Newest articles and comments on The Sacramento Press written by Sonny Mayugba

Sonny Mayugba on "Support your local custom guitar designer Mark Dobbins"

2013-03-06T15:21:14Z

theres another great luthier in sac named Arnie Gamble. great guy.

Sonny Mayugba on "Opinion: Stop comparing Sac to S.F."

2013-03-05T15:27:41Z

I'm with you. Best read I've had since The Oasis Ballroom was open.

Sonny Mayugba on "The Red Rabbit opens on J Street"

2012-02-13T21:13:46Z

The Red Rabbit was cleared for its liquor license on Friday. So the full concept is now available, and you can view the hours for LUNCH, BRUNCH, DINNER and HAPPY HOUR on the website: www.theredrabbit.net and there is also a tab encouraging public transit and garage parking on the website, as well as Facebook.

Sonny Mayugba on "Sacramento Press on Insight: Terminal B, cars on K, garlic galore! "

2011-07-14T04:51:46Z

What a great way to get the summary of top stories, cool addition to the Press!

Sonny Mayugba on "Bicycle-sharing program coming to Midtown"

2011-06-02T02:19:52Z

Check out: http://www.bixisystem.com. Did it in Montreal and if Sacpress would allow photos or video comments (hint hint Joel) I'd show you a sweet photo!

Sonny Mayugba on "Design competition to shape Capitol Mall"

2011-06-02T02:16:54Z

Regardless of the past, crowdsourced innovation is a critical piece to going forward from here. Nothing will change what's already been done, but new technology and tools combined with new thinking make it possible to create smart and sustainable decisions from here on out. I agree with Ben, and love the idea of a competition. I've been obsessed lately with shared solutions to challenges. Mostly, been hanging out on this site: http://www.openideo.com/. Peep it and let's keep Sacto moving in the 21st century. #welivehere.

Sonny Mayugba on "Eclectic mix planned for Splash Bar"

2010-11-12T23:29:35Z

Yes, a toast to the old Post! Earwigs and Sex 66 Live! Best of luck to the new owners. They would do well to play off its legacy. Hope they're listening!

Sonny Mayugba on "Eclectic mix planned for Splash Bar"

2010-11-12T22:13:31Z

People's memory is short. Long before this was a troubled spot, it was a great place where old drunks, young hipsters, musicians, blue collar workers, and skateboarders all hung out together. I imagine most people aren't giving this new concept a shot, but I think it may work. Any progression in the hospitality and entertainment landscape of Sacramento should be given a chance. I'll definitely check it out once.

Sonny Mayugba on "Jim-Denny's for sale"

2010-10-19T22:27:19Z

Hi Paul (and everyone who purchased the Jim Denny's Deal Ticket). We spoke to Joanna at Jim Denny's and she said, yes, the Deal Ticket vouchers are good for one year and they will honor them as long as they are valid.

Sonny Mayugba on "Le Petit Paris to close"

2010-09-02T19:58:47Z

Good for them for giving it a 5 year run, and it's too bad they can't continue. Best of luck to their family!

Sonny Mayugba on "The lucky winner is..."

2010-07-23T23:51:31Z

I posted an article to kick this contest off and I also want to thank all the entrants. Your stories and your involvement in the community and in this philanthropic endeavor is nothing short of stellar. Thanks to everyone who engaged in this and for all the support.

Enter-To-Win: Caddie For Orlando Magic’s Matt Barnes

2010-07-20T05:11:21Z

This Saturday, July 24, Athletes vs Cancer (AVC) will hold the annual community event to support research, create awareness, provide screening opportunities and deliver subsequent support to cancer patients. Founded in 2009 by Matt Barnes in memory of his mother, the Foundation has expanded to recruit additional athletes and coaches touched by cancer. It’s primary focus in 2010 is to secure a mobile cancer screening van. The vehicle will visit low-income neighborhoods providing free cancer screenings, awareness and resources from AVC and its partner organizations.

This awareness-raising celebrity golf invitational takes place Saturday, July 24 at the lovely Woodcreek Golf Course in Roseville.

AVC has partnered with The Sacramento Press and Deal Ticket, a daily deal group buying site for the Sacramento region, to give one lucky person the chance to caddie for AVC host and former-Del Campo High School student Matt Barnes. The lucky winner will get one-on-one strategy time for 18 holes with the NBA star and much more.

This prize package includes:

4 VIP tickets and passes for friends or family (in addition to your entrance)
Parking Pass
Photo and autographs with Matt Barnes
Caddie Bib for the day
The once in a lifetime experience to caddie for a NBA player!

To enter, email and tell us why you should be Matt Barnes’ caddie.

Send entries to: contest@sacramentopress.com

All entries must be time stamped by 1:00 pm PST, Friday July 23, 2010. The Top 3 finalists will be chosen by myself and Casey Kirk at The Sacramento Press, then the final winner will be chosen by Matt Barnes himself. Please include your phone number.

Rules: Winner must arrive to Woodcreek by 9:30 AM on Sat 7/24/10. Winner must be 18 years or older. Prize cannot be transferred or sold. Winner must be in good physical health and able to be on the golf course and/or in the outside weather conditions for more than five hours. Winner must abide by golf etiquette. All entrants agree to receive a Deal Ticket via email. We will not share your email or information with any outside parties for any reason.

You can read all about the event, how to get involved in this cause, and more at http://athletesvscancer.org.

