Newest articles on The Sacramento Press written by Rorie Oliver

Creativity Revived

2012-01-21T01:04:05Z

Growing up, sometimes we forget to exercise our creative activities. For some, our creative drive dies right along with the hand-me-down car from Grandma senior year in high school. Sometimes our creative energy is put on the backburner as stresses and responsibilities of being an adult such as finding a job, keeping a job, paying bills, the mortgage and providing for our families take over… or our creative energy fades away completely.

Here in Sacramento, we love each other. We support each other. Seriously, we do. Just stop for a moment and think back on how many creative projects, ideas and businesses that have thrived in the last decade or so. Regardless if the doors of any of these ideas or businesses are still open or not, the point is... they made it happen. There is no denying the inspiration of such creative ventures have spread faster than a California wildfire during a dry, hot heat wave.

The latest album you’ve had on repeat is your best friend’s band. The last film you watched was your boyfriend’s short film that was screened at the local art collective spot. The earrings you are wearing are handmade from a local designer bought from the boutique your neighbor owns. Within the last few years Sacramento has built a pretty comfortable and welcoming cushion for the our creative class to fall on.

We were fortunate enough to have events like SellOut/Buyout, which was a combined art and trade show that called for local artists and designers. For some, Sellout/Buyout was how we were introduced to many of our favorite local designers and artists today. Annually, Sacramento hosts Launch, an art, design and music festival. Launch highlights some of the most talked about local artists, musicians and designers. Both events like Sellout/Buyout and Launch were opportunities for artists of any avenue to showcase their creative pursuits and network with like-minded people.

Julie Cassotta, 29, a Sacramento native who recently discovered her talent and love for handcrafting jewelry, recently said goodbye to an 8-5 office job to pursue more satisfying opportunities. She admits she used to do a great deal of creative writing when she was younger that she no longer does. She is also a graduate from the Elite Academy pursuing hair and makeup, but hasn’t been using those skills as much as she would like to these days.

For the last 14 years Julie has learned the art of repairing and building custom guitars at her family owned shop, SonFather Guitars, alongside her brother, Jesse and her Father, Dave. All those years working intensely with her hands has acquired her precise skills that have helped her with her jewelry designs, as she works towards a collection of hand crafted one of a kind pieces of jewelry that includes a bevy of necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets.

For Julie, what started out as a creative hobby for herself now has her pieces for sale at Bows and Arrows Vintage clothing store in midtown Sacramento as well as her Etsy online shop, Real Life Dollhouse.

Julie's pieces are reconstructed, mixing different types of materials together such as vintage charms with modern, and she has taken the time to share some information in the interview below regarding her new jewelry designing success, and how it has revived the creativity back into her life.

Question: What inspired you to start designing jewelry?

Answer: Initially, I was frustrated with buying cheap jewelry that fell apart and not being able to afford some of the rad jewelry that I was seeing online and whatnot. I started remaking pieces that had broken or lost parts or were out of date, etc. Then one day I was looking for a lion necklace and couldn't find what I was looking for so I decided to use my inlay knowledge and make something myself. A light bulb kind of went off in my head and it just took off from there.

Question: When did you realize your creative endeavors could become more than a hobby?

Answer: I started posting some of the pieces I had made on my blog and had received great responses. I figured it was time to take it seriously and put together a collection and start an Etsy store.

Question: You know you've found the perfect material to incorporate into one of your pieces when...........

Answer: …… I find something interesting or just catches my eye really. If there's something I'm looking for but can't find, I'll try to make it myself.

Question: Do you have a plan of attack when you start creating pieces such as sketching ideas or do you just dive into it?

Answer: Both really. Sometimes I have a clear vision of what I want to make and other times, more often actually, I just look around at what I have and start piecing things together. Especially when working with natural materials like stone and wood, sometimes they have a mind of their own and will only let me manipulate them so much.

Question: You also repair guitars at your family owned custom guitar shop, SonFather Guitar. Explain how working there has influenced or helped your jewelry design?

Answer: Well, I've been working with wood from a very young age because of the shop and my father being a woodworker. The inlay aspect of guitar building has always been an interest of mine and has become a skill I have developed and specialized in for over 10 years now. The influence it has had on the jewelry is very literal and apparent, I basically use the same materials, mostly scraps or samples that we've had lying around for years. I started with the lion piece that I made for myself, then I started making similar ones for friends then I just kind of developed a "let's see what else I can do" mentality about it.

Question: Your Soapstone, Heartbeat Wooden Double Finger and Ebony and Turquoise statement rings are featured in your Etsy Shop. All very unique, and obviously hand crafted. Tell us about the work that goes into those pieces compared your reconstructed pieces.

Answer: The wood and stone work is definitely more unique and personal. A lot more work is involved. It takes time and planning, templates, samples, test runs, etc. The reconstructed pieces are simpler, easier, the kind of thing I put together sitting on the floor in my living room watching a movie. Those are more about having a good collection of interesting items to work together.

Question: Do you favor making one style of jewelry over another?

Answer: I love both really, the ones that I wear the most myself are the reconstructed ones, they're a little bit more casual, easy to wear with many different things. The statement pieces have to wait for the right occasion but they're more challenging for me to make so I take a bit more pride in those pieces.

Question: Do you have a favorite local designer(s) that createhandmade items? ( jewelry, clothes, accessories, etc.)

Answer: I have a friend in San Diego, Georgina of Trevino Joyeria, who makes fantastic jewelry. Also, Tessa Parks has been making some really rad stuff lately, although I'm not sure if she has any for sale yet.

Question: What direction do you see your jewelry designs going?

Answer: I honestly have no idea, I'm inspired by all kinds of things all the time, I think it will always be changing and evolving. I'd like to learn how to do some metal work, so maybe things will go that direction? I don't know. I'm not much of a planner. I just do things and see what happens.

