The Good Life ~ Sacramento
Exploring a City with a Small-Town Feel and World of PotentialArchive for Agriculture
California State Fair – The Lowdown, the Upside and the ‘Eh’
Slide into Fun at the 2012 CA State Fair!
Like a perfectly blended margarita – with some sweetness, some sour, some kick, and little salt to lick – the 2012 CA State Fair has its own bittersweet concoction of cool, hot, and just-right summer fun. And there just happen to be 10 days left within which to absorb the mist of good-old fashioned fair frolicking and nostalgia.
What’s Pretty Cool ~
* All the Things to Feed your Curiosity: Go bird watching, feed baby animals, explore grape vines and horticulture, learn about the history of the Girl Scouts, explore all of California’s counties, partake in some serious horse-play.
* 2-for-1 Admission Coupons at Big-O Tires: Yippee! But take heed as these discounts are good only during weekdays.
* Raging Waters Water Park: On Cal Expo grounds, you can enter through the fair or the far southeast lot (D, I think). The kids will love it, you might even like it. (Separate entrance fee required).
* SaveMart Supermarkets Wine Country: Wine tasting with purchase, and Wines of the Day yield a bottle for just $15 (compared to two small beers for $12).
* Pack a Picnic: You can bring a picnic into the fair, and there are designated picnic areas; just no bottles or alcohol.
* Free Concerts: Even those that require paid admission can be heard from outside the open-air venue. You might even be lucky enough to nab a spot of grassy area.
What’s Not So Hot ~
* Beer Prices: See above.
* Hard-Selling Vendors and Carnies: Some seem to cross the line from playful engagement to a little please-leave-me-alone already (especially when you don’t want to be hassled every 10 feet).
* Wine Country: It loses a star because they give off some mixed messages about the complimentary wine tasting.
What’s Just Right ~
* World’s Biggest Margarita (er, Calarita): Soon to be in the Guinness Book of World Records.
* The Fountains: Aside from diving into that margarita, there’s little more refreshing on a hot summer day than cooling off beneath (or just near) the fair fountains.
* Surprises along the Way: Like the freakishly tall but splendidly dressed stilt people who will gladly stop and pose picture-perfectly still for you.
I Recommend~
Since I couldn’t get to it all myself, check the website before you go and make note of things you’d like to see and do.
Next Year~
To save a few bucks, search for deals online before the fair even starts. That’s when you’ll get the best prices and package deals and steals, helping you save some hard-earned cash for experiencing the fair’s nuances of your choice.
Where to Stay~
Who’s Up for a Little May-hem?!
For Adults:
MOVIES ON A BIG SCREEN –
For the kookiest, raciest and most absurd film fun, visit MOBS in May and break out of that blockbuster film rut. Catch movies like ‘Quicksand’ with Mickey Rooney, the extra gory ‘The Brain that Wouldn’t Die’ and ‘Gamera the Invincible’ (the giant flying turtle). Why is May extra special for MOBS? Because it’s their last month at the historic Guild Theatre, with a new location yet to be determined. (Think you can handle all that excitement?
http://www.MoviesOnABigScreen.com
For the Kiddies:
FARMS, FRIENDS & FAIRYTALES –
The 5th annual FF&F will take place at FTT on Saturday May 19th, with a celebration of all-things agriculture! Featuring live sheep shearing, wool spinning, a mini-farmer’s market, hands-on art activities, and plenty more fun from the farm for the whole family. See the twin Babydoll sheep and other rare and miniature animals, make your own ice cream… and as usual, climb through the giant Swiss cheese.
Fairytale Town is a unique environment where children can learn how animals contribute to society, as well as represent the fairytales children know so well. Farms, Friends & Fairytales is made possible in part by generous sponsorships from Whole Foods Market and Farm Fresh to You. (Aw, shucks – thanks guys!).
http://www.fairytaletown.org, (916) 808-7462.
ACCOMMODATIONS -
If you need lodging, there’s hardly anyplace closer or cooler than Le Rivage Hotel. Right on the Sacramento River, it’s an “affordable luxury” with pool, fire pits, spa services, terrific food and town car service. Heck, even locals might want to consider escaping here for a night or two! http://www.lerivagehotel.com, (916) 443-8400
Just a few more great reasons to get out there and experience Authentic Sacramento at its finest~
Good Dharma, Good Karma
A Good Egg: You are what you eat!
These are challenging times, and some of us may feel compelled or even forced to give up on certain things… But our actions will always have consequences – and whether personal or professional – I think we owe it to ourselves and others to not let the outer turmoil drown out the voice of the conscience.
