Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "cooking"

Paula Deen to do live show at Community Center Theater

2012-01-20T04:20:43Z

Paula Deen – best known for her traditional southern cooking on the Food Network – is coming to Sacramento for a live show on Feb. 3.

While Deen will cook at the Community Center Theater that evening, she’ll focus on what she said she cherishes most about fame – meeting people she never would have met in her life as a bank teller.

“I’ll just visit with people,” Deen said. “It’s kinda like coming into my living room, us getting to know each other. People come in and forget everything that irks them.”

Deen will appear on stage with her husband, Michael Groover, whom she describes as shy, funny and a great cook.

“He has got the keenest sense of humor,” Deen said. “He’s one of the funniest men I’ve ever met.”

She said she’s looking forward to the trip to Sacramento, but her schedule will force the visit to be brief.

The appearance coincides with a donation made by the show sponsors, Smithfield and Safeway, as well as the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, to the Sacramento Emergency Foodlink. Deen’s live show is part of a nationwide tour during which donations will be made to several organizations.

Pork will be on the menu for the evening, but fans shouldn’t expect her live show to mirror the cooking shows for which Deen has become famous.

“If you are expecting to come away with a Julia Child cooking degree, you’ll be disappointed,” Deen said.

In addition to three television shows featured on the Food Network (“Paula’s Best Dishes,” “Paula’s Home Cooking” and “Paula’s Party”), Deen is a restaurateur and cookbook author. It’s a family business, Deen said, and she often collaborates with her two sons, Jamie and Bobby Deen.

“The best part of a family business is working with family,” Deen said. “And the worst part is working with family.”

Sure to be a topic of conversation is Deen’s recent revelation that she has diabetes. While her website promises new, diabetes-friendly recipes in the future, Deen said the six weeks during which her shows are shot are not a snapshot of her daily fare.

“We don’t eat in the south like people think. We eat a lot of vegetables,” Deen said, adding that she uses a lot less butter in her cooking than people commonly believe.

Deen recently topped Maxim magazine's list of television’s sexiest chefs, a title that she said she thought was a joke, initially.

“My breath was knocked out of me,” Deen said. “I was shocked. I loved it!”

As for what’s ahead for Deen, she said she’s working on many projects, but isn’t able to discuss them yet.

“The biggest is yet to come in my career. That’s all I can say,” Deen said.

Deen will personally make the delivery of pork products at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 3, said Mary Meagher, director of public relations and development at the Sacramento Emergency Foodlink.

“Our food closets will greatly appreciate the protein items,” Meagher said. “Through 140 partner agencies, we serve 100,000 people each month. We’re very happy that Sacramento is one of the stops.”

Tickets are still available to Paula Deen’s live show at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3 at the Sacramento Community Center Theater.

"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.

New food blog aims to promote vegetarian lifestyle in Sacramento

2011-10-16T19:54:41Z

The new vegetarian food blog, “Eat Well, Live Free,” launched earlier this month in Sacramento. Since it went online, the site has garnered more than 400 unique visitors, said co-creator Marcos Hernández.

Jillena and Marcos Hernández, the married duo that created the blog, said the idea behind the blog is to provide local vegetarians with information about recipes and restaurants that cater to vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.

“We’re just trying to spread awareness and make it easier for vegetarians,” Marcos Hernández said.

Jillena Hernández is a vegetarian, while Marcos Hernández is a meat-eater. While the two differ in that respect, they work well together in combining their skills for the blog.

Jillena Hernández is the writer and chef while her husband takes the photos and builds the website.

Jillena Hernández said that she and her husband came up with the idea for the blog one day while they were food shopping. Later that day, they purchased the domain name and began setting up the blog.

“I spend so much time utilizing food blogs and cooking, so it wasn’t that much of a leap,” she said.

Jillena Hernandez said that the blog has two features that distinguish it from other food blogs, vegetarian or otherwise.

“I try to choose recipes based on at least one item that comes straight from our garden,” she said. She added that it is important to eat locally and seasonally.

The second feature, Jillena Hernández said, is the blog’s emphasis on recipes that are related to her and her husband’s family and culture. She has a Jewish background, and Marcos Hernández is Mexican.

She said that the blog’s charm will stem from her and her husband’s relationship with their families and the way it will incorporate food from their cultures.

