Experience El Dorado!

Tahoe. You might head there for camp outs or skiing in the winter. Or maybe you just imagine a crowded Interstate 80 on a Friday afternoon with campers headed to the well-known Northern California destination. Either way, you might not know Tahoe as well as you think.

Experience El Dorado, a half-hour monthly magazine show focused on in-depth looks at California’s Hill country, will give viewers a fresh take on the popular getaway. El Dorado field guide Cory Tapia will attempt to catch a mega-Mackinaw trout and learn the Tahoe Two Step at the sixth annual Telegrass Festival with bluegrass music and telemark skiing, known as free heel skiing.

In the Tahoe wilderness, Tapia and his daughter will go geocaching, hunting for an object using GPS coordinates posted on a Web site. Executive Producer Todd Stanley says, "Cory travels all over Northern California with a crew of experienced filmmakers who capture his raw reactions to new places and unique adventures. He'll crack you up."

Perry King, the show’s host, is a native of the hill country and resides in Cool. Besides knowing the region inside and out, he is a screen veteran who’s been in television for more than 40 years.

“El Dorado County just has so much to offer in terms of climate, cultural amenities, scenery and recreation opportunities. It’s a great place to live, work and play,” King says.

The episode will air on NEWS10 Sunday, August 2 at 5 p.m.

Stanley won an Emmy in 2008 for his camerawork and storytelling on Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch.

Episode one explored the El Dorado’s Gold Country, followed a motorcycle club, and looked at some of the best local wines.

To read more about the show, visit http://www.experienceeldorado.com/

Blog post by Chloe Daley, Style Intern.

Fat’s Martini Happy Hour: Here’s the Skinny

So I heard from a co-worker that I must try the fabulous happy hour at Fat’s Asia Bistro in Folsom…a martini happy hour, you say? You don’t have to tell me twice.

On my way home, I made a detour to the Bistro, where I’d normally stop for the best chow mein ever, but instead opted to try the bar scene and all it had to offer…which was a lot, let me tell you!

When I saw the big golden Buddha in the entry, I knew I was home. The chic lounge area was buzzing with plenty of people (apparently I was the last one to get the memo); however, I was able to score a seat at the bar!

I quickly ordered their Lemondrop martini, my favorite variety in the summer…but if you’re feeling like something more sweet and less tart, a lady next to me recommended the Peach Lemondrop, or their Passion martini (a tropical combination), or even their one-of-a-kind Cherry Blossom martini (a beautiful sight to see).

My Lemondrop was frosty and fresh (no fake tasting lemon)…and the best part of this concoction was the tab – only 5 bucks. And with the half-price Dim Sum & Then Some menu, you really can fill your tummy with all your favorite Asian tapas and still not starve your wallet.

Happy Hours:
Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m.; weekends, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Locations:
Folsom: 2585 Iron Point Road
Roseville: 1500 Eureka Road

But don't take our word for it...go enjoy the happy hour and then tell us if you agree!

Blog post by Desiree Patterson, Style Editor.

American Idol Comes to Sacramento

I recently had the great fortune, much to the envy of my peers and teenage girls across the country, to interview five of the ten American Idol finalists that are part of the “American Idols Live!” Tour. With Sacramento as only their fourth stop on tour, the group of wide-eyed young musical artists were just getting over the excitement of being on a tour bus. I spoke with Season 8 winner, Kris Allen, and finalists Scott MacIntyer, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, and Danny Gokey.

The first contestant to endure my questions was Scott. Polite and well-spoken, his answers were calculated and distinct. When asked what one thing he wished he had on tour, he responded with, “a piano or keyboard to write music.” And if he could collaborate with any Idol from the past eight seasons, he’s choose Carrie Underwood because he’s “always had a heart for country music.” He would also love to write a song for the Jonas Brothers. Check him out at http://www.myspace.com/ScottMacIntyer.

Next was Lil’ Rounds. We chatted briefly about how she missed her children, but kept contact through Skype, the free software that allows users to make video and voice calls over the internet. I asked her what it takes to prepare her voice for two months of consistent performing. “You’ve got to really take care of yourself physically, and honestly, try not to talk as much. Drink lots of water and tea, and warm up your voice.” She hopes to get into the studio and begin recording her album once the tour ends.

Waiting in the wings, picking at a guitar he would soon autograph for some lucky fan, was Kris Allen. He and his magical smile walked over, shook my hand and sat down. For a brief moment, I found myself a bit nervous, with flashbacks to age five when I saw New Kids on the Block with my big sister, and age 14 when it was N’SYNC. My anxiety quickly settled as I realized how laid-back Kris was. I also asked him what he wished he had on tour, and he responded with “more books, since there’s some time to read.” If he wasn’t America’s favorite musician, his dream job would be a professional football player. And in the sparse “off” time he has on tour, he loves sleeping...so apparently he gets time for those football fantasies.

