Newest articles on The Sacramento Press written by Sarah Payne

Naked in midtown

2009-02-19T00:32:58Z

One of the most well-known hotspots in midtown Sacramento is undoubtedly the Naked Lounge on Q Street. Now, as of last week, downtowners can enjoy the same Naked proximity with the newly opened Naked Lounge located at the corner of 11th and H.

True to its name, Naked Lounge on H Street also gets its coffee from Naked Roasting on 36th and Broadway. "We roast all of our coffee and espresso; whatever coffee, we only serve one particular coffee at a time, and then our decaf," says Naked Lounge barista Justin Short. "We do it all at 36th and Broadway."

"We work really hard to keep the coffee consistent, so that people know they're getting good coffee no matter what," he adds.

But that's where the similarities between this Naked Lounge and its predecessor end. While the Naked Lounge on Q has more of a subdued, modern atmosphere, the Naked Lounge on H is bright, vibrant, and a little retro.

"It's new, it's funky, it's cool," says Short. "We try to keep the style a little different so that people know they're in a different place."

The décor is completely unique. The art displayed on the walls was done by Short and by Naked creator, Chris Pendarvis. Even the furniture was locally handmade, specifically for Naked.

"[Chris Pendarvis] repainted [the tables] to that cool orange color to match that couch that he had re-upholstered," explains Short. "The two concrete tables and the concrete coffee table were poured on the spot by our contractor."

The grand opening was held on Feb. 6, where new customers could enjoy live music and their favorite Naked drinks at the new location. "We kicked it off really well, I think," says Short. "Everyone is really excited that we're going to be here."

There is free wireless for Naked customers, as well as a patio area in the back where customers can enjoy their drinks outside.

For more information about this and other Naked Lounges, visit www.nakedcoffee.net.

Photos courtesy of Justin Short.

Any advice for Mayor Johnson?

2009-01-31T03:30:08Z

On Thursday, the Sacramento Bee reported that Mayor Kevin Johnson has decided to postpone the strong-mayor initiative to focus on more pressing issues like the budget.

The strong-mayor initiative has been a pretty hot topic on Sacramento Press in the past few weeks, with readers voicing their opinions for and against the initiative and discussing the actual campaign tactics.

Now that the initiative has been pushed back, what is your opinion? Did Kevin Johnson make the right move by postponing it? What are your suggestions for the next round of campaigning? What would you like to see from Mayor Johnson before you are willing to sign the initiative?

Here are some previous SacPress articles about the strong-mayor initiative: "A stronger Mayor for a stronger Sacramento?, "Strong Mayor initiative and petition" and "Strong Mayor, Weak Ethics?".

Hans Eberbach

2009-01-27T21:10:39Z

Tesla, Cake, Deftones — these are the bands that immediately come to mind when one thinks of the Sacramento music scene. But what about the lesser known but equally great Sacramento musicians? A few days ago, I met with Sweet Vine/Looking Star/The Nibbler's Hans Eberbach, a Sacramento musician who knows the scene inside and out.

Eberbach started out as the lead singer of Sweet Vine and was with the group when it was picked up by Sony/Columbia's record label. Unfortunately, internal strife broke up the band in its prime.

Now, after singing for Sweet Vine and Looking Star, Eberbach is doing his own thing. He released his latest EP, "Up Is The Only Way Out," in December, and will be kicking off his two-man northern coast tour in February.

"Up Is The Only Way Out" holds similarities to Peter Gabriel and INXS, with an '80's pop influence. "Weirdly, I draw a lot from people like Elvis Costello, that're kind of acerbic but kind of a happy format, almost like a pop-y kind of format," Eberbach says. "Wounded, but deliriously hopeful."

Eberbach prefers to stay away from the traditional side of things, away from the love ballads and traditional band set-ups and even away from traditional sources of inspiration. "I've always heard music in everything," he says. "If you drop your fork and it hits this bottle and it makes this beautiful tone, I'm going to want to sample that in my music."

Eberbach is currently singing with three different groups — The Nibblers, Hans Eberbach and Life As We Know It, and his two-man tour group, all with a different musical vibe.

The Nibblers is a New Orleans-influenced funk and soul band that takes great advantage of Eberbach's soulful, blues-y voice. "At this point, for whatever reason, things just kind of fell into the right place at the right time," he says. "I'm loving it. It is opening a part of my voice that has been contained."

Hans Eberbach and Life As We Know It, a slightly more traditional 5-man band, instantly materialized one year while he was home for Christmas. "[Hans Eberbach and Life As We Know It] is an electric-acoustic kind of thing," he says, "doing more roots-y versions of what I do."

Lastly, Eberbach will be kicking off his two-man tour with Life As We Know It bandmate Matt Magnus in February. There is nothing traditional about this set-up, which will combine music, technology, and audience interaction. "I didn't want to do just two guys on the guitar, strumming," he says. "I wanted to translate what I was doing on the record to some extent, so that led me to put this thing together that would allow for more of an electronic sound, but also have the roots and soul that acoustic performances bring."

Eberbach has come a long way since his Sweet Vine days, and has gained a lot more knowledge of the music scene. "One of my biggest regrets is that the whole experience [with Sweet Vine] came so easily to us that I was not self-sufficient at all," he says. "Because of that, I didn't have any experience building a base, building a following, working with fans, getting a street team together because it all just kind of came instantly."

"What I've learned in the last 10 years since then is that I really am in it for the long haul," says Eberbach. "When I wake up this is what I do, this is what I think about."

Hans Eberbach and Life As We Know It will be performing in Sacramento on Feb. 28 at Capitol Garage. For more information about Hans Eberbach, visit Hansrocks, Myspace, Ourstage, and Sonicbids.

The EP, "Up Is The Only Way Out," was released in December, and is available through iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody, and AmazonMP3. To find it, search for the EP name, not the artist name.

Inauguration celebration with A Touch A' Class

2009-01-21T00:29:26Z

Minutes before the change in power at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, a crowd of people gathered at A Touch A' Class on the corner of Stockton Blvd. and 14th Avenue. People were enthusiastically watching the flat screen TV's, and at 9 a.m. a few collectively said, "the Government is ours."

Amidst the diverse crowd, a sense of pride emanated from the dozens filling the bar. The historic moment was shared by young and old as everyone in the bar glued their eyes to one of the screens, cheering, hugging, and crying.

Party organizer Sandi Burden-Bradley felt exceptionally proud and politically moved for the first time in her thirty years of voting. "I'm on top of the world," she said. "It's our inauguration. We all were sworn in today."

When Burden-Bradley shared her main hope for this new presidency, she was both positive and realistic.

"I hope that we keep up momentum, because the president can't do it by himself. He needs all of us," she said. "We have to keep the grassroots movement together. It's going to be difficult, but it's not impossible."

When guest Cheryl Williams walked into the bar she immediately and unexpectedly began to cry. "My eyes filled with tears when I began to think of my grandmother and all she went through," she said.

Williams reflected on pre-1964 segregated America, where even in theaters African-Americans were relegated to the balconies while white citizens sat below. Her greatest hope now is that all the races will finally come together.