Here is a list of some of expected celebrity golfers:
Matt Barnes, Orlando Magic
Chris Webber, Retired NBA and TNT
Vince Carter, Orlando Magic
Stephen Jackson, Charlotte Bobcats
Urijah Faber, UFC
Nate Robinson, Boston Celtics
Brad Miller, Chicago Bulls
Jason Kapono, Philadelphia 76ers
Doug Christie, Retired NBA
Scot Pollard, Retired NBA
Earl Watson, Indiana Pacers
George Hill, San Antonio Spurs
Toby Bailey, NY Knicks
Alvin Gentry, Head Coach Phoenix Suns
J.A. Adande, ESPN
Greg Vaughn, Retired MLB
Jason Williams, Orlando Magic
Leon Powe, Cleveland Cavaliers
Maurice Evans, Atlanta Hawks
Corey Dillion, NFL
Adrian Ross, Retired NFL
Bo Outlaw, Retired NBA
Grant Napear, KHTK
Brian Gates, Assistant Coach, New Orleans Hornets
Edna Campbell, WNBA
Henry Turner, Retired NBA
Tim Roye, Warriors Broadcast Announcer

Sonny Mayugba on "The full range rage of Henry Rollins"

2010-05-25T23:10:28Z

I had an interview arranged with Henry Rollins after a Rollins Band performance at the Crest Theatre many years ago. When he showed up, he kept telling me no to the interview, while I insisted that this wasn't going to be a standard lame interview and he should give me the time. He finally stopped and said, "You've got 30 seconds, GO!" As I explained my concept, word association with Henry Rollins, he said, "No" and took off. You're very right, he is completely intense. I'm a fan, and a fan of your writing.

Sonny Mayugba on "Tyreke Evans wins NBA Rookie of the Year award"

2010-04-29T02:44:06Z

Wow, great wrap up on Tyreke's season. Outstanding player. It's weird how the 'worst case scenario' turned out to the best case.

Sonny Mayugba on "No fracture for Kings' Evans"

2010-03-21T03:41:39Z

Whew, glad to hear that.

Sonny Mayugba on "Another one bites the dust: Hard Rock Café and its memorabilia"

2010-03-21T03:40:35Z

Great photo set.

Sonny Mayugba on "Green Summit Shows New Green Tech"

2010-03-18T16:24:59Z

This is really exciting stuff. I look forward to a time when products and services made with sustainability at the forefront are mainstream.

Sonny Mayugba on "How Much Would You Shave To Save A Life? St. Baldrick's Day 2010 in Sacramento"

2010-02-14T00:13:13Z

Appreciate what you're doing Henry. I formed a team for Sacramento Press and I'll be shaving my head to support the cause. I've already raised some donations. Good onya!

Sonny Mayugba on "SQUAW VALLEY SKI CORP COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF THE VILLAGE AT SQUAW VALLEY USA"

2010-01-31T19:50:06Z

I overheard about this the day before it closed escrow. I was riding the Funitel and it was the talk of the car. The local retailers are tentative about the change, but have big hopes it will be a good change.

Sonny Mayugba on "Couple trading Midtown corner for Mexico"

2010-01-27T05:47:38Z

That store is such a staple of (what was then known as) downtown for so many years. My Mother would take me there to get the super creative cards in the early 80s. You guys killed it! Glad you're moving on to greener pastures!

Sonny Mayugba on "Finally --- a Sunset"

2010-01-23T06:04:31Z

Great shots.

Sonny Mayugba on "Kings snag the Nuggets"

2009-12-29T17:30:55Z

Go Noc! Thanks for the play by play M2. I was in travel mode and missed the game entirely. Great piece.

Sonny Mayugba on "Christmas lights in the Fab 40s"

2009-12-25T01:26:21Z

Epic slide show!

Kings Win Home Opener 127 - 116, Send Iverson Home With An L

2009-11-03T07:28:17Z

It was a hard fought game with the Sacramento Kings down by 2 points and six seconds to go. Arco Arena got on its feet and everyone felt like it was old times again with the loudest and most loyal fans in the NBA. The Kings came through and forced an overtime, a five minutes the Griz wish never happened. The energy gave the team the momentum to add the first win to their tally and start what is hopefully a streak. Kings win 127 to 116 while Lou Blanas, the Real Rudy, Matt Haines, Coach Westphal, and Floyd Mayweather Jr. cheer on the Sactown royalty.

Kings Home Opener 2010 Photo Documentary - 3rd Quarter plus

2009-11-03T05:28:14Z

It's neck and neck in the 3rd and Arco Arena is on fire! The Memphis Griz coach Marc Iavaroni looks like a Doc Rivers arguing with the ref's. The real "Rudy" is courtside and we have a battle royale on our hands! It's 88 - 86, Kings, with 8:52 to go. you can smell the win, even though heartbreak is in the back of everyone's mind. No matter, we're having a great time. The hallways of Arco are filled with Sacramento's finest. Jason Boggs and Alex Origoni from Shady Lady, the infamous valet mafia boss Johnny Neumann, and Randy Paragary are rubbing elbows the lobbyists, pro boxers, and music producers while the sold out crowd bangs thunder sticks in hopes for a win at home. Slamson gets the clap going as AC/DC's Hell's Bells plays at 120 decibels. Allen Iverson left with 2:48 to go, a grimmace on his face. It's tied with a hundred a piece. Where will this go? It's 108 to 105 with 45.3 seconds left. It feels like the old days in here, Arco is on FIRE!

Kings Home Opener 2010 Photo Documentary - 2nd Quarter

2009-11-03T04:13:18Z

The second period started with a bang of momentum coming off Kmart's 3 pointer. Mayor Kevin Johnson and Gavin Maloof brought out their key community players who helped project sell-out become a reality. Chevo Ramirez, Randy Paragary, and the like were honored on center court. Cocktails are flowing, Roung Table pizzas are flying, cotton candy is flapping, and the Kings are UP 51 to 50 with 2 mins to go. Spencer Hawes is adding defense where it is needed and Casspi looks relaxed like a young confident stallion. The arena is full as we wrap up the half...UP 2! Let's get the "W"!

Kings Home Opener 2010 Photo Documentary - 1st Quarter

2009-11-03T03:45:55Z

The pre-game energy has been ramping up for the home opener of the Kings. Sacramento wants a win. In the press room, we were greeted by the lovely Liz from Bella Bru. it's great to Maloof using local talent for catering. Project Sell-Out was a success and people have been pouring through the door to watch KMart, Beno, and Evans face off with baby Gasol, Gay, and the infamous Iverson. With a minute 31 to go, the Kings are down 15 to 28. Bad calls are riddled with bad mistakes, but the team is building momentum. Let's see where this goes. BOOM! Kmart on a pass from Beno drains a 3! We got a game.

