Sacramento Gold Card

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our Hometown Tourists visited the California Automobile Museum on their most recent excursion.  The following blog includes accounts by Janet Lewis and Carol Dabrowiak with photos by Cynthia Gibbs detailing their visit to this Sacramento attraction.  When you stay at a participating Sacramento Gold Card hotel, remember to ask for your FREE Sacramento Gold Card.  The California Automobile Museum offers two-for-one adult admission and a 10 percent discount in gift shop with your Sacramento Gold Card. THe California Automobile Museum is located at 2200 Front St. near Old Sacramento.

Janet Lewis

Did you know that there were electric cars as early as 1899?  One version was steered with a rudder!  Did you know that Dodge vehicles are the inventions of the Dodge brothers?  That the earliest automobiles got about 40 horsepower from a 400-cubic-inch engine - a ratio of 10:1?  And that now we have more like 1:1?  It can all be found at this Sacramento attraction located a short distance from downtown Sacramento hotels, restaurants and other museums.

From the quadricycle to horseless carriages (literally), from touring cars to the modern age, it's all pretty fascinating when you can hear the stories from people who know what they are talking about. 

Cindy, Carol, and I really lucked out to receive a docent-led tour on our recent visit to the California Auto Museum.  Don W's obvious passion and enjoyment of autos and auto history definitely ignited my interest and made me want to pause and actually try to figure out how the energy gets from the engine to the wheels, as well as the mechanical principles used to stop the early autos. 

It was fun to climb in the historic old truck on display and try out the foot pedals inside and the hand crank on the front (watch out for your thumbs).  Of course brightly colored, stylish vehicles caught my eye, especially the 1920s yellow-and-green roadster all trimmed out in fancy brass.  I could easily imagine Carol, Cindy and myself gliding up to the Grand Island mansion on a summer night in our fancy flapper getup for a swanky party!  Then there is the sparkly golden car and the dark turquoise vintage T-Bird, each vehicle cooler than the last, until I fell in love -- with the Edsel! 

The California Automobile Museum had several choice Edsel examples on display the day we visited.  The red-and-black sedan turned my head, but my favorite is the light turquoise woody Edsel station wagon (surf city here I come).  We even saw a Mercedes that strongly resembled Cindy's first car.  And Carol was intrigued with the Delorean and its wing-like doors.   

There is so much to see if you can find a way to know what you are looking at.  A docent-led tour is definitely the way to go!  The California Auto Museum is a big place - 70,000 square feet.  Plans and fundraising are under way for a new museum building at the same location.  You can help:  Go see the amazing exhibits at the California Automobile Museum. 

Carol Dabrowiak

If you need to hold an event or arrange a group tour, why not have it at the California Automobile Museum in Sacramento?  This would be a really fun and interesting place to have a business meeting, reception or a group of tourists for a visit.  The museum is located near Downtown Sacramento, close to many hotels and other Sacramento attractions. It has a stage and sound system where a band can perform or you can conduct a training session. Staff can set up tables for banquets, parties, wine tasting and more. The best part would be the chance to tour the museum and learn the history of the American automobile. But you don't need to be invited to an event to visit the exhibits.

The museum is housed in a large warehouse along the Sacramento River near Downtown Sacramento. It doesn't look very fancy on the outside, but it is ideal for the display of automobiles. It has vintage cars from every decade since the first car was built in the late 1800s. The early vehicles were horseless carriages. They used buckboard seats and wheels with wooden spokes. There were no tops or headlights, and you had to crank them to start the motor.

Our docent, Don, told us facts about the cars on display. He quickly realized that Janet, Cindy and I were not so interested in the evolution of carburetors or transmissions, so he told us stories about Henry Ford and how he built his empire.  Ford didn't invent the automobile, he invented the automobile industry. He wanted everyone to be able to afford a car, so he constantly looked for ways to bring down costs. He used assembly line mass production and set up dealer franchises around the country.  By 1916, Model T sales reached 472,000 vehicles at a cost of $360 each.  Originally the cars had steering wheels on the left, but Mrs. Ford wanted to exit the vehicle on the right side so she could step onto the sidewalk. So the steering wheel was moved to the left side of the car.

We learned that a lot of the cars are on loan to the museum. The owners can come by and borrow them back if they want to go to rallies or auto shows. Most of the cars, even the really old ones, are still drivable. The cars are sometimes used for parades, weddings and processions.