Hopefully for some of you who have shelved your canvases in the depths of your closet or let dust collect on your camera in the recent years, remember why you had those items in your pocession in the first place. Make time for your long lost creative activity or try a new one you never imagined you had in you. Who's next, Sacramento?

Sacramento International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival

2011-10-20T16:50:22Z

This past weekend marked the 20th anniversary of the Sacramento International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (SIGLFF) at the Crest Theatre. The festival ran selected film series each evening from Thursday to Saturday.

Founder Alan Cole started the project in 1992 as a student-run film festival that received support from Sacramento State University, Gay and Lesbian Alliance students with grant funding from Associated Students Inc. , which is a official governing body which operates the sponsorship of programs and services to CSUS students.

A bevy of sponsors and volunteers support the board of directors, programming and gala committees to prepare and organize the annual festival that takes place in October to celebrate National Coming Out Day. The festival showcases handpicked films by the committee that are created by filmmakers of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. The festival serves as a vehicle for LBGT talent such as actors, writers, producers and directors from around the world to showcase their abilities.

Thursday evening kicked off the festival with two works: one 18-minute film called "The Rescue" by director Phillippe Gosselin and an 88-minute film called "Morgan," directed by Michael Akers.

Board of directors president J. Todd Lohse explained that each night centered around a theme. Thursday evening was films directed toward men , Friday evening was ladies night with films based around lesbians, and Saturday was a series of short films that touched on subjects such as sexual identity, race and struggling relationships.

The large crowd at Friday’s screening was mixed with people of all ages from all walks of life, but it was apparent that the female population dominated the night’s attendance.

Well before the films started, members of the public, LGBT community, volunteers and workers were busily flurrying around the Crest Theatre concessions stands for popcorn, drinks and snacks, grabbing a cocktail and mingling with other filmgoers. Even after the lights flickered to warn everyone the film was starting soon, people were still falling behind with cocktails finishing a great conversation or in line for last-minute snacks.

Cole and Lohse introduced the films, speaking of their love and commitment to the organization. They thanked their sponsors, such as Fred Palmer from Outword Magazine, who has been a sponsor for the last 14 years.

The first film was "Lesbian Cliche Song" by director Bob Koherr. At five minutes long, the film served almost as a satirical music video of all the typical lesbian cliches perceived by society, which the audience seemed to agree with as they responded with laughter.

The second was a feature film, "Jamie and Jessie Are Not Together" directed by Wendy Jo Carlton. The dramedy musical focuses on two best friends who blur the line of friendship and romance.

Afterward, one of the film’s stars, Fawzia Mirza, took the stage to answer questions from the audience.

"Are you single?" was the very first question asked. (The answer was yes.)

After her Q&A, she encouraged everyone to carry the party over to Headhunters nightclub for the after-party.

"We are loving the idea that gays and lesbians are receiving recognition not only for their filmmaking but that stories about the private struggles of being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender are being artistically told,” said one woman who wished to remain anonymous, standing hand-in-hand with her partner outside the theater.

Visit siglff.org for updates, volunteer information and details for 2012's festival.

See you next year!

International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival hits Sacramento

2011-10-14T22:37:56Z

The Sacramento International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival kicked off Thursday evening, celebrating its 20th anniversary of great indie LGBT films and their filmmakers at the Crest Theatre.

The festival is a non-profit organization, dedicated to showing independent LGBT films in [in or from?] Northern California. The festival continues through Saturday, with each evening concentrating on different subjects. Thursday evening focuses on male relationships, Friday on female relationships, and Saturday showcases a series of short films.

Each year brings opportunities to show more films, give more money to nonprofit LGBT organizations and provide grants to filmmakers.

Each evening, films begin at 7:30 p.m. The Crest is located at 1013 K St. Tickets are on sale at the Crest, The Beat and tickets.com.

40th Anniversary of the Crocker Art Museum's Annual Art and Antiques Show

2011-10-10T04:12:54Z

The Art Service Group celebrated the 40th annual Art & Antiques Show & Sale, which benefits Sacramento's beautifully renovated Crocker Art Museum. Over 50 regional and national arts and antique dealers participated in the event Friday through Sunday in the historic Scottish Rite Center, which is known for its dedication to education, fellowship and charity.

Dealers and volunteers from Sacramento County to Shingle Springs and Klamath Falls, Ore., join together to bond over their love of art and antiques and donate their time and efforts to participate in the three-day event.

The $7 admission fee and proceeds from the silent auction will support the Crocker Art Museum. The silent auction was filled with donated fine art, depression glass, pottery and other miscellaneous collectibles.

As collectors entered the center, they were greeted with the smiling faces of seasoned volunteers from the Crocker offering programs and encouragement to enter a drawing which offered winners one of 10 prizes, such as limited addition paintings or a luncheon gift certificate.

Each dealer was spaciously set up and spread out as if you were walking into each shop of their own. The event showcased top-notch heirlooms that catered to serious collectors, with one-of-a-kind items such as furniture from the Victorian era, European pottery and plates, fine art, vintage Oriental rugs, jewelry and silver goods.

The venue was quiet and visited by what seemed to be mature crowds who occasionally approached a dealer softly talking to and quizzing them about their pieces. One woman picked up a silver necklace at Sylvia's Sterling booth and said, " Wow. This looks just like my grandmother's."

Also on hand where professional appraisers and evaluators for people who are always curious as to how much their beloved piece of history is worth. The Crocker also hosts "Evaluation Days" in October as Sacramento's version of “Antiques Roadshow."

San Bruno resident Willie Mitchell of Old Pump Antiques, who was participating for his fourth year in a row, said the show had been relatively slow until Saturday afternoon.

