Thursday, December 31, 2009

Give a Day, Get a Disney Day


In the "how cool is this?" category...

Beginning January 1, 2010, when you sign up at Disney to volunteer a day of service with a participating organization (and your service is completed and verified) you'll get one day admission to a Walt Disney World® or Disneyland® theme park, FREE!

The goal is to inspire one million people to volunteer a day of service.

Note that volunteer opportunities are handled through HandsOn Network, so you'll want to also visit their Web site for more information on the volunteer organizations included their network.

Sign up at the Give A Day, Get a Disney Day now by clicking here!


Disney Fine Print: You must sign up through the Disney site to volunteer and complete your service at an eligible volunteer opportunity in the fifty US states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or Canada to receive a ticket. Ticket quantities for this program are limited. You must be at least 18 to sign up. Children must be at least 6 to participate in the program.

Program begins January 1, 2010 and continues until tickets are distributed or until December 15, 2010, whichever occurs first. You may only sign up a maximum of 8 members of your household.


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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Jazz Jamm Tonight at Caffe Santoro in Cameron Park!


Everyone's Invited to Jazz Jamm Tonight at Caffe Santoro in Cameron Park...read on for details:

Matt Henley and his guitar instructor, Jeremiah Massey, and other local musicians will play at Caffe Santoro tonight starting at 7 p.m.
Caffe Santoro is located at 2531 Merrychase Drive in Cameron Park.

For more info, visit Caffe Santoro's Web site.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Style Writer is on Good Day Sacramento!!


Ok, we love this!

In our upcoming January issues of the Style magazines, one of the articles that we feature is "50 Things for Your Bucket List," by local writer Jaleh Donaldson.
This morning, Jaleh was featured on Good Day Sacramento to talk about the article!


And, be sure to get your copy of the January issues -- out this week, and live on our web site later this week!


Sunday, December 27, 2009

Inside-Out Evolution at the Blue Line Gallery

Cocktail Party by Gerald Heffernon, Acrylic on canvas, 64 x 48 inches
Forty paintings by Northern California artist Gerald Heffernon will be featured in the exhibit, “Inside-Out Evolution,” opening January 16, 2010, at the Blue Line Gallery in Roseville.

“This is a show of the evolution of my paintings which often deal with the subject of evolution, humans juxtaposed with animals, and humans as animals,” said Heffernon. Roughly half of the paintings in the exhibit are recent works, the other half painted over the past ten years. They range from purely figurative to abstract.

“Inside-Out Evolution” will open with a public reception on Saturday, January 16, 6:30-9:00 p.m. The artist will present a special walk through of the exhibit beginning at 6:00 p.m. before the reception. The show will continue in the gallery through February 13.

Artwork is for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the non-profit gallery. Free children’s art activities related to animals will be presented in the gallery on Saturdays, 1-4pm during the exhibit.

WHO: Roseville Arts Blue Line Gallery

WHAT: Inside-Out Evolution: Paintings by Gerald Heffernon

WHEN: January 16 – February 13, 2010. Opening Reception, January 16, 6:30-9:00 p.m.; Artist walk through, 6:00pm

WHERE: Blue Line Gallery, 405 Vernon Street, Suite 100, Roseville

WHY: To introduce new paintings and explore artistic progression in the paintings of Gerald Heffernon

COST: FREE admission; donations welcome; artwork for sale
For more information, visit http://www.rosevillearts.org/.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Tree Disposal in Roseville!


With the holidays over, it’s time to take down all those decorations. Sigh.

But thanks to the City of Roseville, tree disposal is that much easier and you have three options to get rid of your greenery.
Instead of just tossing it out on the curb, the city recommends you give your tree a new life this year and recycle it into compost or wood chips. Check out the following three options:

- Place your un-flocked tree in your green waste bin. Remove all the branches and cut the trunk into small pieces.
- Take your tree to one of the City’s drop off sites on: December 26 or 27, January 2 or 3. Sites listed below.
- Let the Roseville Boy Scouts of America troops pick your tree up for you! Just put your tree out on the curb before 9 a.m. on the four dates listed above.

Drop off locations - Maidu Park - 1550 Maidu Drive, Roseville - Mahany Park - 1545 Pleasant Grove,
Roseville - Washington Boulevard (across from the All American Raceways), Roseville.

Image from the City of Roseville website.


Friday, December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas!

Wishing all of you who celebrate Christmas, a very happy and joyful Holiday!

We're taking the day off of blogging...we'll be back shortly with more events, goings-on and fun goodies!

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Free Coats!!


Thanks to the generosity of many heroes in our communities, News10 and the Salvation Army is ready to hand out over 32,000 coats to children and families in our area.

If you or someone you know is in need of a winter coat, please join us for News10's Coats for Kids Distribution Day on Wednesday, December 30 from 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (or until the coats run out).

Anyone is welcome to come and receive coats. All that is asked is one form of identification for each family member that wishes to receive a coat. This can be a drivers license, library card, student id, or any other form of identification. ID's are strictly used for accounting purposes only and nothing else. Children need not be present to receive a coat as long as a family member brings some form of ID for each child wishing to receive a donation.

Coats will be distributed at the following locations:

In Sacramento:

Cal Expo, Buildings C & D (Enter East Gate/Lot D) - Free Parking

Roseville: Placer Co. Fairgrounds-800 All American City Blvd.
In Stockton, Modesto, Lodi, Yuba City, Fairfield and Antioch, at these Salvation Army distribution locations:

Stockton: 1305 E. Weber Street (209-948-8955)

Modesto: 625 I Street (209-522-3209)

Fairfield: 1216 Missouri Street (707-426-6244)

Antioch: 525 E. 18th Street (925-778-0808)

Lodi: 525 Lockeford Street (209-369-3221)

Yuba City: 350 Bridge Street (530-671-7283)

And, if you would like to volunteer at any of the above locations on Wednesday and help hand out coats, they would gladly accept walk-ins.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Cat Shooting Victim Fully Recovered and Ready for Adoption


From our friends at Placer SPCA...