“We’re growing personally in our hobbies and in our understanding of where food comes from,” Jillena Hernández said.

The recipes featured on the site range from what she described as easy to moderately difficult to make.

While cooking The Whole Bowl, Jillena Hernández gathered tomatoes grown in her garden along with other ingredients, including organic brown rice, sliced olives and avocado. She and her husband worked together to mix those and other ingredients together.

Once finished, Marcos and Jillena Hernández took the food outside to find an ideal location to photograph it.

“I like to take recipes that feature meat and modify them for vegetarians and vegans,” Jillena Hernández said. She added that she also recreates meals that she eats at restaurants for the blog.

She said that the blog will include recipes for everything from dinners to desserts.

Jillena Hernández said that writing for the site requires a certain amount of knowledge regarding the food being featured on the blog. Because of this, the couple will interview various chefs and include these interviews on the blog.

Marcos Hernández said that this aspect of the blog gives them the opportunity to talk with noteworthy chefs and vegetarians.

“It has enabled us connect with more people,” he said, referring to the couple’s recent interview with blogger and chef Mark Bitterman, author of the book “Salted.”

Jillena Hernández said she credits social networks like Facebook and the desire of vegetarians to know good restaurants to the site’s quickly growing Internet presence.

“I think it’s filling a niche in Sacramento,” she said. “As a vegetarian, I have a hard time finding food and restaurants.” She added that it is all too common to “order a salad (that) comes with nothing but lettuce and shaved carrots.”

She said that she and Marcos Hernández love eating out at restaurants, and she hopes the blog will make it easier for vegetarians and vegans to find restaurants that won’t exclude their lifestyle.

Marcos Hernández added that they won’t be doing any bad reviews.

“We want to promote restaurants that we like,” he said.

Jillena Hernández said that one of her goals with the blog is to have a wide array of recipes that anyone can enjoy. She said that she aims to have enough content so someone could cook an entire Thanksgiving dinner using only recipes from the site.

While Jillena and Marcos Hernández still have their day jobs downtown, they both said they plan on the blog playing a large part in their lives in the future.

“We’re just trying to promote whole natural foods,” Marcos Hernández said.

Fall Madly in Love with Exquisite Local Food August 13, 2011

2011-07-26T20:05:30Z

Join us for an afternoon with Placer County Real Food Cookbook authors Joanne Neft and Laura Kenny August 13, 2001 from 10:00 am – 12 Noon at Bushnell Gardens Nursery in Granite Bay. Come fall madly in love with the exquisite richness of eating fresh local in-season food and the rich local farms producing in Placer County.

Learn from Laura and Joanne how to shop local farmers markets and purchase all the meat, fruit, vegetables and nuts necessary to prepare meals from scratch. A number of their dishes from the cookbook will be offered for tasting Saturday, Aug 13, 2011. Cookbooks will also be available to purchase so you can have Joanne & Laura sign them.

We’re paring Hawks Restaurant with our authors for a bouquet of summer dishes from their restaurant. Enjoy tasting some of their most requested dishes created out of crispy, slow roasted, sizzling, chopped fresh ingredients.

We at Bushnell Nursery Gardens are very excited to have everyone on our property. We’ve incorporated herbs, vegetables and other edible plants into our beautiful container pottery. Not only are these plants functional for cooking they’re a super easy way to create statement pieces for your next backyard BBQ party. After learning from our cookbook author’s, sampling the delightful dishes, we know you’ll be excited to take some of these home to incorporate into your home patio, balcony, or kitchen!

If you haven’t yet become a fan of locally grown or farmers markets-come and be pleasantly surprised on a refreshing summer Saturday. Seriously, you’ll leave with new gardening ideas, locally grown recipes and a weekend activity designed you can take home and use.
__________

An Afternoon with Placer County Real Food Cookbook
~authors Joanne Neft and Laura Kenny~

Including: Hawks Restaurant, Orchard Delights, and Newcastle Produce
When: 10 am – 12 Noon August 13, 2011

Where: Bushnell Gardens Nursery 5255 Douglas Blvd. Granite Bay CA
Info (916) 791-4199, Cost: Free admission
www.bushnellgardens.com

Cookbooks are available at Bushnell Gardens Nursery & Garden Shoppe

Disclosure: written by Kristian Olsen, marketing and promotions staff at Bushnell Gardens Nursery and Bushnell Landscape Creations in Granite Bay, California.

