Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "health"

When things fall apart

2012-01-30T09:40:37Z

Every morning 1,800 employees enter the California State Board of Equalization Building. Past the sliding glass doors, security, then up the elevators to get to work. Most never notice the 2 by 5 signs taped to the glass doorways upfront.

Warning: Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm, may be found in the facility. California Health and Safety Code Section 25249.6

Though it's not only harmful chemicals, that has plagued the safety of the buiding in the past. Two weeks ago, on January 11, pieces of broken glass fell eight stories to the sidewalk on 5th and N Street.

The sidewalk is still blocked with caution tape and orange cones although the gaping hole between the 8th and 9th floors has been secured with plywood according to the Department of General Services.

Sooner or later the cones and yellow tape will also go away and the employees won't remember a thing. They will go on with their lives, remaining apathetic because, they're just too busy to think about it.

After all, a day without work means no revenue for the State of California. The staff is there to complete the work, not to complain about their environment.

"It's dangerous, really dangerous," exclaimed Phillip Robinson, an IT professional who has worked in the building for more than 8 years. "In the past, they had scaffolding on all four sides. I'm surprised they only blocked off the side where the window fell off."

He glances up at the high rise pointing to where the piece fell off. There were more random pieces that fell down in the afternoon. This prompted the guards not only to close the sidewalk but also the traffic lane adjacent to the building on 5th Street to close.

"We don't know if other debris will fall. There's no guarantee. Watch your head, " a security guard warned.

Tax professionals slaving away at their desk received an email from the union in the afternoon to encourage letters of concern to media.

"No one wants to say anything. Most are afraid to be fired if they did," states Luz Susa who works in the returns support unit. Silence is golden for the golden state.

While it is true. Management does have every intention to move the employees out of the place, they just do not have the funds to do so. The money for relocation would come from the general fund because the owners of the building is the Department of General Services.

With California holding the bag for a $17.5 Bilion deficit, and already cutting jobs and social service programs, there is just no room to renovate the building to code.

Even if civil servants end up with tumors after serving their time, it looks like management will still be at this gridlock.

Historically, the building has had it's string of flaws. People have reported getting trapped in elevators, plumbing breaks leading to floods on the 9th floor, and front glass sliding doors coming loose almost falling on innocent bystanders. Other red flags wave at poor air quality, freezing temperatures that force employees to work with their winter coats on, mold scares, and strange odors that forced entire floors to close.

Still, the managers, tax representatives, and support staff continue to work in hazardous health and safety conditions like it's not any more dangerous working in the BOE building than Fukushima.

Why do they do it? They do so because they have hungry families to feed, because they have no other place to go, and the State of California urgently needs this money. This money that they can't even touch.

The irony is that state workers file in to work with more pressure to collect needed tax dollars so California can be restored to a fully functional budget, not factoring in their own risk in the equation.

After all, is it worth losing a job when your family, sanity, and long term health is really what is at stake?

Maybe we should take the action of the vendor who used to run the cafeteria's example. One day , they just up and left without notice to the Department of General Services.

If it looks dangerous, it probably is.

Run away, really fast. DGS obviously does not care about the people who work in the building. In fact, they're careful to make them stand under more danger while they wait for their lunch to cook.

Disclosure: Author is a civil servant. She also worked in commercial and residential real estate for 7 years prior to joining the state.

A JOURNEY OF HOPE - Part II

2012-01-27T20:54:32Z

Written in memory of our brave daughter, Katie Janae Cramer, who went to Heaven January 6, 2011.

TO THE HOUSE OF THE KING

Continued from A Journey of Hope- Part 1

It was January 2007, and our family would spend the next three years, three months climbing out of the valley of childhood cancer. We emerged - battle-fatigued and scarred - but we had emerged! And no one enjoyed being out of that valley more than our daughter.

Katie seemed to have a renewed vigor for life. The battle hadn’t dampened her spirit - it energized it! She was ready to put her ordeal behind her and get on with life. She enjoyed her friends, being involved at church, and continued to excel in school.

In February of 2011, our now 16-year old daughter decided to enter the first Miss Teen Asia Sacramento Pageant. It was a bit unusual for her to intentionally seek out this kind of attention; her unassuming and soft-spoken nature definitely did not fit the typical pageant mold.

Nevertheless, we were excited for her to step into the limelight, hoping it would increase her involvement with the Asian community and improve her leadership skills. Katie had a story of triumph to tell and was a natural beauty.

Katie won the title of Second Princess, as well as a special award for Academic Excellence. The beautiful butterfly we had foreseen fifteen years ago in the gray city of Liuzhou was now in her full glory! In a little over a week, our world will be turned upside-down once again.

Relapse. The most dreaded word in childhood cancer. Telling our daughter the cancer was back was more than painful. Katie had only been twelve years old when first diagnosed; she had little knowledge about the world of cancer. Now sixteen, she knew what to expect and understood the consequences were more dire.

Childhood cancer parent, Steve McNitt, Cameron Park, put it this way when he learned their son’s cancer had returned, “On June 1st, 2009, Caleb celebrated three years being CANCER FREE! We threw the biggest celebration we could imagine and afford. We thought we were finally done with cancer, and could be a "normal" family again. Our sails were full; our future was bright; our pain was behind us!”

He recalls the event with vivid details. “Twelve days after our big celebration - 9:30pm - Caleb was in already in bed. I was getting ready for bed when the phone rang. It was a pediatric oncologist from Kaiser telling me Caleb's leukemia had returned. I told her she was wrong and questioned her credentials... then it hit me. Caleb's cancer was back! I was shocked. I was scared. I was angry! “

Elaborating, McNitt put it this way, “Every molecule of excitement from his celebration was gone, replaced by three times the amount of horror, despair, hopelessness and heaviness – a heaviness that could crush a soul! I had no strength to fight it again. We had only tears... and prayers... and an overwhelmingly heavy depression.”

Like Caleb, Katie’s only hope of beating cancer this time would be a bone marrow transplant. She would be brought back into remission as the search began for a match for her. We had faith a perfect match would be found. It couldn’t be that difficult to find a match; she had a good number of potential matches, didn’t she?

The statistics were not in Katie’s favor. “The odds of siblings having identical tissue types are 1 in 4. The odds of matching an unrelated donor are between 1 in 100 and 1 in a million. Currently, only 25% of the National Registry represents racial minority communities; therefore, the current odds for a minority patient to find a matching unrelated donor may be closer to 1 in a million.” (1)

“Just be patient,” we told ourselves. But timing was crucial; the transplant would need to take place soon after Katie was back in remission. But patience was difficult to maintain as the clock kept ticking down, and each day passed with no positive news about a match.

Since Katie had been adopted from China, and racial heritage is an important factor in finding a match, we thought potential donors would more than likely come from her country of birth. Our intuitions were confirmed when the geneticist from the National Marrow Donor Program (“Be The Match”) compared Katie’s HLA typing with gene pools around the world. Not surprisingly, the greatest concentration of similar gene pools was found not just in China itself, but in Katie’s birth province of Guangxi and in neighboring provinces.

Prompted by our increasingly desperate search for a donor and the geneticist's findings, a decision was made that I head to China to see if I could increase Katie’s odds of survival. It was a leap of faith, but one we felt need to be taken.

News of our plea for donors and my trip to China was covered locally by Sacramento’s News 10; around the United States by various news sources, including MSNBC; and China’s largest national news service, Xinhua. I returned home to Sacramento hopeful that a match would soon surface. (2)

Sadly, no perfect marrow or peripheral blood stem cell matches were found. Our hopes were now pinned on an umbilical cord blood transplant, a viable alternative for patients if other options fail. We accepted this new reality, and proceeded to Stanford with our hopes changed, but still high.

Katie’s transplant day was October 22nd, 2010. Time passed slowly in the isolated transplant wing of the hospital as we waited for the stem cells to engraft. Day after day - nothing. Two more infusions of cord blood stem cells were given; still no engraftment. Complication after complication followed. Christmas came and went.

On December 30th a “family care meeting” was called. The scenario painted by the doctors was bleak and, in all probability, would only get bleaker. Arrangements were made for Katie to immediately return to Kaiser’s Roseville hospital. Hospice services were quickly set up in our home. Katie went peacefully and sweetly into the arms of Jesus on January 6, 2010.

Life has forever changed for our family. Our hope now is that others will never have to face what our family did. But there is still work to be done to fulfill that hope.

“There are currently three teenage girls at Kaiser Roseville who are in need of transplants,” Dr. Kent Jolly, pediatric oncologist at Kaiser Roseville, informed me. “Two of these patients are from minorities; one is Caucasian. All three are having problems finding suitable matches, and the families are now considering umbilical cord stem cells, or even incompletely-matched marrow transplants."

Thankfully, a perfect match was found for Caleb, and he is doing great today. His donor made the difference. Could you possibility be a life-saving donor? Absolutely!

Vicki Wolf, BloodSource Communications Manager says, “People in the Sacramento area between the ages of 18-60 years old who are generally healthy and committed to donating to anyone in need can join “Be The Match” marrow registry through BloodSource at no cost to the registrant at this time.”

“We believe that marrow transplants can offer a second chance at life. As long as patients like Katie are in need, we hope to help not only by providing blood products, but in educating and recruiting committed people to join the marrow registry, especially those of diverse heritage” Wolfe states.

If you would like to join the registry, or would like to hold a marrow registry drive through BloodSource, please call at 866.822.5663. You can also go online to “Be The Match” at http://marrow.org/Home.aspx

Butterflies are exquisite but short-lived creatures. They emerge from their cocoons, and flutter into our lives bringing us delight, then quickly fly away. Such was our dear daughter, Katie. We wish you could have stayed longer.

(1) http://www.aadp.org/learn/faqs/

(2) http://katiecramer.org/news-stories

A JOURNEY OF HOPE - Part I

2012-01-27T20:53:55Z

Written in memory of our brave daughter, Katie Janae Cramer, who went to Heaven January 6, 2011.

FROM THE DOORS OF AN ORPHANAGE:

As the butterfly alights on my arm in the dingy industrial city of Liuzhou, China, our hopes for our newly adopted daughter are high. Life in a Chinese orphanage has been perilous for her, her tiny body telling a story of deprivation through her bloated tummy, pale skin, weak muscle tone, and dry, sparse hair. But a butterfly will soon to emerge.

My husband and I return to Sacramento in May 1995, exhausted but elated at being home with our daughter. What was once only a tiny black-and-white picture is now an in-the-flesh baby dressed most often in pink. Already we see signs of her metamorphosis - she is smiling more, able to sit up on her own for short periods of time, and beginning to hold on to us.

Like most parents, we are enraptured with our new little one. Early concerns about her severe malnutrition quickly fade as she gains weight and strength. Thoughts of what she must have endured in the underfunded orphanage recede from our minds. We watch and are amazed as our daughter adjusts to her new surroundings. We wonder what the future holds for her.

Katie had the distinct role of being the first Chinese child in Sacramento adopted through Holt International Children’s Services and, from the beginning, served as a tangible promise for what many hopeful parents-in-waiting might expect. Referring to Katie’s status as Sacramento’s first Chinese adoptee, adoptive father Jeffrey Trapnell states, “Whether she knew it or not, she was a trailblazer for many more children to come, my daughter included.”

Life for our family settled into the normal joys and challenges of parenting and, eventually, we added two more wonderful children from China to our family: Anna, adopted from Hunan in 1999, and David, adopted from Jiangsu in 2002.

It was June 2006, and Katie was now a beautiful 12-year-old butterfly getting ready to stretch her wings and fly. The only problem was this delicate butterfly had a large, dark, unexplained bruise on the back of her leg, and was tired much of the time. A life-and-death battle would soon be underway as our family entered the terrifying world of childhood cancer.

One week after finishing elementary school, Katie was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia called acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We were devastated and in shock. We learned the standard protocol for treatment of AML would require her to be inpatient for most of the next six months. Katie bravely put away the things of childhood and, without tears, stoically entered into her second battle for survival - this time with cancer.

At Kaiser’s Morse Avenue hospital, Katie endured four rounds of intense chemotherapy. The chemotherapy robbed her not only of her shiny, black hair, but her entire immune system. In addition to nausea, lack of appetite, and isolation, there were trips to the ICU, numerous bone marrow biopsies, fungal infections, heart complications, and our constant underlying fear of relapse.

Isolated in the aging children’s wing of the Morse Avenue facility, we discovered we were not the only family on this terrifying journey - there were other families facing similar battles with their children.

“Our pediatric team sees approximately 35 new patients each year at Kaiser’s new Roseville facility,” states Dr. Kent Jolly, one of Katie’s pediatric oncologists. “Many of these patients are in treatment (needing chemotherapy) for two to three years, resulting in a caseload of approximately 70 patients per year.” Dr. Jolly adds that Sutter Children’s Center and UC Davis Children's Hospital treat approximately the same number of children at their facilities each year.

Our daughter was one of these “statistics”. We know other families who have children who were one of the numbers below. Even so, I was shocked to hear and see these figures. According to the National Cancer Institute’s State Cancer Profiles, for the years 2004 - 2008, the annual incidence rate (per 100,000) and annual average counts for Childhood Cancers for Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, and Yolo Counties are as follows:

County Annual     Incidence Rate*    Average Annual Count
Sacramento            16.4                       50
Placer                     16.6                       11
Yolo                         15.7                       6
El Dorado                18.1                       6

* per 100,000

(all races, including Hispanic/both sexes/ages <15)

We decided not to focus on “survival rate statistics”, and to make the best of our difficult situation. Summer passed, as did the start of school, and then each of the winter holidays. We lived as a family divided, riding a roller coaster of emotions as the inevitable setbacks and crises came our way.

Throughout, we marveled at Katie’s ability to nonchalantly endure each challenge presented to her; deep inside, she seemed to possess a core of steel in her petite 80 pound frame. Had her first year in an overcrowded and understaffed orphanage toughened her, giving her the ability to courageously face such an ordeal?

January 2, 2007, we received the news we had hoped and prayed for. Katie was in complete remission and could go home! It was the best news we could have heard the beginning of that new year. Our first night home brought tears of indescribable relief and joy.

Though our innocence had been shattered, we continued to believe our daughter would be in the 50% category that would beat this disease. We would cling to the hope that this vicious monster had been defeated - once and for all! Nevertheless, we would hold our breath for the next three and a half years…

http://statecancerprofiles.cancer.gov/incidencerates/index.php

Continue to A Journey of Hope- Part 2

January 1: New Year, new laws in effect in California

2012-01-03T07:25:31Z

As of Jan. 1, laws affecting child booster seats, LGBT rights, handgun open-carry and liquor sales will be among many going into effect in California. Here are some of the highlights of what Californians – and Sacramentans – have in store for them in 2012.

BOOSTER SEATS: Previously, children had to ride in approved child restraint devices – booster seats – until they turned 6 years old or weighed 60 pounds. As of Jan. 1, children must ride in booster seats until they are 8 years old or at least 4 feet 9 inches tall. Kids under 8 years who are taller than 4 feet 9 inches are allowed to use a safety belt instead of a booster seat.

HANDGUN OPEN CARRY: Bans citizens from openly carrying handguns – but Californians can still get permits for concealed weapons. Violators of the new law will be subject to $1,000 fines and six months in jail. Previously, it was allowable to carry an unloaded handgun in a visible holster.

LIQUOR SALES: SB 39 prohibits the production or sale of beer with caffeine added. AB 183 prohibits grocery stores from allowing liquor sales at self-checkout stations.

VEHICLE IMPOUNDS: Police officers will no longer be able to impound a vehicle from a sobriety checkpoint if the only offense by the driver is failing to hold a valid driver license (AB 353).

DUI CONVICTIONS: A new section was added to the California Vehicle Code that allows courts to revoke a driver license for 10 years if a person is convicted of three or more DUIs.

COPPER THEFT: AB 316 makes “stealing, taking, or carrying away copper materials” that value more than $950 a grand theft felony. Criminals are subject to fines up to $2,500 and one year in jail on the first offense, and two or three years in jail and a fine up to $10,000 for repeat offenders.

KINDERGARTEN ENTRANCE: SB 1381 pushes back the 5-year-old birthday for kindergarten eligibility from Dec. 1 to Nov. 1 for the 2012–13 school year. That date pushes back to Oct. 1 for the 2013–14 school year, and then to Sept. 1 for the 2014–15 school year and beyond.

LGBT RIGHTS/HISTORY: Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law the Gay History Act, which requires schools to include the contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans in history and social studies lessons and textbooks.

Another law that went on the books in 2011 – the Transgender Non-Discrimination Law – adds “gender identity and gender expression” to the list of characteristics that require equal rights protections in the state.

FOOD HANDLER CARDS: Beginning Jan. 1, health departments will begin enforcing a new law which requires food handlers to complete a training course and assessment.

EMPLOYEE RIGHTS: AB 22 prevents employers from running credit checks on prospective employees or using credit information in a hiring decision. Exceptions are allowed for law enforcement positions and positions that require access to bank and credit information or access to confidential information.

Not every new law charts new ground this year, though – some are simply no-brainers:

AB 688: Bans California stores from selling expired infant food and formula.

AB 25: Requires schools to remove athletes suspected of having a concussion or head injury from athletic activity until a doctor or health care provider gives clearance.

SB 746: Prohibits minors under 18 from using tanning beds without a parent’s permission.

With more than 40,000 new laws going into effect across the nation in 2012, people will want to do their research to make sure they don’t inadvertently run afoul of a law that they didn’t even know existed.

Start with the list of new California laws here.

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

A day in Sacramento

2011-12-20T04:00:47Z

Yes, there are a few gems in Sacramento. Times when you can honestly say, living here can be good after all. The thing is you have to know is where to look.

This Sunday, we decide to share some of the glow.

The Plastic Surgery Center Sees New Trend - Couples Having Cosmetic Procedures Together

2011-11-30T23:23:27Z

In a story posted on MSN.com from a recent Today Show report, they report a new trend in cosmetic surgery…couples that are having plastic surgery together.

The up tick in couples pursuing cosmetic procedures and more invasive plastic surgery together is likely at least partially due to the increase in cosmetic procedures in men, explains NBC's chief medical editor Dr. Nancy Snyderman. Last year, American men accounted for 1.1 million of the country's cosmetic procedures, a small, but significant 2 percent increase over 2009, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

In Sacramento, Dr. Wayne Yamahata of The Plastic Surgery Center is seeing more and more couples that are opting to “grow young together” by exploring cosmetic procedures.

“In fact, just last week I had a husband and wife who chose to have eyelid surgery done during the same week,” said Yamahata, “This allowed them to recover together and they’ll now both appear equally refreshed following the recovery. Eyelids and facelifts are common combinations for couples to do together. Another common combination includes breast implants for the wife and liposuction for the husband.”

"It's been destigmatized with men," said NBC’s Snyderman, adding that this can help men compete in the workforce — if you're in your 50s and looking for work, you may benefit from looking a decade younger. As Snyderman phrases it, we used to make fun of men for coloring their hair; now, procedures like Botox and fillers have become more acceptable.

http://sacplasticsurgery.com

95 Scripps Drive, Sacto 929-1833

2235 Douglas Blvd, Suite 510, Roseville 773-5559

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is a media consultant for The Plastic Surgery Center

Non-Profit Agency The Effort Announces Grand Opening of State-of-the-Science Health Center in North Highlands

2011-11-01T20:13:02Z

On November 10th, at 10:30am, The Effort will celebrate the Grand Opening of their expanded The Effort North Highlands Community Health Center, (6015 Watt Avenue) ushering in a new era in affordable, state-of-the-science child and family primary health and children’s dental care, services largely non-existent for the underserved residents of North Highlands and surrounding areas.

Following opening remarks from Dr. Jonathan Porteus, CEO/The Effort, these local dignitaries will speak.

Congresswoman Doris Matsui
Charlene Taylor of Kaiser Permanente
Assemblyman Richard Pan, M.D.
County Supervisor & First5 Commissioner Phil Serna
Assemblyman Roger Dickinson

(Media facility tours will immediately follow the program)

“We’ve been serving North Highlands for over a decade now – it’s great that we can keep adding on layers of service and, as in our 3 other regional healthcare centers, bring high quality affordable health care to our community”

“Our North Highlands Community Health Center represents a mosaic of support, with base funding from federal stimulus money, matching First5 Sacramento funds for the children’s dental clinic, and Kaiser Permanente funding to support staffing expansion. Wrap all of that around the core services we’ve been offering in this community and we’re coming very close to serving the ‘whole person’ and their family.”

--A. Jonathan Porteus, PhD. CEO/The Effort, Inc.

Component 1- Child and Adult Primary Care. The Center, featuring all-digital exam rooms, will deliver The Effort’s high quality, culturally appropriate health and behavioral health services to children and adults.

Component 2- Children’s Dental Services. The state-of-the-science children’s dental clinic is designed to put young clients at ease with a jet plane motif (recalling McClellan Air Base), X-box and DVD movies in the lobby, and flat screen TVs above the 5 kids’ dental chairs.

Component 3 - ‘The Synergy.’ In keeping with The Effort’s multi-service format in each of its regional health centers, the North Highlands Community Health Center will continue its decade of service to the North Highlands community with our vital Birth & Beyond program, Family Resource Center, Home Visitation service and Mental Health Counseling for children, adolescents, and families.

The inauguration of the North Highlands Community Health Center is made possible through funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Kaiser Permanente (via a grant to East Bay Community Foundation), and First5 Sacramento.

Currently, The Effort also operates Community Health Centers at their J Street location, Oak Park, and South Valley sites, and additional satellite clinics and programs at various other locations.

916/737-5555 http://www.theeffort.org

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is the Media Director for The Effort

The Chef's Olive Mix will bring quality olive oil to Sacramento, owner says

2011-10-29T06:31:31Z

Sacramento will be getting a dose of fresh, quality olive oil by late November, said Lisa Paskaly, owner of the Chef’s Olive Mix in Old Sacramento.

The store, located on the corner of Second and J streets, will be what Paskaly described as an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting room, where customers will be able to sample oils and purchase bottles to take home. Bottles of olive oil, available in three different sizes, will range from $9-$16, and many types will be sold, including over 30 50 different extra virgin olive oils, as well as exotic flavors and organics. They will arranged from mild to medium to intense flavors. Fresh olives, cheeses, salads and hors d’oeuvre plates will also be available.

Paskaly, a former dental hygienist, said that she has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. Even in the face of a sluggish economy, she said that she is confident her business will do well.

“If you make it fun and enjoyable, you can do great,” she said. “I hope to be one of those success stories in a down economy.”

Paskaly came to Sacramento from Florida in ~~2005~~ 2009 for work. She said that she loves living here because of Sacramento’s lively and social atmosphere. Living here, she made a wealth of connections and established herself among the professional community.

Earlier in 2011, while visiting the city of San Carlos, Paskaly said she stopped at a small olive oil store, not knowing what to expect.

“It was phenomenal,” Paskaly said. She spoke with the owner, and found out about Veronica Foods, who provided the olive oil for the store. She said that this, along with her new love for Sacramento, helped her decide to open a similar store here.

Veronica Foods is an Oakland-based distribution company that will help Paskaly with many of the aspects of selling olive oil. Owner Veronica Bradley said that her company supplies many stores with their brand of olive oil.

Bradley said that Veronica Foods distributes some of the highest-quality olive oil in the world.

“We understand the significance of fresh when it comes to extra virgin olive oil,” Bradley said. “Fresh trumps everything, including where it was produced.”

Bradley said that to maximize freshness, they get their oil from both the northern and southern hemispheres of the world, depending on which one is in the harvesting season. This allows for new oil every six months as opposed to a whole year. Countries like Australia, Chile and Argentina are producing oil that is just as good, if not better, than that of the Mediterranean region, she added. Only in the past ten years has olive oil been made extensively in these regions.

“Most people have never tasted fresh extra virgin olive oils,” Bradley said.

Both Paskaly and Bradley emphasized the importance of harvesting olives when they are still under-ripe. Bradley said that while this produces less oil, it increases its quality. In addition to this, they have their olives pressed at a lower temperature, which has a similar effect. These methods increase the amount of antioxidants in the oil and lower its level of acidity, two important factors in determining the quality of olive oil. More information on this can be found here.

The olive oil used by Veronica Foods has won several awards, including two awards at the 2011 Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition.

~~Paskaly said that Sacramento doesn’t currently have a place for people to go to get such high-quality olive oil.~~ Olive oil is famous for being rich in polyphenols, considered by many experts to be one of the healthiest antioxidants. She said that while average olive oil has anywhere from 50-300 polyphenols, the oil from Veronica Foods has 600-650. More information on the chemical elements of olive oil can be found here.

Paskaly said that she has big plans for her store. From highlighting local chefs to hosting private movie nights and fundraisers, she said that she wants her store to become very involved in the local community.

By partnering up with local chefs and restaurants in the midtown and downtown areas, Paskaly hopes to bring these areas closer to Old Sacramento.

“Locals don’t want to come to Old Sac, and tourists don’t know to go to Midtown,” she said. “I want to bridge that gap.”

Paskaly said that one of the hardest part of starting her business has been dealing with the building code. Because of its sheer volume, she said that conforming to the codes' standards has forced her to push back her opening, which was originally scheduled to happen in October.

“There’s so much conflicting information and ambiguous language,” she said. “It seems like we just keep digging up different parts of the code that keep putting us on different tracks.”

But despite the setbacks, Paskaly said that she is excited to be opening the business.

“Olive oil is sexy and passionate,” she said. “I (want to) make money at this, but I always believe that you should just do what you really love.”

Editorial Note: Corrections have been made to this article after it was published. The incorrect information has been struck out and the correct information has been added.

Blues for Life celebrates survivors

2011-10-06T14:34:52Z

A mother, a sister, a spouse, a best friend is diagnosed with breast cancer everyday. This life threatening illness claims over 40,000 lives annually.

In Sacramento, the love for survivors goes beyond the pink celebrating with Blues for Life, a fundraiser for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation held at the Torch Club last Sunday.

Every $100 pays for a mammogram that can save a woman's life. Over the past four years Blues for Life events raised over $125,000 to help those diagnosed with breast cancer in our community.

Considering that the average age of diagnosis is 37 years old, more than 70% of cases have no family history, and the leading cause of death among women between 40 & 55 is breast cancer, early detection is key to proper medical care.

Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation empowers people affected with breast cancer through awareness, education, and support.

Founder Doug Carson, thanks the many volunteers, sponsors, and musicians who kept the event going strong on its fifth year.

This year the back parking area was opened up to accomodate the thousands of attendees who make the annual pilgrimage to Sacramento for food, fun, and camaraderie.

Pasta was served up by Rio City Cafe, Plates Cafe, Lucca Restaurant, Evan's Kitchen, The Bread Store, Michelangelo's, Sergio's Steak and Seafood, House, Mama Susanna's, and Blue Print Restaurant.

Entertainers in the new outdoor space was Keri Carr Band, Walking Spanish, Kaye Bohler, Bone MacDonald Band, and Nibblers.

Musicians in the indoor bar space was Bryson & Jill Marie Van Cleve, Gino Matteo, Jimmy Pailer featuring Sista Monica, Jelly Bread, and Mercy Me!

"The best thing that happened today is that a woman who survived cancer last year, came up and gave me a hug, then shared tears of joy for her sister who was able to take the medical screening tests," said Carson.

They found the cancer she said. She is also getting the help she needs.

Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure Names New Executive Director

2011-09-20T18:20:43Z

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is pleased to announce the selection of Paula Birdsong as its new executive director. Birdsong will take over for executive director Donna Sanderson who will retire in October.

“Paula’s experience as the regional vice president of the American Cancer Society, California Division made her the ideal candidate for this position” said Sanderson. “She managed operations for 32 counties throughout California, all while improving the organization’s financial status and exceeding annual donor contributions. Her experiences will help Komen to continue providing outstanding breast health services and education while exploring new ways to help the Sacramento affiliate grow.”

Birdsong begins her tenure today and will be responsible for the growth and development of the local affiliate, to meet the needs of its 19 county service area and support the national research grant program.

“Komen is a natural fit for me. I am excited to join an organization with a proven record of successfully raising the funds needed to serve the Sacramento Valley communities. It is my honor to join the Komen family in the fight against breast cancer,” said Birdsong.

Prior to her work with the American Cancer Society, Paula served as the State Executive Director for the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) - California, where she managed 17 statewide chapters and served as a member of the Governor’s DUI Enforcement Task Force. She also served as Executive Director for Meadowview Community Action, Inc. where she provided management activities for Head Start, Welfare to Work and Youth Services Program in the greater Sacramento area.

Since its inception, the Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure has brought in millions of dollars to support breast cancer services and education for the greater Sacramento region. For more information, visit www.komensacramento.org.

Disclosure: Me Communications provides pro-bono services for Komen for the Cure Sacramento

Heroes of the American Red Cross

2011-09-16T19:11:13Z

Did you know there is a hero in all of us?

A parole officer, two teen lifeguards, a one hundred year old senior citizen, a doctor, and a scientist were among those recognized by the American Red Cross for their life changing efforts in the capital region.

Nominated by their peers, these honorees exemplified the characteristics of a hero such as courage, selflessness, and perseverance. They were recognized at a luncheon at the Doubletree Hotel in Arden on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

Here are the award recipients and their deeds.

Good Samaritan Adult Hero – Sean Ferguson, 43, called upon his 15 years of American Red Cross training to rescue a teen boy who was struck by oncoming traffic.

Animal Rescue Hero – Patty Letawsky, co-founded the We Pay to Spay program. She is the driving force behind a local dog rescue program, and has personally saved more than 100 dogs from euthanasia.

Military Veteran Hero – Sacramento Patriot Guard Riders banded together to protect soldiers from protesters. They also regularly attend welcome home, send-offs, and funerals of soldiers totaling nearly one hundred missions annually.

Good Samaritan Youth Hero – Wayne Batchelor, 16, used his recently completed ARC lifeguard training to courageously dive into a pool to pull a young girl out of the water to safety.

Law Enforcement Heroes – Deputy Mark Limbird and Deputy Matt Silvey worked together to face down a heavily armed man in a residential neighborhood who was endangering the lives of officers and residents.