Big Ben, the cat who made headlines earlier this year for needing delicate spinal surgery after being shot and paralyzed, has fully recovered and will be available for adoption at the Placer SPCA at 150 Corporation Yard Road in Roseville on Thursday, December 24. He will be available for visits from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

The Placer SPCA expects a high level of interest in adopting Big Ben, and encourages those interested to complete a Matchmaker Questionnaire, found at http://www.placerspca.org/. Big Ben’s adopter will be chosen by lottery at 1:30 pm on December 24 from among the questionnaires approved as appropriate homes.

“Big Ben has endured a lot in the last few months, and he is ready for a loving forever home,” said Placer SPCA CEO Leilani Vierra.

Big Ben first arrived at the Placer SPCA in June 2009, and one morning in October the staff was shocked to discover that he could not move his back legs. X-rays revealed a pellet perilously close to his spine, causing his temporary paralysis. The Placer SPCA made an appeal to the community to cover the costs of his treatment, and the response was overwhelming.


Big Ben underwent surgery on Monday, November 2, where veterinarians found five pellets plus fragments throughout his body. Following his surgery at the VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center, which generously donated the use of its facilities, Big Ben spent the last month in foster care, under the care of a Placer SPCA volunteer.

The Placer SPCA extends thanks to the community for donations and the outpouring of good wishes, as well as Sunrise Blvd. Animal Hospital staff and Dr. Bill Fastiggi for providing care for Big Ben leading up to his surgery and during his recuperation, and neurosurgical specialist Dr. Robert Runyan and neurologist Dr. Jessica Holland of VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center.

For more information about Big Ben, visit http://www.placerspca.org/ or call 916-782-7722 x. 100 or 530-885-7387 x. 100.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

A Weekend of Wine!


If you assume all the holiday events are over by January, think again. Because on January 30-31 more than 20 El Dorado Winemakers will open their cellars and invite you to taste wines straight from the barrels. It doesn’t get more authentic than that! And not only will you get to taste the wares of these new vintages, you can also learn about the wine making process that starts with the vine ends with the bottle. And the part we like best… the weekend pass is $20!

So if by the end of January you already need another vacation, this could be the perfect getaway. There will also be light food pairings and the opportunity to purchase wines at various locations.

Participating wineries: Auriga Cellars, Busby Cellars, Colibri Ridge, Crystal Basin, Fenton Herriott, Fitzpatrick, David Girard, Gold Hill, Granite Springs, Holly’s Hill, Illuminare, Jodar, Latcham, Lava Cap, Madroña, Miraflores, Mount Aukum, Narrow Gate, ParaVi, Perry Creek, Sierra Vista, and Single Leaf.

For more information and tickets, visit eldoradowines.org.

Get Training for a Marathon -- Really!


When was the last time you did something amazing – like run or walk a marathon?

The American Heart Association’s Start! Training program, locally sponsored by Mercy, offers you an opportunity to do something amazing for yourself and for others.
Start! Training provides personalized training to prepare you to run or walk a full or half marathon. It is designed for people of all ages and from all walks of life, including beginners who have never participated in a marathon.

As a member of the team you will learn to take charge of your health and protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases—the No. 1 and most costly killer in the United States. At the same time you’ll get the chance to do something good for others and save lives by raising funds to help find ways to better understand, prevent, treat and cure these diseases.

Start! Training has inspired thousands of heart survivors and their friends and family to take charge of their own life while saving others. If you had the power to do something amazing and to save a life, wouldn’t you?

Join a 2010 information session near you to learn how you can Start! Training for an adventure of a lifetime.

WHEN/WHERE:

Saturday, January 9, 9am

Maidu Community Center, 1550 Maidu Drive, Roseville
Tuesday, January 12, 6pm

Mercy San Juan Medical Center, Lukens Auditorium, 6501 Coyle Ave.

Wednesday, January 13, 6pm

American Heart Association Office, 2007 O Street, Sacramento

Saturday, January 16, 9am

Mercy General Hospital, Main Auditorium, 4001 J St. Sacramento

Wednesday, January 20, 6pm

The Running Zone, 8470 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove

Saturday, January 23, Info Session 8:30 a.m.; Kickoff 10:00 a.m.

Broadstone Racquet Club, 820 Halidon Way, Folsom

For more information, visit http://www.sacramentostarttraining.org/ or call 916-446-6505.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Folsom Parks & Recreation Department's Winter/Spring Activity Guide

This just in...

Online registration for Folsom Parks & Recreation's winter/spring programs opens Monday, Dec. 21. Since many of our popular programs fill quickly, we encourage you to register early.

The Activity Guide, with all the winter/spring program listings, is available for viewing online at http://activityguide.folsom.ca.us. The printed Guide will be mailed to Folsom households the first week in January.

To register for classes beginning Dec. 21, visit Web Trac, our online registration system at http://webtrac.folsom.ca.us.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Rock, Paper and Scissors at the Gallery at 48 Natoma

“Stone Crop 1”, glass sculpture by Robert Kahl

An exciting variety of media will be on display in the next exhibit at the Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom. The exhibit “Rock, Paper and Scissors” features glass sculpture, watercolors and quilts from January 15 to March 11, 2010.

This dynamic grouping will feature the work of three California artists. Robert Kahl, of Nevada City, began glass blowing over ten years ago and continues to develop his own style. Using methods of fusing, casting and slumping, he makes unique pieces enhanced by sand etching.

“Fall Flow”, watercolor by Dan Petersen
Dan Petersen of Ripon has been recognized nationally for his breathtaking watercolors of Yosemite and the Sierra. His luminous, glowing colors capture the rocks, mountains and waters of these glorious regions.

“Three Seals”, quilt by Vicki Johnson
Vicki Johnson from Soquel has been creating quilted and painted artworks since 1970. Her work uses landscapes and seascapes for inspiration. Her quilts have been awarded numerous awards and are in international collections and exhibitions. She is the author of several quilting books and is an internationally popular speaker on fiber arts.

