

I am trying to find statistics for drunk in public incidents in my neighborhood. I live at 22nd and I street in midtown and it seems to me and my husband that in the past year or so we have had more and more of these incidents, particularly on the weekends. We are very disturbed by the number of individuals leaving the bars/restaurants in our neighborhood who are at best just loud and drunk and happy or at worst having horrible drunken altercations, sometimes right under our bedroom window. We do call the police, but this situation has gotten out of hand and it is also a very dangerous one in that there are fights and people driving away intoxicated. We need a foot or bicycle patrol. We need someone to watch people leaving these establishments and following them to their cars and stopping them from being loud, fighting and driving away drunk.

What else can I do besides call the police when I am woken at 2 or 3 am by loud fighting drunks?
Thanks!

Dear dvh123,

Thank you for writing. I did some research into two square blocks surrounding the intersection of 22nd St. and I St. Since November 2007, officers made arrests for a wide range of offenses including, but not limited to, public intoxication, DUI, simple assaults (fist fights) and aggravated assaults involving a weapon (a metal bar). Officers also responded to a number of disturbance calls. Often times, the source of the disturbance is gone by the time the officer arrives. An officer’s response time is based on the volume and priority of calls at that particular time.

I encourage you and your neighbors to continue calling the police when your peace is disturbed. We focus our resources on the basis of calls for service, so your calls are important. Unfortunately, we do not have the staffing resources available to follow patrons to their cars when they leave the restaurants, clubs and other establishments. However, I will forward the information you provided to the officers assigned to your area.

Officer Michelle

Get up, get out & do something

2009-04-06T07:28:53Z

Week 14: April 6-12, What have you got for us?! Better be good...

Monday 4.6

Class: Nutrition and Cancer Survival: An evening with Marlene Marcello-McKenna

If you or someone you know has been touched by Cancer, you may want to hear what this woman has to say.Marlene Marcello-McKenna is a nutritional consultant and educator. She is also the author of When Hope Never Dies. Marlene is a 23-year cancer survivor of malignant melanoma. Her extraordinary road back to health has baffled the medical establishment. The National Cancer Institute has researched her recovery and decided that further study was warranted, i.e., The Best Case Series of Macrobiotic Survivors. A guest on TV and radio, McKenna has also been featured in Ladies Home Journal and Your Health magazines. To compliment her presentation, samples of whole food from Synergy Chef Collaborative will be available as well.

Location: Healthy U (4120 S. Market Ct.).Time: 6:30. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 482-8123.

Music: Papa Grows Funk

Start the week off right! This band’s tight grooves re-define the funk-jam band. As described on the website: “Tethered by the slinky Hammond B3 and gravel pit vocals of bandleader John "Papa" Gros," the band is a "who's-who" of New Orleans' best musicians. They shell it out New Orleans-style, paying homage to the tradition through Gros' sparse but rhythmic style offset by Yamagishi's blazing guitar. One is treated to a booty shaking set of Mardi Gras funk, original material, improvised jams and fresh interpretations of New Orleans classics. These five musicians seamlessly shift gears while never losing the essential groove.”~Marilyn’s

Location: Marilyn’s on K (10th & K St.).Time: 8:30pm. Cost: Info: (916) 446-4361

Tuesday 4.7

Food & Wine: Brainstormer Pub Quiz

Rather than catching happy hour at your regular spot and going through the same routine of gossiping about your workday and spending too much money, try out a pub quiz! Gather a team for a chance to win great prizes and exercise your mind with fun trivia while enjoying some friendly competition. Don't have a team? Join up with other brainiacs at the bar! An even bigger bonus? Complimentary appetizers are served from 6-7pm on trivia Tuesday's. Hope to see you there!

Location: 3 Fires Lounge (15th & L St.). Time: 6:00pm. Cost: $4 drinks. Info: (916) 267-6807

Workshop: "Leaving a Legacy" Writing Workshop

You work, you play, you spend time with your loved ones…but do you ever take the time to really share your beliefs with those closest to you? This special writing series can help assist you in writing your own thoughts and dreams. If you haven’t done it yet, what better reason than this to get your dreams on paper.

