Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "holidays"

Tales from the front lines: Working on Christmas

2011-12-24T03:38:59Z

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, when most folks are sitting down to enjoy dinner with family and friends, public safety officers, doctors and nurses and others in service industries still have to work. It’s not always easy – crime and accidents don’t take a break on holidays.

The Sacramento Press asked some of them to share their holiday work experiences. These are their stories.

FIRE DEPARTMENT:
“(Christmas) is a pretty loaded day,” Doug Bruce, an engineer with Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, said Friday. “There is a lot of last-minute things going on, so there is a lot of traffic out. We keep busy.”

Bruce said calls to the fire station can be strange no matter what the day, but during the holidays, you really never know what you’re going to get.

“A lot of times there’s the unfortunate call where something crazy happens involving the holiday spirit and it touches off a structure fire,” Bruce said. “On the other hand, there may be a call where a life is saved or property is saved and things end on a brighter note. It’s really a mixed bag.”

Being on duty on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is not boring by any means, Bruce said – but it’s not lonely, either.

“We have a lot of people who stop by and bring treats and baked goods,” Bruce said. “We just finished a toy drive, so we have a lot of folks that bring toys for that, too.”

Throughout the year, fire personnel are thanked for their work by random people who come up to say hello now and then, Bruce said.

“When someone who came through an incident that could have had grave circumstances comes back and says thank you, that really means a lot,” he added.

Bruce spoke of a woman who had been out on the town one Christmas Eve a few years ago and choked on some food during dinner.

“We arrived and she was down – she wasn’t breathing,” Bruce said. “She went into a coma for a while, but she came back and survived.”

Bruce said the woman comes by the station about twice a year to visit and bring treats to say thank you to the firemen who saved her life that day.

“When they take time to come and see us and say, ‘You did this for me back when,’ you think to yourself, ‘Wow. That’s great.’ Those are special days,” Bruce said.

For those who have to work at the fire station on Christmas, it can be hard to be away from the family, Bruce said, but many stations try to make the best of it by hosting dinner for the crew’s families.

“Some (stations) invite everyone to the station, and they’ll put on a big spread and feed everyone well,” Bruce said.

POLICE DEPARTMENT:
The police are busy year-round with calls from robbery to murder to car theft, but the holidays seem to add just a touch of excitement even to that score, according to Officer William Cho of the Twin Rivers Police Department.

“A couple of Thanksgivings ago, we got a call because someone had left a turkey on in a school oven,” Cho said Wednesday.

When Cho and his partner arrived on the scene, Cho said, they thought the building was on fire because the place was thick with smoke.

“I don’t know how long it had been in there, but the bird was shrunken, mangled and burned to a crisp,” Cho said. “The people who called us were like, ‘Oh, sorry – guess we forgot to take the turkey out.’ There can be calls like that now and then.”

Officer Arnel Agdipa, also from the Twin Rivers Police Department, said he and his fellow officers feel gratitude from the community in some unexpected ways.

“There was one Christmas out in Woodlake when the community members had a dinner set up for us at the old fire station off of Arden,” Agdipa said Wednesday. “They had food and stuff all laid out for all law enforcement and fire personnel, and we could come and go and eat when we had time. It was great having the community get together and do that for us.”

POST OFFICE:
Gary Campanale, a former express mail deliverer for the U.S. Postal Service, said Friday that working Christmas Day had its ups and downs.

“A couple of times (when delivering on Christmas Day), I was invited to share Christmas dinner,” Campanale said.

The USPS Overnight Express mail is delivered 365 days a year, Campanale said, so every year there is a chance to work on holidays.

“(Customers) were usually so appreciative that they invited me in to share cocoa or lunch or something,” Campanale said. “They were so hospitable. Even if it was for just 15 or 20 minutes, I’d take my break and go in.”

Of course, mail delivery on Christmas has its downside, too, Campanale said.

“Believe it or not, sometimes you’d be there delivering on Christmas Day, but (the package) was guaranteed for the day before – Christmas Eve – and people would be so irritated,” Campanale said. “They’d want their money back and chew your head off even though you’re working Christmas.

“This time of year it’s a crapshoot if mail is going to get there on the exact day, and sometimes it just didn’t,” he said.

HOSPITAL:
Amanda M., an emergency room nurse in the Sutter Hospital system in Sacramento, said patients who arrive in the E.R. on holidays run the gamut from psych patients who think they are superheroes to families with food poisoning.

“Sometimes we get Batman heading out to save people,” she said, “or they think they’re Superman and try to fly off things – it’s surprising.”

Cooking-related injuries around Christmas time are common, too, she said, especially during the night shift after dinner.

“We’ve seen injuries from turkey explosions,” Amanda said, “and burns from deep-frying turkeys. We’ve even had people on oxygen that get too close to flames and set themselves on fire. It’s nuts.”

And then there are the people for whom accidents happen in the most unexpected ways.

“Once, before Christmas, a guy came in who had been putting lights up on his house,” Amanda said. “He got all tangled up in them – like a Chevy Chase Christmas movie – and fell off the roof. He came in with fragments of light bulbs in his skin all over him.”

It took two people nearly two hours to dig out all the shards of glass, she said.

The work of an E.R. nurse on Christmas doesn’t always go unnoticed, however. Sometimes, Amanda said, there is an occasional showing of gratitude.

“We get a lot of patients that bring back cookies or bake cakes for us,” Amanda said. “Or someone will send a card that says, ‘Thank you for taking care of me on Christmas Eve – I was the drunk guy.’

“Whatever it is, the gesture is always appreciated,” she added.

Whether it’s a thank-you card or a plate of cookies – or the occasional $10 bill tucked in an envelope – the people who work on Christmas so others can enjoy the holiday with their families deserve a hearty “thank you” during the holidays.

As Bruce said, “It’s always nice to hear.”

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

MidLife GridLife - Holiday 2011

2011-12-24T00:29:00Z

There was a time when just hearing certain Christmas carols would cause tears to begin seeping from my eyes. And not in a good way.

To this day, I have no idea why, but the disturbance seems to have receded somewhat. Perhaps I’ve grown past it, or, more likely, the fact that I stopped listening to Christmas carols of my own volition has created less opportunity.

Holidays can be tricky.

No one is more aware of that than someone like me who works with people in recovery from substance abuse and people who live with mental health issues.

Holidays heighten financial issues; relationship issues; loss of loved ones; religious differences.

Family issues.

You could create an entire library of films about dysfunctional families at the holidays alone--I know, because I’m collecting them!

On the flip side, holidays are the loneliest time to be alone.

Addicts in recovery—especially those in their first year—are feeling all the things the rest of us feel during the holidays, only in High Definition.

It’s scary as hell.

They’ve spent years not feeling things, numbing out, obliterating a history of violence or abuse or neglect. They’ve ruined relationships with parents and children and countless helpful souls along the way.

Sobriety brings it all back.

Medication can do wonderful—or at least above average—things for people who have mental health issues, but they don’t work magic. A person who suffers from chronic depression will likely struggle more during the holiday season. A person who is bipolar may have to fight a shopping mania or push harder to get herself out of bed.

There are no magic pills to make the harder seasons easier. But hopefully, there are family and friends.

If you are not one of the people for whom the holidays bring instant joy, I will make a small suggestion—or two.

Reaching out and rituals.

Whether it is an annual excursion to the downtown ice rink, saving for a meal at a special restaurant, cooking or baking a special dish, attending a special service at church, hosting a pizza slumber party gift exchange for friends, you can create your own rituals and traditions to look forward to every year.

This is especially important if you have children, but can be just as valuable if you are filling time alone.

Be creative. This is your life.

Traditions should reflect what is important to you.

I once helped a client create family traditions that included taking Christmas decorations to her father’s gravesite; it was her way of including his memory in every holiday.

If you are divorced and see your children on Christmas Day, Christmas Eve can be difficult. You might consider making plans with friends in similar situation, or attending a candlelight church service for community.

Volunteering is also a great annual tradition—and not just on Christmas!

It’s also important to reach out and connect with people. Chances are, you are not the only person wishing for holiday companionship, but too shy to say so.

If you are one of the people who embrace and are embraced by the joy of the holiday spirit, I hope you’ll reach out as well. You are fortunate. May you continue to be so, and pay it forward!

Trash Film Orgy at the Crest Theatre

2011-12-20T06:07:17Z

Little kids all over look forward with excited anticipation to Santa coming into town. They know he has a list that shows who’s been “naughty” and who’s been “nice.”

Saturday night several hundred “naughty” people attended Trash Film Orgy’s (TFO) showing of “Don’t Open Till Christmas,” a film directed by Edmund Purdom. The film was one of several films featured at the Crest Theater’s “Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival.”

Doors opened at 10 p.m. for an 18 and older crowd that had been waiting outside the Crest Theater. Audience members dressed in costume were given a discount on admission.

Once inside the Crest Theatre, a Christmas tree was decorated and included gifts that were given to customers. Once the gifts were opened you were given the option of keeping the gift or exchanging it at the Shaggy Elephant Gift Exchange table. In the spirit of the 18 and over crowd, gifts were specifically geared toward that age group and included many naughty, adult in nature gifts.

Several other tables were set up to sell merchandise which included Midikat Boutique, Trash Film Orgy Productions and designer Carlyfornia Love. Trash Film Orgy also had tables set up for Santa’s Trash Workshop that included games and prizes.

A Mrs. Claus Holiday Workshop was also available for film goers to make their own holiday ornaments. Santa himself, with cigarette in mouth, posed for pictures as visitors sat on his lap. Elves dressed in scanty outfits also posed for photos.

The atmosphere of the lobby, although naughty in nature, was very enjoyable and guests appreciated what Trash Film Orgy had to offer. Once the curtain call was signaled guest entered the theater to enjoy a live performance of “Trash Santa.”

The Trash Santa performance was quite enjoyable and was geared for an adult audience. The performance featured a mean Santa who used profanity and featured elves who enjoyed their porn and who created the perfect toy, represented by a tough, gun wielding sexy robot.

The performance was greeted with much enthusiasm and included active participation from the audience. The participation exhibited by the audience from this point forward was very noticeable and it’s this kind of spirit that draws crowds to TFO performances.

Instead of going straight into the feature film after the first TFO performance, the audience sat through a series of bizarre, unexpected and entertaining film clips, cartoons and just plain weird visuals. The audience loved the previews and vociferously commented on what they saw.

I’m not sure how long the previews lasted but it was quite popular with the audience and gave people something to talk about during intermission.

After intermission TFO continued their entertainment by putting on a game of popping balloons by sitting on them. Several audience members participated in the event. Not only did participants enjoy this but audience participation gave everyone a chance to contribute to the enjoyment of the game.

The 1984 feature film, “Don’t Open Till Christmas,” followed. The British film was directed and starred Edmund Purdom and was written by Derek Ford based on a story by Al McGoohan. It’s not your typical Christmas movie and fits into the “Slasher” film category.

The film deals with a London psycho killer who goes on a killing rampage just before Christmas. The victims are people dressed in Santa suits that he encounters. The famous Scotland Yard has several detectives set out to find the killer. The killer must be stopped before the killing becomes another annual holiday tradition.

The morbid killings elicited outlandish remarks from the audience and actually made this an enjoyable movie.

As the audience was making their way out of the theatre I spoke with a couple. Martin George and Angela Stewart said they came to see what K Street looked like now that it was open to car traffic and decided to attend the performance after seeing the line outside the theatre.

“I thought I had outgrown Santa,” said George, “but tonight’s event just goes to show that you never really outgrow that. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and loved the elves, specially the beautiful female elves. Wow, this was great.”

The event for the evening showcased TFO entertainment at its best as audience members were encouraged to interact. Crest Theater and TFO provided a night of fun adult entertainment.

Opinion: Guns and alcohol! Merry Christmas!

2011-12-16T20:00:25Z

Whatever your particular creed or faith, most people regard this time of year as a season of peace — a time to reflect, count blessings, maybe offer a little prayer for better days ahead. We suffer the coarseness and indignities of a saturated consumer market to enjoy the time with family and friends, and work for better days in our communities. That is why it was so appalling that a recent trip to an area Sam’s Club for supplies for a holiday party became an occasion for outrage.

Sam’s Club (a division of Walmart) often has vendors set up special displays of merchandise that might not be part of its regular lineup of products. Megawine Inc., a liquor distributor from Van Nuys, had an entire display — front and center in the Sam’s Club on El Camino, and right around the corner from the video games and children’s books — of tequila in various life-sized, gun-shaped bottles. Consumers could buy replicas of AK-47 semi-automatic assault rifles, carbines, semi-automatic handguns and pistols, all filled with tequila.

Alcohol and guns — together! How festive! Do we really need to combine two of the more obvious enablers, as criminologists call them, of violence in this country? How mind-numbingly stupid must the marketing department be to think that this would be a smart way to market tequila? Is Sam’s Club so committed to profit that they would market something so inappropriate in a store in which families and children wander around buying Christmas presents?

A recent survey of local Sam’s Clubs indicated that all five of the Sacramento area Sam’s Clubs stocked this line of gun-shaped tequila bottles. After I filed a complaint through the Sam’s Club website, I received a phone call from the El Camino store inquiring about the nature of my concern. When I responded that my concern was that selling products which suggest that combining automatic weapons and alcohol seemed like a terrible idea, the woman informed me (with a huff of indignation) that they had already sold over $50,000 worth of these products, so people must be fine with it. When I indicated that I was going to start a drive to stop these sales, she warned me ominously that I “would be contacted by the legal department.” Excellent! Intimidation and bad judgment all rolled into one! Maybe at Sam’s Club ethical marketing is just another sad oxymoron?

