SCOOP

Gift Ideas

2010-12-02T10:26:00.000-08:00

Read the Elk Grove Citizen's Wish Book (Dec. 1 paper) with gift ideas from airplane flying lessons to fishing trips. Our Gift Guide, with gift ideas under $50, comes out on Dec. 8. Be sure to pick-up a copy!

Santa PAWS is Coming to Town!

2010-10-26T14:41:00.000-07:00

Get a jump on the holidays when Santa comes to visit the
Sacramento SPCA on Saturday, Nov. 6 and Sunday, Nov. 7 from 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Don’t miss an opportunity to have your holiday photos taken with your two and four-legged family members and Santa himself. Photo packages start at $25.

The Santa Paws event will also include a holiday adoptathon with half-off adoption
specials, as well as festive treats, kids’ crafts and activities and a holiday boutique.

All Santa Paws events will take place at the Sacramento SPCA, 6201 Florin-Perkins
Road.

For additional information, please call (916) 504-2802 or visit www.sspca.org.

Breast Cancer Still Kills Too Many

2010-09-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

There are many startling statistics about breast cancer, but it only takes one heartbreaking story to really drive the point home. The disease is the second most common type of cancer death for women. And although more women are surviving the disease compared to 10 years ago, it still destroys too many lives.
Florence Williams, or Flo, as she was also called, died early in the morning on Sept. 29 of breast cancer.
I was honored to attend Florence’s wedding in March of this year.
It was a beautiful ceremony held in a ballroom at a hotel in Elk Grove. She married Michael Davis, whom she met while living in the Bay Area. He knew she had Stage IV breast cancer, but wanted to commit his life to her and her children.
When I spoke with Flo’s daughter, Iesha, on Friday, Sept. 24, she told me that her mother was not coherent and didn’t have much longer to live.
“Her main thing now is ‘don’t give up’” Iesha said on Friday.
But unfortunately Flo’s strength didn’t beat the cancer.
Nearly 40,000 women will die of breast cancer in the United States in 2010.
I know there are many survivors around the world, in the nation and in Elk Grove too. There are also those who are going through treatment. We see them at the grocery store, at work functions and at the gym. Some wear bandanas on their heads because of the chemotherapy. Many are tired, emotionally overwhelmed, but still have to work and stay strong for their families and for their own emotion well-being.
When I spoke with Elk Grove resident and Executive Director of the Elk Grove and Stockton eWomenNetwork chapters Karen Penfold at the Relay for Life in May, which benefits the American Cancer Society, she told me the gamut of emotions someone faces when they are diagnosed with breast cancer can only be comprehended by another survivor.
Penfold conquered her cancer, as well as Half Dome, late this summer.
Breast cancer never scared her, she said to my amazement.
“It’s a really difficult thing to go through, obviously,” she said. “It can be scary, but I personally was never terrified.”
She placed her faith in Christ and trusted Him, she said.
Karen’s friend Shannon Crawford organized the Half Dome hike for 25 women, including Karen, to celebrate her recovery from breast cancer.
Karen had made the trek in the past, but “this time it had so much more meaning to it,” she said.
Anna Starr, owner of The Yarn Shoppe in Elk Grove, also beat breast cancer.
Starr said she would like to see more studies done on healthy eating in relation to breast cancer diagnosis and survival.
Her grandmother, who is almost 100 years old, grows her own produce. Starr said she thinks that helps keep her spry and appearing half her age.
Despite all the support breast cancer sufferers receive from their families and communities, there are some organizations that aim to make a profit from donations.
In recent years the number of retailers selling pink products in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has skyrocketed. From gym bags to kitchen gadgets to shoes- October is the month to buy pink.
Yet not all products are labeled with the exact amount that will go towards fighting breast cancer.
The Breast Cancer Action group, a nonprofit based out of San Francisco, encourages consumer education when it comes to purchasing products with the pink ribbon with their Think Before You Pink campaign.
The nonprofit has already reprimanded a yogurt company for offering a measly donation for saved yogurt lids, and also encouraged the company to discontinue the use of rBGH (bovine growth hormone), which has been linked to breast cancer.
Karen said as a breast cancer survivor she is weary of the “epidemic” of products labeled with pink ribbons.
“As a breast cancer survivor, I personally start to feel like the pink ribbon is sometimes being used in a selfish way for companies to make a profit,” she said.
The campaign does bring awareness, she added, but it shouldn’t be misused for “marketing opportunities that don’t necessarily benefit breasts cancer survivors and patients.”

During treatment and recovery, it’s essential to listen to your own needs.
One of the most vital steps to recovery is being kind to yourself, said Karen and Penfold.
Below is a list of recovery tips and suggestions from Anna Starr and Karen Penfold.

Recovery Ideas from Karen:
Stay as active as you can through the process
Accept support and help from others
Be very, very kind to yourself- get extra sleep, get massages, get emotional and spiritual counseling
Have a new or celebratory goal
Make it a priority to have a healthy and positive lifestyle
Take time for self reflection, prayer, spending time with people that bring you joy
Become involved in a support group

Recovery Ideas from Anna:
Knitting
Making sure that you do something special for yourself once a week is really important- pedicure or a massage or a facial.
Allow yourself some time for healing
Journal- Anna was skeptical a first, but said she found healing it in.
Laugh. “You get one deck of cards and that’s it,” she said. “It’s just not worth spending time pouting or fretting or regretting. You have to laugh and enjoy every moment.”

The Buzz Around Bees

2010-09-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

This week I met with three local beekeepers in Elk Grove for an upcoming features story.
First I met with Kathy and Vern Waldorf. Kathy began beekeeping two years ago as a hobby, then Vern joined in. The first bees they had died due to Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD. CCD is a major concern among beekeepers because it can wipe out entire colonies, and no one is certain what is causing it. (You'll read more about this in my article, which will come out in the next couple of weeks.)
The next day I met with Richard Henry Martin and Mill Sutter. The two friends teamed-up to manage 27 hives on two properties. Mill found friends who allowed them to keep bees on their property. Gardeners often like having bees nearby to pollinate their plants. This makes their gardens grow better. The Waldorfs said since they started beekeeping, their cherry tree has been more fruitful. Sutter and Martin said they’ve noticed a strawberry patch near their bees has had increased in production.
Beekeepers are a passionate group- and knowledgeable too!
Here are some facts I've picked up this week: without bees 2/3 of the fruits and vegetables available in grocery stores wouldn't exist. Bees die once they sting. Bees keep the temperature in their hives from the lower to mid 90 degrees Fahrenheit- even in the winter.
Martin and Sutter reminded me that the hobby of beekeeping hasn't changed since its discovery thousands of years ago. In fact, they said, honey was found in King Tutankhamun's tomb (honey also never spoils).
I was warned I might get stung, but I'm not allergic to bees so I wasn't too worried. So far I'm sting free!
I had to resist the urge to swat at the bees (which can cause them to sting). Running from the bees can also cause them to attack. But I never felt worried.
Fortunately, Sutter had a beekeepers netted hat for me to wear so the bees wouldn’t sting my face (ouch). And next week, when we visit Elk Grove beekeeper Brian, who operates the blog www.beesarelife.com ,he will have bee suits and hats for the photographer and I to wear.
Bees are so important to agriculture, it's amazing!

The Premiere of RENT in Sacramento

2010-09-13T16:54:00.000-07:00

After seeing the Pulitzer Prize winning musical RENT on Broadway, I was doubtful any other show would compare. But the Sacramento show at the 24th Street Theatre easily nabs second place in my mind.
This was the Sacramento county premiere of RENT, presented by Runaway Stage productions.
This was one of the best plays I’ve ever seen in Sacramento! Yes, the New York show was better, but not by a lot. The show runs through Sept. 26, so you can still get tickets.
The musical is loosely based on Puccini’s La Boheme. RENT tells the story of a group of friends struggling with love, drugs and AIDS.
The iconic songs and dance numbers were executed perfectly.
The stage props were right-on! The actors, the costumers and their singing voices were fantastic.
The Sacramento production was produced and directed by multiple Elly Award winner Bob Baxter, who teamed up again with Elly Award winning Choreographer Darryl Strohl and Musical Director Christopher Cook.
All the vocal talent in one play is a reason to go see this show!
The actor who played Joann had an amazing alto voice that made my mouth practically drop open when she opened hers.
The song, “Tango: Maureen” was where she really shined!
The actor who played Maureen did a hilarious rendition of "Over the Moon.”
I also loved, loved, loved “Today 4 U.” The actor who played Angel was just as good as the Broadway version, and his dance moves were even better.
Too bad this fabulous show can’t take place at a larger, newer theater that could garner the attention this show deserves.
For information about tickets and show times visit contact the box office at (916) 207-1226.

Elk Grove Citizen's Version of Antique's Roadshow

2010-09-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

When I scheduled an interview with local antiques appraiser Gary Cox for the article that ran in the Elk Grove Citizen, I asked him if he could do appraisals for the Citizen staff so I could post them on my blog.
On Sept. 3 we were already getting excited talking about the antiques and collectable items we could bring in and have appraised on his Sept. 7 visit.
I’m thrilled to say that the etching I brought in turned out to be worth $800-$1,300 if put up for auction in America. In Europe it could fetch up to $2,000.
The etching was purchased for only $1 at a white elephant sale in Sacramento.
I knew it was by the Czech artist T.F. Simon (1898-1925), and that one print is hanging in the British Museum.
Gary confirmed that it was an original etching by T.F. Simon complete with his red stamp and a watermark. We were all enthralled that something with so much value could be found among the small collection of items we brought in.
The etching was probably made from a highly polished copper plate, the plate was coated with an acid- resistant wax and then the etching is carved into the wax. The idea is to expose the metal along the lines drawn. The plate is dropped into a bowl of acid, which eats into the exposed metal. When the design is complete, the plate is inked and then the surface is wiped with a cloth, this cleans the plate only leaving ink lodged in the lines that have been etched into the surface. A sheet of damp paper is pressed upon the plate and a print results. Voila!
After World War II, the dollar was strong, he explained, and Americans were able to purchase a lot of European artwork. Now, they are buying their art back, he said. That’s is why the etching is worth almost twice as much in Europe today.
I’ve always thought being an antiques appraiser would be an enjoyable job, but after meeting Gary I’m even more certain of that! It was evident that he was enthralled with his work. We could tell when he would pick up an item with an interesting history because of the look on his face. Wow, he sure knew history well!
Gary looked at a spear that Citizen Photographer Laura Bemis brought into the office. She purchased the spear in Scotland and was told it was from a war between Africa and Scotland. (On a humorous note, Laura said when she purchased this spear she was able to carry it onto the airplane- wow, that must have been some time ago!)
Gary confirmed her suspicions about it being from Africa. He showed us that it was a handcrafted spear made by either the Masasi or the Zulu tribes in Africa, and possibly used during the Boer war between Dutch settlers and Africans. He said more research would be necessary to determine a price, but the amount of history he could recall about a lot of be pieces we brought in was impressive.
On Sept. 3, Receptionist June Hanson and I talked about what items we might have of value. She told me about an antique silverware set she has in a wooden box that looks like it is from Germany. As a fan of Antiques Roadshow, I had high hopes that this would be worth a pretty penny because I’ve noticed that utensils and furniture can often be worth more than one might expect. June was realistic and said she wasn’t certain that it was valuable, but we were hopeful that someone on staff would bring in something with a good story and/or high price.
Unfortunately, June’s silverware set was estimated to be worth $150-$175. Not cheap, but not as much as it could be worth if it was sterling. It was made in America and was silver-plated. The box was in a “German style” but also most likely made in America.
She also brought a pair of baby shoes in the original box from the late 1940s. Cox said the shoes might be of interest to a doll collector.
An antiques appraiser not only looks for signatures, materials and manufacturing stamps to determine value, but also must consider the market. Who would buy this? What is the demand?
Even though not everyone’s items turned out to be worth a boatload, City Reporter Cody Kitaura brought in a lot of historical objects from his family’s past.
The cast iron toy train that his grandfather played with as a child still rolled along like new. He also had several framed photos of his grandfather playing with the train and other toys from that period.
Cox examined the train and right away knew the story behind it.
The train was from the 1940s or 50s, but the photos, with the supposed train, were taken in the late 1920s.
Cox told a story he’s probably uncovered a thousands times. Cody’s grandfather probably lost the original train at some point and someone bought the current train because it looked similar. But to a trained professional like Cox, the ironwork was different and there were minor details he noticed about the construction of the train in the photos versus the train he held.
Cody also had V-mail from the same grandfather who served in WWII. The content of the letters would determine their value.
Reading about “what I had for lunch that day” is not of interest to buyers, Cox said, unless the letters were written from, say for example, the USS Arizona or the USS Enterprise. The letters could also be valuable if the content discussed using a new weapon or an upcoming battle that would later be in history books.
Cody also had a history book with only 44 states in the Union, the last one being Utah. This was only worth about $15-$20 because there are so many of these out there.
I was due for a surprised when I learned my antique bed warmer was a mid century re-creation of an early 18th century bed warmer. I had hoped it belonged to an early settler, but no dice.
It’s often the objects that you don’t expect to be valuable that end up being worth something, he said. That’s why when he goes on appraisal jobs at homes he asks to look around, or, he said, he’ll ask them if they have certain items that many people overlook.
I told Cox that I noticed appraisers on the Antiques Roadshow often talked about the “Arts and Crafts” era. I’ve noticed these items always seem to be valuable.
Items from the “arts and crafts” period can be very valuable, he explained. This was a time, shortly after the industrial revolution, when craftsman were returning to the detailed craftsmanship of handmade items. This was mostly taking place in England.
When I first spoke with Cox on the phone and suggested we meet in an antiques store where I can see him in action, he said that antique storeowners generally know what they’re doing and often price their items on the mark.
The best bet is probably grandma’s attic or the family heirloom you thought was unsightly or estate sales.
For the entire story about Gary Cox read my article about the “Modern Day Treasure Hunter” at www.egcitizen.com

Tomato, Tomahto

2010-08-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

I could eat salsa on pretty much anything. But when it comes to eating a raw tomato, I'd rather eat dirt.

