Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "el dorado hills"

Its still warm enough to enjoy Folsom lake

2012-01-31T00:01:49Z

I had a picnic at Folsom Lake on Sunday. Who would believe we’re still having sunny days to enjoy our beautiful lake. We walked in at the levee entrance at Sophia Parkway and GreenValley Road in El Dorado Hills and found we weren’t the only ones with the same idea.

Boaters, families, individuals with dogs, Whipperwils, Seagulls, Geese and a lone Loon populated the lake. Hikers, Cyclists, Equestrians, and nature enthusiasts alike enjoy the many trails.

One of the popular trails leads to Brown’s Ravine in Folsom Lake State Recreation Area that is home to the Folsom Lake Yacht Club and Folsom lake Marina, also located on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills.

Although only the brave would go swimming Sunday, the peacefulness of the day drew so many. The water level s low and provided wonderful opportunities to explore what
may typically be hidden such as foundations of old Gold Rush buildings. There is also the hope of catching a hungry fish or just laying back to enjoy the warmth of the sun.

Whatever appeals to you, El Dorado Hills and Folsom Lake can offer Recreation,relaxation and qualify of life. Come to our area and check it out.

courtesy of local Real Estate Broker, Jill Berni, El Dorado Hills, CA

Disclosure: I bought my home in 1981 in El Dorado Hills within walking distance to Folsom Lake. I started selling Real Estate here shortly thereafter because I believe and love this community.

Selland's Market-Café expands to El Dorado Hills

2012-01-07T01:15:34Z

East Sacramento’s popular Sellands Market-Café restaurant is expanding to El Dorado Hills, with an opening in the posh Town Center shopping area set for Jan. 30.

“It’s exactly the same format as our Selland’s Market-Café in East Sacramento, and it’s a bigger space,” said co-owner Randall Selland.

The 4,200-square-foot location is 1,000 square feet bigger than the Sacramento store, and it can seat 100 people inside and an additional 50 on the patio.

“It’s basically got food my wife grew up on,” Selland said. “You’ve got meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, different chicken dishes, roast pork, pulled pork and pizzas out of a wood-fired oven.”

Also available are cookies and other desserts, and Selland said everything is made fresh daily.

One of the most popular options at the Sacramento location will also be a staple at the new space: dinner for two and a bottle of wine for $25.

Wine will be offered on draft, coming out of 5-gallon kegs that Selland said are new to the market, but that numerous wineries are already embracing.

The restaurant is family-friendly, something Selland said is integral to all the restaurants he owns.

“We’re a family, and whether it’s Selland’s or Ella or anything, we make sure it’s a place we’d want to go with our family – with our children and grandchildren,” Selland said.

Chef Jordan Davis will run the kitchen, and Selland said he is a veteran of Animal in San Francisco and another restaurant in Mill Valley.

“We want to have a chef at each location, not a corporate chef,” Selland said, adding that he and his family believe that investing in an individual chef will help maintain quality food and diversity at the various restaurants.

The Selland family has been thinking about opening another restaurant for a few years, Selland said, adding that unlike some corporations that look at demographics, income levels and other factors, he and his wife, Nancy Zimmer, make their decisions based on the space.

“This one just happened to work out really well for a number of reasons,” Selland said. “The biggest thing, though, was we just saw the space and said, ‘Yeah, that’s it.’ ”

He said the shopping center has a European feel, which fits with the restaurant’s décor and ambiance, and it is westward facing, so it has a good view of the setting sun. Just off Latrobe Road, the Town Center is one of the first areas visitors encounter when they enter El Dorado Hills from the freeway, and anyone going to the nearby movie theater will drive right past the restaurant.

“It’s wonderful to have them here,” said Debbie Manning, president and CEO of the El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce. “They’re already involved in the area, and we are hearing nothing but good things – people are so excited about them.”

Manning said she thinks Selland’s Market-Café will draw in people familiar with the Sacramento location and expose them to all that El Dorado Hills has to offer – including a number of new restaurants and bars.

“It’s a win-win because the El Dorado Hills community is excited and wants to support them, and they are going to bring in traffic because of their name, and those people will now get to see El Dorado Hills,” Manning said.

The El Dorado Hills Town Center is located at 4364 Town Center Blvd. Selland's Market-Café will be open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

El Dorado Musical Theatre holds auditions for '42nd Street'

2011-11-15T04:49:58Z

El Dorado Musical Theatre held auditions Monday night for the classic Broadway musical, "42nd Street". Set in 1933, "42nd Street" tells the story of a chorus girl, Peggy Sawyer, who gets the chance to become a leading lady after the fading diva, Dorothy Brock, is injured before opening night of her Broadway show.

Fresh off their multiple Elly Award wins and their critically acclaimed production of "Disney's Beauty and the Beast", El Dorado Musical Theatre drew a crowd of 53 local actors and actress, all between the ages of 13 and 22.

Don't let age fool you. El Dorado Musical Theatre is far from your run-of-the-mill youth theatre group. Many of the performers are seasoned professionals, who even have a couple of Elly Awards under their belts. Whether they were belting out a showtune or tap dancing flawlessly, the talent of many auditionees was apparent. The feeling within the audition room was serious and professional. Even those not auditioning could feel the tension, as well as the focus of the performers.

El Dorado Musical Theatre director and choreographer Debbie Wilson and music director Jennifer Martin will have a large selection of talented teens and young adults to choose from. Luckily for them, callbacks on Tuesday will help them narrow the search for their leading characters. Till then, those called back will no doubt be running scenes, brushing up on their tap combinations, and learning their music in the hopes of being the one to get the part.

Disclosure: The author has performed with El Dorado Musical Theatre in past productions, but is no way affiliated with their production of "42nd Street". Opinions expressed in article do not reflect those held by El Dorado Musical Theatre.

Ballet, music and art at Midtown's Second Saturday

2011-10-11T08:37:35Z

Summer has come and gone but crowds at Second Saturday still remain large. Second Saturday events have grown in popularity and other communities participate in Second and Third Saturday art events.

