Newest articles on The Sacramento Press written by Tina Armour

Celebrity Chef Challenge 2010

2010-05-01T17:00:35Z

“Whose cuisine reigned supreme?”

All of the contenders in the 8th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge brought their ‘A’ game and amazed the judges and crowd with their culinary talent.

Judges , 2009 challenge winner, Adam Pehal, Regional Vice President Wells Fargo Foundation, Chevo Ramierez, Sacdine.com food and wine blogger, Charlotte King, and News 10’s Bryan May, sat with satisfaction on their faces as they were served succulent dish after dish.

“The judges reactions are like little kids at Christmas,” said Sacramento and Company’s Melissa Crowley, emcee for the night. “Oh my gosh, it’s amazing. I love watching the chefs brainstorm.”

Hundreds of people came out to the California Auto Museum to eat, drink and raise money for InAlliance, a nonprofit foundation providing employment placement and life and work skills training to people with disabilities.

“The turnout was fantastic, much bigger than last year, it has a better set up and seems to be a lot more fun,” said co-emcee Sacramento and Company’s Guy Farris.

As the chefs competed the crowd was treated to 100 food and wine vendors from around California.

“It’s been fun to watch the live cooking and eat all the chocolate and the cars are cool too,” said first time attendee Jessica Jelich.

A favorite among attendees, Mount Aukum Winery, drew crowds by the dozens.

“I’ve loved talking to all of the people. This has been good exposure for our winery,” said first time vendor, assistant wine maker for Mount Aukum Winery, William Dishman.

The chefs weren’t the only ones receiving awards. The crowd favorites among the vendors received awards as well. In third place Seamas Sweets and Sours took $2,500, Degans Fine Catering took second place and $5,000 and Markstein Beverage Company took the first place prize of $10,000.

After a tense wait the winner of the challenge was Russel Michel of Central Valley Bistro at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento.

Chef Q of Chef Q for hire gracefully took third place and chef instructor for American River College’s culinary arts program, Teresa Urkofsky took second place.

“We came so that we can let the community know that we are here for them,” said Michel. “ InAlliance is a great organization and I want to help those who want to help themselves. Life is too short you have to live for the moment.”

Sacramento's iron chefs prepare to amaze

2010-04-27T04:54:31Z

Things are heating up.

The 8th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge, taking place on April 30 at the California Auto Museum, is equipped with six new contenders that will have 45 minutes to create three culinary masterpieces out of five secret ingredients.

Guests will have front row seats to the competition and free range to all of the goodies including free samples from 100 food and wine vendors, a tour of the hot rod car show and a cake creation demo provided by Crazy Cake Company.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to InAlliance, a nonprofit foundation providing employment placement and life and work skills training to people with disabilities.

According to Jessica Bean, public relations coordinator for InAlliance, “The past year has not been kind to people with developmental disabilities and it is important to raise funds for services that can help them become productive members of society.”

In addition the entire event will be eco-friendly and all cups, plates, bowls, utensils and cleaning supplies will be biodegradable and recycled. EarthSmart Products and SMUD will be providing the products being used throughout the event which will be corn and potato based.

“The Celebrity Chef Challenge is the major fundraiser for the programs InAlliance provides our communities most vulnerable citizens,” said Bean.

Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. For more information please visit the chef event website or watch the event video.

Photo courtesy of Celebrity Chef Challenge 2009.

Matsiko Childrens Choir

2009-12-17T20:55:52Z

The Matsiko Children's choir will serenade the Center for Spiritual Awareness on Saturday.

The choir is made up of 25 orphaned or at risk children ranging in age from seven to 14. These children have suffered the loss of one or both parents to war, HIV and related diseases, according to Georgia Prescott, senior minister at the Center for Spiritual Awareness.

"I'm looking forward to seeing them and learning about their lives," Prescott said.

Despite their loss the children sing of hope and joy, according to the International Children's Network website.

According to Prescott, the children are coming to Sacramento to perform original music and discuss their lives in Uganda and their experiences traveling around the world. This is not the choir's first visit to Sacramento. They have previously performed at the Christ Unity Church and have said that they enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

"They want to develop leadership in the country," Prescott said.

All songs are written by music director and co-founder Sam Straxy, who also teaches the children traditional dance that is incorporated in their performances as well as lively drumming, taught by Ronnie Kabogozza, a well known drumming instructor in Uganda.

"Everyone is very, very excited to come see them," Prescott said. "The show sold out in three weeks."

The choir will perform at the Center for Spiritual Awareness, 1275 Starboard Drive, West Sacramento. The show will begin at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are sold out.

SACCON

2009-12-14T04:10:07Z

Every comic character from Pokemon to Care Bears was represented at the Sacramento Comic, Toy and Anime Show held at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center on Sunday.

"People come to play games, dress up and buy comic stuff in the dealers hall," attendee Philip Reed said.

The rooms were filled with conversations about Final Fantasy, glowing swords, fairy wings and furry pants. A majority of the nearly 200 people in attendance were dressed as their favorite comic book characters as they looked through the thousands of half-price comics.

"It's called 'cosplay' in Japan when everyone dresses up as their favorite character all the time," Reed said. "It's Halloween every day for them."

The main attraction was a charity auction that benefited Loaves and Fishes' Mustard Seed School.

"A few people came around with bins and everyone donated a few things to the auction," said Jared Rudy with A1 Comics. "It's stuff that you can find around the dealers hall but it's for a good cause."

It was a good day to socialize with people who share an interest in comics.

"This is sort of a mini con," Reed said. "It's nothing big, just a place to go if you like comics."

Photos courtesy of Cindy Saechao.

Sac Press readers making Mission Orange a success

2009-12-13T04:03:41Z

Saving all adoptable animals—that's the goal of Mission Orange.

The four major animal shelters in Sacramento -- the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Sacramento Animal Cares Services, the Animal Care and Regulations Center and Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary -- hope to make a difference in animal welfare by joining forces in "Mission Orange." Also known as a community initiative, Mission Orange aims to increase the live release rate, or percentage of animals that leave the shelter system alive through adoption or return to owner, and earn a prestigious grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"We are combining all of our resources in order to increase the live release rate," said Penny Ciastro, Animal Care Services manager.

The mission was introduced to Sacramento in January and will kick into gear in 2010, according to Chris Andis, communication and media officer for the County of Sacramento Municipal Services Agency.

"We were selected because we were already working together as a group on many issues, including passing the licensing ordinance and our partnership with the SSPCA, who is going to be operating the new spay/neuter clinic when it opens early next year," Andis said.

According to the ASPCA, the bulk of the grants program supports Mission Orange partnerships across the country and funds a number of services, including spay/neuter and adoption programs.Grants range in value from $500 to $5,000.

"The programs should get going in 2010," Andis said. "We will be creating a special website with the mission, goals and actual statistics so people can see how we are doing. This first year we are gathering, analyzing and preparing and creating strategies and programs to reach our goals."

Each Sacramento shelter has its own goals based on the particular needs of the shelter. The Animal Care Regulations Center is focusing on resolving the aggressive pit bull issue and getting more adult cats adopted.

"We also want to reduce the numbers of animals coming into shelters," Andis said.

Lesley Kirrene, director of public relations for the SPCA, said cooperation between shelters and the community spreads resources and benefits the animals.

The ASPCA, a small New York-based animal shelter that receives the largest amount of donations in the nation, has been spearheading Mission Orange since 1866.

And it has pulled in other animal organizations with the same goals.

"We are equal partners in the grant and the program," said Happy Tails director Kay House. "The greater Sacramento area has done a terrible job of educating, encouraging and enforcing spay and neuter."

After the articles about the four shelters were posted on Sacramento Press with photos of some of the adoptable animals, 20 animals from the SPCA, eight animals from the County Animal Care and Regulation Center and eight animals from Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary have been adopted. The shelters have expressed thanks to the readers of The Sacramento Press for their support.

Maddie's Fund for a no-kill nation

2009-12-11T06:57:05Z

A miniature schnauzer named Maddie stole the heart of PeopleSoft founder David Duffield and his wife, Cheryl, before the dog died in 1997. Duffield made a promise to Maddie that should they ever become well off, their top priority would be to contribute money to animal causes to repay the love Maddie gave them.

To keep their promise, the Duffields started Maddie's Fund. It has set a goal of a 100 percent no-kill nation by 2015 by increasing the live release rate, or percentage of animals leaving a shelter alive, and promoting community involvement.

The nation's shelters kill 3.7 million dogs and cats, annually. That number must drop to 700,000 to reach the no-kill national goal, according to Maddie's Fund. Rich Avanzino, president of the fund.

According to Maddie's Fund figures, four million pets are adopted nationwide every year, which breaks down to three pets per shelter per day. In order to save the three million-plus pets that are being euthanized, two more pets per shelter per day would have to be adopted, an adoption rate of five pets per shelter per day.

"If, as a group and along with other rescue groups in the area, we can come anywhere near meeting the intent of the spay/neuter programs, the no-kill goal should be easy," said Kay House, director of Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary "It certainly would make everyone happier, and be much healthier for all the animals."

According to Avanzino, Maddie's Fund grants are available to all shelters in the United States as long as the shelters in a community are working together, making progress and have a goal to increase the live release rate.

"I have no idea if the goal is realistic, but it is something to aim for," House said. "The greater Sacramento area has done a terrible job of educating, encouraging and enforcing spay and neuter."

According to Avanzino, without community involvement Maddie's Fund would not be as successful.

"We are working on transparency and accountability," he said. "Public engagement and involvement is key to our success."

Whatever Maddie's Fund does to save animals' lives or what its goal may be, there always will be disagreement about animal shelters, Avanzino said.

"No-kill is just a movement — they are trying to make a point," said Penny Cistaro, manager of Animal Care Services facility. "'Kill' makes it sound like we're taking baseball bats and hitting the animals over the head. We perform euthanasia here."

"The shelters need to do what the loving pet owners do in their community," Avanzino said. " It's not about what the shelter can afford, it's not about what's easy. It's about what a loving pet owner would do for their animal."

Maddie's Fund has three multimillion dollar grants, including a $30,000-$40,000 one for communities that strive for no-kill status. All of the grants offer more money as communities work toward the goal.

It's important to educate people "that spaying/neutering ultimately is better for everyone than mass euthanasia," House said.

Avanzino said Maddie's Fund wants to work with Sacramento to increase its live release rate.

And that's a goal animal shelters agree with.

"We always say we wish we could be put out of business," said Lesley Kirrene, director of public relations for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Maddie's Fund is committed to every animal, Avanzino said, adding "they are more than just best friends, they're family members."

Maddie

Organic Capital Sustainability Celebration

2009-12-09T03:40:43Z

"Water, water everywhere" will be the theme for the fourth annual Organic Capital Sustainability Celebration Dec. 10.

Organic Sacramento will be hosting the awareness event that highlights Northern California water issues.

"Each year different local issues are addressed and the individuals and groups that have worked with these issues are acknowledged and honored," said William Brooks, Central Coast Resource Conservation and Development Council

The event will include food, live music and a silent auction as well as guest speakers.

"I'm looking forward to hearing more from the individuals that are personally involved with the issues, and those that have solutions to our current problems," Brooks said. "Twenty percent of California's energy is currently used in water pumping and treatment. The ramifications of this in times of high cost, non-sustainable energy sources is also of concern to me."

The funds raised will go to "Restore the Delta" to support education about upcoming water challenges, Delta farmers and agriculture and furthering other food and water causes, according to Brooks.

Restore the Delta is a grassroots campaign committed to making the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta fishable, swimmable, drinkable and farmable to benefit all, Brooks said.

The event will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. at Beatnik Studios, 2421 17th St. Admission is free but donations of $10 to $25 or more is suggested. For more information, visit the Sacramento for Democracy website.

Santaland Diaries

2009-12-07T03:43:07Z

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

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

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

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

The laughing audience obliged, yelling the chants and clapping.

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

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

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

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

City Shelter joins forces to make strides

2009-12-03T07:19:36Z

The Sacramento Animal Care Services facility on Front Street rotated dozens of animals and 30 people surrendering pets, filling out missing pet reports and retrieving their animals through the small receiving room on Tuesday.

The shelter handles all of the city's animal-care issues, including cruelty investigations, quarantines and licensing, but it still need help with their own deficiencies.

"We always need volunteers in all areas — clerical, socializing, feeding, adoptions, everything," said animal care services manager Penny Cistaro.

The shelter currently has 175 volunteers, compared to the other three shelters in Sacramento that have over 1000. Their medical care facility and spay/neuter clinic share a small trailer located in the back of the shelter, and despite the high volume of animals received, the available space for animals is scarce.

According to Cistaro, the shelter is not a "no-kill" facility because they perform euthanasia on animals that are deemed to be sick, too young, too old, not adoptable, or there is no space to house them.

"No-kill is just a movement—they are trying to make a point," Cistaro said. "'Kill' makes it sound like we're taking baseball bats and hitting the animals over the head. We perform euthanasia here."