The California Automobile Museum encourages school field trips. It has hands-on activities geared to every age group. One of the activities recreates an assembly line where students put together a Model T cardboard car. There were students working on a project when we were there.  This would be a great venue for Sacramento student tours.

The day we visited the museum, we saw vintage cars, racecars, alternative fuel cars and the blue Plymouth that Gov. Jerry Brown famously drove in his first term of office. There were also special exhibits highlighting off-road vehicles and automobiles from 1968. You realize that Americans have a serious love affair with their cars. And I mean that in a good way. Stop by for a visit.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our Hometown Tourists visited the California State Indian Museum on their most recent excursion.  The following blog includes two accounts by Janet Lewis and Carol Dabrowiak, and photos by Cynthia Gibbs, detailing their visit to this Sacramento attraction.  When you stay at a participating Sacramento Gold Card hotel, remember to ask for your FREE Sacramento Gold Card.  The California State Indian Museum offers one free adult or child admission with the purchase of a regular-priced adult or child admission with your Sacramento Gold Card. 

Interior photography is prohibited in the museum out of respect to the Native Americans and their objects. Above interior photo courtesy California State Indian Museum.

Carol Dabrowiak

For all the years I lived in Sacramento, I never knew there was an Indian Museum. I guess that's because it sits in the shadow of Sutter's Fort. Literally in the shadow behind the fort.  It's a little-known Sacramento attraction filled with information about our history that honors the culture of the native people of California.

The first thing we saw when Janet, Cindy and I started our tour of the museum was an array of woven baskets from different tribes. When you see the baskets next to each other, you notice the differences in the weaves, fibers and colors used by each tribe. They are all unique. The function determines the shape - open and shallow for cooking or tall and urn-like for water.

You then notice the different implements that were used for hunting and farming. The museum uses a clever game to encourage visitors to learn the names and purposes of the implements. A paper with pictures of the tools asks you to name the tool by finding it in the museum exhibits and learning its use. Is it a fish trap or water vessel? A spear or clapper? Then you write the name next to the picture. You win a prize if you get them all correct!

There are pictures and exhibits depicting how Indians celebrate different events. They have special costumes with elaborate beading and feathers. They use animal hides. The headgear is ornamental and colorful. They have musical instruments to keep a rhythm and encourage dancing. They celebrate weddings, harvests and hunting.  And of course they respect and revere their elders and celebrate them.

The food supply was dependent on hunting and fishing, but they also used acorns to supplement their diet. They ground the acorns with stones to make flour, which was then used in soup or bread or sometimes a simple mush. Berries, edible plants and roots were also used when they were in season. Almost nothing was wasted. Before they cooked rabbits, they removed and tanned the hides and used them as soft diapers for the infants.

I read that this Sacramento museum opened in 1940. It is located near several downtown Sacramento hotels and other tourist attractions.  It does not look or feel dated. It honors a past generation with modern exhibits that appeal to the current generation. It is a Sacramento tourist attraction that is part of California's history, and I'm glad I finally found it and got to explore it.

Janet Lewis

Cindy, Carol and I visited the California State Indian Museum on a Thursday morning and had the place practically to ourselves, so we were able to take our time.

The core of the experience for me encompassed the language and trading maps and the basket displays by tribal groups.  It was very interesting to note the similarities and differences in basketry form and design between regions.  Baskets and other items were traded from hand to hand, ending up sometimes far away from where they were made.  For example, shells from the ocean or lowland rivers moved from west to east; obsidian from the mountains might find its way to tribes in regions far from where it originated.  This began long before paved highways or even horse-drawn wagons.

Baskets were (and for some still are) used by California’s native people in everyday life for ceremonies and celebrations, for gift giving, and for sale in the tourist trade.  Woven basketry is to California’s native tribes what clay pots are to the New Mexico tribes.  Baskets were traditionally traded or imported, depending on the tribe or region.  Native women and men made plant fiber baskets in different styles, of different materials, for different purposes.  According to the museum cards, the art and skill of basketmaking has not disappeared.  You can even get a small basketmaking kit in the gift shop.

