Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "fundraiser"

Earth Day E-Waste Recycling to Benefit Sacramento AIDS Ride

2013-04-16T22:01:32Z

Just in time for Earth Day 2013, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center will host an Earth Day E-Waste Collection Event, with all proceeds benefiting NorCal AIDS Cycle (NCAC), the four-day, 330-mile HIV/AIDS cycling fundraiser.

Clear out your closets, clean your garage, and bring your unused electronics, including laptops, computers, cell phones, monitors, TVs, printers, etc., from 6:30 a.m. through 2 p.m. on Friday, April 19, to the Earth Day e-Waste Collection Event, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, 2025 Morse Avenue in Sacramento.

Proceeds from your recycled electronics will support the largest and most successful HIV/AIDS fundraising event in the Sacramento region. Established in 2005, NCAC has raised more than $1.25 million for HIV/AIDS service organizations in Sacramento and Northern California. Beneficiaries of the 2013 ride are: CARES Clinic Dental Program, Golden Rule Services, SANE (Safer Alternatives thru Networking and Education), Breaking Barriers, Harm Reduction Services, Sunburst Projects, River City Food Bank, and Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Center, all of Sacramento; Sierra Foothills AIDS Foundation of Auburn, Calif.; Caring Choices of Chico, Calif.; and Shasta Trinity Tehama HIV Food Bank of Redding, Calif.

The 2013 NCAC ride will be Thursday, May 16, through Sunday, May 19. For more information about NCAC or the E-Waste Collection Event, visit www.norcalaidscycle.org.

NorCal AIDS Cycle will be recognized by the Sacramento City Council

2013-04-08T20:43:09Z

HIV/AIDS cycling fundraiser NorCal AIDS Cycle (NCAC) will be recognized by the Sacramento City Council at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, for the organization’s fundraising support for HIV/AIDS services in Greater Sacramento and Northern California. The presentation will take place in City Council Chambers, Sacramento City Hall, 915 I Street.

District 5 Sacramento City Councilmember Jay Schenirer will present organization leaders with an official resolution in recognition of the event’s role in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and the more than $1.25 million for HIV/AIDS services the annual event has raised since its founding in 2005. Schenirer was a cyclist in the 2012 ride, and both he and his wife are registered for the 2013 ride May 16 through 19.

“I am excited to honor NorCal AIDS Cycle on behalf of the City Council and very proud that Sacramento is home to an organization that provides such essential support to HIV/AIDS organizations in our region,” Schenirer said. “In many cases, the organizations that NCAC supports are the only source of HIV/AIDS services in their communities, and the funds raised by this event literally are what is keeping their doors open. I’m looking forward to spending four days on the road with this amazing community of caring people and to sharing that experience with my wife.”

District Councilmember Steve Hansen also will ride in NCAC in May. “NorCal AIDS Cycle has done so much to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and the importance of testing, not only in Sacramento, but in the surrounding foothill and Central Valley communities,” Hansen said. “I'm proud to be riding in NCAC this year and pleased that the Council is recognizing the value of this amazing organization.”

The annual four-day, 330-mile ride is the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser in the Sacramento region and is among the most successful Sacramento charity fundraisers in history based on total dollars raised. The 2013 ride, scheduled for May 16-19, will raise funds for 10 non-profit organizations: CARES Clinic Dental Program, Golden Rule Services, SANE (Safer Alternatives thru Networking and Education), Breaking Barriers, Harm Reduction Services, Sunburst Projects, River City Food Bank, and Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Center, all of Sacramento; Sierra Foothills AIDS Foundation of Auburn; Caring Choices of Chico; and Shasta Trinity Tehama HIV Food Bank of Redding.

NCAC has increased the funds raised each year since its inception in 2005, raising just over $250,000 in 2012 with approximately 150 cyclists and 75 support crew members. Each NCAC cyclist pledges to raise a minimum of $1,500, each volunteer crew member $250; many participants raise far more than the minimums.

The 2013 ride will begin on Thursday, May 16, with an Opening Ceremony and Rideout at Folsom Lake and end on Sunday, May 19, with a moving Closing Ceremony at the California State Capitol. In between, the cyclists will follow a circuitous, often challenging route through the Sierra foothills and northern Central Valley, with overnight camps at Gridley, Williams, and Woodland, Calif.

NCAC is presenting a free Info Night on Thursday, April 11, 6 to 8 p.m. at Kaiser Point West, 1650 Response Road, Sacramento. Registered NCAC cyclists and crew as well as anyone interested in learning more about the May ride and the organization are invited to attend.

The mission of NorCal AIDS Cycle is to support organizations throughout Northern California working to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic and to care for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in the region through fundraising; to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS, the needs of the community and the benefitting organizations; and to encourage a positive environment for the dignity, quality of life, and acceptance of people affected by and infected with HIV/AIDS. For more information about NorCal AIDS Cycle, visit www.norcalaidscycle.org.

Frill Seeker: Budding Local Designer featured in Fashion Fundraiser

2013-04-01T19:52:17Z

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. held “Fads From the Past to Present: The Delta Runway Report,” showcasing decade-inspired looks styled by the Sacramento Art Institute of California this past Saturday at the DoubleTree Hotel. The grand finale stole the show with Hilda Klam’s spring-inspired mermaid dress, based off the mint fabric with a minimal flower print she purchased from the Galt Flea Market. Klam has always designed her own special-occasion dresses, so naturally, fashion design became her passion and dream career. She slaved away on her gown, with a hand-sewn lily-pad design going around the hips of the bodice and cascading down through the train, with a mint stripe down the middle.

Klam grew up sewing. She started out with designing her own Barbie clothes and eventually some of her own clothing. She said she has always sewn but never really saw it as a career until it was time to go to college and decided to pursue her passion. She says the ability to “turn a sheet of fabric into a dress is my satisfaction,” and it clearly stood out after looking at her emerald gown and seeing all of the hard work in her hand-sewn flower adornments modeled by Tikenya.

Pinky’s Up is the clothing line Klam hopes to launch, inspired by her dog Pinky who passed away recently. She wants to design high-end fashion and eventually see her dresses on the red carpet inspired by Marchesa designs. Eventually she wants to incorporate an animal shelter into her high-fashion aspirations. She’s hoping her future success in fashion will help her benefit animals. “I wish I could put all animals into a home,” she said, showing that her passion not only lies in creating gorgeous evening gowns, but with animal welfare too.

Klam’s combination of mint- and emerald-green fabric is a great transition from the mint-dominated winter. She purchased all of her fabrics from the Galt Flea Market, and I love that she incorporated local goods into her garment rather than going to a department store to purchase fabric that would cost her more than twice as much. I loved how the shimmery emerald color popped. Spring is all about blossoms, and Klam clearly hit that trend with the hand-sewn flowers and the floral print on the bodice. With brands like Nasty Gal, Anthropologie and Free People emphasizing the happy hippie look for festival season, that trend was also showcased by Samira in the 1960s polyester mint-green tank and pants.

I fell in love with the 1920s chiffon lace multitiered dress with the cream and pink pastel colors worn by Samantha, perfect for spring. Wearing a fur pelt over the shoulders gives her an elegant Hollywood look bringing the 1920s vintage flare into the modern era. The red flapper-girl dress exhibits fringe, a popular trend that appears each year, whether it’s on boho bags or seen as decoration on the edges of crop tops this spring. It was interesting to see how past fashion fads throughout the 20th century have translated to modern day.

Behind the scenes, Bia Salon fixed Veronica’s afro for her 1970s ensemble that reminded me of a character that should be incorporated into “That ’70s Show” with Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher. Transformations Makeup Institute prepped and primped the models’ makeup to be runway ready for the decades showcase.

Private Practice performed during intermission and provided background music for the fashion show, a band known for their smooth jazz and R&B. The second half of the fashion show exhibited styles from 1970s to present day, ending with Klam’s spring 2013 dress design. I loved the second to last gown on Alexis, a full-length red gown with a fitted bodice. The off-shoulder look is popular for women because it accentuates the shoulders, one of the sexiest parts to highlight on a woman’s body. Lastly, the dress was decorated with a big bow on the lower back.

Inspiration came from the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, wanting a decades theme to celebrate their 100th anniversary. Elk Grove Chapter President Gwendolyn Smith reached out to the Art Institute to collaborate through a fashion-show fundraiser for the sorority’s philanthropy efforts.

Angelina Martin, the program director, collaborated with Alma Campos, a professor at the Art Institute, to get students involved as interns for the fashion show. Each student applied for their position and worked as buyers for the clothes exhibited in the fashion show, and as stylists putting cohesive looks together. Students found participating in this fundraiser beneficial and look forward to the Delta 2013 Gala Fashion Show Luncheon, an annual fundraiser promoting work by students attending the Art Institute, raising money to help students from elementary to high school.

The Art Institute is looking to expand the program by implementing an applied arts degree in fashion design and bachelor’s degree in fashion retail management this summer, in hopes of luring more aspiring designers in the Sacramento area. The Art Institute is currently looking to enroll more students to participate in their upcoming fundraiser collaborations with AT&T and other local causes. After the recognition Klam received for her emerald mermaid dress design at the luncheon, the Art Institute is looking to get more involved in fashion shows around the community to promote student designers. Angelina is contacted for interns, so the Art Institute school is a great place for up-and-coming designers and artists.

Stay tuned for more local fashion reports and style reports. If there's anything you'd like to hear about or local boutiques that you think deserve promoting let me know via e-mail: vrkobayashi@ucdavis.edu, I am always looking for new places and local talent to check out and I would love to get input from my readers! I will also be posting more pictures on my blog: frillseeking.wordpress.com, so check it out throughout the week and I will be posting on my favorite looks from the runway and behind the scenes!

Editor’s note: The “News Digest” goes out every Tuesday morning and highlights our best stories, photos and videos from the week prior. Sign me up.

Disclosure: Please check me out on twitter: @toraae, or Instagram: @torikobayashi and connect with me there about local fashion as well as your favorite spring trends! I also have a few blogs: frillseeking.wordpress.com and a tumblr: toraaae.tumblr.com.

Get shaved at St. Baldrick's fundraiser

2013-03-10T01:47:32Z

Who said fundraising can’t be fun? After all, "fun? is part of the word. But to be fair, fund is too. So why not take a cue from Golden Bear and Low Brau’s St. Baldrick’s fundraising team and their effort and simply do both?

All leading up to Monday’s big shave day, team “Balds Deep” has been setting up its own mini-benefits around Midtown. With the goal to raise money benefiting cancer research, team captain Kellen Mcconnell said “Balds Deep” held an event Friday, March 8, at The Golden Bear to raise money, and confirmed new Midtown favorite, LowBrau, has been donating $1 for every beer sold to his team’s efforts.

A little healthy competition never hurt anyone, especially if the result benefits the fight against childhood cancer. This Monday, March 11, deVere’s Irish Pub will be hosting the annual fundraiser, where teams and individuals unite to shave their heads, all benefiting The Keaton Memorial for their St. Baldrick’s celebrations. Other Sacramento teams include “Sac Town Baldies” consisting of both Mulvaney’s B and L staff and Shady Lady staff, and “The Baldy Bunch of Sac Mag,” made up of Sacramento magazine staff.

St. Baldrick’s head-shaving events began as a challenge between business professionals and have grown from one event in 2000, to over 1,300 events in 2012, raising critical funds for childhood cancer research. Events take place in pubs, restaurants, schools, churches, parks, malls, military bases, firehouses and any other place you can imagine.

More adults than kids get cancer, it's true. That's why governments and foundations fund more research for adult cancers — and we're all for finding cures for adults, making local participants and events so integral to finding a cure.

Balds Deep Captain Mcconnell put it perfectly: “St Baldrick’s is about our local community coming together to face something larger than any one of us. We must all do our part, to let the little guys know they aren't alone. Shaving our heads is an act of solidarity for these children.”

Although only one team can come out on top, all participants are winners because they are contributing in the fight to defeat childhood cancer. So be a do-gooder and brave the shave, March 11 at de Vere's Irish Pub Sacramento from 4-8pm, and at de Vere's Irish Pub Davis on March 13 from 5-8pm!

Keep karma and carry on in the fight for kids with cancer. Registration is open now at getbald.com.Donations are accepted. Or to donate visit the website.

Disclosure: This article was written by a supporter of the event, with a foot in PR, and not by anyone affiliated with said teams or event.

Sandy Hook Memorial Fundraiser

2012-12-29T19:08:43Z

The Tragedy in Newtown Connecticut has left us stunned and speechless. On Sunday at Laughs Unlimited, local artists are doing their part to contribute the families who have lost so much.

The music starts at 11 am Sunday December 30th and goes until 6pm.

The Sandy Hook Memorial Fundraiser
December 30th Sunday Laughs Unlimited
11-6pm 1207 Front st Old Sac Cover 10.00 bucks

Mark Herin 11:00-11:25
Doug Cash-11:30-12:00
Taylor Chicks-12-12:25ish
Michael Rogers-12:30-1
Ken Koenig Band-1-1:45
Break for announcements etc...
Rumpsharker 2:45-3:30ish
Yesterdays news Band 4-4:45
Liqorsick-5-5:45

Hosted by Ken Koenig

Blue Cue to Host Angels for Hearts Fundraiser

2012-12-13T01:32:20Z

5hundy Social Club, XOSO Sports, and Blue Cue are teaming up to co-sponsor a holiday fundraiser for a local non-profit called Angels for Hearts, this Friday, December 14, 2012, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Anyone in the community can visit Blue Cue Friday evening and help make a difference. From 7 to 10 p.m. 20 percent of all food and drink sales will be donated to Angeles for Hearts, along with 100 percent of all Raffle tickets sales.

Angels for Hearts is a Sacramento-based organization founded with the mission of making sure pediatric heart patients maintain a sense of normalcy of being a kid while having medical issues and growing up in hospital settings. The organization strives to help these children remember that first and foremost they are kids before they are heart kids.

For more information about the event, visit the Angels for Hearts Fundraiser Facebook event page. For more about Angele for Hearts, visit http://AngelsForHearts.org.

Mustache Team 5000 on how to rock Movember

2012-11-21T19:25:47Z

We’re halfway through the month, Sacramento. How’s that ‘stache looking?

Nick Leonti is the leader of Sacramento’s own Mustache Team 5000 and an avid Movember advocate. He and his teammates kicked off Movember with a mass shave, courtesy of fellow Movember supporter Jason Iverson of Barber Blues. Throughout the month Jason and his crew have and will continue to donate the price of any shave or haircut to the Movember cause -- just stop by Barber Blues at 625 14th Street and say the word.

Leotoni’s team is one of thousands around the globe preening mustaches for a higher cause -- raising awareness and funds for men’s health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer.

He was kind enough to share his own Movember story with The Sacramento Press via email.

SP: How many years have you been doing Movember, and what motivated you to participate?
NL: This is my third year leading a team. At first, it was just a great excuse to finally grow a mustache, but it's definitely deeper than that. I know this may come as a surprise, but we men are pretty awful about going to the doctor. And, of course, we've all been affected -- on some level -- by cancer and other men’s health issues -- whether it was ourselves, a family member, friend or whoever. Movember raises funds and awareness for men’s health issues, and I use it as a reminder to myself that I should probably make a doctor's appointment. We all should.

I think men avoid the doctor because we hate waiting around the doctor's office with a bunch of sick people reading a heavily worn issue of Sports Illustrated. We also hate the part where the doctor tells us we're fat and need to exercise more. I think we always just kind of assume that what we don't know won't hurt us. Turns out it does. So even though, in a lot of ways, a trip to the doctor is a total nightmare, we need to suck it up and go. To me, that's what Movember is all about and why I'm growing this ridiculous thing on my lip.

SP: Tell me about your team.
NL: I think we're up to like 32 guys. Pretty impressive. My team, Mustache Squad 5000, doesn't have any formal connection between its members. Mostly it's just a bunch of guys I know -- some through work, some through school, some from who-knows-where? We aren't all in Sacramento either. We have a couple fellas up in Tahoe, one in Arkansas and we recently expanded into Bakersfield. So we pretty much have all the major cities covered....

Last year we were known as Mustache Squad 2000 because our fundraising goal was $2,000. We ended up blowing that out of water because of our general likability and dashing good looks. So this year we stepped it up to Mustache Squad 5000 and we're already well on way to reaching our goal.

SP: What kind of response do you see in Sacramento for Movember?
NL: Sacramento is a good Movember town for sure. People here love a mustache. We've gotten great support from the community. Good Day Sacramento put us on TV. Jason over at Barber Blues barber shop taught us how to shave properly. Athletics Unlimited is stepping up to get us official team T-shirts. And Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Co. is hosting our end of month Mustache Party.

SP: Anything else you’d like to say to Sacramento?
NL: Go see the doctor and support your local mustache.

Don’t forget to post your own mustache photos to The Sacramento Press’s Facebook page, or tweet us with the hashtag #sacpressstache. Look for our photo gallery at the beginning of next month to vote on which Mo Bro deserves free IMAX tickets courtesy of Esquire IMAX Theater.

You can donate to Nick Leonti and his sexy ‘stached crew here.

19th annual Run to Feed the Hungry

2012-11-14T03:06:02Z

What has 54,000 legs, 27,000 smiles and a huge impact on our community? Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services’ annual Run to Feed the Hungry.

This event, which raises support and awareness for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) is a Sacramento tradition. Local families turn out by tens of thousands to take part in one of the largest Thanksgiving Day race in the United States.

Parents with strollers, professional runners, high school athletic teams and family members visiting from out-of-town can all be found sprinting, strolling and jogging their way through East Sacramento.

This year’s 19th annual 5K and 10K fun run and walk is expected to draw 27,000 participants. The event, which is owned and operated by SFBFS, raises funds to support six different programs including Food, Clothing, Parent Education, Adult Education and more. These programs offer free services and education to than 20,000 men, women and children in need every month.

SFBFS has owned and been the sole beneficiary of Run to Feed the Hungry since its inception in 1994. Thanks to additional donations, generous sponsors, loyal participants and a very large number of volunteers, the event operates with a very low overhead and provides incredible support for SFBFS' programs year round.

The registration fee is $35 per person or $20 for children and includes a long-sleeved technical shirt.

There is still time to sign up to participate, volunteer or join a team. There is also some new run attire available this year. Those who make an additional $50 or more contribution during registration will receive a Run to Feed the Hungry knit beanie this year. This item will not be sold on Thanksgiving Day.

Only a few days remain until Thanksgiving, so register today! Registration in advance of Thanksgiving Day is encouraged, as shirts are only guaranteed for those who sign up by November 21. Timing chips are also limited to the first 7,000 people who sign up to be timed.

Is your spouse dragging you to Iowa for a snow laden Thanksgiving? Do you have 49 relatives descending on your living room around 11 a.m.? Are you more of a napper than a jogger? Then sign up as a virtual participant. Your registration fee supports programs at SFBFS and you’ll still receive your shirt, but you don’t have to run or walk on Thanksgiving morning.

Visit www.runtofeedthehungry.com for more information about this great event to benefit Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.

We look forward to seeing you on Thanksgiving Day!

Click here to register and like the event on Facebook.

Disclosure: Kelly Siefkin is an employee of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.

Liar – On Stage in Sacramento

2012-11-05T05:12:37Z

Are lies and truths absolutes? Don't we all fudge our truths and rationalize our lies? Haven't we all done our share of manipulating over the years?

“Liar,” written by Canadian playwright Brian Drader, is currently on stage at the Geery Theater in Sacramento. It runs through December 8, 2012. This play will ask you to honestly confront your own views about what truth really is, as it examines the individual realities devised by a husband and wife who must cope after a tragedy.

The marriage is on its way to becoming a casualty of deception and unspoken hurts until a catalyst in the form of a young man named Mark enters the picture.

Mark is a chameleon, changing his story to get what he wants – or is he? As the playwright has said, "Truth can be built on lies.”

I recommend this play, but first, you should be aware it is for adults only due to nudity, sexual situations and mature content.

Producer Elise Hodge and Director Kara Ow have assembled a fine cast, which includes Hodge, Eric Baldwin, Dan Fagan and Kevin Kirtlan.

The Geery’s stage has its share of quirks and challenges, but the company came up with an ambitious set establishing four distinct locations. Effective use is made of the theater’s limited lighting setup

"Liar" will perform at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, Sundays at 7pm from November 2 through December 8, 2012 at The Geery Theatre, 2130 L Street, Midtown Sacramento. Tickets can be reserved for $20 at www.emhpros.weebly.com or bought at the door (cash only). Partial proceeds from tickets sales will be donated to the non-profit organization, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Thank you from Sacramento Sliders & Suds fundraiser

2012-11-01T23:17:56Z

By Susan Rabinovitz and Denise Coleman

A sunny Sept. 29 at Fremont Park brought craft beer enthusiasts and foodies together for a great day of fundraising and beer and slider tasting. The hosts Sacramento Artists Council, Inc., Dad’s Kitchen and SacramentoPress.com say thank you to the participants and guests for a tremendous day.

We would like to extend a special thanks to the more than 20 Northern California microbreweries and seven local restaurants for donated games, beers, ciders and sliders. Slider participants included Blackbird Kitchen & Bar, Kupros, Tequila Museo Mayahuel, Burgess Brothers Burgers, Chops Steakhouses and Dad’s Kitchen. The winner of the Judges’ Choice award was River City Brewing Company (because the bread was amazing), and the People’s Choice award went to Bistro Michel (because the lamb was spectacular).

Thank you to celebrity judges, including Sacramento City Council candidate Joe Yee, internationally known cartoonist Eric Decetis and restaurateur Kimio Bazett (owner of Golden Bear and the new Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Company, and winner of the Sacramento Beer and Chili Industry Cook-off).

The day could not be complete without the kids’ zone hosted by Staging A Miracle, and the face painting hosted by Theodore Judah Elementary PTA. Also, a special shoutout for the phenomenal work of our friends and family that we suckered into volunteering at the bike valet, cooking sliders and in general being the greeting committee at Sliders and Suds. For entertaining music and sound, thank you to Tommy Sellers and the bands As Yet Untitled and Pushtanawanda. Thank you to our sponsors, Hot Italian, Beatnik Studios, Wa-tah & Titan Insurance.

Sacramento Artists Council, Inc., Dad’s Kitchen and SacramentoPress.com host the annual Sacramento Sliders and Suds as well as the Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival to raise money to keep art and music in our local schools. Save the dates for more memorable events:

Feb. 2, 2013: Third annual masquerade at Antiquite` Maison Privee, 2114 P St 6-10pm., Midtown. Dress in speakeasy style and arrive as your favorite Prohibition-era gangster or gun moll for gaming and fundraising (adults only). Tickets on sale, www.sacramentoartcouncil.org.

April 6, 2013: Second annual Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival, Fremont Park, 1-5 p.m. Bike valet, kids’ zone, beer garden and chili tasting, tickets available soon.

Oct. 6, 2013: Second annual Sacramento Sliders and Suds, Fremont Park 1-5 p.m. Bike valet, kids’ zone, beer garden and chili tasting, tickets available summer 2013.

Disclosure: Susan Rabinovitz and Denise Coleman are co-executive directors of the Sacramento Artists Council, Inc.

4th Annual East Sac Rib Cook-Off & Dance Party

2012-10-17T17:44:54Z

Serious grillers …. “Q-teams”… will compete in the 4th Annual Albie Ribbin’ BBQ Cook-Off being held Saturday, October 27th, at the Hilltop Tavern (4757 Folsom Boulevard, Sacramento). The event, which takes place from Noon till 6, will feature over a dozen teams, grilling and smoking two full racks each of St. Louis style ribs, with proceeds benefitting the Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation.

And who better to kick out the jams at a Q-off than popular Sacramento party band, the Q-Balls, performing from 2 to 5.

The price for this all-ages family event is $20 for adults and $12 for kids, which includes a rib lunch served from noon to 3. There will also be a silent auction and raffle with great prizes.

Teams that are interested in competing in the Q-off can register at the Hilltop or contact Albie Aware at 927-1592. (4 commemorative aprons will be provided) Judging will be handled by professionals from the Western States BBQ Association.

Funds raised will used to help underserved women and men pay for expensive breast cancer diagnostic tests like mammograms and PET scans.

albieaware.org

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is Media Liaison for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Mother makes strides in honor of daughter

2012-10-15T16:56:11Z

Delia Troyer is a compassionate and caring mother, daughter, wife and sister. She has a soft voice and manages to find the positive in just about anything—except when it comes to cancer. Delia knows too well the pain and suffering cancer can cause. In 2009, Delia’s mother was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. “She didn’t want to worry the family, so she kept her breast cancer a secret for as long as she could,” shares Delia. “When she finally did share her condition with us, we were in shock.”

Delia admits that she didn’t know much about cancer before her mother’s diagnosis. She found comfort in reading stories of hope on the American Cancer Society’s website. She also encouraged her mother to take advantage of the American Cancer Society’s free “Reach to Recovery” program that connects patients with information and resources. Delia’s mother endured aggressive chemotherapy and a mastectomy to successfully treat the cancer.

With a clean bill of health, Delia’s family thought they had made it through the worst of their journey. But in a cruel twist of fate, Delia’s 28-year-old daughter, Francine, was diagnosed with cancer the following year.

“Francine had not been feeling well,” remembers Delia. “She went to the doctor and had two biopsies performed that each came back negative.” Delia and her daughter were relieved and ready to move forward. Francine, an avid traveler, continued with her plans to visit Japan. But when she returned home to Sacramento, she went back to the doctor with complaints of headaches, weakness and loss of appetite. Delia thought her daughter might have food poisoning. After numerous blood tests, Francine’s physician had much worse news.

“Francine was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer that had spread to her brain,” said Delia. “She was so young, intelligent and vibrant. We just couldn’t understand how this disease so quickly spread throughout her body.”

In a fog of chemotherapy and steroid treatments, Francine couldn’t figure out why she was fighting so hard to live either. She didn’t feel well. She started to look different. Her mother turned once again to the American Cancer Society. “The support that we experienced for my mother was there for my daughter,” remembers Delia. “I just can’t thank all of the volunteers and staff enough for making Francine’s life a little better with phone calls to check on her and by providing scarves and wigs once Francine lost her hair.”

In May 2011, just 10 months after being diagnosed, 29-year-old Francine lost her battle with cancer. Since then, Delia has formed a memorial team in honor of her daughter that will walk again this year during the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” on October 21. “She was my first daughter, my parents’ first granddaughter and the first of us to go to heaven,” shares Delia. “She gives me the strength to give back to those in need.”

The American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5k walk takes place on Sunday, Oct. 21 at the West Steps of the State Capitol. Registration is at 7 a.m. The walk begins at 8 a.m. with a rolling start. To learn more, visit makingstrideswalk.org/sacramento or call 916.446.7933.

Disclosure: Anita Fitzhugh is principal of Fitzhugh Public Relations that handles PR for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

2nd Annual Rancho Cordova Soroptimist Spaghetti Feed

2012-10-12T00:36:27Z

Soroptimist International of Rancho Cordova is hosting its 2nd Annual Spaghetti Feed on Friday, October 19, 2012, 6:00-8:00pm at the Rancho Cordova Elk’s Lodge, 11440 Elks Circle, Rancho Cordova. Tickets are $25, which includes all-you-can-eat spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and dessert. In addition, there is a kids costume contest with prizes and dancing, with music provided by DJ Bill Caris. Contact Carol Limbaga at 916-833-2580 to purchase tickets.