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.

Sacramento Culinary Competition: Tickets Make Great Holiday Gift!

2010-12-08T00:21:26Z

That’s right ladies and gentlemen, the Celebrity Chef Challenge will be rolling into Sacramento for its 9th annual edition in April of next year.

The culinary event that pits local professional chefs in a whisk to whisk battle to determine “whose cuisine reigns supreme” will be held on Friday, April 29, 2011 at the California Automobile Museum from 5:30pm-9:30pm and you won’t want to miss a minute of the action!

Six challengers will have 45 minutes to turn five secret ingredients into three power-packed dishes, all under the watchful eye of one live audience! Guests will have a front row seat for the culinary extravaganza, but that’s not all; ticket prices include a tour of the 72,000 square feet of automotive excellence housed by the California Automobile Museum and samples of food, beer and wine from over 100 vendors from throughout Sacramento and beyond including: Anderson Valley Brewing Co., Marin French Cheese Co., Berryessa Gap Vineyards, Table 260, Pyramid Alehouse, King Andrews Vineyards and many more!

If that isn’t enough to get you running to buy tickets, 100% of proceeds will benefit InAlliance, the nonprofit that has been providing supported employment and work and life skills training to people with developmental disabilities throughout the Greater Sacramento area since 1952. InAlliance believes all people have the absolute right and responsibility to be fully participating members of society and offer that opportunity through a variety of community programs. So, as you wine and dine the night away you will have the added bonus of supporting a tremendous cause!

Celebrity Chef Challenge tickets are on sale now and make a great gift for food lovers, aspiring chefs and restaurateurs alike. Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door and include entrance into the museum, viewing of the challenge and all sampling from restaurants, wineries and breweries. More information can be found by visiting www.chefevent.com, by calling 916-381-1300 x170 or emailing jbean@inallianceinc.com.

The Celebrity Chef Challenge would not be possible without the support of our incredible community partners including: American Roland Food Corp., Cabot Creamery Cooperative, California Automobile Museum, General Produce, Mani Imports, Pacific Seafood, Preferred Meats, SacDine.com, Sacramento & Co., News 10, the Downtown Grid, and Yelp.com.

Greek for the weekend

2010-08-30T23:20:34Z

One big fat Greek festival offers all you need for Hellenistic acculturation. Fortunately for Sacramentans, the Sacramento Convention Center will host the 47th annual Sacramento Greek Festival this weekend to make this possible.

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church’s Mike Dariotis has been involved in the event for 15 years and said his favorite part of the weekend is, first, the food; second, the folk dancing and then of course working together with the church community and fellow parishioners.

In recent years, the event has served around 10,000 people over the course of the three-day festival. So what is it about this event that brings both Greek and non-Greeks out?

The answer is simple: food.

Love’s universal language expresses itself at the festival through the sweet, flaky crunch of warm baklava, melt-in-your-mouth butter cookies (Kourambiedes) and Greek doughnut puffs (Loukoumathes).

When asked which was his favorite food at the event, Dariotis listed five. Past attendees have had a similar problem in deciding on just one.

Hundreds of volunteers from the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church sacrifice hours of time, resources and energy to share their culture with Sacramento. One can better understand the love put into the event by knowing that all food served at the festival is made from scratch by event volunteers.

The festival began when early Greek families in the community decided to share their culture in a celebratory manner with Sacramento.

Like any culture, Greek celebrations offer much more than food. The festival displays the fullness of Greek culture by providing folk dance performances, live music and a marketplace, selling imported goods from Greece.

San Jose-based Mythos Band has performed at the festival in years past, but has been absent for the last five festivals. The band’s co-founder and Bouzouki (Greek guitar) player, Bobby Kalivitis, said he is excited to return to the festival this year.

“If you go to the Greek festival you can get up and dance, be yourself and nobody is going to judge you.” Kalivitis said. “We are a very welcoming people.”

Mythos Band will perform traditional and contemporary Greek songs both Friday and Saturday.

Whether you’re Greek or not, Dariotis said people love the festival’s atmosphere, food, music and Greek culture.

General admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (55 and older) and free for children under the age of 12. Admission is free between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Friday.

Funds raised from the event “are used for many different missions our Church serves and philanthropic organizations,” Dariotis said.