"Yesterday it was slow, but today the crowd has been picking up,” he said. “I guess people like to sleep in!"

Mitchell has been dealing antiques for over 35 years. "Yes, it has been slow, but that goes for all industries right now,” he said. “The sales, they come and go.”

Despite each dealer having their own focus, they all have the same intention at heart, which is to support the Crocker. Proceeds will assist a variety of projects, from "cataloguing the glass and master drawing collections to creating location records for the paintings from the original Crocker family collection," according to their July/August Slice of Life newsletter.

In past years, the Art Services Group has also provided funds for many projects including computers, Y2K readiness software, specialized lighting fixtures, art storage boxes, temperature and humidity monitors, art conservation, art library reference books and chandeliers.

If you missed the Art & Antiques Show this year, there is always next year and more opportunities to contribute to the museum. Please support and enjoy the museum by taking a look at the calendar of events.

Why do you love Sacramento ?

2011-07-19T06:56:29Z

We've all heard it before, “I need to get out of Sacramento."

The above statement has been muttered out of the mouths of people born and raised here or forced here beyond their will as a child by the likes of their parents or family, just waiting for the day they turned 18 to flock to wherever the cool kids are. You have probably also heard the generic, "There is nothing to do here," or, " If I want a real career, I need to move to San Francisco or Los Angeles, where it's happening."

Maybe so, or maybe, these people haven't given our state capital a fair look at a microscopic level with a new pair of eyes.

You know what, no microscope needed, just open your eyes.

Sacramento's popularity is rising. People who are now old enough to spread their wings and fly have chosen to nest here. It's not because they have failed to take flight and venture out and find exciting endeavors in new places, it's because Sacramento is one of the most amazing places to be and some people don’t even know it.

A group of people who share the same view gathered Sunday evening at Time Tested Books, a long standing independent book store owned by Peter Keats. Keats curates an event called, “The Sacramento Living Library,” that happens at the bookstore every third Sunday. The Living Library is hosted by the editor at Midtown Monthly magazine, Tim Foster. Each month, the group focuses on a cultural legend in the Sacramento area and opens the microphone to their guest speaker(s) and attendees. This past Sunday was a showcase dedicated to why we love Sacramento. Each attendee was welcome to share why Sacramento is so special to them. Guests could also choose to simply listen.

The group served as inspiration to one another as people approached the mic, claiming they were only there to listen at first, but felt obliged toward Sacramento as they heard others speak about their love affair with our city of trees.

The evening started out with Living Library regular, local writer and security guard William Hughes. Hughes expressed his love for Sacramento through a thoughtful poem that showcased his favorites, brunch at Tower Café or golf at William Land Park.

Not only is Sacramento a great place for our natives to stay, but it is a growing place to call home for people hailing from different cities and states. Forget Los Angeles, as did a painter named Jeff who left southern California for northern and hasn’t looked back. What captured him about Sacramento was the city’s history, the architecture of our buildings and the fact that he can walk everywhere.

“Carmeggedon!” yelled a guest from the crowd, referring to closure of the 405 highway, a major Interstate Highway in southern California that demonstrated how reliant on cars southern California really is.

Interestingly enough, the editor of Midtown Monthly magazine, a magazine that highlights the going-ons of greater Sacramento, is in fact from New Jersey. Tim Foster came to Sacramento “kicking and screaming,” planning on going back to the East coast the first chance he got - until he moved to midtown. After five years of living in midtown Sacramento, he says he can’t imagine home being anywhere else. Foster says midtown had everything in a community he was looking for and his earliest memories of New Jersey did not.

Other reasons on why Foster loves Sacramento: he can ride his bike to not one, but two different rivers; affordable housing with a garden and garage; and he “never had to pay for band practice in my life.”

Performing Arts teacher Melanie Smith admits that when she moved to Citrus Heights and worked as a teacher at American River College, her life consisted of her daily commute to the college and back home. Her view of Sacramento changed once she moved to Curtis Park. She describes it as “uncovering a new world.” Smith said getting to know the neighborhood and her neighbors on a more personal level is what brought about her love of Sacramento.

Smith also touched on the topic of film and stage performances. Sacramento has it all, the actors, the writers, the producers, the directors. So why move? Why move when we can stay where we are and create here?

This goes for all areas of creative endeavors. We need to dive into the resources we have and reach out to one another for support and inspiration. It’s here.

Olivia Coelho, co-owner of Bows and Arrows, recalls memories of her time growing up in the foothills where she was surrounded by “McMansions” and didn’t share the same views as the other kids she grew up with. As an escape, she moved to Santa Cruz briefly to complete her studies before returning back to the Sacramento area.

Coelho then uncovered her journey in finding what she wanted to do with her life: to find out that Sacramento wasn’t just a pit stop to bigger and better things. Sacramento is where she found a group of like minded people with whom she could create, recalling memories of art shows at Joe’s Style Shop. Coelho was also overwhelmed with outpouring support from other small business owners when she asked for advice.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Coelho beamed.

Coelho’s business partner, Trisha Rhomberg, who focuses on Bows’ gallery, is from Missouri. She came out here to attend CSUS ten years ago. She must have seen something in Sacramento because not only is she still here, but she shows no signs of slowing as the growth of Bows and Arrows burns faster than a wildfire.

The evening’s last speaker was Karen, a Sacramento native, whose natural smile radiated from her as she reminisced about Sacramento’s lovely features. She mentioned the weather, palm trees, diversity and affordable housing. She also said it was heartwarming to watch small businesses grow.

The group of speakers lightly touched on politics and what we can do to keep people here. Why are you here?

Rivers, B street theatre, yearly festivals such as Launch and Bicycle film festival, eccentric dance nights hosted by Shaun Slaughter, the State Capital, McKinley Park, The State Fair, Tower Theatre and café, bike rides, Crest Theatre, Crocker Art Museum, 2nd Saturday Art Walk…. Why do YOU love Sacramento?