At the same time, the Community Gallery at 48 Natoma will feature the 25 year collection of presidents’ quilts from the Folsom Quilt and Fiber Guild. This display will be open from January 8 through February 25, 2010. The opening reception for both exhibits is Friday, January 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and will include live music, wine and refreshments.

The artists’ reception and the exhibit are free and open to the public and art is available for purchase. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm with additional hours on some week nights and Saturdays.
Please call the gallery for holiday, evening and weekend hours. Special group and school tours can be arranged by appointment.
To request additional gallery information, or to schedule a group or school tour, please contact the gallery coordinator, Cindy Abraham, 916-351-3506, or cabraham@folsom.ca.us.
To learn more about the Gallery at 48 Natoma, log on to their Web site by clicking here.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Children's Holiday Art Project at Blue Line Gallery


Children of all ages are invited to the Blue Line Gallery Saturday to create pop-up Christmas tree cards designed by featured artist and pop-up book author, David A. Carter.

A simplified version of the Christmas trees Carter created on the Martha Stewart Show earlier in the month will be the featured project at the Blue Line Gallery this Saturday, December 19, 1-4pm. The artist will be present 2- 4 p.m. to sign copies of books in his Red Dot Book Series, all on display and for purchase in the gallery.

WHO: Roseville Arts Blue Line Gallery

WHAT: Children’s Art Project: Christmas Tree Pop-up Designed by David A. Carter

WHEN: Saturday, December 19, Art Project, 1-4pm; Book signing, 2-4pm; Exhibit & Gift Shop, 10am-5pm

WHERE: Blue Line Gallery, 405 Vernon Street, Suite 100, Roseville

WHY: To engage children in creative holiday fun!

COST: FREE art project; donations welcome. Carter book price $22.99; discount on entire set of 5.

To find out more, log on to http://www.rosevillearts.org/.

Roseville Parks & Recreation Winter/Spring Activity Guide Has Arrived!

From our friends at the Roseville Parks & Recreation Department...

The Winter/Spring Recreation Activity Guide is now available online. This season's programs are designed to deliver smiles, improve health, and strengthen bonds between families and friends. Inside, readers will find activities such swim lessons, tot/youth art, sports clinics and fitness programs, and readers will discover things that they might not know that we offer such as birthday parties, meeting room space, and information about Roseville's open space.

For more information, visit: www.roseville.ca.us/activityguide, or call the Roseville Parks & Recreation Department at 916-774-5505.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Get Into The Holiday Spirit with a Vintage Christmas Faire


It's time to get in the holiday spirit -- and to help get you in the mood is the Vintage Christmas Faire in the Historic “Red Horse Barn” in Newcastle (at Newcastle Wedding Gardens)!

Everyone is invited to experience truly unique gifts, music, food, trees and wine tasting…Saturday, December 19 from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m at the Historic Red Horse Barn, 950 Taylor Road in Newcastle.

Some of businesses and exciting things you'll experience at this holiday event:

Wine Tasting by Casque Wines…
The Winemaker will be here to sign bottles for your gift giving


Live Music by Billy Bensing & Kellie Garmire
Enchanting Guitar & Mandolin Duo-CD’s & Guitar Lesson Gift Certificates


Queen Bead
Wearable Art from the Heart


Visual Impact Floral Design
Fresh Wreaths, Earrings & Lovely Gifts with an English Flair


Rejuvenate Day Spa
Complimentary Mini Chair Massages…Gift Certificates & Soy Candles

Fresh Cut Christmas Trees & Mandarins
Plus Unique Gifts From Foothill Feed & Gift


Felted Fleury
Exquisitely Handfelted Wool Hats ~ Heirloom Quality


Harvey Issac Design
Handcrafted Jewelry Featuring Gemstones, Crystals & Silver


Old Soul Studios
Repurposed Treasures & One of a Kind Winter & Holiday Gifts


Gourdian Art
Engraved & Dyed Gourds…Vintage Appeal Santas to Snowmen


Dawn’s Design
Sparkling Handmade Earrings & Necklaces


Tré Events
Delicious Cuisine from Chef Chris Jackson!
Turkey Legs, Potato & Corn Chowder, Smoked Turkey & Almond
Croissants with Cranberries, Cookies, English Toffee, Hot Cider, Wine, Beer & Coffee


The cost is $1 admission or a can of food for their local food basket.

For more, visit: http://www.newcastleweddinggardens.com/.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

El Dorado County Habitat for Humanity Raffles Playhouses


The El Dorado County Habitat for Humanity is holding an open house at Habitat's ReStore on December 20 from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. At this open house, the organization will be raffling off two unique playhouses: one built for a girl and the other for a boy. These playhouses are 6' by 8' and were built by Habitat volunteers using materials from the Habitat ReStore with additional building materials donated. The construction was organized by El Dorado County realtor, Sally Long Johns and her family.

Habitat's ReStore is located at 6168 Pleasant Valley Rd. in El Dorado -- the raffle will take place at 3PM. Refreshments, food, music and a visit from Santa are all part of Habitat for Humanity's Holiday celebration.

Raffle tickets for the playhouses are now being sold for $5 each with only 1,000 tickets being sold. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.shop.edchabitat.com/ or over the phone by calling 530-621-2111.

Tickets can also be purchases at the Habitat ReStore, Coldwell Banker Realty in El Dorado Hills, or the Coldwell Banker Realty office in Placerville.

Proceeds from the raffle will help to fund a five million dollar building project that will break ground in January of 2010 on 5 acres near El Dorado and will also include a small lot for a project in Cameron Park to build low-income houses in partnership with future homeowners.

Since its founding in 1976, Habitat for Humanity has built more than 300,000 houses, providing shelter for more than 1 million people in nearly 90 countries around the world. A new Habitat house is completed somewhere in the world every 21 minutes.