According to Cistaro, to increase the live release rate and make a difference in the animals population, the community needs more resources like strong spay/neuter clinics and behavior programs, and look at the costs of veterinary services and of housing large animals.

"There are food banks for people who can't provide for themselves, but nothing for animals," Cistaro said. "So we opened a pet food bank."

The shelter is teaming up with the County Animal Care and Regulation Center on Bradshaw Road, the Sacramento SPCA on Florin-Perkins and Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary on Folsom Boulevard. Together, they have created "Mission Orange," in hopes of increasing the live release rate in Sacramento and receiving a grant from the ASPCA.

"We need to make this a social problem, not a shelter problem," Cistaro said. "Shelters need to be more proactive."

For more information about the shelter or to volunteer visit the Sacramento Animal Care Services website.

Katrina

Tabitha

Purrsimmon

Dart

Grace

Forrest

Aspen

Cali

wynter

Awesome Andy

Sully

Jasmine

Callie

Amie

Art

Grover

Sasha

Amy Goodman in Sacramento

2009-11-23T03:56:11Z

Journalist Amy Goodman spoke about health care and her new book, "Breaking the Sound Barrier," Saturday at the Coloma Community Center auditorium to an audience of about 100.

Goodman's speech about the health-care system in the United States turned personal. It was dedicated to her mother, who died in October of cancer.

"I felt like we were leaving signs saying 'Do not harm, do not amputate this, do not mutilate'," said Goodman. "The health-care system is sick."

Goodman said her mother, Dorrie Goodman, asked this while being treated in the hospital: "The Chinese learned pain management 3,000 years ago. Why haven't you figured it out?"

According to Goodman, the media doesn't cover anything but the status quo on issues such as health care because it can be summed up and understood in an eight-second sound bite.

"Let's lower the age of eligibility (of health care) to when you're born," said Goodman. "See? I can sum it up in four seconds."

"I got to give this book to my mother before she died and turned it to the dedication page, which reads "Dedicated to my mother, Dorris Goodman, the most remarkable woman I have ever known," said Goodman.

She read a column from the book called "Keifer Sutherland's Grandfather Tommy Douglass: Health Care Reform Needs an Action Hero." She said that "to investigate, President Barack Obama might be tempted to call on Jack Bauer, the fictional rogue intelligence agent from the hit TV series "24."

"Maybe Jack Bauer can save the day," said Goodman. "I think America can do better than this."

Goodman then commented on Obama and the upcoming climate change conference in Copenhagen.

"Goodman wound down her talk with a wry comment on Obama and the upcoming climate changer conference in Copenhagen

"He hasn't confirmed that he's going," she said. "I know he knows where it is because he was just there pushing for the Olympics in Chicago. I think this is a bit more important."

Finding homes and hope at the Sacramento SPCA

2009-11-22T00:58:41Z

"You are super cute," said Lesley Kirrene, as she walks past bright-eyed animals waiting for homes.

"Once the animals are on the adoption floor we have made a commitment to them that we will find them homes," said Kirrene, director of public relations for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The shelter is keeping its promise. Cage after cage proudly displays the blue sign reading "On hold," which means the animal is waiting to be picked up and brought home. The lucky dogs for the day were Dorris, Roscoe, Rockie, Dot, Brindle, Fred, Conan, Bob and Kasey, who wagged their tails excitedly, knowing that they were about to go home.

The shelter is not considered a "no-kill" facility because it takes aggressive animals that have a history of attack and animals sick beyond treatment that need to be euthanized.

"We're not a no-kill shelter, we are an open-door shelter," Kirrene said. "We give animals that never had a chance at adoption a chance: un-weaned kittens, animals that need amputation and that 9-year-old dog that would normally be euthanized. We will treat animals, bottle-feed kittens and amputate a leg."

The shelter is constantly improving their home-like habitats and finding new ways to prevent upper respiratory infections that are common in animals with sensitive immune systems.

"We are putting more levels into the cats' habitats so that they have even more space to hide and play," Kirrene said. "Having more space is important to preventing the animals from getting sick."

Along with improving the habitats, the SPCA is partnering with the County Animal Care and Regulation Center on Bradshaw Road, Sacramento Animal Care Services facility on Front Street and Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary on Folsom Boulevard. Together, they have created "Mission Orange," a pact among the animal shelters to come together and raise the live release rate among adoptable animals and reduce the number of euthanized animals, according to Kirrene. If improvements are seen, the shelters will receive a grant from the ASPCA which will help to keep the improvements coming.

The shelter takes pride in the care that they give their animals and their high adoption rates.

"We have great volunteers that take the animals out multiple times a day for walks and to go to the bathroom," Kirrene said. "We take animals from anywhere as far as Santa Barbara to the Butte area and bring them here because we can adopt them out."

Despite the success that the SPCA has in adopting animals, the organization's wish remains the same for the nation: to not need animal adoptions and for people to be responsible with their animals.

"We always say we wish we could be put out of business," Kirrene said

The shelter is currently working on their annual book sale, one of three large fundraising events for the shelter. For more information on upcoming events, programs offered, adoption opportunities or to make a donation, visit the SPCA website or visit the shelter at 6201 Florin Perkins Road.

Harry Potter and Captain Hook

Bullet

Otis

Eve

Gracie

Jed

Bubbles

Whisper

Milo

Gracie

Penny

Bear

Jay Jay

Smoochie

Suzie

Leah

A Bay Bay

Eve and Sugar Pie

Angel

CoCo

Best of Sacramento Celebrate

2009-11-21T03:47:11Z

"Oh god, this is gonna be a long night," said radio personality Jack Armstrong as he and Joe Getty kicked off the 11th annual Best of Sacramento party on Thursday.

The party, a benefit for the March of Dimes, was full of Sacramento Magazine's notion of the best of what Sacramento has to offer, everything from food and drinks to local media and entertainment.

"It's really a huge honor, it's a reflection of the station I work for," said 'Best TV Reporter Team' winner Edie Lambert. "It's a big compliment to quality journalism."

Booths filled the Convention Center, and lines wrapped around the exhibit hall as attendees took full advantage of the free food, services and other goodies.

Express Event Imaging and Sacramento News & Review offered free photographs gracing the covers of Sacramento Magazine and SN&R, Hoshall's Salon and Spa's fashion show featured dramatic hair, makeup and clothes, and KCRA 3's news team --Walt Gray, Mark Finan, Mike TeSelle, Kelly Brothers, Del Rodgers, Eileen Javora and Adrienne Bankert -- posed for pictures with attendees. The team also swept the media category.

"I heard this was the place to be," said first-time attendee Scott Wood. "I could joke and say there should be more free booze, but I think there's plenty."

Booths hawked products and services while providing freebies that ranged from body waxing to information from the zoo on the difference between apes and monkeys.

"We're glad to be here to let people know that the zoo isn't just for kids, even though we were voted 'best place to take the kids'," said Sacramento Zoo employee Lara Kirkendall.

The event raises money for the March of Dimes, devoted to the safety and care of infants.

"We raised $400,000 for March of Dimes, we had more sponsors than ever before. We are now up to $3.4 million for the charity," said Joe Chiodo, publisher of Sacramento Magazine. "This is our best year yet."

Dozens of attendees bid on silent auction items, the main source of donations.

"We came to support the March of Dimes, we're making our way to the auction tables," said Stephanie Thompson, attending for the first time. "They also have excellent sushi from Sapporo Grill and the atmosphere is great."

For more information, and to see all of the 'Best of' winners, visit the Sacramento Magazine website. For more information on the March of Dimes or to make a donation, visit the March of Dimes website.

Amy Goodman to speak in Sacramento

2009-11-19T21:05:08Z

The Coloma Community Center Auditorium will host journalist Amy Goodman Saturday as she speaks about current issues and her new book, "Breaking the Sound Barrier."

"Our goal is to help support independent media like 'Access Sacramento,'" said Denis Moynihan, Goodman's editor.

Goodman is the often outspoken host of the award-winning daily TV and radio show "Democracy Now!" and author of a weekly column and book titled "Breaking the Sound Barrier." Goodman will be speaking about her book, which is a compilation of her columns with topics including climate change and the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Goodman will be touring two coasts, two countries (US and Canada) and 30 cities including Sacramento, Fresno, Davis and Chico, and the Pacific northwest.

"Journalists traveling helps with news-gathering," said Moynihan. "News from the unreported world like the Niger delta, and the Congo, places that dont get adequate coverage."

Goodman will speak from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and $35 for the full event including a meet and greet at 2:30. For tickets call the "Access Sacramento" office at 916-456-8600, ext. 0

The best will come together

2009-11-18T04:49:03Z

The spotlight is on Sacramento at the 'Best of' party hosted by Sacramento Magazine, Thursday at the Convention Center.

The winners from the "best of" categories will show what they've got while attendees can try out the best products, services, and entertainment that Sacramento has to offer. The winner for best candy store, Sees Candy and the winner for best regional winery Bogel Vineyards will be a couple of the participating vendors at the party.

The winners from the eight categories will be showing attendees what they've got, allowing them to sample products, services and entertainment - the best Sacramento has to offer.

Some of this year's winners include , Best New Fun Spot, MIX Downtown, Best Place To Get a Tattoo, Wild Bill's Tattoo and Best Kings Player, Kevin Martin.

"We're excited for the entertainment," Megan Chiechi, marketing director for Sacramento Magazine said. "We have Ryan Hernandez (local acoustic alternative artist) performing, 60 wineries, 70 restaurants, a grand display of a fire engine that people can take pictures with, free massages, Western Feed is making free dog tags, and there will be party bags."

The party will benefit the March of Dimes, the leading non-profit organization for pregnancy and baby heath. Last year's event raised $400,000 for the charity, and they hope to match that this year, according to Chiechi.

"Other chapters of the March of Dimes (around the country) had been doing these 'Best of' parties with city regional magazines in other cities," Chiechi said. "Our local chapter of the March of Dimes originally approached us to start our own 'Best of' party in Sacramento. Thus, the Best of Sacramento Party began."

Sacramento Magazine has been hosting the 'Best of Sacramento' party for the past 10 years.

The silent auction offering goods and services from some of Sacramento's best will begin at 4:30 p.m., doors will open at 5:30, and tickets are $75 in advance and $95 on the day of the party. To purchase tickets to the event, visit the Sacramento Magazine website. To learn more about the March of Dimes or to make a donation visit the March of Dimes website.

Cheer at Nor-Cal Victory Cup

2009-11-16T05:04:17Z

The first Nor-Cal Victory Cup cheerleading competition rocked Memorial Auditorium on Sunday.

Power Cheer hosted 1,800 cheerleaders ranging in age from 3 to 18 from the powerhouse squads of Northern California. They were competing for the victory cup and trophies, banners and the title of grand champion. Squads did not compete for a bid to nationals because competition rules have changed and any squad can sign up for the competition.

Squads were given two minutes for their routines, which were judged for stunting, tumbling, formation, uniforms, facials and cheer technique.

One standout was Fame Athletics Senior level 3 division from San Jose, with its synchronized tumbling and on-point stunts. The team previously had taken 1st place eight times, in various competitions four national championships and one grand championship.

This is the first time Power Cheer has hosted a competition, said owner John Herbert.

"I wanted an effective and fun competition," he said. "I'm excited with the turnout."

Hope for county animals

2009-11-14T05:09:21Z

The new county animal care and regulation center on Bradshaw Road is providing a more spacious habitat to a wide variety of animals.

It houses cats, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, llamas, goats and horses and any other animal that comes through the doors. It also extends many animals' lives.

For visitors to the previous county animal shelter, the words 'five days' are chilling. That is the typical amount of time animals live at a government-run animal shelter before they are euthanized. If they are deemed dangerous, diseased, or unadoptable they will be killed immediately.

The new shelter allows the animals to have more time. The facility is spacious so the animals are displayed in habitats.

According to Chris Amos, communication and media officer for the County of Sacramento Municipal Services Agency, 90 percent of euthanized animals are feral cats.

"This is a fluffy adoption center," Amos said. "It's also a jail and a hospital. Because of that our adoption rate is up but so is our intake rate."

Improvements to come for the shelter include a bigger spay/neuter clinic run by the Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

"With this new clinic we could actually make a dent in the population," Amos said.

The volunteers at the shelter are dedicated specialists in their fields.

Gena Ensey, volunteer in the cat section, has been evaluating and spending time with 192 cats.

"We never thought this day would come, that we would get this facility," Ensey said.

"The new facility is better for everyone," volunteer Fred Stacey said. "Being cooped up they get hyper and stressed out."

Amos said the facility will host several adoption events in December. Pet Pantry, in a partnership with Coats for Kids, asks visitors to the facility to drop off a coat and a bag of animal food. Home for the Holidays offers animals one year or older to be adopted for free and receive free microchipping and vaccinations.

"It's a business," Amos said. "We're having to get more and more creative."

There will also be a celebration of demolition when the previous county shelter is blown up.

For more information on the shelter and to adopt an animal visit the animal care and regulation website.