Spirit of the Red Cross Hero – Todd Reiners volunteers to help women and children stricken by homelessness in the region and helped reunite a homeless man with his family after 13 years.

Professional Rescuer Hero – Brittany Martin, 16, courageously performed CPR to save the life of a 4-year-old boy using her ARC lifeguard training.

Medical Professional Hero – Dr. Mark Drabkin, a Sacramento ophthalmologist performed many sight restoring operations and trained local doctors in developing countries including Ghana, Nicaragua, Nepal, and the Philippines.

Good Samaritan Senior Hero – Bob Fletcher, who just celebrated his 100th birthday, gave up his job as an agricultural inspector to temporarily care for three Japanese owned farms during World War II, preventing the mortgage from lapsing and protecting the families’ livelihood. Bob received his award citing his wife's support of sixty six years and received a standing ovation from the hundreds of attendees present.

Workplace Hero – Anita Turley rescued a coworker who was suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. She is now traveling the country teaching others the life saving techniques she used to save a life.

Hero of the Year – Selena Li, dedicated more than 1,000 hours of her free time since freshman year in high school to develop a potential alternative treatment for liver cancer. Because of her work, she was able to develop a potential alternative treatment that is more widely available and more efficient than existing transplant and chemotherapy treatments.

Military Hero – US Army Corporal Jarus Perez was awarded the Purple Heart for pulling an unconscious comrade to safety after their unit was attacked while he was injured by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. While he received the best of care in the military for his injuries, he realized that local school children do not have the same care. In order to raise awareness and funds for health care for kids, he persevered a fifty-mile run recognizing each of the fifty states that require substantial healthcare reform.

“We all have potential to be heroes,” Perez says. “There are many ways to act. Get involved locally with organizations like the Red Cross. Be prepared with first aid/CPR training and give generously with your time, energy, and resources to help others.”

So what are we waiting for? The hero is in all of us.

Be the change you want to see.

Disclosure: Kati Garner is an American Red Cross volunteer. Amabelle Ocampo is trained in First Aid/CPR and is an emergency first response volunteer in her workplace.

Blues Festival and Pasta Cook-Off Fundraiser-October 2nd

2011-09-15T22:27:11Z

10 Bands…10 Restaurants…5 years.

We did the math…it adds up to big fun at the…

5th Annual Blues for Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 2nd, from 1pm to 7pm, at the Torch Club, 904 15th Street. (inside and out in the parking lot…two stages)

This popular fundraiser, described in this news release, which has grown every year, benefits Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation, which raises money for expensive diagnostic breast cancer tests such as PET scans and mammograms for women in need.

At Albie, we like to say, “Your mother, your sister, your daughter, your best friend... Who Cares?…..Albie Aware!

Besides performances by the area’s leading blues bands, the popular Pasta Cook-Off featuring 10 top Sacramento restaurants, will be featured. Attendees will be able to taste them all for a mere $10. Doing the math again…we think you get it…

All Star Line-Up of Bands:

The Nibblers
Mercy Me!
Walking Spanish
Kaye Bohler
Ron Hacker
Gino Matteo
Bone MacDonald
Sista Monica
Trubaduo
Pailer, Adams & Joyce

Participating Pugilistic Potentates of Pasta
(aka: Competing Pasta Cook-off Restaurants)

Blue Prynt Restaurant & Bar
Clark’s Corner
Evan’s Kitchen
House Kitchen & Bar
Lucca Restaurant & Bar
Mama Susanna’s Ristorante Italiano
Michelangelo’s Italian Restaurant
Rio City Café
(2 restauarants TBA)

Silent auction items:
Flat screen TV
Signed art works
Trips and much more

50 Raffle Items
Including restaurants & local entertainment certificates

For more information, please visit: www.albieaware.org

Tickets available now at eventbrite.com

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is the Media Director for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Kids ride for kids

2011-09-12T20:44:40Z

"I did it!" is an often heard refrain after the Mustard Seed bike ride for kids.

On Sunday, September 25th the 7th annual Mustard Seed Spin in Sacramento will take place on the American River bike trail. This bike ride -- by kids for kids -- has already raised and donated $120,000 to the Mustard Seed School for homeless children. All rider fees are donated directly to the school. More than 700 riders are expected this year, slightly more than last year. The bike ride introduces kids under the age of 18 to organized cycling, teaches bike safety, and hopefully creates a whole new generation of bike commuters. There is also a bike Scholarship Program which hosts 50 underprivileged kids at the ride. They go home with a refurbished bike, a new helmet, and a great sense of accomplishment and belonging!

The bike ride starts at William Pond Recreation Area at 11am on September 25th. Kids (and their parents) can do a 6 mile or 12 mile ride. Lunch and ice cream are served after the ride along with a raffle drawing for several new bikes. Please consider riding yourself or with a group of friends this year. You can go to www.mustardseedspin.org for more information.

Since obtaining non-profit status in 2010, the Mustard Seed Spin has expanded its mission to bike safety outreach to community centers and underserved schools.

Step Up and Step Out - AIDS Run/Walk 2011

2011-09-09T06:57:26Z

Would it surprise you to know that AIDS rates are on the rise again?

As someone who lost only a few friends to AIDS, but was nearly frozen with fearful anticipation waiting for the results of that first test in the ‘80s, it certainly surprised me! It further amazed me that anyone who has seen the devastation the results of a compromised immune system can cause would continue to engage in risky and potentially fatal behavior.

But they do.

But the most disturbing information by far, was that one of the reasons that HIV continues to spread is that it’s considered by many in high-risk groups to be “no big deal.” The rationale—if it can be considered that—is that people do so well on the medication (think Magic Johnson) that it’s not really the death sentence it used to be.

If only it was so simple.

The truly rational mind would realize that contracting AIDS is a crapshoot. Once you are positive for HIV, the odds that you will die from any number of things go up. You are vulnerable. Medication works well for some people, and not for others. Medication is hugely expensive. HIV/AIDS is a preexisting condition, so if you are not Magic Johnson and need to get health insurance, this can be a problem.

Where HIV/AIDS is concerned, not only is ignorance not bliss, it is suicide.

Or murder.

That’s where AIDS Walk comes in. The Sac Valley AIDS Run/Walk is, ostensibly, a fundraiser, but, in reality, isn’t one of the big moneymakers for the cause. It’s most important function is to raise community awareness about the disease and the organizations that fight it and serve the sufferers and survivors.

Co-chair Julie Kennedy talked with me about how this year’s run/walk differs from past events.

Most notably, the walking course is only half as long. The former course was a 5K, or about 3 miles. This year the revised course will leave the Capitol and head toward the Tower Bridge and back, for a total of 1.5 miles.

“It will save us money on street closures and police escorts, which is a factor to consider in this economy,” admits Julie Kennedy, “But more importantly, it will also allow survivors to participate more comfortably, which has been a concern in previous years.”

The runners’ route will remain a 5K.

Julie Kennedy is also hoping the shorter route will bring a sense of community back to the event. She’s hoping to see the return of tribute signs, and the costumes and camaraderie of years past.--whatever it takes to get people reengaged.

Kennedy also works at CARES, a nonprofit HIV/AIDS clinic in Midtown.

“I recently had a 19-year old test positive, “ she tells me, “The HIV tester was talking with him and he was excited that it was his birthday the next day. He was telling her about his birthday plans.” She paused a moment.

“Then she went down the hall to get the results, and she has to tell him it’s positive. She wanted to cry.”

There are too many stories just as sad, she said.

So if there were one final thing she could say, it would be,

“If I could say just one thing,” she says, as we are about to part company. “It would be, Help! AIDS needs help. Please walk. If you can’t walk, donate.”

She pauses, thinking about the clients she will return to.

“Let’s bring this back into the light.”

You can register a team or as an individual on line in advance at www.sacvalleyaidsrunwalk.org or in person up until the beginning of the event, which will be held on Sunday, September 18.

AIDS Walk is a Capital City AIDS Fund event that benefits number of charitable organizations. This year, among them will be CARES, who will use the money to support their Positive Speakers Program; Breaking Barriers, who provide mobile testing and transportation for people with HIV; Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Center; Sunburst Project, a camp for children with a parent who has HIV; Golden Rule Services, serving gay men of color; Harm Reduction Services, providing needle exchange and HIV testing; Oak Park Outreach needle exchange; Sierra Foothills AIDS Foundation of Auburn; and Chico Stonewall Democratic Club.

Komen Sacramento to Honor Breast Cancer Advocates at Community Gala

2011-09-08T21:16:23Z

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® will be recognizing the contributions of outstanding community partners on Sunday, October 9 at Arden Hills Resort & Spa, announced retiring Executive Director Donna Sanderson.

“We are fortunate to have the support of outstanding community partners during my tenure as Executive Director of Komen Sacramento” said Sanderson. “The time has come to give them the public recognition they so richly deserve.”

Among the award recipients will be:

Joyce Raley Teel, co-chair of the Raley’s Board of Directors, who brought the full strength of the Raley’s Family of Fine Stores resources to help in the fight against breast cancer. Raley’s has supported the affiliate since its inception and has been the local presenting sponsor of the Sacramento Komen Race for the Cure for 15 years.
Edie Lambert, evening co-anchor at KCRA Channel 3 TV, has a long history of supporting the Affiliate and the cause. She is passionate about finding a cure and has championed the work of Komen through many speaking engagements and promotion of Komen initiatives on air.
Dr. Ralph deVere White and the UC Davis Cancer Center represent the depth of a health care partnership for the health of the community. UCD Cancer Center has provided unique programs such as the multi-cultural student-run clinics, the Native American Women’s Wisdom project and educational conferences with local Komen grants. They collaborate with Komen Sacramento in the WeCARE! Peer Navigator program to provide services for newly diagnosed cancer patients. UCD has been a long-time sponsor of the Komen race.
Kristin Beard King and Political Solutions, LLC provide consultation to Komen Sacramento and the statewide collaborative of Komen affiliates to ensure that uninsured women in California have access to the same life-saving screening and treatment as insured women. When the economy was at its worse and all consultants were struggling, Political Solutions worked for 18 months pro bono because it was the right thing to do. The work today at a lower than usual fee and a higher than usual level of passion because of their commitment to Komen and the cause. Over the years, they have gone “above and beyond” in supporting Komen’s fundraising activities.
Jim and Robin Masten, owners of SuiteAmerica, embody the ideal of how a company can creatively support a good cause. SuiteAmerica provides turn-key office space for the Affiliate and also allows employees to take time off with pay to volunteer for Komen. They support their employee’s participation by paying race registration fees and allowing additional fundraising activities. They promote breast health awareness during the month of October by providing brochures and Komen gifts to their clients.

The Gala for the Cure event will be held on Sunday, October 9, 2011 starting at 5:30 PM. This very special evening will include auctions, dinner, live music and a special performance by the Sacramento Ballet. Ticket information is available at 916-941-7981 or by visiting www.komensacramento.org.

Disclosure: Me Communications provides pro-bono services for Komen for the Cure Sacramento

‘Flowers’ raise funds for foster kids

2011-08-31T13:37:53Z

“The Language of Flowers” expresses the yearnings of the heart.

Author, Vanessa Diffenbaugh is doing just that as she kicks off a nationwide book tour with a five hundred dollar a head fundraiser to raise money for foster kids who have aged out of foster care, followed by a talk & book signing at Tsakopoulos Library Galleria on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, 7:30pm to 9pm.

The petals hide the tragic inequities of foster care. Her protagonist, Victoria, a damaged foster kid, ages out at 18 and finds herself sleeping in a park. She works at a flower shop for change and communicates meaning through her artistry of flowers. It is what she determines is what she is good at, a creative outlet and sets the direction for her to help herself and others. Victoria’s journey unfolds with love and forgiveness through the “language of flowers” engaging readers and subtly prompting them to act against those inequities.

A native of Chico, CA, and a graduate of Stanford University, Diffenbaugh, 33, sets the scene in parks familiar to Sacramento. The parks could well be our own backyard. That’s because she wrote the entire book here recalling hours at a café on S Street. Plus, she draws from her own experience teaching art to low income youths and life of being a foster mother.

Inspiration for the book’s protagonist came from a 15-year-old girl that Diffenbaugh and her husband mentored.

“We loved her and considered adopting her, but she was so hard to get to know. Even after a year with her in our home we couldn’t get through to her.”

Hidden in ‘flowers’ is strong emotion, one that has universal support as the book has been translated in 34 languages, and is a No.2 perfect-seller in Italy. It has also been a subject of choice for Glamour, NPR, Ladies Home Journal, and Good Housekeeping. Vanessa appears this month on an interview about the book through BBC Breakfast.

Along with the book release, she also founded the Camellia Network, a non-profit whose mission is to create a nationwide movement to support youth transitioning from foster care.

The meaning of camellia in the language of flowers is “My destiny is in your hands.”

We all have a role in influencing the society we live in by sharing our talents with our youngest citizens.

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure expands service area to include Glenn and Tehama counties

2011-08-17T17:39:03Z

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure has expanded its 17-county service area to now include Glenn and Tehama counties. With this expansion, residents can now receive services in the neighboring city of Chico, California through the California Health Collaborative breast cancer program.

“Our goal is to ensure that we are providing breast health services and education to as many people as possible,” said Donna Sanderson, executive director of the Komen Sacramento Affiliate. “Glenn and Tehama counties are severely lacking in these services, that’s why it makes perfect sense for us to expand our program to help more individuals and ultimately save more lives.”

Glenn and Tehama counties have a combined population of 90,000 residents. Over the years, the California Health Collaborative, a grantee of Komen’s, was unable to fulfill requests from women in these counties for breast cancer services. Now, because of the expanded service area, these individuals, especially those in rural areas, will have greater access to care.

“These counties house a large population of immigrant and low-income families, making breast health services even less accessible,” continued Sanderson. "Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. The services we’ll be providing are vitally important and will help better educate women about the importance of early detection through screening, improved treatment methods, risk factors and more…giving them a greater chance of survival.”

Since its inception, the Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure has brought in millions of dollars to support breast cancer services and education for the greater Sacramento region.

Disclosure: Me Communications provides pro-bono services for Komen for the Cure Sacramento

Wanderlust 2011: Could you be love – or be loved? Part 2

2011-08-05T02:35:58Z

“Yell Fire!” as in Franti's lyrics. We did. After the performance of the Phoenix Fire Dancers. It was quite a cleansing. Walking in calm after the Wanderlust revolution. The body now knows - a stretch has no limits. Healing happened. Hearts opened to each other. Love is found. Our confidence manifested. Open to more knowledge, we share the second half of wisdoms from the festival.

We burned a path of purpose with Phoenix Fire Dancers.

From the beginning of the first explosion, to the last pyrotechnic crescendo, Austria’s Phoenix Fire Dancer’s pulverized. Agile dancers balanced raw flames as if it was an extension of their own bodies.

The juggler explains as he lifts the ashes,” Allow your light to shine bright before the flame disappears. For, no matter how much we accomplish in our lives, we all return to nothing.”

We supported worldly causes.

Just outside the gates of Anusara Village. Many vendors sold clothing, shoes, and energy drinks. Just about everything you need to live in simplicity. This clothing store, Rksa soul donates a portion of its revenues to support children in rural India.

We kept our fifth chakra in check as we moved with Rolf Gates.

.It felt like the slow melt of ice. The open air studio was also symbolic in that it doubled as the ice skating rink in the winter, thus the term “melt” applies just as well to the frozen raw emotions freed by yoga fans in Rolf’s class. His calm demeanor transitioned yogis through mountain, eagle, tree, warrior, and pigeon pose as the echo of sniffles and tears massaged its way to our emotions.

Now, is it because the pain in our heart liquidated or is it because the stretches were so juicy? The enlightenment was enhanced by Girish singing through the fresh morning air winding through the mountain peaks and sunlight. We really were flying.

We practiced yoga with a view then rested on a bed supported by our peers at Yoga Tree.

Jason Nemer & Jenny Sauer-Klein’s class on meditation and thai massage, not only had breathtaking views, but a novel concept. They taught the students how a full body Thai massage can be done with your toes. So the hour was not only filled with insight, but belly aching laughs paired with tickling.

Here’s another great analogy. ”When the going gets rough, rely on your friends to give you support.” Literally, a posture-pedic massage bed made out of human bodies.

We levitated above the mountains -- with a little help from a gondola

A bird’s eye view above the pine trees and the mountains awaits. The clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe in the distance harness our gratitude. This view is available to us 365 days of the year.Though we are leaving now, the Squaw Valley gondola will be here when we decide to make the trek again, next year.

Non-profit "The Effort" Offers 6 Free Whooping Cough Vaccination Clinics

2011-08-04T23:17:23Z

Non-Profit “The Effort” Hosts
Six Free Whooping Cough Vaccination Clinics
for Area Children

Sacramento—On August 9th, 2011, from 2pm-6pm, The Effort will host the first of 6 vaccination clinics at three of their Community Health Center sites. This first clinic will be held at The Effort’s South Valley Community Health Center, 8233 E. Stockton Blvd, Suite D. (737-5555)

The Effort, in keeping with their mission of providing quality health care to the Sacramento area, offers these state-mandated Tdap vaccinations (combination vaccine that protects against whooping cough, diphtheria and tetanus) free to area students who might have limited access. The 6 clinics will be offered from 2-6pm at 3 of their regional health centers:

The Effort vaccination clinics schedule:

South Valley Community Health Center
8233 E Stockton Blvd. Suite D
Tuesdays Aug. 9th & 16th

Oak Park Community Health Center
3415 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
Wednesdays Aug. 10th & 17th

North Highlands Community Health Center
6015 Watt Ave.
Fridays Aug. 12th & 19th

(All sites from 2pm to 6pm)

The vaccination clinics are sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and supported by the Sacramento County Department of Public Health, Twin Rivers Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, and Elk Grove Unified School District.

Automated phone calls to the homes of all students in the region’s four school districts will notify families of the clinics.

“The Effort is an organization created to meet unmet health needs in our region,” said Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jonathan Porteus, “It’s a privilege to partner The Effort’s Community Health Centers with Kaiser, the County and the four school districts to respond to the community’s needs”

While the vaccinations are targeted toward 7th-12th grade students, The Effort is prepared to administer the Tdap and other vaccinations to children and adults who attend the clinics.

“As a pediatrician, I’m proud to be the medical director of an organization that can, with these free clinics, increase the health and well-being of our region’s kids,” said Dr. Francisco Aguirre, Medical Director of The Effort.

theeffort.org 916-737-5555

Assembly Bill 354 Vaccination Mandate
(All 7-12 graders must be vaccinated before the start of this school year)
Senate Bill 614 30 day extension deadline
(Gives schools an extra 30 days after classes begin to collect vaccination verification from students)

For more information about whooping cough and the Tdap, visit http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/he/hn/pertussis.asp.

Superheroes combat unhealthy villains

2011-07-27T06:53:25Z

A new league of superheroes will debut on the Sacramento comic book scene this December.

The premise of the comic, “Health-E-Man and the Champions of the Chewniverse,” is a band of heroes will fight against the forces that prevent access to good health.

In an attempt to promote health awareness in South Sacramento and in communities beyond, the nonprofit Building Healthy Communities has embarked on the comic project to create an innovative digital comic book series that will teach young people healthy eating habits.

“We’ve always seen fast food restaurants catering to kids – whether it’s toys, superheroes or happy meals. You’ve seen their heroes promote unhealthy foods,” said Alberto Mercado, project coordinator for BHC. “What if we had a superhero that eats everything that is healthy – that’s fighting for justice and (access to) health? (It’s) teaching kids that there’s a better way than just getting a happy meal.”

The South Sacramento region has been identified as one of the biggest “food deserts” in the state by the California Endowment, a private statewide health foundation that grants money to organizations such as the BHC that seek to expand health access to under-served communities, Mercado said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines “food deserts” as areas that lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk and other foods that make a healthy lifestyle possible. According to the CDC, a population living in such regions can suffer from bad health.

A marked characteristic of a “food desert” is the lack of supermarkets in what are often minority communities.

“ ‘Health-E-Man and Champions of the Chewniverse’ is the perfect way for us to reach those who don’t get the regular (health) information,” Mercado said. “Nutritional information is kind of boring, and we’re putting (nutritional lessons) into the comic book so that people know that there’s good ways to eat and bad ways.”

The comic project is funded through Asian Resources, a community organization that acts as a fiscal agent for the California Endowment in the Sacramento region. Asian Resources is one of 27 organizations that received grants from the Endowment. Additional fundraising for the project will be done through www.kickstarter.com, a website that accepts donations for art and media projects.

Christine Tien, project manager for the California Endowment, ~~Asian Resources, a community organization that acts as a fiscal agent for the California Endowment in the Sacramento region~~ , gave the green light for the “Champions of the Chewniverse” comic book project.

The target demographic is sixth graders to high school-age youths.

Funding for the comic was granted on the basis that it could spread the vision of community health. If the digital comic can influence the eating patterns of students, Mercado said, he thinks the project could go beyond Sacramento.

Health-E-Man was inspired by the 1980s superhero series “He-Man and Masters of the Universe.”
In order to avoid too many comparisons to He-Man, creators of Health-E-Man have made efforts to differentiate their hero.

“If you’ve ever seen (He-Man), he’s a typical white male – knight-in-shining armor. But if you look at our character, he could resemble any ethnicity that you could think of. He could look Mexican, he could look Native American, he could also look Asian,” Mercado said. “We know Sacramento is a very diverse community, and we want to make sure everyone is captured.”

Creators are also currently working on their first storyline concept. Each issue will be accompanied by a lesson, such as the benefits of exercise.

“Kids can teach their parents about eating. Kids can influence their parents in doing things. If we did it the other way around, it wouldn’t work, and we’ve seen it,” Mercado said. “If you have a youth coming to you and telling you the things that could happen, it makes a bigger impact.”

Two teenagers have been brought on board for storyboard consulting because creators wanted input from youths. In addition, Frank Stone, a comic book illustrator from Stockton, was enlisted to bring their concepts to life.

In order to raise community involvement, Mercado said that creators of Health-E-Man will launch a coloring contest in August in order to decide the color scheme for the comic. The details of the contest are still in development. Mercado said the fusion of colors makes or breaks a comic.

Stone took the concept of “Champions of the Chewniverse” to Comic-Con in San Diego recently in order to debut Health-E-Man to the comic book community. Health-E-Man will also have its own booth at the first He-Man convention beginning Sept. 28 in Los Angeles.

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

Ways to waken your Wanderlust

2011-07-26T19:21:23Z

If you listen real close, you can hear the "ohm" resonate from Wanderlust Festival 2011 in Tahoe into the valley. Mind, body, and spirit comes alive in this annual pilgrimage for outdoor enthusiast, music lovers, and yoga aficionados. Located in the natural setting of Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe, few festivals in the world compares to majestic mountains, eclectic music, and meditations to match the mood. On its third year, the festival offers all who attend relaxation, revelation, and rejuvenation with organic foods, wines, scenery, music, and community. In true sun salutation, here are simple ways to waken your wanderlust.

1) Hoof it to Heaven, Schulyer Grant’s hike in the picturesque surroundings of the Sierra is a “must do”. Guided morning meditation hikes revitalize. Several nature treks are scheduled during the festival. Each step will take your breath away as you reach higher elevation.

2) Groove to live music, from rebel rocker Michael Franti & Spearhead (Friday night) to Girl Talk, to Jai Uttal, to the legendary Wailers. Musical talents abound so rock it out. (Full music schedule here) Other performers include the Phoenix Fire Dancers and the MarchFourth Marching Band also there for your enjoyment. “Do wah diddy” dance to the late night DJ parties on Friday and Saturday. If that is not enough, YogiTunes will be spinning an amazing collection of beats to soothe your soul and hush your humanity at High Camp from 2-6pm daily.

3) Speakeasy is a series of dynamic lecture style therapy for those seeking solutions to life’s dilemmas. From dancing with the divine, to mindful eating, to creating the future that you love, to spiritual authenticity, and steps to life fulfillment. Afterwards, try wine tasting various varietals of wine at Winederlust held at Uncorked from 4:30pm to 7:30pm on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with support from Capital Public Radio.

4) Stir your crown chakra nightly with a feature film sponsored by the Gaiam Spiritual Cinema Circle. Films featured are critically acclaimed Yogawoman, Kumare, The Heart of Transformation, Connected, and Wake Up. Nightly starting times at 7p.m.

5) Yield to yoga, try Shaman of the Moon or Yoga Twister. Shaman of the Moon is body, mind, and music exercises led by Anne Marie Kramer, a 13 year exercise physiologist and teacher at Zuda Yoga, at 19th and O Street in Midtown. “The key,” Kramer says. “is to try as many yoga styles and teachers as you can. Make use of your mountain pose in nature around Squaw, and in the evenings enjoy the music.”

Overall, this event is sure to rock your short list, tickets are still available at Wanderlust.com.

My Routine Has Become Too Routine

2011-07-20T01:40:18Z

By Robert Linkul MS CSCS-CPT D*

I like to think of myself as a fairly organized and routine individual. I wake up at the same time every day, I eat the same breakfast every morning, I take the same route to work and always park in the same parking spot. As a certified personal trainer I live and die by my schedule book. Rarely, do you ever see me without it. In my line of work the more "routine" based individuals seem to be more successful. This however, is not the case when it comes to exercise. I'm not talking about the "daily routine" or time of day you have selected to exercise. I'm talking about your program design: selecting which exercises to perform, the correct weight to lift, the number of repetitions to perform and the quantity of sets to implement. In this case, "routine" is the last thing you want if you are trying to make significant changes to your body.

As trainers, we call this "program design." For every client we train we create a program design specifically geared toward assisting our clients achieve their goals. Our program designs are created with the thought of providing variety in the training program; enough variety in that the muscles are confused. Muscle confusion is a fad term for fitness terms like "over-load" and "adaptation." We will discuss the "over-load" and "adaptation" principles in more detail a little later. These two principles make up the foundation of the program design and ultimately lead to accomplishing the goals originally set by the trainer and client. If the program design is not created correctly and the same workout is completed week after week the body adapts to the over load and becomes stagnant.

I have been working at Arden Hills for seven years and during that time I have seen many people come in, day after day and perform the exact same exercise routine. For years I have seen people waddle away on the elliptical while reading the newspaper and then, using the same weight, perform the exact same exercise routine that they have been doing since 1985. The definition of insanity is, "repeating the same act while expecting a different outcome." By my standards these individuals are clinically, "fitness insane" and believe it or not, I use to be one of them!

In 1999, I was just getting started in the fitness industry and one of my most important education tools was my subscription to Flex magazine. My favorite issue was the annual "Arnold's Secret Muscle Building Routine," issue that brought forth new workout programs for me to try on myself. I couldn't wait to perform that 12-week program of the exact same thing over and over again. You know what, for some reason I never got a chest like Arnold had. Was it because I wasn't in Venice Beach lifting with Frank Zane and Franko Columbo? No, it was because my body went through the over-load and adaptation principles of the program in the first three weeks and then became complaisant. I was no longer challenging my muscles an, in a sense, had allowed my exercise routine to become too "routine."

The two principles I keep referring to are what every quality certified personal trainer should bases their program design around. The "over-load" principle states that the muscles of the body are use to a certain amount of weight and repetitions (volume) and in order to change the physical appearance of the muscles the load must change. This "load" does not necessarily mean heavier weight. You can apply an "over-load" to a muscle by performing more repetitions as well. Remember, lifting heavier weight with fewer repetitions will typically grow a muscle in size (hypertrophy). Where as lifting light weight with higher repetitions will slightly grow the muscle, increase definition and drastically increase the muscles strength. No matter what your goal is the "over-load" principle applies if you want to make a change.

The "adaptation principle" states that, while training with an over-load, for a certain amount of time (usually four to six weeks) the muscles will begin to adapt in way that the "over-load" is no longer challenging. The muscles adapt to the demands of the exercise by increasing in strength. As the muscles increase in strength the "over-load" is no longer challenging. Its at this point in the program design that the muscles need to undertake a new "over-load" to continue to the next level of improvement. Its our job, as trainers, to design the program to do this safely. The rotation of "over-load" and "adaptation" can cycle two or three times (12 to 16 weeks) before a recovery period is required. If a recovery period is not taken muscles will become "over-trained" in which they will begin to regress or become injured. You can see how proper program design is a science and a tricky one at that.

The message of this newsletter is this; do not become insane with your workout routine! Doing the same exercises over and over again while expecting them to achieve something different is not going to work. Change your routine often. I'm not saying you need to jump from weight training to yoga to spin class and then to boot camp. I'm suggesting you progress your program design to gradually challenge your body. As your body becomes stronger and starts to adapt to that challenge you need to find a new level of "over-load" to challenge them with. If you don't know how to successfully progress your routine to achieve the goals you have set you should seek the advice of a fitness professional. Remember, I go to a mechanic to fix my car because they are the experts. Exercise is not as simple as it may seem and many people need professional help to achieve the goals they have set. If this wasn't the case, I wouldn't have a job.

You are putting in the effort every day. You get prepared, you get to the gym, you go through the motions but its the same stagnant motions that are keeping you from reaching your true potential. Stop the insanity and learn the right way to progress your workout routines. There are many great-certified personal trainers out their that can teach you how to exercise correctly.

This is, by no means, a new style of training or a new discovery of program design, its been around forever. It is however, a new way of presenting this information to the public. This is part of the "fitness revolution." It’s a new way of thinking and I hope you will join me. As my mentor always says, "knowledge is power" and in this case he couldn't be more correct. Get out there and learn how to make your body a healthier place.

Disclosure: Robert Linkul MS CSCS D* is the Head Personal Trainer at Arden Hills Strength & Conditioning, trains over 100 clients a week in his personal training studio, has his master's degree in personal training and is a NSCA Certified Personal Trainer.

BOBBY JACKSON FOUNDATION TO HOST THIRD ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT AT CATTA VERDERA COUNTRY CLUB SEPTEMBER 26

2011-07-11T20:03:06Z

Former NBA star Bobby Jackson and the Bobby Jackson Foundation will host the Third Annual Golf Tournament at Catta Verdera Country Club golf course in Lincoln, Calif. on Monday, Sept. 26. Jackson is committed to assisting children in California who have a parent who has had or currently has cancer.

