Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "class"

"Live With the Chef" Cooking Class at Arden Hills This Wednesday!

2012-01-16T17:03:00Z

With the start of the New Year, it's likely you're trying to find ways to keep that resolution to eat better and lose weight, right? Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa can help you pave the way to a delicious and nutritious approach to cooking during the next "Live With the Chef" cooking class on Wednesday evening, January 18, at 6 p.m.

The talented chef will demonstrate special cooking techniques and share secrets to low calorie but high impact recipes that maximize the flavor and nutrition of every meal. This special monthly cooking class is focused on incorporating fresh ingredients designed to maximize the nutrients for a healthy and well balanced diet. You're invited to join this ongoing and popular adult cooking series - couples are welcome, too!

Space is limited, so reserve yours today. For more information, call 916-482-6111 or visit www.ardenhills.net.

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento area including Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa.

A Busy Day in the Life of Access Sacramento

2011-07-17T05:05:41Z

Each day Access Sacramento's studio and office are filled with activity but this week has been particularly busy. Yes, T.D. Trice and Shane Carpenter continued to schedule television and radio programming 24/7. Yes, volunteers came and went with new programming and were busy with their focused production efforts. The phones continued to ring as Amy Lawrence signed up new members. Whew! Here's a snap-shot of a very busy day in the life of Access Sacramento - let the "name dropping" commence.

Studio production was busy with Richard Langley renovating the small room and working with community producer Bob Crimmins on using the "green studio" for a new program in partnership with Senior Magazine. He and Liz Harrison then welcomed public radio's "Insight " host, Jefferey Callison to read a chapter from The Adventures of Tom Sawyer for the Sacramento Bee "One Book Project". Simultaneously in the large studio, volunteers from the local Republican party interviewed citizen tax advocate Ted Costa. Evening production in the big studio continued with two local musical artists, Parie Wood and also Zach MacLachlan, recording individual episodes of "Listen Up, Sacramento!" under the watchful eye of co-producers Michelle Barbaria and Erika Kjelstrom.

Production knowledge also kept us busy as training sessions and staff recordings were conducted in a variety of locations throughout the County. Monday night found T.D. helping record Roseville's park and recreation department public meeting in their City Council chambers. Carlos Hernandez and Liz Harrison worked Tuesday morning with Sacramento County Public Health personnel training on the use of Skype. Liz finished the afternoon training staff and youth at Asian Resources on the fundamentals of Neighborhood News video production. Steve Bourasa welcomed 7 students to the latest Digital Camera class to finish a long "training day".

Video editing sessions were productive as well. The Media Lab was busy with multiple volunteer projects. Bhim Kumar-Reyes recreated the opening for the Little Capital Miss Pageant recorded on-location last Saturday night and commenced editing on the two-day "Disability Summit" Conference recorded in partnership with the California State Department of Rehabilitation. Carlos H. finished the editing on five one-hour programs capturing the day-long entertainment provided at the recent Pacific Rim Festival.

Your truly was busy making recommendations on a national e-mail thread on how to improve the national "Hometown Video Awards" judging procedures while simultaneously completing the minutes for last week's successful Neighborhood News and Youth Media Task Force meeting. I finished the day in a meeting with other local film festival leaders, celebrating the publication of a new "rack card" promoting the year-round film festivals - including Access Sacramento's Twelfth Annual "A Place Called Sacramento" in October.

And the fun continues this morning as the "green studio" welcomed Carlos Alcala, Bee reporter, to the Tom Sawyer project. Richard and I are leaving shortly for a production site survey at Fairytale Town for an upcoming Hometown-TV shoot. Later today, we will have a new member orientation session with more than 30 participants immediately followed by a quarterly radio producers meeting to discuss future LPFM applications for community radio, "The Voice". Livewire will have special guests from the "Restitution Project" and celebrate another weekly episode in this long-running series (since 1992).

But as busy as we currently are, there is always room for you - join us and you too can "make a difference, one voice at a time."

Disclosure: Ron Cooper is Executive Director of Access Sacramento

Tap and Table: for beer bellies with a cooking problem

2011-06-15T05:24:24Z

Sunday afternoon, a small group of local foodies gathered at Tap and Table headquarters to enjoy a four course meal, each course paired with an American craft beer. As Tap and Table's motto hails, it was a culinary event for "beer bellies with a cooking problem."

Darin Michaels and Emily Baime, who run Community Tap and Table out of their home, offer four to eight cooking classes a month, and are even available for private parties. July's gourmet food and beer pairing focused on "Makin' Bacon and summer flavors."

Michaels and Baime started these classes due to their mutual passion for good food and great beer. Michaels has a background in brewing and works in beer and wine distribution. Baime, who started her career in catering and event management, solidified her love for cooking while traveling abroad. Together, their shared hobbies have become a fun and engaging way to introduce others to a hands-on culinary experience.

After starting off small, catering their classes to a group of friends, Tap and Table's Gastropub feel has gained popularity.

"We are coming up on our one year anniversary in August. We have filled about 400 seats total,” explained Baime.

