Newest articles on The Sacramento Press written by Rachael Lankford

Sacramento Theatre Company: Dial M For Murder

2012-03-05T19:37:06Z

When you "Dial M for Murder" you dial a hit. What great fun! Yes, a murder mystery can have suspense and still have laughs.

The Sacramento Theatre Company has brought back a well-made play from the 1950s, later to be a Hitchcock film, and one of his best. The big star of this evening of fun and mayhem is Matt K. Miller as an aging tennis player afraid of losing his meal ticket wife. On stage Miller looks nothing like his all-American lobby photo so it’s a surprise to see him as a charming Englishman who is so manipulative and villainous.

The overly naive wife, Mrs. Wendice, is played by Jackie Vanderbeck. Poor Jackie is stuck with the simpering, helpless female of the time, but makes the best of it. She starts the play in a white dress with small black polka dots. Oh so fifties, and the hair is in a half page boy with rolls on the sides leaving a space for a hat. The hat comes on when it is time to leave the apartment (we can overlook the lack of gloves since they are just another thing for an actor to drop). Mrs. Wendice then appears in a lavender dress with a peplum. Oh my! Yes, the peplum is back—see page 305 of InStyle, March 2012, with Jennifer Aniston on the cover. A peplum is a short ruffle from the waist over a longer skirt, originally designed to hide Barbara Stanwick’s low slung rump.

And there is Barry Hubbard as the American pulp mystery writer for television. Barry towers over Miller and looks more the athletic type filling the stage quite nicely. It’s to Miller’s credit that he “James Cagney’s it out” with the taller man.

Now we come to the sleazebag Swan. Scott Divine with his thin moustache is the ultimate slime bag. I do love these characters. It’s shades of the Kray Brothers, but poor Swan is not as successful. Swan comes on stage to sell a car not belonging to him and within minutes has seen a way to make money and a killing—the wife. Poor Mrs. Wendice—now it’s two against her: her husband and a good-for-nothing killer.

It's a super play! Everything is clear and cleverly presented. Written by Frederick Knott, the story is certainly entertaining. Director Greg Alexander is strong at keeping a pace, yet making each plot point. Bravo!

There are only "…five important motives for murder: fear, jealousy, money, revenge, and protecting someone you love." All five are represented in the various colorful cast, but you must see it to find for yourself.

Even the usually thick-headed and indifferent police see through the plot. Gary Alan Wright comes on stage full force as the Police Inspector. When we first meet him he sees the case as open and shut. Ahhhh, but later the Inspector comes back with new views of the scene. We in the audience loved it. Thank you Gary the actor—you are so Wright, I mean so right. The big laugh of the play was Officer Thompson, played by Aaron Hitchcock, when he exits with evidence on his arm. You have to see it to understand.

It was the attention to detail that really set the mood for the story. Hats off to costumer McKayla Butym for bringing back memories with appropriate period attire. Especially notable was the 1950s classic gray suit back for the trial time of Mrs. Wendice. "The Gray Suit" was best seen on Kim Novak in Vertigo, but great on stage as well. The set was lovingly designed by Mims Mattair. Red walls—so fifties—and leaves stenciled as an upper border. Perfect. So "the fashion" for these sort of "now" people. Jessica Bertine set mood after mood with well-timed lighting. So much could have gone wrong, and didn't. And there is a Sound Designer, too. William Myers was right on cue with every phone call—and it's the old rotary phone, too.

What a good time in a wonderful theatre space. I got there early, as usual, so had a super chocolate chip cookie for only $1. Not a bad night out for the money. It’s probably even cheaper than a movie once all the over-priced snacks are added in. Maybe it's time to go back to theatre.

A final note: at long last a Hairstylist is on a theatre Board of Directors. We know theatre is business, but theatre should also be the right hair style for a time period. How many times have we seen 1960 and later flowing hair on a Roaring Twenties lady, or on a 1940s female? Thanks to Neil SooHoo for watching from your Board position for these humorous mistakes.

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Written by Ruth Chambers, Visitor Center Concierge

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Dial M for Murder runs through March 25. Tickets are still available.

The Sacramento Theatre Company's season of "mystery, music, and mayhem" continues with Barrymore (March 28-May 6) and Little Shop of Horrors (April 25-May 20).

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

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Brazilian Center brings culture of Brazil to Sacramento

2012-02-21T23:24:53Z

This Saturday marks the 2nd year of the colorful and energetic Brazilian Carnaval celebration. Behind the scenes of this celebration is the Brazilian Center for Cultural Exchange of Sacramento, a local non-profit organization striving to assist at-risk children and bring the community together through culture, education, and social justice.

At the time of the Center’s founding in 2010 there were about 4,000 Brazilians living in the Sacramento area, yet, Executive Director Saara Burga says, “Brazilians had to constantly travel great distances in order to stay in touch with social life, entertainment, translation services, documentation, and their Brazilian Culture.” Seeing a need for these services in Sacramento, the Center was founded, and local Brazilians no longer need to leave the city to obtain them.

The Center also serves as a catalyst for exposing the Sacramento community to the traditions of Brazilian culture, through large events such as Carnaval, as well as many other classes and programs. Burga says, “We would love for Sacramento to catch on the spirit of Carnaval, or different styles of Brazilian music and dance.”

At the event this Saturday, Brazilian performers, dancers, and musicians will convene for a culture-filled evening. Attendees will be able to take in the sights and sounds of Brazil right here in Sacramento while enjoying tasty food and drink (including Brazil’s national cocktail—caipirinhas)! Now in its second year, the Carnaval is implementing many new aspects, including electing a Sacramento King and Queen of Carnaval.

When they’re not busy pulling together Carnaval, the Brazilian Center organizes community potlucks and get-togethers, teaches Portuguese classes, and offers dance classes in a number of styles, including zumba, belly dance, afro dance, and samba. They also offer several programs, including a Teens at Risk Program and Teen Single Mother’s Program. The Center contains a store as well, which stocks Brazilian grocery products, cultural items, and apparel.

Stay in touch with the Brazilian Center through their website & Facebook.

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Find more detail on this Organization & event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

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Mardi Gras in Old Sacramento

2012-02-21T20:45:11Z

Happy Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, as it’s usually known! While today is the official day, celebrations started ahead of time this past weekend. On Saturday, Old Sacramento came alive with the Old Sacramento Mardi Gras event, organized by the Old Sacramento Business Association. Participating locations provided various amenities to ticket holders—including free cover, food & drink specials, and live music (with the occasional strand of beads thrown in).

It was great fun to see the streets of Old Sacramento alive and bustling, and attendees getting into the mood with elaborate masks, beads, and Mardi Gras colors. After bopping around from spot to spot for a bit—stopping in at Delta King, River City Saloon, and Fat City—we settled in for the evening at Café New Orleans (an extra-appropriate spot, given the holiday’s Southern origins!), where we were directed downstairs to the Mark Twain Lounge for the Mardi Gras celebration. After picking up a Dixie Beer at the bar, we seated ourselves, front row, at one of the red-table-clothed tables and got lost in the sounds of Sabor Jazz—a Sacramento group with a funky, upbeat style—until finally deciding to call it a night. All-in-all a fun, festive evening, bringing the colorful celebration of Mardi Gras to Old Sacramento.

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Photographs by Sacramento photographer Nicholas Wray

Celebrate Mardi Gras & Presidents' Day this Weekend in Sacramento

2012-02-16T22:56:32Z

Not only does this weekend hold the majority of Sacramento's Mardi Gras events (Mardi Gras is officially Tuesday, February 21 this year), it is also a three-day-er for many, given Monday's Presidents' Day Holiday. If your weekend's not already action-packed, or if you're looking to add a little bit more to your plate, here are a few viable options.

If you're the type to get up and dance, head to The Park Ultra Lounge for their Mardi Gras Weekend Celebration, featuring two nights of decorations, masks, and beads galore. Friday night features DJ Scene and Saturday celebrates the 150th Anniversary of Bacardi Rum.

If you prefer to hop around from spot to spot, there are two great pub crawls organized for Saturday night—the Mardi Gras Bloc Party in The Sutter District and Old Sacramento Mardi Gras, which features live music, entertainment, and drink specials at nearly a dozen Old Sacramento bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Perhaps stop in at Marilyn’s on K on your way between the two for their Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball (be sure to wear your carnival mask & Mardi Gras attire)!

And, since you'll get to sleep in on Monday, consider taking in a Sunday evening Music or Comedy performance, see a film, or get a little lesson in Sacramento brewing history prior to Sacramento Beer Week.

On Monday afternoon, take the kiddilies to Power Balance Pavilion to see Disney on Ice: Toy Story 3 which has two performances (Noon & 4pm) that day, or take your time strolling through one of Sacramento's many Museum or Gallery exhibits.

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Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Valentine's Weekend Events in Sacramento

2012-02-09T20:29:23Z

Looking for a special way to turn your Valentine’s Day into a memorable holiday? There are myriad options out there, but here are a few highlights for the upcoming weekend:

For the foodie (Fri & Sat 6pm): Let GrubCrawlUSA's Pre-Valentine's Sexy Singles Mingle & Consensual Couples Crawl take you on a taste-tastic tour of Sacramento's finest dining spots. Whether you’re single or paired up, there’s a spot for you—Friday is aimed toward singles & Saturday to couples (so, presumably, if you find someone on Friday you can make a return tour on Saturday!).

For the single lady (Fri 9pm): Stroll Now 100.5’s Mile of Men at The Park Ultra Lounge and take your pick from the area's most eligible bachelors. Stay for the afterparty and get your photo snapped in the photobooth manned by Nicholas Wray.

For the sporty sort (Sat 7am): Rise & shine Saturday morning and get your jog on at Race for Justice: 9th Annual Valentine Run, which begins from Country Club Plaza. This fun run has a kids' race component, plus a costume contest for dogs & humans alike!

For the musical type (Sat 10pm): Make your way to Vega's Nightclub & Sports Bar this Saturday night for Valentine's Heartbreak Hotel. Not only you will you enjoy live music by Barrel Fever and the Fortunite Few, you'll also get to see a live burlesque show and participate in a free pin-up photoshoot by Bad Bones Photography.

For the animal lover (Sun 10am-4pm): Head over to the Sacramento Zoo Sunday afternoon for I Heart Sacramento Zoo and watch the animals receive their Valentines, plus participate in informative talks and peruse activity tables.

For the anti-Valentine (Sun 7:30pm): Movies on a Big Screen notes that around Valentine's Day, they like to screen "some kind of movie that might make your date a little uncomfortable with your idea of romance." This Sunday evening, they feature the 1923 silent classic The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which, they claim, is a romantic movie (if you remove all of the violence, murder, mayhem, and obsession, that is).

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Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Keep the arts in your heart this Wednesday

2012-02-07T18:18:48Z

At this Wednesday’s Hearts for the Arts Benefit Event (6pm-9pm at Alex Bult Gallery) artists, community leaders, and Sacramento’s finest convene to celebrate and raise funds for Any Given Child Sacramento. This initiative, spearheaded by For Arts’ Sake, strives to ensure that art experiences are accessible to every child in grades K-8.

As a part of this fun, alternative event you can treat your Valentine to a night like no other, all while supporting a great cause and enjoying an evening of art, music, cocktails, and refreshments.

Esteemed auctioneer David Sobon will auction off “heart-works” donated donated by over 24 local artists, including Raphael Delgado, Shane Grammer, and Micah Crandall-Bear. Live music will be provided throughout the evening by Clemón.

All proceeds from the $30 tickets ($40 at the door) go to support Any Given Child.

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Experience Sacramento Museum Day this Saturday

2012-02-02T00:17:59Z

Want to check out some of Sacramento’s wonderful museums but have not yet had the time or budget to do so? Mark your calendars for this Saturday and head out to the 14th Annual Sacramento Museum Day.

A record 28 museums are participating this year, including newcomers the Center for Contemporary Art and the Sacramento Children’s Museum. 26 participating museums are offering free admission all day (10am-5pm; last admission at 4pm), and the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town are offering half-price admission in order to offset parking control and security costs.

Sacramento has a wide variety of Museums featuring everything from art, science, and history to children’s exhibits, wildlife, and more.

If you’re having a difficult time narrowing down the options, take these suggestions into consideration:

In order to have sufficient time at each spot, it is recommended to visit no more than two or three Museums for the day
Many of the Museums are within walking distance of one another so, if you plan accordingly, you can park only once and still make your way to two or three spots. Check out the map.
If you will be taking your car, be sure to read over the Parking Suggestions to make sure your day goes smoothly and you avoid any tickets or fines.
If you don’t want to drive, but don’t live within walking distance, consider taking Regional Transit! A great way to avoid the hassle of parking on a crowded day.
Keep in mind that Sacramento Museum Day is a very popular event and that, due to safety reasons, some museums need to limit the number of admissions.
Consider attending Museums that are less well known to avoid crowds at some of the more popular spots (such as the Sacramento Zoo, Railroad Museum, and Fairytale Town) and to check out something you may not otherwise have gone to see!

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Rachael Lankford is the Managing Calendar Editor for Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Saturday: Verge Ahead into 2012

2012-01-19T20:28:22Z

Verge Center for the Arts has remained a consistent hub of creativity for Sacramento since they first opened their doors as a private art gallery in 2009. In 2010 they expanded into their current space—a 22,000 square foot warehouse in Downtown Sacramento—and organized as a nonprofit. Now home to 30 resident studio artists, plus extensive gallery and event space, Verge continues their mission of exposing Sacramento to the contemporary art and artists of the region.

2011 was a particularly big year for Verge. Among many other achievements, they had a more-than-successful Kickstarter campaign ($9,165 raised on a $7,500 goal!), won the First Place award of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission and Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s Arts Innovation Fund, and Executive Director Liv Moe was named Arts Executive of the Year at the Arts & Business Council’s “Prelude to the Season” event.

This Saturday, celebrate Verge’s 2011 successes and help them “Verge Ahead” into 2012 at the “Verge Ahead Success Party” (6pm-Midnight at Verge, 625 S Street, Sacramento). If you have yet to check out this innovative local arts spot, there’s no better time than this!

In addition to exploring the studios of resident artists, you’ll be able to play “Art Golf” (each hole is specially designed by a Verge artist, and be sure to try for a hole-in-one at the Sac365 hole!), get your photo taken at the photobooth for instant sharing of the fun on your social media networks, see live performances by a multitude of bands (Mom, Christine Shields, Fine Steps, Gentleman Surfer, and Ganglians), and dance the night away to tunes spun by DJ Scott Soriano and DJ Hailey. If that’s not enough, arts collective Future Art Notables will take over the temporary gallery with their installation “Assorted Spaces”, which allows viewers to walk among the pieces, fully immersing themselves in the art.

And, don’t worry, tasty beer is provided for the evening by local brewers Ruhstaller, as well as coffee from Insight Coffee Roasters (each $15 ticket includes two refreshments!). Plus, receive free giveaways throughout the night, and a little something extra if you're among the first 50 to arrive.

Come enjoy this soiree and celebrate Sacramento’s burgeoning arts community.

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Ways to spend your MLK, Jr. Day in Sacramento

2012-01-12T21:22:34Z

Not everyone has this coming Monday off (alas!) but for those that do, Sacramento has a few options for using your day off to celebrate the man it honors—Martin Luther King, Jr.

MLK365 is presenting the 31st Annual March for the Dream, which includes a peaceful march (choose to begin from the Oak Park Community Center, Grant High School, or Sacramento City College) that convenes on the Sacramento Convention Center for an afternoon of celebration. There will be something for all ages and interests—vendor booths, kids’ crafts & activities, entertainment, an art village featuring local artists, and more.

The Crocker Art Museum is opening their doors for their free Holiday Monday program. Monday’s event—“MLK Day – Lift Every Voice”—is a music-infused celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr, with regional choirs performing throughout the day. The event concludes with a screening of Not in Our Town, a documentary about the movement to stop hate.

If you think both those celebrations look fun—and you're also looking to listen to some jazz—consider signing up for Sacramento Wine & Nightlife Tours' MLK Day Experience & Smooth Jazz Celebration. This event meets for the March in front of Sac City College, attends the Celebration at the Convention Center, and then shuttles you to "Lift Every Voice" at the Crocker. From there, the shuttle will take you out to the Old Sugar Mill to enjoy musical performances by Tony Elder & Westbound Groove, Cynthia Douglas, DJ Rock Bottom, and more. This is a great way to make the most of your day!

Also open for the Holiday Monday, though not MLK-themed, is the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center, which is celebrating the opening weekend of their new Blast from the Past Exhibit. Kids can enjoy a day of hands-on fun learning all about dinosaurs! There’s a Dinosaur Train creative play area, dinosaur bone replicas on display, a “dino-nest” photo opportunity, and a dinosaur diorama craft.

If you are looking to give back with your day off, consider one of Hands On Sacramento’s volunteer opportunities for MLK, Jr. Day of Service.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Say hello to 2012 at these New Year's Eve nightlife events

2011-12-29T22:06:32Z

Can you belive 2011 is practically over? New Year's Eve is this Saturday and if you're still searching for plans, we here at Sacramento365.com have gathered up some activities for you.

