The folks over at The Cheesesteak Shop in Sacramento offer the “King of Sacramento Challenge” which consists of downing two King of Sacramento sandwiches, followed by a Large Meal and Tasty Kake (here’s an example). While it’s been done before, it appears that time is of the essence. From their Facebook page, we [...]

California's first Hmong public charter school, Yav Pem Suab Academy - Preparing for the Future Charter School, will hold it's first parent-student-teacher meet and greet from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. tonight at 7555 S. Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

Oregon has been picked to win the Pac-10 football championship this season, according to the preseason poll released today.

PAC 10 commissioner Larry Scott speaks to reporters during a news conference, Tuesday, July 27, 2010 in New York. (AP Photo/ Mary Altaffer)

Candace Calvert of Roseville is a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers' Carol Award, it was announced today.

Officials with the League of California Cities said Thursday they are interested in crafting state legislation that would require information on the pay of all highly-compensated public officials on the state and local levels to be made easily available to the public.

Bell, Calif. resident Carmen Bella, 76, yells at city council members during a city council meeting addressing city leaders' pay, Monday, July 26, 2010, in Bell, Calif.

The Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce announced today that it will once again partner with Drexel University to award a full tuition grant for a Master's Degree to an up-and-coming leader from the Hispanic community.

Drexel and the Chamber established the Hispanic Leadership Master’s Grant in the Fall of 2008 and the first two award winners are currently pursuing graduate degrees at Drexel. The first, Wells Fargo manager Gloria Mirazo, will be graduating from Drexel with her MBA this December. The Chamber is currently accepting applications for the annual scholarship from students who will begin their graduate studies in September. The Master’s Grant applies to any of the six nationally-ranked master’s programs Drexel offers at its Center for Graduate Studies in Sacramento

This year, in response to the region’s depressed economy, Drexel decided to increase its support to the Chamber, to help it achieve its key objective of developing its next generation of leaders, and will provide a $10,000 scholarship to each candidate for the Master’s Grant who is a finalist.

“This is an incredibly generous offer and an amazing opportunity for our members,” said Rosa Escutia, Chair of the Hispanic Chamber’s Board of Directors and Community Relations Manager for PG&E. “We continue to be impressed by Drexel’s commitment to growing the region’s economic leadership in all sectors of the community. Its focus on diversity is impressive.”

“By providing more scholarships to more of our emerging leaders, Drexel is really stepping up its commitment to the Greater Sacramento Region,” said Steve Gándola, President and CEO of the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “Drexel recognizes the central role that this Chamber plays in supporting the development and aspirations of the Latino community, and we are proud that Drexel is so willing to partner with us in the development of our leaders. That will make for long-term benefits.”

 

The Hispanic Leadership Master’s Grant is awarded through a competitive process to a student admitted to Drexel whom the Hispanic Chamber’s selection committee believes holds excellent promise for future leadership in Greater Sacramento’s Hispanic community. It is expected, and a condition of the Award, that the winners will continue to be active in the Chamber and give back to their communities as they pursue their graduate degrees at Drexel.

A panel of leading Hispanic business and community leaders will review grant applications, meet with finalists, and award the grant. This year, the Master’s Grant selection committee will be chaired by Larry Garcia, Principal with the Diepenbrock, Harrison law firm. Also on the selection committee with Garcia and Gándola are Co-Chair Norma Andrade with Wells Fargo Advisors; Stella Premo with Vanir Construction; and Victoria Rosario, Associate Vice Chancellor of the Los Rios Community College District, who was the 2009 Hispanic Leadership Masters Grant recipient.

“We are pleased and excited to be expanding our partnership with the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber and helping it make the investments that will benefit the Sacramento region for decades to come,” said Carl “Tobey” Oxholm III, Senior Vice President of Drexel and Dean of its Center for Graduate Studies. “In a very short period of time, we have developed strong partnerships with the region, with our students and with their employers. Our faculty have done a tremendous job in structuring innovative, dynamic programs that meet the needs of working professionals and deliver great value to our students while they are working.”

Drexel opened its doors in Sacramento in January 2009, and by the start of classes in September expects to have had more than 400 students enroll in its programs. All of the academic programs Drexel offers are focused at the heart of Greater Sacramento’s growth and economic development initiatives – health, entrepreneurial business, human resources, education, knowledge management and information science. Drexel has created scholarship and grant programs exclusively for the Sacramento region to help its business and civic organizations and its people press ahead with their development initiatives through the current tough economic climate.

Drexel’s 20,000 square foot Graduate Center at One Capitol Mall is widely regarded as one of the region’s premier, high-tech educational centers. Equipped with state-of-the-art, fully integrated high-technology learning systems for its programs for working professionals pursuing master’s degrees in the evenings, it is also used by businesses and non-profits during the day. The university invested over $1 million dollars in cutting edge audiovisual/ collaboration technology to revolutionize how higher education can be delivered. It routinely donates its space and technology for use by not-for-profit institutions.