The Beach Boys prove they still have it after 50 years together

2011-07-04T05:41:12Z

It's been 50 years since the Beach Boys formed and have been " getting around" with their all-American hits about love, summertime, the beach, surfing, endless youth and cars.

Many fans flocked to Thunder Valley Casino and Resort Friday evening to attend the sold-out Beach Boys show, part of Thunder Valley's Summer Concert Series. Nothing but nostalgia filled the air as the crowd rocked their Hawaiian shirts and leis, hit beach balls in the air and lined up at the beer garden to get their fix before the band hit the stage.

The arena was surrounded by old classic cars and limos with words painted in the windows such as "Beach Boys Forever." These were the type of rides fans drove to see the band they grew up listening to. Whether it be a group of ladies rekindling their friendship over their favorite band from the ‘60s, a married couple who fell in love listening to " Little Deuce Coupe" while in their little deuce coupe, or an all-around family affair, the venue was a packed house of people ready to bring back the memories.

The stage fit the scene, as the instruments were surrounded by palms trees and surfboards. Even the crew testing the instruments and setting up the stage were wearing wet suits, although the ocean was nowhere to be found.

Throughout the years, the Beach Boys have changed their lineup, never quite keeping the original due to their personal hardships, challenges and changes. Lead vocalist Mike Love is the only remaining original member hitting the road under the Beach Boys name.

As soon as the band blasted the audience with their first song, "Catch a Wave," the oldies-but-goodies in the audience raised their hands, nodded their heads, clapped their hands and shimmied back and forth in between the aisles without a care in the world. And it didn't stop until the final song ended.

The Boys rocked the crowd through six straight songs before addressing the audience.

"This is pretty cool they took the top off the Memorial Auditorium where we did our first live album," Love said. The crowd roared in laughter. "We would like to take an intermission followed by a nap."

Concert-goers toasted their cups and nodded their heads to agree with their older-age humor. Love seemed appreciative of the women swinging their hips and dancing in the aisles, dedicating "Little Surfer Girl" to them as he brought out his daughter Ambha to slow dance.

More than halfway through the set, they played the smash hit "Don't Worry Baby" and the whole crowd rose to their feet, women and men holding hands and dancing together. The Boys were on a roll when "Little Deuce Coupe" started, and there were no signs of the audience stopping their madness.

Love was full of jokes. He wanted to let us all know that John Stamos was sorry he couldn't make it and that he said “hi.”

“Most of these songs were from 1963, the same year Stamos was born,” he said. “And I keep telling him he [should this be “me”?] and his mom had a lot of fun around then. Just kidding, guys. That is called a ‘yo momma’ joke.”

During "Barbara Ann," Love's daughter brought her children onstage for a full house of musicians and family. Before the final song, " Fun, Fun, Fun," most of the crowd was starting to die out.

"I still like to party and tonight was magical, but I can't lie. It's past my bedtime!" Janice Nielson from Sacramento said on her way out of the venue.

Perhaps the Beach Boys will made it back to us again in the near future to pull families together to sing, dance and be forever young at heart.

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts Rock Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2011-06-20T21:20:10Z

Joan Jett, one of our reigning queens of rock ’n’ roll and one of only two women on Rolling Stone’s list of 100 greatest guitar players of all time, rocked a full house at Thunder Valley Casino Saturday night.

Jett, accompanied by her band The Blackhearts, proved that she still has the energy and free-spirited wild-child persona she adopted during her early days as a guitarist in her first band, The Runaways.

Jett donned her signature black shaggy hair, dark eye makeup, a black tank top and Converse as she paraded around the stage, clapping her hands and encouraging the crowd to throw their hands up and sing along. Joining her on stage was lead guitarist Dougie Needles, drummer Tommy Price and bassist Enzo Penizzotto.

The ground-level VIP area was filled with die-hards crushed against the stage, mesmerized by Jett's every move. The VIP seated area was much more relaxed.

"All of these seats are taken,” Sandy Johnson claimed. “Our girls are out getting us some cocktails!" Johnson said she and her 12 girlfriends have been following Jett since their teens.

By looking around the crowd on Saturday night, it seems as if Jett has fans from all walks of life, as it was even mix of older and younger men and women and teens.

"How are my fans in the bleachers? Can you hear me!?" she screamed before kicking off "Do You Wanna Touch Me.” She stared seductively into the audience and challenged the crowd for more hype. She touched her body and sang with her body language, "Yeah, oh yeah, yeah, I wanna know, do you wanna touch me?" The more Jett seduced the crowd, the more the crowd followed in cheers and overhead applause.

Jett and the Blackhearts played a few Runaways songs, including the first song Jett ever wrote, "You Drive Me Wild." As she prepared to play the jam, the crowd died down.

"What happened? Don't be shy. Come on, sing to the universe!" she squealed.

"Cherry Bomb" was another one of the Runaways originals they performed. Lincoln teen Allison Davis, in all black clothing with a studded belt and pink wrist bands, rocked out and sang along to all the lyrics of the Runaways’ “I Love Playing with Fire.”

“I saw the movie ‘The Runaways’ recently and fell in love,” Davis said. “I mean, just look at her. She is fearless!"

Agreed. Jett was unapologetic with her behavior on stage, also donning genuine smiles after the anecdotes and advice she told the audience before songs.

"Love between two people is a beautiful thing,” she said. “But love between three people can be an even more beautiful thing, especially if one of those people is me!" The crowd went wild as "The French Song" rocked.

Just about when the daylight faded and darkness began, the stage lights lit up and Jett and the Blackhearts started playing their most popular songs. The crowd was the most reactive and rose to their feet once the beat to "I Love Rock ’n’ Roll" started. The enthusiasm continued on through “Crimson and Clover.”