Habitat for Humanity of El Dorado County is a locally run affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit, nondenominational faith based housing organization. Habitat welcomes all people to build simple, decent, affordable houses with those who lack adequate
shelter.

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity, visit their Web site: www.habitat.org.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Giving Back This Holiday Season!

We're all guilty of getting caught up in the merriment and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

It's wonderful to be reminded of what we can do for others, too, this holiday season.

With that in mind, Sierra Vista Bank is adopting a local family in need from the Center for Violence-Free Relationships (formerly the El Dorado Women’s Center). The Cameron Park branch of Sierra Vista will be accepting donations for a mother and her daughter being supported by this shelter. During this year of turmoil in the financial industry, it’s encouraging to see a bank giving back to the local community.

“We are honored to support one of the many families that make up this community. Just imagine the difference we could make if every local business adopted one family in need this year,” stated Greg Patton, President and CEO.

If you'd like to participate, you can stop by the Cameron Park branch of Sierra Vista Bank (http://www.sierravistabank.com/, 530-676-3400) at 3311 Coach Lane in Cameron Park to select a gift tag from the Christmas tree in the lobby area. Each tag will include a specific gift that is needed by the family. Then, you'll need to purchase the gift indicated on the tag and return it to the Cameron Park branch by December 17 for gifts to be delivered to the family in need.

To find out more about The Center for Violence-Free Relationships, visit their Web site: www.thecenternow.org/.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Placer County Announces Public H1N1 Vaccination Clinics

With the arrival of additional vaccines, Placer County Health and Human Services' Public Health Division is announcing a schedule of upcoming free public vaccination clinics for the H1N1 flu, sometimes referred to as the "swine flu," in partnership with the respective cities.

The upcoming round of clinics will be:

  • Monday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the Rocklin Sunset Center, 2650 Sunset Blvd., Rocklin, CA
  • Wednesday, Dec. 16, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the North Tahoe Event Center, 8318 North Lake Boulevard, Kings Beach, CA
  • Thursday, Dec. 17, from Noon - 4 p.m., at the Roseville Maidu Community Center, 1550 Maidu Dr., Roseville, CA
  • Friday, Dec. 18, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the Gold Country Fairgrounds, 1273 High St., Auburn, CA. This is a drive-through clinic; patients don't even need to get out of their cars. Please enter the Fairgrounds from Auburn Folsom Road at Fairgate.

These public clinics are intended to make the H1N1 vaccine available to Placer County residents who are at higher risk for complications of H1N1 flu, and who haven’t yet been able to obtain the vaccine. The target groups, as identified by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include:

  • Pregnant women;
  • People who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months of age;
  • Health care and emergency medical personnel;
  • Anyone from 6 months through 24 years of age;
  • Anyone from 25 through 64 years of age with certain chronic medical conditions or a weakened immune system.

Since early November, Placer County has been conducting school-based vaccination clinics, ensuring that hospitals and those involved in emergency response are able to vaccinate staff and higher risk patients, and ensuring that obstetricians, pediatricians, and family practice physicians have vaccine to vaccinate higher risk patients. Placer County will continue these school-based clinics and outreach efforts along with the new public clinics so that as many individuals in higher risk groups that wish to be vaccinated for H1N1 flu have the opportunity to receive it.

As additional vaccine arrives later this month, Placer County will schedule additional H1N1 vaccine clinics, including clinics for all Placer County residents.

Physicians in the community are beginning to receive additional vaccine as well, so individuals may wish to contact their healthcare provider to see if they now have vaccine available.

Placer County will provide information through its web site, http://www.placer.ca.gov/. To receive future information about flu clinics through direct e-mail, consider signing up for the county’s free e-newsletter, available at the above web address.

The upcoming vaccinations will be free of charge.

Blog Post Courtesy of Jason Probst, Communications Analyst with the City of Roseville.

Friday, December 11, 2009

First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended to 2010; Current Homeowners Also Qualify

Some interesting information from our friends at Professional Solutions Group, one of our guest bloggers!

"A new law that went into effect Nov. 6 extends the first-time homebuyer credit five months and expands the eligibility requirements for purchasers.

The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 extends the deadline for qualifying home purchases from Nov. 30, 2009, to April 30, 2010. Additionally, if a buyer enters into a binding contract by April 30, 2010, the buyer has until June 30, 2010, to settle on the purchase.

The maximum credit amount remains at $8,000 for a first-time homebuyer –– that is, a buyer who has not owned a primary residence during the three years up to the date of purchase.

But the new law also provides a “long-time resident” credit of up to $6,500 to others who do not qualify as “first-time homebuyers.” To qualify this way, a buyer must have owned and used the same home as a principal or primary residence for at least five consecutive years of the eight-year period ending on the date of purchase of a new home as a primary residence.

For all qualifying purchases in 2010, taxpayers have the option of claiming the credit on either their 2009 or 2010 tax returns.

A new version of Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit, will be available in the next few weeks. A taxpayer who purchases a home after Nov. 6 must use this new version of the form to claim the credit. Likewise, taxpayers claiming the credit on their 2009 returns, no matter when the house was purchased, must also use the new version of Form 5405. Taxpayers who claim the credit on their 2009 tax return will not be able to file electronically but instead will need to file a paper return.

A taxpayer who purchased a home on or before Nov. 6 and chooses to claim the credit on an original or amended 2008 return may continue to use the current version of Form 5405.

Income Limits Rise
The new law raises the income limits for people who purchase homes after Nov. 6. The full credit will be available to taxpayers with modified adjusted gross incomes (MAGI) up to $125,000, or $225,000 for joint filers. Those with MAGI between $125,000 and $145,000, or $225,000 and $245,000 for joint filers, are eligible for a reduced credit. Those with higher incomes do not qualify.

For homes purchased prior to Nov. 7, 2009, existing MAGI limits remain in place. The full credit is available to taxpayers with MAGI up to $75,000, or $150,000 for joint filers. Those with MAGI between $75,000 and $95,000, or $150,000 and $170,000 for joint filers, are eligible for a reduced credit. Those with higher incomes do not qualify.