My very favorite is the No. 9 basket jug, Paiute, for holding liquid; a twined ovoid shape with a closed end and a handle.  This basket was covered in pine pitch to keep it watertight.  I’d heard of this type of basket but had never seen one in real life before.  If there were one item from the museum that I could choose to hold in my hands, that would be the one!

Perhaps our collective favorite feature of the Museum was the “scavenger hunt” game, a bookmark-sized paper that illustrated 10 items to find and identify.  The museum staff told us that kids get a prize for filling it out completely.  Just like three big kids, Carol, Cindy and I had a lot of fun with this activity as we found out and discussed what the items were, how they were made, and how the native people used them.  This added a very nice focus and depth to our museum visit. 

Tools that the native people made and used were very intriguing to try and figure out.  We saw a wooden drill for making holes in shell beads and a photo of how the beads are finished (once strung, they are rolled on stone to smooth the outsides).   There is a different type of drill for making fire -- the “portable hearth” that features a softwood shaft spun on a hardwood base.  We also saw a deerhide drum that looks like a suitcase and marveled at elk antler purses made to hold dentalium shell money.

Another intriguing item of particular note is the rabbit skin blanket in a case on the back wall.  Strips of tanned rabbit skin with the fur still on were woven and twisted through a plant fiber net.  The result was a big square blanket that is soft on both sides.  Carol remarked, “It was your cloak during the day and your bed at night.” 

The Museum isn’t just about artifacts, though.  It’s about the native people who made and used these items.  There is an exhibit about Ishi and honored elders.  There are also photos of native people and native families through different eras.

The native people made great use of plants such as the amazing and indispensable soaproot, which provides, among varying uses, food, fiber, soap and fish poison.  A soaproot brush is on display, with the handle made from the plant’s resin and the brush from its fibers.

Speaking of plants, the native people's food wasn’t just all acorn mush!  Pounded deer meat broth, parched seedcakes, manzanita berry cider, steamed sweet clover, roasted quail ... I could tell it was getting close to lunchtime ...  Good thing we were so close to some great downtown Sacramento dining.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our Hometown Tourists visited the Sacramento History Museum on their most recent excursion.  The following blog includes two accounts by Janet Lewis and Carol Dabrowiak, and photos by Cynthia Gibbs, detailing their visit to this Sacramento attraction. 

Janet:
It’s a rare treat to visit Old Sacramento before 10 a.m. on a Monday.  The streets are much quieter than at other times.  People are arriving to their jobs and most sight-seers are still en route.  I had a chance to enjoy walking up the cobbled streets and wooden walkways, noticing the trees and the views along the river’s edge. I met up with Carol in front of the Museum before its opening time, and we amused ourselves at the (salted) gold panning trough, in the cutout face frames, and other artifacts on display outside.  Once inside, visitors will immediately notice that the space is well used.  It is compact without feeling crowded.  There are many interesting and interactive exhibits, as you’ll see in Cindy’s photos.  Of note on the first floor:  the printing exhibit, the big windmill, the mural, the beautiful full length paisley shawl. 

Upstairs, we found more in-depth exhibits, including one on gold.  A 100-stringed Ukrainian musical instrument caught Carol’s eye.  She wondered if her musician sons could figure out how to play it!  The story and contents of May Woolsey’s trunk held Cindy’s attention, while Janet’s imagination was sparked by the story of Francis Ray, a former slave from Texas who found his father and family in Sacramento.  

We ended up our visit in the souvenir shop.  Cindy selected a “Votes for Women” pin.  Carol opted for a Sacramento 1850’s pictorial mug.  And Janet purchased a selection of post cards and, of course, a woven straw finger trap toy. 

For lunch, we decided to eat at Ten 22, a popular Old Sacramento and downtown dining destination!  Cindy had been there once before and recommended it.  We chose a table on the patio as the weather was pleasant and mild.  The portions at Ten-22 are generous and the food was good.  The “wow factor” item at this lunch consisted of the fried green tomatoes.  Carol ordered the FGT pizza, while Cindy and Janet split a plate of FGT and an order of salmon cakes with sweet potato fries.  It was all delicious and unusual!  This is one of the reasons the three of us have been meeting for our monthly lunches for so long.  This is the kind of thing we look for!