All materials related to the application process must be received by August 30.
Applications are open to qualified candidates living in Sacramento, Yolo, San Joaquin, Sutter, Placer, El Dorado, and Yuba counties.

For more information or to apply for the Master’s Grant, please visit the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce website at www.sachcc.org or call Celia Cortez at (916) 486-7700.

For more information on the fellowships and Drexel’s programs in Sacramento, visit www.drexel.edu/sacramento or call (888) 389-3781 or (916) 325-4600.

The next Information Sessions for Drexel’s graduate programs in California will be held at the Center, One Capitol Mall in Sacramento, on Thursday, July 29 at 6 p.m., Saturday, August 7 at 10 a.m., and Thursday, August 12 at 6 p.m.
 

The concept is brilliant in its simplicity: When you and your elderly relatives are piecing together names and dates for your family tree, put together your family's health history, as well. After all, older relatives may well recall the ailments that beset their parents and grandparents, allowing you access to heirloom knowledge about your family's health through the generations.

Humphrey Fellows - scholars from 11 different nations - will offer a free world tour via powerpoint and speeches today in Davis. The 10-minute presentations run from 2 to 5 p.m. at International House, 10 College Park in Davis.

An unusual project is underway that seeks the public's help in classifying images taken of the moon.

In a major economic boost for Yuba and Sutter counties, a fleet of spy planes is expected to be stationed at Beale Air Force Base, U.S. Rep. Wally Herger said today.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman - who has campaign billboards and Spanish-language ads in California declaring "NO to the Arizona law" - told talk show hosts Wednesday that the same controversial immigration law should be allowed to stand in Arizona.

Meg Whitman, Republican gubernatorial candidate, speaks to Mag Instrument employees Thursday in Ontario. Whitman is backing off a campaign proposal to send inspectors into California businesses to look for illegal immigrants.

Take an iconic piece of american musical theater by arguably the best musical theater writing team of all times and add Music Circus talent and production values and you have a splendid evening of entertainment.

"Oklahoma" was the first collaboration between composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II. Rodgers had previously worked with Lorenz Hart creating "Pal Joey." Hammerstein had been teamed with Jerome Kern, with "Show Boat" as their best-known production. The new collaboration worked well for both. Hammerstein preferred to write lyrics before they were set to music. Rodgers preferred to have completed lyrics before creating the music. There previous collaborators did not allow for this.

"Oklahoma" was a major game changer in musical theater. It is know as the first truly modern musical. For the first time, the music and dance moved the story forward. Previously, music and dance existed simply to entertain. For the first time, Rogers and Hammerstein and the director insisted that the singers and dancers could also act. This precluded well-known Broadway stars. Oklahoma was instantly a critical and popular success. It won a Pulitzer Prize. Opening on Broadway in 1943, it ran for 2,212 performances -- a record that was not eclipsed until 1956 with "My Fair Lady." Rogers and Hammerstein went on to create "Carousel," "South Pacific," "The King and I," "Flower Drum Song" and "The Sound of Music" and many other hits.

This is the astounding 13th Music Circus production of "Oklahoma" since 1954. Does it hold up? Exceedingly well. It starts with a very talented and experienced cast.

Jeremiah James reprises the role of Curly. He played Curly in the Cameron Mackintosh and Trevor Nunn revival of "Oklahoma" on Broadway. James has appeared in leading roles in several other Broadway productions, stage, film and television. He is also a recording artist. His debut album, "Tupelo," comes out Aug. 10. He has a good voice and the “aw shucks” charm that works well for the role of Curly.

Brandi Burkhardt is a good match in her role as Laurey, Curly’s love interest. She also portrayed Laurey in the touring production of "Oklahoma." She has appeared in several other stage and film productions. She appears in the role of Emma on the cast recording of "Jekyll & Hyde: Resurrection." Burkhardt has numerous television credits, including "Passions," "The Glades," "Boston Legal," "Numb3rs" and "Law and Order: SVU." She is great as the often-flighty Laurey, a character who does not know what she really wants. Burkhardt has a beautiful voice that she uses effectively both in her solos and duets.

The character Jud Fry the hired hand competing with Curly for Laurey’s affection completes one of the two love triangles in "Oklahoma." Kevin Earley is a great choice to play Fry. His Jud Fry is not so physically repulsive and slovenly as, say, Rod Steiger in the film version of "Oklahoma." This allows the audience to see what might have allowed Laurey to have any interest in Jud in the first place. On the other hand, Earley is quite good at showing the evil inside Jud. He also has the best male voice in the production. His one solo, "Lonely Room," is a knockout.

The other love triangle consists of Ado Annie, a farmer’s daughter; Will Parker, a prize-winning cowboy; and Ali Hakim, an exotic traveling peddler. These three know what they want and just need to figure out how to get it. In this production, this love triangle is given as much attention as the Laurey-Curly-Jud one.