The festival is a one-stop shop for ouzo, spanakopita, cooking lessons, wine tasting and a Greek dance party; all the essentials for a very Greek weekend.

Photos courtesy of Mike Dariotis

Native Sacramento chef competes for YouTube Food Network challenge

2010-08-05T01:45:06Z

Chef Ryan Rose, the 28-year-old chef at the Zócalo restaurant in Sacramento, is one of the top 15 finalists in the “Next Food Network Star YouTube Challenge.” His in-it-to-win-it dish: paella.

Originally on a search to apply for the Food Network’s casting call for the “Next Food Network Star,” Rose came across the YouTube challenge. Viewers can vote daily on their favorite video of national chefs demonstrating their favorite dishes in three minutes or less. The winner will fly out to New York for an audition with executive producers of the show.

But Rose didn’t always want to be a chef. It wasn’t till a two-year visit to Spain where he watched his Italian roommate cook every day, that he really discovered his true passion. He said the paella helped tell the story of his cooking life.

“Before [Spain] I didn’t know anything about cooking, and I would watch [my roommate] daily and take notes,” Rose said. “And that really got the ball rolling for me for what my passion is now.”

After Spain, Rose became more interested in learning how to cook. After graduating from California State University, Sacramento, with a degree in Spanish, he took a job as a barback at Zócalo.

“It was the only way I knew how to get into the restaurant without having any restaurant experienced,” he said. “I continued to study cooking on the side until the opportunity for a position popped up to actually work in the kitchen.”

In his early days at Zócalo, he learned to cook Italian food with a woman who owned a restaurant in Fresno. After taking an Italian language course, he decided to take an internship in Italy for four months in the Calabria region.

He has been working at Zócalo for six years now. He has also tried his hand at bartending, then became a server, then manager for the front of the house until a chef position opened up.

His true passion for food, though, lies not in Italian cooking, but in Mexican cuisine.

“I grew up in Clarksburg, and the majority of the population there is Mexican,” he said. “So growing up, all my friends were Mexican. I was really into the Mexican culture. That’s why I wanted to learn Spanish.”

He said Mexican cuisine varies from European technique and is brought out through years of traditions and culture.

“Mexican people just know how to cook,” Rose said. “They know how to put things together because of the traditions that have been passed on, and that’s really what I just enjoy seeing and try to interpret.”

Rose and Zócalo’s owner, Ernesto Jimenez, travel to Mexico yearly to taste Mexican cuisine and take ideas from restaurants throughout the country.

“Sometimes people think we don’t do real Mexican food because they are things they aren’t used to seeing in a Mexican restaurant in California, but we actually pull the ideas from Mexico,” he said.

Rose’s inspiration not only comes from Mexico, but from watching Food Network star chefs at their best.

“Some guys watch sports, I watch the Food Network,” he said.

His favorite shows include “Iron Chef America,” and “Barefoot Contessa,” and he especially admires Chef Emeril Lagasse.

Rose said he hopes this challenge will allow people to recognize Sacramento’s culinary greatness.

“I think the restaurant culture that we have should be part of Sacramento’s tourism,” he said. “This is a way to make it national. Yes, it would be great for me as a person, but at least get the word out that Sacramento has people doing great things with food.”

As of press time, Rose’s video had more than 22,000 views. To view Rose’s paella video, visit Youtube.com/foodnetwork and click on "vote." His video is titled “Ryan’s paella.” The contest ends August 14.

For Rose's paella recipe, visit www.scribd.com/doc/35385985

Celebrity Chef Challenge 2010

2010-05-01T17:00:35Z

“Whose cuisine reigned supreme?”

All of the contenders in the 8th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge brought their ‘A’ game and amazed the judges and crowd with their culinary talent.

Judges , 2009 challenge winner, Adam Pehal, Regional Vice President Wells Fargo Foundation, Chevo Ramierez, Sacdine.com food and wine blogger, Charlotte King, and News 10’s Bryan May, sat with satisfaction on their faces as they were served succulent dish after dish.

“The judges reactions are like little kids at Christmas,” said Sacramento and Company’s Melissa Crowley, emcee for the night. “Oh my gosh, it’s amazing. I love watching the chefs brainstorm.”

Hundreds of people came out to the California Auto Museum to eat, drink and raise money for InAlliance, a nonprofit foundation providing employment placement and life and work skills training to people with disabilities.