The Bobby Jackson Foundation Golf Tournament will advance his cause by raising funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Sacramento Valley Affiliate and Camp Kesem.

“I have long-admired the work that Susan G. Komen for the Cure has done right here in our community and am proud to support their efforts,” said Jackson. “It is also important to me to continue our partnership with Camp Kesem, an organization that brings smiles to the faces of so many youth struggling to enjoy their childhood.”

The shotgun start event will begin at noon and will feature a pink ball challenge, hole-in-one prizes, putting competitions, a longest drive contest and raffle prizes. The tournament will close with a dinner and auction at the country club with team prizes and awards.

Entry fees for the tournament are $1,200 for a foursome or $300 for individual contenders. Fees include a cart, greens fees, dinner and more. For more information, or to reserve a spot now, please visit www.BobbyJacksonFoundation.org or call 310-649-5222. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Disclosure: Me Communications provides pro-bono services for Komen for the Cure Sacramento

Local Launch of Script Your Future Campaign Part of National Effort to Improve Medication Adherence

2011-07-01T19:04:13Z

SACRAMENTO, CA – Most people remember their morning coffee more often than their daily medication. That lack of adherence can lead to serious health consequences and avoidable costs. With the local launch of the National Consumer League’s (NCL) Script Your Future campaign today, patients are encouraged to pledge their independence from the emotional and financial burden of chronic disease by taking their medicine as directed.

“Non-adherence to medication is a major public health concern,” said Glennah Trochet, M.D., Sacramento County Public Health Officer, as she joined the NCL at today’s launch event and health screening at a Pocket-area Rite Aid Pharmacy. “The Script Your Future campaign will educate and empower patients and family caregivers to take control over their health by taking their medication as directed.”

Medication adherence has become a growing focus among health care stakeholders, and addressing the problem is critical, especially as the number of Americans affected by at least one chronic condition is expected to grow from 133 to 157 million by 2020. According to the California Department of Public Health’s Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program, 1 in 4 California adults have hypertension, including 1 in 3 African Americans. Forty-nine percent of those diagnosed with the condition are not taking medicines to lower their blood pressure.

“There are many different reasons why people don’t take their medicine as directed, from concerns about side effects to the out-of-pocket costs of prescriptions. But the consequences for patients are the same. By not taking medication as prescribed, patients, especially those with chronic conditions, are at risk for serious complications,” said Rebecca Burkholder, vice president of Health Policy for the NCL, the nation’s oldest consumer group.

According to research conducted by the National Consumers League and others, pharmacists are among the most trusted patient resources for information about medication, making them a valuable resource to help teach patients about the importance of taking medication as directed.

“Rite Aid is proud to join the National Consumers League’s effort to educate people on the importance of taking medication as directed,” said local Rite Aid Pharmacist Noora Ahram. “By taking medicine correctly, people can improve their overall health and help avoid costly medical expenses.”

“Communication is critical in improving adherence,” said Tyla Healton, NP-c, Sutter Express Care Sacramento. “When patients talk with clinicians and pharmacists, they can usually help dispel myths and fears regarding prescription use.”

Script Your Future is bringing Sacramento area stakeholders in health care, business and government together to offer practical tools for patients to help them better adhere to their medication, and to help health care practitioners better communicate with patients. Tools include free text message reminders, sample questions, medication lists, condition management sheets, and fact sheets on common chronic conditions, and can all be found on the campaign website, www.ScriptYourFuture.org.

The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Regina M. Benjamin, helped kick off the national Script Your Future campaign on May 11 in Washington, DC as part of her Prevention Focus. The campaign is dedicated to promoting medication adherence education and awareness in Sacramento and across the nation. Sacramento is one of six regional city markets where the campaign will pilot activities, research and advertising. The other regional markets are Baltimore, Md.; Birmingham, Ala.; Cincinnati, Ohio; Providence, R.I.; and Raleigh, N.C.

To learn more about the campaign, go to www.ScriptYourFuture.org.

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Script Your Future is a campaign of the National Consumers League (NCL), a private, non-profit membership organization founded in 1899. For more information on NCL, please visit www.nclnet.org.

Food law takes effect Friday

2011-07-01T00:44:20Z

A new food handler training program goes into effect for all California restaurant workers Friday, and Sacramento-area employees and restaurateurs have varied opinions on its effectiveness.

The new law, Senate Bill 602, requires all restaurant employees – with a few exceptions – who handle food to complete an online training course with basic food safety instruction. According to the law, certified testing companies cannot charge more than $15, paid by the employee.

“There are similar laws and requirements like this in other states that require a basic level of food safety training, like Florida and Texas,” said Daniel Conway, legislative and public affairs director of the California Restaurant Association.

The association is a trade group for California restaurants and worked with county health inspectors and state Sen. Alex Padilla of Pacoima, who authored the bill.

“It will without a doubt have a positive impact in terms of food safety,” Conway said.

He added that San Diego, San Bernardino and Riverside counties already had similar guidelines at the local level, and they had measurable results in decreasing the amount of food-borne ailments. Those counties are exempt from the law, given their current programs.

A similar program has been required for at least one manager at every restaurant for about a decade, Conway said, and the new comprehensive certification is modeled on that, but not as intensive.

The test, which must be passed with a score of 70 percent or better, covers six topics: food-borne illness, including terms and types; the relationship between time and temperature as it affects food-borne illness; the relationship between personal hygiene and food safety; methods of preventing food contamination; procedures for cleaning and sanitizing utensils and equipment; and problems and solutions concerning temperature control, cross-contamination, housekeeping and maintenance.

That, however, does not sit well with some restaurant workers.

“Well I’m mad I have to spend my money on it, and I really don’t think it’s going to make people more careful with food handling,” said Summer Johnston, an 18-year-old Starbucks employee.

“I definitely think that the company should have to pay for it,” she added.

Clarence Wong, a manager at Taro’s by Mikuni, said, "There was an initial fear about how much it would cost us if we had to pay for everyone to take the test, but because the employees are now paying for their own cards, it's now a matter of the employees making sure to meet the standards before the deadline so that they can work.”

Records of cards – such as photocopies – must be kept by employers, and employees do not need to carry the cards with them when they work, according to an FAQ page put out by the San Francisco Department of Public Health, which also lists exemptions for certain groups of employees and restaurant types.

Employers who cannot produce cards for their employees will be in violation of the law, and that violation can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor.

Conway said the card belongs to the worker, and only one is needed, renewed every three years.

The test can be taken here, and the certificate can be printed.

“It was meant to kind of give employees maximum flexibility,” he said. “A fair number of people working in the restaurant industry work several jobs, and they can use the same card wherever they go.”

He added that since it is statewide, people who live in Sacramento and go to college in a different county can use the same card if they have jobs in both places.

“We’re all for it,” said Patrick Mulvaney, owner of Mulvaney’s B&L. “I think it’s pretty cool, because it makes sure everybody is up to snuff and on the same level.”

He compared it to needing a license as a taxi driver or a cosmetology certificate to style hair in a salon.

Mulvaney said some of his workers without access to computers used one at the restaurant, and though all of his workers can read, he said that if they couldn’t, a manager would have to sit down and go through it with them, making sure it was all understood.

“I think it seems like a good idea, and it makes sense intuitively for me,” he said. “Everybody should know that things need to be under 40 (degrees) or over 140 (degrees) and the reasons it’s OK to leave vinegar out but not milk.”

Some employees at local restaurants doubt Conway’s assertion that the law will have any real effect.

"Basically, I think this is just a way for the state to get money, and every year there will be some way for them to make it more expensive,” said Taro’s by Mikuni Head Hostess Katrina Ewbank.

“Each restaurant has their own training already, and I honestly don't think, if people weren't practicing cleanliness before, that they'll all of a sudden be super-clean,” she said. “Though, I think people might just feel better knowing that restaurants are requiring their workers to do it."

Christopher Weiss, a 21-year-old employee of New York Pizza and Plus, agreed.

“It wouldn’t upset me too much. It just means I’d miss a little bit of work to do the class,” he said. “It sounds like (the food handler card) would be necessary, but when you’re actually working with food, even after taking classes, you tend to do it your way. Doing a class kind of seems ridiculous.”

Employees may grumble, but it is required by law, and not having it will mean being unemployed.

“It’s theirs, but they need to have it.... If there is a health inspection, (inspectors) will ask for it,” said John Ruffaine, co-owner of Giovanni’s Old World Pizzeria. “As soon as it is enforced, if they don’t (have) it, they are without a job. They are not allowed to work (in food service) anymore.”

He added that employees not having the cards would be akin to the restaurant operating without any other permit.

A number of Ruffaine’s employees had already received their cards when questioned by The Sacramento Press in advance of the law's effective date.

“The funny thing is, it seems they say they feel better about themselves because they feel more important about it – they have something that says that they can handle food. Their spirits are uplifted after taking it,” he said.

Ruffaine said the test involves a lot of common-sense items, but that they are important to prevent food contamination.

“Unlike us, there are many places that don’t really inform staff on not only how to properly handle food, but detergents,” he said.

Olive Garden server Teona Garza said the test is a pain, and she found out about it from other servers.

“We have to get it on our own,” she said. “It's a boring test, and (Olive Garden) is making us pay the fee. But they said we have to get it or we won't be employed."

For more information on the food handler card, click here.

The test, administered by ServSafe, and frequently asked questions can be found here.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell. Sacramento Press editorial interns Amy Wong, Nha Nguyen, Elizabeth Orfin and Taylor Miles contributed to this article.

3 Sacramento Schools Qualify as Finalists in Governor's Fitness Challenge

2011-06-21T23:58:04Z

Jake Steinfeld, Chairman of the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, announced that three Sacramento schools and 116 schools state-wide have been named finalists in the 2011 Governor’s Challenge Competition. The Governor’s Challenge Competition is a contest that promotes increased physical activity and better nutrition among California’s children. The three Sacramento school finalists are:

• Caroline Wenzel Elementary
• Hollywood Park Elementary
• Prairie Elementary

The Governor’s Challenge is to be active 30-60 minutes a day, at least three days a week for a month. All three of the Sacramento school finalists had 100% of their students successfully complete at least one Challenge this year.

“Congratulations to all the Sacramento students, parents and teachers who have been stepping up to make fitness a priority all year,” said Steinfeld. “And a special congratulations to the school principals and Governor’s Challenge Coordinators who have been relaying the message that being active not only helps you get healthier, it helps your mind work better and boosts your confidence and self-esteem too!”

The 116 school finalists named today are now under consideration for prizes including 6 brand new fitness centers valued at $100,000 each and 11 Regional Awards of $6,000 each, which will be used to buy new physical activity equipment and other school supplies. Award winning schools will be announced at a special ceremony at the Capitol in September.

Statewide more than 1.4 million participants recorded more than 8 million days of physical activity through the Governor’s Challenge in 2011. Complete physical activity records of participating schools in the Governor’s Challenge can be found at www.CalGovCouncil.org.

“I want to emphasize that during these times when budgets are so tight, we’ve been able to promote the Governor’s Challenge without adding any burden to California taxpayers,” said Steinfeld. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, - Anthem Blue Cross Foundation, the Coca-Cola Company, CVS/pharmacy, General Mills, and Kaiser Permanente - a record 1.4 million California children, parents and teachers signed up to take the Governor’s Challenge this year.”

Anthem Blue Cross Foundation is the title sponsor of the Governor’s Council Spotlight Awards that fund the Competition’s three grand prize fitness centers. The Coca-Cola Company is the sponsor of an additional three Live Positively Fitness Center awards that will be donated to schools this year. CVS/pharmacy sponsors the Governor’s Challenge Competition Front Runner Awards and the $6,000 Regional Awards. General Mills’ sponsorship funds the Certificates of Completion which students completing the Governor’s Challenge receive. Partners of the Governor’s Council include Tuff Stuff Fitness Equipment, which helps equip the fitness centers the Council awards, 24 Hour Fitness which provides free passes to high school students taking the Governor’s Challenge, and Mammoth Mountain Ski Area which provides free lift tickets to k-12 students taking the Governor’s Challenge.

About the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
The California Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting physical activity for all Californians with an emphasis on children and youth. Council members include Chairman Jake Steinfeld, Vice Chairman Peter Vidmar, and California sports legends such as Tony Hawk, Misty May-Treanor, and Laila Ali. Governor Brown is the Honorary Chairman and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson is the co-Honorary Chairman. Governor’s Council key initiatives include the Governor’s Challenge, the Governor’s Council Spotlight Awards presented by the Anthem Blue Cross Foundation, the Live Like a Champion Tour powered by Anthem Blue Cross and Exercise is Medicine. Founding sponsors are Anthem Blue Cross Foundation and Kaiser Permanente. Other sponsors include The Coca-Cola Company, CVS/pharmacy and General Mills. For more information, visit www.CalGovCouncil.org.

Folsom Fitness Extravaganza

2011-06-13T03:14:28Z

The annual Folsom Fitness Extravaganza was held at Folsom Middle School on Saturday. The event was hosted by the National Gym Association (NGA) and Fitness in Mind.

Fifty individuals, male and female, competed for various categories including Mr. and Ms. California, bodybuilding, fitness and bikini. All competitors had to undergo a polygraph the night before the event to ensure there had been no drug use over the past seven years. Both the NGA and Fitness in Mind’s Johnny “The Motivator” Carrero are dedicated to ensuring this event remains drug-free and all-natural. Proceeds from the event benefit local educational programs teaching young athletes the harmful side-effects of anabolic steroids.

This was my first bodybuilding event, and I have to say the amount of effort the competitors put into this competition is amazing. Not only are these people hitting the gym for hours a day, but they are religious about what they put into and on their bodies. Yes, on their bodies. They lather on coloring to give them either a dark or light tan and, in some cases, a golden hue. Paul Alberts was a real golden color. Alberts’ wife shouted words of encouragement during the morning show, much to the audience’s amusement.

I overheard one competitor talking about being flat and how he needed to eat some protein bars with more sodium and drink a gallon of water before the evening show. He was still going to eat his bioplex whey and add another coat or two of color. And these people strive for all-natural?

All-natural aside, these folks are ripped. I was going to say these kids, but there were several groups referred to as masters, aka seniors. The age groups for the masters are Masters (40-49), Grand Masters (50-59) and Ultra Masters (60 and up). Mohammed Daunish was the only competitor in the Ultra Masters, at the young age of 73!

The big prize for the evening was pro status for the Men’s and Women’s Open, earning the right to compete at the professional level. The winner of the Men’s Open received a very cool sword, while the winner under the womens category received a trophy and flowers. Below are all the winners for the evening’s events.

Men’s Ultra Masters: Mohammed Daunish
Men’s Grand Masters: Dave Blumgold
Men’s Masters: Paul Alberts
Men’s Overall: Dave Blumgold
Women’s Masters (40+): Debbie Lockwood
Masters Figure Short: Kelly Lombardi
Masters Figure Tall: ~~Regina White~~ Jennifer Burger
Women’s Overall: ~~Regina White~~ Jennifer Burger
Bikini: Meredith Murdock
Women’s Open: Debbie Lockwood
Men’s Light Weight: James Simmons
Men’s Middle Weight: Daniel Korman
Men’s Light Heavy Weight: Erik Holm
Men’s Heavy Weight: Dave Blumgold
Open Figure Short: Jennifer Flores
Open Figure Medium: ~~Regina White~~ Jennifer Burger
Open Figure Tall: Teo Schoer
Ms. California (pro qualifier): ~~Regina White~~ Jennifer Burger
Mr. California (pro qualifier): Erik Holm

To get more information visit Fitness in Mind or National Gym Association.

Randy Miramontez is a contributing writer and photographer with The Sacramento Press.

Wadlin speaks on balanced living at California Writers Club

2011-06-05T02:40:51Z

The first Friday of every month, the Sacramento Branch of the California Writers Club gathers for development opportunities, social interaction and solidarity among area writers. This past Friday, June 3, a group of 25 writers hosted Dr. Caroline Wadlin, a local, award winning physician specializing in women’s health and holistic medicine.

Wadlin’s recently published book, “A Woman’s Guide to Balancing Life in Today’s Fast Paced World,” is dedicated to all women:

“May you be blessed with more energy, less stress and more fun.”

Her compact guide to balancing life includes tips on how to reorganize your priorities so that you can lead a happier life.

“It’s not selfish to do that,” Wadlin reasoned.

The presentation began with five quick minutes of standing movement to help energize and invigorate “without coffee,” said Wadlin.

Whether it was discussing Qi gong, gossip, multivitamins or hot flashes, Dr. Wadlin encouraged living a happy, healthy and balanced life. Perhaps her most admirable trait was her overall likeability. Wadlin is a physician, a woman, a writer, a mother and a grandmother. If she can lead a balanced and healthy life, anyone can.

While the book and the session were seemingly geared toward women, Wadlin provided important and valuable advice for the men in the room too.

Wellness is so easily neglected in today’s fast-paced world. Your response to something, Wadlin explained, is generally a combination of your knowledge, thoughts, feelings and past experiences. Personal wellness is a dynamic that can greatly contribute to all of these factors, either positively or negatively.

“When you’re well,” said Wadlin, “when the tsunami hits, you know how to get through it.”

Wadlin’s Wellness Pyramid presented all the elements needed for a healthy and happy life. Total wellness requires sleep, nutrition and exercise, with relationships at their heart, all based on a strong platform of positive attitude.

It is obvious that this group, in particular, knows the importance of relationships. Throughout the presentation, group members were sometimes so exuberant and full of one-liners that the meeting had to be called back to order. The intimate presentation for the writers’ club soon became an interactive Q & A session. Dr. Wadlin answered questions and discussed the health benefits of topics such as magnesium, B vitamins, sun and laughter.

“If you feel like you have a cold coming on, rent two comedies and call me in the morning,” said Wadlin, explaining the many benefits of laughter.

Encouragingly, this group’s gatherings are all about mental health. Following the presentation, many lingered to chat. Members from ages 26 to 88 discussed their ideas, edits and trials and tribulations in the publishing world, all the while offering each other their support, advice and encouragement.

“A writer has to keep their hope, whether they’re 80 or 50 or 20,” said Bob Quinlan, a member of the CWC Sacramento Branch Board of Directors and author of “Earn It: Empower Yourself for Love,” a nonfiction book on love and relationships.

There are many challenges in the complex and uncertain literary world. Almost half the group works from home, and while some have outside jobs as well, most write full time.

Besides the many social benefits of the club, the CWC helps writers to stay abreast of the current trends in the world of writing and publishing. The California Writers Club was founded in 1909 and now has over 1,300 members. The Club keeps members informed on current relevant events including competitions and conferences, in addition to hosting their own.

The Sacramento Branch group hosts a monthly meeting, usually featuring a speaker or presenter, and a monthly open mic night where writers can present their best and receive feedback. In addition, writers collaborate, some providing editing, revision, and technology support as well as other services necessary when making a book into a successful published product.

Open Mic nights are held on the second Friday of the month at Barnes & Noble Birdcage on Sunrise Blvd. The next open mic event will be held on Friday, June 10 at 7:00 p.m. Signup begins at 6:45.

The next meeting of the Sacramento Branch of the California Writers Club will be August 5. There will be no July meeting due to the holiday weekend. Visit the CWC Sacramento Branch website for additional information or to join the California Writers Club.

For more information on Dr. Caroline Wadlin and her work, visit her website or email her at wadlin@sbcglobal.net.

Volunteers Needed at the Kaiser Women’s Fitness Festival

2011-05-25T00:41:05Z

4,500 women will race in the Kaiser Women’s Fitness Festival benefiting WEAVE on Sunday, June 5th to raise awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault. Now in its seventh year, the event is the largest women’s-only run in the region and runners travel from the Bay Area and the central valley to compete. WEAVE needs volunteers! Sign up now!

All volunteers are required to attend a Mandatory Volunteer Training on Wednesday, June 1st from 5:30 - 6:30 PM at WEAVE.

Volunteer shifts run in 3 – 5 hour blocks from Thursday, June 2nd to Sunday, June 5th. Questions? Contact Ashley.

In full disclosure, this article was written by a WEAVE employee in the hopes of spreading the word far and wide. We are grateful to Sacramento Press for this forum to get the word out!

Volunteers Needed at the Kaiser Women’s Fitness Festival

2011-05-19T00:10:34Z

All volunteers are required to attend a Mandatory Volunteer Training on Wednesday, June 1st from 5:30 - 6:30 PM at WEAVE.

Volunteer shifts run in 3 – 5 hour blocks from Thursday, June 2nd to Sunday, June 5th. Questions? Contact Ashley.

In full disclosure, this article was written by a WEAVE employee in the hopes of spreading the word far and wide. We are grateful to Sacramento Press for this forum to get the word out!

Walk for Multiple Sclerosis

2011-05-04T19:06:48Z

The National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, Northern California Chapter will hold its annual Walk MS: Sacramento, sponsored by Teva Neuroscience, at West Steps State Capitol on Sunday, May 1 at 9 am.

Hundreds of walkers are expected to come out and help raise the goal of $1.34 million. Funds raised will support direct services for the more than 12,000 people with MS and their families in Northern California and research to find a cure for this chronic disease of the central nervous system.

This is an event for the entire family, including your pooches. While children can enjoy balloon animals, face painting and other exciting activities, your dogs can participate in costume parade the Strut Your Mutt contest where they can steal the limelight with their tricks. Guaranteed prizes await the top two mutts. Stroll by the vendor tables to see the interesting exhibits they have to offer. People can participate in Walk MS individually or as a team. Volunteers are also needed.

WHAT:
Walk MS Sacramento to benefit the National MS Society, Northern California Chapter

WHEN:
Sunday May1
WHERE:
West Steps State Capitol

PARTICIPATION/ VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION:
Visit walk.msconnection.org or call 1-800-344-4867

WHY:
Proceeds raised will benefit the National MS Society, Northern California Chapter.

About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body and stops people from moving. Every hour in the United States, someone is diagnosed with MS — an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to an MS-free world. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men affected by the disease. More than 400,000 people in the United States and 2.5 million worldwide live with MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to make sure it doesn’t. The Society addresses the challenges of each person affected by MS by funding cutting-edge research, driving change through advocacy, facilitating professional education, collaborating with MS organizations around the world, and providing programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move their lives forward. In 2009, through its national office and 50-state network of chapters, the Society devoted more than $132 million to programs that enhanced more than one million lives. To move us closer to a world free of MS, the National MS Society also invested nearly $36 million to support 375 research projects around the world. We are people who want to do something about MS now. Join the Movement® at nationalMSsociety.org.
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Disclosure: Vaishali Kirpekar is a communication, media and outreach volunteer for this event.

Non-profit pledges $50,000 to UC Davis Health Systems Cancer Programs

2011-04-27T17:43:20Z

Sacramento’s Fruitridge Health & Wellness Collective (FHWC) is inaugurating its 5-year pledge to UC Davis Health System, pledging $50,000, which will be distributed evenly between UC Davis Health Systems’ WeCARE! Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer Peer Navigator Programs, which provide outreach, education and support to newly designated breast cancer and prostate cancer patients.

This information was released today in this press release.

"The generous support of Fruitridge Health and Wellness Collective enables us to expand our unique WeCARE! Community-Based Cancer Peer Navigator Program to train more cancer survivors as cancer coaches for newly diagnosed cancer patients throughout our region" said Marlene M. von Friederichs-Fitzwater, assistant professor and director of the Outreach Research and Education Program at UC Davis Cancer Center. "As a cancer survivor myself, I know the value of having a cancer coach by your side as you go from diagnosis through treatment.”

With three relatives afflicted by cancer, two of whom have passed, the donations to UC Davis Health System have special meaning for FHWC Director Caleb Counts, who operates his non-profit medical cannabis dispensary with a focus on helping his patients and the community at large.

“My father is a prostate cancer survivor, my grandmother died a horrible painful death from breast cancer, and my aunt battled breast cancer for 12 years, 9 of them with significant suffering.” said Counts, “Despite the severity of her pain, she wouldn’t use cannabis because it was illegal…she would never risk getting in trouble, so she suffered greatly as it traveled from her breast to her bones and liver…cannabis could have provided her substantial relief.”

In addition to the UC Davis Health System donations, FHWC also operates a number of service programs for their patients.

Compassion Program-Low income or terminally ill patients receive a weekly credit of 22 dollars, weekly food donations from the farmers market and grocery gift cards during the holiday season.

Farmers Market Nutritional Program-Weekly onsite donation of free organic produce and free nutritional workshops to members of FHWC’s compassion program.

FHWC also donates $300 per month to non-profit Harm Reduction Services.

“At FHWC, we are committed to relieving needless suffering,” said Director, Caleb Counts, “We operate legally, per legislation we helped craft with the City Council.”

“Last year I was on the City Council when we unanimously established a new ordinance to deal with Medical Cannabis dispensaries to insure that they operated in a lawful, legitimate and compassionate way and were properly zoned.“ said Robbie Waters, “I have personally toured the facility of FHWC, which is professionally operated. I feel the service they provide to their patients is extremely important.”

Fruitridge Health &Wellness is located at 2831 Fruitridge Road, Suite E. Visit the website for more information at fhwcc.org.

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa handles public relations for Fruitridge Health & Wellness

Kaiser Permanente provides grant to fund flu clinics

2011-04-26T17:19:08Z

Stepping in to replace funding eliminated by state budget cuts, Kaiser Permanente has approved a nearly $50,000 grant to fund Sacramento County’s flu immunization program for low-income and underserved schoolchildren.

The grant for the Immunization Assistance Program, which is run by the county’s Public Health Division, will allow public health officials to re-establish plans to vaccinate hundreds of children at 20 elementary schools this fall.

The $49,737 grant is provided by Kaiser Permanente’s Community Benefit program in the greater Sacramento area. The grant is among $1.2 million in funding approved last week to improve access to health care and health-care coverage, increase health education, and prevent violence in Sacramento, Yolo, Placer and El Dorado counties.

“Kaiser Permanente strongly believes in improving the health of the communities in which we serve, and we are extremely pleased to provide this much-needed contribution so that children continue to receive the flu vaccine at their schools,” said Edward S. Glavis, senior vice president and area manager for Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento and Roseville. “Children are a vulnerable population for spreading and acquiring the virus that causes the flu, so it is critical they receive the vaccine – especially if their families don’t have access to health insurance.”

About half of the grant will pay for public health nurses. The remainder will fund a program coordinator, medical supplies and other expenses.

Katie Minke is a Media Relations Specialist for Kaiser Permanente

Community Event Draws Attention to Violence Prevention

2011-04-12T21:12:17Z

In an effort to raise awareness about violence prevention in our community, Increase the Peace, a community event for the entire family, will be held on Saturday, April 16 at South Sacramento Christian Center, 7710 Stockton Boulevard, in Sacramento. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the event lasts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is sponsored by People Reaching Out, The South Sacramento Christian Center and Kaiser Permanente.

Highlights of the day include a special performance at 10:30 a.m. of Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Program production of "Peace Signs," which uses theatre to teach students how to resolve conflicts without violence.

In addition, a free lunch will be given to the first 1,000 attendees and free haircuts will be provided by Paul Mitchell Beauty School. Also available to attendees will be a Food Bank and Clothes Closet provided by South Sacramento Christian Center. In all, more than 25 organizations will be on hand to show their support of reducing violence in our community, including The Guardian Angels, My Sister’s House, the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento Violence Intervention Program and many more.

In 2009, Sacramento was identified as having the second highest violent crime rate of the ten largest cities in California. Current statistics show that youth in the 16-25 age group account for the highest percentage of violent acts. Additionally, Sacramento has seen an alarming rise in gang membership – there are now more than 4,500 known gang members in the City of Sacramento.

Preventing youth violence requires the support and contributions of many partners – law enforcement, healthcare providers and private industry. The Increase the Peace event brings together these and a number of other partners to raise awareness about youth violence.

For more information, call People Reaching Out at 916-576-3300.

Katie Minke is a Media Relations Specialist for Kaiser Permanente

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 15th ANNUAL KOMEN SACRAMENTO RACE FOR THE CURE

2011-03-31T18:56:56Z

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is seeking volunteers for the 15th Annual Komen Sacramento Race for the Cure. More than 1,000 volunteers are needed to make this year’s race a huge success.

“Volunteers are needed before, during, and after the race starting April 30, 2011 through May 7, 2011,” said Donna Sanderson, executive director for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Sacramento Valley. “There are a variety of positions and shifts available from pre-race registration at Arden Fair Mall to distributing refreshments and water on race day at Cal Expo.”

This year, more than 20,000 people are expected to make an impact against breast cancer in one of the region’s largest 5K run/walk events. Since its inception, the Sacramento Valley Affiliate has brought in millions of dollars for breast cancer services in the greater Sacramento region.

Visit www.komensacramento.org/ and click on the Get Involved Tab to join a dedicated group of volunteers. All helpers will receive a volunteer t-shirt while supplies last.

Disclosure: ME Communications is handling pro bono public relations for Sacramento Komen Race for the Cure

AIDS epidemic outweighs gold

2011-03-06T23:14:26Z

Three Oscar statutes march on the red carpet offering vials of liquid pleasure. Chiseled bodies, photographer’s lenses can’t resist. Camera flashes bounce off their shells like bullets aimed at Superman.Stylish partygoers can’t help but to be intrigued. They all want a sip. Come closer, the golden boys six-pack abs invite. Emblazoned in black letters is the campaign slogan for AIDS and HIV prevention: “Play, but Play it Safe.”

Yes, it is the Oscars, but we can’t help to be reminded of the impact of the deadly disease. Christian, one of the golden boys agrees, “We wanted to raise awareness for AIDS and HIV,” said Christian, who asked that his last name remain unpublished. “We’re raising money for those affected with the disease and keeping it fun.”

“5,000 people in the region are infected – one in four doesn’t even know it,” said Joyce Mitchell, president of the Capital City AIDS Fund (CCAF) and a prevention advocate for 16 years. “If they do not know, then they are spreading the virus. It is 100 percent preventable,”
Contrary to popular belief, AIDS is not a disease of men. The World Health Organization announced in November 2009 that HIV/AIDS is now the number one killer worldwide of women and girls ages 15 to 44 worldwide. In the United States alone, a woman is infected with HIV every 35 minutes.

