Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "fireworks"

Ask the County Law Librarian - "Safe & Sane" Fireworks on New Year's Eve?

2011-07-07T21:16:13Z

Q. Hello,

I found your website and I have a question about fireworks. I happen to have been born on New Year's Eve and always thought it would be fun (weather permitting) to have some of the Red Devil fountains to light . . . I guess they are called safe and sane now . . . in my day, that meant Red Devils!

So, is it legal to set off California legal fireworks any time of year? If not, would I need a permit or something? Also, is it legal to purchase fireworks online, as long as they meet a safe and sane standard?

Also, I would most likely be celebrating with friends in Citrus Heights . . . does that make a difference?

FYI, we would either use the street, or the driveway. I'm totally willing to get oil drip pans and fill them with clay cat litter to catch the sparks. We always have a bucket of water, a hose and a fire extinguisher handy.

Thanks! Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Pamela

A. Hi Pamela!

Nice to see that someone else is concerned with safety when it comes to handling fireworks. Personally, I think “safe and sane fireworks” is an oxymoron, but I realize I am in the minority.

According to the California Code of Regulations, a license isn’t required for the use or discharge of “safe and sane” fireworks. 19 CCR § 981. The specifications for “safe and sane” fireworks is set forth in 19 CCR § 986.6. You can search the California Code of Regulations at http://ccr.oal.ca.gov/linkedslice/default.asp?SP=CCR-1000&Action=Welcome.

California “State Fireworks Law” limits the time period for legally selling “safe and sane” fireworks to between noon June 28 and 10 p.m. July 6th of the same year. California Health & Safety Code § 12599. The state law does not seem to limit the time of year you can set off fireworks; however, “nothing in the State Fireworks Law authorizes the sale, use, or discharge of fireworks in any city or county where that sale, use, or discharge is otherwise prohibited or regulated.” California Health & Safety Code § 12541.

Both the County of Sacramento and the City of Citrus Heights prohibit the possession, sale, use, display or explosion of any fireworks with two exceptions: certain public displays with the written permission of the fire chief that take place under the supervision and direction of a state-licensed operator; and the sale, use or discharge of “safe and sane” fireworks to noon June 28 and 10 p.m. July 5th of the same year. Sacramento County Code § 4.54.320; Citrus Heights Code of Ordinances § 38-68. You can search the Citrus Heights Code of Ordinances at http://library.municode.com/index.aspx?clientID=13326&stateID=5&statename=California.

So, no “safe and sane” fireworks display on New Year’s Eve in Citrus Heights. As for purchasing them online, the State Fireworks Law provides that “it is unlawful for any person to sell or transfer any safe and sane fireworks to a consumer or user thereof other than at a
fixed place of business of a retailer for which a license and permit has been issued.” California Health & Safety Code § 12681.

I’m sorry, Pamela. Don’t worry, though, I’m sure you will have a Happy Birthday anyway—it is the law of safety karma.

Do you have a question for the County Law Librarian? Just email sacpress@saclaw.org. If your question is selected your answer will appear in next Thursday's column. Even if your question isn't selected, though, I will still respond within two weeks.

Coral Henning, Director
@coralh & @saclawlibrarian

www.saclaw.org

Officials share fireworks and water safety tips

2011-07-02T00:16:28Z

Lighting fireworks at the Fourth of July block party is a common tradition in Sacramento, and local firefighters shared tips to make sure those fireworks are used properly so the holiday is a safe one.

Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District Assistant Chief Dale Turner said the two most important safety concerns with fireworks are making sure they are used correctly with adult supervision and that they are used in a safe area away from combustible materials.

There should also be 30 feet of pavement, concrete or dirt around fireworks to ensure no fires are started, Sacramento Fire Department Deputy Chief Lloyd Ogan said.

He added that only “Safe and Sane” fireworks are legal to use in the city.

“Safe and Sane” fireworks are approved by the State Fire Marshal and are sold by reputable dealers.

When shooting off fireworks, Turner advised having a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby to put out any fires that could start.

“Don’t put used fireworks directly in the trash can,” he said. “Even an hour, two hours, six hours later, they can actually cause a fire.”

He said that with most people storing garbage cans near their houses, those fires can spread and become potentially lethal house fires.

“It always happens every year,” Turner said. “It’s absolutely life-threatening, especially in the middle of the night.”

Ogan stressed the need to follow instructions on the fireworks themselves.

“Fireworks should never be held in the hand unless they are designed for that, but most aren’t,” he said.