"I hope that we do go forward, don't go backwards," she said.

How did she feel after watching the first African-American being sworn into the presidency? "It's just like a dream," she said. "I feel very happy today."

54-year-old Gregory Bradley, Sr., reflected on what Obama's inauguration meant to him. "It means that change has come. A black man is the President," he said. "It means that we can do anything. Obama can inspire world peace, and he brings hope that our youth can do anything."

Bradley's was proudly wearing these sentiments on his shirt, literally. "A buddy of mine made it. It's the only one of its kind," he said about his unique Obama t-shirt.

22-year-old Cosumnes River College student Brad Clark shared how Obama's election inspired him to achieve his dream of becoming a firefighter. "This is a great moment for me right now," he said. "It's the first time I've ever voted, and the very first time, I voted for a black man. And now that man is President."

Kim Bradley actually received an invitation to the inauguration as a result of her campaign efforts for the President, but instead chose A Touch A' Class. Nevertheless, her enthusiasm was undaunted. "It's a thrill," she said. "Just the enthusiasm of the entire thing. This is just awesome."

Bradley said that she had originally thought her ticket was a fake. "Then I saw Barbara Walters on television with one, and I thought, 'Oh my God'," she said. "I had my plane and room booked, but I still don't know if I would have gotten a seat. It is so cold there, too."

Barack Obama's first speech as President produced a round of cheers and applause, and even a few tears. "It was a good speech, up there with Dr. Martin Luther King's," said Clark, "and it will be remembered for a long time."

"This is the only [inauguration speech] I've ever listened to," said Bradley. "I listened to every word. It gave me chills."

How did you celebrate inauguration day? Did you go anywhere special?

This article was written in collaboration by Jonathan Mendick and Sarah Payne.

Strong mayor initiative and petition

2009-01-08T01:50:14Z

Here is a link to the Initiative Measure to Amend the City of Sacramento Charter to Change the Structure of City Government. It can be found on the Sacramentans for Accountability website, and is the same link provided by Mayor Johnson in the previous article's conversation. To view the previous article, click on the "storyline" tab to the right.

A stronger mayor for a stronger Sacramento?

2009-01-06T23:55:38Z

Monday marked the kick-off of Mayor Johnson's unprecedented campaign to transition the mayorship from a weak mayor to a strong mayor. The campaign needs over 32,000 petition signatures by Jan. 16 to make the change.

Sacramento has previously operated under a "weak mayor" type of city government. The city council operates as the executive body as well as the legislative and the city manager - an unelected official - acts as the city's Chief Executive Officer. The mayor serves only ceremonial duties.

A "strong mayor" type of government gives the mayor a wider range of political independence and authority. The city council functions solely as a legislative body while the mayor retains his executive powers and functions as the city's Chief Executive Officer.

So what does Mayor Johnson hope to gain with this transition? In a word: accountability.

Since Sacramento still has a weak mayor system in place, the Chief Executive Officer is the unelected city manager.

"[Ray Kerridge is] the Chief Executive Officer of the city and he's not an elected member. And as a result you have council members and a mayor who are actually elected but aren't accountable for the day-to-day operations of the city," Mayor Johnson said on Monday in an interview on NPR's "Insights" with Jeffrey Callison. "If a mayor is the Chief Executive of the city then a voter's vote is able to hold that mayor accountable."

What do you think about Mayor Johnson's campaign for a strong mayorship? Do you agree that it will provide more accountability? What do think are the upsides or downsides to a strong mayor? Do you think a strong mayorship has a better structure than a weak mayorship?

This is what SacBee and KCRA also have to say about the campaign.

Tipping Annually

2008-12-31T22:40:40Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

Does the economy have any effect on the tattoo industry?

2008-12-27T03:58:45Z

As I spend more and more time in downtown Sacramento, it seems that I see more and more tattoos. This realization led me to wonder: does the economy affect tattoo parlors? Do less people get tattoos? Do different people get tattoos?

According to Royal Peacock tattoo artist Jan Hill, not much has changed. "I haven't noticed a decrease in business from the economy at this time," he says.

There is a noticeable economic trend influenced by the weather. Less people are liable to get tattoos during the winter than during the summer. "Wintertime slows business down for tattooing," says Hill. "When it's harsher weather, people don't come out."

Business also tends to decrease specifically around Christmas time when people are putting their money towards gifts. According to American Graffiti artist Ryan Tanton, "right after Christmas it tends to pick back up again."

The state of the economy also hasn't changed the diversity of clientele. "In the last two years or so there's been a more diverse clientele," says Tanton. "But everyone gets tattoos. It's not a specific age group."

"Everyone gets tattooed for all different reasons. All different ages," says Hill.

So what encourages people to get a tattoo, even in a period of unstable economy? "That's not for us to find out or figure out," says Hill. "That's for each individual person to know."

Would the state of the economy deter you from getting a tattoo?

Royal Peacock is located at 2101 P Street. To check it out, click here.
American Graffiti is located at 16th and J Street. To check it out, click here.

To read the previous two articles about Sacramento tattoo parlors, click on the "storyline" tab to the right.

Who picks up the leaves?

2008-12-23T01:51:58Z

As a result of the recent wintry weather, downtown Sacramento is coated with layers and layers of leaves. While driving around I noticed that there were tons of leaf piles in the street gutters. And they were everywhere, from H street to U Street.

One thing I noticed about the piles was that some people would make theirs so large it would actually spill over into parking spaces. I later learned that this is one of the reasons why the department asks people to sweep out their piles less than 24 hours before scheduled pick-up time.

311 informed me that the Solid Waste Department of the City Utilities Department is in charge of picking up the leaf piles.

For even more information about leaf-pile pickup, I contacted Solid Waste Dept. Public Information Officer Jessica Hess. Hess explained to me that the department is out six days a week picking up the leaf piles.

Do you have leaf piles in your street? Do you rake your own leaves or do you wait for the City to dispose of them? Have you seen their trucks picking up leaves in your street?

To see when the Solid Waste Dept. will be in your neighborhood, click here.

Tattoo artistry

2008-12-23T01:09:04Z

In my previous article about Sacramento tattoo parlors, which you can access by clicking on the "storyline" tab on the right, I wrote about the business aspects of a tattoo parlor: how to get a license, laws about sterilization, etc.. To get a more rounded perspective on the typical tattoo parlor, I spoke with a couple of artists from different parlors around town.

The foundation of a successful tattoo parlor is its artists. So what sets an individual artist apart from all others? "What sets them apart would be style, the way they draw, and the way they lay out the tattoos," says American Graffiti tattoo artist Ryan Tanton.

Artists can also distinguish themselves by learning multiple styles. "One way [that sets them apart] would be their ability to be a chameleon in the different styles of tattooing," says Royal Peacock tattoo artist Jan Hill.

Both style and technique can contribute to the individual aesthetics of a tattoo. As for style, there is no one particular way. "There's all different styles," says Hill. "There's Japanese style, there's street style, there's black-and-grey style."