Sonny Mayugba on "Kings Writing Contest Official Rules - Win 4 Tix To Opening Night and More!"

2009-11-02T06:07:37Z

I made an error above. For the winning prize, it is for the 11.2.2009 game. I wrote "...on October 23rd." Sorry for any confusion, and thank you for understanding.

Justin "XT8PLNR" Kennedy Wins

2009-11-02T06:00:06Z

In a competition to see who had the best community questions for the Sacramento Kings, Sacramento Press community contributors posted questions they would ask the Kings to the site in hopes of getting the most thumbs ups. Writers battled it out in the Conversation section with questions aimed at the new team, the new coach, the General Manager and even past players. The community cast their vote for the best budding sports writer by clicking the thumbs up icon on their questions. The five writers with the most thumbs ups were forwarded to the Sacramento Press Editor-In-Chief Geoff Samek to seal the fate on the final winner.

After reviewing the bunch, Justin Kennedy (username XT8PLNR) was selected as the lucky winner. Justin is excited and will be hosting 3 of his friends at the coveted sold-out opening night. Then, he will be representing all the entrants at an exclusive after-practice interview where he will get to ask these very questions to the Sacramento Kings team and staff.

Congratulations Justin and a special thanks to everyone for participating. Look for Justin's story on Sacramento Press and Kings.com soon.

Kings Writing Contest - Win Opening Night Prize Package & Exclusive Access

2009-10-28T05:29:15Z

Full Court Sacramento Press with the Kings - Win A Kings Opening Night Package

Our Paint The Town Purple writing contest was a success and the winners enjoyed their prize packages. Now we bring you a new way to get your writing and photography closer to the largest sports franchise in Sacramento and get rewarded big time in the process.

Would you like to have...

free tickets for you and three of your best friends to the Kings home opener at Arco Arena on Monday, November 2?
a new digital camera?
access to cruise around Arco Arena opening night with your new digital camera snapping photos that will be published on Sacramento Press and Kings.com?
exclusive access to interview the Kings players post practice a week later?
your exclusive interview published on Sacramento Press and Kings.com.

Join us in an exclusive contest where one lucky winner will get the entire prize VIP package above!

Here’s how you can win:

In the Conversation section below, post the question or questions you would ask the Kings if given the chance to do an in-person interview.

How we will pick the winner:

First, the community gets to help decide. In our Conversation section, people can give your comment thumbs up or down. The top five users with the most thumbs ups will be chosen. Then one of our Editors will pick the grand prize winner.

The official rules can be found by clicking HERE.

If you post only one question, you are entered, but there is no limit to the number of questions you can post. Good luck, and we’ll see one of you and your friends on opening night at Arco Arena!

Kings Writing Contest Official Rules - Win 4 Tix To Opening Night and More!

2009-10-28T05:22:35Z

“Full Court Sacramento Press with the Kings”
OFFICIAL SWEEPSTAKES RULES
The Sweepstakes begins on October 27 and closes on November 1, 2009. Participation in the Sweepstakes constitutes full and unconditional agreement and acceptance of these Sweepstakes Rules, which are final on all matters relating to the Sweepstakes.

(1) How to Enter: No purchase necessary.  Entrants can go to SacramentoPress.com, comment on any King’s related article and they will be automatically entered into the contest. Comments MUST coincide with a King’s related article or it will not qualify for the promotion/winnings. Please include the question you would ask any Kings player or staff member in your comment. The online Sweepstakes will begin on October 27 and closes on November 1, 2009 at 11:59 am. The Sacramento Press, The Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, the National Basketball Association and its Member Teams, NBA Properties, Inc. (a.k.a. Sponsors), and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, franchisees, licenses, directors, owners, employees and agents, assumes no responsibility for entries they are unable to process due to network, hardware or other technical failures, or for incomplete, damaged, misdirected, illegible or lost entries. Sponsors reserve the right, in their sole discretion, to disqualify any person tampering with the entry process, operation of the website or otherwise in violation of the rules and reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, terminate or modify this sweepstakes if not capable of completion as planned, including infection by computer virus, technical corruption, non-authorized human intervention or force majeure. The use of automated entry devices or any other conduct that impedes the integrity of the sweepstakes is prohibited. Entrants can enter as often as they wish by commenting on various stories.

(2) Who Can Play: Sweepstakes is open to residents of California living within seventy-five (75) miles of ARCO Arena, except employees and immediate families (siblings and children) of The Sacramento Press, The Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, The National Basketball Association and its Member Teams, NBA Properties, Inc., and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, franchisees, licenses, directors, owners, employees and agents.

(3) Grand Prize: One (1) winner will be selected in a subjective selection process from all of the “King’s questions” during the contest period to determine the winner. The winner will be chosen for the prize by Staff Members of The Sacramento Press from all eligible entries based on entries with the most “thumbs ups”. The winner will be notified on November 1, 2009 by 4 p.m. In the event the winner cannot be contacted or declines the prize, an alternate winner will be selected. “THE FULL COURT SACRAMENTO PRESS WITH THE KINGS” includes an opportunity for the winner and three guest to attend the Kings Opening Night game on October 23rd. The winner (1 person) will have the opportunity to spend the evening at ARCO Arena for Opening Night of The Kings and get access to interview the Kings team after a practice! Prize package will include a digital camera to take photos throughout the game and a total of four (4) tickets to enjoy opening night with the Kings. The photos you take will be downloaded to a SacPress laptop that will be online and posted as a photo collage live throughout the game, credited to the winner. During the week of 11/9/09, you’ll be invited back to interview Kings players after practice and pose the question(s) which will become a feature story on both sites. Total sweepstakes prize value is approximately $1300.