Carol:
Sometimes our town gets lost among the glitzier cities of California.  But we actually have a lot to brag about.  We had canning factories that provided the nation with delicious fruits.  Workers - mostly women - at McClellan Air Force Base repaired planes during WWII.  And of course, gold was discovered here.  We were the terminus of the Pony Express and the hub of the railroads.

The Sacramento History Museum showcases our past accomplishments.  There are a lot of interesting exhibits housed in a small place.  Visitors walk in a circular pattern.  Your attention is drawn both up and down so you can easily read the placards and see items hanging from the ceiling.

It's also a fun place for families and children.  There are games and puzzles on low tables.  There are interactive touchy feely displays.  They also have period costumes that can be donned for picture poses.

My favorite display was the "wall-o-crates" where produce boxes are stacked against the wall.  Beautiful artwork is depicted in each unique label on the crates.  “So colorful.”  “So delicious looking.”  This is a fine museum for young and old.  Citizens of Sacramento should be proud to have their history on display for all to see.

You've seen them around...you're on vacation, leisurely snapping photos in places like Disneyland or the Grand Canyon, when all of a sudden you are descended upon by a group of people ranging from toddler age to senior citizens.  You know who I'm talking about, those families who travel in packs.  With matching t-shirts.  Maybe you are one of those families, or maybe you would like to be one of those families (perhaps not the matching shirt part.)  Well, there is a lot to be said for traveling with extended family members. 

According to Road and Travel Magazine, multigenerational travel is the fastest growing travel trend in America.  Over 5 million family vacations each year include three generations.  Whether the intended destination is a relaxing exotic island far from home, or simply a weekend away in a nearby city, vacations that include extended family members are often some of the most enjoyable and memorable. 

Today's seniors are generally more energetic and adventurous than in generations past, and therefore crave spending quality time with their grandchildren.  When families live miles apart they often plan multigenerational vacations to bridge that distance gap.  It is during these family vacations, away from every day life, that experiences and memories are created that might not otherwise be possible.  Most seniors say that traveling with their grandchildren is more enjoyable because it helps them see things through "new" eyes, and offers a unique perspective.

Sacramento is an ideal city for multigenerational visits, and here is why.

Weather.  We have great weather here in Sacramento.  According to Climatezone.com, Sacramento enjoys sunshine nearly 78% of the time.  That's approximately 265 sunny days each year.  So, chances are, if you visit anytime between April and November, you'll enjoy great weather (albeit a tad warm in July and August.)  Although the typical rainy season runs December through March, you might want to note that some of the most beautiful days of the year come in between those rainy days.  So don't rule out visiting in the winter time!

Walkability.  Sacramento is one of the easiest cities I know of to navigate on foot.  Downtown streets are level (no killer hills) and organized in an easy grid system.  Restaurants, hotels and many attractions are located within just blocks of one another making it so easy for a family of both little children and mature adults to get around together.  One can stay in a downtown Sacramento hotel and easily spend several days sightseeing without having to get behind the wheel.  You can explore the museums, shops and restaurants within a few blocks of Old Town, or head a few blocks to the east where visitors will find the hustle and bustle of life around the California State Capitol including theater productions, shopping and dining.

Attractions.  There are plenty of things to do in the Sacramento area that appeal to a variety of ages and interests.  The California Gold Rush history alone is sure to peak the interests of both adults and children with the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento History Museum, the Old School House Museum and shops and restaurants galore.  Both excursion train rides, river cruises, as well as a variety of Sacramento walking tours originate in Old Town.  Located just a few blocks south of Old Town is the Crocker Art Museum with its fabulous permanent collection, always interesting exhibits and wonderful children's program. 

Head a few blocks east and visitors will find the California State Capitol Museum and grounds, the Wells Fargo Museum, the California Museum and Hall of Fame, the Leland Stanford Mansion, the Esquire IMAX Theater, Sacramento Convention Center and Community Theater. In Midtown, you'll find the very first settlement here in Sacramento - Sutter's Fort  - along with the California State Indian Museum, both open for daily tours. 

Hop on the freeway or navigate through beautiful old neighborhoods to one of the largest and oldest parks in the area, William Land Park. Here you'll find the Sacramento Zoo, local favorite Fairytale Town and a mini Disneyland called Funderland, perfect for kids ages 10 and under.