My fourth and most entertaining interviewee was Matt Giraud. The saved-by-the-judges idol contestant was upbeat and funny, commenting on my shoes and dress, and asking me if I liked his hat. Several more inquiries from him ensued, and I reminded him that I was the one asking questions. The jokester subsided and replied to another of my questions. If he could collaborate with an Idol contestant from any season, he would choose Jennifer Hudson because, as he put it, “she’s amazing.” And I agree. We then chatted about social media and networking and even became Twitter pals. He’s definitely making connections on the Web. What’s next for the goofball of the Idol clan? He will be hosting “Make The Cut,” an online reality contest for singers and vocalists on http://www.yobi.tv.

Press interviews were wrapping, and radio and TV personalities packing up their gear, and I was the last remaining press member left with one interview – Danny Gokey. An early favorite on the Idol stage, second runner up Gokey, has a “realness” about him that is evident by his warm smile and soft handshake. Our interview happened to be on the cusp of the one-year anniversary of his wife Sophia’s death. She lost her life during surgery for a heart condition in 2008. Although a few somber moments followed, Danny was refreshingly upbeat and excited about touring, and celebrating the amazing life that his late wife lived. He glowed as he told me of her love for children and the foundation he has begun in her honor, sophiasheart.org. On tour he looks forward to spreading the word about Sophia’s Heart and his passion for touching others with his music.

This group of young talent definitely displays zeal and enthusiasm for music, and my wish for each of them is that they each find their voice and share it, whether it be through song lyrics, composition, hosting a reality show, or through spreading awareness for a heartfelt cause...and I’m sure they will.

For more on the American Idol Summer Tour, check out:
http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1632

Blog post by Jenn Talley, Style Managing Editor.

What a Way to Make an Entrance!

Ok, I normally don't post wedding stuff here in this blog, I do it on our Real Weddings Magazine blog (http://realweddingsmag.blogspot.com/), but I just couldn't resist this.

What an entrance! Wouldn't work for all couples but boy what a fun way to start the big day!

NBC Casting Call...Calling All Couples!

I just got this from my friend Linda at the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce -- check it out!

Jerry Seinfeld, NBC, the Executive Producer Oprah Winfrey and the producers of "Super Nanny" now bring you…"The Marriage Ref"!

A comic, reality series where celebrities and a relationship referee help squabbling married couples make peace. Created by Seinfeld himself, this is relationship advice... with a comic twist.

"The Marriage Ref" casting team is searching the country for outgoing and opinionated married couples, willing to appear on national television, who have a long standing argument or issue that must be resolved. No problem is too small!

Whether you argue about parenting, pets, fashion, money, in-laws, weight, housework, chores, communication, neatness, jealousy, past history, friends... Whatever you argue about, we want to hear from you.

Please include your contact info, city you live in, photos, and a paragraph about why you are the perfect couple for this show. Be sure to include a brief explanation about your arguments and tell us why you are RIGHT and your partner is WRONG!

If this sounds like you or someone you know, please contact the Casting Team IMMEDIATELY at: marriagerefcasting@shedmediaus.com

Linda says to make sure to put EL DORADO COUNTY in the subject line

OR call the Casting Team at: 323-904-4680 x1162

You can also go to http://www.nbc.com/Casting for more information.

So you think you can dance?!

Do fast music, friends, and the rhythms of salsa music sound like your ideal summer night?

Dance the night away at Borders Books (Rocky Ridge) in Roseville!

I know, it sounds kind of kooky to be dancing at Borders, but hey, after you learn a few moves, step it up and take home a book on the origins of salsa dancing for inspiration.

Borders Books will offer a free initial lesson with dance instructors Nichelle Galloway and Wayne Dickey on Friday, August 28 from 7- 8 p.m.; and open practice runs from 8-9 p.m.

There will also be a demonstration of Rueda, a style of salsa dancing, by Baila Rueda Conmigo Dance Club! Salsa will continue through the next fourth Friday, making for some great memories and sizzling summer nights.

Want to learn more about this hot new program? Call 916-276-3322 and get ready for some fun!

Blog post by Victoria Pelham.

The Ultimate Car Recycling...Folsom Auto Expo

Interested in buying previously owned cars without the hassles of dealing with salesmen, middlemen, extra and unwanted charges? Or, want to accomplish the ultimate recycling feat?

Folsom Auto Expo offers these advantages. For one, buyers can shop at their own convenience and make a deal directly with the owners. No complications, countless paperwork and absolutely no salespeople to “sweet-talk” you into buying something you may eventually hate!

Sellers can display their cars alongside others without the frustration of waiting for late, no shows or uninterested buyers. Sellers can also fill-out forms online or onsite.

Folsom Auto Expo gets a lot of sellers every week, so buyers are more than welcome to come by and see what works for them. Cars are on sale every Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Folsom High School Parking Lot off Prairie City Road on Highway 50.

Even better, a portion of the proceeds benefits Folsom public schools!

SELLERS SPECIAL:
First weekend: $30
Second weekend: $30
Third weekend: $30
Next four weekends: FREE!

For more information, visit http://www.folsomautoexpo.com/, or just head up to the Expo and check it out for yourself!

Blog post by Kristine Guerra, Style Intern.