(4) Winners are solely responsible for all applicable federal, state and local taxes unless otherwise indicated. No substitution, cash equivalent or transfer of prize permitted except at the team’s option for a prize of comparable or greater value.
(5) Chances of winning are dependent on number of correct entries received prior to the end of the sweepstakes.
(6) The winning team’s name can be obtained after November 2, 2009, by writing to: ”Full Court Sacramento Press with the Kings” ARCO Arena, One Sports Parkway, Sacramento, CA 95834: Attention: HEATHER VAUGHAN
(7) Liability Agreement: By entering, entrant agrees to follow the Official Rules and hold harmless and indemnify The Sacramento Press, Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, and/or the National Basketball Association and its Member Teams, NBA Properties, Inc., and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, employees and agents against any and all liability, damages or causes of action (however named or described), with respect to or arising out of either (i) entrant’s participation; or (ii) the receipt or use of the prizes awarded in the sweepstakes.
(8) In consideration for being awarded a prize, winner hereby agrees and consents, without further authorization, compensation or remuneration of any kind, to the use of winner’s name and/or likeness in any and all advertising, promotions and other publicity conducted by The Sacramento Press, The Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, and/or the National Basketball Association and its Member Teams, NBA Properties, Inc., and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries and affiliates, except were prohibited by law.
(9) Sweepstakes void where prohibited.  Before being awarded a prize, potential winners must sign a Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, standard form of Declaration, Release and Waiver Form, releasing the Released Parties from any and all liability arising from, among other things: (i) participation in the Sweepstakes; and (ii) acceptance of the prizes awarded therein; and (iii) the administration of the Sweepstakes and distribution of the prizes awarded therein.
(10) Liability Agreement: By entering, entrant agrees to follow the Official Rules and hold harmless and indemnify Sponsors, and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, employees and agents against any and all liability, damages or causes of action (however named or described), with respect to or arising out of either (i) entrant’s participation; or (ii) the receipt or use of the prizes awarded in the promotion.
By entering the Sweepstakes, each winner grants to Sponsors the right to the use of his or her name, likeness or photograph without compensation in any publicity or for promotional purposes carried out by the above parties. Prizes must be accepted as awarded and are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or otherwise.
Sponsors, reserve the right to substitute prizes of equal or greater value and/or to terminate, modify or withdraw this Sweepstakes, in whole or in part (including altering the manner in which the prizes are distributed), at any time, without prior notice for any reason including, but not limited to, the delay or cancellation of the event for which the Grand Prize is awarded, or, if viruses, bugs, tampering or other causes beyond the Sponsors, control affect the administration, security, fairness or proper play or conduct of the Sweepstakes. In the event a substitute prize is awarded, such prize must be accepted as awarded and cannot be exchanged for cash or otherwise. Further, Sponsors reserve the right to disqualify any person and void any entries of that person who it believes has tampered with the entry process or any other component of the Sweepstakes, whose conduct or action affects the administration, security or fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, or who fails to meet or abide by the Sweepstakes Rules and conditions.
The Sacramento Press and The Sacramento Kings Limited Partnership, LP, does not assume any responsibility for tampering, theft, defects, viruses, human errors including negligence, deletions, technical or telephone, computer line, network, server, access providers, computer equipment or software problems, undeliverable messages, computer errors, lost, misdirected, late or incomplete entries or inaccurate capture of information or any online difficulties that may result in damage or malfunction the computer or the failure of Sponsors to process any entry and otherwise award any prize. Nor is responsibility assumed for printing errors appearing in these rules or related Sweepstakes materials. In addition, Sponsors, will not assume any responsibility of any nature whatsoever in all cases where their inability to hold the Sweepstakes or to remit the prizes to the winners results from a cause beyond their control, including Acts of God, weather conditions, strike, lock-out or other labor dispute. Any attempt to deliberately damage any website or to undermine the legitimate operation of this Sweepstakes is a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should an attempt be made, Sponsors, reserve the right to seek remedies and damages to the fullest extent permitted by law, including criminal prosecution.

Sonny Mayugba on "Interview With Minus the Bear's Erin Tate"

2009-10-28T04:04:24Z

Looking forward to getting the new album, thanks for the link and interview. Great band.

John Cardiel List of Links - Get Familiar

2009-10-23T03:46:46Z

John Cardiel is a Nevada City/Grass Valley/SF/Sacto staple. I could write 1400 words about what an amazing human-skateboarder-pioneer John is, but why do that when you can click a SacPressList of links? Stumbleupon here and get a great taste of this living legend (in no particular order). If you see him around Sac, say hi. Jah!

insane Video Part

Great Juice mag interview

Vans Shoes promo

1994 Heckler Interview

2008 Skateboarder Mag Interview

Juice Magazine Intvw with Jake Phelps, Joey Tershay

Wikipedia entry

VBS video

Good google search

Sonny Mayugba on "The Handle District brings music to midtown"

2009-10-23T03:38:30Z

I've been hearing about this, mostly from Marcus at L Wine, good to get the full report. I should probably get it together and do a show out here, eh?

Sonny Mayugba on "Old Soul Co. Holds Open House In Oak Park"

2009-10-17T21:51:14Z

Local owners with a serious affinity for all things coffee will create a combination that will thrive. I think this will flourish for nearby residents, and will become a destination adding more action to the neighborhood. I lived across the street from there for years, and I would have loved to have Old Soul there back in the day.

Winners Of Paint The Town Purple

2009-10-14T00:49:48Z

Pre-season purple has been painted all over town and all over this site. All the people that joined the Sacramento Kings conversation were entered to win one of five prize packages courtesy of Sacramento Press and the good folks at Maloof Sports and Entertainment. Here’s how we chose the winners.
We had our man genius technology guru Joel “let’s get some Chinese food” Rosenberg run a report of every single participator. Then, we assigned each entry random numbers. We asked a group of 25 people to pick a number within that range, printed those 25, placed them in a bag, and had Melissa Broughton, the SacPress accounting wizard, use her unbiased hand to draw the lucky 5, including the Grand Prize winner.
But before we announce the winners and prizes, here are some of our favorite comments.

“I have a great feeling about this year! I have been a fan since I was a youngster and, to be able to have an opportunity to meet players, take a VIP tour and see the game from the court...makes me blush...kind of a PURPLE hue.”