This club was chartered three years ago and has already made a significant impact in the community. Some of the projects include:

Working with Project 680 to provide homeless K-12 students with basic necessities like socks, shoes, toiletries, undergarments, etc.
Creating “Comfort Kits,” which are full size personal care items inside large heavy-duty zippered tote bags, for women who have escaped domestic violence in our community, since many leave with nothing but the clothes on their backs
Worked with 4 other local Soroptimist clubs to host a STOP Human Trafficking Symposium
Treating Kindergarteners to a holiday party complete with gifts, food and personal time with Santa Claus in an elementary school where 90% of the families live below the poverty line
Providing deserving homeless senior girls with a new Senior Ball dress, shoes and makeover for Senior Ball
Giving cash Women’s Opportunity Awards to single mothers who are pursuing an associate degree at a community college or trade school or who are pursuing an undergraduate degree
Giving cash awards to 14-17 aged girls who volunteer and make a difference in their community, with a matching cash award to a non-profit organization of their choice.“

“I am very proud of what our club has accomplished in a very short period of time,” said club president Kelly Morris. “Our goal is to continue these programs and increase the number of women and girls served as well as explore new service opportunities. Last year’s Spaghetti Feed was very successful and we hope this year’s does even better. We have only two big fundraisers per year, the Spaghetti Feed in the fall and Bunco in the spring. These fundraisers allow us to serve the community,” said Morris.

The name Soroptimist, means "best for women," and that's what the organization strives to achieve. Soroptimists are women at their best, working to help other women to be their best. If you would like more information about Soroptimist International of Rancho Cordova or how to become a member, please contact Julie Schaffer at 916-851-9266 or email siranchocordova@soroptimist.net. If you aren’t ready to be a member, but would like to volunteer for future projects, please sign up at www.LiveYourDream.org

Disclosure: As charter president of this club, I am particularly proud of the Comfort Kits our club provides to courageous women through WEAVE, having been a victim of domestic violence myself. I'm glad this club makes a difference in people's lives.

Save Ourselves Breast Cancer Awareness Event

2012-10-11T19:46:42Z

Face It Salon, Spa, & Boutique is excited to announce that we will be partnering with local non-profit organization Save Ourselves for the month of October. We will transform the Salon & Spa into an event space to help raise awareness all while having fun! Save Ourselves has been established since 1991 and is a staple for woman here in the Sacramento, California area.

We will be serving pink champagne and hosting a pink dress fashion show. All things pink will be discounted for the evening. One of the hair stations will be in full swing with pink hair extension. Want to show your support by rocking a little pink in your hair, we will have you dialed in for the month of October!

On top of all of this, we will also be raffling off a Spa Facial, a deep lock condition treatment and blow out, among other items! Everyone attending will recieve a swag bag retail value $25.

This event is special in the fact that we are a small local business supporting a local non-profit all while raising awareness! Please come to show your support! Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at Face It located at 1122 19th St Sacramento Ca 95811 or by phone 916-441-4270, Tuesday - Saturday 10am-6pm. Feel free to visit us at Facebook.com/faceitsacramento for more details~ you may also visit www.save-ourselves.org.

Doors open at 4pm on October 26th, 2012 and the event will run until 8pm.

Presale Tickets $15 or you may purchase them the day of the event for $25

Can't wait to see you!

Xoxo~

Face It Salon, Spa, & Boutique

Disclosure: The author is the social media manager and event planner for Face It Salon, Spa, & Boutique.

World Premiere - 10 Local Films and NorCal Fimmaking Promo - Crest 1 PM Sunday

2012-10-06T18:12:27Z

The 13th Annual "A Place Called Sacramento" film festival premieres ten more local films this Sunday at the Crest. Highlights this year include: Mother and 11 year old son both have movies, the return of "Rockie" as a film writer/director, Mr. Lobo both directs and has a cameo, immigration issues started with "B" for the bracero program, experience a yogasim for the first time, "Oreos licked" - there I said it, "Tony the Tiger" not boxing in a boxing movie, can Danna do it for a fifth time, Frank is back, and so much more...

Plus the event will kick-off ArtOber with an 8 minute promo for local filmmaking created by Gary Nyland and friends of the film arts here in the region. We have come a long way, baby, since the year 2000. So many fesitvals and so much talent on display.

Our "Big Fish" Hollywood Director, Quentin Sacramento, is back again - taking a break from promoting his new Ben Affleck film "Argo-Not". When asked why he keeps swimming back to Sac Town for "PCS", he gurgled, "For the Dive Bar After-Party, of course - finally somewhere a thristy fish can get a drink in this town!"

Tickets are still on sale at the Crest Box office.... $10 for all seats to this family friendly, fundraising event for Access Sacramento and local community media. Kati G. will be there taking photos... don't miss this special, annual event - a celebration of Sacramento's creative community. We don't just watch movies in Sacramento - we MAKE movies!

Disclosure: Ron Cooper is Executive Director of Access Sacramento

12 Bands, 2 Stages, Performing in Midtown, Sunday Oct. 7

2012-09-28T21:34:37Z

A dozen of the top Northern California bands, playing an Exciting, Eclectic, mix of musical genres (Rock, Country, Jazz, Funk, Soul, Big Band, World Beat …of course, Blues, and….wait for it….Yep…Gypsy Swing!) will gather at the Torch Club, 904 15th Street, on Sunday, October 7th, from 1pm to 8pm for the 6th Annual Blues for Life. (Inside and out in the parking lot…two stages!)

This popular fundraiser, that has grown every year, benefits Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation, which raises money for expensive diagnostic breast cancer tests such as PET scans and mammograms for women in need.

At Albie, we like to say, “Your wife, your mother, your sister, your daughter, your best friend... Who Cares?

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is Media Liaison for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Sliders Save Art & Music

2012-09-25T13:56:29Z

By Denise Coleman & Susan Rabinovitz

From the producers of the Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival, we present Sacramento Sliders and Suds. Community service partners The Sacramento Press, Dad’s Kitchen and Sacramento Artists Council Inc. (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity) put their collaboration to work for two Sacramento favorites, grilled food and craft beer, to raise money to keep art and music programs in Sacramento public schools.

This collaboration to save art and music brings sudsy goodness from 18 high-quality craft beer brewers and slider pairings from local delectable eateries. Sacramento Artists Council Inc. says it is not too proud to namedrop the participants from some local favorites such as Track 7, River City Brewing Company, 21st Amendment Brewing, Lagunitas, Bistro Michele, Blackbird Kitchen + Bar, Café Capricho, Kupros Bristro, Tequila Museo Mayahuel and Chops Steak House, just to name a few.

As the slider competition heats up, local chefs voice friendly competitive challenges and the stakes are high, with the chance to win Judges’ Choice and Peoples’ Choice awards. Bragging rights and sculptural awards created by local artists and will be given to the best and most popular chef(s). Celebrity judges include world famous cartoonist Eric Decetis, native Sacramentan, Elizabeth Studebaker, MBA Executive Director and finally the Chili Winner (from Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival), owner of Golden Bear and the new and fabulous Hood and Ladder, Kimeo Bazett.

Power-packed with live music, salacious beverages, and savory meat and veggie entrees, Sliders and Suds offers a Kids’ Zone hosted by Staging A Miracle (a community outreach program for underserved children) that includes free crafts, a playground and face painting provided by Theodore Judah Elementary PTA. And to the shoppers in the house, local art vendors will be selling their wares. Little Relics Boutique & Galleria will offer jewelry by Susan Rabinovitz as well as Rabinovitz’s local artist friends’ original artwork. The Art Vendor Alley also includes famous local artists David Peterson, John Huerta and Steve Kohr.

The excitement is brewing and ticket sales are sizzling. Sacramento Artists Council Inc. is thrilled to assist three local schools’ art and music programs (Theodore Judah Elementary, Washington Elementary and Sutter Middle School). With sponsors like Choice Media and donations from various local businesses, Sliders and Suds will help fund a string orchestra for Theodore Judah’s budding music department.

“With events like Sliders and Suds and our early spring fundraiser, Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival, hopefully we will be able to fund more music and art departments and watch them grow and excel versus fight for justification for staying in the education budget,” says Sacramento Artists Council Inc. founder and co-executive director Susan Rabinovitz.

Grab your bike lock and park in bike valet on Sept. 29, 12-4 p.m., at Fremont Park, on 15th and Q streets, to taste craft beer and sliders to save art and music education. It’s the right thing to do!

Pre-sale tickets available at www.sacramentoslidersandsuds.com/tickets or stop by Little Relics Boutique & Galleria, 908 21st St, between I & J in Midtown. Full access costs $35 (includes fives sliders and unlimited tastings with valid ID), sliders only $15 (includes five sliders)and beer only tickets $20 (unlimited 5oz tastes).

There is a limited quantity of full-access and slider-only tickets, so purchasing a pre-sale ticket is highly recommended. Ticket prices at the door are priced as follows: full-access for $40, sliders-only for $20, beer-only for $25 (with valid ID).

Disclosure: Disclaimer: Susan Rabinovitz & Denise Coleman are Co-Executive Directors for Sacramento Artists Council, Inc. a 501(c)3 non-profit charity.

Sacramento Wine and Massage Fundraiser for Local Resident Noe Cruz

2012-09-21T03:08:19Z

SACRAMENTO – A fundraiser for Sacramento resident Noe Cruz will be held on Saturday September 22, at Splash Night Club, 805 15th Street, Sacramento (in the patio), from 7-10pm. The fundraiser for Noe Cruz will feature wine tastings, raffles and prizes for various area businesses, complimentary massages by Bassil Kamas (donations accepted), and music!

Noe Cruz, was involved in a life threatening accident on August 5, while vacationing with family in Mexico, where he was thrown off of a horse into a wall and instantly lost consciousness. An MRI scan revealed that he had suffered multiple skull fractures and blood clots in and around his brain. Doctors performed surgery and Noe was admitted into the hospital with a 2-5% chance of survival. Noe remained in a coma and in critical condition for over 2 weeks.

He is showing signs of recovery, has started therapy, and is in need of further surgeries – once he has regained strength. Due to Noe’s fragile condition, in order for him to return to home to Sacramento he will require a fully medical-equipped flight to Sacramento, estimated at $30,000 and not covered by insurance.

“Noe’s family is desperate to bring him back to California in hopes of providing him with the absolute best medical care available to him," said family friend Ray Alcantar.

In an effort to help raise funds for Noe’s safe return home, the local community has rallied together to donate their resources and host fundraisers throughout Sacramento.

You are invited to attend a fabulous night of luxury in Sacramento, filled with wine, music, and massage – all proceeds and donations will go to Noe’s family to help fund his medical flight home to Sacramento, where he can receive treatment and continue healing.

Fundraiser:
Day: Saturday, September 21
Time: from 7pm to 10pm
Place: Splash Night Club, 805 15th Street
Wine donation: $6
http://www.facebook.com/events/440112522698268/

“There is no certain way of knowing the length of time Noe’s full recovery will take or any guarantees. Despite this atrocity, his family and friends know the incredible strength that Noe embodies and the will to overcome any obstacle," Alcantar says.
"At this very moment, Noe’s spirit resides within all of us as we anxiously await his return.”

Other Ways to Give:
Car Wash:
Day: Saturday, September 29
Time: from 10am to4 pm
Place: Horizon, 861 Galleria Blvd, Roseville
http://www.facebook.com/events/522157061143801/

Donate Directly:
Wells Fargo: 9017466831

Disclosure: Angela Rosas is a family friend of Noe Cruz's.

My Sister's House: 5K Run For a Safe Haven

2012-09-19T20:56:50Z

The 9th annual 5K run/walk is the largest attended fundraiser for My Sister’s House, with more than 800 runners and walkers. This event is for the entire family featuring a Kids Half Mile, prizes, food, games, and music. Participants are encouraged to dress in costume and awards will be given to the most creative. Come join in on the fun while supporting a great cause on Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. in William Land Park.

Entry fees are:
• Adults (ages 19 and up) $30
• Teens (ages 13 to 18) $25
• Kids Half mile - $10 (ages 12 and under)

For companies or groups looking to support My Sister’s House, being active, and having fun, the event also features running teams to support My Sister’s House. The fee is $250 with a minimum of 10 runners, and $20 for additional runners. Registration is available online www.runforasafehaven.com.

“This year’s events are especially important as My Sister’s House celebrates the opening of its transitional house for domestic violence survivors. We hope to raise enough funds so that abused women and children have an option, other than the streets, to stay after they leave our emergency Safe Haven,” said Nilda Valmores, My Sister’s House Executive Director.
Proceeds will help My Sister’s House in its efforts to putting a stop to domestic violence and providing shelter to victims of domestic violence.

About My Sister’s House:
My Sister’s House is celebrating its 11th anniversary this year as the only non-profit organization in the Central Valley which specifically addresses the issue of domestic violence within the Central Valley’s highly diverse Asian/Pacific Islander community. My Sister’s House provides outreach and education to help prevent domestic violence, a 24/7 multi-lingual helpline, a 6 bed shelter, a 6 bed transitional house, and a Women to Work Program. Already it has provided more than 15,000 bed nights of shelter to Asian/Pacific women and children and other survivors of domestic violence. For more info about My Sister’s House, please call (916) 930-0626 or online at www.my-sisters-house.org.

Disclosure: Lynn Wolten is a Communications Intern at First 5 Sacramento Commission.

My Sister's House 4th Annual High Tea and Silent Auction

2012-09-19T20:46:36Z

October is national Domestic Violence Awareness Month. To raise awareness about this life-threatening problem, My Sister’s House, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence in the region, is hosting the 4th Annual High Tea on October 13th at the Chinese Community Church located at 5600 Gilgunn Way in South Sacramento.

The 4th Annual High Tea and Silent Auction originated with support from local religious leaders taking an active role to recognize signs of domestic violence. They wanted to provide life-saving services such as My Sister’s House to their congregation. The Tea is from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Chinese Community Church located at 5600 Gilgunn Way in Sacramento.

Individual tickets are $45. Tables for 10 are $350 which includes the opportunity for a tea hostess to decorate the table with a theme. Each year, attendees compete for the honor of being one of the most creative and elaborately-decorated tables. Tickets and table reservations are available online at www.my-sisters-house.org.

Proceeds from this event will help My Sister’s House in its efforts to putting a stop to domestic violence and providing shelter to victims of domestic violence.

About My Sister’s House:

My Sister’s House is celebrating its 11th anniversary this year as the only non-profit organization in the Central Valley which specifically addresses the issue of domestic violence within the Central Valley’s highly diverse Asian/Pacific Islander community. My Sister’s House provides outreach and education to help prevent domestic violence, a 24/7 multi-lingual helpline, a 6 bed shelter, a 6 bed transitional house, and a Women to Work Program. Already it has provided more than 15,000 bed nights of shelter to Asian/Pacific women and children and other survivors of domestic violence. For more info about My Sister’s House, please call (916) 930-0626 or online at www.my-sisters-house.org.

Disclosure: Lynn Wolten is a Communications Intern at First 5 Sacramento Commission.

Sacramento Salsa Fundraiser for Local Resident Noe Cruz #NoesFight

2012-08-30T05:48:34Z

SACRAMENTO – A Salsa Fundraiser for Sacramento resident Noe Cruz will be held on Saturday September 1, at Woodlake Hotel, 500 Leisure Lane, from 8pm-1:30am. The fundraiser will feature a professional salsa dance lesson, dance performances, raffle contest and prizes, and a night full of salsa, bachata and meringue dancing!

Noe Cruz, was involved in a life threatening accident on August 5, while vacationing with family in Mexico, where he was thrown off of a horse into a wall and instantly lost consciousness. An MRI scan revealed that he had suffered multiple skull fractures and blood clots in and around his brain. Doctors performed surgery and Noe was admitted into the hospital with a 2-5% chance of survival. Noe remained in a coma and in critical condition for over 2 weeks.

He is showing signs of recovery and is now stable enough to return home for further treatment. Due to Noe’s fragile condition and injuries he will require a fully medical-equipped flight to Sacramento, estimated at $30,000 and not covered by insurance.

“Noe’s family is desperate to bring him back to California in hopes of providing him with the absolute best medical care available to him," said family friend Ray Alcantar.

In an effort to help raise funds for Noe’s safe return home, the local community has rallied together to donate their resources and host fundraisers throughout Sacramento.

You are invited to put on your dancing shoes, celebrate Noe, his recovery, and love of salsa! Proceeds from fundraising efforts will go directly to Noe's family to help fund his medical flight home to Sacramento, where he can receive treatment and heal.

Salsa Fundraiser:
Day: Saturday, September 1
Time: from 8pm to 1:30am
Place: Woodlake Hotel, 500 Leisure Lane, Sacramento
Cover: $10
http://www.facebook.com/events/277886378982129/

"At this very moment, Noe’s spirit resides within all of us as we anxiously await his return.”

For more on Noe Cruz's accident, injuries, recovery and donation info, visit: http://www.giveforward.com/noesfight

Other Ways to Help:

Pizza/Karaoke Fundraiser:
Day: Thursday, August 30
Time: 7pm
Place: El Primo Sports Bar Y Restaurante, 2425 Northgate Blvd, Sacramento
http://www.facebook.com/events/416844945039594/

Car Wash:
Day: Saturday, September 1
Time: from 10am to4 pm
Place: The Station,1100 Orlando Ave., Roseville

Donate Directly via Giveforward.com: http://www.giveforward.com/noesfight

Disclosure: Angela Rosas is a family friend of Noe Cruz's.

Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite Squad gives back to community

2012-08-17T01:59:56Z

Cheerleaders are known for their ability to pep up a crowd and cheer on a team, but one local cheer squad is more then just loud voices and pretty faces.

The Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite (SSCE) is an organization that not only supports its community and cheers on the Sacramento Sirens, an all-female football team, but can also show off members’ talents and love for cheer.

Started seven years ago, coach and co-founder Misty Mastella was inspired to create the Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite after seeing another cheerleading squad.

"I saw Cheer S.F. perform, and it motivated me to start my own squad here in Sacramento," explains Mastella.

With years of experience as a cheerleader and coach, Mastella aimed to create a squad that had a competitive cheer technique, but still maintained motivation and heart to help out the less fortunate.

The Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite squad is part of the Pride Cheerleading Association (PCA), which "sets itself apart from traditional cheerleading through philanthropic efforts supporting people living with life-threatening challenges."

From cheering at the Sacramento Sirens’ home games, to taking its skills to the various Pride festivals and events throughout Northern California, the Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite team strives to help its community.

Along with giving back, members also strive to have the best on their squad, and take pride in showing off their team’s skills.

Whether you've been cheering for years or have never thrown a toe touch or backhand spring, the Sirens Cheer squad is open to all those willing to learn.

Demetra DeVisscher, 25, who had never cheered before, decided to try out for the team because of a friend.

"I've always been interested in doing it, but never really had the opportunity," explains DeVisscher. "My best friend is an avid cheerleader and told me about how some people here have never cheered before, and it made me think that this may be something on my level."

That's another part that makes this squad unique, its mixture of teammates who were either avid cheerleaders or had never cheered before in their life.

A great example of this would be coach Ray "Chowch" Cruz.

Going on his fifth year with the Sirens Cheer squad, Cruz wasn't always a cheerleader.

"I was kind of thrown into it," explains Cruz. "Misty had asked me to help out one day and starting off I had never cheered before. I tried it, it was hard, but it was a pretty good workout and (I) got hooked on it."

The great thing about the squad’s coaches and teammates is their willingness and ability to help build skills for those who show potential, and also keep in mind the overall goal of the team.

The tryout process includes a sit-down interview with the two coaches and co-captain, to get a feel for the motives of those trying out.

"We are looking for the right attitude," explains Mastella about the interview process. "We want to see potential, but we don't want someone who is only wanting to be on the team to compete."

After interviews, the tryout process began, and included learning a cheer, practicing several stunts and then putting it all together.

While the coaches looked at what skills those trying out already have, they also considered how quickly cheerleading candidates picked up the skills shown.

Current squad members were very friendly and helpful when showing cheerleading candidates what they could do to improve.

After going through several different stunts and learning a cheer, the real tryouts began when each individual demonstrated their ability to cheer, perform stunts, show jumps and tumbling, if they had the skills.

As the tryout process lasted over three hours, all cheer candidates had a good sense of what to expect if they made the team.

Jenna Schook, 25, is already a member of the squad, and has been with it for almost a year.

"I like to help people and give back to the community," explains Schook. "The main reason I decided to go with the Sirens instead of an adult open league is because we give back and we are so involved in fundraising."

There is something special about this team. Willingly sharing talents and skills with their community, the Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite squad offers more than the average competitive cheer squad.

Disclosure: Anyone interested in trying out, The Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite squad will be holding their third and last tryout session before the start of their season. Tryouts will be held September 19th at 7pm at the Royal All Stars Gym.

Soccer Fans Will Kick it at "Barefoot on the Pitch"

2012-08-15T23:44:55Z

Adults from around the Sacramento region are getting ready to kick off their shoes on Davis Legacy Soccer club's fields at the first-ever "Barefoot on the Pitch" fundraiser on September 8, 2012 from 6 to 9 p.m.

At the event, fans will enjoy live music, local beer and wine and delicious food from some of Sacramento’s hottest gourmet food trucks including Mama Kim’s, Wicked Wich, El Matador, Jeezils BBQ and dessert from Panera Bread.

Tickets are available from Legacy Players for $40 per person and online at $45 per person at www.davislegacysoccer.org. Admission tickets include soccer penalty cards including $10 worth of red cards for food and $10 worth of yellow cards for beer and wine.

It should be noted this is a community-wide event with roughly 10-15 percent of the Davis Legacy Soccer Club players coming from throughout the Sacramento region, from El Dorado Hills to Roseville to Elk Grove and everywhere in between.

“The goal of this event is to showcase our facility to our community and help support the excellent work of our coaches and club leadership to offer a nationally-renowned soccer program and facility to our youth,” said event chairman Matt Bosco.

The event will include door prizes, a raffle and silent auction.

Davis Legacy Fields are located south of I-80 on Chiles Rd.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and individuals. Proceeds benefit Davis Youth Soccer League, a non-profit 501c3 organization and will help fund needed lighting at Davis Legacy Soccer Fields

Disclosure: Cheryl Cink represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento region and is a proud parents of two legacy soccer players.

La Sierra skate park brings light to financial struggles

2012-08-06T05:34:50Z

Skateboarding, music and food was the highlight this past Saturday at the La Sierra Community Center. A music fundraiser was being held at the La Sierra Skate Park, looking to raise money to help keep the park open.

With the ongoing financial struggles throughout the city, including the skate park, it's essential that fundraisers be held.

Elizabeth Crisante, Recreation Supervisor for the La Sierra Community Center, is adamant on doing what needs to be done to keep the skate park open.

"The skate park was actually slated to close July 2011 due to budget cuts," explained Crisante. "But with donations from local businesses and the implementation of some revenue producing ideas, we were able to keep the park open on a modified schedule during the school year."

A music fundraiser is just one of the events that the skate park holds to help bring not only donations to the park, but also awareness that the park is not self-sufficient and that the help of the community is always needed.

The bands that participated in the fundraiser on Saturday were local Sacramento artists including: Adrian Bourgeois, Isaac Bear and Genrenaut. The music was a mixture of pop and rock and was a great addition to the fundraiser.

Adrian Bourgeois, local pop artist, enjoys playing for fundraisers like these to help spread the awareness of a good cause.

"That's kind of the main reason I do music," explained Bourgeois. "I think it's a great way of illuminating certain causes and I think concerts to benefit various events can be a really powerful tool."

From keeping kids off the streets to staying active, the La Sierra Skate Park enables young skaters the ability to do what they love the most in a safe environment.

Bobby Kerr, the Recreation Coordinator for the skate park, has passion for doing what needs to be done to make sure the park stays open.

A skateboarder and musician, Kerr is motivated in making sure that the youth in the area will have a safe and fun place to skateboard.

"This is what I want to do," explained Kerr. "I've been here long enough to know what needs to be done in order to keep the park open and I feel like it's my duty to stay here."

By looking at the talent that these young kids have, it's motivation for anyone to give what they can to make sure this park stays open.

Mike, a 17-year-old skateboarder started off at the age of 9 at the La Sierra Skate Park.

"I used to play baseball and would look at the skate park and see how much fun everyone else was having," explains Mike. "That's when I quit baseball around 9 and have been skating ever since."

From marveling the skate park from afar, or seeing other friends skateboard, everyone here had their own way of getting into the sport.
JD and Andrew, both 15-years-old, have been skating for three years.

"We got started skating because of our friends. We saw tricks and wanted to try it," said Andrew and JD.

Over the years, the La Sierra skate park has created an abundance of good memories for those that have used it and it's important to keep a place where people can remember when they started skating as well as a place to skate safely at.

"This place helped me grow with basic skills," explained Mike. "It's definitely a memory place, we always reminisce. I'd be sad to see it go."

11-year-old Trevor, one of the younger skateboarders at the park shows that starting young and having a place to start is important.
"I've been skating since I was 6-years-old and got into skateboarding because of my dad," said Trevor.

Not only does the La Sierra Skate Park give these kids a safe place to skate but has started future dreams for the youth.

"I like to film here, I film a lot of the guys skating," explains Mike who has decided he wants to go to film school. And young Trevor has dreams too. "My favorite skater is, Curren Caples. I'd like to be a pro skateboarder when I get older," explained 11-year-old Trevor.

From memories and friends, La Sierra Skate Park is a place that generations will remember as the first place they started skating, or where they decided they wanted to become a professional.

That's why it's important to let the community know of this great place, and what needs to be done to make sure it's always open.

From giving donations to supporting annual fundraisers being held for the park, it's essential for the community to stay in tune with how the park is doing financially and seeing if there is anything they can do to pitch in.

"I hope our participants enjoy the music and have a great time," explained Crisante. "While also bringing in additional revenue, every little bit helps."

Making events like this music fundraiser and other occasions known, the community can experience the great influence it has on the youth and their future.

"I always tell the older kids here that there is a new generation and we need to make sure that this is here for them too," says Kerr.

Disclosure: If interested in making a donation to the La Sierra Skate Park visit http://www.carmichaelpark.com/skatepark.htm for more information.

Runnin' Wild through the Sierra Foothills

2012-07-25T18:08:46Z

Runners, walkers and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages are invited to run wild on Saturday, September 22, 2012 at the 4th Annual Gold Rush Fun Run on the El Dorado Trail in beautiful El Dorado County. Area nonprofit INALLIANCE is once again hosting the event that sends participants on a tour through the Sierra Nevada Foothills in 10 mile, 10K, 5K and 1 mile races along what used to be the Michigan California Lumber Company railway corridor, but now boasts lush vegetation and scenic vistas.

Following the races, guests will enjoy a Finish Line Celebration featuring snacks, wine and hard cider sampling, music, raffle prizes, and awards ceremony. Races will be chip timed, and medals will be awarded to the best overall male and female finishers in each race, as well as by age divisions.

The Gold Rush Fun Run is the annual benefit for INALLIANCE, a nonprofit organization that supports the independence, health and safety of people with developmental disabilities through community programs. Proceeds from the 2012 event will go to direct services that prepare people with disabilities to live, work and thrive in their communities. Last year, over 300 participants competed in the event, raising nearly $8,000 for vital services. This year organizers hope to double that amount.