Jett thanked the crowd for the night, and all band members left the stage. "Joan Jett, Joan Jett, Joan Jett!" the crowd yelled repeatedly until the rocker and her bandmates came out for a couple more tunes. Once it was apparent that Jett said goodbye for the night, the crowd filed back into Thunder Valley Casino, adrenaline still rushing from the show.

Thirty-six years since hitting the music scene, Joan Jett proves to us she still loves rock ’n’ roll.

Sacramento's Pride celebration thrives regardless of unpredicable weather

2011-06-07T01:00:10Z

Rain? What rain? A tidal wave wouldn't have stopped people from showing up to the 27th annual Sacramento Pride parade and party last Saturday at the Capitol Mall. The area was bookended by the gorgeous Tower Bridge at one end and the State Capital at the other end, a great backdrop for the Pride celebration.

Sacramento's 2011 Pride parade and party lasted from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2011. Both 3rd and 7th streets were reserved for the festivities which included vendor booths, a live entertainment stage, an area for a diverse selection of food and a dance tent. This year’s entertainment schedule included acts such as Miss Coco Peru, Raquela, Tom Goss, Luciana, Jovi Radtke and Xavier Toscano. Pride kicked off with a parade at 10:00 a.m. starting from 5th and S streets.

Sacramento Pride's focus is to bring lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans out of the shadows and into everyday society. One doesn't have to be gay in order to participate or celebrate in Pride, as it is an opportunity to show support and enthusiasm for the LGBT community, friends and loved ones. The city of Sacramento is home to 9.8 percent of our country's gay population
- the sixth highest in the nation.

Sacramento Pride is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Sacramento Gay & Lesbian Center, so when the forecast predicted rain at the beginning of the week, it still didn't bring them down.

"We embrace the rain, it's not like we can cancel the event. We just hope for the best," said a very optimistic Josh Jacoby, Pride Director.

Jacoby said the turnout exceeded his expectations with the rain in mind. The organizers handed out free pink umbrellas to attendees as a way to show that they wanted them there no matter the circumstances or unpredictable weather.

Members from all walks of life came together to celebrate diversity. There were same sex couples wearing brightly colored, matching shirts declaring "Just Married!" and men in high heels covered head to toe in glitter. There were drag queens, people wearing colorful leis and others donning posters and signs showcasing their beliefs and statements.

Each year after Pride, organizers rest for about two months before they do it all over again and start planning for the next Pride. They estimate that about 10 months are necessary to properly organize the event. In a parking garage located next to the Pride's premises, there is a hub where all the passionate and tender-hearted volunteers work together to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sacramento Pride is put on with the help of volunteers, this year there were over 390 signed up beforehand and many more walk-in volunteers were welcomed on the day of the event.

Many Pride festival goers enjoyed vendor booths showcasing various products or organizations, handing out literature and free merchandise and always having someone on hand to explain more about their reason for being part of Pride. Attendees had a bevy of vendors to choose and learn from that were associated and supported by the Sacramento gay, lesbian and transgender community. Booths included women’s and men’s health services, safe sex promotion, Planned Parenthood services and STD testing, the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, information on how to come out to your family and friends, dating services and Gay and Lesbian art.

One of the best new discoveries was "Lavender Angels" produced by the Midtown Business Association and a program of the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center and Police department. Lavender Angels provide a late night patrol and concierge for people who do not feel safe in the streets of the Lavender Heights area of Sacramento.

Another interesting addition to the vendor area was the dozen or so congregation organizations set up and ready to explain how they have embraced the lesbian and gay community. Handouts about acceptance with Christianity and Homosexuality, Catholic HIV/AIDS Ministry and the Spiritual Life Center were being passed around with open arms and smiles.

This year’s event sponsors included Jackson Rancheria, Wells Fargo, Outword Magazine, Midtown Business Association, Sactown Magazine, The Rainbow Pages, Lumens Light + Living, Regional Transit, Faces, Barefoot Wine, Hewlett Packard, Bud Light, SMUD, Amtrak, Cheer San Francisco, CARES and Sacramento News & Review. The many sponsors played an enormous role in the heart of the celebration. Each sponsor had representatives present to staff their tables and march in the parade to show their support to the gay, lesbian and transgender community. Amtrak also sponsored a KIDS ZONE, a safe place for parents to leave their children for free while they wandered around the festival.

After powering through the strong winds and rain and experiencing tents blown over and torn down, people still didn't leave, they stayed and enjoyed some grub and got their dance on. There was plenty of food to sample and a large mobile bar sold beer and wine for anyone that was thirsty before they got down to the jams by resident DJ from Faces: Jon E Quest.

Toward the later afternoon, the makeshift dance floor was heavily drenched with rain and jam-packed full of happy and expressive people of all ages. The highlight of the afternoon was a moment when the sun peeked out from the clouds and the rain stopped. The DJ got on the megaphone and declared, "Now each of you call a friend and tell them to get their behinds out here ‘cause the sun has come out!"

Disney's Fine Art Pixar Collection

2011-05-17T05:11:04Z

Sunday afternoon was the worldwide debut of Disney's Fine Art Pixar Collection. Families from all over the Sacramento region flocked to the California State Railroad Museum to get an up close look at original artwork inspired by the first 11 films created by Pixar Animation Studios. The artists were there on hand to happily chat and sign posters for adoring Disney fans.

The films used for the artwork included: “Toy Story,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Toy Story 2,” “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles,” “Cars,” “Ratatouille,” “Wall-E,” “Up,” “Toy Story 3” and “Monster’s, Inc.”