During fall several cities stop their art walks. Folsom and El Dorado Hills had their last Second Saturday of the year in September and October respectively.

Popularity of similar events in smaller towns continues to grow. Attendance and art displays expand in the smaller venues but none of these can compare to the popularity of Midtown’s event.

This Saturday I attended a handful of galleries and events. Since there are so many places to view and experience art I made a list of places I was invited to or wanted to see and took the rail from Folsom to Midtown.

My list of galleries or events I had, included the Sacramento Ballet Studios, the Heart Clothing Boutique, Urban Hive studios and places in between depending on time allowed.

The Sacramento Ballet on 1631 K Street held an open rehearsal for their upcoming “Dracula” performances. The dancers either wore full ballet outfits or casual dancing attire for the performance.

The Sacramento Ballet is one of the most delightful pleasures to experience in Sacramento. Ron Cunningham’s troupe always provides great entertainment. It isn’t until an open rehearsal is performed for public viewing that one can see and experience the time and effort spent on practice.

Once on stage however the Sacramento Ballet puts on great performances that showcase the wonderful talent they have and the time and effort they spend practicing.

The audience that attended this art in motion exhibit watched an impressive performance of Dracula that will take place at the Sacramento Community Center. Four performances of Dracula have been scheduled for October 22, 23, 27 and 28. Performances are at 7:30 except for October 23 which plays at 2:00.

Sacramento Ballet’s Artistic Director, Ron Cunningham, sat facing the ballet dancers during rehearsal and gave few directions as they performed. Any directions may have been more for the benefit of the audience as we followed the Dracula rehearsal.

Once the performance ended the audience vacated the dance area while Cunningham talked to the Sacramento Ballet performers. Outside the dance area people began to come in for another rehearsal.

The second rehearsal will eventually turn out to be a Vampire Flash Mob that will take place at a time and location still unknown.

The Vampire Flash Mob will be based on Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance. Dancers from all ages will be participating in the flash mob. Sacramento Ballet’s Christopher Brian Nachtrab was on hand to lead the flash mob rehearsal and the dance studio was packed.

Nachtrab made sure he announced that there was a video on YouTube that went through the choreography as well in case dancers needed further practice. More information as well as the actual time and place of the flash mob will be given on their facebook page.

Heart Clothing Boutique on 1903 Capitol Avenue celebrated their one year anniversary of business. Owner Vanessa Lopez celebrated by thanking her customers and friends by holding a fashion show outside her shop with DJ Esef playing in the background.

Heart Clothing had plenty of guests to help Lopez celebrate her 1 year anniversary. The small boutique is geared to make each shopping experience unique and personal. Byuti Salon and Spa teamed with Heart Clothing to provide hair and make up for the models.

Down the street at the street at the Gay and Lesbian Center on 1927 L Street a Second Saturday art exhibit was being showcased. As I walked around to look at the art I picked up some delicious appetizers that were provided for guests.

On the outside back patio the Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band played. The four member group played to a small audience.

Although I was only there for a couple of songs they showed a wide musical range touching on some folk, rock, indie and Americana. Kenny Rego’s vocals and their lyrics also excelled. Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band have a myspace page and you can sample some of their songs on YouTube and Reverbnation.

Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band played “Working Class Man” as their last song and its great melody, lyrics and vocals was a good selection to end their set.

Over at Barber’s Shop Alfa Romeo on 1116 18th Street, Mike Blanchard and The Californios played. Some fans watched from seats in the garage while others danced just outside on the parking lot.

A protest rally by “Take back the Night” marchers moved on to K Street from 20th. It looked like well over a hundred marchers paraded down the streets of Midtown carrying protest signs and yelling out demonstration chants to bring awareness to their cause and inform the public.

One of my last destinations was the Urban Hive where an Artober Art Show was taking place. The show recognized the art of four magnificent artists; Milton Bowens, Felipe Dávalos, Theresa Fike and Aaron Hagar.

Art filled the walls of the Urban Hive and several guests were on hand to view the work of these four artists. An intimate question and answer period also took place. Felipe Dávalos and Milton Bowens talked about their work and answered questions from guests.

The show at the Urban Hive Gallery runs from October 6 to November 7 and the Second Saturday event served as an inaugural Artober Art Show. The talents of these great artists can be viewed at the Hive and appointments can also be made to view the work.

Bowens and Dávalos, great artists in their own right, delighted guests with their commentary and it’s great to see this kind of interaction between the artist and their admirers. Dávalos’ art and work have been seen in National Geographic and other renowned publications. He has also created illustrations for children’s books, magazines, archeology, art history and several of his pieces are on exhibit.

Bowens has a powerful presence and talked about his work and the work of poets, writers and music performers who influence today’s society and how their communication medium transcends through cultures via their music.

Bowens described his work by saying, “I use text in combination with color and shades. I pretty much deal in history but there are a lot of hidden messages woven into the fabric of my paintings. My paintings are very personal to me to start with but they’re just anchored in what I consider pivotal moments in American history.” With that comment he described his works and what several items common in his art signify. Bowens continued to talk about his work and made the event very real and personal as he indulged the audience in what his work stood for.

A refreshing artist perspective was shown at the Artober Art Show and it allowed for meaningful dialogue between artist and guests.

Guests to the event were encouraged to bring new art supplies and materials to benefit the Stanford Home for Children and the Wellspring Center for Women. To find out more about Artober guests can visit the Urban Hive or Artober websites or contact Veronica Delgado 916-792-4947.

As many of the artist galleries began to close several other establishments remained open keeping the Second Saturday Art Walk spirit alive. Midtown continues to benefit from the event and it could clearly be seen as lines of people stood outside certain venues waiting to get into several of the popular clubs.

To follow other area artists and performers Roseville will host their Third Saturday on October 15. Several galleries in and around Vernon Street will host several artist receptions.