Any given class could accommodate from four up to eleven people. A bigger group might mean a livelier class with more courses, whereas a smaller class could provide a more intimate setting for cooking and teaching.

Sunday's cooking class was an intimate and laid back environment with only six people in total. The task at hand, cooking a gourmet meal, seemed less daunting in such a casual and comfortable setting. Class attendees enjoyed appetizers, drinks and introductions while awaiting the start of the session.

Together, Michaels and Baime started off the class by introducing the menu, giving a background on their ingredient selections and explaining any food preparations done prior to the start of the cooking session.

"We try to buy most of our ingredients organic and local," Baime reported.

Sunday's class featured bacon and ribs sourced from local, hormone free, farm raised pigs.

Students had a hands-on demonstration of home curing pork belly into delicious nitrate-free bacon and were given a lesson on the differences between factory made, flash-smoked bacon and the artisan bacon they would be tasting later on in the day.

The ribs were prepared earlier that morning by coating them in plain mustard and a special spice rub that included brown sugar, curry, paprika and a pinch of cayenne. Michaels happily admitted that they got up at seven to prepare for the afternoon class, and that the ribs would be on the barbeque for a total of six hours.

Following the initial discussion, the class was split up and assigned recipes in groups. Jessica and Dave Grigsby, who jointly tackled the first course, admitted this was their second Tap and Table class.

"I don't normally enjoy drinking beer," stated Jessica, explaining her initial hesitance to attending last month's Carnitas cooking session, "but the class was so much fun!"

The first course consisted of honey-glazed nectarines with a chimichurri sauce. The fruit was brushed with creamy honey and grilled on the barbecue, then topped with sharp white cheddar and an accompanying sauce. The surprising, but delectable, combination of flavors in this dish is a favorite among class participants.

This dish was paired with Pyramid Apricot Ale, a lighter wheat beer. As attendees enjoyed the first course, Michaels gave some background on the beer selection and the reason for this particular pairing. The beer's apricot flavor complements fruit and cheese dishes.

In between courses, Baime shared some personal stories relating to her interest in cooking. During a year abroad in Australia, she was involved in a cooking competition called Tasting Australia. She later traveled around Europe and participated in similar cooking programs.

"Food does not have to be hard!" Baime explained, emphasizing the fun aspect of playing around with simple ingredients and recipes. This fact was evidenced in the simple, yet full bodied flavor of the second course.

A simple salad was next up, topped with a creamy dressing and two different types of bacon. The bacon, which had been smoked and cured beforehand, was cut into thick cubes and fried similar to pancetta. One was cured in a mesquite rub with maple syrup and spices; the other was encrusted with pomegranate salt, juniper berries, bay leaves and rosemary.

The juniper bacon was the all around favorite.

"It's like bacon nirvana,” said Jessica Grigsby, “it just doesn't get any better."

The second course was paired with Lost Coast Downtown Brown, a beer that won the gold medal in its category at the California State Fair and also medaled at the Great American Beer Festival. Michaels explained that the roasted malt flavor was big enough to complement the animal fat in the second dish.

The third, and main, course consisted of slow-roasted babyback ribs with a blackberry barbecue sauce. The ribs were served with jalapeño infused rice. The sauce was made with the same porter that Michaels paired with the dish. The Black Butte Porter is a rich, dark beer that complemented the sweet flavoring of the ribs. The beer comes from Deschutes Brewery in Oregon and uses a lot more malt than the average porter.

The final course of the evening was spicy chocolate paired with the Old Rasputin Imperial stout. Class participants experienced bites of balsamic and cinnamon chocolate while enjoying the rich, delicious beer.

Michaels described stouts are "the axe murderer of all beers," and explained that the full-bodied taste is meant for desserts or courses at the end of a meal.

By the end of the fourth course, class attendees were satiated with excellent food that they learned to prepare themselves, and a recipe packet of all foods served. Tap and Table focuses on providing culinary knowledge based on a local, seasonal menu.

Upcoming classes include Bacon and Microbrews, Summer Jams and Preserving Tomatoes and even a brewery tour. June will also feature guest chef Buddy O'Dell of Paragary's Restaurant Group, while July will feature guest chef Shane Tracewell.

Joining the club is free and each class has nominal fee that covers food and beverages. Any excess costs are donated to a local non-profit that connects the community with food.

Community Tap and Table cooking classes are a gastronomical experience not to be missed. Come hungry because you will leave with a very full beer belly.

Access Sacramento Annual Meeting - "LIVE" on Channel 17 Thursday at 7:00 PM

2011-06-15T05:07:07Z

Celebrating our 25th year of incorporation, the nonprofit community media center Access Sacramento hosts the annual membership meeting Thursday June 16 7-8 PM . You are invited to attend the event in the television studio at the Coloma Community Center or just watch the event on cable TV channel 17 or streamed on the web site www.AccessSacramento.org to any computer in the world.

The 15 member Board of Directors will offer highlights of the year past and look forward to another year of Hometown-TV events, Game of Week football and basketball, "Listen Up, Sacramento" local music, and arts and entertainment reporting weekly on "Livewire". Ten new films are in production in the 12th Annual "Place Called Sacramento" film project.