The combination of jalapeno, onion, garlic and cilantro in salsa somehow masks the taste of raw tomato and actually makes it edible. Even as someone who doesn't like tomatoes know, it takes a good tomato to make a delicious salsa.

I picked up some tips on growing tomatoes at the Elk Grove Community Garden's 5th Annual Tomato Tasting on Aug. 28.

Read my column, The Scoop and my article covering the event in the Sept. 1 edition. http://www.egcitizen.com/

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Bailey.

Are You A Gift Wrapping Pro?

2010-08-12T10:21:00.000-07:00

There are all types of talents in the world. Some people excell at sports... others at gift wrapping.

Scotch Brand (the company that makes tape) is calling for entries for their 14th Annual Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper Contest.

Visit http://www.mostgiftedwrapper.com/ and write 100 words about you or someone you know who is a gift wrapping expert, include tips and photos (optional). Eight people- four amateurs and four professionals- will be flown in NYC for a three day, three night all expenses paid trip where they will compete againist eachother on Dec. 3 at Rockefeller Center. The winner gets $10,000!

Last year's winner wrapped a seven foot tall sailboat!

Good luck!

It's Monday and My Legs Are Still Sore

2010-08-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

I was invited to take a Macumba class on Friday, August 6 at Dance 2d Rhythm in Elk Grove.
Wow! It kicked my #%&!
When Gillian, one of the instructors, called to invite me she asked me if I worked out regularly. These days I'm an on-and-off exerciser and right now I'm off!
"This will get you back into it!" she said.
She was correct!
Even though I was walking with the fluidity of a robot this weekend due to my sore legs, it showed me exactly how much my body lacks exercise.
I have a hard time running on a treadmill like a hamster. Macumba makes working out fun!
This is definitely a class I will be back to do again!

Seniors and Fitness

2010-08-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

Last week I received a call from Dorothy Walker, a local resident who works out at Curves on the border of Elk Grove and Sacramento.
Walker told me that many senior citizens workout at that gym and suggested I write a story about "seniors taking charge."
While I like the concept of fitness for seniors, I needed an angle. So I called the Department of Physical Education at Cosumnes River College (CRC) and spoke with the dean, Liz Belyea.
She said today's seniors have more opportunities to develop unhealthy habits.
Which is a shame, because as Belyea reminded me of something I remember reading about in college, as we get older our bodies get weaker. Our bones become more susceptible injuries from falling. That is why strength training is so important, especially for senior citizens.
Read about senior health in this week's "The Scoop" column and stay tuned for a future story about senior citizen health and fitness.

Twilight: Eclipse entertains even skeptics of the series

2010-07-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

By Cody Kitaura
Citizen Staff Writer
Special to Scoop

Call me old fashioned, but I thought vampires wore capes. And turned into bats. And slept in coffins.

None of that is true in author Stephenie Meyer’s wildly successful Twilight franchise, but it didn’t stop hundreds of fans from packing into Sacramento’s Esquire IMAX Theatre for a midnight showing of the newest installment on June 30.

The series, which first hit the big screen in 2008, revolves around Arizona-native Bella Swan’s (Kristen Stewart) move to an unfamiliar high school in rural Washington state, where she falls madly in love with vampire Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), all the while being thrown into dangerous vampire turf wars and werewolf rivalries.

Eclipse, the third of the four-part series, was released June 30, and shattered records for the biggest midnight release in U.S. history, grossing an estimated $30 million on its first night.

The film revolves around the hunt for clues as the vampire protagonists fear out-of-control, “newborn” vampires may be behind a string of mysterious killings in Seattle. As danger seems more and more imminent, werewolf heartthrob Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner) confesses his love for Bella and sets out to convince her that he’s a better mate than cold, undead Edward.

Fans of “traditional” vampire tales will revel in the flashbacks showing the human lives of the bloodsucking characters before they were immortal. One such flashback shows Jasper Hale (Jackson Rathbone) as a Confederate soldier in the Civil War, while Edward’s early-1900s persona shows through as he describes how his romance with Bella would have gone during his time.

“I would’ve courted you,” he says during a tender moment in Eclipse, explaining how he would have “stolen a kiss or two.”

His old-fashioned nature irks Bella, who is eager to skip the chaperoned strolls and get to the real intimacy. She urges Edward to bite her and turn her into a vampire so they can spend eternity together, but he resists.

The feeling of this installment was radically different from past Twilight films, and the move was a positive one. Each film in the series is overseen by a different director, and Eclipse’s David Slade was a surprisingly successful choice. Slade, a 40-year-old Briton with a Cullen-esque complexion, was previously more known for gory horror films and music videos than tween-heartthrob flicks, but Eclipse winds a sense of dark suspense with the requisite web of romance.

The film’s target audience hasn’t shifted from that “young adult” crowd, but the few fathers present at the midnight showing (who likely weren’t there by choice) could find enjoyment at least in the film’s few fast-paced action scenes, which were energetic and well done.

And if the more reluctant attendees weren’t able to enjoy that part of the film, they could at least revel in the audio-visual candy store that is the Esquire IMAX Theatre, located at 1211 K St. in downtown Sacramento. The massive screen and booming stereo seem to make any movie more engaging.

Eclipse was destined for success before any of its core fans had seen even a frame of the actual film, but luckily the movie does enough to keep even the non-rabid fans engaged.

Grow with Old Elk Grove

2010-06-22T10:34:00.001-07:00

On June 19 the Gardener's of the Grove held a day-long event with workshops at The Secret Garden. This fake fruit and vegetable man was on a display table in an area where the children's garden workshop was held.
Children made cute crafts that taught them about gardening, bugs and healthy eating.
In the morning, Gardeners of the Grove planted flowers in 12 planter boxes on Elk Grove Boulevard to beautify the Old Town area. Then everyone made their way to The Secret Garden for three workshops- one for children, and two for adults.
Check out the 6/23 citizen for an article about the event.

Sorry For Not Updating

2010-06-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't updated this blog in quite some time. We've been busy with special tabs, and in addition that that, news is slower in the summer. But I plan on taking more photos when I'm out and about so I'll have something to entertain you with!

Thanks for reading,
Katie

Silent Auction for Haiti Relief

2010-05-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

Bid on some fancy items, like diamond earrings and massages, at a silent auction to benefit Haiti.
A group of 16 people, mostly Elk Grove locals, will travel to Haiti in June to bring medical and baby supplies. They will also rebuild houses and start a kid's club.
The auction will take place at The Secret Garden in Old Town Elk Grove on May 15 from 4-8 p.m.

The Secret Garden is located at:
8998 Elk Grove Blvd
Elk Grove, CA 95624
(916) 686-2006

Western Festival Photos!!

2010-05-06T10:21:00.001-07:00

Spaces left in Fine Arts Workshops

2010-05-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

The Elk Grove Fine Arts Center presents a bevvy of workshops and classes every month for all skill levels. Here are some upcoming classes:

Oil Painting, with Kristine Bybee, Saturday, May 8, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Fee - $50.00

This workshop will include a step-by-step process designed for students to realize a finished painting in oil. Thoughtful demonstrations, critiques and handouts accompany this class to help students achieve maximum results. This workshop designed for the novice to intermediate painter.

Acrylic Abstract Painting, with David Lobenberg, Sunday, May 23, 10:00 am - 2:00 p.m., Fee - $80.00. This workshop is appropriate for beginner to advance painters as well as for painters who want to learn how to paint with acrylics or who already have experience painting. There will be no representational painting what so ever! I'll be passing out some hand outs and talking about all sorts of ways you can think about what you are going to paint BEFORE you put brush to canvas. You will have a road map and not end up with a jumbled, mushy abstract mess with no emotion, feeling, strong color sense, striking composition, etc. We will also explore some great specialized acrylic mediums that can be used for your abstract.

Painting Watercolor Koi Fish, with Ron and Sandy Ridley, Wednesday, May 26, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.,

Fee - $40.00. This watercolor demonstration is designed for both new and experienced painters. All you need is an interest to learn and a desire to have fun. We will be teaching you how to draw Koi Fish and arrange them in a composition. You will be using a wet in wet technique by applying the wet paint to the wet paper and letting the pigments blend together

www.elkgrovefineartscenter.org.

Elk Grove Trip to Haiti

2010-04-30T09:36:00.001-07:00

Sarah Woodward is an open book. The mother of two runs a daycare out of her home. She’s busy- but is always open and willing to talk about her family and their goals. And she’s not afraid to dig deep.
The most memorable comment I heard Sarah say when I spoke with her on April 21, was that her family wants to “radically love.” She believes this love will distinguish the fear that her family, and some people in their mission group, feels about traveling to the impoverished nation of Haiti.
They’ll be in Haiti from June 5-14 with their two children, along with 10 adults and three teens.
The group will be traveling with 30 suitcases- 2 per person (minus two bags for the baby who does not have a ticket).
The Woodwards were helping Haitians before the earthquake struck.
Sarah was getting shipments of necklaces made by Haitian artists that she would sell locally and mail back the profit.
The Woodwards have friends from college, the Clays, who live in Haiti and started a non-profit, The Apparent Project. They teach Haitians artistic skills that the impoverished people can use to make a profit.
Haitians in Clay’s program make necklaces from recycled paper and ship the jewelry to several women in the United States, including Sarah.
The Clays had a front row seat to the destruction of the earthquake. Their middle class neighborhood overlooks the slum area. When the earthquake hit, the Haitians in their art program were saved because the Clay’s house did not fall apart. The children of the people making jewelry also survived because they were playing in the street outside of the Clay’s home.
However, the slums that the house overlooked were completed destroyed.
Now, the Clay’s have about 10 displaced Haitians sleeping in each room of their three-bedroom home.
“The Clays said many of the (Haitian) families aren’t moving into their homes because they’re scared,” Sarah said.
The Clays have a two-bedroom guesthouse that they’ve decided to rent out to missions group, including the group coming from Elk Grove.
The Woodwards also have another strong connection to Haiti.
Before the earthquake struck they were planning on adopting a Haitian child. Now they are even more determined to adopt a child from Haiti.
The Woodwards are in the initial stages of preparing for adopting a Haitian child.
Before they can adopt internationally, they need to get their house checked.
But the adoption may come at a time that’s not in their control.
Sarah said in Haiti if someone leaves a baby on her doorstep, she would care for the child. However, she couldn’t take an infant home to the States. The Woodwards would have to live there. A possibility that she didn’t seem too upset about.
Sarah is eager to make a difference in the world.
She is not the only person with a passion for helping Haiti, she said.
Most of the people in the mission group are from Elk Grove and have been working hard to gather supplies and donations from local businesses for the trip.
Two of the people going to Haiti, Sarah described as “cowboys from Wilton.”
Sarah said they were instrumental in gathering supplies and getting sponsors to donate items for the silent auction on May 15 at The Secret Garden.
Sarah said for people who genuinely cannot afford the trip, the Clay’s will offer their guesthouse free of charge. (It normally rents for $40 a day).
In preparation for the trip and to ensure their safety, the mission group wants to learn the local language- or at least some key phases before they go.
The group located a man in Sacramento who speaks Creole and offered to teach them the language.
The Elk Grove group recognizes that many young Haitians may need counseling too.
On May 1, some members of the group will drive to Los Altos, Calif. to participate in a “children of trauma” workshop where they will learn how to encourage children to express the psychological effects of trauma through art.
Sarah said she hopes art helps kids “process their feelings about the disaster.”

Feeling Green?

2010-04-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

In honor of Earth Day, here are some inspiring videos about the environmental damage people have on the earth, plus ways you can help prevent pollution. Enjoy!

See what these New Yorkers do to reduce their carbon footprint. Warning: do not eat while watching!

This video offers some pretty creative solutions for re-using a liter bottle.

This is a great way to get some new clothing without spending money and gobbling up resources.

Ye-Haw! The Western Festival Tab Is Coming!

2010-04-21T17:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite events in Elk Grove is the Western Festival- always the first weekend of May.

There's so much to do and see. You don't want to miss any of it.

Pick up a copy of the Elk Grove Citizen on Wednesday, April 28 and read the special "Western Festival" tab that will fill you in on all the great eats, games and things to do!

Help Fight Canine Cancer

2010-04-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

This is a really great event for dog lovers!

The "K9 Cancer Walk" will be held at Elk Grove Regional Park on April 24 with registration at 8:30 a.m. and the 3k/7k walks starting at 10 a.m.

Numerous vets, authors and another animal lovers will be at the event to offer free advice, and maybe some treats for your pooch.

Registration is $35.

Pinkberry Party!