Photos courtesy of Anthony Bento; for more photos visit anthonybento.com

Fluff, Muff, and Puff

Tia

Kitten #A510777

Kitten #A510725

Kitten #A50788

Kitten #A51347

Everton and Frisky

Jolene

Elena

Tamby

Flora

Faye

Jimmy

Butterscotch

Socks

Twinkle

Basil

Puppy #A511092

Rudolph

Nor-Cal Victory Cup

2009-11-11T01:33:16Z

Nearly 100 cheer teams will gather at the Memorial Auditorium on Sunday for the Nor-Cal Victory hosted by Power All-Stars cup cheerleading competition.

"All the big power house teams are going to be here at the first competition of the season and are going to be battling it out," said Power Cheer owner John Herbert. "I wanted an effective and fun competition."

According to Herbert, 1,800 all-star cheerleaders ranging from 3-18-years-old will be competing for trophys while the level champions will compete for banners as well as the title of grand champions of the competition, but no bids to nationals will be given.

"I'm really excited, they worked really hard and they practiced everyday," said Cheyenne Merced, who's daughter will be competing with the Natomas Jr. Night Hawks. "I am worried for her because she is really competitive."

The competition will start at 9 a.m. at the Memorial Auditorium at 1515 J Sreet and awards presentations will begin at 5:35 p.m.

Spectator fee will be $10 at the door, cash only. For the final performance schedule, visit the Power Cheer website.

Stop the killing save Darfur

2009-11-10T04:57:42Z

A diverse group of people came together Sunday to generate awareness about genocides occurring around the world.

The Sacramento Committee on Conscience held a showing of "The Devil Came on Horseback," a documentary on the genocide being committed by the Janjeweed in Darfur, and "Screamers," a documentary capturing the struggles dating back to the Armenian genocide and going all the way up until the present Darfur genocide.

After the film, the committee held a panel to discuss the issues of hate in Sacramento and how people can help to stop the trends.

"It starts with bullies in school and then people with that mentality end up running a government," said Vice Mayor Lauren Hammond.

Hillary Hodge, representative of Equality Action Now, explained events of violence and hate that have directly affected the gay community.

"The heinous act against Matthew Shepard about a decade ago really hit home, when they[Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson] tied him to a fence and beat him until his life left his body," Hodge said.

Richard Kazanjian, representative for the Sacramento Chapter of the Armenian National Committee fought back tears as he explained the effects of the Armenian genocide.

"The Armenian genocide is the stain on our culture. My family was directly impacted. This event has changed every Armenian's life," Kazanjian said.

Efren Gutierrez, representative of Chicano Consortium Sacramento explained his experiences with hate as a person of mixed race.

"I am Mestizo, half native[Mexican] and half European. The greatest tragedy is not being considered by your own people," Gutierrez said.

Barry Broad, representative of the Jewish Community Relations Council brought to light the mistakes that everyone has made with unintentional discrimination.

"The worst words you can hear is 'you people' and then you know something bad is going to happen," Broad said.

NAACP member James Sweeney, offered his solutions to the hate problems around the world.

"We need to manifest the direct antithesis of hate, which is love, but I think people are more afraid of love than hate," Sweeney said.

So far the US government has passed 17 bills regarding Darfur, but without implementing them the situation will not change. The bills have been passed to show that America does recognize what is happening in Darfur and to let the world know that the actions have been formally classified as genocide under its legal definition of: intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group by killing members of the group; causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; or forcibly transferring children of the group to another group, but no forceful action hs been taken against the Janjeweed. . Almost half a million people have been killed and 2.5 million have been displaced because of this genocide.

For more information on the genocide in Darfur and ways to help, visit the Sacramento Committee on Conscience website.

Jamsters Cheer

2009-11-08T02:02:05Z

Cheer is not a hobby. It is a way of life.

Hundreds of cheerleaders and dancers gathered at the Convention Center Saturday for the Jamfest Cheer and Dance competition.

The room was filled with bows, glitter, hairspray and mixed techno music as the cheerleaders and dancers laughed and sang to the music played between performances.

During the dance portion teams gave unbelievable performances. Royal Dance Company senior division from Sacramento executed a flawless performance, full of energy and dramatic facial expressions.

As the dance floor was transformed and the stunt mats rolled out, the sound of cowbells rang through the room and teams got hyped up to toe-touch their way to a bid to Nationals in Indianapolis,Ind.

"I came to see my niece, but I used to be a song-leader back in the day," attendee Gwen Strivers said.

Girls on crutches, from cheer-related injuries, followed behind their teams to cheer from the stands as their teams performed.

Parents and siblings sat proudly with tears as the girls shook their pom-poms to amazing performances.

Among some of the most memorable performances was Victorious Elite All-Stars from Manteca with perfectly synchronized tumbling and many difficult and unique stunts.

Victorious was also the only team to have an entry for the parent division, where cheer moms and dads can show their cheer skills off. Victorious parents performed solid motions and a flawless basket-toss.

At the awards ceremony, Jammy, the Jamfest mascot, presented the Royals with the spirit award megaphone. The winners of each division received a plaque with their bid to nationals.

Winners:
Dance Division:
Mini hip-hop dance: Royal Dance Company, Sacramento
Youth hip-hop dance: Royal Dance Company,
Level 1 Junior hip-hop dance: La Bella Juniors, Clovis
Level 2 Junior hip-hop dance: Royal Dance Company
Senior hip-hop dance: Royal Dance Company, Oakland
Senior pop dance: La Bella Seniors
Open-open division: Royal Dance Company
Best choreography: Royal Dance Company
Grand Champions Dance: Royal Dance Company

Cheer Division:
Level 1 Tinnies: Premier All-Stars, San Crlos
Level 1 Minis: Rebels, Rocklin
Level 1 Youth: Royals, Sacramento
Level 2 Youth: Team X, Antioch
Level 1 Juniors: Premier All-Stars
Level 2 Juniors: Fever All-Stars, Elk Grove
Level 3 Juniors: Aerials
Parent division: Victorious Elite All-Stars
Grand Champion Youth: Team X
Grand Champion Junior: Aerials

Bob Saget comes to the Crest

2009-11-06T07:07:22Z

Bob Saget is not afraid of controversy.

"I know parents always say 'think before you speak,' " he said. "Well, I take that step out and then do my stand-up," said the comedian and former Full House star.

Saget is bringing his form of comedy to the Crest Theatre on Friday.

"My mom used to say, 'Don't talk like that, Bobby' and it made me want to do my stand-up more. But now she thinks my stuff is funny so I kind of want to go and do something clean-cut."

Saget said he will be taking it easier onstage at the Crest, but that it's not because of his mother. He hurt his knee recently during an impromptu performance on Broadway after friend and former Full House co-star John Stamos brought him on stage to occupy the audience as a major glitch in show was being fixed.

"I hurt my knee because I thought I could bound onto stage in one step. Well, it wasn't a step. Apparently I am not a centaur or a goat," Saget said. "I feel like the governator for this show: Give me a new knee; I have to go to Sacramento."

Saget has been coming to Sacramento for years and said he loves to visit Laughs Unlimited in Old Sac. He also recounted several instances of public intoxication in the California State Railroad Museum.

"People would say that I used to go to the railroad museum drunk. What am I going to do, steal a train? They never would have noticed that rolling down the street."

Saget said he is excited to return to Sacramento because its residents are so welcoming.

"The Crest is a very cool venue -- it's beautiful and it's an old movie theater. Maybe we will play Wall-E while I'm on," he said.

Saget said he considers himself "a dad who knows," because of his experiences and his ability to make fun of everyone and everything.

"I used to laugh at myself way too much out of nervousness but now I just giggle at the little absurdities," he said. "I would (also) recommend that you don't take anything that grows under a tree or skunk weed before you watch my stuff."

Tickets are $35-$45 in advance, $37-$47 at the box office the day of the show. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show will begin at 7.

TFO Halloween

2009-11-02T02:57:01Z

As promised, the Trash Film Orgy was a trashy good time.

The Crest Theater was full Saturday of costumed fans of “The Howling” and “From Dusk Til Dawn.”

Before the double feature began, visitors occupied the lobby for ghoulish activities such as make-your-own-monster and monster a go go.

The stage in front of the movie screen was set as living room for a special performance of “Little Dead Riding Hood,” the murderous adventure of a young girl trying to find happiness in the adult film industry while she delivers tequila and hot dogs to her dying grandmother.

“We are presenting a musical on stage which we have no business doing,” said the evening's hidden host.

The crowd cracked jokes during the movies, tossing Halloween puns back and forth.

During intermission, visitors rushed to the booth outside the theater doors to sign up for the costume contest. The first 10 people to sign up became contenders for the trashy showing, where prizes didn’t matter.

“You’re only going to die of laughter,” said Jennifer Anderson. “Its trashy, funny and wrong on so many levels.”

This is it

2009-10-30T00:25:25Z

Fans moonwalked to the Century Stadium on Ethan Way for the very first showing of "This is it," Tuesday.

Nearly 100 people wrapped around the theater in anticipation for the never-before-seen footage of Michael Jackson's rehearsals from what would have been his final 50-city tour.

"You will never believe where I am at right now," echoed fans on cellphones as they stood in line. "I am about to see the Michael Jackson movie, it's the last one."

Jackson's music played outside of the theater from the KSFM 102.5 van while fans of all ages sang and danced. As "Thriller" blared, fans teared, demonstrating the enormous impact that the "King of Pop" had on entire communities and generations.

"I got tickets all the sudden and came straight from work and sent out a text message saying the first person to text back gets to come," said Aleena Butler. "I had a lot of texts back."

The documentary consisted of footage captured by a few people who had the privilege of attending Jackson's rehearsals. The footage was never meant to be seen by anyone except Jackson, according to a disclaimer at the beginning of the film.

Touching messages from Jackson's dancers, musicians, composers and directors brought tears to the eyes of the people viewing the home videos.

"You are the reason I'm here," said one of Jackson's 10 handpicked dancers. "You are it, this is it."

"This is it" will be playing at Century Downtown Plaza 7, Century Stadium 14 Sacramento, UA Laguna Village 12, Regal Cinemas Davis Holiday 6, Century Roseville 14, Regal El Dorado Hills Stadium 14, Regal Natomas Marketplace 16, West Wind Sacramento 6 Drive-In, Century Sacramento Greenback 16, State Theatre - Woodland,Century 14 Folsom for two weeks only.

But just as Jackson's farewell concert had done just months ago, his farewell documentary is selling out fast.

To buy tickets in advance visit Fandango.com or call your local movie theatre to reserve seats.

One Scary Nite

2009-10-26T05:52:53Z

Fear has never been so funny.

From the mind of producer Deon Taylor comes One Scary Nite. That's the biggest Halloween party Sacramento has ever seen, to be hosted by Flavor Flav and Mark S. Allen at the California Auto Museum at 2200 Front Street on Thursday.

The star-studded event produced by Taylor, Sacramento Kings point guard Bobby Jackson and Roxanne Avent will include more than 200 zombies, a hearse display, costume contest, midnight money drop and nearly 1,000 guests.

According to Karen McClaflin, executive director of the California Auto Museum, the venue is a perfect fit for what Taylor envisioned for the party and the hearse exhibit that opened Oct. 1 was a bonus.

"This is something Sacramento has never seen before, this is an experience," Taylor said. "You have to go through a haunted house to get in and a bunch of zombies walking around the Holy Grail. I think that in itself is going to be funny as hell."

The party is yet another branch of Taylor's very successful Nite Tales brand, including the movie "Nite Tales Presents Dead Tone," released Sept. 3 and "Nite Tales the series," which is a different spin on the classic "Tales from the Crypt." "The series," which airs Nov. 6 and introduces 10 episodes hosted by Flavor Flav. All "Nite Tales" episodes and movies are shot in Sacramento.

"'Tales from the Crypt' had the Crypt Keeper and we have Flavor Flav, who is really funny," Taylor said.

"Nite Tales" was a random concept, he said.

"Some shit will just pop into my head and I'm like 'Oh, what is that' and I'll just sit on the couch and have a conversation with myself," Taylor said. "I've always been a huge fan of "Tales from the Crypt" and the "Twilight Zone" and thought it would be kind of cool to have to redo a new anthology series."

Taylor said he likes to work in Sacramento because of the intimate feel and the culture.

"L.A. is old; 1,000 movies are being shot every day and I like that we can bring big actors and people are actually excited to see that happen in their city," he said.

DTE [Deon Taylor Entertainment] has teamed up with 2Smart Entertainment to create the first live stream party aired in 1080-I high definition. Live stream will include pop-ups, horror quizzes and giveaways. Viewers who are unable to attend can view the festivities on the "Nite Tales" Web site, Taylor said.

"This could be our event every year in Sacramento," Taylor said, adding that there will be a surprise during the party.

"People are going to be like 'Oh my God,' 'Oh shit'; it is going to be really good," Taylor said.

General admission is $30, VIP tables are $150 and VIP booths are $500. VIP bottle service is available. Guests in costume will be admitted free before 10 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Bobby Jackson Foundation to benefit children whose parents have died of cancer.