Beck Morgan has a fun job. He’s one of the make-up artists who covered the three Golden Boys’ bodies with glittering theatrical makeup. But he gets serious when talking about the lethal nature of AIDS.

“The highest rate of new infection is between the ages of 18-25 years old,” Morgan said. This year the fundraiser was not held downtown, moving instead to an unoccupied penthouse suite on the twelfth floor of 2020 Gateway Oaks in the Natomas area.
The new space, with its 360-degree views of the city allowed organizers to expand the event so that 770 people were there for dinner and the auction – and to sell more food and drinks, which in turn means more money for HIV programs – or AIDS patients – in the Sacramento region.

“This year, all the silent auction items received bids,” said Paula Gammell, auction volunteer. “We started requesting items for the silent auction in November and got over 130 packages.”

The opulent spread included: a $7,000 red ribbon diamond and ruby necklace handset in platinum donated by Madison Avenue Diamonds in New York, wedding bands by Grebitus and Hamilton Jewelers, paintings from numerous artists, dinner reservations, Jet-Blue tickets,Mac cosmetics, magnum size wine bottles, espresso sets, spa treatments, leather jackets, fur coats, and more luxury items and services.

Changing the vacant penthouse to an Academy Award winning experience was the biggest challenge. “We started with a plain shell ... an unfinished concrete flat,” said volunteer coordinator, Rachel Perlman. “It took eight months of planning and weeks of volunteer assistance to make the transformation. Every piece of furniture, lighting, audio-visual equipment, sound, sofas, lounge/dinner chairs, table cloths, auction items, glasses, curtains, you name it, was hauled up through those elevators by one of our 130 volunteers.”

A fun night indeed, complete with body shots. But a final glimpse at Christian’s chest is a reminder that the message is dead serious.

“Play (but) Play it Safe. Everyone does it. Everyone has sex. Everyone needs to use protection. Every time.”

For information on how you can receive free, confidential, walk-in testing check out CARES Clinic. March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and includes events in Sacramento.

Author to Discuss New Book on Water Fluoridation Dangers

2011-02-21T19:09:52Z

Paul Connett PhD will be in Sacramento Febuary 23~24th to discuss his new book The Case Against Fluoride: How Hazardous Waste Ended Up in Our Drinking Water and the Bad Science and Powerful Politics That Keep It There. Learn how this relates to Sacramento, as new found dangers of water fluoridation continue coming to light.

There will be two events in Sacramento:

ARCADE LIBRARY - Wednesday Feb 23rd 7:00-9:00pm 2443 Marconi Ave Sacramento. It is a free event. For more info go to FluorideFreeSsacramento.org
WHOLE FOODS - Thurs. Feb. 24th 7:00-9:00pm 4315 Arden Way (Eastern and Arden Way) Seating is limited at this event. For reservations at Whole Food call (916) 483-1155 For more info go to FluorideFreeSsacramento.org

Over the past 23 years Dr. Paul Connett's research on waste management has taken him to 49 US states and 50 other countries, where he has given approximately 2000 pro bono public presentations. He has co-authored 6 peer reviewed articles on dioxin and numerous other articles on waste management. He is the main author of the new book The Case Against Fluoride: How Hazardous Waste Ended Up in Our Drinking Water and the Bad Science and Powerful Politics That Keep It There

Ralph Nader said "He is the only person I know who can make waste interesting."

Dr. Connett has researched the literature on fluoride¹s toxicity for 12 years. He helped found the Fluoride Action Network (FAN) http://www.fluoridealert.org for which he is the Executive Director. He has given presentations at the International Society for Fluoride Research conferences in New Zealand, Germany and China; the Japanese Society for Fluoride Research; the American College of Toxicology; the US EPA; the US National Research Council; the CDC in Nanjing, China; the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Health and Children in Ireland, a parliamentary committee in the Knesset, Israel as well as to many citizens¹ groups in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Israel, New Zealand, the UK and the US.

Of particular concern is a growing body of research indicating fluoride's ability to damage the developing brain, including 24 studies associating fluoride exposure with reduced IQ in children, 6 studies linking fluoride to other neurotoxic effects in children, and over 100 animal studies reporting that fluoride directly damages the brain.

Drinking Water Fluoridation - A Roadblock to Greenness?

2011-02-14T22:38:28Z

We keep hearing about our greenness. Here in Sacramento we have a tree program, various recycling programs, and other earth friendly initiatives. But can one policy trump all this? Can a city be truly green when it knowingly adds toxic chemicals imported from China to its drinking water? And to top it all, 99.99% of it is wasted. Lets look at the facts as the Sacramento Department of Utilities has presented them.

Questions came up at a June 22, 2010 Sacramento City Council budget hearing. This resulted in a request for additional information regarding the city's water fluoridation program. On July 1st Marty Hanneman, Director of Utilities sent the Mayor & City Council members a memorandum. It detailed the costs, chemicals used in, and ongoing maintenance related costs among other things, of the Sacramento Water Fluoridation program. This memorandum also highlighted the vast waste inherent in the delivery of the fluoride drug. Members of Fluoride Free Sacramento obtained a copy of this memo.< 1 >

The memorandum detailed the approximately $1 million annual cost to the department. Part of this cost is purchasing is the chemicals use, namely Sodium Fluoride & Fluorosilicic Acid. Another aspect is how the corrosive nature of the fluoridation chemicals are literally dissolving away very expensive equipment. This necessitates ongoing costly equipment repairs and replacement of the drug dosing equipment. For example, the E.A Fairbairn Water Treatment Plant currently required a $450 million infrastructure upgrade, and the Sacramento River Water Treatment Plant's fluoridation system will be due for replacement as well in 2014.

Now about those chemicals. The California Code of Regulations, title 22 < 2 > lists 791 chemicals as "Hazardous Waste," 39 of these are fluoride compounds. The memo lists two of these chemicals that are used for drinking water fluoridation in Sacramento; Hydrofluosilicic Acid and Sodium Fluoride. These are also not to be confused with the pharmaceutical quality fluoride in products, such as toothpaste, and mouthwash. Fluorosilicic Acid is a byproduct of the phosphate fertilizer industry. It contains levels of lead, arsenic and other heavy metals.< 3 > This is very toxic stuff by any standard.< 4 > Recent studies of fluoride use indicate a link to bone cancer, bone fractures, thyroid disorder, lowered IQ and more.< 5 >

With regards to the waste factors involved, consider where the drug ends up. The sole intended target group is defined as children under five years of age. Parents please see note below. According to city calculations, less than 0.009% of fluoridated water produced is potentially consumed by this target group. In other words, over 99.99% of the fluoride is not even used by those that are supposed to need it, but is wasted by watering the lawn, dish washing, flushed down the drain, etc. In the memo, the Mr. Hanneman makes the analogy of taking one gallon of milk, using six drops of it and pouring the rest of the gallon in the sink. This waste process has also been shown to negatively effect life downstream.< 6 >

The sourcing of the chemicals is also not green at all, as in they are routinely shipped in from China and Japan.

To recap the whole process: Ship in toxic chemicals from outside the country, then dump down the drain. This is water fluoridation in a nutshell. Is there a green option? You tell me.

Note to parents; For health reasons, babies one year and under are to avoid all fluoride as recommended by the the American Dental Association and the Center for Disease Control.< 7 > This would mean avoiding all processed food and juices, as these are commonly made with fluoridated water.

<1> http://fluoridefreesacramento.org/JULY_1_MEMO.pdf
<2> http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/LawsRegsPolicies/Title22/upload/Appendix-X_Ch11_ready-to-post.pdf - & - http://www.keepers-of-the-well.org/product_pdfs/Fluorides_Classified.pdf
<3> http://www.fluoridealert.org/phosphate/overview.htm
<4> http://www.fluoridation.com/poison.htm
<5>http://www.fluoridealert.org/health/
<6> http://www.earthislandprojects.org/eijournal/fluoride/fluoride_salmon.html
<7> http://www.fluoridealert.org/health/infant/
< * > http://FluorideFreeSacramento.org

Sponsors and Vendors sought for 2011 Juneteenth Celebration

2011-01-23T07:22:58Z

Summer is months away but organizers of Solano County’s only free community-wide Juneteenth Celebration are already planning the 23rd annual event scheduled for Saturday, June 18, 2011 from 11-6 at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park in downtown Vallejo. The celebration was recently named one of the top five community events in 2010 by the Vallejo Times-Herald.

The event theme for the historic observance is “Creating healthy communities through education and empowerment.” Organizers say the celebration will focus on self-development and making informed choices by providing access to a variety of community resources and services that help families live better.

“This event is about celebrating the end of slavery in the United States but there’s more to it than that,” said Juneteenth committee president Angela Jones. “Through partnerships with local health care providers, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, small business owners and some major companies, we’re able to connect families from all walks of life with quality health care services, opportunities for educating our children, and the chance to support the local economy which are important ingredients for a healthy, vibrant and sustainable community.”

The celebration will mark the 23rd year that Vallejo has observed Juneteenth. Historians say Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when the civil Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with the news that the war had ended and the enslaved were now free. The announcement was delivered two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation which had become official on January 1, 1863. African Americans commemorate Juneteenth with a celebration of family, friends, community and freedom.

The celebration is free and open to the public. Organizers estimated 3,000 visitors at the previous event. However, the committee receives no public funds and is seeking charitable contributions and sponsors to help pay expenses. As part of the festivities, the Committee is soliciting vendors for food, craft and specialty sales, non-profit organizations that can provide free helpful information and services, and a variety of other exhibitors. The event will promote education and literacy through an essay contest for students. There will also be live on stage entertainment. Interested performers should contact the committee on the website for more information. Details including sponsor opportunities and application packets are available on the website at www.vallejojuneteenth.com.

Begin 2011 on the Right Foot!

2010-12-22T19:06:01Z

Race Into the New Year With My First 5K Run/Walk

This annual fundraising event is a flat and fast 5k (3.1 mile) run/walk for people of all ages and fitness abilities. It begins and ends at the State Capitol and loops around beautiful Capitol Park. Proceeds help support Wellness Task Force Programs.

Join us as we kick off the New Year with a walk/run, sparkling cider toast, and a place to write your New Year's resolution!

Check out the new and exciting additions to this year's event, including a Toddler Tumble Busfor kids' entertainment, free sports massages, and free food samples from Grateful Bread, Clif Bar, Blue Diamond, and more! Register NOW!

Sunday, January 2, 2011
California State Capitol
10th Street and Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA

GREAT restaurant deals and raffle prizes, too! Bring your race bib to Lucca Restaurant and Bar in Downtown Sacramento for special menu items and discounts. Win gift certificates to Sacramento Pipeworks, Grateful Bread, Arden Hills Country Club AND training certificates from Mama Bootcamp and Moms in Motion! Special prizes for the team with the most participants, as well!

For more information or to register, visit the My First 5K and Kids' Winter Fun Run website.

Youth Scholarships Available!

Know a young person who'd like participate on January 2nd? We have 30 scholarships available for youth interested in doing the 5K and 30 for kids (10 years and younger) to participate in the Fun Runs.

Contact the Wellness Task Force at myfirst5k@wellnesstaskforce.org OR call 916-534-7750 if you are interested in a scholarship for your youth!

ABOUT THE BENEFICIARY, The Wellness Task Force: Our mission is to create and promote programs and policies to increase access to healthy foods and physical activity in California's schools and workplaces.

Disclosure: Jill Broughton is an employee of the Wellness Task Force.

Tis The Season: Surviving The Holidays With An Eating Disorder

2010-12-17T22:42:33Z

By Jennifer Lombardi, MFT, Co-owner & Director of Communications
Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program, Sacramento (www.sedop.org)

When we think of the holidays, our thoughts often go to family, friends, gift-giving, shopping and, yes, food.

Celebrating the season while sharing food with loved ones is part of our collective culture and something we look forward to. But for individuals struggling with an eating disorder, this can often be one of the most distressing times of year.

In the United States, an estimated 8 million girls and women and 1 million boys and men struggle with an eating disorder. Although the average age of onset is 14 to 16, there is no age, gender or cultural limit on who struggles or for how long. Women and men in their 30s, 40s and beyond struggle with anorexia, bulimia or binge eating disorder. An estimated 10 percent die.

Sacramento’s Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program (SEDOP) is a comprehensive, medically supervised eating disorder treatment center for adults and adolescents and is one of the only eating disorder treatment facilities in Northern California. Approximately 50 percent of SEDOP’s patients come from the greater Sacramento area while the rest are from throughout Northern California.

During the holiday season, it’s particularly important to make exceptions to typical family traditions if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder. Some tips for surviving the holidays include:

1. Set up realistic expectations: This may be the year to forgo a huge family gathering in favor of something smaller and more intimate. Sitting at a dinner table surrounded by 50 people can be overwhelming for someone who is in treatment. There will be future holidays where returning to tradition makes sense, so be open to altering your plans for this year if needed.

2. Use your support system: Talk openly about the challenges associated with holiday meals. Some individuals with eating disorders find it helpful to plan an activity or outing after a meal. Healthy distraction can aid in decreasing anxiety and distress.

3. Don’t skip meals: So many people tend to skip meals during the day in order to “save up” for the big holiday meal. Not only is this unhealthy, it sets up a situation where the anticipation of the meal causes more distress. For family members and friends, consider what you may be modeling to your loved one who is struggling and ditch the “fasting for the final meal” mentality.

4. Create a code: If you do have a large family meal to attend, chances are that someone will, at some point, make a disparaging comment about weight and/or food. Predict it. Write down who will likely say what, and when it will probably occur. Predicting these comments can help take the power and impact out of them. Coming up with a covert signal from one of your support members, such as a wink or tapping your fingers on the table when such comments are made, can also be helpful. It’s a silent acknowledgement between you and your loved one that a triggering comment was just made, which can decrease feelings of being alone.

5. See the big picture: Food is just one aspect of the holiday season. Consider doing volunteer work or creating special time with friends and family away from the dinner table. While meals are a traditional and loving component of the holiday season, be sure to incorporate the “spirit of giving” in ways that are emotionally rewarding. Isolation often goes hand in hand when you are struggling with an eating disorder. Break this cycle by creating traditions that speak to your heart.

Nick Clark to Co-Lead Zuda Yoga Folsom’s 40-Day Transformation

2010-12-13T22:37:36Z

FOLSOM, Calif. Dec. 13, 2010 – Nick Clark, Folsom-based lifestyle coach and wellness professional, today announced that he will co-lead Zuda Yoga Folsom’s 40-Day Transformation, a program to help participants change habits and rid their lives of “things” holding them back.

What: 40-Day Transformation with Corri Chadwick & Nick Clark
Time: Friday, January 21, 2011 at 7:30pm - Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 7:30pm
Place: Zuda Yoga Folsom
220 Blue Ravine Rd. Ste 130
Folsom, CA
Cost/Rewards: Program Cost: $199 includes a copy of the book, “40 Days to
Personal Revolution,” and a 40-day continuous yoga pass for Zuda Folsom (all current class passes will be frozen until after the program). Also, enjoy 10% off all items in the boutique during the 40 days and one free week of Yoga at Zuda Folsom with the completion of the program
Register: Pre-registration is required as space is limited

“Through the 40 Day challenge, we guide participants through a personal journey to help inspire positive change and self actualization,” said Nick Clark, founder of Nick Clark Health. “This is a great opportunity for people to bring a positive change into their lives by committing to health and well-being and making it a part of daily life.”

About Nick Clark Health
Based in Folsom, Calif., founder Nick Clark is a dedicated lifestyle coach and wellness professional. Clark is one of the areas top health professionals and yoga instructors and constantly works to inspire, educate, maintain and improve his clients’ health.
Style magazine’s Style Readers’ Choice Award Winner: The 2010 6th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards #1 Favorite Yoga Instructor. To learn more about Clark, visit http://www.nickclarkhealth.com.

###

Dr. Oz brings health program to Sacramento teens

2010-10-25T06:58:23Z

Television personality, author and surgeon Dr. Oz spoke at Luther Burbank High School in South Sacramento Saturday afternoon with the goal of making Sacramento eat healthier and exercise more.

HealthCorps, a nationwide movement founded by Dr. Oz, aims to fight obesity by changing the mindsets of young people. The group has now begun programs at Luther Burbank High School and Sacramento Charter High School with funding from the California Walnut Commission.

Sacramento County has the third highest obesity rate of the 58 counties in California. Obesity has links to cancer and heart disease, the two leading causes of death in the U.S. Mayor Kevin Johnson, who welcomed Dr. Oz to the stage, said he wants Sacramento teens to be role models in the arena of health.

HealthCorps consists of three parts. The first part is education – each school is joined by a recent college graduate who has chosen to delay her entrance into medical school to teach students about health and coordinate the program for two years.

Luther Burbank High School was joined by Chioma Enweasor, who said she wanted to teach kids and bring health into their life in a way that is tangible and real to them. In this spirit, students have started a produce garden at the back of their school. The food from the garden will be used by the school’s cafeteria and donated to homeless shelters.

“They were so excited when I said the word ‘garden,’” Enweasor said. “They all wake up early on Saturday morning. This has been the most supportive environment.”

Sacramento Charter High School was joined by Jessica Steele, who said that teaching high school students has been great, but she hasn’t solved the country’s health issues quite yet.

“It’s an uphill battle sometimes,” Steele said. “I’ll do a great lesson on neurotransmitters and then we’ll go outside and they’re all eating nacho cheese chips.”

The second component of HealthCorps is something called “Fit Town,” a community-oriented plan to improve the health of those in the community. Students survey the environment in and around their schools, plan ways to improve the health and well-being of themselves and those in the community, and then execute their plans.

Lastly, HealthCorps advocates policy change that will enable people to live healthier lives.

According to the HealthCorps website, these programs have demonstrated positive, quantifiable change in the places they have been.

“Everyone has a personal story about health,” Luther Burbank principal Ted Appel said. “When you talk about relevance in education, this is what you talk about."

Dr. Oz said he could reach teens by using advice that Oprah had given him: People make decisions based on emotion, not based on facts. With this in mind, Dr. Oz set forth sharing ideas that would make an emotional impact on the audience.

He showed an image of a pink, healthy lung and the lung of a smoker, blackened and decrepit. If someone has a visceral reaction to something, he said, there’s a greater chance that person will change his or her behavior.

He showed an animation of blood cells making their way through an artery and then showed what happens in the years leading up to a heart attack.

He explained that an excess of fat is unhealthy because it can block the production of insulin, puts pressure on the kidneys, creating high blood pressure, and inhibits the liver’s ability to produce healthy cholesterol.

He measured Johnson’s waist while explaining that if the former Dream Teamer hopes to be healthy, the measurement must be less than one-half his height. At 6-foot-1, Johnson's waist made the grade by one and a half inches.

Dr. Oz explained that biology is a much stronger force than human willpower, and that in order to overcome something like weight gain, a person would do well to learn tricks like having a snack 30 minutes before eating to initiate the process of telling the brain the body has found food.

“We can’t fix health care in Washington,” Dr. Oz said. “We have to fix it in our communities, in our bedrooms and in our living rooms.”

People aren’t as healthy as they once were, he said. Americans exercise less and eat more every year.

“We can not afford that financially or ethically,” he said.

Event provides free services to seniors

2010-10-20T04:57:00Z

The City of Sacramento Neighborhood Services Division is hosting a Senior Awareness Day next Tuesday, October 26, 2010 from 9am to 3pm at the Pannell / Meadowview Community Center.

This free event filled with services to older adults and seniors could not come at a better time.

“With a national economic crisis, we’ve seen more services to seniors reduced or cut altogether,” said Kris Wimberly, Neighborhood Resource Coordinator and coordinator of next Tuesday’s event.

Wimberly addressed the City Council prior to receiving a resolution recognizing October 26, 2010 as “Senior Awareness Day”.

“Our focus for the day is to promote health, wellness, and positive aging for the thousand of seniors and their families living throughout the City of Sacramento,” said Wimberly.

The event will include a number of free services for seniors including:

Flu shots (free with Medicare Part B)
Eye screening
Dental exams
Haircuts / Grooming
Massages
On-site Legal Assistance
Crime Prevention Workshop
Animal care
On-site pharmacist
Home & fire safety
Gardening tips & Giveaways
A free bookstore
Leisure enrichment resources

A “Senior Café” will also operate during the event.

“Senior Awareness Day will allow us to take the time to show the older adults that we care and we continue to see them as our heroes,” said Wimberly.

Those interested in the event should call 916-808-6525.

Photo of Pannell / Meadowview Center from: City of Sacramento Department of Parks & Recreation

Fine Dining and the Arts Join Together During October in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

2010-10-19T02:32:20Z

The Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure launched a month long breast cancer awareness campaign this month called In the Pink. Throughout October, many Sacramento region restaurants, artists and galleries joined together to lend their support to this exciting campaign. In the Pink concludes on Thursday, October 21, as Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Sacramento’s art community converge at the Viscaya in downtown Sacramento to raise funds supporting breast cancer awareness programs in the region.

“Bid for the Cure” will showcase a live auction featuring one of a kind, unique items to choose from. Prior to the auction, guests will have the opportunity to watch famed artist Shane Grammer create one of his signature paintings, and then have a chance to bid on the item to take home with them that night.

A sampling of additional auction items available include:
• A charming 18 karat rose and white gold butterfly pendant featuring 0.21 carats of natural
• pink diamonds. (see attached)
• One week in a 4BR/3 BA Villa on a 12th century castle near St. Andrews, Scotland (check in
• June 4, 2011)
• A session with award winning photographer Juan Ayora, including hair, make up and
• $50,000 of loaned jewels, plus placement in "Traveler's Life" magazine
• A private photography session with McKay Photography and 16x20 framed portrait
• Four tickets to 49ers‐Cardinals game January 2, with parking and hotel
• A Raphael Delgado signature water color and dinner for 8 with the artist at Evolve Gallery
• Pasta making lessons for four, including dinner and wine at Michelangelo's restaurant
• And more!

Local area artists helped make this event unique by creating and donating their art work to this 1st Annual Bid for the Cure event.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the auction begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for this event are $75.00 each. A limited number o f VIP tickets are also available for $150. VIP tickets include a private reception starting at 5 p.m. with the artists and the event’s honorary chairs including the Honorable Sandra Smoley, Maggie Cox, Muriel Johnson, Diana Borroel, and Supervisor Roberta McGlashan.

To purchase tickets online, visit
www.komensacramento.org and click on the “In the Pink” icon

Sutter Launches First Hybrid Suite, Heart Hospitalist Program

2010-10-12T23:54:26Z

Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento became the first hospital in the greater region to open a Hybrid Surgical Suite – a cardiovascular catheterization lab with immediate surgical capabilities designed to enable cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons to work side by side – and the first to have a cardiology hospitalist program, providing in-hospital coverage by fully trained, board-certified cardiologists 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The goal of the new cardiology hospitalist program is to improve the quality of care in the cardiology division at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, assist with lowering the overall length of stay for patients and, overall, to maintain the cardiac program at Sutter Memorial Hospital as a center of excellence for cardiovascular care.

“In heart cases, timeliness is of utmost importance,” said David Roberts, M.D., medical director of the Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute and an interventional cardiologist. “This ensures that anyone at Sutter Memorial Hospital – whether in the emergency room or in their room, heart patient or not – will have access to an experienced cardiologist at a moment’s notice.”

The Hybrid Surgical Suite, which is located at Sutter Memorial Hospital, combines endovascular, cardiac catheterization, heart surgery, laparoscopic and radiological capabilities, allowing maximum flexibility and speed in the treatment of patients with even the most complex cardiac and vascular conditions.

Surgeons and interventional cardiologists have already teamed up to perform abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs, which in the past required open-abdomen surgery. With the right equipment and a large enough room, these repairs are now being performed minimally invasively by going through the femoral artery.

“With this Hybrid Surgical Suite, our physicians will be able to provide even more collaborative clinical care for the current and evolving treatment modalities of endovascular aneurysm and transcatherter valve replacement in one setting,” said Michael Ingram, M.D., a Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento heart surgeon and a medical director with Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute.

Meanwhile, the Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute is raising funds to help install a Hybrid Surgical Suite as part of the ongoing “medical center of the future” expansion project at the midtown Sutter General Hospital campus that will bring cardiovascular services from Sutter Memorial Hospital. When it opens in late 2012, the expanded Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento will house all of its tertiary services in one campus.

The Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute’s surgical program is headquartered at the Sutter Memorial Hospital campus of Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento. The Sutter Memorial campus includes four catheterization labs, including electrophysiology capabilities and the Hybrid Surgical Suite; a 16-bed surgical intensive care unit; a16-bed cardiac intensive care unit; and a 20-bed pediatric intensive care unit. SHVI includes the Transplant and Advanced Heart Therapy Services, which include the heart transplant and ventricular assist device programs, the only such services available outside of the Bay Area in Northern California. Through rapid diagnosis, complex surgeries, non-surgical interventions and one of the most extensive research programs in the region, Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute maintains its tradition of excellence in care for infants, children and adults. For more information on Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute, visit our website at www.suttermedicalcenter.org.

Disclosure: Gary Zavoral is the public relations specialist for Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region

Second Saturday to Feature Unusual ‘Gallery’: Sutter Capitol Pavilion

2010-10-08T17:12:36Z

SACRAMENTO – Mayor Kevin Johnson insists Sacramento’s popular Second Saturday art walk is alive and well, and this month includes a different kind of gallery to tour: a medical building.

“For anyone who thinks Second Saturday is dead, it’s not,” the mayor said during a press conference Tuesday for the grand opening of the Sutter Capitol Pavilion at 2725 Capitol Ave. “Sutter is opening up its new medical facility to the public for Second Saturday in order to showcase its art installation and the local artists who created the pieces.”

The public open house is billed as “Art & Medicine” and will feature tours of the artwork installed throughout the medical office building and outpatient services center. Much of the art pieces are commissioned works and limited editions from local and regional artists, several of whom will be on hand to talk about their work. In addition, Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento partnered with the Elliott Fouts Gallery in Sacramento for a rotating display of artwork in a hallway facing 28th Street that will also be open for the tour.

Among the local artists who will be on hand to show their work are Jerald Silva, Kristen Hoard, Maria Winkler, Deanna Marsh, Nikki Solone and Merle Serlin. There will be hors d’oeuvres from Biba restaurant and Paragary’s Restaurant Group, and wine tasting from Revolution Wine. Third Floor Jazz Club, featuring Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento emergency room doctor Scott Stringer, M.D., will perform.

The Sutter Capitol Pavilion building is a work of art in its own regard too. Designed by Lionakis and Boulder Associates, and constructed by The Boldt Company, the 200,000-square-foot medical office building houses 40 specialist physicians’ offices, 128 exam and procedure rooms, four outpatient operating rooms and 13 outpatient imaging rooms, along with endoscopy and interventional radiology services. Visitors will have the chance to tour several of these areas within the medical office building as well

“Art & Medicine,” which is free and open to the public, will be held from 3:30-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, at the Sutter Capitol Pavilion, located across L Street from Sutter’s Fort. Free parking will be available at the Sutter Community Garage on 28th and N streets.

For its $724 million midtown expansion, Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento is putting an emphasis on creating a healing environment through the arts. The Sutter Capitol Pavilion is the medical center’s first building to open in the expansion, and it features more than 300 pieces of art specially chosen for Sutter’s healing mission.

For more information on “Art & Medicine” and the expansion plans, go to www.sutterdistrict.com.

First 5 Sacramento Children’s Celebration Brings Fairytale Town to Life

2010-09-24T16:56:54Z

Three-year-old Jenny has listened to her mom read her books and nursery rhymes since she was a baby, including favorites like The Three Little Pigs, The Little Engine that Could, and Jack and the Beanstalk. These stories and more will come to life on Saturday, Oct. 9 as Jenny joins more than 6,000 Sacramento County families at Fairytale Town for the First 5 Sacramento Annual Children’s Celebration.

“First 5 Sacramento supports programs and services to help meet the diverse needs of local families,” Roger Dickinson, Chair of First 5 Sacramento and the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors. “Our Children’s Celebration brings the community together to learn about these valuable resources in a fun environment for the entire family.”

Funded by First 5 Sacramento, this FREE family event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. will be filled with fun, resources, food, entertainment, activities, exhibits, raffles and much more. While local children ages zero to five engage in learning activities, meet larger than life mascots, watch puppet shows, pet farm animals and color on a giant kid’s coloring wall, parents and caregivers will gain valuable information about countywide programs and services from more than 60 community organizations, including free dental, vision and hearing screenings, the Library Wonder Wagon, the Smile Keepers mobile dental van and First 5 California Hands-On Health Express mobile van. The annual Conga Line starts at noon and this year features The Cat in the Hat.

at William Land Park on the corner of Sutterville Road and Land Park Drive in Sacramento. For more information on the free day of family fun and available resources to help parents raise children “happily, ever after,” contact First 5 Sacramento at (916) 876-5865 or online at www.First5Sacramento.net.

About First 5 Sacramento
Research shows that a child’s brain develops most dramatically in the first five years and what parents and caregivers do during these years to support their child’s growth will have a meaningful impact throughout life. Based on this research, California voters passed Proposition 10 in 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on cigarettes to support programs for expectant parents and children ages zero to five. In the last year, First 5 Sacramento distributed approximately $15 million to local programs and services that meet local needs of Sacramento County children and families.

Sacramento Food Bank hosts Food Network Star Nikki Shaw

2010-09-24T02:55:29Z

Celebrity chef Nikki Shaw, a finalist on “The Next Food Network Star,” will give a demonstration on healthy cooking and talk about obesity in African Americans at the Sacramento Food Bank Tuesday.

“We’re getting hit the hardest with overweight and obesity issues,” Shaw said. “I think the best way to get the message across is to talk directly to the public. We are in the middle of a crisis, and the crisis is that 76 percent of African American adults in California are overweight.”

She travels between Sacramento and San Diego giving demonstrations and spreading awareness about the importance of healthy eating habits.

Tuesday’s demonstration is a collaboration with the Network for a Healthy California, which works to improve the health of low-income families in California by promoting the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables and daily physical activity.