Location: Arden Hills Resort Club. Time: 6:30pm. Cost: $20per class. Info: (916) 482-6111

Wednesday 4.8

Food & Wine: California Cheese, Olive Oil and Sparkling Wine Class

Artisan Pairings inspired by ancient times. Discover the decadent and rich world of artisan cheese paired with real extra virgin olive oil. Laura Martinez, author the "The Everything Cheese Book", takes you through an exploration of California's superb artisan cheese and olive oil industries while dipping ancient and timeless food pairing principles. Learn how these ancient foods are produced, where to find them, and how to inspire your own inner cook to create delicious and surprising pairings.

Location: C’est Le Cheese(1127 15th Street). Time: 6:30. Cost: $45. Info: (916) 761-7674 (Penthouses at Capitol Park)

Music: Fall out Boy

While widely considered to be a pop punk band, Fall Out Boy is often described as emo (emotional hardcore) style music. Forming in 2001, they achieved Double Platinum status with their major label debut in 2005 and have continued on to collect many Awards (and fans) along the way.

Location: Memorial Auditorium (15th & J St). Time: 6:30pm. Cost: $37.50. Info: (916) 808-5291

Thursday 4.9

Club/DJ: Chris Lake

Globally recognised as one of the most exciting, forward thinking and cutting edge producers on the scene, Chris Lake's rare ability to create tracks that fuse elements of house, electro and techno has not been lost on his fellow peers. His innovative productions continue to receive wave after wave of support from such luminaries that include Sasha, Danny Howells, Justin Robertson, Sander Kleinenberg and Carl Cox, whilst Pete Tong leads the way in championing the unique sound that has established Chris as one of the world's elite.

Location: The Park Ultra Lounge (15th & L St). Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $27. Info: (800) 225-2277

Friday 4.10

Theatre: The Dinner

The Dinner has been described by audience members as deliciously funny, and relates to the challenges of couples everywhere in the high-tech, competitively fast-paced world of the 21st century. The only difference is the The Smith’s and Jones’ are gay. The Dinner is about love, friendship, and mutual respect... with lamb and a little mint sauce of course! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Marriage Equality USA.

Location: Geery Theatre (2130 L St.). Time: 8:00pm. Cost: $15/$12. Info:

Comedy: Anti-Cooperation League

This is a long form improv show featuring the Sacramento Comedy Spot cast members. Watch as they creatively weave improv scenes together in a fast paced, high energy, improv comedy show that starts with an audience member's wallet or purse! This show is followed by Canada's Favorite Hypnotist: Another comedy show from the semi-warped mind of Brian Crall. Audience members are "hypnotized" and do wacky things onstage for prizes. Quite an entertaining evening.

Location: Sacramento Comedy Spot (1716 Broadway). Time: 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 402-4757

Saturday 4.11

Holiday: Easter Bonnet Promenade

Put on your Sunday best and join the ladies and gentlemen of the past in a leisurely Easter stroll. Ladies, wear your fine bonnets, and gentlemen, don't forget your hats. Bring the whole family down to witness this fine vision of how our ancestors used to celebrate the holiday.

Location: Sacramento History Museum. Time: 12:00pm. Cost: Free. Info:

Family: Second Saturday!! For Families

Get inspired by the dragons, elephants and horses shown in Crocker’s collection, and create a mixed-media sculpture of an animal.

Location: Crocker Art Museum. Time: 12:00-3:00pm. Cost: Free with admission. Info:(916) 808-1182

Music: Britney Spears: Circus

Oops she did it again! I know, so original. But this girl keeps coming back! If you haven’t made it to one of her shows yet, this young lady (?) is known to put on a show. If anything, go for the opening act: The Pussycat Dolls. A must see show for anyone into beautiful women dancing and singing all night. Ladies, this would be a great night out with your girlfriends…and hey, why not for the guys too? They are sure to enjoy the show…

Location: Arco Arena (1 Sports Parkway). Time: 8:00pm. Cost:$37.50+. Info: (916)928-6900

Sunday 4.12

Outdoors: Sacramento Antique Faire

Outdoor antique and collectible marketplace held every 2nd Sunday rain or shine. Hundreds of antique dealers from throughout Northern California selling furniture, textiles, architectural pieces, jewelry, cultural pieces, china and glassware, garden accessories, rugs, art and collectibles of all kinds will be on hand with their quality goods.