Learn more about the latest project - South Sacramento's five Neighborhood News Bureaus (NNB). To check out new online stories from underserved communities, go to www.AccessLocal.tv and join in the year-round training workshops.

Want to learn more? Tune-in and watch or call (916) 456-8600 ext.0

Back Country Skills

2011-04-05T05:39:06Z

There are numerous trails and parks found in the greater Sacramento
area. With a large variation in terrain and difficulty, there’s no
need to go to the coast or all the way up to the Sierra Nevadas. Area
trails and parks are somewhat unknown and this lack of experiences
makes it seem like some of these places are not worth going to.
This is where Recreational Equipment Inc., better known as

REI, comes in. REI provides an opportunity to develop skills with a
knowledgeable instructor.

In the Sacramento area, REI’s Outdoor School has been steadily
developing for the past few years. REI offers numerous classes every
month and is still adding new classes. There is a wide variety of
classes offered, from Stand Up Paddle Boarding to Sunset Photography
to Back Country Skills.

This past Sunday, REI offered its Introduction to Back Country Skills
class. The class met at the Roseville REI before venturing to Hidden
Falls Regional Park, where the actual class would take place. When
everyone met in the parking lot, the instructor handed out a GPS,
compass, map and emergency blanket. She also had the group preview the
trail and compare the maps provided to see if there were any new
trails nearby.

As the group walked toward Hidden Falls, the instructor pointed out
the numerous variations of poison oak, edible plants in the area and
plants important to the Native Americans. The instructor also gave
tips on how to use the GPS more effectively while out hiking.

The four parts of a successful hike: plan, notify, execute and share,
were also introduced. During the planning stage, the decision on where
to hike is made. Local conditions are checked, such as whether or not
the trail is open or covered in snow, etc., and hikers begin to gather
proper permits and check trail rules.

The notifying stage requires that the destination and time of return
are left with someone responsible who is not going on the trip.
Another good idea provided by the instructor was to leave behind the
license plate and make of the car being used. In the event that the
hikers do not check in, this provides an easy way to see if the person
is still out or if their cell phone died and they couldn’t check in,
but have left.

The execution stage is the stage when hikers go out on the hike. The
final stage is to share the experience or record memories from the
trip.

The class also covered the 10+ essentials, what to do in first aid
situations, different types of clothing and when they should be used
and how to signal distress. REI covers these topics in excellent depth
and has other great how to’s available at
http://www.rei.com/expertadvice.

The class was very informative and was a perfect introduction to back
country skills.

For more about the classes offered, please visit
http://www.rei.com/outdoorschool/141.

ACCESS SACRAMENTO presents Short Form Script Writing Class with Screenwriter Matt Perry

2011-02-01T05:54:20Z

Sign-up today for three, 4-hour workshop classes on writing “short form” film scripts. Polish your “Place Called Sacramento” entry or further your film script writing skills and practical knowledge. Limited enrollment - $50 Fee per session. Register in advance at Access Sacramento by calling (916) 456-8600 “0” with a credit card. Need not be an Access Sacramento member or Sacramento County resident to sign-up for this class. Sign-up early – class will fill fast.

DEADLINE FOR PCS FILM SCRIPTS IS TUESDAY APRIL 12 AT 5:00 PM IN ACCESS SACRAMENTO OFFICE. For submission guidelines, go to: www.AccessSacramento.org

Session #1 – Saturdays – February 19, 26, & March 5
- 10 AM-2:30 PM (30 minute lunch break) Coloma Center
Session #2 – Saturdays – March 19, 26 & April 2
- 10 AM-2:30 PM (30 minute lunch break) Coloma Center

Biography
Matt Perry received an MFA in filmmaking from New York University’s graduate school of film and is the author of several screenplays. He teaches Screenwriting and Film Studies at the Art Institute of Sacramento and Cosumnes River College. He is a devotee of yoga, running and the mighty Michigan State Spartans.

Disclosure: Ron Cooper is Executive Director of Access Sacramento

Non-Profit Farm Plants Ideas in City Folks' Heads

2010-08-23T16:56:08Z

A sold-out class of about 15 budding farmers visited the non-profit American River Ranch in Rancho Cordova Saturday and Sunday to learn about small-scale farming. Students paid $150 to attend the two-day, hands-on class, which covered the knowledge needed to plan and run a farm smaller than 20 acres.

The class, titled “Grow Your Groceries,” served one of the farm’s missions, which is to educate the community about how to use its land. The American River Ranch is the 25-acre headquarters for Soil Born Farms Urban Agriculture and Education Project, who hosted the class along with the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op. The students were happy to oblige the farm’s mission as they bombarded the farm’s workers with questions and requests for detailed advice all weekend.

Getting people excited about growing their own food is a big part of why the farm holds its classes, said Sean Hagan, who taught the class along with Randy Stannard.

“We’re in an area of the country where the land is so fertile, and we’re shipping in something like 98 percent of our food,” Hagan said.

Though it’s not possible for the population to become completely self-sufficient now, classes like these are a step in the right direction, he said.

If the farm’s mission of creating a local food system is to succeed, it will need good farmers. A good farmer is basically two things: observant and willing to put in the time required, Hagan said.