Growing up, we all remember falling in love with classics such as “Sleeping Beauty,” “Bambi,” “Pinocchio” and “Lady and the Tramp.” In the last 15 years, however, since collaborating with Pixar studios, Disney has upgraded the technology used in Disney's celebrated films. Pixar handpicked 12 of their artists to create this series, 11 artists representing one film each and the twelfth artist commemorating all of the films. In this series, you can actually see the artists’ brush strokes in each of the pieces. The artists were asked to paint their interpretation of the film they were assigned.

"We wanted to celebrate the beauty that goes into the artwork that later becomes a film," said artist John Rowe. Rowe's piece showcasing in the series was “The Depth of Love and Space" from the film “Wall-E.” Rowe is a freelance artist who was hired by The Walt Disney Company for several projects. His upcoming work can be seen on the poster of "The Young Black Stallion." I asked him if he frequents Disneyland, a question I always ask someone who has a connection with the company.

"Not as often as you would probably think, but when I am assigned a project, I go to get inspired. I once rode the Jungle Cruise ten times in a row"

An artist that actually had his art supplies out and ready for creating was Rodel Gonzalez, who is responsible for the beautifully haunting piece, "Flying on a Breeze," inspired by the film, "A Bug's Life." He seemed to share my same thoughts on how animated films have majorly evolved in recent years.

"Machines are taking over," he joked.

I could tell that he very much enjoyed his work and loved sharing his talent with others as he stroked a piece of paper with his brush, occasionally dipping his brush into the palette. Two children rushed over with their limited edition lithograph of "The Pixar Storyline" which includes all 11 Pixar films. The limited edition lithograph was on sale throughout the duration of the event.

Artist Danny Arriaga, the creator of the commemorative twelfth piece of the series, "The Pixar Storyline," explained that none of the artists knew each other before the event, so it was rewarding to meet his fellow artists. Danny has been with Pixar since 2001 and then landed a career in the Walt Disney Feature Animation Studios in 2009. His piece played a very important role in the series.

"I got to interpret all 11 films; I basically made a color script story in color," he explained.

Although the afternoon mostly consisted of die hard Disney fans, the California State Railroad Museum had its fair share of surprised guests as well.

"We thought we were only going to get the pleasure of hanging out with trains today, but this is great... what a treat," said Nancy Myer from Auburn as she watched her nephews excitedly dash from artwork to artwork.

Although the artwork only remained at the California State Railroad Museum through Sunday, StageNine, located at 102 K Street, will still have some of the pieces for sale in their store along with other unique collectibles. You can visit their website at http://www.stagenine.com.

For more information about the artists or to follow their careers, the 12 participating artists included: Mike Kungl, Rodel Gonzalez, Trevor Carlton, Tim Rogerson, James Coleman, Bill Morrison, Lorelay Bove, Noah, John Rowe, Harrison Ellenshaw and Jody Daily.

Sacramento Bicycle Film Festival launches at the Crocker Art Museum

2011-05-14T01:42:38Z

The Bicycle Film Festival kicked off last night at the beautifully renovated and expanded Crocker Art Museum, which drew in crowds from all walks of life to celebrate their bond and love of bicycles.

The Crocker usually hosts “Art Mix” every second Thursday of the month to celebrate culture with cocktails with live art demonstrations, short films, tours and talks. This particular Thursday, the Crocker teamed up with Hot Italian, which is heavily involved with the promotion and support of the BFF, to host the launch party for the film festival.This is Sacramento’s second time hosting the festival in its 11-year history.

The party entailed a no-host bar and barbecue, bike art, a bicycle fix-it workshop and music and entertainment provided by DJ Billy Lane in the courtyard. Bicycling enthusiasts from all around the Sacramento area were seen scattered around the Crocker parameters, taking in everything the revamped facility had to offer before the short films started promptly at 7 p.m.

Women in bicycle-print dresses, cyclists wearing their gear fresh from a long ride, older veteran riders dressed in suits, and inspired amateur riders filed into the theater anxiously waiting for the first film to start.

BFF founder Brent Barbur was in attendance to start off the festivities. Barbur, who attended Bella Vista High School in Fair Oaks, was inspired to create the BFF as a result of being hit by a bus on his bike while in New York City. Barbur wanted to make his negative experience into a positive one.

The Thursday showcase presented the first out of three programs of short films to be seen throughout the weekend. Program 1 was titled “Riding the Long Wind Cloud,” which included four short films. All four films artistically captured the different points of view of how the bicycle world comes together.

The first film was “ Line of Sight” by Benny Zenga and Lucas Brunelle. Brunelle premieres a new film every year at the BFF, documenting alleycat races all over the world. A majority of the footage is caught by a helmet camera, giving the viewer an intense point of view of how a rider’s experience and route can be determined just by missing a green light and then experiencing the wrath of traffic by running a red one. This film explores the popularity and phenomenon of the fixed-gear bike. He claims the phenomenon started in the ‘80s with bike messengers.

“It took 30 years for it be cool,” he claims.

Taking a playful route of bike appreciation was the five-minute short “Kiest Park," which follows a 7-year-old who dominates his neighborhood, treating it as his playground and causing trouble with his trusty bike as his sidekick.

The third film of the evening explored the world of Giovanni Pelizzoli, aka "Ciocc." Ciocc is a legendary Italian frame-builder who shares the story of how he transformed the dreams he had the night before into works of art in his shop. He shares his insights and wisdom, claiming, "A mass-produced frame does not have soul.” The film is by Anima D'Acciaio.

The opening night of the BFF ended with the touching 44-minute film that shares the name of the program series, "Riding the Long White Cloud." The film opens up the world of seven professional skateboarders to the mental and physical challenges of bicycling as they take on a 10-day tour through New Zealand's North Island while searching for skate spots. These skateboarders learn a deeper respect for bicycling, finding it helpful in preparing for their first love, skateboarding.