“The turnout was fantastic, much bigger than last year, it has a better set up and seems to be a lot more fun,” said co-emcee Sacramento and Company’s Guy Farris.

As the chefs competed the crowd was treated to 100 food and wine vendors from around California.

“It’s been fun to watch the live cooking and eat all the chocolate and the cars are cool too,” said first time attendee Jessica Jelich.

A favorite among attendees, Mount Aukum Winery, drew crowds by the dozens.

“I’ve loved talking to all of the people. This has been good exposure for our winery,” said first time vendor, assistant wine maker for Mount Aukum Winery, William Dishman.

The chefs weren’t the only ones receiving awards. The crowd favorites among the vendors received awards as well. In third place Seamas Sweets and Sours took $2,500, Degans Fine Catering took second place and $5,000 and Markstein Beverage Company took the first place prize of $10,000.

After a tense wait the winner of the challenge was Russel Michel of Central Valley Bistro at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento.

Chef Q of Chef Q for hire gracefully took third place and chef instructor for American River College’s culinary arts program, Teresa Urkofsky took second place.

“We came so that we can let the community know that we are here for them,” said Michel. “ InAlliance is a great organization and I want to help those who want to help themselves. Life is too short you have to live for the moment.”

Sacramento's iron chefs prepare to amaze

2010-04-27T04:54:31Z

Things are heating up.

The 8th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge, taking place on April 30 at the California Auto Museum, is equipped with six new contenders that will have 45 minutes to create three culinary masterpieces out of five secret ingredients.

Guests will have front row seats to the competition and free range to all of the goodies including free samples from 100 food and wine vendors, a tour of the hot rod car show and a cake creation demo provided by Crazy Cake Company.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to InAlliance, a nonprofit foundation providing employment placement and life and work skills training to people with disabilities.

According to Jessica Bean, public relations coordinator for InAlliance, “The past year has not been kind to people with developmental disabilities and it is important to raise funds for services that can help them become productive members of society.”

In addition the entire event will be eco-friendly and all cups, plates, bowls, utensils and cleaning supplies will be biodegradable and recycled. EarthSmart Products and SMUD will be providing the products being used throughout the event which will be corn and potato based.

“The Celebrity Chef Challenge is the major fundraiser for the programs InAlliance provides our communities most vulnerable citizens,” said Bean.

Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. For more information please visit the chef event website or watch the event video.

Photo courtesy of Celebrity Chef Challenge 2009.

Ginger Hahn shares cupcake secrets

2009-12-07T18:18:30Z

Ginger Hahn of Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates may be best known as the area's chocolate connoisseur but if her cupcake classes are any indication, she may need to add a wing to her popular Midtown shop.

I stumbled upon Hahn's class thanks to an article in a (not to be named) Sacramento paper several weeks ago. My mom was planning a visit to Sacramento, and as anyone with family outside the area can attest, Old Sacramento loses its luster after multiple visits. I wanted to show my mom the Midtown I'm proud of. A cupcake making class in the L Street Lofts Penthouse seemed like the best way to show off our city's great views and culinary treats.

After a sold out chocolate making class several weeks ago, Hahn decided to open two cupcake lessons on Saturday to accommodate demand. I attended the two hour afternoon class, which covered four cakes and four frosting demonstrations.

The class started with instructions on how to bake Doughnut, Spiced Pumpkin and Chocolate Cupcakes. Once the cakes were baking, she demonstrated how to make Vanilla American Butter Cream, Espresso Orange Cream, Peppermint Swiss Butter Cream and Cream Cheese Frosting. Hahn may be young, but she certainly knows how to teach. She kept a steady pace throughout the class, answering questions with ease, cracking a few jokes (and plenty of eggs) while moving around the room to show those in the back rows a better view of her mixing bowls.

While some people might argue that a live cooking demonstration is unnecessary with access to so many television cooking channels and interactive recipe websites, I'd argue the opposite. Hahn allowed all participants to sample her creations as the class progressed, making it easier to understand the varieties in butter creams and cake density. My favorite creation was the doughnut cupcake, which could best be described as a Snickerdoodle in cupcake form. Hahn came up with the recipe after modifying a favorite morning muffin she grew up eating.