“Westphal and Hawes have put their heads together and re-defined the meaning of team leadership - Let's go for it boys!!”

“I BLEED PURPLE”

“After last season there was nowhere to go but up and I think they've got a real nice core of young guys who are going to build on. Give it a couple years and the Kings will be better than that other team in CA that wears purple!”

“Brockness Monster vs Joey Chesnut, pancake eat off. Who you got?”

“I can't wait for the season to start so I can see the man child Tyreke Evans represent the PURPLE and Black.”

“...who purpled?”

“Every time I pass a particular Raley's I remember the time I met Hedo there back when I was in high school. May have been more than just a girlish crush... ;)”

And the winners are....

GRAND PRIZE: dgoodz24
Winner gets two tickets to a game, will have the opportunity to sit on Kings Press Row throughout the game. In addition, they will receive a tour of the arena and (4) personalized Kings jerseys. Total prize value is approximately $1500.

RUNNER UP’S:
Melissa Warren
mysacramentodotme
keithknapp
charla18

These four lucky individuals each receive a pair of good lower bowl seats to a game, a $25 food & beverage card and a dance team meet & greet.

Congratulations to all the winners, and thanks to everyone that participated. A special thanks to Tina Armour, Greg Majewski, Suzanne Hurt, Rhowen Raju, Jason Thompson, Jon Brockman and Martin McNeal for writing full articles.

Go Kings!

Sonny Mayugba on "Star Wars in Concert dazzles ARCO fans"

2009-10-10T18:21:49Z

I went with Dave Park, Chris Macias (SacBee), and John Nelson (radio dude) and all the boys, It was light saberific. Plus, it drew twice as many people as The Killers. The best part was overhearing your fellow Star Wars fans geeking out on the memorbilia. There were some pretty great "fly on the wall" quotes. The symphony was phenomenal and making it utterly relevant, it essentially was a mash up. Girl Talk has nothing on Star Wars.

Kick It With The Kings Starters, Write and Win

2009-10-09T05:57:44Z

From now through all of Saturday, our community and beloved readers of Sacramento Press can get involved with a very cool event called Paint The Town Purple. Through a collaboration with Maloof Sports and Entertainment and Sacramento Press, we've come up with a fun promotion that involves the core of this site: YOU!

Friday and Saturday, you can kick it with The Kings! I'm not talking about hanging with the guy who stocks towels, I'm talkin' about starters and stars. The real deal NBA ballers right in the streets of Sacramento. You can see the schedule HERE. So get out there, meet the players, take your kids, get some pictures, ask them the hard questions.

Then, join the conversation on Sacramento Press.

Make Comments on any Kings related story
Write your own Kings related story
Use tags like "kings" or "purple" in your story or comments
Post your photos from painting the town purple, you with Spencer or Francisco, or just you Kingsin' it up

Once you do, you can WIN!

The grand prize winner will have the opportunity to sit on Kings Press Row throughout a game, right in front! In addition, they will receive a tour of the arena and (4) personalized Kings jerseys. That's YOUR NAME on a Kings jersey. That is killer!!!!!
Four other people will be drawn and win Sacramento Press Purple Packages that includes 2 tickets to the October 23 Pre-Season game and a behind the scenes tour with a meet & greet w/ members of the dance team and the mascot Slamson. (No stalking allowed)
Check out the full rules HERE.

We're all big fans of basketball season and the Kings, and it's great having one of the 30 NBA teams right here in Sacramento. I'm glad Maloof Sports is getting them out in the community and am really excited they're working with Sacramento Press. And mostly, really glad you, our readers, are getting involved and telling us and them what you think, how you feel, and what you suggest for the coming years. Thanks for being a part of this, and good luck on winning! (If you do, can I go as your guest?)

So far, Christo, LEgokings1007, SaraHanson, kelly, Paul Dickey, kristinakaye, RichardM, Kat Haro, John Justo, sscot0420, and MonarchMVP are entered to win. Are you going to let them walk with the prizes? Join the conversation!

Sonny Mayugba on "Kings players fan out to "Paint the town purple""

2009-10-08T15:23:18Z

Lizette, good to hear your feedback. And just for commenting, you are entered into a drawing to win some really great prizes, check it out here: http://www.sacramentopress.com/headline/15100/Official_rules_for_Paint_the_Town_Purple_contest

Sonny Mayugba on "Official Rules For Paint The Town Purple"

2009-10-08T03:56:47Z

Oh snap, I forgot to post this, from Maloof Sports & Ent themselves. There are actually 5 winners. In addition to the grand prize, here's the other 4: Sacramento Press Purple Package that includes 2 tickets to the October 23 Pre-Season game and a behind the scenes tour with a meet & greet w/ members of the dance team and the mascot Slamson.

Official Rules For Paint The Town Purple

2009-10-08T03:51:42Z

THE SACRAMENTO PRESS “PAINT THE TOWN PURPLE”
OFFICIAL SWEEPSTAKES RULES

The Sweepstakes begins on October 6 and closes on October 12, 2009. Participation in the Sweepstakes constitutes full and unconditional agreement and acceptance of these Sweepstakes Rules, which are final on all matters relating to the Sweepstakes. Please note, the majority of the King’s articles will be posted after 10/8/09.

(1) How to Enter: No purchase necessary.
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Sonny Mayugba on "East Sac Logging"

2009-09-29T02:34:36Z

Too bad they couldn't keep the trees. Fantastic photo documentary.

Sonny Mayugba on "Lebowski Fans Gather at Capitol Bowl"

2009-09-01T03:20:59Z

Hey man, I've got a beverage here!

Sonny Mayugba on "The lights are on on the R Street viaduct"

2009-08-19T00:28:26Z

Now there's only one question left to answer: can we skate it?

Sonny Mayugba on "Too Short Center of Attention at Center Court"

2009-08-06T05:47:59Z

I seriously wish I would have been there to hear "I'm A Player." I once went on a van skateboard tour with 6 dudes in a van and we had one, yes, ONE, cassette. I was Get In Where You Fit In and we heard that loop over and over. Best part? It never got old. Classic album. Bummed to have missed that one.

