An Action-packed Weekend of Family Fun is Revving Up

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) – This. Is. MONSTER JAM™!  The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world today returns to Sacramento an adrenaline-charged weekend at the Golden 1 Center on August 5–7, 2022.  Celebrating its 30^th anniversary this year, Monster Jam features world-class athletes locked in intense competitions of speed and skill. 

The popular Monster Jam Pit Party fan experience will return to Sacramento on both Saturday and Sunday, where fans can see the massive trucks up close, meet their favorite drivers and crews, take pictures and enjoy other family-friendly fun.  This unique experience is the only place that allows people to get up close access to the Monster Jam teams and get an insider’s look at how these trucks are built to stand up to the competition.  Pit Passes are priced at $20 each for this VIP experience.

Sactown motorsports fans will witness heated rivalries, high-flying stunts and fierce head-to-head battles for the Event Championship.  Engineered to perfection, the 12,000-pound Monster Jam trucks push all limits going head-to-head for points in Freestyle, Skills, Donuts and Racing competitions.  Monster Jam drivers are trained, world-class male and female athletes who have mastered not only the physical strength and mental stamina needed to compete, but the vital dexterity to control 12,000-pound machines capable of doing backflips, vertical two-wheel skills and racing at speeds up to 70 miles-per-hour to produce jaw-dropping, live motorsports action seen around the world. 

The Sacramento event features eight skilled athletes fighting for the championship while putting on a spectacle, constantly innovating and always entertaining.  Tyler Menninga gets behind the wheel of the legendary black and green wrecking machine Grave Digger^®, celebrating its 40^th anniversary this year.  Elvis Lainez grabs the bull by the horns driving El Toro Loco^®, Bernard Lyght makes his debut in Megalodon^® and military veteran Kayla Blood in Soldier Fortune™ look to lock in the event championship.

Friday, August 5, 2022 at 7:00 PM
First event.

Saturday, August 6, 2022 at 7:00 PM
Pit Party open from 4:30 PM–6:00 PM (Sat. Event Ticket & Pit Pass required for entry)

Sunday, August 7, 2022 at 1:00 PM
Pit Party open from 10:30 AM–12:00 PM (Sunday Event Ticket & Pit Pass required for entry)

 

Golden 1 Center is located at 500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814.

Tickets are affordably priced for the whole family!

Tickets and Pit Passes can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com

*Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

For local Sacramento event info, please visit

www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/sacramento-ca/aug-05-2022-aug-07-2022

 

The story of River Cats outfielder Austin Dean

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – Have you ever seen that viral video from September 2019 when a Miami Marlins outfielder threw a baseball at a tower of beer cans? If you haven’t, you’re missing out.

The Major League Baseball (MLB) player who participated in such a unique, in-game, event was Austin Dean, who is now with the San Francisco Giants’ Triple-A affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats. The viral moment occurred on Sept. 20, 2019, during a matchup between the Marlins and eventual World Series Champions, Washington Nationals, a game that the Nationals won 6-4.

Dean’s game within the game didn’t take place in just any regular season affair. The video of Dean recorded by a fan went viral across the country on the same day that Miami suffered its 100th loss of the season. Therefore, some fans in attendance at what was once known as “Marlins Park,” now known as LoanDepot Park, needed some extra entertainment to get through the end of what had been a tough season for Marlins fans.

“The funny thing about it was, is that they had already started that pyramid by inning one. So, it was working its way up,” Dean told the Messenger Publishing Group with a smile before taking on the El Paso Chihuahuas at Sutter Health Park on June 22. “It was (being built at) the AutoNation Alley (Deck) so there were quite a few people, I’d imagine they were taking everybody’s (beer can) there. There were at least three guys, because I got to meet them afterwards, there was three guys that were really contributing to it.”

Dean was impressed with the commitment and determination of the three gentlemen building the pyramid. The video, originally posted by the Marlins’ Twitter account, shows the pyramid at a strong and sturdy 54 cans by the time Dean caved into the fanatics’ demands.

“They started it in the first inning,” Dean said. “By the third inning, they started kind of wanting me to do it. And I was like, ‘No I can’t do it.’ (Again, in the) fifth inning, (then) the seventh inning rolls around and it’s huge, it’s at its peak. I finally looked at them like, “you know what, whatever, I’ll give it a shot.’ I finally looked at them and gave them the nod.”

By that point, Dean was in, and operation beer can pyramid was a go! The 28-year-old outfielder, who was 26 at the time, slowly walked towards the fans standing in left-center field, lined it up, and as NBA broadcaster Mike Breen would say, “BANG,” bullseye. Dean didn’t take down the entire pyramid, but he perfectly nailed the single beer can standing atop the five-story creation.