If you're looking for a great, family friendly New Year's Eve experience, complete with fireworks, be sure to head to Old Sac for the New Year's Eve Sky Spectacular.

But, for those of you who are looking for some adult celebrations--no kids allowed--here're a few options to greet 2012 (see even more in our Top 10 & Holiday Event Section). Sacramento nightlife is kickin'!

1. New Year's 2012 Bash with Mickey Avalon: Ace of Spades, 7pm
Hailing from Hollywood, Mickey Avalon is known to the world as one of the hottest underground American rappers and has become a fan-favorite.

2. New Year's Eve Gala: Chicago: Davis Musical Theatre Company, 8pm
Ring in the New Year with Broadway favorite: Chicago. The Tony Award winning performance of the “truth-is-stranger-than-fiction” play is opening for a special preview, accompanied by a catered buffet dinner, champagne, dessert, party favors, a live DJ, and more.

3. Townhouse New Year's Eve Party: TownHouse Lounge, 8pm-2am
On the 365th day of the year, The Townhouse presents a very special NYE party with some of your favorite DJs on both floors: Electro/House/Progressive with Mike Diamond & My Cousin Vinny & Indie/Pop/Dance with The X-GVNR (Pop Freq, Get Wet) & Jon Droll.

4. NYE at the Hyatt Regency: Hyatt Regency Sacramento, 8pm-2am
Start the evening with a cocktail in the acoustic lobby lounge listening to the sounds of Quinn Hedges and Ryan Hernandez, then enjoy a gourmet four course meal in Dawson’s, followed by the big event in Sacramento’s largest nightclub with DJ Rated R and the Cheeseballs.

5. New Year's Eve 2012: The Golden Bear, 8pm
What better way to welcome 2012 then spending your evening partying it up at The Golden Bear? There is no better way! Live and direct--DJ Crook on the 1s and 2s spinning all your favorite joints and jams. Cheers with a champagne toast at Midnight, plus take advantage of New Year's Eve drink specials all throughout the night.

6. NYE 2012 Celebration: MiX Downtown, 8:30pm
Celebrate the end of 2011 and the start of 2012 inside Sacramento's favorite rooftop nightclub and lounge, which is also celebrating its third year of amazing parties and fabulous events. Complimentary champagne at Midnight, party favors, and lush decorations get you in the mood for a hands in the air night of dancing and partying with friends.

7. New Year's Eve Bash with John Nemeth: Torch Club, 9pm
John Németh is a rising blues star; a singer steeped in the tradition and reminiscent of B.B. King, Ray Charles and Junior Parker, and a harmonica player of riveting intensity and virtuosity.

8. NYE Dance Party with DJ Larry Rodriguez: Fox & Goose, 9pm
DJ Larry Rodriguez's Dance Party celebrates its 15 year anniversary on New Year's Eve with round, warm sould & funk. DJ Larry Rodriguez is bringing some of Sacramento's favorite dance party kings Mike C. and Tim Matranga to round out the night.

9. Roaring '20s NYE: Crescent Club, 9pm
Take a trip back in time to America's glorious Prohibition Era as you celebrate the New Year with gangsters, glamour, and gambling. The evening’s entertainment includes a Speakeasy Casino, Ballroom Swing Dancing, Gypsy Jazz, Blues, & Cabaret, featuring live music by the notorious Crescent Katz.

10. D30 New Year's Eve with DJ Serafin: District 30, 9pm-3am
In addition to the innovative sound of DJ Serafin, enjoy a huge balloon drop, dazzling confetti rain, complimentary champagne toast at Midnight, delectable confections at Midnight, and complimentary party favors.

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Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Rachael Lankford is the Managing Calendar Editor for Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

The Beatles are in town! Broadway Sacramento's "Rain" delights--for one week only.

2011-12-28T18:27:09Z

Travel back through time with Broadway Sacramento's Rain, a Beatles tribute show that began as an offshoot of the Broadway production of Beatlemania. Rain ran on Broadway for 300 shows and 8 preview performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in New York City and has also been a hugely successful national tour for years. Together longer than the Beatles, Rain has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance.

This multi-media show begins by taking us away to a time when four young men stepped on stage at the Ed Sullivan show and changed music as we knew it. Rain chronicles the journey America took with the Beatles, showing us footage of screaming fans, interviews, and historical happenings that changed us all.

Looking around the room, I saw three generations of Beatles fans, all singing along, dancing, and screaming like it was 1964. When it came time for the last number to be performed, I didn’t want the show to end. And neither did anyone else, Rain went on to perform two encores.

This show is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles. Who knows, you might just learn a new song or two!

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles continues at the Community Center Theater through January 1. Show times: Wed 8pm; Thurs 2pm & 8pm; Fri 3pm & 8pm; Sat 2pm & 8pm; Sun 2pm.

The Broadway Sacramento season continues with West Side Story (Jan 24-Jan 29), Mamma Mia! (March 13-March 18), Million Dollar Quartet (April 17-April 22), and Wicked (May 23-June 17).

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Written by Sacramento365.com Intern, Aimee Steffen
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Christmas celebrations, Sacramento-style

2011-12-22T00:43:49Z

As always, Sacramento steps up to the plate with holiday events of all sorts. At Sacramento365.com, we see a lot of events come through the site every day. Though there are myriad options in our Holiday Event section, we've narrowed down the list to 10 to get help you pick your Christmas Eve & Christmas Day festivities.

Christmas Eve Events:
Sure, the night before Christmas should be spent snuggled in bed waiting for Santa Claus, but why not get out and about during the day. Here are some options to keep you entertained around town:

1. Free Admission at Fairytale Town & Sacramento Zoo:
FTT 10am-2pm; Zoo 10am-1:30pm
Treat the kiddies to a day out while both Fairytale Town & the Sacramento Zoo offer free admission to all guests. The Zoo encourages participating in their pajama party, so you needn’t even change

2. Downtown Holiday Ice Rink:
St. Rose of Lima Park, 10am-6pm
Located outdoors near Westfield Downtown Plaza, the Downtown Holiday Ice Rink is the perfect holiday experience for the young and young at heart.

3. It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play:
Capital Stage, 11am
Inspired by the classic American film of the same title, It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience.

4. Holiday Film Screenings: It’s a Wonderful Life:
Crest Theatre, 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm
If you can’t make it to Cap Stage’s live performance (see above), you can still catch the original film rendition live on the big screen at the historic Crest Theatre.

5. Theatre of Lights:
Old Sacramento, 6pm & 7:30pm
A symphony of lights, sounds, and visual effects will take the audience back to a time when the beloved poem "The Night Before Christmas" was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857.

Christmas Day Events:
Looking to entertain friends & family in town after your regular traditions are over? Or just looking to get out of the house after so much family time? Sacramento doesn’t disappoint. Here are a few options for

1. Christmas Brunch:
Hyatt Regency, 10am-3pm
Enjoy this holiday season with all of the trimmings. Join for a bountiful buffet brunch featuring breakfast items and traditional holiday favorites.

2. Christmas Day Supper Cruise:
Empress Hornblower, 3:30pm-6:30pm
Join Hornblower for Christmas Day with your family and celebrate the season with a delicious meal, relax and enjoy the holiday. The Cruise includes traditional holiday dishes, festive music, and beautiful views of the Sacramento River.

3. Bah Humbug!:
MiX Downtown, 8:30pm-2am
Get out from under your tree and continue the holiday partying at this special Sunday Circus night. Spend the evening with your "other" family at Mix Downtown!

4. Christmas with Arden Park Roots:
Harlow’s, 9pm
Join reggae/rock/punk band Arden Park Roots for a festive Christmas show.

5. Asylum:
Barcode Nightclub, 9pm-1:30am
Featuring resident DJ Bryan Hawk, Asylum is a night of the best cutting edge goth, industrial, nu-darkwave, EBM dance music.

Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Rachael Lankford is the Managing Calendar Editor for Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

2nd Saturday weekend doesn't disappoint

2009-07-09T21:14:51Z

Ahhh, yes, it's that time of the month again folks. Second Saturday weekend that is! Although there are great things going on all month long throughout Sacramento, many locals will argue that the second weekend of the month in Sacramento is their favorite time to venture out on the town. In addition to the Art Walk on Saturday, this weekend has a plethora of cool things to check out. And for Sactown, mid-July is looking to bring us some relatively mild weather to boot! Take a look to see if any of these events can lure you to venture out...try something different this week!

Thursday 7.9

Food & Wine: California Grape & Gourmet -- $50 ($70 day of)
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
When: 5:30-8:30pm
Why: A charity event produced by the California State Fair to benefit the Friends of the California State Fair Scholarship Fund. This exquisite wine and food tasting event features more than 600 award winning wines and delicious food from nearly 90 of Northern California's best restaurants. Take home a commemorative wine glass and maybe even purchase some of the award winning wines! There will be also be live musical entertainment, an assortment of exceptional cheeses and award winning micro brews (Commercial Cheese and Commercial Craftbrew Competition winners) to enjoy. This is touted by many Sacramentans as “The Best Wine Event in Sacramento” as well it should be!
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Music/Nightlife: DJ Kaskade -- $17 (presale)
Where: The Park Ultralounge
When: 8pm
Why: If you missed him last time, you should really try to make this show. I am not much of an electronic music fan these days but Kaskade really knows how to mix some good music! He’s not your average DJ…
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Music: Beyonce -- $20.75+
Where: Arco Arena
When: 7:30pm
Why: She’s not the best paid celebrity in America under the age of 30 for nothing! Her big debut to fame was back in 1993 (!) with Destiny’s Child, but only after she broke away as a solo act did she really come out of her shell. She is now married to rap superstar Jay-Z and makes over $80 million a year! See what the hype is all about while she’s in town- you’re not likely to leave disappointed.
Details

Music/Nightlife: Cheese & Olive Oil Pairing -- $45
Where: Cest le Cheese
When: 6:30-8:30pm
Why: Decadent pairings inspired by ancient times. Explore the rich world of artisan cheeses paired with extra virgin olive oils. Laura Martinez, cheese and olive oil connoisseur and author, guides you through California's finest offerings while dipping into timeless and surprising food pairings. Perfectly accompanied by sparkling wine.
Details

Music/Museum: Night at the Museum featuring the Pyronauts -- $Free w/ admission ($8/7/4)
Where: California Auto Museum
When: 6-9pm
Why: Don’t miss your chance every Thursday during the summer to cruise down to the CA Auto Museum, enjoy the evening, & experience car culture as it comes alive! This Thursday enjoy live music from The Pyronauts, a local surf band who specializes in the sounds of Dick Dale and The Del Tones, The Surfaris, The Ventures and more! Take some time to browse around the museum’s current exhibit “Carved Elegance: Woodies, Wheels, and Waves” while you’re there.
Details: http://www.sacramento365.com/event/detail/39351

Friday 7.10

Music: Concert in the Park -- $Free
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 5pm-9pm
Why: This week features Kate Gaffney & Boulevard Park along with West of Next, Christopher Fairman & The Stilts! If you live and Sacramento and have still not checked out a CIP, you are missing out! Its free family fun that the adults can enjoy too! Afterwards, don’t forget about the weekly concert crawl (Post Concert Specials!!): Show your concert wristband and receive specials at local bars and restaurants. Receive special happy hour deals on food and drinks when you ask for the Concert Crawl Deal.
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Music Festival: Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival --$
Where: Sleeptrain Amphitheatre
When: 2:15pm
Why: The most electrifying carnival to ever hit the summer concert circuit, is back…and bigger. MARILYN MANSON and SLAYER will top the bill on this year’s highly anticipated tour kicking off here in Sacramento! Featuring many of rock’s heaviest bands: Marilyn Manson and Slayer headline joined by Bullet for my Valentine and a special guest; also Trivium, All That Remains, God Forbid and the Jägermeister Battle of the Bands winner, Cannibal Corpse, Job for a Cowboy, Behemoth, Black Dahlia Murder and Whitechapel. In addition to catching a slew of “speaker-shredding performances”, play the newest video games, peruse vendors, attend autograph signing sessions and a host of other interactive activities that will add to the festival experience. Stage sponsor Jägermeister will be sampling their products and providing fun surprises for attendees.
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Special Event: News10 Blood Donor Day-- $Free
Where: News10 Studios
When: 6am & 7pm
Why: The summer months are a critical time for blood banks so we need everyone to be a hero and donate a life saving pint of blood. News10 Blood Donor Day with Delta Blood Bank is the perfect opportunity to do some good, and also have some fun!! Every donor will receive a free t-shirt, as well as a coupon for a pint of ice cream from Baskin Robbins!! In addition, you will also get a coupon for a free cherry limeade at Sonic!! Plus, you can get swabbed to be on the national marrow donor list and the swabbing fee will be waived for this one day only! Thank you for being a hero and helping us save lives. For more information, please visit news10.net.
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Film & Video: MOBS presents, Rock That Uke w/ Ukulele Loki's Gadabout Orchestra -- $5
Where: Guild Theatre (2828 35th Street)
When: Screenings, 7:00pm & 9:30pm; Performance, 8:00pm
Why: The screening of "Rock That Uke" will be accompanied by a live performance by Ukulele Loki's Gadabout Orchestra! Ukulele Loki's Gadabout Orchestra is a Denver based 6 piece chamber-pop band that features ukulele, tuba, trombone, clarinet, glockenspiel, drums, and synth. Additionally, the Director of the film- William Preston Robertson will be in attendance. Robertson has lent his voice to numerous Coen Brothers films and authored the definitive book on the Coen Brothers, "The Big Lebowski: The Making of a Coen Brothers Film!" Come see the movie at 7 and hang around for Ukulele Loki's performance at 8 PM, OR come to see Ukulele Loki at 8 PM and stay for the second screening. About the movie: “A funky, curiously philosophical cinematic love poem that examines the near mystical allure of the four-stringed underdog of the musical world and the recent surge of alternative, post-punk musicians on the American mainland who have taken up the instrument, and have incorporated the ukulele not just into their raucous and irreverent original compositions, but into a counter cultural, post-punk ethos.”
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Music: American Idols Live 2009 Tour -- $40.50+
Where: Arco Arena
When: 7pm
Why: Calling all American Idol fans!! It’s your chance to see your favorite “Idols” live and in person! Only featuring the top 10 contestants: Adam Lambert, Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey, Kris Allen, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, Megan Joy, Michael Sarver and Scott MacIntyre, this is sure to be a great show. The phenomenon that American Idol has become is sure to be well received here in Sacramento.
Details

Saturday 7.11

Kids & Families: Downtown Kids Week -- $Various
Where: Saturday 7/11-Saturday 7/18
When: Various
Why: Families from around the region are invited to join in the fun of Downtown Sacramento’s first annual Downtown Kid’s Week. The Downtown Sacramento Partnership (DSP), California State Parks, local museums, theatres and restaurants have come together to make Sacramento’s central city the place to be this summer vacation by offering family-friendly events, activities, exhibits and special offers throughout the week.
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Art: Progeny Exhibit w/Artist Talk -- $FREE
Where: 40 Acres Art Gallery
When: 4pm-5pm (Artist talk)
Why: Progeny pairs Deborah Willis and her son, Hank Willis Thomas, in their first official collaboration. Willis is a photographer, educator and curator. Thomas has become known for his stinging critique of advertising and its impact on contemporary life. Consisting of photographs and video, the exhibit is a narrative of their family history, their developments as artists, and the fusion of the two. Exhibit previously shown at the Bernice Steinbaum Gallery, Florida and the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery, Columbia University, New York. This will be an excellent opportunity to get the artists’ perspective before the exhibit opens July 14th.
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Music/Art: 2nd Saturday for Families: Gordy Ohliger, the Banjo-ologist -- $Free
Where: Crocker Art Museum
When: 12pm-3pm
Why: The Crocker aims to bring family fun events to the 2nd Saturday lineup! Banjo-ologist Gordy Ohliger will present a heritage you can hear with his movable museum of antique instruments. Toe-tapping, clap-along music, California paintings and hands-on art bring the early years of the Golden State to life. This is a limited seating event so reservations are required.
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Kids & Families: Butterfly Bash -- $6/5/4
Where: Discovery Museum Science & Space Center
When: 12:30pm-3pm
Why: The Discovery Museum hosts many fun and interactive exhibits for your little ones to enjoy. Have any fans at home of these mesmerizing winged insects? There is really no other insect that I can think of to hold such beauty as a butterfly. There will be cases of local & exotic butterflies on display to peruse. How many butterflies can you spot in our butterfly garden? Also, kids will be able to design their very own butterfly ring to wear.
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Film/Video: Esquire IMAX Theatre 10th Anniversary Celebration -- $Free
Where: Esquire IMAX Theatre
When: 10am-5pm
Why: To celebrate the Esquire IMAX Theatre’s 10th anniversary the public is invited to enjoy a free movie this Saturday! Beginning at 10:00 a.m., the Esquire IMAX Theatre will run eight free shows, up to 400 seats each, of the film Wild California! on the hour each hour. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Make sure to get there early!
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Food & Wine: Common Table: AgFest 2009-- $25-100
Where: Freemont Community Garden/Guild Theatre
When: Tours & workshops, 8:30am-3:00pm; Movie, 2:30pm & 4:00pm; Dinner, 5:30pm
Why: Brought to you by Slow Food Sacramento, Common Table is a day of tours and workshops culminating in a sit-down gourmet dinner in the Fremont Community Garden. Benefitting the Sacramento Hunger Coalition and the Sacramento Area Community Garden Coalition, the goal is to raise awareness about local urban gardening and food programs, as well as to advocate for improved city, county and state food policies that enable more locally grown foods in urban locations. The dinner of fresh, seasonal faire will be catered by Magpie Caters. Dinner speaker Braham Ahmadi of Peoples Grocery in Oakland will share his insights on Innovative Solutions for Food Justice. Additionally, the Avid Reader will be on hand selling a variety of books on gardening and the urban food movement, and a live auction will feature an array of culinary opportunities, including local gourmet restaurants that will offer private dinners, private gardening consultations and an opportunity to dine out with a prominent food critic Blair Anthony Robertson. During the day a variety of workshops will be held relating to community gardening, backyard organic gardening, composting, food gleaning and local food swap programs and a special showing of the movie "FRESH" will be showing at the Guild Theater. "FRESH" celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system.
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Classes & Workshops: Macrobiotics Wellness Class -- $20
Where: Arden Hills Resort & Spa
When: 10:30am
Why: Never heard of a macrobiotics diet before? It’s a low-fat, high fiber approach to foods designed for optimal health and longevity through nutrition. Don’t miss this special “Macrobiotics” class to learn how a simple diet rich in whole grains, legumes, seeds, nuts, vegetables and soy products might be the right approach to improve your diet and overall well being for a longer, more healthful life. We can all use a little dose of healthy habits right?
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Sunday 7.12