“We choose locations that need attention and can attract people who can benefit from this program,” Shaw said.

But the adults aren’t Shaw’s only concern – childhood obesity is increasing as well.

“I try to teach children and parents how to decrease the increasing childhood obesity rate because the issue is near and dear to my heart,” she said.

“I have children and have always taught them how to make wise choices so their palates are used to vegetables, so that it’s a part of nature. It’s important to me because they’re my babies, and I don’t want them to suffer from diabetes, heart disease, and the certain forms of cancer that can be prevented by eating healthy.”

And to get children excited about cooking, she’s learned you have to trick them.

“A recipe I love to demonstrate for children is called confetti spaghetti,” she shared. “That’s the first trick: give it a fun name.”

Shaw stressed the importance of getting the kids into the kitchen.

“Let them help you cook. They are more inclined to love a dish when they help you prepare it,” she said.

This kid-famous confetti spaghetti gets its name from the six fresh vegetables included in the spaghetti sauce: zucchini, yellow squash, onions, garlic, tomatoes and carrots.
“It’s like a celebration,” she said. “A celebration of eating healthy.”

During her demonstration, Shaw will also discuss the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables every day and the amount of sugar in sodas and juice drinks and how to cut back on them.

She will share some of her own tips and tricks such as when to substitute ground turkey in recipes that call for ground beef and how to cut back on beef and pork by eating chicken and turkey instead.

“Pork is not good for us because it has twice the amount of fat as beef,” she said. “Most people don’t even know that pepperoni is pork, and pork isn’t good because it blocks our arteries with the high fat content.”

Sacramento Food Bank representative Kelly Siefkin recognizes the need for these types of demonstrations, especially in this economic climate.

“The Sacramento Food Bank serves a wide variety of people and families in need who are often suffering dietary concerns because of lack of finances,” Siefkin said. “They often purchase items at the store that are inexpensive and because of that, nutritionally poor. So by getting the education that they are not otherwise exposed to they can learn to cook and prepare for the family in a much healthier way. If we can modify their diet we can modify and improve their lives.”

Her demonstration Tuesday will go from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Sacramento Food Bank is located at 3333 Third Ave.

Sac State celebrates opening of The WELL

2010-09-03T04:17:24Z

Sacramento State students won’t be disappointed with their investment.

The WELL officially opened Thursday in front of a crowd of 250 students, faculty, staff and community members. The University’s new 151,000 square-foot recreation and wellness center was paid for by a student fee approved by students in a campus-wide referendum.

“Today is a historic day for Sacramento State,” said Sacramento State President Alexander Gonzalez. “I especially want to congratulate the students, because you are the ones who came to me and told me this is what you wanted, and you worked very hard to make it happen.”

“I know for many, many years you’ve been looking forward to this day, and what a day it is. It’s a day when all our recreation, health and fitness services are housed under one environmentally friendly roof. It’s a day when your commitment to passing the referendum has come to fruition.”

Getting The WELL built was no simple task. Two ASI Recreation Center Referendums failed in the late 1990s. It wasn’t until 2001 that ASI President Peter Ucovich raised the possibility of a new referendum with University Union Director Leslie Davis. Student-center open meetings and focus groups began taking place in 2003 to explore possible features and interest levels. Gonzalez offered support and assistance.

Students approved a measure to fund The WELL – then called the “Recreation Wellness Events Center” – in Spring 2004. Fee increases began the following semester. The facility was later renamed “The Wellness, Education, Leisure, Lifestyle Center”, or The WELL.

“It’s a wonderful day to be here to see what coming together really can accomplish,” said Ucovich. “I have yet to be inside this building, so I’m excited to see what is actually inside this great facility.”

“This represents a beacon of hope,” said California State Assemblymember Alyson Huber, who presented Gonzalez an Assembly Resolution recognizing the work that went into making The WELL a reality.

The WELL comes equipped with 13,860 square feet of cardio and weight space, an indoor running track, a multi activities court, a four basketball court complex, a rock climbing wall, a MAC Court, and four racquetball courts. Peak Adventures (outdoor recreation and bike shop) moved to the facility from its previous, much smaller location at the University Union. The Health Center also moved from its older location near Yosemite Hall.

The facility is also a LEED Green Building. It is projected to use 23% less energy than a typical new building, 43% less water than a typical new building, and its construction used 25% recycled content materials, and diverted 82% of the total waste generated from going to a landfill.

“This building has a wonderful presence,” said John Davis of Hornberger & Worstell Architects and the design team leader. “It’s an energy sustainable model for Sacramento and the California State University system.”

Individuals eligible for membership to The WELL include Sac State Students, administration, emeriti, faculty, staff, and pre-paid alumni. Alumni Membership is currently limited to alumni memberships to those who have paid into the facility.

Tours of the facility were given throughout the day with demonstrations provided on cooking, rock climbing, and roller hockey.

A dodge ball tournament was scheduled for later in the evening.

Pictured performances: 2nd Nature Crew, Martial Arts Club of CSUS

Sacramento's drinking water in good shape

2010-08-18T22:14:40Z

Sacramento’s drinking water meets or surpasses all state and federal health requirements, according to the city’s report on water quality relative to public health goals.

It does not, however, meet every public health goal as set by the state.

“We may not meet all those goals,” said Jessica Hess, spokeswoman for the Department of Utilities. “We probably never have met all those goals, since they’re set at a level so high to encourage jurisdictions to do better.”

Hess said the city’s water facilities don’t all have the technology to even measure the levels set forth in the state public health goals.

“The goals are set for levels that are very difficult for folks to attain, and there are some challenges for that,” Hess said. “It requires testing that our current facilities are incapable of reaching.”

The state report is mandated every three years by law, and it measures samples taken from the city’s water supply with acceptable levels of contaminants in reaching the state goals.

Those contaminants include arsenic, bacteria and fluoride, among others.

According to the report, the goals are not enforceable.

The federal and state requirements, however, are enforceable, and the results are sent to city water users every year.

“The city’s drinking water is excellent...passing all state and federal standards,” said Mike Yee, plant services manager for the Department of Utilities, at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

No one spoke on the matter at the required public hearing Tuesday night, and the council accepted the report, which can be viewed online here.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Music, merriment and message in Curtis Park

2010-07-23T17:57:31Z

On Sunday, July 25th, revolutionary artist Kevin Sandbloom will headline an event that integrates great music, easy relaxation and family fun as the Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association presents this year’s second Music in the Park. This free summertime concert is part of the 2010 season of events from one of the most active neighborhood associations in the state.

Each performer, activity and sponsor will reflect the event’s theme of “Health and Wellness.” This midsummer event will feature elements that are both familiar and new to the many residents and visitors who flock to the annual Curtis Park concert series.

Children will race to the stage at the start of the evening to hear legendary children’s composer and performer, “Mister Cooper,” who is returning to offer his participatory musical presentation. The creator of Songs That Teach, an original curriculum-based music program, “Mister Cooper’s” musical talent and rapport with children have made him indispensable to schools and parents throughout Sacramento. Cooper’s music, as Christie Hamm of Belle Coolidge Library says, establishes “a connection with children long after the songs are over.”

During intermission, kids can once again participate in a hula-hoop contest, and can visit Sacramento’s Health Education Council, who will be on hand to educate both kids and adults on the best ways to eat healthy and stay active. In operation since 1979, the Health Education Council’s mission is to promote well being in Sacramento’s communities through education, programming, and partnerships. Children who visit their table can also play the health trivia game, for which they’ll be awarded prizes for correct answers.

Next up on the stage will be headliner Kevin Sandbloom, who offers audiences his unique blend of music and message. A guitarist whose style is referred to as “urban delta soul,” Sandbloom’s compositions are sung in a voice, says Sean Rasul of WhoGotSoul.com, that ranges from “a smooth or raspy falsetto to a powerful and distinct tenor,” and with lyrics that are “poetic and insightful.” It’s music that reaches the gut” from a musician who is active in the world of community involvement and human rights.

Sandbloom is currently releasing an EP of songs related to the cause of social justice, with partial proceeds benefiting the Poor People's Economic Human Rights Campaign, an organization devoted to the advancement of ideals named in the United Nation’s 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. With grooves ranging from soul and R&B to hip-hop and bossa nova, Sandbloom is the perfect centerpiece for an evening of soulful relaxation. As the online music blog Rasx Context says, “If you take the extremely talented D’Angelo and Ani DeFranco, and mix it with even more humanity, you end up with Kevin Sandbloom.”

A number of returning sponsors are partnering with Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association to help make the event possible. Since 1946, SMUD has empowered its customers with solutions that increase energy efficiency, protect the environment, and reduce global warming. It’s All Yoga has been voted “Best in Sacramento” twice by Sacramento News & Review. Personal trainer and nutritionist Sham Sanghera’s Inspired Wellness Boot Camp enables clients to achieve goals and maintain healthy lifestyles. For twenty-five years Miss Helen has nurtured children and provided developmental activities in the areas of music, crafts, and movement. The Law Office of R. Andrew Murray prides itself on its personal attention to clients in matters of real estate, business formation, estate planning, and bankruptcy.

These familiar sponsors are joined by Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission, which, established in 1977, is a public agency devoted to supporting, promoting and advancing the arts in the region. Born at Home, an independent midwifery practice providing complete maternity care to families in Sacramento and surrounding counties. Tammy Cohen of K9 Bliss teaches dog owners the structure and consistency of communication that results in secure, blissful companions. D20 Dental, the first green dental office in Sacramento, combines the latest clinical practices and technological innovations in a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Locally-owned since 1973, the Sacramento Natural Foods Coop is a trusted source of natural foods and products, and a reliable resource for consumer information.

Returning as Music in the Park’s main sponsors are Meg, Michael and Melissa Heede of RE/MAX Gold, the number one independently-owned brokerage firm in California, and City Councilmember Lauren Hammond, who is gifting SCNA with the stage that is the main setting for the event.

In accordance with city codes, alcohol will not be permitted at the event. However, an enclosed garden of fine beer and wine will be on site, with beverages available for purchase by concert attendees.

The Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association (SCNA) was formed in the 1970’s to rescue the old Sierra School from demolition. Since then, SCNA has brought neighbors together for a diverse slate of year-round events, and has offered a cohesive voice for community concerns. The restored Sierra 2 Center serves as a focal point for artists, teachers, students, parents, children, and seniors, who gather frequently in its dance studios, gardens, performance spaces, meeting halls and classrooms.

A New Twist on the Old "Fun Run"

2010-07-19T22:20:42Z

InAlliance will host the 2nd Annual Gold Rush Poker Run & Walk on Saturday, October 9, 2010 at the El Dorado Trail in Placerville to benefit programs for people with developmental disabilities. The event is geared for people of all ages and skill levels and features a 10 Mile Run, 10K Run, 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Stroll. Registration is now open and space is limited.

Like most “fun runs”, participants can expect a beautiful course, ample refreshments, awards ceremony and vendor tables, but here is the twist: as you follow your race you will collect playing cards. These cards will create a poker hand that will be worth raffle tickets at the finish line celebration! The number of raffle tickets you receive will be based on the quality of your poker hand, and those raffle tickets could win you a trip to Las Vegas, a Lake Tahoe Getaway, indoor sky diving passes and much more!

Register online at www.inalliancinc.com or in person at 6950 21st Ave, Sacramento, CA 95820. Sign-up by September 17 to receive an Early Bird Discount and free event shirt. All participants will receive a $500 gift certificate to Red Star World Wear. Following the race enjoy snacks, beverages, vendor booths, raffle and awards ceremony. For questions call 916-381-1300 x170 or email jbean@inallianceinc.com

100% of proceeds from the event benefit InAlliance, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides supported employment and living services to people with developmental disabilities throughout the greater Sacramento and Placerville areas. Since 1952, InAlliance has maintained the belief that people with developmental disabilities have the right and responsibility to be fully participating members of the community. Programs include work and life skills training, community education, volunteering, job development and more. Participants in the Gold Rush Poker Run & Walk will be playing an active part in supporting people who are often overlooked by society.

Race Day Registration will begin at 7:00 am at the Louisiana Schnell School Field. All races begin and end in the same location on the El Dorado Trail in front of the Louisiana Schnell School Field. Registration Fees $10-$30. The Gold Rush Poker Run & Walk would not be possible without the generous support of our community partners: Asics, CC Myers Charitable Foundation, Flex Power, Fuel Belt, Go Girl Energy Drink, Harrah’s, Honest Beverages, Injinji, Pirate’s Booty, PowerAde, Road ID, SmartWater, Sinful Treats, Uprinting.com , Vitamin Water.

"Day on the Farm" teaches healthy living

2010-05-24T01:59:49Z

More than 4,000 people gathered Sunday at Soil Born Farms' 40-acre American River Ranch for the second annual "Day on the Farm." The family-oriented festival celebrates farming and gardening and emphasizes the importance of eating locally grown food. Along with tours, classes, music and a farmers market, 35 community organizations passed out information on healthy living and being conscious of the environment.

The day began with the "Veggie Chase," a 5K run in which children chased runners dressed as giant vegetables. Other physical-fitness possibilities included rock climbing, yoga, martial arts and an obstacle course.

There were offerings for the mind as well as the body, with classes on such topics as raising chickens in the back yard and gardening for bouquets. Cooking classes that used farm ingredients also were available.

"There's a conversation that's evolving about healthier living," said Shawn Harrison, executive director and founder of Soil Born Farms. "Food is absolutely essential to that."

Every year, Soil Born teaches all aspects of farming to more than 2,000 students from 25 schools. Harrison said urban farming gives city-raised children an opportunity to connect with nature and their food.

"We offer simple, hands-on activities," he said. "Sometimes it is as simple as spending time outside to change a lifestyle."

In addition to field trips and after-school programs for students in pre-K through high school, Soil Born has an internship program aimed at encouraging young farmers.

"In America, for every five farmers that are over 65, one farmer is under 30," said co-founder Janet Zeller. "We have an aging-farmer issue."

So, Soil Born has a seasonal apprenticeship program for young adults eager to learn about farming life. They live and work at the American River Ranch for eight months, learning everything from soil quality to marketing.

There's an easier way to get close to the fruit of the land, though. Starting May 29, Soil Born will have a farm stand Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American River Ranch.

For more information, visit www.soilborn.org.

Photos:

1. American River Ranch entrance

2. Farm stand

3. Sisters Natalie and Clair Nielsen looking at chickens

4. Crowd

5. Liam and Allen Morris

6. Flower beds

7. Rooster and chickens

Health and Fitness Week - Unofficial Declaration!

2010-05-12T21:07:12Z

Share the news! The Wellness Task Force unofficially declares the third week of May, "Health and Fitness Week." To celebrate we are offering two great opportunities to engage in some fun activities with us.

Let’s Move! Walk the Park
Join the Wellness Task Force and your downtown Sacramento friends in a fun walk around the Capitol and receive a free goodie bag for participating!
Thursday, May 20, 2010 from Noon to 12:30pm
West Steps of the State Capitol

RSVP here by May 17th to ensure you receive your goodie bag. We'll need your name, email address and phone number. View event flyer. This event is sponsored by the SmartSpot division of PepsiCo.

Fit Crawl 2010
There are still a few tickets left! Take this opportunity to experience some of midtown Sacramento’s most exciting fitness activities in one day! On May 22nd from 1pm to 5pm, you can punch, kick, stretch (and more!) your way through the afternoon. Five local businesses, Asha Yoga, Bodytribe Fitness, Fleet Feet Sports, Sacramento Pipeworks, and Ultimate Fitness will offer free mini-classes or demonstrations to participants of the Fit Crawl 2010.

“Crawlers" will rotate between participating businesses on bicycles to sample a variety of fitness activities, receive special offers, and meet new friends. Unwind afterward with light food and beverages at L Wine Lounge.

Tickets can be purchased in advance only at: Asha Yoga (1050 20th Street), Ultimate Fitness (1705 I Street), Bodytribe (920 21st Street)

All proceeds benefit the California Task Force on Youth and Workplace Wellness. For more information click here.

The Home Instead Senior Care Foundation gives grant to Placer County Non Profit

2010-05-11T06:06:50Z

In 1994, Lori and Paul Hogan founded Home Instead Senior Care®, an international network of independently owned and operated franchises that provide non-medical home care for seniors. The Hogans established The Home Instead Senior Care Foundation in 2003 as a means to further enhance the health, safety, support services and lives of older adults and go "above and beyond" the Home Instead Senior Care mission.

This private foundation funds non-profit organizations that specialize in programs and services for seniors. Areas of interest for funding grants include the following: age-related research and development; scholarships; advocacy for the health and well-being of older adults; and programs that promote community inclusion for seniors, especially those facing the problem of isolation.

The Home Instead Senior Care Foundation

The Foundation's mission is "to improve the quality of life for seniors." Its Board of Directors and Executive Members, chosen for their genuine commitment to seniors, establish and guide The Foundation’s priorities; application and review processes; giving methods; fund-raising structure; and ethical standards.

The recent grant went to Seniors First, an Auburn California based non profit resource that provides a wide variety of crucial services to seniors in Placer County. Candace Roeder, Director and Laura Wayman, program manager are shown accepting the grant from Paul Hogan and Buck Shaw.

Buck Shaw, local Owner of the Home Instead Senior Care offices serving the Greater Sacramento and Sierra Foothill areas is incredibly pleased to see a third grant land in this region. " we've had two other significant grants in this area over the least two years. These grants are even more crucial to non profits in these trying economic times where social funding from the state and fed is being cut dramatically. Every dollar helps these non profits who are providing crucial services to seniors in need in our region."

Seniors First

Since 2003 the Foundation has granted just under a million dollars to non profits. "As a Home Instead Senior Care owner, I'm proud that we are a company that consciously gives back to those in need in our communities, especially in tough times. Its important to us that we show leadership, not just in the business of senior care but in our communities as well. Info on the grant process and request for next years grants are on the link above.

Drinking Water from Rancho Cordova to Elk Grove Becoming Questionable

2010-05-06T21:31:17Z

The city supplied drinking water in the areas of southern Rancho Cordova to Elk Grove is about to become unsafe for babies if it has not already. The plan by City of Sacramento "First 5" is to add an unnamed "Fluoridating" agent to your drinking water by 2010. As the parents of babies and anyone else interested health should know; Fluoride is a highly toxic poison. As we are not told all the facts, we only assume the city is using the standard common Fluoridating chemicals to treat the water. No test results for the actual substances used to fluoridate most drinking water have ever been provided or are even claimed to exist. On top of this are numerous reports that the supposed dental claims are dubious at best.

The commonly used chemicals; fluorosilicic acid, sodium silicofluoride, and sodium fluoride - used to fluoridate drinking water are industrial waste products from the phosphate fertilizer industry. These substances contain small amounts of lead and arsenic, among other things.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), children under 1 year of age should not receive infant formula made with fluoridated water. Babies exposed to fluoridated water are at high risk of developing dental fluorosis - a tooth defect caused by fluoride-induced cell damage within the teeth. Other harm is also likely. According, for example, to the US National Research Council, “it is apparent that fluorides can interfere with the functions of the brain.” The danger that fluoride poses to the brain is likely greatest during fetal and infant development, as during this time the barrier which protects the child’s brain from environmental toxins is not yet fully formed. Thus, chemicals that find their way into a baby’s bloodstream can penetrate into the brain. I found it odd the First 5 literature did not mention this.

Recent studies in peer-reviewed medical literature indicate that fluoridated water can have detrimental side effects. Health risks associated with low-to-moderate doses of fluoride include: dental fluorosis; bone fracture; bone cancer; joint pain; skin rash, reduced thyroid activity; and IQ deficits.

Add to all this a possible China Factor. This so called safe and benign service surprised the residents of Amsbury, Mass. On March 11th. The Amesbury Water Department pulled fluoride from its system amid concerns about its supply from China. The Department of Public Works Director said he mixes the white powder with water, 40 percent of it will not dissolve - we are not quite sure what it is."

With budget cuts coming left and right, we wonder why is the city spending money on a wasteful program like this? The only group proven to benefit are the dentists repairing the damage from Dental Fluorosis. Dental Fluorosis describes the white spots, and in severe cases, brown stains or pitting or mottling of enamel when a young person is overexposed to fluoride.

It seems one thing that fluoride proponents don't realize is, since so many of our processed foods and drinks are made with fluoridated water, we are now overexposed to it. For example; a bowl of Wheaties, a glass of milk, and a Coke or orange juice contains twice the amount of fluoride as the "optimal" daily dose of fluoridated water.

By the way, all the above has applied to the greater Sacramento area since 2000. Now that we are all depressed, maybe we can get the city to add antidepressants to our drinking water.

Reference Links:
www.fluoridealert.org/fluoride-facts.htm
www.garynull.com/storage/pdfs/UpdatedFluoride.pdf
www.keepers-of-the-well.org/Introduction.html
www.fluoridedebate.com/index.html
www.fluoride-history.de/

City Link:
www.first5sacramento.net/Programs/fluoridation/default.htm

Searching for the right fitness activity? Come play with us!

2010-04-27T20:19:08Z

Come play with us on May 22nd from 1pm to 5pm. The 2010 Fit Crawl will introduce working adults to a variety of fitness facilities in Midtown Sacramento. "Crawlers" will rotate on bikes between participating businesses to try a variety of fitness activities, receive special offers and healthy swag, and meet new friends. Unwind afterward with light food and beverages at L Wine Lounge.

Tickets can be purchased in advance only at: Asha Yoga (1050 20th Street), Ultimate Fitness (1705 I Street), and Bodytribe Fitness (920 21st Street) or by calling 916-288-5173. Cost is $25 if you provide your own bike and helmet and $35 if you’d like us to provide the gear.

Thank you to our event partners! Asha Yoga , Bikes and Bites , Bodytribe Fitness , Fleet Feet Sports , L Wine Lounge ,
Sacramento Pipeworks, and Ultimate Fitness

Fit Crawl 2010 is sponsored by Smart Spot Division of PepsiCo and all proceeds benefit the California Task Force on Youth and Workplace Wellness.

For more information call: 916-288-5173 or click here.

Children's Health & Wellness Fair on Capitol Mall

2010-04-21T19:01:55Z

On Saturday April 24, 2010 from 2:00-5:00 PM, Capitol Mall will be home to the first annual Children's Health & Wellness fair located between 5th & 6th streets. This is a free event for children and families. There wil be carnival rides, fun activities promoting healthy lifestyles for children, free dental screenings, karate & fencing demonstrations, massages for the adults, great food provided by many vendors including House Kitchen & Bar located on the block at 555 Capitol Mall.

The event is put on by the Sacramento Active 20-30 Club, who have been providing assitance, service, guidance and monetary support to local children's charities since 1922.

Kaiser Permanente awards more than $1 million in grants

2010-04-14T20:00:01Z

Kaiser Permanente recently announced that it has donated $1.1 million in grants to more than 40 Sacramento-area organizations that focus on community violence prevention and promote access to health care services.

Included in the total is more than $625,000 to local organizations that provide access to health care and health education to vulnerable populations, including a $97,200 grant to The Effort to provide mental health care services to 200 patients with mental illness and $96,000 to the Sacramento Native American Health Center for their Full Circle Chronic Disease program.

“Mental health resources in Sacramento County have been hit hard by budget cuts,” said Robert Caulk, Executive Director of The Effort. “This grant will help to fill a critical gap in caring for people who need immediate treatment.”

Grants were also awarded to programs geared towards reducing youth violence and keeping kids out of gangs. Those grants include a $65,000 grant to the City of Sacramento, Office of Youth Development, to continue its successful Street Outreach Project that reaches out to teens on the streets and connects them with educational and job resources; a $15,000 grant to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sacramento to fund gang prevention programs in Sacramento; and a $20,000 grant to the Roberts Family Development Center to fund the Teen Late Night Program at the Twin Rivers Housing Complex off of Richards Blvd., providing a safe place for at-risk youth during weekend evenings.

A $20,000 grant, to NeighborWorks HomeOwnership Center, will also help launch the opening of a farmer’s market at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Broadway in the Oak Park neighborhood of Sacramento. The neighborhood currently has only one supermarket, limiting access to fresh fruits and vegetables for area residents. The market, scheduled to open this season, will feature 10-15 local farmers at the weekly market and will accept WIC coupons and electronic benefit transfers (EBT) payments through federal food stamp programs.

For more information on Kaiser Permanente’s Community Benefit program, please visit www.kp.org/communitybenefit.

Disclosure: The author of this story is is employed with Northern California Media Relations at Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Valley Area .

Dig This! Tahoe Park Community Garden Opens

2010-04-12T03:19:38Z

Tahoe Park residents braved wind and cloudy skies Saturday to attend the grand opening of the Tahoe Park Community Garden. Wielding golden scissors, a team including Congresswoman Doris Matsui and Sacramento City Councilmember Kevin McCarty cut the ceremonial red ribbon.

"This will only enhance your neighborhood," Matsui said, "this gives you a gathering place." She went on to say that community gardens reduce crime and vandalism "because everyone now has a stake in the community."

The garden, which is on the campus of Tahoe Park Elementary, was created as a means to fight obesity and promote healthy lifestyle choices and eating habits. "Young people sometimes think food comes from McDonald's, and not from the dirt" said McCarty.

Added Matsui, "It teaches self-reliance. You don't have to rely on supermarkets."

McCarty explained that the $20,000 for the garden came from cell towers. "There is a city fee on all cell phone towers," he said. "We used the proceeds (for the creation of the garden)."

Home Depot donated the flowers that community members planted at the opening and the vegetables were donated by Bill Maynard of the Community Coalition. Maynard also designed the garden.

After brief opening remarks the festivities began. Matsui and McCarty shook hands and answered questions as residents roamed the garden and visited vendor booths. Balloons and a bounce house kept the kids happy.

"This really brings the community together for a place to garden," McCarty said. "Partnering with schools and kids, teaching children about health and nutrition, is so important."

Heather Hutcheson of the Tahoe Colonial Collaborative summed up the neighborhood: "In Tahoe Park there are no strangers, just people we have not met yet."

Plots will be sold individually at the Tahoe Park Community Gardens. For more information, call the Department of Parks and Recreation, 916-808-4943.

Yoga to be kidding me

2010-04-02T02:02:52Z

"What did the yogi say to the hot-dog vendor?"

"Make me one with everything"

Yoga? Me? Not bloody likely. Up until recently, when I thought of yoga , I conjured up people named "Moonbeam" and "Mudpuddle" singing "Kumbaya" while stretching and massaging one another's colorful auras. No thanks. I don't drink soy milk, I'd rather die than become a vegan, I can't stand drum circles, and patchouli makes me retch.

Don't let the degree from the University of Oregon fool you; I'm no hippie. Except when it comes to the music festivals, /cause they're far out, man. Come High Sierra, I will be gallivanting barefoot, loving all my fellow Earth creatures, and may very well end up on the front page of passedoutwookie.com. But that's neither here nor there.

What is both here and there is the fact that I don't do touchy feely, I don't own tights and New Age music causes me to break out in hives. Yoga is meant for Moonjava and Snowphish, not guys like me.

So when the girlfriend asked me if I would join her at Zuda Yoga, I said sure. For $10, you can go as many times as you want over a 10-day period. I figured she would drag me there at most three times, I'd get a little exercise, and maybe meet a pot dealer (medicinal, of course, my cat has glaucoma). When the 10 days were up, I'd thank the nice people at Zuda for their time and patience, and explain to them, and Jess, that "yoga just ain't my thing."

I showed up Thursday morning, and everything was going according to plan. I exchanged pleasantries with the impossibly fit girl at the front desk. " 'This is your first time? Oh, good for you!' " she said, somehow seeming to mean it, without an iota of condescension. She handed me my mat -- pink, of course -- and directed me to take off my shoes and head in to the studio. " 'You're gonna want to grab a spot in the back so you can watch everyone else. Good luck!' "

With these foreboding instructions rattling around in my head, I entered the belly of the beast. The room temp was a balmy 87 degrees. I sweat if I'm sitting motionless in 80 degrees, so I had a few forehead beads going even before the instructor arrived. When Kate did arrive, she scanned the room and asked " 'Anyone here new to the class?' " I and one other poor soul raised our hands. She was not sympathetic. She said something to the effect of " 'Well, this is an all- levels course. Do your best to keep up.' "

She had us get into child's pose, a very basic prone pose that I'm sure I look ridiculous in. This was how I'd imagined it would be. Then, all of a sudden, everything changed. What followed was one of the most excruciating, exhilarating, wonderfully painful workouts I've ever had. Muscles shook, sweat poured, several times I nearly collapsed, once, I felt certain I was gonna puke.

It was awesome. It was gnarly. I was totally worked but totally invigorated. Chris, the assistant, told me it was probably the hardest class he'd been to. So I went back the next day, and got just as fantastically ruined. I'd been told that Kate was the toughest. Well, Danielle brought the pain as well. Just when you're sure you can't take any more, they get a little more out of you, and then a little more, and so on. I'm beginning to think that every class is "the hardest class."

Thursday will be my fourth class in a week, and I would have taken more if I hadn't been out of town all weekend. Even so, I wanted to sneak in another class Saturday morning, which would have been three in a row, but muscles I didn't even know I had were sore. It was like ghost limb syndrome, but achier and without prosthetics.

What started as a lark quickly has become something far more. This is the first time that I've looked forward to working out in nearly a decade. And then it was playing pickup hoops with a bunch of friends. This is the first time I've ever looked forward to a workout that didn't involve friends and balls. Wait, that didn't come out right.

What I'm trying to say is, if I can do it and become stoked on it, anybody can. For a $10 investment, I discovered a pastime that is enjoyable and immensely rewarding. I honestly can say that I feel better already, and it's been less than a week. Also, if the parts about nearly collapsing and almost puking don't appeal to you, I found out later that they do offer beginner classes. Otherwise, jump on in the deep end with me and Starbright. The water's fine.

If you are interested: http://www.zudayoga.com/

Sacramento Goes Heart Red

2010-02-04T22:47:49Z

A Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute worker checks blood pressure during the start of Sacramento's American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement at the capitol building this morning. Men and women were screened for heart disease and other health issues. There was a Heart disease and stroke health disparities briefing for legislative staff by Sutter cardiologist Diane Sobcowicz, M.D., Board President, American Heart Association Sacramento Division.