“My biggest thing was like, ‘alright, I can’t go short here, you can’t miss it,’ right? Just aim for the vicinity of the area and just hope we knock some down, right? I throw the ball, had a little cut on to it, and it was just perfect,” Dean explained. “Knocks the top can over, they go nuts, I’m (standing) there like, ‘there’s no way I just did this.’ I go to center field, I’m talking to Lewis Brinson who’s out there and Jon Berti’s out there, and I’m like, ‘Dude, I just hit that pyramid out there.’”

His teammates at the time doubted him, but the video evidence spoke for itself, garnering 3.4 million views just on Twitter with what Dean described as a “fun moment.”

“After the end of the game, (my) phone is just blowing up,” Dean recalled. “Probably 300-500 messages, just like notifications about all that going on. I was like, ‘this is absolutely incredible.’ If you get me to do that again, there’s no chance that I could do that again. I wasn’t looking for clout.”

Dean explained that the video gets posted randomly, once or twice a year, by various baseball accounts on social media. However, the various accounts usually don’t tag him in the video because nobody seems to remember that he was the guy that made the moment happen!

As for Dean’s career on the field, he was traded from the Marlins in January 2020 to the St. Louis Cardinals, who have arguably the best fans in all of MLB according to many.

“I would agree, they have probably one of the best fan bases in baseball,” Dean said. “Especially playing in Busch Stadium as a Cardinal is awesome. I’ve played as an opponent as well and I can even say, it was even great there. Everybody was super nice in the outfield. When you go to New York and Philly, you’re getting ragged on and get a couple swear words thrown at you there every once in a while. But there, it felt really nice, that’s the epitome of baseball right there, (with) amazing fans and an amazing atmosphere as well.”

Dean spent the 2018 and 2019 seasons with Miami before playing two seasons in St. Louis in 2020 and 2021. On Nov. 5, 2021, the Giants claimed Dean off waivers. In March 2022, he was designated for assignment and began his career as a River Cat.

“Austin comes to play every day and he’s the same guy,” River Cats manager Dave Brundage told MPG on June 22. “He might be goofy at times, (but) he’s here to play and wants to win, he wants to succeed and he brings a lot of energy every single day. I appreciate that from a manager’s standpoint, somebody that loves to play the game and plays it correctly. He’s got a lot of talent too; he’s just putting it all together (with) him being more consistent along the way. Seeing what he can do defensively, he plays left and right (field), can run well, swings the bat with power, he does a lot of things well and a lot of little things well. He’s a good teammate.”

So far this season for Sacramento, Dean has a (.249) batting average with 11 home runs, 36 RBI and 68 strikeouts in 68 games played.

“He is really good in the clubhouse and has been a really good leader,” River Cats hitting coach Damon Minor said about Dean to MPG in a phone interview on June 23. “On the field, he has been a really good strength (for us). He’s athletic, really can run, really handles left-handed pitching well, which in today’s game is really good being a right-handed hitter. He really has a good arm in right field and can play all three (positions).”

Dean and his wife are expecting a baby in December and the gender is being kept a secret to be shared among close friends and family. However, the 28-year-old did indicate that when he found out the gender on June 20, it made him, “really, really, really happy,” so take that as you may.

“I was very fortunate enough that the Giants got to pick me up,” Dean said. “I got put on waivers during spring training and it’s not something that you want to go through. But at the same time, I still got a job, which I’m happy about, and this is a time where I need to reflect and find ways to get better and kind of prove myself again.”

CAL EXPO, CA (MPG) - Opening weekend of the CA State Fair & Food Festival was a roaring success, drawing tens of thousands of visitors after a two-year pandemic pause. Fairgoers of all ages enjoyed rides and games, food and drink, live music, livestock, exhibits, and more.

“We’re very excited that the opening weekend was so well received by our guests, who helped celebrate California with an exciting, successful, and safe start,” said Rick Pickering, Cal Expo General Manager and CEO.

The exciting shrills coming from the rides and the positive buzz from first-ever California Cannabis Exhibit, were among the main attractions on opening weekend. As of Sunday afternoon 8,225, unlimited ride wristbands have been sold; 14,000 fast passes sold; over 10,000 ride tickets were sold. Amongst all the thrilling rides, the White-Water Flume ride was the most popular with over 8,500 riders, understandably considering the hot temperatures.

Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls wins back-to-back Best of Show in the Food Festival Completion, this time with its Cinnamon Toast Caramel Roll. Other big winners are first-time vendors at the CA State Fair & Food Festival, Bula Pies Fiji for its Chicken Curry hand pie, and Cakes by Jeff won awards for two of his delicious, sweet treats. Soul on a Roll and Wing Mahal also won ribbons.