Location: 2300 21st St. (Under Freeway).Time: 6:30am-3:00pm. Cost: $3. Info: (916) 600-9770

Theatre: Last Resort Trailer Park

In spite of the way most of them seem to enjoy having a brew and a blowout down at Bubba’s, the barbecue place on the highway, they don’t really cause much trouble. But strait-laced trailer-park manager Rhonda (Gloria Jones) does have plenty to look down her nose at, especially when Deputy Hank Trimble (Charley Cross) comes around asking questions about the live-in boyfriend of one of her tenants. Sheperd’s script presents a minor mystery—who was it that stole a truck and broke into a house on the nice side of town—as a means to unleash the sort of womanly friendship, laughter-through-tears comedy familiar to fans of plays and films like Steel Magnolias and Fried Green Tomatoes. This is no comedy of manners, but rather a hoot at the lack of them, and further proof that local playwrights have at least as much to offer as our local actors.

Location: Thistle Dew Theatre (1901 P St). Times: 2:00pm. Cost: $20. Info: (916) 444-8209

Find these events and many more at www.Sacramento365.com, the Year-Round Source for Sacramento Events!

The Shady Lady Saloon

2009-02-04T05:36:34Z

While many local businesses are shutting their doors, three ambitious Sacramentans are putting their heads and money together to open a new saloon in Sacramento, The Shady Lady.

Garrett Van Vleck, Jason Boggs and Alex Origoni first met working at various Paragary restaurants.

After months of searching for the right place, the three took to the old Wonderbread factory and named it after the nickname for the first bar that Origoni went to when he was in school.

"That's one of the things that hasn't changed through our entire two year process of doing this," Van Vleck said.

The trio has gone through countless menus and concepts, but the name Shady Lady has been one constant.

None of the owners of the Shady Lady have opened their own business, but that wasn't any reason to hesitate on going through with the idea.

"We don't have a lot of money," Boggs said. "We threw everything we owned into it."

"I sold my house to get money to do this. We're going for it," Origoni said.

The Shady Lady will be going back to the basics.

"The last thing Sacramento needs is another ultra lounge," Boggs said. "This isn't going to be a place to get your Tokyo Tea and your Black Superman or your Adios."

Instead, the new bar will focus on tried and true cocktails that for some reason have fallen out of favor." They may be forgotten classics, but they became classics because they're so good," Origoni said.

The drinks will often be made from scratch, featuring housemade syrups, aromatic bitters, ginger ale and tonic.

The menu won't be fancy either - soul food, according to Boggs. Think stew, pork shoulder and other cuts of meat and bar fare.

You can find soul food in every culture," he said. "It's what the poor people eat."

"We're not trying to wow people with expensive cuts of meat that cost $30 a plate," he continued. "We're going to wow the customer with the way that we handle the food that we can afford to use."

Lunch will concentrate on soups, salads, and sandwiches, with items priced to meet the realities of the recession affecting the state workers and other professionals in the area.

The recession has also been a factor in planning the restaurant decor. "We're not spending any excess money," said Boggs.

Whitney Johnson, of Monighan Design and the designer of the Shady Lady, explained, "I want it to look like it's been there for a while, that it's lived in, that nothing is new, and that things have collected over time."

She used flocked wall paper, dark and distressed wood, a tin ceiling, blown glass lighting with a Victorian feel, plus black and white hexagon tiles to create the ambience.

The U-shaped bar has a low center island, while the booths are horseshoe-shaped and face the center of the room, making it easy for old friends to bump into each other.

"From every seat in the house you can see every other seat in the house," Origoni explained.

A stage in the corner of the saloon will feature live jazz, reggae and down beat music, according to Boggs, himself a saxophonist who plans to play at the restaurant occasionally.