He added that any firework that leaves the ground – such as bottle rockets – is illegal.

Fireworks should not be modified, Turner said, since they are designed to work in a certain way, and modifying them makes them illegal.

“You can get really life-changing injuries,” he said. “We want you to have fun with fireworks and celebrate our independence, but do it with conscious thought and in a safe area.”

Turner stressed the importance of supervising children with fireworks.

“When my children were young, my eldest son burned my youngest son with a sparkler, and the scar is still there 15 years later,” he said.

Anyone who has illegal fireworks can drop them off at any fire station for disposal, and they will not be penalized as long as they have not been used, Ogan said.

To ensure a firework is legal, check for the “Safe and Sane” emblem shown in the image below.

“Safe and Sane” fireworks may be legally used from now until noon on Tuesday, Ogan said.

Water Safety

With the Fourth of July weekend drawing people to the rivers, Turner stressed the importance of water safety, adding that this year’s river flows are stronger and higher than in years past.

“This year is worse than any other year,” he said. “We’ve had 89 rescues since June 17, and we usually have about 30 all year.”

Ogan added that anyone using the rivers, especially at Discovery Park at the confluence of the American and Sacramento rivers, should wear a life vest and supervise children.

“Also pay attention to how long you’ve been in the water,” he said. “The water is going to be cold, and you shouldn’t be in for more than a few minutes.”

Dangers of exposure to cold water include hypothermia and lack of strength to leave the water.

For more information on water safety and how to check the fit of a life jacket, click here.

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

CITY OF SACRAMENTO ENCOURAGES PUBLIC TO BE SAFE AND HAVE FUN THIS JULY 4TH HOLIDAY WEEKEND

2011-06-30T20:44:04Z

The City of Sacramento reminds residents and visitors to be safe this July 4th Holiday weekend. Below are a few friendly reminders:

• The City and County of Sacramento require that anybody under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket while in the regions’ waterways.

• Children should be supervised at all times when fireworks are in use; even Safe and Sane fireworks can cause injury. Do not let your children run with sparklers and ensure that they maintain a safe distance from others while handling them to avoid accidental burns. Always have a functioning hose ready to fully extinguish used fireworks.

• And, please do not drink and drive.

Given the historically high volume of calls over the 4th of July Holiday, the Sacramento Fire Department will be adding three additional fire companies into service and two boat companies from July 2 through the 5. In addition, the Sacramento Police Marine Unit will be on the waterways patrolling to make sure everyone has a good but safe time on the river.

In addition, the Sacramento Fire Department’s CERT Team will be at Tiscornia Beach at Discovery Park this 4th of July Holiday weekend loaning out life jackets to anyone who is at the beach from 2 to 5 p.m. This effort is part of the regional free lifejacket use program at participating regional Fire stations.

Ask the County Law Librarian - Fireworks Stands

2011-06-23T20:14:22Z

Q:

I was surprised recently to come home to a fireworks stand in a parking lot adjacent to my house. I feel that it is too close for safety. What are the laws in the city of Sacramento for fireworks stands?

Thank you,

Lori

Thanks for reading and submitting your question! Late June, fireworks stands start appearing seemingly overnight and appear on almost every street corner. Before the individual or organization can set up a fireworks stand in the City of Sacramento, they must first apply for a Permit to Sell Safe and Sane Fireworks. All applicants must provide the city with a public liability policy in the amount of $50,000 and a $25,000 property damage policy and a products liability policy in the amount of $300,000 showing the City of Sacramento as additional insured thereunder.

California has a “State Fireworks Law” that can be found in the Health and Safety Code, Section 12500 – 12728, but it mostly discusses general provisions, definitions, and the classification of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices. For the answer to your question, we need to look within the ordinances for the City of Sacramento, specifically chapter 8.48.130 which discusses temporary fireworks stands. According to this section, “No fireworks shall be located within twenty-five (25) feet of any other building or within one hundred (100) feet of any gasoline pump or distribution point”. So depending on how close the stand is to your house, there may be a potential violation.

There are other requirements necessary for a fireworks stand, including the number of required exits, two unless the stand is longer than 40 feet, or maintaining two fire extinguishers that are in good working order and easily accessible for use in case of fire. Of course, “No Smoking” signs are to be prominently displayed on the fireworks stand. If you think your fireworks stand is in violation of any of these laws, you can contact your local fire department; chapter 8.48.150 states the fire chief or the chief’s designee may revoke the permit immediately if it is determined there is a violation.

