Register Online For North Natomas Little League

The North Natomas Little League's online registration for the spring 2010 season is now open. Click here for more info.

Onsite Registration will be held at Regency Park Elementary School on:

• Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to Noon
• Jan. 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 23 from 9 a.m. to Noon
• Jan. 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

11:57 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Seen In Natomas: Safeway At Sunset

PHOTO BY RICHARD DANGANAN

7:58 PM | 2 comments | Read More

Updated: Natomas Homicide Investigated

Reports of a large crowd involved in a fight turned deadly last night in Natomas.

The crowd was part of a New Year's Eve event which police say was taking place at Studio 18 -- a dance studio rented for use as a teen night club. An investigation by THE NATOMAS BUZZ found it appears last night's event was organized by some of the same people who held several illegal night club events in Natomas until  authorities shut them down a year ago.

Police spokesman Sgt. Norm Leong said authorities are investigating whether Studio 18 had the necessary permits to hold a teen party at the site located in the strip mall adjacent to Gold's Gym.

When Sac PD officers responded to the scene on the 1900 block of Del Paso Road at about 10 p.m. they found a man lying in the parking lot with a gunshot wound(s). Emergency medical personnel pronounced the man dead at the scene. 

The investigation has confirmed a New Year's Eve event was in progress when a fight broke-out inside the establishment and eventually spilled over into the parking lot. The fight continued in the parking lot at which time the victim was shot. Police describe  participants in the fight as primarily African American males in their 20s.

The Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Investigations Unit detectives are actively investigating the circumstances that led up to this murder. The 21-year-old victim's identity is being withheld at this time pending further investigation and notification of his next-of-kin. 

Detectives are encouraging witnesses present during the fight or when the victim was shot to contact the Police Department. Witnesses can also contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.

10:41 AM | 14 comments | Read More

Happy New Year, Natomas!

-THE BUZZ

2:14 AM | 1 comments | Read More

Kaplan Drops Out Of City Council Race

Plans Run For Third Term On Natomas School Board 

Candidate Lisa Kaplan this afternoon announced she has withdrawn her bid for the City Council, District 1 seat.

Kaplan, currently serving her second term on the Natomas Unified School District board of trustees, instead plans to seek a third term on the school board.

"I first ran for school board because I knew I could make a difference and had a passion for changing the lives of the children of Natomas for the better," said Kaplan in a press release. "My passion is for the children of Natomas and I want the opportunity to continue to make a positive difference in their lives."

Kaplan's decision to withdraw her candidacy was preceded by John Dahilig, a former candidate for District 1, who also bowed out of the highly anticipated race to represent the Natomas region at City Hall.

That leaves challenger Angelique Ashby, president of the Creekside Neighborhood Association, and incumbent Ray Tretheway on the ticket for the 2010 race. Kaplan said she is not endorsing either candidate at this time.

“Lisa has shown her commitment to improve the quality of education for Natomas children," said Councilmember Tretheway of the announcement. "I look forward to continuing to work with her in making Natomas the best community in Sacramento."

About her plans to seek a third term on the school board, Kaplan added, "I cannot knowingly vacate my school board seat without setting the District right financially as we weather this economic downturn."

6:58 PM | 6 comments | Read More

For A Good Cause: Parents Support Group Forms

Do you have a special needs child?

Do you need support navigating special education law and services your child is legally entitled to?

Then consider joining the Natomas Special Needs Group -- a support network of parents and caregivers with special needs children.

Start by becoming a fan on Facebook and/or sending an e-mail message to natomas.song@gmail.com.

12:53 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Businesses Want To Keep Arena In Natomas

Several parties have submitted proposals for a new sports and entertainment complex in Sacramento -- including one that would keep the Kings here in Natomas.

Among those championing this option is the Natomas Chamber of Commerce board of directors which endorses building on 100 acres already owned by the city here in Natomas. Support for this proposal is needed from the Natomas business and residential community.

Click here to take the online survey to keep Arco Arena here in Natomas.

10:43 AM | 2 comments | Read More

NATOMAS TOP SPOT: Best Customer Service

We recently conducted an online survey of our readers asking where we could find the "Best Of..." in the neighborhood. Here is the fourth installment in a series of posts sharing the results of our 2009 "top spot" awards!

PHOTOS BY PhreePhotographer.COM

When it comes to outstanding customer service, Natomas residents sing the praises of numerous businesses throughout the neighborhood but it was votes for all three Raley's and Bel Air store locations that had the grocery chain come out on top.

Honorable mentions include Bella Bru, Chili's Grill & Bar and Mr. Pickles restaurants and the California Family Fitness gym. Wrote Angie B., "Everyone at California Family Fitness! Especially everyone in the daycare. They are awesome." 

12:00 AM | 1 comments | Read More

NATOMAS TOP SPOT: Best Entertainment, Night Life, Happy Hour

We recently conducted an online survey of our readers asking where we could find the "Best Of..." in the neighborhood. Here is the third installment in a series of posts sharing the results of our 2009 "top spot" awards!

PHOTOS BY PhreePhotographer.COM

Bella Bru may be known for its tasty breakfast, lunch and dinner menus but it also has a growing reputation as a top night spot in Natomas. The restaurant hosts a weekly trivia competition on Monday nights, "Thursdays Are For Tasting," and live music most Friday nights!