Fourth of July roundup

2011-06-30T20:32:12Z

Sacramento

Cal Expo Sacramento Independence Day Celebration
Monday – Gates open at 6 p.m. and fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.
1600 Exposition Blvd. – Fireworks in the Miller Lite Grandstand
Price: Free
Parking: $10 in the Cal Expo parking lot
Age: All ages

Cal Expo will present its famed fireworks display for guests. Guests can enjoy preshow music provided by 107.9 The End and the United States Air Force Band of the Golden West.

Raley Field Independence Day Weekend Celebration
Saturday and Sunday. Games start at 7:05 p.m. Sat and 6:35 p.m. Sun
Raley Field, 400 Ballpark Drive
Price: $7-$42
Age: All ages

Family and friends can enjoy Raley Field’s annual Fourth of July celebration with two games against the Tucson Padres. There will be a fireworks show after each game to celebrate. In addition to the festivities, there is an American flag giveaway presented by the Army to the first 2,500 fans.

2011 Sacramento Firecracker 5K/10K Run & Walk Sacramento CA
Saturday at 9 a.m.
William Land Park, 3800 West Land Park Drive
Price: Adult entrance costs $35 until Thursday and is $40 on race day
Children (15 and under) are $20
Age: All ages

It’s time to don the running shoes for the Firecracker 5K/10K run. The course will follow the paths and nearby roads of William Land Park and is divided into 5K and 10K divisions.

There will be post-race refreshments at the finish line and an award ceremony and raffle giveaways after the event.

“We’re expecting a few thousand people,” said Robert Mathis, race director. That’s 50 percent more than last year.

“We encourage people to wear red, white and blue,” Mathis added.

Fourth of July Fun at the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center
Saturday and Sunday from 12:30- 4p.m.
3615 Auburn Blvd.
Price: Children (3 and younger) are Free, Children (4 - 12) are $4, Teens (13 - 17) are $5, Adults (18 and older) are $6, Senior Citizens (60 and older) are $5
Age: All ages

The Discovery Museum Science & Space Center presents an inexpensive, fun and educational family weekend to celebrate the Fourth of July. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Space Quest exhibit, and kids finish with free craft activities for children ages 4 - 12. Families can also choose to attend the Planetarium shows (at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) that are included with ticket purchases.

The Science & Space Center will also be selling fireworks at the museum for those on the more adventurous side. Proceeds will benefit the museum.

40 Palooza
Saturday, 6 p.m. - 2 a.m. Sunday
7440 Auburn Blvd.
Price: $8
Age: 21 and older

For those looking for a little extra excitement for the Fourth of July, Rocky’s 7440 will spice the night up with drink specials and music from DJs Victorious, Snoope and D-Rock. The 40 Palooza will be hosted by ILL Fam and MySacNightLife.

Old Sacramento Fourth of July Champagne Brunch Cruise
Monday, 11 a.m. - 1p.m.
A cruise along the Sacramento River departing from the L Street Dock, 1206 Front St.
Price: $25.80 - $43
Age: All ages

The Hornblower Cruise will provide a unique way of celebrating the Fourth of July. With a two-hour cruise, guests can dress up and enjoy a brunch buffet, drinks, and a live soloist entertainer. Formal wear is not required, but guests are asked to dressy-casual clothing.

Folsom

Folsom Pro Rodeo
Friday - Sunday
Dan Russell Rodeo Arena in Folsom, at Stafford Street and Leidesdorff Street
Price: Reserved seating is $24.50, and general admission ranges from $15 - $19.50
Age: All ages

The Folsom Pro Rodeo will have daily events including rodeo competitions, a carnival, kids activities, country music and dancing, and nightly fireworks shows over the arena.

Each night of the event, renowned skydiver Kent Lane will free-fall from 4,500 feet trailing a 2,000-square-foot American flag behind him.

El Dorado Hills

Second Annual Fireworks Jubilee
Sunday 4 p.m. - Monday at midnight
El Dorado Hills Town Center
Price: Free
Age: All ages

El Dorado Hills will present a day of fun for all ages. From live music on three stages to a chili cook-off to a fireworks show, there will be plenty to do throughout the town center.

Following the fireworks show is a performance by band Mother Mayhem in the Steven Young Amphitheater until 11:30 p.m.

Rancho Cordova Third and Fourth of July Carnival and Parade
Sunday and Monday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. (Parade Monday at 10 a.m.)
Hagan Park, 2197 Chase Drive
Price: Free for kids 5 and under, $2 general admission, 10.00 parking.
Age: All ages

For those looking for an all-day, activity-filled event, Rancho Cordova’s July Carnival and Parade offers just that.

“It is the largest local event,” said Shelly Blanchard, executive director of the Cordova Community Council and main organizer of the event. “There will be the parade, concerts and, of course, our highlight is hosting the All-American barbecue showdown. People come with their own decorated barbecue sets, funny aprons, and guests come to taste it all.

“It’s a lot of fun and should be fantastic,” Blanchard added.

Carmichael

Carmichael's Fouth of July Parade and Fireworks
A pancake breakfast starts Monday’s events from 7:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
Parade begins at 10:30 a.m.
Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.
Carmichael Park, 5750 Grant Avenue
Fireworks can be seen from the La Sierra Community Center, 5325 Engle Road
Price: Free ($5 for unlimited access to the Kid Zone inflatables)
Age: All ages

Folks can enjoy a pancake breakfast at Carmichael Park to start their day and then head over to the La Sierra Community Center to watch the annual Fourth of July parade at 10:30 a.m.The route begins at the intersection of Marconi Square and Fair Oaks Boulevard and heads to the intersection of Cypress Avenue and Manzanita Avenue. The parade will feature community floats, marching bands, equestrian entries, military units, antique cars and more. For front-row seating, head to the front of the park on Fair Oaks Boulevard or watch from the grandstand located at 5757 Grant Avenue across the street from Carmichael Park.

Following the events of the morning, La Sierra Community Center will provide activities for children ranging from puppet shows to Kid Zone inflatables. Food and drinks will be provided by the Carmichael Little League snack bar. Once it is dark, the fireworks will begin.