Kids & Families: Sacramento Street Scenes -- $Free
Where: Old Sacramento
When: 10am-6pm (Every Sat & Sun through August)
Why: The Historic Old Sacramento Foundation in collaboration with the City of Sacramento is proud to introduce a new Street Scene Program beginning this month. Calling upon the talents of musicians, jugglers, storytellers, re-enactors, volunteer fire fighters, artisans, and even some burros, Old Sacramento will offer free, family-friendly and historically educational entertainment every Saturday and Sunday June through August. This Sunday there will be Storytelling, Children's Games, Bowling- Gold Rush Style, Juggling, & Shootouts!
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Special Event: Antique Fair -- $3 Adults/ Children Free
Where: X & 21Sreets
When: 6:30am-3pm
Why: An Outdoor Antique and Collectible Marketplace held the 2nd Sunday of every month!! Hundreds of antique dealers from throughout Northern California selling furniture, textiles, architectural pieces, jewelry, cultural pieces, china and glassware, garden accessories, rugs, art and collectibles of all kinds will be on hand with their quality goods. Browse around and who knows what sorts of treasures you’ll find!
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Theatre: Much Ado About Nothing~ Sacramento Shakespeare Festival -- $18 General/15 Students
Where: William Land Park
When: Doors: 6:30pm; Curtain: 8pm
Why: This is the 24th season of the Shakespeare Festival in Sacramento! Its recommended that you buy your tickets online to avoid the ticket line. Plus, get free parking by showing your printout to the parking attendant. Don’t hesitate to bring a picnic, low lawn chairs and a blanket and enjoy Shakespeare under the stars!
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Also, if you want to mention an event that I didn't squeeze into this little article- add it to the comments below! Have a great weekend!!

Sacramento is filled with music & talent this weekend...

2009-06-25T23:28:03Z

Summertime is here and Sacramento is stepping up to the plate! Sounds like it's going to be a scorching weekend at upwards of 100 degrees but the music and entertainment events are equally as sizzling! With a nice mix of free and low cost things to do as well as a few splurges, June is going out with a jam packed weekend! Browse this list to find plenty of opportunities to laugh, feast & learn along with local talent & tons of live music. It's sure to keep you and yours entertained all weekend long...

Thursday 6.25

Theatre: Hedwig and the Angry Inch -- $25
Where: Artisan Theatre (1901 Del Paso Blvd)
When: 8pm (also showing Fri & Sat nights this week)
Why: This is the last weekend to see it if you haven't already...New Helvetia Theatre is a brand new theatre company in Sacramento. Founded in January of this year, NHT is “committed to the preservation and rebirth of the American Musical…By unearthing forgotten gems, exploring classics, and producing new works, the company seeks to enrich the community through productions of creativity and depth”. Directed by Matthew Schneider, “Hedwig” is New Helvetia’s first production. This rock musical is the story of Hansel, an East German boy who has undergone a botched sex change operation and becomes "Hedwig." After being left by “her” husband, Hedwig forms a band called "The Angry Inch." It may go without saying that this show is definitely intended for mature audiences only- leave the kids at home.
Details

Friday 6.26

Music/Fundraiser: Celebrate The Arts at Special Concert in the Park -- $Free
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 5pm-9pm
Why: This week join the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission (SMAC) at a special Friday night "Concerts in the Park"!! This arts awareness event is part of the regular Friday night concert series, however SMAC is inviting Sacramento arts groups to participate by hosting booths that feature their organization. This is a great opportunity for arts groups to introduce concert go-ers to their organization, make new contacts and raise awareness for the arts! There will be over 25 Sacramento arts organizations represented, a lively art raffle, good food & fun- all accompanied by the lush and festive sounds of Mumbo Gumbo & The Nibblers. Donations will be accepted to support the arts and arts education programs for our youth. Plan to visit the booths, participate in the raffle and have a great time!
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Music Festival: In The Flow Festival --$Various ($20 Wristband for all 3 days- some shows are free)
Where: Along Broadway
When: 6pm-10pm (also Saturday, 11am-9pm & Sunday, 11am-8pm)
Why: The In The Flow Festival is a Sacramento celebration of jazz and creative music, art and local businesses. Over the course of the weekend, an array of talented musicians will be performing at various venues along Broadway. Beatnik Studios, a trendy new photography studio/gallery that operates under a collaborative philosophy; Java Lounge, an unconventional coffee house serving pizza, beer & wine along with live music & art; R5 Records, an eclectic records store with great staff & live music and Comedy Spot, where you can go for a good laugh every Fri & Sat night. Some of the performers include: Harley White Jr. Orchestra, Tony Passarell's Thin Air Orchestra, Byron Blackburn Trio, Darren Johnston and Devin Hoff, Alex Jenkins' Sound Immersion, The Alegria Quartet as well as many other groups from the Sacramento and Bay Area. Check ‘em out!
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Comedy: David Allen Grier -- $15
Where: Punchline comedy Club
When: 8:30pm & 10:30pm
Why: If you grew up as a teen in the 90’s, and maybe even if you didn’t, you should be familiar with the show “In Living Color.” If not, you missed out! David Allen Grier was one of the hilarious cast of the show that helped put the likes of Jim Carrey and the Wayans Brothers on the map. Grier is currently the Star and host of Chocolate News on Comedy Central and is also known for being the 3rd host of Loveline with Dr. Drew. He is only in town for two nights so try to make it!
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Film & Video: MOBS presents, Guest of Cindy Sherman -- $5
Where: Guild Theatre (2828 35th Street)
When: 7pm & 9:30pm
Why: Here is MOBS’s synopsis: “Filmed over the course of 15 years and including interviews with a veritable who's who of the art and entertainment world (including Roberta Smith, Ingrid Sischy, John Waters, Robert Longo, Carol Kane, David Furnish, Danny DeVito, Molly Ringwald, and Eric Fischl), "Guest of Cindy Sherman" paints a vivid picture of a New York art scene increasingly driven by money and fame. H-O also tackles-with more than a bit of humor-the role his own fragile ego plays in his relationship with Sherman. The end result is a witty, illuminating look at celebrity, male anxiety, and art.” I was not disappointed with my last visit to MOBS, a definitely unique cinema experience!
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Music: Albino -- $10
Where: Marilyn’s on K (10th & K St)
When: 9pm
Why: This 10 person ensemble band brings Sacramento some West African Funk! They call it Afrobeat. In addition to the funk, they mix a little politics and protest along with unity & community to reflect some of the current events affecting us all…What better way to spread the word than through music, right? Being the diverse and eclectic city it is, Sacramento is a perfect place for Albino.
Details

Saturday 6.27

Music Festival: Sammies Award Show & Music Fest -- $FREE
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 3pm-9pm
Why: Music stages, SAMMIES Awards, Beer garden, dunk tanks, carnival games, awesome vendors, and more bands to be announced! So far the bands include: Category 7, Silver Darling, Sol Peligro, Agent Ribbons, Alak, Be Brave Bold Robot, Righteous Movement, Dog Party, Justin Farren, Light Rail, Arden Park Roots, The Other Poets, DJ Shaun Slaughter and Sister Crayon. This event is part of 2009 SAMMIES - Honoring the best musicians in the Sacramento area.
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Art: Sacramento Potters Group Annual Show -- $Free
Where: Shepard Garden and Art Center
When: 10am-4pm
Why: The group's annual show and sale is back! One day only at McKinley Park. Come and buy yourself a nice present or find that perfect early holiday or birthday gift for a special someone. There will be a wide variety of clay sculpture, pottery, glass art and metalwork along with wheel throwing demos throughout the day.
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Music Festival: Baby Boomer Music Fest-- $10 at door/ Kids 10 & under Free
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
When: 11am-7pm (also Sunday, 11am-5pm)
Why: The name says it all! With Classic Cars, live music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and over 100 exhibitors this event focuses on the good memories, the nostalgia, the dreams and the needs of America’s “Baby Boomer” generation. Musicians will include the Woodstock icon, Country Joe McDonald, and a list of major tribute bands performing the music of the Rolling Stones, Beach Boys, Elvis, Santana, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding and others. There will be Inspirational Speakers and Seminars convering important and valuable topics relating to finance, health and energy. Exhibitors reflect the needs and interests of the Boomer generation, including health & fitness, finance and investments, arts & crafts, wineries and restaurants. And to top it off, know that you’re support our youth with 10% of the proceeds going to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento.
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Food & Wine: King of Feasts -- $50 general/$45 members/$60 Day of event
Where: Sacramento Zoo
When: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Why: Everyone loves to go to the Zoo! I can’t think of a better time to visit the animals than when there are over 50 restaurants, wineries & breweries dishing up food & drink for you to enjoy along the way! 3 of my favorite things in one place! Don’t forget to don your “safari” attire (Because all Sacramentans are sure to have this in their closet…) to fit in with your “Wild” surroundings. You will also be entertained with live blues by the Rhythm Vandals. An all around feast fit for a King (in this case-of the jungle)!
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Food & Wine: Gourmet Cooking Class With Chef Linda -- $20
Where: Arden Hills Resort & Spa
When: 11am
Why: Eating healthy foods can be fun and exciting, too! Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa is proud to offer monthly gourmet cooking classes designed to tempt your palate with interesting new and delicious meal ideas. On the menu this month is elegant and easy Asian Vegetable Rolls and Summer Fruit Compote with Orange Honey Sauce. Mouth watering yet? It will be! Learn to cook, live and eat well, reserve your space today.
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Sports & Rec: Urban Dare Adventure Race -- $100/team or $40 per person
Where: Starting point, MVP Sports Grill
When: Check-in, 11am; Start, 12pm
Why: Urban Dare is the team race that’s part photo hunt, part trivia and part dares. The challenge is to be the first team to cross the finish line after successfully completing checkpoint dares and getting required photos. Teams of 2 must solve clues to find checkpoints throughout the city. To move on they must take photos or perform dares to earn passport stamps. You can run. Walk or use public transportation, however bikes are not allowed. The winner receives a 3-Day Royal Caribbean Cruise next February where they
will compete in Super Dare with a first prize of $5000. Additional prizes will be awarded for best picture & best costumes. The remaining proceeds from this event help raise money to fight breast cancer. Do you dare to take the Urban Dare? This dare may result in some great prizes and guarantees a full day of fun!
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**There are so many other things happening on Saturday: Art classes & Featured Tours at the Crocker Art Museum, Pops in the Park Family Concert Series, Family Fun Program at the California Auto Museum & many more…find them all at Sacramento365.com.

Sunday 6.28

Sports & Rec: WWE- The Bash -- $17.50+
Where: Arco Arena
When: 4:45pm
Why: It’s been 8 years since the last time the World Wrestling Entertainment came to Sacramento. If you’re a wrestling fan, this is your chance to see your favorite superstars from RAW, SMACKDOWN & ECW all under the same roof on the same night! Some of you may smirk but I know that there are some WWE (or maybe the old WWF) fans out there! Show them some Sacramento support!
Details

Keep in mind that all of these events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events. If you have an event you would like to add to Sacramento365.com, visit the website. Its easy and free to add your events! Also, if you want to mention an event that I didn't squeeze into this little article- add it to the comments below! Have a great weekend!!

Lots of free (and cheap) events this Weekend!!

2009-06-17T23:55:20Z

It has never occurred to me that Father's Day weekend always happens at the same time as the summer solstice. Is that by coincidence? The longest, sunniest day of the year falls on the weekend that we celebrate our Dad's. That's kind of cool! At least for those of us who celebrate them. Otherwise, think of it as an extended day for you to be having fun! This weekend is packed with family friendly events for the whole family to enjoy at budget friendly prices. There are a few things I've mentioned that are a little more pricey... but they sound so fun! Whatever your budget is and whomever you'd like to spend your time with, check out what this weekend has in store.

Thursday 6.18

Class: Small Business Forum: Going Green -- $FREE
Where: SHCC Offices (1491 River Park Dr)
When: 9am
Why: Every month a different topic is featured in these workshops. From accounting practices, legal issues, buying new technology and creating a business plan—they’ll teach you all you need to know to be more efficient in your business. This month will focus on the latest trend in business…Going Green. It won’t cost you any green to come so check it out!
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Food & Wine: Wild West Cheese Adventure -- $45
Where: C’est le Cheese (Penthouses at Capitol Park)
When: 6:30pm-8:30pm
Why: “Artisan cheese makers are pushing the frontiers of flavor into an entirely new world by using the sweetest, creamiest milk from locally raised cows, goats and sheep to create an exquisite array of stupendous artisan cheese. Join Laura Martinez, author of "The Everything Cheese Book", in a tasting adventure of these wild and wooly cheese creations paired with wine and beer from pioneering vintners and brewers. This class is guaranteed to transport you to the best of the Wild West!”~ C’est le Cheese
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Music: Third Thursday Jazz Summer Concert Series -- $10 (FREE to Crocker Members)
Where: CSUS Capistrano Hall
When: 5:30pm-8pm
Why: The Garrett Perkins Project will entertain with their versatile range of Jazz from bebop to modern contemporary jazz. The Garrett Perkins Project is dedicated to promoting music that is at once educational and entertaining. Garrett has had a Quartet since the age of fifteen as an avenue for playing his beloved alto saxophone.
Details

Friday 6.19

Festival: Sacramento French Film Festival—Opening Night -- $10/ $9 students (single ticket)
Where: Crest Theatre
When: 6pm (Movie at 8:30pm) ***The festival runs through Sunday, June 28th***
Why: Opening night and reception! You cannot see the film tonight without going to the reception. Enjoy an open wine bar and catered hors d’oeuvres by local restaurants and music by DJ Christophe. The Sacramento French Film Festival is an annual event held in July. It celebrates the present as well as the rich history of French cinema featuring new releases and rarely seen classics. It is the only festival dedicated to French cinema in Northern California and one of only two on the West coast. The Sacramento Bee described the Festival as “the Cinematic Highlight of Sacramento's Summer”. All of the films are in French with English subtitles. (Psst! Check out the website for more fun events like the fashion show on Saturday the 21st!!)
Details

Festival: All American Tattoo Festival--$15 at the door/$30 for the weekend
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
When: 2pm-11pm (also Saturday, 11am-11pm & Sunday, 11am-7pm)
Why: Tattoo lovers unite! Tell all your ink loving friends to come over to the CC this weekend. There will be tattoo contests for prizes in addition to the artwork and music. Whether you’re a seasoned (or should I say fully decorated) tattoo lover or a novice, this is the place to find what you’re looking for. Even if you’re not much of a tattoo fan, you got to come if only to see George the Giant. He is himself a complete sideshow performance- known for his fire breathing, sword swallowing, glass walking stunts and many more, he is sure to entertain! Plus...the world wide debut of SHIGE a book by Horitaka from the Yellow Blaze Tattoo Studio in Japan.
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Kids & Families: Wet 'n Wild Family Night @ the Y! -- FREE
Where: Sacramento YMCA
When: 6pm-8pm
Why: Join the Sacramento Area YMCA for a free Wet n' Wild Family Night with musical guests, Prima! Bring your swimsuit, flip-flops & towel, there will be plenty of wet n' wild games including a fundraiser dunk tank! This is a free community event where everyone is welcome so don't forget to tell your family & friends! Jamba Juice and Yogurtagogo will also be on hand selling their tasty juices and yogurt to help beat the heat!
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Kids & Families: Disney Train Comes to Sacramento! -- $FREE
Where: California State Railroad Museum
When: 9am-7pm (also Saturday, 9am-7pm & Sunday, 9am-4pm)
Why: Bring your family and friends to Old Sacramento to see the Disney Train on the tracks near the California State Railroad Museum. Disney is pulling out all the whistle stops and taking its show on the road with a spectacular immersive and interactive 40-city train tour, including a 3D sneak peek of film footage from the upcoming movie “Disney’s A Christmas Carol.” Enjoy a snowy backdrop in June in Old Sacramento, complete with all of the sights and sounds of Christmas including carolers, decorations, giveaways and many more surprises. This Disney family event is for guests of all ages and is free to the public. Starring Jim Carrey and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” opens in theatres November 6 in Disney Digital 3D and in IMAX 3D.
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Music: A Classic Rock Tribute with “ATB” -- $
Where: Double Tree Hotel
When: 8:30pm-11pm
Why: After the Beatles, music has never been the same. Or so believes ATB, which stands for After The Beatles. They are a classic rock tribute band keeping the Beatles alive by playing the music that the Beatles made, after the Beatles.
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Music: Les Claypool -- $25 adv/ $30 at door
Where: Radisson Hotel
When: 7:30pm
Why: Legendary Bassist from the popular band Primus. Back in their heyday (aka the 90’s), Les was recognized for his inventive, funky style. Advance tickets can be purchased at any Dimple Records store, The Beat and R5 Records.
Details