Peace, love and Adoption

2009-10-26T05:45:09Z

Peace, love and adoption were in the air Saturday night at the SPCA Raining Cats and Dogs gala.

The 1960's themed silent and live auction benefiting the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals brought nearly 1,000 people to the Convention Center, according to Steve Potter, director of development

"We had a wonderful turnout," he said. "Even in the economic downturn, animal welfare still pulls on people's heart strings."

A live performance of "Hair" was visible on four stages among auction items as well as on the main stage along with the live music were two continuous slideshows of adoptable animals. A puppy named Ears was a crowd favorite, as indicated by the "awwwwws."

"This is always such a great event," said Julie Bush. "We've been coming for the past three years and plan to keep coming."

Auction items, including a meeting with actress Betty White, tickets to next year's Emmy's, and a homemade apple pie, raised thousands of dollars.

For an update on the amount raised and to view prize winners, visit the SPCA's Web site.

Dane Cook coming to Arco Arena

2009-10-20T06:42:02Z

Dane Cook's last comedy tour was attended by an estimated 400,000 people. With 3.2 million viewers, his Comedy Central special "ISolated INcident" was the number one watched comedy special of 2009.

On the 24th, he will make his impression on Sacramento with the second phase of his successful tour which is named Global Thermo Comedy.

His new tour promises to be bigger and better than the ones the before including new material unique to each performance and a brand new list of cities.

"I want to replant the comedy flag and do it bigger and better and make memorable shows that people will be talking about for the next 10 years," says Cook. "I want every crowd to leave saying my cheeks hurt from laughing so much."

Some of the best comedic moments are the unscripted ones, he said.

"The most memorable stuff that people enjoy are just things that I improvised or was spontaniously creating on stage. "Everything is fair game -- it's about finding the funny in any possible moment."

Cook dispelled criticism from viewers and other comedians that he is arrogant. His humility is a start contrast to the party boy celebrity stereotype.

"I've never had a drink or a drug in my life and I'm pretty low key and quiet when I'm not performing; I'm probably a bit shy," says Cook. "I feel like I've been on a roller-coaster ride for the last 10 years."

"I expect a lot out of myself. I take my job of entertaining people very seriously," says Cook. "I'm so appreciative that I'm still able to share ideas and connect with people."

Cook is also excited for the upcoming shows and looks forward to meeting fans.

"I've always enjoyed meet and greets and getting out there and talking to the people," said Cook. "I get to hang out and listen to some of the stories; I love just sitting back and watching people share their material or tell one of their stories."

Cook said he idolized Steve Martin and Richard Pryor when he was growing up.

"I kind of appreciated their essence and what they brought to the stage. It certainly influenced my comedy," he said.

But a lifetime of living with funny people also influenced his material.

My mom is kind of physical and silly and a person that was very good at being spontaneous, finding humor in any moment. My dad was more pensive and very smart with an excellent vocabulary," says Cook. "The use of word mixed with physical comedy definitely stems from my folks."

After working on several comedic films including Waiting..., My Best Friend's Girl, and Employee of the Month, Cook said he is hoping to direct a film of his own soon.

"It would be great to work with a great ensemble of actors and come up with a great story," he said.

"(Making films) was a blast," says Cook. " But nothing can touch live performance and getting out hanging with great fans and great people."

He plans on completing other the other projects that he has started sometime next year, including writing a book.

"This was a touring year," says Cook. "Its all stand up all the time."

The show will be held at Arco Arena at 8:00p.m. Tickets are currently on sale ranging from $32.50-$102.50.

Fear Overload terrorizes Downtown Plaza

2009-10-19T02:05:22Z

Shock and terror will overcome visitors to Fear Overload.

Men carrying chainsaws, bloody zombies, masked figures and decapitated limbs are everywhere. People never know where or when they will be attacked.

Fear Overload wants them to stay and play awhile, compared with most haunted houses that push people through as fast as possible by scaring from behind. Visitors to the ravaged chemical plant will be approached by killers from all angles. They'll even be trapped in rooms and forced to figure out how to get away, escaping certain death, according to owner Dave Polanco.

Rooms are filled with dead bodies, spilled neon-colored chemicals and blood-spattered walls. One corridor features a long, caged area that houses a psychotic, blood-soaked zombie. The cage doesn't hold for long, though, and visitors come face to face with this cold-blooded killer and no apparent way out.

"I got scared going through," said Sop, a Fear Overload actor. "It starts creeping you out when you stay in there for a while."

Polanco said two people have became so frightened that they had to be escorted from the haunted spot since it opened Thursday.

The preparation for the haunt begins at 3 p.m., when the actors begin getting made up and into costumes. It takes up to three hours to administer the makeup--wounds, decaying flesh and blood spatter, said Philly Phearless, makeup artist.

"Everything is set up perfectly," said actor Enissan Martinez.

The haunt is open from 7 p.m.-midnight daily through Nov. 1. Tickets are $14, cash only at the door, $13 online. VIP tickets, or front-of-the-line passes, $18 at the door, $17 online.

Polanco warned against pregnant women or children younger than 13 attending. "There will also be emergency exits every 75 feet for those who cannot complete the haunt," he said.

Actor Andrew Keith had his own warning: "Turn back now."

Photos courtesy of Anthony Bento. For more pictures, visit www.anthonybento.com

Happy Tails gets a happy new home

2009-10-18T03:15:28Z

Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary celebrated their 16th anniversary at their new Folsom Boulevard location Saturday.

Hundreds of people came between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to check out the new sanctuary once located on 56th Street in an 800-square-foot space, now located on Folsom Blvd. in a 3,400-square-foot space.

"It's a huge success," volunteer Cherilyn Burton said. "It's great to have more space."

According to Kay House, director of Happy Tails, it is a 100 percent volunteer organization with 200 active volunteers on their roster. It is a no-kill, cageless sanctuary for rescued cats from other shelters, homes, or situations of abandonment. The sanctuary takes in the cats that would be euthanized elsewhere. They also have a foster program for kittens until they become old enough to move into the space with the others, although the move to a bigger space was not an attempt to get more cats.

"We don't want to increase the number of animals," House said. "We want to be able to take better care of the ones that are here."

The new location provides seven different rooms that house the cats. The FIV (feline aids)-positive cats are kept in one room away from the others. There is a senior room for the cats 10 and older, a room for the cats with special diets, two single cat rooms for the new additions that are being introduced to the living facilities, as well as two big rooms for all the rest of the cats. Each room has a list of the cats' names.

"Every cat gets some attention every day," House said. "We all get really attached to the animals."

At the grand opening, two cats, Chile and Hobbs, were adopted together, and five others will be revisited Sunday for adoption.

For more information about adoptions, volunteer opportunities, or fundraising events, visit the Happy Tails website or contact (916) 556-1155 or e-mail purrball@happytails.org.

Brio- FIV positive also big and fluffy

Chile- One of the two adopted

Figero and Magpie- Best Friends Forever

Harriet- Very Playful

Jack- Very Calm

Kashuna- New to the sanctuary and likes to hide

Lewis- Elderly and loves his basket

Martha- New to the sanctuary

Moses- 17 years old and very calm

Pekoe- Big but loves the little box

Spot- Elderly and has arthritis in his back legs and loves to sleep by the toilet

Sunny- Loves to be rubbed

Taffy- Very Fluffy

Volunteer Amy Brown holding one of the foster cats Wally

Ziggy- FIV positive and just had his teeth removed very lovable

Ghosts roam Old Sac

2009-10-18T00:28:16Z

There are many stories about Old Sacramento that have yet to be told. Fights, lovers quarrels and bad business. Some say that the spirits of the people who died there still haunt the streets. Is it true? Maybe. You might find out for yourself one night.

Old Sacramento's deadly history dating back to the 1800s was brought to life Friday as the Haunted Ghost Tours began.

Costumed actors were scattered throughout Old Sac to tell the interesting stories of their characters' demise. One of the most interesting stories was that of Assemblyman John Bell, who was shot and stabbed in the stomach over an El Dorado boundary dispute with Dr. W. H. Stone April 11, 1860. The two men argued about the stabbing and eventually made their way to the River City Saloon for whiskey. The Grunnet brothers, the only "living" characters, told a funny story from their mortuary records about an accidental poisoning. Characters re-enacted the sheriff's shooting at the train tracks with a robbery complete with gunfire.

The ghosts sat around Old Sac in dresses with petticoats and old-fashioned suits, talking about how they died as if no one were around.

Eleven stories were told, including one as recent as 1998 that still spooks audiences of the Eagle Theater. None of the stories were revealed as true or false until the end of the tour, when all but one story was said to be true. The veracity of the remaining tale remains unknown.

A veiled woman in a black dress guided the tour, telling ghost stories and jokes. The group moved in a circle around Old Sac, stopping at sites such as the old bath building, Lady Adams building and a decorated cemetery. A visit to the old brothel included a lively interaction with owner Madam Johanna, who shared details about her death after chasing a customer who failed to pay.

Most of the group consisted of families in high spirits, laughing at the humorous tone of the odd deaths of historical figures and well-known members of society.

"It was really fun," Cindy Saechao said. "I didn't know that that many interesting and bizarre things happened in Old Sac."

The tours are conducted in groups of 20 and last one hour. It is not recommended for children under age 6. The tours will run Oct. 17, 23, 24 and 30, on the half hour from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30. Tours are adults are $15 and $12 for children under 12.

"The kids will love it," Saechao said. "It's a fun way to hear ghost stories about a place that people always go and rarely think about its history."

Last City Charter Meeting

2009-10-17T01:06:05Z

Forty-two concerned citizens met at Sierra 2 community center for the last City Charter Meeting Oct. 15 which degenerated into endless questions from a confused audience.

Committee members Cecily Hastings and Alan Lafaso led the discussion about the strong mayor initiative.

"There is a possibility that nothing may come out of this [series of meetings]," Hastings said.

Hastings and Lafaso explained the details and flaws of the strong mayor initiative and their recommendations for an improved innitiative to the rather reluctant audience.

Hastings explained that the executive mayor position would cause the mayor to have an unfair rule over the City Council, because of his role as the interim District 9 councilmember and as the vetoing vote.

"There is no time frame to get a ninth district, so the mayor could be getting to have multiple votes indefinitely," Hastings said.

The committee members had charts and handouts explaining their recommendation and the initiative, but question and comments overtook their presentation. The presentation turned into a history lesson about past government systems and a discussion about the strong mayors in other cities in California as the audience and committee members struggled against each other for a chance to speak.

"I would like to have a bold mayor, but I'd also like him to stay out of jail," committee member Chester Newland said.

Some questions remained unaddressed by the end of the meeting. Many issues that the audience was concerned about, including zoning and structure explanations, were answered with "those explanations will be coming later in the presentation," but were then dropped.

"If you don't like something in the initiative, come voting time there's nothing anybody can do," Hastings said. "It's set in stone. It is what it is."

Dumbworld takes over

2009-10-11T05:36:35Z

"There's the normal world and then there's Dumbworld," according to filmmaker Jayson Woodward.

Hundreds of people came out to see unique art at the first Dumbworld Expo at the newly renovated Capitol Towers apartments.

All of the art, showing space, lighting, food, drinks, music, and entertainment were donated and dozens of people volunteered to work the expo.

"Sometimes I buy spray paint before I pay the bills," coordinator Mary Louise Picerno said.

The whole complex, which includes various restaurants that opened especially for the expo, participated. The restaurants, vacant stores, and top floor penthouse acted as galleries that held unique mixed media pieces as well as graffiti while original videos produced by Dumbworld Entertainment were projected in every room.

"Lumens lent us $5000 worth of lighting and the Art Institute decorated everthing," Picerno said

The show is an effort to bring awareness to all types of art in Sacramento

"Art is not for the elite," Picerno said. "We need to reach out to the community and unify our culture and say, 'Hey, we're here.'"

Among the oddities were people dressed as a big rabbit and robot walking around taking pictures with people.

"I saw it in the paper and my grandsons wanted to come and see the graffiti," attendee Sue Edelmayer said.

At 7:30 p.m. there was a fashion show and dance performance showcasing local dancers and break dancers.

According to CEO of Dumbworld Drew Hall, they will be having a new T.V. show on Cable Access channel 17 and 18 entitled "Chinese Math."

"We learn by doing," Hall said. "Anybody can be a part of the Dumbworld."

Jason Thompson Painted Second Saturday Purple

2009-10-11T04:35:39Z

Second Saturday was busier than usual this month with the appearance of Jason Thompson.

Fans flocked to 2206 K Sreet where Thompson was signing autographs and posing for pictures, taking time to talk with each fan.

"This is my first time at Second Saturday," Sacramento native Charlene Lee said. "I came for Jason."

Lee wasn't alone being a first timer to Second Saturday, this was Thompson's first time attending as well. Thompson has been a big fan of art for years because his late grandfather was a painter.

"This is for the die hard fans, why not pay your dues," Thompson said "Its great to come out and meet some fans, take some pictures, and kiss some babies."

Thompson chatted about a car wash he goes to downtown and the new 33rd Street Bistro as some of his favorite places to go.

