CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - On Saturday, May 28, 2022, at approximately 1:15 a.m., the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received several separate calls regarding a shooting that occurred at an apartment complex located on the 4400 block of Manzanita Avenue. The callers advised there was a large party at the location, and someone was lying on the ground after being shot.
Deputies responded to the complex and located a juvenile male suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Metro Fire pronounced the subject deceased at the scene.
Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene investigators responded to the scene, interviewed many witnesses and gathered evidence. No suspect or further information is available at this time.
The identity of the shooting victim will be released by the Sacramento County Coroner’s Office after identification and notification of next of kin.
Detectives are asking anyone with information relating to this incident, to please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (916) 874-5115 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP. Tip information may also be left anonymously at www.sacsheriff.com or by calling (916) 874-TIPS (8477).
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The 25th Annual Optimist High School Boys’ Volleyball All-Star games are set for June 5, 2022.
It will be held at Capital Christian HS, 9470 Micron Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95827. The Small Schools match will start at 11 A.M.; the Large Schools match will immediately follow. General admission is $10; Seniors are $8; Students, Coaches & Club Coaches are $5; 12 years and under are $3; under 5 years are free.
At this time, we must be prepared for the COVID-19 guidelines, so spectators are asked to bring their masks and follow other public health guidelines if mandated.
The Small Schools North Team is coached by James Fanshier from Vista del Lago HS and assisted by Andrew Klem from Foresthill HS and Mike Yates from Ponderosa HS. A notable player on the team is Casa Roble HS outside hitter (OH) Easton Kimm who will be attending Sierra College in the fall.
The Small Schools South Team is coached by Toa Fa’ali’I from Lathrop HS and assisted by Sarah Vieira from El Camino HS. Notable players on the team include OH Elliott Belnap and middle blocker (MB) Josiah Dawson from Rosemont HS, OH Ryan Nash and setter Jensen Vieira from ECHS and libero Demetrio Acosta from Dixon HS.
The Large Schools North Team is Oscar Poort from Oak Ridge HS and assisted by Robert Raffaelli from Folsom HS and Range Larson from Oak Ridge HS. A notable player on the team is OH Nathan Michaelis from Yuba City HS who will be attending Brigham Young University in the fall.
The Large Schools South Team is coached by Kingsley Claudy from Monterey Trail HS and assisted by Dave Amituanai from Laguna Creek HS. Notable players on the team include OH Phoenix Mayugba, OH/MB Ethan Smith and OH Josh Turner from Jesuit HS.
These Optimist All Star games provide the top Senior athletes of Sacramento and Greater Sacramento the venue to showcase their skills and prowess. Their selection is to honor them and their schools, and reflects the culmination of their hard work, diligence, and excellence in their sport and school, as well as their coach’s commitment towards their player’s endeavors. The proceeds from this event will solely be used for youth programs and projects in the Sacramento and Greater Sacramento Areas.
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The 45th Annual Optimist High School Softball All-Star games are set for Wednesday, June 8, 2022.
It will be held at Capital Christian HS (CCHS), 9470 Micron Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95827. The Small Schools game will start at 5:30 P.M.; The Large Schools game will start at 6:30 P.M. General admission is $10; Seniors (65+) $8; Students $5; kids under 12 $3; and kids under 5 are free.
The Small Schools North Team is coached by Stefanie Danna and assisted by Tim Danna and Taylor Ernst, all from Sutter Union HS. Some notable players on the team include pitcher (P) Andi Duff, left fielder (LF) Josie Landis, first baseman (1B) Maya Larsen and third baseman (3B) Sophia Tyler from Marysville HS. Utility player (UTIL) Aubrey Edwards and P Elysia Garcia are representing San Juan HS; Right fielder Jessica Ulshoeffer is representing Mesa Verde HS.
The Small Schools South Team is coached by Matt Boykin from Dixon HS (DHS) and assisted by Buddy Berry from Winters HS. Some notable players on the team include P Lexi Coyle, shortstop Brianna Humphries and catcher (C) Madi West from DHS. Cordova HS is represented by center fielder Kelissa Lee; Rosemont HS is represented by 3B Qyiara Martin; Woodland HS is represented by outfielder Alyssia Torres.