New Requirements
Several new restrictions on purchases that occur after Nov. 6 go into effect with the new law:
  • Dependents are not eligible to claim the credit.
  • No credit is available if the purchase price of a home is more than $800,000.
  • A purchaser must be at least 18 years of age on the date of purchase.

For Members of the Military
Members of the Armed Forces and certain federal employees serving outside the U.S. have an extra year to buy a principal residence in the U.S. and still qualify for the credit. An eligible taxpayer must buy or enter into a binding contract to buy a home by April 30, 2011, and settle on the purchase by June 30, 2011."

For more details on the credit, visit the First-Time Homebuyer Credit page on IRS.gov.

Thanks guys for sharing this information with our readers!

About Professional Solutions Group:
Professional Solutions Group, LLP is a Certified Public Accounting firm headquartered in Roseville, California. Founded in 2000 by managing partner Sherif Boctor, PSG has developed into one of the fastest growing CPA firms in Northern California, with more than a dozen employees and nearly 2,000 individual and corporate clients. For more, visit their web site: http://www.prosolutionsllp.com/

Please note that this information is for general guidance only. Professional Solutions Group, LLP and Style Media Group cannot be held responsible for any decisions made as a result of information contained herein. You are encouraged to seek legal and financial advice before making any financial decisions.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Best Barbecue Sauce in Folsom -- The Faceoff!


We just got this email about a friendly little contest from our friends at Acorn Cafe in Folsom...check it out:

It's a faceoff between Head Chef Jeff and cafe owner Susan. The Challenge? The best barbecue sauce in Folsom!

Who will be the judges? YOU!

During the week of December 7th (yes, that's this week people!), a BBQ Beef Sandwich Special will be offered, priced at $5.75 -- it will include 2 BBQ Beef Sliders -- one made with Chef Jeff's barbecue sauce and the other with Susan's!

The sauce with the most votes will be the BBQ sauce used exclusively in the cafe.

Um, yum!!

Check out Acorn Cafe in Folsom at http://www.theacorncafe.com/.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Calling All Real Brides! It's Real Weddings Magazine's Cover Model Contest!

Calling all recent brides or soon-to-be brides in the Sacramento area!

Have you ever wanted to be in the pages of a magazine?

Well, then you need to enter Real Weddings Magazine's cover model contest!

Each issue, hundreds of local area brides enter to be one of three cover model finalists.

Are you interested in entering? If so, click here to download the entry form -- hurry, all entries need to be in by February 1, 2010!

If you're going to enter...one word of advice, show your personality through the answers to the questions -- Real Weddings Magazine loves to work with brides who have a lot of spunk, personality, humor and who are just darned cool girls. Be sure that your answers really reflect who you are! Oh, and don't forget to include photos that really show your personality coming through as well!

Also, be sure to read all of the rules to make sure that you're eligible to enter.

For more about Real Weddings Magazine, log on to http://www.realweddingsmag.com/.

Friday, December 4, 2009

I Feel Pretty, Oh So Pretty!

My friend Wendy Stedeford is an amazing acupuncturist, not to mention just a cool gal!

I recently discovered her blog, and she graciously agreed to let me steal this entry for our blog!

"Everyone wants to feel pretty (or handsome) right? It’s said that life is easier for the beautiful. Well, here’s a 5 minute, one step spruce up for becoming more beautiful from the inside out.

There is, actually, one specific acupuncture point we sometimes call the point of facial beauty. It’s the point located in the web of the hand between your thumb and index finger. If you hold your left thumb along your left index finger you create a line. Follow this line with your right index fingertip going toward your heart. At the end of the line, slip your right index fingertip off toward your left index finger side of the line. Feel for the slight dip and you’ve found the point. If it’s tender, you’re at the right spot.

This is the fourth point on the large intestine meridian. This line of energy ends at the face. By stimulating large intestine 4 you activate the energy along the length of the meridian. By increasing the blood and qi of the meridian, everything associated with that meridian benefits. That includes not only your face but your hand, elbow, shoulder, neck, upper jaw, sinuses, nose and of course, your large intestine.

Before trying this course of acupressure take a minute to look at yourself in the mirror. Look at yourself overall then look at the details. Make sure you can list at least 4 things you like about your face. Then choose 2 or 3 or 4 things you would like to improve. For two weeks commit to looking into a mirror as little as possible. Take 5 minutes morning and evening everyday for two weeks to rub this spot on both hands. After two weeks go back and check on the things you wanted to change. Acupressure usually doesn’t change things as quickly as acupuncture but change they will.

Not only should you see an overall improvement in the tone and appearance of your face but you might also see change in headache frequency, upper jaw issues, large intestine issues, pain, or hand, arm, elbow or shoulder issues too. It’s a “handy” point to know."

How cool is that? Thanks Wendy!

So take a break from your holiday shopping and your stress-filled day and check out Wendy's blog for yourself -- it's filled with all kinds of interesting and useful stuff for your well-being: wstedeford.wordpress.com or log on to her Web site: wendystedeford.net.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Style Media Group's Editorial Policy

Recently the FTC has changed/updated its regulations regarding advertiser sponsored content, particularly advertiser sponsored content on blogs.

These new regulations give us the opportunity to reiterate our editorial policy as it applies to our magazines, our Web sites and our blogs. Let me just simply state this:

From day one when we launched our company, we have always held ourselves to the highest possible editorial standards. While we love our advertisers and couldn't do what we do without the support of our advertisers, we've always made it clear that just because someone advertises with us, it doesn't guarantee that they'll be featured in our editorial; and just because we feature a business in our editorial, it doesn't mean we're going to force that business to buy an ad. It's the way it is in our magazines and the way it is on our Web sites and blogs. There is no quid pro quo. It's that simple.