And, don't expect flat screen TVs in the Shady Lady, warned the saxophonist. The entertainment will be found in good conversation and live music.

"This is not a place to be seen, so we're going to be very nondescript, not flashy or anything," he said. "It's gonna be a place to come and relax."

The Shady Lady Saloon is located at 1409 R Street and is set to open in late March of 2009.

Super Bowl in Sacramento

2009-01-29T06:32:46Z

Superbowl Sunday is just around the corner, and with a number of local venues featuring food and drink specials, why slave away in your kitchen? Why sit at home with your friends and argue about who is going to refill the beer during the commercials? Let someone else refill it, no questions asked. Even if you don't like football, here are some great Sacramento locations to spend your Sunday, Feb. 1:

According to Ron, the owner of MVP's Sports Grill, located at 1629 Capitol Ave., Bud Light and Jack Daniel's Girls will be in the Grill. Tri-tip ($7.95 includes coleslaw) and pizza ($19.95 includes four salads) will be the featured food specials, and Jack Daniel's and beer will be on sale.

• Vega's Nightclub and Sports Bar, said owner, Rick, will be having $1 Rolling Rock drafts, $2 Bud drafts, $3 cocktails, $1 hot dogs, $2 tamales and nacho specials. It is located in Old Town at 910 Second St.

• Cheaters, at 3221 Folsom Blvd, will be having Miller and Tuaca Girls from 1:30-3:30 p.m. "The #1 Steeler Bar in Sacramento," according to the owner, Bruce, will have 13 TVs playing the Big Game, as well as $1-off Miller and sales on Tuaca, a brandy-based, citrus vanilla liqueur.

• Center Court, Chris Webber's basketball-themed sports bar, will have a DJ, a barbecue on the patio, a VIP tent with 60" TVs and a lounge area. Located at 3600 N Freeway Blvd. in Natomas, C-Webb will be there to make Superbowl XLIII even more memorable.

• The Depot Video Bar, at 2001 K St. will be having a Superbowl party with a pre-game celebration starting at noon. There will be $1 draft beers, $2.50 microbrew beers, and $3 pitchers.

• Pyramid Brewing Company, located at 1029 K St., will have happy hour during the Big Game, which includes $4 cocktails and beertails.

• Riverside Clubhouse, 2633 Riverside Blvd., will be having a Superbowl buffet, and $15 will buy you all-you-can-eat hot dogs, hot wings, pork sliders and lamb kebobs. There will be happy hour prices for traditional food, as well as a raffle ticket for shirts, wine and gift cards. Happy hour prices for drinks will include $3.50 draft beers, well drinks and wine.

• Streets of London, located at 1804 J St., will be having a Superbowl barbecue with hamburgers, hotdogs, and nachos.

• R15, on the corner of R and 15th Streets, will be having a Superbowl party with different types of appetizer specials, including hot wings and nachos, and the prices will be determined on the day of the event. According to bartender Al, they will be having $2 domestic beers, $2 bottles of beer and $2 well drinks.

• Club Raven, on 3246 J St, will have a potluck, so everyone is encouraged to bring food, such as hors d'œuvres, sandwiches, and salads. The bartender, Jim, said well drinks and beer will be $2.50, and people often buy rounds for the house.

• Taro's by Mikuni, located at Market Square next to Arden Fair Mall, will have happy hour all day, with $3 cocktails and draft beers, and select appetizers and rolls priced at $5. Also, party platters will be $50 instead of the usual $65, and a raffle will be held to award prizes such as gift cards. Mikuni locations in Fair Oaks, Roseville, and Elk Grove will be having all-you-can-eat sushi buffets priced at $25 for adults and $12 for seniors and kids.

So pick your favorite place, and don't forget to invite your friends. What are your plans for Superbowl Sunday? Can you provide details about a special event you know of that didn't make the list?

Beer and Margarita's, (Sort of)

2009-01-20T23:02:25Z

I recently wrote a piece on the "Death of the Record Store." I was very impressed by the amount of feedback that the article received, be it in the Sacramento Press, via email or in person. Inevitably the conversation led to fond memories about fun times and good music.