Elk Grove

Elk Grove Fourth of July Fireworks
The event Begins Monday at 6p.m., and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Elk Grove Regional Park
Price: Free admission, $10 parking
Age: All ages

For an easygoing Fourth of July, Elk Grove will present music, food and fireworks. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. Live music from Latin and R&B band Solsa will be provided, and people are encouraged to bring a blanket and have a picnic or barbecue before the fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

Roseville

Roseville Fouth of July Parade
Mondayfrom 10 a.m. - noon
Vernon/Douglas/Riverside intersection to Royer Park, 190 Park Drive
Price: Free
Age: All ages

The City of Roseville will have its annual Fourth of July parade. For anyone who wants to go and grab a seat, the parade route will follow Vernon/Douglas/Riverside intersections, continue down Vernon, take a right on Lincoln Street and a right on Park Drive, ending at Royer Park.

The Music in the Park series will have the Capitol Pops Concert Band, playing the kind of music enjoyed since 1997, perform at Royer Park from noon -2 p.m. following the parade. There will be games for kids and food for everyone.

Roseville Fireworks
Monday. Gates open at 7 p.m. Fireworks show begins around 9:30 p.m.
Placer County Fairgrounds, 800 All America City Blvd.
Price: Free
Age: All ages

Roseville’s fireworks show will be held in the Placer County Fairgrounds. Guests can bring their friends and families to a traditional setting for the fireworks show.

Roseville Fourth of July Cosmos Crime Run
Monday at 8 a.m.
Sculpture Park, 350 N Sunrise Ave
Price: $20 Age 17 and under, $30 pre-registered runners/walkers, #35 race-day registration, $100 pre-registered team of 4 - 7
Age: All ages

For a healthy start to the day, Roseville will host the 17th annual Cosmos Crime Run, which will benefit the Roseville Community Crime Stoppers. The route will follow the Miner’s Ravine Bike Trail.

“It is a popular event. There were 400 people last year,” said Bob Smith, one of the organizers of the event. “There will also be police and fire service demonstrations this year for anyone who wants to go.”

Citrus Heights

Fourth of July Weekend Carnival and Fireworks
The carnival runs Thursday through Monday, and fireworks will be held Monday.
Sunrise Mall, 6196 Sunrise Mall
Thursday and Friday from 4 - 11 p.m.
Saturday through Monday from noon - 11 p.m.
Price: Single Tickets are $0.95, a 20-pack costs $18 and an all-day pass costs. $20.
Age: All ages

For a day of fun, the Sunrise Mall will host a Fourth of July carnival. Carnival rides and activities will be provided, and the event will be concluded with a fireworks show at about 9 p.m. with an additional hour of the carnival after.

Fallen Warriors Memorial Car and Bike Show Pictorial

2011-05-31T08:18:51Z

El Dorado Hills Town Center, as was the case last year, hosted the Fallen Warriors Memorial Car and Motorcycle Show on Saturday, May 28. Hundreds of vintage, power and one-of- a-kind cars were exhibited and competed for awards. Motorcycles were also part of the event participating in 3 poker runs.

A scholarship program, set up in honor and remembrance of area high school students who gave up their lives while serving in the armed forces, benefits from this event. This year almost $8,000 was raised for scholarships.

The Sixth Annual Fallen Warriors Memorial Car and Motorcycle Show brought veterans, car and motorcycle enthusiasts together to share stories about their experiences. Various activities were held from 9 to 3 while slight rain fell and may have kept people away from the event as it did not look as busy as last year.

Jim and Doris Blatchford spend a lot of time working for this worthy cause. They were very busy during the event as Jim worked as event MC and announced winners of awards after voting was tabulated. Doris worked at a station next to her husband.

Log on to the Fallen Warriors website to learn more about this worthwhile cause.

Photos from last year can still be viewed at 2010 Fallen Warriors Poker Run and Classic Car Show.

Car and Motorcycle show with lasting purpose

2011-05-30T05:13:42Z

El Dorado Hills, CA | Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. Today at the El Dorado Hills Town Center, the Fallen Warriors Memorial held their 6th annual Motorcycle Poker Run and Car Show.

The mission of the Fallen Warriors Memorial Organization is, “Through a scholarship program and school participation, is to honor and remember former area high school students who gave their lives while serving our country.”

Currently, their website lists 29 Fallen Warriors from 22 different area schools. In memory of those Fallen Warriors, veterans and participating high schools have established a scholarship fund to recognize the sacrifice of that school’s Fallen Warriors and acknowledge the contributions of veterans.

When asked about turnout for today’s event, Jim Blatchford, Board Member, indicated it was down from last year, “the weather and current gas prices, contributed to a slight drop in attendance.” Current estimates are that today’s event raised about $8,000.00 to add to the fund.

Even though there was a bit of light rain off and on, it did not seem to dampen anyone’s spirits. Some car owners were drying off the vehicles multiple times, while grandparents were showing their grandchildren what they may have once owned. Car enthusiasts got to share stories, families got to spend time together, and there seemed to be smiles and laughter everywhere you looked.

One special attendee, Mr. Dick Grinnell, Korean War Veteran and Silver Star recipient, had more than a few people lined up to shake his hand. Some wanted just to say hi, but many wanted to give their thanks for the sacrifice that he and others made.

Also in attendance today was Ian Baldwin who recently was given one of the scholarships from the Fallen Warriors Memorial Organization. Ian currently has a brother serving in the Marines and when asked about the scholarship, stated, “Everything that is honoring our fallen soldiers and marines, has special meaning for us”

The organization has scholarships setup at some area high schools including Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, Oakridge, Granite Bay and recently added Woodland. When asked about adding other schools, Jim Blatchford replied, “We’re trying to work to get into Folsom, a local school where we have lost a couple kids.”

VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT>>

PHOTOS BY MAVERICK PHOTOGRAPHERS: Rusty Kliene, Kati Garner, Andrew Guthrie, Ed Fogle

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Concours Raduno at Arden Hills

2011-05-24T23:31:59Z

A gala event filled with fine food, wine, fashion and classic automobiles provided for a fun evening at the Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa celebrating Concours Raduno on May 19. Live music, hosted wine and beer along with hors d'oeuvres and silent auction were available for guests to enjoy. Some of the event proceeds were to benefit the Concours Foundation.

The Concours Foundation provides education, resources, grants and funding to teenage youth in the areas of safe and sober driving practices. The foundation encourages and rewards outstanding achievements in automobile restoration, preservation and education.

A table was set up to provide information by Impact Teen Drivers, an organization conceived by Jon Hamm, CEO for the California Association of Highway patrolmen, in response to the high number of crashes involving teens. Impact Teen Drivers has been working with teens showing the dangers of reckless and distracted driving. They have a simple message for young people; focus on the road ahead and get to where you are going safely.

The weather cooperated on this warm evening as classic automobile owners showed off their vintage and immaculately cared for vehicles. The Arden Hills Resort Club was a great venue for this elegant showing. Guests were able to enjoy the weather as they walked around at the gathering viewing a magnificent display of motorcars.

The Concours Raduno is a monthly event during the summer held at various locations. Log on to the Concours website to view upcoming events. If you’re lucky enough to own a vintage vehicle you can also find information on how to become involved in displaying your vehicle at future gatherings.

Brian and Michele Moore have been involved with the Concours events for several years and are always at the gatherings. Besides the Concours Raduno they were involved with the Niello Concours at the Capitol in April. The Niello Concours at Serrano is always a great spectacle and continues to draw thousands to the El Dorado Hills event. The event this year will take place on October 2 and will be celebrating the Marque of Cord Motor Cars and the 50th anniversary of the E-Type Jaguar.

An award was given for Best of Show in the Concours Raduno at the Arden Hills Club. The award was given to Clyde Cassidy for his 1955 Bentley Hooper Coachwork. Cassidy’s magnificent vehicle is only 1 of 4 such Bentleys in the world.

Besides the beautiful cars on exhibition several lovely models were on hand to model Felicia Strati’s Summer Collection. Maria Serquen who was heavily involved in Sacramento Fashion Week and most recently at the Styles of Paradise, Student Fashion show at CSUS put the models together for Felicia Strati’s fashion. Maria, as always, was busy making things look easy as she guided models, put them together with photographers, found areas to pose and mingled with guests. Maria's behind the scenes work is commendable.

Felicia Strati talked about fashion and said that she thoroughly looks at putting clothes and accessories to complement the model. She goes through a mental process until she decides what she wants to see. She views the fabrics, colors and the individual as a piece of art. It almost seemed as if she puts together the canvas, in the form of the model, and starts adding color, in the form of outfits, accessories and other things that inspire her and then creates a beautiful piece of art.

Felicia Strati was born in Greece but has been in the United States for 23 years. She is a very articulate and smart knowing 4 languages and has a law degree. She has a boutique located at 1901 Capitol Avenue. The boutique specializes in sophisticated, chic clothing and accessories from Greece, Italy and France.

The event was a wonderful meeting for car enthusiast to get together, share stories and view classic automobiles. Premier Concours Promotions continues to showcase the art of the automobile at great venues such as the Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa. Fine food, drinks and entertainment contribute to the enjoyment of these events.

Some of the sponsors for the event were Grebitus and Sons, Peroni Nastro Azzurro and Briar Patch. Live musical entertainment was provided by Jesse Christian Hendricks.

The next Concours Raduno will be held on June 14. Other Concours Raduno events continue in July, August and September. The September Finale will mark the end of the Concours Raduno season and the beginning of the Niello Concours at Serrano weekend of events. Advance tickets will be available for purchase at all Niello Dealerships. The Niello family continues to support the foundation and makes live appearances at many of these events.

Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet

2010-12-20T20:12:54Z

A delectable performance of Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet “The Nutcracker” played in front of near capacity showings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Performances took place at the Jill Solberg Theatre at Folsom High School.

Rainy and cold weather did not prevent audiences from attending any of the performances. The audience was made up of aficionados of all ages. Performance members were also of all ages and even a very well behaved baby made a couple of appearances during the show.

At one time there were (and I did try to count them all) slightly over 40 performers on stage. The whole evening was visually appealing as soon as the curtains were parted for the first act. The lighting was great, the scenery was fantastic and the costumes were flawless. The magnificent music by Tchaikovsky along with the acts on stage at times, to me, made it seem like a lucid dream.

Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet (PHCB) was performed to the delight of a large audience. The Artistic Director of the PHCB, Pamela Hayes, was born and raised in England and danced with the Royal Ballet of London. She has performed all over the world and has brought her experience to the Sacramento area. For the past 18 years she has strived to preserve classical ballet through the PHCB.

The Nutcracker has always been a favorite and several versions make their way via the several ballet groups in our area and throughout the world. Pamela Hayes’ rendition brings a high caliber interpretation of The Nutcracker. The dancers who took the stage seemed to have spent quite a long time rehearsing for the event. The precision of many of the ballet moves were fine-tuned and quite elegant.

As the curtains opened for Act One the splendor of the stage and those on it were quite breathtaking. Everyone took their spots on stage. The hair, make-up and costumes were quite stunning. As the scene opened at the Silberhaus home, on Christmas Eve, a Christmas party was taking place. The elegant moves of each person, from children to adults, on stage were very precise. In this regard the choreography of Pamela Hayes, Zara Hayes, and Michael Onstad could be witnessed and greatly appreciated.

Herr Drosselmeyer, inventor and toymaker, played by the much sought after Michael Onstad is onstage entertaining guests with magic tricks and life-size dolls that need winding up from time to time. Michael has played the role of Herr Drosselmeyer for 35 years now. He has danced with the Sacramento Ballet, the Eugene Ballet, the Copenhagen Summer Tivoli, and many other companies. His background and choreography are major contributions to the performance.