The Gold Rush Fun Run offers participants a unique opportunity to view the beautiful Gold Country area at its best. And unlike other fun runs, this event features fantastic raffle prizes including a trip to Lake Tahoe, wine packages and more. Registration is now open, and INALLIANCE is offering a discount on registration and free raffle tickets for everyone who signs up by August 17. For more information and to register visit www.goldrushfunrun.com or email jbean@inallianceinc.com.

Disclosure: Jessica Bean is an employee of INALLIANCE

Bike 2 Beat Cancer Ride ride to support Christina Pirruccello and family

2012-07-25T03:48:15Z

Although West Sacramento resident Christina Pirruccello is currently undergoing chemotherapy for her second battle with breast cancer in two years, she has, according to friends, remained just as positive, chipper and energetic as she was in her high school cheerleading days.

During this financially difficult time, high school friends and alumni have bonded together and created the inaugural Bike 2 Beat Cancer Ride on Saturday. The event will raise money through raffles and a silent auction that will support Pirruccello’s wish of building an education fund for her nearly 3-year-old daughter, Ella.

“The community coming together to support her on Saturday is going to help make her wish come true,” Pirruccello’s close friend and one of the event organizers, Mary Huarte, said. “This awful disease she is battling could grab me, you or anyone. It’s happening to her right now, and it’s her wish that her daughter has educational opportunities in the future.”

The ride will begin at 8:45 a.m. at de Vere’s Irish Pub at 16th and L streets in Sacramento, and end with a silent auction and raffle at the sister pub in Davis. Tickets are $25 and cycling organization Team Mad Cat will offer three group ride-back times.

“We kicked around a lot of ideas and thought this might be a good way to show support,” de Vere’s Irish Pub co-owner Henry De Vere White said. “When Christina beat cancer the first time (July 2011), she took took up bike riding, so we all felt having a ride would be a good fit.”

De Vere White said that the bike ride was something he started last year with local bike enthusiasts as a fun event – it was not until a group of he and Christina’s close friends, Huarte included, approached him that he decided to utilize the bike ride as a fundraiser for Ella’s education.

“The original idea was to do an event for Christina so she’d have some money to do something fun with after chemo,” Huarte said. “But she said, ‘If you really want to raise money, what I’d really like is to be able to send Ella to Christian Brothers.’ ”

Located at 4315 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Christian Brothers High School is Sacramento’s longest-thriving Catholic high school with a baseline tuition of around $11,600 a year. It boasts more than 14,000 alumni – Pirruccello, Huarte and de Vere White included. It is Pirruccello’s wish to see her daughter educated at the same school.

According to De Vere White, the support the event has received from local restaurants and businesses has been considerable. Items donated for the silent auction and raffle include a cruiser bike, snowboards, tickets for the San Francisco Ballet, a five-course whiskey dinner for six hosted by De Vere White and his brother, and much more.

According to De Vere White, Pirruccello is very thankful that the community has come together on her behalf and greatly appreciates the support. If enough money isn’t raised this year for Ella’s education, the ride will be held annually in Pirruccello’s honor. After Ella’s goal is reached, de Vere White said he hopes to continue the ride and develop a scholarship fund for families who are overwhelmed by the cost of cancer treatment yet want to send their children to school.

“The ride is a great representation of people supporting local,” De Vere White said. “Here it is: a local girl, a local family, local alumni, a local school and all the businesses coming together. It’s nice to see that that can happen on such a large scale, and we’re hoping it leads to a great event.”

Racing for a Reason: Renee Cisneros

2012-07-11T19:06:19Z

The fourth annual Race for the Ring is coming to Sacramento on July 14, 2012. This text messaged based treasure hunt on bike through downtown Sacramento directly benefits programs at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS). Teams of two will pedal, scoot and wheel their way through downtown Sacramento guided by text message clues in search of more than $10,000 in prizes.

Each week leading up to the event, we have interviewed someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Our final interview is with Renee Cisneros.

The Sacramento Press: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Renee Cisneros: I am 29 years old and this is going to be my third year in a row doing Race for the Ring. I have lived in Sacramento since 2005 and attended Sac State, graduating in 2007.

I started working for an insurance company and became friends with a coworker's wife and she has been my partner [in Race for the Ring] every year. She is a Sacramento native and very familiar with locations around town, which is what I think helped us get third place our first year!

SP: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
RC: I must say all the jewelry is beautiful. However, I am a big fan of the diamonds. I love the earrings and of course the gorgeous ring!

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
RC: I am a thrill-seeker and even though this isn't skydiving or anything, it's extremely exciting to not know what place you are in until the end. The adrenaline is pumping, trying to hurry and answer a question to get to the next spot with your fingers crossed that you placed high enough for a prize!

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
RC: SFBFS is awesome. Participating in the event itself is so fun and SFBFS helps so many people.

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
RC: This year I am a race participant. Again, I try to attend SFBFS [fundraisers] because they support such a great cause.

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website or the Race for the RIng splash page.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Racing for a Reason: Eli Roth

2012-07-09T16:59:46Z

Each week leading up to the event, we have interviewed someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

This week's interview is with Eli Roth.

The Sacramento Press: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Eli Roth: I got involved with Race for the Rock (the old name) the first year because it just sounded like fun. I chose a great partner 1 Maureen Pascoe. She had all the right attributes: bicycle riding abilities, an iphone, skill at sending and receiving text messages and knowledge of the area. That was more important that year than in later years because then you had to guess where to go. Knowing the city and its landmarks and history was important. Between Maureen and I, we had it dialed in. I, on the other hand, had a Luddite phone that would not text and ride a cruiser with coaster brakes (not fast in any way). I was not "tech" enough to do more than just enjoy the fun. But, hey, we came in third place that year. And, the next. And, last year we came in second. This year, I decided to give someone else a chance and help as a volunteer. The volunteers have always been great.

SP: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
ER: The necklace we won two years ago was lovely, but not my favorite. The ring last year, also. I think my favorite piece of jewelry is my grandmother's engagement ring (not from the guy she evenutally married - great stories there). It is white gold filigree and a princess cut amethyst.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
ER: Helping with the clues. I want to see how it is all done.

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
ER: I am appalled that we think of ourselves as one of the most "civilized" counties in the world ("the most civilized"?) and we have people, including children, starving and homeless. There are so many ways to help feed people that we simply ignore. Why, for example, is the "City of Trees" a city of non-edible trees. Why not line the streets with fruit trees so supplies are plentifiul. Yes, I get that the fruit dropping would be horrendous, but what a way to provide jobs to the unemployed. Picking the fruit that is in season for the Food Bank would be some mighty honorable work.

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
ER: I am going to help with the clues and, I think, be a clue volunteer during the race. I like that I will get to meet more of the racers. When one is racing, one does not take the time to meet very many of one's competitors.

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
ER: In addition to food, the Sacramento Food Bank provides a lot of education for parents. (That's probably why it is called "& Family Services.")

SP: Anything else you would like to add?
ER: To all the racers, if you want to win, my best tip is just keep moving. Oh, and, I've never regretted donating my winnings right back to the Food Bank. :)

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website or the Race for the RIng splash page.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Racing for a Reason: Shaun Philippart

2012-07-02T17:38:39Z

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

This week's interview is with Shaun Philippart, a Biologist who loves being active outdoors!

The Sacramento Press: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Shaun Philippart: My name is Shaun and I am Biologist, so I like to spend time being active outdoors. I got into running about four years ago because of my friend Mary, who also got me to try Race for the Ring last year. In addition to running I enjoy playing soccer, basketball, hiking, and of course biking!

SP: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
Shaun: I am pretty sure my riding partner likes everything, but I would definitely go for the fancy watch. I don’t think I’ve ever had a watch that didn’t have a plastic wristband.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
Shaun: Having a great time and trying to do better than last year! Plus, it will be fun to see the unique costumes people come up with this year and the after party rocks!!

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
Shaun: It’s my small way of contributing to a great organization that supports those who are in need of help. I really want to show my support for the services that the Sacramento Food Bank provides.

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Shaun: This will be my second year competing in Race for the Ring and I can’t wait! It’s a great way to have fun, exercise, and use some brain power.

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Shaun: The one thing I know is that the staff that works for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services is amazing and does great work in the community.

SP: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Shaun: If you haven’t signed up for Race for the Ring 2012, what are you waiting for!? I guarantee you will have a great time!!

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website or the Race for the RIng splash page.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Race for the Ring is Just Around the Corner

2012-06-28T18:43:52Z

Grab your mobile phone, tune up your cruiser bike and get ready for an experience you’ll never forget. The 4th annual Race for the Ring, sponsored by Bank of America, will send out the first clue from Raley Field on July 14th at 10am. This exciting, text message based scavenger hunt will send hundreds of adventure seekers throughout downtown Sacramento looking for clues, solving riddles and mastering unique challenges. All participants are competing for amazing prizes provided by Roger’s Jewelry Company.

In a new twist this year, Rogers Jewelry Company will provide nine unique rings, all valued around $5,000 each, for the winning team to choose from. Participants need not be hoping to become engaged to play. This competition is for everyone ages 18 and up. Other prizes for top finishers include gift certificates to local restaurants and other cool surprises.

Worried you won’t place in the top spots? No worries, there are still chances to win incredible prizes for best team name and best accessorized team! Not to mention you’ll walk away with a cool shirt, goody bag, full stomach and hysterical memories. Check out the excitement in last year’s video.

Registration is $50 per team of two and includes:
• Two t-shirts
• Entry into the after party with beer garden and live band
• Lunch for two
• Goody bags
• Chance to win amazing prizes

All proceeds from the day benefit Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, a local charity serving thousands of families in need with food, clothing and education every month.

Click here for more information and to sign-up. Just a few weeks left to register!

Not a fan of biking? Going to be out of town that weekend? Not a big texter? You can still support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services by being a virtual participant. Register for the event and you’ll receive your shirts and goody bags after the event.

See you on July 14!

Disclosure: Kelly Siefkin is an employee of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.

Community supporters go wild for Sacramento Zoo's 'King of Feasts' fundraiser

2012-06-25T14:16:45Z

photographs by Barry Wisdom /

Street signage refers to Sacramento's wild-animal habitat as the "Land Park Zoo," but the 14.4-acre facility could have passed for a refuge in the South Pacific Saturday evening when the Sacramento Zoological Society hosted its "King of Feasts" fundraiser.

The Polynesian-themed event, which showcased menu items from more than 50 Sacramento-area food-and-beverage purveyors, also featured 60 silent-auction items spread across a trio of tables.

Auction items ranged from gourmet olive oil to kayak rentals, with proceeds earmarked to support the Sacramento Zoo's animal care, habitat improvements, and education and conservation programs.

The $60 admission tickets included complimentary food and beverages, and a mix of entertainment, including Polynesian dancers, the Hawaiian guitar stylings of Kalei Kema, the Na Aikane Ukulele Club, and DJ Blackheart and his "Tiki Dance Party."

Sponsorship for the event was also provided by Wells Fargo and Sacramento Press.

Racing for a Reason: Lori Rianda

2012-06-11T21:11:24Z

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

This week's interview is with Lori Rianda, an employee of event sponsor Bank of America.

The Sacramento Press: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lori Rianda: I have been with Bank of America as the Senior Vice President for Corporate Social Responsibility for nearly two years. Prior to joining the bank I was in nonprofit management in the Sacramento region for ten years.

SP: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
LR: A beautiful 1920’s gold cuff bracelet that had belonged to my grandmother when she was girl.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
LR: I love the excitement of the competition! It’s so much fun to witness clues being solved and to enjoy the celebration at the end of the race!

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
LR: Bank of America and Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services have a long history of partnering to meet the needs of the community. Race for the Ring is a great event that raises money for and awareness of the impactful programs that Blake and his team provide residents of Sacramento.

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
LR: Bank of America is proud to be the presenting sponsor of this year’s Race for the Ring.

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
LR: SFBFS is a national model for best practices in the delivery of fresh, healthy foods to community members. Their mobile food distribution program is set up as a farmer’s market where individuals and families are able to see the produce, enjoy samples, observe cooking demonstrations, gather recipes, and access health and nutrition resources all at no cost.

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

You can't beat 'Can't Touch This'

2012-06-05T23:17:27Z

Sacramento Ballet apprentice dancer Alex Stewart devised the first "At the Ballet" fundraiser for the local dance company three years ago as his senior project at Natomas Charter School. Last year, he and older brother Tim (another graduate of the Natomas school's performing and fine arts program, who now attends CSUS with a double major in theater and deaf studies) collaborated on a second installment. They're back -- with a vengenance -- this year with "At the Ballet III: Can't Touch This!" which continues at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through June 17. It is one exhilarating rush of a show, swift in pacing and sure in execution.

The brothers (Alex is 20, Tim 22) are co-writers, co-producers, co-directors and co-stars of the show, which features a dozen talented singers and dancers performing 22 songs ranging from MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This" to Beyonce's "Single Ladies," from the Dixie Chicks' "Cowboy Take Me Away" and Queen's "Somebody to Love" to Ethel Waters' "Stormy Weather." All the tunes are linked by a clever script that creates (or mimics -- it's hard to tell) real personalities of the cast members. Among them are divas, doufusses and daring dressers -- although most of the show is performed "in uniform" of shirt, jeans and sneakers. In addition to the Stewart brothers, the likable cast (many of whom are current or recent CSUS students) includes Olivia Hughes, Ryan Blanning, Taylor "Tay" Grossman, Ruby Brungess, Urias Davis, Hunter Guenza, Rebecca Yarborough, Annie Purvis and Julia Soto. Carly Stewart (yes, a talented younger sibling of the brothers) and "Sean Nill" (who has a surprisingly close relationship to Tim Stewart) also are featured.

There is a relaxed cameraderie among the performers that allows for friendly give-and-take banter between the smartly selected songs. "Okay, It's Alright With Me, "Forget You," "I Will Follow You," Make You Feel My Love, "Let's Get It On" are among the highlights. The tunes -- sultry, sexy, sometimes silly -- are accompanied by live music from the excellent four-piece Shlagel-Shlage and the Shlaggets band.

So far, "At the Ballet" has raised more than $12,000 for the ballet company. The third installment has six more performances this weekend and next to push that total higher.

Disclosure: My wife assisted in soliciting donations to be awarded by drawing at the conclusion of "At the Ballet III."

Racing for a Reason: Stephanie Petrakos

2012-06-05T20:30:19Z

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Today's interview is with Stephanie Petrakos, an employee of event sponsor Five Star Bank. Stephanie has been with the company for six years, starting as a teller and working her way up to her current position as Vice President, Credit Administrator. She assists the Chief Credit Officer in managing the bank's loan portfolio.

In her free time, she loves to go camping and backpacking. This past weekend she climbed Clouds Rest at Yosemite National Park, called the 9,900 foot scene "spectacular" due to its 360 degree view of the Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?

The wedding ring my husband gave me four years ago.

What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?

All of the food, music, and entertainment at the after party. It’s nice to sit back and relax after the race.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?

Given the down economy and high unemployment rate, there’s an abundance of “everyday” people that need some temporary assistance. Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services is an excellent way to reach out and help them.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?

My co-workers and I like to challenge each other. There’s all this hype about who will be on who’s team, and which team will beat the others. It’s fun to have a little healthy banter around the office. Just for the record – my teammate, Lainey and I are going to win!

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?

My company has sponsored this event for the past three years. We are a "Ring Seeker" sponsor this year. Our Chief Financial Officer, Krista Snelling, has sat on the Board of Directors for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services since 2010.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?

The new Education Center has a Demonstration Garden where clients can take gardening workshops and/or just stop by to talk to their local gardener. It’s a very cool program where the community they serve can learn how to grow their own delicious and nutritious food!

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?

Race for the Ring is probably the most entertaining and well-organized event I’ve been to. It’s a great way to raise awareness and funds for [SFBFS] all while enjoying the company of others, challenging yourself intellectually, learning the historic/popular landmarks downtown, and getting some exercise. Plus, there’s great food, entertainment, and prizes in the end. Who could ask for more?

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Bargain hunters take note: Boulevard Park annual yard sale Saturday

2012-05-30T04:40:36Z

The minute she laid eyes on it, Sally Flory-O’Neil knew she was taking it home: a brand new, 3-foot-tall cat scratching tree for just $10.

“It was an incredible find,” Midtown resident Flory-O’Neil said. “They usually sell for $80 or $90.”

Treasures of all shapes and sizes will be waiting for bargain hunters at the Boulevard Park Neighborhood Association’s annual yard sale in Midtown Saturday.

The sale starts at 9 a.m. on the 22nd Street median between F and G streets and wraps up at 1 p.m., according to the BPNA Park Beat newsletter.

BPNA member Pat Cosentino said more than two dozen families donate items to the annual sale, so there will be a wide variety of items for shoppers to discover.

Cosentino is the designated “treasure keeper” leading up to the event, and neighbors use his six-car garage to collect and store items for sale. He starts storing the items about two weeks ahead of the event, and more treasures roll in as the day draws nearer.

“By the weekend before the sale, my truck no longer fits in the garage,” Cosentino said.

For sale this year are items ranging from a large leather sofa to new rubber garden boots and everything in between, Cosentino said.

“We’ll have furniture and and glassware and knick-knacks and doodads for everyone,” he said.

But don’t wait until the last minute to go check it out.

“Everybody and their cousin comes to the sale,” Flory-O’Neil said. “They get there while it’s being set up and just keep coming. People just kind of descend on it.”

The event is BPNA’s largest fundraiser, and money collected is used to publish the association’s monthly newsletter, make grants to local organizations and finance neighborhood events including an annual holiday party and spaghetti dinner.

For more information, or if you have something to donate to the sale, contact Asha Jennings at ashajennings@gmail.com

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

Racing for a Reason: Jeffrey Thorne

2012-05-29T16:49:22Z

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Today's interview is with Jeffrey Thorne, an active single father of a 12- and 16-year-old, who he calls "great kids." In his free time Jeffrey runs, bikes, kayaks and hikes and says that he has more energy than he knows what to do with!

The Sacramento Press: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
Jeffrey Thorne: Easy one; the Triton Tungsten and Silver Band or any of the Tungston men’s rings.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
JT: This year I must get more answers correct than last year! Some of the questions are 100 percent challenging (a.k.a. difficult).

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
JT: I’ve been running November’s Run To Feed the Hungry for the last few years and I love having another fun way to help the community.

SP: If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
JT: OMG… the event itself and food at the end! This is one of the best supported events in all of Northern California. Great fun. Great place to start and finish. Great vibe.

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
JT: [I'm a] happy contributor to the cause.

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
JT: Women’s Wisdom Art… a great way to open one’s creative side and excellent therapy when in crisis.

SP: Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
JT: I can’t wait until my son is old enough to do this event with me!

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

KVIE Juried Art Competition Now Calling Artists

2012-05-23T22:53:09Z

For thirty-one years, KVIE Public Television has created an accessible venue to bring art into the homes of Northern Californians throught its annual art auction as well as original KVIE documentaries and national programs on the arts. Today, the station is pleased to announce its call for emerging and established artists to enter their work into the 2012 KVIE Art Auction juried art competition. Artists get the chance to win a cash award for their artwork, which includes $500 for the Best of Show or $100 for a First Place award in each category. A Juror’s Award will be given to two artists as recognition for excellence in selected categories. The entry categories are: California's Gold, Photography and Prints, Contemporary Classics, Representational, and Sculpture. The jurors, who represent some of the finest artists in our region, are Matt Bult, Gregory Kondos, Liv Moe, Annie Murphy-Robinson, Avery Palmer, Gary Pruner, and Russ Solomon. And, there is no entry fee.

Online Submission: Artists may submit their art online at kvie.org/artauction, through June 16, 2012. Artists using online submission will be notified via email within two weeks if their works are accepted. Accepted works become the property of KVIE and will not be returned.

In-Person Submission: Artists who prefer to submit their work in person may do so on June 15 or 16, 2012 from Noon to 5pm at KVIE Studios (2030 W. El Camino Ave., Sacramento). In-person submissions will be accepted or declined for jurying on the spot. Artists may bring a second item in the event the first submission is declined.

All accepted art will be juried into either the live, televised auction broadcast on channel 6 September 28, 29, 30, 2012 or its companion online auction running September 24 - 30, 2012. All accepted art will be displayed at the public Preview Gala held on Monday, September 24.

Art donations and auction proceeds help KVIE in its mission to bring new ideas and adventures to everyone in our region while showcasing works of great local artists.

The Preview Gala is presented in partnership with the Amador Vintners Association. The 2012 KVIE Art Auction is sponsored by The Niello Company and Mansour’s Oriental Rug Gallery.

Details at kvie.org/artauction. For updates about the art auction and arts programs on KVIE, join our artists community on Facebook at facebook.com/KVIEArtists.

Disclosure: Sheryl Brown is the marketing communications manager at KVIE Public Television and is a collector of local art.

Sacramento gets ready to "play ball" at "A Day on the EDGE" fundraiser

2012-05-21T19:08:32Z

Sacramento, Let's Play Ball!

Dodgeball, that is. And for a good cause!

Metro EDGE, Sacramento’s premiere network of 40-and-under young professionals, is excited to announce the third annual “A Day on the EDGE” fundraiser. This year’s event will feature a dodgeball tournament complete with great music, food, and drinks – all to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento.

A program of the Sacramento Metro Chamber, Metro EDGE identifies and supports a local nonprofit organization through volunteerism and philanthropic giving every year. For 2012, Metro EDGE is supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento, which works to inspire young people to dream big and reach their potential while providing much needed support to over 2,000 young people in the Sacramento region annually.

“We are thrilled to be the beneficiary of A Day on the EDGE, and to be partnering with such an exciting group. This partnership is a perfect fit for the Boys & Girls Clubs,” said Karolina Nazario, Development Manager of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento.

Sean O’Brien, Chair of Metro EDGE, echoed Nazario’s enthusiasm: “Metro EDGE is extremely excited to partner with such a fantastic organization, and to be able to support an organization that provides kids with opportunities to develop the leadership and career skills they need to be successful in the business world could not be more fitting. Access to programs of this kind is what will enable these young people to become our region’s next generation of business and civic leaders.”

O’Brien and Metro EDGE expect this year’s A Day on the EDGE fundraiser to draw more than 300 tournament participants and spectators. Participating teams will compete for dodgeball victory as well as the prize for best team costume. The fun and games will begin at 10 am on Saturday, June 16, 2012, at the Boys & Girls Club, 5212 Lemon Hill Avenue, Sacramento, 95824. There will be delicious food from Chipotle, drinks from Ruhstaller, and great music from DJ Danny Mijangos to top off what will already be a great event.

If you’re interested in forming or playing on a dodgeball team, click here to register or to obtain more information about the event. No prior experience is necessary, but you must be 18+. But ACT FAST, because the deadline for registration is June 1st. The cost is $250 per dodgeball team or $25 for individual players. General admission tickets to enjoy the day’s festivities are only $5.

So Sacramentans, start organizing your teams today, and get ready to dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge again to help support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento!

Disclosure: Rachel Huberman is a member of Metro Edge, a program of the Sacramento Metro Chamber for Sacramento's 40 and under young professionals.

Racing for a Reason: Stephanie Nuccitelli

2012-05-21T18:44:26Z

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Today's interview is with Stephanie Nuccitelli, Social Media Lead at The Sacramento Press, teacher at UC Davis Early Childhood Lab School and publisher of a food blog, 52 Kitchen Adventures. In her spare time she loves to bake, try new recipes and spends time with her friends, family and pet rabbit.

The Sacramento Press: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
Stephanie Nuccitelli: My favorite piece of jewelry is a heart-shaped necklace that my boyfriend Russ gave me several years ago for my birthday.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
SN: Riding on my newer, faster bike and hopefully not getting a flat tire like I did last time! I'm also looking forward to learning more about Sacramento and having a fun day riding around town.

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
SN: Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) is a wonderful organization that helps so many people in our community. I support them whenever I can, and this is a fun way to do so.

SP: If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
SN: I participated 2 years ago. The best part of the race was cruising around Sacramento trying to figure out the clues. I learned a lot about the area that day!

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
SN: I'm a Race for the Ring racer and a SFBFS supporter.

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
SN: SFBFS provides so much more than food. They offer free educational services for children and adults, clothing, parent education, and a lot more. Plus, every $1 donated to SFBFS is turned into $10 worth of products and services for the Sacramento community - that's pretty amazing!

SP: Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
SN: Race for the Ring is such a fun event and supports a local organization that does so much good in our community. If you're reading this, you should think about signing up - you won't regret it!

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Disclosure: The Sacramento Press is a media sponsor of Race for the Ring.

Race for the Ring is Back!

2012-05-17T17:59:15Z

Fans of TV’s globe-trotting race game can now test their strategies and stellar cluesolving prowess right here in Sacramento! Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) is preparing to host the 4th annual Race for the Ring on July 14, 2012. Hundreds of Sacramento area residents will return for this exciting, location-based game where clues and answers are exchanged via text messages. Participants race from location to location on bike, scooter or foot throughout Downtown and Midtown solving riddles and interactive challenges. Points are awarded for each correctly answered question or properly completed challenge and the team with the most points at the end wins! Prizes include jewelry from Rogers Jewelry Company and gifts from Sacramento-area vendors.

The $50 registration fee for any team includes two race shirts, entrance into the after-party, lunch, a chance to win amazing prizes and a guaranteed day of fun. 100% of the proceeds support SFBFS’ programs. For the price of a modest dinner for two, any pair of friends, relatives, co-workers or those hoping to become engaged can support families in need in our community. In an effort to keep the event fun and competitive, we’ve limited registration to the first 500 teams. In addition to the top 10 finishers winning incredible prizes, prizes will also be awarded to best team name and best-accessorized bicycles. A silent auction will also be offered to raise funds for SFBFS.

For those who can't make it out for the event or are not the world's best texter, individuals can be a virtual racer. Participants still receive shirts, may join the after party and the registration fee supports SFBFS.

What: Race for the Ring
Where: Downtown Sacramento (kick-off and after-party at Raley Field)
When: July 14, 2012, Registration opens at 9 a.m., kick off at 10 a.m.
Who: Anyone age 18 and up
Why: To support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services th

Click here to regsiter. See you on July 14!

Disclosure: Kelly Siefkin is an employee of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services

Sacramento Gets A Taste of "Iron Chef" Style Cooking

2012-05-08T19:20:12Z

On June 23, 2012, Sacramento will be treated to the Sacramento Chef Challenge, an annual fundraiser for people with developmental disabilities that features an "Iron Chef" style cooking battle, Cake War competition, gourmet food sampling, beer and wine tasting, live music and more!

For $25 a piece, guests are treated to a culinary extravaganza beginning with fair from local restaurants, wineries and breweries including The Couch Sports Lounge, Two Rivers Cider, Terra d’Oro Winery and Morgan’s Restaurant.

The first of two competitions will pit three professional chefs in a head to head battle for culinary glory. Chef Challengers will have three hours to prepare and sample an original menu to event guests, who will then cast their vote to determine the winner. Chefs will have to integrate three specialty ingredients into their menus while incorporating the theme “Hot Summer Nights!” This year’s chef challengers are Kristela Nazario-Mendoza of Pyramid Alehouse, Brewery & Restaurant; Keith Erickson of Colusa Casino Resort; and Philippe Caillot of the Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program.