2010-04-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I went to the grand opening of the Pinkberry store in Sacramento.
Pinkberry is not just any fro-yo. Not only is it healthier than most other yogurts, but it also has a different taste- tart yet sweet.
I sampled coconut, mango and pomegranate frozen yogurt. Pinkberry is made with non-fat milk, cane sugar and contains "billions" of probiotics (good bacteria), the franchise owner said.
There are more than 30 toppings, including mochi, Fruity Pebbles cereal and fresh fruit sliced daily.
The Elk Grove store will open April 29 in the Target and Borders shopping center on Laguna Boulevard and Bruceville Road.
To learn more about Pinkberry visit http://www.pinkberry.com/

EGHS Grad Owns Design Studio, Created Foo Fighters Album Cover

2010-04-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Grammy nominated designer Don Clark, who owns a graphic design firm in Seattle, spoke to several classes of students on April 7 at Sheldon High School.
Clark graduated from Elk Grove High School where he took art class all four years with Debbie George, who now teaches at Sheldon.
Clark and his brother do all the work for the successful, two-man operation Invisible Creature.
The name of the design firm sounds as if it could be a band’s name. That’s because the brothers were playing together in professional bands long before they started the design firm, which has clients such as Target, Nordstrom and the band Foo Fighters.
I spoke to Clark after the presentation about the future of graphic design. I was under the impression that careers in that field were dwindling. Turns out, that’s just graphic design at newspapers. The kind of “boutique” graphic design Clark does is still a growing field.
To check out some of his work, visit http://www.invisiblecreature.com/#/intro

Could You Win the State Geography Bee?

2010-04-09T15:26:00.001-07:00

Today, April 9, I attended the National Geographic Bee- California finals.
The 102 students at the competition were narrowed down to 13 for the final round.
The adults sitting near me who were trying to figure out the answers on paper were often stumped by many of the questions that the 4th-8th grade finalists nailed.
Could YOU be a state champion?
Here are some of the questions courtesy of the National Geographic Society. See how you do.

Scroll down to the bottom for answers...

1. What country includes the islands of Melville, Mornington, and Bathurst?

2. Saxony is a state in what present day country?

3. The island of Rapa Nui is more commonly referred to be what English-language name?

4. Beja, located in the region of Alentejo, is an administrative district in which European country?

5. The Rift Valley Province, whose capital is Nakuru, is located in which equatorial country?

6. Rotorua, a city famous for its geothermal pools and Maori culture, attracts tourist to what country?

7. The countries of Montenegro, Macedonia, and Croatia are all located on what peninsula?

8. Jeddah is the port for the holy city of Mecca and is located on what body of water?

9. In the 1960s, Rwanda and Burundi gained their independence from which European country?

10. Hainan, an island located east of the Gulf of Tonkin, is part of what country?

1. Australia

2. Germany

3. Easter Island

4. Portugal

5. Kenya

6. New Zealand

7. Balkan Peninsula

8. Red Sea

9. Belgium

10. China

2010-04-09T15:23:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Elk Grove, Stacey Ferguson, 42, is on a mission to spread the word about childhood obesity.
She speaks to school children and their parents about the issue. Ferguson recently spoke at Florin High School.
Her platform in the pageant circuit is “childhood and adult obesity.”
A graduate from California State University, Sacramento, Ferguson said one out of five children are obese.
Ferguson taught English for 18 years at St. Peter’s Lutheran School in Elk Grove. She now works as a substitute teacher.
The Mrs. United States pageants are for married women “who are successful in their careers,” she said.
To read more about Mrs. Elk Grove, visit Stacey’s blog.
To learn more about the Mrs. United States pageant visit http://www.mrsunitedstates.com/

Making The Rounds On All Fours

2010-04-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

A furry wagging tale brings some cheer into a sterile hospital environment.
The Australian Shepherd walks the halls, almost appearing to smile at all the attention he is attracting.
Dandy is a therapy dogs who visits Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento with his owner and handler Nikki Carpenter of Sheldon.
Therapy dogs are used to brighten patients' days in hospitals and convalescent homes.
Janet Perrone is one of the people who brought the dog assisted therapy program to South Sacramento.
“You can just see a difference in people’s attitudes when they leave," Perrone said. "Their day is brightened after the visit."
Nikki and Dandy entered the Kaiser program over one year ago.
Even people who aren’t “dog people” enjoy a visit from Dandy, Nikki said.
On March 31, Nikki and Dandy make the rounds on the second and third floors at Kaiser in South Sacramento to greet patients.
Danell Woolley sat in a chair recovering from surgery, with her grandson, Cody Woolley seated next to her. Dandy approached Danell and nuzzled her lap.
“I think it’s a real smart idea,” Cody said about the dog-assisted therapy program.
Danell said she used to work at a retirement community and a convalescent home where therapy animals were brought in to cheer up patients.
JoAnn Turnbull of Delta Society, which registers therapy dogs and connects people with information about local training classes, said handlers must be advocates for their dogs.
“They’re watching out for their animal,” Turnbull said about handlers.
Animals should enjoy volunteering as much as the person.
Dandy seemed chipper, even though he was neutered the day before. He still rolled over with enthusiasm and placed his paws on the beds of people who seemed excited to see him.
Other patients were groggy but effortlessly smiled when they saw Dandy.
Tina Fuller of Sacramento said, “he’s cute,” as she lay in bed.
Dandy’s intuitive nature and intelligence makes him a great therapy dog, Nikki said.
When Dandy placed his front paws on a hospital bed where one woman rested, Nikki said, “he senses something that I don’t.”
“I love this dog!” the woman exclaimed, adding that she has an Australian Shepherd at home.
“He has one blue eye,” commented the man standing next to her bed.
“He’s a blue merle,” the woman said.
There are four types of Australian Shepherds; blue merle is the most common.
A common physical feature in a blue merle, such as Dandy, is one blue eye and one brown eye.
Nikki began raising Australian Shepherds in the 1970s. She also trains Golden Retrievers as therapy pets.
“They are two of the smartest breeds,” she said. “They can out think you better than kids can.”
Nikki has another Australian Shepherd at home who will soon become a therapy dog at Kaiser.
“Once the new wing opens, we’ll really be busy,” Nikki said, referring to the new wing opening some time in 2011.

FYI- Women Only Boot Camp in EG

2010-04-06T11:57:00.001-07:00

I was excited to read about a weight-loss boot camp in Elk Grove. Usually, these types of organized fitness events happen in Sacramento, not Elk Grove.
The program is 3-5 days per week, depending on how many classes you purchase. It lasts four weeks. There's also the option to buy three, four week classes for major transformation.
I've never done this specific program because I have a gym membership, but it sounds like an effective way to lose weight and make new friends.
I visited the Web site and enrollment is always open. The price is steep considering I pay $40 a month for the gym. It costs $299 for five classes per week for four weeks.
However, I can vouch that boot camp is a great way to shed pounds fast. I used to take boot camp classes at the gym I used to go to and it was INTENSE. But don't worry, the instructor notes on the Web site that no one will be left behind regardless of the current fitness level.
I always workout better in a group than alone. How about you?

Citizen Stars

2010-04-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

Nominate someone you know for a profile in the Elk Grove Citizen newspaper.
They can be a person who spends numerous hours doing community service or someone who has an interesting life story.

Call (916) 685-3945

Tea Party in Old Town

2010-04-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

Boba Tea and Gifts in Old Town Elk Grove is hosting a tea party on April 6. The shop, owned by Dan and Sharon Santucci, features a wide variety of loose leaf tea, tea accessories and snacks.
Boba has hosted tea parties in the past with success. They partner with local food businesses and offer tea with other treats.
On April 6 they will partner with Salsa Aurora. The event begins at 7 p.m. and is free to the public. Although, seating is limited, so call ahead.
686-4114.

Not All Fairy Tales Have Happy Endings

2010-04-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the 205th B-day of Hans Chrisitian Andersen.
He kept those fairytales real!!

Remember the REAL version of "The Little Mermaid"?
http://hca.gilead.org.il/li_merma.html

Hard Road To Nashville in Elk Grove

2010-04-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

Last night I covered auditions for the show The Hard Road to Nashville at The Wrangler in Elk Grove.
The Hard Road to Nashville is a reality show, not about drama, but about real country singing talent. Auditions are occurring across the country to find unknown singers. The winners will go straight to the finals. No semi-finals needed.
The winners will be put on a bus- five at a time- and perform six shows in six days, just like a real touring musician. After each week, one person will be booted from the bus and another person added.
About 30 people from Elk Grove and surrounding areas came to the bar to try out.
At least five people will go on to the finals, I was told.
Country singer Bobby Chitwood, 101.9 The Wolf's Kelly Symone and American Mixed Martial arts fighter Scott Smith were all "judges." They all went really easy on the singers. However, most people auditioning could carry a tune- I was pleasantly surprised. No William Hungs here.
Chitwood said he was releasing an album soon and could not "piss people off" by making harsh comments. Makes sense.
Plus, the real judges would watch the video tape being recorded by Tomas "Doc" Jones, the energetic host.
Two Elk Grove people auditioned- Craigs Killingsworth and Warren Marcus. Let's see if they make it to the finals!
For more info about the show visit http://thehardroadtonashville.com/online_audition.php

FREE- Historical Reenactment

2010-03-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

Actors dressed in turn-of-the-century attire will recreate scenes depicting the aftermath and response of Sacramentans to one of the largest disasters in American history- the San Francisco earthquake and fire.
On April 24, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., members of the California State Capitol Volunteer Association will present a historical re-enactment of the chaos that unfolded at the Capitol after the catastrophe.
Step back in time and witness costumed volunteers and staff recreate scenes in response to the disaster.
Meet Governor George Pardee as he receives a telegram from President Theodore Roosevelt offering $1 million for disaster relief. Attorney General Ulysses S. Webb, Secretary of State Charles Curry, and Treasurer Truman Reeves will be on hand to help the refugees, some of who camped out on the Capitol grounds and at Sutter’s Fort. Meet the women of Sacramento who assisted the San Francisco families to obtain meal tickets, clothing and blankets.
This event, held at the state Capitol, is free to the public.

Pet Sitter Blogs

2010-03-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Local pet sitter now has a blog. I wrote a story about her in May.

Past the Teeth, Over the Gums...

2010-03-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

My morning moldy tea.

Academic Integrity- What Constitutes Cheating?

2010-03-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

The public is invited to attend a talk by Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant, Chair of the Advisory Council of the International Center for Academic Integrity, on the topic of academic cheating on April 8, noon to 2 p.m. in the Cosumnes River College Recital Hall.

The talk, titled “But I’m a good person!” and other misconceptions about academic cheating: Rethinking academic integrity as professional integrity,” will look at how the popular conception of academic cheating as an act of moral depravity has not been effective at reducing misconduct on our college and university campuses. Dr. Gallant redefines academic integrity as a form of professional integrity, and will review the factors that move all of us away from performing our roles with integrity, and calls to action those students, faculty, staff, and administrators who long for new ways to act with, develop, and encourage, professional integrity.

The talk is sponsored by Cosumnes River College and the Sacramento State University Center for Practical and Professional Ethics. For more information, please contact CRC Philosophy Professor and Chair of the Academic Integrity Committee Rick Schubert at schubert@crc.losrios.edu.

Human Trafficking Awareness Seminar Today at Sac State

2010-03-26T13:34:00.000-07:00

Sacramento State is hosting a seminar about a serious international issue- human trafficking.
It’s still going on right now from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I’m not sure if you can just “pop in,” because it is $30 for general admission and $10 for students, but you might want to stop by if you’re on campus.
The event, “Hidden in Plain Sight: Human Trafficking in the Central Valley,” hosts speakers from the FBI and the San Jose Police Department. The founding executive of the Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking will be in attendance too.
It’s being held in the University Union Ballroom.

Western Festival offers free booths for schools

2010-03-25T14:50:00.003-07:00

To help local schools fundraise, organizers of the annual Elk Grove Western Festival will feature a new “kid’s zone” at this years festival on May 1-2. The special zone will include school booths and rides for the younger ones. Schools and school departments are being offered a 10-by-10 foot space free of charge. Those interested in participating should contact carter@townplanner.com as soon as possible. Please include your school and department’s information in the e-mail. To encourage volunteers for the booths, each volunteer will receive a couple ride tickets.

Fine Arts Center calls for community artists

2010-03-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

The Elk Grove Fine Arts Center invites non-member artists to be part of the Community Art Display Program. All fine art mediums will be accepted and monthly rotations will begin at each monthly 2nd Friday Art Reception. All submissions will be juried for acceptance and subject to available display space. Size limitations may apply. Limit two 2D, two 3D or four jewelry pieces per artist. Display fees apply: 2D and 3D artwork is $20 per piece; Jewelry is $20 for four pieces. There will be a 25% sales commission. For more information contact (916) 685-5992 or e-mail egfinearts@frontiernet.net. The Elk Grove Fine Arts Center is located at 9080 Elk Grove Blvd. in Old Town Elk Grove. Hours are Wednesday thru Saturday from 11 a.m.- 4p.m. or by appointment.

All aboard!

2010-03-11T11:20:00.001-08:00

The California State Railroad Museum will commence its excursion railroad on Easter weekend- April 3-4.
Riders will be treated to a 40-minute, 6 mile trip around Sacramento levees on the trains which are operated by Federal Railroad Administration certified volunteers.
Trains depart every hour on the hour from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends through September.
Riders will experience old fashioned train travel by sitting in the vintage closed coaches, or open-air “gondolas” with bench style seating.
Regular excursion train tickets are $8 for adults and $3 for youths ages 6-17, ages 5and under ride free. For passengers desiring a ride aboard the first-class car El Dorado- a beautifully restored 1920s lounge observation car which offers large picture windows, plush seating and air conditioning- tickets are $15 per person.
For more information visit www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org.