The BFF will continue tonight and tomorrow with films showing in Fremont Park. The festival will celebrate fashion and art as well as various bicycling communities – including fixed-gear, BMX and road cycling. Music and a trick competition will also be a part of the festivities. The BFF ends as the Amgen Tour will end in our city at 3 p.m. Monday.

The rest of the BFF schedule is as follows:

Friday
Pre-party with Savage Sprints at Hot Italian (16th and Q)
Program 2 at Fremont Park (16th and Q)
After-party at Sol Collective (2574 21st St.)

Saturday
Trick competition at Fremont Park
Music in the Park at Fremont Park
Program 3 Fremont Park
After-party at Hot Italian

Photos by Ron Nabity.

97th annual Picnic Day at UC Davis

2011-04-18T06:33:00Z

Saturday marked UC Davis' annual Picnic Day, a free, family-friendly community event, celebrating the achievements UC Davis has in areas of research, teaching, service and campus life.

This year’s Picnic Day was themed " Rewind" in hopes of reviving the spirit of the first Picnic Day in 1909. All day crowds of students celebrate their Aggie pride with groups of alumni, family, faculty and staff, children and pets. Events begin at 7:30 a.m. with the pancake breakfast and parade. Festivities last throughout the day and into the night, ending after the last marching band performs at the Battle of the Bands event at Spafford Lake in the Arboretum.

Picnic Day is one of the largest student-run events in the nation. Events are spread across the whole campus, where you can find booths filled with a wealth of information regarding the campus and community. Events are broken down into areas of interest: animal events, parades, entertainment, exhibits, multicultural children's fair, non-profit resource fair, student organization fair and special events.

Over 100,000 people from around the country are drawn into this Davis landmark event. Attendees can soak up anything from a KDVS radio station tour to the petting zoo to a chemistry magic show. Most of the campus buildings are open to showcase everything from cockroach races to student garden shows and lectures about the environment.

Picnic Day is also a great place to pull out a blanket and lounge.We spent a majority of time people watching and rocking out to the reggae band Mystic Roots. As we walked around, we stopped for a moment to watch a young man being soaked in the a pool of water as he fell victim to the infamous dunk tank, one of many traditional carnival games.

It was our intent to try something different to grub on (beef kabob wrapped in pita with onions, tomatoes, lettuce with bulgar salad and baklava? deep-fried Oreos and chocolate bacon?). However, we ended up getting the classics: hamburgers and nachos.

As the day progressed, we noticed a bevy of volunteers monitoring each event and picking up plastic bottles and waste people left behind. According to a volunteer, Picnic Day's future is in danger as a cancellation threat was issued in 2010 from community leaders due to chaos caused by Picnic Day. The campus has taken the threats seriously, since the cancellation of Picnic Day would easily sabotage part of the Davis community's heart.

“Picnic Day” may conjure images of blankets, baskets full of food and Frisbees, and although it may include those activities, it has grown to become much more. As we were headed back to our car, we ran smack into the middle of the marching band playing. We couldn't decipher where the band began or ended as they blended with the audience to make one big crowd. They were literally becoming one, which in a way seems like the type of message Picnic Day is trying to convey about its small community.

Missed Picnic Day? There is always next year. Check the events page and get familiar for your trip next time.

Max Raabe and Palast Orchester performs at the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts in Davis

2011-04-18T06:03:55Z

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester performed at the Mondavi Center at UC Davis last Wednesday night. Raabe is the German singer and band leader of the Palast Orchester, a 12-piece ensemble that performs German dance and film music of the 1920s and 1930s, theatrical songs and big band jazz. Raabe also recreates modern pop songs from the likes of Britney Spears into a 1920s and ‘30s band style.

Their instrumentation consists of violins, clarinet, bass, piano, trumpet, saxophone, flutes and drums. The band was chosen to perform at the reception of popular rock musician Marilyn Manson and burlesque star Dita Von Teese's wedding.

All 13 band members were dressed to perfection, with the 12 men in fitted black tuxedos and one woman in a long black gown. Raabe is notorious for his dashing and effortless presence, even when taking a break from singing to let the band spoil the audience with their talents.

By the looks of them on stage, the sophistication was enough to scare the audience into sitting up straight for a proper good time, but Raabe's comedic efforts shined through at the beginning of each song to put the audience at ease. He introduced one number explaining that music “has always been closely linked to destiny and personal tragedy." After a short pause, he added, “Who cares?” Imagine listening to an old-timey radio show host, and Raabe is just that, minus the static and crackling sounds.

The band was in for a good time too. Their faces lit up listening to each other’s solos. One saxophone player watched the violinist’s solo, leaning in to get a better look at her across the stage, grinning ear to ear as if this wasn't the 1,300 time he had heard it.

The band members danced along with their instruments. When all the saxophones hit a high note, they jerked their instruments in sync, filling the hall with their sounds. The band’s upbeat attitude spilled out into the crowd.

One moment toward the end of the show had me fooled. I knew by then the band was full of brilliant tricksters, but what I thought was merely a mishap actually happened to be all about the comedy act. There was a hanging xylophone chime that the drummer used here, and one chime fell off as a result of roughness. The crowd giggled, but it became apparent this was all part of the show, as the next phase was to completely dismember the instrument into one big pile of chimes.

As the last number approached, Raabe hit the microphone to bid farewell as the crowd responded with "aww!" The experience left me fuzzy inside as I got to experience beauty and humor performed to a diverse crowd from a diverse crowd of musicians.

Sacramento Craft & Flea Outdoor Market Opens

2011-03-29T01:34:16Z

This past Sunday marked the grand opening of the Sacramento Craft & Flea Outdoor Market that will be open every fourth Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $3 and parking is free. The market takes place underneath the freeway in the parking lots on 21st Street between W and X streets, one block north of Broadway. The location just happens to be the same location of its sister marketplace, The Sacramento Antique Faire.