The students ranged from complete farming beginners to certified master gardeners looking to expand their repertoires. Each student had a vision for a beautiful, bountiful garden or farm somewhere in their life.

One couple, Andy Bucchiere and Marilyn Schiveley, stood looking at the farm’s irrigation system, which feeds off the American River. They said they plan to move to Colorado and start a small farm; the class was very helpful in filling in some of the details.

“This is great,” Schiveley said. “Every little tidbit helps.”

Living at “the epicenter of Sacramento,” Stefan and Akie Fukushige Wenk said they already have a successful garden at their Oak Park home but know there’s room for improvement.

“We are hyper-local,” Stefan said. “We want to buy everything as local as possible.”

Akie, a landscaping architect, said the class was more of a refresher for her, having already taken some farming courses. Although, she considered the class to be more than just a source of information for her.

“It’s inspiring, too,” she said. “We’re getting lots of ideas.”

Another student, Sherman Wong, alternated between a look of rapt attention and thoughtfully placing things down in his notebook as he listened to the teachers. Wong said he wants to grow food for his family because he and his daughter have deficient immune systems. Growing his own food would enable him to know the history of what he was eating to ensure that it wasn’t making his family sick.

The farm wants more people to grow their groceries in their yards, teacher Randy Stannard said.

“We want people to reconnect with the land and where their food comes from.” he said.

For more information on future classes and events, you can consult the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op website or the Soil Born Farms website.

Former Sac Bee Writer Heads Ethics Workshop

2010-08-20T02:41:12Z

About 30 local writers, journalists, students and public relations professionals met at The Sacramento Press office Wednesday evening to attend a media ethics workshop headed by assistant professor of journalism at California State University, Sacramento, Molly Dugan.

Dugan hooked her audience by posing hypothetical questions like “If I see a public official strangling a baby, can I write about it?” The answer is yes, but it’s best to seek legal counsel before targeting someone with the means to hire a good attorney.

Dugan warned journalists against using anonymous sources whenever possible, encouraged them to keep notes and documents as long as possible for personal protection, and to use common sense and check facts before writing. Truth, she said, is the best protection against a libel lawsuit.

After going over the history of ethics in the media, Dugan took questions from participants and opened discussion on ethical problems that arise while gathering information or taking photographs for use in the media. The workshop participants were eager to get practical advice from Dugan, who is also a former Sacramento Bee staff writer.

In attendance was a retired construction contractor and author Richard Lingensjo, who said he’s not a journalist, but wanted to get some insight from a professional writer now that he’s retired and has more time to focus on writing.

Lingensjo said he started attending Sacramento Press workshops about two months ago.

“Everyone here has been really nice and helpful,” he said. “And that’s why I’ve continued to come.”

Got a Story? Learn to Write a Short Script and Make a Movie

2010-03-21T09:51:14Z

ACCESS SACRAMENTO presents
New Scriptwriting Class - PCS 2010
By popular demand, we now offer special a scriptwriting class (three Saturdays, 10am - 2pm) on writing "short form" film scripts. Polish your PCS entry or take the short course to further your film writing skills. Limited enrollment - $50 fee per session. Register in advance at Access Sacramento by calling (916) 456-8600 "0" with a credit card. Need not be an Access Sacramento member or Sacramento County resident to sign-up for this class. Sign-up early - class will fill fast. Matt is in great demand as a script writing teacher. The “Place Called Sacramento” script entry deadline is Monday, April 19th, at noon.

Saturdays - April 3, 10, & 17
10 AM-2 PM Nevada City Room

Coloma Center

The rules of conflict- Dramatic structure and beats- Proper screenplay format -

Creating interesting characters- Writing good dialogue- Mastering the short form

Writing means rewriting- Upping the dramatic stakes- "Eight pages, three acts"

Biography
Matt Perry received an MFA in filmmaking from New York University's graduate school of film and is the author of several screenplays. Formerly the A/V Manager for an Auburn, California multimedia company he now runs his own business and teaches Screenwriting and Film Studies at Cosumnes River College and the Art Institute of Sacramento. He is a devotee of kundalini yoga and running.

Matt Perry, filmmojo@earthlink.net

Sign up in the Access Sacramento Office or at (916) 456-8600

Ginger Elizabeth chocolate classes

2009-11-15T02:19:13Z

Several years ago, Ginger Elizabeth Hahn opened her wholesale chocolate operation, Couture Chocolates by Ginger Elizabeth, on nothing but a $5,000-limit credit card. After a name change to make it simpler, and a lot of dedication, her Midtown store Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates is now one of Sacramento's premier chocolate boutiques.

Hahn studied under famous chocolatiers like Jacques "Mr. Chocolate" Torres, Daniel Budd and En-Ming Hsu, and opened her store at the age of 24. Today, her store produces about 3,000 French-style square-cut truffles per week (22 kinds in all), cakes and a handful of other chocolate-based foods.

Hahn grew up in the foothills, but it was a course at Culinary Institute of America's Napa campus at the age of 16 that convinced her to pursue a culinary career. She studied to be a pastry chef in Santa Barbara, Manhattan and Chicago before deciding she would pursue chocolate, her "first love."