There are also different techniques an artist can incorporate while applying the tattoo, like holding the needle a certain way. "[Your technique] might come from where you learned, how you learned, what country you live in," explains Hill. "You can pick up different techniques as you learn."

As for methods of applying tattoos, there are only two. "There's hand tattooing which would be by hand with a stick, and there's the electric machine," describes Tanton. "Those are the two basic ways about it."

Hand tattooing with a stick and a hammer is the earliest form of tattooing, and is still practiced in the application of traditional Borneo tattoos. However, most established parlors use the electric machine.

What about quality? What constitutes a quality tattoo? "A quality tattoo is going to have a nice, crisp black outline where it's a consistent line throughout the whole tattoo," says Tanton.

"You can always tell by good line work," says Hill. "If it's real smooth and it has nice line weight. If it's consistent. If the color's real bright, solid."

Tattooing is a form of artistry. It may seem similar to other art forms like graphic design or painting, but, as Tanton says, "it's in a category all its own."

Royal Peacock is located at 2101 P Street. To check it out, click here.

American Graffiti is located at 16th and J Street. To check it out, click here.

Crocker expansion continues

2008-12-19T02:22:58Z

As I mentioned in my previous article about the Crocker Art Museum's expansion, which you can read by clicking the "storyline" tab on the right, the New Crocker's exoskeletal structure has officially been completed. But the development process doesn't stop there - there are still a few steps left before the New Crocker will be completed.

Construction-wise, there is still a long way to go. The next step is cement, followed by the exterior panelling. It is expected that the New Crocker will be completely finished and ready for opening by mid-2010.

The Crocker still needs to raise the remaining 10 million of its 100 million dollar fiscal goal. When I spoke with Kathleen Richards, the Crocker's Marketing Communications Specialist, she informed me that the Capital Campaign still focuses solely on private donors.

"We will continue to do what we're doing, really amping it up and reaching out to private donors," she said.

Financial setbacks aside, both Kathleen and Lial Jones, the museum director, remain excited about this project. Not only will the New Crocker provide a lot more space for art, it will also provide Sacramentans with a greater connection to the art culture.

"We want people to be happy and touched, and to want to come back," says Jones. "We want them to have a great experience that's educational and entertaining."

For more information, visit www.crockerartmuseum.org/about/newsroom.htm.

The 429 Gallery

2008-12-17T00:38:41Z

The art scene continues to expand in Sacramento. I recently had a chance to view its newest gallery, the 429 Gallery located on J at 5th Street.

One thing I immediately noticed that separates the 429 Gallery from the rest in Sacramento is its emphasis on Chinese art. The entire gallery is comprised of beautiful modern Chinese paintings. Situated in downtown's Chinatown, the building used to be the Bank of Hong Kong.

"[This building] just begs for Chinese art," says Brent Hamilton, one of the gallery owners. "It begs for those colors and all the little novelties, and the way they dressed their paintings."

Not only does the gallery express the changing faces of Chinese culture, it also provides a window to the changing climate of Sacramento — literally. Through the 3rd and 4th floor windows, the different stages of Sacramento are visible, from Chinatown to the Citizen Hotel to the Capital Dome.

The view of Sacramento is one thing Hamilton himself likes about the gallery. "You get a good view of a changing Sacramento, a modern Sacramento," he says. "As you go up through the building, you just see more and more and more."

A native Sacramentan, Hamilton has been in the art scene since the 70's. He has done everything from television to photo realism, and now adds gallery owner to his long list of artistic accomplishments. "It's a very humble experience selling art and being an artist in Sacramento," he says. "Being a lifelong Sacramentan, I'm very proud that I can participate in something that's this great."

Art viewings at the gallery are available by appointment only; no drop-ins are accepted.

Sacramento tattoo parlors

2008-12-16T01:44:03Z

Whenever I spend time in downtown Sacramento, I can't help but notice the vast amount of tattoos and tattooed people. They're everywhere: the barista making your coffee, the waitress serving your food or that guy riding his bike across the street. Tattoos have become an inherent part of the Sacramento culture.

No wonder — there are over twenty licensed tattoo parlors scattered throughout the midtown and downtown areas. Each one is unique and based entirely on the individuality of its tattoo artists.

Parlor registry is regulated by the State of California. According to AB 186, to get a parlor license both the artists and the parlor must register with their county health department, pay the registration and inspection fees, and agree to regular health inspections on top of getting their business license.

To keep blood-borne pathogens from infecting the client, sterilization is mandatory. These days if the parlor is reputable, it sterilizes. All licensed parlors in California are subject to the California Health and Safety Code, meaning tattoo artists have to register with their county health departments and follow the code's strict policies on sterilization in order to practice in an establishment.

Although they are becoming increasingly more popular, there still remains a stigma against tattoos. Plus, most of them are open late at night. I'm curious to know what the relationship is like between the parlor and its neighbors. Do you or someone you know live near a tattoo parlor? What is your perspective? What do you think about the tattoo culture in general?

I'm also curious to know if the economy has any negative effects on the tattoo business. Do people still get tattoos even when the economy is bad? What would you choose, art or money?

To read reviews about Sacramento parlors, visit midtowngrid.com.

Candlelight vigil at the State Capitol

2008-12-10T04:32:26Z

On December 5th, the west steps of the Capitol were lit up by tiny lights held by family, friends, and Citizen's Commission for Human Rights (CCHR) activists, in the memory of Ramona Knapp. Three years ago, Knapp had been killed in the psychiatric clinic where she was a patient when a nurse injected her with medication and forcibly and excessively restrained her. She was laying face-down at the time of restraint.

According to the clinic, Knapp died of a heart attack. CCHR, clearly has a different opinion. CCHR believes that Knapp is another victim of human rights abuse from a psychiatric clinic and that her death was actually murder.

CCHR organized last Friday's candlelight vigil at the Capitol to honor Knapp's memory and to share the testimony of her needless death. CCHR President Jan Eastgate attended the vigil, decrying the psychiatric care system as abusive and giving numerous examples of the deaths incurred through excessive restraint.

Knapp's family was also there to speak. The family rallied together as Knapp's daughter, Siina Linville, delivered the family statement.

"Having to learn of the tragedy of the violent death of a loved one who was killed by the senseless actions of a facility ostensibly there to help her in her time of need is more than we could ever have imagined," Siina said. "We want the public and those in power to know that this injustice and homicide is a crime, that no one deserves to die needlessly at the hands of another."

After attending the vigil, I read more about CCHR. According to their activists, psychiatric abuse occurs frequently and all over the world. Their mission is to protect patients' human rights and put a stop to this abuse. They also try to give families like the Linvilles some sort of closure, making sure their testimonies are heard.

What do you think? Have you or someone you know lost a loved one due to negligence or abuse?

A Christmas Carol

2008-12-04T00:47:51Z

Curmudgeons, cripples, and Christmas spirit — what more could you ask for in a traditional holiday play?

After listing some of the local plays currently in production in my last article, I couldn't wait to start seeing some of them for myself. B Street Theatre's version of A Christmas Carol looked like the perfect place for me to begin.