Affordability.  When planning for multiple families, cost is often a huge factor in determining where to go, how long to stay, and what to do on vacation.  Compared to some of the other large cities in California, Sacramento is really quite a deal....especially when families visit on the weekends.  Due to the weekday influx of business travelers and lawmakers, hotel rates in Sacramento actually drop on the weekends.  For instance, the Sheraton Grand which can run upwards of $300 per night during peak week nights, may drop by as much as half come Friday. (For a list of family friendly hotels in downtown Sacramento, click here.) Plus, if you request a Sacramento Gold Card when you check in to a Sacramento-area hotel, you'll gain access to discounts and savings at restaurants, shopping centers and attractions.

So, when planning your next vacation, consider bringing the whole family to Sacramento and taking advantage of all it has to offer families of all ages, generations and interests.  Memories are sure to be made, that will last a lifetime.

Editor's Note: When staying at a participating Sacramento hotel, ask for a FREE Sacramento Gold Card.  The Sacramento Gold Card offers one free admission with one paid admission of equal or greater value at The California Museum.  The card also offers several discounts and perks at many Sacramento museums, attractions and shopping outlets.

I've seen some young girls wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan:  GIRLS RULE!  If there was a need to prove the point that “girls rule,” you can visit an important Sacramento museum, The California Museum for History, Women and the Arts in downtown Sacramento. The halls and displays are filled with examples of how California girls really do rule.

When Cindy, Janet and I visited the museum we started on the second floor and worked our way around the exhibits.  The first thing we saw were large displays honoring women of achievement starting with Dr. Sally Ride, the famous astronaut.  Her flight suit is on display (what a tiny waist she has!) and a brief list of her accomplishments.  There are also similar displays for Billie Jean King, Julia Child, Alice Waters, Barbie (the doll) and many others.  All of them were California natives.

There is an exhibit honoring the Yee Chinese Herbal Pharmacy from Fiddletown.  Another exhibit honors the Native Americans who first populated our state.  There were dozens of different tribes.  The crafts we saw highlighted their amazing basket weaving talent with intricate patterns and colors.

As we further explored the museum, we saw how Japanese Americans were interred in camps during World War II.  Obviously this is not America's proudest moment.  Yet the display explains how the Japanese struggled to maintain a 'normal' life:  the children attended school, participated in sports and even went to prom.  After three years of interment, they were allowed to return to their former homes, but in many instances their lives were never the same.  They lost their property, their businesses and their livelihood.  It took years to recover.

On the first floor, there are two displays that are unique to Sacramento history.  The marquee from the old Alhambra Theater reminded us of the controversy surrounding the demolition of the classic building to make way for a supermarket on Alhambra Blvd.  There is also a mock-up of Posey's Restaurant, which was considered the main watering hole for legislators "back in the day."

On the day we visited, there was a large temporary exhibit honoring the lives of the Catholic Sisters.  Their contribution to early California is easily overlooked.  But they ran schools and orphanages.  They also took care of many social needs.  They were nurses, social workers and advocates for the most impoverished citizens.  They were strong supporters of equal rights during the 60s and participated in demonstrations along with hippies - an interesting combination.   They also held important positions of leadership in their field at a time when women were expected to be homemakers.  It's a fascinating story.

We enjoyed our time exploring the museum.  Overall, this museum is a tribute to California, our history and especially our "Girls."  There's even a tribute to the Beach Boys who wrote the song California Girls.  Be sure to visit it soon.