February is Heart Month and Sacramento will show its support for the American Heart Association’s fight against the nation’s leading killer of women – heart disease. Five buildings, including two neighboring structures in downtown Sacramento (Wells Fargo Center and Bank of the West Tower), will light their exterior windows red to help raise awareness.

This year the American Heart Association invites everyone to spend their lunch break at Arden Fair Mall for the Go Red For Women Wear Red Day celebration. It will be a fun-filled and educational day, featuring live entertainment and free health screenings courtesy of Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute.

A casting call, presented by Go Red For Women national sponsor, Macy’s, will be held to find the next group of women who will represent the Go Red For Women campaign in 2011. You could be one of these women! At the casting call, simply tell us how you are speaking up against heart disease to improve your life and those around you. Jiffy Lube will distribute savings books containing over $100 in Jiffy Lube service discounts and more, as well as share information about the Maintenance Partners For Life campaign which aims to raise $1.5 million for the America.

Friday, February 5, 2010, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Arden Fair Mall, Sacramento. Contact: Andrea Hull, (916) 431-2381.

Learn more at http://www.goredforwomen.org

SacPress Photo | Kati Garner

A SuperMan works at Sunrise Natural Food's

2009-12-11T20:44:58Z

Occasionally in life you meet someone who has developed such an incredible gift it makes you want to tell everyone else about that person. That is what happened when I ventured into the Sunrise Natural Foods store in Roseville with my girlfriend and she introduced me to a friend of hers that works there. His name is Alden Okie and he is the epitome of the kind of person people need to see and ask advice of when they enter a natural food health store.

Alden, a very distinguished looking man in his 50's, is also a very humble and gentle man who probably never sees himself as a superman. But to the people who have come to know and trust his advice, he is a super man to them.

I remember the first time I heard my girlfriend ask Alden a specific question about some vitamins she was taking and what his advice was on them. His answer captivated me to the point that I thought to myself that Alden isn't just another sales clerk in a natural foods store, but rather he is a man answering his higher calling and helping people with specific questions who have chosen the natural healing path.

I also heard him talking with another woman(not pictured) who had been diagnosed with an extreme bi-polar condition. I quickly became very interested in this matter because I knew someone else who was suffering from the same dis-order. Afterwards I talked privately with this woman and she openly shared with me her condition and stated that if it wasn't for the information that Alden shared with her years ago, of things she could do to alleviate symptoms, she might have had to constantly live under the influence of prescription medicines because her condition was worsening. Instead she was able to make incredible improvements over her condition through the use of natural remedies.

I noticed it was a common thing for the stores customers to chat among themselves about the herbs and vitamins they were taking and the help they were getting from them. Every aisle seemed to appear as little chat rooms at times. Strangers talking to strangers and helping each other.

I asked Alden how did he come into his present passion for peoples health and the knowledge that he had? He told me he met up with a friend five years out of high school who use to be in great shape as most young men were back in those days, but when he saw him he noticed that his friend was now frail and very sickly looking. He discovered his friend had been stricken with cancer and had been given 6 months to live by a doctor. Back in the 70's and early 80's, cancer was not as understood as it is today, so Alden being heartbroken over the condition of his once strong and healthy friend, began looking into information about cancer and treatments and the possibility of reversing the cancers effect on his friend. He did just that and with two friends working together on slowing down the path and process of cancer, his friend actually lived for two years longer. Though the efforts were not a complete cure to cancer, they enabled his friend to enjoy life a little longer and inspired Alden to want to add quality and quantity of life to others as well through a natural approach to healing.

Of course traditional medicine in those days gave little hope for a cure let alone a reversible position. Alden's investigation into cancer started him onto a path of studies and research information that could help the body to restore, revive, replenish and re-live through dramatic yet simple lifestyle changes. With the use of herbs, vitamins, healthier eating, moderate exercise and a measure of hope that exercises faith, changes can be made. Of course dramatic life changes would also include the elimination of negative influences on ones body which include drugs, alchohol, unhealthy foods and unhealthy lifestyles, relationships and environments. Those are the ingredients aggravating many of today's ailments and illnesses.

Being a man of faith, Alden has spent many years studying and watching the effects of his non traditional and natural remedies on peoples lives. He not only has faith in the Great Physician who he has not seen, but also has continued faith in the things he has seen, that has happened through the use of herbs, vitamins and natural foods.

When I talked with Eric the store manager, he said that Alden has become a celebrity in his field and that people travel from great distances just to chat with Alden and glean some nuggets of information that could possibly change their lives. He mentioned that there are regulars who come from as far away as Nevada and Redding just for that purpose and to stock up on items from the store.

In my hour and a half of observing Alden and the store, I watched him advise families, mothers and daughters such as Brandy, Stephanie and Sherry(seen in the picture), people who were old and people who were young, and people from different ethnicities. That day a number of customers got the quick and easy "iodine cotton swab dab". I coined that phrase to describe the test that checks the condition of your thyroid. I asked Alden about it and he said that it is a simple test that anyone could do at home if they wanted to.

I asked him what if someone comes in with a question he didn't have an answer to? He quickly showed me his computer and internet connections that he has to get those new and unlikely questions answered. He was also quick to point out to customers that they could find many health tips themselves by going online as well. Even though Alden is comfortable with talking with people of both sexes about any health issue they might have, I asked him "supposing a woman feels more comfortable talking with another woman about a personal health issue?", He told me that Sunrise Natural Foods also has a woman named Laura Ryan working there who can answer their personal female questions and help them with the ingredients they need for a healthier life.

Over the years, the awareness to help oneself with the use natural remedies has opened the doors to information on natural healing as an alternative when traditional medicines are not desired, needed or useful. Sunrise Natural Foods not only has courteous and helpful employees and a natural food superman, it also has books, magazines and pamphlets to help anyone get the answers they might be needing that could lead themselves to a natural healing and a longer life.

There is an old saying that goes something like this: "If you don't have your health, you don't have anything". Isn't that so true? If you are still looking for the perfect and appropiate gift for someone who has everything but doesn't have their health where they want it, I think the gift of good health or the path that leads to it is a great gift from the heart. Take the time to visit the Sunrise Natural Foods store. From Hwy 80 go east to 1950 Douglas Blvd in Roseville. Their phone number is 916 789-8591. There is a second location in Auburn as well.

You can check out their website at www.sunrisenaturalfoods.net Just going to their website and reviewing information there could be better than a trip to the doctor.

My thanks to the Sunrise Natural Foods store, Alden Okie, the store staff and customers who allowed me to ask questions and take these photos while they worked and shopped.

"Merry Christmas and a Healthier New Year"

Sutter Capitol Pavilion

2009-12-02T17:43:09Z

Sutter Capitol Pavilion
The Sutter Capitol Pavilion includes more than 200,000 square feet of new space for physician offices, procedure rooms and ancillary services.

The artistically designed and inviting new four-story medical building will be home to 40 specialists’ offices and 128 exam and procedure rooms. In keeping with the goal of delivering excellent care and improved patient convenience and satisfaction, the building also features cardiac rehabilitation and a new all-digital imaging center. Other highlights of this project are a vascular laboratory, and leading outpatient services, including an ambulatory surgery center that offers endoscopy and interventional radiology.

“The campus concept is an ideal model for patient care,” said Tom Blinn, CEO of ambulatory care services in the Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region. “Patients who come here will have the convenience of easily accessible doctor’s office visits, onsite digital imaging and ambulatory surgery suites for high-quality, lower-cost surgical care when their surgery doesn’t require hospitalization. They also have the peace of mind of knowing they are on a multidimensional health care campus of primary and specialty medicine, contemporary technology and a top-rated hospital.”

Sutter Capitol Pavilion is scheduled to open in 2010.

Article | Press release from Sutter Medical Center

SacPress Photo | Kati Garner

De-Stressing the Holidays Is Goal of Free Sutter Workshop

2009-10-29T18:41:06Z

Submitted by Cassie Piearcy @ Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region

The holiday season brings to mind family, friends and a jolly good time. But let’s face it: We aren’t all like the Cleavers. Realistically, the holidays also remind us of how much we have to do in what little time there is. And, dealing with all that stress can cause depression and other serious health issues.

However, Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region – which includes hospitals and doctor groups throughout the greater Sacramento region – has the cure for the “holiday blues.” Sutter Women’s Services is partnering with the Sutter Integrative Medicine team to present “Laughing and Dancing Your Way Through the Holidays” from 6-8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16, at the Sutter Cancer Center, 2800 L St., Sacramento. This free, interactive event will include presentations on laughter, dancing, meditation and writing to help you stay light and centered during the holiday madness.

The evening will help guests – both men and women – cope with the stresses that the holiday season annually promises. After just a few hours, guests will learn the tips and tricks they’ll need to enjoy this holiday season to its fullest.

“The evening is about finding ways to laugh and to maintain light-heartedness so that stress won’t get the best of you during the holidays,” said Maxine Barish-Wreden, M.D., medical director of Sutter Integrative Medicine.

During the first portion of the evening, guests will meet the team of integrative medicine practitioners from the Sutter Women’s Center and visit their display tables to learn how to promote their physical, mental and spiritual well-being. They can also participate in mini-healing touch sessions. The main program will feature presentations on mindfulness-based stress reduction by Dennis Warren, J.D.; writing as a way of healing by Terri Wolf, R.N.; and movement for lightness by Nandi Szabo, M.A., ADTR. Treats will be provided by Trader Joe’s and Tarts and Truffles.

The evening will commence with the comedy of Sacramento native Brad Bonar, who is on the national comedy circuit. His presentation is entitled, “Laughing It Up Through the Holidays,” and will send folks off with their new and improved attitude ready take on this holiday season — even those crazy in-laws.

“Routinely, people walk out dancing and laughing,” said Dr. Barish-Wreden, who is heading the workshop with Assistant Medical Director Kay Judge, M.D., for the fifth year. “I’ve had many people say that this is the best event they’ve ever been to at Sutter.”

Seating is limited, so call today to reserve your seat at (916) 733-1765. Free parking is available in the south parking lot at 29th and L streets. For more information, visit www.sutterwomens.org or call (916) 733-8713.

The Sutter Women’s Center knows that no two women are alike and that the complexity of a woman’s body requires special care that changes with each stage of life. The comprehensive care provided at the Women’s Center is tailored to each and every woman’s particular needs by granting women throughout the greater Sacramento region access to the most advanced medical treatments available. The Sutter Women’s Center strives daily to maintain an atmosphere of warmth and compassion where women can feel comfort in knowing that they are the first priority.

Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region is affiliated with Sutter Health, a not-for-profit, community based health system located throughout Northern California. SHSSR includes Sutter Amador Hospital in Jackson, Sutter Auburn Faith Hospital, Sutter Davis Hospital, Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, Sutter Roseville Medical Center, Sutter Solano Medical Center in Vallejo, Sutter North Medical Foundation in Marysville/Yuba City, Sutter Regional Medical Foundation in Solano County, Sutter West Medical Foundation in Yolo County, and Sutter Medical Foundation in Sacramento. For more information on SHSSR, visit www.checksutterfirst.org.
###

CONTACT: Gary Zavoral (916) 454-6825 or Cassie Piearcy (916) 454-6775

Free SMUD trees support the 5 million tree campaign

2009-10-28T17:33:28Z

Tree clean our air and water, store carbon in their trunks, create habitat for wildlife, reduce air pollution, increase property values, and provide countless other benefits. The Sacramento Tree Foundation works to leverage all of the benefits that trees provide to create healthy and sustainable communities through building the best urban forest in the Sacramento region. A major keystone in building the best urban forest is the Greenprint initiative, a multi-decade regional framework created to meet Sacramento's sustainability and livability goals by expanding urban forests and optimizing the benefits of tree canopies. Greenprint partners, comprised of 22 cities and 6 counties, have agreed to double their tree canopy over the next 40 years. In order to achieve this goal, we need to plant 5 million new trees by the year 2025.

SMUD customers can join the 5 million tree campaign by planting free energy saving SMUD trees. Through the Shade Tree Program, the Sacramento Tree Foundation, in partnership with the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, has planted over 450,000 trees in Sacramento County since the program’s inception in 1990. If you wish to receive free shade trees, a Community Forester from the Sacramento Tree Foundation will visit your property and help you select the best trees, determine the strategic locations for maximum energy savings, and provide you with information on planting and care. When you are ready to plant, your trees will be delivered to your home, along with stakes and ties – all at absolutely no cost to you. To sign up for a free appointment or to learn more about trees and the 5 million tree campaign, please contact the Sacramento Tree Foundation at (916) 924-8733 Ext. 121 or visit Sactree.com.

Changing bad habits one recipe at a time

2009-10-01T22:03:51Z

Joanne Neft is on a mission to change the poor eating habits common in many households today.

"We're eating really inappropriately," she explained to dinner guests at her home this past week.

She pinpoints Americans' "inappropriate" eating habits to the cause of many problems. "We eat subsidized food because it's cheap, forgetting the huge price we pay for the resulting obesity, diabetes, cancer, and coronary problems. Americans pay a high price for cheap food."

She is currently self-employed and owns a couple of commercial properties but these days she is putting most of her energy and passion into a crusade against poor eating habits found in the form of a cookbook.

Neft and her close friend (and chef) Laura Caballero are in the process of compiling around 300 recipes made up of locally-grown ingredients.

"I've always cooked from scratch. It's easy, it tastes better, and it's good for you. So here we are writing a cookbook -- the next logical step in a long love affair with food," Neft said.

The cookbook is based on a unique and interactive, original concept.

Every weekend, Neft and Caballero shop the Auburn farmers market and purchase ingredients that are abundant and in season. They constantly find new fruits and vegetables, such as the spiky jelly melons (pictured below) they found last week.

On Monday evenings, the meal they have designed is prepared for six guests at the home Neft shares with her husband. Their home sits high atop the Auburn hills and guests are treated to a spectacular view of the hills during dinner.

Neft thinks the most important part of their project is the interaction of the community. "To our knowledge, this is the first cookbook written over a 52-week period using all the food grown in a single area. This is the first time community members are actually participating in the process of writing a cookbook," she said.

The guest list changes every week and by the year's end, they will have hosted and cooked for around 300 guests. The guests are made up of both acquaintances and friends that responded to an invitation email Neft sent out in January.

The weekly tradition began in January and will continue until December for a total of 52 weeks. The recipes will be in chronological order, ensuring all of the ingredients are in season and can be found in local markets. Special meals for holidays, such as a grass-fed turkey for Christmas, will also be included.

Depending on the type of meat served, meals for eight end up costing anywhere from $65 to $120. Instead of paying for their meal, guests are asked to make a donation of $20 per person that will go towards the printing of the cookbook.

Spots at the Monday night dinners have been booked through the end of the year so it's rare that a guest cancels. However, in the case of an emergency, a neighbor or friend is more than happy to sit in.

"The food is already purchased and we expect to prepare eight dinners so we appreciate having eight people around the table," Neft said.

Neft believes that it is more powerful to have people taste nutritious food instead of telling them how great or beneficial it is. She stresses that, because they are cooking with the freshest food available, there is not a lot of preparation involved or ingredients that need to be added.

"When we see guests at the following farmers market, then it's obvious they liked what they tasted and are there to learn what else is available. Most of the guests are people we don't know, so the dinners are definitely making a difference," Neft said.

The dinners not only allow guests to taste great food but give Caballero and Neft a chance to try out their recipes. Some recipes become surprising favorites, like the lamb neck slices that were cooked in dark beer, coffee, paprika, and a mandarin grilling sauce. Others, like the mini grilled artichokes, won't make it into the cookbook. If they are unsure about a recipe, they might try it out beforehand but generally dinners are cooked for the first time the evening of the dinner.

"If you start out with fresh food picked that Friday, you'd have to try really hard to mess it up," Neft explained.

Her passion for food began when she was young. She spent many years on farm land that was homesteaded by her great-grandfather in Minnesota and grew up with the importance of healthy food instilled in her. Her father always maintained a vegetable garden and started a large community garden in Santa Barbara in the 1960s.

She says that as she grew older, she noticed more people becoming overweight and sick and began to question why obesity was such a problem.

"People don't realize that 90 percent of foods available in supermarkets are corn-based and/or pumped with too many sweets, oils or salt ... Americans are unwittingly poisoning themselves," she explained.

She credits activists like Barbara Kingsolver, Alice Waters, Michael Pollan, and Eric Schlosser with bringing light to the importance of good food but thinks there is still much room for improvement.

"Most people still aren't connecting the dots," she said. "It really boils down to a health issue ... we are what we eat and the majority of people are not paying attention and haven't taken the time to inform themselves."

Twenty years ago, Neft opened the first Foothills Farmers Market. The following three years, eight more markets popped up throughout Placer County.

Other highlights of her food activism include heading up the first Mountain Mandarin Festival in Newcastle, preserving farmland, and working open space and scenic vistas as a chairperson of Placer County's Citizens Advisory Committee. She also served five years as Director for the Placer County Agricultural Program. Most recently, Neft has been involved with Sacramento's Regional Food System Collaborative.

"Once I learned of the massive amounts of money the government spends on healthcare and the potential of enormous costs in the years to come, I decided to take some action. There are two generations of people who don't know how to cook a meal from scratch."

Neft is doing her part to change that, one meal at a time.

On Monday night, Neft cooked two angel food cakes using the exact same recipe with eggs from the farmers' market and eggs from the supermarket. She believes the difference in sizes speaks volumes. The scenery behind is the view from the Nefts' back porch.

Sample menu served on September 28

Appetizers:
Chilled cucumber soup
Fresh brick-oven bread

Dinner:
Tomato, jelly melon and arugula salad with a vinaigrette laced with fresh pesto sauce
Swiss chard sauteed and topped with bacon crumbles
Mashed German butterball potatoes
Lamb stew with okra and diced tomatoes

Dessert:
Angel food cake with strawberries and homemade bittersweet chocolate sauce
Homemade vanilla ice cream

Placer County Real Food will be completed by Mother's Day 2010 and will be available for purchase at the Auburn farmers market or pre-order by contacting Mercedes Sinclair at Mercedes@EastWindQuantumWellness.com or at 916-412-2622

To contact Laura Caballero about her professional chef services, email her at laurak928@hotmail.com

All photos taken by Jonathan Mendick

Muay Thai "Battle at the Wat" tournament

2009-09-20T07:24:46Z

"Block the leg! Kick the inside! Knee, knee!"

The fervor of audience commentary, at times simultaneously, made it difficult to hear individual commentary, unless it quieted down for a moment.

On Saturday, Sept. 19, male and female warriors sparred in front of an energetic audience at the first amateur "Muay Thai Origins: Battle at the Wat" tournament in South Sacramento.

Promoted and sponsored by Andy Kensamphaph, founder of Sacramento's Muay Thai Lao Kickboxing Academy, the event took place at Wat Lao Saoputh Buddhist Temple in South Sacramento. As a non-profit fundraiser, all proceeds went to the temple.

South Sacramento resident Tommy Prongfah brought his children to show them traditional Muay Thai, and support the event. Prongfah hopes to enroll his children into Kensamphaph's Muay Thai Lao gym the following year.

"I wanted to support the cause," he said, "it seemed like good entertainment and [we] wanted to have a good time."

Muay Thai, or "art of eight limbs," includes hands, elbows, knees, and feet. By International Kickboxing Federation rules, Amateur Thai boxing bouts last for three rounds of two minutes. Thai boxing shorts are mandatory, as are gum shields and head guards. Thai fighters enter the ring wearing traditional garb — the mongkon, a circular headband, and a prajed, or woven armbands. The headband is removed before the beginning of the match.

Punches, kicks, and knee strikes are all allowed in amateur bouts. Elbow strikes to the head are only allowed in professional matches.

The Battle was held outdoors behind the actual temple, under a large tent canopy. About 500 people were in attendance, which increased by a few hundred more throughout the day.

"[This type] is the traditional temple Sunday fights in Southeast Asia," said Kensamphaph. The family orientated atmosphere also contributes to these traditions, said Kensamphaph.

Along the outside of the tent were health and fitness training booths by Body Kore, selling male and female apparel. Food vendors cooked Traditional Lao and Thai cuisine, such as chicken thighs with sticky rice, which filled the air with barbeque smoke. Attendees could lounge at tables and benches. No alcohol was allowed on site.

The event kicked off with a "Young Warrior's" youth tournament at 8:30 a.m. All youths were between the ages of five and fifteen years old.

"It has been our tradition to start children at an early age in competition to develop good sportsmanship and confidence," according to the Muay Thai Lao website. All matches were purely for exhibition, with no winners or losers. All demonstrations were approved by The California State Athletic Commission.

The adult tournament began at 1 p.m, with each winner receiving a 26-inch trophy designed by Kensamphaph. Eighteen fights were scheduled with weight classes to include — featherweight (female), super lightweight, light middleweight, welterweight, cruiserweight, and heavy weight.

Jacob Lomomto, 19, from Main Street Kickboxing in Hollister, and Josh Krestschmann, 28, from Muay Thai Lao in Sacramento, light middleweights, were first to fight. Despite losing to a TKO after 1:42 in the first round, Lomanto enjoyed his fighting experience.

"I have only been fighting for two and a half to three years," Lomanto said, "once I tried Muay Thai I was hooked. [I was] disappointed today, [but] I still want to see where [competition fighting] takes me." he said.

Cassandra Denies, from Condition and Competition in San Jose, and Gladys Malave, from Muay Thai Lao in Sacramento, featherweights, got the crowd to its feet with thunderous applause. Malave won by majority decision by the officials after three rounds. This made her second amateur bout, and first actual win. She held her trophy proudly while posing for photographers.

"[Denies] had lots of experience, [but] I worked hard." she said, "I gave it my all."

Kensamphaph's new students were also in attendance to support Muay Thai Lao. Nicole Douglas of Sacramento enjoyed watching Malave fight.

"I have only been [training] for a month and a half." she said, "Initially it was for fitness, now I want to learn style. There is [still] a lot to learn."

Medical personnel were needed during the light cruiserweight fight between Johnathan Samuals and Edward Mukhamshin. Samuals received a hard blow to the head by Mukhamshin. Paramedics were needed, but refused to comment on whether or not he received a concussion. One man also complained of shortness of breath, but did not need to be taken to the hospital.

The Battle concluded at 5 p.m. All of Kensamphaph's students from Muay Thai Lao won their respective matches.

The International Kickboxing Federation website can be located here.

Andy Kensamphaph's Muay Thai Lao Kickboxing Academy website can be located here.

Photos courtesy of Jonathan Mendick.

TEAM MARIA Joins in The Audi Best Buddies Challenge

2009-09-16T01:59:18Z

TEAM MARIA set out early Saturday, September 12 on the fundraising bike ride from Carmel through Big Sur to Hearst Castle Beach in support of Best Buddies International, a community for helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

TEAM MARIA exceeded their goal to raise $30,000 for Best Buddies by earning $80,000 in only six weeks.

TEAM MARIA had riders on each of the four distance legs of the race – all riders completed the Challenge. TEAM MARIA includes Capitol insiders: Former Speaker Fabian Nunez; Staff from Dewey Square Group and Lucas Public Affairs and First Lady Maria Shriver's friends, family and staff.

For more insight on The Audi Best Buddies Challenge and TEAM MARIA, visit Greg Lucas’ blog: http://californiascapitol.com/blog/?p=733. Visit www.bestbuddies.org to learn more about the benefits of Best Buddies International.

TEAM MARIA Is already planning for the 2010 Best Buddies Challenge!

A Walk for Our Kids: 100% of Donations Go Directly to Specialty Services at Children's Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento

2009-09-11T18:01:50Z

SACRAMENTO – In a new twist to the benefit walk, area residents who support the health of our region’s children will walk Arden Fair Mall on Saturday, Oct. 17, as part of Together for Kids’ fund-raising campaign called Walk Across America. A full 100 percent of the funds raised during the local walk will go directly to the specialty care services at the Children’s Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, where many of the children throughout the region and beyond receive their care from birth to 18 years old for conditions ranging from low birth weight, cancer and brain tumors to diabetes and congenital heart defects.

The goal of the Sacramento walk is to help bring better health care to more of Northern California children by offsetting the shrinking funding for children’s health care from public and private sources. All funds raised by the Walk Across America at Arden Fair will stay in our community and help the Children’s Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento address the most pressing needs of young patients in Northern California.

The Children’s Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, is a comprehensive pediatric medical center, which serves as the regional referral center for neonatal and pediatric care for more than 23 counties and 48 hospitals throughout Northern California, Southern Oregon and Northern Nevada. It is the only medical center in the greater Sacramento area that offers on-site, 24-hour, board-certified pediatric intensivists and neonatologists, as well as 24-hour on-call pediatric anesthesiologists. Services begin for the children at birth; the Children's Center is home to Northern California's premier neonatal intensive care unit that treats hundreds of babies a year, including quadruplets and other multiples.

Because of its breadth of services, excellent outcomes and quality care, the Children's Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento has national recognition as a specialty children's hospital from the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions and is the first community, non-university hospital to hold this NACHRI designation. It is also the only non-teaching facility in Northern California granted associate membership with the California Children's Hospital Association.

“The funds raised during this walk will go a long way toward providing necessary medical services for our young patients in the greater Sacramento region,” said Dr. Gregory Janos, medical director of the Children’s Center at SMCS. “These services range from Sutter’s comprehensive pediatric oncology, neurology and cardiac programs to such groundbreaking services as our Pediatric Healthy Lifestyles Program, which is fighting adolescent obesity.”

Walkers and non-walkers alike can participate in Walk Across America by registering online at the Together for Kids Web site, www.togetherforkids.org. To sign up to walk or to make a donation to a walker, choose Children’s Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento. Walkers will meet at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, on the second level of Arden Fair Mall, located at 1689 Arden Way, and will be treated to donations by some of the Arden Fair merchants, including breakfast items. Walkers can also sign up at the event. Major sponsors of the walk are the Children's Specialists Medical Group of Sacramento and SAFE Credit Union.

“Usually, these types of benefit walks are held in the great outdoors, but sometimes it’s not safe to exercise outside due to the weather and smog, or because of diseases such as asthma,” said Celeste Chin, co-chair of the Arden Fair Walk Across America for Sutter Medical Center Foundation. “This mall walk sends a message to the children and adults of the region that you can get your exercise just about anywhere – including the mall.”

Together for Kids was launched in 2007 and is committed to providing an urgently needed national fundraising mechanism to support the work of member hospitals such as the Children’s Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento. Dr. Janos and other pediatric specialists from Together for Kids hospitals who make up its Physicians Advisory Committee have prioritized childhood obesity and accident prevention as critical challenges on which hospitals will work together to make a real difference.

National statistics show that the percentage of overweight children jumped from 6 percent in the 1980s to 17 percent in 2007. Obesity puts children at risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In addition, the leading cause of death for children age 1 to 14 is accidental injuries – more than all other causes of death for this age group combined. Each year, 20 percent to 25 percent of all children in the United States – more than 39,000 each day – will sustain an injury serious enough to require medical attention and/or bed rest.

Together for Kids (www.togetherforkids.org) is a national alliance of children’s hospitals and other hospitals serving children. The organization provides an urgently needed national fundraising mechanism for its member hospitals, helping them care for seriously ill children and tackle the toughest health issues facing all kids, with a focus on childhood obesity and injury prevention. The organization was established in 2007 and consists of 53 hospitals in 47 U.S. cities.

The Children's Center at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento is located at Sutter Memorial Hospital, 5151 F St., in Sacramento, and specializes in neonatal and pediatric intensive care, pediatric neurosurgery, oncology and cardiovascular surgery. The Children’s Center is affiliated with Sutter Health, a not-for-profit, community-based health system located throughout Northern California. For more information on Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, visit the website at suttermedicalcenter.org.

BikeCrawl II

2009-08-20T23:19:57Z

Rollin' on the BikeCrawl II
The 2nd "bicycle-themed" Grubcrawl is Wed. Aug. 26, promptly at 5:30 starting @ Bikes and Bites, 12th & J st, Downtown Sac..... Grubcrawlusa.com in partnership with Bikes & Bites presents the second of many Bikecrawls, rollin' spot to spot enjoying free appetizers and drink specials all night long! Soooo,....Bring your cycles, trikes, and appetites! Join us @ Brew It Up, Sofia's, Three Fires @ the downtown Marriott, Table 260,...and other Sacramento Hot Spots. See ya there!

Rent-A-Bike or bring your own!
Bring your tour cycle, beach cruizer, road or mountain bike, or tandem to the starting venue at 5:30 pm, with $25 and your appetite!

Or for an additional $15.00 borrow a ride from the fleet of rental bikes: which includes both men’s and women’s classic single speed beach cruiser style bikes, a combination lock, front and rear light set, an optional helmet, and a front-mounted basket. Call to reserve: (916) 448-1799 or visit 1013 12th st. @ Bikes & Bites.

Jump in our Pedicab!
Don't wanna ride onder your own power? Why use your OWN legs when there are plenty of young, energetic pairs of other peoples pedal pumpers to propel you and your friends around the Grubcrawl route. Dial-a-Bike Pedicab provides free, door-to-door transpo between restaurants and back to your car at the end of the night! Ride in style with Harmon (the owner and pedicab guru) and his crew of fit, fun, upbeat, & young drivers,...just be sure to tip them for their prompt and professional service!

Join the Leisurely Cyclist and the Avid Biker alike as we embark on this "Riders Romp" to the best eats & drinks Sac has to offer! We pedal "en-masse" to 5 of your favorites; for FREE APPETIZERS, DRINK SPECIALS, PRIZES, and other GIVEAWAYS,... spending about an hour at each location.