The audience was packed with children, families, and Dickens readers eager to see Buck Busfield's rendition of the timeless classic. The scene opens on Miss Havisham's establishment, where Charles Dickens comes to find his peace, quiet and inspiration.

It's Christmas Eve and he has a day to finish writing his Christmas novel. Amid "humbugs," insults thrown at absolutely everyone, and a general dislike of Christmas spirit, Dickens is established as the play's Scrooge. And what happens to Scrooge in the novel happens to Dickens in the play.

The cast really worked together to produce a polished production that not only entertained the adults, but continually held the attention of the children. Sophisticated dialog and character development were combined with the right amount of over-acting and exaggeration — exercised to carry the message to children — to produce a play fit for the entire family.

Greg Alexander stars as Charles Dickens, making Dickens' whiny, spoiled brat of a character actually quite lovable with his comedic timing and facial expressions. Other roles that really stand out for me are Jamie Jones' portrayal of the aggressive, man-hating Miss Havisham, and Sara Perry's role of Alice as the epitome of Christmas spirit.

Overall, Busfield's version complements Dickens' novel and reinforces the timeless adage of Christmas Spirit.

For more information about B Street Theatre, or to reserve tickets for the show, visit www.bstreettheatre.org.

Casual Fog

2008-12-04T00:47:23Z

After being away from Sacramento for a couple of years, I realized that I have really missed out on a lot of great bands. In an effort to reconnect with the Sacramento music scene, I went to Old Ironsides last Friday to check out Casual Fog.

I really lucked out; my first foray into Sacramento music led me to a band that I really enjoyed. Ryan Donnelly's clear, almost throaty tenor voice lends itself to the mellowness of the music. With a range of songs from "Want the Day" with its eerie tonality, to "Dive the Blue" with its comforting familiarity, the melody and lyrics flow together to form the kind of music that you want to stop what you are doing just to listen and absorb.

However, the music wasn't the only thing I appreciated about Casual Fog. In my experience, the best shows happen when the band makes some kind of connection with the audience. Casual Fog made a connection throughout the show; the audience felt it.

The show felt intimate, like friends playing for friends. It probably helped that the stage wasn't quite large enough to hold all seven of them — one member had to stand in the audience.

After the show I had a chance to speak with Ryan Donnelly. Not only is Donnelly the lead singer, he is also the founder and songwriter for Casual Fog. And the guys he plays with are his friends.

"I've known these guys forever and we've always played music," he said. "A couple of years ago we decided to play live. It's a fun way for all of us to play together."

"We're all just best friends," added percussionist Neal Morgan.

On Friday there were seven. But that number changes all the time, depending on who's up for playing.

"It's gone from four to sometimes seven," Donnelly explained, "depending on who's around. A lot of the time it's between five and seven."

No wonder the show felt so intimate. When you have a bunch of friends doing what they love and playing music, it's hard not to hear it in the music, or see it on the stage.

If you have a chance to see Casual Fog, I would suggest you take it. Their next Sacramento show will be on Jan. 26th, at the Press Club. I know I'll be there.

To listen to a few of Casual Fog's songs, check out their MySpace. Friday's band members were Ryan Donnelly, Dan Elkan, Thad Stoenner, Dave Nicholson, Ben Milner, Pete Newsom and Neal Morgan.

Crocker expansion project

2008-12-03T02:01:59Z

The Sacramento as we know it is changing. There are several development projects designed to "improve" Sacramento — to make it a political center, to make certain areas more vibrant, to give it an accessible waterfront.

There are even projects underway to further promote Sacramento as a formidable center within the art world. The biggest development project aimed towards advancing Sacramento's art reputation is the Crocker Museum's drastic expansion.

This past week, construction of the New Crocker's 100,000 square-foot exoskeleton was completed. Built alongside the current Crocker Gallery, the New Crocker will hold triple the space and art as its historical counterpart. The New Crocker is designed to hold quadruple the space for temporary exhibits and about five times the space for its permanent collection.

As with any expansion project, the New Crocker has some exciting additions in the works. The building will be composed of three floors, each with its own purpose. The second and third floors will be for gallery space, already promising a lot more room for art. While the third floor will be entirely gallery space, the second floor will house "Victorian Spaces," chronicling the history of the Crocker family and the museum.

At the ground-floor entrance, guests will be ushered through a giant atrium, which the Crocker hopes will become one of Sacramento's largest entertainment spaces. The rest of the ground floor will serve as an education center, with studios used for adults' and children's art programs, a hands-on gallery space for children, and a chunk reserved solely for student exhibitions.

The Crocker's expansion is an exciting development for the Sacramento art scene. With its added gallery space and interactive programs, the New Crocker will provide Sacramentans with the opportunity to really get involved and experience art.

I plan on digging into the specifics for my next article, and answering some lingering development questions that I have. In the meantime, what do you think about the Crocker's expansion?

For more information about the Crocker and its expansion, visit crockerartmuseum.org. To check out what the SacBee said about the exoskeleton's completion, visit www.sacbee.com/latest/story/1430323.html.

The play's the thing

2008-12-01T22:49:18Z

You may not be aware of this, but Sacramento is a burgeoning center within the theatre world. There are so many theatres scattered around the downtown area alone, that it can be a bit overwhelming. To help you out, I have researched which shows are currently playing and which shows are coming up within the downtown area.

At the B Street Theatre, two shows are currently running. The first is B Street Theatre Director Buck Busfield's updated version of A Christmas Carol (now—Dec. 4th). The other show currently running is The Seafarer, a play about five drunk Irishmen who begin by playing poker and end up bargaining for their souls (now—Dec. 6).

Playing on the Delta King's Capitol Stage from now until Dec. 28 is Every Christmas Story Ever Told. The play revisits several of the Christmas stories and traditions accumulated over the centuries.

Forever Plaid is still playing at the new Cosmopolitan Cabaret on 10th and K Street. I haven't seen it yet at the Cosmo Cabaret, but I do like this musical. Forever Plaid is mostly music with a bit of quirky commentary. It revolves around a quartet known as "The Plaids" and their long list of 50's-style songs.

If you like musicals and westerns, then you will probably like The Great American Western, playing at the Ooley Theatre on 28th and T Street (now—Dec. 13th). Bruce Guelden's play is a musical spoof on westerns.

I know this is the busiest time of the year for most with the influx of family holidays, but there are some great plays coming up. For example, the Sacramento Theatre Company, located at 15th and H, will soon be running two shows perfect for bringing the family together: La Pastorela, a Mexican Christmas nativity story given from the perspective of the shepherds, and the timeless Cinderella played out with interaction from the audience.

On D Street, Celebration Arts will be running Neat, which chronicles the coming-of-age of a young African American girl (Dec. 12—Jan. 17). Celebration Arts will also hold a Senior Citizen Talent Show, with acts running on Dec. 5th, 6th, and 7th. I personally think this would be a neat opportunity to connect with members of the community, and hope to attend myself.