Sonny Mayugba on "Artists get on deck for skate-themed art show"

2009-06-13T05:16:54Z

Rad.

Sonny Mayugba on "The Sacramento Celebrity Chef Challenge"

2009-06-06T17:41:13Z

I was there from start to finish and it was a great event. Congrats to Adam, Noah and the entire Tuli Bistro gang.

Sonny Mayugba on "Photo Essay: cocktail competition features Domaine de Canton"

2009-06-04T15:34:05Z

I've seen some of these guys compete (Chris Tucker, Garrett Van Vlick, Eric of Tres Agaves, etc). They are beyond talented, bringing their own cooers full of supplies, putting months of thought and R & D into their creations. Anyone out there, it's a treat to see these events in person. Mixologists helping put Sacramento on the spirits map!

Sonny Mayugba on "PICTURES - Lightning Storm Shocks Area"

2009-06-04T15:27:32Z

That was a phenomenon, great photos.

George Riedel of The Riedel Wine Glass Company Comes To Saramento

2009-06-04T00:34:40Z

If you were a carpenter and you heard that Jesus was giving a hands-on lecture on dovetails, gables, and miter cuts, you would be excited. That’s how I felt when I heard that the guru of wine glasses would be in Sacramento. For carpenters, it’s a hammer. For winos, it’s the glass.

Have you ever had a nice glass of wine and looked down at the base and seen that smoke-colored name that every pronounces “ry-dell”? It’s Riedel (pronounced “re-dul”) as in George Riedel. All the way from Austria, I found out he was going to be at Sacramento’s Sheraton Grand Hotel doing a tasting. In Sacramento! Cancel all meetings.

With his Austrian accent and sharp wit, George guided us through a series of tastings in six different glasses, including the ubiquitous plastic cup you get at most park festivals. As the pinot noir went from the pinot glass to the chardonnay glass, George Riedel pointed out the green, hardness in taste and dramatic change in nose and taste. Pour the cabernet into the plastic cup then out again, and notice there is no nose. Plastic doesn’t hold aroma. The shape and size of the molecules change with the shape and size of the vessel. Outstanding.

“Think about French Oak vs. American Oak. French is slower growing creating a more grainy wood and that creates more oxidation in the barrel. These things in the glass all affect taste,” George told us. “The complication in glassware is noticeable. Functionality never ages.”

The room was filled with invited restaurant and hotel impresarios. Owners and operators from The Sterling Hotel, de Vere’s Irish Pub, Lemon Grass, L Wine Lounge & Urban Restaurant, Shady Lady Saloon, and David Berkley were just a handful of the restauratti in attendance. The historical event was hosted by Wine Warehouse, a wine and spirits distributor.

As we tasted and spit, Mr. Riedel gave us bits of history, stories of winemakers, and some science. You can find more amazing depth at www.riedel.com. But off the cuff, we were treated to George Riedel’s Top 3 ways to enjoy wine, so here it is, the gospel, straight from George Riedel, wine glass royalty.

George Riedel’s Top 3 Ways To Enjoy Wine (as told at the Sheraton Grand Hotel Sacramento on Tuesday, June 2, 2009)

#3 Control Temperature
Gently chill red. It has an effect on the alcohol. Temperature and wine is an art. Want perfectly chilled white? Take a bucket of water and a handful of ice cubes, just a handful. You will have wine at 60 degrees. Overall, don’t over-chill the white.

#2 Decant
Decanting to aerate makes wine gain in quality.

#1 If a restaurant doesn’t have a Pinot Noir glass, don’t drink Pinot Noir!

Sonny Mayugba on "R Street viaduct to become pedestrian/bike bridge"

2009-06-03T14:55:24Z

Great photos, and good info. Connecting downtown and the river, what a great concept! Glad to see some progress.

Sonny Mayugba on "The New West Sacramento Beat"

2009-05-29T15:12:15Z

How about a Broderick vs. Bryte in the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and now article? And a beat on how river front development is going would be amazing.

Sonny Mayugba on "Learn to Snorkel"

2009-04-11T04:33:31Z

This is such a cool article! I've been snorkeling a handful of times and each time I take a mouthful of water, I wish I'd had lessons.

Sonny Mayugba on "Sacramento Press to produce first print edition"

2009-04-01T15:32:43Z

And make sure to charge a really high subscription rate too!

Sonny Mayugba on "Notification Overload"

2009-02-27T17:19:04Z

All you're missing is a Mafia request, other than that, you're all good.

Sonny Mayugba on "Citizen Hotel Opens"

2009-02-27T16:49:51Z

I went last night and it was an amazing event. Got to hang with Michael Guthrie, the architect for The Grange, Chef Michael Tuohy, as well as the usual cast of Sacramento citizens (ha). The spread gave a great tour of the property, from ground level to the astounding 14th floor balcony. The fact that they preserved the building while improving its insides makes this group top notch. IMO, The Citizen and The Grange are one of the best assets of this city.

Left Coast Capitol Cities: Standing in the Shadows of Giants?

2009-01-05T07:55:24Z

I need answers.

There has been something that's plagued me for many years and I need your help in getting some insight. Why is it that the three states that make the west coast of the United States are all known for cities other than their capitols?

That's my question. It's simple. Understand, I'm a native Sacramentan. I'm a braggart when it comes to Sacramento and it always boggled me when people dissed our city, laughing in my face, saying, "Isn't LA the capitol?" But traveling around, I discovered this odd trend (three makes a trend!): All the cities people find magnificent on the west coast are not the capitol. Why?! Starting from the north, here's my very scientific study:

WASHINGTON -- Is it Seattle with it's Puget Sound, thriving music scene, and famous Pike Place Market? Nope, it's Olympia.

OREGON -- Is it Portland with it's many bridges, Willamette River, and lovely Powell's Books? Nope, it's Salem.

CALIFORNIA -- Is it LA with its Hollywood stars, music business, and Kobe Bryant? Nope. Oh, oh, waiit, then it must be San Francisco with it's Golden Gate Bridge, thriving art scene, and hunky Gavin Newsom? Nope, it's Sacramento.