While mine may be working on overdrive in some areas and being neglectful in others of which I’m not even aware, considering the re-actions to our actions can become a habit that easily sticks. For instance, since I’m such an animal and Earth lover, I try to mostly buy containers that can be recycled and products that do not do animal testing. I attempt to locate humane-certified meats wherever and whenever possible, and I have even begun (to my own surprise) experimenting with vegan products. There’s much more where that came, but the point is that all of our efforts really do help create a better world; and in the least, it’s a really good feeling being able to feel good about oneself. In addition, I think it’s not only important to patron socially responsible businesses, but to acknowledge the efforts of others. So I’m going to start a Kudos Korner to do just that, starting here and now.
Cafe Bernardo – In the Sutter District of Sacramento sits Cafe Bernardo, a restaurant that’s been serving it up fresh and local for (27?!) years now. Just ask chef Shannan Berg how passionate they are about both deliciousness and doing good. And they happen to use eggs from my second Kudos Karma nominee, Vega Farms…
Vega Farms – From the small farming town of Dixon comes a small family-owned farm that treats its hens with the highest of standards and gets their eggs to market within 36 hours of hatching. How do they do it? They work with UC Davis labs to ensure efficiency, healthfulness and safety.
While it’s just the tip of the haystack when it comes to California Grown and Savoring Sacramento, saying “thank you” just never goes out of style. And in this case, you can do two good deeds in one by stopping by Cafe Bernardo Midtown for some of the most scrumptuous food around.
Wine may have Legs, but this Beer’s got Soul
I round the corner some five miles from our meeting place and see the vintage-looking Ruhstaller truck parked conspicuously in front of Corti Bros Market. Perhaps some foreshadowing or serendipitous detail, the introduction seems to have begun long before the actual interview takes place.
I’ve been meaning to talk with J-E Paino about the “resurrection” of Ruhstaller and what it means to him and Sacramento. Now that the 3rd Annual Sacramento Beer Week is about to commence, there’s really no time like the present. We meet at Bows & Arrows, where I prematurely tried to get a Ruhstaller months back. This time the owner herself (Olivia) brings each of us a cold jar of ‘The Captain’.
“As a girl, what do you think of it” (considering it’s so dark), J-E asks. “Not too bitter, and rather floral?” I both say and ask at the same time. “Well, yes, it’s really citrusy,” J-E says, telling me that hops can impart bitterness or aromatics, and that they chose aromatics. But who is the “they”, what are they doing, and what does it have to do with this deceivingly-dark beer we’re drinking?
With an MBA and Real Estate development background, J-E Paino is also founder and proprietor of Ruhstaller Beer. While there are others involved behind the scenes, that’s pretty much where they want to remain (although I think Brew Master Peter Hoey should get a shout-out). But what exactly is Ruhstaller? It’s nostalgia, for one, and it’s the literal resurrection of a local beer. You see, Sacramento has a great beer history, known in the late 1800s at the “Beer Capital of the West Coast” with possibly as many as 16 breweries in operation at one time.
Sacramento’s agricultural landscape, rivers, climate, travel/trade accessibility and pioneering spirit made it a natural supplier of Mother Nature’s gems (such as hops, barley and mountain spring water). And one such entrepreneur named Frank Ruhstaller took advantage of these inherent gifts by making beer. Much more recently while a student at UC Davis, J-E stumbled upon the history of Ruhstaller and discovered, he said, that the beer was actually about the person as much as the beer. “The beer is important but it’s more a symbol of why Sacramento can be proud. It is a reflection of who Sacramento is and what she can be.”
Aside from his more silent partners, J-E says he partners with plenty of others around the great Sacramento Valley to make Ruhstaller successful, yes, but also more than just a quality beer. “Making a great beer, finding great partners and places where people who truly appreciate Sacramento go…” he looks around at the significant crowd behind him, “It’s for them.”
“We’re not trying to put it just anywhere,” in every watering hole around. There’s meaning behind the beer, the name, the marketing, the placement. “We’re really trying to build a solid foundation,” J-E says. “I want to build something that it takes an act of government to kill,” like Prohibition did in the early 1900s when “the triumph of national brands over local flavor meant that communities no longer had a unique local beverage they could identify with” (Carroll, Midtown Monthly).
“Success to me is if we’re able to earn back the title as Sacramento’s Beer.” And Sacramento is supportive; they’re drinking Ruhstaller up like there’s no tomorrow’s hangover. Sacramento’s engaged; many independent business survive here because the community is strong and connected. And Sacramento is also just plain thirsty.