I was reminded particularly of the live music experiences I've had. Along with the demise of too many record stores, I contend there is a serious lacking in the quality and quantity of live music available today, especially in the smaller to mid-size venues, and towns.

While the experience of a big Grateful Dead show in Oakland was always a fun time, the smaller, more intimate performances of a Jerry Garcia Band show at the Keystone Palo Alto were just that much more special, at least to me. While I do not know the whole history of clubs in the Sacramento area, I do know that the options available for live music are not what they were 20 some odd years ago when I first arrived, due to the loss of clubs like the Palms in Davis (thankfully this venue just moved farther away and did not fully disappear), the Cattle Club here in Sacramento, and many others.

A good friend who broadcasts numerous live shows on KVMR 89.5 recently related a story from a booking agent about how 2008 saw the shutting down of at least 20 venues that put on regular shows featuring traveling musicians which might be seen at venues such as the Great America Music Hall in S.F. or Sierra Nevada Brewery's "Big Room," or maybe Marilyn’s not to mention the numerous festivals that have called it quits. The result of all of this is fewer opportunities for musicians to pay the bills, and to make a living at their art!

This argument is leading to another of my favorite topics -- beer and margaritas! When I was in my prime clubbing days, the US had very different ideas about alcohol than we do now. While a senior in high school, I was 18 -- old enough for the clubs in New Jersey and New York City. It was also a time when drinking was not stigmatized or regulated as it is today.

Of course the argument can be made that we are better off with stricter alcohol laws and attitudes. I am not here to argue that point, nor am I here to promote drinking. I am writing this article to point out that I feel these changes have had a major impact on music, primarily live music. Back in the day, a venue could open the doors, allow for a low cover charge to see a great act -- known or unknown -- because liquor sales would offset the cost of the band and pay the rent.

But that is no longer the case. The loss of the under 21 drinking crowd, combined with other changes, has curtailed the stream of revenue from alcohol sales. This used to be a vital source of profit, and without it, clubs and musicians have run into considerable financial strain.

No longer can "guarantees" be provided to bands, as the risk is too great for the promoter or venue. Bands being offered just "the door" as payment run a big risk, which often can't be taken. The economics are basic: you have to have more coming in than going out, and the cost of traveling and playing is not cheap.

Think about it. A middle-aged band (or rather any musicians who really don't want to spend the night in the van), 4 or 5 members: 2-3 meals a day, gas, lodging, whatever is owed to the booking manager or "roadie," bills piling up back home... If you are not earning, you are spending. You're asked to pull into Sacramento on a Tuesday night, and hope that a hundred or so people will show up and pay to hear you play. Audience is the key, and while the risks are great for the band and promoter, likewise the risk is there for the attendee. One may pay $5 to go see an unknown commodity, but due to the higher price promoters now have to charge to attempt to cover costs, the $20-$30.00 fee becomes more of a luxury item for attendees, and risks become much harder to take. Thus the circle continues.

I think you get the idea; it's tough and the reality is it often just does not work. Maybe you are lucky enough to live in towns like Nashville, Austin, L.A or San Francisco, which have a large group of top-notch local musicians able to play the clubs and then head home. The pay may be low, but so is the expense.

But that is not the case in many if not most places. Luckily we are in Sacramento, which while not a prime spot for live music, it is still a lot better than, let's say, Boise, Idaho. Thanks to SF and Reno, artists do come to the area and we can catch a good show every now and then at a place like Marilyn's or the Empire.

I have read a lot about nightlife on line at sp.com, but I'm not sure what to do to change things around to create the win-win-win needed (artist-promoter-attendee). What will be the next club we read about in the obituaries? Hopefully upcoming shows with the likes of Todd Snider, Devil Makes Three, The Black Lips and others will be well attended, not to mention keeping the flow going for local favorites such as Kate Gaffney. Let's support music, whether it's those who make it, play it, promote it or enjoy it. We are the water that makes the plant grow (I know), and while you're at it, buy a beer or a margarita -- after all we do have an ailing economy to support!