Heather Jane Rolff returns to the Music Circus to play Ado Annie. She is a great comedic actor. Rolff makes good use of the material she has in the role. Her interpretation of Ado Annie’s songs is both funny and powerful.

Michael D. Jablonski is a good singer and a very good dancer. He embodies the charming, sweet and handsome (if a little dim) cowboy Will Parker. Parker’s determination to marry Ado Annie is not questioned.

Ali Hakim is quite the schemer. He wants Ado Annie’s “companionship” without paying the cost. Looking down the barrel of Ado Annie’s father’s gun, he has to make some fast moves to get her engaged to Will and escape that fate. Amir Talai is well known from his television and commercial work. His Ali Hakim had the audience very charmed.

The other costars are Kay Walbye as Aunt Eller and Ron Wisniski as Pop Carnes, Ado Annie’s father. Walbye’s Aunt Eller is perfect. This is the first Music Circus production for this very experienced stage and television actor. She is a great matchup with Wisniski. Wisniski is a Music Circus veteran as well as an experience stage actor. His performance of Pop Carnes equals that of the great James Whitmore in the movie version of "Oklahoma."

Production director Marcia Milgrom Dodge was nominated for a best director Tony and a Drama Desk and won a Helen Hays this year. Dodge has a strong background as a choreographer as well as a director. This is very useful in "Oklahoma," where dance is such an important element. This is a fairly long show with lots of things happening. Dodge keeps the action moving so there are not any points where the action drags. The ending seemed a little rushed. It was like, "Let's take care of the rest of the plot points and get to the finale."
The end of Act I is a “Dream Ballet.” Laurey falls asleep and dreams. In this dream we learn of Laurey’s greatest hopes and greatest fears. This dance has taken different forms and interpretations in “Oklahoma” productions over the years. The original dances were by Agnes de Mille. Martha Graham’s modern dance interpretation in the movie version of “Oklahoma” is the most unusual and most famous.

Here Marcia Milgrom Dodge uses classical ballet. Bob Richard who has choreographed over 25 productions in 12 years with the Music Circus complements Dodges work very well. The overall choreography of the show is great but really shines in the “Dream Ballet.”

Amanda Peet a principal with Sacramento Ballet is cast as Dream Laurey. She is joined by Patrick Pulkrabek as Dream Curly and John B. Williford as Dream Jud. These very strong, experienced dancers along with members of the ensemble are spectacular in the “Dream Ballet.” A special mention for Kim Arnett as the Lead Postcard Girl who has some astounding moves. The “Dream Ballet” could stand alone as a ballet number.

Michael Schweikardt Music Circus Scenic Design veteran (50 productions) has created another sparse but effective set design. His design of the smoke house that is Jud Fry’s housing is particularly interesting. “The Farmer and the Cowman” number highlight how set design and dance can work together with great results.

Musical Director Michael Rice and the orchestra are well up to the task of performing the wonderful Richard Rodgers score.

The Music Circus showed with Monty Python's Spamalot opening this 50th season that they can create a fantastic production with the most contemporary of Broadway Musicals. With this production of "Oklahoma" the Music Circus has shown that they can take a 67 year old american masterpiece and create a show that is fresh, exciting and thoroughly entertaining.

1. Brandi Burkhardt as Laurey and Jeremiah James as Curly,  2. Jeremiah James as Curly, Brandi Burkhardt as Laurey and Kay Walbye as Aunt Eller  3. Kevin Earley (left) as Jud Fry and Jeremiah James as Curly,  4. Kay Walbye as Aunt Eller and Jeremiah James as Curly, 5. Michael Jablonski as Will Parker and Heather Jane Rolff as Ado Annie,  6. Amir Talai as Ali Hakim and Heather Jane Rolff as Ado Annie 7. Brandi Burkhardt as Laurey and Jeremiah James as Curly

All Photos by Charr Crail  Courtsey California Musical Theatre

A child molest suspect, 44-year-old Gary Jay Livers, has been arrested after slipping away Thursday morning from a Sacramento motel, according to authorities.

 Many Sacramento residents are unaware that they live just around the corner from a world-renown hotbed of whitewater rafting. Whether you are rafting the South Fork of the American River in El Dorado County, the Middle or North Forks, Cache Creek or one of the many other rivers flowing in the Sacramento area, here's a great article on how to go about planning your trip.

As a first-time rafter, many questions are likely running through your mind if you are considering a trip. Maybe you’re nervous. Perhaps you can’t swim. Are you going off of waterfalls? Are you fit enough? Are you old enough? Are you young enough? What do you wear? How do you wear it? Do you need special shoes?