Even though a fireworks stand can be an eyesore, often it is the number one fundraising tool for most non-profit organizations. The stand should be disassembled and removed no later than July 20th.

Coral Henning, Director
@coralh & @saclawlibrarian

www.saclaw.org

New Years Eve Old Sac Style

2011-01-02T04:07:39Z

The streets of Old Sac were packed New Years Eve night in anticipation of the fireworks show announcing the year 2011. The Theatre of Lights showcased as well as music and fun things for the kids.

Here's a glimpse of what was happening:

At the conclusion of the Theatre of Lights show on K St. confetti was sprayed onto the crowd.

Kids and their parents enjoyed the evening with food and glow lights.

RadioDisney.com offered contests for the little ones in the Waterfront Tent on Front St (above and below). A youngster tosses a hula-hoop trying to encircle the gal in white at right. On his first try, the hoop caught me, but that didn't count.

Contestants ran across the stage with recyclables across the stage to see who could deposit the most.

The Crescent Club Speakeasy, above and below, celebrated the New Year with Gangsters, Glamour and Gambling. The Roaring 20's style evening's entertainment included a Speakeasy Casino, Ballroom Swing Dancing, Gypsy Jazz, Cabaret, and Burlesque, featuring live music by the notorious Au Brothers Jazz Ensemble from New York.

Tango by the River, above and below, featured the 5-piece tango orchestra QTango at their New Year's Eve Tango Ball. The Black and White event was advertised to last until 4am "or until DJ Kenny Bell kicks us out," Donna Williams, founder, said.

The 9pm fireworks show was a bit less spectacular than the grand finale at midnight, but still impressive.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Light Up the Night in Old Sacramento for a FREE New Year's Eve Sky Spectacular!

2010-12-14T18:06:15Z

Looking for a festive (and free!) way to ring in the New Year?

Following a New Year’s Eve tradition 11 years in the making, visitors to Old Sacramento will be treated to a free New Year’s Eve celebration all along the waterfront. Prior to the two dazzling firework shows scheduled to light up the night sky at 9 p.m. and midnight, the festive community event also features live music, food and drink vendors and a variety of lively street entertainment, all taking place throughout Old Sacramento and lasting from 6 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Of special interest to children and families, kid-friendly entertainment will be provided from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. under the tent in Waterfront Park.   The free celebratory evening activities are produced by the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Guests to Old Sacramento can enjoy two different firework shows -- both stunning and memorable -- as part of the high-energy community celebration. Choreographed to pop music and other family-friendly tunes, the exciting 9 p.m. fireworks show will be tailored to children and families. This early show will last more than 10 minutes in length and can be seen from virtually any vantage point in Old Sacramento. Then at midnight, the “main event” sky concert will be scripted to crowd-pleasing classic rock tunes by musical legends such as Aerosmith, Twisted Sister and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few. The midnight fireworks extravaganza will last nearly 15 minutes in length and originate from both land and the iconic Tower Bridge, providing even more depth and visual intensity.

Both shows promise to take revelers on an emotional journey filled with twists, turns and heart-pounding inspiration. Additionally, guests are encouraged to keep an eye out for a variety of today’s high-end fireworks shaped as hearts or willows, with flashing strobes or even color-changing shells that burst into multiple hues.

The special children’s programming will feature the Radio Disney Rockin’ Road Crew, Hip Trash & Friends (a talented hip-hop dance crew new to event this year), and a variety of other live entertainment performances sure to delight young audiences. Throughout the evening, other highly anticipated entertainment will include Arrival: A Tribute to Journey, the Ralph Woodson Experience, a Jimi Hendrix Tribute Band, the Obsidian Butterfly fire dancers, and more.

Ample pre-pay parking is available in all Old Sacramento and Downtown Plaza parking garages.   In preparation for the evening activities, the Tower Bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. For additional safety, the bridge will be closed to pedestrian traffic for 15 minutes leading up to and after each of the two firework shows.

For more information about times, locations, hotel recommendations or other event details, call 916-808-7777 or visit www.nyesacramento.com

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack handles media and public relations for various local clients and events

Fireworks Bursting in Air

2010-07-04T16:11:19Z

If you can't make it to watch tonight's fireworks show somewhere, check these babies out from Raley Field last night:

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

The River Cats Win with a Bang !!!

2010-07-03T21:55:21Z

The Skies light up with Fireworks following a 4-3 come-from-behind victory in 11 innings as the Sacramento River Cats celebrate the Independence Day holiday with a win over 1st place Fresno.

The Cats have lit up the standings with14 wins out of its past 18 games.

