The Natomas Buzz

Natomas Library Thanks Its Friends

2012-02-16T00:30:00.000-08:00

PHOTO COURTESY RANDI KAY STEPHENS
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The staff and Friends of North Natomas Library branch held a volunteer appreciation brunch on Saturday, Feb. 11 in the Library Community Room.

About 40 volunteers participated along with local library staff, Rivkah Sass, the Library Director, and Randi Kay Stephens, Sacramento Public Library Volunteer Coordinator.

Library staff made handmade valentines for all the volunteers and recognized the hours they have worked at the branch - 10,770 hours in all.

The Friends' Store also raised $35,657 during 2010 and 2011.

Question Of The Day - Feb. 15

2012-02-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Are street lights out where you live due to copper theft? Or have you noticed them out in the neighborhood? If so, what street? And how many lights are out?

Live Well Natomas Off To Healthy Start

2012-02-15T13:02:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

More than 1,600 Natomas-area residents rang in 2012 by joining the 90-day “Live Well Natomas” health and wellness challenge.

This program, is sponsored by 10 faith-based groups in Natomas and supported by the Natomas Chamber of Commerce, the North Natomas Transportation Management Association, and Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby, is designed to help the neighborhood get moving by bike or foot.

There are still 45 days left to get more exercise. Those who participate in the Wednesday and Saturday "Live Well Natomas" activities are eligible to be entered to win prizes including a cruise for two, iPads, bikes, and more.

The program is free and open to the public. To sign up, visit livewellnatomas.org for more information or become a friend on Facebook.

“Can’t Weight ‘til Wednesday”

Come stock up on healthy bites and bites of info you can use every Wednesday at. 6:30 p.m. at 1101 National Dr. # A. Free healthy food samples, coaching, movies, and great presenters will all be there to help you make healthy choices so you can “Live Well.”

“Loop the Lake”

Every Saturday at 8 a.m. or 1 p.m. at the North Natomas Regional Park across from Inderkum H.S. walk, run, jog, stroller, roller blade. Bring the kids and the dog...but just get moving!

West Nile Found In North-Area Bird

2012-02-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District received confirmation Tuesday, Feb. 14 that a house finch from the Antelope area tested positive for West Nile virus.

This bird is the first to test positive in the entire state and the first sign of West Nile virus activity in the area for the 2012 season.

“Finding the first positive bird is significant because it means that the virus is present in our area," said David Brown, District Manager. “With the very mild winter and the warm temperatures we’ve had so far, it’s not unusual to find a positive bird so early."

Dead birds provide information on where positive mosquito samples may also be found, and where human cases may develop later in the season.

Some species of birds such as crows, jays and magpies are very susceptible to the virus and are more likely to die from the infection. Though not all birds that are reported will be picked up and tested, the reports provide valuable information and assist with mosquito surveillance and control efforts that help protect public health. Birds are hosts for West Nile Virus and mosquitoes transmit the virus by biting an infected bird and then biting a person or other animal.

In 2011, 8 deaths and 155 human West Nile Virus cases were reported in California.

The public is encouraged to report dead birds by calling the California Department of Public Health hotline at (877) 968-2473). To report a neglected swimming pools or other mosquito breeding problems, please call (800) 429-1022 or fill out a service request form online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net.

Seen In Natomas: Love All Abloom

2012-02-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Floral manager Marcie Fleenor, Brittney Zine, Lisa Parrish and Breanne Meggers are kept busy today, Feb. 14 in the Raley's store on Natomas Boulevard filling orders for Valentine's Day flower and balloon arrangements for loved ones.

Body Discovered Near Garden Hwy

2012-02-14T13:58:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Police Department is investigating a homicide following the discovery of a burning body early this morning in Natomas.

At about 6:29 a.m. today, Feb. 14 officers responded to a report of a badly burned body in the 1000 block of Garden Highway.

The fire department responded first at the request of a passing bicyclist who observed what appeared to be leaves burning. The body was discovered after the fire was put out and reported to law enforcement.

The Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit, Crime Scene Investigations Unit and the Sacramento Fire Arson Investigators responded to the scene.

At this time, detectives are actively investigating the circumstances that led to this apparent homicide. Because the body was severely burned, it likely will take several days and alternative methods to make a positive identification of the victim. The deceased is possibly female, but race and age are unknown at this time.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) 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 of up to $1,000.

Marijuana Operation Arrests Made In Natomas

2012-02-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives arrested five individuals Monday, Feb. 13 connected with a marijuana distribution operation with ties to various states throughout the country.

Keni Renta, 29, Jauwon Wilder, 28, Charles Wilson, 34, Nathan Curry, 35, and Maryann Hunter, 25, were all booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail on charges including possession of marijuana for sale, cultivation of marijuana and conspiracy to distribute marijuana.

In October of 2011, Sheriff’s detectives started an investigation in concert with United States Postal Service and the Financial Crimes Task Force of the Internal Revenue Service. The investigation focused on a group of individuals who appeared to have laundered over $1 million in cash deposits into fictitious business and personal accounts. The deposits were made in states on the east coast, and then withdrawn the following day in Sacramento.

The investigation identified a location where the individuals would meet each day, and then package and ship parcels weighing between seven and twelve pounds each. These parcels were shipped to states including New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and Illinois. Multiple parcels were seized during this investigation, and found to contain high-grade marijuana. Additional parcels seized on the east coast and destined for Sacramento were found to contain cash and money orders.

Search warrants were served Monday at three locations in the Sacramento area, including two Natomas. One of the arrest locations was near Kokomo Park in Creekside, the other on Martis Valley in Natomas Park.

Searches yielded discovery of two marijuana grows, three weapons, several pounds of processed and packaged marijuana, approximately $70,000 in cash, and the arrests of the five suspects. This investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests are expected.

Bail is set at $200,000 for Curry and Hunter, and $1 million for Renta, Wilder and Wilson.

Question Of The Day - Feb. 14

2012-02-14T09:09:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMASBUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Will you be at the Inderkum vs. Natomas High varsity basketball games on Friday at Natomas High - and who will YOU be cheering for?

Natomas Web Series Hopes To Kick Start Second Season

2012-02-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas’ own hit internet show "Dark Pool: The Web" series, has launched a Kickstarter fundraising campaign to help create a small budget for its second season scheduled to begin shooting in April.

“Kickstarter is a crowd funding website where supporters can donate any amount of money to a project they love. Even $5 will move us forward,” said Rick Gott, Natomas resident and "Dark Pool" creator. “We’ve created a very special project where young film artists from Natomas have an opportunity to work alongside professional filmmakers from Northern California. They’re getting invaluable on-the-job training. But city permits, locations, equipment rentals and liability insurance costs money. And we really want to continue.”

"Dark Pool" has been entered for competition in the L.A. Webfest and the Your Film Festival on YouTube. "Dark Pool" debuted online in October; the web series' YouTub channel hit 10,000 views over the weekend.

Sierra Hersek, who lives in Natomas and co-stars in Dark Pool, hopes the Kickstarter campaign proves successful.

“Any opportunity for kids to have a quality professional experience is invaluable," Hersek said. "Exposing them to "Dark Pool" takes a bit of the mystery out of the film making process and might give some budding actors, writers and film makers the courage to tell stories they are passionate about."

If Dark Pool doesn’t reach it’s goal of $5,000 by March 1, the project won’t receive any funds. Click here to contribute via Kickstarter.

Want to be a part of "Dark Pool?" Send a message here.

"Dark Pool" tells the story of Jim Krall, an ordinary man in extraordinary circumstances. A rising star of the elite financial management corporation, Tesserack, Jim's life is turned upside-down when his six year old daughter is kidnapped in front of him, his family and his co-workers and no one seems to care, including his wife.

This Week In Natomas Prep Sports

2012-02-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Boys High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 1-0, Overall 12-10

Inderkum: Last Week 1-0, Overall 9-14

Girls High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 0-1, Overall 9-10

Inderkum: Last Week 2-0, Overall 18-5

February 14

Girls Basketball: Inderkum @ River Valley 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Natomas @ Pioneer 7 p.m.