"I love the art, the beauty of (chocolate) and the other aspects like science and agriculture," Hahn said. "You have to study under people. It's a very specific trade."

Now 28, Hahn has mastered the French truffle. Acclaimed dessert author and blogger David Lebovitz has said her chocolates are some of the best he's ever tasted. She's even made a sculpture of interlocking chocolate orbs, displayed in the store, which took over ten hours, she said.

"Making chocolate into something that would resemble art is difficult," she said. "Making a perfect mousse or ganache for a truffle is just as hard to achieve perfection."

Several years ago, Hahn began teaching chocolate tasting classes in her store, but they quickly outgrew the shop's 200 square feet of retail space. Busy with a 6-month-old baby, she stopped teaching them altogether.

So when Hahn decided to start classes up again, the two classes both filled up within a week: first a holiday cupcake class scheduled for Dec. 5, then a Nov. 14 holiday dessert class. Held in a penthouse in the L Street Lofts across the street from the chocolate store, Hahn will demonstrate how to make the treats, and participants will taste them.

Since the class sold out so quickly, and there are over 10 people on the wait list for the cupcake demonstration, Hahn expects to hold a second Dec. 5 class after the first one. If that ends up happening, be sure to check the discussion section of this story for details. Otherwise, the next demonstration will be right before Valentine's Day, Hahn said.

One thing she would like to teach people about chocolate is how much work it takes to farm it.

"It takes so many families of farmers in South America and Africa to let us enjoy this beautiful chocolate," she said. "Sometimes the farmers don't get a taste of fine chocolate, they just eat it (in) fruit (form)."

Hahn recommends the Palet d'Or, literally "ring of gold," which is a bittersweet ganache made with chocolate from the Lake Maracaibo region in Venezuela. They can be purchased here, or at the retail store, 1801 L Street., Suite 60.

Sacramento is filled with music & talent this weekend...

2009-06-25T23:28:03Z

Summertime is here and Sacramento is stepping up to the plate! Sounds like it's going to be a scorching weekend at upwards of 100 degrees but the music and entertainment events are equally as sizzling! With a nice mix of free and low cost things to do as well as a few splurges, June is going out with a jam packed weekend! Browse this list to find plenty of opportunities to laugh, feast & learn along with local talent & tons of live music. It's sure to keep you and yours entertained all weekend long...

Thursday 6.25

Theatre: Hedwig and the Angry Inch -- $25
Where: Artisan Theatre (1901 Del Paso Blvd)
When: 8pm (also showing Fri & Sat nights this week)
Why: This is the last weekend to see it if you haven't already...New Helvetia Theatre is a brand new theatre company in Sacramento. Founded in January of this year, NHT is “committed to the preservation and rebirth of the American Musical…By unearthing forgotten gems, exploring classics, and producing new works, the company seeks to enrich the community through productions of creativity and depth”. Directed by Matthew Schneider, “Hedwig” is New Helvetia’s first production. This rock musical is the story of Hansel, an East German boy who has undergone a botched sex change operation and becomes "Hedwig." After being left by “her” husband, Hedwig forms a band called "The Angry Inch." It may go without saying that this show is definitely intended for mature audiences only- leave the kids at home.
Details

Friday 6.26

Music/Fundraiser: Celebrate The Arts at Special Concert in the Park -- $Free
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 5pm-9pm
Why: This week join the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission (SMAC) at a special Friday night "Concerts in the Park"!! This arts awareness event is part of the regular Friday night concert series, however SMAC is inviting Sacramento arts groups to participate by hosting booths that feature their organization. This is a great opportunity for arts groups to introduce concert go-ers to their organization, make new contacts and raise awareness for the arts! There will be over 25 Sacramento arts organizations represented, a lively art raffle, good food & fun- all accompanied by the lush and festive sounds of Mumbo Gumbo & The Nibblers. Donations will be accepted to support the arts and arts education programs for our youth. Plan to visit the booths, participate in the raffle and have a great time!
Details

Music Festival: In The Flow Festival --$Various ($20 Wristband for all 3 days- some shows are free)
Where: Along Broadway
When: 6pm-10pm (also Saturday, 11am-9pm & Sunday, 11am-8pm)
Why: The In The Flow Festival is a Sacramento celebration of jazz and creative music, art and local businesses. Over the course of the weekend, an array of talented musicians will be performing at various venues along Broadway. Beatnik Studios, a trendy new photography studio/gallery that operates under a collaborative philosophy; Java Lounge, an unconventional coffee house serving pizza, beer & wine along with live music & art; R5 Records, an eclectic records store with great staff & live music and Comedy Spot, where you can go for a good laugh every Fri & Sat night. Some of the performers include: Harley White Jr. Orchestra, Tony Passarell's Thin Air Orchestra, Byron Blackburn Trio, Darren Johnston and Devin Hoff, Alex Jenkins' Sound Immersion, The Alegria Quartet as well as many other groups from the Sacramento and Bay Area. Check ‘em out!
Details