The clear bag policy that we’ve implemented - similar to Golden 1, River Cats & Sac Republic, helped eager fairgoers get through the gates quickly and safely so they could start enjoying the fun.

“On Thursday, we honor our military, veterans and first responders for Appreciation day,” said Pickering. “I want to thank all of our law enforcement officers and security team, who are doing an exceptional job helping to keep the state fair the safest place families can be this summer”.

The CA State Fair & Food Festival runs daily through Sunday, July 31st at Cal Expo. You can also check out all the attractions online at Calexpostatefair.com or download the CA State Fair app to help map out each visit to this year’s fair.

The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology and the diversity of its people, traditions and trends that shape the Golden State's future.

 

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Following the success of Amaluna in 2020, Cirque du Soleil is excited to announce its return to Sacramento with its internationally-acclaimed production Alegría. From July 28 to August 28, audiences are invited under the Big Top at Sutter Health Park (400 Ballpark Dr.) to experience the pure theatrical magic of Alegría—an entirely redesigned fan favorite. 

Undeniably the most iconic Cirque du Soleil production, Alegría is an all-time “classic” reimagined for a new generation to fall in love with. An uplifting immersive experience, Alegría whisks audiences away to a mystical world sprinkled with visual poetry and acrobatic extravagance. 

At the heart of a once-glorious kingdom that has lost its king, Alegría witnesses the power struggle at play between the old order and a new movement yearning for hope and renewal.

With its unforgettable soundtrack, exciting acrobatics, surreal costume designs, vibrant sets, and playful humor, Alegría joyfully touches the soul and lives up to its global reputation of quintessential Cirque du Soleil spectacle. 

To watch the official trailer, visit https://youtu.be/snZ1yDnVhfU

For more information, visit cirquedusoleil.com/alegria

Tickets for the Sacramento engagement of Alegría are available now at cirquedusoleil.com/alegria.

In A New Light

Alegría (‘joy’ in Spanish) first premiered in 1994 and has since become one of the most beloved Cirque du Soleil shows, mesmerizing over 14 million spectators in 255 cities across 40 countries in over 19 years of touring. Its Grammy Award-nominated soundtrack—including the iconic title track ‘Alegría’—is still the most purchased and streamed Cirque du Soleil album to date.

In 2019, in celebration of its 25th anniversary, Alegría was restaged under the Big Top in a whole new light, ensuring that all its components—stage direction, music, acrobatics, sets, costumes, lighting, and makeup designs—would be as inspiring for today’s audiences as they were at the time of the original creation. Reenergized by a cast of 53 acrobats, clowns, musicians, and singers, Alegría remains timeless and imbued with a joyous magical feeling. 

The revival of Alegría is the 44th Cirque du Soleil original production since 1984, and its 19th presented under the Big Top.

Cirque du Soleil wishes to thank SAP, its official partner, and Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, the official Premiere partner of Alegría.

Follow #Alegria and #cirquedusoleil on social media

Originally composed of 20 street performers in 1984, Cirque du Soleil completely reinvented circus arts and went on to become a world leader in live entertainment. Established in Montreal, the Canadian organization has brought wonder and delight to more than 200 million spectators in more than 450 cities in over 60 countries on six continents. Cirque du Soleil is owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. For more information, visit cirquedusoleil.com.

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) — The California State Fair & Food Festival will honor the life and career of Randy Paragary of the Paragary Restaurant Group on Saturday, July 23, 2022, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, at Cal Expo, Building B.

In honor of the late restaurant owner, the California’s Kitchen Cooking Theatre will host a parade of former Paragary restaurant chefs who will be preparing dishes while talking about the restaurant industry and sharing memories of working in a Paragary’s restaurants. Paragary’s widow, Stacy Paragary, and his two children will be in attendance for the event.

“Randy Paragary has been a pioneer of the local restaurant and food scene since 1969,” said Rick Pickering, Cal Expo General Manager and CEO. “He has worn many hats: Saloonkeeper, Attorney, Restaurateur, Entrepreneur, Husband, Father, Community Board Member and Mentor. Randy will always hold a special place in all our hearts, and he will be remembered not only for one day but through eternity at Cal Expo.”

In addition to his multitude of achievements in the culinary industry, Paragary was also a Member of the Cal Expo Board of Directors.

Fair guests are invited to join in with Paragary’s colleagues and family to learn more about his life and career and share in honoring the memory of a giant of the Sacramento restaurant scene.