"I"ll come and have a good time and bring my family out here, I can interact with Sacramento people," Thompson said.

Thompson took extra time to talk with a huge fan as she stared with a wide smile barely able to speak. Before leaving Thompson leaned down and gave her a hug.

"These are the true fans that come out and support us," Thompson said. "These are the ones that are in the crowd screaming our names."

Fear Overload

2009-10-07T06:41:58Z

Are you ready to experience true fear?

The Downtown Plaza will be hosting Fear Overload, a haunted house that has replaced Gyros and will now be terrorizing the mall for the first time.

"We have had people come out who have wet their pants and run into walls," said David Polanco, owner of the haunted house. "It's crazy what people will do when they are scared."

The haunt features dozens of rooms that brave attendees can wander through unguided, for maximum scare, in groups of one to four.

"A tour guide in a haunted house is not very scary," Polanco said.

Polanco promises that no one is safe, even if you're in the middle of the group, in the haunt, with inmates, psychotic serial killers and savage mutated zombies waiting at every corner for the perfect time to attack.

"We try to scare people from every angle," Polanco said. "It's not just from the back to push people through the haunt. It's from the front, the sides and the ceiling."

Polanco said they pride themselves in never reusing props or rooms. After each haunt, all of the props are thrown out to make room for new, more realistic ones.

This year's theme will be a chemical spill in which zombies come alive.

The haunt will be open from 7 p.m.- midnight starting Oct. 9 and run through Nov. 1. Tickets will be $14, cash only at the door and $13 for online sales. VIP tickets, which are front of the line passes, are also available for $18 at the door and $17 online.

"It is advised that no pregnant women or children under the age of 13 visit the haunt", Polanco said. "There will also be emergency exits every 75 feet for those who cannot complete the haunt."

The Fear Overlod website boasts, "We will bring your worst nightmare to life."

Lucky Ducks race for Special Olympics

2009-10-04T01:13:02Z

Thousands of people gathered at the edge of the Sacramento River on Saturday to watch the duck dump at the fifth annual Great Sacramento Duck Race, benefiting Special Olympics Northern California.

More than 13,000 cool rubber duckies with sunglasses were dropped into the river off of the I Street Bridge to race to the Tower Bridge for one of many prizes that included a Nintendo Wii, $300 gas cards and two round-trip tickets on-board JetBlue and Southwest airlines.

People enjoyed the festivities that lined both sides of the river beginning at 10 a.m. with live music from Hans Eberbach and a Martial Arts Foundation demonstration.

The lucky duckies were sponsored for $5 apiece, with all of the proceeds going to the Special Olympics Northern California to buy uniforms, transportation, medical services and equipment.

"This [Special Olympics] is one of the best programs for the handicapped around," said Jonathan Sparks, athlete and volunteer of the year in sports for the Special Olympics. "At the events everyone forgets about problems and everybody gets along and has fun; it's so awesome."

Since its start, the race has raised $175,000 for SONC.

"It's amazing that even in a bad economy people will still donate money to the Special Olympics no matter what," Sparks said.

Special Olympics Northern California provides sports for children and adults with disabilities. The program is year-round and free to all participants, thanks to the support of sponsors, donors and fundraisers like the Duck Race.

Special Olympics and the Motor Activities Training Program promote training and participation rather than competition among its participants to help members perform better at home, school and in the community.

"Athletes often defy the expectations of their families, doctors and the community at large," according to the duck race website.

"The duck race is the best fundraising event we have," Sparks said. "It's for the whole family and little kids can really enjoy it and everybody loves rubber ducks."

For more information and volunteer opportunities visit the Special Olympics Northern California website. To see the list of winners and prizes as well as the final tally of funds raised this year please visit the duck race website.

Haunted Comedy

2009-10-04T00:46:26Z

Bad acting has never been so good.

The Wilkerson Theater (formerly California Stage) hosted the hilariously chaotic comedy The Haunted Through Lounge and Recessed Dining Nook at Fernadale Castle on Friday.

The play, about putting on a play with novice actors, was engaging as the five-woman cast stumbled around the stage in mismatched shoes, Afro wigs and pin-up dresses. They clumsily told the story of a haunted castle that a teenage couple came upon on a stormy night, only to find that the girl who had been an orphan was the daughter of the castle's psychotic owner.

It was unclear when the play began or when intermission had started because the cast remained in character and interactive with the audience from the time everyone entered the doors to the time everyone left. At one point even sitting in the audience warning of blood spatter that may come into the crowd.

The play was acted out as if we were all in a fictitious Fondale Avenue Guild meeting, complete with a poetry contest as actress Penny Knobloch pulled audience member Rachel Morgan on the stage to recite a poem entitled "Tupperware," winning her a crown of vines with a white bow.

The women played several roles, each one sillier than the last, as the set purposely fell apart and they reminded each other of their lines. The music and sound effects came off que and blackouts occured often adding to the novice vibe. The characters played off each deliberate mistake in new hilarious ways each time.

The small 20 seat theater had 12 people in attendance, all of whom laughed out loud as the women brought the ghost story to life.

"It's hilarious for a small play," said Rod Hopper, who attended with his wife Elaine for their 10th anniversary. "They're a bunch of clowns."

Director Michael Coleman has been in the Sacramento theater scene for nearly 20 years. While the actresses: Rachel Armour, Renee Degarmo, Penny Knobloch, Laura Lagge, and Susan Madden have all been a part of several Sacramento theater groups before joining with Black Rabbit Productions.

This family friendly play will only run Oct. 9, 10, 16 and 17 from 8-10p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $12 for students and seniors. For more information about future shows and times please visit the Black Rabbit Productions website.

AAJA Photo Showcase Fundraiser

2009-09-30T04:24:14Z

The Asian American Journalist Association held it's third annual Photo Showcase and Silent Auction at the 20th Street Art Gallery on Tuesday.

The auction benefited student scholarships, journalism training and mentorship programs, according to Chelsea Phua, events coordinator for the AAJA.

"We raised $24,000 last year from sponsorships and auctioning photos," Phua said. "We are hoping to match or exceed that amount."

The photographs were donated by The Sacramento Bee and The Associated Press. Photos exhibited included president Barack Obama on inauguration day and moving images from the Laura Ling and Euna Lee rally at the capitol earlier this year.

"We want to have lots of fun and raise enough money for the programs," Phua said. "We are depending on the generosity of donors and sponsors."

Associated Press photographer Paul Sakuma donated four photos to the auction.

"It's great to know that I can make a difference as a photographer for the next generation of journalists," he said. Sakuma has been donating photos to the cause for 10 years.

"We wanted to get photos that represent whats been going on for the past year hence the inauguration and Lisa Ling and of course animals, everyone loves animals," said AAJA president Judy Lin.

They also had a raffle for a 1988 photo of Michael Jackson that attorney Ernest Chen won.

The AAJA provides scholarships to high school and college students going into all types of media. $3,000 was awarded to two local students in 2008 and a total of $126,750 was awarded across the nation.

"As a founding member our goal was to bring together the Asian journalists but we ended up getting life long friends out of it," said News10 anchor Sharon Ito. "And its great to see students come full circle from the beginning to a career."

AAJA also provides workshops to help further students careers in journalism.

"I've been a board member since 1995 and I started as a student at UC Davis and AAJA really helped me get my foot in the door," said Pamela Wu, former KCRA news anchor. "They really believe in everyone and want to help aspiring journalists."

According to Phua, workshops and scholarships aren't restricted to Asian Americans, they are for all aspiring journalists.

"We have professional journalist come and look at students resumes and clip books and give them advice on what to do next," Phua said.

To apply for scholarships and receive notifications about upcoming workshops and fundraisers visit the AAJA Sacramento Web site.

A Day in the Zone

2009-09-27T01:37:04Z

People were "Bubbly" as they came in swimsuits and beared the sun while singing and dancing to the various artists that graced the stage at the 13th annual Day in the Zone concert at Discovery Park.

Howie Day, Colbie Callait, Hoobastank, and Train were the performers for the show put on by 100.5 FM The Zone.

"I came to see Colbie," Anika Polyak of Serendipity Boutique said. "It's really hot out, and it's not as crowded as last year's show, but it's still good."

Callait was definitly the crowd favorite, from her new song "I Won't" atop a firetruck ladder to her acoustic version of "Bubbly."

"Colbie should have headlined the show,"first-time attendee Brandon Osburn said. "I bet a lot more people would have come out."

"The sound system is always so good at these concerts," Polyak said. "It doesn't matter where you are sitting or how far away you are — you can always see and hear the performers."

Despite the heat, fans flocked to the stage as Train appeared and began to sing "Calling All Angels."

Yellow and white beach balls flew among the crowd and people danced as the bass shook the ground.

"I really like the lead singer of Train, Pat Monahan," Polyak said. "I'm hoping to hear some of his new solo songs."

Although Monahan did not play any of those original songs he did do a montage of Led Zeppelin songs

In the middle of Monahan's performance, he was accompanied by four young girls who he picked out of the crowd: Abby, Jenna, Riley and Kira, who he named his "Trainettes" as they sang "She's on Fire."

The Zone's Drew Hoffar said he was happy with the turnout of about 6000 and thinks the show was a success.

"We want to bring everyone what's hot in Sacramento," Hoffar said. "And right now, Howie has a new album, Colbie is just hot, everyone has been requesting Train, and who doesn't love Hoobastank?"

Hoffar said that, The Zone won't start planning next year's event until February, but he hopes to see Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift as potential performers.

The Halloween Exotic Zone Ball is the next big event for 100.5 The Zone. Hoffar said it's the biggest and best party in Sacramento, and they will be having a surprise musical quest.

"I would come again It's a great concert," said first time attendee Sasha Weyl from Serendipity Boutique.

These mimes are speaking up

2009-09-25T01:46:11Z

Head to Southside Park on Sunday to catch the San Francisco Mime Troupe celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The group's goal is to make people laugh at life's absurdities. But don't think silent, because these "mimes" talk and sing. In keeping with mimes of ancient Rome, this troupe uses voice, music, sound effects and humor to poke fun at difficult situations all while in bright costumes.

That's what the 10 members of the collective will be doing Sunday, with "Too Big to Fail." It's the 10th year that the troupe has performed in Sacramento but the first time at Southside.

The play is a musical satire about America's economic situation. It also will be performed in Davis on Saturday.

The troupe's band will play at 6:30 p.m. and the free show will begin at 7, the final performance of the season.

Director and founder R.G. Davis came up with the idea for the free performances in the park 50 years ago. The troupe has covered many styles over the years, including melodramas, spy thrillers, histories, and comedy. Previous shows included "Mr. Smith Goes to Obscuristan," a satire about President George W. Bush, the Sept. 11 attacks and the discovery of oil. More fun was poked in "1600 Transylvania Avenue," a play about past administrations rising from the grave and taking down corporations.

The troupe has won a special Tony Award for Excellence in Regional Theater and the San Francisco Bay Area Media Alliance Golden Gadfly Award.

These mimes aren't stopping at 50 years, though. The troupe's Web site promises to provide joy and energy, as well as to continue annoying the powerful, well into the 21st century.

Photos coutesy of Liz M. Frolkis and David Allen

Art Bra Show

2009-09-18T01:49:54Z

Fun has its serious side at the 2nd Annual Art Bra Show.

The exhibit, with pieces from 100 Sacramento artists, is being held at 40 Acres Art Gallery, 35th Street and Broadway in Oak Park. It runs through Saturday and is put on by the Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation and Women's Wisdom, a program of Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.

A bra is depicted in every sculpture, painting, sketch and tapestry. "The goal of the show is to bring a public awareness about the plight of breast cancer and its effects on all women," said Helen Plenert, Women's Wisdom project manager. "Participants in Women’s Wisdom Art, a program of SFBFS that helps women overcome loss, depression, cancer or low self-confidence, have attended courses about breast health, cancer treatment and survival in preparation for the show.

"We are trying to help all sorts of women, through our art classes, recover from everything from cancer to divorce," Plenert said. "We're trying to get them to interact with local artists."

The Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation brings a mobile mammogram machine and medical personnel to serve women in the Oak Park community.

"I came up with the show a number of years ago and got ideas from the East Coast shows that have been going on for years," Plenert said. "I presented it to Albie Aware and they loved it and went nuts."

Last year's show raised $6,000, which was shared by the two charities. Funds raised by this year's show are approaching that, according to Plenert.

At Second Saturday on Sept. 12, the two charities held an auction in which half of the 160 pieces were sold.

Five artists from Auburn, dedicated three pieces to in honor of local television personality Tina Macuah from "Good Day Sacramento" after hearing about her double mastectomy earlier this year.

"I wasn't going to hold the show next year, but since the artists are already preparing, I guess I am going to," Plenert said. "But after year three, I don't think I'm going to."

After leaving 40 Acres on Saturday, the exhibit will travel to two breast cancer awareness shows in the downtown area.

"The stories and reasons for doing what they did is my favorite experience that has come out of this," Plenert said. "Some of the stories are written on the pieces and some of them have just been shared through conversation, but they are all touching."