Saturday 6.20

Art: Stellar Studios’ Summer Solstice -- $FREE
Where: Stellar Studios (23rd & C St.)
When: 5pm-12am
Why: Celebrate Summer Solstice and support some local artists while you’re at it! Stellar will be featuring new work in glass, ceramics, metal & mixed media from all local artists. Get a glimpse into the future of art spaces. Also, it’s a great excuse to peruse and shop around with music & fire to compliment the atmosphere on the longest day of the year.
Details: http://sacramento365.com/event/detail/38873

Art/Class: Figure Drawing Marathon for Adults -- $65 ($45 for Crocker Members)
Where: Crocker Art Museum
When: 10:30am-4:30pm
Why: Back by popular demand! This workshop is for beginners and advanced students looking to learn or improve drawing skills. Draw from nude models while exploring the figure through warm-up exercises, gesture drawings and long poses. Note that this is an adult class! You must be 18 years or older. Drawing materials will be provided. Make sure you call to reserve your spot because reservations are required.
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Festival: 8th Annual Juneteenth Festival-- $FREE
Where: William Land Park
When: 11am-6pm (also Sunday, 11am-5pm)
Why: A Celebration of Freedom and the Emancipation Proclamation. What a way we’ve come! This is a two-day event featuring two stages of live musical entertainment, vendors, children's activities, spelling bee, fishing derby, The Juneteenth Educational Theater, essay/poster contests, theater, cultural dance performances, and more on Saturday! The Juneteenth Talent Show is probably the highlight of the event where local aspiring talent takes a stab at the stage. Nearly 8,000 people attend Juneteenth annually. On Sunday check out the 3rd annual Juneteenth Golf Tournament, the Juneteenth Gospel Extravaganza featuring Sacramento’s best gospel artists, food/ware vendors, and all kinds of children’s’ activities. Be there!
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Fundraiser: Round ‘em Up Barbeque -- $10 adults/ $5 kids
Where: Swanston Park
When: 3pm
Why: Grab the kids and head to the park for a family friendly BBQ! The Sacramento Children's Chorus will be performing an informal concert for entertainment. All of the proceeds for this event benefit the Sacramento Children’s Chorus. With all of the funding cuts happening with children’s programs, makes sense to support them in family fun ways such as these…
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Music: Pops in the Park Concert Series -- $FREE
Where: Bertha Henschel Park
When: 6pm-10pm
Why: This week is featuring the George Bruno Big Band. I don’t know much about the band- and couldn’t find any information on them other than they play at all kinds of family friendly events- but I do know that the Pops in The park Concerts are a great night out for families. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets and prepare to have some fun!
Details

Sunday 6.21 (Dad’s Day!)

Film: IMAX Father’s Day Package -- $Varies
Where: Esquire IMAX Theatre
When: 11am, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15 (Start Times)
Why: Take your Dad to see an IMAX show this weekend- or dad’s, take your kids out and save. In addition to the Stimulus Deal IMAX has been promoting, this Sunday Dad’s get in Free! You still need the receipt from a restaurant though. So the Stimulus Package Deal goes like this: Visit any Downtown/Midtown Sacramento Restaurant and spend $20…then bring your receipt to the Esquire IMAX Theatre and purchase any ticket to see Dinosaurs Alive 3D, Under The Sea 3D or African Adventure 3D for $5 or get a $5 discount off the full price admission ticket to Monsters vs. Aliens 3D, Star Trek, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian or Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. (Subject to availability) Up to 4 Tickets can be purchased with receipt.
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Music: Father’s Day BBQ Train -- $49 Adults/ $25 Kids (plus taxes & Service charge)
Where: Sacramento River Train
When: 11am
Why: Why not? When’s the last time you rode the train? This 3.5-hour trip includes a 28-mile train ride with a stop for a barbecue lunch at Elkhorn Park. The Sacramento River Train, which has three open-air cars and three enclosed air-conditioned coaches, operates between Woodland and West Sacramento.
Details

Keep in mind that all of these events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events. If you have an event you would like to add to Sacramento365.com, visit the website. Its easy and free to add your events! Also, if you want to mention an event that I didn't squeeze into my little article- add it to the comments below! Have a great weekend!!

Crazy "cool" events this weekend!!

2009-06-04T22:47:02Z

I can honestly say that I am proud to be a Sacramentan. Even more so since I began working on the events calendar for Sacramento at the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau! I have pretty much lived in the Sacramento area my whole life and never before did I realize that there are so many things going on- all the time! This weekend is packed full of Festivals, fundraisers, music & theatre and hopefully by reading this you are prompted to get out and have some fun! And please do note that there are many more things happening that I may not have mentioned...in order to keep these articles concise, I narrow them down to a few events. Feel free to add events in the Comment section at the bottom of the page if you would like to mention one I didn't add. Happy galavanting...

Thursday 6.4

Comedy: Paul Mecurio w/ Jason Downs & Laura Rosenberg -- $6/$4/$3
Where: Punch Line Comedy Club
When: 8:30pm (Showing thru June 7th-also @ 10:00pm Sat&Sun)
Why: He was a writer for the Daily Show with John Stewart. Not sure if he really needs more credits but heres a few others: Comedy Central Presents, The Late, Late Show with Craig Kilborn, Late Night w/Conan O’Brien, Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn, Dr. Katz, NBC’s Late Friday…must be a pretty funny guy!
Details

Art: Sew What? Fashion Show--
Where: Social Nightclub
When: 7pm
Why: Local fashion from Gianna Couture, Marianno Ratto, Stephanie Lozano & more! Hair will be done by Suede Salon.
Details

Theatre: Hedwig and the Angry Inch -- $18-25
Where: Artisan Theatre
When: 8:00pm (Showing thru June 27th)
Why: This is New Helvetia Theatre Company’s first production at the beautiful Artisan Gallery on Del Paso Blvd. New Helvetia is rethinking theatre in Sacramento. Their goal is to “rediscover forgotten gems of the American Musical while re-examining classic musicals and plays”. Directed by Matthew Schneider, Hedwig is about a fictional rock and roll band fronted by an East German transgendered singer. This musical has become somewhat of a cult classic similar to The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a devoted following.
Details

Friday 6.5

Food & Wine: 7th Annual Celebrity Chef Challenge--$50 advance/$60 at the door
Where: California Auto Museum (formerly Towe)
When: 5:30-9:30
Why: Ladies & Gentlemen start your engines & drive on down to the 2009 Celebrity Chef Challenge!! Ride along side event emcees Edie Lambert of KCRA Channel 3 & Dennis Mangers of Darrell Steinberg's Office & your favorite local chefs as they whisk past the competition at the 7th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge.
Competitors will have 45 minutes to turn 5 secret ingredients into 3 power packed dishes right in front of your eyes!!! Fans will be treated to a VIP Food Show, Hosted Beer and Wine, Silent Auction, Raffle & 72,000 square feet of automotive excellence! And the Celebrity Judges are...Guy Farris & Melissa Crowley of Sacramento & Co. & Former State Assembly member Lloyd Levine, New This Year!!!
The finest culinary competition on the West Coast just got a little finer with the addition of the 1st Annual InAlliance Car Show that welcomes all makes and models!
Details

Music: Bucho! at Concert in the Park-- Free
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 5pm-9pm
Why: Free music and family fun! In addition to Bucho, Righteous Movement & Happy Mayfield will be there too. Get there early and bring a blanket to check out the show. The beer garden gets really packed after awhile so its best to get there early- buy two while you’re at it to make it last longer. I haven’t tried the food but there are a bunch of options for eats if you’re hungry too. Afterward, your bracelet can score you discounts a local restaurants and bars.
Details

Music: Freekbass-- $15
Where: Marilyn’s on K (St)
When: 9:00pm
Why: The guys name is really Freekbass. Or at least that’s what he goes by. He studied bass at Cincinnati's School for the Creative and Performing Arts and never looked back. Influenced by the likes of Larry Graham, Sly Stone, Stevie Wonder, Parliament and Bootsy, you may expect this show to have some funk! Along with Freekbass the band consists of a guitarist, drummer and turntablist. Sounds like a show!
Details

Saturday 6.6

Food & Wine: 7th Annual Raley’s Grape Escape -- $40 advance/$50 day of
Where: Cesar Chavez Plaza
When: 4pm-7pm
Why: If you like to mingle with friends and meet new ones while sipping on wines and tasting delicious food from local restaurants all while enjoying the sounds of live Jazz…you gotta check this event out! Over 60 wineries (= 200+wines!) and 40+ restaurants will be serving up tastes of their yummy goods for you to enjoy. There’s also a “Chef's Challenge” presented by the Institute of Technology where 4 local chef’s will compete in two rounds to win. They get 25 minutes and a market basket of fresh produce and a cut of meat to come up with the winning recipe.
Details

Festival: Sierra Stampede Rodeo & Festival -- $10 ($25 for weekend pass)
Where: Central Park Horse Arena
When: 8am (Sat & Sun)
Why: If you've never been to a gay rodeo before, you don't want to miss Steer Deco, Goat Dressing or Wild Drag Race…this amateur rodeo attracts cowboys & cowgirls from across the United States! There'll be horse events, roping, steers, and bulls. The Festival's vendor area will include a beer garden, entertainment food & goodies for sale. Rodeo proceeds benefit Saddle Pals, a division of United Cerebral Palsy that uses horses for therapy. This event is brought to Sacramento and produced by Capital Crossroads Gay Rodeo Association. In addition to the rodeo, there will be kickoff events Thursday & Friday nights and afterparties both Sat & Sunday- A whole weekend of same-sex fun!
Details

Music: Jackie Greene in Concert-- $25 advance/$30 at door (subject to availability)
Where: Fairytale town
When: 6pm-10pm
Why: In celebration of Fairytale Towns 50th Anniversary of bringing “musical merriment” and wholesome family fun to Sacramento Jackie Greene and AKALive will be playing on the Mother Goose Stage. Your ticket is for the music only, however, there will be food & drinks available for purchase. This is a great night to bring the kids out- fun for the whole family! Kids can play and adults can enjoy some great music at the same time.
Details

Family: Pops in The Park Concert Series Kickoff-- $Free
Where: East Portal Park
When: 6pm
Why: The Q-Balls will be entertaining the friends & families out this week at East Portal Park. This six man band plays covers of music from the 60’s-80’s- fun, upbeat music great for both kids & adults. Deidre Fitzpatrick from KCRA3 will be the emcee. More than just a fun night out, Pops in the Park raises money for our under-funded neighborhood parks. Since 1995, proceeds from sponsorship, advertising, as well as the food & beverages sales during the events have been used to enhance our neighborhood parks, bring improvements to the neighborhood, provide youth athletic scholarships and make these events possible. Feel free to bring your own food & drink but do know that if you buy there, your money spent is going to a good cause.
Details

Sunday 6.7

Festival: Fiesta Filipino & Health Fair -- $Free
Where: Jose Rizal Community Center
When: 10am-5pm
Why: The Fiesta Filipino is an annual free event that attracts up to 6,000 people from all over Sacramento and surrounding counties. The event features all-day entertainment, food vendors, arts & crafts, local businesses, career fair and a health fair. Community-based health organizations participate in the health fair and offer various health services to the fair-goers for free.
Details: http://www.sacramento365.com/event/detail/38063

Music: Sunday Jazz Concerts in the Park -- $Free
Where: Grant Park
When: 6pm-8pm
Why: The sounds of Jazz are magical in the summer, especially when they are paired with Sacramento's beautiful parks! These concerts are brought to you by the Traditional Jazz Society of Sacramento and will be held at various parks located throughout Sacramento. Each concert will offer the community a chance to come together and listen to a musical form steeped in history and feature some of the best Jazz for miles. All entertainment is courtesy of the Sacramento Traditional Jazz Society, with children's activities provided by the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Details

Festival: Nike Women's Fitness Festival-- $35
Where: CA State Capitol Park
When: 8am~3pm
Why: Ladies only! This is the largest women’s only event in the region. My understanding is that men can participate, they just can’t compete. So fair game ladies! This event is designed to promote women's fitness and health, along with raising money for critical programs for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. There will be a timed-run for women and a non-timed run/walk for teams and families. Following the races, participants are welcome to listen to live music, visit booths that include salon services, check out the Nike expo, loosen your muscles with message therapists and much more!
Details

Sports&Rec: World Extreme Cagefighting-- $42.50+
Where: Arco Arena
When: 3pm
Why: Sacramento’s very own Urijah Faber, from Ultimate Fitness downtown, is going up against featherweight champion Mike Brown for the title. This is a rematch of their previous clash in 2008. Many claim this fight to be the most anticipated fight in WEC history. I am not much of a fight watcher (I’m a lover! Not a hater…) but I am a big supporter of local people doing big things. Urijah has really made a name for himself in the world of Cagefighting and is known around the world for his lighting-fast hand speed & strong takedowns. Good thing you don’t have to be tall for this sport!
Details

Keep in mind that all of these events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Which event will you be attending this Memorial weekend?

2009-05-21T00:39:16Z

Although many of the events this weekend do not really reflect the true meaning of the foundation of this holiday, there are still some great things to do! Whatever your plan is this weekend, do take a moment to reflect on what Memorial Day is about and be thankful for our fellow Americans who put their lives on the line for the sake of our country. Just in case you aren't sure as to what Memorial Day is all about and why it is a National Holiday, here is the definition from Wikipedia: "Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the civil war), it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action." So here's to a great weekend and thank you to all those who made it possible!

Wednesday 5.20

Music: Izabella w/ Montana Slim -- $10
Where: Harlow’s (27th & J St)
When: 8pm
Why: Izabella is a dance-inspired rock and soul band hailing from the Bay Area. I haven’t seen them yet but hear they’re great! This is what their website has to say: “This six-piece family of musical explorers is avowed for producing danceable, dynamic grooves. Izabella's live performances exude joy and inspiration for all in attendance. Their unique blend of fist-pumping guitar, funked-out keys, poly-rhythmic beats, and impassioned vocals is unparalleled in the genre. As this musical collective continues to blaze their own trail, they remain in constant connection with their community of fans who ultimately make it all happen.”
Details

Thursday 5.21

Museum: Diverse Perspectives Tour -- $6/$4/$3
Where: Crocker Art Museum (216 O St)
When: 1pm
Why: For those of you out there with wheels to get around on, The Crocker Art Museum will be shining the spotlight on their works at eye-level. This is a special exhibit for wheelchair users and their friends and all are welcome!
Details

Art: Lecture by Catherine Clark-- $5 (Free to CCA members)
Where: Center For Contemporary Art (1519 19th St)
When: 7pm
Why: Catherine Clark, from the Catherine Clark Gallery in San Francisco, will discuss the work in the Center for Contemporary Art, Sacramento's "The Conundrum of Abundance," an exhibition of paintings by Chester Arnold, Scott Greene, and Julie Heffernan. They all share an affinity for abundance in their paintings. While the imagery differs, the works share a pre or post-apocalyptical narrative that simultaneously embraces this abundance, and questions it. This should be a great, informative event.
Details

Music: Third Thursday Jazz Summer Concert Series -- $10 (Free to Crocker Members)
Where: Crocker Art Museum
When: 5:30-8pm
Why: Guitarist and singer Perry Mills leads his band in playing rock-rooted and jazz-schooled music. Enjoy a spotlight tour during intermission.
Details

Festival: Sacramento County Fair-- $3 (Kids & Seniors Free!)
Where: Cal Expo
When: 10am-10pm, May 21st-25th (10am-7pm on Memorial Day)
Why: The County Fair features competitions showcasing talent from our region, arts and crafts displays, agricultural exhibits, a hypnotist, SPIKE the fire juggler, a carnival with 30 thrilling rides, and of course, an assortment of food ranging from traditional fair favorites to contemporary cuisine. Local bands and musicians will get your summer rockin’ and rollin’ on two stages this year. Each night, talented artists are guaranteed to impress audiences! The Demolition Derby, Roving cowboys, wandering jugglers, hands-on fun with physics and the popular Sunflower Saddle Ranch are the types of entertainment you can expect- It's a surprise around every corner! Individuals, families and groups can enter and participate in contests during the Fair including a Cookie Bake-Off, Potatomobile Races, Gift Wrapping, Memory Pages, Grab Bag Art, Trim-a-Tree and more. Frugal fun for the whole family!!
Details