Lastly, for all the Hedwig and the Angry Inch fans — I know you're out there — the Lambda Players will be putting on a rendition of Hedwig's Rawkin Christmas at the The Studio Theatre located on R Street. I haven't seen it yet, but I'm sure that, like Hedwig and the Angry Inch, it will be chalk full of transvestites, blonde wigs, and rockin' music.

That should be enough theatre to keep Sacramento going for the season. A season that I, for one, am looking forward to. But where to start? Which theatre company would you suggest? Have you had an opportunity yet to see any of these shows? Are you interested in seeing any of these shows? What kind of plays do you like seeing during the holiday season?

And the rest is history...

2008-11-27T02:09:48Z

After writing my little epic on the Docks DEIR, I received a lot of great feedback. Native Sacramentan and published historian William Burg provided me with an interesting insight into the history of the Docks area. Here are a few excerpts from our conversation. To read the full conversation, attached to "The Docks' DEIR: part I", click on the "storyline" tab, or simply click here).

WILLIAM BURG: "Underutilized" basically means "there's something here, but we'd like to do something else with it." "Undeveloped" implies land that has never been developed into anything, like open forest land. Perhaps a better way to describe the Docks area, or the corner of 8th & K, both of which were intensively developed over the years with a series of uses, to coin a phrase, is "unredeveloped."

The area along that part of Front Street has been used for many things over the years, primarily heavy industry, but most of it (except the Towe and the railroad) was demolished over the years. But that will all be in the CHR section. I'm eager to hear your thoughts on that.

ME: After reading this section, I realized how little of Sacramento's history I really know. And I've lived here almost my entire life! It is really interesting to read that the area used to be Sutter's Embarcadero, and that Sutter's son, John Jr., is the one who mapped out the street system.

I know you have a vast knowledge of Sacramento's history - I'm really interested in reading about it from your perspective.

WILLIAM BURG: Technically speaking, Sutter's embarcadero was farther north--roughly between J and K on Front Street, near the Railroad Museum. It was the first place he had harvested trees for the fort, so there was kind of a clearing there that became the default embarcadero.

Sutter Jr. didn't actually do the mapping, that was done by William H. Warner of the Army Corps of Engineers (with help from future Civil War general William Tecumseh Sherman.) Sutter Jr. was given the title to his father's land grant, but he was very young (21 years old), barely spoke English, and was not particularly worldly: his father had run off to pan for gold, or to hide from the whole unruly mess his little empire had become, we're not sure which. Under the influence of merchants like Sam Brannan, Sutter Jr. agreed to a land-sale plan (which required the survey by Warner and Sherman) to sell plots to the incoming rush of gold-seekers, and people who wanted to sell things to the gold-seekers.

The DEIR covers the industrial history of the era pretty well: the levee walls built to protect the city from floods, the multiple railroads along the waterfront and Front Street, and the multitude of industrial uses. The area under consideration for the Docks Project was mostly a series of lumber mills, and the PG&E gas plant. There were still buildings from the PG&E plant on the site until about ten years ago. In addition to the plant, there were some other PG&E facilities, including a gymnasium that had an indoor baseball diamond! I'm still trying to figure out exactly where it ended, but some maps show the end of the T Street streetcar line ending near Front Street--which would make some sense, since PG&E owned the streetcar line until 1943.

I didn't read it but I'm sure the section on toxics mentions the PG&E plant prominently. Coal gas production was pretty noxious, and I'm sure there is all sorts of unpleasantness in the soil.

The warehouse containing the Towe is not really old enough or distinct enough to constitute a historic structure. The Towe museum itself is outside the needed scope of the EIR, but one might argue that the forced relocation of the Towe constitutes damage to a historic resource. This implies that the appropriate mitigation might include some sort of relocation assistance--that museum needs a new home, and it would be a shame to lose them entirely.

The sump building is the closest thing to a historic structure in the project, although the authors point to an earlier survey that indicates it does not have enough integrity (meaning intact historic materiel) to be a National Register eligible building.

The DEIR does do a pretty good job of capturing historic context, both for the site and the surrounding area, and its assessments of potential effects on historic and prehistoric resources are fair.

I always find it interesting to learn the history of a place that is being redeveloped. There are so many facts and secrets to be unearthed. What do you think about this history? Does this change your perspective on the current state of the Docks area?

If they build it, the customers will come

2008-11-25T01:59:38Z

In my last article about the R Street improvements ("Is R Street an improvement for everyone?", which you can read by clicking the "storyline" tab), I talked with some local R Street business owners about the impending project.

I was left with some very interesting questions. What about parking? Where is the project's funding going to come from? How much of a priority is this project?

To find my answers I contacted the R Street Development Manager, Todd Leon.

The first issue we discussed was the overwhelming concern about parking. "R Street is really unregulated," Leon says. "All parking that is there is really random as it is." However, Leon informs me, CADA is already working towards ameliorating the parking situation.

There are three solutions already implemented into the plan. One resolution includes adding more parking areas to account for the ones that are lost. "We plan to put some additional parking on 12th Street between the alleyway and R Street," Leon says.

Another resolution centers around the Capitol Lofts project, and its plan for adding a parking garage on 12th Street. An extra two layers of parking will be added to the garage for the purpose of public parking.

Opening up parking accessibility in the area between 8th and 10th Streets would provide another resolution. Leon tells me that these parking spaces have been unrightfully privatized. Part of CADA's plan is to make these parking spaces available to the public once again.

However, Leon cautions, "it's not to say there won't be an impact." Businesses like the Fox & Goose that depend on a lot of parking availability might feel a sting.

Customers may have to park a little bit further away than before. And business owners themselves may have to trek a small distance from their cars. "There will be an impact on their own private parking for businesses," Leon adds.

The next issue tackled was the source of R Street's funding. The project's funding comes from federal transportation funding, the CADA tax increment and R Street bond proceeds, the City of Sacramento's Capital Improvement Program, and a community design grant from the Sacramento Area Council of Governments. To see a breakdown of the funds, click here.

Lastly, we discussed the priority level of this project. Apparently, it is high. Construction will begin in spring 2010, and, says Leon, "it is set in stone."

The only questions I have after speaking with Todd Leon are: Who is privately regulating parking spaces between 10th and 8th Streets? How long ago did they privatize it, and for what purpose?

Do you think the improvements on R Street should be the first priority? Are there any other areas around town that need redeveloping?

For more information on the R Street Corridor Improvements Project, visit www.rstreet.info.

The Docks' DEIR: part III

2008-11-14T20:08:32Z

The end is near! This is the final installment of my summary of the Docks Environmental Impact Report. To access the previous articles on the Docks Project and the DIER, click on the "storyline" tab to the right.

Section seven of the DEIR, details the possible impacts that noise will have on various aspects of the project. Construction is noisy and will likely generate a lot of noise in the area and its surroundings. However, since the project area will be developed in parcels, one parcel completed at a time, the increased noise levels won't be a problem until the residential area is completed.

To stifle the noise, plywood noise barriers will be built around construction sites. Construction will also adhere to the noise ordinance, working only during acceptable day times. A disturbance coordinator will also be contracted — his phone number will be made available to take any complaints about the noise. Traffic noises are an even bigger problem.