July 4th DIY ideas

2010-07-01T03:52:29Z

Throwing a Fourth of July celebration?

Your fellow Americans have some tips, ranging from home-grown parades and potlucks to Elvis impersonators, dunk tanks and old-school amusements.

This week, a handful of Sacramentans offered ideas on how to have fun and maybe even save a little cash this holiday with celebrations as diverse as the country.

Organizing your own Independence Day parade topped the list of suggestions. Processions can be as small and impromptu as a clanging pots-and-pans parade of kids and adults moseying around the block or as big as a community parade with marching bands and dozens of floats closing down streets.

Jeff Dominguez, who owns Exit Realty West in Midtown, is the go-to guy for advice on how to start your own neighborhood parade. He started the July 4th Pocket Parade 15 years ago to recreate festivities he grew up with along the Sacramento Delta for his family, friends and neighbors.

"I knew the community would embrace a homespun event like that," he said.

Dominguez relied on experience organizing a Santa parade around the Capitol in the late 1980s and early 1990s for Weinstock's department store, where he worked in advertising. His biggest tip is to recruit six smart, capable friends and neighbors who share the vision and can help organize the parade and recruit parade entries.

To get the parade off the ground, be persistent — even if you need to get city special event permits to close a street or support from the Sacramento Police or Fire departments. The first Pocket Parade quickly swelled to 74 entries as word got out.

For big parades, use parade marshals with walkie-talkies or cell phones after every five entries to maintain the pace.

"The idea in its earliest stage when it was still in my head was that it was probably going to be around the block in front of my house," he said. "The street was just lined with people on both sides for the whole parade route. It was something else."

In Sacramento's early days — from 1849 to 1900 — people celebrated the Fourth with lots of parades, fireworks, picnics and street festivals. They picnicked at Plaza Park (now Cesar Chavez Plaza) across from City Hall, East Park (now McKinley Park) and McClatchy Park, called Joyland at the turn of 20th Century when an amusement park operated there.

For free or low-cost entertainment, people held boat races on the Sacramento River, pie-eating contests, bicycle and three-legged races and balloon tosses. They also played bocce ball and musical instruments, sang and held literary readings of new and popular works, said Pat Johnson, a senior archivist with the Center for Sacramento History.

"They didn't have TV, they didn't have radio in the 19th century," she said. "So there would be people doing traditional literary exercises, reading aloud."

Hosting a barbecue, potluck or block party for friends, family and neighbors is a popular, low-cost way to celebrate. Special events planner Dawn Dillman suggested using a theme, such as, "What is Americana?" and asking guests to bring music, poetry and other artsy contributions that reflect the day, the country and its people — much like earlier celebrations.

Two years ago at a family barbecue she helped organize, one person recited Longfellow's "Paul Revere's Ride," Chinese-American friends explained the history of how the Chinese invented fireworks, and then people rocked out to the Grateful Dead and Lynyrd Skynyrd, said Dillman, who owns Sacramento Event Planners and specializes in eco-friendly, cost-conscious celebrations, weddings and corporate events.

They can also bring historic cocktail recipes celebrating the country's regions, such as mint juleps from the south. For a 21st-century twist, she recommended asking people to bring food or drink celebrating their ethnic heritage and their families' Fourth of July celebrations, along with note cards about the dishes, explaining why they were brought.

"In my mind, part of the thing that makes our country so amazing is that we have so much diversity and we have so much culture," she said. "You can really learn a lot about people by what they see as comfort food."

Paradise Party Rentals has the solution to help revelers cool off on Monday, the official national holiday: dunk tank rentals delivered to your home or business. Tanks cost $145 for eight hours. You supply the people who get dunked.

Dunk tanks are very popular for the summer holiday, so unfortunately, the company's two tanks are spoken for Saturday and Sunday.

"Like anything water-related, it's sold out weeks and months in advance for the Fourth of July," said owner Justin Skiba.

For something a little different, invite Elvis to your party. Working through AAA Awesome Impersonations for all Occasions, singer/impersonator Kenny Reeves can channel Elvis, American country stars and even Neil Diamond. He can also sing favorites from the 1950s and 1960s era of American rock.

The 45-year-old has been singing since he was a teen and started impersonating Elvis in 1990. His red, white and blue website sports a Time Magazine photo from 2002, when he competed in the "Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest" in Memphis. He performs at fairgrounds, parties and bars and can be seen twice a year at the Doubletree Hotel in Sacramento at shows marking the legend's birth and death, said his friend and manager, Patti McCloskey.