Friday 5.22

Festival: 36th Annual Sacramento Jazz Festival--$45 ($50 at door)
Where: Old Sacramento/Convention Center
When: May 22nd-25th: Fri, 1pm-11pm; Sat & Sun, 10am-11pm; Mon, 10am-4pm
Why: Jazz music of all types will permeate Old Sacramento and the area around the Sacramento convention center. More than 60 bands at 23 venues, more than 20 nationally-known all-stars, and a dozen featured bands. Special events include a big Friday parade, specialty concerts, a rousing Sunday gospel service and respectful Memorial Day salute to service, and sixteen bands made up of teenage musicians on their own stages.
Details

Music: Wonderbread 5 -- $12
Where: Harlow’s
When: 10pm-1:30am
Why: For over a decade, the unstoppable, international rock and roll party machine known as the Wonder Bread 5 have been thrilling audiences, and exceeding client's expectations around the globe. (And on Saturday you can catch Mercy Me at Harlow’s too!)
Details

Theatre: Let's Go! Musical -- $20/25/30
Where: Crest Theatre
When: May 22nd-24th: Fri-Sun 8pm & Sat-Sun 2pm
Why: "Let's Go" will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions through its inspirational story. With jaw-dropping dance numbers and soulful renditions of your favorite songs, you'll be dancing and singing along with the cast! The performers in Let's Go! have a passion for their art and a desire to be deemed number one. Throughout the first act, the singers and dancers battle to find out who is the best. The magic begins when the rivals realize the only way to be number one is to act as one. United through a tragic loss, the performers come together in Act II and put on a show you'll never forget. Whether you are a fan of Country, R & B, Rock, Gospel, or Hip Hop, this musical has it all! At the end of each show, meet the Let's Go! Cast and hear their real life stories. This is a rare chance to meet the people behind the characters you see on stage and best of all- they’re from Sacramento!
Details

Music: Jackopierce -- $25 ($20 in advance)
Where: Marilyn’s on K (St)
When: 9:00pm
Why: The songs range from acoustic pop (the title-track, "Promise of Summer") to John Mellencamp-tinged country-rock ("Everything I'm Not"). Heartache is ever-present on a Jackopierce record. Jack O'Neill and Cary Pierce founded the duo in 1988 and after a decade-long run they decided to call it quits with a sold-out farewell tour 1997. In 2002, they reunited and have played 15-20 shows per year, always to sold-out venues.
Details

Music: Concert in the Park -- $Free
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: 5pm-8pm
Why: This week check out Silver Darling, Kris Anaya, & Buildings Breeding (their CD release!) followed by the featured band Two Sheds. Afterward, continue the fun with the “Weekly Concert Crawl” (Post Concert Specials)! Show your concert wristband and receive specials like happy hour pricing on food & drinks every Friday night at local bars and restaurants. Just ask for the Concert Crawl Deal.
Details

History: CARRIED WITH COURAGE: Historic Flags from the Capitol Collection -- $Free
Where: CA State Capitol Museum
When: Mat 22nd-23rd 9am-5pm
Why: This exhibit features a number of conserved Civil War flags from the Capitol Historic Flag Collection. Some of these flags were flown on display on the parade ground, while others have accompanied Californians into battle. Many of the flags to be exhibited have never before been seen by the public. This exhibit is a unique opportunity and will offer the public a once in a lifetime chance to view this remarkable collection.
Details

Saturday 5.23

Dance: Sacramento Ballet's Season Finale -- $38
Where: Sacramento Theatre Company
When: May 23rd & 24th: Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 2:00pm
Why: The Sacramento Ballet is bringing their year to an end. These two shows will be the final performances for the Ballet’s 2008–2009 Season. Presenting highlights from its recently sold-out performance at the Mondavi Center’s Studio Theatre, these performances will showcase Amy Seiwert's "Well it's not a cry," Nolan T'Sani's "Ballet de Murphy," Molly Lynch's "A Journey" and Jared Nelson's "Jump Jive," along with additional Sacramento Ballet repertory favorites in a powerful display of the creative and artistic excellence that is the hallmark of what Sacramento Ballet’s Artistic Directors Ron Cunningham and Carinne Binda have consistently and brilliantly brought to the stage. Support the SacBallet!
Details

Festival: Handmade Parade-- $1
Where: Giovanni Hall (1333 58th St)
When: 10:00am-5:00pm
Why: Handmade Parade welcomes everyone to come and enjoy a wide range of fine art, folk art and crafts at this semi-annual event- with free craft demos, make & takes, and knitting & crochet demos to boot! The first 200 people there will receive a bag of freebies and discounts from our vendors and sponsors.
Details

Fundraiser: Walk 'N Rock for Kids Benefit-- $donation
Where: Raley Field
When: Walk 8:00am, Concert 8:00pm
Why: The morning will be filled with music at Raley Field and along the route. After the walk, enjoy entertainment, interactive booths, kids activities, more music, food and fun! Bobby Jackson will be the official spokesperson for this event- Don't miss it! Later that evening, Hope Productions and our corporate partners will host an exclusive VIP reception and a benefit concert featuring: Journey! (Tickets on sale) This will be open to the general public. The proceeds from the concert will be divided among the nonprofit partners.
Details

Family: Family Fun Program-- $Free w/ Museum admission ($7/6/3)
Where: California Auto Museum
When: 1:30pm-3pm
Why: Celebrate Mom all month long and make her a special keepsake, a race car themed picture frame complete with your picture next to your favorite Museum car! Just in time for the 93rd Indianapolis 500, you can also decorate your own miniature wooden race car.
Details

History: Memorial Day Ceremony -- $Free
Where: Historic City Cemetary
When: 10am
Why: Join the Historic City Cemetery Committee in honoring veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Music, speakers, color guard and dignitaries guided tours will be featured.
Details

Sunday 5.24

Music: A Fashion Night Stand -- $10
Where: MIX Downtown
When: Pre-party 6pm, Runway 9:30pm
Why: An upscale & fashion forward one night affair showcasing some of the best local fashion & talent rounds out the Memorial Day Weekend! Enjoy a runway main event featuring fashions by local boutique Madam Butterfly & local designers of Velvet Leaf, with styling by Suede Salon & showcasing Cast Images runway talent. Stay for the post-show party hosted by 100.5 The Zone until 2:00am. Walk the TwinSoup Pink Carpet, enjoy photo-ops, free swag bags valued at $250+ each, TwinSouptinis & more!
Details

Music: Graham-A-Rama -- $15
Where: Geery Theatre
When: 7pm & 9pm
Why: Join in the fun this weekend with Graham Sobelman as he welcomes Jerry-lee to the set! Also performing are the Graham-A-Rama puppeteers! A fun filled-hilarious time! This humorous display of talent occurs every Sunday at the Geery theatre so even if you can’t make it his week, keep it in mind…
Details

Monday 5.25

Theatre: Tommy the Musical-- $20 ($15 in advance)
Where: Crest Theatre
When: 7pm
Why: Sacramento's own Nancy Zoppi will be playing Tommy's mom- She is the daughter of a good friend of mine and an amazing performer! This show is not to be missed! Presented by Artistic Differences.
Details

Also keep in mind for that the Sacramento County Fair & the Sacramento Jazz Jubille are both continuing through Monday. If you didn't get a chance to go over the weekend, it's not too late!!

These events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

This week's slew of music, festivals, classes & comedy

2009-04-29T00:51:55Z

Spring is almost over and so begins the onslaught of fun, fabulous things to do during the summer months in Sacramento! It's not quite time to break out the bikinis and flip-flops, but I have spotted some sleeveless tops and open-toed shoes lately...my all-time favorite season in Sacramento is almost here! This week, and particularly this week-end, is already jam-packed with music, festivals and outdoor events with the promise of the heat soon to come. I hope you haven't made plans already...

Tuesday 4.28

Music: Rev Theory-- $12 at the door
Where: Marilyn’s on K
When: Doors- 6:30pm, Show- 7:15pm
Why: You may get an idea for their music-style by the bands they’ve opened for: the likes of Evanescence, Papa Roach, Buck Cherry and Saliva to name a few. Supporting bands for the night include: Divide The Day, Trackfighter, Man Automatic. Four bands for $12 bucks- that's $3 a band!
Info: (916) 273-3269

Wednesday 4.29

Comedy: Norm MacDonald-- $$?
Where: Punchline Comedy Club (Howe & Arden)
When: Doors- 6:30pm; Show- 7:30pm
Why: He continues to regularly tour the country performing his popular stand-up comedy, however, he is perhaps best known for his offbeat delivery of "the fake news" on "Saturday Night Live" for five seasons. Norm MacDonald continues to be a major comedic presence. His totally hilarious impersonations of Bob Dole and Burt Reynolds on “SNL,” were my favorites. However, MacDonald proved that his wit and writing were not to just for small screen. Among others, MacDonald played roles in Billy Madison with Adam Sandler, The People Vs. Larry Flint and the 1999 Andy Kaufman biopic Man on the Moon.
Info: Tickets

Music: Mary Mary-- $40/30 in advance, $45/35 day of show
Where: Crest Theatre (10th & K)
When: Doors- 7pm, Show- 8pm
Why: Urban gospel superstars Mary Mary like to do everything on a big scale. All of their pursuits- musical, spiritual, or otherwise-are larger-than-life: not a single thing is left to chance. Their latest disc melds the twosome's love of truth-grounded gospel music beautifully woven with a colorful patchwork of R&B, pop, soul, jazz, electronic music, and then some.
Info: The Crest Calendar

Thursday 4.30

Music: Tony! Toni! Tone!-- $20
Where: Avalon Nightclub (805 15th Street)
When: 9pm-2am
Why: Attention all children of the late 80’s-early 90’s! If you didn’t listen to Tony! Toni! Tone! when you were growing up, you probably didn’t listen to music. With hits like "It Never Rains in Southern California", these guys had us all saying ”It Feels Good.”
Info: (916) 670-5944

Sports & Recreation: Fight Night Boxing-- $20-$100
Where: Arco Arena (1 Sports Parkway)
When: Parking- 5:30pm, Doors- 6:30pm, Show- 7:30pm
Why: If you are the type that considers boxing a sport, then check this out. This guy is from Woodland! Talk about support local, this guy may need some encouragement from the crowd. Vicente Escobedo (19-1-0, 12 KOs) is going up against Kevin Kelley (60-9-2, 39 KOs). Vicente Escobedo has won his last 10 fights including an impressive 6th round Total Knock Out of previously undefeated Dominic Salcido. Kevin Kelley is a former WBC featherweight champion.
Info: Arco Arena Events

Literature: Meet “Pucci Lewis” Author Margit Leische-- Free w/ Museum admission: $6-$8.50 (Kids 5 & under Free)
Where: California Museum for Women History & the Arts
When: 6pm-8pm
Why: I find it interesting to hear how authors come up with the stories the write, particularly fiction. What inspires them and how much do they really know? Liesche is the author of Hollywood Buzz, the second edition of the World War II era Pucci Lewis series. “The book is rich with drama, historical fact, female sleuths and old Hollywood mystery.” Liesche extensively researched the film industry during World War II and female organizations like Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), which is the setting for this novel. She will give a lecture on the background of the book incorporating documentary footage of the WASP and film clips from the First Motion Picture Unit, featuring Hollywood stars. This should be a very interesting event. Bring your books if you got ‘em! If not, I’m sure there will be some to pick up at the signing.
Info: (916) 653-7524

Friday 5.1

Music: First Friday Night Concert in the Park!--FREE
Where: Cesar Chavez Park
When: Every Friday Night, 5:00-9:00pm
Why: This 15-week concert series will rock Cesar Chavez Plaza every Friday night from 5 pm to 9 pm with the sounds of live, local music. It’s sort of the “unofficial start” to summer for many Sacramentans.
Even in its 18th season, the Concerts in the Park series remains true to its roots by continuing to showcase Sacramento’s local music scene with this free, family friendly event. This season’s line up features a total of 51 local bands including 27 new acts to the park series. The bands reflect a broad spectrum of musical acts including blues, punk, country, rock, indie, soul, pop, reggae and hip hop. And for after the show, keep your concert wristband and receive specials at local bars and restaurants for that night.
Info: (916) 442-8575

Comedy: Chelsea Handler
Where: Community Center Theatre (13th & L St)
When: Doors, 7:00pm; Show, 8:00pm
Why: Handler has performed nationwide as a stand-up comedian and appeared on many TV shows. Most recently, she is known for hosting her own late night talk show on E! titled “Chelsea Lately”. With her style of ridicule and sarcasm, she draws more than a half million viewers with the show despite the fact that her guests often are not A-list celebrities. To give you a little perspective, in a 2008 interview Handler said, "The worse the guests are, the more pathetic they are, the funnier the show is”.
Info: (916) 808-5181

Film: Found Footage Festival--$10
Where: Movies on a Big Screen (600 4th St W. Sac)
When: 7pm & 9:30pm
Why: I am going. This is what sold me: “The Found Footage Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that showcases footage from videos that were found at garage sales and thrift stores and in warehouses and dumpsters throughout the country. Curators Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher (whose credits include "The Colbert Report," "The Late Show with David Letterman" and "The Onion") will host the screenings in-person and provide their unique and hilarious observations and commentary on these found video obscurities. So yes - that means plenty of live comedy along with the found footage! From the curiously-produced industrial training video to the forsaken home movie donated to Goodwill, the Found Footage Festival resurrects these forgotten treasures and serves them up in a lively celebration of all things found.”~ Movies on a Big Screen
Info: http://www.shiny-object.com/screenings/

Fundraiser: An Affair to Remember--$45 adv/$60 at door
Where: Radisson Sacramento (500 Leisure Lane)
When: 7pm
Why: You may know someone who was a foster child or may have been one yourself. I hear it’s not always the easiest way to grow up. This event is a benefit in honor of foster care youth in transition. Guests will enjoy an exciting night of fine food, live music, and spring fashions while showcasing former foster care youth and their stories. Lots of “celebs” will be there too! A portion of the contributions from this event will be donated to foster care youth that "age out” of the system. The goal is to support 50 foster care youth throughout the Sacramento region.
Info: (916) 440-9703

Saturay 5.2

Festival: California Celebration!!-- $7-$9.50 (Kids under 2- Free)
Where: Sacramento Zoo (Land Park Drive & 16th)
When: 9am-4pm
Why: California Celebration is a fun-filled day all about the rich cultural diversity in our state. Animal talks, cultural groups, live performances and activity stations will fill the Zoo! Bring the kids and get some sun!
Info: (916) 808-3713

Music: The Skinny Singers- Jackie Greene & Tim Bluhm
Where: Marilyn’s on K (908 K Street)
When: 9pm
Why: They’re skinny but man do they have big voices!! These shows always sell out! If you haven’t seen them yet, make sure you make it to this one.
Info: (916) 446-4361

Festival: Indie Sacramento May Market-- FREE
Where: Fremont Park (15th & P St)
When: 12pm-3pm
Why: The purpose behind IndieSacramento is to help spread the word about locally owned businesses and to help Sacramento gain the reputation it deserves as a city with cutting-edge art, crafts, and fashion — plus great local shopping and eats. Some highlights:
* FREE swag bags to the first 150 patrons!
* Shop for hip, handmade goods, clothing, and accessories!
* Enjoy live entertainment!
* Appreciate local food & drink or plan a picnic lunch with the family!
* Attend IndieSacramento's Craft University for craft classes & demos!
Info: IndieSacramento.com

Festival: Dragon Boat Festival-- $50/person, $450/ Table of ten
Where: Radisson Hotel(500 Leisure Lane)
When: 3:30-5:30pm, outdoor reception; 5:30-8:00pm, formal dinner & program
Why: The Dragon Boat is a symbol of unity, civil rights and the future of our Asian Pacific Islander Community. About 2300 years ago, Qu Yuan, a Patriotic Poet and an exemplary for integrity and loyalty, advocated for justice and the rights of the common people. This year, OCA will honor Assemblymember Dave Jones for his commitment to the Asian Pacific Islander Community. OCA will be honoring Dr. Sonney Chong for his many years of community service. This year we are celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival as "A Timeless Tradition, A Culture We Treasure."
Info: (916) 627-5165

Class: Model A Tune Up Class-- $170 (includes instructional materials and lunch)
Where: California Auto Museum
When: 9pm-3pm, May 2nd & May 9th
Why: If you are lucky enough to own one of these bad boys, you probably know a thing or two already about fixing them up. Maybe you don’t. Maybe you want to take on a new hobby. If you’re an antique car junkie, this is a two-part class that teaches how to tune up Model A Fords. The first day focuses on demonstration of tests and measurements. The second day will consist of performing each of the demonstrated tests and measurements on Model As. Students who have a Model A are encouraged to bring their car with them and all checks will be performed on the owner’s vehicle. Students who do not have a Model A will still have the opportunity to assist with tests and measurements.
Info: (916) 442-6802

Festival: Unity & Diversity Music Festival-- $13 Adv/$20 at Gate (Kids 10 & Under FREE!!!)
Where: Southside Park
When: 10am-6pm
Why: The event will have fun & entertainment including a host of vendors, cultural foods, arts & crafts, raffles and prizes. The headliners are Butterscotch, a Sacramento/Davis native and former final contestant on NBC's America's Got Talent; and Mystic Roots, a talented reggae band from Chico. Other performers include: Ras D, Mr. Majestic, The Soulcialites, Ralph Gordon, Orquesta Bakan, Mystic Man & Lakay amongst others. Guaranteed to be a day of family fun and entertainment!! The website requests: NO ALCOHOL, COOLERS or PETS.
Info: (916) 993-3691

Fundraiser: Prelude d’ Elegance-- FREE
Where: Town & Country Village (Fulton & Marconi Avenue)
When: 10am-4pm
Why: A Concours d'Elegance is a show of vehicles that are judged on their elegance and pristine condition. Shriners' Prelude d'Elegance is a sneak preview of extraordinary classic and vintage automobiles, wooden boats, motorcycles and bicycles. Have some fun with their Keystone Cops and the Shriners Paddy Wagon – enjoy informal fashion shows and special discounts at participating stores throughout Town & Country Village.
Info: http://www.shrinersconcours.com/

Sunday 5.3

Festival: Jewish Heritage Festival--FREE
Where: California State Capitol- West Steps (10th and L St.)
When: 1pm-4pm
Why: In conjunction with national Jewish American Heritage Month, the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region* brings a new tradition to Sacramento - the first annual Jewish Heritage Festival. Celebrate all that unites us with traditional food, live music and entertainment, dancing troupes, cultural exhibits and displays, family and children’s activities, a special teen zone and much more.
Info: Jewish Heritage of Sacramento Website

Class: Yoga for Teachers--FREE
Where: It’s All Yoga (2405 21st St.- Between Broadway & X)
When: 2:00pm
Why: As a teacher, you work really hard. And you probably don't get the pampering you deserve. That's why It’s All Yoga is offering a FREE class just for you. In honor of Teachers Week, their very own Linda Wagner will stretch, open and pamper you with yoga! No yoga experience necessary. They have everything you will need - just wear comfy clothes.
Info: (916) 501-4692

All of these events can be found at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events. For more information and details about the venues and organizations involved, click on the title of the events or visit www.Sacramento365.com.