The second competition is Battle Cupcakes. A combination of professional and amateur cupcake makers will compete in a sweet competition by creating an original cupcake and display to be tasted by and voted on by guests! The 2012 professional challengers are Carlos Mares of Vanilla Bean Gourmet Cupcakes, Bethany Gist of Auntie Bea’s Bakery and Monique Cortes of Sassy Sweets by Monique. Amateur competitors will be announced in mid-May!

The Sacramento Chef Challenge is a fundraiser for INALLIANCE, a local nonprofit that provides services focusing on the independence, health and safety of people with developmental disabilities, which means the $25 ticket price will go towards a great cause.

The event also boasts some fantastic raffle and silent auction items including a Lake Tahoe Getaway, a Disneyland Vacation and season subscriptions to the B Street Theatre Company. If all of that isn’t enough to send you flying to the computer to buy tickets, there will be live music!

Tickets make a great gift for Mothers and College Grads, and can be purchased online at www.chefevent.com. For more information please email jbean@inallianceinc.com or call 916-381-1300 x170.

Disclosure: Jessica Bean is an employee of INALLIANCE.

CASH For a Cause Evening Benefit This Thursday!

2012-05-01T13:46:34Z

Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH) will be holding an evening benefit this Thursday, May 3, from 6-9 p.m. at the Antigua Cantina and Grill, 723 K Street in Sacramento. CASH is non-profit organization that not only provides assistance for victims of sexual exploitation, sex trafficking and prostitution, but also offers hope for the victims' futures.

CASH is the only agency whose mission is to serve adult victims of sexual exploitation in Sacramento. CASH staff, many of whom are former sex industry workers themselves, and volunteers, provide, amongst other services, outreach, peer counseling, support groups, food, clothing, and housing assistance. In addition to helping former victims, CASH provides information and training to community groups and other professionals about sexual exploitation - a topic not necessarily easy to talk about, but extremely prevalent, unfortunately, in our community.

For more information, visit http://www.cashsac.org/events___tickets.

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento region including CASH.

Eastern Star Hall Fundraiser

2012-04-27T04:42:57Z

The Save the Eastern Star fundraiser features live music by Sacramento swing jazz favorites Mumbo Gumbo and the discount jazz stylings of the Freebadge Serenaders. Master of ceremonies Matias Bombal will introduce the performers. Locally-produced "Ruhstaller" beer will be available for those over 21. Tickets are $25 in advance via Brown Paper Tickets, $30 the night of the event--Saturday, April 28 at 7 PM.

Sacramento’s Eastern Star Hall was built in 1928 as a meeting hall for the Order of the Eastern Star, a Masonic women’s organization. It is one of only four buildings constructed for the Eastern Star organization, and the only one still surviving and in active use. The building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a fine example of Romanesque Revival architecture, and a rare example of local buildings devoted to a women’s organization.

The building is still utilized by the Eastern Star organization and rented to local community organizations like Sacramento Swingtime and Sacramento Old City Association, but time has taken its toll on the building, and repairs must be made to keep the building safe and sturdy. The local Eastern Star organization does not have the resources to repair the building. This event will raise funds needed to fully assess the building’s condition and begin repair work that will keep this architectural treasure an active and vital part of our community. It will also help show the public that the Eastern Star Hall as beautiful inside as it is on the outside!

The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic-affiliated women’s organization, founded in 1850. The first Eastern Star chapter in Sacramento was founded in 1879. Most Eastern Star organizations used Masonic facilities for their meetings, and the Sacramento chapter met at the Masonic Temple at 12th and J. In 1923, members of five Sacramento area Eastern Star chapters organized to design, fund and build their own hall, under the leadership of Mabel Boyd Seymour, a past Grand Matron of the organization. Fundraising efforts took five years, and was based on the sale of twenty thousand $5 shares of stock in the building. Each chapter purchased shares, and sold them to other organizations. The lot purchased for the building was at 2719 K Street, across the street from Sutter’s Fort.

The building was designed by the architectural firm of Coffman, Salsbury & Stafford in the Romanesque Revival style. An architect’s drawing of the building includes five people in front of the building, all women. The women in the sketch were dressed in contemporary 1920s fashions, with bobbed hair and knee-length skirts, and one behind the wheel of an automobile. This sketch provides insight into the changing role of women in the 1920s, and reflects the intended purpose of the building as the home of a women's organization. The building was completed in 1928, and used for both public and private functions. Many local schools used the hall’s grand ballroom for dances and social functions. A fire in December 1936 temporarily closed the hall, but it was quickly repaired and reopened. Located directly across from the reconstructed Sutter’s Fort, the hall became one of many social institutions around the Fort’s perimeter on the eastern end of K Street.

Save the Eastern Star Hall Fundraiser

Featuring MUMBO GUMBO and THE FREEBADGE SERENADERS

Master of Ceremonies MATIAS BOMBAL

Sponsored by Midtown Neighborhood Association, Sacramento Old City Association, Capital City Preservation Trust and Ruhstaller Beer

Date/Time: Saturday, April 28, 7:30 PM
Location: Eastern Star Hall, 2719 K Street, Sacramento
Website: http://sites.google.com/site/eshasac/
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/233520

Disclosure: William Burg is President of the Sacramento Old City Association and a board member of Midtown Neighborhood Association.

High School Students Journey to Wellness By Way of Oz

2012-04-18T00:30:27Z

True or false: High school students in Sacramento are actively and enthusiastically involved in changing the way they and their families think about, shop for, and consume food?

Absolutely true.

And if this surprises you, you should have a chat with some of the teens involved in what could really be thought of as “living laboratories” of Hiram Johnson, Sacramento Charter, and Luther Burbank Senior High Schools.

No doubt they are not the only adolescents interested in engaging in a healthier lifestyle, but they are the first local students to participate in a movement, co-founded by well-known celebrity heart surgeon and television host, Dr. Mehmet Oz, known as HealthCorps.

The idea took root in 2001, after Dr. Oz performed a heart bypass on a 21-year old woman. When he returned to the young woman’s room, he found the family celebrating the success of her surgery with a mountain of fast food burgers and fries! He was dumbstruck at the lack of awareness, knowing that what he had just given her was likely only a temporary fix. He realized that to make a permanent difference, intervention would have to begin much earlier. There were already programs designed for younger age groups, so, despite some skepticism from colleagues, Dr. Oz chose teenagers as his focus for affecting change.

Unable to convince anyone to finance a program based on changing the mindsets of teenagers, Dr. Oz reached into his own pocket for seed money. He modeled HealthCorps after the Peace Corps, recruiting college graduates to commit to a term of (paid) community service before continuing on to med school. In 2003, a New York high school was the first to put HealthCorps into action. There are now 53 schools around the country, with a goal of 100. The program now consistently recruits their coordinators from top universities, putting them through a comprehensive training program, before determining which school they feel is the most appropriate demographic fit.

True or false: Making a lifestyle change—eating, exercise, giving up smoking—is often easier with a support system?

You may have answered false, but there are a lot of executives at smoking cessation programs and certain weight loss organizations betting their ad budgets against you.

True or false: You have at some point heard a teenager express the desire to have something, do something, see something, be something, think something, because a friend is doing it?

See the correlation?

Teens are more likely to become invested in things their friends are doing, and things they have had a hand in developing. They are also more likely than adults to turn information into action. With that in mind, HealthCorps allows them to participate in planning and execution of projects, to experience anything from meditation or creating a community garden to Teen Battle Chef or “How to Make a Healthy Breakfast in 30 Seconds.” It also arms them with information to become teachers in their own homes, effectively turning the tables, and giving them a sense of empowerment. Empowerment is at the heart of Heathcorps. Unhealthy eating, after all, isn’t just about food.

The ultimate goal is to give every young person the opportunity to grow in three key areas: mental resilience, nutrition, and physical activity.

Although No Child Left Behind effectively stripped many school curricula of PE and health education in elementary schools, California is currently leading the country in school wellness programming, according to HealthCorps National Education Director, Dr. Shawn Hayes. HealthCorps, too, has strong backing, and a growing presence in California: of the 53 schools—or “living laboratories,” as Hayes likes to think of them—15 are located in California. The organization recently opened a second home office here, and at the end of the month will hold a fundraising gala to further raise awareness, as well as to honor and acknowledge the tremendous support they have received in Sacramento.

The event, “Journey to Oz,” will be held at the Memorial Auditorium on April 30 from 6:00-9:00pm, and will be co-hosted by Dr. Mehmet Oz, and his wife, Lisa. Oz, and is Co-chaired by Dennis Balint, CEO of the California Walnut Board and culinary specialists Patrick and Bobbin Mulvaney. Guests will visit various tables hosted by HealthCorps students and coordinators, as well as a combination of 30 local private and non-profit organizations invited by HealthCorps President, Michele Bouchard, who wanted to acknowledge them as part of the cooperative wellness community in Sacramento. At each table, guests will educate, inspire or give an action item to each of their visitors, maintaining the core philosophy of the program. Guest speakers are Montel Williams and Dr. Dean Ornish along with entertainment by Tony Award Winner Ben Vereen and an original dance number by Stepp Stewart performed with Sacramento’s Step 1 Dance & Fitness. The night will end with dancing to The Dick Bright Orchestra where guests can cut a little rug with their hosts. The idea is to make the evening informative, but engaging, smart but not stuffy—like Dr. Oz. Like HealthCorps.

Purchase tickets for “Journey to Oz” and find more information about the HealthCorps program, including local activities at www.healthcorps.org and look for the event page “Journey to Oz” on Facebook.

Special thanks to HealthCorps Shawn Hayes, Ph.D., who contributed the background for this story.

Stanford Youth Solutions announces 2012 Distinguished Service Awards Honorees

2012-04-11T17:41:30Z

SACRAMENTO, CA – Stanford Youth Solutions, formerly Stanford Home for Children, announced today that Chevo Ramirez and Amelia and Vincent Semper will be awarded the 2012 Distinguished Service Awards. They will be recognized on April 26, 2012 at the North Ridge Country Club in Fair Oaks at Vintage 2012 —Stanford Youth Solutions’ 7th Annual Wine Auction.

Chevo Ramirez is the Regional Vice President of the Wells Fargo Foundation for the Northern California Region and is this year’s Community Honoree. Foster parents Amelia and Vincent Semper are the Family Honorees.

“The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to those who have made long-standing, commendable and considerable contributions to Stanford Youth Solutions,” said Associate Executive Director Kären Woodruff. “We are honored to have the partnership of Chevo, Amelia and Vincent. Each in their own way provides invaluable support for the 2,000 young people and families we serve.”

Chevo Ramirez

At the Wells Fargo Foundation, Ramirez is responsible for managing and directing charitable contributions for the Northern California Region, working closely with community organizations to determine local needs and opportunities for grant making.

“I’m heartened to accept this award,” said Ramirez. “Stanford Youth Solutions stands out as a strong, diverse, and effective organization that makes an incredible difference for young people and their families in Sacramento. It is the kind of organization that Wells Fargo prides itself on supporting.”

Amelia and Vincent Semper

For nearly four years, the Sempers have worked with Stanford Home’s Foster Care program to provide a loving, stable home for young people who have intensive needs. The couple blends their biological extended family and provides respite for children, has helped two siblings to reunify with their biological family, and have taken guardianship of a thirteen-year-old girl.

“Being recognized by Stanford Youth Solutions is such an honor for us. We are so fulfilled to give back to the community,” said Amelia. “Being foster parents is something we will do as long as the need is there.”

With philanthropists, elected officials, and local celebrities in attendance, Stanford Youth Solutions’ Vintage 2012 transforms the traditional charity event into a night of surprises, featuring themed rooms with coordinated silent and live auctions, music and entertainment, along with premium food, vodka and wine tasting.

Purchase tickets online at www.youthsolutions.org/vintage before the event sells out.

Disclosure: Randle Communications is a public relations and public affairs firm in Sacramento currently representing Stanford Youth Solutions.

CASH For a Cause Evening Benefit on May 3

2012-03-29T16:40:53Z

Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH) will be holding an evening benefit on Thursday, May 3, 2012. CASH is non-profit organization that not only provides assistance for victims of sexual exploitation, sex trafficking and prostitution, but also offers hope for the victims' futures.
CASH is the only agency whose mission is to serve adult victims of sexual exploitation in Sacramento.

CASH staff, many of whom are former sex industry workers themselves, and volunteers, provide, amongst other services, outreach, peer counseling, support groups, food, clothing, and housing assistance. In addition to helping former victims, CASH provides information and training to community groups and other professionals about sexual exploitation - a topic not necessarily easy to talk about, but extremely prevalent, unfortunately, in our community.

While CASH receives ongoing financial support from several business associations, foundations, churches, and generous individuals, the organization could not sustain itself without benefits such as this and the generosity of the community. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.cashsac.org/events___tickets. To donate items or purchase tickets please contact: Sue Huffstutler, Executive Director at shuffstutler@cashsac.org or (916) 856-2900.

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of organizations and businesses in the greater Sacramento region including for the non-profit CASH (Community Against Sexual Harm).

Annual Cancer Benefit Celebrates Survivors, Raises Awareness

2012-03-28T18:46:15Z

Cancer awareness activists have invited the public to attend the 4th Annual Night of Celebration on March 31 from 6 – 9:30 p.m. at the Momo Lounge on 2708 J St., in Sacramento. The event will be hosted by Sutter Medical Group family medicine physician Jennifer Cahn, M.D., and George Kovacs, benefitting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Admission is $10 and includes one raffle ticket and drink specials.

In 2001, Dr. Cahn battled Hodgkin's Lymphoma while finishing her master's degree and starting medical school. As a survivor and as a physician in the community, she has been dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cancer charities. While her fight against cancer was one of the most difficult times in her life, she was always able to maintain her optimism. As she passes this 10-year milestone, she has immense gratitude toward the doctors, nurses, researchers and scientists that made her treatment and survival possible. After 10 years, she is now considered cured, and her experiences allow her to empathize with her patients struggles. She feels that having this experience has given her the opportunity to inspire others to fight toward their goals no matter the obstacles. She continues to act as an advocate for cancer charities in the community.

George Kovacs is an Ironman triathlete with a passion for life, athletics, inspiring others and contributing to his community. He has participated in dozens of events to raise awareness for blood cancers. In conjunction with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training, he has coached athletes of all levels to complete marathons and triathlons while raising funds for the LLS. Most recently he completed a solo-marathon on Christmas morning in his continued effort to bring attention to this important cause. On June 24th he will compete in his third Ironman, this time in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. It is a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run all in 1 day – approximately 12 continuous hours of grueling work. He has been known to say, “I will continue to take on challenges of all types and sizes until cancer patients have a reprieve from their daily obstacles.” He is an incredible inspiration!

For more information about the Night of Celebration, please visit www.rungeorgerun.com, or email NightOfCelebration@gmail.com.

Disclosure: I work for the communications department at Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region.

Music Brings Awareness For Mustard Seed School

2012-03-20T07:20:25Z

As bars and restaurants prepared for the swarm of people celebrating St. Patrick's Day, a local teacher and musician was preparing for something greater.

Cary Farley, health teacher at Luther Burbank High School, played his second annual charity concert for Mustard Seed School on Saturday at the Guild Theater.

Mustard Seed School was established in 1989 by Loaves & Fishes as a free private school for homeless children between 3 and 15. With an organization that strives to help youth stay educated while their family goes through transitions, Farley felt the need to organize a fundraiser for the school.

"Working with kids, I know they can be in unfortunate situations," explains Farley.

From connecting families with homes, to shelters and counseling, Mustard Seed strives to help kids and their families find stability in their lives.

"We have a small staff here at Mustard Seed. Only 10 are full-time," explains Casey Knittel, Assistant Director and teacher at mustard seed. "The remainder of our help comes from volunteers who help us out with the school and outreach programs."

There are many expenses that come with running a school. Mustard Seed relies on public donations to help provide school supplies and food and help families find stable living situations and jobs. Mustard Seed does not receive any government money.

Farley decided to organize an event where he could raise money for the school and share his love of music.

"I use my music in the classroom," he says. "Its comforting, healing and can have an immediate impact."

The event kicked off with a film that showed his journey in music and performance.

Following the film, special guest Bruce Locken opened up the show, proceeding to the stage playing the bagpipes.

The show was a collection of musicians coming together for a great cause. From fiddles to cello, any music enthusiast would enjoy an ensemble like the one at the event.

There was a classical music emphasis, with some vocals from Farley. Instruments included harmonica, cello, electric guitar, bass and drums. The ensemble varied their performance with some songs including all the instruments, while some songs included just one or two musicians.

The energy and the compatibility from the musicians complimented their performance, helping the songs to blend beautifully from beginning to end.

It was a calming event, and was perfect for raising awareness about an important organization.

"Using my music, to create awareness is what I wanted to do with this event," Farley says. "I'm looking to do it next year. My goal is to keep getting it better, raise more money and make it a bigger impact," explained Farley.

Mustard Seed is grateful for Cary Farley and his involvement with the school and fundraisers.

"We really appreciate Cary doing this for us," explain Knittel. " It helps us to keep going and his event helps bring awareness of Mustard Seed."

City pools might not be saved this year

2012-03-20T05:49:03Z

Save Mart’s Help Save Our Pools Campaign is in danger of not making the $1 million goal by the April 10 deadline. The campaign still needs to raise $850,000 in less than a month.

Sacramento once had 12 pools open to the public, but by last summer that number dwindled to six pools and five wading pools, with open hours limited to four hours per day, six days per week. This was all due to budget cuts. The six kept open last summer included Clunie, Doyle, Johnston, McClatchey, Pannell Meadowview and Sim Park pools.

The campaign that launched on Feb. 14 has been trying to raise money to keep the same six pools from last summer season open this summer.

The campaign hit the $150,000 mark on Friday, with less than a month left to raise the remainder of the money. Save Mart is matching dollar for dollar up to $500,000 of the money donated.

Alicia Rockwell, director of public affairs and communications of Save Mart Supermarkets, said that it all started with The New York Times article that ran last year, which featured Sacramento as one of the cities that would be unable to open public pools due to budget cuts.

“The city had come out very early in the year and said that there was no way they would even be able to open the pools from last year,” Rockwell said.

Since there are a number of Save Mart locations in Sacramento, Rockwell said, Save Mart employees live in the neighborhoods where these public pools are being shut down. Save Mart found out that there were some neighborhood associations active in doing grassroots fundraising to try and keep their own local pools open.

“We wanted to put together a model of a public business partnership and we thought Sacramento might have the support that was needed,” Rockwell said.

Dave Mitchell, operations manager of Sacramento’s Department of Parks and Recreation, pointed out that since Save Mart is based in Modesto, Sacramento is one of the company’s “cherished areas.”

“This is a great opportunity for the city of Sacramento, and Save Mart really wants to achieve that $1 million mark. We’re in; we just need everyone else to come to the party,” Rockwell said.

Both Rockwell and Mitchell pointed out the importance of Sacramento’s public pools.

“When you actually think about who occupies the pools, it’s the children,” Mitchell said,“A lot of times, our kids are playing video games and watching TV. Pools are an opportunity to get out and have a healthy outlet.”

Mitchell also pointed out that if kids don’t have a safe place to go, they will be directed to the rivers. Although the rivers can be fun, they are more dangerous.

Mitchell also said that the swim teams won’t be able to have a season this summer without the public pools, and families won’t be able to use the affordable swim lessons offered.

Rockwell said that public pools are vital for the community to congregate. She also pointed out that the relatively low-cost lifeguards make these pools places where kids are looked after.

“The community should come together to try and keep these resources open,” Rockwell said.

Donations can be made by visiting a Save Mart in the Sacramento area and buying the icons from the cashiers. There are also 800 products in the stores that are identified with little blue tags that say, “Save Our Pools.” If you buy any of those items, 10 cents per item is donated to the campaign.

The “Like” campaign on Facebook is another way to donate by visiting the Save Mart Facebook page. Click “like,” and $5 will be donated to the campaign.

A donation of $10 will be made to the campaign through the text program when you text “pools” to 80888.

It’s not only the individuals who can to donate to make this campaign work, as businesses can as well.

“We need the local businesses to come in even if it’s just a $500 or a $1,000 donation,” Rockwell said. “If every local business can do that, we will definitely make our goal.”

How can local businesses donate?

“It’s really easy. They just visit the Save Mart Save Our Pools website. Near the bottom, there’s a section for businesses to get involved with the campaign,” Rockwell said.

Mitchell added, “The easiest way for a business to donate is to make contact with Save Mart or the city and talk about what they’re interested in donating. There are two different nonprofits that can handle the donation. The great part is that whatever amount the business is willing to donate is automatically matched.”

Rockwell said that Save Mart is committed to opening one pool. Just over $200,000 will open a pool.

On March 28, several City Council members and other elected officials will be outside City Hall to help with fundraising efforts. You can “bail out” a council member or elected official from the rafts in which they will be sitting by making a donation.

To visit the Facebook page, click here.

Editorial Note: This article was updated after it was published.

Citrus Heights Community Marching Band Fundraiser

2012-03-19T19:38:45Z

Expect horns blowing and savory sauces simmering at the Spaghetti Feed fundraiser for the Citrus Heights Community Marching Band (CHCMB) this Saturday.

Band members are hoping for a full house at their main fundraising event for the year. The Spaghetti Feed will be held on March 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Citrus Heights Community Center. Entertainment will be provided by the CHCMB and by the Golden State Accordion Club. The event will also include a silent raffle with over 70 items donated by local businesses and community members.

Epitomizing community spirit, the band embraces players of all playing levels and ages and performs at public events throughout the Sacramento region.

In 2011, the band performed at eighteen events, such as the Orangevale Pow Wow Parade, the Rancho Cordova Fourth of July Parade, field shows and a “flash mob.”

Currently there are 90 band participants, including musicians, colorguard, majorettes and volunteers. Members’ ages range from 9 to 82 and all volunteer their time for the opportunity to play and to contribute to the community. New members are always welcome to join and band instruments can usually be provided.

Band Director Kody Tickner is passionate about the band.

“It has been a lifelong goal for me to lead an organization of this caliber. I have had the honor of seeing the CHCMB begin as a temporary, limited focus musical ensemble, and grow into a respected organization, which serves a very special purpose in our local community…”

The band was the brainchild of go-getter Kathy Cook. When her Citrus Heights Red, White & Blue Parade committee could not get a band for the 2004 parade, she thought, “Why couldn’t we start our own marching band?”

Cook contacted the local park district, collected donations, hired music directors, borrowed instruments, did publicity, found musicians and the CHCMB was born.

“This is a beautiful program for people of all ages and backgrounds with family members playing side by side in a marching band and having fun.”

The band is supported by Hearts for Parks, Sunrise Recreation & Park District, the City of Citrus Heights and private donations.

Tickets for the Spaghetti Feed are $10 for adults and $7 for children 10 and under. To purchase tickets, contact Program Director Kathy Cook at (916) 725-0198 or email her at abusycook@aol.com.

Disclosure: Nancy plays in the brass section of the Citrus Heights Community Marching Band.

Point West Rotary Celebrates 10 Years of Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food & Wine – Benefiting Sierra Forever Families and Local Children’s Charities.

2012-03-15T21:55:55Z

Sacramento, California – March 15, 2012 – Point West Rotary, one of the largest Rotary clubs in Sacramento, will host its 10th Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food and Wine – on March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Sacramento.

When does the opportunity arrive to allow you to dine at 20 restaurants in one night or go on a wine-tasting tour to visit more than 25 of the top local wineries in one day? “Never,” you say. “That’s just not possible.” Well, the time is now. Point West Rotary of Sacramento is providing a special opportunity for you to do just that. On Saturday, March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, you can enjoy great food and wine at this 10th Annual Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food & Wine.

Festa di Vino showcases more than 20 local restaurants and 25 wine makers from Northern California. Guests can work up an appetite (or to eliminate calories) while dancing the night away to the music of the Q-Balls, a local favorite. For those guests who feel lucky, an extensive raffle will take place and by entering, they could go home with great prizes. Also as part of the night, a wide-range of desirable items can be bid upon in the silent and live auctions. This incredible evening will not only delight attendees but, through a portion of the proceeds, will also support Sierra Forever Families, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform the lives of children living in foster care by building and nurturing permanent families.

“Sierra Forever Families is pleased to be selected as a charity partner for Festa di Vino hosted by Point West Rotary,” said Bob Herne, executive director, Sierra Forever Families. “The partnership will not only provide needed funding for our programs but will also allow for our organization to promote its mission to a large portion of our local community.”

Festa di Vino will take place 6:30-10 p.m. on Saturday, March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 6151 H Street in Sacramento, and will feature tastings from over 25 of the region’s wineries including Michael-David Phillips Vineyards, Pedroncelli, Karmere, and Bogle Vineyards. Samplings from area restaurants will include Café Vinoteca, Enotria, Cafeteria 15L and American River Culinary. Along with a great raffle, and silent and live auctions, there will be a cigar bar and free chair massages.

Event tickets are $45 each in advance and $55 at the door. To purchase, visit www.festadivino.com.

Disclosure: Written by: Sara Hanson, Public Relations Specialist, Sierra Forever Families

Locals to shave heads to fund childhood cancer research

2012-03-10T01:45:54Z

Sacramentans are gearing up to go hairless next week as this year’s St. Baldrick’s Day events aim to add to the $4 million raised locally in the past decade to fund research for childhood cancer.

“The event itself is something to be witnessed,” said Henry de Vere White, co-owner of de Vere’s Irish Pub, located at 1521 L St. “We’ve had women do it because their kid has cancer, we’ve had siblings do it and we’ve had Little League teams show up and shave their heads in honor of their teammates who had cancer.”

De Vere White said Friday that shaving heads began in pubs on the east coast when some lawyers decided to try to raise $17,000 on March 17. Since then, it has snowballed to the point where $79 million has been raised nationally since 2005, a funding source for childhood cancer research second in scale only to the government.

About a dozen local events will be held in the next week and a half where heads will be shaved in solidarity with children with cancer. For a complete list of local events, click here.

Last year, de Vere’s Irish Pub helped raise $102,000 by shaving 135 people’s heads – 40 of which were women.

“It started locally with the Keaton Raphael Memorial,” de Vere White said, adding that Keaton was the son of Robin Raphael, and when he died, she began raising money in his name.

“She started it to help families navigate the system, help them find insurance, help them pay medical bills and even bring teddy bears to the hospitals,” de Vere White said. “She is a one-stop shop for helping families.”

The event at de Vere’s Irish Pub in Sacramento will be held from 5 - 9 p.m. Monday, and a similar event will be held at the de Vere’s Irish Pub in Davis at the same time on Thursday. Everyone who wishes to have his or her head shaved must bring a minimum of $100, but all are encouraged to attend and donate what they can.

Joining the de Vere White family on Monday will be Patrick Mulvaney, owner of Mulvaney’s B&L, and about 50 people who will have their heads shaved.

“It’s about raising the awareness of the issue of childhood cancer, but the research money is really important,” Mulvaney said. “My wife has had cancer twice, and the difference in how they treat people now is much less invasive – they not only save more lives, but they make recovery better. The only way that happens is through research, and the only way research happens is with money.”

Mulvaney’s General Manager Andrew Kingsbury has worn a wig since about age 15, when he lost his hair due to alopecia, Mulvaney said.