Arf! Arf! It's National Pet Sitters Week

2010-03-08T09:35:00.000-08:00

If it were up to Fido and Fluffy, National Pet Sitters Week would be once a month.
Pet Sitters International named March 7-13 National Pet Sitters week in honor of those who scoop the poop and care for our precious pets during the day.
Karla Green is a local pet sitter and owner of Karla's Pet Care in Elk Grove.
Karla encourages pet owners and pet lovers alike to celebrate Professional Pet Sitters Week. This international campaign seeks to educate pet owners about the advantages of in-home pet care, as well as to encourage the public to explore professional pet sitting as a viable and rewarding career opportunity, Green wrote.
Despite a slowing economy the demand for professional pet-care services remains high. Since 1994 PSI’s membership has grown to nearly 8,000 independent professional pet-sitting businesses with an average of 191 clients each. These sitters service more than 1.5 million clients and deliver more than 17.4 million pet-sitting engagements per year.
"I am continually striving to provide the best quality service to our pet-owning clients. It’s important to see the industry I love recognized on a global scale,” Green adds.
To contact Karla visit karlaspetcare.com or e-mail karla@karlaspetcare.com

KATIE: IN SPAAAACCCE

2010-03-05T15:19:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, March 3, I attended the 3rd Annual Math and Science Discovery Night at Edward Harris Jr., Middle School.
The NASA Explorer Schools program sponsored the event, so naturally people from NASA were there- specifically one person from the NASA Ames Research Center in the Bay Area, Alicia Baturoni Cortez.
She had a laptop where visitors could fill out their name and address to be recorded on a chip and sent into space for The Glory Mission that launches in late 2010.
I received an e-mail the next day saying I would be part of the “Send Your Name Around The Earth” program.
How exciting! I may never get to go into space, but at least my name will!!

To read more about The Glory Mission visit http://glory.gsfc.nasa.gov/

It’s actually pretty cool, even without the sending names into space part.

Alice in Wonderland at IMAX

2010-03-02T14:52:00.000-08:00

On March 5, 2010 moviegoers will be lining up to experience Alice in Wonderland in IMAX 3D at the Esquire IMAX Theatre.
Through the power of IMAX 3D, audiences will fall down the rabbit hole with Alice, join the Mad Hatter’s tea party and be completely immersed in the fantastical world of Tim Burton’s Wonderland.
Digitally re-mastered into IMAX quality the IMAX Alive in Wonderland will debut concurrently with the nationwide theatrical release from Walt Disney Pictures.

Alice in Wonderland marks the second Tim Burton and Johnny Depp collaboration to be re-mastered for an IMAX release following the 2005 release of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

From Walt Disney Pictures and visionary director Tim Burton comes an epic 3D fantasy adventure, Alice in Wonderland, a magical and imaginative twist on some of the most beloved stories of all time. Johnny Depp stars as the Mad Hatter and Mia Wasikowska as 19-year-old Alice, who returns to the whimsical world she first encountered as a young girl, reuniting with her childhood friends: the White Rabbit, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the Dormouse, the Caterpillar, the Chesire Cat and, of course, the Mad Hatter. Alice embarks on a fantastical journey to find her true destiny and end the Red Queen’s reign of terror. The all-star cast also includes Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter and Crispin Glover. The screenplay is by Linda Woolverton.

This film has been rated PG.

The Esquire IMAX Theatre is located at 1211 K Street in downtown Sacramento. For information on tickets and showtimes, call 443-IMAX (4629) or visit the Web site at www.imax.com/sacramento.

Cute office humor....

2010-03-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

A co-worker just forwarded this to me.

Subject: Window Replacement

Last year I replaced all the windows in my house with that expensive double-pane energy efficient kind, and today, I got a call from the contractor who installed them. He was complaining that the work had been completed a whole year ago and I still hadn't paid for them.
Helllooo,............just because I'm blonde doesn't mean that I am automatically stupid.
So, I told him just what his fast talking sales guy had told me last year, that in ONE YEAR these windows would pay for themselves!
Helllooooo? It's been a year! I told him.
There was only silence at the other end of the line, so I finally just hung up.
He never called back. I bet he felt like an idiot.

That is exactly what I think when I hear those silly sales pitches claiming that some product "will pay for itself"!!

Isleton Museum Grand Opening & Chinese New Year

2010-03-02T13:48:00.000-08:00

The Isleton Historical Society, along with the local merchants, will be celebrating the Chinese New Year of the Tiger.
This year’s event will take place on Saturday, March 13 2010 starting at 11 a.m. with a grand opening of the Isleton Historical Society Museum.
The museum is located at 33 Main Street. The day’s festivities will being with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Eastern Ways Martial Arts from Elk Grove will be entertaining attendees with traditional Lion Dancing as well as a Kung Fu demonstration. The Lion Dancers will begin at noon in front of the Pavilion Park on Main Street.

For more information please contact Charlene Andersson at 916-777-5186 or Karen Franscioni at 916-777-6906. Attendance is Free.

Chinese New Year Recipe

2010-02-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Elk Grove resident Lyna Vo provided me with this delicious sounding egg roll recipe.

Egg Rolls

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 pound mushrooms
1 pound carrots
1 pound yam
1 pound of noodles
2 cloves of garlic
A little salt, pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
Egg roll wrappers

Steps:
First, shred the carrots, cut the mushrooms into small pieces, chop the garlic and cut the noodles. Add salt, sugar and a little pepper. Put the beef into bowl and mix everything together. Put mixture into egg rolls wraps and seal with water on fingertips.
After that, put oil in a pan on high heat. Once oil is heated, cook egg rolls for about 2-5 minutes. When cooked, take out of pan and cool on plate.

Crocker Walk-About Tour Give Downtown Art Lovers an Enjoyable Lunch Break

2010-02-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

The Crocker Art Museum in downtown Sacramento will resume its mid day one-hour art walkabout through downtown Sacramento.
If you work downtown, and want to do something educational and entertaining on your lunch break, take a tour of local public art.
The tour starts at noon on the museum steps.
“Public Art Walkabout tours are a great way to exercise your mind and body while learning more about Sacramento,” said Christian Adame, manager of lifelong learning at the Crocker Art Museum. The program was piloted in September 2009 before going on hiatus during winter.
Tour dates are:
Thursday, March 25
Permanent Collection Artists
Thursday, April 8
Conservation of Public Art
Thursday, May 13
Public Art & Architecture
Thursday, June 10
The Crocker Family Legacy

Public Art Walkabout tours are presented in collaboration with the Sacramento Metropolitan Art Commission. Reservations are required. To register, call (916) 808-5499 or email education@crockerartmuseum.org.

Uncooked to Order- The Raw Food Diet

2010-02-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

It makes sense if you really think about it.
Eat the food nature intended to give us- uncooked, in their natural state.
The raw food diet claims that cooking food over 116 degrees Fahrenheit rids food of healthy enzymes.
Most healthy eaters know that cooking the heck out of vegetables makes them less nutritious, so it makes sense that eating them raw would be the best way to get all the nutrients.
But I had never heard about these enzymes cooked food eaters are lacking until doing research on raw foods prior to the Raw Foods workshop at the Elk Grove Library.
I certainly didn’t want to miss out on these important enzymes, so I did some research.
Turns out, many medical professionals say that our bodies naturally make these enzymes that raw food dieters say are missing from cooked food.
But I decided to recreate some of the raw food recipes at home anyway.
I made the vegetable gazpacho and the mock-tuna salad that I sampled at the workshop.
The mock-tuna uses almonds, avocado and seaweed (various other ingredient too, but those are the main flavors). And it’s OK. Edible, but I wouldn’t want to eat this type of food for long.
The gazpacho is good, but not for a soup. It would be good on crackers or maybe mixed into mashed potatoes. It’s just too strong too eat as a soup alone. I might mix it with some lentils and vegetable broth, or if you eat fish, pour it over baked fish.
Since raw food requires no cooking, you’d think preparation would be a breeze.
Turns out, it’s a little more detailed than simply slicing a banana and some apples.
I used a food processor, a blender, measuring cups and some knives.
To get full from the raw food diet you must include nuts, avocados and other healthy proteins and fats.
Nuts tend to be a source of contention for raw food purists. Nuts should be soaked first to activate the enzymes, according to some, but I didn’t soak the almonds I used for the “tuna.”
Raw foodies have created many recipes that are meant to be a copy of something most people would consider “normal food.”
I like that Lori Easterwood said she heard from the owner of Sac’s only raw food restaurant, The Art of Food. He said everyone eats raw food; some just eat more than others.
Many people enjoy salad and fruit, which is raw.
I think I will incorporate more raw fruit and vegetables into my diet, but exclude copycat meals, because they don’t live up to the real deal.
This workshop was very interesting. The food is healthy, whether you believe raw food diet claims or not. I just wished I liked it more.
Salad anyone?

Get the Gluten Out

2010-01-19T16:37:00.001-08:00

Taste tested products:

Nana's cookies. These are FANTASTIC! So delicious. I want one now. They are high in fat, probably from the canola oil in them. So worth it!

Amy's Baked Ziti Bowl- So good you'll forget it was zapped in a microwave. If I ever forget to bring my lunch to work, I head to Raley's and get an Amy's pasta meal. Amy's Rice Macaroni and Cheese is pretty good too. Much healthier than fast food!

Have you ever used spaghetti squash instead of pasta? Low carb dieters swear by it. I don't eat low carb, I just think the squash tastes a lot like pasta, plus I get a few extra servings of vegetables. Top it with some basil or sage pesto or marinara sauce.

Tasty Bite makes some delicious boxed Indian food. Another great on-the-go meal. Many of the varieties are gluten free. My favorite is Jaipur Vegetables. Kashmir Spinach, Punjab Eggplant and Madras Lentils are delicious too!

Whole Foods has some great gluten free bread mixes if you have a bread machine. I've tried Pamela's Products. You really can't top homemade bread.

And dairy, fruit and veggies are gluten free!

Heart, Hagar Come to Sac for Benefit Concert

2010-01-11T16:42:00.000-08:00

The rock group Heart, along with Sammy Hagar, will headline 2010 WALK 'N ROCK FOR KIDS, a benefit concert on Sunday, May 30 at Sacramento's Raley Field.
“We are thrilled to announce our WALK ‘N ROCK artists for 2010 and our expansion from benefiting seven nonprofits to 17,” said Hope Productions Foundation Chairman of the Board Garry Maisel, CEO of Western Health Advantage.
Training, awareness and proceeds from the 2010 WALK ‘N ROCK FOR KIDS event will benefit 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.
In 2010, the morning walk has been expanded to benefit an additional 10 children’s charities: Access Leisure-Independence Field, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento, Boy Scouts of Greater Sacramento, CASA Sacramento, CCHAT Center, Full Circle Treatment Center, Roberts Family Development Center, Sacramento ENRICHES, Sacramento Linkage to Education and Sierra Forever Families-Wonder Program.
This event was launched last year with great success. The inaugural 2009 WALK ‘N ROCK generated more than $600,000 in contributions and in-kind services and nonprofit trainings.
Maisel said the hope to generate 20 percent more revenue for the nonprofits that last year.
Walkers can raise money on behalf of any of the 17 nonprofits, or have their walk team revenue benefit the seven Nonprofit Partners by starting a team for WALK ‘N ROCK FOR KIDS by going to www.walknrock.org.
Tickets go on sale through www.Ticketmaster.com Saturday, January 16th and start at $40.
For more information on corporate sponsorships, walking teams and VIP tickets, visit www.hopeproductions.org.

EG Volunteer's Heartwarming Holiday

2010-01-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

Like so many Americans, Elk Grove resident Trish Fontana lost her job and found herself looking for something to occupy her time.
Fontana resolved to do something beneficial for the community with her newly acquired free time. She began volunteering around Elk Grove. Fontana told me the kindness she found in the community made her proud to call Elk Grove her home. Here is an article she wrote about her experiences. I thought it was really touching.

Charity Does Begin at Home

“So this is Christmas

And what have you done?

Another year over,

A new one just begun.”

- John Lennon

Christmas has come and 2010 looms just around the corner – and what have you done?

Due to the economy, I am currently not working and, like many others, have recently joined the ranks of the unemployed. Not spending every waking moment consumed by the next deadline, the next file, the next e-mail and a buzzing Blackberry actually frightened me almost as much as not having a job.

I tried to stay busy- sports, errands, chores, but I was still unhappy.

One day I even went to Sloughhouse Farmers Market and filled the car up with corn which I delivered to my neighbors (I truly thought I had lost my mind). Then, when I was at the gym, I saw Michael J. Fox featured on a magazine with a headline that said, “Happiness is a Choice.”

What would replace a job, that could make me happy, that would make me feel fulfilled? Then it came to me. This is Christmas, and what is Christmas all about? It was time for my boo hoo pity party to end.

I have always done community service but where did one sign up to be a full time volunteer? I decided to check out some local organizations. I thought I’d do an onsite visit and shop for the best fit- I didn’t need to go far.

I purged my closets and ended up at the Elk Grove Clothes Closet. Hey, I could walk in, donate a few bags of clothes and if I didn’t like it, what did I have to lose? I had no idea what was to come.

The Clothes Closet is powered by some of the most amazing women (and a few good men) I have ever met. I was immediately hooked. The words of Margaret Mead came to me, "never doubt that a small group of concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

The closet provides clothes to deserving Elk Grove residents with the primary focus on school children. Local schools' request, many through the Healthy Start Program, everything from coats to shoes.

The need is absolutely overwhelming. Each donated item is carefully inspected to make sure it is clean and appropriate for distribution. The clothes are hung by size and gender to facilitate and streamline the order process. It is a well-oiled machine fueled by dedication and passion.

During the Christmas season, the closet also supports School Coat Days and a Gift Day. The first thing that happens at Coat Day is the children are checked to see if they need shoes and then are also given a coat, sweatshirt, hat, gloves and scarf.

I will never forget the young girl whose toes were poking through her little shoes. She said she wore a size 5½ but was finally fitted with a size 10½!