		Theatre: The 39 Steps B Street Theatre Ongoing-Feb 20 Tues 6:30pm; Wed 2pm & 6:30pm; Thurs & Fri 8pm; Sat 5pm & 9pm; Sun 2pm Sometimes the best comedy comes from being dead serious. We learned from Monty Python that no matter how silly those fellows were in word or action they seldom cracked a smile. That is a fundamental reason why The 39 Steps, based on the 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock, is a raucously funny evening in the theatre. Laughter is inevitable. Make it a Valentine's date at the special Sunday evening performance, benefiting RAFT.
		Nightlife: Art Mix: Love & Lust Crocker Art Museum Feb 10 Thurs 5pm-9pm Celebrate all that's hot in February. Write love letters and poems with the Sacramento Poetry Center, take the "couples in the collection" tour, hear from a panel of local artists about what "turns them on," take in a performance from the Sacramento Sizzling Sirens Burlesque Experience, and enjoy all night beats from DJ Mike Colossal. Free with Museum admission.
		Poetry & Lit: You Are Beautiful Night Upper Level VIP Lounge Feb 10 Thurs 8pm-11pm You Are Beautiful is a night full of poems, stories, and songs to make a woman feel good! Let us celebrate your beauty and reiterate how beautiful you are. Featuring comedian Trissy Tris, poets Jason Banks, Rob Anthony, Terry Moore, Daniel Blake, and singers T.D. Trice, Gerry Simpson, and more. Enjoy poetry, snacks, and a special dedication to single mothers.
		Dance: Romeo & Juliet Community Center Theater Feb 10-Feb 13 Thurs-Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm Powerful and passionate, Ron Cunningham's telling of "the world's greatest love story burns with incandescent brilliance. Dazzling pageantry, sumptuous scenery, luxurious costumes, magnificent dancing, and glorious music join in compelling drama and searing emotion. Enhance your enjoyment of the performance by joining Ron Cunningham 45 minutes prior to curtain for an informal and entertaining inside view of the show.
		Special Events: Sacramento Autorama Cal Expo Feb 11-Feb 13 Fri Noon-9pm; Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-7pm The Sacramento Autorama is "The Kustom Capital of the World" and boasts being home to one of longest running indoor car shows in the world. The Autorama is recognized as the premiere custom car show on the West Coast. The Show features over 450 of the finest custom cars, hot rods, classics, motorcycles, and specialty vehicles from around the county.
		Festivals: Chinese New Year Celebration Sacramento State University Union Feb 12 Sat Noon-11pm Come celebrate the Year of the Rabbit at the Chinese New Year Celebration. There will be exciting cultural entertainment activities for you and your family. Enjoy Lion Dance and Martial Arts, music, singing, and dance performances, vendor booths, children's games, and ballroom dancing.
		2nd Saturday Receptions: -New Light: Old City Gallery, 5:30pm-10pm Enjoy new oil paintings by resident artist, Kristin Hartman, live music, refreshments, and free parking. -Made in America: Evolve The Gallery, 6pm-9pm This show is the largest Black Fine Art exhibition in Sacramento. -Greatest Hits Farewell Show: Bows & Arrows, 6pm-9pm Over 20 local artists help celebrate Bows & Arrows upcoming move at this farewell show to their L street location. There will also be a huge sale-50% off all clothing!
		Music: Sugar & Gold Blue Lamp Lounge Feb 12 Sat 9pm Hedonism in hard times, decadence and decay-indie dance mainstays Sugar & Gold embrace it all. Putting your best face forward, celebrating your problems, and dancing troubles away: these are the mantras of S&G. Shaking off comparisons to the likes of Prince, MGMT, Hot Chip, and Ssion, Sugar & Gold have created a form of danceable pop that is uniquely their own. They will be accompanied by opening band Yip Deceiver.
		Kids & Fam: I Heart the Sacramento Zoo Day Sacramento Zoo Feb 13 Sun 9am-4pm Bring your valentine to this special day organized by the Sacramento Zoo Teen volunteers. The event features valentine-themed animal enrichments, informative talks, and activity tables. Some of the scheduled enrichments will include scented valentine cards for the lemurs and a special piñata celebrating Val-lynn-tine, the giraffe's sweet 16th birthday.
		Music: Blues-a-Rama Sacramento Horsemen's Club Feb 13 Sun 2pm An afternoon blues concert featuring Rick Estrin and the Nightcats. Rick Estrin ranks among the very best harp players, singers and songwriters in the blues world today. Also performing are Chris Cain, Alvon, Ron Thompson, and Ray Bailey. The Sacramento Horsemen's Club, part Texas road house, part Mississippi juke joint, offers "down home" food and a full bar.

 
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February's Featured Artist
-Learn about Sacramento metal artist Terrence Martin's design, inspiration, process, and more in this month's Featured Local Artist profile. You may have seen his work around town and not even known it: he has pieces at Mikuni, Nugget Markets, the Sacramento Zoo, and many others. Check him out!

Sacramento365's Weekly Deal
-'Tis the season of love, and couples are looking for spectacular Valentine's Day gifts. Ditch the heart-shaped boxes of chocolate-Zen Spa in East Sacramento has something better to indulge in. Let Zen Spa spoil both of you this Valentine's Day with an exclusive one-hour couple's massage, just $60 for $130. This deal is available Tuesday through Friday only, on Sacramento365.com's Weekly Deal Page.