Watch the inauguration with your community!

2009-01-20T01:20:51Z

Sure, you could sit at home and watch it on TV. But this is the Inauguration of a new and different president, and this president, more than most, is about community. So, you wanna be with people on this historic day, no?

Someplace where you don’t need to wrap your head in wool to enjoy it?

The TVs will be on everywhere - what would a Sacramento bar be like without a TV? - but if you want a place where they’re celebrating, we’ve got a short list for you to check out. Keep in mind that most of these places will be offering drink and food specials, but we’ll leave it to you to find out what they are.

Here are a few places in town where you can watch the inaugural live - coverage begins at 8 a.m., but when He speaks is anyone’s guess. Aim for 9. And keep in mind that coverage will go all day and into the night. We’ve listed events by their start time. You are responsible for when they finish.

Start time: 8 a.m.

R15 - Bartender Todd tells SacramentoPress.com that the bar/restaurant will be decorated and ready with Bloody Marys and decorated food: red, white and blue pancakes. And the place has great east-facing windows for that “It’s morning again in America” sunshine. 15th and R Streets downtown.
40 Acres and a Mule and The Guild Theatre - Oak Park will be ground zero for celebrating the inaugural of the nation’s first African American president. The Guild, at 2814 35th Street, has a capacity of 220, and will be showing the whole thing on the big screen, while nearby 40 Acres and a Mule Gallery may be more conducive to live commentary. Note: There will be a $4 donation requested at the Guild.
A Touch A’ Class - Located at 4217 Stockton Boulevard, just south of 14th Avenue, this classic African American bar is a social center, and again, where better to be on this historic day?

Start time: 2:30 p.m.

Bridges on the River starts its celebrations mid-afternoon, but it should go on long after that. The bar will be offering drink and food specials, and they’re encouraging everyone to wear their Obama gear. At 2125 Garden Highway, this place is likely to be the prettiest and sunniest place to celebrate a new administration.

Start time; 4 p.m.

Revolution Wines, Sacramento’s premier “urban winery” will open its midtown location to Obama fans at 4 p.m., offering the first glass of wine for only 44 cents, in honor of our 44th President. The capacity of the place is only 80 and on Monday afternoon they were nearly 75% full, so get there early if you’re keen. 2116 P Street.

Start time: 5 p.m.

Colin Celestin and his staff are offering drink specials and their locally-legendary Island and Cajun Cuisine along with a celebration of the 44th President. The celebration starts at 5 p.m. at 18th and K Streets.

Start time: 6 p.m.

Butch and Nellie’s coffeehouse and soup emporium will start its celebration at 6 p.m. Their located at 1827 I Street, just west of 19th Street.

Start time: 7 p.m.

Fancy-pants gay disco Badlands will be hosting the gay community’s big celebration, starting the evening off right with its Red, Blue and White party at 20th and K Streets.

View Larger Map

Know of any other parties? Feel free to add to this list in the comments section below!

de Vere's Irish Pub - a sneak preview

2009-01-18T21:36:21Z

The speed with which development in the downtown/midtown grid takes place can be snail’s pace slow, or lightning fast. Here’s an example of the latter.

One week ago, I drove past the corner of 15th and L and checked out the progress on that corner, where the old Firestone tires store used to be. There is going to be a California Pizza Kitchen on the corner, and upstairs, Mason Wong has already quietly opened his gorgeous new lounge, Mix.

But downstairs, one week ago, the commercial space to the left of those two businesses was bare bones, construction workers doing all that behind the scenes work that civilians can’t really fathom. Electrical, plumbing, etc.

But last night, on my way to a party downtown, I drove past 16th and L, and in that just-recently empty space was…a party! Lights, people…the new de Vere’s Irish Pub was open. Just like that.

So, I stopped in and met several members of the de Vere White family, whose first venture into bar-owning this is. And what a venture – and what a family – this is.