Hahn also offered numerous baking hints I'd never learned before. Several of her best hints are:

• Flour choice will greatly impact the density of your cake. When a recipe specifies the type of flour, it's important to follow the recommendation.
• Silicone molds work fine for baking, but traditional aluminized steel work best for flavor.
• To achieve the perfect cupcake shape, use a #20 ice cream scoop from restaurant supply stores. This tip made our entire class buzz with excitement.
• Making your own vanilla is easy and worth it for cost savings and flavor.

Hahn's very best decorating trick revolved around cost saving tips for making your own sprinkles. But, it wouldn't be a secret anymore if I shared the trick here. You'll have to sign up for her 2010 classes to soak up her talent and sweets for yourself. In the meantime, stop by her store at 19th and L Streets. Maybe, if you're lucky, she'll have a tray of cupcakes baking.

Cooking Doesn't Have To Add Extra Stress To Your Work Week

2009-10-15T01:17:52Z

Being a mother means that you have a ton of things to juggle on an everyday basis. However, being a mother does not mean that you have to suffer or feel overwhelmed about your daily activities. One activity that many moms might view as a chore is cooking. Women across the country are constantly looking for ways to provide nutritious meals for their families while making sure that they do not spend too much time in the kitchen. “Cooking All Together” is an online show designed to motivate families to get in the kitchen and cook with their children. Our hosts are a 31year old working mother (Ciara) and her 7 year old daughter (whose nick name is Nani). "Cooking All Together" provides its viewers with a warm, refreshing, family atmosphere that they can learn to implement in their own homes.
Ciara and Nani have decided to provide you with a few recipes that you can implement on your own that will allow you to eat a tasty meal without feeling as though you had to put it lots of work. Keep in mind that the goal is to take stress of the parents while spending time with the kids. Have fun!

Helpful Tips: Please remember to place a washable/ disposable table cloth down (for easy clean up). Please remember to encourage your child to be creative and to have fun! You should also try to have all of your supplies set out before you begin these activities (with your child). This will allow everyone to have a more enjoyable experience!

Taco Salad Recipe
Ingredients Needed:
Precooked taco seasoned turkey or hamburger meat (follow directions on packet)
Crushed Tortillas Chips
Bag of Salad/ Lettuce
Kidney Beans
Cheese (grated)
Sour Cream
Avocado (sliced)
Sliced Olives
Salsa
Green Onions (sliced)

Directions:
To begin, please have everyone wash their hands. This is a very simple meal! All you have to do is have everyone fill their bowls with all of THEIR favorite ingredients above. Once that has been done, dig in and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!

Lemon/ Strawberry Surprise
Ingredients Needed:
Lemon Muffins (Cake)
Strawberries (3 per person)
Strawberry Ice Cream
Powdered Sugar

Directions:
To begin, please have everyone wash their hands. Next, place muffin tops in a bowl and heat them in the microwave for about 10-20 seconds. Next, wash and slice strawberries. Then, place a scoop of strawberry ice cream on top of the muffin. Next, place sliced strawberries on top of the strawberry ice cream. Lastly, sprinkle powdered sugar on the top of your yummy treat and enjoy!

One Pot Roast Beef
Ingredients Needed:
Beef Stock (64 oz/ enough to fully cover roast)
3lbs Beef Roast
Olive Oil
½ Red Onion Sliced
Baby Carrots (1 cup)
3 to 4 Potatoes (pealed and chopped into quarters)
Minced Garlic (2 tablespoons)
Seasoned Salt
Black Pepper
No Salt Seasoning/ Mrs. Dash

Directions:
First, rinse and season each side of the roast (to taste) with seasoned salt, black pepper and no salt seasoning. Next, coat the bottom of your frying pan with Olive Oil. Next, heat the pan on a medium high setting. Next, place the roast and minced garlic in the heated pan for 5-7 minutes (on each side) or until it a crispy dark coating (on both sides). Next, place your pan seared roast, cooked garlic drippings and the remaining ingredients in the crock pot. Cook roast on the lowest setting for 6-8 hours (roast must be totally submerged in beef stock). Turn the crock pot off and let the roast rest in juices for 30 to 60 minutes (prior to serving). Last but not least, slice roast and dig in!
Christmas Cookies Recipe
Ingredients Needed:
Pre-made Sugar Cookies
Vanilla Frosting
Food Coloring
Various Types of Sprinkles
Plastic Knives (1 per child)
Paper Plates

Directions:
To begin, please have everyone wash their hands.
Next, decide what color frosting your child would like to use to frost the cookies.
Please follow the directions on the box of the food coloring to create the desired colors.
Next, use the plastic knife to frost the top of the cookie.
Next, place sprinkles or other candy topping to complete the cookie masterpiece!