This isn’t a temperance movement, it is not a gun control campaign, and it is not (directly at least) an anti-Walmart crusade. It is a simple plea for a store that brings in thousands of families a day to think twice about how they market products. This is a small plea for common sense at a time when there is already far too much alcohol-fueled violence in our community. Do we really need to have alcohol marketed with this violent imagery? Alcohol clouds judgment and lowers inhibitions. How many thousands of people suffer from alcohol-enabled gun violence across our communities?

In 1989 Stockton suffered through the Cleveland School Massacre in which a drifter armed with a semi-automatic weapon, not unlike Megawine’s tequila bottle, fired off 100 rounds in the school’s playground. Tragically, five children were killed and 30 others, including one teacher, were wounded. Does anyone doubt that had Sam’s Club had attempted to market these products directly after that incident, everyone would have immediately understood how stupid, how misguided and how obviously wrong this would be? The real question is, if it was wrong then, why is it any more acceptable now?

If you would like to sign an online petition asking for the removal of these products, please click www.change.org/petitions/sams-clubwalmart-stop-selling-gun-shaped-alcohol-bottles. If you share this outrage, please forward this link to your friends and family.

Disclosure: The views expressed in this article are entirely my own and do not represent the views of the CSU or of Sacramento State.

Naughty or Nice: If you were Santa, how would City Council fare?

2011-12-15T07:24:48Z

As the song goes, Santa’s making his list, checking it twice and deciding who gets cool goodies and who gets lumps of coal.

Between the budget, redistricting and facing dissatisfied citizens who took over a city park in protest, the City Council has been busy this year, so The Sacramento Press made its own “naughty or nice” list.

If you were Santa, how would City Council fare? Here’s our list for 2011.

Mayor Kevin Johnson: NAUGHTY
Sure, he led the way to advancing green technology in the city and supported a citizens advisory committee’s effort to redistrict the city.

But being absent for 10 City Council meetings in a single year? Tsk, tsk, Mr. Mayor.

(And we’re not bitter about not being invited to the wedding – we just really love wedding cake.)

District 1 Councilwoman Angelique Ashby: NICE
Between town hall meetings to discuss arena options and pulling neighborhoods together to search for a lost teen, Ashby found time to save a local parks program from being cut – and take on Congress for funding approval of levee improvements.

Of course, bringing Santa to Natomas on a fire truck for the first time in city history didn’t hurt her “nice” standing, either.

District 2 Councilwoman Sandy Sheedy: NAUGHTY
Two words: Arena poll. Oh, and two more: Sheedy map. It’s commendable to put voters first, but Sheedy lacks consistency. Telling voters they know what’s best for an arena, but not how to draw their own district boundaries sends mixed messages.

Kudos for keeping a popular teen center going for a third year, though – Santa wants kids to have a safe place to gather and play – and for taking over the Del Paso certified farmers market in the district to keep people eating their veggies.

Still, Sheedy gets coal in her stocking this year.

District 3 Councilman Steve Cohn: NAUGHTY
His work to develop a plan for Sacramento’s rail and transit future is bringing the city closer to becoming a true “intermodal hub” of the north state and if Cohn had his way, sleighs would be allowed on K Street – which Santa would think was very nice, indeed.

But, weeks into heated debate on redistricting, Cohn surprised the city with a compromise map that both galvanized citizens’ opinions on a sensitive topic, and left a bad taste in their mouths. With that Grinch-like move, Cohn earns a spot on the "naughty" list.

District 4 Councilman Rob Fong: NICE
As the council member voted most likely to play a practical joke by his fellow council members, Rob Fong gets points for best one-liners during a council meeting.

Standing up for the LGBT community as a community of interest during the redistricting process weighed in Fong’s favor this year, as well as his support of charitable organizations like Jumpstart 21.

We think Santa would agree that a guy who isn’t afraid of a little three-on-three basketball against local civic leaders falls squarely on the “nice” side of the page.

District 5 Councilman Jay Schenirer: NICE
Although Schenirer found himself in the middle of some battles in 2011, including redistricting struggles and unpopular budget decisions, he bucked up and trudged on in his first year on the City Council.

Schenirer helped bring a new community garden to area residents and offered to subsidize the first year of rent on garden plots for people who couldn’t afford their share. He also spearheaded the five-part “Way Up” initiative that is primed to be a model for building communities throughout the city.

For all that Santa-like generosity, Schenirer gets his name on the “nice” list – and a big mug of eggnog.

District 6 Councilman Kevin McCarty: NAUGHTY
When does Oak Park stop being Oak Park and start being Elmhurst? Somewhere along Stockton Boulevard, McCarty said during the tumultuous redistricting debacle this summer.

Santa would give a cheer for McCarty’s efforts to keep city pools open during the summer despite huge budget cuts to the parks department, and being a proponent of solar energy and “greening” city buildings gets a big ho, ho ho!

But when a whole community spends five weeks protesting a four city-block line adjustment, all the candy canes in Colonial Heights won’t make a sour move any sweeter.

District 7 Councilman Darrell Fong: NICE
The budget cycle was tough this year, and when it came down to brass tacks, Darrell Fong risked the wrath of his police brethren and voted to make cuts to the Police Department – including the layoffs of nearly 80 sworn officers – in favor of balancing the city budget.

Call him Scrooge if you will, but Fong declined his City Council salary and recently voted against pursing a lessee for the city’s parking system because it doesn’t seem fiscally responsible.

For his concern for taxpayers’ pocketbooks, Fong’s name goes on the “nice” list (but parking enforcement may still ticket his sleigh.)

District 8 Councilwoman Bonnie Pannell: NAUGHTY
Budget debates and the quest for the perfect redistricting map is enough to fray anyone’s nerves, but Pannell’s, ahem, “spirited” debate with audience members – and at times, the mayor – at City Council meetings this year earns her a bit of coal.

Yes, Pannell helped her district get much-needed development – including a new pet hospital and long-awaited grocery store – and valuable infrastructure improvements are on the horizon for the area.

Still, Pannell will need a little sugar to go with her “spice” if she wants to make the “nice” list in 2012.

City Manager John Shirey: NAUGHTY
Shirey has been in the big chair for four months now, and the city still doesn’t have a tidy budget, a full police force or flying cars. We expected more from a man who took the state to task for shredding redevelopment agencies.

On the other hand, Shirey did start restructuring his office to streamline operations, and he led the way in city pension reform by being first in line for administrators to pay a portion of their own retirement.

Still, we think Shirey can do more for our fair city. We hope you pull that Superman cape out of the closet and get down to business in 2012 – but for this Christmas? Coal.

Tell us what you think: Have City Council members been naughty or nice this year?

Baking with heart, one cookie at a time

2011-12-12T05:34:07Z

For the holidays, Plates Cafe and Catering is serving Christmas cookies, baked and prepared by the women in St. John's Shelter Program for Women and Children.

St. John's provides shelter, education and childcare to homeless women with children.
As part of the shelter's six- to 12-month training program, Plates Cafe and Catering, located at 14 Business Parkway, serves as an on-the-job training site for the shelter, where the women perform restaurant positions such as cooks, waitresses and hostesses, Stuart Edgcombe, 46, Chef at Plates Cafe and Catering, said.

"It's more than just cooking," Edgcombe said. "It's teaching them life lessons."

Teresa Kamekona, 39, said her experience at Plates Cafe and Catering taught her to be accountable, manage her time better and work with other people again, but most of all regain her self-esteem.

"It felt good to be needed," Kamekona, a recent graduate of the training program, said. She said, people depended on her, which pushed her to do her best.

"You can see the joy in the women's eyes as they learn cooking skills from Chef Stu," Pasta Queen owner Susan Korec, 52, said. While renting space for her pasta business at Plates, she has seen how the women work on various kitchen tasks, Korec said.

Pasta Queen's products are also sold at the store, with parts of the proceeds going back to the training program.

Edgcombe said he and trainee Monica Ward, 37, came out with a list of different cookies that remind them of their childhood Christmas memories.

"It's a great experience for the girls to make all these different cookies," Edgcombe said. "It's another activity they can be exposed to, be responsible for and be a part of."

The Christmas cookies featured are Mexican wedding, ginger snap, chewy sugar, thumb print and chocolate chip. He said their chocolate cookie is available year-round, and is one the bestselling items in the store.

"It's the All-American cookie," Edgcombe said. "It does not matter if it is Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving."

He said they included the ginger snap cookie because, like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, it is associated with and the holidays.

"The bite of molasses and ginger says Christmas to me," Edgcombe said. He said that these cookies, because of their “snap” or crisp, are best paired with coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

Out of the five Christmas cookies, the chewy sugar cookie, he said, is the most Christmas-styled with its red, green and white sugar sprinkles.

"What makes our cookies special goes beyond the dough, sugar, chocolate chips, ginger or any of the other ingredients," Edgcombe said. "It represents memories of Christmas past."

All of the proceeds from the Christmas cookie sale, like their other products at Plates Cafe and Catering, go toward the St. John's Shelter Program for Women and Children.

The Christmas cookies, can be ordered through their website, and will be available for pickup starting Dec. 19.

Prices for the cookies are still to be determined and will be posted on their site.

Plates Cafe and Catering, which opened June last year, also serves lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This Modern Christmas Carol Sings

2011-12-09T00:26:25Z

Ben Scrooge is the Founder and CEO—Billionaire Boy Wonder—of Humbug , a video game company that his now deceased partner, Jake Marley, helped put on the map. But Ben is not a happy guy, a bit of a…

Scrooge as an 18-year old video game magnate? If you’re having trouble imagining it, that’s okay; I’d much prefer you buy a ticket and see it played out on stage. It’s well worth the ticket price!

I, too, was a skeptic.

No more.

Karen Pollard has conceptualized and carried out a clever modernization of the Christmas classic—a dash of Rent here, a dollop of High School Musical there--without straying so far from the original as to be disconcerting.

The staging and choreography are fairly intricate, and even at almost two hours without intermission, the show never bogged down. Nor did I—not traditionally an enthusiastic when it comes to musicals in general—ever say to myself, They’re going to sing again!? In fact, I found myself intently focused on the music, because, although some of the songs were necessarily sentimental, the lyrics of many were full of wit that threatened to whiz right by if I wasn’t paying attention.

The show is a production, of Natomas Charter School and Fine Arts Academy, where Pollard and her husband, Rick Gott teach. The cast of students, led by Christian Wheeler as the “mature” Ben Scrooge” is generally very talented and extremely energetic. The school is also fortunate to have a wonderful theater in which to perform.

A Christmas Carol runs through December 10th at 7:00pm at the Benvenuti Performing and Fine Arts Center on the Natomas Charter campus. For tickets and information www.benarts.org or (916) 491-1028

Windstorm destroys tree, not spirit

2011-12-08T01:06:38Z

A windstorm that destroyed the Christmas tree in Old Sacramento didn’t get the last laugh, as the company that provided the tree worked over several days to replace it out of pocket.

“There is really not a good explanation for what happened to the tree,” said Chris McSwain, district manager for the Old Sacramento Business Association. “The immediate cause is wind damage. I’d say two-thirds to three-fourths of the needles blew off.”

Last weekend’s windstorm might have turned a once-full tree to a skeleton, but that’s when the tree provider, Carlton Christmas Trees from the Redding area, stepped up to replace it.

“They’ve never seen anything like this happen in 40 or 50 years,” McSwain said. “They insisted on replacing it at no additional cost. They even brought people down here to undecorate the old tree and redecorate the new one.”

James Carlton of Carlton Christmas Trees said Wednesday that there was no question of replacing the tree, which sits at 100 K St.

“This is an unprecedented event that was caused because of the storm, and the last thing we wanted to do was see one of our customers deal with something beyond their control and ability to rectify,” he said. “We took it upon ourselves to do everything we could in our power and in a tight time constraint to try to restore it.”

The company, which also supplies trees to Union Square in San Francisco, Jack London Square in Oakland and the Bellagio in Las Vegas, harvests its trees from the area around Mount Shasta.

The first tree was a 60-foot white fir that weighed 7,500 pounds when it was delivered. It cost $13,000 and was paid for by sponsorships from businesses and residents. The new tree, though shorter at 54 feet, still weighs more than 3 tons and is fuller near the top, appearing taller to some, McSwain said.

“It’s bigger than the one at the Capitol, which is around 40 feet, but it’s smaller than the one at the U.S. Capitol, which is about 65 feet,” he added.

Replacing the tree was no small task, Carlton said, adding that all the tree-cutting and hauling equipment had been removed from the mountain, as it was late in the year to be getting large trees in place – something typically done by mid-November.

“We had to first locate a tree, and once we located it, mobilize our equipment to get it up on the mountain, and then we applied a preservative to the tree, and we cut 24 hours after that,” he said. “There’s a lot of logistics that had to occur over a short period of time.”

Workers from Carlton Christmas Trees began removing decorations from the old tree Monday morning, and the new tree arrived on Tuesday morning. They spent Tuesday taking down the old tree and putting up the new one, and Wednesday was spent redecorating the new tree.

“Our goal is to be done by noon (Thursday),” Carlton said Wednesday afternoon.

Video by Chris McSwain

Nick Marks, a 50-year-old Sacramentan who works in fugitive recovery for bail bonds companies, said he thinks the tree company is doing a good job.

“I was here after the storm, and the old tree just looked like it was bent,” he said. “This one’s a lot fuller, and it’s nice that they’re taking care of it for free. It looks really nice.”

The tree is part of the Theatre of Lights show, and Kelsey Leaird, a 23-year-old supervisor at the Steamers bakery and cafe at 101 K St., said it’s important to business.

“It brings in a ton of crowds,” she said, adding that the tree is an important part of the draw.

“The old tree was pretty scraggly after the storm,” she said. “Before, it was a beautiful tree. Unfortunately, we had the huge windstorm, and it fell apart.”

She said the new tree is something to once again be proud of.

“Some people had some ideas to fix the old one, like taking greenery from tree farms and wire-tying it on, but this is a lot better,” she said. “Once the company came out and saw it, they brought a new one in right away.”