“We’ve kind of ribbed him for years to go to St. Baldrick’s,” Mulvaney said. “His dad died of cancer two or three years ago, and his mom is fighting lung cancer, so he is going to take the wig of this year.”

The motivation behind the event is clear, Mulvaney said.

“It’s the worst feeling when someone you love has cancer, and you’re helpless to do anything,” he said. “I could only imagine how much deeper that pain would be if it was your child.”

For more information on donations and events, click here.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Public-private effort may save city pools this summer

2012-02-14T03:56:37Z

Community pools in Sacramento on the verge of closing this summer may get a reprieve – and nearly $1 million in operating funds – from a fundraising effort that kicks off Tuesday between the city and Save Mart Supermarkets.

The city of Sacramento operates 12 pools to serve more than 467,000 city residents, but since 2008 the number of pools kept open each summer has dwindled due to budget cuts.

By 2011, that number was reduced to six pools and five wading pools, with open hours limited to six days per week, four hours per day.

Through a new fundraising campaign called “Help Save Mart Save Our Pools,” Save Mart will match dollar-for-dollar up to $500,000 in the donations made by individuals, residents, and local business sponsors from mid-February through mid-April, according to a city staff report.

All of the funds raised will be used to open the same six pools in 2012 that were kept open in 2011, including: Clunie, Doyle, Johnston, McClatchey, Pannell Meadowview and Sim Park pools.

The closure of almost two-thirds of Sacramento pools last summer got the attention of national media – and Save Mart Supermarkets, which operates seven grocery stores in Sacramento.

“After seeing the story in the New York Times and the Sacramento Bee editorial last summer about Sacramento city pools being closed due to lack of funds, we were moved to do something to take action and help keep the pools open this summer,” said Alicia Rockwell, director of public affairs and communications for Save Mart Supermarkets, in an email Monday.

City Councilman Kevin McCarty said Monday that he is excited about the co-sponsorship opportunity, but he recognizes that it is only a stop-gap measure.

“This is what we’ve been talking about all along: public/private partnerships,” McCarty said, “but the reality is, this kind of just stops the (budget) bleeding.”

McCarty was an adamant proponent for keeping public pools open last year during a budget cycle that saw a $24 million shortfall.

In the end, the city rallied to keep six pools open during the 2011 season, but with reduced hours and staff.

Now, funding for keeping pools open has run out and, without additional funding, all of the city pools will be closed as of the end of the 2011/12 fiscal year, June 30.

“We want to engage and ignite the community to give to this effort and help us raise upwards of $1 million so that the city can open as many pools as possible,” Rockwell said in the email.

“We want to see all 12 pools and wading pools open this summer but even our effort won’t pay to open all of them,” Rockwell added.

According to the city staff report, it would take and additional $1.5 million to open all 12 pools for the summer.

Jim Combs, Department of Parks and Recreation director, said that although co-sponsorships are common for amenities such as arenas, the “Save Our Pools” collaboration between the city and Save Mart is unique.

“I know of no other city across the country where a corporate citizen has stepped up like this,” Combs said Monday. “This is a unique model and it is a good model for other corporate sponsors to follow, too.”

Combs said his department – in conjunction with the Neighborhood Services Department – has been working for the past year to find nonprofit partners to run the city’s community centers.

“I don’t see corporations volunteering for tree trimming or other core services,” Combs said, “but for the programs that benefit quality of life, like pools and libraries, these are good opportunities.”

Sponsors are hoping $1 million will be raised through the “Save Our Pools” effort – if not more.

“Maybe this can get bigger. We want to keep an open mind,” McCarty said. “If we fully embrace this and get excited about it, it could turn into more than expected.”

“This is an example of where business and government can partner for the greater good of the community,” City Manager John Shirey said Monday.

Shirey said the coming together of Save Mart and the city for this effort was “fortuitous,” and a welcome start to what he hopes will be a model for other fundraising efforts in the city.

“Occasionally there is a story in the paper about an individual or a family that needs help, and the next day some good Samaritan will step up – those are not uncommon stories,” Shirey said.

“When the distressed party is a local government, though, it is not an automatic reaction from people to ask how they can step up and help out,” Shirey said. “Maybe we are forming a new model here.”

The co-sponsorship agreement with the city includes a provision for Save Mart to have the right to renew the sponsorship in each of the next three years – opening the door to continued collaboration between Save Mart Supermarkets and the city – and potentially opening more pools in future years.

If more money is raised than expected, the staff report states, the funds will roll over to the 2013 summer pool season and apply to keeping the same pools open as in 2012.

Information about becoming a sponsor or making a donation to the “Save Our Pools” campaign will be available starting Tuesday in stores and online HERE.

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

Keep the arts in your heart this Wednesday

2012-02-07T18:18:48Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fundraiser to support teen cardiac arrest rehabilitation a success

2012-01-24T08:58:01Z

This past Saturday night over 150 supporters attended a fundraising event at the Florin Road Arts and Business Complex in South Sacramento for Marissa Grant, 16, a Sacramento area teen who suffered cardiac arrest on January 27, 2011 while attending classes at Natomas High School.

The event was hosted by “The Friends of Michele Grant,” a group that includes Grant’s coworkers, friends and concerned members of the community who came together to provide financial and emotional support as Marissa fights her way back from the effects of being deprived of oxygen for 8-10 minutes before paramedics arrived to revive her.

“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and love,” stated Michele Grant during her brief appearance at the microphone as she thanked both those in attendance and those who invested countless hours to make the event, “An Evening for Marissa,” a success.

The evening’s program consisted of opening remarks by Joe Pollakoff, Shonna McDaniels and Michele Grant. The MC duties were handled by Pollakoff’s daughter Natasha.

The evening consisted of a full slate of entertainment, a raffle, and a sit-down homemade dinner that included baked chicken, pasta, fresh salad and a variety of side dishes.

Nationally known poet Terry Moore set the tone for the evening with his poem entitled, “Two Seconds.”

Moore alternated between whimsical musings about making an impulse purchase in two seconds and how precious and fragile life can be in that same span of time.

The audience really responded when Moore emphasized that tomorrow is not promised and that everyone should take the time to practice forgiveness and appreciate those in their lives with demonstrable showings of love and affection by reaching out to them today.

Tina B’s Sacramento Soul Line Dancers then showed the crowd some of their unique dance steps to the songs, “Step Off,” “The Cupid Shuffle” and “Wobble Baby Wobble.”

“It is so nice to see what is happening here and to be a part of this,” stated Tina B., who volunteered her dancers to perform at the event after hearing about it from a coworker.

“I am glad to support this mother who’s going through something similar to what my mother went through many years ago,” said Tina B.

Marissa Grant’s care, comfort and rehabilitation were foremost on everyone’s mind throughout the evening.

Marissa attended the event and was exquisitely coiffed and beautifully attired in a taupe blouse and jeans for the evening held in her honor. Her youthful appearance belied the difficult circumstances she endured, and her struggle to regain her health served as the inspiration and purpose for the occasion.

The quiet and reserved teen graciously maintained her poise and dignity before tiring and returning home to rest about midway through the evening.

Marissa’s Aunt, Gayle Bailey, came from the Bay Area to attend the event and contribute to the fundraising efforts.

“I am so thankful that so many people came out to support my niece,” stated Bailey. “I am praying that the Lord heals her body and makes her whole again.”

Local musician and DJ Robert Williams played a variety of gospel, jazz and R&B music while attendees took turns being served at the buffet line set up in the Obama Room.

The foyer was tastefully set up with covered tables adorned with votive candles that surrounded the area that served as the DJ booth and temporary stage.

Once the attendees were served and settled in seats, the evening’s activities proceeded forward.

Natasha Pollakoff sought help from audience members to pull the winning raffle tickets from a basket and announced the numbers, much to the delight of the winners.

Joseph Lacefield first took the stage, leading about a dozen members of the local a cappella group, “Sticky Notes.”

Their 20 minute set of gospel music included the songs, “Ain’t No Rock,” “Be Unto Your Name,” “Awesome God,” “Exalt the Lord,” “Deep Calls to Deep” and “Lead Me to Rest.”

Evangelist Raymond Coats followed with a soulful a cappella rendition of the classic song first made famous by the Hollies, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.”

After more raffle prizes were given away by Natasha Pollakoff, the featured group for the evening, the Spiritual Harmonizers, took over the entertainment and proceeded to fill the building with their well-rehearsed combination of vocals and live gospel music.

The Spiritual Harmonizers consist of Doyle Bryant, Larry Stephens and Earl Peeples on lead vocals with Eric Canada providing supporting vocals. Musicians include Tony Marshall on keyboard, Eucerean Harris on drums, Jimmy Bray on percussion, Norman Coats on lead guitar and Preston Hayes on bass guitar.

The selections performed by the group included “While I Run This Race,” “This Old World,” ”Holding On,” “Be Alright,” “Since I Found Jesus” and “Another Blessing.”

The messages conveyed in their music provided a fitting culmination of the evening’s entertainment. It reminded everyone in the audience of the blessings conferred upon Marissa Grant and the entire extended Grant family to have Marissa well on the road towards rehabilitation from her illness and medical condition.

Known as Long QT syndrome (LQTS), the illness is a congenital disorder that is very difficult to detect and is known to cause cardiac arrest and seemingly inexplicable sudden death by natural causes.

Danielle Grant, one of Marissa’s older siblings, described how everyone in the family was extremely worried about Marissa and how that concern extended to Michele, who practically lived at the hospital with her during the first few months after she fell ill.

Damarrus Grant, Marissa’s older brother, indicated that the past year “went by so quick.”

“It has been a reality check that has made my faith in God much stronger,” said Damarrus.

“Marissa is getting better every day; she is looking better and she fights hard every day,” stated Danielle.

Once the evening came to a close and the attendees cleared the building, “The Friends of Michele Grant” were united in their belief that the evening had been a success both financially and in terms of showing community support for a family during their time of need.

“People really showed how much they cared,” stated Joe Pollakoff, a colleague of Michele Grant’s who is credited as the individual who carried the idea of holding a fundraiser to others and organized the individuals that contributed to making the event a success.

“I thought the event was magnificent,” stated Shonna McDaniels, who arranged for the use of the building where she is the Director of the Sojourner Truth Multicultural Art Museum.

“I was pleased to see all of the support - it was a wonderful night,” said McDaniels.

Anyone who is interested in assisting the family by donating vacation time to Michele Grant, or who simply desires to make a financial contribution to assist Marissa in her rehabilitation may contact Joe Pollakoff at (916) 801-3673 or via email at j.pollakoff@gmail.com, or Michele Grant at (916) 501-5917 or via email at chelleg510@gmail.com. Michele Grant may also be contacted at P.O. BOX 348324, Sacramento, CA 95834.

Upcoming fundraiser to support teen cardiac arrest rehabilitation

2012-01-16T23:16:57Z

A group of caring individuals who refer to themselves as “The friends of Michele Grant” are hosting “An Evening for Marissa” this Saturday, January 21, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Florin Road Arts and Business Complex located at 2251 Florin Road in South Sacramento.

On January 27, 2011, Michele Grant’s 15 year old daughter, Marissa, went into cardiac arrest while attending classes at Natomas High School.

Marissa is now on the long road toward rehabilitation and recovery. The fundraiser is to help Michele Grant with the care of her daughter.

Tickets for the event are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. Dinner will be served and there will be a raffle to raise funds to help the family with expenses and treatment.

Joe Pollakoff is universally credited as the driving force behind the fundraiser. Pollakoff came to know Grant while working with her at the State Department of Health Services.

“If I could choose someone for my mom, I would choose Michele,” stated Pollakoff in a moment of unguarded sincerity.

“Michele has been very strong and very positive throughout this entire ordeal,” said Pollakoff.

Pollakoff has been met with an outpouring of support from many of Grant’s co-workers as well as members of the community who were not previously acquainted with Michele to assist with the planning and organizing of the upcoming event. Nearly everyone who Pollakoff approached did not hesitate to join him in the effort to help the Grant family in their time of need.

Pollakoff is especially thankful for the generosity of Shonna McDaniel, Director of the Sojourner Truth Multicultural Art Museum. When approached by Pollakoff, McDaniel immediately offered the use of the Florin Road Arts and Business Complex facilities to host the event in addition to volunteering to help organize the event.

Grant was forced to take catastrophic leave from her job as a supervisor at the Department of Health Services in order to assume full time care of Marissa once her vacation time and paid leave was exhausted.

Keeping the family’s financial life in order has been an ongoing struggle for the divorced mother of four during the past 12 months. It has only been through the generous donations of vacation time by other state workers as is permitted after an employee qualifies for catastrophic leave that Grant has been able keep the family afloat financially.

Although Grant expects to return to work within the next 90 days, there is still a need to secure donations of vacation hours from fellow state workers until such time that she is able to return to work to draw a paycheck.

“I have been brought to tears on many occasions by the overwhelming support I have received from people who know me and those whom I’ve never met, but have contributed some of their vacation hours after hearing about our situation,” stated Grant.

Grant credits her strong faith and the support of her church home, Bayside of South Sacramento, for the spiritual support that was necessary for the family to pull together to make during some very uncertain moments.

“I know there is a loving God who has helped not just Marissa, but our entire extended family to make it through the times when we feared we might lose her,” said Grant.

Grant’s co-workers have admired her perseverance through what has been an emotionally and financially draining experience. Those who have known Michele or heard of her family’s situation from their friends welcomed the idea of hold a fundraiser to assist the family.

“I see a lot of strength in Michele and I think it comes through her faith,” stated Alexandria Arredondo, a member of the planning committee that is headed by Pollakoff.

“We all wanted to do something to help Michele get through the situation that she is facing,” said Arredondo.

Many of Grant’s co-workers have known her and her children including daughter Danielle, 18, and twins Alicia and Damarrus, 21, for 10 years or more.

“We’ve watched them grow up,” said Linda Horne, a member of the Friends Michele Grant committee.

“We all empathize with her situation as a mother, friend, and as a co-worker,” stated Horne.

January 27, 2011, began as normal day at work for Michele and at school for Marissa who was attending classes at Natomas High School.

Grant was apparently away from her desk when the initial call came from the school informing her that Marissa had suffered what they believed at the time to be a seizure and had been taken to Sutter Memorial Hospital.

Upon arriving at the hospital and identifying herself, Grant was taken into a room where she was met by Natomas High School vice-principal Angela Herrera. Herrera was accompanied by hospital personnel who informed her that Marissa had aspirated while having a cardiac arrest and her body did not receive oxygen for approximately 8-10 minutes until after the paramedics arrived.

Marissa’s heart had stopped and her organs were in the process of shutting down before the paramedics were able to clear the breathing passageway and use a defibrillator to restart her heartbeat.

Despite the warnings of medical personnel, Grant insisted upon being admitted to the intensive care unit where Marissa lay comatose. Her body had swollen to the point where she was nearly unrecognizable by her mother.

Marissa was connected to various monitoring and life support equipment and was shivering uncontrollably due to the fact that her body was completely iced down to help to reduce the swelling.

The doctors at Sutter Memorial informed Grant that Marrisa had very nearly lost her life. Marissa’s brain was swollen and had been damaged on both sides, her lungs were filled with fluid, and her heart had been weakened by the cardiac arrest.

The doctors insisted that they would do everything they could, but that it was a “wait and see” situation. After the first four days while still in a coma, Marissa was transferred to Kaiser Roseville where the Grant family belonged as members.

It was apparent to observers from the beginning that Marissa’s youth relative good health would be the determining factors in her recovery.

The first milestone in Marissa’s recuperation was when she woke up from her coma approximately one week after her cardiac arrest. The next major event occurred two weeks later when Marissa was taken off the respirator and she was able to breathe on her own.

It was a great relief to all when Marissa was able to respond to simple commands to move or blink her eyes and give a thumbs up or down sign.

The effects of the cardiac arrest left Marissa with impaired mobility and function of her extremities. The left side of her body is more severely weakened much like an individual who has suffered a stroke.

Marissa’s rehabilitation therapy began while she was in the hospital with meeting various goals such as being able to sit up for 30 minutes a day. After a steady improvement over the course of her first month, Marissa was transferred to Kaiser Vallejo on February 28, 2011, for six weeks of occupational therapy.

While at that facility Marissa continued to learn how to use her body. She was relearning basic motor skills such as standing, walking, and getting dressed which had become difficult due to her loss of balance. Fine motor skills such as grasping and stirring had also become problematic due to her impairments. The rehabilitation also included speech therapy.

Marissa’s medical history includes sporadic episodes of fainting that began when she was 8 years old. Every time it would occur, Michele would take Marissa to the doctor and get thoroughly checked out for abnormal brain function and heart irregularities. The tests would come back with normal results and the doctors were unable to pinpoint a cause of the fainting spells.

It has only been after a battery of sophisticated tests by some of the best physicians available in Northern California, that doctors diagnosed Marissa with Long QT syndrome (LQTS), a congenital disorder that is very difficult to detect and is known to cause cardiac arrest and seemingly inexplicable sudden death by natural causes.

As a result of the diagnosis, Marissa underwent surgery on May 31, 2011 at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, where a pacemaker/defibrillator was placed in her heart.

Although Marissa is still confined to a wheelchair, she has processed steadily in her rehabilitation and recovery. The Natomas school district assessed Marissa and developed an individual education plan (I.E.P.) that is tailored to her needs and limitations.

As might be expected, there have been some difficulties during the rehabilitation process. Michele indicates that sometimes Marissa gets depressed and is easily fatigued if faced with too much activity.

As a former volleyball player and honors student who had already researched and investigated programs for a future career as a pediatric nurse, Marissa has had an understandably tough time adjusting to her new reality. She has indicated to Michele that she would just like to “get the old Marissa back.”

Marissa has to endure a steady routine of therapy along with up to 10 hours a week of private instruction with two “delightful” teachers according to Grant.

Michele has not pushed to have Marissa return to the Natomas High School campus as she has not yet indicated a desire to reunite with friends.

“Marissa has the option to make those decisions when she is ready,” stated Grant.

“I have faith that Marissa will grow in her acceptance and allow those who know and love her to show how much they really care,” said Grant.

It is anticipated that Marissa must continue with the rehabilitation process for a minimum of four years. It is unknown just how far or fast she will improve. However, Michele is extremely thankful that her child pulled through because so many people who have gone through similar circumstances did not make it.

Anyone who is interested in attending this fundraiser, donating vacation time to Michele Grant, or simply desires to make a financial contribution to assist Marissa in her rehabilitation may contact Joe Pallokoff at (916) 801-3673 or via email at j.pollakoff@gmail.com or Michele Grant at (916) 501-5917 or via email at chelleg510@gmail.com.

West Sac Mayor Proclaims Jan. 14 West Sac-Crab-Mento Day for Rotary Crab Feed Fundraiseer

2012-01-09T21:14:12Z

Mayor Cabaldon Proclaims January 14th

West Sac-Crab-Mento Day

(World’s Crabbiest Crab to Attend Rotary Fundraiser)

He’s Crabby, the World’s Crabbiest Crab. He’s boiling mad. And who can blame him?

His agent signed him to an event the crusty crustacean finds in bad taste, while those in attendance will be there for the good taste……….of crab…….at the Might Rotary Club of West Sacramento’s “claw-some” (sorry) Crab Feed to benefit The Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation and the West Sacramento Rotary Foundation. The Crab Feed takes place on Saturday, January 14, at Our Lady of Grace Church Hall, 1990 Linden Road, West Sacramento.
(6pm Cocktails, 7pm Dinner)

Crabby was shell-shocked (sorry) to learn that the event has been endorsed by West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon, who, in an official proclamation has declared January 14, 2012 as West Sac-Crab-Mento Day in recognition of the Rotary’s popular crab feed.

Besides a sumptuous meal of antipasto, salad, crab, pasta and bread, festivities include:

* Dancing by blues rockers “Neckbone”
* Crab Shots (a special Rotary cocktail)
* Raffle & Silent Auction with “incrabible” (sorry) Prizes
* Outdoor Cigar Bar
* V.I.P. Table Package which includes a “medley catch” (sorry) of open bar, raffle tickets, option of picked & cleaned crab, and limousine service to and from the event….hey, this is not your father’s crab feed.

Advance tickets $50 at www.eventbrite.com or Call 927-1592
V.I.P. Package – Contact Doug Carson (916) 595-9501

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is Media Director for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Swimmers at McKinley Park take the plunge for a good cause

2012-01-09T05:03:22Z

During the hot summer months, Clunie pool, located in McKinley Park in Midtown Sacramento, is the place to be. But this past Saturday, swimmers could be seen jumping off the diving board and swimming in water during cold winter temperatures.

Swimming during the winter months may seem crazy, but Sacramentans came out for a special cause.

The city Department of Parks and Recreation has been making cuts in the aquatics department for several years now, increasing shutdowns of city pools.

Sierra Voss, 27, who has been lifeguarding for 10 years, has seen firsthand the changes that have been happening recently.

"Last year we had black out days, where once a week each pool had to be closed down for the day. And the hours of recreational swim had to be altered, and a lot of people weren't happy with that."

Along with the cutback of hours, programs have also been altered or have completely subsided.

"Our hours have drastically been cut but also closing of the pools makes swim team and swim lessons limited,” explains Samantha Matranga, a lifeguard of six years.

During the 2011 aquatic season, there were only six pools open: Johnston, McClatchy Park, George Sim, Doyle, Clunie and Pannell Meadowview.

"There is a good possibility that this upcoming season there will only be three pools open and we wanted to do as much as we could to keep more pools open," explains Terri Matal, Recreation Supervisor of Aquatics and Adult Sports.

The aquatics department recently teamed up with giftstoshare.org, a non-profit organization that supports the City of Sacramento's park, recreation, cultural, educational and neighborhood improvement programs to help raise money for the department.

Along with giftstoshare.org, the idea of a polar plunge to help fundraise and raise awareness was mentioned.

"A lot of the polar plunges are timely with the start of the New Year. I thought it would be a great winter event for the community, but also to call attention to the current budget situation with the city pools," explains Matal.

With the pool at a crisp 48 degrees and the outside temperature only a few degrees higher at 51 degrees, participants were up for a challenge.

Residents of all sizes and ages came out to Clunie to show their support as well as participate.

The city made sure that safety came first with three lifeguards on deck, a warming station and the pool chlorinated and regulated.

Two cousins who came together had different views on jumping in the water.

"I'm not scared at all to jump in," said Bobby Goforth, although his older cousin Erin Horrell who is normally a park patron but not a regular at the pool confessed, "I'm a little scared to jump in."

The fist plunge took place at 10:20 a.m., with patrons having the choice of the diving board, slide or off the side of the pool to enter the chilling water. Many of the plungers jumped in several times, seeming invincible to the icy cold water.

Along with the plunge, participants were also able to enjoy refreshments, face painting and a fun polar bear walking around.

Besides the fun that the event brought, it is important to remember the reason for the occasion.

City pools in Sacramento are not only a great way to stay cool during the summer, but they help our residents with employment, swimming lessons and recreational events to help kids stay out of trouble when school isn’t in session.

"The one thing I love about my job is the camaraderie amongst my coworkers, but also that I'm able to provide a service that can help kids from wandering the streets and keeping them out of trouble," explains Matranga.

This polar plunge was started to raise money for the city, with hopes that it will continue as an event the community can participate in on an annual basis.

"I'd love to see this event happen every year. Regardless of whether people swim or just watch, I think it's a great idea," explains Voss.

For more information on the current aquatics budget, visit http://www.cityofsacramento.org/parksandrecreation/recreation/aquatics/pools.htm

To make a donation you can visit www.giftstoshare.org.

Disclosure: I worked for the Aquatics department of the CIty of Sacramento as a Senior Lifeguard for the 2004 and 2006 seasons.

Polar Bear Plunge

2012-01-09T03:41:32Z

It’s a chilly January morning. Shivering, swimsuit-clad bodies surround Clunie Pool waiting for the countdown of the Polar Bear Plunge. In unison, the swimmers leap into the bracing 48-degree water. Like a comic film being rewound, they just as quickly leap back onto the pool deck. Most lasted a full three seconds before returning to the warmth of their towels and hot coffee.

What manner of motivation brought these hardy souls to the first annual Polar Bear Plunge sponsored by the City of Sacramento?

For most, it was a chance to support city pools. All proceeds of the event go towards keeping the pools open in the summer. Lesley Henriquez encouraged her daughter Gracie to take the plunge because “she’s on the swim team and we want to help the fabulous pools.”

Josh Lurie-Terrell had similar motivation but had to bribe his friends to do it with an offer of a dim sum lunch afterwards.

Grietje Reuter and Sharon Nelson also wanted to support a good cause and were willing to dive into frigid water for it because, “We are apparently not very bright,” they said.

Polar swimmers had their choice of pool entry methods. They could jump in from the side, dive off the board or enter via tube slides. Some were so energized that they tried all three methods. For others, once was enough.

Lifeguard Margaret Freiwald was hoping that she wouldn’t have to go into the icy water noting, “I want to keep my fingers and toes.”

She was given special instructions to watch swimmers for hypothermia symptoms, something she doesn’t see much of in the summer.

Aquatic Supervisor Terri Matal organized the January 7th Polar Bear Plunge and said that similar events are traditional around the New Year to support good causes and to “give people an opportunity to challenge themselves.” This year’s Sacramento event attracted nearly 100 people who contributed at least five dollars each to support community pool operations.

Donations can still be made through the non-profit Gifts to Share program at www.giftstoshare.org and specifying that you want your contribution to go towards city pools.

What happens when Sheriff K9's retire?

2012-01-03T03:01:18Z

The Sacramento Sheriff's K9 Association held a fundraiser and demonstration Sunday at Pet Food Express on Fair Oaks Blvd.

Along with meeting the K9's, getting to rub a K9 belly and meet their handlers, goers had the opportunity to purchase the new 2012 SSDK9 calendar loaded with dynamic images of the dogs and their handlers by XSiGHT Photography and Video.

Ike, one of twelve active K9’s in the unit, has seen his fair share of rough and tumble, part of the job as a K9. Deputy Pomerson, Ike’s partner and handler, related how Ike went over a fence after a bad guy and punctured a lung. With the punctured lung, Ike still latched on to the bad guy until deputies apprehended the perp. Ike’s chest swelled to almost twice his normal size and he was rushed to medical care and saved. After a two week recovery, Pomerson related, Ike eagerly went back to work.

Pomerson shared tales of his partner, such as how he slides back and forth in the back seat responding to calls.

“It seems the more he (Ike) is tossed around in the back, [the] more he’s excited and ready to get the bad guy when we arrive at the scene.”

Pomerson also explained the toll the tossing around takes on the K9’s, giving them an average of five to seven workable years. When the K9’s retire, “they get to de-stress and just enjoy the rest of their life as a pet and adapt well,” stated Pomerson.

We got to tag along while Pomerson gave Ike a bath at the pet store. Even though the water was nice and warm, Pomerson agreed Ike would much rather be getting wet in the river.

When Ike retires, Pomerson will purchase him from the county for one dollar plus tax, and Ike will enjoy his retirement as the family pet. With Ike’s retirement, Pomerson will get a new K9 partner. At that time, Pomerson explained, the hardest part for Ike will be not going to work.

On their off days they do absolutely no work related things at all, and when it’s time to go back to work and Pomerson dons his uniform, Ike gets all excited.

“Even when I chirp the alarm on the car or move the car around, Ike gets all excited thinking it’s time to got to work,” said Pomerson.