~
“Her name is Matilda,” J-E says, speaking of the old truck I saw parked in front of Corti Bros. And yes, she does dispense servings of Ruhstaller at various events around Sac. But although she may be ornery, J-E admits, even age can’t dampen the mood that a good, hearty, historic brew tends to evoke… Perhaps it’s even the magical ingredient.
FACTS:
* Barrels of beer in the 1800s were twice the size they are today. Imagine delivering them by horse and carriage!
Ruhstaller’s taps aren’t any ordinary taps. They’re locally up-cycled tractor parts.
* 95% of the malt Ruhstaller uses for its beer comes from California but their goal is for 100% of both malt and hops to come from the Sacramento area, which is the way it was in the 1800s.
* Ruhstaller Beer can be found at various locations around town and from Vacaville to Elk Grove, but the circle is widening with Chico (and surely beyond) soon on its way. http://ruhstallerbeer.com/find-our-brews/
* The festivities in the background of our interview were from a group called QueerFest, ‘a lesbian social movement.’ http://www.QueerFestProductions.org
As for Beer Week (February 24 – March 4), again, Sacramento is supportive. Just some of the participating businesses and events include:
Mulvaney’s B&L, Bonn Lair, Kupros, Samuel Horne’s Tavern (Folsom), Streets of London, Fox & Goose, DeVere’s Irish Pub, River Rock Taphouse, One Speed, Bows & Arrows, Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op, Ink Eats & Drinks, Turn Verein, Pyramid Alehouse, The Shack, etc.
Sacramento Brewers Showcase & Capital Beerfest (2/23).
Old Sac Beerfest Pub Crawl (3/1)
Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival (3/3)
Cheers to Beer!
Short Drive Yields Wine, Gardens, Views
Old Barn, Rural Sacramento
Within minutes you’ll find buildings and subdivisions fading away as you drive toward the foothills, seeing a dotted mix of old factories, nurseries and fruit stands that soon give way to large pastures and farm houses. The drive quiets to a lull as you approach the lowest hills, the foliage bursting open to greet you as you pass the old Sloughouse Inn to Davis Ranch. A working farm and large outdoor market, Davis Ranch is perhaps best known for sweet corn in the summer (The Corn Festival is held in July).
Continuing along Jackson Hwy. you’ll reach the town of Plymouth, which is the main portal to 34-and-counting Sierra Foothill wineries. With excellent red varietals like Sangiovese and Zinfandel – and equally tantalizing views – the area is coined by many to be “The New Napa”. If you’re around in June, stop in for the 2nd Annual Barbera Festival at Cooper’s Ranch. For 360-degree views of the (slightly snow-capped) Sierras, drive a little farther up to Skinner Vineyards and take a picnic – and camera – with you. If you choose to go right at the fork rather than straight, springtime is the time to visit the Amador Flower Farm and Daffodil Hill in charming gold rush-era towns.
You may find that setting out on the open road for a few hours is just enough time to return refreshed and ready for dinner, as well as enjoy that bottle of red that’s perfectly ripe and ready for the un-corking.
http://www.DavisRanchProduce.com
http://www.AmadorWine.com
http://www.TourAmador.com
http://www.AmadorFlowerFarm.com
http://www.BarberaFestival.com
http://www.SkinnerVineyards.com
[see photos of Skinner and Karmere Wineries to the right]
Scenic Drives: Chico, CA
You either love it or not so much – Sierra Nevada Brewery’s signature green-label pale ale. But if you visit the brewery/restaurant/gift shop/tasting room, there’s really something to love for everyone. For instance, the truly scrumptious food and handful of beers on tap, the lively, inviting indoor ambiance and large outdoor patio, the hour-plus-long guided tour and friendly staff. But there’s plenty more to love about Chico, whether you’re an outdoorsy type, partygoer or mom-n-pop shop peruser.
Although Chico and I have a long history together, it had been at least 15 years since I’d been there. Chalk it up to fewer friends of college age… but Chico is still more than worth the hour-and-change drive from Sacramento.
First stop: Downtown. With plenty of boutiques, bars and restaurants, this is a good place to start. We didn’t get to explore Bidwell Park this time around, but hope to do so in any other season (than winter). Later in the evening, the Irish pub beckoned us from across the street, and we were sure glad it did because we discovered the best fish tacos to date! Now we were primed for some really loud music and LaSalles is the place, not to mention they have the coolest trees in the back (which mesmerized me nearly as much as Banshee’s fish tacos). Nighty night was spent walking distance to downtown at the Quality Inn, and I’ve got to say – quite clean and classy for a motel just off the main drag (and we hear the restaurant next door – Paradise Cafe – is delicious).