The Large Schools North Team is coached by Mike Mello from Whitney HS (WHS) and assisted by Sean Erickson from Del Oro HS, Art Banks from Roseville HS and Mark Watson from WHS. Some notable players on the team include second baseman Korrie Almond and C Diana Hull from River Valley HS. Bella Vista HS is represented by UTIL Sydney Polli; Del Campo HS is represented by LF Hailee Flink; Yuba City HS is represented by 1B Allyssa Williams.
The Large Schools South Team is coached by Mary Jo Truesdale and assisted by Joe Jaquez and John Mendonca, all from Sheldon HS. Some notable players on the team include C Grace Matej and P Emma Olsen from host school, CCHS.
At this time, we must be prepared for new Covid guidelines, so spectators are asked to bring their masks and follow other public health guidelines if mandated.
During the awards ceremony after the second game, Banks will be inducted into the Optimist Hall of Fame for his dedication and contribution to his beloved sport of softball, to the multitude of players he has positively influenced and the gracious (Old School) manner in which he presents himself.
During the awards ceremony, Truesdale will be honored for her selection as National Coach of the Year in 2020 and being The Best of the Best.
These Optimist All Star games provide the top Senior athletes of Sacramento and Greater Sacramento the venue to showcase their skills and prowess. Their selection is to honor them and their schools and reflects the culmination of their hard work, diligence and excellence in this sport and their school, as well as their coach’s commitment towards their player’s endeavors. The proceeds from this event will solely be used for youth programs and projects in the Sacramento and Greater Sacramento Areas.
Cougars’ season ends in first round of NorCal Finals
CONCORD, CA (MPG) – A magical season for the Del Campo High School varsity baseball team came to an end Tuesday afternoon in the Bay Area with a 9-3 loss at De La Salle in the first round of the 2022 CIF Division I NorCal Baseball Championships.
The Cougars (29-6, 13-2 Golden Empire League) were elevated to Division I for the Northern California tournament after winning the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division III Baseball Playoffs Championship on May 25 against Vanden (29-6, 13-2 Monticello Empire) of Fairfield.
Del Campo was moved up to D1 as part of the CIF’s “competitive equity” model, factoring in a team’s overall resume. The Cougars earned impressive wins against eventual CIF SJS D2 champion Granite Bay on March 22 and CIF SJS D1 runner-up McClatchy on April 30.
RELATED: Cougars remain hot with 8 straight wins, 17 of last 18
The Cougars were given the No. 8 seed in the NorCal tournament and were matched up against the No. 1 seed De La Salle Spartans (25-6, 11-2 East Bay), who won their fifth straight North Coast Section D1 title this year. The Spartans jumped out to a 6-0 lead after the first inning and never looked back.
Following the first inning, each time Del Campo scored, De La Salle would match it, erasing any momentum the Cougars may have been gaining. Del Campo got on the scoreboard in the top of the second inning, scoring once. The Spartans answered with one run in the bottom of the third. The Cougars scored twice in the fifth, followed by De La Salle scoring twice in the sixth. The Spartans went on to win 9-3, ending Del Campo’s season.
Despite losing by six runs, the Cougars outhit the Spartans 11-10. Four Del Campo batters had multiple hits. Senior catcher Logan McCord had a game-high with three. Senior outfielder Jordan Jacobson and juniors, shortstop Anthony Martinez and center fielder Matt Moses had two each. In McCord’s final game as a Cougar, he recorded three hits (two doubles), one run batted in and one run scored in four at bats. Before moving on to play collegiately at Sacramento State, Jacobson tallied two hits, including one double, in four plate appearances.
RELATED: Del Campo sweeps Rio Americano, eyes Capital Athletic League title
Senior pitcher Hayden Hughes suffered the loss on the mound in his final start for Del Campo. The 6-foot-1 flamethrower, who will be attending Sierra College in the fall, pitched 2.1 innings allowing five hits, seven runs (three earned), four walks, two stolen bases, one hit by pitch and one balk on 58 pitches. Senior Thomas Martinez came on to pitch two innings in relief and allowed four hits, two earned runs and one walk on 30 pitches.
De La Salle senior pitcher Tyler Wood got the win after pitching four innings, allowing five hits, two earned runs, one walk and one HBP with two strikeouts on 66 pitches. Three Spartans racked up two RBI each: Seniors, third baseman Cade Cushing and second baseman Alec Nava, and junior catcher Connor Harrison.