A large portion of the fundraising proceeds are dedicated to the retirement needs of the K9’s who served their community. The fundraising calendar is a wonderful way to get to know the beautiful and talented animals that protect and serve our community.

If you are interested in donating and being involved with the SSDK9 association, their site has all the information and details you need to get engaged. Be sure to check out SSDK9 Association fundraising golf tournaments and marathons as well.

SSDK9 Demo/Fundraiser from SacMav Rapid Media on Vimeo.

Deputy Amos talks about the K9's>>

Racing for a Reason: Tony Prakash

2011-11-22T19:19:32Z

Lace up your shoes, Sacramento -- the 18th annual Run to Feed the Hungry is this week!

Every week up until then, we will interview a new Run to Feed the Hungry runner. We will ask a handful of different past and present runners the same questions. We have found that people are motivated by many different reasons to be involved in this incredible event.

There is still time to sign up to participate and help keep this the largest Thanksgiving Day run in the country. Go to the Run to Feed the Hungry website for more information and ways to register. We hope to see you there!

Name: Tony Prakash
Occupation: Real Estate

The Sacramento Press: How many years have you been doing the run?
Tony Prakash: It's been four years now.

SP: How many people do you run with?
TP: One to five.

SP: Do you run or walk outside the event?
TP: Yes, I run [regularly].

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
TP: The cause is such a great cause. Just like many others that are out there, [SFBFS] is special based on its beliefs and what it does for the community; helping others who are less fortunate than us. My belief is that everyone should be equal. We should what we can to make [everyone] feel just as important. No one should ever be faced with hunger and experience poverty.

SP: What is your favorite thing about Run to Feed the Hungry?
TP: I cant pick just one, I love every aspect of the event!

SP: Do you have a favorite t-shirt design from over the years?
TP: All of them that I have are fantastic.

SP: If you could make one wish this Thanksgiving, what would it be?
TP: It probably sounds corny, but to end poverty.

SP: What are you most thankful for this year?
TP: The gift of life!

"Contractors Caring for Kids" SWEET 16th Annual Toy Drive & Fundraiser

2011-11-09T22:16:54Z

Contractors Caring for Kids
16th Annual Toy Drive & Fundraiser

Saturday, December 10th, 2011
12 Noon to 4:00 PM
* Pls. Note NEW Location
Orangevale Community Center
6826 Hazel Avenue, Orangevale, CA 95662
“Raising money and toys for children in need to build a better tomorrow”
Contractors Caring for Kids is an all volunteer organization, it is also an
IRS designated 501(c)(3) non-profit charity.
Contributions are tax deductible-ID#68-0397430

Everyone Welcome- Fun Family Event! Bring a Toy and a Smile!

Pie Toss at City and County Building Inspectors, Silent Auction and Big Prize Drawings, Food and Refreshments, A Visit from Santa, Y92 Live Radio Broadcast, Lego Design Build Contest, Face Painting, and so much more.

Benefiting Children’s Organizations:

*Big Brothers/Big Sisters
*Boys and Girls Clubs
*WEAVE (Women Escaping a Violent Envir.)
*UC Davis Hospice
*Sacramento Children’s Receiving Home
*WIND Youth (Works in New Directions)

*Perhaps you’d like to help the day of the event or to serve on a committee, please call to get involved.
Please deliver checks and raffle prizes to:
CONTRACTORS CARING FOR KIDS c/o Zumwalt & Associates, Inc.,
Attn: Michele Zumwalt 4887 Pasadena Ave., Sacramento, California 95841-4239
For More Info: (916) 978-9600 Office (916) 978-9672 Fax Michele@zumwaltinc.com E-mail
Call or e-mail to request for an e-copy of this flier or go to: http://site.gotgreattools.com/cck_2011_flier.pdf

"We Will Rock You!"

2011-11-09T04:44:55Z

The Sac State Geology Club is shaking things up on November 18th by auctioning off hundreds of rocks, minerals, fossils and more at the 8th annual Rock Auction. This celebration of the natural world is free to the public, begins at 6pm at the CSUS Alumni Center and will include live and silent auctions, catered food and beverages, and children's activities.

The room will be abuzz with the chatter of rock hounds, educators, students and gem connoisseurs perusing samples of highly polished petrified wood, purple cubic fluorite, and stunning fossilized coral. “But, you don’t need to be a professional to enjoy the festivities,” says Club President Chris Hughes, “many of our guests are new to the rock world-- looking for garden pieces or a unique holiday gift. Others are there to support the next generation of scientists.”

Since its inception in 2004, the Rock Auction has raised thousands of dollars to support the study of geology by subsidizing field costs for Sac State Geology Students and through the creation of Rock Boxes for underfunded schools. According to Club Vice President Bryan Bergkamp, “Each spring, the Geology Club constructs boxes full of rock and mineral samples to donate to local schools. It is our opportunity to educate future geologists.”

Some of the unique items up for grabs in the live auction include a crystal ball of calcite, a two foot tall tower of orthoceras fossils from Morocco, and a valuable “Green and Gold” pair of quartz samples-- one a large quartz point containing fine crystals of green chlorite and the other a piece of quartz containing a significant amount of crystalline gold. “You can’t beat the thrill of a Live Auction,” say department chair and event auctioneer Dave Evans, “The atmosphere can get a little frantic as bidding escalates, and with such exceptional items up for auction, this year should be very exciting.”

Volunteers have been working for months to collect specimens from local businesses, alumni, faculty and collectors. “It is a tremendous amount of work, but it's worthwhile.” Says Hughes, “Because of the support of our donors and volunteers, we are able to share our love of geology with the entire region!”

For more information about the Rock Auction or to donate a specimen please contact the Geology Club at sacstategeologyclub@gmail.com or call Chris Hughes at (831) 595-336.

Disclosure: Jessica Bean is a member of the Sac State Geology Club.

Racing for a Reason: Laura Smith

2011-11-07T18:19:33Z

Lace up your shoes, Sacramento -- the 18th annual Run to Feed the Hungry is only a few weeks away.

Name: Laura Smith
Occupation: In-Home Care Provider and Social Work Student at California State University, Sacramento

The Sacramento Press: How many years have you been doing the run?
Laura Smith: I have been doing the run for the last four years!

SP: How many people do you run or walk with?
LS: I usually run with four or five people. Last year I ran with my best friend Kristen, her sister Stephanie, her mother Mary, her boyfriend Jairid, and my boyfriend Jeff. The year before that I ran with my mother Veronica and my grandfather Ron.

SP: Do you run or walk outside the event?
LS: Well, I try and run but it is hard with so many people so it is sometimes more fun to walk and talk with family and friends.

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
LS: There is so much need in the Sacramento area that it really motivates me to support a good cause and contribute so that more people can have a hot Thanksgiving meal.

SP: What is your favorite thing about Run to Feed the Hungry?
LS: My favorite thing about the Run to Feed the Hungry is that it is the largest Thanksgiving run in the country. It brings thousands of people together to give back to the community. I love being in the freezing cold early in the morning and seeing all the people dressed up festively in turkey hats.

SP: Do you have a favorite t-shirt design from over the years?
LS: I loved the brown shirt with the fall leaves on it. I’m not such a big fan of the white shirts, but I loved the material they were made with last year.

SP: If you could make one wish this Thanksgiving, what would it be?
LS: Well, for everyone to have a fresh, healthy, and hot Thanksgiving meal to share with their friends and family.

SP: What are you most thankful for this year?
LS: I am most thankful to have a home, a job, and be a student in this tough time. I am also most thankful to share another happy and healthy year with my family and friends.

Racing for a Reason: Tonja Field

2011-10-31T19:05:38Z

Lace up your shoes, Sacramento -- the 18th annual Run to Feed the Hungry is only a few weeks away.

Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) encourages you to be part of Sacramento's Thanksgiving tradition. The 5K and 10K fun run and walk launches from Sacramento State, 6000 J St., on Thanksgiving morning. With 30,000 participants expected to be involved, you are guaranteed a morning of fun with family and friends.

Every week up until then, we will interview a new Run to Feed the Hungry runner. We will ask a handful of different past and present runners the same questions. We have found that people are motivated by many different reasons to be involved in this incredible event.

Name: Tonja Field
Occupation: X-ray/CT/Mammography Tech

The Sacramento Press: How many years have you been doing the run?
Tonja Field: I've participated every year since 2001.

SP: How many people do you run with?
TF: Every year it is different. In the beginning I would run/walk it with two of my best friends, one year I did it by myself because the race started before I could even locate any of my friends and another year I did it as part of The Sacrament Press team.

SP: Do you run or walk at RTFTH?
TF: Lately I've mostly walked it as I find it more enjoyable to enjoy the scenery and a little more difficult to get my legs moving in the cold weather as I have gotten older, but one day I may want to try running it again.

SP: Do you run or walk outside of the event?
TF: I ran a half- marathon for the first time in March and have run only twice since then. I ran again on Sunday [at the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series] and the last time I'll probably run in 2011 is the Run to Feed the Hungry. I'm a Beachbody coach so thankfully those workout programs have kept me in shape so that I can run these sort of events when I want to and not feel like I am going to die for the cause.

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
TF: People going hungry has always been something I've been concerned about. I don't have to know why they are without, I just know that no one should be without food. The fact that this event allows Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services to provide so much for so many people is just one of the reasons I participate in this event each year.

SP: What is your favorite thing about Run to Feed the Hungry?
TF: My favorite thing about Run to Feed the Hungry is the fact that I am getting a little exercise before I consume more food than my body probably needs in a week. Also, even if I am just walking it, the fresh air and happiness around me is enough to make me be positive about the whole day.

SP: Do you have a favorite t-shirt design from over the years?
TF: I do have a favorite t-shirt design! I can't recall the year *digging up all my millions of t-shirts* but it was the white one with blue & yellow writing - turkey legs in running shoes. FOUND IT! 2005 :)

SP: If you could make one wish this year on Thanksgiving, what would it be?
TF: If I could have one wish (I always make wishes!) this Thanksgiving, it would be for me just to come to the CLEAR realization that all I have and all the people I have around me is enough. I don't need anything else and I need to learn to be content and thankful in this moment. I am getting better with this over time, but it still is a struggle.

Albie Ribbin' BBQ Cook-Off Fundraiser for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

2011-10-19T23:33:11Z

Annual Rib CooQue-Off Fundraiser
Answers the Age Old Question…
Where’s the PorQue?

We Ain’t Ribbin’…. We’re Ribbin.

Seems like a contradiction in terms, right?

Very WeaQue Translation: We’re not Quidding… we’re Q-ing.

It’s the 3rd Annual Albie Ribbin’ BBQ Cook-off to benefit the Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation.

Saturday, October 29th, from noon to 6pm, at the Hilltop Tavern (4757 Folsom Boulevard, Sacramento) …. 15 Q-teams, comprised of everyone from local bars and restaurants to open competitors, will be “slathering slabs” of St. Louis style ribs in hopes of winning first ribbon for best ribbin’.

And if you were thinking we’d run out of puns and wordplay…not so fast…for who better to play live music at a Q-off than Sacramento’s favorite good time party band…the Q-Balls. (Ok, we didn’t make that one up…that really is their name, and this band roQues!!)

This is an all age event, fun for the whole family, with Quiller barbeque (St. Louis style ribs, Q’d by the folks at the Round Corner Bar) , Quollasal silent auction and a remarQable raffle with great prizes. Admission is just $20. Quite a smoquin’ deal!

Lunch served from 1pm to 4pm. Q-Balls play from 2pm to 5pm.

For advance tickets, call 927-1592

You’d be Qrazy not to attend this event!!

albieaware.org

Your mother, your sister, your daughter, your best friend.....Who Cares?
Albie Aware.
Albie Aware sounds Like "I'll Be Aware" and that's our purpose: To encourage self-examination and a follow-up doctor's appointment for early detection of a recurrrence. To make others aware of the diagnostic testing available to determine the best treatment of a recurrence. To provide financial assistance when these tests are not covered by the insurance provider.

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is the Media Director for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Corbett's House of Horror Benefits SFBFS

2011-10-11T17:22:32Z

The spookiest month of the year is here! Get in the spirit by attending opening night at Corbett's House of Horror. Today, October 11, bring canned goods to receive $5 off admission. Corbett's House of Horror will pass on the canned goods and also donate $5 of each admission ticket directly to Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services! Check out www.sacramentohaunt.com for additional information. Please note, they only accept cash.

Corbett’s House of Horror is located at1120 Galleria Blvd, Roseville CA 95678. Conveniently located right across the street from the Galleria, nearby many shops and restaurants. Enjoy plenty of free parking in a well-lit lot. Don’t worry about rain, if it’s storming outside, there are lots of indoor activities.

Questions? Contact Corbett’s House of Horror at corbettshouseofhorror@gmail.com or (916) 905-7822.

Gather your friends and family for a spooktacular evening! Thank you for supporting

Disclosure: Kelly Siefkin is an employee of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services

Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services is featured on Groupon

2011-10-03T19:55:19Z

Groupon, the popular daily deals and discount site, selected Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services as TODAY’S FEATURED CAMPAIGN from October 3-October 6, 2011!

What does that mean for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
This is a wonderful opportunity to share our mission with a wider audience in Sacramento. Not everyone in our community is aware that Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services distributes fresh fruits and vegetables 16-20 times per month at various locations around town to combat hunger, as well as poor nutrition.

What’s offered by Groupon?
G-Team, the local philanthropic arm of Groupon, is offering a deal of $13 to purchase four days worth of healthy groceries for a family in need.

How much of the daily deal supports Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
100% of your donation ($13) directly purchases food for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services’ Food program.

How can you be part of this exciting deal?
Click on this link to make a $13 contribution. Make 1, 2 or 3 donations! 40 donations must be made through Groupon to trigger the tipping point. Please help us reach our goal of at least 40 donations to make a difference in the lives of families in need. Once you’ve made a donation, share information about your good deed with friends! A tweet or Facebook post is really helpful.

Thank you to all who are able to give a donation and share this offer.

How do I donate through Groupon?
1. Go to http://www.groupon.com/deals/gt-sacramento-food-bank-family-services
2. Click BUY and select quantity. 1 = $13, 2 = $26, etc
3. Complete your order

How can I help spread the word about this great deal?
1. Go to Facebook and share this link:
http://www.groupon.com/deals/gt-sacramento-food-bank-family-services
2. Follow us on Twitter and retweet about this great deal:
@SacFoodBank

Disclosure: Kelly Siefkin is an employee of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.

Sutter Breast Cancer Quilt Auctions to Benefit Cancer Research and Treatment Programs

2011-09-21T19:42:03Z

The greater Sacramento community is invited to live, silent and online auctions that benefit breast cancer research and treatment programs at Sutter Cancer Center. More than 600 handcrafted quilts and textile art are displayed at the Sutter Cancer Center during October.

Sutter Cancer Center is open daily from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. and the public is welcome to visit the quilt display anytime during the month. There will be a bid sheet for each item on display so that individuals may bid during their visit.

The Silent Auction takes place Oct. 3 - Nov. 5, 2011, while the Live Auction happens Nov. 5, 2011 at 10 a.m. The Online Auction takes place now through Nov. 5. Those interested can visit www.biddingforgood.com/smcfoundation.

Sutter Cancer Center is located at 2800 L St., Sacramento, CA 95816.

Every three years since 1999, California quilters have generously created beautiful quilts for the auction. The past four auctions raised more than $425,000 for Sutter Cancer Center programs. More than 1,900 quilts were donated to those auctions.

Programs that benefit from the Sutter Breast Cancer Quilt Auction include the Breast Cancer Navigator Program, Lymphadema Education, Nutrition Counseling and Classes, as well as Dance Movement, Art, Music and Massage Therapy. For more information, visit www.suttermedicalcenter.org/quiltauction.

Sutter Cancer Center does more than treat a disease. We care for people living with cancer and strive to meet their physical, mental and emotional needs. Through comprehensive programs and services, we support our patients and those who care for them. For more information, visit www.suttercancer.org.

Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, is affiliated with Sutter Health, a not-for-profit, community based health system located throughout Northern California. For more information on Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, visit www.suttermedicalcenter.org.

# # #

Disclosure: Liz Madison is a Communications Coordinator who works in Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region’s Strategic Marketing and Communications Department

Blues Festival and Pasta Cook-Off Fundraiser-October 2nd

2011-09-15T22:27:11Z

10 Bands…10 Restaurants…5 years.

We did the math…it adds up to big fun at the…

5th Annual Blues for Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 2nd, from 1pm to 7pm, at the Torch Club, 904 15th Street. (inside and out in the parking lot…two stages)

This popular fundraiser, described in this news release, which has grown every year, benefits Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation, which raises money for expensive diagnostic breast cancer tests such as PET scans and mammograms for women in need.

At Albie, we like to say, “Your mother, your sister, your daughter, your best friend... Who Cares?…..Albie Aware!

Besides performances by the area’s leading blues bands, the popular Pasta Cook-Off featuring 10 top Sacramento restaurants, will be featured. Attendees will be able to taste them all for a mere $10. Doing the math again…we think you get it…

All Star Line-Up of Bands:

The Nibblers
Mercy Me!
Walking Spanish
Kaye Bohler
Ron Hacker
Gino Matteo
Bone MacDonald
Sista Monica
Trubaduo
Pailer, Adams & Joyce

Participating Pugilistic Potentates of Pasta
(aka: Competing Pasta Cook-off Restaurants)

Blue Prynt Restaurant & Bar
Clark’s Corner
Evan’s Kitchen
House Kitchen & Bar
Lucca Restaurant & Bar
Mama Susanna’s Ristorante Italiano
Michelangelo’s Italian Restaurant
Rio City Café
(2 restauarants TBA)

Silent auction items:
Flat screen TV
Signed art works
Trips and much more

50 Raffle Items
Including restaurants & local entertainment certificates

For more information, please visit: www.albieaware.org

Tickets available now at eventbrite.com

Disclosure: Steve LaRosa is the Media Director for Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation

Step Up and Step Out - AIDS Run/Walk 2011

2011-09-09T06:57:26Z

Would it surprise you to know that AIDS rates are on the rise again?

As someone who lost only a few friends to AIDS, but was nearly frozen with fearful anticipation waiting for the results of that first test in the ‘80s, it certainly surprised me! It further amazed me that anyone who has seen the devastation the results of a compromised immune system can cause would continue to engage in risky and potentially fatal behavior.

But they do.

But the most disturbing information by far, was that one of the reasons that HIV continues to spread is that it’s considered by many in high-risk groups to be “no big deal.” The rationale—if it can be considered that—is that people do so well on the medication (think Magic Johnson) that it’s not really the death sentence it used to be.

If only it was so simple.

The truly rational mind would realize that contracting AIDS is a crapshoot. Once you are positive for HIV, the odds that you will die from any number of things go up. You are vulnerable. Medication works well for some people, and not for others. Medication is hugely expensive. HIV/AIDS is a preexisting condition, so if you are not Magic Johnson and need to get health insurance, this can be a problem.

Where HIV/AIDS is concerned, not only is ignorance not bliss, it is suicide.

Or murder.

That’s where AIDS Walk comes in. The Sac Valley AIDS Run/Walk is, ostensibly, a fundraiser, but, in reality, isn’t one of the big moneymakers for the cause. It’s most important function is to raise community awareness about the disease and the organizations that fight it and serve the sufferers and survivors.

Co-chair Julie Kennedy talked with me about how this year’s run/walk differs from past events.

Most notably, the walking course is only half as long. The former course was a 5K, or about 3 miles. This year the revised course will leave the Capitol and head toward the Tower Bridge and back, for a total of 1.5 miles.

“It will save us money on street closures and police escorts, which is a factor to consider in this economy,” admits Julie Kennedy, “But more importantly, it will also allow survivors to participate more comfortably, which has been a concern in previous years.”

The runners’ route will remain a 5K.

Julie Kennedy is also hoping the shorter route will bring a sense of community back to the event. She’s hoping to see the return of tribute signs, and the costumes and camaraderie of years past.--whatever it takes to get people reengaged.

Kennedy also works at CARES, a nonprofit HIV/AIDS clinic in Midtown.

“I recently had a 19-year old test positive, “ she tells me, “The HIV tester was talking with him and he was excited that it was his birthday the next day. He was telling her about his birthday plans.” She paused a moment.

“Then she went down the hall to get the results, and she has to tell him it’s positive. She wanted to cry.”

There are too many stories just as sad, she said.

So if there were one final thing she could say, it would be,

“If I could say just one thing,” she says, as we are about to part company. “It would be, Help! AIDS needs help. Please walk. If you can’t walk, donate.”

She pauses, thinking about the clients she will return to.

“Let’s bring this back into the light.”

You can register a team or as an individual on line in advance at www.sacvalleyaidsrunwalk.org or in person up until the beginning of the event, which will be held on Sunday, September 18.

AIDS Walk is a Capital City AIDS Fund event that benefits number of charitable organizations. This year, among them will be CARES, who will use the money to support their Positive Speakers Program; Breaking Barriers, who provide mobile testing and transportation for people with HIV; Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Center; Sunburst Project, a camp for children with a parent who has HIV; Golden Rule Services, serving gay men of color; Harm Reduction Services, providing needle exchange and HIV testing; Oak Park Outreach needle exchange; Sierra Foothills AIDS Foundation of Auburn; and Chico Stonewall Democratic Club.

Salons VS Designers Hair Battle

2011-07-28T22:58:24Z

Hosted By Naima Mora From Americas Next Top Model! A Berry Special Event Proudly Presents The First Ever Diversity Hair & Fashion Battle "Salons Vs Designer" Fundraiser.This is your opportunity to see our areas top salons, designers and make-up artist battle it out on stage for cash and other prizes. This event is filled with shopping, salons, spas, healing artist accessories and fashion! The evening will include a runway show featuring top salons, make-up and stylist from Sacramento and surrounding areas showcasing and competing in the areas of hair, make-up and fashions. With our theme of Salons Vs Designers this show will showcase the most innovative stylists highlighting unique styles worn by trendy fashionistas from every background, body shape & size Come learn about the Roberts Center and see their kids from the center hit the runway with a special performance. Local Celebrity Judges will be in attendance! Get your tickets early. This show will sell out. Roberts Family Development Center Fundraiser! 916-271-2351 Visit Our Website at www.hairandfashionbattle.com

Sutter's Fort Calls Out to Food Lovers & History Enthusiasts!

2011-07-25T15:26:46Z

After a successful inaugural effort in 2010, Friends of Sutter’s Fort in association with Slow Food Sacramento proudly present the second annual “A Taste of History” fundraising event on Saturday evening, September 24. “A Taste of History” offers guests a unique culinary experience that includes a four-course, sit-down dinner amid a beautiful setting inside the walls of Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park (SHP). The highlight of the memorable event is a specially designed menu designed to showcase meals reminiscent of those enjoyed when John Sutter founded Sutter’s Fort in 1839. Many historic recipes will be re-invented with today’s innovative techniques and vibrant local ingredients.

When they first arrive, “A Taste of History” guests will be treated to scrumptious appetizers while enjoying local wine and beer tastings. New this year, guests will have the opportunity to watch and interact with chefs as they prepare their culinary creations in period facilities such as outdoor fire pits or in the historic kitchens and on-site bakery. With local wines and beer paired with the various courses, the inspired dishes will be created by chefs from popular restaurants such as Café Vinoteca, Ella Dining Room and Bar/The Kitchen, Mulvaney’s B&L, Spataro and Ten22 Restaurant. In addition, the meals will be served by talented volunteers from Plates Cafe & Catering, a special endeavor launched by St. John’s Shelter Program for Women & Children.

With an international flair representative of the types of music enjoyed by emigrants who first came to Sutter’s Fort, live acoustic music will entertain guests and set a lively and festive mood throughout the culinary experience and silent auction. At the close of the evening, each participant will each receive a goodie bag that includes a keepsake program with the historic recipes and today’s adapted recipes.

“A Taste of History” is a fundraising event that benefits Sutter’s Fort SHP and would not be possible without the generous contributions provided by the following businesses and organizations: Bogle Vineyards, Boeger Winery, Café Vinoteca, California State Parks, Ella Dining Room and Bar/The Kitchen Restaurant, Midtown Business Association, Mulvaney’s B&L, Plates Café & Catering, Rail Bridge Cellars, River City Brewing Company, Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), Slow Food Sacramento, Spataro, Ten22 Restaurant, The Sutter District and Whole Foods Market.

For information about donating silent auction items or purchasing tickets to “A Taste of History,” visit www.suttersfort.org or call 916-323-7626.

About Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Operated by California State Parks with financial assistance from the nonprofit Friends of Sutter’s Fort, Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located in midtown Sacramento on L Street between 26th and 28th Streets, the Fort offers special events, Living History and Demonstration Days programs throughout the year. Established in 1839 by Swiss immigrant John Augustus Sutter, Sutter’s Fort was at the center of a flourishing agricultural empire named New Helvetia (New Switzerland.) This empire established Sacramento’s earliest settlement and the first European settlement in California’s Central Valley. For more information, call (916) 445-4422 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/SuttersFort

About Slow Food Sacramento
Slow Food Sacramento is the Sacramento region’s chapter of Slow Food USA. The active organization hosts a wide range of educational and convivial events throughout the year to showcase producers and creators of some of the region’s outstanding foods, farms and restaurants in an effort to champion locally and sustainably produced vegetables, fruits, wines, meats and cheeses. For more information, visit www.slowfoodsacramento.com

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento area including the Capital District State Museums and Historic Parks.

A Night with Owls & Hawks

2011-06-14T17:57:25Z

Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Bushnell Gardens Nursery
5255 Douglas Blvd.
Granite Bay California 95746

“A Night with Owls & Hawks” is great event for the public to get up close and almost personal with birds of prey – they are our friends.

Bushnell Garden Nursery is hosting this fund raiser for both Native Bird Connection & Hawk Talk. These two groups help educate the public about these amazing birds as well as rescue birds in need.

Tickets:
• $15 per person
• $25 per couple
• Children under 12 are free.
* Space is limited to the first 200 people. We sell out so being quick on the draw is recommended.
* Available to purchase at Bushnell Gardens Nursery (see below)

Bring a folding chair, unless you prefer standing.
Light refreshments will be served.

Contact:
Bushnell Gardens Nursery
(916) 791-4199
http://www.bushnellgardens.com

Disclosure: Dave Bushnell is the owner of Bushnell Gardens

Rock out for Big Brothers Big Sisters

2011-05-25T03:49:04Z

On Sunday, May 29, more than 6,000 community members will be walking and rocking out to KISS, all in the name of charity. The third annual Walk ‘N Rock, being held at Raley Field, will split all funds raised between their 2011 non-profit affiliates (see bottom).

Last year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento participated in Walk ‘N Rock for the first time and raised $26,000 through the event. This year, they hope to top that and raise $40,000.

Founded in 1963, BBBS Sac currently has 282 active matches and operates on a staff of only 14. Matching Bigs and Littles and providing training to the mentors would not be possible without donations and successful fundraisers like Walk ‘N Rock.

The Sacramento Press talked to President and CEO Rhonda Staley-Brooks to find out why you should rock out on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento this weekend!

The Sacramento Press: Tell me a little bit about your background and how you got involved with BBBS.