February 15

Boys Basketball: Pioneer vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

February 17

PAWS VS. CLAWS - THE REMATCH

Girls Basketball: Inderkum vs. Natomas 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Inderkum vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Night Work Continues On I-80

2012-02-13T16:47:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Caltrans is advising residents in the Natomas and Del Paso Heights area they may hear construction noise at night as the result of after hours work on an ongoing bus and carpool lane project.

Loud construction type noises may include back-up alarms, heavy equipment machinery operation, bright lights and industrial hammering operations.

Motorists will also likely be impacted as night work continues from the Sacramento-Yolo county line to the Watt Avenue overcrossing.

Caltrans officials said motorists can expect east and westbound lane and ramp closures Sunday through Saturday from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. resulting in delays of 10-15 minutes.

Motorists are also advised that various ramp closures and lane restrictions will take place during the project’s duration. The speed limit has been reduced from 65 to 55 miles per hour in the work zone during scheduled work hours.

This construction project is part of the $133.3 million project that will construct nearly 10 miles of bus and carpool lanes in both directions, repave the highway from West El Camino Avenue to Watt Avenue, and add approximately one mile of new auxiliary lanes from West El Camino Avenue to the Interstate 80 and Interstate 5 interchange.

The anticipated completion date is fall 2014.

Seen In Natomas: The Golden Toilet

2012-02-13T16:35:00.000-08:00

PHOTO BY LARRY RODDA
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Erik Smitt (pictured here at Raley's) and Craig Powell from Eye On Sacramento were in Natomas over the weekend sharing information about utility rate increase and more.

The watchdog group is asking area residents to contact Mayor Kevin Johnson and Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby by telephone or e-mail to tell them what they think about the city rate increases, debt, bonds, etc.

The golden toilet - dubbed Goldman’s Throne - has been to the Utility Rate Commission hearings and Sacramento City Council meetings.

Question Of The Day - Feb. 13

2012-02-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

What do you think is the No. 1 issue facing the Natomas region?

Seen In Natomas: World Thinking Day '12

2012-02-11T00:10:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY GLENN ROBINSON
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Nearly 300 Natomas-area Girl Scout in the Del Garden Service on Friday, Feb. 10 participated in a World Thinking Day 2012 held at Inderkum High School.

Each year, World Thinking Day, girls participate in activities and projects with global themes to honor their sister Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in other countries.

World Thinking Day is meant to give girls a chance to celebrate international friendships, but also remind them that Girl Scouts of the USA is part of a global community—one of nearly 150 countries with Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.

World Thinking Day is part of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Global Action Theme based on the United Nation's Millennium Development Goals , which aim to improve the lives of the world's poorest people.

The theme for World Thinking Day 2012 is girls worldwide say "we can save our planet." This theme is based on United Nation's Millennium Development Goal 7 focused on environmental sustainability.

*More of Glenn Robinson's wonderful photography can be seen on his website.

Seen In Natomas: Making Good Choices

2012-02-10T13:30:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Sacramento Police officer Corey Morgan visited Tuesday, Feb. 7 with Cub Scout Pack No. 402's Den 1 to talk about "Making Good Choices." This achievement presents a series of scenarios to the Cub Scouts and they must decide what they would do if they found themselves in particular situations.

"N Factor" Nominations Sought

2012-02-10T13:19:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Do you know someone with the "N Factor?"

Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby's office seeks nominations for an upcoming awards gala to acknowledge and recognize the efforts of Natomas residents and business people who share their talents with the neighborhood community.

"We know that community partners and volunteers are the heart of Natomas, but do you know someone with that 'special something' that really makes our community a great place to live and work?" Ashby's website reads. "Do you know someone who lives or works in Natomas, and gives generously of their time, energy and resources to make it a better place?"

An awards gala is planned for 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. April 14 at the Four Points Sheraton, 4900 Duckhorn Drive.

Nominations are sought for those who contributed above and beyond toward the advancement of Natomas - those who possesses the N FACTOR. Click here to nominate someone.

Seen In Natomas: New Burger Joint

2012-02-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Several readers have contacted THE NATOMAS BUZZ to find out more about a new eatery coming to the corner of Club Center and Danbrook drives in Natomas.

Signage - and a menu - are now up for Willie J's Burgers & More in the shopping center anchored by the CVS store. City officials confirm building plans have been submitted, but permits have not yet been pulled.

According to the menu, the planned restaurant will serve breakfast along with burgers.

SacPD Offers Free Driver Safety Class

2012-02-10T11:23:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Police Department is offering a free educational class to teenage drivers and their parent or guardian on driver safety.

New drivers lack the experience that is sometimes needed in various driving situations. Teen drivers are found to be at fault in 66% of all fatal accidents they are involved in. In contrast, they represent only 4% of the state's licensed drivers. The leading cause of death for all Americans 15 - 20 years old is motor vehicle collisions.

The class is free, open to teenagers, 15-19 years old, and they are required to bring a parent or guardian. This class is being offered in an effort to keep new drivers, and their passengers, safe on the road.

The next class will be held 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29. Classes are held at the Central Command Station of the Sacramento Police Department, located at 300 Richards Blvd., Second Floor. We are also accepting registration for Wednesday, March 28 for the same time and location.

Space is limited, so register now by calling (916) 808-6126.

Sunset At Natomas Oaks Park

2012-02-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

PHOTO COURTESY THOMAS HAINES

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas resident Thomas Haines shot this photo of yesterday's spectacular sunset from the Natomas Oaks Park off Garden Highway. Thanks for sharing, Thomas!

Kudos: Inderkum "Most Improved" At AcaDeca

2012-02-09T12:45:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Inderkum High School in Natomas earned the most improved score from the prior year at the 32nd annual Sacramento County Academic Decathlon competition.

Bella Vista High School, from the San Juan Unified School District, won the competition and will advance to the state finals next month it was announced last night, Feb. 8 by Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon at an awards banquet.

Twenty-five Sacramento County high schools sent teams to compete Feb. 4 in written and oral exams held at Inderkum High School.

Students competed for awards in 10 demanding academic events: Mathematics, Art, Music, Language/Literature, Economics, Science, Essay, Speech, Interview and Super Quiz. Students received gold, silver or bronze medals for their efforts.

Folsom High School placed second, followed by Del Campo High School, Pleasant Grove High School, and Monterey Trail High School. Inderkum placed 6th overall out of the 25 competing schools.

BY THE NUMBERS:

Inderkum High School – 6th Place Team In County

"Most Improved Team" -- an increase of 3,057 points from 2011

Coached by: Jessica Downing Forsell

Team Members and Awards They Won: Ashley Gonik--Silver Medal-Economics, Bronze Medal-Music, Bronze Medal-Super Decathlete, Bronze Medal-Super Quiz (Individual), Top Scorer of Team, Team Leadership Award; Jorge Iniguez; Racquel Jackson; Brandon Powers--Bronze Medal-Math; Thajus Prasad; Avnit Ram;Prabhneet Sahi; Muhammad Eshan Tahir; and Michael Young. Additional Competitors from School: Valentina Carrillo--Placed 8th in Overall Individual Scores of "Additional Participants"; Emanuel Davis; Rui Jiang; Yan Long; Maryl Mendoza; Jeffrey Rirao; Ravpuneet Sahi; Charnpreet Singh and Landy Zhang.

*PHOTOS COURTESY THE SACRAMENTO COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION.

Kudos: Natomas USD Employees Of The Year

2012-02-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Natomas Unified school board recognized a group of outstanding employees at their meeting last night, Feb. 8.

Heron school principal Doug Orr was chosen 2012 administrator-of-the-year for "being focused and driven and is deeply passionate about successful teaching and learning."

According to the district, student achievement drives Orr. As a result of this drive, students are learning - evidenced by a 38-point gain in standardized test results during the 2010-11 school year.