On Thursday, De La Salle will host its league rival, No. 4 Foothill (26-5, 10-3 EB) of Pleasanton, in the regional semifinals of the tournament. The winner will play in the regional final on Saturday.
BDOG Big Deal for Local Causes
SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Local non-profits were big winners in the May 6 Big Day of Giving. Many achieved support that surpassed their hopes.
Choreographed by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, the 24-hour giveathon this year helped 718 organizations and raised a record $13.4 million. Since the 2013 inception of this annual appeal, public philanthropy has helped Sacramento, Yolo, El Dorado and Placer County charities to the tune of $78 million.
Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s total‒almost $70,000‒exceeded last year’s results by $3000. Administered by the American River Natural History Association, Effie Yeaw programs are funded solely through donor support. The Center was hard-hit when the pandemic cancelled most income-generating programs. “We were thrilled the community stepped up,” said ARNHA president Laurie Weir. “Our membership has increased, and we saw more generosity from businesses and corporations.” The center’s BDOG appeal was boosted by large donations from Carmichael’s Clark, Kennedy, Getz, Ahders and Halnan families.
Carmichael Parks Foundation set a goal of $20,000 and topped that dream by more than $5000. This total includes a $10,000 gift from the Borman family. Two BDOG incentive prizes also rewarded the group. “Our supporters set alarms and gave online between 4 and 5 am,” explained president Sue Boucher. “In that hour, we raised $4008 and got an Early Dog Prize of $500.” The Foundation provides park beautification and youth program scholarships.
Eighty donors gave the Carmichael Kiwanis Club $18,377. “Over (pandemic) years, we’ve had to cancel fundraisers,” said Kiwanian Virginia Stone. “BDOG results allow us to continue community giving until our fundraising gets back to normal.”
Kids helping Kids is a student-run nonprofit at Del Campo High School. The teenagers’ total $1167 for children in need included a check from Supervisor Rich Desmond. District 3’s leader also gave to Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael HART, Carmichael Parks Foundation, the California Aerospace Museum, Fair Oaks Rotary and Sacramento Fine Arts Center–among other regional gifts.
Nature lovers opened wallets wide. Placer Land Trust’s appeal yielded $202,500. The American River Conservancy (El Dorado County) was enriched by $39,600. The American River Parkway Foundation and Save the American River Association gained $19,233 and $11,000 respectively. Soil Born Farms–a Rancho Cordova enterprise that promotes sustainable food production–harvested $22,000.
Yolo Food Bank achieved a record total of almost $370,000. Orangevale/Fair Oaks Food Bank gained more than $7,500. Carmichael’s Homeless Assistance Resources Team (HART) was aided by $2200. Fair Oaks Rotarians raised $8566.
Top regional beneficiaries included The Salvation Army ($389,000); ACC Senior Services (more than $296,000); Sacramento SPCA ($203,000); Sacramento Food Bank ($202,000).
Cap Radio topped the cultural leaderboard at more than $212,500; the B Street Theatre raised $157,200. Crocker Art Museum collected almost $106,000. Patrons applauded Fair Oaks Theater Festival’s appeal with $13,000 in gifts. In North Highlands, California Aerospace Museum was refueled with a $25,300 in support.
Children’s charities traditionally compel big BDOG responses. Kiwanis Family House banked almost $132,000; Shriners Hospitals easily topped a $100,000 goal; Sacramento Children’s Home collected over $141,000.
“People responded to need,” confirmed Sacramento Region Community Foundation CEO Linda Beech Cutler. “This year we were concerned about inflation affecting people’s ability to give. But donors seem to realize that non-profits are critical. BDOG aims to make philanthropy possible for everyone, so we were delighted by 30,652 donations. Many were from first-time givers, with sums of between $15 and $50. Small amounts make a huge difference.”
The 2023 BDOG is scheduled for May 4. For more details, visit www.bigdayofgiving.org
Footnote: This report reflects BDOG leaderboards. Not all May 6 donations are recorded by this source.
CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A Citrus Heights teenager was found dead following a shooting at a large apartment complex party in the 4400 block of Manzanita Avenue in Carmichael on May 28.
According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, 911 calls began incoming at 1:15 a.m. in the early hours of Saturday morning, May 28. The victim was identified as 17-year-old Mesa Verde High School 11th grader Antonio Rocha by the school’s Principal Jennifer Petersen.