He already has one gig at Milestone Saloon in Cool on Sunday. But he's still got some slots available that day and throughout the weekend, at $140 for a half hour, $175 for an hour and $250 for a three- or four-hour party. His big July 4th hit: Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA."

"The crowd — every time he does that, they just love that," McCloskey said.

Parade photos provided by Jeff Dominguez. Kenny Reeves photo provided by AAA Awesome Impersonations for all Occasions. Photos of Dawn Dillman and kids at July 4th celebration provided by Dillman. Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter covering business and development for The Sacramento Press.

Sacramento Fourth of July roundup

2010-06-30T03:23:02Z

Looking for an explosive way to spend your Fourth of July? Well, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Fourth of July events in the Sacramento area.

Sacramento

Cal Expo will once again host an Independence Day Celebration sponsored by Coca-Cola and Miller Lite at the Miller Lite Grandstand near the East Gate entrance. The festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a performance from Mick Martin and the Blues Rockers. State Fair mascot Poppy will also be there to entertain the crowds. Cal Expo’s media partner, radio station 107.9 The End, will provide music to the spectacular fireworks show, starting at 9:30 p.m. Parking for the event is $10, and general admission to the show is free. You can also buy reserved seating for $10 at tickets.com, or at the East Gate box office beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday. Cal Expo is located on 1600 Exposition Blvd.

The Sacramento River Cats will be having their own celebration at Raley Field on Friday and Saturday as they host the Fresno Grizzlies. On Friday, the team will honor Sacramento firefighters with a firefighters' night. Fire engine displays will be set up, and firefighters in attendance will be recognized on the field. Stick around after the game for the fireworks, a kick-off to their weekend celebrations. And as the Cats close out their three-game series with the Grizzlies on Saturday, the U.S. Army will present the Sutter Health Fireworks Extravaganza and start the Fourth of July with a bang. Tickets to the games can be purchased online at rivercats.com, or at the Raley Field box office. Raley Field is located at 400 Ballpark Drive in West Sacramento.

If you want to watch the Raley Field fireworks in a classier setting, you can climb aboard the Hornblower yacht in Old Sacramento. Departing from Front Street, the cruise will begin at 7 p.m. and will include the fireworks show, dinner, and dancing. Tickets for the Hornblower are $109 and can be reserved at the Hornblower website.

Old Sacramento’s newest street theater program, “Time Travel Weekends," will put an Independence Day twist on its historical re-enactments for the Fourth of July weekend. Guests can take part in square dancing, croquet, pie-eating contests and picnics while enjoying military parades and cannon firings. The weekend will also feature a reading of the Declaration of Independence.

The Grange Restaurant and Bar on 926 J Street will host its inaugural All American barbecue. The three-course menu will include all the barbecue fixings you love on the Fourth of July. The meal starts with a salad with ranch dressing. The second course provides a slow-cooked Riverdog Farm hog with Carolina barbecue sauce, corn on the cob and potato salad. For dessert, the restaurant offers a berry cobbler with vanilla ice cream. The all-American meal is $35 per person.

The Sacramento Firecracker 5K/10K will be held at McKinley Park at 8 a.m. Saturday. Participants will be given a free short-sleeve T-shirt at the event. Adults and children can take part in a 5K or a 10K run or walk. Registration is $35 until Wednesday for adults, and $40 on race day. Children 15 and under can participate for $20. Proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, a group that aims to help injured men and women in the service.

If you prefer to run for free, the Buffalo Chips Running Club will host its 35th annual Fourth of July five mile run, starting at Glen Hall Park on the corner of Sandburg and Carlson Drives in River Park at 8 a.m. Arrive by 7:45 a.m. to sign in. The kid’s half-mile race begins at 7:45 for ages 10 and younger, and the five mile race begins at 8 a.m.

On Saturday, the Sacramento Pocket area will host its annual Spirit of the Pocket Parade. The parade, featuring about 60 floats, will start at 10 a.m. at Lisbon Elementary School, located at 7775 S. Land Park Drive, and will end at Garcia Bend Park on 7654 Pocket Road. The Grand Marshall of this year’s parade will be Bandit, the German shepherd police dog that was recently shot in the line of duty. Other notables at the parade will be Senate President Pro-Tem Darrell Steinberg and Councilman Robbie Waters. At the end of the parade, a community fair will be held at Garcia Bend Park, where different area businesses will show off some of their wares.

