"Can you believe this is Sacramento?" Saturday night, at Neo-Crocker 2010, I heard many variations on this theme, but the first time I heard it stands out.       The awestruck reveler voicing the sentiment? None other than Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson.       It was easy to understand his, and others’, disbelief. At first blush, Neo-Crocker certainly seemed to be a party more suited to New York or Los Angeles than our own fair hamlet, yet here it was, at Third and O, not on Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive.       But this was better.       It was like a New York party, but without the pretension.       It was like an L.A. party, but without the disingenuousness.       This was a party f

Walking into the newly-expanded Crocker Art Museum will be a moment any smart Sacramentan will remember. I’ve visited a few times now, before and during the construction, and at Tuesday’s media preview. And each time, I said what I think a lot of people will say: This is in...Sacramento? What that says about our ongoing and really pretty dumb inferiority complex is beside the point. Let’s focus on the positive: Sacramento is about to get a gorgeous, and dare I say it, “world-class” new museum, full of beautiful art, exquisitely displayed, with a “backstage” infrastructure that is just as impressive. For a detailed look, visit Brandon Darnell’s story here.  Great museums help make great

Attendees to the Neo-Crocker 2010: A Modern Culture Party will celebrate the opening of the New Crocker with art experiences, DJs, dancing, performances and more. Presented by Bank of America, Neo-Crocker 2010 will be held in the new Teel Family Pavilion, existing Victorian buildings and exterior courtyards on Saturday, October 16, from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Acclaimed performer Rjd2 will make his first Sacramento appearance at Neo-Crocker 2010. His latest album, “The Colussus,” was released in January 2010. The artist is well known for his tracks for various films, commercials and television shows, including “Mad Men“ and “CSI.” Additional dynamic activities planned for the event include: a p