Rhonda Staley-Brooks: I was attending school at CSU Sacramento and needed to find a job because my father would not support my social life. Found BBBS on the job line and applied. I started in 1993 as a Case Work Assistant and worked my way through all Program positions to the current position as CEO.

SP: If you had one minute to explain the organization and its mission, what would you say?

RS: Changing the way children grow up today by providing positive adult role models in their lives. These children are less likely to do drugs, drop out of high school or become a teen parent due to the influences we place in their lives.

SP: How did BBBS become involved with Hope Productions/Walk 'N Rock?

RS: We applied the second year of the organization and become one of the partner agencies.

SP: Are there any notable teams of BBBS staffers or volunteers participating in Walk 'N Rock?

RS: VSP was a huge supporter of Walk ‘N Rock last year. This year, “Walk N Rollers,” led by one of our board members, Lynn Matsuda, is making their way up the leader board.

SP: What are the biggest annual fundraisers for BBBS? How much money is raised, on average, during each?

RS: Bowl for Kids’ Sake raises over $55,000 each year and we are still calculating the books for this year and for sure will surpass that amount. Wine on the Waterfront raises an average of $20,000. Big Disco raises an average of $55,000

SP: Why is it so important to raise funds for BBBS?

RS: The funds are critical to our success. It ensures the safety of our children as we put trained professionals in positions to recruit, screen, match and support every child that enters our program.

SP: Why is it so important for Littles to have mentors in their lives?

RS: As mentioned earlier, they are less likely to do drugs, drop out of high school or become teen parents when they have positive mentors in their life. Currently, we have 139 boys and girls waiting for a BIG.

SP: What is something about the organization that the public might not realize but should?

RS: How many part-time employees (six full-time and eight part-time) are employed to keep this size agency functioning. Also, that we are not funded by the national organization. Each affiliate pays local dues to the national headquarters to receive support, marketing materials and other branded materials so that you don’t have to recreate the wheel.

SP: Besides donating, how can community members get involved?

RS: Volunteering in several capacities: Become a Big - 4-6 hours every week or every other week - matched to a child. Volunteer at a special event: As the need arises, we use a database of more than 300 to call upon when we need volunteers for our special events. Become a Board Member: The board is responsible for the oversight of the organization.

It’s not too late to sign up and start fundraising for your own team! Register here.

Read about Hope Productions here.

2011 Walk 'N Rock non-profit affiliates

* Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento, Inc.
* Cristo Rey High School
* Keaton Raphael Memorial
* Okizu
* People Reaching Out
* River Cats Foundation, Inc.
* Wind Youth Services

Tessie is Racing for a Reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-05-19T23:54:57Z

This week’s interview is with Tessie Ernst, who has worked for the Xerox Corporation for 24 years and is currently on a one year Social Service Leave of Absence volunteering her time at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. She enjoys the outdoors, especially playing golf!

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
My favorite piece of jewelry is a diamond ring that my mother gave me when I graduated from high school. It was my Grandmother’s ring that she gave to my Mom when she graduated from high school so it holds a lot of sentimental value since my Grandmother passed away in 2005.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
Yes, but only as part of the committee that is organizing the event. Next year I plan to participate because I LOVE the Amazing Race.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
It is a fantastically fun event for a wonderful cause. It allows teams, business and companies to all be part of helping the community in a creative way.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
I did not participate but I did see all the great footage of the event and looked like everyone enjoyed themselves.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Volunteering at Sacramento Food Bank & Family services for the year as the Volunteer and Communications Assistant and part of the Race for the Ring committee.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services is so much more than food!

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
Everyone should come out to participate in the Race for the Ring event. It is a great way to get some fresh air, exercise and be part of the entire experience. Whether you participate in the race or you volunteer, there is still plenty of time to sign up for either one. There will also be a silent auction at the after-party with some awesome items that participants can get at a screaming deal. You can bid on the items and if you win, we can hold the item for pick up at a later date. Don’t let anything hold you back. Going once, going twice,…SOLD!

Team SacPD and the Race Across America

2011-05-19T04:09:03Z

Team SacPD Race Across America cyclists from left to right:

Officer Matt McPhail, Officer Skyler Baldock, Officer Paul Curtis, Lieutenant Neil Schneider, Lieutenant Jim Beezley, Sergeant Dan Nutley, Lieutenant Mark Greenlee and Sergeant Don Davis. Not Pictured: Chief Rick Braziel

It is approaching 2 p.m., race start. Thousands of people are milling about the Oceanside Pier in Southern California, and you are one of them. Nervous, you look out past the crowd, about a mile up the road.

One mile of the 3,000 that lie ahead.

You are proud because you know this is for the ultimate cause: honor. You are strong, assured by months of hours long training through rain, bitter cold, and pain. You are ready.

Having traded badge and gun for helmet and bicycle, you are part of the first ever law enforcement team taking on the challenge of Race Across America.

A nine-day non-stop grueling bicycle race across 12 states. This historical first is because eight local Sacramento Police Officers decided it was time to bring attention to the national sacrifice 900,000 brother and sister officers make each year when they stand on the thin blue line.

The team is raising funds for The National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., a graceful 304-foot curving wall of blue-gray marble etched with names--the names of each officer who has fallen on duty dating back to the first known death in 1791. Visitors can pay tribute on three tranquil and tree-lined acres in Judiciary Square. Each spring during National Police week, new names are added.

Our Sacramento Police Department hopes to bring much attention to their cause by relay bicycling across the United States. Destination: Annapolis, MD., City Dock.

The race route

“Why not start big!” says one young team member, enthusiastic for the adventure ahead. Why not, indeed.

Some numbers:
19,000 officers have been killed on the job.
53 hours. On average every 53 hours another officer falls.
375 miles per day, or more.
170,000 vertical feet to climb.

They have 216 hours to race across America. By the time our team finishes, four more names will be waiting to be added to this wall. Please honor these men and women who give the ultimate sacrifice and the team who pays tribute to them all, for us.

Donate here: http://www.sacpd.org/teamsacpd/raam/donate.html

Watch SacPress for more information as Race Across America grows near!

Why Margie Mott will Walk 'N Rock for Kids

2011-05-12T21:13:00Z

Hope Productions Foundation’s, third annual fundraising walk and benefit concert to support local children’s charities, Walk 'N Rock for Kids, will take place Sunday, May 29th at Raley Field in West Sacramento. Hundreds of local companies and civic groups have formed walk teams to raise funds for 22 nonprofits which serve Sacramento area children and youth. The morning’s walk will start and end at Raley Field, taking participants to the Capitol and through the Downtown Plaza. Later that evening, Hope Productions Foundation will host a VIP reception for event sponsors and a benefit concert featuring American rock icons KISS, which is open to the public. From volunteers to sponsors, walkers to concertgoers, Sacramento has shown great support of this event. Here is a spotlight on Margie Mott. Read on to learn why she will Walk 'N Rock for Kids.

A little about Margie: I am the Executive Assistant to the Central Division Executive as well as the Corporate Financial Officer of Sutter Medical Foundation. I live in Antelope and work in downtown Sacramento.

What is your role in this year’s Walk ‘N Rock for Kids? I will be co-captain of the Sutter Health Cares for Youth walk team which will support Wind Youth Services.

Did you participate in last year’s Walk ‘N Rock for Kids? While I did not get to go in person last year, I was a virtual walker and co-captain of the Sutter Health Team. Many of my co-workers were able to go and I heard that it was all, and more, than I would have expected. I cannot WAIT for this year’s Walk ‘N Rock!

What was your favorite part of last year’s event? While the concert portion is something to look forward to and culminates a good time and rewards ALL who participate, I also love the fact that much needed funds are being raised to support some very well-deserving organizations directly in our own backyard.

Have you ever received support from one of the benefiting organizations? My son is a leukemia and bone marrow transplant survivor. In the past two years he has finally been healthy enough to attend Camp Okizu, once during a “family camp,” and once during “oncology camp.” I can’t tell you what that organization has meant to us and how much he enjoyed going. It’s a “safe place” to send oncology kids where staff, co-campers, and all the other families are familiar with the world that a pediatric patient now lives in. The location is beautiful and peaceful and the activities are amazing! Dominic is excited about going to camp again this year! And while I am familiar with and support ALL the wonderful organizations served by Hope Productions Foundation, my heart is also touched by Wind Youth Services and the support they provide to homeless youth in our community. Their services are not provided by any other entity to the kids that they help.

Why are you involved in Walk ‘N Rock for Kids? Foremost because of the kids, including my own, who have needs that are addressed in such a powerful way by the various local children’s nonprofits that serve them. In addition, Sutter Medical Foundation where I work is community-minded and encourages and supports employee participation in these activities. And finally I am involved because I love the Hope Productions Foundation team!

Hope Productions Foundation provides training, resources and funding for seven local children’s charities: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento, Cristo Rey High School of Sacramento, Keaton Raphael Memorial, Okizu, People Reaching Out, River Cats Foundation and Wind Youth Services. An additional 15 children’s charities will also benefit from abbreviated training and fundraising support through the Walk ‘N Rock for Kids event. With continued support from the community, the Foundation has distributed over $1.5 million in contributions, resources, marketing and in-kind business training to local children and youth nonprofits since its inception in the fall of 2008. More than 51,000 local children have been impacted by the efforts of Hope Productions Foundation.

4th Annual Food & Wine Tasting

2011-05-10T21:29:31Z

John Kerr was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. At the age of eighteen months he was diagnosed with the neuromuscular disease Spinal Muscular Atrophy. This is a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy that attacks the motor neurons in the spinal cord and directly affects the functionality of his muscles. Never able to sit up independently or crawl, John received his first electric wheelchair on his fifth birthday. This newfound independence buoyed John into a life that was no different than that of his peers.

With a diagnosis like Muscular Dystrophy, you may think that John has not lived a normal life, but he has lived a very normal life. Growing up he was fully involved with his friends and in school. He was involved with the sports within his high school as the PA announcer for the boys basketball, baseball and track teams, and he was awarded a lettermen’s jacket. When he was younger John met Michael Jordan through the Make-A- Wish Foundation. This would later go on to inspire him in life when he saw in a Sports Illustrated Magazine that Michael Jordan created his own foundation, and at that time decided that he would create his own foundation. One that would benefit those that have Muscular Dystrophy.

The John Kerr Foundation was created to help individuals with Muscular Dystrophy. Already having given out two scholarships, totaling nearly $2,000; he has also taken a young lady to see the Kings Basketball Team in Portland and bought driving equipment so that a young man could drive. John Kerr wants to keep raising enough money to continue doing this.

For the future John would like to expand what he is currently doing, not only giving scholarships and helping individuals, but also to create a summer camp for children and young adults with Muscular Dystrophy. He already has the location set in Yosemite, CA at a campground which features trails accessible to individuals in wheelchairs. As part of the summer camp, John wants to have both physical and mental activities, a pool with wheelchair access and adaptive soccer and other sports. He envisions arts and crafts for the artistically inclined, and a campfire where the children can exchange stories. This summer camp will also have seminars on how the youth can lead a fulfilled life, such as his own. He will teach and show them that they can be independent, have goals and aspirations as well as hold a job within society.

In order to offer a camp with such wonderful opportunities for the children, John Kerr will have to raise between $40-$50,000. This is a very reachable goal. John would like to launch the new summer camp in 2012.

The John Kerr Foundation has been doing fundraisers since 2006, and is currently planning this year's largest fundraiser, a Food and Wine Tasting. This year he will be holding his 4th Annual Food & Wine Tasting on Saturday May 21st at The Clunie Hall inside McKinley Park. The event will start at 5:30pm. For more information on the event or on John Kerr, please visit www.johnkerrfoundation.org.

Disclosure: Ray Bacon is Event Designer for Royal Events, responsible for planning and marketing this event.

Jackie is Racing for a Reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-05-09T21:58:09Z

This week’s interview is with Jackie Goree, the Database Manager at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. She has been an employee with SFBFS for a year and a half. This enthusiastic and compassionate woman is also a massage therapist who is passionate about travel, recently visiting Paris with her mother.

Participants will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
My Tanzanite earrings from Mazatlan, Mexico.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
Unfortunately, it's the same day as my niece's graduation so I can't volunteer, but I wish I could be there! I loved meeting all of the participants and the After Party was a hoot!

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
It’s a great way to raise funds and awareness for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. The organization continues to impress me with the scope of programs and the number of individuals served each month.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about Race for the Ring?
Last year I volunteered at the After Party distributing water and goody bags. It was fun to see everyone's excitement as they entered the After Party. Everyone was discussing the clues and how much fun they'd had racing around downtown Sacramento. They seemed very greatful to take a break, enjoy lunch and rest a bit.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
As Database Manager at SFBFS, I oversee the tracking of donors, volunteers and clients in our database. I work closely with donors and volunteers to thank them for their support.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
How dedicated each employee and volunteer is to the organization's mission and the clients we serve. The compassion is extraordinary and I love seeing volunteers and staff members going the extra step to make sure families are really taken care of when they ask for assistance.

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
Race for the Ring is fantastic and I hope there's a great turnout again this year. Please tell your friends and family to sign up!

For more information about this event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. To learn more about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Food, wine and classical music at A Toast to Music

2011-05-09T05:07:31Z

The fourth annual A Toast to Music food and wine benefit helped raise money for the Camellia Symphony Orchestra at the Old Sugar Mill Saturday night. The event was sponsored by Carvalho Family Winery.

Camellia Symphony Orchestra executive director Roberta McClellan said the money raised at the event will help fund the orchestra’s 2011-2012 season, although they won’t know the total amount raised at the event until Thursday or Friday.

“(It will help pay for) brochures, production, purchasing music, rental space and concerts over the summer,” McClellan said.

The orchestra provides free family concerts over the summer, and McClellan said the money will also help pay for all of the expenses.

The Camellia Symphony Orchestra musicians also performed at the benefit, with different musical interludes.

The wineries that participated in the taste testing included Carvalho Family Winery, The Solomon Wine Company, Scribner Bend Vineyards, Heringer Estates, m2 wines, Bogle Vineyards and Three Wine Company.

Brew it Up! Brewery and Grill also provided a selection of beers.

Several local restaurants and caterers provided a variety of hors d’oeuvres and desserts, including Hawks Restaurant, Enotria Restaurant and Wine Bar, Michelangelo’s, Mi Pueblo Ajijic Mexican Grill, Ravenous, Tulí Bistro, Capital Confections, Capital City Event Management and Sweet Cake Box.

Retiree Robin Kane said she heard about the event from her neighbor and that she has attended one of the orchestra’s symphony events before.

“It’s very nice,” Kane said. “I like this as a venue. It’s terrific. The music is very nice. It’s refreshing.”

Parent James Pigford was at the benefit to support his daughter, who plays in the symphony.

“Any fundraiser that supports the arts in Sacramento is a good thing,” Pigford said.

There was also a large silent auction.

Carvalho Family Winery donated a barrel of custom blended red wine with a value of $5,500, amounting to 22 cases of wine. The winner will help bottle the wine this July at a special bottling party at the Carvalho Family winery.

Other hot auction items included a gift certificate for an iPhone, an Amazon Kindle and a World Mark vacation.

There were several raffle vacation prizes, including a gift certificate for the Mendocino Music Festival, a North Lake Tahoe getaway and a Bodega Bay escape.

Eat at Joe's

2011-05-03T17:17:24Z

What do Joe’s Crab Shack and Cinco de Mayo have in common? Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services' fundraiser night, of course! Please come out and join the fun on Thursday, May 5 between 5:00pm and 11:00pm. You can enjoy a delicious meal while helping raise funds for a worthy cause. Simply bring THIS FLIER with you to dinner and present it to your server. It is that easy. At the end of the night, 10% of your evening’s total will be donated to Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. We included three coupons on this flier so you can post a few at work, give one to a friend or share with a fellow diner.

Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services has been making a difference in our community since 1976. Eight diverse programs at two sites, along with mobile distributions, are designed to combat hunger, improve literacy, strengthen families, educate youth, foster technological skills,m entor parents, build self-esteem and provide hope.

Not able to join us for dinner on Thursday? Consider being part of the exciting Race for the Ring coming up on May 21. This text message based scavenger hunt on bicycle promises to be the most fun time you'll have helping a local charity. Visit www.raceforthering.com for more information.

Ole'!

Pat is Racing for a Reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-05-02T19:29:58Z

The third annual Race for the Ring is coming to Sacramento on May 21, 2011. This text messaged based treasure hunt on bike through downtown Sacramento is sponsored by Rogers Jewelry Company and directly benefits programs at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. Teams of two will pedal, scoot and wheel their way through downtown Sacramento guided by text message clues in search of over $35,000 in prizes. Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

Today's interview is with Pat McManus, a volunteer from last year’s event. Pat was born in the Midwest, but moved to Sacramento in 1987. She and her husband began volunteering at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) in 1989. Upon retirement, the pair became very involved with programs such as Sunday Lunch with her husband volunteering five days per week for 10 years until he passed away. Pat came back to volunteer on her own in 2006 and has been helping in Food Assistance and with other volunteer activities ever since. Not even two hip replacement surgeries can slow her down. This canning pro and baker extraordinaire helps families in need several days a week as a regular volunteer at SFBFS.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
Oh my, I have a lot (chuckles). The pearls my daughter gave me 20 years ago are probably my favorite. I wear them a lot. They are very special to me.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
Well, kind of, but not as a racer. I'm going to be a clue! Last year, I volunteered as a clue about SFBFS for the racers and I enjoyed it so much, I’m looking forward to doing it again this year.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
Many things. Mostly giving back. I’ve been blessed through my whole life and I am so thankful I can give back through Food Assistance at SFBFS. I strongly support SFBFS in all aspects.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
Being a clue! All the participants raced up to me (I was hidden along the course) and asked me information about the Mother-Baby program at SFBFS. Everyone was very enthusiastic and excited!

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
I currently volunteer at SFBFS and I’m excited to be a clue for this year’s Race.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services (SFBFS)?
The public should be aware that SFBFS does not only provide food to the needy, but we provide additional services such as PlayCare, Youth Academy, Computer Clubhouse and Adult Education. These services can help everyone.

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
Come on down, a fun time awaits! Look for me as a clue!

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Viewpoint Photographic Art Center fundraiser auction and exhibit

2011-04-28T17:20:15Z

Walk down busy J Street, pull open a heavy door of an appealing brick building and enter a showcase of photographic art – digital media, black and white, and historic processes, each image matted in the traditional austere fashion and hanging side by side on spot-lighted walls.

Viewpoint Photographic Art Center, a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization, provides a community for photographers and photography events, exhibits and education for the community. The center is holding its annual fine print auction and fundraiser until May 7.

“We currently have 160-plus items that have been donated by photographers from around the world,” said Michael Corlew, chairman for the auction committee.

Displayed works include photographs created by internationally known photographers such as Ruth Bernhard, Michael Kenna and Jock Sturges, as well as local photographers Lewis Kemper and Jennifer Wu. Kemper and Wu are members of Canon’s Explorer of Light Photography program.

“Viewpoint is a photography-only gallery,” Corlew said. “We provide an opportunity for photographers to meet with other photographers to discuss photography in all aspects. We have people who are avid digital photographers. We have people who are just as avid in the alternate processes.”

“Alternate process is another way of saying historical process,” said Judy Yemma, Viewpoint instructor and membership coordinator. “As silver gelatin (black and white) came into use, these processes fell by the wayside, similar to what is happening as people move more to digital imagery.”

Yemma offers workshops for those interested in alternate processes. Other members offer classes in digital photography and software and workshops at scenic and visually stimulating locations. Workshop attendees do not have to be members, but members do get a nice discount on the class enrollment fee. Membership fees help with Viewpoint’s operating expenses.

Viewpoint offers the community a unique experience in being able to view a new photography exhibit every month. Reception openings are held on Sacramento’s Second Saturday evenings.

“We do everything we can to put on a high-quality exhibit every month,” Corlew said. “We put up 22 different shows every year. It is just a great community of photographers who get together to embrace photography.”

Support the Viewpoint Photographic Art Center and attend the live auction on May 7. Enjoy fantastic photographic works, food, drink and a good time.

View the online auction catalog or visit the Viewpoint gallery at 2015 J St., Suite 101, to see the auction photographs. Prints may be bid on through May 6 in the silent online auction.

Disclaimer: Laura Mah is a member of the Viewpoint Photographic Art Center.

Japan XOXO: Dance for Japan

2011-04-27T23:53:20Z

Looking for something to do this Friday night? Put on your dancing shoes, head over to the Blue Lamp, and support a good cause! Japan XOXO is a benefit dance party, with all profits from the door going to the American Red Cross. Join local DJs Shaun Slaughter, Adam J, Sam I Jam, and Taylor Cho as they do what they love to support an amazing cause.

Feel like you could do more about Japan's dire situation? Feel helpless? Japan XOXO offers a very easy solution: COME DANCE.

Expect an evening of fun house, bouncy house, hip house, topsy turvy techno, treacherous techno, and some fun indie stuff mixed in the middle keeping the party going all damn night.

Plus, enjoy drink specials all night--$3 well drinks & $3.50 PBRs.

Feel like giving more? Do it! It's never too late (or too early) to help a good cause.

Specifics:
When: Friday, April 29, 2011, 10pm-2am
Where: Blue Lamp Lounge, 1400 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816
Cost: $5 (all proceeds from cover costs go to American Red Cross)
Age: 21+

Chris is racing for a reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-04-25T18:51:49Z

Interview with Chris Wallis, a participant in last year's event and a member of the 2nd place finishing team in the 2009 event. Chris is a researcher and grad student at UC Davis. He has lived in Sacramento for most of his life yet admits he still doesn't know where anything is. However, he believes it's still more pleasant to be lost here than to be lost in most other places.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
I swallowed an earring when I was 5 and it never came out. You could say it's near to my heart, pending x-ray confirmation.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
A full day of good, clean, safe, wholesome fun. And winning, duh.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
Some combination of good times, good causes and the opportunity to collect shiny things.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
Doing arithmetic in the dirt when we didn't have a pen or paper.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Novice on all counts.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services (SFBFS)?
It's not an acronym, it's just pronounced "sfbfs".

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
I'm looking for a replacement main wiring harness for a '97 Toyota Avalon, if anybody is letting one go on the cheap.

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. For more informaiton about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

3 Comedians, 1 Live Band to Bring Cheers and Raise Hope for Blood Cancer Survival

2011-04-20T08:15:04Z

On Saturday, April 30th, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Woman of the Year candidate Vickie Lee from Sacramento launhes the first event of her campaign to raise awareness and raise funds for cancer research. The funds raised from this event will offer hope and support for those impacted by blood cancers such as for the local children honorees Kylie(9) from Roseville and Jackson(5) from Folsom. Both children are going through treatment for Leukemia.

With 2 young children, a full time job as an insurance and financial professional, along with the familial duty of taking her parents to doctors' appointments, many would ask why Vickie is willing to subject herself and her family to the 10 week campaign. It all stems from her hope to find the cure and improve the quality of care for her mother, who was diagnosed with Lymphoma in 2009.

Join her on Vickie's birthday Saturday, April 30th to help make her wish come true and also gain a research grant in honor of the children honorees and her mother.

Event: Laugh Out Loud - Comedy & Music Show featuring comedians Bob Hernandez, Rick Pulido & Del Van Dyke(Voted Best Comic in Sac). and Live Band: Not for Profit
Location: Palare Lounge 1009 10th Street(corner of 10th & J), Sacramento, CA
Tickets: $45/person

For more information call 916-606-8877 or visit online at http://sacr.mwoy.llsevent.org/vickie
All proceeds go towards the efforts of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Lily is racing for a reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-04-18T18:36:14Z

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
Yes, but I need to borrow a bike! I love getting outdoors, walking around and being out in the sun. Sacramento is a great place for a treasure hunt!

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
I love the significant impact that Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services has on families in our community. I am motivated because of the people I work with at SFBFS. I enjoy everyone from the clients to the volunteers to the staff. I like to think I’m making a real difference in people’s lives.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
Last year I got to spend a lot of time with a friend I don’t get to see very often, which was really nice. This is a really great event to do with a close friend who can finish your sentences and knows how you think - a great recipe for an efficient racing team!

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
I am a current volunteer in Clothing and Women’s Wisdom Art programs at SFBFS and a 2011 Race for the Ring hopeful!

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
I wish people knew about all of the other services the organization provides, not just food. A lot of people don’t know that, but they should! Every time I mention the organization, everyone thinks it’s just food, but it’s so much more!

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
I challenge everyone to come out for a day of fun to support a great cause!

For more information about this event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. To learn more about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

Will Durst Comedy Night Helps Access Sacramento - Friday 7:00 PM

2011-04-18T01:56:15Z

The Humor Times (20 Years) and Access Sacramento (25 Years) Celebrate Anniversaries Together with a Comedy and Variety Show Featuring Comedian Will Durst and many other performers including the 40’s vocal harmonies of “Sister Swing”, a Marilyn Monroe impersonator, a magician and local improvisational comedy troupe The Anti-Cooperation League.

Joint Anniversary Celebrations -- As print publications nationwide continue to fall by the wayside, the Humor Times is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary. And as corporate media continues to consolidate, Access Sacramento celebrates its 25th anniversary as the area’s local, community-operated TV, radio, and Internet production resource.

The public is invited to a combined bash featuring the celebrated, world-touring comedian, Will Durst, on Friday, April 22nd at 7:00 PM in the Coloma Community Center Auditorium, 4623 T Street Sacramento, CA. 95819. Food, beer and wine will be available. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Advance tickets may be had online at www.HumorTimes.com or purchased by phone with a credit card and mailed out prior to the event by calling (916) 456-8600 ext. 0 during normal business hours.

Entertainment -- Mr. Durst is perhaps the most prolific and well-known political comedian in the U.S. The Humor Times has featured his column for years, and “people who have never seen him live will be blown away,” said James Israel, publisher/editor/founder of the Humor Times. “He was a stand-up comedian before he ever wrote for publications, and as good as his column is, he’s even funnier in person,” he added. The New York Times says the Emmy-nominated comedian and writer “is quite possibly the best political satirist working in the country today,” and the Chicago Tribune calls him a “hysterical hybrid of Hunter S. Thompson and Charles Osgood.”

Also performing will be Sister Swing, an “Andrews Sisters-style” vocal jazz trio who will perform a few humorous songs featuring fine harmonies. The “variety show” theme continues with Absurd Entertainment’s top-notch Marilyn Monroe impersonator, Marion Le Clerc and magician Joseph Bossenmaier, (named “best magician” in Sacramento by the Sacramento News & Review). The laughs continue with Sacramento’s longest-running, long-form, improv comedy troupe The Anti-Cooperation League. A “carnival atmosphere” is planned, with all manner of roving performers including the Sac City Rollers (women’s roller derby team) jugglers and other acts.

The Humor Times -- Founded in early 1991, the Humor Times (formerly the Comic Press News) released its first free issue in Sacramento, fittingly, on April Fools Day of that year. That issue, now a collector’s item, featured four pages of an editorial cartoon re-hash of the Gulf War, which was just winding down at that time. Local readers were immediately hooked. Of course, that was back in the day when printed periodicals were still profitable. Those remaining have something unique to offer, as does the Humor Times. The publication transitioned from a free give-away to a paid circulation magazine in 2008, and is now available by subscription, or in stores, such as Newsbeat (Sacramento and Davis).