Carmichael

Enjoy a pancake breakfast on the Fourth of July at the Carmichael Park Elks Club Lodge, located at 5631 Cypress Ave. After breakfast, the Carmichael Elks will hold their 52nd annual Fourth of July parade, beginning at 11 a.m. on Marconi and Fair Oaks and ending at the Elks Club Lodge. A celebration will follow at the La Sierra Community Center on 5325 Engle Rd., which will include an outdoor barbecue, live music and dancing, free swimming and games for the kids. The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. at the La Sierra Community Center.

Citrus Heights

In Citrus Heights, Sunrise Mall, located at 6196 Sunrise Mall, will host a free celebration from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday through July 6. The festivities will include live music beginning at 7:30 p.m., a kid’s carnival and a 3D fireworks show. On Independence Day, the mall will present a fireworks show in the parking lot at 9:30 p.m. Special 3D glasses will be distributed for the show, and radio station 98 Rock will provide synchronized music for the festivities.

Rancho Cordova

Rancho Cordova will begin its two-day celebration of Independence Day at 10 a.m. Saturday with a parade on Coloma Road and Cordova Lane. Activities for the children will be provided from 1-6 p.m. at Hagan Park, located on 2197 Chase Drive, including a carnival, water show, tae kwon do, train rides, petting zoo, pony rides and pedal boats. A beer garden will be open from noon until 11 p.m. At 8:30 p.m., former Bad Company singer Brian Howe will perform live. A fireworks show will begin at 9:45 p.m., and on July 4th, Carmichael will provide more food, music and fun. Along with the kids' zone and beer garden, party band Busta-Groove will perform at 8:30 p.m., followed by the grand finale fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Parking is $10 at the park.

Folsom

Presented by the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, the Folsom Pro Rodeo is offering a new laser light show for fans along with nightly fireworks displays. The rodeo begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday with a Bullipede, where brightly-dressed teams of five runners gallop in a western-style race. Also at 6:30 is the cattle drive. Cowboys will parade steers down Sutter Street in the true fashion of the Old West. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the rodeo gates will open at 6 p.m., with roping events starting at 7 p.m. and riding events at 8:15 p.m. After dusk, enjoy the laser and fireworks show while enjoying live music from the Dave Russell Band and a drink in Mike's Golden Spike Saloon. The rodeo is held at the Dan Russell arena, located at 401 Stafford St. in Folsom. Reserved tickets are $22.50 in advance. General admission is $19 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under, and $15 for seniors. Visitors can park at the nearby Wal-Mart on 1018 Riley St. and ride a free shuttle to the arena.

FREE Celebrate America Event in Rocklin

2010-06-26T19:16:48Z

The people of Rocklin and its surrounding communities have picked up again this year where the City left off. Celebrate America took the place of the Rocklin Jubilee last year when the City of Rocklin cut the funding for the decades-running event. But never fear - the private sector is here!

With the help of K-Love/Air-1 and dozens of other sponsoring businesses and donating individuals, Sunset Christian Center is hosting the 2nd Annual Celebrate America event at the Twin Oaks Park in Rocklin tonight. Gates open at 4PM, and the patriotic musical extravaganza begins at 8PM and ends with an aerial fireworks show. This free family-friendly event will be a treat for young and old, and be especially poignant for our veterans, police, and firefighters.

Activities from 4PM to 8PM include several local food vendors; bounce houses and inflatables, including water slides, in the kids Playland; a military display with all branches of the service, including rock climbing walls, a Blackhawk helicopter, and more; face painting and balloon twisting clowns; and local talent acts on the main stage. Entertainers include dance troupes, martial artists, an illusionist, and surprise crowd pleasers. (We could tell you who they are and what they do – but that would ruin the surprise!)

At 8PM over 150 cast, choir and crew members who have been working hard for months bring you the Celebrate America show. This colorful, flag-waving celebration is a patriotic salute to our great country. It incorporates music, dance, drama, a full military processional, fun sing-a-longs, and features 4-time Dove Award Artist of the Year Natalie Grant as the guest performer. K-Love's Larry Wayne will narrate the show, and special guests include Congressman Tom McClintock and Assemblyman Ted Gaines as well as Sunset's own Pastor Greg Fairrington.

And what would an Independence Day celebration be without fireworks? At the end of a rousing rendition of "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "You're a Grand Old Flag" medley, the show ends and an aerial fireworks display begins. You’ll “Ooooo and Ahhhhh” over this perfect exclamation point to a moving tribute to everything good about America. Celebrate America is an event you won't want to miss. For more information, and to see blogs, photos and videos, please visit CelebrateAmericaOnline.com.