With the recent cold spell, it’s not surprising that gloves would be a huge hit. One day I was unloading the boxes and noticed a huge pair of black leather motorcycle gloves that would literally go past a young child’s elbow. I immediately thought, “who could ever want or use those gloves?” Towards the end of the morning, a young fourth grade boy came into the gym in a wheel chair. He didn’t want a coat or shoes but his face lit up when he saw those gloves. He was beaming with pride when he wheeled himself back to class, his hands and arms protected by the gloves.

The Gift Day is sponsored in conjunction with the Elk Grove Food Bank Christmas program. Individuals first go to the Food Bank to pick up the fixings for their Christmas meal and then are sent to the gift site where they are assigned a number of gifts. Each new or gently used item is wrapped with a bow and can range from clothes, to toys, books, bikes, appliances, bedding and household items. Random raffle tickets are given for the larger items and I was assigned to distribute the prizes.

Here, I met a grandfather whose eyes teared up when he saw the child-size bed which would be perfect for his 3 year old grandson. He was beaming when we helped load it in his pick-up truck with a fury stuffed animal added to complete the package.

Faces and more faces streamed into the hall. There is a 10-year-old girl who selected a large stuffed Mickey Mouse with her ticket to give to her little brother. Two homeless women are overcome with emotion at the sleeping bags and blankets that will help keep them and their little dog warm at night. And finally, I met an elderly woman who had lost her home and car but still wanted to provide a Christmas for her grandchildren, just like her grandmother had done for her.

More people have said “God Bless You” to me in the past two weeks than in my entire Catholic education. But what is most amazing, is that no one complains– most are happy and genuinely grateful. For now, my “office” is a double-wide trailer without any electricity and I couldn’t be happier.

“And so this is Christmas,

I hope you have fun,

The near and the dear one

The old and the young……”

Set Your Creative Spirit Free

2010-01-07T11:38:00.000-08:00

"The Artist’s Way," a workshop with Barbara Long, will take participants through exercises and processes that will set your creative spirit free.
The workshop will take place at the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center on Monday evenings starting Jan.11 through Feb. 22, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Explore with fellow artists the spiritual and emotional aspects of your creative journey.
The cost is $35. The workbook is an additional fee. Pre-registration and payment is required.
For more information or to sign up, please call (916) 685-5992 or e-mail egfinearts@frontiernet.net.

Photo courtesy of the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center. "Sonoma Barn"

Pro Film Director Hosts Lecture in Sacramento

2010-01-07T11:11:00.000-08:00

Film students can learn from the man who directed films such as, "Dude, Where's My Car?" and "Drive Me Crazy."
In his long career, Paul Martin's served as first assistant director on numerous films. This Friday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. he will host a lecture in Sacramento titled, "Feature Film-Making Done Right!!"
The presentation will be hosted by the California Film Foundation, and held at The Studio Center, 115 Fee Drive, Sacramento, CA 95815.
A $5 donation is recommended. Seats will fill-up fast, so please RSVP.http://www.californiafilm.net/

No Such Thing as a Healthy Addiction

2010-01-06T10:22:00.001-08:00

Most people struggle to fit more exercise in their lives. But for an exercise addict, too much is never enough.
I read about exercise addiction about 10 years in a Glamour magazine. It’s nothing new, unfortunately. It is an uncommon diagnosis, but not as uncommon as I thought.
Dr. Meredith Bean, at Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento, recognized that some of her patients had an addiction to exercise.
Dr. Bean said most of the exercise addicts she sees in her practice are addicted for one of three reasons, the most common being to relieve stress. So, when they’re trying to overcome an addiction to exercise, how to they relieve stress?
I asked this question to Psychology Professor Mitch Darnell who told me the person should replace the activity with a new stress relieve one, such as reading, meditation, deep breathing or even having a glass of wine with their spouse. Darnell said often one addiction is replaced with another, so the person overcoming exercise addiction could become addicted to meditation.
From my understanding, the key factors in overcoming exercise addiction seem to be socializing more, making workouts fun, doing them less frequently and keeping your routine varied.
Both psychologists I spoke to said forming more social connections may help someone with exercise addiction.
Exercise addicts often workout alone to be in their own perfectionist world. Adding some group activities to their routine may help overcome this addiction.
Darnell pointed out that he might not label a patient with the word addiction, because of the negative connotations.
Exercise addicts are often perfectionists. I understand why the negative word “addiction” may not set well with someone who has exercise addiction.
Some might even say that an addiction to exercise can’t be a bad thing. Of course, alcohol and drugs are much worse things to be addicted to than exercise.
But psychologically, an addiction is formed when a person is missing something in their lives, or making up for a deep insecurity.
“It becomes a problem when the person is unable to stop,” Bean said.

Darnell explained that an exercise addict may be a perfectionist and want control over their life. But something such as health is impossible to completely control.
“Particularly things around our physical health- we’re still vulnerable,” he said. “We can take supplements and take care of our health and we still die.”

Overall exercise is very healthy. It becomes a problem when it becomes an uncontrollable urge.
I was surprised to hear that some people can live with a mild, controlled case of exercise addiction. But Darnell suggested that anyone who suspects they might have an unhealthy addiction to check with their doctor or therapist to see if their lifestyle is healthy.

“The people who tend to seek help are halfway towards healing anyway,” he said.

CSD Seeks Bands for 2010 Summer Concert Seris

2009-12-30T14:59:00.001-08:00

Remember the packed summer concert series put on by the CSD? Well, it's happening again next summer, and bands are needed to perform.

Interested performers must submit a media kit including audio song samples, a current photograph, band bio and references for review. Media kits are accepted year-round, however only those received by Jan. 4, 2010 will be considered for the 2010 summer series.

Kits may be mailed to:

Cosumnes CSD Special Events Office
ATTN: Kristyn Staby, Recreation Supervisor
8820 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 3
Elk Grove, CA 95624

Electronic kits may be sent to kristynstaby@csdparks.com
Don't send links MySpace or other social networking sites!

It’s The Blanket That’s Fun To Bar-Hop In

2009-12-14T14:40:00.000-08:00

It's comfortable, it's warm, it's a blanket with sleeves. The Snuggie has become a pop culture phenomenon in 2009, and it's not likely to end soon. The Snuggie commercial shows people watching TV or reading while wearing a Snuggie. It even shows a family wearing Snuggies at a football game.
Scott Boilen, president and chief executive of the Allstar Marketing Group that makes the Snuggie, said the commercial was supposed to be silly. Even thought it's silly to wear a Snuggie in public, some people are actually brave enough to do it!
A Snuggie pub-crawl is sweeping the nation. The pub-crawl started in 2009 and has yet to hit Sacramento/ Elk Grove. To register a Snuggie pub crawl group visit http://www.snuggiepubcrawls.com/

Odd Jobs

2009-11-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

Working in retail is much more glamorous than say, plunging toilets, which I did at my first job. I worked as a buser at a restaurant. I was 15 and had no idea what having a job entailed, so I did everything to ensure my success. Not only did I bus tables but I prepped and served food, cleaned the chandeliers, dusted the woodwork, vacuumed and even did delivery orders within walking distance. The owners soon figured out that I would do any task, so eventually they had me plunging toilets too. I remembering thinking, “I must go to college, this sucks!”
As unpleasant as that job was I’m grateful for the experience.
As I said in my column on Nov. 24, no work experience is without gain.

With that said, what's the strangest job you've ever had?

Man Attempts to Smuggle Lizards into U.S. by Strapping them to his Chest

2009-11-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

OK, so this is not Elk Grove news but you might be interested to know...

A Lomita, Calif. man was arrested on Nov. 17 at Los Angeles International Airport by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Special Agents and charged with smuggling lizards.
The man strapped 15 live lizards to his torso and attempted to clear U.S. Customs.

Michael Plank, 40, was returning from Australia when Custom's officials found lizards in his money belt.
Wildlife Inspectors identified the lizard species as two geckos, eleven skinks and two monitor lizards.
Monitor lizards are a protected species.
The value of the lizards is estimated at $8,500.

Plank has been released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court in Los Angeles on Dec. 21.

Open Studio Changes at EGFAC

2009-11-17T15:42:00.001-08:00

Open Studios Painting Sessions will end on Friday, Nov. 20. The Open Studios Watercolor Sessions will still be held on Tuesdays at the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center, 9080 Elk Grove Blvd. from 12:30 p.m.- 2:30 pm. Oil painting artists can join this session but must use Turpinoid only. Beginners and super beginners welcome. Focus will be on solutions to problems and demonstration of watercolor techniques. Call Teresa at 687-8908 for reservations. Classes are $10 per session.

One Stop Holiday Shop

2009-11-17T14:25:00.001-08:00

Few gifts are more original that local arts, trinkets and crafts.
Don’t miss the upcoming Holiday Art & Craft Festival presented by the Crocker Art Museum.
More than 95 regional artists and craftspeople will gather at the Scottish Rite Center on Nov. 27-29 to display and sell their creations.
Artist creations include jewelry, ceramics, paintings, gourmet food, a variety of holiday items and more.
This would be a good place to stock-up on Christmas gifts.
There are many holiday craft fairs every year, but what makes this one unique, besides being presented by Sacramento’s most prominent art museum, is the fact that children and adults can have their photos taken with a Victorian Santa Claus.
Attendees will also enjoy free parking and a café by Ambrosia Catering.
Festival admission is free to Crocker members, $6 for adult non-members and $3 for seniors, students and children. The festival is open Friday, 1 p.m.- 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.- 5p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ball-erific!

2009-11-17T13:59:00.000-08:00

The 49th Annual Crocker Art Ball is approaching! This year’s theme is “A Holiday Affair.” Tickets are $500 for general admission.Learn more details at www.crockerartmuseum.org/ball

Hat Fancy

2009-11-17T13:49:00.000-08:00

A top hat, a cloche, a cap, a fedora- whatever the style, headwear is not just to keep our noggins warm, but an expression of fashion that has changed throughout history.
Use your imagination to make your own unique hats at the Crocker Art Museum’s “Second Saturday for Families: Project Hat” event on Jan. 9 from 12 p.m.- 3 p.m.
Bring the kids for this fun hat-making event.
A variety of materials will be provided to create a hat that signifies your personal style. Who knows, you might create a new trend!Event is free with admission.

Family Ties Bind Exhibits at the Crocker

2009-11-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it’s better to hear it from an expert.
Like the docents at the Crocker Art Museum who will offer tours through the popular exhibit Treasures, Curiosities and Secrets: The Crockers and the Gilded Age running thru May 9, 2010.
The theme for the tour is “Family Affair.”
Tour guests will also look at other works in the Crocker’s collection with family-related stories behind them.
This tour is free with admission.Tour times are: Thursday, Jan. 7 at 6 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 9 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 23 at 11 a.m.

More than a century later, Sac’s former premiere artist gets retrospective exhibit

2009-11-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

One hundred years ago William F. Jackson may have been a household name in Sacramento. From 1880 to 1936 he was Sacramento’s leading painter. Jackson was also the first director of the Crocker Art Museum, a position he held for 50 years.
Now his works will be on display so that modern day Sacramento residents can appreciate his art too.
The Crocker Art Museum presents Meadows and Mountains: The Art of William F. Jackson through May 9, 2010.
This is the first exhibit that will take a look back at Jackson’s work over his art career. Featuring 20 painted landscapes, including views of Donner Lake, Lake Tahoe and California hillsides carpeted with springtime poppies and lupine.
The Crocker Art Museum is located at 216 O Street in downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Tuesday- Sunday. On the 1st and 3rd Thursdays, the museum stays open until 9 p.m.
Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for students. Free admission on Sundays from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m is made possible by Bank of America. For more information please visit crockerartmuseum.org.

Non-Juried Open Exhibition in Vacaville

2009-11-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

The Vacaville Art League & Gallery presents the 14th Annual 2009 Non- Juried Exhibition on Saturday, Nov. 20 and running through Jan. 9.
A reception will be held on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Artists are welcome to submit works. Entry fee is $6 for members and $8 for non-members. The contest is open to age 14 and older. Art works are limited to 36" x 36".
There will be over $200 in cash awards and a "People's Choice Award."
For more information call (707) 448-8712 or visit www.vacavilleartgallery.com.

Elk Grove Artists in Roseville

2009-11-16T16:01:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, Nov. 21 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. the Blue Line Gallery presents the opening reception of "Small Gems."
Two Elk Grove artists will be in the show: Kanika Marshall and Ann Saibeni. 14 other artists are also in the show which runs through Jan. 13.
The Blue Line Gallery is located at 405 Vernon Street in Roseville, CA.
For more information about this exhibit and others at the gallery visit www.rosevillearts.org.

P.S. There is also an upcoming fashion show and afternoon tea on Dec. 6!

KVIE Presents "Second Saturday" program

2009-11-03T15:49:00.000-08:00

KVIE re-airs program highlighting "Second Saturday."
I watched a preview of this on their Web site. Pretty interesting. I was excited about it because they taped some of the same street performers I saw at "Second Sat."

PRESS RELEASE:
KVIE Public Television is proud to present the “Arts Alive” program, a collection of stories within the ViewFinder series. This special episode, called “Arts Alive: Second Saturday,” journeys into the artistic culture of our great city, and airs on KVIE channel 6.1 on Wednesday, November 4 @ 7:00pm. Repeats will be featured on November 6 at 4:00pm and November 8 at 6:00pm.

“Second Saturday” explores the beginnings of a Sacramento tradition that has brought art to the forefront of the social scene.

“Arts Alive: Second Saturday” takes you back to the 1990s, when the idea of an art event began to sound appealing to a group of local artists and gallery owners looking for a way to bring customers to their doorstep.