Eat, shop & play to support a good cause

2009-04-23T18:56:48Z

It seems more so now than ever before that organizations across the board are reaching out for help. Despite all of the "doom-and-gloom" being reported on in the news, I consider myself to be a fairly positive person with an optomistic outlook on life. However, reality tends to sink in a little when you find that local mainstays within your hometown are being threatened. These times of "crisis" are when charity organizations and community support foundations see a significant spike in demand for their services. Every week there are events being held to raise money and awareness for various causes that will likely relate to every person at some point in their life. This week, I stumbled upon a handful of various causes to consider. Whether you enjoy shopping, a night of great food, a pint of beer with friends or a day out in the sunshine with other people, you should be able to find one of these events "beneficial" to attend.

Tonight!!

People Reaching Out: Art of the Kitchen
Benefitting: People Reaching Out
The goal of PRO is to promote a healthy community by empowering youth to make healthy choices, strengthening families to guide their children away from drugs and violence, and forming effective partnerships working together to build a strong community.

Food and one-of-a-kind art are on the menu. This is a celebration of all good things that go in and come from the kitchen. Enjoy cooking demonstrations by some of the areas top chefs. Also featuring one-of-a-kind art pieces by Steve Memering, Michael Kennedy, Yuko Carson, Viki Asp, Clare Bailey, Kristin Hoard, Arbo Barnarnd, and many more.

Where: Lounge on 20 (20th & K St); Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Tickets: Tickets are $100, five for $500
Info Phone: (916) 576-3300

S.O.S.- An Evening With the Dancers & Silent Auction
Benefitting: The Sacramento Ballet

The first ever Dancer organized event!- The Vizcaya Mansion has generously donated their space for a night of entertainment, wine, food, live music, games, a special performance by the Dancers & a silent auction. Local businesses are contributing items for the auction and if you have anything that you would like to contribute, email us at: saveoursacballet@gmail.com. Some of the auction items include: vacation packages, family packages, dance lessons, ballet tickets and much more!

Where: Vizcaya Mansion & Pavilion (2019 21st Street); Time: 7:00pm
Tickets: $10 Advance, $15 Door
Info Phone: (916) 552-5800 ext. 102

Saturday

Huge Rummage Sale Fundraiser
Benefitting: Effie Yeaw Nature Center's Pioneer Ranch Living History program

The weather is going to beautiful this weekend! What better reason to get outside with the family than to shop, play & learn together! Check out the bargains and enjoy the history exhibits and activities at this huge rummage sale. If you have items to donate, the donation drop off deadline is Friday, April 24th. **They request to please donate items in good/working condition** Call for a complete list of items they will be accepting.

Where: Ancil Hoffman Park (6700 Tarshes Drive Carmichael, CA) ; Time: 10:00-7:00pm
Info Phone: (916) 489-4918

March For Babies
Benefitting: March of Dimes
The March of Dimes uses 77 cents of every dollar you raise in March for Babies to support research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And your funds are used to bring comfort and information to families whose baby was born too soon, or sick.

It's America's favorite walking event! When you walk, you give hope to the families of babies born too soon or sick. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the serious problems that threaten our babies. We've been walking since 1970 and have raised an incredible $1.8 billion to benefit all babies.
The March of Dimes uses 77 cents of every dollar you raise in March for Babies to support research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And your funds are used to bring comfort and information to families whose baby was born too soon, or sick.

Where: California State Capitol Park (10th & L St); Time: Registration- 7:30am, Start Time- 9:00am
Tickets: Free, Donations welcome!!
Info Phone: (916) 922-1913

Women and Brewing
Benefitting: W.E.A.V.E. (Women Escaping A Violent Environment)

Each year, the Rubicon Brewing Company honors women in the brewing industry by inviting women and the beer they brew to Sacramento for a showcase day! This event celebrates women in the brewing industry. Special "brewed by women" beer, along with traditional Rubicon beers, will proudly be poured. There will be a silent auction featuring prizes donated by local businesses and supporting breweries.
This event is not only another chance to taste amazing guest beers but both the event and silent auction benefit W.E.A.V.E. A representative will be present at both events to take donations for their Safe House and answer questions about their organization. All proceeds from the day are donated to W.E.A.V.E.

Where: Rubicon Brewing Company (2004 Capitol Ave); Time: 10:00am-Midnight
Info Phone: (916) 448-7032

Sunday

Walk MS - Sacramento 2009
Benefitting: National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National MS Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something about MS now—to move together toward a world free of multiple sclerosis. MS stops people from moving. We exist to make sure it doesn't.

This event will once again be held at the West Steps of the State Capital building. The route will take you on a stroll through the beautiful, tree-lined streets of downtown and mid-town Sacramento. You have a choice of a 5k or 10k route. Meet new friends on our party route and then celebrate with old friends at the finish line while we walk, give and volunteer to create a world free of MS. The April 26th Sacramento Walk MS promises to be bigger and better than ever. Join us for fantastic food and fun finish-line festivities all while enjoying live music from On Air, a local band, another amazing performance by Jodette’s Belly Dancers and the Ben Ali Shrine Clowns. Dogs are welcome, so bring your canine friend with you.

Where: California State Capitol- West Steps (10th & Capital); Time: Registration- 8:00am, Walk- 9:00am
Tickets: Free (donations gladly accepted!!)
Info Phone: (415) 230-6677

Kaboom! Playground Build
Benefitting: The Salvation Army Playground at the Roy Robinson Oak Park Community Center

It all starts with a playground. Three hundred volunteers are needed to join CaliforniaVolunteers, The Salvation Army of Sacramento County, organizers from KaBOOM! and residents of the community to build a new, safe playground at The Salvation Army. The new playground’s design is based on drawings provided by children who attended a “Design Day” event in March. The new playground will provide thousands of children in the community with a safe place to play. Currently, the children have only outdated equipment to play on, which will be removed to make way for the new playground. This playspace project is one of seven sponsored by CaliforniaVolunteers this year to celebrate the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez. Since 2007, CaliforniaVolunteers has sponsored 20 playspace builds constructed by more than 6,000 volunteers and supported 77 after-school service clubs in Title I middle schools across the state. These done-in-a-day play spaces are dramatic, inspirational events that people come back for again and again.

Where: Ray Robinson Oak Park Community Center (2550 Alhambra Blvd); Time: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tickets: Free
Info Phone: (916) 447-7063 x344

Budget friendly events this week

2009-04-20T07:09:49Z

There were so many events going on this week in Sacramento that I had to break them up into two articles (and still there are so many more!). This is a diverse compilation of things to do under $20 this week. From lectures, concerts & festivals, to health classes and job fairs, you are bound to find something you'll like! Keep an eye out for my next article in which I will feature all of the fundraisers and benefits this week...

Monday 4.20

Lecture: Andrew Sean Greer - Free
When: 1pm
Where: CSUS- Union Ballroom (Free parking on Lot 10)
Why: Andrew Sean Greer is the bestselling author of The Story of a Marriage, a lyrical novel about love and longing, and the political, sexual, and racial tensions set against the backdrop of the early 50s. The New York Times Book Review hails it as “Wondrously unsettling…A timeless story of conflicting loyalties.” For more Info: #(916) 737-1300

Tuesday 4.21

Career: Sacramento Diversity HIREvent /Career Expo - Free
When: 10am-2pm
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
Why: The unemployment rate in Sacramento has reached around 11% in the past few weeks. Don’t be a statistic! Get out there and keep looking. Luxe Salon and Spa is even offering free makeovers for jobseekers. Know the resources out there to help in this difficult time.For more info: # 1(888)THE-JOBS

Dance: Inside the Director’s Studio- Virtuosity and Passion - $15
When: 6pm-7pm
Where: Sacramento Ballet Studios (1631 K St)
Why: Are you a fan of the classic Pas de Deux? Then you won't want to miss this working rehearsal as the professional dancers of the Sacramento Ballet perform the Pas de Deux from Swan Lake, Don Quixote, Diane & Acteon, and others. For more info: #(916) 552-5800 x2

Wednesday 4.22

Food & Wine: World Wednesdays “Fiesta Cubana,”- $ Cost of food & Drinks
When: 5pm-7:30pm
Where: Masons Restaurant @ The Park (15th & L St)
Why: An ongoing spring and summer series of “World Wednesday” food and music celebrations will be bringing the flavors and rhythms of Latin America to downtown Sacramento this week!! Food & Drink specials offered on the outdoor patio include Latin-inspired small plates, half price bites and half off the “Fuegotini,” a daring martini with flair, hand shaken to the beat of live Cuban and Latin-based musical performances. Specialty Mojitos and Margaritas will also be available. For more info: #(916) 492-1960

Thursday 4.23

Music: Living Legends - $ TBA
When: 7:30pm
Where: CSUS University Union Ballroom
Why: A hip hop concert plus special opening guests, , 7:30 pm, ticket prices TBA. Sponsored by the University Union UNIQUE Programs. All ages welcome. No alcohol served or permitted at venue.

Entertainment: Talent Search - $
When: 8pm
Where: Dante Club (2330 Fair Oaks Blvd)
Why: Enjoy the talent of local singers, comics, magicians, jugglers and bands.

Friday 4.24

Food & Wine: Fast Food, Slow Food & Popular Culture in America - $15 adv/$20 door
When: 7pm-10pm
Where: Revolution Wines (2116 P St)
Why: Professor and writer, Kevin Wehr, will team up with The Sacramento Institute of Fun to discuss the question “Are we really what we eat?” This discussion will be centered on fast food, slow food and how it all relates to American popular culture. Learn more about popular culture today and the roles our food plays in it!

Festival: Acupuncture Awareness Day & Rally - Free
When: Fri & Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-2pm
Where: Hyatt Regency (1209 L St)
Why: Learn Why Acupuncture can Change Healthcare and Change your Life! Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine has been practiced for more than 2500 years. Increase your awareness and understanding. Experience Acupuncture. Learn more about the profound impact AOM can have in improving your overall health! Acupuncture Demonstrations will be offered to the Public from 2:00-5:00pm. Enjoy live music and refreshments! For more info: #(916) 443-4770

Kids & Families: Challenger Learning Center: Voyage to Mars - $15/$20
When: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Where: Discovery Museum Science & Space Center (3615 Auburn Blvd)
Why: You and your friends and family can choose your roles on a simulated mission in space and learn what astronauts really do! Experience the wonder of space exploration! See what it’s like to work for NASA while you perform hands-on science experiments nodeled on real-life astronaut tasks. You’ll be working in the Challenger Space Center’s Mission Control room, designed after Johnson Space Center and the Spacecraft, designed to simulate a room onboard a future inter-planetary space vehicle. Children must be over the age of 9 (9 & 10-year-old astronauts must be paired with an adult crewmember). It's fun! It's interactive! It's educational! Reservations are required, because even "outer" space is limited. For more info: #(916) 575-3942

Saturday 4.25

Class: “Artomotive” Photography Class with Jim Richter
When: Call (916) 442-6802 for details
Where: California Auto Museum (formerly the Towe)- 2200 Front Street
Why: Enjoy a morning of cool cars and photography, with local photography enthusiast, Jim Richter. Jim will guide you in the basic steps and skills needed to capture that perfect picture. Whether you are a classic car owner and want to photograph your cool ride or just interested in the art of photography – this class is for you! Students are asked to bring their own cameras & supplies (including a flash and/or a polarizing lens if you own one). Students must be at least 12 years old (minors must be accompanied by an adult). All skill levels welcome! For more info: #(916) 442-6802

Network/Workshop: SacBarCamp - Free
When: Sat 6pm- 11pm & Sun 8am-5pm
Where: Sat @ Bricka Bracka (21st& P), Sun @ Capsity Offices (24th & P)
Why: An informal event where you will network, learn, and share with other Sacramento techies, helping to create a local community for the industry. All types of people - developers, publishers, bloggers, marketers, designers, students, networkers, etc. will be participating. BarCamp is an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment (open source model). It is an intense event with discussions, demos, and interaction from attendees. It is an international network of user generated non-traditional social conferences— open, participatory workshop-events, whose content is provided by participants.

Dance: The Unicorn Fountain - An Original Ballet - $12/10/8
When: Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm
Where: Hiram Johnson High School (6789 14th Ave)
Why: This original ballet is set in the mythical village of Eudora during its annual Seed Time Festival. A rainbow’s appearance has signaled the coming of a magic unicorn in generations past, a beautiful creature able to bring forth a plentiful harvest by drinking from an enchanted fountain. Prince Frederick is to award a medal of merit to the most deserving girl in the village. Maidens Charity and Dahlia vie for the honor. Only one will win. The other’s jealous actions, with help from some magic marionettes, threaten the unicorn and the prosperity it can bring. The outcome is a moral of triumph over adversity. For more info: #(916) 453-0226

Sunday 4.26

Festival: Festival de la Familia
When: 10am-6pm
Where: Cal Expo
Why: Tempt your taste buds with Latin flavors and savory dishes; view authentic arts and crafts or create your own; be awed by the variety of exhibits where you can learn about Latin heritage; or get involved in one of the numerous community outreach opportunities. More than 200 vendors are participating in this year's event!

Kids & Families: Kids Cooking Class
When: 3pm
Where: Arden Hills Resort & Spa (1220 Arden Hills Ln)
Why: A hands on class where children will learn how to make low-fat pumpkin and zucchini mini-muffins. Start your children off early with practicing healthy eating habits. For more info: #(916) 609-8209

Sports & Rec: The 34th Annual Haggin Oaks Golf Expo - Free
When: Fri, Sat, & Sun
Where: Haggin Oaks Gof Complex (3645 Fulton Ave)
Why: Golfers from all over California, Oregon and Nevada descend on this award-winning facility to see all the latest from around the golf industry- from the latest in golf equipment to the best vacation destinations- and everything in between! The expo is taking another giant step forward at this year’s event by doubling the amount of complimentary hitting stalls available to the public, adding a new area hosting dozens of golf courses from around Northern California and beyond and offering a new promotion that pays you in store credit the more you spend. This is truly the show of all golf shows with over 150 different manufacturers and booths scheduled to appear and hosting over 17,000 golfers over the three-day event. For more info: #(916) 481-GOLF

For more info on these and many other great events in Sacramento, visit www.Sacramento365.com or simply click on the name of the event.

10 things to do under $10 (and a few others...)

2009-04-14T07:12:19Z

This week there is no excuse! Despite this 'little' slump we're in, I was able to find a slew of cost efficient ways to entertain yourself throughout the week. There's a little something for everybody...

Tues 4.14
Music: Lipstick- $3 (before 10pm)
When: 8:00pm
Where: Old Ironsides
Why: A fusion of indie rock, pop, garage & electronic dance part. It's been going strong for 8 years. 'Nuff said.

Sports: Sacramento Rivercats v. Portland Beavers- $10+
When: 7:05pm
Where: Raley Field
Why: If I am going to go to any Baseball game, it's going to be this one. Who wouldn't want to see which of the water creatures prevails?