Old Sac welcomes New Year

2010-01-01T08:25:22Z

Spectacular fireworks, entertainment and large crowd (as well as the blue moon), bring the New Year in during Old Sacramento's festivities.

Here's some moments:

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

New Year's Eve ball drop off, fireworks on

2009-12-31T04:14:12Z

You may have already heard the New Year's Eve ball drop is off for this year.

Norm Alvis of Edaddywarbucks.com, which co-sponsored the drop last year along with Paragary Restaurant Group, asked both the city and the Downtown Sacramento Partnership to pay a third of the estimated $100,000 for a ball drop. Neither agreed, so the event was canceled.

One celebration that might compare to the spectacle of last year's celebration, which drew an estimated crowd of 12,000 to 20,000 people, is a city-sponsored event in Old Sacramento.

Organized by the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau, the celebration will feature live music, food and drink vendors and perhaps most importantly, a fireworks display at 9 p.m. and midnight. Internationally renowned company Pyrotechnique By Grucci planned the $40,000 "Sky Spectacular," choreographed to music and featuring computer-assisted launching from West Sacramento.

One unique vantage point for the fireworks display is the Empress Hornblower cruise boat.

The free event begins at 6 p.m. near Rio City Cafe. A tent will hold live music by rock'n'roll singer-songwriter Todd Morgan and Jimi Hendrix-tribute band Ralph Woodson Experience. Radio Disney Rockin' Road Crew will also provide a variety of individual and group performances.

Entertainment continues in the streets of Old Sacramento.

Clemon Charles, a pop and rock artist will play from 6 to 10 p.m. on the corner of Second and J streets. Allie Marcel and Friends will play blues-rock on the corner of Front and J streets from 8 p.m. to midnight, and Autumn Sky will sing pop-folk on Front Street in front of the train ticket booth at 8 and 10 p.m. The Obsidian Butterfly Fire Dance and Performing Arts group will perform on the corner of Front and K streets from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Vendors will be selling warm drinks including coffee, tea and hot chocolate as well as snack foods like kettle corn, hot dogs and pretzels, until about 12:30 a.m. Restaurants in Old Sacramento will also be open and selling food.

"(Previous years), we've had anywhere between 30,000 and 50,000 people," said Mike Testa, The Convention and Visitors Bureau's vice president of communications and public affairs. "Our attendance might be higher because of the economy (since) people are looking for value and it's a family event."

Luckily, a break in rainfall is predicted Thursday night and into the wee hours of the new year. It's not expected to return until about 4 a.m. New Year's Day, give or take a few hours.

There will also be plenty of portable toilets, Sac PD officers and private security, Testa said.

Visit nyesacramento.com for the full entertainment schedule. Visit sacramentopress.com/tag/newyearseve for more New Year's Eve events.

What are your New Year's plans? Please discuss below.

Old Sacramento New Year's Eve Fireworks Cruises

2009-12-29T20:30:35Z

The hottest spot for a New Year's Eve celebration is aboard the Empress Hornblower in Old Sacramento. They will have two fireworks cruises on New Year's Eve for the 9:00pm and 12:00pm fireworks at Tower Bridge. The first is a Dinner Gala cruise from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. Enjoy the fabulous buffet dinner, open standard cocktail bar, including after dinner liquors and house champagne, festive New Year's Eve party favors, pre-boarding photograph and live DJ entertainment for dancing.

The second is a Midnight Cocktail cruise from 11:00pm to 1:00pm. Enjoy delicious hors d'ouevres, free flowing house champagne with a no-host bar for all other beverages, festive New Year's Eve party favors, pre-boarding photograph and D.J. for dancing.

Both leave from the L Street Dock behind the Delta King. Prices start at $159 plus tax and service charge for the Dinner cruise and $109 plus tax and service for the Cocktail cruise. Reservations are suggested. For tickets call 916-446-1185 or online at www.hornblower.com.

Juveniles now wanted felons after fireworks theft

2009-07-03T21:51:22Z

Three juveniles, ages 14 to 15, cased then robbed the fireworks stand on the corner of 47th Ave & 44th St. in South Sacramento Friday just after noon.

A Sheriff helicopter orbited the area around the school where the juveniles were last seen breaking apart the large package of fireworks they had just stolen from the fireworks stand hosted by Parkway Swim and Tennis. Public address announcements were made from the helicopter stating to people in the neighborhood: "we are looking for three felons who just stole a large red package of fireworks…" This was the largest package of fireworks offered and is considered a "block party" set that sells for $600. The helicopter spotted the torn apart red packaging in the middle of the school field where ground officers retrieved it.