Orr has created a committee of staff and parents to research grant opportunities that support the educational mission at Heron. As a result of these efforts, the school was recently awarded a $5,000 Raley's grant.

The school district also recognized its 2012 classified employees of the year: American Lakes Elementary – Maria Freeman, Bannon Creek Elementary – Jordana Marquez, Discovery High - Becky Hunt, H. Allen Hight Elementary – Deborah Morales, Heron K-8 – Christie Settanni, Inderkum High – Leticia Ballesteros, Jefferson Elementary – Vicki Bartholomew, Natomas High – Donna Millwee, Natomas Middle – Janine Trevino, Natomas Park Elementary – Heidi Ochoa, Two Rivers Elementary – Becky Pryor, Witter Ranch Elementary – Billy Wroe, Education Center – Tracy Cobb (also the overall district classified employee of the year), Food Service – Beverly Adversalo, Maintenance and Operations – Tuan Nguyen, and Transportation – Ed Fry.

Bannon Creek Students Share Essays

2012-02-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Students from Phil Cox's 5th grade class at Bannon Creek Elementary School read their "I believe" essays at the Natomas Unified School Board meeting last night, Feb. 8.

Students reading essays included:Abby Simmons, Shradha Thapa,Madeline Yamamoto,Sehej Singh,Safal Mengi,Gillian Andersonand Chidinma Ohia.

Natomas Middle Students Perform For NUSD Board

2012-02-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Under the direction of Jeff Galindo, students in the Natomas Middle School Music Program's chorus, orchestra and jazz band performed for the Natomas Unified School District board meeting last night, Feb. 8.

Students participating included:

CHORUS: Ashleigh Allen, Amanda Batiz, Tarik Bible, Mariah Cabrera Zernik, Kaila Cheatham, Tabitha Comendador Castle, Nohely Diaz, Stephanie Eichhorn, Aliyah Angel Guina, Elijah Hernandez, DeAjhane Jackson, Jennica Jurado, Kirandeep Mann, Alyssa Martinez, Andrew Naraja, Isaiah Padilla, Amare Pickens, Arias Saiyarath, Cynthia Singh, Carol Ana Talau, Brandon Thornton, Fanessalyn Amian,Jessica Bateman, Tyler Bernard, Celyjane Biag, Serena Chacon, Monae Crumbly, Trista Curry, Sajah Davis, Caitlyn Dixon, Joshua Giacchina, Kenyah Gray, Ashley Guerrero, Qwa'nesce Hardeman, Kaitlin Humphrey, Camille Johnson, Makayla Johnson, Terran Jones, Monique Labang, Alyssa Luy, Angela Meneses, Tiara Peters, Miya Saechao, Simardip Sidhu, Marquise Smith, Elizabeth Van Skike, Adrian Vargas, Genora Whiting, and Nicole Yue.

ORCHESTRA: Rica Baccay, Erykah Bazile, Elissa Bodrug, Alyssa Branum, Jennifer Bunnell, Olivia Datu, Daniel Drouin, Hannah Felder, Kevin Garcia, Cara Hansen, Matthew Harvey, Kenneth Jackson, Kaiyin Jones, Phetida Keomanivong, Madelyn Peterson, Madison Ramos Cook, Emmanuel Ward, Teyahja Wysinger, Kanwalprit Bagri, Itzel Cruz, Darius Datu, Monique Galloway, Ivan Hernandez-Orozco, Daniel Phillip Mena, Tray Morris, Andres Munoz, Ashley Patterson, Saul Robles, Arianna Ruvalcaba, Zaria Stevenson, Tiana Towne, and Ema Tukana.

JAZZ BAND: Mario Cortez, Miguel Recendez, Ryan Hubbard, Angus McEvoy, Dakota Stubblefield, Dylan Sanchez, Az Alcantara, Kenneth Aquino, William Armenio, Allison Garcia, Brenden Gonzalez, Joshua Graham, Brendan Jones, Justin Le, Matisse Leathers, Klaude Matias, Desmond Moreno Livingston, Brittany Pagan, Jenia Robinson, Matthew Sanouvong, Adam Wolf, Nicholas Deal, and Matthew Yuen.

Open Mic Night Set For Saturday

2012-02-09T11:20:00.000-08:00

BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Natomas School of Music will host its monthly Open Mic Night 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. this Saturday, Feb. 11.

The event will include a mix of performers - and and new. Signups start at 6:30 p.m.

All performers welcome; material must be family appropriate. This event is open to the public.

Open mic night will be held at the Natomas Racquet Club, 2450 Natomas Park Drive.

Found: Do You Know This Pooch?

2012-02-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

This sweet pooch was found last night, Feb. 8 on Ivycrest Way in Natomas.

The dog appears to be a male beagle; no tags. The plan is to check if he is chipped at a local veterinarian later today.

In the meantime, anyone with information about the dog – please contact Barbarsa at (916) 802-0649.

Natomas Student Wins County Poetry Out Loud Contest - Again

2012-02-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Brittany Wiltz from Natomas Charter School is the winner of the Sacramento County Poetry Out Loud for 2012.

Wiltz took first place in a field of fourteen - which included students from Natomas Charter and Natomas High School - during the Sacramento County finals, which were held today, Feb. 8 at Rosemont High School in Sacramento. Sheridan Smith from Pleasant Grove High School was runner-up.

Sacramento Poet Laureate Bob Stanley served as the master of ceremonies.

Wiltz earned the right to represent Sacramento County in the state finals, March 25-26 in Sacramento. California’s overall winner will receive $200 and an expenses-paid trip to compete in the national competition in Washington, D.C. The National Finals and Semifinals will be held May 13-15.

A total of $50,000 in scholarships and school stipends will be awarded at the national finals.

NATOMAS BUZZ readers may recall Wiltz, a student in Natomas Charter School's Individualized Learning Program, won last year’s Sacramento County Competition.

The Sacramento County Poetry Out Loud competition encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization, performance, and competition. The program provides students with the opportunity to perform poetry in English classes.

Sacramento County's 2012 Poetry Out Loud winner Brittany Wiltz receives recognition from Sacramento County Board of Education trustees (L-R): Greg Geeting, Dr. Eleanor L. Brown and Jacquelyn Levy

Mayor To Host Latino Town Hall

2012-02-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Mayor Kevin Johnson will hold a second Latino town hall at the Mexican Consulate in Natomas on Feb. 16.

The meeting is a follow-up to a town hall held for the Latino community in November 2011. At that time Mayor Johnson made a commitment to continue his dialogue with the Latino community and host a second town hall in early 2012.

This town hall will also include a special announcement about one of Sacramento’s cherished Hispanic institutions.

The Sacramento Mexican Consulate is located at 2093 Arena Boulevard. Click here to register.

This Week In Natomas Prep Sports

2012-02-08T14:27:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomabuzz

Boys High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 1-1, Overall 11-10

Inderkum: Last Week 1-1, Overall 8-14

Girls High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 2-0, Overall 9-9

Inderkum: Last Week 2-0, Overall 16-5

February 9

Girls Basketball: Woodland vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: River Valley vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

February 10

Boys Basketball: Inderkum @ Woodland 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Natomas @ River Valley 7 p.m.

How To Start Neighborhood Watch In Natomas

2012-02-08T14:16:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

An opportunity for Neighborhood Watch training is available next week, Feb. 15 at the W. J. Kinney Police Facility.

Where: W. J. Kinney Police Facility, 3550 Marysville Blvd. (Intersection of Marysville Blvd. & South Avenue)

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 15

Trainer: Jeannette Bonner, Neighborhood Watch Coordinator-Kinney

This session will include information on how to start and organize a Neighborhood Watch group. The training will also provide insight on how to be an effective group in the community, along with the roles and responsibilities of the Neighborhood Watch captains and co-captains.

Already have a group but want to update your skills and knowledge? Attend this meeting to learn what the Sacramento Police Department is currently doing.

As part of this training, your neighborhood watch group will become part of the Sacramento Police Department (SPD), W.J. Kinney Police Facility Neighborhood Watch Group and the National Neighborhood Watch Institute.