Michael Himovitz, a former gallery owner, and Gloria Burt, who, for years, was the face of KVIE’s Art Auction, further developed the concept, hoping to spark interest in art among the residents of Sacramento. For Gloria, part of this pursuit included the expansion of art appreciation to other local communities like Del Paso Boulevard.

The concept of a “Second Saturday” “Art Walk” caught on. Other cities like Portland, Chicago and Miami also caught the fever. What started as only a few art galleries staying open late has grown into a true civic event. The city now blocks off several downtown streets to vehicle traffic and reduces parking fees to encourage visitors.

First-time artists to seasoned professionals come from all over Northern California to “Second Saturday”. KVIE’s “Arts Alive: Second Saturday” brings you to the streets, galleries, restaurants, and even an auto body shop filled with vintage motorbikes and modern music. “Arts Alive” programs on KVIE are funded in part by the Sacramento Cultural Arts Program of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission with support from the City and County of Sacramento. KVIE’s “ViewFinder” series is underwritten by AT&T and SAFE Credit Union. For more information about “ViewFinder” episodes, visit www.kvie.org/viewfinder.

Feminist Wine Club

2009-11-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

Feminist wine club supports women grape growers and feminists wine aficionados.
The wine club sounds fun and beneficial because it supports female wine growers and allows feminists to gather, converse and learn about wine.
"Feminist Wine Club members can also read and store wine tasting notes in their free online wine cellar (My Wine Cellar), register for wines they want, and sign up for The Daily Sip™ to get a free daily dose of wine knowledge (think Daily Candy for wine!), featuring winemakers, wine regions, wines, celebrity wine lovers and chefs, wine tips and gadgets,” according to the press release.
“Started by Alyssa Rapp and Kim Donaldson, Bottlenotes is the premier online wine community, where wine enthusiasts come to learn about wine, share wine tasting notes, and buy great boutique and estate wines from around the world.”
Check out http://www.bottlenotes.com/feminist-wine-club) for more info.

Sea Creatures of the Largest Kind

2009-11-03T11:57:00.001-08:00

This drawing shows the size of sea mammals compared to people, elephants and buildings. Courtesy of 3D Entertainment.

Late last month I saw a documentary at the Esquire IMAX theatre in downtown Sacramento titled, "Dolphins and Whales: Tribes of the Ocean 3D."
The film was 2 years in the making.
Filmmakers Jean-Michel Cousteau, film ambassador; Daryl Hannah, narrator; Francois Mantello, producer; Jean-Jacques Mantello, director, and Gavin McKinney, director of photography made the film.
They shot in eight countries and captured over 100 hours of footage.
On Oct. 15 Director of Photography Gavin McKinney (photo) flew in from his home in the Bahamas to introduce the film to the Sacramento audience at the IMAX.
Adults and children filled the lobby, where a party was held before the 42- minute long film.
That’s when I had a chance to speak with McKinney.
I asked him if he was a wildlife or environmental activist. He told me he’s not an activist, but describes himself as a nature lover.
Growing up in the Bahamas, with no TV, the ocean was his playground.
“Nature was just a part of life,” he said.
Because of this, he has an immense appreciation for the ocean. He was also very brave when it came to swimming next to a 10-ton whale.
I also asked him how he wanted to audience to feel when watching the film.
McKinney said he hoped the audience would experience what he felt when filming.
I asked him if this film was marketed towards children because many, many children were at the screening.
He said children understand the sadness of the situation sometimes better than adults. Their compass to determine right-and-wrong is strong.
“Kids ‘get it’ when shark’s fins are cut-off,” he said.

The movie didn't feature any gore, like shark fins being cut off. McKinney wanted children to gain an appreciation for the mammals from the tame film, so they'll react more sympathetically as adults.
Although the film noted the shrinking populations of most whale and dolphin species, the pre-show party was cheery. Children gathered around a person in a dolphin costume to play games and dance.
The film was viewed with 3D glasses.
But before the film, McKinney gave a short introduction.
When shooting the documentary, he told the audience, he experienced three different emotions: frustration, euphoria and panic.
Having an animal swim away was frustrating. Finding the perfect shot was euphoric. And being smashed into incited panic.
Approximately 300,000 whales are killed each year, he said. Some are accidentally caught by nets.
“Being a whale or dolphin today is not as much fun as it used to be,” he said. “There’s a lot to be done to ensure their survival.”
The documentary highlighted various species of dolphins and whales; showed their daily routines like feeding, traveling and caring for their young; and noted how much in danger of extinction each species was. Some were frighteningly close to being extinct forever.
After the documentary, I briefly spoke with him in the lobby and asked him if he ever had any close calls with the mammals.
The whales were so massive, he said, even a baby whale bumping up against him felt like being hit with a bowling ball.
“These animals really dictate what happens,” he said referring to their power and size.
He described one time when a baby whale was swinging its head back-and-forth and almost hit him. That swinging movement would be about six feet in either direction, he said using nearby objects to measure the distance.
McKinney’s bio states he’s worked on films such as “Splash,” “Speed 2,” “Jaws: the Revenge,” “The Abyss,” and many more. To learn more about the film visit dolphinsandwhales3D.com.

More CA Museum Photos

2009-11-02T16:52:00.001-08:00

Hat from The Wiard of Oz (1939).

Butterfly art in front cafe area.

Batman was there alongside Robin.

Dr. Sally Ride's space uniform. She was teeny-tiny.

Star Trek vest and sash worn by Shatner.

Dr. Sally Ride's space suit up close.

Barbies from various decades were displayed neatly in a case on the second floor.

This looks like my favorite suit.

Dan Ackroyd's costume in Ghostbusters II.

See the Costume Exhibit I Did

2009-11-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

I'll admit it: I've never been a Star Wars fan. I saw the movie as a child, but it didn't make much of an impact on me. Probably because I was more into Rainbow Bright, and movies about heroines in a completely fuzzy and colorful world, where the bad, scary people were never overly frightening.

However one thing about Star Wars I can appreciate are the costumes!

Last month on a random lazy Sunday I went to the “Out of This World Extraordinary Costumes from Film and Television” exhibit at the California Museum in downtown Sacramento.

It was crowded enough that I didn't feel like I was alone in a creepy museum. But not so packed it was noisy and hard to get a front-and-center view of exhibits. But creepy would not be a word to describe the California Museum even if it was empty.
The architecture and staff were welcoming.
It was modern and spacious, with two-story windows letting in plenty of light from the overcast yet bright day.
A café was on the first floor by the windows. A massive piece of art in pinks and purples towered over the seating area and reached the height of the second floor.
I highly recommended visiting the museum, or walking by to at least see this gorgeous piece.

I planned on seeing just the costume exhibit in the back area of the second floor, but there was so much to look at and read about before I reached that area I had to stop and check it out.

The California Museum is dedicated to “California’s rich cultural history, with an emphasis on the contributions of women,” as noted on the Web site.

The second floor displays showcased everything that represents women in history, from Sally Ride's space outfit to a glass case filled with Barbies.
Each woman highlighted in the exhibit had a collage of items and short bios about them.
I read about Amelia Earhart. And the California State Symbol Minerva- a Roman goddess, a symbol for wisdom and justice and supporter of the arts and learning.
Julia Child, Dr. Patricia Bath, Joan Kroc, March Fong and Dolores Huerta were other women featured in the exhibit.

As I got to the end of the exhibit I saw Yoda.
Even a Star Wars trivia novice such as myself recognized the friendly little green guy.
An intro at the front of the exhibit explained the importance of costumes in defining the characters for the audience.
This is so true. Could you imagine Russell Crow in the movie “Gladiator” wearing a costume from Halloween Spirit Store? I think not.

But I wasn’t here to read a dissertation; I wanted to see the costumes!

Inside I found the costumes displayed standing-up in Star Trek-like glass tombs, as if they were about to be “beamed up.” (Yes, I know Star Wars and Star Trek are different!)

This exhibit had costumes from both Star Wars and Star Trek, which may explain the ambiance.

The lights were dim. Only red and colored lights lit-up the exhibit. The slate colored floor and walls made me feel like I could be in a space ship with the Darth Vader costume (the original), or one of the Star Trooper costumes.

The exhibit also featured Obi- Wan Kenobi’s robe and Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber and x-wing pilot flight suit.

The exhibit featured more than just Star Wars costumes though.

Movies I’ve never seen, but heard of like “Blade Runner,” “Pris,” and “Eldon Tyrell” had interesting costumes on display.

Indy’s leather jacket, whip and headpiece from “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” were on display, as well as the jumpsuit worn by Dan Ackroyd as Dr. Reymond Stantz in Ghostbusters II.

Even a leather jacket worn by the governator Arnold Schwarzenegger in “The Terminator” was on display behind a glass tomb.

I think my favorite sight to see what the hat the Wicked Witch of the West wore in the original 1939 “The Wizard of Oz,” one of my all time favorite movies.
The hat was in excellent shape. It didn’t look more than five years old.

As I left the exhibit I was transported back into reality. I sat in a old bus and watched a short video about Asian immigrant to California, and checked-out a wall full of old suitcases, illustrating the immigration theme.

The costume exhibit continues until Jan. 10, 2010. To read more about current exhibits at the California Museum, visit http://www.californiamuseum.org/exhibits/current

More photos to come!

Wow, it's been awhile

2009-11-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay with new posts!!!

BTW- I'm on Twitter now! KateInElkGrove

Hope to hear from you!

Poetry Contest

2009-09-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

A $1,000 grand prize goes to the winner of a poetry contest sponsored by Christian Fine Arts Society.
Everyone is welcome to enter the contest and compete for one of the 25 prizes totaling $5,000.
To enter, send one poem of 21 lines or less to Free Poetry Contest, 7308 Heritage Dr., Mt. Vernon, IN 47620. Your poem may be written on any subject, using any style.
The deadline is Oct. 25. You may also enter online at www.freecontest.com. A winner’s list will be sent to all entrants.

Plant Sale in Sac

2009-09-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

Over 200 varieties of new, rare and hard-to-find perennials will be for sale on Oct. 2 and Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Midtown Sacramento. The sale will benefit the Sunburst Projects, which helps children living with HIV/AIDS. The public is encouraged to come out and support this organization by purchasing a plant at the sale, which will be held in the converted parking on 18th and J Streets, behind The Gifted Gardener. If you have any questions about the sale, or would like to donate, call Bob Hamm at (916) 943-6183 or e-mail gardennotes@sbcglobal.net

Swish and Sip

2009-09-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Nugget Market in Elk Grove will host a wine tasting of 3 Girls wine on Friday, Oct. 2. Tasting starts at 5 p.m. and lasts 'til 7 p.m. Guests meet in the cafe. $3 per tasting.

Nugget Market is located at 7101 Elk Grove Blvd.

Crocker Family History

2009-09-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

Treasures, Curiosities and Secrets: The Crocker and the Gilded Age will pay tribute to the Crocker family and the legendary museum they left to Sacramentans. The family’s jewels, gowns, china, furniture and personal letters will be on display so that visitors can learn the stories that made the Crocker’s front page news.
The exhibit opens Nov. 6 and runs through May 9, 2010.

Sacramento Fashion Week

2009-09-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

Love the lace. Fierce pose.

Large necklaces with lots of baubles are trendy right now. They sometimes look gaudy on display, but add playfulness to a work ensemble.

Me likey! Very Sexy and The City.

Grecian goddess Halloween costume. Good Christian Louboutin knock-offs.

Hip Sacramento club wear.

Business woman by day, Zorro by night. Not a fan of long leather skirts.

I covered a night of fashion shows in Sacramento on Sept. 17. Click here to read.

Lessons on Longevity From 100 y.o. Monette Eagan

2009-09-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

Monette Eagan is as sharp as ever. The 100 y.o. loves life, as she put it. Which I think is the secret to her longevity.
She was very calm, pleasant and thoughtful throughout our entire interview. I doubt she’s quick to anger- another trait many centenarians possess.
She told me stories about events that transpired almost a century ago- the cake contest she entered and won when she was 12 years old. The judges didn't believe she made the angel food cake herself, and she had to prove it by having her parents vouch for her.
She remembers a joy ride with her family in a Ford car that her father rented before every family had a car. They had a horse named "Old Blind Sally," which was their mode of transportation.
During my time so far at the Citizen I’ve interviewed and met several 100-year-old women. It’s always women who live that long. They all say they never smoke and only occasionally drink alcohol, if ever. They always go to church and have a strong faith in God.
None of the woman eat a particular diet, or go to great lengths to make certain they eat all their vegetables. Monette Eagan is a thin woman who enjoys life, her family, friends and an egg or two everyday. She eats small portions, she said.
After these interviews I always think “Note to self: Family, friends and happiness above all, and moderation with food.”
Being calm through life’s difficult times is another factor that I believe helps these woman live longer.
Eagan, and the past women I’ve interviewed, didn’t have perfect lives. They had good lives, but ones with hardships too.
Eagan’s son died when he was four years old. She later had a daughter, but at the time he was her only child. Eagan understandably said that was the most difficult time in her life. It takes an imperturbable person to get through a tragedy like that, and come out exceptionally optimistic about life.
Meeting Eagan for two hours one day was enough to convince me that being calm- a difficult trait for a reporter to master- is essential for longevity.
At 100 y.o., Eagan's mind is as sharp as a tack and filled with memories of her past.
Monette Eagan is an inspiration to me because of her immense passion for life. She knows what’s important in life- friends, family and fried eggs.

Read the article about Monette in the Citizen.

Those fangs! Those claws!