Wed 4.15
Music: Ari Hest w/ Hana Pestle- $8
When: 8:00pm
Where: Marilyns on K
Why: His music encompasses the longing everyone feels to jump in the old beat-up car and live like Jack Kerouac. Although he may be a few decades too late to be called a beatnik, with his rejection of the major label, long hair and songs about chasing miracles, Hest would make Kerouac proud.

Music: Rowdy Kate- $8
When: 9:00pm
Where: Torch Club
Why: Rowdy Kate came together in late 2006 and began performing around Sacramento and the Central Valley. They bring a fresh take to old school honky tonk classics along with their own brand of clever country. From Keris fiery vocals to Geoffs stinging telecaster, their live show is a must see.

Wine & Dine: Picnic Basket Battles- $10
When: 5:00-7:00pm
Where: 58 Degrees & Holding
Why: Compare Pinot Noir vs Beaujolais wines along with light hors d' oeuvres. You're bound to find something to bring to your next picnic! And just in time for spring...

Thurs 4.16
Comedy: Jeff Dunham- $45
When: 7:30pm
Where: Arco Arena
Why: Jeff Dunham is an award-winning ventriloquist and a stand-up comedian. He's performed on numerous comedy shows, including Comedy Central Presents in 2003. His usual puppets include a woozle named Peanut, a bitter old man named Walter, a dead terrorist named Achmed (one of my personal favorites) and José Jalapeño - a talking jalapeño pepper on a stick. Good stuff.

Club/Dance: DJ Kaskade- $20
When: 9:00pm
Where: The Park Ultra Lounge
Why: He is world renouned! Not to mention that he's my favorite DJ.

Fri 4.17
Wine & Dine: Artisan Cheeses of Sonoma- $45
When: 6:30-8:30pm
Where: Cest le Cheese- Penthouses @ Capital Park
Why: Celebrated chef, cheesemaker and culinary educator Sheana Davis pairs delectable cheeses from her favorite creameries with her selection of fine wines and accompanies them with other local flavors. Among the treats to be savored is her very own "Delice de la Valle" which is currently on the menu at the French Laundry. and Murray's Cheese Shop in New York.

Festival: Traders' Faire- Free!
When: 10:00am-5:00pm
Where: Sutters Fort
Why:Shop like An Early California Pioneer! In a unique program, vendors of merchandise of the kind found during the 1800's will set up their tents inside the Fort walls. Shoppers will find clothing, house wares, toys, beads, knives and more for sale during this three-day event. Visitors can also witness demonstrations of crafts and skills of the era presented by costumed docents and volunteers

Sat 4.18
Family: Healthy Kids day & Camp Cook-off- Free!
When: 10:00am-2:00pm
Where: Sacramento YMCA
Why: Fun & Free Family Event with games, food, music, & demonstrations!

Dance: Beer & Ballet 2- $25
When: 6:00pm & 8:00pm (next Saturday too!)
Where: Sacramento Ballet Studios
Why: Enjoy the casual atmosphere, watch contemporary & classically influenced dance along with friends and get yourself a glass of beer to boot! Watch as the professional Dancers of the Sacramento Ballet bring a totally different Beer & Ballet line up to the Sacramento Ballet’s Studio Stage.

Recreation: Marine Services Show- Free!
When: 9:00am
Where: Sacramento Marina
Why: With boating season just around the corner you won't want to miss this FREE Marine Services Show. Your one-stop shop to meet mechanics, canvas shops, detail shops and other providers of marine services

History: Historic Rose Garden Tour- Free!
When: 9:00am-2:00pm
Where: Historic City Cemetery
Why: Experience the splendor of heritage roses in a unique 19th Century setting! The Open Garden will feature free tours of the beautiful gardens located within the Sacramento Historic City Cemetery. The sale of rooted rose cuttings and snacks and a raffle will raise funds for the maintenance of the gardens.The Historic Rose Garden is a collection of over 400 ‘found’ roses collected from cemeteries and other sites where the original plants were planted 100 years or more ago.

Sun 4.19
Art: Buddha- Closing Celebration- A Mass Meditation- Free!
When: 3:00pm
Where: Crocker Art Museum
Why: Mark the closing of Buddha with a mass mediation led by Lama Jinpa of Lions Roar Dharma Center and Michael Halfhill, founding member of the Dalai Lama Foundation.

Music: Blues Guitar Showdown- $20
When: 2:00pm
Where: Sacramento Horseman's Club
Why: Blues+BBQ+Bar= Good Times! This showdown will feature: Michael Burks- the "Iron man of Blues", Tommy Castro- Contemporary West Coast Blues, & Roy Gaines- a 50 year Blues veteran.

Family: ZooZoom- 29th Annual Run/Walk- $12-$30
When: 7:00am-12:00pm
Where: Sacramento Zoo
Why: Join the stampede as thousands of runners raise funds to benefit the Zoo. Are you as fast as a hare or as slow as a tortoise? There are options for everyone from a 5K to a 10K to the Saucony ‘Run for Good’ & Kid’s Fun Runs.

Find details to these events along with many more at www.Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Get up, get out & do something

2009-04-06T07:28:53Z

Week 14: April 6-12, What have you got for us?! Better be good...

Monday 4.6

Class: Nutrition and Cancer Survival: An evening with Marlene Marcello-McKenna

If you or someone you know has been touched by Cancer, you may want to hear what this woman has to say.Marlene Marcello-McKenna is a nutritional consultant and educator. She is also the author of When Hope Never Dies. Marlene is a 23-year cancer survivor of malignant melanoma. Her extraordinary road back to health has baffled the medical establishment. The National Cancer Institute has researched her recovery and decided that further study was warranted, i.e., The Best Case Series of Macrobiotic Survivors. A guest on TV and radio, McKenna has also been featured in Ladies Home Journal and Your Health magazines. To compliment her presentation, samples of whole food from Synergy Chef Collaborative will be available as well.

Location: Healthy U (4120 S. Market Ct.).Time: 6:30. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 482-8123.

Music: Papa Grows Funk

Start the week off right! This band’s tight grooves re-define the funk-jam band. As described on the website: “Tethered by the slinky Hammond B3 and gravel pit vocals of bandleader John "Papa" Gros," the band is a "who's-who" of New Orleans' best musicians. They shell it out New Orleans-style, paying homage to the tradition through Gros' sparse but rhythmic style offset by Yamagishi's blazing guitar. One is treated to a booty shaking set of Mardi Gras funk, original material, improvised jams and fresh interpretations of New Orleans classics. These five musicians seamlessly shift gears while never losing the essential groove.”~Marilyn’s

Location: Marilyn’s on K (10th & K St.).Time: 8:30pm. Cost: Info: (916) 446-4361

Tuesday 4.7

Food & Wine: Brainstormer Pub Quiz

Rather than catching happy hour at your regular spot and going through the same routine of gossiping about your workday and spending too much money, try out a pub quiz! Gather a team for a chance to win great prizes and exercise your mind with fun trivia while enjoying some friendly competition. Don't have a team? Join up with other brainiacs at the bar! An even bigger bonus? Complimentary appetizers are served from 6-7pm on trivia Tuesday's. Hope to see you there!

Location: 3 Fires Lounge (15th & L St.). Time: 6:00pm. Cost: $4 drinks. Info: (916) 267-6807

Workshop: "Leaving a Legacy" Writing Workshop

You work, you play, you spend time with your loved ones…but do you ever take the time to really share your beliefs with those closest to you? This special writing series can help assist you in writing your own thoughts and dreams. If you haven’t done it yet, what better reason than this to get your dreams on paper.

Location: Arden Hills Resort Club. Time: 6:30pm. Cost: $20per class. Info: (916) 482-6111

Wednesday 4.8

Food & Wine: California Cheese, Olive Oil and Sparkling Wine Class

Artisan Pairings inspired by ancient times. Discover the decadent and rich world of artisan cheese paired with real extra virgin olive oil. Laura Martinez, author the "The Everything Cheese Book", takes you through an exploration of California's superb artisan cheese and olive oil industries while dipping ancient and timeless food pairing principles. Learn how these ancient foods are produced, where to find them, and how to inspire your own inner cook to create delicious and surprising pairings.

Location: C’est Le Cheese(1127 15th Street). Time: 6:30. Cost: $45. Info: (916) 761-7674 (Penthouses at Capitol Park)

Music: Fall out Boy

While widely considered to be a pop punk band, Fall Out Boy is often described as emo (emotional hardcore) style music. Forming in 2001, they achieved Double Platinum status with their major label debut in 2005 and have continued on to collect many Awards (and fans) along the way.

Location: Memorial Auditorium (15th & J St). Time: 6:30pm. Cost: $37.50. Info: (916) 808-5291

Thursday 4.9

Club/DJ: Chris Lake

Globally recognised as one of the most exciting, forward thinking and cutting edge producers on the scene, Chris Lake's rare ability to create tracks that fuse elements of house, electro and techno has not been lost on his fellow peers. His innovative productions continue to receive wave after wave of support from such luminaries that include Sasha, Danny Howells, Justin Robertson, Sander Kleinenberg and Carl Cox, whilst Pete Tong leads the way in championing the unique sound that has established Chris as one of the world's elite.

Location: The Park Ultra Lounge (15th & L St). Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $27. Info: (800) 225-2277

Friday 4.10

Theatre: The Dinner

The Dinner has been described by audience members as deliciously funny, and relates to the challenges of couples everywhere in the high-tech, competitively fast-paced world of the 21st century. The only difference is the The Smith’s and Jones’ are gay. The Dinner is about love, friendship, and mutual respect... with lamb and a little mint sauce of course! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Marriage Equality USA.

Location: Geery Theatre (2130 L St.). Time: 8:00pm. Cost: $15/$12. Info:

Comedy: Anti-Cooperation League

This is a long form improv show featuring the Sacramento Comedy Spot cast members. Watch as they creatively weave improv scenes together in a fast paced, high energy, improv comedy show that starts with an audience member's wallet or purse! This show is followed by Canada's Favorite Hypnotist: Another comedy show from the semi-warped mind of Brian Crall. Audience members are "hypnotized" and do wacky things onstage for prizes. Quite an entertaining evening.

Location: Sacramento Comedy Spot (1716 Broadway). Time: 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 402-4757

Saturday 4.11

Holiday: Easter Bonnet Promenade

Put on your Sunday best and join the ladies and gentlemen of the past in a leisurely Easter stroll. Ladies, wear your fine bonnets, and gentlemen, don't forget your hats. Bring the whole family down to witness this fine vision of how our ancestors used to celebrate the holiday.

Location: Sacramento History Museum. Time: 12:00pm. Cost: Free. Info:

Family: Second Saturday!! For Families

Get inspired by the dragons, elephants and horses shown in Crocker’s collection, and create a mixed-media sculpture of an animal.

Location: Crocker Art Museum. Time: 12:00-3:00pm. Cost: Free with admission. Info:(916) 808-1182

Music: Britney Spears: Circus

Oops she did it again! I know, so original. But this girl keeps coming back! If you haven’t made it to one of her shows yet, this young lady (?) is known to put on a show. If anything, go for the opening act: The Pussycat Dolls. A must see show for anyone into beautiful women dancing and singing all night. Ladies, this would be a great night out with your girlfriends…and hey, why not for the guys too? They are sure to enjoy the show…

Location: Arco Arena (1 Sports Parkway). Time: 8:00pm. Cost:$37.50+. Info: (916)928-6900

Sunday 4.12

Outdoors: Sacramento Antique Faire

Outdoor antique and collectible marketplace held every 2nd Sunday rain or shine. Hundreds of antique dealers from throughout Northern California selling furniture, textiles, architectural pieces, jewelry, cultural pieces, china and glassware, garden accessories, rugs, art and collectibles of all kinds will be on hand with their quality goods.

Location: 2300 21st St. (Under Freeway).Time: 6:30am-3:00pm. Cost: $3. Info: (916) 600-9770

Theatre: Last Resort Trailer Park

In spite of the way most of them seem to enjoy having a brew and a blowout down at Bubba’s, the barbecue place on the highway, they don’t really cause much trouble. But strait-laced trailer-park manager Rhonda (Gloria Jones) does have plenty to look down her nose at, especially when Deputy Hank Trimble (Charley Cross) comes around asking questions about the live-in boyfriend of one of her tenants. Sheperd’s script presents a minor mystery—who was it that stole a truck and broke into a house on the nice side of town—as a means to unleash the sort of womanly friendship, laughter-through-tears comedy familiar to fans of plays and films like Steel Magnolias and Fried Green Tomatoes. This is no comedy of manners, but rather a hoot at the lack of them, and further proof that local playwrights have at least as much to offer as our local actors.

Location: Thistle Dew Theatre (1901 P St). Times: 2:00pm. Cost: $20. Info: (916) 444-8209

Find these events and many more at www.Sacramento365.com, the Year-Round Source for Sacramento Events!

Get up, get out & have fun

2009-03-31T22:43:08Z

Week 13: March 31-April 5

So after a few weeks of experimenting with this Storyline, I’ve decided to tweak things around a bit.

Quandary: My initial concept of highlighting an event a day was in response to those flighty and exasperated comments like: “There’s nothing interesting going on in Sacramento” or even more so the: “There’s nothing to do on Mondays (or any other day of the week that doesn’t seem to offer anything new)”.

7 Days, 7 things to do was my attempt to address this boring complaint of the non-creative, unimaginative types. Not to say that I haven’t been there myself! Don’t get me wrong. It wasn’t until I started to get out a little bit that I really became aware of the vast array of truly great events going on- all the time! The limitation I set for myself to only cover one event a day proved difficult when there happened to be multiple events on a single day. How could I choose which one to cover when they are all cool events?

Solution: Get up, get out & have fun! will be a weekly article featuring events every day of the week. Not a day will be left out but neither will any great events. That being said, if none of these events catch your eye, there are still many more that I didn’t mention, so check out Sacramento365.com for more ideas.

Drum roll please…..

Tuesday 3.31

Save Our Sacramento Ballet Week!! (This is a week-long event)

It is no secret that the enormously talented dancers of our beloved Sacramento Ballet have been affected by economic downturn in the past year. Local businesses have graciously lent a helping hand by participating in the ballet’s “Ballet Business” program. These businesses will donate a percentage of their proceeds on certain days to help support the Sacramento Ballet. Play your part in this valiant effort by visiting one (or all!) of these businesses:

March 30 - April 4: Firefly Salon and Boutique will be donating 10% with mention of S.O.S. Ballet week. Located at 5539 H St.
March 31: Zuda Yoga Classes. Zuda Yoga is located at 19th & O St. Check their website for a schedule.
April 1 - 4: ARareity Jewlery and Art Glass Gallery will be donating 20% of all sales. Located at 1021 R St.
April 4: Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill: donating 20% of sales with presentation of their flyer (Click HERE to download a printable version of the flyer). Valid at Natomas, Truxel Road location only.
April 4: Heavenly's Yogurt, will be donating 30% of all sales.

Wednesday 4.1

ROOTBEER

No, I am not referring to the bubbly soda likely consumed in ridiculous amounts during your childhood adventures at Chuck-E-Cheese. ROOTBEER is the joint efforts of Pigeon John & Flynn Adam resulting in musical mayhem. As self-described on their myspace page, this is what you can expect: “With an even more upped-tempo vocal cadence dancing on top of beatscapes that awaken even the hippest of skeptics, the music will make you jump up like a chimpanzee. An unbelievably charismatic live show, mixed with the most infectious hooks you've wrapped your ears around in quite some time, Rootbeer slaps a smile on your face that you simply can't contain.”

Location: Blue Lamp (N St. & Alhambra). Time: 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 455-3400

The Waybacks

As unpredictable as the city they come from (San Francisco), The Waybacks are an eclectic mix of music from classic folk & bluegrass to a soulful honky tonk. Their most recent album is their first entirely original album complete with a fiddler and mandolinist.

Location: Marilyn’s on K (10th & K St). Time: 8:30pm. Cost: $15adv, $18 door. Info: (916)446-4361

Thursday 4.2

Jim Lehrer

Most recently known as the executive director and anchor for The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer on PBS, and he has been the moderator for 10 nationally televised debates among candidates for the presidential elections. Jim Lehrer is the acclaimed bestselling author of both fiction and non-fiction books, including 18 novels, two memoirs and three plays. He has been inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, honored with the National Humanities Medal, elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Science, and has won two Emmys. I found it interesting to find that he is a Bus enthusiast! I didn’t know there was such a thing! Maybe he can advocate for Sacramento to have a better public transportation system…

Location: Crest Theatre (13th & K St). Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $27. Info: (800) 225-2277

David Crow

David Crow has rapidly gained a foothold in the standup comedy scene. From his first road trip a few years back to headlining some of the best clubs across the country. In 1996 he was chosen to open for President Clinton when he spoke to over two thousand supporters at the Paramount Theater in Seattle (Hello? He must be funny…) Most recently he has hosted the 1 hour special on Showtime, Crooked Finger. Catch him live this weekend!