Comedy: David Allen Grier -- $15
Where: Punchline comedy Club
When: 8:30pm & 10:30pm
Why: If you grew up as a teen in the 90’s, and maybe even if you didn’t, you should be familiar with the show “In Living Color.” If not, you missed out! David Allen Grier was one of the hilarious cast of the show that helped put the likes of Jim Carrey and the Wayans Brothers on the map. Grier is currently the Star and host of Chocolate News on Comedy Central and is also known for being the 3rd host of Loveline with Dr. Drew. He is only in town for two nights so try to make it!
Details

Film & Video: MOBS presents, Guest of Cindy Sherman -- $5
Where: Guild Theatre (2828 35th Street)
When: 7pm & 9:30pm
Why: Here is MOBS’s synopsis: “Filmed over the course of 15 years and including interviews with a veritable who's who of the art and entertainment world (including Roberta Smith, Ingrid Sischy, John Waters, Robert Longo, Carol Kane, David Furnish, Danny DeVito, Molly Ringwald, and Eric Fischl), "Guest of Cindy Sherman" paints a vivid picture of a New York art scene increasingly driven by money and fame. H-O also tackles-with more than a bit of humor-the role his own fragile ego plays in his relationship with Sherman. The end result is a witty, illuminating look at celebrity, male anxiety, and art.” I was not disappointed with my last visit to MOBS, a definitely unique cinema experience!
Details

Music: Albino -- $10
Where: Marilyn’s on K (10th & K St)
When: 9pm
Why: This 10 person ensemble band brings Sacramento some West African Funk! They call it Afrobeat. In addition to the funk, they mix a little politics and protest along with unity & community to reflect some of the current events affecting us all…What better way to spread the word than through music, right? Being the diverse and eclectic city it is, Sacramento is a perfect place for Albino.
Details

Saturday 6.27

Music Festival: Sammies Award Show & Music Fest -- $FREE
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 3pm-9pm
Why: Music stages, SAMMIES Awards, Beer garden, dunk tanks, carnival games, awesome vendors, and more bands to be announced! So far the bands include: Category 7, Silver Darling, Sol Peligro, Agent Ribbons, Alak, Be Brave Bold Robot, Righteous Movement, Dog Party, Justin Farren, Light Rail, Arden Park Roots, The Other Poets, DJ Shaun Slaughter and Sister Crayon. This event is part of 2009 SAMMIES - Honoring the best musicians in the Sacramento area.
Details

Art: Sacramento Potters Group Annual Show -- $Free
Where: Shepard Garden and Art Center
When: 10am-4pm
Why: The group's annual show and sale is back! One day only at McKinley Park. Come and buy yourself a nice present or find that perfect early holiday or birthday gift for a special someone. There will be a wide variety of clay sculpture, pottery, glass art and metalwork along with wheel throwing demos throughout the day.
Details

Music Festival: Baby Boomer Music Fest-- $10 at door/ Kids 10 & under Free
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
When: 11am-7pm (also Sunday, 11am-5pm)
Why: The name says it all! With Classic Cars, live music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and over 100 exhibitors this event focuses on the good memories, the nostalgia, the dreams and the needs of America’s “Baby Boomer” generation. Musicians will include the Woodstock icon, Country Joe McDonald, and a list of major tribute bands performing the music of the Rolling Stones, Beach Boys, Elvis, Santana, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding and others. There will be Inspirational Speakers and Seminars convering important and valuable topics relating to finance, health and energy. Exhibitors reflect the needs and interests of the Boomer generation, including health & fitness, finance and investments, arts & crafts, wineries and restaurants. And to top it off, know that you’re support our youth with 10% of the proceeds going to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento.
Details

Food & Wine: King of Feasts -- $50 general/$45 members/$60 Day of event
Where: Sacramento Zoo
When: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Why: Everyone loves to go to the Zoo! I can’t think of a better time to visit the animals than when there are over 50 restaurants, wineries & breweries dishing up food & drink for you to enjoy along the way! 3 of my favorite things in one place! Don’t forget to don your “safari” attire (Because all Sacramentans are sure to have this in their closet…) to fit in with your “Wild” surroundings. You will also be entertained with live blues by the Rhythm Vandals. An all around feast fit for a King (in this case-of the jungle)!
Details

Food & Wine: Gourmet Cooking Class With Chef Linda -- $20
Where: Arden Hills Resort & Spa
When: 11am
Why: Eating healthy foods can be fun and exciting, too! Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa is proud to offer monthly gourmet cooking classes designed to tempt your palate with interesting new and delicious meal ideas. On the menu this month is elegant and easy Asian Vegetable Rolls and Summer Fruit Compote with Orange Honey Sauce. Mouth watering yet? It will be! Learn to cook, live and eat well, reserve your space today.
Details

Sports & Rec: Urban Dare Adventure Race -- $100/team or $40 per person
Where: Starting point, MVP Sports Grill
When: Check-in, 11am; Start, 12pm
Why: Urban Dare is the team race that’s part photo hunt, part trivia and part dares. The challenge is to be the first team to cross the finish line after successfully completing checkpoint dares and getting required photos. Teams of 2 must solve clues to find checkpoints throughout the city. To move on they must take photos or perform dares to earn passport stamps. You can run. Walk or use public transportation, however bikes are not allowed. The winner receives a 3-Day Royal Caribbean Cruise next February where they
will compete in Super Dare with a first prize of $5000. Additional prizes will be awarded for best picture & best costumes. The remaining proceeds from this event help raise money to fight breast cancer. Do you dare to take the Urban Dare? This dare may result in some great prizes and guarantees a full day of fun!
Details

**There are so many other things happening on Saturday: Art classes & Featured Tours at the Crocker Art Museum, Pops in the Park Family Concert Series, Family Fun Program at the California Auto Museum & many more…find them all at Sacramento365.com.