I met the three brothers, Simon, Henry and Mark de Vere White, who are behind this place, along with their parents and other family members. Affable, smart and obviously ambitious, the three de Vere White siblings (and “adopted sister” Josie) gave me an overview of what is going to become the new must-patronize place in Sacramento’s booming nightlife nexus (nearby: Mikuni, Bistro 33, PF Chang, Lucca, Spataro, Dream Ultra Lounge, The Park (Mason’s), Capitol Garage, Zocalo, 58 Degrees and Holding, Old Soul…this downtown is on FIRE).

Saturday night’s event was a private friends and family party – they don’t officially open to the public until Jan. 30 - but after a very short time, I felt like a friend. And that made it that much more fun to peruse the family art work – including a painting done by a way-back relative of a navy ship he painted from the deck of the ship HE captained – that fills the walls. This is one interesting family. They’re local, but I’d never heard of them. But with the opening of de Vere’s, they are set to become much more public. And they are apparently ready for that.

I won’t go on and on about the family itself, though I may in the future. Let me just say that this place is gorgeous, and with good reason: The de Vere White family contracted with a pub builder in Ireland to construct an entire pub to their specifications – gorgeous dark wood bars (two), a hundred-year-old cast iron mantle, dozens of chandeliers and heavy wooden chairs and tables, book shelves and leather-upholstered banquettes – and then had the whole thing shipped to Sacramento.

Then they brought the craftsmen who built the pub in Ireland over as well, and had them assemble the whole thing in their new space at 16th and L - in a week!

They also laid an amazing cement floor, which looks very faux wood – wood planks are pressed into the concrete to mimmick actual wood - but feels very much like…a wood floor! Covered in a slick lacquered surface, of course, it looks and feels wonderful. It is also off-gassing like crazy, so if you’re environmentally-sensitive or even just have a very acute schnozz like me, you might want to give it a few weeks.

But with all the little nooks and snugs the family has built into the place – just inside the front door, there’s a hutch with a small counter built into it and two stools, the better to watch the gathered crowd discretely through the glass hutch – this place already feels like it’s been there for many years.

And they have about 50 different Scotches and Irish whiskeys, and will start serving food on Tuesday. This is instantly one of my favorite places in town, and I plan to go back as soon as possible.

The Fox and Goose and Streets of London suddenly have some very high-class competition – or let’s just think of it as company – a place that’ll is making a big contribution to the almost weekly raising-of-the-bar of Sacramento’s nightlife.

Sacramento: City of Saloons

2008-12-12T22:54:54Z

Talking to people who grew up in Sacramento in the 1930s-1950s exposed me to an aspect of Sacramento that I never expected. Despite its reputation as a place without much nightlife, Sacramento has a long history as a town that stayed open late, played as hard as it worked, and was seldom short of musical entertainment. At some point Sacramento got a reputation for being stodgy and unexciting, and most of us who grew up here assumed that was the case, but the historical evidence simply doesn’t back that up.

The best description of Sacramento night life in its early days comes from Mark Twain:

Territorial Enterprise, February 1866
LETTER FROM SACRAMENTO [dated February 25, 1866]
”I arrived in the City of Saloons this morning at 3 o'clock, in company with several other disreputable characters, on board the good steamer Antelope, Captain Poole, commander. I know I am departing from usage in calling Sacramento the City of Saloons instead of the City of the Plains, but I have my justification -- I have not found any plains, here, yet, but I have been in most of the saloons, and there are a good many of them. You can shut your eyes and march into the first door you come to and call for a drink, and the chances are that you will get it. And in a good many instances, after you have assuaged your thirst, you can lay down a twenty and remark that you "copper the ace," and you will find that facilities for coppering the ace are right there in the back room. In addition to the saloons, there are quite a number of mercantile houses and private dwellings. They have already got one capitol here, and will have another when they get it done. They will have fine dedicatory ceremonies when they get it done, but you will have time to prepare for that -- you needn't rush down here right away by express. You can come as slow freight and arrive in time to get a good seat”. –Mark Twain

While working on my Southside Park book, I spoke with Billie Kanelos of Old Ironsides. She described one of her favorite pastimes as a teenager, walking downtown to the Dairy Maid, an ice cream parlor, for banana splits. But this wasn't an activity that she did right after school, then home in time for dinner at 6 or 7 PM, but rather at about 11:00 PM after seeing a movie on K Street. The Dairy Maid, like a lot of other Sacramento eateries, was open until midnight or later, and occupied by people of all ages.