Not to worry – everyone has these questions. You will be fine. On the South Fork of the American River alone, upwards of 65,000 people go rafting each and every year. California whitewater rafting is an excellent vacation option, and so close for Sacramento residents!. If you have been invited or are considering planning a trip on your own, it is great to be cautious, but you shouldn’t let any fear or trepidation stop you.

Here are fourteen easy steps to make your trip a breeze:

1. RELAX! If you are rafting with a professional company, you are in great hands. They know what they are doing, and how to get you down a river.

2. Go with a “can-do” attitude. It is perfectly normal to be nervous, as this is a new experience, but don’t be “that guy” who complains the whole time. Just take a deep breath, and take it all in.

3. Rafting, like the rest of the world, has different seasons. What you WEAR depends on the season:

SPRING rafting tends to be cooler. You should definitely consult with the company you are rafting with, but a thin wetsuit may be appropriate. More commonly, wetsuit booties or wool socks with your STRAP-on sandals or old tennis shoes (more on footware below), shorts, a wool sweater, a splash jacket or dry top, and even possibly wool cap are all appropriate choices for cool-weather rafting.

SUMMER rafting is a bit warmer. Strap-on sandals or old tennis shoes are recommended, and shorts are a must. You can wear a bathing suit but trunks/shorts are recommended as you are sitting on rubber and bathing suits tend to get…ahem…moved. Other clothing necessities include a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses. Some companies wear helmets, in which case you may or may not be able to wear a hat while rafting.

4. No matter the season, and no matter your skin tone, wear SUNBLOCK! We like to recommend all natural / biodegradable sunblock, given the detrimental effects of certain chemicals on the environment. Some specific ingredients to avoid include PABA, octinoxate, oxybenzone, 4- methylbenzylidene camphor and the preservative butylparaben.

5. Wear proper SHOES! Shoes must strap to the foot. Crocs and their composite foam ankle strap do not count as they do not bind to the foot. Name brands that make appropriate footwear include Teva, Chaco, and Keen. Water booties with a sole are fine, and old tennis shoes are a great solution as well, as they tie directly to your feet. No one wants you swimming without your consent, but if you do swim, you want something on your feet.

6. Trust the GEAR. You will be wearing top-of-the-line personal floatation devices (PFDs). In nearly all instances these are Class V Coast Guard-approved flotation devices, which are the highest quality PFDs on the market. Rafts themselves are some of the toughest boats on the water, as they are made to commercial standards with commercial-quality materials.

7. COMMIT fully to the experience. If you are offered the opportunity to swim a rapid, do it! This is an incredible place to be, so take advantage of everything it has to offer. The last thing you want is to walk away from your experience regretting that you did not engage in the opportunity to the fullest.

8. Remember what NOT to do. Believe it or not, you shouldn’t bring a towel to the river. There’s no place on the raft for a towel. Keep it in the car for the end of the trip. Don’t wear suntan oil. Oil + Skin + Rubber = swimming. And drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes will not only impede your ability to get down the river, but can be downright dangerous when mixed with rafting.

9. There are plenty of rafting companies to choose from. On the South Fork of the American River alone, you are afforded no less than 33 options. Pick someone you feel comfortable with. Most prices are going to be within $10 of one another, so the most important factor is comfort. Just about everyone will provide a comfortable trip, but there are different attitudes and energies with each company.

10. Generally there are NO waterfalls! There are drops, but nothing that equates to a waterfall. The boats are made to do what you will be doing, so relax.

11. Yes, chances are, you are FIT enough. This is not an olympic paddle crew timed trial. You will be pulling your weight, along with five or six other people.

12. The trips are professionally GUIDED. You will have a professional, competent guide in the back of the raft controlling the action. Just be sure to follow directions!

13. Age CAN be a factor, so check with the company with whom you are rafting. There are rivers where tighter age ranges do come into play.

14. Finally, do not disqualify yourself based on unfounded PRECONCEPTIONS. Chances are, you are going to love this adventure. We have sent young children down the river along with their grandparents without a hitch. You CAN do this!

 

Christopher Pyle is owner operator of www.actionwhitewater.com, a whitewater rafting and retreat offering as well as www.natures-classroom.com a leading outdoor education and class trip provider.

Canadian police said that a cyclist from a Davis bicycle club has died in that country after being hit by a motor home.

Our updated database provides information about home sales in the greater Sacramento region. You can search by city, zip code or street and sort by house size or price. It also offers the latest monthly home sales statistics by zip code.

Home sales in the Sacramento area improved again in September.

June 19, 2010. A historic evening at The Firehouse…or at least in The Firehouse’s Wine Cellar.

The dining room was bubbling with excitement as people celebrated graduations, anniversaries, birthdays or just a special evening out.

A couple I had known for more than 20 years was celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. We spoke of Sacramento and what it was like in 1960. While our opinions on the matter varied, we all agreed that two magnificent things happened that year, one of them being the grand opening of The Firehouse restaurant.