See what Sac Media Moguls have to say about the previous BikeCrawl: http://www.sacramentopress.com/headline/11162/Tour_de_Sac_ends_with_Pub_Crawl

Wheeeew! Thank Gawd! It will cool off for the Bikecrawl this Wed. Not only are we starting in the shady of the city after the heat breaks, the Delta breeze off the river makes this Crawl the coolest place to be in Sac! As we slide from one air-conditioned venue to another, cooling the engines with refreshing drinks and recharging the system with tasty appetizers,... The outside temp. will steadily drop... while the fun and excitement inside grows and builds, with prizes and givaways meeting and eating with the popular party crowd. Have to work Thursday??? Don't worry!!! We pull up to our last destination, 9:30 or so, for scrumptious snacks and a nightcap. If you gotto go then, in order to get to work in the morning,..say goodnite and be home by 10:00pm!! For those who can stay out past curfew, Grubcrawl is taking it till last call and you can party with us all night! Reg. now @ Grubcrawlusa.com or call (916) 730-0977.

Parkour traces Sacramento

2009-08-20T06:44:13Z

I walked onto the quad of Bella Vista High School on a Sunday afternoon to a sight of 20 or so men climbing walls, running like cheetahs on all fours and swinging from trees.

This was the Sacramento regional parkour practice, led by a SFparkour.com representative, Victor Lo Forte. He has been a practitioner of parkour, or traceur, French for tracer, for three and a half years and has led the Sacramento group for about two years.

"From what I understand, it's basically the discipline of training one's mind and body to prepare oneself to overcome obstacles in an environment," Lo Forte said.

Parkour is said to be rooted in early 20th century French military practices. Georges Hébert, a World War I naval officer, developed a notion of physicality that embraced use of the body and its environment for developing strength useful to society.

These principles were the foundation for his "Natural Method," which incorporated the fusion of the mental and physical to overcome obstacles via climbing, running and jumping (to name a few). His method contributed to the development of the French parcours du combattant, or military obstacle course.

As a young teen, David Belle, considered the father of parkour, picked up Natural Method ethics along with his gymnastic and martial arts training in France.

Many of the young men at the Sacramento parkour practice admire Belle and have adopted the Natural Method as part of their training.

"Parkour is training your flight response," said Sacramento State student Jake Anderson.

Lo Forte commented on one of the many purposes of parkour, to "be strong to protect your family and friends."

"We’re not trying to hurt anybody, we’re training to be strong, and that really helps the community," he said.

Though not a spectator sport, it is difficult to explain what exactly traceurs are doing to people who gather round their concrete playground.

"I usually point them to YouTube and Casino Royale," Anderson said. "I tell them parkour is the study of the most efficient way to get from point A to point B."

This efficiency calls for climbing walls, not walking around them.

"If you're in a dead-end alley, you look back and forth and don’t look up," Anderson said. "People don’t look up, they don’t look at their environments anymore."

He described parkour as a way to think of our built environment with a critical lens. "We create our environments to be quick and easy for what we’re raised as," Anderson said. "Parkour shows us that there are actually easier ways than we’re raised, things people don’t think of."

The Sacramento traceurs have tried practicing in the Downtown Sacramento area, but have found security and business owners to be hostile to the activity. "If they tell us to leave then we leave," Lo Forte said.

"I’d say ground-rules for anywhere are be respectful of the environment, don’t wreck things, don’t leave litter behind, clean up after yourselves," he said. "There is a big thing in parkour community called the leave no trace campaign. We don’t want it to look like we’ve been there. We don’t want to get kicked out of places."

Parkour training also focuses on overall health and well-being. "It might save their lives," Lo Forte said. "You never know if they might get addicted to drugs or end up in jail."

"I wanted to get in shape," said Robert King, a telecommunications technician for Sacramento County. "Since I started in January, I lost 40 pounds."

"A lot of people are sitting home and they don’t get any sensory input; they don't smell the dirt on their hands and the sun on their face," Lo Forte said.

This was the case for 15-year-old Jonah Saysourivong. "Before this I was a big-time gamer and would play Call of Duty for 42 hours straight," he said. "I definitely know other kids my age are drinking alcohol and smoking, and that’s one thing I’d never do."

The health benefits and the body's adaptation to unique movements is of great interest to Anderson as a kinesiology student. "They should talk about it in anatomy classes and in physical therapy classes. I think that doctors should know it, gymnasts, athletes," he said. He hopes to introduce parkour in his dance and martial arts classes at Sacramento State.

Lo Forte also aspires to introduce parkour skills to the police force. "These things will be helpful for them and hopefully they will realize that and hire some of us to train them in the future," he said.

In the middle of practice, a group of young men started tumbling and performing a series of flips in the air and over others lying on the ground. The freedom of movement in a creative way like this is called free-running, often associated with parkour.

"Parkour is strictly what's the most efficient way from one point to another; free-running is adding flair and flips," Anderson said.

Though there were not any females present at the practice, they are encouraged to participate as traceuse, French for female tracers.

Robert King encouraged me to try a technique to get over a 7-foot wall during practice, but I settled for swinging and balancing on rails on my own time. I found that I was using my environment rather than living around it. Though we all live in our environments, traceurs live their environments.

For more information, click the following link:

Practice at Bella Vista High School, meeting Sundays and Wednesdays at 4 p.m.

Front yard ordinance allows DIY food

2009-07-17T21:17:38Z

This is the second growing season that Sacramento residents have been able to grow vegetables, fruit trees and other food plants in their front yard thanks to a revised city ordinance. After a three-year effort by food activists, the city's Front Yard Ordinance was reworded in 2007 to specifically allow veggie gardens in that soil near the sidewalk. That change has enabled more and more Sacramento homeowners to grow their own food in an edible landscape, mingling [with] or replacing decorative foliage. Blueberries with your zinnias, perhaps, or tomatoes with your chrysanthemums, or lettuce where that brown scrubgrass used to be.

The original FYO was written into zoning code in 1941 and actually banned the growing of edible plants. Vegetables were confined to the backyard and growing any food plant on the front lawn was an offense punishable by a fine. This may seem like an unusual law, considering that homeowners own their lawns. The main concern of the old FYO was preventing overgrowth of plants, whether food or otherwise. It didn't explicitly forbid food plants, but didn't list them as legal either, whereas perennial grasses and decorative plants were listed as legal groundcover.

Sacramento resident Karen Baumann brushed up against that little-known ordinance when she planted tomatoes and a fruit tree on her front lawn in 2004, according to a city official. A neighbor reported her garden to city authorities, who then notified Baumann that she would have to pull up the plants or face a $750 fine. This was a surprise to Baumann, who asked folks at local gardening groups what she could do to save her leafy comestibles. Before she could act, an unknown party sprayed Baumann's lawn pretty heavily with RoundUp, a Monsanto-brand herbicide, and killed off most of Baumann's plants, as well as some nearby lawns.

Food activists citywide responded to Baumann's plight and petitioned the city council to revise the outdated law. "There was a tremendous amount of community pressure," Paul Towers, a Sacramento resident and state director of Pesticide Watch said. "There were articles in the News & Review, The Bee. Organic Sacramento got involved. It was everywhere."

This grassroots effort to make Sacramento lawns more than just pretty finally achieved their goal in April 2007. Baumann's war-torn lawn was later restored. Capitol Nursery donated a bundle of plants to replace her sprayed veggies.

The new FYO changed key wording to more explicitly allow food crops on front yards. There are still requirements for maintenance, but no limitations on what can be grown. There are limits on what you don't grow; the law requires that landscapes must be "landscaped, irrigated and maintained," and there can be no dead plant matter taller than 4 inches. "Basically, you can grow all you want," said Community Garden Coordinator Bill Maynard. "But make it look good."

A tricky segment of the FYO still causes some concern amongst front-yard growers. It reads: "All landscaping materials shall be mowed, trimmed, and/or maintained as often as necessary to prevent overgrowth and blight."

But Towers said "blight" is a vague term that city authorities would be hard-pressed to enforce. The FYO lists no definition of "blight," only the word. Fortunately, the city is presently uninterested in enforcement.

"The city sent around a code enforcement memo that said not to bust food landscapes," said Towers, and Maynard corroborated that the city isn't cracking down. Unless a withering garden is a clear fire hazard, then dried-out or overgrown lawns aren't a problem. In a dry season, water conservation is at a premium, and accordingly the city has revised its enforcement plan.

Growing a plot of vegetables can actually reduce a front yard's water consumption and benefit the community in drier times. "A lot of edibles are drought-tolerant plants, so people can tear up thirsty grass and replace it with food." Maynard said. "[The FYO] provides a whole 'nother way to think about your yard."

The FYO places no restriction on fertilizer or pesticide use but Maynard hopes that Sacramento residents will pursue 'river-friendly' practices to reduce chemical runoff.

A front yard garden offers advantages that a backyard garden might not have. More sun usually hits a front lawn, and backyards might be covered with a patio or a pool. The FYO benefits homeowners almost exclusively, though, as landlords would may be unreceptive to suggestions of tearing up grass for greens.

Still, the FYO allows Sacramento city-slickers double the opportunity to turn their lawn into a bountiful foodscape.

"Our mission is to make all landscapes more healthy and sustainable, and we always put food first," Towers said.

Kids Don't Float! Loaner Life Jackets Available

2009-07-15T16:54:59Z

The City of West Sacramento Fire Department wants everyone to know to use life jackets during water recreation!

Keep your kids safe. Free, loaner life jackets are available at the following West Sacramento Fire Stations:
• Station 41, 132 15th St.
• Station 42, 3585 Jefferson Blvd.
• Station 43, 1561 Harbor Blvd.
• Station 44, 905 Fremont Blvd.
• Station 45, 2040 Lake Washington Blvd.

Also, the Bridgeway Lakes Boathouse office, 3650 Southport Parkway!

For more information, contact the West Sacramento Fire Department at (916) 617-4600 . The free life jacket rental program is sponsored by both the City’s Fire and Parks & Recreation Departments.

Harbor Boulevard Interchange Improvements

2009-07-15T16:25:27Z

Caltrans and the City of West Sacramento have jointly announced that on July 29, 2009, Caltrans will begin construction on improvements to the Harbor Boulevard interchange that crosses U.S. Highway 50 in West Sacramento.

The scope of the project includes new alignment and realignment of the freeway ramp access, widening of the roadways, removal of pavement, and overcrossing structure work.

The project is designed to accommodate increases in traffic activity on the Harbor Boulevard interchange.

An information open house will be held in room 157 of the West Sacramento City Hall, 1110 West Capitol Ave., on Monday, July 27, between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and the admission is free.

Caltrans staff and City representatives will be on hand to discuss the potential traffic interference, like lane restrictions, speed controls, access, and how you can plan to avoid congestion during construction.

My Son is a Drug Addict

2009-07-15T16:10:10Z

He woke up this morning, finally, but he can’t remember much of the night before. He can’t remember the shouting match with his mother, telling her to “F” off and that he’ll do drugs as long as he wants too. Or the fight with his girl friend that ended with him passing out on the couch.

His name is Christopher, he’s my seventeen-year-old son, and he’s a drug addict. No, he’s not the kind of addict depicted in the movies or on television. He doesn’t sleep in alleys and creep around trying to find his next “fix.” He’s not disheveled or unwashed, though the clothes kids wear today kind of express that. No, he’s a middleclass kid from the suburbs that got off the road somewhere and can’t find his way back.

Ecstasy, “E,” “smackers,” “fizz.” It doesn’t matter what you call it, he takes it and he can’t, and won’t stop. His mother and I sit for hours trying to figure out where we went wrong, and you know, we’ve come to a conclusion that may not set well with others: we haven’t done anything wrong.

We put him through school and made him study, but the drugs took over and he quit going to school.

We taught him the difference between right and wrong, but the drugs took over and the difference to him became muddled and cloudy.

We taught him that it’s not the money or the fame, but hard work and diligence that equal success, but the drugs took over, and he no longer even wants to look for a job or accept work from anyone.

We taught him respect for others, but the drugs took over, now his hair-trigger temper kicks in and he lashes out at everyone with such anger, and distain that we fear he’ll hurt someone one night in a drug-induced stupor.

Finally, we taught him love, and not by merely saying it to him. We expressed it to him every day by example and by our actions with him. But again, the drugs take over and he yells at me in the front yard that he hates me and wishes I were dead.

No, we did everything we could to ensure that he became a good man and a positive contributor to society… but the drugs took over. We can no longer control him because his defiance is to such a point that he won’t obey anyone.

Now we’re trapped between our love for him and the knowledge that if we do nothing, he’ll eventually hit bottom, or worse.

So, there you have it. Where do we go from here? I don’t know, but we’re not going to sit still. Would an intervention work? I don’t know, but we’re going to try it. Would a stint in re-hab work? I don’t know, but if it comes down to it, we’ll try it.

I won’t be writing my articles or working on any literary projects until this crisis with Christopher is over. I’ll miss it, but not as much as I would miss my son if he were to die, and I didn’t commit everything I had to preventing that.

"Earthlings" free Showing

2009-07-13T18:03:57Z

EARTHLINGS
FREE • LIMITED SEATING • ONE NIGHT ONLY • DON’T MISS IT • FREE
www.earthlings.com

Where: SACRAMENTO BICYCLE KITCHEN
1915 I Street (between 19th and 20th, along the railroad tracks).
NOTE: Seating is limited. Please bring a lawn chair or two if you can.

When: FRIDAY, July 17, 2009

Time: 7:00-10:00 PM
Director’s featurette at 7:30
EARTHLINGS at 8:00
About the film: EARTHLINGS (95 mins), written and directed by Shaun Monson and narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, is about the suffering of animals for food, fashion, pets, entertainment, and medical research. Considered the most persuasive documentary ever made, EARTHLINGS is nicknamed “the Vegan Maker” for its sensitive footage shot at animal shelters, pet stores, puppy mills, factory farms, slaughterhouses, the leather and fur trades, sporting events, circuses, and research labs. Moby, a dedicated vegan, provided the eerie, haunting soundtrack for the documentary. His beautiful yet melancholy tones serve as an allegory for the innocence and beauty of domestic and wildlife animals subjected to the cruelest treatment. The images and video used in the documentary, which were obtained over a five-year period with undercover cameras, are powerful and disturbing. Almost no narration is needed; the video lens unflinchingly tells the whole story for the animals. NOTE: This film is not rated—viewer discretion is strongly advised. “Of all the films I have ever made, this is the one that gets people talking the most. For every one person who sees EARTHLINGS, they will tell three” - Joaquin Phoenix, actor/narrator “If I could make evernone in the world see one film, I’d make them see EARTHLINGS.” – Peter Singer, author, Animal Liberation “For those who watch EARTHLINGS, the world will never be the same.” – Tom Regan, author, A Case for Animal Rights

Presented by the Sacramento Animal Rights (SAR) Meetup Group
(www.meetup.com/Sacramento-Animal-Rights-Meetup-Group/)
Special thanks to the Sacramento Bicycle Kitchen for the use of their space.
Sacramento Bicycle Kitchen is not affiliated with SAR or Earthlings.com.

Safetyville USA celebrates birthday at Healthy and Safety Expo

2009-06-15T02:38:50Z

There was reason Saturday for double celebration at Sacramento's Safetyville USA.

It was not only the 12th annual Family Safety and Health Expo, it also marked Safetyville's 25th year of teaching safety and life skills to more than 200,000 children to date. The free event hosted around 3,000 children and their families for a fun-filled day of learning and celebrating.

In the middle of the expo, birthday festivities took the main stage and were led by Liz McClatchy, President and CEO of Safetyville Center Incorporated (SCI) and Terry Polvado, Vice President of SCI. Children sang "Happy Birthday" to Safetyville and were introduced to the new and yet-to-be-named mascot of Safetyville, a dog donning a blue helmet and red vest.

Children were invited to help name the mascot by dropping off their ideas in a box at Safetyville's table.

SCI Board Chairman Ralph Sugimot led a cake-cutting ceremony, and happy kids lined up for cake and ice cream after taking part in a conga-line dance around the stage.

"It was such a great event for everyone. My daughter [three-years-old] and I both had a great time, and we both learned a lot," said Tabatha Barkley, who attended the event with her family.

Other birthday festivities throughout the day included a dance performance by Granite Bay Dance Connection, a "Red and Black Attack" by Kovar's Karate Satori Academy and a magic performance by magician Trevor Wyatt.

More than 84 community safety and health organizations set up booths around the faux-town, which is a 1/3-scale replica of an actual city with mock streetlights, intersections, fast food stops and businesses.

While there was plenty of fun to be had at the Expo, there were also many resources for families in Sacramento and surrounding areas. Information on health care, child care, crisis centers and immunizations were just some of the booths on hand to teach families how to get help if needed.

Insurance companies State Farm, AAA and Allstate provided information on insurance. Shriners and Kaiser hospitals taught about preventative health measures, and groups like Bikers Against Child Abuse made an appearance on behalf of issues like child abuse.

Parked in front of the town were traveling organizations like D.A.R.T., an all-volunteer dive recovery teateam and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, with a smashed-up car from a fatal drunken driving accident.

Inside, the Sacramento Area Sewer District, another event sponsor, taught how to properly dispose of fats, oils and grease, and Safetyville's own Safety Center taught about its driving simulation programs for teen drivers.

Government organizations like Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department and the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District set up booths in front of their respective Safetyville buildings and handed out rulers, stickers and pens to children, along with lessons from firefighters and police officers on preventative safety and how to be a law-abiding citizen. Kids could see a California Highway Patrol motorcycle up close and sit behind the wheel of an actual fire truck.

Home Depot, one of event's main sponsors, set up an assembly line where children of all ages were given flower pots and learned how to pot plants. Children were given Home Depot aprons with their names written on them, and by the end of the day, Safetyville was a sea of orange aprons.

Kids were encouraged to get stamps from the different booths they visited around the town and fill up Safetyville "passports." Full passports were eligible for raffle entries for three separate raffles held throughout the day. Passes to the Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Zoo, a child's bike and helmet, boat rental from the Sac State Aquatics Center and a go cart from Rocket Motorsports were just some of the more than 15 prizes given away.

Kids leaving the Expo were weighed down with heavy bags filled with pencils, toothbrushes, pedometers, packages of Band-Aids and coupons to pick up their free child I.D. kits along with smiles and lessons learned.

Nike Women's Fitness Festival at State Capitol

2009-06-09T02:14:39Z

Women crowded the State Capitol on Sunday as they vowed to stand and run to raise money for WEAVE (Women Escaping a Violent Environment), Sacramento's primary provider of domestic violence and sexual assault services.

The Nike Women's Fitness Festival, which is also known as "Sacramento's Largest All Women's Walk," took place at the Capitol on Sunday, June 7 from 7:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. The whole event was presented and sponsored by WEAVE Inc., the Mercy Women's Health Pavillion, Nike, Fleet Feet Sports, Blue Diamond Almonds and, among others.

This was the fifth annual festival benefitting WEAVE. Serving the Sacramento area for over 30 years, WEAVE offers a 24-Hour Crisis Line, Safehouse, counseling, legal assistance, prevention education, and several other services at no cost. WEAVE’s mission is to end domestic violence and sexual assault in partnership with the community. WEAVE serves all women, men, and children regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or income level.

Beth Hassett, Executive Director of WEAVE, said of the event, "The Women's Fitness Festival was an amazing day for everyone involved,” said Beth Hassett, Executive Director of WEAVE. “More than 3,200 women and girls walked, ran, and rolled their way on the 5K course. Their strength today will help provide strength to a family that is fleeing a violent home or a woman who has survived a sexual assault. WEAVE is so grateful for the involvement of Nike and Fleet Feet Sacramento for continuing to grow this event and to work with us as the event's beneficiary charity."

The Mercy Women's Health Pavillion was a first-time sponsor for the event this year. During the festival, Mercy provided attendees with health-related screenings and a presentation on women's health education, conducted body composition testing, foot screenings with Mercy podiatrists, core strength testing with physical therapists, and had specialists on-site to answer questions.

Gift bags were given to the first 3,000 entrants, including a Nike Dri-Fit True Sport Tee, Fleet Feet Sports reusable canvas bag, a commemorative water bottle, a $5 coupon at Fleet Feet Sports and Fleet Feet Lifestyle Boutique, and a Blue Diamond Almonds breakfast. Nike set up a huge Nike oOutdoor sStore with discounts and sales. There were also over more than $50 worth in sample products and coupons from sponsors such as Luna Bar, Bear Naked and others.

The overall winners for the 5k run were:

1st Place: Kirsten Schneider from Sacramento with a time of 17:55.0, age 40.

2nd Place: Bridgette Pilling from Folsom with a time of 18:07.9, age 26.

3rd Place: Juliet Wahleithner from West Sacramento with a time of 18:11.9, age 31.

The Nike Women's Fitness Festival put together a great event supporting women, fitness, health and, nutrition, and raiseding over more than $25,000 for WEAVE.

CSU Sacramento’s Upcoming Facility Promotes Wellness

2009-05-23T02:21:08Z

Come Fall 2010, Sacramento State University’s student, staff, faculty and alumni will enjoy a wealth of recreational activities and health services from one facility: The Well.

The Well, originally called Recreation and Wellness Center, will combine a multitude of departments in Sacramento State to deliver a healthy lifestyle to those in the campus.
The Well will join the University Union, the Riverfront Center and the Hornet Bookstore as the main facilities at Sacramento State that give the students of the support they need.

The Well is Environmentally Friendly

Norma Sanchez, the Public Information and Leisure Service Manager at the University Union says The Well “will be a state of the art building with top of the line equipment. It’s collaborative effort with many different departments here at Sac State such as the Union, Peak Adventures, etc. The Well will offer a little of everything for everyone.”

The Well will be a 150,000 sq. ft. building and is expected to received LEED silver certification from the United States Green Building Council. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and measures how environmentally friendly a building is in energy and water efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions reduction, indoor environmental quality among others. A silver certification is a high mark.

What will be Available in the Well?
The Well will include the following health centers and services:
• Primary & Urgent Care Clinics
• Preventative Health Services
• Retail Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Nutrition Center
• Laboratory Services
• Imaging Services
• FitHELP
• Psychological Services

The Well will also include the following recreational resources:
• Retail, Cafe, Therapeutic massage
• Peak Adventures (outdoor recreation & bike shop)
• Cardio/weight space--13,860 sq ft
• 3 fitness studios
• Indoor running track
• Multi activities court
• 4 basketball court complex
• Rock climbing wall--39’6” x 56’
• Bouldering wall--13’ x 15’
• 4 racquetball courts

Reactions from Students
Ashley Tapia, a senior at Sacramento State majoring in Communications, is particularly ecstatic seeing The Well develop.

“Starting here in 2004 as a freshman and promoting the Wellness Center to be built and now seeing it happen makes me happy to know that a multipurpose building will be built. This helps make Sac State become that much more unified and offer more recreational options to our growing campus,” Tapia said.

Although Tapia will be graduating before the opening of The Well, she would still be able to use the facility as an alumna.

Curtis Fugate, a junior majoring in Mathematics, will still be enrolled when The Well opens. He said, “When the new Well opens, I’ll be looking forward to the 24 hour gym.”

Where to Look for More Information
There are two ways to catch a glimpse of what The Well will offer. Visit The Well’s main website. The site also includes a live webcast of the construction site of The Well to check on the progress of its construction.

There is also the preview room located in the University Union. The preview room will have available exercise machines and furniture that people can expect to see in The Well when it opens. Both the website and preview room will have diagrams, maps and three dimensional images of what the Well will look like.

This Sunday on "Good Work NOW!": Yoga and Meditation at Work

2009-05-22T04:05:03Z

The next time you find yourself unable to stop worrying about something at work, try doing some yoga or meditation right in your workspace. That’s right – you don’t need to go to the gym, take numerous classes, or have a private office or yoga mat! You also won’t feel awkward doing it at work.

Yoga and meditation instructor, Shakti, joins me this Sunday on “Good Work NOW!” on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM.

I first met Shakti in 2004 when I took a yoga class as part of my grief recovery when my partner died suddenly in 2003. That class was a positive, healing experience. The words that come to my mind that best describe Shakti are calming, centered, peaceful, uncomplicated and wise.

On Sunday’s episode of “Good Work NOW!” she demonstrates several simple yoga poses and stretches, which will make you feel revitalized. This is much better and cheaper than grabbing junk food to get some energy, particularly during the afternoon or before and/or after a stressful meeting or customer interaction.

“Meditation should be simple; if it’s not, you’re not doing it right”, says Shakti. “Don’t try to fight negative, compulsive thoughts”, sbe adds . Rather, allow the thoughts; but at the same time take in information from your other senses, such as smells, sights, sounds, and tactile sensations. Eventually, “your compulsive thoughts will simply fade”.

I tried this myself and my rumination about a stressful work situation did in fact fade. She shares another meditation technique on the show that is equally, if not more, effective.

"Good Work NOW!" is a new television talk show that focuses on finding or creating good work. It is on every Sunday, 7:30 – 8:00 PM, on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or steamed at www.AccessSacramento.org). More information is available at www.goodworknow.com.

Adult Summer Camp: For Those North of 18

2009-05-13T06:53:24Z

Are you having fun? Are you taking those moments so very necessary for good mental health? I know it's difficult to carve out time and space for yourself. Our work places are more competitive. Our bosses are up against greater pressures to produce more with less. Thus, we're up against it, trying to be more productive with less time. Many of us find ourselves logging longer hours, sometimes... No, not sometimes, OFTEN, we're doing so off the clock, essentially working for free, more out of self preservation than a love of the job.

Think of puppy love or simply the act of falling in love. Some people are addicted to this, the rush. Remember? You can stay up all night, eat a grain of rice and feel contentedly full for 2-weeks. You seemingly need nothing but the relationship to exist. Love is the ultimate compliment, the pinnacle of kindness. Thus, ordinary kindness has a similar impact on one's life, though admittedly not as powerfully. Reports demonstrate positive work environments are good for morale, employee retention and production; however, too many work places employ punishing and grinding work places. They wear their employees down and expect top performance.

Many examples of employee support can be found looking around our globe. The afternoon nap, extended vacation time and employee exercise programs are just a few.

My intent is to encourage you for you. I know, as well as anyone, there are many times in our lives we must do what we must do and if that means long hours, we have to log them. Too, I know, as do you, we need to rest. We're human. Our bodies have requirements. Thus, you should take a few moments for you, time to recuperate, time to recharge.

These moments can be quick, easy and quite affordable. Something as simple as a morning walk. Some time to read. If you've been closed up and locked in your own world, morning coffee with some friends. If the wallet allows, a weekend getaway, something simple. Maybe a trip to the coast, stay in a motel chain, spend your days sitting on the beach. Or, if you live near a port of call, walk the dock districts. Pick up a local free paper, like the News and Review or the XX Weekly and look for free music venues. If you're buried in work, if your head is down, your neck knots of fatigued muscle from laboring over your computer, baby steps are the way to break back into the world of BALANCE!

Now, if your wallet is a bit healthier, look to something new, something a bit more challenging than a local getaway. Do something completely new, to get in and around new people, to experience new things and stimulate new personal growth. Try the Sierra Club or 20/30 Club. If you're really looking for something new, like a recent client told me, then try an adult summer camp. Adult meaning age and not anything that would require the movie rating company. Get to an adventure camp and have fun moving again, meeting new people and experiencing much personal empowerment.

Look, they have kid camps, they have family camps so, why not an adult camp? Getting out and about in nature is cathartic. There's something about being outdoors that inspires, encourages and supports healthy balancing. So, step outside of the box, do something unexpected and reap the benefits of a camp that challenges you emotionally & physically. The food is great, the staff phenomenal and new friends are always great to meet.

For myself, it took some serious indicators before I began creating that time for me: a little heart thing, gained a hundred pounds, put the fun-time of family life second to nearly everything, etc. We're working the long hours and going the extra-mile, for what? Certainly it must be for something and if not for ourselves and our loved ones then is it worth all the sacrifice? When you begin making this time for yourself, don't be discourage, for even the act of setting time aside to set time aside will be difficult. Unfortunately, it's a new skill but it's a worthwhile skill and I encourage you to reap the benefits of time focused on you.

Recently I spent nearly the entire weekend working away on my laptop, like so many weekends before; however, what was different were the moments I carved out for me and my family. One of those moments, was 40-minutes. In this 40-minute span my daughter and I grabbed our bikes and cruised the levy of the American River for a couple of miles. It was the best time I spent all weekend. I was rejuvenated and was able to work with a little smirk on my face recalling the conversation and time spent one on one with my kidlet. It'll feel foreign at first, making this time for you, but you'll appreciate those moments and begin to look forward to them.

Christopher Pyle is the owner/director of Action Whitewater Adventures of California. He has an adventure summer camp for teens and is offering a mini summer camp for adults this year. If you're interested in a mini-break, and would like to get together with adults, in a completely new and exciting venue, check out their camp page to make contact and share your interest in the adult program.

Removing "Unnecessary" Stress

2009-05-12T23:46:27Z

Many of us feel trapped or victimized by our stress. In fact, however, "most of our stress is unnecessary - it can be removed", says consultant and wellness advocate Lynn Belzer. She adds that "we should save our energy for managing the stress we can't remove from our lives". Join Lynn and host Dr. Brian Moffitt discuss what is stress, how to remove unnecessary stress, and how to manage the stress "we are stuck with", such as "giving stress less air time". One technique they discuss is making a list of all the things that are causing stress in your life. Then review the list and determine which stressors you actually have a choice about - therein lies your control. To learn more, including Lynn's "Stress Management Improvement Guide", tune into "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, May 17, 7:30 - 8:00 PM, Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming on Monday, May 11, 11:30 AM - 12:00 Noon).

Workplace Wellness Check-up

2009-05-06T00:29:05Z

IGiven all the stressors impacting individuals, teams and organizations in today's economy, how would you rate your workplace wellness or your work-life balance? Kristin Mortensen, the City of Sacramento Wellness Coordinator, is the featured guest on Sunday's episode of "Good Work NOW!". Mortensen and host Dr. Brian Moffitt begin by sharing the City's definition of wellness: "being your own personal best". They walk through the six dimensions of wellness: emotional, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual. Although each dimension is distinct, they all overlap. For example, perhaps you are pursuing a new career (occupational wellness). This could positively impact other dimensions as well, such as social, intellectual, and emotional. Mortensen and Moffitt emphasize how it's important for each individual, team and organization to conduct a self assessment and focus on a change that will bring balance to all six dimensions. The more balance we have in our lives, the happier and healthier we will be. To learn more, watch "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, May 10, 7:30 - 8:00 PM, Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming on Monday, May 11, 11:30 AM - 12:00 Noon).