--Invasion

--Slow and Steady

--Because Duct Tape Cant Fix Everything

--Mardi Gras Bra

--My Mosaic Life

--My Purple Breast

--What Flows Through Me

--A Bird in the Bra

--Breast Implants

--A Womens Self Advocate

--Into the Cups

--Fire and Ice

--Phenomonal Women

Scooter Jamboree

2009-09-15T20:48:23Z

Sacramento welcomes the first Scooter Jamboree at The Scoot Shop this Saturday and Sunday to raise money for arts and music.

In a creative collaboration between The Fay Throckmorton, Kenneth Scott Mackrel Organization for the Arts (T&M Organization) and The Scoot Shop, the Scooter Jamboree was created as a charity event to help local youth gain access to art and music and gain revenue for the city, according to Rebekah Spurgeon, co-owner of The Scoot Shop.

"We liked the charity and thought it would be a fun collaboration," Spurgeon said.

The Scoot Shop, located at 1619-A E St. opened last year as the only full service scooter repair shop and dealership. The festivities will begin Saturday with a meet-and-greet from 5-10 p.m featuring live music by Jeffrey Valentine and the Storytella's, fire spinning after dark and an art show featuring Chicago scooter artist Casey Sachen at The Scoot Shop.

Sunday will kick-off at 10 a.m. with a two hour scooter ride for charity around the capitol followed by a dinner party that night at The Scoot Shop. Proceeds from the ride will benefit T&M Organization for the Arts.

"We're hoping to create a great community event for the general public and at the same time raise money to help the youth," Spurgeon said.
T&M Organization helps to provide art and music lessons, as well as supplies, to children around the Sacramento area who would otherwise be unable to enjoy the rich artistic culture that the city has to offer.

"We are going to have an art and music drive during these events as well," said Sheree Cano, director of events and public relations for T&M. "We're going to collect art and music supplies and donate them to after-school programs and less fortunate schools that have had to cut art programs."

The art and music drive will take place all weekend and donations will be accepted year round by the T&M Organization.

According to The Scoot Shop's website, Registration is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. You can register online, by phone or in person at The Scoot Shop. Registration includes food and drink tickets, T-shirts and raffle tickets. All shapes, colors and sizes of scooters are welcome, but don't forget your helmet.

"We would love to see this event on an annual basis to see more tourism and revenue for the city," Cano said.

River Cats Playoffs

2009-09-13T01:35:45Z

The River Cats packed the house Friday night for the third playoff game of the season.

The teams played for a crowd of 11,894 — record attendance for the season.

On the eighth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the game began with a tribute to those who lost their lives or loved ones. with the singing of the national anthem, pictures of those who perished flashed on the stadium screen followed by a moment of silence as the color guard exited the field. Throughout the game, the stadium screen showed video messages from American soldiers stationed across the world, saying hello to their families and showing their support for the River Cats. Spirits were high as family and friends of the soldiers cheered proudly.

Giveaway games were played with the crowd in the stands throughout the real game on the field. Including catching hot dogs that River Cats mascot Dinger shot out of a cannon and fans did the chicken dance to receive hats and coupons to various vendors that were there.

Sticking to the theme nights that the River Cats games are known for, Friday's game was family night and featured $1 hot dogs and ice cream sandwiches. Saturday's game will feature Sutter Health post-game fireworks.

The River Cats showed no mercy as they scored run after run. In the second inning, first baseman Chris Carter hit the first of the three home runs for the game scoring a total of four points in the inning. The River Cats beat the Tacoma Rainiers 13-2.

This was the third of five playoff games for the Pacific Conference Championships. The team will now go on to play the Memphis Redbirds in Memphis for the title. If the River Cats win, they will advance to the five-game Pacific Coast League Championship Series to face the Memphis Redbirds again to end the season.

The River Cats are the reigning Triple-A champions for 2007 and 2008 and hold the PCL championship title for 2003, 2004, 2007, and 2008

Series of Stolen Art

2009-09-09T03:24:01Z

In the now thriving Sacramento art scene, theft has been a recurring problem among college artists.

Since 2005 American River College students and instructors have been seemingly targeted as victims of art theft. Within the past year the problem has become increasingly worse, with three pieces taken weeks apart from each other.

On Aug. 15, 2005, Craig Schindler, an instructor at ARC had a painting titled, "Para Las Mujeres Victimas de Cuidad Juarez" [translated as "For the victims of Cuidad Juarez"], taken from the Kanakos Gallery, a gallery located on the campus of ARC for students and faculty.

Schindler said the painting was a tribute to the women being victimized and found dead in the deserts of Juarez. The proceeds from the sale of the painting were to go to Amnesty International's funding for awareness of Juarez Mexico.

Student Denise O'Connor had two charcoal pieces titled "Jane" and "Reclining Nude" taken from the Mar. 15 showing "From Realism to Abstraction" at the H Street Phantom Space.

"Obviously, I thought they were good enough to exhibit in a student art show, but I can't help but thinking the subject matter may have made them of especial interest to someone," said O'Connor.

O'Connor did not anticipate her works being lifted, so unfortunately she does not have any photographs of her stolen pieces.

Student Ronda Chatelle had a matted photograph titled "World Traveler" taken from the same H Street Phantom Space just two weeks later on Mar. 28.

Chatelle has printed postcards and distributed them on the ARC campus and among the art community in hopes that her photograph will be returned to her.

Once again in March, at Formoli's restaurant on J Street, instructor John Stuart Berger had a piece titled, "Don't Fuck with Karly," stolen on the last day of the showing.

According to Berger, a fraudulent check was given as payment for the painting. After the check was found to be fraudulent, Berger was unable to reach the people responsible by phone or mail.

"I wanted to think that it wasn't done under malice, but after all this time my mind is beginning to shift the other way," said Berger.

One piece of art was returned to instructor Joy Bertinuson after she had a wood-burning titled "Stigmata" lifted from the Del Paso Boulevard Phantom Gallery site approximately two years ago. Bertinuson's piece was generously returned to her after a student at ARC recognized it and brought it back.

"I did feel strangely complimented that it was my work that was stolen," Bertinuson said. "Historically, the work of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch is one of the most sought after by thieves. In fact 'The Scream' has been lifted on several occasions. But I don’t think most artists share the feeling of being complimented at the theft of their works, particularly when they are still missing."

As the art community grows in Sacramento, so does theft and the fear among artists that they may be the next victims of lifted art.

Berger recommends, "If you're hanging at someone's house and see this painting on their wall," referring to his stolen painting, "it doesn't belong to them. You might want to mention to them, 'I bet you got a hell of a deal on that painting, wink wink'."

If any of these pieces are found please contact the American River College Art Department at: (916)484-8433 or The Sacramento Press at (916)443-6825 and they will be returned to the artists.

Snapshot Sacramento

2009-09-09T02:44:14Z

Photographers are being rallied all over the Sacramento region to help end the growing chronic homelessness problem.

From Sept. 13 until Sept. 19 photographers will be snapping pictures of inspiring moments across Sacramento. According to the official rules, the themes for the photographs are: home and family life, work, play, faith, and Sacramento.

"Homelessness is personal to me -- my son is homeless," said Don Nahhas, president of Snapshot Sacramento. "There is only so much you can do to help, and with the proceeds from this, those who want help have a way and an avenue to get help."

The weeklong event is modeled after America 24/7, a nationwide photography contest that creates a book of photographs taken around the world.

"This year we are going to make a calendar, but next year we want to make a book highlighting a year in Sacramento," Nahhas said.

According to snapshotsacramento.com, photographs must be taken between midnight on Sunday, Sept. 13 through 11:59 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. The event is open to all amateur and professional photographers who are not prohibited by any law or regulation from entering, and who have access to the Internet. No entry fee or other payment is required to enter, nor is the purchase of any item or service necessary. Event organizers will select judges and the criteria will include: adherence to theme, composition, creativity and originality.

The Snapshot Sacramento 2010 calendar will be on sale for $10 with all of the proceeds going to the Ten Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness in Sacramento County, Homeless Connect.

The money raised will help to create an event held at Sacramento City College that will provide services to the homeless that may not have been available during the work week.

Some services being provided will include: Free eye care, HIV tests, blankets, bicycle repair, the DMV will be issuing identification cards, and Federico Beauty Institute will be giving free haircuts.

"Everyone who is participating or has heard about this loves the idea and is excited to help in any way that they can," Nahhas said.

“This event brings the community together to assist our homeless citizens," said Tim Brown, Director of Ending Chronic Homelessness Initiative. "We will offer a full range of services and support to hundreds of homeless people through hundreds of community volunteers. This hand-to-hand assistance will positively impact everyone.”

Photos courtesy of Don and Dawn Nahhas. Homeless Connection May 30,2009.

Smooth as Silk

2009-09-06T00:39:06Z

Local hip-hop artists performed to a packed house at the Silk Bar & Cafe Friday night.

The show was a promotion of local artists in the hip-hop community. They came with original beats and rhymes to showcase themselves for a chance to open for Bay Area rapper E-40 during a performance later this year. The performers will be contacted by the club managers with the details for the show and if they are performing. It was unclear how the judging was taking place.

R&B singer Adam Aldama aka Sizzle, who has been around the Sacramento hip-hop scene for about three years, sang two of his newest songs while the dance floor let loose.

"It's a pretty cool show," Sizzle said. "Cool artists too. I'm looking forward to the chance to perform with E-40 though."

The main performance for the night was Turf Talk, an indie rapper who originated in the Bay Area and is fairly new to the Sacramento music scene, closed the night out showcasing some of his newest beats.

The small dance floor of the 21-and-up club, doubled as the stage for the dozen performers showing off their skills. The layout of the club was simple with with only minimal sound equipment, leaving the rappers to show off only their voices and lyrics, free of Auto-Tune and other production.

The crowd was mostly friends and family of the performers. This was the first time Silk Bar & Cafe held a showcase like this, and they hope to do it more often and have even more people attend the very lively events.

To contact Silk Bar & Cafe and check for future show listings, please visit their website.

It's Hammertime

2009-09-04T06:01:13Z

MC Hammer brought out a crowd of thousands at the state fair Sept. 3 performing his classics in a live concert.

Fans who were unable to buy tickets to the show, which quickly sold out, stood in a line that wrapped around the concert area starting at 3:30 to get a wristband for lawn seating and standing.

"I'm so gonna get my dance on," said Hammer fan Janelle Tann. "It's like a childhood rewind, and I get to see an artist that I adored when I was growing up. It's a dream."

Hammer performed some of his greatest hits, including, "To Legit to Quit," "Cant Touch This" and "Pumps and a Bump."

"Sacramento is like home," Hammer said. "I've been coming her for 20 or 30 years, that's why I agreed to do this."

Throughout his performance he walked through the crowd taking pictures with people, singing to them and dancing side by side. By the end of the show, he had brought close to the whole audience up onto the stage to dance and sing. At one point, he even told the security to guards to just let people keep coming on stage.

"I don't do performances, I do parties, so everybody can have fun," Hammer said.

At a more somber moment in the show, he payed tribute to the late Michael Jackson as well as his close personal friends Tupac and Luther Vandross.

His style for this show was a bit more toned-down than those of the past. Everyone wore fitted white pants and black and white tops. There were no Hammer pants on the stage this time, but fairgoers who wore Hammer pants received free admission.

"When me and my friends would go to the club, we started seeing all these baggy pants, so we decided to take it up a notch and get real baggy, and that's where Hammer pants came from," Hammer said.

Hammer also contributes to many local charities in the Sacramento area.

"Me and my wife like to focus on homelessness, breast cancer awareness and hunger. Those are important," said Hammer said.

He has also dabbled in television lately, starring in his new show "Hammertime."

"If there was anything that would surprise people, that they didn't know about me before, they know now," Hammer said. "I think people would have been surprised at how important academics is to me."

"I want people to associate everything I do together, from music to TV to helping people," Hammer said.

MC Hammer's down-to-earth attitude and love for his fans showed through during his performance, and everyone around had appreciation for the legend.

"He is definitely too legit to quit," Tann said.

A Day at the State Fair

2009-08-31T05:11:45Z

The California State Fair has been a main attraction for family fun in Sacramento for decades. This year did not disappoint.

Smiling kids ran around in packs in awe of the lights and rides at their fingertips.

Sitting on the children's midway among the funhouses and superslides sat rides from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch as well as the Neverland sign itself. Fairgoers can enjoy the rides for only three tickets as parents and fans of Jackson take pictures with life-size cutouts of the King of Pop next to the Neverland sign.

The joy on faces of the children as they were seated on Michael Jackson's Neverland rides was just what he would have wanted to see while celebrating his 51st birthday this weekend.

The rides were not extravagant or awe-inspiring, but as I stood there next to these normal fair rides that once sat in a spectacular place, it was a little surreal- and brought humanity to a man who always seemed so untouchable.

"I think the children are enjoying the rides," said Fairgoer Corina Olteanu. "It's awesome that they get to get some use out of them instead of them just being looked at just because they came from Neverland."