Contact Bonner to reserve a training spot at (916) 566-6401 or jbonner@pd.cityofsacramento.org, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Space limited to 30.

Kudos: Natomas Pins Inderkum

2012-02-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS COURTESY ANTHONY FREEHILL PHOTOGRAPHY
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Natomas High School wrestling team won their final league duel against Inderkum High School last week on Jan. 31.

Coach Don Martinez said later he had never seen a team in need of seven pins to win a match before, but according to a message sent out by Principal John Eick the Nighthawks walked away the victors after making seven straight pins. The wrestling match was tied at 42-42, but Natomas High had the most pins.

Kudos to Alex Gonzalez, Eric Gibson, Rafael Pantoja, Joseph Grinstain, Anthony Mercado, Jordan Sepeda and Jorge Collado.

Both Natomas teams will compete Saturday, Feb. 11 in the Tri County Conference League tournament at Inderkum High School.

Natomas High School Athletic Booster Club meeting 6 p.m. at the Natomas High career center, 3301 Fong Ranch Road.

Adult Baseball Tryouts Set For Sunday

2012-02-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The National Adult Baseball Association (NABA) will hold team formations and tryouts on Sunday, Feb. 12 at Inderkum High School.

NABA includes various levels of play; advanced, intermediate, and recreational. The league consists of a 18-22 game season, all star games for all divisions, playoffs, championships, tournaments, and trophies and awards for all winners.

The schedule of registration is as follows:

35+, 45+, 55+ pitchers & catchers registration at 9 a.m.
All other players registration at 9:30 a.m.
18+ and 25+ pitchers & catchers registration at 1 p.m.
All other players registration at 1:30 p.m.

The tryout fee is $5. For more information, call 916-729-3373 or visit www.sacnaba.org

Note: Rainout date is Sunday, Feb. 19.

Found Pup Reunited With Owner

2012-02-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The dog found this morning at the North Natomas dog park was reunited this evening with her owner.

Natomas resident Kristie Ehhardt found the dog in the park and, responding to a NATOMAS BUZZ post on Facebook, Tracy Schweiger volunteered to foster the dog while efforts were made to find the owners or a new home.

When Schweiger took the dog to Natomas Animal Medical Center to check for a microchip, she ran into the dog's owner who was dropping off a "lost dog" flyer. (Incidentally, the owner had also contacted THE NATOMAS BUZZ trying to find her dog.)

A very happy ending for Firefly!

You Asked, We Got The Answer

2012-02-06T16:46:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

"Do you know if there is public access to the all weather running tracks at either the ARC Natomas Center or Natomas High School for folks who would like to go jogging there? I used to live over by ARC on Winding Way in Carmichael, and provided the teams were not working out one could use the facilities."

-Mark Smith via e-mail

Michael S. Cannon, executive director of the Natomas Unified School District's facilities and planning department responds:

"We have previously and currently do not allow access to our tracks outside the Facilities Use process, due to liability concerns, as well as student safety concerns during school hours as well as after-school sports practice."

"I would note that the tracks we have at both high schools are artificial and located inside the stadiums; opening them to the public would effectively open the entire stadium to the public, with severe liability, crime and damage concerns."

"The track at Natomas Middle School circles the soccer field, and is also fenced for the same reasons noted above. The DG (decomposed granite) track at Leroy Greene is not fenced, and we are having problems with people running their dogs on the track and not cleaning up after them, as well as dumping trash on and adjacent to the track."

Natomas Eats: La Mex Taqueria

2012-02-06T15:28:00.000-08:00

BY DOREEN LOPEZ

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Years after standing by his father’s side, watching him prepare food, George Azar discovered his desire to cook.

Trading his Honda in as down payment for a used food truck, Azar took a risk and opened La Mex Taqueria. Over time he upgraded to a custom-designed, stabilized truck parked at a fixed location, 2630 Northgate Boulevard, next to Rico’s Pizza.

The secret to the success of La Mex Taqueria: Keep the menu simple and focus on the flavor of the food.

Azar and his crew season and prepare each of the seven types of meats and handcraft all of their salsas.

For a tamer taste you can chose from steak, pork and chicken. For a more authentic Mexican meal, I suggest trying the carne asada (roasted beef), lengua (beef tongue) or cabesa (beef cheeks).

I ordered a variety of tacos and at $1 each it was a bargain.

The average taco consists of two corn tortillas, your choice of meat, onion and cilantro. With the flavors of the perfectly seasoned meat anything else would be a distraction.

I ate like I was going to be executed the next day.

Taking a bite of the cabesa taco quickly brought to mind fond memories of my grandmother's cooking. My dining partner commented, “Wow, these are just like the tacos I had in Mexico.”

The only downsides to dining at La Mex Taqueria is no place to sit and eat your meal and they don’t take credit cards. During the hour I was there, a steady stream of customers ordered their food to go.

The next time you are looking for something to eat, take the $6 you would spend on a fast food chain’s burger combo and head over to La Mex Taqueria. With tacos at $1 and tortas (Mexican sandwich) topping the menu at $5, you can’t go wrong.

Found At Natomas Dog Park (Updated)

2012-02-06T09:55:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A BUZZ reader, Kristie, found this sweet pup at the dog park near Inderkum High School in Natomas. It's believed the dog was there overnight. Kristie is unable to take the dog home with her and is hoping someone can help keep it out of the shelter.

*Several readers saw this post on Facebook responded to the call for assistance. A Natomas resident named Tracy is fostering the animal while Kristie contacts Keeshond Rescue.

Seen In Natomas: County AcaDeca

2012-02-04T22:56:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Inderkum High School was among 25 local teams that competed in the 32nd Annual Sacramento County Academic Decathlon held today in Natomas.

The daylong competition started with individual and group tests and concluded with a live Super Quiz showdown on the topic “The Age of Imperialism: The Making of a European Global Order.”

Sacramento County’s overall top scorers will be announced at the countywide awards ceremony Wednesday, Feb. 8.

SAFE Credit Union will provide $10,000 earmarked for scholarships to selected Sacramento County Academic Decathlon participants.

The local team with the most points goes on to compete in the California Academic Decathlon, which takes place March 15-18 this year in Sacramento.

Girl Scouts Troop Adopts Alder Park

2012-02-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Members of Girl Scouts Troop No. 4034 spent their Saturday morning today, Feb. 4 beautifying their neighborhood park in Natomas.

The Regency Park-area troop has adopted Alder Park, committing to schedule several cleanups to maintain the park's appearance in 2012.

On Saturday, the girls were joined by a handful of parents and grandparents to pick up trash, rake leaves, cut down bushes, much trees and more.

Groups, individuals or businesses interested in adopting a park in District One, they can contact District One Parks Liaison Elena Quintero at equintero@cityofsacramento.org or (916) 410-4998.

Seen In Natomas: Battle of the Bands

2012-02-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY GLENN ROBINSON*

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Photographer Glenn Robinson captured the energy of last night's "Battle of the Bands" concert held last night, Feb. 3 at Natomas High School. Participating bands included Straight Up Grizzly, Nightmare in the Twilight, In Atrophy, Sarcophagus, Blood Dose, Double Negative, and others.

*More of Glenn's photography can be found at http://www.glennrobinsonphotography.com/.

Latino College Fair At Consulate

2012-02-03T13:36:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Cien Amigos, the Latino Policy Coalition, and the California Student Aid Commission will host "Steps to College 2012" college fair 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow, Feb. 4 at the Mexican Consulate in Natomas.

The event will include an opportunity for Latino students to:

Learn the latest on applying for the California Dream Act
Speak to college and university representatives
Apply for financial aid, if eligible

Registered participants will learn out about the Cien Amigos-IME Becas Scholarship Fund, for Latino high school juniors, seniors, and current college students. AB-540 high school seniors who attend the college fari, could qualify for a Cash for College "Dream in Action" scholarship!