This very same evening, one of our esteemed clients brought a group of his friends into the restaurant. He mentioned that they were visiting from Germany, and that he had known one of his friends since 7th grade. They drank wonderful wine from Napa Valley, told stories and talked golf.

As the discussion quieted, our esteemed client mentioned that he wanted to end the night with a wine his friends would remember – something “spectacular!” My friend looked in several of the bins – as he has many times before – and found a Chateau Petrus and a Le Pin. He finally stumbled upon a 1940 Chateau Latour, which he almost settled on, but instead said, “Mario, I want something that you won’t find anywhere, something that my friends will find ‘amazing and with some history.’” I asked, “How about something historical and rare?”

I suggested a $6000 bottle of Château Lafite Rothschild. A bottle of 1918 Château Lafite Rothschild, to be exact

“That’s the one!” he exclaimed.

I couldn’t believe it! A bottle of 1918 Château Lafite Rothschild is a jewel in the world of sommeliers…and wine lovers, for that matter.

The client asked, “Will it be vinegar?” I assured him it wouldn’t. I explained that the wine – being over 90 years old – would be brick colored.

Removing the cork took 15 minutes of complete focus and silence. I used a very simple Ah-So Wine cork puller, one that has been used for many monumental wines here at The Firehouse. It’s a metal two-pronged piece that is inserted around the top of the cork. You rock it back and forth gently while at the same time pushing downward. Then you simply twist upward. The cork is supposed to remain in near perfect condition. This bottle in particular must have been re-corked in the 50s – it was a beautiful cork. Just holding it made my heart stop.

I advised the client that he must drink this wine in about 15 to 20 minutes, but was confident that the tastes would be remembered forever.

The magnificent sand and gravel soil on limestone-base makes this Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine an unequalled delicacy.

As expected, the color was a brick hue. The aroma, one of almonds and rose petals…dried rose petals. One of the guests said it was “smooth, almost silky.”

The Château Lafite Rothschild, once a powerful and heavy wine, was now delicate and seamless with a texture of astonishing finesse.

To this friend and client I say, thank you for the unforgettable experience of sharing such a monumental wine. I know your friends in Germany are still talking about those 15 to 20 minutes in the Wine Cellar. And your friend since 7th grade, I remember he told me his father was born in 1918, he kept the cork.
 

For many Fair visitors young and old, the Livestock Nursery may be their first, and only, interaction with farm animals. People seem mesmerized watching the baby piglets feeding on mom, watching them pile on top of each to stay warm and running around their home. Hearing a baby goat bleat as it aggressively goes after it's mom's milk. When a female animal is due to deliver, humans gather around, enthralled and encouraging the mom.

 

Erin Jones, a Veterinarian student at UC Davis holds a day old goat in the Livestock Nursery at the Fair. The female goat was born second after her brother. Momma goat is ignoring the girl while giving all her attention to the boy. The Vet students are helping the girl goat get her fair portion of milk from Mommna as well as bottle feeding her.

The baby male goat gets attention from mom while his sister is ignored. The veterinarians keep a close eye on the new goat family.

A Jacob sheep mom lays with her one day old. According to Wikipedia:The Jacob sheep is a breed of unimproved multihorned sheep, patterned with black and white spots. Jacobs are grown for their wool, their meat, and their hides, and as pets and ornamental animals. As of 2009, Jacobs are listed as threatened by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, which means the breed has "fewer than 1,000 annual registrations in the US and estimated fewer than 5,000 global population." However, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust in the UK do not view it as being at risk as there are in excess of 3,000 registered breeding females.

The Livestock Nursery is a great place to hang out at the Fair!

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Residential debris burning will be suspended starting Sunday in the Lake Tahoe basin because of increased fire risk during the warm, dry weather.

The El Dorado County District Attorney has found that a Placerville police officer was justified in shooting and killing a mentally ill woman who fled a local hospital in a stolen ambulance in late March.

A driver fleeing from police crashed a stolen car in Sacramento's Hollywood Park neighborhood on Thursday morning, authorities said.. . The suspect...

Former Kentucky star DeMarcus Cousins enjoys the perks of being a professional basketball player, namely making enough money to buy a house for his mother.

DeMarcus Cousins is congratulated by Kings owners Gavin, left, and Joe Maloof, second from left, and brother George Maloof as Cousins receives the Top Rookie Performer award in the NBA Summer League. People throughout the NBA are talking about Cousins and the Kings.

The Sacramento Bee's Crime blog is a comprehensive report of crime news, trends and information for your community and beyond.

A multi-vehicle wreck backed up northbound traffic on Highway 99 Thursday morning in south Sacramento.

More than 10 years have passed since she gave up her pursuit of a degree in computer science, but Yajahira Deaza still has regrets.