In the midst of the big midway, sat yet another ride from Neverland that was a bit more amazing. The pink 17th-century-themed swing ride sat almost glorified as attendees young and old rode.

"It almost seems a little weird since he just passed, but the kids are having a really good time," said fair visitor Amanda Couvrette.

Aside from the memorializing rides, there are many exciting exhibits and festivites that have definitely stuck to this years theme of- "Weird, Wild and Wacky."

A sculpture of San Francisco made entirely of toothpicks is a favorite among attendees, drawing massive crowds in the exhibit halls.

The displays depicting the different cities in California are creative and had onlookers talking about the assets of the state and innovations being made.

This year's state fair will definitely leave visitors talking and anticipating what they will do next.

Photos courtesy of Anthony Bento.

Hot Lunch Concert Series

2009-08-28T04:19:10Z

The vibe at Fremont park was laid-back and friendly during the new Hot Lunch series presented by Hot Italian and The Sacramento Press.

Dozens of people sat scattered through the park on blankets and in lawn chairs, bobbing to the live music and chowing down on the food that was delivered from Hot Italian, just across 16th Street. Most people in attendance were on their lunch breaks some were just walking their dogs and got pulled in by the delicious smells and intriguing sounds.

Attendee Melissa Olsen said, "I'm here on my lunch hour, and I think this is a good morale booster for all of the state employees in this hard time, to have somewhere near the end of the week to just unwind and listen to music for an hour."

At this week's concert, Kate Gaffney entertained the crowd with songs from her two latest albums as well as some old favorites from bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

"I'm happy to be a part of the Sacramento music scene," Gaffney said. "This is a great little event to have for lunch."

Hot Lunch will take place every Thursday until Sept. 24 on 16th and Q from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Some of the food available included pizza, panini and salads. A crowd favorite in the drink category was Limonata, an Italian lemonade.

Attendees said they hope that the concert series will gain popularity as it goes on, creating a type of concert in the park following.

The next concert will feature music from Richard March.

You can check out Richard March's music at: http://www.myspace.com/richardmarch
and Kate Gaffney's at: http://www.myspace.com/kategaffney

'Cats' Out of the Bag and into the Circus

2009-08-19T07:41:09Z

The Jellicle felines of Cats made the Music Circus purr, Tuesday night.

The dark theater glowed green cat eyes as the 24-person cast filled the small round stage of the Music Circus to sing “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats.”

Although the musical has no set storyline,the situations flowed perfectly into one another.

Director and choreographer Richard Stafford created a thrilling musical piece full of lifelike mannerisms and situations that any cat lover would understand, any dog lover would appreciate, and even non-pet lovers would be delighted by.

The cast of the normally huge Broadway play utilized the small stage as well as the aisles in the crowd, with a variety of dance styles including classical ballet, jazz, Dunham and tap.

Musical director Craig Barna and the live orchestra gave an outstanding performance. Although, they were not needed for most of the dance numbers, as the performers tapped and twirled to the rhythms of their own bodies.

Rum Tum Tugger (played by Kevin Loreque) stole the show with his rock 'n' roll attitude, huge hair and amazing voice, even pulling audience member Janet Payne on stage for a dance during his eponymous song, “The Rum Tum Tugger.”

The costumes were over the top, leaving nothing to the imagination. Some were little more than a nude leotard with a tail; whereas one, worn by Jellylorum (played by Heather Meiko) was embellished with long white glittered fur and pink sequins.

The original Broadway play was inspired by T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. The music was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

This classic show was definitely the cat’s meow.

Photos courtesy of Charr Crail.

Grease is the Word

2009-08-17T03:00:11Z

“Grease is the word” was heard throughout the Crest Theatre Sunday during the first Grease sing-a-long put on by Outword Magazine.

Nearly 400 people filled the Crest Theatre, singing and dancing to all of the classics, such as “Grease Lightning,” “Summer Love” and “You’re the One That I Want.”

For me the highlight of the event was the participation of attendees including myself who went all out dressing up as their favorite characters while dancing, singing and even strutting across the stage in costume.

“This was a great idea," said Allison Reyes, who attended the event. "I came because my 3-year-old daughter hasn’t ever seen Grease, so it kind of brought all the generations together: my mother, grandmother and my daughter.”

Among the festivities was the audience judged costume contest, a huge hit among die hard Grease fans such as myself, featuring some of the most memorable Grease characters. Eugene, the dorky overachiever (played by David Fulk) won the top prize of $100. I won second place and four tickets to the Trash Film Orgy Halloween as Sandy, the lovable goody-two-shoes whose bad side came to surface. Knicky, the tough ‘T’ Bird with a reputation to protect (played by Nathan Seither) took third place, winning 10 tickets to the California State Fair.

“This is my 76th time seeing the movie,” Fulk said.

Outword Magazine publisher and president of the Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, Fred Palmer, said, “I thought a sing-a-long would be really fun and family-friendly, and we added a costume contest to get people involved and have even more fun.”

Palmer said he hopes to put on more sing-a-longs in the future. He is working on sing-a-long Xanadu and The Little Mermaid.

For future Outword events check out http://www.outwordmagazine.com/

Photos courtesy of Elaine Cooper

Harmonica Convention

2009-08-13T04:31:04Z

The harmonica is "the accordion of the soul," said Bud Gardner, founder of the Sun City Harmonicoots. Last year Gardner and the Harmonicoots, made up of 60 people from the Sun City retirement community, wrote a letter convincing the Society for the Advancement and Preservation of Harmonicas (SPAH) to hold the Harmonica Convention in Sacramento.

The convention, now in its 46th year, began Tuesday and continues every day through Saturday at the Radisson Hotel. It features harmonica concerts, lectures and sales as well as impromptu (and scheduled) jam sessions.

The convention will be continued next year in Milwaukee.

"All four of the major harmonica manufacturers are here: Hoener, Sydel, Hering and Suzuki," Gardner said. They sell all the major different types of harmonicas: diatonic, chromatic, tremolo, soprano, alto, bass, baritone, chord, and even the melodica (a hand-held piano that you blow into).

Almost 450 people will pass through the doors, some coming from as far as Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, and even Japan, Italy, England and Germany.

Gardner's wife, Jennifer Martin, Harmonicoots' publicist and one of the few people at the convention who does not play the harmonica, added, "This is the largest turnout in 25 years." In terms of the local scene, Rick Estrin and Charlie Musselwhite are the two biggest Northern Californians attending the event, she said.

Estrin, who leads a group called Rick Estrin & the Nightcats, won a W.C. Handy award for a song he wrote called "My Next Ex-wife" in 1993. Musselwhite has been a featured guest on two Grammy Award-winning albums, and has been nominated for a Grammy six times.

Darrell Williams, a 77-year-old attendee, said about the event, "I love coming to these places eventhough I have to sit through the blues, I wish they would call it the 'happies.'"

Harmonicas are not limited to blues, Martin stressed. In addition to blues, people at the convention will play rock, country, jazz and even classical music on the harmonica.

"Some of the best players in the world are here," said Larry Marks, a 67-year-old harmonica player from Mt. Shasta, Calif. "Sacramento, the Bay Area and Chico all have good harmonica players."

"It's great to see people taking a simple instrument and taking it to another level," said Randy Sandoval, 49, owner of Sacramento's Genesis Harmonicas, a specialty harmonica store. "I was getting burned out sitting in my store, but now that I'm here, I get more motivated."

Genesis Harmonicas creates combs, the inside part of the harmonica, out of an acryllic polymer called Corian, which makes the harmonica sound brighter than the traditional wood. It has been open for 10 years, Sandoval said.

Carol Hall, an 80-year-old first time attendee, said, "I've loved the convention so far, I have my own little band in Florida called The Harmoniguys even though there's two girls."

Though SPAH conventions usually draw an older crowd, this year has the most young people out of all the conventions, noted Sandoval upon seeing the day's crowd. Sandoval, who has attended several previous conventions, noted that the younger crowd is likely due to the presence of Jason Ricci, a younger harmonica player known as the "Jimi Hendrix of harmonica."

John Gindick, author of Country and Blues for the Musically Helpless, a book teaching the techniques of harmonica, described the event as "a place for people who haven't played since they were 19, because they got all serious and started raising kids, but are full of amazing talent."

The activities for the event range from open mic rooms to How to set up an Amp classes. There are also nightly concerts featuring some of the biggest names in the harmonica industry.

Attendee David Groben said, "PT Gazelle is even here, he is a God in the harmonica world."

Wednesday's concert was a packed house of nearly 400 with an amazing opening performance by Christelle Berthon, a harmonica player from France accompanied by Jimmy Lee on guitar.

Berthon played familiar tunes as well as some of her own creations. A crowd favorite was her rendition of Louis Armstrong's "It's a Wonderful World" as the enormous group of fellow players and admirers sang along.
For a full schedule of the events, visit SPAH's website.

Jonathan Mendick contributed to this article.

Photos by Jonathan Mendick.

'The Man of La Mancha' takes Sacramento on a quest at the Music Circus

2009-08-12T07:49:11Z

It was a solemn scene with chains and bars accompanied only by candlelight. A spotlight and a single pirouette performed flawlessly by one of the male troupe members accompanied by a Spanish song set the mood of the Music Circus sensation The Man of La Mancha.

The setting was that of a prison where Miguel de Cervantes, also known as Don Quixote, played by Walter Charles, told his story of love and never giving up on your dreams as a defense in a mock trial held by the prisoners, to save his beloved manuscript from destruction.

The first act was full of witty puns and adult humor describing Quixote, a wise man who is a little mad, accompanied by his loyal servant Sancho, played by Kevin Ligon, and his quest for the love of Aldonza, a less-than-ladylike “serving wench,”played by Valerie Perri. Quixote then renames Aldonza to Dulcinea as he believes it is more beautiful and fitting for her.

The second act followed with a more serious tone as reality crept through the characters imaginary world. As Quixote’s journey ended, Dulcinea inspired everyone to believe that Quixote’s ideal of living the impossible dream will remain forever.

Cervantes himself was put on trial during the Spanish Inquisition with charges of being an honest man and foreclosing a church. As the lights dimmed, his fellow prisoners who had come to feel close to him, as well as his alter ego Quixote, whom he had created to save himself from those very prisoners, watched as he and his servant were taken away and sang “The Impossible Dream.”

The play was based on the adventures of Quixote and Sancho originally illustrated in 17th century satirical novel, Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra’s, Don Quixote. The novel was later translated into a play and titled The Man of La Mancha.

The live orchestra kept the energy levels high in the theater with skillful playing and creative uses of sound and sound effects that accompanied the wonderful performances of the actors.

The round stage that the Music Circus is famous for was utilized beautifully as the actors constantly moved about in their modest costumes of weathered dresses and torn pants.

The stunning performance was followed by a well deserved standing ovation.

As people left the theater with the look of satisfaction on their faces they simply said, “Amazing.”

The Man of La Mancha will be playing until August 16th, ticket prices starting at $50. For more information please visit the Music Circus website at: www.californiamusicaltheatre.com/index.cfm.

Protesters Rally at the Capitol to prevent HIV/AID budget cuts

2009-06-11T07:18:37Z

Hundreds of protesters turned out on the steps of the captiol yesterday to show their disapproval of the proposed budget cuts to HIV/AIDS organizations.

According to David Stupplebean and Jason Riggs, “Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger is seeking to balance the state budget on the backs of some of California’s most vulnerable residents—including people living with HIV and those at greatest risk of HIV infection. By cutting more than $80 million of support for HIV care, prevention and treatment, the governor’s budget jeopardizes livs and threatens years of progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”

Cathy Olufs, HIV positive since 1995 said, “I feel a little ashamed of my state right now.”

Speakers for the event varied from Actresses to California legislators and assemblymen.

Tony award winning actress, Sheryl Lee Ralph, said, “On June 5, many years ago five men in San Francisco were diagnosed with a disease that made doctors say ‘what the hell is this,’ it was an ugly time and we are here at the capitol to say don’t put us back in the ugly time.”

Ralph spoke to diverse crowd chanting their messages in many different languages; including English, Spanish and Japanese.

Ralph said, “These cuts are connected to a living breathing human being.”

Artist and childrens book publisher, Ralfka Gonzalez, who has had full-blown AIDS for around 18 years, said, “Proposition 8 protesters should be here too, people that can’t get married wont die, if I don’t get my medication I will die.”

California legislators spoke briefly to the crowd about the progress of the proposal.

As legislators spoke out the crowd chanted, “Tax the billionaires.”

Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, a favorite among protesters said, “I have a message for Arnold. He is working my last gay nerve.”

Domestic partners of two years, Johnathan Clark and Lupe Martinez, who have been HIV positive for 18 years, said, “To cut funding is to cut all progress we as a community have made.”

Clark said, “It seems totally wrong to get rid of the people that cant help themselves.”

Protester, Maurice Belvin, who has been HIV positive for 30 years, says, “I cant afford $1000 per month, so I would probably die if they cut ADAP.”

Carina Aguilar, a young woman living with HIV, says, “I want to have a long life and a big family. I am worth it and so are you.”