About the California State Fair 

The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology and the diversity of its people, traditions and trends that shape the Golden State's future.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Sacramento’s long-serving John Skinner Band last week presented a farewell performance as part of the Carmichael Park concert series. John Skinner’s wife, singer Susan Maxwell Skinner, reports on the final gig:

We set up in 106 degrees. By 6:30 pm, 100 degrees heralded our downbeat. The Skinner band was hot to trot!

On stage and off, emotions ran high. Some fans had danced to the band for all of its forty years. Long-time dancer Pat Z’berg showed up on her walking frame. I remember Pat cutting a rug at the Radisson with a dancing machine called Danny. Like the Radisson, Danny’s long gone. But plenty of kids showed up, too. We’ve always had an eclectic audience.

Well over a thousand people saw our finale.  As early as two hours before kick-off, some claimed what little park shade was available. Fans greeted us with laughter and tears. We delivered rock, swing and Latin; even a couple of line dances. As evening wore on, scores of stalwarts filled the floor.

Everything has its season. John Skinner made it clear he expected his namesake band to shutter after his death. We honored our remaining contracts and COVID took care of the rest. John got his wish. But his band had one more show in it. Carmichael Park was the perfect setting. We’d played every concert season there for more than 40 years.

Band alumni stood up for one last blow. John's talented daughter Kathryn joined me in song. Loyal band retainers were: Mark Stivers (piano), Dan Kassis (drums), Tom Hannickel (bass), Doug Pauly (guitar), Kurt Pearsall (trumpet), Brandon Matthew (trombone) and Roger Gosline on sax. Ron Davis operated sound. I thank them all.

Thanks, Supervisor Rich Desmond, who honored us with a resolution that detailed John’s service and the band’s endurance. Thank you concert sponsors: Carmichael Recreation and Park District, Carmichael Kiwanis Club, Carmichael Creek Neighborhood Association.

And thank you for the music, dearest John Skinner. Two and a half hours ‒ including two encores ‒ went fast. And then the Skinner Band bowed out. Gracefully and gratefully.

 

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Beginning next month, parts of the American River will change to benefit salmon and steelhead migration.

Sacramento Water Forum programs will add nearly 42,000 cubic yards of gravel to Lower Sailor Bar and Nimbus Basin. The projects – continuing habitat restoration undertaken by the agency since 2008 – are geared to improve breeding opportunity for diminished chinook salmon and steelhead populations.

Man-made river alterations have threatened these species since gold rush excavations. More recently, Folsom and Nimbus dams blocked spawning paths; dams also barred natural gravel movement to lower river reaches.

“Some salmon and steelhead return to their home water and can’t find a place to spawn,” explained Water Forum Habitat Manager Erica Bishop. “Though the Nimbus Hatchery has a role in juvenile fish production, the Water Forum’s focus is to help salmonids complete life cycles naturally.

“Steelhead and salmon once had 200 miles of the American River watershed for spawning as they returned from the ocean,” Bishop noted. “We’ve limited this to about 12 miles. Fish can’t build nests among boulders. They need moveable gravel to make their redds (nests). The lower American River is gravel starved. We need to do everything we can to allow these fish to maintain their species.”

Lower Sailor Bar work begins August 1; the Nimbus Basin project starts August 27. In preparation, tons of Lake Natoma stones have been graded to suitable size. This gravel will be trucked to Nimbus and Sailor Bar for redistribution.

Habitat restoration includes nursery inlets to accommodate growing juvenile fish before their migration to the Pacific Ocean. Planting of native vegetation around inlets will engineer shade and bring insects to feed small fry.

In a larger 2021 project, 16,000 cubic yards of gravel were bulldozed into shallows near Ancil Hoffman Park. Working against the clock, the project restored habitat for the fall salmon migration. Soon after, steelhead spawned in the same gravel beds.  

“We have a narrow work window, as specified by the Endangered Species Act,” Bishop said. “Our work is targeted over time frames least likely to affect migrating fish.”

Project success is evident. 2019 restoration above Sailor Bar resulted in 1,000 new chinook nests. The augmented Ancil Hoffman site last winter housed 30% of all American River steelhead spawning.

“Results are immediate,” Bishop noted. “We see salmon beginning to spawn as we finish our projects. We know our restored habitats work.

“Although the ongoing drought can make river conditions challenging for fish, our projects focus on long-term improvement of river health.”

Habitat restorations have been completed at River Bend Park, Sacramento Bar and in stretches of the American River along Sunrise Road. Lower Sailor Bar and Nimbus projects will wrap by early October. Though staging areas will be fenced during construction, river access and rafter use will not be restricted. In-river work will pause to enable weekend and Labor Day recreation.

Water forum projects are supported by the Bureau of Reclamation, CA Prop 68 funding, Sacramento City and County and signatory water agencies.

Learn about the water forum at www.waterforum.org.