Preparing for swine flu in Sacramento

2009-04-30T22:37:06Z

Sacramento may not be New York or Mexico city, but it can get crowded and the flu can spread quickly. As summer nears, H1N1, also known as swine flu or Mexican flu, is expected to die down before returning in the fall--possibly stronger than it is now.

Health officials are eyeing similarities between the 1918 Spanish Flu, which killed between 20 and 100 million people, and H1N1 in order to learn more about the path H1N1 might take.

Like H1N1, the Spanish flu began in the spring as a new and relatively mild flu but died out as summer arrived. When fall and flu season returned, it turned deadlier. Like H1N1, it's descendant, young adults were targeted by the disease thanks to their healthy immune systems because of a potentially fatal immune system reaction called a 'cytokine storm'.

While no one can predict how dangerous H1N1 might be when it returns in fall--if it does as it is expected to--and we are vastly more equipped to deal with a pandemic now, the best we can do is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best, as governments around the world have been doing.

If H1N1 does disappear with summer's arrival, it would be too easy to forget about it and not prepare for it's possible return in the fall. While it may return just as dangerous as any other flu (normal flus kill over 1,000 people in the United States a week, usually the very young, very weak and very old), the summer may provide a unique opportunity for families, individuals and communities to consider how prepared they are.

Preparedness for any emergency, disaster, or unforseen event should be vital in every family. You never know when you may lose your job, need supplies immediately and not have time for a run to the store, or when you might not feel comfortable going to crowded stores.

Here's what you can do to prepare not just for H1N1 but for any emergency over the summer:

Slowly stock up food, water and medicine. Every family should have a 3-month supply of what they need, always, period. To slowly work towards your goal, put aside $5 a week and spend it on at least one item. Rice, gallons of water, disinfectant, goggles (viruses can be transmitted through the eyes) and N95 flu masks are must haves. You can try buying in bulk to save money.
Educate yourself. Learn what the WHO pandemic levels mean - they're not panic levels.
Learn the symptoms of flu and H1N1. Fever, coughing, sweating, vomiting, pneumonia, diarrhea are some reported symptoms. Fever, rashes, swelling and redness may indicate a potentially deadly cytokine storm. If you have an iPhone or an iTouch, you may want to invest in iTriage, which can take symptoms and produce possible answers.
Get into the habit of washing your hands regularly and not touching your face anymore. Learning this habit on demand is hard. Better to get you and your family in the habit over the summer.
Drink lots of water. You'd be surprised how dehydrated most Americans are, despite having plenty of access to water. Dehydration can weaken you and when a flu hits the last thing you want to be is already dehydrated.
Excercise can help you fight off viruses and make you stronger, besides all of the other obvious reasons for excercising.
Find out your workplace's and your children's school's policies and plans regardling influenza. Find out ahead of time if and how you can work from home in the event you or your child gets sick.
Stay home if you feel sick. Stay home if you feel sick. Stay home if you feel sick. If you think your employer or school might not let you, find out ahead of time...and tell on them! The CDC and local health organizations might give them hell for enabling the spread of a potentially fatal flu. This is the reason it's so bad in Mexico...many sick workers are not allowed to stay home, which spreads the virus quickly. Don't let your workplace turn you into Typhoid Mary.
Plan ahead.
Duct tape! Duct tape is good for everything. Everything.

H1N1 is nothing to panic about. Most media coverage of it has presented the facts as alarmist as possible. Media reports of death and infection counts have used the "possible" numbers - not the confirmed numbers, numbers which have been cut in half after further investigation.

While it's possible we may be seeing the next Spanish flu, the world is prepared. Government and international organizations were prepared ahead of time and because they are not being formed in the middle of the storm, they are able to minimize the impact of the new flu and because of this we may never see anything like the Spanish flu ever again. But organizations ready ahead of time only do so much good if you and your family are not ready ahead of time.

President Obama is right--it's a cause for concern and preparedness, not for panic. We may see another pandemic scare in the next few years, and hopefully we'll all realize that we need to be prepared on an individual level.

Swine flu appears in Sacramento County

2009-04-28T00:34:22Z

A confirmed case of the potentially fatal swine flu has appeared in Fair Oaks, according to the Sacramento Bee. It's the first confirmed case in Northern California, along with two other probable cases of swine flu.

With Southern California, Mexico, and several other countries experiencing swine flu, it was only a matter of time before the virus hit Sacramento County. Federal organizations are researching the new virus and releasing information with the number of confirmed cases in the U.S. now at 40.

While the suspected death toll of swine flu has reached 173 in Mexico in a manner of days, despite suspected global spreading of the virus it is the only country where symptoms have been anything but mild or manageable. Only one person has been hospitalized in the U.S. from the virus, but officials worry it is too early to see how fatal and widespread the disease could become.

California is among several states being giving top priority to 12 million doses of the federal stockpile of Tamiflu.

Swine flu seems to be very similar to normal flu, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials. CDC has published guides and updates on its investigation online.

According to CDC, prevention measures include: covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throwing the tissue in the trash after you use it, washing hands with soap and water, keeping at least a 6-foot distance from sick people, using alchogol-based hand cleaners and avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth.

CDC recommends staying home from school or work while sick and seeking medical attention if certain warning signs are seen, which can be seen here.

Resources:

Coalition Says "Modernize Chicken Laws"

2009-04-23T00:52:42Z

On Earth Day, Sacramento residents decided to take action in their yards, both front and back. In Oak Park, Environment and Agriculture Taskforce (EAT) Sacramento, a network of activists and organizations, issued a report and called on the city to "modernize" chicken laws by allowing residents to keep a limited number of egg-laying hens. The group also layed out part of a roadmap for achieving greater food security, as well as adressing global warming.

The group also suggested that the city could do more to support and encourage more "green thumbs" through continued gardening trainings, zoning changes, and better use of vacant lands. Citing the need to "fix", or capture carbon dioxide pollution, the group called for more Carbon Gardens and Carbon Farms throughout the city and county. The movement is definitely catching on. First Lady Maria Shriver and First Lady Michelle Obama have planted their organic, or Carbon Gardens, in the last month.

Members of EAT Sacramento have already begun discussions with councilmembers, hoping to build support for a practical chicken law by summer.

“Creating a local environment that allows people to feed their families will make Sacramento a much more sustainable city,” said Sacramento Councilmember Rob Fong.

The report, "The Kitchen Sink: Building a Healthy Food Community", suggests that local governments, in tandem with residents and an existing network of organizations need to:

(1) Help residents reclaim their yards through updating outdated ordinances on water use, animals, and land use.

(2) Build more community food networks through continued support and incentives.

(3) Make Sacramento the carbon capital by piloting projects throughout the city and county, and supporting gardening and composting trainings.

For more information about efforts to modernize chicken laws, visit www.EATsacramento.org.

George Jackson is an intern with Pesticide-Free Sacramento

Photos courtesy of Katie Towers

10 things to do under $10 (and a few others...)

2009-04-14T07:12:19Z

This week there is no excuse! Despite this 'little' slump we're in, I was able to find a slew of cost efficient ways to entertain yourself throughout the week. There's a little something for everybody...

Tues 4.14
Music: Lipstick- $3 (before 10pm)
When: 8:00pm
Where: Old Ironsides
Why: A fusion of indie rock, pop, garage & electronic dance part. It's been going strong for 8 years. 'Nuff said.

Sports: Sacramento Rivercats v. Portland Beavers- $10+
When: 7:05pm
Where: Raley Field
Why: If I am going to go to any Baseball game, it's going to be this one. Who wouldn't want to see which of the water creatures prevails?

Wed 4.15
Music: Ari Hest w/ Hana Pestle- $8
When: 8:00pm
Where: Marilyns on K
Why: His music encompasses the longing everyone feels to jump in the old beat-up car and live like Jack Kerouac. Although he may be a few decades too late to be called a beatnik, with his rejection of the major label, long hair and songs about chasing miracles, Hest would make Kerouac proud.

Music: Rowdy Kate- $8
When: 9:00pm
Where: Torch Club
Why: Rowdy Kate came together in late 2006 and began performing around Sacramento and the Central Valley. They bring a fresh take to old school honky tonk classics along with their own brand of clever country. From Keris fiery vocals to Geoffs stinging telecaster, their live show is a must see.

Wine & Dine: Picnic Basket Battles- $10
When: 5:00-7:00pm
Where: 58 Degrees & Holding
Why: Compare Pinot Noir vs Beaujolais wines along with light hors d' oeuvres. You're bound to find something to bring to your next picnic! And just in time for spring...

Thurs 4.16
Comedy: Jeff Dunham- $45
When: 7:30pm
Where: Arco Arena
Why: Jeff Dunham is an award-winning ventriloquist and a stand-up comedian. He's performed on numerous comedy shows, including Comedy Central Presents in 2003. His usual puppets include a woozle named Peanut, a bitter old man named Walter, a dead terrorist named Achmed (one of my personal favorites) and José Jalapeño - a talking jalapeño pepper on a stick. Good stuff.

Club/Dance: DJ Kaskade- $20
When: 9:00pm
Where: The Park Ultra Lounge
Why: He is world renouned! Not to mention that he's my favorite DJ.

Fri 4.17
Wine & Dine: Artisan Cheeses of Sonoma- $45
When: 6:30-8:30pm
Where: Cest le Cheese- Penthouses @ Capital Park
Why: Celebrated chef, cheesemaker and culinary educator Sheana Davis pairs delectable cheeses from her favorite creameries with her selection of fine wines and accompanies them with other local flavors. Among the treats to be savored is her very own "Delice de la Valle" which is currently on the menu at the French Laundry. and Murray's Cheese Shop in New York.

Festival: Traders' Faire- Free!
When: 10:00am-5:00pm
Where: Sutters Fort
Why:Shop like An Early California Pioneer! In a unique program, vendors of merchandise of the kind found during the 1800's will set up their tents inside the Fort walls. Shoppers will find clothing, house wares, toys, beads, knives and more for sale during this three-day event. Visitors can also witness demonstrations of crafts and skills of the era presented by costumed docents and volunteers

Sat 4.18
Family: Healthy Kids day & Camp Cook-off- Free!
When: 10:00am-2:00pm
Where: Sacramento YMCA
Why: Fun & Free Family Event with games, food, music, & demonstrations!

Dance: Beer & Ballet 2- $25
When: 6:00pm & 8:00pm (next Saturday too!)
Where: Sacramento Ballet Studios
Why: Enjoy the casual atmosphere, watch contemporary & classically influenced dance along with friends and get yourself a glass of beer to boot! Watch as the professional Dancers of the Sacramento Ballet bring a totally different Beer & Ballet line up to the Sacramento Ballet’s Studio Stage.

Recreation: Marine Services Show- Free!
When: 9:00am
Where: Sacramento Marina
Why: With boating season just around the corner you won't want to miss this FREE Marine Services Show. Your one-stop shop to meet mechanics, canvas shops, detail shops and other providers of marine services

History: Historic Rose Garden Tour- Free!
When: 9:00am-2:00pm
Where: Historic City Cemetery
Why: Experience the splendor of heritage roses in a unique 19th Century setting! The Open Garden will feature free tours of the beautiful gardens located within the Sacramento Historic City Cemetery. The sale of rooted rose cuttings and snacks and a raffle will raise funds for the maintenance of the gardens.The Historic Rose Garden is a collection of over 400 ‘found’ roses collected from cemeteries and other sites where the original plants were planted 100 years or more ago.

Sun 4.19
Art: Buddha- Closing Celebration- A Mass Meditation- Free!
When: 3:00pm
Where: Crocker Art Museum
Why: Mark the closing of Buddha with a mass mediation led by Lama Jinpa of Lions Roar Dharma Center and Michael Halfhill, founding member of the Dalai Lama Foundation.

Music: Blues Guitar Showdown- $20
When: 2:00pm
Where: Sacramento Horseman's Club
Why: Blues+BBQ+Bar= Good Times! This showdown will feature: Michael Burks- the "Iron man of Blues", Tommy Castro- Contemporary West Coast Blues, & Roy Gaines- a 50 year Blues veteran.

Family: ZooZoom- 29th Annual Run/Walk- $12-$30
When: 7:00am-12:00pm
Where: Sacramento Zoo
Why: Join the stampede as thousands of runners raise funds to benefit the Zoo. Are you as fast as a hare or as slow as a tortoise? There are options for everyone from a 5K to a 10K to the Saucony ‘Run for Good’ & Kid’s Fun Runs.

Find details to these events along with many more at www.Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

VSP Vision Care, American Diabetes Association and Team Type 1 - Cycling for a Cause

2009-04-03T22:33:44Z

VSP® Vision Care and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are having a 24-hour spin-a-thon to raise awareness about diabetes today, April 3. Their goal is to bring attention to diabetes for 24 hours since people with diabetes have to live with it 24/7. Teams participating in this event will include VSP, the ADA, Hewlett Packard, Intel and Sutter Health.

Team Type 1’s Kyle Rose was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 16. Kyle came down with a strep throat that lingered, and it was his family eye doctor who suggested he get tested for diabetes. High blood sugar levels landed him in the hospital for four nights, and he was diagnosed with diabetes. After hearing the news, he did his best to return to a new normal routine. Kyle heard about Team Type 1, a team of amateur and professional cyclists and tri-athletes living with type 1 diabetes, and was moved by the team’s mission. He’ll be racing for Team Type 1’s 2009 team in the Race Across America (RAAM). The son of an international couple, Kyle grew up splitting his time between Idaho and France. “As a boy, I watched the Tour de France pass by my front door, but had no idea I would one day be cycling in the Race Across America,” says Kyle. Kyle volunteers at a number of camps and events, supporting others with type 1 diabetes throughout the year. “In retrospect, I can honestly say that everything works out for the best. Being diagnosed with diabetes gave me a purpose.” His goal is to continue working with organizations that focus on improving the lives of people with diabetes.

Come by VSP today to meet Kyle Rose and to sign up for the ADA’s Sacramento Tour de Cure, which will take place on May 2. You can also register on the ADA’s website at www.diabetes.org/rosevilletour. Enter the promotion code “VSP” to have the registration fee waived. Each person who registers for the Tour de Cure during the spinathon will be entered to win a brand new mountain bike.

National Ag Day: Local and Organic In Sacramento

2009-03-20T04:03:27Z

In Washington, D.C., Friday marks National Agriculture Day. While this event is primarily sponsored by and profiles industry heavyweights like the Farm Bureau, Dow AgroSciences and Archer Daniels Midland, Sacramento residents are celebrating in their own way.

“Sacramentans are rebuilding our food system,” said Paul Schramski, State Director of Pesticide Watch. “Facing an increasingly unhealthy food system, and lack of access to more healthy foods, Sacramento residents are embracing a new urban agriculture.”

On any recent weekend, Sacramentans could be found participating in sustainable, urban agriculture. Neighbors in East Sacramento, spearheaded by the Sacramento Urban Fruit Sustainability Fruit Project, harvested fruit from backyards for donation to local foodbanks, while others tended plots with the Sacramento Area Community Gardens. Meanwhile, Soil Born Farms and Oak Park’s Crop Swap are gearing up for new seasons of selling food at farm stands, farmer’s markets, and neighborhood “swaps”.

This scene contrasts dramatically with neighboring industrial agriculture. Just across the Sacramento River, in Yolo County, large-scale farms have begun to spray aerial pesticides for wheat and alfalfa. For the past several days, residents of the Pocket neighborhood have been reporting adverse health effects. “Aerial spraying of the agricultural fields is excessive and I will continue to fight this imminent health risk,” said a resident from the neighborhood who wished to remain anonymous.

Multiple government and scientific research sources including the University of Minnesota and U.S. Office of Technology Assessment, estimate that about 40 percent of an aerial pesticide application leaves the “target area” and that less than 1 percent actually reaches its target. In addition, airborne pesticide drift is responsible for acute poisonings – more than half of agricultural pesticide poisonings reported in California between 1997 and 2000 – and for chronic illnesses including asthma, cancer, neurological disorders, birth defects, miscarriages, and other reproductive effects, according to articles recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

Several pieces of statewide legislation, notably The Clean Air for Children, Seniors and Working Families Act (Swanson), as well as two bills recently introduced by Senator Mark Leno and Assemblymember Bill Monning, would challenge industrial agriculture, by creating health-based information and stronger health protections in cases of pesticide exposure.

Meanwhile, Sacramentans are getting some guidance from the Whitehouse in their efforts to create sustainable, urban agriculture. In a New York Times story earlier today, Michelle Obama announced plans to plant an organic vegetable garden on the Whitehouse lawn. Local elected officials have offered similar advice. “As the economic downturn continues, more Sacramentans will look for ways to cut costs. Please consider a vegetable garden. In World War II they were called Victory Gardens. Today the victory should be for pesticide-free growing,” said Sacramento Vice-Mayor Lauren Hammond in an e-mailed statement.

George Davidson is an intern at Pesticide-Free Sacramento, a coalition of civic, health and environmental organizations working to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, the use of pesticides in the Sacramento region.

Photo Courtesy of David Baldridge

Event champions local food and organic efforts

2009-03-03T03:53:25Z

On Thursday night, Sacramento residents will gather to celebrate a new brand of "localism". Increasingly, Sacramentans are redefining it's traditionally negative conotations of narrow-mindedness and stubbornness. Instead, "Sacramento localism" is about efforts to build a healthier, more sustainable community, including reducing pesticide use and increasing food security.

Thursday's event, entitled “Organic Sounds,” will highlight two local efforts that are setting precedent for the entire state: the Pesticide-Free Sacramento and the soon-to-be-launched EAT (Environment and Agriculture Taskforce) Sacramento projects. Sacramento City Councilman Rob Fong and Chef Michael Tuohy of the Grange Restaurant will be the featured speakers, sharing words about both efforts.

Sacramento localism is more than just lectures. Residents at Thursday's event will also hear performances from Sacramento Americana bands Rowdy Kate, Starts & Garters and regional blues musicians Spotted Dog. And they will also have a chance to taste food from Del Paso gourmets Magpie Catering and Synergy Chef, providing local and organic food. And, not to be outdone, regional wineries Orleans Hill and La Rocca will be providing organic wine.

“Sacramentans are challenging the way toxics pesticides are used in their backyards and finding creative solutions to fix an increasingly broken food system,” said Paul Schramski Towers, State Director of Pesticide Watch, the organization behind the event and organization supporting the two local efforts. “By investing in local food and organic places, we can create a healthier, more vibrant community.”

Over 3.2 million pounds of pesticides are used in Sacramento County, including thousands of pounds in urban homes, schools, parks and workplaces. Area organizations, including Physicians for Social Responsibility, Mothers’ Support Network and the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op launched Pesticide-Free Sacramento as a comprehensive effort to reduce and ultimately eliminate pesticide use in the region.

EAT Sacramento is a more recent effort, emerging from efforts of the members of Organic Sacramento and the Sacramento Area Community Gardens Coalition, and supported by Pesticide Watch. As Sacramento residents face water shortages and increasing food prices, EAT Sacramento promotes new ways to grow your own local food, as well as support and enlarge local, organic farms. This effort will be more formally launched later this month.

Sacramento localism is an exciting movement to reinvest in a healthy, new Sacramento. "Sacramento residents have decided that we not only need green jobs, but we also need green thumbs," Towers added.

For more information about Organic Sounds, visit www.pesticidewatch.org.

Can You Trust Your Doctor? Community Health Forums start Feb. 25th

2009-02-19T23:22:55Z

Not many people think twice about the medical advice or diagnosis given to them by their doctor. However, the public health forum starting this month might have more patients seeking second opinions.

In collaboration with the Sacramento Bee, Capital Public Radio will be hosting "Second Opinions" Community Health Forums. The first forum is titled, "Can You Trust Your Doctor?" and will feature a panel of health experts from various organizations including:

Marion Leff, M.D, Director of the Sutter Health Family Medicine Residency Program;
Marge Ginsburg, MPH, RN, Executive Director of Sacramento Healthcare Decisions;
Beth Mertz, MAPA, Program Director, Center for the Health Professions University of California, San Francisco; and
Shahram Ahari, a former pharmaceutical sales representative from Eli Lilly's Neuroscience Division, who left the industry to pursue public health and social justice issues.

This forum will be the first of many focusing on the health of the community. Capital Public Radio has organized these community health forums to provide an interactive environment where people can learn through direct contact with health care professionals in a townhall-style meeting.

A "Day in the Life of the Doctor" video will be shown and an online Q&A with the panelists from the forum will go live starting Friday and will for two weeks after the forum ends. Many questions will be gathered from the website submission and addressed at the forum.

The Pacific McGeorge School of Law will host the forum on Wednesday, Feb. 25 from 6 - 8 p.m. There is no cost to attend this event. Seats can be reserved by visiting www.secondopinions.org.

Dr. Michael Wilkes, Director of Global Health and Professor of Medicine at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine will be moderating the forum which is designed to give attendees practical knowledge regarding the health care system so that they are equipped to improve their own doctor-patient relationships.

As stated on their website, the mission of the Second Opinions Community Health Forum is to inform people about practical solutions to health care problems, improve the community's health care literacy and quality of care, through providing consumer-oriented information and promote greater transparency and accountability in local health care systems.

For those who cannot make it to the forum, streaming video and podcasts will be posted online. More information can be found on the website www.secondopinions.org

Bikeramento Week Launches on the Pedals of the Amgen Tour of California

2009-02-10T01:23:21Z

SACRAMENTO, Cal. - FEBRUARY 9, 2009 - A local group of bicycle advocates launch the 1st Annual Bikeramento Week from Feb. 9-14, culminating on Valentine’s Day with a race day watch party at 18th and L on the patio of the Buckhorn Grill during the Amgen Tour of California, the largest bicycle race in the United States.

Each day this week, the team offers a different bicycle-friendly event to highlight Sacramento’s potential as a bikeable community to both visitors and locals alike.

By attending events, participants can win a pair of tickets to the Bikeramento Patio during the Amgen prologue on Saturday. The group wishes to raise awareness of bicycles as a transportation norm. “This is a great way to connect to the average Sacramentan about harnessing bicycle culture to create a strong and green Sacramento economy during this difficult downturn,” says co-founder Lorena Beightler.

From Monday’s Bicycle Safety Night at the Bicycle Kitchen in Midtown to Tuesday’s Bike Crawl to 5 different night spots on the grid, Bikeramento invites active participation to show people how easy it is use the bicycle as core transportation for everyday life.

“Our goal is to educate by connecting bikeability to having fun,” remarks co-founder, Brian Fischer of midtowngrid.com. “However, the larger intention is to introduce two core ideas, Sac Sunday Streets and the Velobahn.”

“It’s all about making the change that we can and Sac Sunday Streets would create community among pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders, and other alternatives to the car,” insists Beightler.

Bikeramento proposes to shut down a major Central City street from spring through summer similar to the efforts of San Francisco, Portland, Montreal, and New York. Beightler continues, “It would be a place for everyone to be active and safe on a Sunday morning and help people understand that streets can be used for more than driving.”

What the heck’s a Velobahn? It is Sacramento’s modern and eco-friendly answer to the Autobahn, so coined by Ricardo Robles of Bikeramento. “It embodies Sacramento’s goal to be a green city by proposing a realistic investment in infrastructure when the city’s budget is in a crunch,” comments Robles.

The Velobahn would become a national emblem of bicycle tourism at a time when it’s necessary for the small businesses to attract new business to the Central City’s still vibrant core.

“Sacramento Press had to jump in as a sponsor of this event, because we’re asking people to think outside the box and that’s how our economy can become more dynamic and creative,” proposes Nicholas Walsh. “We’re already a bike-driven workforce and office space.”

Another sponsor, Capsity Offices, will become the city’s 2nd installment of “The Sac Rack,” a signature bicycle rack and piece of functional urban art offered by the City of Sacramento.

“Ultimately, this a great way to involve people in imagining Sacramento’s possibilities while most cities are just trying to survive,” pontificates the group’s webmaster, Dan Fisher. “Why stand still when you can keep the wheels turning?”

The week climaxes with Friday’s 1,000 Spokes of Light, a community ride through Midtown and a fundraiser to purchase bicycles for children who otherwise cannot afford one starting with Oak Park, since it’s adjacent to Midtown.

“A green economy should stimulate health and fitness, affordable transportation, environmental justice, and great economic development,” summarizes Fischer.

For more information on the week’s events, visit the group’s web site, www.bikeramento.org.

Contact Information:

Lorena Beightler, lorena@sactivist.com, 916-606-5010
Jeff Louie, jeff@sactivist.com, 916-849-7871

Mercury Rising - Should you cut back on sushi?

2008-12-22T05:29:44Z

I was shocked to hear the reason Jeremy Piven will no longer be in the Broadway play, Speed-The-Plow: mercury poisoning.

According to People magazine, he has been experiencing extreme fatigue lately and his doctor attributes this to high levels of mercury in his system caused by his regular diet of tuna and sushi.

I don't know about you but this makes me think twice about choosing a sushi restaurant for dinner when going out with friends.

There was an article written in The New York Times in January of this year that tested the levels of mercury in various sushi restaurants in Manhattan. The New York Times tested tuna from 20 sushi restaurants.

The tests revealed that some restaurants' tuna had such high levels of mercury that 6 pieces contained more than 49 micrograms of mercury. This is the amount that the EPA reports is acceptable to consume on a weekly basis over a period of several months.

I eat at least 6 pieces of sushi when I'm at a sushi restaurant and most of the rolls I order contain tuna.

Do you think this will affect the sushi restaurants? Will you be eating less sushi after hearing about this? Or maybe just avoiding sushi with tuna in it?

I had heard about unsafe levels of mercury in canned tuna, and it made me think twice about buying canned tuna from the grocery store. I had never really thought about getting mercury poisoning from eating too much sushi.

What are your thoughts on this? Will your eating habits change after seeing someone get mercury poisoning? Do you think Jeremy Piven is just an extreme case?

Caffeine: What Starbucks doesn't tell you...

2008-10-31T08:24:24Z

Every day we’re stuck asking ourselves – how much is too much? While I was out with a friend the other day who was downing energy drinks, that question came to mind and made me think - does caffeine really do more than just give you a brief rush of energy?...

Let’s start at the beginning. Apparently regular caffeine consumption reduces a person’s over all sensitivity to caffeine. When you reduce the amount of caffeine you intake, your body gets withdrawals, as it would with any drug, favorite dessert ext. The only way your body can respond to this is by your blood pressure dropping dramatically, which causes an excess of blood in the head ultimately leading to a headache. This headache, well known among each and every Starbucks, Rockstar, or Pepsi drinker usually lasts from one to five days and the only way it is reversed is with MORE caffeine or taking some Aspirin.

What caffeine does is increase your heartbeat, respiration, and the production of stomach acid and urine. These symptoms can start anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes after caffeine is consumed, except the central nervous system which is hit usually between 30and 60 minutes after ingestion. Though, these times depend on the person's hormonal status, also whether she smokes, takes medications, or has a disease that impairs liver functioning.

Caffeine is then absorbed through the stomach and small intestine into your bloodstream. The amount of caffeine in the blood reaching the brain determines the severity of its effects on your body. Caffeine will continue to have an effect on the body as long as it remains in the blood. The time required for the body to eliminate one-half of the total amount of caffeine consumed varies from several hours to several days. Typically for the average non-smoking adult the effects last about five to seven hours.

As you have heard many times, or even experienced caffeine can produce other affects through-out the rest of your body. The symptoms of a caffeine overdose depend on the individual differences and the amount consumed. Doses ranging from 2 to 7 cups of coffee can produce serious restlessness, nausea, headaches, tense muscles, sleep disturbances, and irregular heart-beats. Sometimes it can also cause Anorexia. If you have 7 or more cups of coffee, you’re at risk for experiencing things similar to anxiety attacks.

Caffeine can have a long lasting effect on your body. Ulcers are believed to be caused partially by Caffeine because Caffeine increases the secretion of acids and pepsin in the stomach, which could increase an already existing ulcer. Though it isn't totally definite that Caffeine is responsible for this. Heart problems more seriously can be caused by caffeine too!

Yikes... When all is done and said, maybe you should think twice about your "Non fat mocha with extra whip cream" or a Red Bull!

Social Glue- The Monday Night Skate

2008-10-31T00:25:31Z

At around 7 p.m. every Monday night, a group of people on wheels congregate at the corner of 3rd and S. After a few minutes of wobbly waiting for everyone to show, the group sets off. I say 'wobbly' because, well, have you ever tried to stand on in-line skates? The skaters who attend the Monday Night Skate are exceptionally lithe on wheels once they get going. It's impressive, and shows that skating 6-12 miles at least once a week not only makes you a really good skater, but healthy as well. That might not even be the best part- the Monday Night Skate is a great way to socialize.

Here's my experience: I pull up (in a car--sadly I haven't owned a pair of in-lines in years) to 3rd and S, to find Superman on skates. As he stands there, waiting for the rest of the crew, Superman doesn't even wobble. That's how good he must be, I decide. It turns out that this man's name is Bernard E. Scoville, and he's one of the ringleaders of Skate Night. As this is the Monday before Halloween, costumes are optional attire along with the standard elbow pads and helmet. Another skater, Gus Prevolos, glides up shortly thereafter. I ask how many others they are expecting. "This time of year, probably 5-9 skaters. In the summer there are more, maybe 12-15," Scoville says. The cool October weather seems ideal for skating treks, but the fact that it gets dark so early right now certainly dissuades some skaters.

The Monday Night Skate has been going on since 1993, and Scoville has been an involved skater since the group was formed. For him, the main attraction to skating with the group is the health benefit. Health aside, skating with others and meeting new people is what makes The Monday Night Skate so great. Scoville and Prevolos have both met some of their best friends through the skate group. "It's a friendly group," says Prevolos.

After discussing which route they'd like to venture, the group skates away. One thing is sure, that the skaters will end were they began, at 3rd and S, and most likely grab a bite at Vallejo's before the night is through.

Join The Monday Night Skate on skates, scooters or bicycles by 7 p.m. ever Monday. For more information, take a look at www.sacramentoskating.com.

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