Tied in this category is Oshima Sushi featuring its Fugu Lounge night club and patio with fire pit. Both Malabar and BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse earned honorable mentions for their night life.

9:45 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Nominations Sought For Community Awards

Nominate someone who "lights up Natomas" for the annual Natomas Community Awards set for Feb. 20.

Award categories include: Volunteer, Outstanding Youth, Small Business,  Corporate and Community Leadership. Click here to download a nomination form and criteria.

The red-carpet event will be held at the Benvenuti Performing Arts Center. Click here to order tickets.

To sponsor the event, contact the Natomas Chamber of Commerce at 564-7436.

8:17 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Well, That's Not A Very Neighborly Welcome

The newly opened Sac Town Ice Cream & Sandwiches restaurant was burglarized Saturday, according to a Natomas crime update issued today by Sacramento police Capt. Daniel Hahn.

Suspects apparently entered the business by breaking the glass front door at 3:28 a.m. and tried to remove the cash register, but were unsuccessful. The ice creamery is located at 2000 Club Center Drive.

THE BUZZ has yet to visit ourselves, but we've received numerous reports that both the gourmet sandwiches and Gunther's ice cream are tasty!

The menu, promotions and specials are posted on the restaurant's website. Monday night = family night at the shop when all orders between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. are 10 percent off!

5:58 PM | 2 comments | Read More

NATOMAS TOP SPOT: Best Family Spot, Outing, Activity

We recently conducted an online survey of our readers asking where we could find the "Best Of..." in the neighborhood. Here is the second installment in a series of posts sharing the results of our 2009 "top spot" awards!

PHOTOS BY PhreePhotographer.COM

The numerous parks located throughout the Natomas neighborhood were voted hands down the best family-friendly amenity in the area! Whether its the twice rebuilt Fort Natomas, long-planned North Natomas Regional Park or dog parks, there are plenty of outdoor play places from which to choose.

Citywide budget cuts have taken their toll on the Sacramento Parks & Recreation Department staffing and, in turn, regularly-scheduled park maintenance. But true to form, Natomas residents refuse to let their neighborhood parks fall into disrepair and have stepped up again and again to "adopt" the care of these spaces.

Honorable mentions include: The Club at Natomas Park, neighborhood libraries, pumpkin patches and the movie theater.

10:28 AM | 0 comments | Read More

For A Good Cause: Free H1N1 Flu Vaccinations

The Sacramento County Public Health Department is offering free H1N1 Flu vaccination clinics at several locations in our community. The vaccine will be provided free of charge to anyone medically eligible aged 6 months and older.

Monday, Dec. 28 10 a.m. to 2 p.m

Robertson Community Center, 3525 Norwood Avenue

Wednesday, Jan. 6, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Grant Union High School, 1400 Grand Avenue

The Twin Rivers Unified School District and Regional Transit are partnering to ensure that our families are able to attend one of the Vaccination Clinics being held in the community. You may call Twin Rivers School and Community Relations at 566-1600 ext. 1346 if you need transportation assistance.

Depending on supply, a flu nasal mist or injection will be available at the vaccination clinics. Schedule subject to change check www.sacpublichealth.net for updates.

tj@yournextlevelcoach.com

12:44 PM | 1 comments | Read More

Sirens Cheer Team Tryouts Scheduled

The Sirens Cheer Team will soon be holding their final tryouts for the 2010 season.

January 13th is the stunt clinic with the team & January 15th is the actual tryout. Both dates are at 6:30 pm Pozsars Gymnastics 2709 El camino Street.

There is a $10 gym fee per day. Tryout packets are available on the organization's website at www.sacramentosirenscheerelite.com.

www.teal.net

12:36 PM | 0 comments | Read More

NATOMAS TOP SPOT: Best Cup Of Joe

We recently conducted an online survey of our readers asking where we could find the "Best Of..." in the neighborhood. Here is the first installment in a series of posts sharing the results of our 2009 "top spot" awards!

Maestro's Cafe & Gallery, 2069 Arena Blvd, Suite 130, has a lot going on under one roof. It's a coffee house, it's an art gallery, it's a place people gather on weekends to play chess, and it's one of the best places to get one fine cup of coffee. Here are some of your comments posted on our Facebook fan page:

"Mastro Coffee House, you name the coffee Sam fixes the best. Try it!" -Dianne M.

"Maestro Coffeehouse makes the best coffee (the chai tea lattes are really good too)." -Melissa B.

"Maestro Coffeehouse is on hit. I usually get the Chai Tea with a shot." -Martha A.

"Maestros's! Just had the Chai Tea with a shot this afternoon ... Yumm-O!" - Peggy M.

It's A Grind, 2731 Del Paso Road, came in a close second with readers citing both the cafe's Vanilla lattes and Vanilla nut coffee as being buzz worthy!

The Starbucks at 2121 Natomas Crossing Drive came in third earning high praise for their customer service with Peet's Coffee & Tea (in Raley's/Bel Air), Panera (on North Freeway and Del Paso Road) and Bella Bru getting honorable mentions for their quality cups of Joe!

PHOTOS BY PHREEPHOTOGRAPHER.COM

12:50 AM | 0 comments | Read More