There were so many dancers on stage and their performances were quite impressive in each and every act. The costumes from the Mouse King and the Nutcracker, besides being very well done, did not interfere with any of the ballet performances on contrary it added beauty to every scene. Baby mice and big mice as well as soldiers also took the stage to do battle.

As Scene 2 opens, The Land of Snow, again shows the talents of the dancers. The corps of ballet was made up of many dancers who graciously moved from one end of the stage to the next and there was always something going on either as main part of the act or as dancers moved in the background.

During intermission voices and laughter of children rang out as they partook in some cookies, pastries and hot chocolate. Many of the supporters at Friday’s performance, for the most part, seemed to be family and friends. Many in attendance braved the weather and several of them noted that it was well worth the drive. Many vendors and volunteers were also on hand at the Folsom High School Theatre. Many sponsors helped with this production. As with many productions and events much of what goes on to make these events successful is the volunteers. Many community and parent volunteers helped wherever they were needed.

Act 2 starts off in the Kingdom of Sweets. The Sugar Plum Fairy greets Clara and the Prince. The Fairy is so impressed that she honors Clara with a magnificent celebration. Choreography and ballet movements at their best were displayed. With all this beauty on stage one cannot forget about the musical score. The wonderful music of Tchaikovsky plays as we witness the performances on stage. If you were to close your eyes during the performance, as I did, the composer’s music can also take you on a dream-like adventure. Images of beauty come to mind and allow the mind to travel into a sweet kingdom as Tchaikovsky’s beautifully composed music plays.

(Photo courtesy PHCB)

Different scenes were performed and moved at a rapid pace. This period of divertissement takes the audience around the world as dancers perform for Clara. As the performance is about to end the audience experiences another great performance as the Sugar Plum Fairy, performed by Julia Feldman, and the Cavalier, Cierra Diaz, perform a pas de deux.

The performance was quite a delight. To learn more about Pamela Hayes and the PHCB go to their website. Her Classical Ballet Training is at the essence of this performance and her teaching is based around it as well.

Art in Sacramento continues to grow. The Pamela Hayes studios are located in Sacramento and El Dorado Hills. The El Dorado Hills studio allows for Folsom and nearby community residents find a place closer to home for this type of classical training.

2010 Niello Concours at Serrano

2010-10-07T00:49:48Z

Beautiful vintage automobiles adorned the green around the Serrano Visitor Center in El Dorado Hills. Autos from different eras were on display celebrating the British Marques. The 2010 Niello Concours at Serrano showcased British vehicles from a 1908 REO to a 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia.

Rolls Royce, A/C, Triumph, Allard, TVR, Arnolt, Morgan, Austin Healey, MG, Bentley, Lotus, Daimler, Greeves, Jaguar, and the Aston Martin were all represented at the show with one or more vehicles. Visitors to the event, if they wished, could take a test drive on the newest Jaguars. Many took advantage of the offer but I’m not sure how many were sold. As I passed by the Jaguar display test drive area some of the Jags came and went with test drivers. Also on display were other Jaguars such as the Jaguar XF-R, the XK-R Convertible, and the XJ SuperSport. The Jaguar, in 2010, marks its 75th anniversary.

Auto aficionados gathered at the Serrano Visitor Center early Sunday Morning to show off their vintage vehicles or enjoy admiring the many British models. Vendors and sponsors occupied various stations throughout the area. Food and drinks were also sold at other stations. One of my favorite areas was the cognac and cigar area. Hennessy provided the cognac and Briar Patch Smokeshop provided the cigars. This outdoor lounge provided a place to sit and relax.

Some people brought lawn chairs to enjoy the show while others brought a picnic. The lake area provided a nice view and was also used by children to play around. The gazebo next to the lake was used by the emcee and was the central gathering spot for a fashion show and presenting awards to winning vehicle owners.

Proceeds from the event went to the Concours Foundation which is a non-profit corporation. The Foundation provides education, resources, grants, and funding to youth in the areas of safe and sober driving practices. The organization hopes to foster interest in automobile safety and education.

The 7th Annual Niello Concours at Serrano also included a fashion show at noon. The fashion show was presented by Crush of Fountains at Roseville. Their boutique specializes in fashion trends, accessories, and gifts at reasonable prices. Some of the outfits modeled did not seem like they would break the bank.

A one of 16 built Cobra was displayed as was a 1962 Cooper Monaco Sports Racer. Other vehicles included some Exotics and Vintage Race Cars, many classics, muscle, and sports cars. During the event an auto judging contest was also held and winners were selected who were later announced in various categories.

Some of the more memorable vehicles included a 1935 Duesenberg owned by William Randolf Hearst. A personal classic favorite was a 1937 Packard. Award winners paraded down a driveway to the gazebo to receive their prices and pose for pictures.

There was also another group who walked the grounds and was escorted by Liz Miller. Miss El Dorado County (Sarah) and her court (Rebecca), Miss Teen El Dorado County (Raenen) and her court (Shana) walked the grounds. They posed for pictures with the fashion models and with some of the vehicles being showcased. An annual Miss El Dorado scholarship is offered to the winners of this event and is a good life experience for these young ladies. They mingled with other guests and looked like they were enjoying the experience.

This was a well attended event and the planning that took place was evident. Many sponsors from last year returned for this year’s event. Sponsors and vendors are expected to grow in the next few years as well. To view more on this and past years’ Concours events log on to their site.

LUKAS NELSON & PROMISE OF THE REAL: Part 2

2010-10-02T22:34:29Z

'I know where I'm going and I know the truth, and I don't have to be what you want me to be. I'm free to be what I want.'
                                                                                                                                                                                                       Muhammad Ali
______________

This country was built on handshakes and agreements between people. One person promises another that they are dependable and a venture is initiated. “I give you my word,” and the river of credibility flows. News journalists, those who carry the responsibility of accurately and honestly documenting momentous occasions in our country’s history, are handed instant, undisputed credibility. People depend on others to be telling the truth so that there is some semblance of faith, autonomously regenerating itself within the massively complex helix of today’s society. Public figures and writers have the power to affect many with one action. I have lived these forty three years of my life believing that those with a power to emanate change have a duty to be more than capable. You have to be telling the truth.