During construction, there will be an increase of traffic to and from the site during the day, which will be unavoidable. The existing freeway noise will also cause problems for the future residents and transient lodgers. Noise impacts will be especially relevant for elevated areas (balconies, second stories, etc.).

The next section discusses the implementation and impacts of fire services, public schools, parks and recreation, and solid waste. Since I'm writing this with the intent of demonstrating the impacts that could possibly affect the surrounding communities as well as the project area, I am leaving this particular section up the reader who wants to know more about what measures will be taken to benefit the Docks' Area residents. To access the DEIR, click here.

"Traffic" is an especially interesting section, as it details the various forms of accessibility to the Docks area. It will enhance the connection to existing bike paths, which will allow both bicyclers and pedestrians easy access to the area. The future promenade will also provide bicyclers and pedestrians with access to the waterfront. There will be an increase in public transportation, and RT is already capable of sustaining an increase in riders. For vehicular travelers, ample parking space is incorporated into the plan.

However, there are some traffic drawbacks to the project. Not only will it increase traffic at local intersections, but it will also increase traffic on the neighboring freeways and freeway onramps. Unfortunately, this will be an unavoidable and significant impact with no feasible solution.

Lastly, the "Utilities" section discusses the need for wastewater systems, stormwater systems, and water supply systems. The wastewater and stormwater drainage systems will be provided by the City of Sacramento's Combined Sewage System (CSS). This system conveys sewage, wastewater, and storm run-off in a single pipeline.

There will be an increased demand for potable water and treated water. Potable water will be supplied through surface rights and entitlements from the Sacramento and American rivers as well as collected groundwater. And, the existing water supply infrastructure along Front Street will continue on to supply the project site.

So that's it. Keep in mind this is only a small summary of a very long report. There is a lot more that can be covered. But, at least it's a start.

Most, if not all of these environmental impacts will have an effect on the neighboring communities. How do you feel about that? Do some of the possible impacts concern you? Which ones are the most disconcerting?

To read the DEIR in its entirety, click here.

Artistic Differences presents "Assassins"

2008-11-12T21:48:19Z

I was a total theatre nerd in high school. Now, even after a four-year hiatus from the Sacramento theatre scene, I still love it as much as ever. To ease myself back into this crazy realm of all things theatrical, I caught a closing weekend performance of local theatre company Artistic Difference's Assassins. And let me tell you, I was happy that I did.

If you've never seen Assassins in any arena, I encourage you to go. Adapted from John Weidman's book into a Stephen Sondheim musical, it combines history, comedy and musical theatre. The play revolves around all the men and women who have ever attempted to or succeeded in assassinating a U.S. president. From John Wilkes Booth to Charles Guiteau, to Sam Byck in a Santa suit, each assassin gives an account of their assassination attempts and the reasons behind it. My "favorite" assassin is the comically consumer-driven and spacey Sara Jane Moore, who in the show, tries to "shoot" Gerald Ford by throwing bullets at him and yelling "bang!".

Now, I may be a little bit biased due to the fact that some of my old theatre friends are involved in this company, but I thought the show was great. The songs were spot-on, humor and intensity blended together, and a slew of macabre characters were really brought alive. Now whenever I think of Squeaky Fromme or John Hinckley, I will most likely picture them as they looked on that stage.

The actors really worked together to complete the show. During ensemble pieces the cast worked in complete harmony, and during solo acts, the audience's attention was caught and held. I could really feel the emotions of every character — the sad intensity of Polish factory worker Leon Czolgosz, who assassinated William McKinley; the comical frustration of Giuseppe Zangara as he tried to relieve his stomach-ache by trying to shoot F.D.R.; and the unwavering devotion Squeaky Fromme felt for Charles Manson as she attempted to assassinate Gerald Ford.

This is the second show I have seen from Artistic Differences. I am already looking forward to their spring show, See What I Want To See, a play based on three short stories by Japanese writer Ryonosuke Akutagawa.

Now that I am re-established in Sacramento, I plan on re-immersing myself in its theatre world. I'll be writing about it, too, so stay tuned.

Did you happen to catch a performance of Assassins? What did you think? Have you seen any other theatre performances in the downtown area that you enjoyed?

For more information about Artistic Differences, click here.

The Docks' DEIR: part II

2008-11-11T23:01:15Z

In my previous story, The Docks' DEIR: part I (which you can find by clicking the "storyline" tab), I summarized the possible harmful impacts that the Docks Plan could have on the environment. The last article was all about aesthetics, light and glare, air quality, and biological resources. In this article, I am going to discuss three more areas of environmental interest: cultural and historic resources, hazards and hazardous substances, and hydrology and water quality.

"Cultural and Historic Resources" is the fourth topic of chapter five. It basically deals with any artifacts, sites, objects, etc., that are either at least 50 years old or have sacred or religious meaning. The main issue is that construction and demolition of the site could result in the loss of undiscovered artifacts that have prehistoric or historic value. In order to mitigate this, construction workers will work with an archeologist, testing the site before construction begins and learning how to identify cultural artifacts. If any artifacts are unearthed, construction in the area will stop immediately in order for excavation to take place.

The next section, "Hazards and Hazardous Substances," details the possible effects of contaminated soil and groundwater on both construction workers and future homeowners. The site currently holds plots of contaminated soil left over from the Pioneer Reservoir and a PG&E natural gas tank. In order to lessen the severity of the impact, measures will be taken to follow a health and safety contingency plan, as well as state and federal laws, in the process of removing the contaminated areas.

The sixth section elaborates on the possible impacts on "Hydrology and Water Quality." In implementing the Docks Area Plan, new sources of polluted water and run-off could contaminate existing water quality standards. In order to circumvent this issue, construction will include two new storm drain pipelines - one for drainage and one for sewage collection - that will connect to the existing line. To curb run-off water from storms, bioswales and rain gardens will be included into construction plans. In-line detention systems will also be installed, to store run-off water for other uses, like irrigation.

There is still more of the DEIR to come. My next story will detail the final three analyses of possible environmental impacts, and what the city proposes to do to lessen the severity.

To read the DEIR, click here.

The Citizen Hotel

2008-11-10T22:58:48Z

So, Downtown Sacramento is soon to see an influx of hotels as two more are in the works for J Street and K Street. The hotel on J Street, the Citizen Hotel, is due to open by the end of this year.

I actually think that the Citizen Hotel sounds, well, neat. All 196 rooms, plus the lobby, have been inspired by the infusion of Sacramento history and Sacramento politics. The decor is more upscale with the intention of bringing in a hip, high-end clientele. By presenting Sacramento history and politics in an upscale way, the hotel hopes to bolster local Sacramentan pride as well as prove Sacramento's place at the political center.

While the concept of this hotel sounds great, I do have some questions. For example, how will out-of-towners see Sacramento if this hotel is their first impression? What kind of message is this hotel sending the state about California? Will this new, upscale hotel revitalize Sacramento's image in the minds of non-Sacramentans? What level of clientele diversity is the Citizen Hotel expecting? Is it geared towards the average tourist, or more for the politician or the socialite?