Graham Cracker Ginger Bread House Recipe
Ingredients Needed:
Graham Crackers (6 halves per house)
Vanilla Frosting
Food Coloring
Various Types of Candy (Be creative)
Various Types of Sprinkles
Powered Sugar (optional)
Plastic Knives (1 per child)
Large Cookie Sheet
Paper Plates

Directions:
TIP: If time permits please pre-make each house at least 1 hour in advance. Otherwise, your house will probably fall apart as you begin to decorate it!

To begin, please have everyone wash their hands.
You will need six graham cracker halves to create one house.
First, place frosting on each side (four side’s total) of the graham cracker half.
Continue to do this until you have created a block (four halves needed)
Next, place the remaining two halves on top of the block, (frosting on each side as well) to create your roof.
Next, use additional frosting to fill in any gaps along the edges and corners.
Again, please allow at least one hour to dry to ensure a sturdy house (otherwise it is a huge mess)!

Next, decide what color frosting your child would like to use to decorate their house.
Please follow the directions on the box of the food coloring to create the desired colors.
Place the various candies on plates for easier access.
Now that they are dry let your child begin to decorate their house by using their imagination!
For an added effect, use a sifter to sprinkle powered sugar over the completed house to give the allusion of snow.
Don’t forget to take out the camera to snap pictures for your scrapbook!

For more questions or comments email us at ciaraandnani@yahoo.com or look us up on FACEBOOK.

Editor's Note: Ciara Anguay is the Marketing Director for "Cooking ALL Together".

Sacramento's Solar Cookers International shine

2009-08-26T04:02:40Z

Sacramento's Solar Cookers International (SCI), a group that helps communities harness the power of the sun to cook food and pasteurize water, will be holding their annual "Shine On" event Wednesday evening. The event will educate SCI's supporters on their successes of the last year and highlight future projects, said the event's coordinator Rene Hamlin.

About 250 people are expected to fill the Sierra 2 Center from 5 to 9 p.m. to listen to speeches by SCI co-founder Dr. Bob Metcalf and Capitol Public Radio food reporter and solar cook Sherry Cole. Those who attend will be able to view cooking demonstrations, eat solar-cooked food and even participate in a silent auction featuring art by Mary Frank, a long-time solar cooker and inscape (abstract) artist.

SCI began in 1987 when Metcalf, a microbiology professor, got together with Beverly Blum and solar cookers Sherry Cole and Barbara Kerr. They put together manuals to enable others to build solar cookers, and shortly afterward, they began manufacturing the cookers themselves.

There are three types of solar cookers that have unique functions, Hamlin said: a box cooker, a parabolic cooker and a panel cooker. A box cooker can bake, a parabolic cooker can fry, and a panel cooker can cook a stew, but most people use all three like a crock pot heater, she added.

"When we're educating and introducing [people] to solar cooking, we talk about it as if it's a crock pot," Hamlin explained. "You can do slow-cooked foods or one-pot meals really easily in the solar cooker."

A benefit of the panel cooker is its portability. Though most other solar cookers use heavier material like glass, wood, and plastic, it uses lightweight materials like cardboard and reflective aluminum and can be folded to the size of a vinyl record.

"In the United States, it's an alternative to using electricity or gas so you can save money," Hamlin said. "Outside the United States in fuel-scarce communities, it's an alternative to cooking over an open fire."

SCI also has an office in Nairobi, Kenya, where they have been working with the Ministry of Water and Irrigation on educating officials on how to test for bacteria like E. coli. They are also working with U.N. officials on building a mobile microbiology lab to be able to test water supplies.

Available for sampling at Shine On will be solar roasted vegetables, vegetarian hot dogs, cakes, cookies and pies. The event is free and the Sierra 2 Center is located at 2791 24th St.

"Sacramento is really nice for solar cooking and has about 200 solar cooking days a year," Hamiln explained. "You need to make sure they are cloudless days, [and] not rainy or too windy."

For more information visit SCI's website, solarcooking.org and The Solar Cooking Archive Wiki.

Photographs credit Solar Cookers International.

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.