On the evening of Thursday September 16th, perched atop a grassy field, Carrera Productions presented an evening with Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings. As many of us expected, the legendary master of the slide guitar did not disappoint. Roy is a consummate artist who commands stages all over the world.

Opening for Roy, was a band I had never heard of before their appearance that evening: Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real (POTR). I was intrigued by the responsibility the name symbolized, yet was tepid about what I would find.

As many readers already know, the first part of the interview with Lukas Nelson, was published prior to the show. I have waited some time before continuing with the second part of the interview so that I knew without a doubt that I would be honest with my impression now having seen them perform. I wanted the effects of the evening to smooth out so I could reach back into that night with a clear picture in my head and with as accurate an interpretation as I could muster. The events of that evening deserve no lesser of an effort.
_______________

(We pick up the interview talking about how a person keeps life in perspective when everything around him is moving quickly and picking up speed as he goes.)

LN:   My family and I get along and they keep me grounded. I’m always trying to work and use my muscles and my body . . . to be involved in the band. I always load-in and load-out at the venues and I just try to keep myself as grounded, and level headed, as possible. See things from other people’s points of view and not let the ego get in the way. I just live my life and work. I have fun and try to do well every day.

MF:   I know you have a lot of inspiration around you. Have you ever broken away to visit a specific geographic area to study music? Break out on your own? Go to the South to study Blues . . . find out things for yourself in your own way?

LN:   I was studying music in school and dropped out to go on my musical journey. I explored a lot of things (in Hawaii) and then I started the band but I never had any specific desire to ‘go anywhere’. . . I’m always kinda happy where I’m at. It’s more about me honing my own craft, rather than going somewhere like, some “mecca” idea. I get to do that all the time, just travelling on the road.

MF:   I really enjoy the distant island feel of some of your songs. And we talked earlier about ‘Mystery’ and ‘My Own Wave’; they have such a relaxed sense of boundlessness. They flow differently from the other cuts on the EP. What rock music influence was there in Hawaii?

LN:   I jammed a lot in Maui with a guy named Donny Smith. We used to have jams at his house and relax . . . and get into the total improvisation experience. Jimi Hendrix is probably my favorite artist and I like Zeppelin, Floyd and Paul Butterfield. Bob Dylan, my Dad, and Johnny Cash are heroes of mine. Neil Young is up in the top 3 . . . they all influenced me. I like roots music, Americana. Rambling Jack Elliot. Billie Holliday, Benny Goodman, and even classical music . . . what your ear hears, all influences you. Chopin, Gershwin, Momma Cass, Big Momma Thornton, Nina Simone . . . Odetta . . . I just listen to everybody . . . Miles Davis. . .

MF: Would you like to acknowledge any of your gear sponsors?

LN:   I don’t have a sponsor but I sure love ‘D-R STRINGS’ . . . super nice people. The owners are great friends of mine. I love those people. I’ve been playing a VOLT amp and mostly Fenders. Takamine . . . I should give a shout out to them for sending me that great guitar. I play a Martin and I also play harmonica and piano, but in a live show it’s hard to be able to afford a grand piano on stage . . . I wish I could. I can’t play drums that well, but anything that makes a sound I’ve probably played at one point.

Before I wound down the interview, I wanted to know more about what he considered ‘real’. Since the band is ‘Promise of the Real’ , I was very interested to know what kind of ‘real’ laid ahead out on the horizon.

MF: Your music is enticing in every sense of the word. I find I am playing it over and over and it’s been a long, long time since I’ve seen a band that has been able to master this ‘old comfortable shoe’ feel that you guys have going on. Each one of you takes a part of the control and it produces such a continuous flow. Everyone is in sync with everyone else. No one person is standing alone, dominating the pack. What do you think will keep everyone ‘real’ when you start the new record and are dealing with a management company that might say hey, this corporation over here wants to use your song in their product marketing and it’s a lot of money so we really want you be the team players we know you to be.

LN: I don’t necessarily think that that’s NOT real. (pauses) It’s all about human imperfection and that we’re human and you get what you get. Not being afraid to say hey, screw you I don’t want to sell out to Coke, or if you want to do it then DO IT. Being real means being honest and being true to yourself. If you are going to do something, it’s because you WANT to do it, not because it’s a good business opportunity or something. I have always been able to tell people straight. I don’t want to do something I don’t want to.

It also depends on what Management you have too. There are good Managers who will understand the value of the artist and the vision that the artist has (being true to yourself). Then there are Managers who have an agenda, who paint a picture of what they think the artist should be, and all that stuff doesn’t matter. When you have talent, the artist should have control over what he puts out. I was lucky to have met a guy named Matt Charkow. He’s with William Morris and he’s taken the band under his wing as an Agent. He’s really fallen in love with the band. We’ve been lucky.

It’s really about the synchronicity of things, but you have to put in the time. If you do, things will be good. I think we’ve put 80,000 miles on our RV in the last year and a half and we’ve had shows where nobody shows up. We just play music and it doesn’t bother me. I know we’re going to do fine because I’ve been around music my whole life. I like my music and I think if YOU like it, I think it will be good.
_________________

The sun went down in all shades of magenta and blue. Wafts of acoustic guitar floated into a perfect night sky. Epoch fretboard skills shredded solo after solo until Lukas himself crashed down onto the stage floor, continuing to play on his knees. John Avila was a force of nature on Bass. Keeping time with two, sometimes three instruments, he moved and jumped around like a lead guitarist!! Tato Melgar has an entire percussion section complete with congo, chimes, and hand-held instruments providing a bevy of exotic sounds. Not to be overlooked in the least, Drummer, Anthony LoGerfo is as tight as it gets. His expressive style and solid skinning is no less or more important than the performances from the other three. These guys are a team from start to stop. That’s how they arrived, and that’s how they headed back home to Los Angeles, waving goodbye and saying thank you to everyone.