McSwain said the unfortunate incident showcased the holiday spirit.

“Carlton is a family-owned business,” he said. “It’s really one of those good business stories about the way businesses really look out for their customers. Some people were calling the old one a ‘Charlie Brown Christmas tree,’ but it’s really about the spirit of Christmas, not the tree. And now we have both.”

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

Real Relationships: Gift Giving

2011-12-05T17:02:27Z

Q: I am a struggling college student with more bills than income. Christmas is always a struggle for me because I don't have the funds I want to dedicate to present-buying. My family completely understands this, and we often choose names to limit the number of people you must buy a present for.

However, my boyfriend’s family (we have been together several years) does not do that, and they are known for their extravagant gift-giving. The past few years that I have participated in their family Christmas, I typically end up over-extending myself on the gifts and putting more than I want to on my credit card.

This year I don't want to do that, but it is embarrassing to show up with cheap gifts at this function. I'm stuck....

A: How well do you know your boyfriend's family? Seems to me if you are close enough to spend holidays with them, everyone ought to be privy to your financial situation. Furthermore, piling up your debt to keep up with the standard is not the answer.

Talk to your boyfriend about this (if he doesn't already know) and work out a solution. It can be embarrassing to discuss financial conditions with your loved one and his family, but if you are serious about spending the rest of your life with him and his family, you might as well be transparent now.

If you want to buy actual gifts, pair up with your boyfriend to give gifts to each person so that you are only carrying half of the cost. If you think it will be well received, look into some creative options for homemade gifts or services.
I have found that offering services versus tangible gifts is a big hit.

For young parents, offer to babysit so they can have a night out or offer to clean the house or do the laundry to give Mom a break.
For the elderly, offer to clean their home or escort them out to the grocery store or doctor appointments. For the elderly who live alone, coming by and spending time with them would also be a nice idea.
For cousins and peers, gift them a certificate to do their laundry, clean their house or animal-sit.
Your boyfriend's parents will probably be the most difficult to decide on a service for. I suggest combining the idea of a financial gift and a service. Splurge on some fun foods and offer to host them for dinner. You can then bless them with a meal, but it will give you a chance to spend some time together.

There are many creative ways to bless others without dipping too far into your wallet. People will appreciate the thought behind the gift as well. Most importantly, you will not put yourself further behind in your finances.

Happy holidays!

Have a relationship question? Email sacpress@live.com. Questions will be featured and answered every Monday in Real Relationships.

Sacramento Family Keeps Daughter's Memory Alive through Toy Drive

2011-11-18T18:20:35Z

When Rosie Carollo was hospitalized at the Sutter Children’s Center, Sacramento due to a rare form of childhood epilepsy at just 6 months old, she took great delight in the toys, movies and activities in the hospital’s Child Life Program.

After Rosie’s passing in 2004, just shy of her second birthday, her parents, Nicole and George Carollo, were determined to keep her memory alive by giving back to the Sutter Children’s Center – a children’s hospital located inside Sutter Memorial Hospital in East Sacramento – after they provided such great care for their young daughter.

“Rosie was our first child and the light of our lives,” said Nicole Carollo. “When she passed I was almost desperate to find a way to help other children like her. I cannot take care of my baby anymore, but I can help others. We chose Sutter because of the wonderful experience we had with the Child Life Team and we want to give back to them and help brighten up the lives of other babies and children there.”

While strolling through their neighborhood admiring holiday decorations and looking to get a few ideas for their own house, the Carollos noticed barrels in front of homes for people to donate food as they, too, strolled down the street appreciating the decorations. It was at this moment that the Carollos had the idea to host a toy drive in Rosie’s honor.

After observing how much joy that toys brought Rosie while she was in the hospital, the family decided the best way to honor Rosie and give back to the hospital was by donating toys to the Sutter Children’s Center in hopes of creating joy for other kids during their time in the program.

The Carollos began their charitable toy drive in 2007. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Rosie Carollo Christmas Lights Toy Drive, which will be held from 5-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, and is part of the Carollos’ intricate Christmas display at their home at 3961 Fair Oaks Blvd. in the Arden-Arcade area of Sacramento. New, unwrapped toy donations, as well as any cash or check donations, will be collected to give to the brave children at the Sutter Children’s Center.

In the four previous years, this event has made quite a splash in donations. During the inaugural event in 2007, the Carollos collected 741 items and $236 in cash. Last year, this special event collected more than 1,600 items, up 50 percent from the previous year, and had more than 400 people in attendance the night of the toy drive.

This year, the Carollos and the Child Life Program are requesting Pillow Pets, crib-side soothers, toy doctor kits, infant rattles and toys, Lego sets, teen crafts and DVDs for children and teens. Monetary donations are accepted the night of the toy drive as well as gift cards to stores such as Target, Toys “R” Us and Walmart.

“The first year we did it, we had no idea it would become this big,” said Nicole. “We just thought it would be a little toy drive.”

Four years later, the Carollos look forward to the company of hundreds of Sacramento residents who gather in celebration of little Rosie’s life and the life of every child cared for at the Sutter Children’s Center. The family strives to create awareness about infantile spasms which Rosie endured.

“This is easily the happiest night of the year for me,” said Nicole.

Guests and their families enjoy the elaborate display of 15,000 Christmas lights, a gingerbread village, flying reindeer and a life-size nativity scene along with cookies, hot chocolate and even a special visit from Santa Claus. The Carollo family has made it their lifelong goal to spread little Rosie’s story and increase the awareness of infantile spasms. In the future, they hope to set up a foundation in Rosie’s name to raise funds for infantile spasm research.

If you would like to be a part of this event but cannot make it out on Dec. 11, the family is gladly accepting donations through the entire month of December at their driveway drop box located at 3961 Fair Oaks Blvd., at the corner of San Ramon Way and Fair Oaks Boulevard. For further information on how you can help, e-mail Nicole Carollo at N_Carollo@yahoo.com, or visit the “Rosie Carollo 5th Annual Christmas Lights Toy Drive” page at www.facebook.com.

The Child Life Program is an important part of each child's hospital experience at the Sutter Children’s Center. Child Life specialists work with the child, parents and hospital staff to make life as normal as possible and to minimize the emotional trauma to the infant, child or adolescent and his or her family. As a member of the health care team in both outpatient and inpatient settings, Child Life specialists provide essential life experiences for gaining a sense of mastery, for play, for learning, for self-expression, for family involvement and for peer interaction. The program also “employs” three full-time canine therapists as part of its Pet Therapy Program. The Sutter Children’s Center is a comprehensive “children’s hospital within a hospital” that offers on-site 24-hour pediatric and neonatal care physicians. It provides a patient- and family-oriented approach of more than 50 board-certified subspecialists and a full medical transport team. The Sutter Children’s Center is nationally recognized as a center for excellence by the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions for its outstanding care for children. Additionally, the Sutter Children’s Center is approved by California Children’s Services and is the only non-university facility in Northern California granted associate membership with the California Children's Hospital Association. For more information, visit http://checksutterfirst.org/children/.

Disclosure: Help the Carollo family by giving back this Holiday Season and gain awareness about the danger of childhood epilepsy and infantile spasms.

Downtown Plaza Ice Rink returns on Nov. 4

2011-10-11T03:29:26Z

On Nov. 4, a festive Sacramento tradition will continue with the opening of the Downtown Plaza Ice Rink. 2011 marks the rink’s 20th anniversary of bringing locals together to celebrate the holidays on ice.

“The rink will bring that New York City ice-skating feel (to) the heart of downtown Sacramento,” said Downtown Sacramento Partnership Marketing Director Lisa Martinez. The rink, located at 7th and K streets, provides locals with the feel of a big city winter.

Martinez said that there is a painstaking process to turn St. Rose of Lima Park into a functional ice-skating rink.

“It takes about three weeks, as long as the weather permits,” she said.

The first step is to lay out a layer of plastic and level the park with sand, Martinez said. After that, the park’s huge air-conditioning unit cools what will be the actual skating rink.

Martinez explained that once cool enough, workers will take a hose and gently spray the surface of the rink until it builds up a layer of frost that turns into ice. This is the ice that people will eventually skate on.

She also said that Sacramento’s relatively warm winter climate can make the task of sustaining the ice a little difficult.

“Once we have an inch or two of ice, we will paint the ice with a white layer … to give it that frosty coating and a nice surface for people to skate on,” she said.

People in the Sacramento area are excited about the rink. Adam Sereno, a resident of Rancho Cordova, said that he has never been ice skating and is looking forward to learning how to do it this year.

“To be honest, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said. “It’s great that the city puts so much effort into maintaining things like this.”

Martinez said that in the rink’s 20 years, the DSP has had plenty of time to perfect the event.

Every Tuesday, a family skate night will be held, and Martinez said it will create a festive and family-friendly environment.

“We’ve made a commitment to the community to produce a quality holiday event for families,” she added. “We have a 20-year tradition, and we hope to continue it for another 20 years.”

The rink will be open seven days a week from Nov. 4 through Jan. 16. The rink will be open on Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It will be open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Hours will be extended during December for Christmas break. General admission is $8 for a two hour session, and skates cost $2 to rent.

Video of workers creating ice rink below courtesy of Downtown Sacramento Partnership

Real Relationships: Splitting family holidays

2011-07-04T16:19:29Z

Instead of answering a reader question this week, I am venturing into a topic that I am fairly sure everyone faces, whether you are in a semi-serious relationship or you have been married for several decades: family holidays.

Whose family do you spend them with? Do you split time? Do you rotate holidays? Do you party hop? Do you and your significant other fight about this issue? Do you and your family fight about this issue?

I know it is a real problem that everyone faces today, and, unless you have just opted to blow off one or both sides of the family for the rest of your lives, you'll likely always have this issue. So let’s figure out how to make it as painless as possible for everyone, shall we?

First of all, have an open and frank discussion with your partner about their expectations for family holidays and what they would do if they had their choice. This is not the time to get offended that he doesn't like spending Easter with your parents or that she hates spending every Thanksgiving sitting around your mom's table. Allow this to be a sage, honest discussion so that you can start to make some decisions.

Once you figure out where you two would prefer to spend each holiday, have that same open and honest discussion with your families. Maybe you sit down and do it together, or maybe you each go back to your family and talk separately. Only you know what is going to be right in your situation.

Everyone is going to be forced to compromise, regardless of what decisions are made. It is likely that someone might be unhappy with the final decisions. The important thing is for each family member to know what is going to happen ahead of time so that they can plan accordingly, emotionally and logistically.

The holidays are intended to be fun, filled with laughter, good cheer and, God willing, relaxation and kindness. Make an effort to bring these traits with you to each gathering along with your side dish. Leave the guilt and harsh words at home. Understanding, compassion and a "go with the flow" attitude go a long way when it comes to family dynamics.

Happy Fourth of July and stay safe!

Have a Relationship question? Email sacpress@live.com. Questions will be featured every Monday in Real Relationships.

Man on the street : How do you make your mom feel special?

2011-05-05T06:44:11Z

The time to recognize our mothers has come again: Mother’s Day.

The Sacramento Press recently took to the streets and asked people how they make their moms feel special on Mother’s Day.

Here is what they had to say:

Olegario Casas, 39, is an iron worker who lives in Elk Grove.

“Two weeks before Mother’s Day, I call my mom, and I send her a card and flowers because she is in Mexico,” Casas said. “I tell her I love her and I miss her and I can’t wait to see her.”

Vanessa Young, 28, is a student at Syracuse University, but she comes from East Sacramento.

A phone call is important, Young said.

“We also go out to lunch, take a walk or go hiking – my mom likes that,” she added.

Arturo Vasquez, 23, is a coach cleaner for the railroad, he lives in North Sacramento.

“I try to make my mom feel special every day,” Vasquez said. “ My (siblings) and I get together, I buy something nice for her – whatever she wants – and we have dinner together.”

Joshua Corona, 19, is a student at Sacramento City College, and he lives in Natomas.

“I clean the house and I cook breakfast for my mom,” Corona said.

Taylor Priestly, 29, is a student at UC Berkeley, and she comes from the Pocket area.

“We usually donate to a charity or a cause that my mom believes in,” Priestly said. “This year, we are donating to Planned Parenthood.”

Holiday Wrap-Up – Be Sure to Dispose of Holiday Waste Properly! Do Your Part to Keep Holiday Left-Overs Out of the Landfill

2010-12-29T16:49:19Z

Now that the gifts have been unwrapped, the holiday parties have been held, and the Christmas tree has come down, do you know how to recycle all the holiday trimmings?

“By properly disposing of all of the trash left over from the holidays, we can help save valuable landfill space and keep our environment clean ,” said Paul Philleo, Director of the Sacramento County Department of Waste Management & Recycling.” We are generally slower this time of year, which means quick turn-around for customers, so it’s easy to be green after the holidays.”

Below are tips for holiday recycling:

Don’t add your Christmas tree to the trash. Bring it to one of the six locations throughout Sacramento County where it can be disposed of properly. You can find a flyer with a list of locations online at www.sacgreenteam.com.
Was a new TV, computer, or cell phone one of your holiday gifts? Do you now need to dispose of the old one? Both the Kiefer Landfill, located at 12701 Kiefer Blvd and Grant Line Road in Sloughhouse and the North Area Recovery Station, located at 4450 Roseville Road in North Highlands, accept e-waste for free! If it’s got a cord and a circuit board, it’s e-waste!
Did you know that an estimated 2.6 billion holiday cards are sold each year in the United States? Or that the 38,000 miles of ribbon purchased to wrap presents could tie a bow around the earth? Between Thanksgiving and the New Year, an extra million tons of waste are generated each week (CalRecycle – formerly the California Integrated Waste Management Board). Learn how to recycle or properly dispose of your holiday decorations and wrappings in Sacramento by visiting http://www.holidayrecycling.com/

To find a list of acceptable materials and fees for both County facilities, please visit the Department of Waste Management & Recycling’s website at www.sacgreenteam.com or call 916-875-5555 for more information.