The Sacramento Craft & Flea Outdoor Market is organized by the same Marketplace Director as the Antique Faire, Marylon Rose, who debuted a rather successful new marketplace despite the unpredictable and wet weather. Due to weather conditions, there were many vacant spaces where goods would have been, but cancelled vendors and smaller crowds didn't stop patrons from coming out and seeing what it was all about.

I predict a rewarding outcome in the future for the fourth Sunday marketplace. The spring and summer seasons are upon us and the outdoor and garden enthusiasts are seeking goods.

If you are one of the many people who sets their alarm early for the second Sunday Antique Faire to skim every aisle for the best deals on old time treasury, this new fourth Sunday marketplace may be different, but definitely worth checking out. Whereas the Antique Faire has purely antique finds, the Sacramento Craft & Outdoor Market specializes in handcrafted and newly manufactured goods.

The Sacramento Craft & Outdoor Market played victim to dreary weather, but it proved to be a success for Jay Beedy, owner of “Smart Rax” by Advanced Overhead Storage, which specializes in ceiling-hung storage racks for garages. Beedy plans on continuing his participation with the market.

“These kinds of markets are great for vendors like me.”

He showed me 10 pages filled with people interested and wanting more information about his product. Just as he was explaining his product to me, two men stopped at his booth and were in quiet discussion over his display.

“See what I mean!?” He exclaimed.

I did see what he meant. One sale of his “Smart Rax” covers the cost of his $50 fee per show for his 18 by 20 foot space. I have a feeling this market will score with the likes of gardeners, handymen, craft makers and homemakers around the area. When you go up and down the aisles, you may feel as if some of the vendors seem familiar, since some participated as vendors at the last California State Fair.

Although this market will be a happy home for vendors of handmade and newly manufactured goods, I still found a secondhand keepsake that I now wear around my neck. The Sacramento Craft & Outdoor Market has something for everyone.

Please visit http www.saccraftandflea.com for more information. See you fourth Sundays!

Natural Lighting

2011-03-15T23:25:57Z

If you happened to miss out on Second Saturday Art Walk this past weekend, you are still in luck. Lumens Light + Living and The Center of Contemporary Arts are proud to present: “Art of Light: Nature’s Spirit,” a photography exhibition by Sandy Follett.

The exhibit continues through April 24 and is located in the showroom of Lumen Lights + Living (2028 K St.). The showroom hours are Monday- Friday 10 a.m. - 6pm and Saturdays 10 a.m. - 5p.m., and admission is free.

I was lucky enough to attend a private viewing of Sandy Follett’s work, which showcases her collected images of nature’s beauty in the Yosemite Valley, the High Sierra, Roseville and Rescue, Calif. What makes this Cameron Park-based photographer’s work different than other nature photographers is that her images obviously express the raw emotion and spiritual connection she has with capturing nature during the different times of day and focuses on finding the perfect lighting to illuminate each subject.

Follet, who started learning her photography skills through film photography, now solely shoots digital. All of her photos in this series are printed with archival pigment ink. Follett explained to me that the best times for her to venture out into her natural sanctuary to capture images are early in the morning to watch the sunrise or right when the sun is setting.

“It changes the mood of everything.” She said. Follett also explained that some of the best times to capture a nature shot are right after a storm. This is evident in her piece called “Oak Spirit Fantasy.”

You can see the mean skies after a storm took place and the aftermath of its surroundings. The reflection of the sky, earth and lightning in the water adds a dramatic affect as if there are two different worlds you are seeing.

Follett started devoting more time to her photography in the last four years and has been taking baby steps from group showings to solo showings to having award-winning work. In fact, if you view her website at www.sandyfollettphotos.com, you can see for yourself she has won some prestigious awards such as receiving an “Award of Merit” at the California State Fair, where she had a piece displayed in the fine arts exhibits.

Many people are taking notice of Follett’s work, such Stacey Wong with The Center for Contemporary Arts (www.ccasac.org), which is a nonprofit organization that thrives on finding contemporary mid-career to professional artists and encourages participation in the arts.

“We like to find artists and set up exhibits with an educational component and include artist lectures,” Wong said.

She also makes it known that CCA not only supports and encourages local artists, but organization leaders want to consider additional professional services for these artists and nurture the artists into the direction they would like to go. It is no secret that Sacramento’s art scene, in every medium possible, is thriving.

Lumens Light + Living owners Ken Plumlee and Peter Weight, who are local art supporters and enthusiasts themselves, sought out CCA associates Stacey Wong and Mariana Moscoso when it came to finding help with curating exhibits for Lumens showroom throughout the 2011 year. The owners of Lumens + Light and Living want to support works of art relevant to what they are passionate about themselves: lighting.

When Wong caught on to Ken and Peter’s vision, she gladly took charge. It wasn’t long before she found Follett’s work on the website of Viewpoint Gallery in Sacramento, which Follett is a member of.

Wong said she felt Follett’s work fit perfectly with what the “Art of Light” series and agrees that Follett’s work was the obvious choice for this series because not only does photography showcase images through how fast light being exposed to each frame can differentiate each image, but it also expresses the spiritual soul Follett is communicating in each one of her pieces.

Follett, who has been taking photography classes in the Los Rios Community College District for the last four years, also plays with her media.

One of my favorite pieces, called “Oak Spirit,” which is a subtle black-and-white piece that seems to have two different “paint by lightning” features to it, is actually compliments to Photoshop. As Follett is growing as an artist, she is exploring her creativity and mixing media. If you haven’t made your way Lumens Light + Living to experience the world that is Sandy Follett’s, then what on earth are you waiting for?

Editorial note: References to the Center for Contemporary Arts and CCA are in reference to Center for Contemporary Arts, Sacramento specifically.