Our editorial team writes on products, services and stories that we think our readers will find interesting, entertaining and helpful. Sometimes we utilize resources for this editorial -- sometimes they happen to be advertisers and sometimes they are not. But I can ensure you that if we use an advertiser in our editorial, it's because we feel that they're the right resource to use. We do not let anyone "buy" our editorial in our magazines, our Web sites and blogs.

If you have any questions at all about this policy, you are welcome to email me directly: wendy(at)stylemg.com.

Blog Post by Publisher/Editor Wendy Sipple.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Folsom Photography Contest Winners!


The results are finally in and Style would like to congratulate the winners of the 2009 Folsom Patrons of the Arts contest! The contest, now in its fourth consecutive year, accepted photos under six categories including Bridges, Faces, Fun, Old and New, Outdoors and Black and White.

The Best of Show prize went to Rachel Zirin, a junior at Vista del Lago High School, for her black and white photo entitled “Black Hat.” Rachel created the winning photo while in her photography class under the direction of Lori Emmigton. Her plans for the future include studying journalism at California State University, Chico.
Local photographers Richard Jones and Allister Oliver, Don Chaddock of the Folsom Telegraph, and our own Wendy Sipple here at Style judged the contest. So make sure you make it out to The Gallery at 48 Natoma sometime before January 7 to see a little bit of Folsom portrayed in these award-winning photos!

Congrats to the First Place winners in the individuals categories:

(Under 12 age group)
Andrew Callanan, Amanda King and Emmi Warford

(Under 18)
Robbie Agar, Ashli Christ, Riley Stair and Nathan Vetter

(Over 18)
David Alvarez, Menka Belgal, Mike Ekern, Tina Kehoe and Darin Slade

Second place third place and runners-up:
Chris Callanan, Holly Janelle Cardosa, Karen Diffley, Jennifer Duval, Marisa Franz, Stella Kim, Ron Knight, Traci Miller Stephanie Redhair, Elena Sheskier, Noah Swartz and Penni Warford.

Photo caption: Rachel Zirin

Blog post by Chloe Daley, Editorial Intern.

Friday, November 20, 2009

The 48th Sylvia Besana Holiday Parade

Who doesn’t love a festive holiday parade? (I hope no one said “Bah humbug”!) Because while I will never be a fan of all the holiday commercialism and Black Friday frenzy, I think I’ll always have a little love for a holiday march downtown.

It’s a great way to get out and support nonprofits, local groups and businesses. And you are just in luck because Roseville's downtown parade is this Saturday. This year the 48th Annual Holiday Parade has been renamed the Sylvia Besana Holiday Parade in honor of Sylvia, one of Roseville’s long-standing volunteers and a founding member of the tradition.

The parade will begin at Riverside/Douglas/Vernon intersection and proceed east along Vernon Street, turn right at Folsom Road and end behind the Roseville Square Shopping Center.

For more information and events for the holidays, be sure to check out DowntownRoseville.com.

Creative commons photo from armadillo444's photostream.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Name A Roseville Park!

You could make the next mark on the City of Roseville by naming two of its new parks. That’s right! The city is looking for your input on two project sites that will be underway next year.

The two sites are an eight-acre park off of Bob Doyle Drive adjacent to Chilton Middle School and another eight-acre park off Village Green Drive adjacent to Junction Elementary School.

How fun would it be to spend a day at a park that YOU named?

The park designs have already been submitted to the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council and you can view them on the city’s Web site.

So if you think you have a great name or someone you think should be honored, submit your idea to the City Clerk’s Department.

You can pick up applications at these locations:

City Clerk’s Department, 311 Vernon St., (916) 774-5263

Parks and Recreation Department, 316 Vernon St., (916) 774-5505

Maidu Community Center, 1550 Maidu Dr., (916) 774-5950

Roseville Sports Center, 1545 Pleasant Grove Blvd., (916) 774-5990

For more information contact Annie Jatala at (916) 774-5246 or visit roseville.ca.us.

- Photo from the City of Roseville.
Blog Post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern. 

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Thanking Our Veterans!

Everyone here at Style Media Group is most thankful to all of our Veterans and honor them today, Veterans Day for their devotion, sacrifice and service to our country.

On a personal note, I'd like to take a quick moment to thank my favorite Veteran, my dad, Walt.

My dad probably won't like this photo very much, but it's the only one in his uniform that I could find. It's circa 1969 and shows my maternal grandfather Pete Waite, along with my mom Bev (my dad's former wife) and of course my dad looking quite handsome in his uniform.

As I've been told the story, in the early '60s my dad enlisted in the Air Force. He was from a rural part of Kentucky -- his family was from very humble (read poor) roots, and he knew that the only way he would get a college education was through military service.

My dad was a career military man -- he served proudly in the Air Force until retiring in 1982. He also got his college degree that same year -- he was the first person from his family to get a college degree. I am tremendously proud of my dad for both of these honors (and many others!).

I thank my dad for his service, and I'm honored to be an Air Force brat!

Posted by Wendy Sipple, Style Co-Publisher.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Attention all Veterans and Active Duty Military!


Miabello Gelato in the Fountains wants you to stop by so they can offer you a free small gelato on Veterans Day to thank you for your service and sacrifice.

So if you have a hankering for a little something sweet, then you better head over to try one of their 18-24 standard gelato and sorbetto flavors. Miabello also serves biscotti, semifreddos (gelato cakes), truffles and Italian sodas.

So head on over and spoon up!

- Photo courtesy of Miabello Gelato



Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Eco-friendly Art in Roseville!


Looking for a party venue that’s eco-friendly and fun? Or maybe a place to have some after school fun?

Well, reCREATE in Roseville just opened a new Art Center where you can create masks and other crafts using repurposed materials.

And they offer several ways you can be eco-art friendly. You can stop by for a field trip, schedule a party for up to 12 guests, buy an eco-friendly kids toy or create some art for only $5 during Craft Time. They supply the bulk items, scissors, glue and more!

As listed on their Web Site, on average each Roseville employee creates about 18 pounds of waster per day. That’s frankly incredible!