To find out more, email us at cashforcollege@csac.ca.gov or call (916) 329 3590. Click here to register online.

The Mexican Consulate is located at 2093 Arena Boulevard.

Volunteer Drivers Needed For Seniors

2012-02-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Stanford Settlement seeks volunteers to provide transportation to medical appointments for it seniors citizen participants.

Drivers must have a valid California Driver's License and insurance.

Interested? Call Stanford Settlement at (916) 927-1303 or e-mail atinfo@stanfordsettlement.org.

New Papa Murphy's Coming To Natomas

2012-02-03T13:05:00.002-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A spokesperson for Papa Murphy's Pizza has confirmed plans to open a new location in Natomas.

According to Lindsi Taylor, the new take-and-bake store will be located at 2701 Del Paso Road, in the space previously occupied by Hollywood Video, in the Natomas Town Center shopping area.

Taylor said the new Papa Murphy's location is slated to open the end of May or early June, depending on permits and construction schedules.

This will be the second Papa Murphy's store in Natomas. One is currently located at 3291 Truxel Road.

Thanks for the tip, Josh!

Inderkum Hosts County's AcaDeca Tomorrow

2012-02-03T12:11:00.000-08:00

BY MICHAEL YOUNG, IHS INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The annual Sacramento County Academic Decathlon Competition will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Inderkum High School.

Student decathletes participate as a nine-member team against other schools by taking 30-minute multiple-choice tests in the subjects of economics, language & literature, music, science, art, mathematics, and social science.

In addition, each team member gives a planned four-minute speech, a 2 minute impromptu speech, participates in a seven-minute interview, and has 50 minutes to write an essay. Each team consists of three honor students (grade point average 3.75-4.0), three scholastic decathletes (GPA 3.00-3.74), and three varsity decathletes (GPA 0.0-2.99).

The competition culminates in the high-energy team open relay event called the Super Quiz which is open to the public, which is scheduled to start at 3:45 p.m. in the school's main gym.

Decathletes from approximately 25 local area schools, including host Inderkum, will battle it out in a test of wits.

Individual and team award medals are presented at an awards banquet and the overall winning team from the county competition is invited to participate in the statewideCalifornia Academic Decathlon.

Academic Decathlon teams spend months preparing for this demanding competition. In addition to mastering the extensive academic content, students learn about teamwork, goal setting, planning and leadership.

Come show your support! Everyone is encouraged to attend and cheer on the decathletes as they participate in the final part of the competition.

Admission is free.

Arrest Made In Natomas Man's Murder

2012-02-01T11:07:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Police Department has arrested Jazz Curry, 20, for the murder of Tralane Thomas.

On Monday, January 30, 2012, at 7:08 p.m., officers responded to a call of a man who had been shot in the 100 block of Bicentennial Circle. Upon arrival, officers discovered the 19-year-old victim with gunshot wounds to his upper body. Medical personnel declared him deceased at the scene.

The Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Investigations Unit responded to investigate. During the course of the investigation, several subjects were contacted and detained, one of which was Jazz Curry.

Detectives believe that Thomas and Curry were meeting to conduct a narcotic transaction. At some point during the meeting, Curry shot and killed Thomas. The investigation is ongoing and as such, Curry’s booking mug shot is unavailable.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) 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 of up to $1,000.

Murder Victim ID'd As Natomas Man

2012-01-31T15:14:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento County Coroner's Officehas identified the victim of last night's homicide as Tralane Thomas of Natomas.

Thomas, 19, died after sufferingmultiple gunshot wounds Monday evening on Bicentennial Circle inSacramento.

News of Thomas' violent death shocked the Natomas community where he grew up. Thomas' friends took their griefonline, posting messages to each other and Thomas' family viaFacebook and Twitter:

I'm loving seeing all the good memories of Tre Thomas:) keep em comin he may be gone but the memories will last forever

Tre bro we gunna miss yuu.. look after us #RIP Tre Thomas

My condolences go to the thomas family. Rest easy Tre Thomas

Condolences to the loved ones of Tre Thomas. Be strong.

I'm in shock... RIP Tre Thomas

Known as “Tre” to his friends,Thomas attended Natomas-area schools including Rio Tierra Junior Highand Natomas High where he played varsity football and basketball.

“Everyone knew and loved Tre,”friend Tori Brown wrote in an e-mail message to THE NATOMAS BUZZ fromher home in Los Angeles. “He has been a part of the Natomascommunity since his birth.”

The Sacramento Police Department andSacramento Coroner's Office investigations are ongoing.

TRALANE THOMAS IS PICTURED HERE WITH FRIEND TORI BROWN IN 2010 AT NATOMAS HIGH SCHOOL'S GRADUATION. (PHOTO COURTESY TORI BROWN)

Natomas Cares: Rotarians Donate Dictionaries

2012-01-31T14:31:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Rotary Club of Natomas distributed 350 dictionaries to four elementary school on Jan. 20 and 27.

Students at American Lakes, H. Allen High, Jefferson and Bannon Creek were the recipients of the dictionaries handed out by Rotarians Jim Corbett, Brian Moore, Ernie Thompson, and Sandy Dudley, pictured here.

Sacramento Police Investigate Homicide

2012-01-31T13:53:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Police Department is investigating the shooting death of a 19-year-old man with ties to Natomas area.

On Monday, Jan. 30 at 7:08 p.m., officers responded to a call of a man who had been shot in the 100 block of Bicentennial Circle. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim sustained gunshot wounds to his upper body. and medical personnel declared him deceased at the scene.

The Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit and Crime Scene Investigations Unit responded to investigate. At this time, detectives are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the homicide and reportedly are questioning three people of interest. Police believe victim was involved in a narcotic transaction at the time of the murder.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) 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 of up to $1,000.

This Week In Natomas Prep Sports

2012-01-31T12:51:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Boys High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 2-0, Overall 10-9

Inderkum: Last Week 0-2, Overall 7-13

Girls High School Basketball

Natomas: Last Week 1-1, Overall 7-9

Inderkum: Last Week 2-0, Overall 14-5

January 31

Wrestling: Natomas vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Yuba City vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Inderkum @ Pioneer 7 p.m.

February 1

Boys Basketball: Pioneer vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Natomas @ Yuba City 7 p.m.

Wrestling: Natomas @ Woodland 7 p.m.

February 2

Girls Basketball: Yuba City vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Natomas @ Woodland 7 p.m.

February 3

Boys Basketball: Woodland vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Inderkum @ Yuba City 7 p.m.

Cops Nab Natomas Wire Copper Thieves (Updated)

2012-01-30T11:24:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Shortly after midnight this morning, Jan. 30, police officers patrolling in the area of Natomas Central Drive and Hovnanian Drive spotteda truck parked along the curb line in the bike lane with the back door open.

As the officers pulled up behind the vehicle they saw a man closing the passenger door. The man took off running and the officer pursued him on foot.

The male ran into an open grassy area and unsuccessfully tried to conceal himself in the tall grass. the suspect was located using a spotlight.

The officers' investigation revealed fresh cut wire in the vehicle and the identity of the apprehended suspect's accomplice, who was also arrested.

Arrested were Ronald Schmidt, 39 (top photo) and Kenneth Thomas, 39 (bottom photo).

Schmidt was charged with Felony Vandalism, Destruction of Telephone/Electric Lines, Grand Theft, and Conspiracy. Thomas was charged with Felony Vandalism, Destruction of Telephone/Electric Lines, Grand Theft, Conspiracy, Possession of Burglary Tools, and Resisting Arrest.

View Natomas Central Dr & Hovnanian Dr in a larger map

Battle Of The Bands Friday In Natomas

2012-01-30T00:40:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas High School will host its annual "Battle of the Bands" with more than seven local bands performing live this Friday, Feb. 3.

"Battle of the Bands" starts 6 p.m. in the school theater. Natomas High School is located at 3301 Fong Ranch Road in Natomas.

Cost: $6 at the door

Seen In Natomas: Pinewood Derby!