Yajahira Deaza poses for a photograph in her apartment in the Bronx borough of New York Wednesday July 28, 2010. More than 10 years have passed since she gave up her pursuit of a degree in computer science, but Yajahira Deaza still has regrets.

Yajahira Deaza, left, shares a moment with her son Emilio Deaza, 2, as she, her son, and her daughter Tiffany Deaza, 8, right, watch television Wednesday July 28, 2010 in their apartment in the Bronx borough of New York.

Yajahira Deaza, second from right, has dinner with her husband Ramon Deaza, right, her son Emilio Deaza, 2, second from left, and her daughter Tiffany Deaza, 8, Wednesday July 28, 2010 in their apartment in the Bronx borough of New York.

Yajahira Deaza shares a moment with her son Emilio Deaza, 2, as she poses for a photograph in her apartment in the Bronx borough of New York Wednesday July 28, 2010. More than 10 years have passed since she gave up her pursuit of a degree in computer science, but Yajahira Deaza still has regrets.

Yajahira Deaza poses for a photograph in her apartment in the Bronx borough of New York Wednesday July 28, 2010. More than 10 years have passed since she gave up her pursuit of a degree in computer science, but Yajahira Deaza still has regrets.

Yajahira Deaza poses for a photograph in her apartment in the Bronx borough of New York Wednesday July 28, 2010. More than 10 years have passed since she gave up her pursuit of a degree in computer science, but Yajahira Deaza still has regrets.

62 homes sold in the area of Rosemont this past month, an overall unit volume increase of 19.2% year over year. Unlike elsewhere in Sacramento county where foreclosure sales have been falling, Rosemont shows an increase in foreclosure sales year over year - an increase of 38.1% to be exact. Short sales remained largely unchanged [...]

Close to 40 people attended a free workshop put on by the Sacramento Social Media Club entitled "Facebook for the Floundering" Wednesday evening.

Many residents in El Dorado County will heartily debate that Fair Play vineyards are the new Napa.

President Barack Obama is reportedly hosting yet another West Coast fundariser, this time to boost the bank account of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

PABLO MARTINEZ MONSIVAIS Associated Press President Barack Obama met Saturday with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats to rally support for the health bill.

Q: Would you please provide an update regarding Raul Reyes Jr.? - Anonymous, El Dorado County. A: Raul Rodriguez Reyes Jr., now 21, pleaded no contest to two felonies in the shooting death of Angela Vasquez.

City officials in Sacramento are considering new restrictions on medical marijuana dispensaries.. . The City Council voted unanimously this week to ...

The spirit of patriotism is alive and well in the hearts and minds of nineteen young adults from the Sacramento area. Recently returning from a summer tour in Washington, D.C., these talented teens sang, danced and performed as members of Galena Street East, a performing arts ensemble dedicated to training Sacramento’s rising generation in the various styles of music and dance. The group spent a week performing at several prominent venues in the nation’s capital, including the Holocaust Museum, the Old Post Office, and the Lincoln Memorial as part of the Festival of States, an exclusive concert series for musical and vocal ensembles throughout the country celebrating the history and legacy of the United States.

Performing a show entitled “The Spirit of America”, Galena Street East’s program included musical numbers celebrating American traditions, its history, and the diversity of its people. From Neil Diamond’s “America” to Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up”, the show reflected a variety of styles from American culture, comprising of popular and Broadway revue vocal performances, as well as lyrical jazz, American clogging and international folk dance numbers. The members of the ensemble practiced for several weeks under the direction of Richard and Jeri Clinger, and choreographer Ron Cisneros. This tour is the 37th for the Clingers, who created the group in 1972.

“We have toured all over the world with this group, and Washington, D.C. has always been one of our favorite destinations,” said Jeri Clinger. “The kids get to see first-hand the sites and monuments that represent our country, and the freedoms we enjoy. It rejuvenates their sense of pride of living in the United States and being called Americans.”

The show even included a salute to the Armed Forces, with the performers singing a medley of theme songs from each branch of the United States military. The performers particularly enjoyed paying homage to the retired men and women who have served in the military, while also honoring those who are currently serving overseas.

“It was amazing to pay tribute in our own, small way to these brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms that we take for granted,” said Jasmine Mullen, a six-year member of Galena Street East from Elk Grove. “This tour was amazing, and opened our eyes to the legacy our country has and continues to fight for.”

The traveling ambassadors from Galena Street East hail from Sacramento, Natomas, Gold River, and Elk Grove among other cities. The group will begin regular rehearsals in the fall, preparing for their annual “Holiday Tapestry” Christmas concert in December. Young performers from ages 4 to 18 will perform songs and dances celebrating the spirit and traditions of the holidays, both domestic and international. As a Sacramento holiday tradition for over 30 years, the concert will take place on December 10-11 at the Hiram Johnson High School auditorium in Sacramento. Auditions for the group will be held on August 21. For more information on auditions, upcoming shows, and the annual “Holiday Tapestry” concert, parents and interested performers can go to www.galenastreeteast.org. Auditions are open to anyone interested in learning more about music and dance.
 