What's the deal?

Sonny Mayugba on "Editorial: "Flash Mob CIty""

2009-01-05T07:26:14Z

That's the first time I've heard this term applied to a whole city...and I like it. Unfortunately, in the past the flash never fired on events that really should have been mobbed (Mookie Blaylock ((Pearl Jam)) at the Cattle Club, Nirvana at Cattle Club, Jane's Addiction at the Lite Rail Inn). Granted, these three examples are all bands, but all grew to be global mob scenes (Time Magazine cover?--yes.) I just hope we're done with the days of Sactown being a flash mob that only gathers when other's say it's cool. p.s. Your piece deserves a mention of the River Cats. A great mob out there all summer.

Sonny Mayugba on "Happy Xmas Sacramento. A story about music, war, and the best of friends."

2008-12-26T07:08:36Z

Wow, my first 5-star and your first comment on Sacpress. Good to share firsts with you. MXMas.

Happy Xmas Sacramento. A story about music, war, and the best of friends.

2008-12-24T19:13:54Z

It was 9:00 am when I got the call.

“Sonny, it’s Abe. Hey, you want to play guitar for a session with Brian Wheat and me? The session is around noon today. We’re doing a Lennon song and it would be great if you could do it. I’d really appreciate it.”
Hmmm, let me think for a second. Play guitar at a fancy recording studio with multi-platinum Grammy-winning rock star Gods or sit in front of a computer at work. Hmmmmm, tough choice.
“I’d be honored,” I told Abe.
That was how I came to be a part of creating this rendition of John Lennon’s classic reaction to the Vietnam war, Happy Xmas (War Is Over).

So this is Christmas
And what have you done
Another year over
And a new one just begun

Originally recorded in fall of 1971, it’s striking how John Lennon’s lyrics, sentiment and timely relevance stand up today. At that time, Richard Nixon was President, the slip was showing on the war in Vietnam, and technology was developed in many ways, infantile in many more. Sound familiar? There are many holiday songs that could be covered. The fact that they chose this one was no accident.

And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young

I’ve been playing guitar for about as long as Ben Ilfeld has been alive. I fancy myself a shoe-in when it comes to covering a song, but I thought it smart to run through this radio staple once before heading to the studio. (Insert metaphoric slap in the face sound and reddening skin.) This chord progression is much tougher than I thought. (Download tablature, call off all meetings, cancel all appointments, cram like there’s no tomorrow.) I can’t go in there looking like a hack. While the song sounds simple, the chords and finger movements are anything but. “Oh yeah,“ I thought. “John Lennon was in the Beatles. He's pretty good.”

A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear

The session is at the Pus Cavern, a Sacramento iconic studio run by owners Joe & Lesa Johnston. We kick off with Abe Cunningham on drums, Tesla’s Brian Wheat on bass, and me on guitar. Instantly, the vibe is great. Rather than drilling the song, Wheat kicks into loops of classic riffs like Queen’s Dragon Attack. This light-hearted jamming literally and figuratively loosens us up, gets us all in the groove. Ex-Papa Roach drummer Dave Buckner is producing this song, and he’s a natural leader. Things are coming along well, so well that we plan on laying down two or three songs, all of which will be sold with all of the proceeds going toward much-needed scholorships for the The Sacramento Children’s Choir.

And so this is Christmas
For weak and for strong
For rich and the poor ones
The world is so wrong
And so happy Christmas
For black and for white
For yellow and red ones
Let's stop all the fight

But rock and roll is never predictable. As we’re about to press ‘record’, Tesla’s lead guitar hero Frank Hannon arrives, a surprise to us all. In tow, mad genius and Tesla singer Jeff Keith appears like a genie that was finally let out of his lamp. His energy and storytelling had the entire studio captivated and entranced, and the session stops. Then the phone rings. Michael Grant, singer/guitarist for LA’s EndeverafteR made a flight north and is in Sacramento on his way to the studio. Add in entourage and the surprise visit of a Tesla tribute band who got wind they guys were at the studio and you can see that what started as a 3-man basic track jam has turned into a rock stallion stew…with pizza and beer.

A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear

The session went smoother than anyone could have imagined. Laughing, talking, celebrating, these are things rarely done in a recording studio, especially among guys who have never played together. It was a special day and I am proud to be a part of it. Best of all, the tracks from that day came together nicely and a host of great musicians added their sprinkles of talent to the cake. Jonah Matranga from Far, The Snobs’ Jason Boggs on saxophone, Larisa Bryski, and special to me, my wifey, Lynn sang some vocals. (see the entire list of credits here)
So in this déjà vu of turmoil and transition for our great nation, community activists and we musicians came together to celebrate each other, Lennon’s great music, and help some kids find their voice. Bless you all this holiday 2008, and I wish you the very best in 2009. Cheers.

And so this is Christmas
And what have we done
Another year over
And a new one just begun
And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young
A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear
War is over
If you want it
War is over
Now...

LINKS and CREDITS:
Photos by Nicolas Walsh and Lesa Johnston

Lyrics from Happy Xmas (War is Over) by John Lennon, Yoko Ono and the The Plastic Ono Band

View a video of the session here

Buy the song on Amazon or iTunes (search "Pus Cavern All Stars")

A Band of Brothers: Chi Cheng Benefit at Harlow's

2008-12-11T01:06:03Z

As you have read from this storyline, Deftones bassist and good friend Chi Cheng was ejected from a car and seriously injured, resulting in a coma, a state he remains in as I write. Even though comas have been known to last as long as several years, they rarely last more than 2 to 5 weeks. Chi has been in his for over four weeks now. To augment the amazing medical care he is receiving, a band of brothers and sisters came together in Sacramento on Tuesday, December 9th to raise some much needed funds and send some positive chi to our good friend Chi.

Benefit shows are a strange thing. On one level, you have a friend lying in an uncertain state, hopefully healing his way back to this world. Yet, there we are playing music, drinking beers, having fun with friends, old and new. You tell yourself, “It’s ok, it’s for a good cause.” But you can’t help but feeling a little creepy. Ironically, it’s much like a car wreck. There are people who should be there, and others show up only to see what happened.