Sunday 6.28

Kids & Families: Sacramento Street Scenes -- $Free
Where: Old Sacramento
When: 10am-6pm (Every Sat & Sun through August)
Why: The Historic Old Sacramento Foundation in collaboration with the City of Sacramento is proud to introduce a new Street Scene Program beginning this month. Calling upon the talents of musicians, jugglers, storytellers, re-enactors, volunteer fire fighters, artisans, and even some burros, Old Sacramento will offer free, family-friendly and historically educational entertainment every Saturday and Sunday June through August. This Sunday there will be Storytelling, Children's Games, Bowling- Gold Rush Style, Juggling, & Shootouts!
Details

Sports & Rec: WWE- The Bash -- $17.50+
Where: Arco Arena
When: 4:45pm
Why: It’s been 8 years since the last time the World Wrestling Entertainment came to Sacramento. If you’re a wrestling fan, this is your chance to see your favorite superstars from RAW, SMACKDOWN & ECW all under the same roof on the same night! Some of you may smirk but I know that there are some WWE (or maybe the old WWF) fans out there! Show them some Sacramento support!
Details

Keep in mind that all of these events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events. If you have an event you would like to add to Sacramento365.com, visit the website. Its easy and free to add your events! Also, if you want to mention an event that I didn't squeeze into this little article- add it to the comments below! Have a great weekend!!

Budget friendly events this week

2009-04-20T07:09:49Z

There were so many events going on this week in Sacramento that I had to break them up into two articles (and still there are so many more!). This is a diverse compilation of things to do under $20 this week. From lectures, concerts & festivals, to health classes and job fairs, you are bound to find something you'll like! Keep an eye out for my next article in which I will feature all of the fundraisers and benefits this week...

Monday 4.20

Lecture: Andrew Sean Greer - Free
When: 1pm
Where: CSUS- Union Ballroom (Free parking on Lot 10)
Why: Andrew Sean Greer is the bestselling author of The Story of a Marriage, a lyrical novel about love and longing, and the political, sexual, and racial tensions set against the backdrop of the early 50s. The New York Times Book Review hails it as “Wondrously unsettling…A timeless story of conflicting loyalties.” For more Info: #(916) 737-1300

Tuesday 4.21

Career: Sacramento Diversity HIREvent /Career Expo - Free
When: 10am-2pm
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
Why: The unemployment rate in Sacramento has reached around 11% in the past few weeks. Don’t be a statistic! Get out there and keep looking. Luxe Salon and Spa is even offering free makeovers for jobseekers. Know the resources out there to help in this difficult time.For more info: # 1(888)THE-JOBS

Dance: Inside the Director’s Studio- Virtuosity and Passion - $15
When: 6pm-7pm
Where: Sacramento Ballet Studios (1631 K St)
Why: Are you a fan of the classic Pas de Deux? Then you won't want to miss this working rehearsal as the professional dancers of the Sacramento Ballet perform the Pas de Deux from Swan Lake, Don Quixote, Diane & Acteon, and others. For more info: #(916) 552-5800 x2

Wednesday 4.22

Food & Wine: World Wednesdays “Fiesta Cubana,”- $ Cost of food & Drinks
When: 5pm-7:30pm
Where: Masons Restaurant @ The Park (15th & L St)
Why: An ongoing spring and summer series of “World Wednesday” food and music celebrations will be bringing the flavors and rhythms of Latin America to downtown Sacramento this week!! Food & Drink specials offered on the outdoor patio include Latin-inspired small plates, half price bites and half off the “Fuegotini,” a daring martini with flair, hand shaken to the beat of live Cuban and Latin-based musical performances. Specialty Mojitos and Margaritas will also be available. For more info: #(916) 492-1960

Thursday 4.23

Music: Living Legends - $ TBA
When: 7:30pm
Where: CSUS University Union Ballroom
Why: A hip hop concert plus special opening guests, , 7:30 pm, ticket prices TBA. Sponsored by the University Union UNIQUE Programs. All ages welcome. No alcohol served or permitted at venue.

Entertainment: Talent Search - $
When: 8pm
Where: Dante Club (2330 Fair Oaks Blvd)
Why: Enjoy the talent of local singers, comics, magicians, jugglers and bands.