Cal Expo police have arrested four suspects allegedly trying to use counterfeit money during the run of this year's California State Fair.

Jeff Bezos isn't just confident you'll want a Kindle e-book reader. The CEO of Amazon.com is bracing for a future in which you'll also want ones for your kid heading to college, your spouse in a book club and perhaps even Grandpa.

This product image provided by amazon.com Inc., shows the streamlined, new Kindle 3 reader. (AP Photo/amazon.com Inc.) NO SALES

This product image provided by amazon.com Inc., shows the new Kindle 3 reader. (AP Photo/amazon.com Inc.) NO SALES

This product photo provided by amazon.com Inc., shows the new Kindle 3 reader. (AP Photo/amazon.com Inc.) NO SALES

This product image provided by amazon.com Inc., shows the new Kindle 3 reader. (AP Photo/amazon.com Inc.) NO SALES

This product photo provided by amazon.com Inc., shows the Kindle 3 reader. (AP Photo/amazon.com Inc.) NO SALES

A Sacramento food bank supplier has recalled cans of diced tomatoes given to San Joaquin Valley drought relief recipients.

An Oakland man accused of fatally shooting a Virginia man who was visiting the San Francisco Bay area for a job interview at Google Inc. could face the death penalty.

The return of "Furlough Fridays" will bring another nasty little jolt to the wounded Sacramento economy, depriving the region of millions of dollars in consumer spending.

Just heard from a reliable source that first-round draft pick Rolando McClain has agreed to a contract and signed with the Raiders.

Arizona is preparing to ask an appeals court to lift a judge's ruling that put most of the state's immigration law on hold in a key first-round victory for the federal government in a fight that may go to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Ernesto Fiscal, foreground, and other illegal immigrants who were deported to Mexico early Wednesday morning, gather near the Nogales Port of Entry in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Wednesday, July 28, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

A Border Patrol agent, who declined to give his name, is reflected in the mirror as he and another agent patrol near the U.S.-Mexico border in Nogales, Ariz., Tuesday, July 27, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

A Border Patrol vehicle sits along the U.S.-Mexico border in Nogales, Ariz., Tuesday, July 27, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

A group of illegal immigrants who were deported to Mexico early Wednesday morning gather near the Nogales Port of Entry in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Wednesday, July 28, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

Traffic moves along the border fence separating Nogales, Ariz., and Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Tuesday, July 27, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

Two woman walk along the U.S.-Mexico border showing graffiti that reads "the walls" in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Tuesday, July 27, 2010. Arizona's new immigration law SB1070 takes effect Thursday, July 29.

Federal police officers stand outside the grounds of the Sandra Day O'Connor Court House Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix moments after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, was blocked by a Federal Judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

From left to right, Maria Ramirez, Joseline Saragoza, 9, and Marcela Saragoza. all of Phoenix, cry as they celebrate at the Arizona capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents, including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

A group of illegal immigrants look at pedestrians as they are processed for deportation at the Nogales Port of Entry in Nogales, Az., Wednesday, July 28, 2010. A federal judge on Wednesday blocked the most controversial parts of Arizona's immigration law from taking effect, delivering a last-minute victory to opponents of the crackdown. The overall law will still take effect Thursday, but without the provisions that angered opponents — including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

A group of illegal immigrants wait in line while being deported to Mexico at the Nogales Port of Entry in Nogales, Ariz., Wednesday, July 28, 2010. A federal judge on Wednesday blocked the most controversial parts of Arizona's immigration law from taking effect, delivering a last-minute victory to opponents of the crackdown. The overall law will still take effect Thursday, but without the provisions that angered opponents — including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

An illegal immigrant picks up a plastic bag containing his belongings while being deported at the Nogales Port of Entry in Nogales, Ariz., Wednesday, July 28, 2010. A federal judge on Wednesday blocked the most controversial parts of Arizona's immigration law from taking effect, delivering a last-minute victory to opponents of the crackdown. The overall law will still take effect Thursday, but without the provisions that angered opponents — including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

From left, day laborers Raymond Mesa, of Honduras, Jose Mendoza, of Mexico, "Dias", and Poncho Hernandez, of Mexico and a man who asked not to be identified stand outside a store Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix. All the men said they were pleased with Federal Judge Bolton's ruling which blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

Day laborer Raymond Mesa, of Honduras, who has been in the U.S Illeaglly for 27 years, stands outside a store Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix. Mesa said he was pleased with Federal Judge Bolton's ruling which blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