“People are trying to get in where they fit in,” said DJ Crook, a good friend and fellow musician. He went on: “It’s like, our friend is lying in a coma, who knows what might happen, and people here are trying to get in where they fit in!” He was right. Standing at the Harlow’s bar, a group of Velvet Revolver clones were making a scene as if they were center stage in the frat house tuning up for a night of pussy hunting. Looking at the finely crafted scenesters, it felt like someone was about to whip out a CD and say, “Hey Chino, this is my demo, will you check it out?” Thankfully, those types were the exception.

The overwhelming vibe inside Harlow’s was one of family, friends, music, and support. People from many different bands and walks of life came to show support, make a donation and send good energy. Faces from our birthing pond, the infamous Cattle Club, were everywhere you turned. It felt good, and I know Chi felt it. It’s right up his alley. Homies from back in the day, together again.

All the musicians donated their time and talents for this gig, and let me tell ya, it takes a lot of effort. Last Angels and Eightfourseven opened the night with sets of great music. Rey Osburn and his Death Valley High played a phenomenal set, only to be outdone by the reunion of Sacramento’s Tinfed. Abe Cunningham sat in with the band on one song and nearly bounced over the drum kit from hitting his in his signature “Animal” way. The much-anticipated return of Will Haven with Grady and Jeff on vocals created a frenzy. Along with Crook, Deftones DJ Frank rounded out the night.

This second of a handful of shows was a success. The money raised from these events in its entirety goes to aid Chi’s family, namely his young son Gabriel. A ton of credit goes to Jeff Irwin, Marc Mojonnier and their crew, who have been organizing these fundraisers across California. Great work, brothers. And thanks to all the venues.

Rey summed it up best from the stage: “This is for Chi.”

Photo Caption: Bassist Rick "13" Verret holds the bottom down for Tinfed and sends the low frequency to Chi.

Credit: Nicholas Walsh

Patrick Mulvaney Has A Bachelor Party (Was that pork fat on that stripper pole?)

2008-11-08T02:02:09Z

One of Sacramento's best culinary creators is off the market. Patrick Mulvaney, a native New Yorker, is one of Sacramento’s restaurant leaders and will be married this Sunday. But before that happens, he whooped it up with some close friends.
After some libations at the classic Club 2 Me, the culinary hooligans rolled to the hot-as-hell Tuli Bistro and were hosted by Chef/Owner Adam Pechal.

The humble Mulvaney dined on a bountiful buffet of food treasures with colleagues and friends. With no shortage of beverage pairings, faces started to melt on the lovely patio. In attendance were some of Sacramento’s service industry elite to celebrate the event including Derrell Roberts, Kevin Reikes, John Bays, Dan Inks, Sotiris Kolokotronis, Kimio, Jeff Norris, and many more (See the photos).
The highlight of the event was Adam Pechal's gift of a magnum of Flowers Pinot Noir to Patrick; the same bottle Mulvaney gave Adam to commemorate the opening of Tuli Bistro nearly a year ago.

Congratulations Patrick and Bobbin! We at SacPress wish you a long and happy life together!

Sonny Mayugba on "Rally Denies Proposition 8"

2008-11-07T01:12:20Z

There were quite a few cops in fatigues shooing people out of the street onto the sidewalk. It had the feeling that it could ignite, but the person on the bullhorn kept reminding people to follow the boundaries. It was intense, and for good reason.

Rally Denies Proposition 8

2008-11-06T22:10:53Z

You could hear the chants to the front door of The Waterboy. You could see the glow of the candlelight from The Embassy. The intensity could be felt for miles around.

While most were swimming in the honeymoon of an Obama ratification, many were feeling left out of the party. But hundreds of those still fighting for equality decided to exercise their constitutional rights by staging a rally in front of the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center at 20th & L streets. Hoisting signs that read, "America = Equality 4 Some" and "Marriage is a human right, not a heterosexual priviledge (sic)," these protesters swore to continue the fight. Their beef is with the passing of Proposition 8; a contemptible ballot measure that bans same-sex couples from marrying. Some at the evening rally looked stunned. Some looked furious. Regardless of their reaction to how people voted, they agree that this battle is far from over.

My Friend Chi Cheng In A Coma, Need Your Prayers

2008-11-05T19:30:18Z

Tuesday, November 4th was to be like nearly every other Tuesday in my life. Head into the office, do some email, make some connections, then get picked up by my best friend Abe Cunningham for our weekly lunch at Tuli Bistro. But when Abe called fifteen minutes before our meeting time, I wasn't prepared for the news he would deliver.

Chi Cheng, our good friend and brother, was in a severe car wreck in Santa Clara and is in a coma. For those of you who know him, you know he's a man mountain of positivity and all smiles all the time. For those of you who don't, Chi is a native of Stockton and Sacramento, a poet, a musician, and a father. As the bassist for Deftones, he's helped elevate Sacramento's relevance on the global music map. Deftones frontman Chino Moreno is there with him, as well as family. Drummer Abe, Juan Gonzalez, and more will arrive today. There are no other details to share at this time other than he is holding up. However, he needs your help.

I call on all in Sacramento to send your prayers, positive vibes, energy, healing forces, and any other life-force you can muster Chi's way. I know his strength combined with San Jose's finest medical officers will pull him through this, but I need this entire valley to send good thoughts toward Chi's recovery.

I thank the entire Sacramento Press community in advance.

Sonny Mayugba on "Ledges"

2008-11-05T18:22:16Z

Wow, a coper reference. Very cool. You got out just before waxing ledges became en vogue. I'll be honest, it was fun for awhile. But, as NW says above, just go faster.

Sonny Mayugba on "Ledges"

2008-10-31T00:40:48Z

The first time I skated with someone from Boston (1993ish), I took him to a waxed ledge. He looked at me and said, "If you do that shit in Boston, you'll get your ass kicked. We don't wax shit, we skate it." Never forgot that.