Annie Parker is a Communication and Media Officer employed by the Sacramento County Municipal Services Agency.

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.

Shedding convenience for military families

2010-12-17T02:25:16Z

Rodney Stanhope is living in a shed at Arden Fair Mall, and he isn’t there to shop.

The shed lacks running water or kitchen facilities, and he “showers” with baby wipes. His living space is just big enough for a cot, a couple of camp chairs and a small shelf for his computer.

Stanhope, a Navy veteran and small business owner who normally lives in Placerville, has one mission this holiday season: collecting toys for military families with one or both parents deployed overseas.

“We can’t bring mom or dad home, but we can make sure they have a happy Christmas,” Stanhope said. “Their parents are out there fighting for our freedom and putting their lives on the line.”

Though he partners with the National Guard, he said toys go to children from all branches of the military, and they’re used all across California, distributed through military personnel tasked with helping families of deployed service members.

Stanhope said that after doing this annually for six years, he was ready to call it quits last year, but something changed his mind.

“Travis Air Force Base had a whole division coming home, 1,200 men,” he said. “(A program called Welcome Home Warrior) had Santa, and he had a sack, and the kids each got a toy. Then, when it was all done, they said, ‘And now there’s one more gift,’ and doors rolled up and their parents came out.”

After only being able to collect 300 toys, Welcome Home Warrior turned to Stanhope for the rest.

Witnessing the surprise Christmas gift for the children made Stanhope vow to keep doing it.

“It still gives me goosebumps just thinking about it,” he said.

Last year, he and other volunteers collected 15,000 toys and enough money to purchase 10,000 more toys, but this year has been difficult.

He has been at the shed since Dec. 10, and will stay there until Dec. 22.

“We have a big hole to fill,” he said.

Last year, Stanhope received a lot of media attention after his generator was stolen, but he said he has had trouble getting the word out this year.

Most-needed are toys for toddlers and kids over 14, but everything helps.

To make it easy for people to donate, Stanhope said anyone can bring toys, money and gift cards to the shed, located in the Best Buy parking lot across from Cheesecake Factory, or make monetary donations online.

Stanhope works through Yellow Ribbon America, a national nonprofit organization, so donations are tax-deductible.

The shed is technically open from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m., with uniformed service members on-hand until 1 p.m., but Stanhope said it’s effectively available 24 hours per day.

“I’m used to lack of sleep,” he said with a laugh.

The hardest part, he said, is being away from his wife for 12 days, as they will celebrate their first anniversary at the end of the year. And the cold.

“But that’s nothing compared to the military,” he said. “Some of them are deployed for over a year without seeing each other.”

Jayma Valentine, who spent 20 years in the Air Force as a nurse, brought a gift card to the shed Thursday afternoon.

“I come every year,” she said. “I don’t have kids of my own, so I figure I can give to them and help them get some decent Christmas presents.”

In addition to donations, volunteers are needed.

Nicolas Brown of El Dorado Hills was helping man the shed Thursday afternoon, and he said he came down to support a good cause.

“I’m a big military supporter,” he said. “They’re protecting basically everything we hold dear.”

To contact Stanhope directly, e-mail him at yellowribbonamerica@yahoo.com.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Everything is Awesome: Photographs by Keith Telfeyan

2010-12-07T02:04:02Z

Everything is Awesome, a solo exhibition of photographs by Keith Telfeyan, opens at Cuffs, 2523 J Street, Midtown Sacramento, on December 11, 2010 and will remain on view through January 7, 2011. Cuffs is open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm and Sun Noon-7pm.

The public is invited to a reception with the artist on December 11, from 6pm-10pm, as part of Sacramento’s 2nd Saturday Art Walk. Enjoy holiday snacks and drinks and Christmas tunes dj-ed by Shaun Slaughter while taking in the show. Cuffs is also sponsoring a toy drive to provide holiday gifts for children in need. Anyone who donates a toy will be entered in a drawing for a $50 certificate to the shop.

For his first solo show at Cuffs, Keith has created a series of digital C-prints from 35mm film entitled Everything is Awesome. Focusing on seemingly mundane, everyday sights, he executes the photographs in a way that causes the viewer to take a second glance—realizing the series title is, in fact, true.

With photography, Keith is able to capture scenes exactly how he perceives them, delivering his fresh take of the world to people who may otherwise be unswayed by a lamp post or a flock of birds. His work offers vision fields that give a lush and clean vicarious experience, bringing out transcendence through texture while alluding to the banal, ordinary moments of life being lived.

In Keith’s words: “Everything is everything. Sorrow and trees and architecture and love and chemistry and politics and the world. It’s awesome…to see a wave of oneness within each particular thing. Or perhaps the everyday itself is simply worth seeing in a new way.” Keith’s philosophy is tied in intrinsically to the photographs in this show. Attendees will leave with a novel view of the everyday and the knowledge that, yes, everything is awesome.

About the artist
Keith Telfeyan makes video art, short films, and photographs. He received his MFA from Parsons the New School for Design in 2009, and his Bachelor’s degree in Film from the University of California, Berkeley in 2003, where he also studied Philosophy and Rhetoric. His artwork has been exhibited throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. He was born and raised in Sacramento, California and resides in Brooklyn, New York. He is left-handed and keeps an active dream journal.

For further information about Keith Telfeyan and to see more examples of his artwork visit his website.

______________________________________________________________

All images by Keith Telfeyan:
1. Electric Spirituality
2. Pixilated Abyss
3. Slow Motion Explosion

Disclaimer: Alison Kranz is Public Relations contact for Keith Telfeyan.

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-04T22:01:43Z

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening,
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight,
We're happy tonight.
Walking in a winter wonderland

That’s how the famous Christmas song Winter Wonderland begins. Composer Felix Bernard and lyricist Richard B. Smith published the song back in 1934. The theme for this Christmas event at Fairytale Town, Winter Wonderland, seemed to follow the stanza of the song (and now I can’t get the song out of my head). Everyone seemed to be happy walking in a Winter Wonderland.

This is probably a child’s favorite time of the year. Within the next few weeks many children will be looking toward sitting by the Christmas tree and opening up gifts that will bring that much anticipated present on Christmas day. Friday night, Fairytale Town gave a glimpse into Christmas and this celebration will continue on Saturday night from 5 to 8 o'clock.

From the outside of the facility passers-by immediately notice the Christmas lights surrounding Fairytale Town. The sounds of children enjoying the transformed theme park can be heard. The smell of kettle popcorn popping, and Christmas music also made its way outside of Fairytale Town.

Carolers strolled Fairytale Town as it was transformed into Winter Wonderland for two days of festive celebration. Christmas Carols were heard throughout the night as the Fairytale Town’s Volunteer Caroling Group serenaded their guests. The excitement in the children’s voices could be heard all around the area. The theme park had all the playground diversions as well as special guests that made the evening a very special Christmas event.

(Stand Out Talent carolers)

There were many stations set up all around Winter Wonderland for children to participate in. Santa’s Workshop was open and it included an area for children to participate in free hands-on activities. Children could also decorate their own winter wreath at the Water Wheel station. One of the most popular areas was the cookie decoration station. Children could decorate their own cookies and enjoy them at the spot. “Mmmm, yummy. That’s the best cookie I’ve ever had. Mom can we do another? Grandpa, I think we should make one for mom and grandma!” were some of the comments utter by kids who created some great works of edible art.

(Volunteers helping children decorate Christmas ornaments)

There were also some vendor stations set up for Christmas stocking stuffing and gifts. Complimentary gift wrapping was available as well. Besides regular staff there were many volunteers from various local High Schools and organizations. Many of the crafts being sold were hand made by the vendors who occupied some of the vendor stations.

Father Christmas was available for pictures and children were able to visit and tell him what they would like for Christmas. Sisters Cierra and Valerie sat with Father Christmas and were some of the visitors that posed for a photo. A real family atmosphere was available for all to enjoy. Parents and grandparents seemed to enjoy Winter Wonderland as much as the kids. Fairytale Town closes earlier for the two days that it transforms into Winter Wonderland. At the beginning of the event not many people seemed to be at the park but as the evening went on more and more visitors entered to enjoy the festivities.

Fairytale Town is a non-profit organization and is mainly supported by admissions to the park as well as membership charitable contributions and other tax-deductible gifts. Many of the park’s representatives for the night were volunteers and just like the Sacramento Zoo across the street they rely on many trained volunteers. Volunteers in turn get training, work and volunteer experience, and get satisfaction working within their community. Field trips and workshops are also offered by Fairytale Town. There is much to do here and you can follow special events and see what else is available by logging in to their website.

If you haven’t visited Fairytale Town it’s basically a small theme park with attractions and playground areas with a fairytale theme. It’s geared more towards elementary school age children (and younger) and includes a King Arthur Castle which is one of its original structures still around. Some areas that children can enjoy are Humpty Dumpty’s Bridge, the Old Woman in the Shoe play structure, a full size Tipi and all can walk the Crooked Mile. These are just some of the notable areas that visitors can enjoy. There are more than 30 areas that visitors can climb, walk, play on, and experience. Some live animal areas are also situated around the park.

Humpty Dumpty also walked the park and posed for pictures with kids. Fairytale Town has been around since 1959 and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The festive atmosphere created during the two day Winter Wonderland event is sure to attract many more visitors and it's a great family attraction. Fairytale Town has many activities throughout the year and many educational programs are available as well.

Photos by David Alvarez

1 - Posing with Father Christmas sisters Cierra and Valerie

2, 3 - Stand Out Talent Carolers

4 - Vendors Walt and Victoria showing off their hand made art

5 - Mandi and Heather hand made craft station

6 to 9 - Some of the critters around Winter Wonderland

10 - The Frostie Family

53rd and S streets neighborhood full of Christmas spirit

2010-12-04T08:07:26Z

These photos were taken with an iPhone in the Elmhurst area (53rd street, S street, T street).

Most of the homes had arches on the sidewalks made of PVC pipe and strung with lights.

My favorite house of the block was the one with the snorkeling Santa.

This is the house with the snorkeling Santa!

Santa lives in a Yellow Submarine.

A jellyfish, maybe?

A Christmas tree Snowman.

"Theater of Lights" brings holiday charm to Old Sac

2010-11-29T03:40:27Z

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Old Sacramento, what with Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, stepping out onto the Shasta House balcony for readings of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and all.

Volunteer actors from the Old Sacramento Living History Program played the roles of Clemens, Santa Claus, and an anonymous sleeper roused awake by the loud crash of Santa’s sleigh in the holiday production “Theater of Lights.”

The quaint historic portion of K Street between Second and Front streets became the audience floor as a theatrical light show was presented from the balconies of buildings on either side Saturday night.

Production and inspiration for this event began last year by Stage Nine Entertainment Group owner Troy Carlson.

“We wanted to develop a Christmas program that was not only historical but also entertaining,” Carlson said.

Historical lessons of the night came from a narration provided by the Clemens character, who revealed that Sacramento was known in his time as the “city of saloons” and had a reputation for kindness.

“Our ultimate goal is to make this not only a regional but a statewide draw as something that people plan as part of their holiday celebration to come and see,” Carlson said.

With a team of decorators, scriptwriters and actors volunteering months in advance, the first show of this year began the day after Thanksgiving and will run two shows daily Thursday through Sunday at 6 and 7:30 p.m. through the first week of January.

Sound effects, provided by George Lucas’ Skywalker Sound, broadcast in stereo. The narration is enhanced by the lively sounds of jingle bells, holiday cheer and lights beaming to life.

“It’s the same type of sound you’d get when going to a movie,” Carlson said.

As the Polar Express steam train rumbled its way to a stop nearby, a sense of magic and nostalgia added to the night’s ambiance. A towering Christmas tree at the intersection of K and Front streets was lit up by Christmas stockings and sugar plum lights, illuminating in sequence with the narrator’s cues.

Roseville resident Kat Durr didn’t know about the event but happened upon it while enjoying an evening of shopping with a friend.

“It was cute, ” she said. “I liked the lights.”

Some 200 people stood in the middle of the street, mesmerized as the first of two 20-minute shows came to life around them. According to Carlson, about 20,000 people enjoyed last year’s production throughout the course of the holiday season.

Seattle resident Kelsey Ryland proved that it’s not only regional visitors who are enjoying the festive charm of Old Sacramento during the holidays.

“The lights were fabulous and it was so well orchestrated,” Ryland said. “I don’t always love the holidays, but this was awesome.”

Photos courtesy of Laurieann Cunningham

The End of Thanksgiving Blues

2010-11-29T00:12:13Z

It’s that time of year again, yes, time to cook a giant bird in the oven. There is a sense of tradition and nostalgia every year, the smell of a home cooked meal and relatives and friends alike come storming through the front door.

Thanksgiving is a time of reunions and family tradition. Bring on the wild turkeys, the mashed potatoes, the gravy, the cranberry sauce and biscuits for a massive dinner party.

Though most families sit down around a dinner table and pass around plates filled with food, I, on the other hand, never got to experience that tradition until recently.

My family never really celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday. Someone takes home a frozen slaughtered turkey and throw it in the oven. Occasionally there will be sides such as: processed macaroni and cheese, semi-cooked mashed potatoes and bowls of rice. We never had any rules about eating around the dinner table, most of us grabbed a plate and headed to our rooms.

This is Thanksgiving with an Asian flair.

For years on end, I wanted a normal dinner that did not involve rice in the mix. Then on Nov 20 2008, a great friend of mine sent me a text I will never forget. The text read:

“Hey buddy, what are you doing for Thanksgiving? Would you like to join me and my family for Thanksgiving?”

I replied with joy and happiness. I was very thrilled to finally have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the dinner table.

On Thanksgiving day, I arrive at my friend’s family’s home, The Vargas house. I was welcomed by the smell of home made food and warm smiles.