2009-09-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

When someone imagines, or more likely has a nightmare, about being attacked by a tiger, one may picture the fierce claws or dagger-like fangs. And, yes, those are large and intimidating in real life. But until I saw and pet a sleeping tiger, I never imagined that the weight alone- 325 pounds- would be a force to reckon with should the tiger awake.
A tiger underwent a spay surgery for general health purposes at the Franklin Ranch Pet Hospital and Hotel in Elk Grove on Sunday, Sept. 13 in the early morning hours. The tiger arrived in a crate, awake and seemingly calm, from the animal rescue organization PAWS. This tiger was accustomed to being around people. The tiger, named Claire, was rescued at four months old from an illegal tiger breeding farm in New Hampshire.
I spoke to PAWS via phone who said tiger parts can fetch a high price on the black market. Some people want to own tigers, or keep their parts for souvenirs. Others, particularly in Asia, believe that tigers help with virility.
Breeding tigers in captivity is a big problem in the United States, they said.

“There are more tigers in the United States in captivity than there are in the wild,” a spokesperson said.

To read the entire story and see photos, visit the Elk Grove Citizen Online.

Bring Your Card But Don't Swipe It

2009-09-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Use your Bank of America card to get free access the first weekend of every month to more than 70 museums around the country, including two museums in Sacramento.
Just bring your BOFA ATM/ Debit or check card and a photo ID.
For more information, and to see a map of museums in this program, visit http://museums.bankofamerica.com/

Elk Grove Fine Arts Center's "2nd Friday" event in September

2009-09-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

Elk Grove artist Russell Frank painted this pastel portrait of a duck
titled "Wood Duck on a Bright Winter Day." Frank will be the featured guest
artist at the 2nd Friday event at the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center on
Sept. 11.

The Elk Grove Fine Arts Center, the light and airy gallery in Old Town Elk Grove, is once again hosting their 2nd Friday event that mirrors the downtown Sacramento “Second Saturday” event on a much smaller scale.
On the second Friday of each month residents are invited into the center to view amazing art by talent local craftspeople. Everything from paintings, sculptures and photography can be viewed at the Fine Arts Center.

Each month a different artist is selected at the “Featured Guest Artist.” For the Sept. 11 event Elk Grove artist and resident of 19 years Russell Frank will be the featured artist. Frank will have his art on display and be talking to the public about his pastel, ceramics and woodworking art pieces.

Another perk to this event is much of the artwork is reasonably priced. Some of the paintings reflect local scenery too, which would be a nice addition for the walls of local businesses in particular.
Snacks and drinks will be provided. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. It is free to the public.

It’s Raining Meatballs At The IMAX

2009-09-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

No doubt one of the zaniest children’s stories ever! “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” is coming to the Esquire IMAX Theatre in Sacramento on Friday, Sept. 18.
Based on the children’s book in which food falls from the sky, Sony Pictures Animation’s “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” has been digitally remastered for the IMAX experience. This special IMAX release coincides with the national release of the film in conventional theaters. Celebrity voices in the film include those of: Andy Samberg, Anna Faris, James Caan, Bill Hader, Neil Patrick Harris and Mr. T.
The film has been rated PG for brief mild language.
The Esquire IMAX Theatre is located at 1211 K Street in downtown Sacramento. For more information on tickets and showtimes call (916) 443- IMAX, or visit www.imax.com/sacramento

Discount Jewelry, Gems and Minerals- Oh My

2009-09-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Whoever said jewelry had to be expensive probably never visited the 20th Annual Gem Faire in Sacramento where more than 80 dealers from all over the world will be selling jewelry and gems at the lowest prices on the market.
The 20th Annual Gem Faire returns to Sacramento on Oct. 9 through Oct. 11 at Scottish Rite Center. Hours are Friday, noon to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5, valid for the entire weekend.
Dealers from all over the world will offer the largest selection of fine jewelry, gems, beads, crystals, minerals, findings and much more at the lowest prices in today’s market. Finished and unfinished jewelry, rare gemstones, and jewelry making tools are available all under one roof. Classes and demonstrations are offered to all skill levels. Plus, guests will have a chance to win hourly door prizes all weekend long.For more information visit www.gemfaire.com or contact Gem Faire, Inc. at (503) 252-8300 or e-mail: info@gemfaire.com.

Eat Your Art Out Sacramento

2009-09-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

Gourmet dining establishments in the downtown Sacramento area are partnering with the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission (SMAC) to create the event “Eat Your Art Out,” to benefit the SMAC grant programs.
Tickets are $35 for this gourmet pub-crawl. Groups will be lead by “Crawl Captains.” Register with a team, or as an individual and be partnered with a team. Each guest will get a map noting the location of each participating business.
Visit a number of mostly independently owned midtown restaurants and coffee houses. Sample appetizers and drinks at each location.
As of 8/28 the following businesses were signed-up to participate: 3 Fires Lounge, Beach Hut Deli, Brew It Up!, Hot Italian Pizza, Sophia’s, Temple Downtown and Yogurt a go-go.
Guests will also receive a gift bag and a keepsake glass. Several Sacramento arts groups will offer entertainment at select locations.
If you’re inviting out-of-town friends for the event, organizers have arranged special deals at local hotels for crawlers.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit http://crawltix.com/eatyourart/

Learn To Write For The Big Screen

2009-09-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

Meet screenwriter and UCLA instructor Bill Boyle at American River College on Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. in 162 Raef Hall. Boyle’s screenwriting credits include “Now and Forever” and “Sealed with a Kiss.” His work has received honors at the Palm Springs Festival, Chicago Film Festival, Praxis Centre and the Vancouver Film School.
Other workshops taught by Boyle will be held Sept. 22 thought Sept 24 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The workshop fee is $65 per workshop or $175 for all three.
Workshop topics are:
September 22: Basic Screenwriting
September 23: The Visual Mindscape of the Screenplay
September 24: Marketing the ScreenplayFor more information contact Bill at bboyle@ucla.edu

World-Traveling Photographer to Give Presentation at CRC

2009-09-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Rick Sammon photographs lions, cowboys, sand dunes and old Cadillacs. Looking at Sammon’s collection of work, it’s clear he photographs anything that catches his eye.
“My specialty is not specializing,” he notes on his Web site.
Author and one of Canon camera’s “Explorers of Light,” Sammon, will speak at Cosumnes River College on Sept. 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Recital Hall.
Sammon will share his experiences and photography techniques. He will show his photos from around the globe, some of which have appeared in his books and thousands of newspaper and magazine articles. For every image shown, Sammon will share a photographic technique, digital darkroom tip or a photo philosophy.
He has photographed in almost 100 countries and gives more than two dozen photography workshops each year.This event is free and open to the public.

Spotlight Elk Grove Benefit

2009-09-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

One of the most talked about events in Elk Grove is approaching. Spotlight Elk Grove is similar to “A Taste of…” events, combined with a service industry tradeshow. The event on Sept. 10 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. is a benefit for the Elk Grove Community Foundation, which awarded 161 scholarships in 2009.
Spotlight will feature more than 60 vendors including restaurants, wineries and area businesses. A rodeo, silent auction and raffle will entertain guests while helping to raise funds for the Elk Grove Community Foundation.
Guests are encouraged to dress in Western wear. “Oscars” will be awarded for the best Western Celebrity costumes.
Spotlight Elk Grove will be held at the Sociadade Do Espirito Santo (SES Hall), located at 10428 East Stockton Blvd.
Tickets are $40 and available at the Citizen office. Elizabeth Pinkerton wrote an article about Spotlight for the Sept. 2 edition of the Elk Grove Citizen, and listed many of the vendors. www.egcitizen.com

Tea Time

2009-09-02T12:24:00.001-07:00

My favorite tea shop in Elk Grove is having a tea pairing event on Sept. 16 at 7 p.m.
Boba Tea & Gifts will host a Tasting Party in combination with Sinful Treats Gourmet Pastries and Desserts. Guests can sample of the newest pastries and get a chance to name the new treats. Sample tea too and enter for a chance to win a raffle prize.
I went to a tea-pairing event several months ago when Boba partnered with Lulu's Cupcakes. It was a casual event where guests mingled, ate mini cupcakes and drank tea.
I normally order the Pu-erh or Oolong teas, so I enjoyed sampling other varieties.
Seating for the event is limited, so please call in advance. Call 591-8373. Boba Tea & Gifts is located at 9020 Elk Grove Blvd. in Old Town Elk Grove.

Scottish Highland Gathering & Games

2009-09-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

Forget traveling to London to see the pomp and ceremony of the famous Pipes & Drums - 1st Battalion Scots Guards parading at Buckingham Palace.
The world famous pipe band will be in Pleasanton on Sept. 5 and 6 to take part in the 144th edition of the world’s largest Scottish Highland Gathering & Games at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.
The pipe band was created in 1642 when King Charles I commissioned the Marquis of Argyll to raise a brigade of personal guards in Scotland. The regimental band continues today, steeped in history, as both a pipe band and as highly trained soldiers.
These soldier-musicians will share the limelight both days with the 45-piece U.S. Marine Band San Diego. Both bands will perform individually, then together in one of the world’s only integrated performances by military bands from Scotland and America.
The event also features sports, live music, activities for children, as well as authentic food and drink.
The 35th U.S. Invitational Heavy Events Championship, plus the World Celtic Hammer Championship, brings the strongest and best athletes in the world in the professional division.
The Western U.S. Highland Dancing Championship brings together competitors in five age groups from throughout California.
Six stages will be packed with continuous musical entertainment, including traditional music and Celtic Rock. Along with dancers, fiddlers and harpers.
Re-enactment groups will be present, along with the unique display “Bird of Prey.” Handlers will present over 25 hawks, falcons, owls and other flying predators.
There is also the whisky tasting venue and seminars on the finer points of the single malt spirits.
Five-A-Side soccer, rugby and the ancient Scottish sport of shinty add to the agenda. A number of British motorcars will also be on display.
British and American food and drink is available throughout the fairgrounds and at the Red Lion Pub.
The gates open both days at 9 a.m. On Saturday the festival will close at 6:30 p.m., but will be followed by a Ceilidh (Scottish party) with open microphone and a barbecue dinner at the Red Lion Pub. One day adult admission is $17, 2-day is $25. Single day admission for youth ages 8-16, seniors 65-plus and handicapped are $10. Under 8 is free, as is the military when showing and active duty ID.

Chinatown Mall Culture Fair

2009-08-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

The Chinatown Mall Culture Fair is coming to Sacramento on Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Honoring the legacy of California's early Chinese pioneers who came to California for gold and faced prejudice in addition to the harsh environment of the West.
The event will feature live entertainment, food, renowned authors, filmmakers and historians. Last year this event brought 3,000 visitors from throughout Northern California. Numerous cultural organizations have come together to help celebrate Sacramento's rich Chinese heritage, culture, and arts. Watch performances and stage entertainment such as the "Lion Dance," Chinese martial arts and a Chinese fashion show.
Demonstration booths featuring calligraphy, Mahjong, Tai Chi, origami and more will be there for spectators and interested participants.
Sacramento Chinatown Mall is located between 3rd- 5th streets and I- J streets.

For more information visit www.yeefow.org/culturefair

Rent-A-Text program at Sac State helps students scrimp

2009-08-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

For college students, buying textbooks is a major expense of college, costing hundreds of dollars each semester or quarter.
Sacramento State's University Enterprises, Inc. and Follett Higher Education Group announced an alternative to buying textbooks. This fall a new program called Rent-A-Text will allow students the option of renting one of 500 titles at more than 55 percent of the retail price.
For example, a title that retails for $100 new and $75 used will be available to rent for just $42.50.
"I think our students will appreciate the diversification and choose which program is right for them," says Pam Parsons, director of the Hornet Bookstore. "Now students will have more options when they go to purchase textbooks: new, used, electronic books and rentals."
The Hornet Bookstore is one of seven Follett-managed bookstores in the country to pilot a full program which offers students the ability to rent textbooks.
Students interested in the Rent-A-Text program can visit the Hornet Bookstore to view a complete listing of titles. www.hornetbookstore.com.

In The Land of Nod

2009-08-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Daydreams are fun, but our brains really need the nocturnal kind.
A column I wrote about sleep will appear in the Elk Grove Citizen on Wednesday, Aug. 26.
There is so much information by scientists, physicians and laymen about sleep. Why we need it, what happens if we don't get it and how to get more.
We all need different amounts of sleep and NO ONE is excluded from needing it. Even if you can pull an all-nighter by drinking three Red Bulls or a gallon of coffee, by the next night your body will need more sleep to make up for the missed hours.
I started writing my weekly column about sleep because, well, I was tired. But fortunately, as an adult, I can help myself to a cup or tea or coffee to perk up. Children on the other hand cannot.
The most fatigued I've ever been was in junior high school. I woke up about the same time I do now- 6 a.m. But I was a growing teen then. I had a full schedule of extra curricular activities and after school activities too. Of course, I had fewer responsibilities than I do now. And I still have a packed schedule. But I think that extra hour or two would really help growing young adults.
A New York Times article titled “Snooze or Lose” focused on overscheduled, extremely ambitious children missing out on sleep. According to experts in the article, students now sleep one hour less than children did 30 years ago.
“It has been documented in a handful of major studies that children, from elementary school through high school, get about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago. While parents obsess over babies’ sleep, this concern falls off the priority list after preschool. Even kindergartners get 30 minutes less a night than they used to,” according to the article.
Stress may be part of the lack-of-sleep problems experienced by students, but I think schools start too early for many young kids.
I know this is so students’ schedules match-up with their parents’ work schedules. But ensuring students, especially children, get adequate sleep is essential to their success. “One study found that REM sleep affects learning of certain mental skills. People taught a skill and then deprived of non-REM sleep could recall what they had learned after sleeping, while people deprived of REM sleep could not,” according to the National Institute of Health Web site.