Maria Uribe and other opponents of Arizona State Bill 1070 rejoice as they hear the news that U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton issued an injunction for the key portions of the bill Wednesday, July 28, 2010, outside the Arizona State Capitol building in Phoenix. The provisions that most angered opponents will not take effect, including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also delayed parts of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places _ a move aimed at day laborers. In addition, the judge blocked officers from making warrantless arrests of suspected illegal immigrants. (AP Photo/Houston Chronicle, Nick de la Torre) MANDATORY CREDIT

In this image made from video, Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio speaks to the media Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix shortly before portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio speaks about U.S. District Court Judge Susan Bolton's ruling that blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect, Wednesday, July 28, 2010, in Phoenix. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

Nora Nendivin, right, cries as she is hugged by Marcela Saragoza, both of Phoenix, as they celebrate at the Arizona capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents, including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

A federal police officer walks the grounds of the Sandra Day O'Connor Court House Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix moments after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, was blocked by a Federal Judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

Marcela Saragoza, right, and Joseline Saragoza, 9, both of Phoenix, cry as they celebrate at the Arizona capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents, including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

The chief legislative sponsor of Arizona's immigration law SB1070 Sen. Russell Pearce (R-Mesa) attends a gun rights news conference at the Arizona Capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, was blocked by a federal judge. Pearce addressed the media regarding SB1070 after the news conference.

Maricopa County Sheriff's Deputies arrive for training on how to enforce Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix moments after portions of the law were blocked by a federal judge.

From left, day laborers Poncho Hernandez, of Mexico, a man who asked not to be identified, and Raymond Mesa, of Honduras, stand outside a store Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix. All the men said they were pleased with Federal Judge Bolton's ruling which blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

From left to right, Joseline Saragoza, 9, and Marcela Saragoza, cry as Nora Nendivin smiles as they celebrate at the Arizona capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents, including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

The chief legislative sponsor of Arizona's immigration law state Sen. Russell Pearce, R-Mesa, talks with the media at the Arizona capitol Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix, shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, were blocked by a federal judge.

Maricopa County Sheriff's Deputies arrive for training on how to enforce Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix moments after portions of the law were blocked by a federal judge.

Reporters speak with U.S. Marshall Dave Gonzales outside the Sandra Day O'Connor Court House Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Phoenix shortly after portions of Arizona's new immigration law, SB1070, was blocked by a federal judge. The judge has blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect Thursday, handing a major legal victory to opponents of the crackdown. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws. The judge also put on hold a part of the law that required immigrants to carry their papers at all times, and made it illegal for undocumented workers to solicit employment in public places.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio speaks about U.S. District Court Judge Susan Bolton's ruling that blocked the most controversial sections of Arizona's new immigration law from taking effect, Wednesday, July 28, 2010, in Phoenix. The law will still take effect Thursday, but without many of the provisions that angered opponents _ including sections that required officers to check a person's immigration status while enforcing other laws.

Eduardo and Gisela Diaz of Mexico City talk about Arizona's new immigration law outside the Mexican consulate in Phoenix on Wednesday. The couple came to Phoenix on since-expired tourist visas in 1989 but say they've been approved for U.S. residency, although they haven't yet received their documents. They sought advice because they were worried about what would happen to their 3-year-old granddaughter if they were pulled over by police and taken to a detention center.

Unlike many cheerleading squads, the Sacramento Sirens Cheer Elite welcomes just about anyone to join their team -- as long as you're 18 years of...

A Sacramento food bank supplier has recalled cans of diced tomatoes given to San Joaquin Valley drought relief recipients.. . The Garden Crest...

Public Policy Institute of California's new statewide poll is adding fuel to the fire in the fight over Proposition 23.

Mild late-July conditions continue today as the delta breeze prevents the Sacramento area from heating up.

The McClatchy Co., its slump in advertising continuing to ease, today reported higher operating profits.

NBA Playbook: Pooh Jeter in Israel

Omri Casspi Unstoppable against Britain

When Kingdom Come: Undrafted Rookies Fit

This article was published on 07.29.10 . Charles Albright: 20 Sacto bands and counting.

 

On Tuesday, July 27, The Sacramento River Cats played the Colorado Springs Sky Sox.  The River Cats entered the game tied with the Fresno Grizzlies for the division lead.  Strong performances both on the mound and at the plate helped the River Cats win, while the Grizzlies lost that same night.  The result gave the River Cats a 1.5 game lead entering their game against the Sky Sox on Wednesday, July 28.  Unfortunately, the River Cats lost the second game of their home stand against the Sky Sox on the 28th, while the Grizzlies rallied to defeat the Tacoma Rainiers in the 10th inning on the same night.  Thus, the battle for the division lead continues.  The River Cats play the Sky Sox again on Thursday night at Raley Field in West Sacramento.  With only 39 games remaining, including 5 at home versus Fresno scheduled for August 25-29, the post-season may be in view, but every win is critically important.  As images from the past two games illustrate, Sacramento's Boys of Summer have made River Cats baseball exciting, entertaining, and well worth witnessing.