The family and I sat around an enormous dinner table, a table where tradition rested.

To my surprise, dinner plates were passed around the table. One by one with smiles and laughter, I felt accepted as a member of the family.

I have made this my tradition, to spend every Thanksgiving with my friends, The Vargas family. Even though they are not my biological family, they are more than that.

I realized that Thanksgiving does not have to be spent with family, it can be spent with friends and still have a traditional vibe to it. Who ever filled our minds with expectations of being with family during the holiday season, must be told wrong.

PODS of Sacramento supports annual Coats for Kids Winter clothing drive, donations accepted now through Dec. 3

2010-11-24T22:02:38Z

PODS, ABC News 10 and Swansons Cleaners team up to collect coats for 20th annual charity drive in Sacramento.

PODS of Sacramento, part of the PODS Enterprises, Inc. national franchise network, is donating portable storage containers to collect donated coats in support of ABC News10 and Swansons Cleaners annual Coats for Kids Winter drive.

Donations of new and gently used coats will be accepted now through Dec. 3 at nine Swansons Cleaners throughout Sacramento.
Now in its 20th year, Coats for Kids has collected and distributed more than 475,000 coats to children and families in need. This year, goal is to collect 500,000 coats or more.

For more information about donations or to get involved, call ABC News 10’s Coats for Kids hotline at (916) 321-3362. For a complete list of drop off locations, including Swansons Cleaners, go to: www.news10.net/life/community/events/coats-for-kids/donations.

About Storage Mobility and PODS
Storage Mobility is the largest independent provider of PODS, Portable On Demand Storage, in the world. Since 2004, Storage Mobility has been serving the storage and moving needs of residents and businesses across the country from their 21 franchise locations since 2004.

In addition to providing exceptional moving and storage services, Storage Mobility is all about giving back. Storage Mobility and PODS support a number of different charities and community events that seek to enrich the lives of children and their families in the communities it serves.

Founded in 1998, PODS provides moving and storage services in 48 U.S. states, Canada, Australia and England. To date, the company has completed more than 200,000 long-distance moves, exceeded one million deliveries and has over 138,000 PODS containers in service. For more information, go to: www.pods.com.

PODS containers are available in two sizes, approximately 8-by-8-by-12 feet and 8-by-8-by-16 feet, and can be delivered to use as temporary or long-term storage at a designated location, at the local PODS Storage Center, moved across the street, or moved virtually anywhere in the country.

PODS Greater Sacramento Area Storage Center
6271 Florin Perkins Rd, Suite 200
Sacramento, CA 95828
Telephone: (866) 229-4120

Media inquiries
Consortium Media Services
Pressroom@Consortium-media.com
Adrienne Stephens (805) 654-1564, ext. 116

Disclosure: Tina Vervoorn is the Public Relations & Social Media coordinator for Consortium Media Services, representing PODS.

Man on the Street: What are you thankful for?

2010-11-24T08:13:40Z

During the holidays many people reflect on what they are thankful for in their lives. The Sacramento Press polled people in Sacramento to share some of these sentiments.

Feel free to add what you are thankful for in the comment section.

Vince Hernandez, City Employee

The Sacramento Press caught up with city employee Vince Hernandez at a benefit for Loaves & Fishes on Monday. Hernandez, a tree pruner for the city’s Urban Forestry division, said he knows a few people who are out of work. He said he is thankful he has a job.

He also talked about his pride in his son and daughter-in-law, who both work for the Pentagon in Arlington, Va. “I have a boy, and I’m thankful for him, too,” Hernandez said.

Janet Green, Loaves and Fishes

It didn’t take long for Janet Green to think about what she was thankful for this Thanksgiving.

In response to a question from The Sacramento Press, Green, the outreach development director for Loaves & Fishes, said, “I am definitely thankful for my family, my health and my Loaves & Fishes community.”

Mandy Nguyen Wright, Office Assistant, The Specific Chiropractic Center in Elk Grove
Elk Grove resident, 41

“I’m thankful that I’m breathing and in good health and that (my husband and I) are able to take care of patients. I’m thankful for family and friends to help support us with transitions and events we hold at the office.

“I’m also thankful that I don’t have to cook this Thanksgiving, because I’m going to my family’s house.”

Joseph Phillips, full-time student at Carrington College, part-time cop
Oakland resident, 23

“I’m thankful to be a cop. I had wanted to be a cop since I was 5. My father works for the L.A. County Sheriff’s department. Before that he was a football player, and he had always wanted to be a cop. I’m trying to make him proud up here.”

“I’m thankful for the family – the little bit that I have. Family’s always good when you have it.”

Phillips came to Sacramento to visit his mom in Elk Grove and spend Thanksgiving there.

“I’m thankful for mac and cheese. My Aunt Lisa makes the best mac and cheese.”

Christopher Barry, full-time student at Sacramento State, part-time sales associate at Nordstrom’s, sales intern at The Sacramento Press
Downtown Sacramento resident, 25

“It’s been a busy year for me with school and work. I’m thankful for all of the support I get from my family and friends. I’ve been taking a back seat in hanging out with friends because I’m so busy, but they’ve been supportive. All of their positive motivation keeps me going as I finish my last semester at Sac State.”

Russell Glover, high school student at American Legion, Sacramento resident, 16

“I’m thankful for my family and for the food I’m going to eat on Thanksgiving.”

Glover said his favorite is turkey, and he looks forward to sharing it with loved ones this holiday.

Theresa Fitz, San Francisco resident

Fitz arrived Tuesday by bus from San Francisco, where her brother-in-law picked her up.

“I’m really thankful for my family,” she said.

“Some family is here, so I came up to see them for the holiday,” she added.

Dorothy Malcolm, Sacramento resident, 85

"I'm going to have a bunch of my family here. For the first time in the 30 years I've lived in Sacramento, I have a son and daughter-in-law living nearby. I also have two daughters, a son-in-law and six grandchildren coming. There'll be 12 of us for dinner in my small house. And seven of them are staying overnight."

Elden Bartley, homeless in Sacramento, 50

"I live on the street. I'm thankful that God keeps me alive every day and keeps me safe. And I stay warm with one blanket. I go to church every Sunday. And I've got two good friends out here. So right now, it's working. I'm just very thankful for that. I've been out here four years."

Maritess Oandasan, Granite Bay resident

"[I'm thankful for] family, and that I have a steady job that's possibly promising, and honestly, that's it! Family, because I've had some things happen. And good food."

Matt Minehart, Sacramento resident

"We are thankful for family, great friends, our health, and of course, good music."

Sacramento Press editorial staff Kathleen Haley, Colleen Belcher, Brandon Darnell, Suzanne Hurt and David Watts Barton contributed to this article.

Ice skating rink opens

2010-11-05T23:03:57Z

Sacramento's holiday ice-skating rink opened downtown Friday with fanfare and free skating.

About 120 screaming school kids joined Mayor Kevin Johnson, Assemblyman-elect Roger Dickinson and Downtown Sacramento Partnership Executive Director Michael Ault at a noon ceremony to welcome the Westfield Downtown Ice Rink back to St. Rose of Lima Park.

The capital's outdoor winter skating rink was built in Midtown last year during a $4.5 million renovation of the park at Seventh and K streets, the 700 block of K Street and a light rail platform relocation.

"I think the ice rink is back where it belongs," Dickinson told the crowd shortly before he, Johnson and Ault cut a big red ribbon at the rink's entrance.

With a yell, kids in skates blasted onto the ice – where Johnson's Special Assistant R.E. Graswich was already trying his luck by skating for the first time.

"That doesn't mean I can skate. It just means I'm floundering around," said Graswich, who wore a red and white, candy cane-striped tie for the occasion. "They make it look so easy on television."

Neither the mayor nor Dickinson joined him on the 7,000-square-foot ice rink. But students from Washington and Earl Warren elementary schools and Sutter Middle School were more than happy to. They and everyone else who hits the ice Friday skate free until the rink closes at 10 p.m.

This year brings a few changes to the rink, which is operating downtown for its 19th season. Ticket prices for two-hour sessions have been raised from $6 to $8 for kids and adults. Skate rentals will still be $2.

The price hasn't increased in at least six years. But the fee had to be raised after vendor costs went up, DSP Marketing and Outreach Director Lisa Martinez said.

Also new this year are training skates for toddlers and skating lessons. Private skating instructors Chris Kinzer, Carrie Clarke and Holly Thompson will be available for lessons at 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Saturdays. A half-hour lesson is $20 and three lessons are $50, according to DSP Events Manager Annie Stuckert.

People who own skates will need to get them sharpened beforehand, because the ice rink doesn't have a skate sharpener.

To offset the price increase, the rink will offer various specials, including Family Skate Night Tuesdays. One child skates free with each paying adult.

Except for Christmas, the rink will be open daily through Jan. 17, weather permitting. Hours are noon - 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sessions start on the hour.

One thing the ice rink doesn't have: training skates for adults.

"We don't, unfortunately," DSP Marketing Manager Megan Emmerling said. "But we do have lessons."

Lesson reservations must be made in advance by calling DSP at 442-8575. To contact the ice rink, call 442-5563.

Photos 1-3 by Kati Garner. Photo of R.E. Graswich skating by Suzanne Hurt, a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Photographer Barry Wisdom returned Friday night to capture the shots below.

The Westfield Downtown Ice Rink Grand Opening Features Free Skating All Day

2010-11-05T03:02:55Z

Today marks the official Grand Opening of the Westfield Downtown Ice Rink! Cue the trumpets, cut the ribbon, lace up those skates, because the Ice Rink is back.

The best part is the folks at the Westfield Downtown Ice Rink really like to celebrate the Grand Opening with everyone in the Sacramento area. So from the minute the ribbon Mayor Johnson cuts the ribbon at noon to the moment the gates close at 10 pm, skating is 100% absolutely free of charge. Free to get in, free to rent skates, and free to bring all your friends.

The little ice rink that you remember has some surprises in store this year, because the fact of the matter is, it is all grown up. This year the rink is turning 19 years old. It’s shaking off that adolescent awkwardness and coming into its own as an adult. Your kids will marvel at the oversized lollypops and sparkling tree lights. Your date will fall head over heels, in a good way, as you swirl across the ice under the strings of market lighting twinkling above. The gingerbread inspired office and tents will give you nostalgia for holidays past, and our pretty white benches will give you a place to snuggle up when you get too cold, too tired, or both.

If you and your friends and family can’t make it to the Grand Opening free skate festivities, you’ll have plenty of chances to stop by. The rink will be open for the next 10 weeks. It will only cost you $8 to get in, and if you need skates, that is no problem. You can borrow a pair for $2. Even better, every Tuesday is Family Night. So bring the kiddos and they will get in free when you pay to skate with them.

Fun Facts about the Downtown Ice Rink:

• Did you know they make training wheels for ice skates? Well, they kind of do. There are double bladed skates for toddlers to make it easier for them to learn. Ask for them at the rental tent; there’s no extra charge.

• Speaking of skating rookies, ice skating lessons are available this year too. If you want a professional to show you how its done, its no problem. Lessons are offered Saturday mornings at 9 am and 9:30 am before the rink opens to the public. Call ahead to make a reservation.

• The rink is open daily through January 17th as weather permits, every day but Christmas, even Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day.

• Hours are Sunday - Thursday: Noon to 8pm; Friday - Saturday: 10am to 10pm.

• Parking is validated! Park at the Downtown Plaza Garage at 5th & J or 4th & L. Don’t forget to bring your parking ticket to the rink.

• Plan a birthday party, soccer party, or other group event. Special rates are available for parties of 10 or more with advance reservations.

• Harry Potter Theme Night will be on November 18th before Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows premieres at midnight at the Esquire IMAX Theatre. Wear your best Harry Potter gear and get free skate rental.

Weekly events for this season include:

• Family Skate Night Tuesdays: Purchase an adult admission and your kid skates free
• Westfield Wednesday Deals: Downtown Employees receive free skate rentals all day
• Theme Night Thursdays: DJ's and music & costume themes (I love the 90's and the ultimate ugly sweater party to name a few)
• Ice Skating Lessons every Saturday morning

There are all kinds of activities planned for this year’s Westfield Downtown Ice Rink. For up to the minute information on the Westfield Downtown Plaza Ice Rink, follow us on Twitter (@DowntownIceRink), find us on Facebook, and visit us at the Downtown Ice Rink Website.

Disclosure: Megan Emmerling is the Marketing Manager for the Downtown Sacramento Partnership

350 families adopted through SFBFS program

2009-12-29T22:55:01Z

I’ve been volunteering at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) on a regular basis for the better part of a year now. Generally, I’m there twice a week; more if they’re having an event or need a little extra help. The holidays are always a busy time at SFBFS with their Turkey Drive, Run To Feed The Hungry and Adopt-A-Family all happening in quick succession. Despite the immense amount of planning required for these events and the short time frames, these events are always tremendously well organized by the SFBFS staff, so all that we volunteers have to do is show up.

I was fortunate enough to help out at the Thanksgiving events this year and thoroughly enjoyed them, thus I was looking forward to the Christmas Adopt-A-Family program. The program was being led by the staff at the Saca Community Learning Center (an SFBFS satellite office in North Sacramento). The program sought to help clients who attended the classes offered and received services over the past year. In all, 274 families signed up. If one only looked at the numbers, facilitating gifts between 274 adopted families and those doing the adopting would seem a small task when compared with recent events providing Thanksgiving food boxes to 5,500 families, arranging the distribution of 3,000 frozen turkeys to other community groups, or trying to coordinate parking for 28,000 Run To Feed The Hungry participants. However, as the adopting families began to bring in their holiday purchases, it quickly became evident that this was no trivial undertaking. For ease and organization, as the gifts came in, the gifts were put into large bags, several gifts to a bag; and most families had multiple bags. Doing the math, then, you realize that the number of Christmas presents that we were dealing with easily reached the several-thousands.