It wasn't the only place, either; K Street and J Street had dance halls, theaters, nightclubs and restaurants that were open well into the evening, some all night. Some of the most popular were the Trianon Ballroom above the Fox Senator Theater on K Street (one of about a dozen downtown movie theaters), and nightclubs like the Mo-Mo, Congo and Zanzibar Club along M Street. Many restaurants were open late or all night, with fare ranging from Italian dinners to Chinese food to waffles.

Sacramento had many breweries, the biggest of which was the Buffalo Brewery on 21st and P, and several wineries, including the California Winery just across R Street from Buffalo Brewery. Hop fields were plentiful around Sacramento, to meet the breweries’ demand. While much of the beer was exported (Los Angeles was a huge consumer of Buffalo Brewery’s beer) a plentiful amount was for local consumption. One of downtown Sacramento’s best known Victorian era buildings, the Ruhstaller Building on 9th and J, was the taproom for Captain Frank Ruhstaller’s brewery on 12th and H, the Capital City Brewery. Buffalo Brewery’s taproom, the Buffalo Club, stood on 19th and S Street until being demolished a few years ago.

Prohibition, the nationwide ban on alcohol in the United States from 1920 to 1933, slowed down the official production of alcohol, and closed many breweries and wineries, but even then, Sacramento was notorious as a “wet” town, with many speakeasies downtown and in the outlying farm communities. At one point, officers of nearby military bases forbade their soldiers entry into Sacramento, due to Sacramento’s reputation as an easy place to get a drink. When Prohibition ended in 1933, legendary tavern Old Ironsides received Sacramento’s first official liquor license after Prohibition. It should be noted, though, that by the time Old Ironsides opened its doors, there were already other bars operating that had not yet bothered with the formality of obtaining a liquor license.

Others I met during my research for the book talked about the K Street cruise, Sacramento’s original cruise. Although in the 1950s and 1960s downtown Sacramento was changing, largely due to the explosive expansion into the suburbs and redevelopment pressures, there was still plenty to do downtown.

Redevelopment had a profound effect on downtown Sacramento, including both its nightlife and its population. The Capitol Mall project destroyed most of the residential neighborhood along M Street, including the aforementioned Mo-Mo, Congo and Zanzibar clubs, while Interstate 5 destroyed whole downtown blocks. One objective of downtown redevelopment was to reduce the population of the central city from its 1950s level of about 32 residential units per acre to a more suburb-like 8 residential units per acre. To accomplish this, 75% of downtown’s population had to be removed. Many of the remaining 25% could not afford the limited number of garden apartments that replaced earlier multi-story apartment buildings, rooming houses, and other residential buildings, resulting in an almost complete shift in the neighborhood’s population.

By the end of the redevelopment era, Sacramento’s downtown was almost depopulated, except for the several thousand residents of the old waterfront residential hotels. These hotels were closed, and either demolished or converted into non-residential structures as part of Old Sacramento. Because redevelopment-era case workers did not consider single individuals to be residents, working only with families, they were ineligible for relocation assistance or alternate housing. So they moved from their old homes into other hotels along K Street, some of which are still used as residential hotels.

One unintended effect of this depopulation was the elimination of most of the customers that came downtown, either on foot or by streetcar, to eat, drink and be entertained. Remaining businesses suffered because their customers now lived much farther away. Sacramento’s middle class had moved to the suburbs, and car-centric places like shopping centers, suburban movie theaters and drive-ins, and new indoor malls were more convenient than driving downtown to shop on K Street. Parking was limited, the streetcars were gone, and walking was no longer practical. Before long, downtown Sacramento had changed dramatically. Without customers with money to spend, the handful of remaining businesses had little reason to stay open late, or to stay open at all. New businesses focused their attention on the remaining market, mostly office workers who left at night. It was this era that gave Sacramento its reputation as a place that rolled up its sidewalks at 5:00 PM.