2012-01-29T10:42:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY BILL BOYD

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Cub Scout Pack No. 402 packed the multipurpose room at H. Allen Hight Elementary School for their annual Pinewood Derby races yesterday, Jan. 28.

The Cub Scouts - along with a few of their siblings - showed a lot of creativity when it came to car design and great sportsmanship during the multi-heat competition.

Do you have Pinewood Derby photos? Send them to us at editor@natomasbuzz.com.

On Stage In Natomas: Open Sky

2012-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

BY RANBIR GILL, NCS INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas Charter School’s newest stage production “Open Sky” sends a message of hope in a post-9/11 era.

The annual winter dance celebration’s title refers to a clean canvass - or new beginnings after tragedy. The performance showcases the talents of the Blackrock Dance Company in a series of dance pieces and a tribute to 9/11.

“Open Sky” - dedicated to remembering a tragic date in American history - is a collaboration between dancers, actors, and writer. It combines spoken word and projected animations by seniors Ranbir Gill and Khalil Javed with an 30-minute dance choreographed by modern dance teacher Jill Stripling.

The show also features choreography by ballet teacher Anne David and jazz and tap teachers Ron Cisneros and Devin Lepage.

“Open Sky” runs 7 p.m. Feb. 3 and 4 at the Benvenuti Performing Arts Center, 4600 Blackrock Road. Pre-sale general admission tickets cost $12; $10 for students and seniors. At the door general admission will be $17; $15 for students and seniors.

Click here for more information or here to order tickets.

Seen In Natomas: Claws vs. Paws Redux

2012-01-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

It was claws versus paws as respectful neighborhood rivals Natomas High and Inderkum each earned victories Friday night.

The highly anticipated boys varsity basketball match-up, featured as KCRA’s Game of the Week, was standing room only with chants from both sides throughout the game.

The game remained neck-and-neck for a majority of the first half until Natomas High pulled away in the second quarter. Natomas High’s Leroy Abraham hit a shot at the buzzer to put the Nighthawks ahead 33-24 at the half.

Inderkum clawed their way back in the third quarter, hitting their own buzzer-beating layup to end the quarter. Inderkum came within six points of Natomas High’s lead with about 2:30 left in the game, but Natomas High continued to hit their shots on offense and at the free throw line.

The Natomas High went on to win the game 79-64.

Earlier in the evening, the varsity girls teams faced off. Inderkum would defeat Natomas High 54-41.

Both school’s basketball squads, boys and girls, face off again at Natomas High on Feb. 17.

Police Warn Of Two Abduction Attempts

2012-01-28T13:34:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Sacramento police warn Natomas-area residents to be alert in light of two attempted abductions in two days.

Yesterday, Jan. 27 morning at 10:51 a.m., in the area of Mabry Drive and Portage Way in north Natomas, two middle school age girls were walking outside when they were reportedly approached by a white man in his 30s driving a white service van with no windows.

The man told the two girls to get in, but they refused and ran away. Officers checked the area and were not able to locate the suspect at that time.

This morning between 11:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., a man and service van of a similar description was reportedly involved in a similar incident with a 7-year-old female in the area of Stonecreek Drive in south Natomas.

Sacramento police believe these reports to be reliable and is urging the public to be on the lookout for a white service van with no windows in a residential area occupied by a white man with in his 30s with dark hair.

If seen, please call 9-1-1 from a landline or (916) 732-0100 from a cellular phone to reach Sacramento Police Department's emergency dispatch line.

Natomas Cares: The Gift Of Giving

2012-01-28T00:46:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Two Natomas preschools, their students and families gave new meaning to the season of giving last month.

Tendercare Preschool held a Teddy Bear Drive and collected teddy bears for the Mustard See School and Sacramento Children's Receiving home. The school teamed up with Shannon Harding Hair Cuts by offering discounted cuts and with Mountain Mike's Pizza by offering coupons to those who donated teddy bears. The popular Natomas eatery also donated pizza for a party at Mustard Seed School when the toys were delivered to the homeless children there.

Creative Kids Preschool collected snow globes to give to cancer patients at Sutter Hospital. Snow Globers For Hope, created by the Greenwood family of Natomas, donated 75 snow globes with help from preschool parents Shelley and Rex with Regal Cinemas, Melody with EDD, Gerry Johnson with Tri-Star, Rachel Greenwood with CalPers, Michelle with Tendercare Preschool, Diana with Family Support Services in Fairfield, and Nancy-Kong Vasquez.

SNOW GLOBE PHOTO TAKEN BY PATIENT IN BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT UNIT AT SUTTER.

Kudos: O'Brien Graduates From MVC

2012-01-28T00:30:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

President Bonnie L. Humphrey has announced that Daniel O'Brien of Sacramento is a December graduate of Missouri Valley College.

O'Brien earned a bachelor of science degree in Business Administration from MVU. O'Brien graduated from Christian Brothers High School in May 2006; his parents Vince and Sue O'Brien reside in south Natomas.

Missouri Valley College will confer degrees at its 123rd commencement ceremonies on May 5 at Gregg Mitchell Field on the MVC Campus.

Regency Park Students Link Up To Music

2012-01-28T00:13:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Twin Rivers Unified School District has partnered with Carnegie Hall and the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra to bring music to Regency Park Elementary School in Natomas.

Link Up, a program of Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute, pairs orchestras across the country with student in grades 3-5 at schools in their local communities to explore orchestral repertoire through a hands-on music curriculum.

The program includes a weekly lesson in music, a recorder for each 4th and 5th grade student supplied by the Friends of the Sacramento Philharmonic.

Students participating in Link Up will attend an interactive concert and field trip on May 17 where they will sing and play recorder or violin with the orchestra from their seats.

Regular music instruction started this month.

You Asked, We Got The Answer

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

"Why is it taking them so long to start building the shade structure at Autumn Meadow Park? We've had ourpark gated off for a month now!" -Nick Haight via e-mail

Sarah Novo, Director of Constituent Affairsfor Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby, District One, replies:

"Both Autumn Meadow and North Natomas Community Park shade canopies are behind schedule. The contractor has until the end of this month to complete both projects, after which time he will be facing liquidated damages per work day per the contract."

"Both city and contractor are aware of the timeline and related damages should this project not be completed on schedule. With the forecast rain, the contractor has expressed concern with accessibility to the structure locations as well as concern of damaging existing hardscape."

"This is an ongoing conversation between the Parks Planning Department and the contractor, and of course the city would like to see the project completed on schedule and without additional damage. Due to the weather, there may be some delay in this project’s completion, but we are hopeful that it will be done on time."

Mayor Set To Speak At State Of Natomas

2012-01-27T22:54:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Natomas Chamber of Commerce is poised to host the 8th annual State of Natomas next month.

Confirmed speakers for the "Directions 2012" luncheon event include Mayor Kevin Johnson, Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby, and Councilman Steve Cohn.

The 8th annual State of Natomas: Directions 2012 is scheduled for 12 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27 at Four Points by Sheraton, 4900 Duckhorn Drive. The event is open to the public, but seating is limited.

To register online, click here.

8th Annual State of Natomas Directions 2012

Library To Publish Natomas Teen Anthology

2012-01-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Public Library has announced a new writing and art competition for Natomas-area teens.

The North Natomas library branch and Inderkum High School, with support from the North Natomas Friends of the Library, have joined forces to publish CHOICES, a teen anthology. Teens who live or attend school in Natomas are encouraged to submit writing or art based on the theme “choices."

Collected works of teen writing and art will be published in May 2012. Submissions are due no later than March 1.

Visit the North Natomas or South Natomas library branches to learn more, or check out the flyer below.

Choices Writing Competition Flyer 1 (1)

Car Prowler Spotted In Creekside

2012-01-27T22:23:00.000-08:00

View Larger Map

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

"Our neighbor of ours mentioned to us that earlier this morning, Jan. 27, a manwas checking all cars parked on Wapello Circle to see if the doors ondriver's side were open. It was about 2:45 a.m. Please inform the Natomas neighborhood."