I was given the task of organizing the gifts as they came in so they could be catalogued and then easily located when the time for distribution came. We set up a numbering system and organized two huge rooms full of gifts. We sorted out gifts that had lost labels, tracked down presents that had been separated from their mates and rewrapped packages that had lost their wrapping. We tracked the gifts as they came in and monitored them as they went out. Hiccups arose and were sorted out (primarily by Genevieve Deignan, Saca CLC Building Director, who really made this whole thing work), and by the evening on Wednesday December 23rd we had brought in, catalogued, organized and then distributed Christmas presents to over 350 families (because of the tremendous outpouring of gift donations, we were able to make up another 75+ gift bags to give to those who hadn’t signed up as part of the Adopt-A-Family program).

So it was finally over. We’d worked for many weeks, organizing a ton of gifts, to give to a huge amount of deserving people. When working on big events like these, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers - turkeys donated, runners attending, families adopted. They’re tactile; a way to measure your success. But in the end, though, you realize that it isn’t about the numbers. They’re not the point. They’re not the reason you do this. Helping a man carry gifts to his car and knowing that the kids in the back seat will have something under their Christmas tree is the point. The gratitude in the eyes of an elderly grandmother taking care of her three young grandchildren is the point. Seeing the eyes of another volunteer well up from being able to help someone who has nothing; that is the point. These are the reasons we do this. The people at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services know this better than anyone.

The above was written by SFBFS volunteer Chris Suter

NYE 2010 in the Central City - Party like a Rock Star!

2009-12-29T19:21:24Z

This four-part series features very different itineraries to celebrate 2010 downtown. Whether your idea of a perfect New Year’s Eve involves funky beats, bottles of bubbly, a caravan of kids, or haute cuisine, the Central City is the place to be!

Downtown is home to some of Sacramento’s coolest bars and clubs, with many venues offering VIP services that can take your night ‘to the next level.’ Part two showcases these hotspots and their VIP amenities like private booths, bottle service, dedicated staff and complimentary champagne.

Part Two: Party like a rock star!

Over at 10th and K, Cosmo Café, Cosmopolitan Cabaret and Social Nightclub are partnering to offer something for all ages this New Year’s Eve. Billed as the 'Largest Party of 2010,' here you can enjoy a lavish prix-fixe dinner and entry into all venues for only $99. Dance the night away with DJ Pat Allen upstairs at Social or show off your old school dancing skills with the Spazmatics at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret. Dinner and party packages for either Social or the special NYE Cabaret show are available at cosmosacramento.com.

See and be seen at The Park Ultra Lounge, where Sactown Magazine will be celebrating their third anniversary. The Park is offering a variety of VIP packages to suit your entourage that includes front-of-the-line admission, special seating, complimentary champagne and spirits as well as your own VIP host and waitress for the evening. At the stroke of midnight, a massive balloon drop will reveal swag and other goodies from local wineries, retailers and restaurants. Learn more at theparkdowntown.com.

Or, celebrate with the folks at MIX Downtown as they commemorate their one-year anniversary on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy champagne and cake while dancing the night away to DJ Jus James. MIX chefs will offer a delicious menu selection of eats and sweets, including Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Shrimp Tempura Cocktail and Fudgy Peppermint Brownies. Holiday drink specials round out a fun and festive evening. 100.5 The Zone will be broadcasting live from the event- your celebratory ‘woo-woos’ could be heard all across the greater Sacramento region. Additional details available at mixdowntown.net.

Dream Ultra Lounge is ringing in the New Year in style with DJ Elements and DJ Victorious, who will be spinning your favorite top 40 and club hits all night long. From the masterminds behind Cabana Ultra Lounge and Ink Eats and Drinks, Dream is sexy and exclusive, with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Dream has partnered with the Sheraton Grand hotel to offer a room and party package for only $199 that includes tickets to the event. Other VIP party packages are available. Visit dreamultralounge.com for details.

Tomorrow’s itinerary: Wine & Dine your way into the new year!

Christmas lights in the Fab 40s

2009-12-24T00:45:43Z

Photos taken between 40th and 43rd Streets and between J Street and Folsom Blvd.

Jay Canter Photography

Christmas Lights | Land Park

2009-12-23T06:47:34Z

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Calling all pet owners: Send us your photos

2009-12-22T21:44:07Z

Tis the season to decorate your house, your tree and many times, your pet.

We'd love to see your photos of your pets dressed up in their holiday best. Send your photos to journalism@sacramentopress.com with the name of your pet, your name and where you live, and we'll put together a photo essay of the photos we receive.

A helping hand from Danny Glover and Bobby Jackson

2009-12-21T06:19:25Z

Danny Glover, Bobby Jackson, Mark S. Allen and Deon Taylor spent their Sunday spreading holiday cheer to families at the Country Club Plaza on Watt Avenue. They were among volunteers distributing holiday bags, complete with turkey and stuffing, to 500 single-parent families.

Glover is familiar with Sacramento, having grown up in the Bay Area. The actor and activist said his parents always worked two jobs when he was growing up to provide for him and his brothers.

"It feels good to hand out the meals," he said as he handed a turkey to another family. Glover has starred in over 40 movies. "More and more families are struggling, living off of credit, hoping for a period of prosperity. This is one of those times when people can be happy and smile."

Jackson, formerly with the Sacramento Kings, said he "was raised with my twin sisters by a single parent. My mother worked hard and I feel I was blessed." His organization, the Bobby Jackson Foundation, sponsored the food giveaway. Jackson said he believes in sharing blessings with the residents of Sacramento and sees nothing but "brightness" in the city's future.

The event was also sponsored by Deon Taylor Enterprises. Deon Taylor is a local filmmaker who wrapped his latest movie, Clown'd, earlier this week in downtown Sacramento. Taylor was raised by his single mother and can recall many times in his youth when food was scarce.

The crowd grew excited as Glover and Jackson made their way across the room. Mother D'Aun Thompson, who heard about the event on the radio, said she is grateful for it. "I plan on cooking this meal on Christmas," Thompson said. When asked her favorite part of the meal, she smiled. "Turkey, of course."

Dusty Moctezuma, a junior at Valley High School, was one of many volunteers from the area. She not only helped the needy, but earned volunteer hours for her school's tally in the "Mayor's Challenge." The challenge is in partnership with Hands on Sacramento to raise a million volunteer hours by the end of the year. Francisco Chavez of Midtown also heard about the event on the radio earlier and was there to volunteer with three friends.

The Elk Grove Montessori School Choir played and Allen, a local television personality, emceed the event. Having grown up in West Texas, Allen said he understands what it's like to have a tough holiday. "This is what life is about. With my dad in the oil industry, it was either feast or famine each year at Christmas.

After the bags were distributed, Glover and Jackson took to the stage before screaming fans. They laughed and joked, posing for pictures and signing autographs for anyone who asked.

Darrell Luckett surprised his girlfriend, Angie, with a marriage proposal in front of the crowd. He was aided in the ruse by Allen, who called her to the stage.

At the end of the show, families left, with smiles on their faces and turkeys in tow.

Angie said yes. Congratulations.

Photos courtesy of Matthew Ceccato.

500 Dinners for 500 Families

2009-12-17T09:08:56Z

Danny Glover and Bobby Jackson are teaming up to help feed hungry families. All over our region, families are faced with the possibility of spending the holidays without a holiday meal. This weekend, 500 single-parent families have the opportunity to receive a free holiday meal.

On Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Country Club Plaza. Along with Glover and Jackson will be TV personality Mark S. Allen, distributing meals for each family will be able to take home and enjoy. Meals include turkey, green beans, stuffing, and other side dishes. The meals will have to be cooked at a later time by the families who receive them.

According to Diana Erwin, representative for Deon Taylor Enterprises, the organization spearheading the event, families will have the chance to take their pictures with Glover, Jackson and other local celebrities on the red carpet as they enter the building. The event will be filmed by Deon Taylor Enterprises, who is also spearheading the event in correlation with The Bobby Jackson Foundation, Tree of Hope Funding, KSFM 102.5 FM and Country Club Plaza.

"This event is a chance for families to feel beloved… real special." Erwin said.

The event will feature live music provided by KSFM 102.5 and a special holiday performance by students from Elk Grove Montessori School.

Donations are still being accepted for the event. Canned goods such as corn, yams, peas, green beans and cranberry sauce are in high demand. To donate, food or cash, please call Deon Taylor Enterprises at 916-448-2388.

"With so many people struggling, we want to fill the gap," Erwin said. "This is a last-minute opportunity for people to get into the holiday spirit."

There is also still space available for single-parent families to sign up to receive a holiday meal. The families are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible through the Roberts Development Center 916-646-6631 or Travelers Aid 916-399-9646.

Numerous Free Holiday Events at El Dorado Hills Town Center

2009-12-14T22:01:44Z

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

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

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

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

Downtown Holiday Events this Week

2009-12-10T00:20:25Z

The holiday season has arrived – whether you’re ready or not. Brave the cold weather this weekend and get into the holiday spirit. As an added bonus the City of Sacramento is offering free parking at meters Downtown (I through L streets and Front to 29th streets) after 4:30 pm on weekdays and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.

This weekend’s events kick off on Thursday with the State Capitol’s annual tree lighting at 5:30 pm. If it’s lights you love, check out the 700 block of K Street across from the Carnival at St. Rose painted with thousands of LED lights. As a grand finale, experience the Theatre of Lights show in Old Sacramento. The free show illuminates the district Thursday through Sunday nights with a show at 6:30 pm and 8 pm.

State Capitol Tree Lighting
Where: State Capitol - West Steps
When: Thursday, December 10 at 5:30 pm

Carnival at St. Rose
Where: 7th & K streets
When: Open daily Noon – 8 pm thru January 3 (closed Christmas Day)
This whimsical holiday event is the perfect starting point for your visit downtown. The Carnival at St. Rose features a 30-foot ferris wheel, giant slide, classic carnival games and prizes and old school arcade games like Frogger, Ms. Pacman, skeeball and more. Don’t miss weekly events at the carnival including Karaoke at the Carnival every Thursday Night and Trivia every Friday Night.

Admission is $5 for a two-hour session that includes unlimited access to carnival games, rides and arcade. Park at the Westfield Downtown Plaza and the Carnival will validate your parking. www.downtownsac.org/carnival.

Theatre of Lights
Where: Front & K streets
When: Free shows every Thursday through Sunday nights at 6:30 & 8:00 pm
The Theatre of Lights brings history to life through a narrated show of lights, sounds and visual effects. The free light show will take visitors back to a time when the beloved poem The Night Before Christmas was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857. Two 10-minute light shows will run every Thursday through Sunday at 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm through January 3. For more information, visit www.oldsactheatreoflights.com

KHITS Christmas Concert: Tribute to Elvis and the Everly Brothers
Where: Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street
When: Saturday, December 12 at 7:30 pm
Oldies hits and Christmas classics come alive in this family-style double bill featuring oldies tribute artists Mark W. Curran & The Cruisin Oldies Showband. This evening features many of the traditional Christmas songs recorded by both Elvis and the Everly Brothers throughout their along with all their greatest hits. Tickets are on sale now at tickets.com, Crest box office, or call 1-800-225-2277.
www.thecrest.com

The Nutcracker
Where: Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street
When: This weekend shows include:
Friday, December 11, 7:00pm (Opening Night)
Saturday, December 12, 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, December 13, 1:00pm

Join the Sacramento Ballet in celebrating the 500th performance of The Nutcracker! The magic and wonder of Sacramento's most cherished holiday tradition returns to create memories to last families a lifetime. Over 200 costumed characters enthrall the audience to the majestic Tchaikovsky score played by the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra. Adults: $15.00 - $68.00, Children: $15.00 - $31.00. www.sacballet.org

Santaland Diaries

2009-12-07T03:43:07Z

"I'm a 30-year-old man applying for a job as an elf," said the man in the gray hooded sweatshirt, looking less than thrilled about his new position.

It was Gary Alan Wright, telling the story of his elf alter ego, Crumpet, and the mischief he got into during his time in Santaland, the mall's winter wonderland. The stage looked the part, with a beautiful Christmas tree, toys and Santa's throne. The lone cast member of "Santaland Diaries" kept the people at the Capital Stage aboard the Riverboat Delta King laughing out loud at the play by humorist David Sedaris.

Wright transformed into Crumpet on stage, stripping down to his green knickers and candy-cane stockings. He accomplished this while explaining his elf training, complete with motivational cheers.

"Give me an "S! Where's my "A? How 'bout a big ol' "N? Did someone say "T?" Let's get a recall on that "A!" What's that spell? Santa! Who's the man? Santa! Come on elves, feel good about yourselves, let's raise the roof! Santa, Santa, Santa!"

The laughing audience obliged, yelling the chants and clapping.

Wright used the entire theater, walking up and down the aisles, squeezing into the rows of people and interacting with them as he passed. Wright told details of Santaland and its secrets, including tales of mothers who instructed their children to urinate in the fake snow in order to stay in line.

He detailed the craziness of Christmas Eve with an enthusiastic air guitar solo of "We Will Rock You" and a bad rendition of "Away in the Manger" that he said was requested by a persistent Santa of whom he wasn't fond.

"This is our naughty Christmas show," said Peter Mohrmann, marketing manager for Capital Stage. "Although we do have more family friendly shows like It's a Wonderful Life."

"Santaland Diaries" runs through Dec. 27 at Capital Stage, Riverboat Delta King, 1000 Front St. For more information visit the Capital Stage website.

Sac Yacht Club Christmas Lights Parade

2009-12-06T07:36:40Z

A colorful line-up of boats decorated with multi-colored lights toured the Sacramento River, starting from Sacramento Marina, past Old Sacramento, all the way to the Virgin Sturgeon and back.