There is no way to define what Lukas, Anthony, Tato and John are developing. You can’t put them in a box and slap a label on it. Their lyrical imagery and arrangements transcend generations effortlessly. Think back to the days when music’s most abstract pioneers were just emerging. Before they became icons, you yourself were listening, discovering their work for the first time. Although you couldn’t quite put a handle on it, it moved you and you liked it. Dylan’s lyrics poured from his heart to yours. Robert Plant wailed and moaned, and ‘The Man in Black‘ Johnny Cash, held up his middle finger so you could get a good look at what was about to come your way. All had completely different styles but they were alike in the exacting and unadulterated way they remained focused and honed their craft without deference to industry demographics or niche marketing.

Now, standing before you, are four musicians bringing their truth and offering it for you to share. Gritty at times and full of emotion, they are absolute in the delivery of their vision. They bring an excitement and love of music to a powerful high point while still remaining vulnerable and down-to-earth. More importantly still, they are unmoving and unafraid. They are all that is honest and believable in a time when much of what we see and hear, turns out to be less than what we expected.

He is Lukas Nelson, and they truly are a Promise of The Real.

Interested in Adopting?

2010-06-29T18:36:03Z

If you are interested in adopting a child, the first step is to educate yourself about adoption and become familiar with the various types of adoption available to you. The most common types of adoptions are:

Foster adoptions – The children were placed into child protective custody for their safety and cannot be returned to their birth parents or cared for by extended family.

Domestic private adoptions – The children are not in foster care and the adoption is typically handled by a lawyer and the two parties; birth parents and adoptive family.

International adoptions – The children are from a foreign country and, again, the adoption is typically handled by a lawyer or international adoption agency. Travel to the foreign county will most likely be required.

Lilliput Children’s Services is a local, Sacramento-based agency that specializes in foster adoptions. While we are headquartered in Sacramento, we have 10 other offices throughout Northern California, including Granite Bay and El Dorado Hills allowing us to effectively serve all of Northern California.

Lilliput has completed over 4,500 adoptions for California foster children; over 2,000 in the past two years alone! Lilliput has a 30 year history of serving children and families. In the private sector, we lead the state in numbers of children placed and adopted each year through foster/adoption. As foster/adoption specialists, we have a strong reputation and relationships within the public child welfare system, allowing us to truly work as a team with your family and the child’s county or state agency.

All of the social workers in our foster and adoption program have a Masters degree in Social Work and many of our social work staff and management are licensed clinical social workers. We also have a very low rate of social work turnover. This means that you will be working with a team of professionals with excellent social work skills and training, who are equipped to work sensitively and effectively with your family.

Orientation meetings for prospective foster and adoptive parents are regularly held at Lilliput offices. These informal group meetings are held in a casual setting and are led by a Lilliput social worker. Information about the foster-adoption process, the children in foster care and the role you would play is provided, with plenty of time for questions and answers.

You can contact your local Lilliput office (go to www.Lilliput.org to find the office closest to you) to register for an orientation and to learn more about the steps for fostering and adopting with Lilliput.

Numerous Free Holiday Events at El Dorado Hills Town Center

2009-12-14T22:01:44Z

El Dorado Hills, Calif. — December 11, 2009 —A variety of free holiday events will take place at El Dorado Hills Town Center throughout December. The charming European-style shopping center is just 30 minutes from downtown Sacramento and features photos with Santa, a Santa Run Parade, free musical theatre performances and numerous entertainment opportunities at unique restaurants and Regal’s IMAX theatre.

On Saturday, Dec. 19 from noon to 3 p.m., there will be photos with Santa, and then every weekend until Christmas, there will be musical performances by El Dorado Musical Theatre. Finally, the holiday season will culminate with the El Dorado Hills Firefighters’ Association’s Santa Run Grand Finale on Friday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

El Dorado Musical Theatre’s premier performing group, High Voltage – The Tour Company, will present “The Holiday Reunion, a Celebration of Holiday Music and Dance” in a 100+seat theatre that has been created for them within Town Center at 4357 Town Center Drive. Shows generally run Thursday through Sunday nights through December 20. See www.edmt.info for performance times.
Then on Friday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., it’s one of the town’s favorite celebrations – the Santa Run Grand Finale by the El Dorado Hills Firefighters Association. This parade will culminate with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, cookies and lots of free fun.
El Dorado Hills Town Center is also encouraging the community to bring non-perishable food items and toys to drop boxes within the center to support both Toys for Tots and the El Dorado County Food Bank.

El Dorado Hills Town Center is located off Hwy. 50 at Latrobe Road in El Dorado Hills. From Sacramento, take Hwy. 50 east toward Lake Tahoe and exit at Latrobe Road. Make the first left turn onto Town Center Drive. For more information, visit www.eldoradohillstowncenter.com.

Sacramento Office Space Rates Decline

2009-03-30T23:49:53Z

The Sacramento office market experienced a year-over-year decline of up to 13 percent for key submarkets as landlords began lowering prices and offering incentives in order to attract tenants. In addition with businesses downsizing or closing offices altogether, more space has come on the market which has helped to drive down prices even further.

The following section shows the year-over-year declines for the average price of space in key Sacramento submarkets. (The price range factors in specific location and class of space) :

Downtown - 2009 rates are 8 to 11 percent lower

El Dorado Hills - 2009 rates are 7 to 11 percent lower

Elk Grove - 2009 rates are 8 to 11 percent lower

Highway 80 Area - 2009 rates are 6 to 10 percent lower

Roseville/Rocklin - 2009 rates are 10 to 13 percent lower

While none of the major submarkets posted a gain in average price between 2008 and 2009, there is a silver lining for businesses that signed leases at higher rates. Depending on their individual lease situation, they may be able to negotiate for a lower rate if they are willing to renew their lease. However with the current market situation, many Sacramento businesses are apprehensive about making long-term commitments until the economy begins to turn around. Until that happens, prices for office space in Sacramento will likely go even lower.

Data Source: Synergy Real Estate Group