Friday 4.24

Food & Wine: Fast Food, Slow Food & Popular Culture in America - $15 adv/$20 door
When: 7pm-10pm
Where: Revolution Wines (2116 P St)
Why: Professor and writer, Kevin Wehr, will team up with The Sacramento Institute of Fun to discuss the question “Are we really what we eat?” This discussion will be centered on fast food, slow food and how it all relates to American popular culture. Learn more about popular culture today and the roles our food plays in it!

Festival: Acupuncture Awareness Day & Rally - Free
When: Fri & Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-2pm
Where: Hyatt Regency (1209 L St)
Why: Learn Why Acupuncture can Change Healthcare and Change your Life! Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine has been practiced for more than 2500 years. Increase your awareness and understanding. Experience Acupuncture. Learn more about the profound impact AOM can have in improving your overall health! Acupuncture Demonstrations will be offered to the Public from 2:00-5:00pm. Enjoy live music and refreshments! For more info: #(916) 443-4770

Kids & Families: Challenger Learning Center: Voyage to Mars - $15/$20
When: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Where: Discovery Museum Science & Space Center (3615 Auburn Blvd)
Why: You and your friends and family can choose your roles on a simulated mission in space and learn what astronauts really do! Experience the wonder of space exploration! See what it’s like to work for NASA while you perform hands-on science experiments nodeled on real-life astronaut tasks. You’ll be working in the Challenger Space Center’s Mission Control room, designed after Johnson Space Center and the Spacecraft, designed to simulate a room onboard a future inter-planetary space vehicle. Children must be over the age of 9 (9 & 10-year-old astronauts must be paired with an adult crewmember). It's fun! It's interactive! It's educational! Reservations are required, because even "outer" space is limited. For more info: #(916) 575-3942

Saturday 4.25

Class: “Artomotive” Photography Class with Jim Richter
When: Call (916) 442-6802 for details
Where: California Auto Museum (formerly the Towe)- 2200 Front Street
Why: Enjoy a morning of cool cars and photography, with local photography enthusiast, Jim Richter. Jim will guide you in the basic steps and skills needed to capture that perfect picture. Whether you are a classic car owner and want to photograph your cool ride or just interested in the art of photography – this class is for you! Students are asked to bring their own cameras & supplies (including a flash and/or a polarizing lens if you own one). Students must be at least 12 years old (minors must be accompanied by an adult). All skill levels welcome! For more info: #(916) 442-6802

Network/Workshop: SacBarCamp - Free
When: Sat 6pm- 11pm & Sun 8am-5pm
Where: Sat @ Bricka Bracka (21st& P), Sun @ Capsity Offices (24th & P)
Why: An informal event where you will network, learn, and share with other Sacramento techies, helping to create a local community for the industry. All types of people - developers, publishers, bloggers, marketers, designers, students, networkers, etc. will be participating. BarCamp is an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment (open source model). It is an intense event with discussions, demos, and interaction from attendees. It is an international network of user generated non-traditional social conferences— open, participatory workshop-events, whose content is provided by participants.

Dance: The Unicorn Fountain - An Original Ballet - $12/10/8
When: Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm
Where: Hiram Johnson High School (6789 14th Ave)
Why: This original ballet is set in the mythical village of Eudora during its annual Seed Time Festival. A rainbow’s appearance has signaled the coming of a magic unicorn in generations past, a beautiful creature able to bring forth a plentiful harvest by drinking from an enchanted fountain. Prince Frederick is to award a medal of merit to the most deserving girl in the village. Maidens Charity and Dahlia vie for the honor. Only one will win. The other’s jealous actions, with help from some magic marionettes, threaten the unicorn and the prosperity it can bring. The outcome is a moral of triumph over adversity. For more info: #(916) 453-0226

Sunday 4.26

Festival: Festival de la Familia
When: 10am-6pm
Where: Cal Expo
Why: Tempt your taste buds with Latin flavors and savory dishes; view authentic arts and crafts or create your own; be awed by the variety of exhibits where you can learn about Latin heritage; or get involved in one of the numerous community outreach opportunities. More than 200 vendors are participating in this year's event!

Kids & Families: Kids Cooking Class
When: 3pm
Where: Arden Hills Resort & Spa (1220 Arden Hills Ln)
Why: A hands on class where children will learn how to make low-fat pumpkin and zucchini mini-muffins. Start your children off early with practicing healthy eating habits. For more info: #(916) 609-8209

Sports & Rec: The 34th Annual Haggin Oaks Golf Expo - Free
When: Fri, Sat, & Sun
Where: Haggin Oaks Gof Complex (3645 Fulton Ave)
Why: Golfers from all over California, Oregon and Nevada descend on this award-winning facility to see all the latest from around the golf industry- from the latest in golf equipment to the best vacation destinations- and everything in between! The expo is taking another giant step forward at this year’s event by doubling the amount of complimentary hitting stalls available to the public, adding a new area hosting dozens of golf courses from around Northern California and beyond and offering a new promotion that pays you in store credit the more you spend. This is truly the show of all golf shows with over 150 different manufacturers and booths scheduled to appear and hosting over 17,000 golfers over the three-day event. For more info: #(916) 481-GOLF

For more info on these and many other great events in Sacramento, visit www.Sacramento365.com or simply click on the name of the event.