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Parade of Lights attracts hundreds

2009-12-06T05:05:38Z

The First Annual Sacramento Parade of Lights began at 17th and Capitol on Saturday evening. An eclectic group of participants and onlookers crowded the mile-long route.

For larger-sized images please visit: anthonybento.com

Old fashioned Christmas

2009-12-05T05:33:18Z

Old fashioned Christmas

The Elk Grove Historical Museum's fourth annual Old fashioned Christmas features rooms lavishly decorated with period displays by local designers.

Museum Hours:
through December 20th on
Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 – 8:00pm
Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00pm

Santa will be at the Museum:
Fridays,Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 – 5:00pm.
Take-home photographs with Santa • $10.00

The museum's address is 9941 East Stockton Blvd., adjacent to the west entrance of Elk Grove Regional Park.

From Highway 99 south, take the Elk Grove Blvd. exit and go east to East Stockton Blvd.

Continue south along East Stockton Blvd. until you reach the main west entrance to the park. Our parking lot is immediately on the left.

For more information call: 916-685-8115 or email: stagestophotel@aol.com

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Sacramento Concerts, Music Events, and The Local Music Scene This Week

2009-12-04T21:58:11Z

Here are some of the concerts and music events happening this weekend and next week in the Sacramento area. For more detailed information on these events and many more go to the www.eMusiConnect.com homepage. Get out and enjoy!!

Concerts & Music Events This Week:

Through SUN 1/3: St Rose of Lima Park Holiday Carnival includes daily carnival games, rides, food, and live music & entertainment. Admission is $7Gen/$6 Under12. More information on www.Downtownsac.org/carnival.

FRI & SAT Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus presents Alleluia at All Saints Episcopal Church on 2076 Sutterville Road in Sacramento. Concert at 8PM $12ADV/$15Door

FRI: Sacramento Philharmonic presents A Soldier’s Tale at Guild Theatre on 2828 35th Street in Sacramento. Concert Begins at 8PM/Free.

SAT: Napalm & Noise Tour with All That Remains – The Devil Wears Prada – Story of the Year + more @ Empire on 15th & R Street in Sacramento. All Ages 2PM/$25

SUN: Sacramento Youth Symphony & The Saltarello Flute Ensemble at Sacramento Central Library on 828 I Street in Sacramento. Concert Begins at 1:30PM/Free

TUES: 12/8: Metallica & Machine Head @ Arco Arena. Concert at 7PM. TIX: $52-$72

THURS 12/10: Eddie Money – Benefit for Toys for Tots @ Harlows 9:30PM

The Local Club Scene:

FRI: Atapaz – Ras Matthews Band @ Blue Lamp 9PM/$7

FRI: Black Tar Cavier – Tough Luxury – Repeater – Astra Kelly @ Old Ironsides 9:30PM/$7

FRI: Hot Buttered Rum – Kate Gaffney @ Marilyns 9PM/$14

FRI: Split Lip Rayfield @ Harlows & The MoMo Lounge 10PM

FRI: F*CK Fridays w/DJ’s Shaun Slaughter – Jon Droll – Roger Carpio @ Town House $3 Before 11PM

FRI: MR December Band @ Torch Club 9PM/$7

FRI: Black Mackerel – Atom Bomb @ The Distillery 10PM/$5

FRI: Kevin Seconds – The Inversions – Sea of Bees @ Fox & Goose 9PM/$5

FRI: Jon Concuzzi @ JB’s Lounge 9PM/No Cover

FRI: Jackson Griffith – J.T. Baily – Earl Brooks @ Lunas 8PM/$6

FRI: Beauty & Bubbles Breast Cancer Benefit at Social Night Club 6-9PM $20 – After Party with DJ Gabe Xavier

FRI: DJ Mike Moss & DJ Billy Lane @ Park Ultra Lounge 10PM

SAT: The Clash’s London Calling 30th Anniversary Tribute (Album Played in full by Sacramento Local Musicians) @ Old Ironsides 9PM/$8

SAT: The N-Men Party – Ray Stevens – Lonely Kings @ Blue Lamp 9PM/$5

SAT: Latin Touch @ Harlows 10PM

SAT: Sac City Rollers Holiday Benefit with Rendezvous & Cool Beans @ Marilyns 9PM/$10

SAT: Voker Strifler @ Torch Club 9PM

All These events and many more can be found on www.eMusiConnect.com. Have a great weekend!

HOLIDAY GIFTS THAT BRING HELP AND HOPE

2009-11-25T17:47:37Z

HOLIDAY GIFTS THAT BRING HELP AND HOPE

November 25, 2009 – It is the season of decorations, winter, and holiday gifts. This year, the perfect way to

honor your friends and family is by ordering gifts that save the day all year long from the very first

American Red Cross Holiday Giving Catalog. Make a difference this holiday season with gifts that bring

help and hope to those at home or help military families at home or abroad. Order holiday gifts that:

·        Prepare a family to be strong when a loved one is deployed

·        Provide Personal Comfort Kits

·        Provide a phone card to help families connect after disaster strikes

·        Send one month of emergency supplies for a family

·        Purchase a bicycle for a volunteer in remote villages

·        Provide lifesaving vaccinations for children overseas

·        Toothbrushes, soap and more to families who have lost everything.

·        Hot meals and shelter in the wake of a national or international disaster

Order your free Red Cross 2009 Holiday Giving Catalog at 1-800-RED CROSS,

or visit http://www.RedCross.org/gifts.

About the American Red Cross:
The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends

on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian

mission. This year we responded to over 70,000 disasters nationwide, provided

500,000 nights of safe shelter, served over 18 million meals and snacks to disaster

victims, and prepared over 90,000 disaster volunteers to respond at a moment’s

notice. For more information about the American Red Cross,

please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at www.redcrosschat.org.

SacPress Photo | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

Sacramento Democrats Help to Build A Home

2009-11-24T05:51:09Z

On Saturday, over 30 Democrats and friends helped build a house for a Sacramento family. When the team arrived, they found an empty lot, with only a concrete foundation and piles of lumber that would soon become the walls of a home. By the end of the day, the structure of a home had replaced the empty lot. Event organizer, James Schwab said, "We helped to build a house but we also built friendships and relationships that will help us build a better Sacramento in the future."

The cold, foggy morning did not dampen the volunteers' spirits. After touring a recently completed nearby home, the team received instructions from site supervisor, Terry Hardin and set to work building a new, LEED certified home.

The first step was to remove the forms from the foundation. With hammers, crowbars and an eagerness to unleash a small amount of productive destruction, the sounds of wood cracking and forceful exertion could be heard from the job site. Once the wood was removed and piled neatly in the back, the team drilled holes in the base of the walls, so they could be bolted to the foundation.

The next step was to attach foam to the bottom of the walls and spread a paste along the foundation, adding additional insulation to the house and ensuring LEED compliance. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system promises that certified buildings will save energy and be sustainabie. The house the DPSC worked on will be LEED Gold certified.

Finally, the team was ready to raise the walls into place. Six or eight workers lined up to lift the walls and drop them onto the bolts. With such a large team of workers, the house was framed quickly and the team soon had to carefully walk new walls through fully formed hallways to their destination.

As the sun burned through the fog, the team enjoyed a well-earned lunch of pizza and Ethiopian dishes. Volunteer Naomi Amaha, a Young Democrat, said, “It was a moving experience to have been a part of providing a hardworking family with a new home and a new life. I was touched to work side by side with women who will soon see their own dreams for a home for their families fulfilled.”

A Grateful Family

The house is being built for Mrs. Belaynesh Feleke and her family. She has a young son and is expecting another child soon. She is excited that her children will grow up in a safe, comfortable home in Sacramento.

The Ethiopian immigrant was touched when she learned that the team working to build her home was volunteers. DPSC Community Outreach Chair, Silvia Landers, herself a Bolivian immigrant, reflected on the conversation they shared, “We agreed that we are truly lucky to be enjoying the blessings and opportunities that America offers. One of the very best things about America is the spirit of service, our great willingness to come together to help our friends, our neighbors, our community and people that we have not even met.”

Candidates Join In

DPSC Treasurer and candidate for the Board of Equalization, Chris Parker was among the first to arrive. He lifted and carried the lumber that would soon frame the house. Steven Buhrman, representing Dr. Ami Bera, a candidate for Congress in District 3, also joined in the efforts.

In addition , Ryan Chin, candidate for City Council in District 7, Dr. Richard Pan, a candidate for Assembly in District 5 and Cortez Quin, a Los Rios School Board Member and representative of Roger Dickinson, County Supervisor and candidate for Assembly in District 9 were there to lend moral support.

"Seeing the members of the Democratic Party of Sacramento County and Sacramento County Young Democrats at the Habitat for Humanity build demonstrates to me the importance of volunteerism to develop a community and reminds me why I am proud to a Democrat," said Chin. "Helping Habitat for Humanity is helping to fulfill the need to provide affordable housing, develop overlooked in-fill projects and create a sense of pride and community."

A Season of Hope

The Democratic Party is working to fulfill the holidy wish lists of certain organizations that have been hit hard by budget cuts and have seen an increase in need: Michael J. Castori Elementary School, My Sister's House, Safe Ground and the Sacramento and Elk Grove Food Banks. Interested individuals can donate here to help organizations that empower, educate and feed our community. Canned food, gently used clothes and school supplies can be delivered to the DPSC headquarters at 2729 P St, Sacramento, Monday through Friday 10-4 and Saturday 10-2.

Photos courtesy of:
Cliff Popejoy (c) 2009 / cap2053@sbcglobal.net
and Silvia Landers

2009 Community-wide Chanukah Party Honors Three Generations of Community Leadership

2009-11-23T21:23:10Z

From the distinct smell of cooking Latkas (potato pancakes), the sound of the spinning dreidal against the hard wood floor, to the timeless visual of the burning of the Menorah candles, Chanukah provides us sensual imaginary that is forever emblazoned in our minds and memory.

Derived from the Hebrew verb "חנך", the literal translation of “Hanukkah” means “to dedicate,” celebrating the Jews regained control of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Temple.

This year, as we commemorate the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE, we must also remember our local commitment, our dedication to our local community.

Honoring three generations of community leadership, the 2009 Community-wide Chanukah party will highlight the “passing of the torch” as we honor Lou Weintraub, Skip Rosenbloom and Brian Fischer for their commitment and dedication to our Sacramento community. Through quiet leadership and unwavering vision, our three honorees have contributed to the Medical, Land Development and Business landscapes which have helped shape not only the Jewish Community, but the Sacramento Region as a whole.

Lou Weintraub was Brooklyn born and went to CCNY where he majored in Chemistry. This was depression time and jobs were hard to find in New York, so off he went 2,000 miles away to El Paso, Texas, for a job in synagogue administration which he held for four years.
Eventually he went back to school, to the University of Pennsylvania, where he received his Master’s, just in time to enter the Army. There he spent the next four years honing his skill as a Clinical Psychologist.

Utica, New York was his first post-war job where he spent two years working as a Jewish Federation Executive and went to San Francisco where he spent eight years as a community organization consultant to Jewish Community organizations in the ten Western states and Western Canada.

Next, he moved to the San Francisco Jewish Federation where he worked for the next 23 years and was its Chief Executive Officer upon retirement. He later started his own consulting firm Weintraub Associates, Inc., specializing in fund-raising, community organization and non-profit management.

He served as consultant to the United Way of the Bay Area and managed a campaign for their new building. He was also consultant to the American Red Cross in San Francisco and served as its interim Chief Executive until a permanent CEO could be found.

His move to Sacramento came in small steps. Roslyn, his later to be wife, lived here and the commuting between San Francisco and Sacramento began. And it was during the commuting period that Lou found the time to earn a Certificate in Financial Planning from UC Davis.

Lou has been very active in the non-profit field since moving to Sacramento some eighteen years ago. He has delivered food to the home-bound for Meals-A-La Car and has been on the Boards of both the Community Services Planning Council and the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library. He is currently the Vice-Chair of the Emergency Food and Shelter Board, and is a congregant of Mosaic Law Congregation.

Dr. E. Scott Rosenbloom, better known as “Skip”, is a B’nai Israel congregant, a physician, a former health plan Medical Director, and a businessman, with a broad-based perspective on the health care system and expertise in the issues of quality and medical necessity for care. His experience encompasses a seven-year practice in occupational medicine and emergency medicine. He founded a managed care company, and he provides managing and consulting services for a wide range of regional businesses. Dr. Rosenbloom received his medical degree from Northwestern University in Chicago and his Master of Public Health degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Rosenbloom currently sits as the President of the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region.

Brian Fischer is co-founder, brand creator, and past Dir. of Business Development, Sales, and Marketing for downtowngrid.com.

After five years of building that well-known online-and-on-the-ground experience in hyper local marketing and community building, he has set new challenges behind the scenes as the current CEO & Chief Inspiration Officer of Playpen Incubator, where work is play, one of Sacramento's most dynamic media, marketing, and technology incubators that will launch new entities for years to come across the region and well beyond.

During its inaugural year, Brian devotes himself to the start-up and evolution of NextDor as a gateway Jewish social network online and through monthly events to develop the next generation of Jewish leadership across the 6-county region. He hopes that NextDor will prove replicable to other regions struggling to be relevant to Jewish young adults and professionals. He acts as co-organizer and brand creator of the Big Nosh for a Better Sacramento.

In addition, he facilitates monthly industry and community discussions for the Urban Design Alliance & American Institute of Architecture's 4th Wednesday Dialogues that fuel Sacramento's vision of its 25-year future.

He is known as an emerging entrepreneur in business innovation and social activist as founder of 100minds, a grassroots economic developer in Oak Park, predicated on his interpretation of Tikkun Olam.

His favorite title is Dad and he considers no challenge greater, sweeter, more human or more humbling than being a father to Violet and step-father to Ahrianna.