Location: Laughs Unlimited (1201 Front St). Time: 8:00pm. Cost: $10. Info: (916) 446-5905

Friday 4.3

Massaging for Medicine

Come out and support a great cause. Troy Goings, a local certified massage therapist, is attempting to raise $10,000 dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and at the same time get into the Guinness Book of World Records by massaging for 20 hours straight. He needs your help. Troy will be offering ten minute chair massages for donations of any amount. All money that is donated will go to the St. Jude's Children’s Hospital. Come out and get a chair massage and hang out. KSFM 102.5 as well as Good Day Sacramento will be there broadcasting. Sandwiches will be available courtesy of Beach Hut Deli from 12:00-1:00pm. There will be raffle tickets for sale for some really great prizes. It should be a lot of fun. Hope to see you there!

Location: Adora Bella Day Spa (1470 Eureka Rd.). Time: 5:00am-2:00am. Cost: Donations welcomed! Info: (916) 541-6914

Bank of America: Free Admission Days

Check out the California Museum for Women History and the Arts courtesy of Bank of America. Museums On Us sponsored by Bank of America provides free admission on the first weekend of every month. Being a Bank of America customer may finally pay off! Bring your BofA ATM or credit card and a photo ID and get in for free.

Location: California Museum (10th & O St). Times: 10:00am-4:00pm. Cost: Free Info: (916) 653-7524

Saturday 4.4

Earth Fest- Party for the planet!

It’s a party for the planet! Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations, a recycle raffle, rummage sale, games, crafts and face painting. During the day, visit Wildlife Wagons to explore animal bio-artifacts; participate in storytelling and activities in the Discovery Room; come face-to-face with the outreach animals; or listen as keepers present enrichment talks in the afternoon.

Location: Sacramento Zoo (3930 West Land Park Drive). Time: 9:00am-4:00pm. Cost: $6.50-$9.50. Info: (916) 808-5888

Theatre Performance Month

A month-long festival of live stage performances for the entire family, featuring Puppet Art Theater, the Fairytale Town Troupers, and other Sacramento-area theater companies. All performances are matinees and will take place indoors in the Children's Theater on Saturdays and Sundays. This week Tomas and the Library Lady is the feature at the Next Stage Theatre for Young Audiences. See their website for the remainder of performances in April.

Location: Fairytale Town (3901 Land Park Dr). Times: 12:30pm & 1:30pm. Cost: $4.50 (Kids under 2- Free). Info: (916) 808-7462

Sunday 4.5

Salsa Night

If you're tired of sitting on your couch and watching Dancing With The Stars, get up and learn to do it like they do! Del Campo Studios conducts a FREE beginning Salsa dance class every sunday night at Harlow's. You don't even need to have a partner! There are plenty of newcomers to stumble over so you won't have to be embarrassed. Try something new! After the class, two DJ's will be keep you dancing to latin music through the night.

Location: Harlow's (28th & J St). Times: 7:00pm-12:00am. Cost: Free. Info: (916) 441-4693

Ross Hammond

Gotta love the coffee house live instrumental sessions! Grab a cup of Joe and enjoy some music. Old Soul is tucked away in the alley between 17th and 18th and L and Capital Streets. Its a cool, brick warehouse turned coffee roasting facility and coffee house. Jason is the coffee connoisseur (you may know him from the original Naked Lounge) and Tim is the baker and pastry extraordinaire. Good people that you are sure to have a good time with! A nice way to spend a lazy sunday if you ask me.

Location: Old Soul Coffee Co (17th & L). Times: 10:30am. Cost: Free. Info: (916) 443-7685

And so goes another fun filled week in Sacramento brought to you by Sacramento365.com. Hope to see you out on the town!

Week 12: 7 Days, 7 Things To Do

2009-03-24T20:42:16Z

This week is filled with laughter, song and dance! Not to mention a handful of highly successful people to spend your time with. Whether you're looking to get out and be active or just sit back and enjoy the show, this week in Sacramento there is an event that is likely to peak your interest. Depending on your interests, you may not even have to bring your wallet to do something different!

Week 12: March 24-30

Tuesday: 4th Tuesday Films

Every fourth Tuesday of the month a film is featured which addresses peace, justice, and sustainability in the world or how it can be threatened. This weeks feature film is White Light, Black Rain: The Destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where filmmaker Steven Okazaki revisits the bombings and shares the stories of the only people to have survived a nuclear attack.

Location: 909 12th Street. Cost: Free. Time: 7:00pm. Info: (916) 448-7157. Web: http://www.sacpeace.org/

Wednesday: Get Motivated! Business Seminar

Let's face it- we all need a little motivation here and there. What better place to do it than a seminar featuring 7 highly motivated and successful people? Who might you ask are the guests? Maybe one of these folks will encourage you to check out the show: Zig Ziglar, Michael Phelps, Tamara Lowe, Gen. Colin Powell, Dr. Earl Mindell, Rudolph Giuliani, & Steve Forbes will all be there live, in person, to share with you their recipe for success. As quoted from their website: "The GET MOTIVATED Seminar is world famous for its energizing, action-packed, star-studded, fun-filled, spectacular stage show. CNN, 60 Minutes, USA Today, TIME, PEOPLE, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal all rave about it! This motivational mega-show packs more inspirational firepower than a stick of dynamite!" There are apparently some major prizes given away too- Sounds like motivation enough for me!

Location: Arco Arena Cost: $69/indiv, $299/group. Time: 8:00am-4:45pm. Info: (800) 610-7931. Web: http://getmotivated.com

Thursday: Open Mic Night

Come down for the brand new open mic night at the Capitol Garage! Enjoy some of Sac's newest artists to hit the stage and $1 off draught beers all night long. Favorite acts may receive a chance to open for upcoming Capitol Garage shows!

Location: 1500 K Street. Cost: $5. Time: 9:00pm. Info: (916) 444-3633. Web: http://www.capitolgarage.com

Friday: Laugh it up with Comedy Sportz

This is a great night out for the whole family. If you think that clean comedy is just for kids, you need to check out Comedy Sportz. This is an improv comedy show where the actors or "act-letes" actually play out skits as if it were a sport! The "act-letes" compete for audience laughs and points while improvising scenes, games, and musicals based on audience suggestions. There is a referee who calls fouls and keeps the participants scrambling. Audience participation is encouraged and highly entertaining. The winners are determined by the votes of the audience. This is a sport for anyone to enjoy! Comedy Sportz has shows every Friday & Saturday night.

Location: 2230 Arden Way. Cost: $12/10/8. Time: 8:00pm. Info: (916) 444-3633. Web: http://www.comedysportzsacramento.com

Saturday: Sacramento International Film Festival Continues!

The 2009 official premier was last Sunday at the Crest Theatre. Saturday the festival moves to the Artisan theater () with several films including The Prince of Broadway which won the grand jury prize at the Los Angeles Film Festival. This touching film centers on a West African street hustler named Lucky, whose world is turned upside down when a baby is thrust into his arms as his son. Written and directed by Sean Baker (Greg The Bunny, Take Out) Prince of Broadway is hailed by The Hollywood Reporter as “The Genuine Article”.

Location: 1901 Del Paso blvd. Cost: $8-$10. Time: Showings from 11:00am-8:30pm. Info: (916) 648-0268. Web: http://saciff.bside.com

Sunday: Burlesque Fusion Dance Classes

Ladies, it's time to get out and find your inner vixen! The Sizzling Sirens are Sacramento's hottest Burlesque Dancers. This class is designed to teach you their method of celebrating sexuality and excuding self confidence! This class is designed for beginners so don't be shy if you aren't much of a dancer. If anything you'll get a great workout and have a great time! Do note that this class is for women only.

Location: Firehouse 5 (9th & T St). Cost: $15/class. Time: 1:00-2:00pm. Info: n/a. Web: http://www.sizzlingsirensburlesque.com/

Monday: Lil' Wayne with T-Pain Concert

Apparently Lil' Wayne is not just a rapper anymore. He performed at the 2008 Country Music Awards with Kid Rock and is expected to release a rock album in April of this year. Aka Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., Lil' Wayne is making quite a name for himself. Not sure what exactly is to be expected from him this show... Opening for Lil' Wayne and T-Pain (rhyming with reason?) are Gym Class Heroes, a rap-rock fusion band and Keri Hilson, a new R&B singer debuting her solo album In a Perfect World. This is sure to be an entertaining event.

Location: Arco Arena. Cost: $37.25-$77.25. Time: 8:00pm. Info: 916-928-6900. Web: http://www.arcoarena.com/

Find these events and many more at www.Sacramento365.com, the Year-Round Source for Sacramento Events! See you next week...

Week 11: 7 Days, 7 Things to do

2009-03-17T21:47:06Z

And so begins the eleventh week of 2009. Sacramento continues to surprise us with great events all week long!

Week 11: March 17-24, Check out:

Tuesday: Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

There is a day full of festivities in celebration of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland. Don your green garb and join the fun! 100.5 The Zone will be broadcasting live at Brew it Up on 14th and H Street. Enjoy Celtic & Irish music all day with dining & drinks specials starting at 11:00am. Live music by Mother Mayhem will begin at 9:00pm and you may even catch a glimpse of the Jameson and SoCo girls while you're there! Be sure to head down to Old Sacramento for the 13th Annual St. Patrick's Day parade in Old Sacramento. The parade starts at 6:00pm but check out the pre-parade entertainment starting at 4:00pm. Then, Get Your Irish Up! with a block party at De Vere's Irish Pub and MIX downtown. L Street will be closed between 15th and 16th Streets. This is an all day event starting at 10:00am featuring: Irish bagpipes, Gaelic dancers, classic Irish food, full bars serving fine Irish whiskey, and over 30 beers on tap. Music by Tainted Love will begin at 8:00pm. Get your tickets today for $20 at De Vere's or MiX. Call (916) 231-9947 for more info. There will also be plenty of specials and entertainment around town. Some participants include: Streets of London, Golden Bear, Marilyn's on K, Capitol Dawg, Cosmo Cafe, Bistro 33 Midtown and many others!

Wednesday: Broker's London Dry Gin Mixology Competition

Come to the Lounge on 20 to witness this bartending showdown! Ten of the Sacramento's most creative and talented mixologists (aka bartenders) will be competing to make the "Best" cocktail. Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 winners. Onlookers and fellow cocktail connaisseurs can enjoy a specialty priced cocktail menu all night (including $5 Broker's Gin cocktails) along with a Broker's Gin tasting table. The doors open at 5:00 and the competition begins at 6:00pm so get there early! Lounge on 20 is located at: 1050 20th Street, Suite 100 (20th & K). (916) 443-6620

Thursday: Crocker Cinematique: The Cup

Explore your understanding of Buddhism with this special evening! Sponsored by the Crocker Art Museum, the Cinematique program features films reflective of current exhibits at the museum. The most current exhibit is Buddha which runs through April 19th. The Cup is a film about the challenges of the Lama, head of the monastery, in teaching the word of Buddha in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Maria Jaoudi, Professor of Humanities and Religious Studies at Sacramento State, will introduce the film and lead a discussion afterward on the spiritual dimensions, concerns and values of Buddhism portrayed in the film. Held at the Sierra 2 Center, Curtis Hall at 2791 24th Street. Free with admission to the Museum. Call (916) 808-1182 for reservations (required). If you haven't seen the exhibit yet, pre-screening tours of Buddha will begin at 5:45pm at the Crocker Art Museum.

Friday: Sacramento State Festival of the Arts

Sponsored by the Sacramento State School of the Arts, this event features various media and artists showcasing their talents. There will be performances and shows to include jazz, theater and dance, poetry and lectures. The event begins Wednesday, March 18 and continues through Saturday, the 21st. Many of the events are free, others range from $8-$15. On Friday, Check out: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, put on by the Department of Theatre and Dance. Show starts at 8pm and costs $15 General Admission, $12 Students/Seniors, $10 Children (although recommended for teens and up). Held in the Capistrano Hall at Sac State, 6000 J Street. (916) 278-5155

Saturday: Journee de la Francophonie

French language isn’t just for Parisians! The Alliance Française de Sacramento is hosting this fun filled day to celebrate the languange and culture of the French speaking peoples across the globe. Take a trip around the world in one day with dancing, movies and lectures for the whole family to enjoy. $5 for non-members, $2 for members, children 14 and under are free. The Alliance Francaise de Sacramento is located at 1721 25th Street. (916) 453-1723

Sunday: Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)

If you are one of those people who never really understood the notoriety of the prose and productions of William Shakespeare, the Sacramento Theatre Company has got the play for you. This abridged version of Shakespearian works is performed by three actors who humorously perform all 37 of Shakespeare's plays in less than 2 hours! Acclaimed as “wildly funny” by the Los Angeles Times and “the funniest show you are likely to see in your entire lifetime” by the Montreal Gazette. Lovers of Shakespeare alike will undoubtedly find this show equally entertaining. Prices range from $15-$46. Sacramento Theatre Company is located at 1419 H Street. For tickets visit the box office or call (916) 443-6722.

Monday: Strong Women, Powerful Financial Strategies Seminar

In honor of Womens History month, Ameriprise Financial is holding this special financial workshop geared towards women at Borders Bookstore of Sacramento. As per their website, "The rules of financial planning are different for women. This informative seminar will focus on how you can: Gain control over your finances, make informed financial decisions and protect the people and things you love the most." This is a free event. The seminar begins at 7:00pm so get there early to reserve your space! Located at 2339 Fair Oaks Boulevard.

Find these events and many more Sacramento events at Sacramento365.com.

This Week: 7 Days, 7 Things To Do

2009-03-09T23:49:41Z

This storyline is simple. We all know that there are 365 days in a year, 52 weeks in that year, and 7 days in each week. Sacramento365.com aims to showcase this artistic & cultural city's events, 365 days a year. If you ever feel like there is just nothing interesting to do in this great city or you're tired of doing the same things all of the time, my hopes are that these articles will inspire you to explore what Sacramento has to offer and realize the diverse & interesting place we call home. There is something unique going on every day! Every week I will outline an event a day for that week for your enjoyment. Get out of your comfort zone & try something new.

Week 10: March 10-16, 2009, Check out:

Tuesday, March 10: Metro Expo 2009

Organized by the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, Metro Expo 2009 is a Business-to-Business networking extravaganza! Visit one of the 200+ exhibitors and hob-nob with the decision makers of over 1500 regional businesses. The event begins at 12:30pm with Opening Ceremonies followed by sales, education, and networking workshops throughout. The event ends with a networking reception from 5:00-7:00pm. Tickets for the full event are $30/members and $45/non-members. Tickets for the reception only are $15/members and $25/non-members. Location: Sacramento Convention Center, 1400 J Street, (916) 808-5291.

Wednesday, March 11: Karaoke @ Townhouse Lounge

Does this weather make you feel like singing the blues? Lately you might be feeling like you want to get up and dance! Either way. there is nothing like a night of karoake to get your spirits up! Check out the TownHouse lounge every Wednesday and Saturday nights to witness some local talent (likely along with some less talented folks...) and maybe try a song or two for yourself. Located at 1517 21st Street.

Thursday, March 12: The Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Capital Public Radio's 30th Anniversary Celebration: a dance concert with The Spanish Harlem Orchestra. Held at the Memorial Auditorium, the concert begins at 8:00pm. Tickets are $25 a person. Reserve your seat before tickets are gone! Call (916) 278-8900.

Friday, March 13: Camellia International Folk Dance Festival

A festive, entertaining day filled of ethnic folk dance performances and workshops. Held @ Sac State. Tickets range from $7 for individual shows/workshops to $25 for the full event. (916) 923-1555.

Saturday, March 14: Eat Mochii to Help save the Sacramento Ballet

Treat yourself to a tasty cup of frozen yogurt at Mochi Yogurt this Saturday and they will donate 20% of the proceeds to help save the Sacramento Ballet! As part of the Second Saturday Art walk, Body sculptures, DJs and artists will be present from 6pm to 10pm. Mochii Yogurt is located at 1530 16th Street (corner of 16th and P Streets). (916) 441-2601.

Sunday, March 15: Graham-O-Rama Cabaret

Join Graham Sobelman and his weekly guests for an all around good time! This week Tristan Rumery & Christina Day star in "We're Seriously Irish". Enjoy live entertainment with singing, comedy and encouraged participation from the audience! This show is not for the conservative crowd- expect lots of racy humor and adult content. $15 a person- cash only, at the door (also get a $5 off coupon for the next week's show!). Held @ the Geery Theatre, 2130 L Street. (916) 798-6352.

Monday, March 16: Thistle Dew Playrights Workshop

If you are interested in participating in bringing new plays & musicals to Sacramento (i.e. Thistle Dew Theatre...) and have Monday nights free, check out the Playrights Workshops held at Thistle Dew Dessert Theatre every Monday night. They call it "Monday Evenings at Seven". Bet you can guess what time it starts. This is a FREE workshop where readers, writers, theatre critics, directors, producers, actors, and theatre aficionados are invited and welcomed. Thistle Dew Dessert Theatre is located at 1901 P Street, (916) 444-8209.

Sacramento365.com wants YOU to get out and see a show, visit an exhibit, take your family or friends to a festival... basically, just get out there and discover all the amazing things happening throughout our community... 365 days of the year! And if you're a visitor, we hope you'll find plenty of reasons to stay an extra day or two and see why Sacramento is such a great place to live and visit. See you next week...

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