So to offset the waste, reCREATE educates businesses on how to be eco-friendly and collects unwanted items and industrial byproducts. Maybe we at Style should get a little eco-friendly education!

So get a little green, spin your creative wheels, and check out this new art center in Roseville!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Wild Art Benefit for the Homeless


This month a wild art performance is coming to El Dorado County!

The world famous artist David Garibaldi will perform live at the Spoiled Rotten Boutique on Sunday, November 15 to raise money for the homeless.

Attendees will have a chance to watch Garibaldi paint three original pieces and meet him afterward.

It’s a great chance to see unusual art and also help out those less fortunate in the community. The boutique will also be collecting items for the homeless. Click here to view the donation items most needed. 

What: “Hope for the Homeless” event, proceeds benefiting FAITH (Feeding and Inspiring the Homeless)

When: Sunday, November 15
Where: Spoiled Rotten Women’s Boutique
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Tickets: $15 per person
For more information, visit spoiled-rotten-boutique.com

Monday, November 2, 2009

Coffee at Your Price!


Jericho Coffee in Roseville is celebrating its 3rd birthday, but instead of receiving, it’s giving a gift to you.

On November 6, you can get the best coffee at the best price. Your price! That’s right, you name whatever price you are willing to pay for your drink.

So if you haven’t gotten a chance yet to check out this great stop for your morning or evening cup-a-joe, Friday, November 6 is the day to do it!

You just can’t beat that price. And being a bit of a coffee snob myself, I must tell you they make a pretty rockstar mocha.

But Jericho is more than just a caffeine pit stop. You can buy some great gifts, books and inspirational items as well as hear live music on Friday and Saturday nights…a perfect place to meet up with friends or have a peaceful study session. Jericho also offers free WiFi with a drink purchase.

So don’t forget to stop by and wish them a Happy Anniversary!

Best Halloween Ever!

I read in, of all places, Luann (the comic strip character) the other day about giving out books for Halloween. There is a website called booksfortreats.org.

Well, I have hundreds of old children’s books and no children to read them! One series of books is R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps. I have about 30 of them. Last night when all the trick or treaters came I gave out candy and each kid got a Goosebumps book. What really surprised me was the enthusiasm of the kids for the books – they LOVED it! They ignored the candy and went through the stack of books looking for just the right one! I was really impressed with these kids. I heard a lot of them say “I love to read”!! After about an hour kids started showing up asking if I was the house giving out books. Can you believe that!?! I gave out all the Goosebumps books and there were a few really little kids and I gave them Beatrix Potter books.

Best Halloween EVER!

Blog post by Debra Linn, Advertising Director

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Family Fun Night!

Head to Vernon Street in Downtown Roseville this Friday for the seventh annual Family Fun Night! It will be an evening of free entertainment and trick or treating for the kids.

You don’t want to miss this great event featuring:
- a magic show
- face painting
- balloons
- clown entertainment
- a Giant Slide
- an Extreme Rush Obstacle Course
- costume contest for 5 age groups

And the best part... it's all for free!
The Lilliput Children’s Services will host the event this year. Lilliput is dedicated to helping children and families affected by foster care, adoption and kinship care. They look to reduce the number of entries and increase the number of children leaving foster care.

What: Family Fun Night
When: Thursday, October 29
Where: Vernon Street in Downtown Roseville
Time: 4-8 p.m.
For more information, visit downtownroseville.com

Folsom Lake College Art Show


Just in time for October Arts and Humanities Month, Folsom Lake College will host a reception featuring artworks by professors and students with disabilities. There will be a wide range of media, subject matter and style. The Disability Awareness Art Show will spotlight the achievements of students with disabilities through various digital formats on campus.

What: Disability Awareness Art Show
When: Thursday, October 29
Where: Folsom Lake College, 10 College Parkway in Aspen Hall room FL1-8
Time: 5 - 7:30 p.m.
For more information visit flc.losrios.edu or call 916-608-6556.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Want to Volunteer? Attend the City of Roseville's Volunteer Open House

Learn about new ways to get involved in your community as a volunteer! This event helps you find out how you can donate your expertise and time to make a difference.

There are many organizations and programs to consider, including: Library, Police, Parks and Recreation, Transit, the Maidu Senior Center, Maidu Interpretive Center and the Roseville Utility Exploration Center. This even is free and pre-registration is not required.

When and Where?

Monday, November 9
6-8 p.m.

Maidu Community Center
1550 Maidu Dr.
Roseville

For more information, contact Jan Jones, City of Roseville Human Resources, at 916-774-5207.

Friday, October 23, 2009

World Premiere In Roseville!

The ride is sometimes the destination.

That's the theme of a new film premiering in Roseville this weekend. Yes, that's right. "No Parking" The Movie, is a local media production completely self produced, self filmed, self marketed and self distributed.

It's a story of a real-life tragedy that ultimately turns into a triumph and celebration of friends and hope.

The plot focuses on two high school friends now in their 50's who after a series of tragedies in their lives decide to take the roadtrip they always talked about.

The film was shot on a road trip of more than 3,200 miles in a 1973 VW Bus. The scenes take you through places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Death Valley, Las Vegas, Malibu and more.

And if you are not convinced it will be a cinema experience up to your standards, check out the great trailer and synopsis page on the film Web site. It's not everyday you get to see a heartfelt and artistic film shot in your own city.

So be sure not to miss a movie that promises to be a great ride! (And then head out for some delicious pizza at Roseville's very own Basic Urban Kitchen + Bar for the after party.)

Blog post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern

Friday, October 16, 2009

Support Kelley and Her Recovery!

For 30 years Kelley Kalafatich rafted down rivers around the world and was a guide to others, letting them experience the excitement and beauty of whitewater rafting.

But now she faces challenges of a different kind.

The long-time El Dorado County resident is in chronic pain and paralyzed below the waist. She developed a rare condition called transverse myelitis. Her new goal is to conqueror the condition and walk again and she spends hours each day in a physical rehab program.