For more information, or to view more pictures of the Citizen Hotel's interior, visit www.jdvhotels.com.

The Docks' DEIR: part I

2008-11-04T19:10:50Z

If you've read my article on the Docks Area Project, the first story in this storyline, and the conversation stemming from it, you might be wondering, "What is this DEIR? Is it really 500 pages long?" The DEIR is the Docks Environmental Impact Report, and yes, it is incredibly long. So I've decided to highlight some of the basics, focusing mainly on Chapter 5: Environmental Analysis. This is the chapter outlining all of the possible environmental impacts and the proposed plans to mitigate the problems. The chapter is broken down into eleven categories, nine of which I am going to outline for you. These nine sections detail the impacts of specific environmental aspects.

The first section, "Aesthetics, Light, and Glare," details the possible negative effects on the area created by light and glare. Basically, the report states that the proposed change in the aesthetics of the site will have a less-than-significant impact, meaning there won't be any significantly negative impacts. Since the site is completely undeveloped, any aesthetics that the project produces will be an improvement. However, by increasing the amount of buildings and lighting, there is potential for a significant impact caused by light and glare. Spillover lighting could affect neighboring communities, and any glare, depending on which materials are used in construction, could be dangerous for drivers. Since there is really no way to remedy this issue, no mitigating actions are required.

The second section discusses possible impacts on air quality. Demolition and construction will of course have impacts on air quality, both short term and cumulatively. The city is taking measures to reduce the amount of noxious emissions (nitrogen oxide, harmful particulate matter and regional pollutants) produced by construction in the short term. In order to mitigate the long term effects of demolition and construction, 75 percent of materials will be recycled and reused in order to combat the effects on global climate change. There are also existing odors caused by the Pioneer Reservoir, which will be mended in the reservoir's upgrade. Since the site is located next to a freeway, the city will plant full-leaved, deciduous trees to act as a buffer to catch vehicular pollutants.

The third section, "Biological Resources," describes the possible impacts on trees and local wildlife. The city will hire an arborist to oversee the project, deciding which trees could be removed and making sure that no heritage-protected trees will be cut down. The project will also have a short term impact on the nesting and foraging of local wildlife. Measures will be taken to ensure that construction will not interfere with particular nesting seasons. However, since wildlife is scarce in this particular area to begin with, neither the short term nor the cumulative effects will be significant.

This is only the beginning of Chapter 5. Stay "tuned" for the next article, summarizing the impacts on Cultural and Historical Resources, Hazards and Hazardous Substances, and Hydrology and Water Quality. In the meantime, you can view the DEIR here.

Is the R Street plan an improvement for everyone?

2008-10-30T00:49:59Z

In my previous article about the R Street Corridor, which you can read by clicking the "storyline" tab on the right, I discussed the city's plans for improving and revitalizing the R Street area.With this story in mind, I set off to talk with a few of the local business owners that make up the "R Street anchor" on R and 10th Street. What I learned is that they are a little apprehensive about the plans, and rightly so.

The one thing that the R Street plan doesn't really accommodate for is parking. "Our concern is hugely about parking and access," says Linda Urquhart, owner of Rumpelstiltskin Yarn Shoppe. This concern is echoed by her neighobors, especially since parking is already scarce.

Nami Thompson, who owns the tea shop Tea Cozy, mentioned how, at times, customers are so put-off by the parking issue that they just leave. When I asked about the shops' proximity to R Street's public transit, I was informed that it isn't always safe to take public transportation, especially in the dark. Not only that, but the nearest station is over a block and a half away.

Clint Greer, who works with owner Susan Stream at Mt. Shasta Naturals, highlights this problem. "Where are you going to walk from?" he asks.

Another parking concern stems from the length of construction time. What are businesses going to do during this interim time? "This is a difficult situation. Any solution could make it harder on the businesses," says Stream.

Urquhart believes that the businesses will have an easier time as long as the construction occurs in phases, "so that they minimize the amount of time R Street between 10th and 11th is completely dug up," she says.

The city has so far only talked of possibilities for adding parking. "What the city has mentioned is possibly doing public parking between 10th and 8th," Urquhart says. "If they do that, we'll be okay."

Although local business owners are concerned about aspects of the R Street plan, feelings about the project remain positive. "I wish it to be the most exciting thing Sacramento has ever done," Stream says. The project has plans to beautify the street, which will make the areas around the businesses more aesthetically pleasing to customers.

Thompson sums up the positive outlook. "It will be nice when it's beautiful and people will know about it and come."

After researching the R Street plan and speaking with local business owners, I of course have a few questions. The city is currently trying to reinvent itself into something more like L.A. or Portland. But where is the money going to come from? Construction is approximated to begin in 2009, but how much of a priority is this project in the state of this economy? Where are the new businesses going to come from? Some are having a hard enough time just surviving, nevertheless starting. Does Sacramento currently have the financial capabilities for all of its proposed projects?

East End Gateway Project plans

2008-10-20T21:24:33Z

It seems as if the whole of Downtown Sacramento is in a state of change and development. It also seems as if the majority of this development is happening right in Southside Park's backyard. This fall, the city will begin construction on a slew of development ventures, beginning with the East End Gateway Project. Like the R Street Corridor Improvement Project, the East End Gateway Project will be another step towards revamping the dying warehouse district into a thriving neighborhood.

The project is under the jurisdiction of the Capital Area Development Authority (CADA), a joint powers authority created by the State of California and the City of Sacramento in 1978. CADA plans to build four units along 16th Street, taking up a total of approximately 2.5 acres: Site 1 will be situated on the corner of 16th and N Streets, Sites 2 and 3 on the opposite corners of 16th and O Streets, and Site 4 on 16th and P Streets. However, Site 4 is still pending, as developers have until October 31 to respond to CADA's Request for Proposal.

Together, the four units will hold roughly 200 residences. They will each be comprised of various residence-types, from townhouses to studio apartments, and at all levels of affordability. Each unit will also contain mixed-use retail and commercial outlets as well as parking structures to be available on the ground floor. As for the architectural plan of the units, they will be designed with a Spanish Revival-esque influence in mind.

Like any development project, there are obstacles to be cleared before unit construction can actually begin. For example, there are buildings already occupying the land. CADA proposes two solutions: either spend the money to relocate the buildings, or demolish them. There are also some existing trees, including a protected heritage tree, which CADA has the authority to cut down so that new landscaping and planting can be implemented instead.

There is also a shallow plot of contaminated soil to be cleaned up. CADA has already received a grant of $200,000 in order to remove the lead and petroleum-based toxins.

The intent of the East End Gateway Project is to improve the existing Capitol Park neighborhood. However, this project also lies on the cusp of the Southside Park neighborhood. How will this project benefit Southside Park? Upwards of 15th Street, there aren't many retail options for Southside Parkers. Will the influx of more people bring in more retail options? How will the surrounding community respond to the increasing community population? Is this a welcome development, or a negative?

For more information, visit www.cadanet.org. To read the Request for Proposal submitted for Site 1, click here.