Elk Grove Celebrity Psychic Reads My Mind

2009-08-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

I’m skeptical when it comes to psychics. But I do believe there are things in this world we don’t understand, or have not yet discovered- both spiritual and scientific.
Having said that, I’m always open to new information- whether I disagree with it or not.
I met Celebrity Psychic and Elk Grove resident Belinda Bentley at a local Starbucks a few months ago. She’s been on national TV programs, and is the personal psychic for celebrities Dave Navarro and Margaret Cho.
She’s not a one-trick psychic. Bentley can read tarots, read palms and perform energy healing. She even does exorcisms on body parts.
“I’ve worked with people who thought different body parts were haunted,” she said. “It’s not that uncommon.”
Recently, a television network contacted Bentley and asked her to work with celebrities in a reality-type TV show.
Bentley is only 30 years old, but has already experienced so much in her life. She grew up in a conservative household in Los Angeles where spirits were considered demonic, she said. However, Bentley frequently felt spirits in her childhood home. Bentley said cabinets in the kitchen would open without anyone there and other strange phenomena would occur.
When she was a teenager, a friend jokingly suggested she was psychic. The friend’s boyfriend tested Bentley’s psychic skills by asking her a specific question, to the effect of “what did I do on a certain night a few years back?” He mentioned a specific date. Bentley guessed based on what she could see in her mind and was dead-on right. From that point on she decided to foster her psychic abilities. She moved to New Zealand for one year at age 20. More psychic experiences ensued.
While on a New Zealand beach, Bentley reached down to pick up a seashell. She felt a hand on her back. Bentley turned around to present the seashell to the person touching her, who she assumed was her daughter. She was shocked that no one was there- her daughter was on a hill in front of her.
Bentley has many stories about answering her past clients’ questions accurately, and knowing information that no one, or very few people could know about the person.
Psychic readings allow her to help people one-on-one, which is rewarding, she said.
But when people don’t listen to her advice Bentley said her job can be frustrating.
“There’s been times when people don’t listen and their life is hell,” she said. Then Bentley has to hear a sad story, which could have been prevented.
But when people do take-up Bentley on her advice, they’ll send her an e-mail saying she changed their life.
“I remember one woman, she tape recorded our hour session and she said ‘everything in that reading has come true,’ she said ‘every last detail,’ and I’m like ‘that’s 100 percent, that’s unheard of, even for me!’”
I’ve never encountered a psychic who is so shocked at her own abilities.
“We’re not taught that this is normal, but it is,” she said. “Everybody has a psychic connection.
“There are so many people who say they wish they came with a manual so they would know how to live life and a lot of people think that’s the Bible. I personally think it’s our intuition.”
She said people should listen to their intuition.
“You want a manual, and you don’t think you have one,” she said. “It makes no sense when you’re getting hints.”
To enhance or get in touch with your intuition, Bentley suggests meditating.
“Developing you intuition is about listening to yourself,” she said.
After our chat, Bentley gave me a reading.
I’ve had readings before and I’ve rarely liked them. I used to work at a retirement facility where one resident had been a psychic in NYC’s Hell’s Kitchen for 50 years. She gave me a reading and said I would go to graduate school (yeah!) but I would be low income for the rest of my life and only have one or two children (I want four.)
Another psychic once told me my heart is closed and it will be at least 8 year before I find love. Good thing that reading was free at a Farmer’s Market!
Even if the readings were good, I’d like to think we control our own futures.
Bentley had good predictions for my future. But one thing she said stuck out in my mind. It wasn’t something of great importance, but I can’t figure out how she could have known this fact.
Bentley said she felt like there was something else she had to tell me. After a long pause, she asked me if I’m going through a name change. “I’m am!” I replied. My friends and family call me Kate, but I’ve always applied to jobs with my full name, Katie. I mentioned to my mom that I might go by Kate at work too. Bentley said this would greatly help my career and my outlook on myself in my future career.
This wasn’t earth shattering, but I can figure out how she knew this. Maybe a lot of people are transitioning from their full name to a nickname? Or, Maybe Bentley saw a vision of the conversation I had with my mom in her mind?…

Yet another helpful app for the iPhone

2009-08-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

The iPhone can help you if you’re lost, recommend a good restaurant within your budget, and now, fix a flat tire.
On Aug. 14, AAA announced a “Roadside application” for the iPhone to AAA members.
The free app is available for download on the iTunes App Store.
“When used, the app quickly sends a member’s vehicle location, description, specific vehicle problem and other detailed information directly to AAA for roadside assistance,” according to the press release.
Of course, a call can be made too.
Whether an AAA member calls Roadside Assitance or uses the app, AAA will contact the member to let them know their information was received.
The app also includes a “While You Are Waiting” feature. This allows members to search for nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair shops, Hertz rental locations offering AAA discounts, AAA approved accommodations, AAA offices and retail locations.
AAA Roadside is available for free from the iTunes App Store via an iPhone, or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.

AAA’s first app, AAA Discounts, launched in April 2009 and has been downloaded more than half a million times from the App Store.
For more information visit www.aaa.com

Yet another helpful app for the iPhone

2009-08-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

Yet another helpful app for the iPhone

2009-08-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

Find Local College Classes

2009-08-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Education never hurt anyone.
A new Web site, Courseopedia.com, locates local classes in your area of interest. Click on the subject you’d like to study, then type in your zip code.
The site is launching with listings for California schools and will gradually expand to create a nationwide source of information on personal enrichment, vocational and career advancement courses – including those offered by private instructors.
Courseopedia currently lists 30,000 courses from 17 California city and community colleges.

http://www.courseopedia.com

Vegan Meals- Grocery List

2009-06-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

Pick-up a copy of the Elk Grove Citizen's June 10 edition and check out the Home & Garden insert for my story featuring five nights of vegan meals and the recipes to go with them. Here is the grocery list promised in the article. Enjoy!

Grocery List

1 large eggplant
1 green bell pepper
4 red bell peppers (3 for stuffing)
1 red onion
1 yellow onion
2 bunches baby bok choy
2 avocados
2 golden beets
50 button mushrooms
6 shallots
1 Japanese eggplant
1 container of sprouts
Fresh mint, parsley and oregano
1 cup pine nuts
Alvarado St. Bakery Sprouted Wheat Burger Buns
Alvarado St. Bakery Essential Flax Seed Bread
2 pkgs Sunergia soy foods soy feta any flavor
Follow Your Heart cheese alternative Monterey Jack
Follow Your Heart Organic Vegenaise
Galaxy Nutritional Foods cheddar flavor rice slices
Vegetable spread for sandwich (recipe used Trader Joe’s Red Pepper Spread with eggplant and garlic)
1 pkg firm or extra firm tofu
1 container Cold Mountain Kyoto White Miso (any light miso will do)
Boca Vegan meatless burgers
Mirin
Sesame seeds
Red wine vinegar
Balsamic vinegar
Hot chili oil
Vegetable oil
Garlic flavored olive oil
Garlic flavored grapeseed oil
Evaporated pure cane sugar (you only need a pinch, but this tastes great in cakes and muffins too)
Sea salt
Pepper

“Restore the Core” class for moms

2009-06-09T16:25:00.000-07:00

Wendy Hoag’s positive, and friendly personality can’t be taught. She teaches various workout classes for moms, including “Restore the Core,” which I participated in on June 8 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Color Me Mine in Elk Grove.
Hoag is a Certified Fitness Instructor with separate certifications for the various types of exercise she does. Her encouragement and fun attitude made working out more enjoyable. She was immediately welcoming and helped everyone with their form throughout the workout. She adjusted my form when I needed it too.
I’ve taken numerous Pilates and yoga classes over the last 10 years, and Hoag’s moves are some of the most effective and fun to do.
The “Restore the Core” class is for expecting moms-to-be and women who have had babies. I am neither, but I was curious about the moves that would “restore” one’s abs after pregnancy. The tough moves had my legs and arms shaking rather ungracefully, but I can see how doing these exercises on a regular basis would tone the core and help posture. One mom sitting next to me said she sits up straighter in her car now that she takes this class.
“Restore the Core” was done barefoot on cute children’s mats with animals and letters. These are the kind of mats I imagine would be in a child’s nursery. We aligned our spines along the ruler print in the middle of the mat and put our feet between two letters or animal prints on either side.
The class was not a sweat session, but an enjoyable yet challenging toning workout. The lights were dimmed for most of the workout. And the doors of the studio were wide open; making the class feel like it was outside because of the nice breeze flowing inside. I made a mental note of some moves Hoag used and will try to incorporate them on a regular basis now. They worked!
I am pretty sore today, not uncomfortably sore though. I will still take a walk this evening. I can tell the class worked more than just my abdominals. My inner thighs are painin’ too. That must be from using the “mommy muscle balls” to squeeze between my knees while executing the moves.
Hoag said the first class is usually hard because people may not know the moves yet. The second class can be harder because now you know the moves and are doing them correctly, so the workout gets tougher. But after several weeks participants can see a big difference in their bodies.
This workout evens out the two sides of the body. Because activities like driving or cradling a baby on one side, the body may not always tone evenly. This class helps to even out the muscle definition, she said.
Class participant Amanda Hixson said she’s “getting slimmer all the time.”
Her goal is to get back into pre-baby shape and get stronger because she injured her back.
Hixson is a physical therapist at Kaiser Permanente. She said Hoag’s style of teaching ab workouts is the best.
“This is the only stability class I’ve taken that takes into account your back safety,” she said.
Hixson enjoys the class so much she will continue to take it throughout her next pregnancy.
“I want to stay stronger so my next pregnancy is easier and recovery is easier,” she said.
For more information about Restore the Core classes, please visit http://www.strollerfit.com/elkgrove.

"Stand By Me"

2009-05-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay on this post....

I interviewed Mark Johnson, co-director and producer of the video "Stand By Me," a re-make of the Ben E. King song.
Johnson began the Playing for Change foundation. Him and his crew travel the world re-making classic songs by compiling voices from around the world together for one song.
I spoke to Johnson via phone. He said his objective when he started Playing for Change was to help people connect through music and "create a collective understanding."
Music strikes a chord in people’s hearts that can’t be reach with oral communication.
Music is used in religious services to help the orator's message sink-in to the minds of the congregation and impact them on a deeper and more profound level.
Music transcends cultures and languages. Even in melodies without words, the listener can abstract the message of the song based on the tune.
My family rented a condo on an island off of Mexico where my grandpa lived on his boat for 20 years. The condo had a small TV that only picked-up several stations from the main land. We tuned-in to a music video channel in the morning while we ate breakfast and got dressed. Although we couldn’t understand the words it was pleasant to listen to. The melodies and the beats in the songs conveyed enough emotions that words were not essential to understand the intended message. “Stand By Me” is in English, the meaning would be clear even without words. Music possesses an incredible power to move people beyond words. Some people are moved by music more than others. Sometimes it’s the melody, the message or both that can move a person to tears.Some people pay top dollar to see operas in Italian even if they don’t speak the language. "Country Road" by John Denver is a popular song in German bars, even though many people don’t know the words. The wedding jingle strikes a chord in the hearts of many people when they hear it.
Recently, I have heard some wonderful music. First Susan Boyle on Britain’s Got Talent blew audiences away with her powerful and emotional voice. That song from Les Misérables is now one of my favorites.
What I liked about this video was two parts: the music and the message.
People featured in this video vary from street musicians to world famous performers. Vusi Mahlasela is also featured in this video. I had the chance to interview him during college. He came to Chico State to play music and talk about his life. I interviewed him after his show in the Performing Arts Center. He was one of the most kind and calm people I’ve ever met. He was an advocate for freedom during the Apartheid in South Africa. He sang with Ladysmith Black Mambazo. I was blown away by his humble and calm presence. He seemed unfazed by his fame. Maybe after seeing and experiencing so much in his life, he had a more well rounded perspective of what issues are cause for excitement or worry.

Here is the inspiring video with musicians from all around the world singing, "Stand By Me." This song is definitely going under my “Favorites.”
http://www.playingforchange.com/episodes/2/Stand_by_Me

Beauty Bargains

2009-04-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

Spending more than $130 for a haircut and color makes me cringe. That doesn’t make me sound like an extreme bargain shopper- I know. But I do appreciate a discount.

With all the salon and spa deals available on the Web and with coupons in the mail, I’m like a kid in a candy store!

I’m a big fan of Craigslist for finding specials. Just search under the services tab and click on “beauty.”

I also scope out Elk Grove Online for discounts and, of course, the Gold Rush coupon magazine- which has great specials.

Some of the best beauty deals I’ve found are:

Craigslist- Luxe Salon & Spa. I went there for an hour long facial. It was very relaxing and my skin glowed afterwards. It was only $40! The only stressful part was the receptionist’s hard sell for more services at the end when I was paying. Overall, a very relaxing and affordable 1-hour service.

Craigslist- Airbrush tanning for $20. I kinda need this since I stopped tanning and now wear sunscreen rain or shine every day.

Elk Grove Online- Katy at House of Hues in EG is offering $20 off a cut or color service at the Salon for EG Online members.

More coupons for Elk Grove. (Not all of these are strictly beauty).

Is Twitter a good idea?

2009-04-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Talking smack about Twitter garnered some attention from people across the country and in EG as well.
People seem to be either very pro-Twitter and social networking or anti self-promotion.
I find myself in the middle. The shameless self-promotion is obnoxious. But if it helps boost the career- it’s hard to be against that!
Let’s stir the pot a little more and get some dialogue flowing. What do you think about Social Networking sites?