Kids present from Parkway Swim and Tennis turned and saw the juvenile thieves fleeing with the large package that took all three of them to carry away. They alerted volunteer mom Jessica Rodriguez-Veneroni who ran after the subjects.

The three juvenile wanted felons remain at large. If you live in the area and have information that may lead to the apprehension of the suspects and return of the items, please contact the Sacramento Sheriffs department right away.

Red, White and Blue Agenda: What to do this 4th of July

2009-07-02T05:04:48Z

With so many ways to show your patriotism, there will be no excuse to be blue in Sacramento this weekend.

Daytime Fun on the Fourth

Annual East Sacramento Parade
Parade begins: 10 a.m.
Route: Walking 41st and 42nd streets at M Street in red, white and blue.

Pyrospectacular at Cal Expo
What: Independence Day fireworks celebration
When: Gates open at 4:30 p.m., fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.
Where: Cal Expo. Guests should use the East Gate, located at the intersection of Exposition Boulevard and Challenge Way, as the main entrance to the event. Enter through the D Lot parking area.
Highlights: Largest-scale pyrotechnics display in the area’s history; music and dancing in the Grandstand area; live harness racing starting at 5 p.m. in the Miller Lite Grandstand; live music and dancing with Mobility, a subdivision of the U.S. Air Force band of the Golden West
What to know: General admission is free, but parking is $10 per vehicle. A limited number of $10 reserved seats are on sale. Arrive early and bring lawn chairs and blankets. Fireworks, cans, glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Bags and ice chests will be searched at the gate. The grass infield will be open on the north side with a section for persons with disabilities set up on the apron by the Winner’s Circle.

Rancho Cordova Fouth of July What: The 25th annual Rancho Cordova Fourth of July celebration
When: July 3 and 4
Where: Hagan Park, 2197 Chase Dr., Rancho Cordova
Highlights: Pablo Cruise performs July 3,Double Funk Crunch performs July 4, five nights of carnival rides, two nights of fireworks, community parade, food and craft vendors and a Guitar Hero competition.
More info: http://www.ranchocordovajuly4th.com/ or (916) 851-8818

33rd Annual Fourth of July Five-miler
What: Sacramento’s oldest running event!
When: July 4
7:15 to 7:45 a.m. — Sign in (everyone must sign a waiver)
7:45 a.m. — Start of Kids’ Half-Mile Race (ages 10 and younger)
8 a.m. — Start of Five-Mile Race
Where: Glen Hall Park, on the corner of Sandburg and Carlson Drive in River Park, directly north of Sacramento State.
Highlight: This event is free!

Esquire IMAX Theatre $5 Movie & Dinner Deal What: Guests who show a $20 receipt from any downtown area restaurant can purchase a standard IMAX ticket for $5. Hollywood films receive $5 off ticket price. This offer is valid Sunday through Friday only at the Esquire IMAX Theatre in Downtown Sacramento through Aug. 20.
When: July 4 at 3 p.m.
Where: Esquire IMAX Theatre

Pub Crawl
What: Join the First Annual Sacramento Fourth of July Pub Crawl as it celebrates independence. When: 3 p.m. Where: 1. Bonnlair
2. Club Raven
3. Limelight
4. G.V. Hurley's, Blue Cue or Harlow's
5. Monkey Bar
6. Golden Bear
7. Distillery
8. Stone Grille
9. Old Tavern
10. Zebra Club
11. Whiskey Wild
12. Benny's (Q Street)
13. Press Club More info: sjwolfgram@gmail.com

Night Life on the Fourth

Torch Club
What: Based in the San Francisco Bay Area , David Landon creates plenty of excitement with his metal-edged rock guitar sound. He refreshed several of the very standard standards he takes on, especially a funked up version of Carl Perkins' "Blue Suede Shoes."
Where: 904 15th St., across from the Memorial Auditorium.
More info: $6 cover. http://www.torchclub.net

Harlow's
What: Nikolas Willrich and Eric Wade present Top 40 DJ with a live drummer.
Where: 2708 J St.
More info: http://www.harlows.com

Empire
What: TAT Productions and One Vision team up for the ultimate Saturday party, Rejuvenate. DJ Illest keeps the dance floor hot with his wicked mix of hip-hop and R&B.
Where: 1417 R St.
More info: $10 cover. For VIP booth reservations, e-mail vip@empireeventscenter.com.