K Street Developments

2008-10-14T07:41:57Z

What can't one find at the K Street Mall? From The Crest to Esquire Grill and Cabana Club, boutiques and fresh-cut flowers, K Street's outdoor mall provides Downtown Sacramento with every necessity. Well, almost every necessity. Right now K Street Mall stands incomplete as nine properties between 7th and 9th Streets currently stand vacant. But hopefully not for long as the discord between the City of Sacramento and Moe Mohanna finally comes to an end.

On October 7, after two years of legal contention, the Sacramento City Council voted to end the eminent domain dispute with Mohanna, offering him a settlement of $18.6 million for his nine properties, located on blocks 700 and 800. With the decision's enforcement by the Sacramento Superior Court, the Housing and Redevelopment Agency can now assume ownership of the properties and make the changes needed to complete the K Street Mall.

However, Mohanna has not been cut out of K Street completely. He will be involved with the development of the 800 block as an associate of Bob Leach - as long as he and Leach agree to repurchase the properties for $150 per square foot. If they do so, Leach plans on building a 400-room hotel - he has already received a letter of intent from Hilton Hotels - with a mixed-use project facing L Street.

Block 700 is already slated to Joe Zeiden, owner of Z Gallerie Home Furnishings in Downtown Plaza. Zeiden plans to open a row of mixed-use retail tied to his Z Gallerie.

If Leach builds a hotel on K Street, it will only be within a three block distance from the new Citizen Hotel. Is it a wise decision to add another hotel, especially when there are already so many within so small a radius? What will building another hotel do to Sacramento's economy? How will this development help/hurt the neighboring Southside Park community?

The Docks, Part I: The Plan

2008-10-14T07:26:49Z

Have you ever been to the part of the Sacramento River sandwiched between Capital City Freeway and Old Sac? This particular area, dubbed "The Docks," is certainly not the most attractive place to hold a riverside picnic. It is desolate and barren where dirt grows like grass and old generating plants and reservoirs go to die. However, that will change as the city readies itself once again for the Docks Area Project.

On September 30, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed AB 2026, a bill allowing the Department of Parks and Recreation to transfer surplus properties through sale or exchange. This means that the city can now acquire the last three parcels of land it needs to begin Phase I of the project. Once this transfer is made, the city can continue with the Sacramento Docks Area Draft Specific Plan, adopted in January 2008.

The plan outlines the project's goal of creating an urban neighborhood and a publicly accessible riverfront while promoting green and environmentally friendly policies. The city wants to do this by turning the Docks area between the river and Front Street, Capital Mall and I-80, into a mixed-use neighborhood, allowing for the construction of residences, retail and office space, public parks, and a riverside promenade accessible to the surrounding communities.

The most exciting aspect of the Docks project is the riverside promenade, which will extend along the levee from O Street to R Street. Already designed by Walker Macy, the promenade will offer public access to the waterfront, providing a space for regional recreation as well as promoting the river's ecological value. Easily accessible to the surrounding neighborhoods, the promenade will also serve as a link between several different Sacramento communities. For example, Southside Park community members can enjoy easy access to the promenade and the Docks' neighborhood using the proposed bike trail across the R Street Bridge over I-5.

The promenade will also connect the surrounding communities with the Docks' residential neighborhood, which will hold approximately 1,115 units of housing and retail space, at least one park, and a hotel. The three streets between the I-5 and the river - Park Street, River Street, and Front Street - are intended connectors between the Docks' neighborhood and the surrounding neighborhoods. Park Street is set to function as the interior connection between neighboring communities, while River Street will act as the main retail street. Front Street will provide an access road for vehicles, public transit, and bicycles.

However, as with any development project, the Docks Area Project poses some serious foreseeable problems. For example, one problem comes from the Pioneer Reservoir, an overflow receptacle for Sacramento's combined sewer system. The Pioneer Reservoir is situated in the center of the Docks, a prime location perfect for a public park. As of now, the Draft Specific Plan poses two alternate solutions: either relocate the Pioneer Reservoir to another location and make room for the park, or reconstruct it, cap it, and build the park on top of it.

Near the Pioneer Reservoir lies another problem: the area of contaminated soil that once held a PG&E natural gas tank as well as a coal-gas generating plant. And, a lesser problem comes from the Docks' proximity to two noisy freeways, the I-5 and Highway 50. On top of all this, the city still needs to worry about the ever-increasing cost in a period of unstable economy.

How will this issue of cost affect the city of Sacramento, and the residents of its various communities? How will any of these problems affect the neighboring communities? How will this development affect the riverside's neighbors of Southside Park? What kind of retail would benefit the surrounding communities?

For more information, visit www.cityofsacramento.org.

R Street Corridor Improvement Project

2008-10-14T07:04:24Z

R Street - what was once the bustling center of transportation and industry with its proximity to the railroad - has now become a barren wasteland of formidable warehouses.

In December 1996 the City of Sacramento and Capital Area Development Authority conceptualized the R Street Corridor Master Plan, which outlined the vision for a new, populated, mixed-use R Street. Since redevelopment began in 2004, R Street has already seen the inception and convergence of approximately 275 housing units and 600,000 square feet of commercial and retail businesses. However, this has not been enough to revitalize the R Street Corridor to the north of 16th Street which still consists largely of vacant space. This should change in 2009 as construction is slated to begin on the redevelopment of R Street in the Southside Park area. After six years of gauging community response and another six years of development planning, the R Street Corridor improvement project will move into Phase I of its streetscape improvements: the reconstruction between 10th and 13th Streets.

So, what does this mean for the surrounding Southside Park community? The basic underlying principle of the project is to transform R Street from a barren warehouse district into a more attractive, pedestrian-friendly area. Amendments for the area between 10th and 13th Streets seek to increase pedestrian safety and improve road conditions. To ameliorate pedestrian safety, redevelopment includes the improvement of night-lighting, redesigning crosswalks and street corners to make them safer, and implementing ADA-compliant measures to secure the safety of the disabled community.

As for road improvement, the city plans to raise walkways, repave roadway surfaces, increase signage visibility for drivers, and refurbish the existing drainage systems. CIty officials hope that by implementing these conditions it will enhance the livability of the area, not only by improving driver and pedestrian traveling, but also by beautifying and redefining what has been a warehouse district for decades. However, while the city plans on turning R Street into a more attractive and urbanized area, it also promises to keep its historical integrity intact by preserving its industrial origins.

The attempt at preserving the industrial history of R Street while simultaneously trying to urbanize it into a more vibrant and attractive area poses an interesting oxymoronic dilemma: How does one beautify a warehouse district while maintaining its historical character, a character not often applauded for its aesthetic appeal? Some of its historical character must be diminished in order to make way for progress. But how much exactly? How much of R Street's historicity is the community willing to compromise in order to improve it? Not only that, but how do members of the surrounding community feel about these impending improvements? Are they drastic enough to really make a difference? Will the improved attractiveness help to bring in more people and more retail businesses? How will the actual construction impact the neighborhood?

For more information, go to www.rstreet.info and/or rstreetimprovements.org.