Thanks for the info, Z.R!

Natomas Boys Win On Court Duel

2012-01-27T22:00:00.000-08:00

REPORTING & PHOTOS BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A packed house was on hand to cheer tonight's neighborhood rivalry basketball game between the Natomas High Nighthawks and Inderkum Tigers.

The highly anticipated on-court duel is scheduled to be the featured game-of-the week on KCRA Channel 3 tonight. (Viewer votes won the game the spot on the High School Playbook segment.)

The standing-room-only crowd filled the gymnasium at Inderkum High School.

Natomas player Leroy Abraham hit a buzzer beater at the half, sending the Nighthawks over the Tigers 33-24. The Tigers refused to back down in the fourth quarter, but the Nighthawks kept the lead, winning the game 79-64.

Earlier in the evening, the varsity girls teams faced off. Girls' final score: Inderkum 54, Natomas High 41.

TIGERS TRY TO CLOSE NIGHTHAWKS' LEAD IN THE 4TH QUARTER.

No Damage From Natomas Club Fire

2012-01-26T15:42:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH BRUSHWYLER

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A vehicle fire broke out before noon today, Jan. 26 on a service road at The Club at Natomas Park. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion and an acrid smell. No damage was reported to the facility.

NUSD Poised To OK New Charter School

2012-01-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

BY TRACY CHATTERS

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas school officials are poised to open a new charter school on the former Leroy F. Green Middle School campus.

The Natomas Unified school board is scheduled to hold a public hearing and vote on a petition to create Leroy Greene Academy at its regularly scheduled board meeting tonight, Jan. 25. Open session is expected to start at 7 p.m.

As proposed, Leroy Greene Academy would be the first dependent charter school located within the Natomas Unified School District boundaries. Currently, there are five independent charter schools operating within the Natomas district, all located north of Interstate 80. (Smythe Academy, on Northgate, is a dependent K-6 charter school operated by the Twin Rivers Unified School District.)

School board members in November voted to consider reopening the Leroy Greene campus as a dependent charter school. The proposal has since been fast tracked and school board members are expected to take action tonight to OK the new school.

As proposed, the petition would create a K-12 dependent charter school. If approved, the school would open to 7th and 8th graders for the 2012-13 year and expand one grade level each school year through 12th grade.

(The charter petition also allows for a kindergarten through 6th grade program at a later date.)

Leroy F. Greene Middle School was closed by the district as a cost-saving measure in 2010. The closure allowed the district to rehabilitate and repair reported construction defects as well as allow time to restructure the school's troubled academic programs, which had come under fire by district administration and some parents.

The initial plan was to reopen the Leroy Green campus as a magnet school, but district officials decided instead to pursue a dependent charter school program. In November, the school board appointed former Natomas High School vice principal Angela Herrera as principal of the proposed Leroy Greene Academy.

Interim superintendent Dr. Walt Hanline suggested a dependent charter which allows flexibility in curriculum decisions and hiring, including the ability to hire non-union employees to work at the school. Leroy Greene Academy employees will be considered “at-will” employees of the charter school only and not Natomas Unified School District employees.

Natomas Teacher Association officials have gone on record opposed to opening the school as a charter. They contend more start-up money and federal funding is available for a magnet school model.

Hererra said the district conducted a survey to gauge what types of programs to offer at Leroy Greene Academy.

"Survey results were strongly in favor of visual arts with technology integration program and also for business and marketing program,” she said.

Early plan for a Science, Technology, Engineering & Math - or STEM program - were scraped because nearby Natomas High School has a growing STEM program. The final charter petition for Leroy Green Academy proposes a focus on the visual arts, business and marketing.

“Choosing these two focus programs allows Leroy Greene to grow strong academic and specialty offerings without competing with Natomas High’s STEM program," Hererra said.

Leroy Green Academy students will take the same core classes offered at other middle schools. Starting in 9th grade, they will also take “wheel” classes aligned with the school's two specialty programs.

According to the charter petition, high school students will take classes that meet the admission requirements for the University of California and the California State University programs, and work with community member mentors on senior projects.

“We intend on providing courses that will allow all of our students to be competitive for any university or college,” Herrera said.

“We have planned for 175 seats at each the 7th and 8th grades, with 350 as the total enrollment number,” said Herrera.

According to Herrera, the application process includes basic demographic information, questions for prospective students and school expectations for students and parents to review. All students are encouraged to apply but if a lottery is necessary, students within the original Leroy F. Greene Middle School boundaries will have priority enrollment.

At press time, it was not clear whether a parent participation requirement similar to those at Natomas Charter and Westlake Charter schools would be a part of the Leroy Greene Academy program. Applications for the new Leroy Greene Academy will be available beginning in February.

Brandy Tuzon Boyd contributed to this report.

A Leroy Greene Academy information night will be held 6 p.m. next Tuesday, Jan. 31 in the H. Allen Hight Elementary School cafeteria, 3200 North Park Drive, in Natomas.

Leroy Green Academy Charter Petition Packet

This Week In Natomas Prep Sports

2012-01-23T19:11:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Boys High School Basketball Recap

Natomas: Last Week 2-0, Overall 8-9

Inderkum: Last Week 1-1, Overall 7-11

Girls High School Basketball Recap

Natomas: Last Week 1-1, Overall 6-8

Inderkum: Last Week 2-0, Overall 12-5

January 24

Wrestling: Yuba City vs. Inderkum 6 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Natomas @ Pioneer 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Inderkum @ River Valley 7 p.m.

January 25

Girls Basketball: Pioneer vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: River Valley vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Wrestling: Natomas @ Woodland 7 p.m.

January 27

KCRA Game-of-the-Week

Natomas @ Inderkum Basketball 7 p.m.

Seen In Natomas: Tiger Eyes

2012-01-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The "Authors of Our Own Destiny" interactive sculpture in Natomas now features a stunning mural of a tiger face signed by Brianna Singer.

The nearby Inderkum High School mascot is a tiger.

Police Arrest Wife for Murder

2012-01-20T06:25:00.001-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Police Department has arrested Shajia Ayobi, 45-years-old, for the murder of her husband, Ghulam Ayobi.

On Sunday, December 18, 2011, at 00:04 a.m., officers responded to a call of a male shot on eastbound Interstate 80 at Norwood Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found a male who had been shot in the upper body. He was transported to the hospital where he was declared deceased.

On January 19, 2012, Detectives from the Sacramento Police Department re-interviewed the victim’s wife, Shajia Ayobi regarding her involvement in the murder of her husband. Based on further investigation and incriminating statements, Shajia Ayobi was arrested and booked into the Sacramento County Jail for the murder of her husband.

At this time, investigators have yet to establish a motive. The investigation is still ongoing and further details of this case are not being released at this time.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) 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 of up to $1,000.

This Week In Natomas Prep Sports

2012-01-17T19:11:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Boys High School Basketball Recap

Natomas: Last Week 0-1, Overall 6-9

Inderkum: Last Week 1-0, Overall 6-10

Girls High School Basketball Recap

Natomas: Last Week 1-1, Overall 5-7

Inderkum: Last Week 1-0, Overall 10-5

High School Wrestling
January 18

Natomas @ River Valley 6 p.m.

Inderkum @ Woodland 7 p.m.

January 20-21

Natomas at Tim Brown Tournament 9 a.m.

January 21

Natomas at Lindhurst Tournament 9 a.m.

Boys High School Basketball
January 17

Yuba City vs. Inderkum 7 p.m.

Natomas @ Woodland 7 p.m.

January 19

Woodland vs Inderkum 7 p.m.

River Valley vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Girls High School Basketball
January 18

Woodland vs. Natomas 7 p.m.

Inderkum @ Yuba City 7 p.m.

January 20

Natomas @ River Valley 7 p.m.

Inderkum @ Woodland 7 p.m.

One Natomas Pot Shop Still Open

2012-01-16T01:51:00.000-08:00

U.S. Attorney Files Action Against

Store With Same Name Downtown

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner has announced the filing of a civil forfeiture complaint targeting a property that housed a store that sold marijuana in violation of federal law.