There’s certainly more culture and history to Chico than I’ve touched upon here, but perhaps you will be inclined to discover it for yourself.
Next Stop: Sacramento’s Dine Downtown Restaurant Week 2012… Yum!
{Photo courtesy Sierra Nevada Brewing}
Summer: Don’t Kiss it Goodbye Just Yet
What wonderful weather we’ve been having in the greater Sacramento area! While I see back-to-school supplies and Halloween decorations in the stores, as long as it’s August, it’s still summer to me! So before school, Halloween and the nippier weather are actually upon us, here are a few things going on around town that you might like to check out:
August 17 (through the 21st) – Yolo County Fair Opens – It’s the last free fair in the state! Woodland, CA, http://www.yolocountyfair.net
Thursdays ‘til 9 – The Crocker Art Museum will remain open until 9PM on Thursdays through August and September. In addition, every third Thursday of the month the Crocker concert series continues through September 15. Sacramento, CA, http://www.crockerartmuseum.org
Mondays Added – Old Sacramento Underground Tours have added Mondays to their days of operation now through Labor Day. There’s still time to get a peek. Old Sacramento, CA, http://www.historicoldsac.org
Napa Valley Wine Tasting on a Budget
Chateau Montelena
There’s hardly any disputing that the lush, fertile Napa Valley is gorgeous. It’s also a well-known fact that wine tasting in this region is popular and prolific. But crowds, hefty tasting fees and being herded like cattle can detract from the pleasantness of the trip… unless you know a few little secrets and are willing to experiment.
First of all, avoid the weekends, if at all possible. Second, avoid the main drag and head someplace with back country roads like Calistoga. Third, get a wine map (complimentary at many places in the area) and chart a route if you really want to visit specific wineries. Fourth, since tasting fees are the norm here (typically $10-20 per person), consider sharing a glass with your partner and maybe actually buying some wine. Most places will waive the tasting fee if you make a purchase. Fifth, be friendly with the pourers. If they think you actually like wine -and aren’t just out for a free party – they might ignore the fee altogether. And finally, if the parking lot is full and the place resembles an amusement park, consider skipping it for someplace more intimate. Your chances at learning a lot more about wine and possibly even making new friends skyrocket when you meander off the beaten path and slow down long enough to really savor each sip.
What’s So Great About CA Produce?
Juicy!
Season Debuts:
Earlicots – The first apricots to arrive, tart
Aprium – Rich in flavor
Poppy Cot – Apricots with a blush
White and Yellow Peaches and Nectarines – Try the yellow Queen Crest and the white Snow Angel
Golden Rainiers Cherris – Have the pinkest glow
Blueberries from the Delta – Antioxidant-rich
Fresh Vegetables – Onions, garlic, broccoli, summer squash, pickling cucumbers, bok choy, swiss chard
Root vegetables – Beets, carrots, and radishes
Insider Tip: Fresh green – yes, green! – garbanzo beans can soon be found at the farmers’ markets in their fuzzy pillowlike pods, and some farmers pull the entire bushy plant from the roots. This means fresh garbanzos are here for a limited time. Not only are they rich in minerals and folate, but just one ounce provides 5 grams of both protein and fiber.
Many vegetables are able to grow year round in California because of its varied climates. However, some crops are phased out in order to make room for new ones. Different types of lettuce and greens are replanted often, so let the growers know which ones you like best.
For recipes, market locations, dates and times, and more visit http://www.ca-grown.com!
There is something special about Sacramento; the rich land upon which it was built, the rivers that flow through, the bounty around it and the people who make the Sacramento area their home.
Life is good in California’s Capital City for many reasons, including climate and geography, community and amenities, nature and wildlife, and so much more. It’s hard to imagine a warmer feeling than a sunshine-drenched morning here, an easier feeling than a refreshing post-rain spring day, or a more engaging experience than a night on the town with friends or family.
There’s truly something here for everyone and every mood, for Sacramento is a shifting entity itself, with four distinct but relatively mild seasons, diverse neighborhoods and people, a ripening food and restaurant scene, year-round events and outdoor fun, and daytime and night-time adventures. Its magic is a blend of history and tradition, vision and reinvention. And there’s so much pleasure to be had here – with family and friends, food and wine, adventures and experiences – that they’re likely to create the kind of fond memories that might seem so familiar… but aren’t quite like any other.