And she is not alone on the path to recovery.

Kelley’s friends are hosting a benefit at the Sierra Nevada House in Coloma where all the proceeds will go to the NTAF Catastrophic Injury Fund, for medically related expenses of persons with serious injuries or illness.

In addition to her rafting, Kelley was active in filmmaking as well, doubling as Meryl Streep’s stunt double in “The River Wild” and as a filmmaker in “Three Women, Three Hundred Miles.” It was a documentary about the first winter descent via kickboard of the Colorado River. The documentary will also be for sale at the benefit for $40.

So come out and support Kelley and her progress towards recovery!

What: Fundraiser for Kelley Kalafatich
When: October 23, 6 p.m.
Where: Sierra Nevada House, Coloma California
Tickets: Purchase at Sierra Nevada House, The River Store and Sierra Rizing in Coloma and Sierra Rizing, the Bookery and Fitzpatrick Physical Therapy in Placerville, or at the door.
For more information contact Tiffani Shiro at 642-8517 or Tiffani@coloma.com.

-Blog post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Clothing and Equipment Sale This Weekend!

Make sure you don’t sleep in this weekend because the El Dorado Mothers of Multiples is hosting a “shop until you drop” event!

Twice a year they host a gently used clothing and equipment sale for babies and kids. Need a stroller? Highchair? Clothes for all ages? They will have it.

And the best part is you can sign up for their mailing list and get in 15 minutes early. That’s perfect if you are looking for a specific item and want to cruise through.

But even if you can’t get out there at 8:45, the Half Price Sale starts at 11:30 a.m.

So don’t miss this chance to get some great items for your family and support a community organization at the same time!

What: ED MoMs Clothing and Equipment Sale
When: Saturday, October 17
Where: Marina Village Middle School, 1901 Francisco Drive, El Dorado Hills, 95762
Times:
Members only - 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Mailing list members - 8:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.
General public - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

A Call to Artists!

Style congratulates the Blue Line Gallery in Roseville for being awarded by KCRA 3 as the #1 Art Gallery in the Sacramento region for 2009!

And it just so happens the Blue Line has an exciting new contest for area artists...

The 33rd Annual Open Show will take place February 20 through April 9 and is accepting submissions now.

And if you happen to be a starving artist...you could win $2,000 in prizes. Yep, that’s right. Cash for art. Hmmm…I’m sure we at Style could come up with something to submit.

The deadline for submissions is January 8 and artists can submit up to five entries. There is a $15 per entry fee, but hey, you could win $2,000 in prizes! And the works will be shown in the Blue Line Gallery.

The juror for the event will be Shelly Willis, the Sacramento Public Art Administrator. Shelly comes highly qualified having managed the public art program at the University of Minnesota and visual arts programming for the City of Fairfield, taught at Napa Valley and Solano Community Colleges, served as program coordinator at the California Arts Council, and more!

So send in that art!
For complete entry information, visit rosevillearts.org.

- Blog post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Halloween Fun at the Fountains!

Not doing anything for Halloween?

The Fountains at Roseville has just the spooky event for you and your family. Enjoy a safe and fun night of trick or treating from 6-7 p.m. There will also be a costume parade from 5-6 p.m., a great chance to show off your fabulous outfits!

For more information, visit thefountainsatroseville.com

Donate Food Today!


The Twin Lakes Food Bank is asking for your help this month.

During the holidays, food donations are very generous, but the Food Bank has seen low donation numbers for October.

If you have any canned foods or packaged goods, they would greatly appreciate the donation.

It’s a difficult time for many right now during the recession. With more people facing unemployment, the food just isn’t staying stocked on the shelves. The Twin Lakes Food Bank feeds more than 2,300 people each month.

So help this worthy cause today and drop off some food. Or get others involved and start a drive in your work office!

Support this worthy organization that serves the community!

They especially need:

Canned Soup
Canned Main Dish; stew, ravioli, tamales, spagettio's
Canned fruit
Canned Vegetables
Canned tuna
Canned Meat
Spaghetti
Mac n Cheese
Tomato Sauce
Spaghetti Sauce
Crackers for Soup
Peanut Butter
Noodle & Rice packaged side dishes

For more information, visit twinlakesfoodbank.org.

Blog post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern. 
Photo from twinlakesfoodbank.org. 

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Style Halloween Dance Video!

We at Style were beside ourselves with laughter when graphic designer Aaron Roseli created this Halloween themed video card as a last farwell gift to fellow designer John Stricker.

Special appearances are made by Jenn Talley (managing editor), Desiree Patterson (executive editor) and Gary Zsigo (art director).

You will have to agree that Style staffers sure know how to boogie...
Make sure you turn your sound up!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Monday, October 5, 2009

We'll Miss You, John!

Style’s resident funny-guy, graphic designer, studio photographer, and illustrator extraordinaire, John Stricker is moving to Portland. While he’ll still be working with us, we will miss his random outbursts, comical costumes and his jokes...well some of his jokes. Two things that John loves are food and costumes. We recently had a going away party for him with delicious pizza and tons of decadent desserts, and in true Style fashion, we took the opportunity to poke a little fun at him, and in his honor donned costumes of our own. John, we’ll miss you!

Style staffers make a “bald statement” showing John how much he’ll be missed.

John receiving his "Portland Preparedness Kit" from Cathy

Post by Jenn Talley, Managing Editor

Friday, September 25, 2009

Hoshall's Cut-a-Thon -- This Sunday!

In need of a haircut?! Well, there's no better time than this Sunday as Hoshall's hosts the Cut-A-Thon for Autism Research.

The details:

Sunday, September 27
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hoshall's Parking Lot at 6608 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 4 in Folsom

Make a donation and get a hair cut, polish change or chair massage (or make a big enough donation to get all three!) by Hoshall's staff!

This event benefits the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institude and Sutter Neuroscience Institute.

For more info, check out HoshallsCarmichael.com.
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