Reverend Alejandro Escoto, says, “I also have a message for Arnold. Will he be there by my mothers side when I die? Will he be by my mothers side when she buries me? Will he be by my mothers side when she is asking why?”

The Sacramento Celebrity Chef Challenge

2009-06-06T06:54:12Z

“On your mark, get set, EAT!” That is the theme for the night at the Celebrity Chef Challenge. With good food, good wine, and good company, there are nothing but smiles.

The host for the night,InAlliance, is an organization that helps people with disabilities live a normal life by helping with living arrangments, alone or in groups, as well as job placement and training, according to board member Carl London.

“I have a 12-year-old son that is blind, mentally retarded, and has a seizure disorder, so this cause is close to my heart,” London says.

Among the festivities is a silent auction with prizes including a 12 person party catered by Big Spoon Yogurt, a trip to Paramount's Great America, a trip to Reno, a San Francisco PLAYcation, and a trip to Lake Tahoe.

Attendee, Julie Postier, says, “It’s a great event and a wonderful cause. It’s a great place to just hang out. It’s not a typical bar or restaurant and it’s excellent food and wine with lots of fun.”

A crowd favorite is Berryessa Gap winery.

Berryessa Gap owner, Clint Crow, explains that it’s a family owned winery since 2002 and they participate in all of the local events such as the grape escape.

“If you’re a food and wine person you have to be here,” Crow says.

Another hit of the night is Granite Bay Farms Specialty Foods.

Owner and creator, Abe Kazimierek, says, “When I was 19 I was just looking for stuff to put on a hot dog and I came up with the hot pepper relish it’s a secret recipe though so only me and my wife know what exactly is in it.”

Enthusiastic attendee, Peggy Mutinda, says she has been coming to the event for four years and loves the food, wine and company,

“It’s great if you’re a foodie,” Mutinda says.

Aside from the variety of vendors is the main event, The Celebrity Chef Challenge.

Attendees, Rachel Stewart and Chandra Rumsey mention, “We came because we watch iron chef all the time and this is like our own version.”

The challengers are given five secret ingredients to cook with that consist of: scallops, raspberries, quail, jalapeno peppers, and ale.

Competitor Charles Connell,a chef from the Sacramento Doubletree hotel, describes the event as, “ Nerve racking because we have to make a three course meal in 45 minutes.”

“It’s the first time competing at this event but I’m doing it just for fun and some expose for the hotel.” Connell says.

6-year-old, Tom Connell, the son of chef Charles Connell shared a moment with the audience as his dad was being judged saying, “I just really hope my daddy wins”

The star-studded panel of judges for the event include Guy Farris, Mellisa Crowley, Lee Perkins, Michael Anthony and Lloyd Levine.

Former assembly member,Lloyd Levine, says, “I’m ecstatic to be a judge, I came last year to support the cause because I believe strongly in what they do and I love to cook and eat great food.”

After an intense wait, the winner of the chef challenge was Adam and Noah Pechal.

As Pechal accepted his award he said tearfully, “I am dedicating everything to Adam Rains, who passed away last year, I wish he could have been here, but I think he might have been, because he always told me ‘don’t burn the quail by leaving it in to long,’ and this is the one time I didn’t.”

KCRA 3 news anchor and MC for the night, Edie Lambert, describes the event as, “Sacramento’s Iron Chef, kitchen stadium at the Towe Auto Museum, we will see who reigns supreme in Sacramento.”

A Day at the SPCA

2009-06-04T06:26:19Z

As you walk into a heartwarming scene of chewed up tennis balls, toys on the floor, happy dogs sleeping peacefully in the offices of loving executives, you can feel the dedication for animals in the administration building of the Sacramento SPCA.

The animals that come to the Sacramento SPCA on Florin-Perkins Road find love, dedication, and much-needed attention. The shelter received 11,936 animals in 2008 and diligently placed 5,937 of them in new homes that year.

The staff of 90 and the 1,127 volunteers work tirelessly to keep the animals happy and healthy by walking the dogs, playing with the cats, and taking the bunnies out to hop freely.

Wendy Bright, a six-year volunteer dog walker holds a timid black mini Aussie puppy that has been neutered a few weeks earlier, never taking her eyes off of him.

“I like to walk the dogs. I love them and play with them and get them ready for their new homes,” Bright says.

The SPCA tries to prevent animals from coming to the shelter by offering a low-cost spay and neuter clinic. In 2008 the clinic spayed or neutered 12,570 animals—an increase of 5,092 from 2007.

One of the two full-time veterinarians, Giselle Chan, says, “We can do so many operations because they only take about eight minutes.”

Chan says they spay or neuter about 25 animals per day.

The chief veterinarian Laurie Siperstein-Cook sits in the clinic syringe-feeding and talking to a litter of three-week old kittens.

“They gave me the look, so now I’m fostering—they made me,” Siperstein-Cook says.

Siperstein-Cook says she hopes that the SPCA will soon be able to provide low-cost veterinary services in addition to the spay and neuter clinic.

Public relations specialist Lesley Kireen proudly shows off the adoption center and all of the new facilities that have been established for the animals.

“We are happy to have all new homes in the adoption center for the cats. They have plenty of toys, a comfy couch and a TV that plays things like fish swimming or butterflies all day,” Kireen says.

In one of the large adoption areas sat Snow, a talkative white domestic short hair cat with a hematoma and an apses in one eye. On the front of Snow’s home was a handmade book held together by ribbon tied in bows. Four girls from the spring camp—Camp Kindness—fell in love with Snow and made her the star of their story. The girls ended their story with a heartfelt, “We love you, Snow.”

“She has been with us for a while-everyone loves her, but she’s still here,” Kireen says.

Bonnie, a 13-year-old large black and white domestic medium-hair cat, sits proudly as pet of the week in her cozy bed. Bonnie had been surrendered by her owners almost one year ago after being with them for 12 years.

“It’s hard on the heart when you know an animal has been with someone their entire life and then they suddenly find themselves in a shelter,” Kireen says.

Kireen explained that there had been an electrical fire recently in the large holding area for the dogs, so that area is receiving a makeover too.

“Since the fire, things have been a little cramped for the dogs, and we hate that because we want them to have space to run and play and be as happy as possible,” Kireen says.

Star, a large coonhound mix waiting to get her bath for the day, calls for the busy staff member who stops and talks to every animal on her way to Star.

The SPCA also takes care of many small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, which attract small children.

“We have pretty good luck with placing bunnies and guinea pigs because they’re just so cute and fluffy a lot of people want them,” Kireen says.

Sassy Pants, a black and grey Dutch rabbit, ripped apart the newspaper that lined her homey cage as she pranced around showing herself off.

Kireen says that everyone has made room for an animal or two from the shelter because everyone falls in love as soon as they walk in.

“We love them all and try to make them happy, and if that means taking them home or spending extra hours at work just to play with them, I think that’s something anyone here would do without hesitation,” Kireen says.

BB, a blind and deaf mix breed that was recently diagnosed with kennel cough, stands hopefully in the holding area for sick dogs talking to everyone who passed by as if to say, “Good morning.”

“We won’t give up on her,” Kireen says.

Homegrown Inspiration

2009-04-28T05:19:42Z

A 92-year-old blind novelist from Sacramento overcame diversity as a “colored” wife and mother during the, 50s and, 60s through optimism, according to her granddaughter in a speech Feb. 24.

Eva Rutland, a harlequin romance novelist came to the South Natomas Library with her daughter, Sacramento Bee editor, Ginger Rutland and granddaughter Eva Fields to share stories from her autobiographical novel, When We Were Colored, A Mothers Story.

Rutland’s daughter and granddaughter introduced the smiling author to the 22 people in attendance, mostly parents with children, gathered in the small meeting room on the right side of the library.

“This is not a story about the black family. This is a story of one black family; my black family,” Rutland said.

Rutland told the audience that she wrote the book because she wanted to let the white mothers know that her black children were just as fragile and precious as their white children.

“It’s was just a velvety cloak of segregation,” Rutland said

Rutland shared that while they lived in Georgia, during the race riots her family and a neighboring white, Jewish family from down the hill would take turns visiting each other depending on the area that the riots were taking place that day.

“Everyone was just good neighbors and good company. You just have to take adversity and power life,” Rutland said.

The family has started their own publishing company, Isaac Westmoreland Press named after Rutland grandfather who was born a slave in Georgia, only publishing Rutland works.

With a more youthful outlook on things Fields described her grandmother’s books as kind of boring.

They have a little bit too much information for me since I know that her romance novels are about grandpa,” Fields said.

Rutland explained that her husband who died three years ago was an inspiration for her novels.

“He was a wonderful man and I miss him very much,” Rutland said.

Rutland explained she was one of 11 children, nine of whom survived to adulthood.

All nine graduated from college at the top of their class. Rutland graduated from Spelman University in 1937.

“Failure was not an option in my family,” Rutland said.

Fields explained that Rutland still writes using a voice operated computer and has no intention to ever stop writing.

Onlooker Elaine Cooper said, “She never said she had it hard or woe is me. She made the best of everything despite anything and that’s inspirational to everyone of any race.”

There is no crystal stare, just life and it's what you make of it,” Rutland said.

Sizzling Onto the Music Scene

2009-04-23T04:15:43Z

Sitting with a child like smile, a Spiderman comic in his lap, and head phones around his neck, up and coming recording sensation Sizzle dreams of a life in the music industry and he is well on his way.

With a first album already out 22-year-old Sacramento City College student Adam Aldama, known in the music world as Sizzle, looks to the future with a second album due to release this year.

Sizzle, with the classic, innocent boy band look, curly hair perfectly in place, bright eyes, and a smile that never fades he captures the attention of his audience and makes them want more.

With Sizzles greatest passion being a life in music it is no surprise that his debut album, Smooth’n’Hot, sold out in stores around Sacramento.

Sizzle says that he writes all of his own songs, no outside help, just inspiration from those around him.

Sizzle says, “I try to write every day. I write about everything, even if it’s not that great.”

Sizzle says he takes to heart everyone important to him and it shows in his music, his passion is personified in an untitled song written for his grandmother that he performs for select audiences.

Today Sizzle performs at various nightclubs around Sacramento including Tunel 21 and Zokku.

Sizzle is still going to school full-time majoring in art as well as working for The Home Depot on Sunrise Blvd.

Sizzle says, “If my music career doesn’t hit it big, at least I can still be an art teacher and do something I love.”

Sizzle’s younger brother, 19-year-old Alex Aldama says, “I didn’t expect him to take a music career seriously growing up, but now that he’s actually doing it and it’s going alright, I’m proud of him.”

Sizzle says, “I like to keep everything radio friendly.”

Sizzle often sings using reference to his favorite video game and cartoon characters such as Super Mario and the Ninja Turtles.

Sizzle says that he likes to sing about things that he likes to remember.

Sizzle says, “My favorite memory growing up was playing video games with my little brother all the time.”

Avid listener of Sizzle 24-year-old Sharea Ahmed says that she likes that he’s able to sing, rap, and make clever lines using familiar aspects of most people’s lives.

Ahmed says, “He’s a great performer. When he gets on stage he’s totally in his element, he knows how to schmooze the ladies and connect with the guys.”

Sizzle says, he looks forward to the release of his second album titled The Meltdown.

With his family friendly mentality Sizzle says, “I want something anybody can listen to.” He says, “I got some tracks for the rollers, some tracks for the clubbers and I don’t even cuss that much so you can bump it with you mother.”

Rise of Pepper Spray

2009-04-22T04:54:46Z

Local women of Sacramento are responding to a recent rise in crime by carrying pepper spray.

According to the City of Sacramento Police Department crime maps, personal crimes are at a recent high in Sacramento and local women are amping up their levels of protection by carrying pepper spray.

Alana Henley, Community Services Officer for the Sacramento Police Department said, pepper spray is an adequate method of self defense and when carried at 0.5 ounces is completely legal.

“Five years ago was when I first started carrying pepper spray,” Sacramento City college student, Kimberly Tam said.

Tam said she started carrying pepper spray when she worked as a waitress and would get off of work late at night.

“I have even had to use it before,” Tam said.

53-year-old, print shop manger, Elaine Cooper said, “I work in Midtown so I carry pepper spray for safety. I always hear about personal crimes that happen in Midtown and I don’t want to become one of the victims.”

According to the Sacramento City College newspaper, The Express, and the Los Rios Police Department, there was an alleged rape in the Rodda Hall North building of the school on March 9, 2009.

According to 24-year-old Sacramento City College student Sharea Ahmed, “I would not have even thought about carrying pepper spray a month ago before allegations of a rape surfaced. After signing up for a late night class for the summer term I started to contemplate my safety.”

According to the Sacramento Police Department, people are not the only ones that women need to be aware of, but animals can be frequent attackers as well.

Sacramento resident and frequent walker Kelley Queale said, “I used to carry pepper spray when I went for a walk – more as a protection against 4 legged assailants than 2 legged.”

"its really just a personal preference whether to carry pepper spray or not, but it's helpful," Henley said.