Join us as we honor three generations of Sacramento leaders at the Memorial Auditorium on December 10th, 2009 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. We will celebrate the MAGIC of the festival of lights with an exclusive performance by Lior Suchard, an internationally acclaimed “supernatural entertainer” who uses the power of the mind to dazzle and humor the crowd. In addition, new Sacramento King and the first Israeli player in the NBA, Omri Casspi, will join us to comment on his first month in the NBA and to sign autographs and take pictures with the fans in attendance.

For more information, to buy tickets and to see an exclusive community invite by Omri Casspi log on to www.jewishsac.org. Tickets: $36 (early bird price by December 6th) $40 (purchase after December 6th)

Midtown ice rink opens

2009-11-20T06:19:09Z

Rob Kerth has been getting plenty of Zamboni action the last few nights.

Midtown Business Association's executive director has been staying up late and going out in the early-morning dark to use the ice groomer to help create an ice-skating rink that opens at 10 a.m. Friday in Midtown.

"It's a tremendous amount of work to put up one of these portable rinks," Kerth said Wednesday. "I've been there until 4 in the morning at least five out of the last 10 days."

While most business association leaders might not even know how to spell "Zamboni," Kerth not only knows how to drive one, he owns one. And he has the license to drive it.

That's because until last year, Kerth owned Ice Unlimited, the company that built the holiday rink on a half-block of 20th Street next to J Street. Kerth and his father, William John Kerth, also designed 75 ice-skating rinks all over the country and on other continents as well.

The last rink they designed was at Squaw Valley's High Camp in 1990. The family also has owned Iceland Skating Rink since 1940.

The holiday rink was built in front of the MARRS Building this year due to conflicts at St. Rose of Lima Park, where a rink has operated every holiday for 18 years. The park was renovated and a Carnival of Lights is being held there this year.

Just two days before the Midtown rink was set to open, Kerth rushed to drop off sign materials at GW Print Media while Carlos Rios of Ice Unlimited scraped leaves off the new ice.

More than a dozen people helped build the rink and lay the ice. The project began Nov. 2, when the half block was closed. Skilled construction crews first built a wooden edge smack against street curbs.

They poured in gravel — 10 truckloads of it — and leveled it. Three-quarter-inch foam insulation went on top of the gravel to protect water mains and sewer pipes from freezing. A plastic sheet was laid on top of that and up the sides of the wooden edge, Kerth said.

Then, 69 pipes connected with u-bends on one end were laid. The 123-foot pipes were connected to headers or manifolds on the other end, Rios said.

About 1,800 gallons of saltwater is circulating now through three miles of pipes. Saltwater or "brine" is used because it freezes at a much lower point than fresh water.

The saltwater flows through bigger pipes into coolers inside a big trailer. That system chills the saltwater flowing out to 10 degrees, Rios said.

The saltwater warms up a few degrees outside, but the pipes stay cool enough to freeze the fresh water crews spray on the surface, little by little and layer by layer.

The water was sprayed from one end to the other and back again, forming layers until the ice is 4.25 inches thick. Most work took place between sundown and sunup, Kerth said.

The ice must be thick enough that a skate heel can't hit a pipe, Kerth said.

At 5,000 square feet, the 123-foot by 40-foot rink will be smaller than the St. Rose rink, which was 6,500-square feet.

Sponsors' names were set in the ice on mesh signs or around the rink. Major sponsors include Elk Grove-based Bell Brothers Heating and Air Conditioning, MARRS Building owner Heller Pacific, Harv's Car Wash, CBS13/CW31, California Pizza Kitchen and Sacramento City Councilmember Steve Cohn.

The rink will operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. all week. The rink will close at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Hours on Christmas Day will be noon to 6 p.m. Two to three hours of skating are $5 for kids, $8 for adults. Skate rentals are $2.

The street will be closed for 90 days. The rink will operate until Jan. 18. The rink can hold 200 skaters.

Locals have been talking with MBA about holding activities on a small stage at one end. Some have talked about a tropical hula hoop demo. Fire dancers want to perform next to the ice. Two traveling musicians have talked about informal sessions on Friday nights and other bands may play Saturday nights, Kerth said.

Security will watch the rink overnight.

"They're there to help people not get hurt," Kerth said. "This is not like ice in the Sierras. It is the slickest surface that can be produced."

Photos by Kati Garner. Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Shortage of Holiday Meat for Sacramento Food Closets

2009-11-18T18:25:47Z

Shortage of Holiday Meat for Sacramento Food Closets
Sacramento Emergency Foodlink is in need of Holiday Meat for Local Food Closets

November 18, 2009 Sacramento, CA – Local Food Closets and Agencies will be visiting Sacramento Emergency Foodlink (Foodlink) this Friday, November 20, 2009 to pick up their holiday meat. Sacramento agencies have submitted over 2,500 requests for holiday meat. Foodlink has enough holiday meat to fulfill 1,000 of these requests, leaving 1,500 recipients with no holiday meat.

We need your help! In response to the shortage, Sacramento Emergency Foodlink, the Official Food Bank of Sacramento County, will be collecting holiday meat donations through the end of the year to try to fulfill these requests. Any holiday meat, chickens, turkeys, and hams, can be donated at Foodlink located at 5800 Foodlink Street, Sacramento, CA 95828.

All donated holiday meat will be dispersed among the Food Closets throughout Sacramento County. The Food Closets and Agencies will then distribute the holiday meat to individuals in their communities.

For more information about Foodlink please visit www.foodlink.org.

Below is a list of Foodlink partner Food Closets and Agencies that visit Foodlink weekly for food and commodities:

Antioch Progressive Baptist Church
Arden Church of the Nazarene
Assoc. Of African American Single Mothers
Atonement Lutheran
Broadway Head Start
Capital City SDA
Carmichael SDA
Carmichael Presbyterian
Cathedral of Praise
Central Downtown Christian Solders
Collings Teen Center
Community Won
Cordova Food Locker
D&A Detox
Diogenes Youth Services
El Camino Baptist
Elevation of the Holy Cross
Elk Grove Food Closet Florin Meadows Head Start
Folsom Cordova Community Partnership
Fruitridge Head Start
—South County Services
Gateway Recovery Home for Women
Gathering Place/River of Life
Genesis Baptist
Gifted Healing Center
Gloryland Revival
Greater Grace
Heavenly Helpers
HOPEFUL Inc
Hopkins Park Head Start
House of Hope
Liberty Ministries
Lighthouse Samoan Assembly of God
Loaves and Fishes
Mustard Seed Faith Ministries
NBQ Fiji Mission
Nedra Court Head Start
New Covenant Church of the Nazarene
North Highlands Food Ministries
Now Faith Church of Deliverance
Options of Recovery
Orangevale SDA
Peacespeaker Ministries
People of Purpose
Phoenix Park Head Start
Phoenix Park/Franklin Villa
Pointman International
Quinn Cottages
Radiant Life
River City Community Services
Robla Elementary
Sacramento Bread of Life Ministries
Sacramento Food Bank
Sacramento Recovery Home
SAEHC
Salvation Army
Serna Center
Sierra Arden
Slavic Missionary Center
Southgate SDA
Southpointe Christian Center
South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership
St. John’s Women’s Shelter
St. Mathews
Sunrise Christian
SVDP Our Lady
SVDP Roseville
SVDP St. Charles
SVDP St. John’s
Teen Challenge
Temple of Deliverance
Traveler’s Aid
Trinity Life Center
Twin Lakes Food Bank
Union Gospel Mission
United States Mission
Victory Life Bible Church
Vietnam Vets of CA
Volunteers of America
Walnut Grove—South County Services
Wellspring Women’s Center
WIND Youth Center
World Fijian Fellowship

Some Assembly Required will show vintage toys at Railroad Museum

2009-11-18T05:29:48Z

If you miss the childlike innocence of Christmas, your chance to be a kid again will begin Friday.

The California Railroad Museum’s "Some Assembly Required" exhibit begins Nov. 17 and runs until Feb. 20, 2010. The event will showcase a variety of toys in its main lobby room.

“It’s not like our past exhibits because it doesn’t just focus on trains,” said museum librarian Cara Randall, who also researched the history of the toys on display.

Most of the toys are from the 1950s, with a few from the early 1960s and the oldest from the 1870s.

“Our oldest toy is a puzzle set that a shoe company gave away to customers as a promotional deal when they bought a pair of $3 shoes,” Randall said. “It is all made of wood and the idea is to put it together in order to make a train."

Aside from a few board games and puzzles, "Some Assembly Required" will focus on moving toys and vehicles, much like the modern Tonka manufacturer’s trucks.

“These are all from the 1920s-50s, and most are made from steel,” Randall said of the heavy equipment toys. “They will be in our ‘sandbox’ display, which is a place we made to replicate how kids would have played with them in the original time period they were made."

Though they may be sturdy and built to take a beating, the toys are strictly off limits to attendees.

“Many of these toys are so old that we’re afraid they may break if we let people play with them,” Randall said.

In time for the holiday season, the exhibit will also feature a window display from a Bullock's department store dating back to 1956. Bullock's stores were mostly located in California, with some in Arizona and Nevada.

“We decided to kick off Thanksgiving weekend with this display to put people in the holiday mood,” Randall said.

“The window display will feature toy trains running on tracks much like those seen in films from the time. I think we’re just trying to keep this exhibit as lighthearted as possible."

Preparations and research for the exhibit began in September.

“I learned so much about toys in a really short time,” she said. “It was my job to read about the history of what we have on display so we could match the time periods and make it uniform."

With all the research and work by Randall and the other employees, "Some Assembly Required" promises to be an entertaining experience for kids who may not play with toy trucks anymore to adults who looked forward to unwrapping them during the holidays, Randall said.

“It will be fun to show some younger people what toys were like before the video game era,” she said.

"Pay it Forward" Food Drive

2009-10-26T23:50:38Z

The holidays are quickly approaching and it's time to help those in need. Help make this Thanksgiving one families will cherish.

Pay it forward by donating food items at the following locations:

Sacramento City Hall - 915 I Street (All Floors)
Historic City Hall - 915 I Street (Main Lobby)
Community Development Dept. - 300 Richards Blvd (Main Lobby)
City of Sacramento Public Safety Building - 5770 Freeport Blvd (Suites 100 & 200)
Sacramento Metro Chamber - 1 Capitol Mall

The Drive runs until November 18th, 2009. Contact us at 808-6789 for more information.

Tipping Annually

2008-12-31T22:40:40Z

I like to consider myself a nice tipper. Whenever I buy coffee, the excess change goes straight to the tip jar. I always leave 15% or better in a restaurant, and 20% to my hairstylist after a haircut.

This routine occurs the whole year round. So what extra do I do to show them my appreciation at the end of the year?

I know my dad gives extra Christmas tips to the guy who cleans our pool every Friday and to the family that delivers our daily Sacramento Bee. When I lived in a dorm I left Christmas gifts for the custodians who cleaned my bathroom. And I would always get a nice holiday gift from the families that I regularly baby-sat for.

It's customary to leave annual end-of-the-year tips for the people who do regular services all year round to show them your appreciation. But who exactly do you tip? Are you required to tip everyone who has ever done a service for you?

There is no set way to decide who to tip and who not to tip, or even what to tip. Here are a few tipping tips from Kiplinger, MSNBC, and Martha Stewart.

Who do you tip every year? Do you have a certain system for tipping? Is there anyone not listed above that you annually tip?

Loaves and Fishes Benefit Concert

2008-12-09T01:43:27Z

Looking for a way to give back that involves music? Look no further than Fifth String Music Store this Friday, December 12th at 7 p.m.. The music store will be hosting a benefit concert to raise money and supplies for Loaves and Fishes.

This will be the 6th annual concert that the store has put on to benefit Loaves and Fishes. Ross Hammond, a local musician, came up with the idea after he started working as an instructor for Fifth String. Hammond had spent previous years volunteering for Loaves and Fishes during the holidays and wanted to do more for the organization.

Last year the concert raised $1200 in donations. All of the artists performing have some connection to the Fifth String school or store. John Green (owner of 5th String Music Store), Ross Hammond, Peter Kett, Steven Ward, The Inversions and others will be performing.

Concert-goers can expect to hear mostly folk, rock, bluegrass and jazz music. According to Hammond, the show will be very intimate and mellow.

Admission is either a $15 minimum donation or an item from the Loaves and Fishes wish list.

General wish list items include:

Toilet paper
New or gently used sleeping bags and blankets
Regional Transit passes
Toothpaste and toothbrushes
Small toiletries
Back packs
Band aids
Combs and brushes

For adults, requests include:

Gloves
Large to extra large sweatshirts
Reading glasses without prescription lenses
New underwear
Large to 3X sweat suits
Tube socks.

For children, you can donate:

Baby bottles
Diapers
Non-soy baby formula with iron
Baby food
Sweat suits
Knit hats and gloves

For more information on Loaves and Fishes, visit www.sacloaves.org or e-mail Ross Hammond at ross@rosshammond.com if you have any questions.

Fifth String Music Store is located at 930 Alhambra Blvd (corner of J St.).

The image above is from the Sacramento Loaves and Fishes Web site.

Sutter's Fort Christmas tree lighting ceremony

2008-12-07T08:41:55Z

It took about thirteen extra seconds, but at the end of a rousing countdown Midtown got its own Christmas Tree.

Here is the video of the countdown.

Tonight the Midtown Business Association, The City of Sacramento, and California State Parks all helped light up the beautiful Christmas tree at Sutter's Fort on the corner of 26th and K streets.

Vice Mayor Steve Cohn, California state assemblymember Dave Jones, and Mayor Kevin Johnson all had kind words for the crowd.

There was plenty of cheer in the crowd. Sometimes living in Midtown it feels like there are no families or kids in the nighborhood, but at this event families and children were front and center. The kids running around playing and festive atmosphere warmed my heart and the tree was beautiful.

J street will also be lit up for the holiday season. To read more visit the Midtown Business Association myspace page.