Humor Times features political and non-political cartoon panels and strips. The Humor Times uses humor to review the news on a monthly basis, helping readers, as publisher/editor James Israel says, to “laugh at the news, rather than cry about it.” Specifically, the publication features the cream of the crop of editorial cartoons, humor columns and “fake news” – similar to the satire made famous by The Onion newspaper and Comedy Central’s The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. In the works: more cartoon and video galleries, humor blogs, columns, and interactive fun such as cartoon and video submissions, contests and more. Subscriptions to Humor Times are $19.95 a year (12 issues) in the U.S., and may be purchased at the website. A digital edition is available at less than half the price.

Access Sacramento – Provides an “amplified voice” for the thoughts, dreams, opinions and community events locally since 1985. Access Sacramento is a nonprofit community media organization dedicated to binging the tools and training for television, radio, and use of the Internet to all Sacramento County residents. We reach an audience of up to 265,000 Sacramento County homes on Comcast and SureWest cable channels 17 and 18 and more than 1,200 daily views watching channel 17 “streamed” at www.accesssacramento.org. Visit our website for program and training information. To become a “community reporter”, go to www.accesslocaltv.org for neighborhood news organization “blogs”, on-demand videos and Twitter posts. “A Place Called Sacramento” celebrates its 12th year as the premiere local film script writing event and film festival. At Access Sacramento, you can:

* Learn the steps needed to create your own TV show
* Be your own anchor using a computerized “virtual” television studio
* Become a community “Neighborhood News” reporter or blogger
* Host your own cable radio program and “stream” to the world on the Internet
* Record a music performance or video in the four-camera television studio
* Use Web 2.0 techniques on the new community reporting web site AccessLocal.tv
* Write, produce, and distribute your own “Place Called Sacramento” movie

Viewers of Access Sacramento channels 17 and 18 experience unique entertainment, challenging points of view, varied religious beliefs, diverse political opinions, and cultures and languages different from what you see and hear on the other, commercial channels. The public is invited to meet their neighbors at Access Sacramento by taking a class, creating a program, volunteering to help a group production effort, develop a community web blog using AccessLocal.tv, or by simply watching the community channels 17 and 18, as well as listening to community cable radio “The Voice of Sacramento”.

Disclosure: Ron Cooper is the Executive Director for Access Sacramento.

Jason is racing for a reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-04-11T21:27:54Z

Interview with Jason Hone, who placed in last year's event with his wife Stephanie. Both Jason and Stephanie hail from Southern California’s Inland Empire. Jason grew up in Redlands and Stephanie was raised in nearby Riverside. The pair married, moved to Sacramento and Jason started a new job all in the same week. After living downtown for nearly five years the Hones recently moved into a home in West Sacramento – so they are definitely excited that the race is headquartered on the westside . . . of the river.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
The Tissot watch I won in last year’s race. Oh, Stephanie might be reading this, definitely my wedding ring! For me jewelry is best when it is reminiscent of something - so whether it’s a hard won prize or a symbol of commitment, I like having a reason to wear it.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
You bet! And I’m looking forward to out-smugging certain Land Parkers this year. But failing that, at least toasting the hallowed afterbeers with good friends.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
Where else can you find such an “amazing race” experience in Sacramento? As for the cause, I’m definitely impressed by the committed people and the good works you find at SFBFS. I’ve volunteered in their warehouse, tutored in their afterschool programs and helped out at special events like the Turkey Drive. It’s a great feeling to be part of something special like this and to have fun doing it too!

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
The thrill of solving a puzzle and the frenzied dash to the next clue. That’s two things.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
We’re going to be racers and hopefully winners.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
It’s way more than a food bank! Not only do they distribute food and clothing to Sacramentans in need, they have programs serving children, expectant and new mothers, English language learners, and teens, just to name a few.

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
This may be the only time this year I ride a bicycle. The only legitimate reason for not racing is not knowing about the race.

For more information about this event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. To learn about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

KISS: The rock band, the music, the make up

2011-04-08T17:54:55Z

Attention all KISS Army. Yes, that means you. Dust off those platform shoes, dig in the closet for your skin-tight pleather and cover your face in your kid’s Halloween make up because your favorite rock band is coming to town – KISS.

One of America’s most influential rock and roll bands is coming to Sacramento during Memorial Day Weekend. The legendary rock stars that have performed at the Super Bowl, Olympics and “American Idol” – Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer - will be at Raley Field on Sunday, May 29 as the headliner for Hope Production Foundation’s Walk ‘N Rock for Kids 2011. All proceeds benefit Sacramento region charities.

Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster and range from $40 - $125 each. “The Hottest Show on Earth” will be up close and personal during the performance at the intimate venue, Raley Field; all for the benefit of their fans or the KISS Army. Expect to see the smoking guitars, shooting rockets and other pyrotechnics the band is known for during its 37-year-career.

Lace Up Your Shoes and Get Ready to Rock: Five Ways to Prepare for KISS

Worldwide sales for the rock band’s albums now exceed 100 million albums and don’t include its wide range of other products or reality shows such as “Gene Simmons Family Jewels.” Due to a schedule of high-profile international tours and stadium performances, Sacramento KISS fans have only rarely had a chance to see their favorite rock stars on home turf with the most recent performance at ARCO Arena in 2009.

“KISS raised the bar for what a rock concert should really be,” said KISS bassist and singer Gene Simmons.

The morning of the concert will feature the “walk” portion of Walk ‘N Rock for Kids 2011 as more than 6,000 walkers will lace up their sneakers (before lacing up their platform boots) to raise money for Sacramento charities including but not limited to: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Cristo Rey High School, Keaton Raphael Memorial, Okizu, People Reaching Out, River Cats Foundation, Wind Youth Services.

Team Warrior Princess Sends 23 Kids with Cancer to Camp Thanks to Walk N Rock

This is the third year for Walk ‘N Rock for Kids. Previous performances include Journey, Sammy Hagar and Heart. Hope Productions Foundation is a Sacramento-based nonprofit that provides support and training at no cost for local charities serving children and youth. Their services include training and guidance for nonprofits to improve their marketing, fundraising, partnerships and board cultivation so they may become more efficient and increase their potential for long-term sustainability. Through events such as Walk N' Rock for Kids, Walt Gray Ride, Hope in Harmony and generous business sponsorships, they have raised and provided over $1.5 million in contributions, resources, marketing and in-kind business training for local children's charities.

To learn more, visit www.walknrock.org.

Walk N Rock 2011: Lace up your shoes and get ready to rock

2011-04-08T17:16:55Z

Walk ‘N Rock for Kids will be returning to West Sacramento’s Raley Field on Sunday, May 29 for its third year featuring a fundraising walk in the morning and concert in the evening headlining the rock band KISS. Tickets are now on sale through Ticketmaster.com.

Hope Productions Foundation, a nonprofit that provides support and training at no cost for local charities serving children and youth, created this annual charity event. Through Walk ‘N Rock for Kids and similar fundraising events, Hope Productions Foundation has raised over $1.5 million and supported 22 local charities making a difference in the lives of 51,00 local youth.

There are five easy ways to support or participate in Walk ‘N Rock for Kids 2011:

Sign up for Walk ‘N Rock for Kids. Over 400 teams and 6,000 people participated in last year’s “walk” of Walk ‘N Rock for Kids. Create a team or join an existing team. The walk starts at Raley Field and continues over Tower Bridge to the Capital and back. The route features local bands, activities and concludes with entertainment, food and fun! Sign up at www.walknrock.org.

Buy tickets to KISS. The iconic rock band KISS will be performing at Raley Field the evening of May 29 with all proceeds benefitting local charities. Tickets may be purchased online through Ticketmaster.com or at the Raley Field Box Office. The concert is expected to sell out fast due to the strong contingency of KISS Army fans, so buy your tickets now.

Volunteer for Hope Productions. It takes hundreds of volunteers to help organize and implement this large-scale event. Volunteers are needed the day of the event as well as in the weeks leading up. To learn more, visit www.hopeproductions.org.

Become a corporate partner. Local businesses have played a critical role in the success of Walk ‘N Rock for Kids. Their support through the donation of resources and manpower make the difference in the lives of thousands of local youth. Current partners include: Kaiser Permanente, Vistage, Walmart, Wells Fargo, Big Hairy Dog, Waste Connections, Western Health Advantage and over two dozen more. For a complete listing of corporate partners or to join the list, visit www.hopeproductions.org.

Join the KISS Army. Affectionately referred to as the KISS Army, KISS fans are known for their loyal devotion, painted faces and tongue dropping poses. Upload your best KISS photo on the Hope Productions Facebook page or tweet the images using the hashtags #kissarmy and #walknrock. Learn more about the KISS Kulture at www.kissonline.com.

To learn more, visit www.walknrock.org.

Full Circle Treatment Center Raises the Bar on its Fundraising Efforts

2011-04-07T14:10:46Z

After Full Circle Treatment Center became a Nonprofit Affiliate of Hope Productions Foundation in the fall of 2009, executive director Erin Johansen learned some encouraging tips to increase community support for her organization.

First, Johansen raised the bar on her team’s fundraising goals for this year’s Walk ‘N Rock for Kids event. Last year the team raised $11,000, providing partial funding for more than 30 family scholarships at the Placer County adolescent drug and alcohol treatment center. As impressive as those numbers are, this year Johansen set her sights on raising $25,000, enough to assist 60 percent of the clients at Full Circle.

“Our board members and team captain are fully engaged, and we have a high level of confidence we’ll reach our goal,” said Johansen.

Johansen also changed the way potential donors are approached, professionally honing materials and presentation to better target regional companies. Results were positive.

“In the past year I’ve been able to meet with several prospective major donors using a senior level approach, thanks to the training, connections and credibility we’ve gained through the Hope Productions affiliation.”

One meeting paid off when a local company became a Full Circle sponsor. Another resulted in an event sponsorship, and the third prospect invited Johansen to submit a proposal for funding.

“We’re very grateful for the response we’ve received, and hopeful for the future.”

Johansen explained, “We are a start-up nonprofit organization. We do good work, but we’ve been open for less than three years, and we’re brand new to the fundraising world.

“The mission and training program of Hope Productions Foundation is exactly what nonprofits need for success and sustainability.”

###

Full Circle Treatment Center is the vision of a concerned community and five working professionals in the field of family and youth services. The nonprofit facility provides intensive outpatient adolescent drug and alcohol treatment to youths and their families in Placer County and surrounding communities.

Hope Productions Foundation (link to www.hopeproductions.org) provides training, resources and funding for seven local children’s charities: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento, Cristo Rey High School of Sacramento, Keaton Raphael Memorial, Okizu, People Reaching Out, River Cats Foundation and Wind Youth Services. An additional 15 children’s charities will also benefit from abbreviated training and fundraising support through the Walk ‘N Rock for Kids (link to www.walknrock.org) event. With continued support from the community, the Foundation has distributed over $1.5 million in contributions, resources, marketing and in-kind business training to local children and youth nonprofits since its inception in the fall of 2008. More than 51,000 local children have been impacted by the efforts of Hope Productions Foundation.

Team Warrior Princess sends 23 kids with cancer to camp

2011-04-07T08:10:09Z

At the ripe age of six and a half, Juliette Geney can make a powerful claim like no other little girl her age. Last year, her Team Warrior Princess raised more than $23,000 during Walk ‘N Rock for Kids, sending 23 children with cancer to Camp Okizu in the Sierra foothills.

Okizu provides peer support, respite, mentoring and recreational programs to meet the needs of all members of families affected by childhood cancer.

Juliette’s goal was to send 21 kids to Camp Okizu. Thanks to supporters of her Walk ‘N Rock for Kids team and a surprise call from an anonymous donor, Team Warrior Princess was able to surpass that goal.

Warrior Princess — the name Juliette assumed during her own cancer treatment — had another goal for last year’s Walk ‘N Rock for Kids: to walk the entire 5K route through downtown Sacramento. She did, crossing the finish line with family and friends, shouting, “I did it!”

Both milestones were significant, given Juliette’s story.

At four and a half, Juliette was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. Her mother, Kirsten Geney, recalls having to carry Juliette into the hospital on the day of her diagnosis, making Juliette’s gleeful stride across the finish line especially poignant.

“I am thankful for so much,” said mom, Kirsten, “including the generous donations given to Okizu and for the healing that will come to so many families affected by childhood cancer.”

She added, "I’m so thankful for Juliette and the opportunity she’s been given to learn that she can make a difference in this world.”

For the past two years, little Juliette has taken an active role in drumming up interest in Walk ‘N Rock for Kids by distributing event materials, unafraid to approach local businesses and ask them to display posters “to help kids like me.” Juliette also appeared in a public service announcement promoting Walk ‘N Rock for Kids.

“It’s a way for her to do something positive, and a way for us to deal with this together,” says Kirsten.

Juliette just completed more than two years of chemotherapy treatments and has been given a clean bill of health. Kirsten explained, “Juliette’s prognosis is better than it would have been 20 years ago, thanks to medical advances.”

Again this year, Juliette plans to join mom Kirsten, dad Christian and little brother Maxim to cheer on the estimated 10,000 walkers who champion local children’s charities at Walk ‘N Rock for Kids.

Learn more about Juliette’s story. You can join or contribute to Juliette’s efforts to raise funds for Okizu at www.walknrock.org/teamjuliette .

Tom and Jessica are racing for a reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-04-04T20:16:06Z

Interview with Tom and Jessica Pearson, finishers in last year's event. Tom hails from eastern Washington and fancies himself a bit of a mountain man. Jessica grew up in the Inland Empire (San Bernardino/Riverside area) and learned to snowboard on fake snow. They met in Spain while trying to make the most of their undergraduate opportunities via studying abroad. The couple now live in Land Park and spend entirely too much time working.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
My wedding ring and my engagement ring (Jessica) . We have matching wedding bands with inscriptions. My engagement ring was picked out by Tom from a little celtic jewelry shop in Jackson, CA.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
Yes, we are both looking forward to dominating. And gloating, gloating is good, too.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
Tom used to work for SacramentoFood Bank & Family Services and had a great experience supporting their mission by teaching English to adult language learners. Now he is getting his Masters Degree to do the same. So many of our friends work at or volunteer for SFBFS that it seems like an extended family.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
Winning fourth place, and getting to feel smug for knowing downtown Sacramento really well (this helped with the clues), a skill that normally generates little fanfare.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Just a pair of ring hopefuls this year.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
That they have tons of family programs for kids, adults and seniors alike. They really try to meet a variety of family needs to allow families to help themselves through classes and other offerings, the Family Services part is larger than most people realize.

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
We had so much fun last year that we’ve recruited lots of friends for this year’s event. We look forward to some friendly competition. And the refreshing quench of afterbeers.

For more information about this event or to register to participate, please visit www.raceforthering.com. For more informaiton about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

WHAT is FEAT?

2011-04-02T09:34:35Z

Throughout my 'radio' years here in Sacramento, people have asked me about my involvement with FEAT--a non-profit organization of parents, family members, and treatment professionals dedicated to providing best outcome Education, Advocacy and Support for the Northern California Autism Community. FEAT stands for Families for Early Autism Treatment. My answer is simple. Someone in the media needed to help. When I first started to help FEAT the term autism was still relatively unknown to the mass audience. Back then, when one would say, autistic--people thought we were saying, artistic. I knew I needed to help with the enlightenment of autism. I realized then, these parents needed more than a bake sale.

My involvement with FEAT started in 1993 when I was with radio station Y92. I was walking by a store front and a few ladies were holding a bake sale. I was curious what the sign, FEAT, meant. They explained the non-profit organization and it's infancy. They enlightened me about autism and it's necessity for early treatment. Having a friend in L.A. who's nephew has autism, I was curious and offered my services to the non-profit organization. Along with Y92's reach to the public, I helped FEAT put on their first "Night of Caring" dinner and auction. I invited local celebrity Tim Busfield to assist me in Master of Ceremonies. From 50 attendees to over one thousand at the annual "A Night of Caring", FEAT's event snowballed year after year and I was honored to be their host.

Now, you hear about the trials of autism everywhere. But, know this--FEAT is not the 'Hollywood" type of non-profit. FEAT are not federally or state funded. FEAT are all volunteer families helping other families. FEAT actually helps families directly here in the greater Sacramento area. FEAT got the UC Davis Mind Institute started. FEAT helps parents better themselves to be advocates for their autistic child. The realities of autism is not fully understood until you talk with a parent who is trying to raise an autistic child. Without FEAT, parents would not know where to go or what to do here in the greater Sacramento area. FEAT of Sacramento has, since their beginning, started numerous chapters throughout the United States. It all started here in Sacramento. These parents, their children and their families are amazing to me.

Feat helps families with the vast spectrum of autism. You can find out more at www.feat.org Oh, and by the way, while visiting the site, you will see that I am currently helping FEAT put on a different kind of benefit-event this year. Sacramento native and superstar guitarist Craig Chaquico will be performing for us. I became friends with Craig while hosting the mid-day show for 12 years on Smooth Jazz 94-7 KSSJ. He graciously agreed to play to help our Sacramento area children with autism have better lives. We will also have Sacramento's premier Santana tribute band, The Rhythm Vandals along with International Food and Wine from Young's Vineyard. We are calling it ROCK'in the Vineyard with 100% of the proceeds going to FEAT!

Join us for a really FUN day Saturday, May 14th. Tickets at www.feat.org

Please share with the greater Sacramento area what FEAT is all about. Share the event, ROCK'in the Vineyard with your friends in every possible network and know that you're loved.

Cranes and cupcakes for Sacramento's Bake Sale for Japan

2011-04-01T02:43:15Z

Saturday, Cafe Au Lait will host Sacramento’s Bake Sale for Japan to raise money for victims of the recent earthquake and tsunami devastation in Japan.

The Bake Sale for Japan is a national bake sale held on April 2 at bakeries, restaurants and other places featuring baked goods.

Milena Pointer, who works as a nanny, and is one of the also an organizers for the Sacramento bake sale. Pointer viewed videos of the destruction in Japan and said she wanted to find a way to help.

“If it happened to us, if it happened to America, we would need help,” Pointer said. “Any person with a heart would feel like they like they need to do something. The difference is some people act on that feeling, and some don’t.”

She said she saw an ad for the Bake Sale for Japan event website and wanted to bring it to Sacramento.

Pointer contacted the Bake Sale for Japan and they connected her with Jill Wegrzyn, a UC Davis computational biologist, and writer Katey Nilan, who were also interested in the event. Wegrzyn found out about the cause through a friend, and Nilan heard about it while she was searching online for recipes.

Within two weeks, Pointer, Wegrzyn and Nilan organized the bake sale through many emails and phone calls. They divided up the tasks of recruiting bakeries, fliering and mass emailing friends to bake and help, Nilan said.

According to Pointer, other cities including Berkeley, Oakland and San Francisco are all participating in the Bake Sale for Japan.

All proceeds from each Bake Sale for Japan event will be donated to Peace Winds, a non-governmental organization that provides relief for victims of natural disasters, Pointer said.

“I hope to (raise) at least $5,000,” Pointer said. She said she hopes to organize another bake sale for Peace Winds if the bake sale is a success. Pointer said she is playing with other fundraising ideas.

Wegrzyn said she hopes that the bake sale will attract hundreds of people. “If everybody does a little something, we can raise a lot of money for such a significant tragedy,” Wegrzyn said.

Eight businesses have donated items to the cause, including: Magpie Caterers Market and Cafe, Esther’s Cupcakes, Leatherby’s Family Creamery, Cookie Connection, Timothy’s Bakery of Woodland, Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates, Cafe Au Lait and Icing on the Cupcake.

Some of the donated treats that will be donated to the bake sale include Guinness-flavored cupcakes with berry frosting, cinnamon raisin scones, chocolate cupcakes and several vegan options.

Pointer will bake granola bars and chocolate chip cookies, Wegrzyn will bake 16 loaves of banana bread and Nilan will bake gourmet salted brown butter Rice Krispie treats and banana and peanut butter cupcakes for the fundraiser.

According to Wegrzyn, there will also be an origami crane-making station and she will be donating 600 pieces of origami paper. Nilan said that individual attendees will also contribute paper to make cranes. The goal is to send 1,000 paper cranes to Japan to make a wish come true, such as recovery or good health, Wegrzyn said.

The cranes will be sent to professional cook and freelance writer Samin Nosrat, who will then send all the cranes as a gift to Japan, Wegrzyn said.

Food and monetary donations will be accepted at the event.

“We need to do this,” Nilan said. “It’s good to show people that an event so small can do something big.”

Cafe Au Lait is located at 2107 P St.

For more information on the Bake Sale for Japan, click here. For inquiries about the Sacramento event, email sacramentobakesale@gmail.com or click here for their Facebook page.

Race for the Ring 2011

2011-03-31T18:45:34Z

Fans of TV’s globetrotting race game can now test their game play right here in Sacramento! Rogers Jewelry Company is preparing to host the 3rd annual Race for the Ring on May 21, 2011 to benefit Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS). 2,000 Sacramento area residents are expected to turn out for this exciting, location-based game where clues and answers are sent via text messages. Participants race from location to location in Downtown and Mid-town on foot and bike solving riddles and challenges while earning points. The team with the most points at the end wins! Prizes include over $30,000 worth of jewelry from Rogers Jewelry Company.

The $40 registration fee for any team includes two race shirts, entrance into the after-party, lunch, a chance to win amazing prizes and a guaranteed day of fun. 100% of the proceeds benefit SFBFS to help in their efforts of serving families in need.

What: Race for the Ring
Where: Downtown Sacramento (kick-off and after-party at Raley Field)
When: May 21, 2011, 10 am
Who: Anyone age 18 and up
Why: To support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services

Registration is now OPEN! For more information, including video from last year’s event, please visit www.raceforthering.com

Interested in sending many people from your company or becoming a sponsor? SFBFS is looking for sponsors to help brighten the future of families in need. Please check out this sponsorship flier to see if your business would like to be part of the Race for the Ring as a sponsor. Sponsors will receive booth space at the kick-off event and after-party held at Raley Field, logo placement on participant t-shirts, complimentary registrations and scavenger clues with information about your company!

Know others who might want to participate? Please consider posting this participant flier where customers, friends, neighbors or fellow employees can learn about this fun event and encourage them to form a team.

About Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services
Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, a local non-profit organization serving families and individuals in need since 1976, offers eight diverse programs at two facilities in Sacramento. A staff of 40 employees and several thousand volunteers accomplish SFBFS’ mission of assisting those in need by alleviating their immediate pain and problems and by moving them toward self-sufficiency and financial independence. Additional SFBFS information is available online, including how to volunteer or lead a donation drive, at www.sacramentofoodbank.org.

About Rogers Jewelry Company
Rogers Jewelry Company has been helping clients celebrate their stories of love, success and commitment for over 70 years. Rogers was founded in Modesto, CA in 1937 by Harry Marks, a young jewelry professional, and Dr. Robert Moon, a partner with equal vision. These two entrepreneurs built Rogers Jewelry Co. on the foundation of honesty, trust and integrity that continues to permeate the company and the communities they serve. Rogers has grown from a single location in downtown Modesto to a chain of nine stores stretching from Bakersfield, CA to Reno, NV. For more information about Rogers Jewelry Co, visit www.thinkrogers.com.

SFBFS - Serving our community since 1976

2011-03-31T18:34:27Z

Father Dan Madigan founded Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) in the basement of his Oak Park church in 1976. Pained by watching so many people go hungry on the streets of Sacramento, he called together a small cadre of compassionate volunteers to tackle the problem. Over time, the number of facilities, staff and volunteers grew to meet the ever increasing need in Sacramento. His passion for helping individuals and families in need is still alive and well in the wide array of programs and services offered by SFBFS.

SFBFS currently operates two large facilities, in Oak Park and in North Sacramento, serving neighborhoods with families experiencing some of the highest rates of poverty, unemployment and child abuse in the Sacramento area. Over three decades, the number of programs and services offered by SFBFS grew from food and clothing to include adult education, child development and technology.

SFBFS runs a very lean, grassroots organization with an incredibly efficient, professional staff of 40 and a volunteer workforce of over 4,000 annually. SFBFS continues to meet the increasing demands for services by leveraging donations when purchasing food, baby supplies and reading materials for pennies on the dollar.

SFBFS provides free emergency goods and services to nearly 20,000 men, women and children each month. All programs at SFBFS are offered free of charge.

Food Assistance - Provides a five day supply of emergency, take-home groceries to thousands of clients every month. Individuals and families in need can receive fresh produce, dairy, grains and canned goods at mobile distribution sites throughout the Sacramento area.
Clothing - Distributes donated men’s, women’s and children’s clothing items to those in need at no charge. Clothing articles include suits for interviews, school uniforms and seasonal weather attire.
Mother-Baby - Guides parents in raising children in a healthy and supportive manner. Diapers, formula, food and clothing are provided for parents attending educational workshops.
Adult Education - Provides one-on-one instruction to adults in reading, writing, math, computer skills, resume building and English.
Women’s Wisdom Art - Offers a variety of art classes to women overcoming loss or depression, surviving cancer and helps build self-confidence.
PlayCare - Offers an enriching daycare for toddlers of parents attending classes through Adult Education. This co-operative program encourages parental involvement, interactive games and preparing youth for kindergarten.
Youth Academy - Provides enrichment for elementary-aged youth focusing on literacy and independent thinking. This program encourages academic success, character building, social development and service.
Computer Clubhouse - Encourages junior high and high school students to explore technology classes including web design, animation, basic computer skills and video production.

SFBFS provides these goods and services at no cost due to the generous support of donors through individuals and company contributions as well as special events. SFBFS hosts the annual Run to Feed the Hungry every year on Thanksgiving Day. Nearly 30,000 Sacramento residents turn up on their day off to spend time with family and raise awareness of those less fortunate in our community. This Thanksgiving will mark the 18th year for the Run to Feed the Hungry, an event that generates nearly $1 million to support programs and services at SFBFS. SFBFS also partners with Rogers Jewelry Co. to host an event each spring called Race for the Ring. This scavenger hunt for jewelry uses clues sent via text message to challenge participants to solve riddles throughout Downtown and mid-town Sacramento. Prizes include diamond rings, men’s watches, bicycles and more. Please join us on May 21 for a day of fun to support SFBFS!

If you are interested in becoming involved with SFBFS either by volunteering, leading a donation drive, participating in an event or referring someone in need, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org for more information.

Peter's Racing for a Reason - Race for the Ring 2011

2011-03-28T16:53:54Z

Interview with Peter Skipper, a finisher in last year's event. Peter teaches 5th grade math in Brooklyn, New York. In his free time, Peter writes screenplays, plays guitar and travels as far away from home as possible.

Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
I have a watch from Rogers Jewelers that I won at last year's Race for the Rock, and it brings me good fortune whenever I wear it.

Are you participating in this year's Race for the Ring? If so, what are you looking forward to the most?
I wish! This event is so fun, but NY is a bit of a bike ride for me this year.

What motivates you to be part of this cause?
People shouldn't go hungry in the richest country on earth.

If you participated last year, what was your favorite thing about the race?
Challenging our friends Chris Suter and Chris Wallis and beating them significantly.

What is your role with Race for the Ring 2011 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
Race participant/Sacramento enthusiast/stand-in for all Tobey Maguire look-a-like related emergencies.

What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank& Family Services?
It's more than just food. Everybody forgets the Family Services part.

Anything else you'd like to add about yourself or the event?
Please come out! It's the most fun you'll have volunteering all year.