Sac County Sheriff’s deputies arrived on scene at The Continental Apartments complex and found Rocha suffering from a gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at the scene by Sac Metro Fire and there is currently no suspect as the investigation is still ongoing according to the sheriff’s office.
This is not the first time a minor has been shot and killed at a complex on the 4400 block of Manzanita Avenue. In 2018, a 16-year-old was shot and killed by a 13-year-old on the same block according to the sheriff’s office.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Rocha’s godfather to help support the family with funeral service costs. The fundraiser has currently raised over $23,000. According to the page, Rocha was a two-sport athlete who played football and wrestling.
Those with information are encouraged to call the Sac County Sheriff's Office at (916) 874-5111. For those with information who want to remain anonymous, call the Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357).
Celebration of a Lifetime
FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) - It was the celebration of a lifetime in honor of one of Fair Oaks’ most beloved local treasures‒Penny Howard.
Penny turned 100-years old on May 7‒a feat only achieved by an elite group of senior citizens. Her birthday celebration was held at the Carmichael Elks Lodge and hosted by Penny’s three children Dean, Russell, and Mary. More than 150 of Penny’s friends and family members—some travelling as far away as Hawaii and Texas—turned out to express their love and support for this special lady on her special day.
Party guests also included Penny’s church friends, long-time neighbors, and members of the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce. Penny is the Honorary Mayor of Fair Oaks and has been active in the community for five decades.
Michael Collins, Penny’s oldest grandson, flew in from Portland (Oregon) and recalled how much his grandmother meant to him growing up. “She was a huge influence on my life. I loved coming down every summer and staying with her. She would take me camping and we’d visit special places. I wouldn’t have missed being here today and I’ll be back for her 105th!”
Jayne Daugherty (92-years old) and her daughter, Bev, both flew in from different cities. Jayne and Penny’s friendship go back almost 70 years when the families lived across the street from each other in Altadena, California. “Penny is my oldest friend. We’ve been through sad times and joyful times over the years. She is a wonderful lady and a great artist. I’m so proud to be her friend!”
Laughter, tears, tributes
Penny’s daughter, Mary Howard, officiated the program portion of the event, which included a blessing read by Laura Simkins from Penny’s church, a slideshow highlighting Penny’s eventful life, a song written by her father in the 1930s and sung by chamber friend Pete Schroeder, a video of Penny’s first indoor skydiving experience (which drew laughter) when she was a mere 94-years old, and special presentations from individuals Penny has touched over the years.
“How wonderful that we get to be here to celebrate this special day with this wonderful woman. When you live to be 100 you touch a lot of lives,” remarked Mary.
Kimberley Pitillo, executive director of the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce, presented Penny with a Certificate of Recognition along with a special letter from California Assemblyman Kevin Kiley. The letter read in part, “Congratulations on your 100-year milestone birthday. You have made countless memories over the years and have lived the past 10 decades with compassion, love, adventure, and a commitment to making the world and those around you a better place.”
Friends and family especially enjoyed hearing from Bud Gardner who was Penny’s writing instructor at American River College about 30 years ago. Bud remembers Penny well.
“I told my students early on that if they want to sell articles, they need to focus on the local markets. It takes time to establish yourself in the big markets. You won’t make it, etc. Well, after listening to my advice, Penny looked me straight in the eye and responded, ‘oh yeah?’ Next thing I knew she wrote a story and sold it to Better Homes and Gardens for $700!”
“I didn’t know I knew 150 people”
Penny spoke about growing up in the Great Depression and shared a few stories including one about the day she walked across the Golden Gate Bridge when it opened. With overwhelming gratitude, she expressed her appreciation for everyone coming. “I can’t believe you are all here—and just for my birthday!”
Penny has inspired many people throughout the years with her big heart, infectious smile, quick wit, numerous talents‒and a knack for telling stories!
Here are some of her most memorable quips from the day:
Q: What’s the secret to reaching 100 years old?
PH: Don’t die before you get there.
Q: What do you think about having 150 people at your birthday party?
PH: I didn’t know I knew 150 people!
Q: What advice do you have for your children?
PH: Be good to your mother.
Q: How long do you think you will live?
PH: Forever!