Until recently the adjective 'cowtown' made Sacramentans cringe. It unfairly reduced our bounty of gold country wineries, outdoor recreation and sports, and cosmopolitan city living to … commodity cows and draft animals. Well, we invite you to join our revolution, to rightly respect our agricultural neighbors for nourishing and fueling our daily lives.

With 320 days of sunshine a year, the Sacramento region is a jewel with urban and rural facets. Area chefs (professional and amateur) are quick to recognize local growers who bring high-quality vegetables, fruits, meats, beers and wines to their dining rooms. Locals and visitors alike, whet your appetites as you consider your next culinary experience in California’s capital.

Rather than equip you with a laundry list of good eats, let me highlight the gourmet ghettos and allow you to discover tasty treasures for yourself:

·         Savor Old Sacramento’s fine dining scene even if you didn’t bring your Sunday best.

Dine on the riverfront or in a number of restored, historic buildings.

·         Bound by 11^th and 16^th streets, near K & L streets, enjoy a variety of cuisines near the Sacramento Convention Center and the State Capitol. Anchors include The Park Downtown (15^th & L), The Firestone (16^th & L), and The Elliott Building (16^th Street, between J & K).

·         L Street & Capitol Avenue between 18^th & 21^st streets are the veins of Midtown's Handle District.  

·         The Sutter District surrounds Sutter’s Fort, but its artery is 28^th Street, between J and N.

·         Explore Midtown along J Street, bound by 18^th and 28^th streets, and R Street between 14th & 15th.
Note: MARRS, on 20^th Street between J & K, is not as distant as we once thought.

·         Tower Café reigns at the heart of the ethnic food enclave on Broadway, between Riverside Blvd. and 26^th Street. Thanks to Capital Public Radio, the local NPR affiliate, for this preview.

·         Luxury defines Financial District dining on Capitol Mall, bound by 4^th and 7^th streets.

On the verge of a food coma as you daydream about a decadent meal? Book accommodations and ask for VIP treatment at these Sacramento Gold Card hotels.

What comes to mind when you hear the name Riedel?

If you're a hospitality veteran like me, you think of the Austrian glassmaking dynasty, Riedel Crystal. Maximillian J. Riedel, 11th generation of the family, can be credited with much of their success. Since joining the family business, he has expanded the company to international markets, been featured in numerous magazines and publications, designed and co-designed several decanters and famous collections.

In fact, most restaurants these days are likely to use one of his lines- Riedel Restaurant, which he created in 2001 specifically for restaurants. The line is designed to be more resistant to breakage and spotting than other glassware often used in restaurants, while still offering a variety of varietal specific shapes.

The most famous of his collections is the recent"O" series, a collection of stemless wine glasses. These were designed for serious wine drinkers but appropriate for casual appreciation as well. The series became the fastest selling new collection introduction in Riedel’s history.

Now you may ask, how much difference does the shape of the glass really make? According to Maximillian, the difference is worth a world tour. He is currently traveling the world demonstrating comparative wine tastings with glassware to prove that it REALLY makes a difference.

Sound interesting? Well you don’t have to go far to learn from this famous oenophile. Next week, Maximillian Riedel is coming to Sacramento! Held at the Historic Elks Tower Ballroom in Downtown Sacramento, This event may change your perception of wine forever- and even enhance your enjoyment of them. Even better, you’ll taste local wines from Sacramento Wineries and enjoy appetizers, desserts, and even go home with a set of your own 4-piece Vinum XL Tasting Set.
 
The event is organized by the Sacramento Chapter of NACE (National Association of Catering Executives). All proceeds will go directly to the local non-profit chapter.

To put it in persepective, the first of these tastings took place at Vinopolis in London in September of 2009 and attracted an audience of over 400, filling the venue to capacity over the two days. A return visit to Vinopolis London is planned for September 2010. Unless you plan on going abroad soon, take advantage of this rare appearance!

If you live near, but want to avoid drinking and driving, stay at one of the Sacramento Hotels where you can get a Sacramento Gold Card which offers discounts on all sorts of Sacramento dining spots and tourist attractions.