The owner of the property previously received written notice from the U.S. Attorney that the store was conducting commercial sales of marijuana in violation of federal law.

The letter warned that the owner risked forfeiture of the property if those illegal operations continued.

The civil forfeiture complaint was filed last week after the property owners declined to take action to stop the commercial sale of marijuana.

The civil action filed today seeks forfeiture of the property at 2014 Tenth Street in Sacramento, the location of a business that currently sells marijuana under the name of Grass or Sacramento Holistic Healing Center.

According to the complaint, Grass/SHHC is located less than 1,000 feet from an elementary school and a high school.

At press time it appeared a medicinal marijuana dispensary, listed as both Grass and Holistic Healing Center, continued to operate at 4381 Gateway Park Boulevard in Natomas - about 500 feet from KidsPark childcare and preschool and not much farther from a Funtastic! play center.

In addition to the civil forfeiture action filed Jan. 12, the U.S. Attorney’s Office sent out a number of notice letters to owners of properties in several counties where marijuana is being cultivated or sold. The letters are addressed to the property owners of record and any lien holders of records for the sites of stores which are selling marijuana,

In October, two medicinal marijuana dispensaries in Natomas closed - one by federal officials and the other voluntarily.

Twin Rivers District Applies For Grants

2012-01-16T01:12:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Twin Rivers Unified School District and partners have applied for $15 million in grants.

The funding would be used to create and expand afterschool programs offered students meant to reinforce and complement the academic program, including credit toward high school graduation.

A total of five 21st Century Community Learning Center applications for $3.3 million each year will be submitted to:

Continue and expand after school programs at elementary sites and junior high sites where there is a long waiting list of children.
Create new after school programs for high school age students.

The academic enrichment opportunities and supportive services are designed to help students meet state and local standards in core content areas. The grant money would help pay for intramural sports, visual and performing arts, multimedia project, dance revolution, and character building.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center is a state-administered, federally funded program that provides five-year grant funding to create or expand before and after school programs for disadvantaged kindergarten through 12th grade students, particularly students who attend schools in need of improvement.

The Twin Rivers Unified School District's partners in the grant proposals include:Think Together, the Natomas Unified School District,Roberts Family Development Center, Mutual Assistance Network, andCenter for Fathers and Families.

Seen In Natomas: UFOs Overhead?

2012-01-16T00:44:00.000-08:00

BY LEEANNE CARTER, INDERKUM INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Ever wondered about those lights often seen hovering over Natomas at night?

Some claim they are seeing UFOs in the skies above the undeveloped fields parallel to Interstate 5, but it's really James Scharlack and Dan Stuart and their planes.

Flying small, remote control planes has been the Natomas residents' hobby for about two years. The pair fly their planes several times a week, often after dark.

Curiosity seekers - including the police - search them out nearly every night they fly to ask questions. (Google "UFO" and "Natomas" and you'll find videos and several references to their flights.)

Scharlack and Stuart buy their planes online and add their own modifications. They have two types of planes: night planes and day planes. They have covered the planes flown at night with lights.

The men's hobby has generated interest beyond Natomas and to the internet where they have a successful YouTube channel where videos of their planes with tips and tricks to flying are posted. The channel has logged more than 60,000 views and the pair even sell T-shirts!

Click here to view more videos.

Natomas Pushes Back School Start Age

2012-01-16T00:03:00.000-08:00

BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The rules have changed: Children starting kindergarten this year in the Natomas Unified School District must be 5 years old by September.

Children who turn 5 between Sept. 2 and Dec. 2 will enroll in a new "transitional kindergarten" program.

Natomas school district officials are working to to inform parents of the changes by posting answers to frequently asked questions as well as an informational brochure online and holding a series of kindergarten parent orientation meetings.

Changes to state law called for rolling back the kindergarten starting age over the course of several years. (California was only one of four states that allow children as young as 4 years old to attend kindergarten.)

"Senate Bill 1381 was written to provide local education agencies with the flexibility to plan the most appropriate and effective program for their students and therefore implement the full extent of the law early, if desired or needed," said Kendra Shelton, coordinator of NUSD's school readiness programs.

"It was determined that Natomas Unified School District, like many school districts across the state, would opt to provide early full implementation."

What does this mean for parents of children who turn 5 between September and December? When they register their child for kindergarten they will be signed up for transitional kindergarten. The program is much like kindergarten and enrollment is voluntary.

Transitional kindergarten will be offered at five schools in the district - Bannon Creek, Two Rivers, Witter Ranch, H. Allen Hight, and Natomas Park.

“(Transitional kindergarten) provides an opportunity for young learners to learn and grow with similar age classmates and supports the concept of a continuum of learning services," said Shelton. "It helps our community by acting as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten for our youngest kindergartners.”

Registration started Jan. 13.

Natomas USD - Transitional Kindergarten - Brochure
Natomas USD - Transitional Kindergarten - Frequently Asked Questions

You Asked, We Got The Answer

2012-01-14T14:27:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

"Any chances with news in regarding the plan to set up a Trader Joe's store inthe future. If so, what location will it possible be?" -Scott Thompson via e-mail

Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby, who recently had a telephone meeting with an official from the grocery store chain, posted on the Facebook group "Bring Trader Joe's to Natomas!"

"Basically, their business model is to only open in what he called 'mature' neighborhoods. He said they are never the first in. I pressed pretty hard and said we already have several chain supermarkets and also explained that our Safeway is one of the top performers in Northern California. He was surprised about that. He asked me to name a couple intersections that he could research so I did. He agreed to give it a second look but warned me it was not likely a first pick for the region."

"He did tell me that the Elk Grove store has not been what they had hoped it would be and really was a departure from their general business model. It isn't really a dig on our community as much as it is a statement about their plan. They wait for communities to be very established (think East Sac) and then they move into an area where they get some of the business from an existing supermarket."

"It is a long shot but I asked for a follow up since he agreed to give us a second look. He said they generally develop their annual goals each year in April or so (in time for the big conference in Las Vegas). I will follow up and I will keep pushing for Natomas, but know that it's not an easy one for us. Not impossible, but not easy."

Natomas Library Offers Job Search Help

2012-01-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Sacramento Public Library is presenting free, "Job Seeker" programs to help community members find employment through June at some of its branches.

“With local unemployment nearing 12 percent, the Sacramento Public Library is providing our helpful resources as learning tools to search for jobs, improve interview skills, refine resumes, and more,” said Rivkah K. Sass, library director.

The following programs are scheduled for the North Natomas branch:

Feb. 16, 4 p.m. Get the Job You Want: Learn skills for resume writing, job interviewing, writing thank-you letters and considering job offers. Registration is required by calling the library at (916) 264-2920.
Feb. 23, 1 p.m. Job Searching with LinkedIn: Use the professional networking site, LinkedIn.
March 20, 3:30 p.m. Job Searching for Teens: Improve your resume, learn interview skills and how to dress for success.
March 27, 3 p.m. True Colors Career Assessment: This is a tool to help you better understand yourself, identify compatible careers and environments, and improve interpersonal communications.

“We care about our community residents, as many are our library card holders and others who frequent our 28 library locations," Sass said. "We are all in these tough economic times together.”

The North Natomas library branch is located at 4660 Via Ingoglia, Sacramento. For more information, telephone the Sacramento Public Library at (916) 264-2920 or visit www.saclibrary.org.

JV Lady Nighthawks Lose In OT

2012-01-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

BY CHRIS SHANNON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Junior Varsity Lady Nighthawks pushed it to the final buzzer in overtime, but couldn’t get the last bucket as they fell to Yuba City 46-44.

Yuba City tied the game 38-38 prior to overtime and was able to take the lead thereafter.

Natomas came back, but missed their final shot. They were unable to get the ball back with only three seconds left.

State Officials Warn Against Tissue Boxes

2012-01-14T12:16:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

California Department of Public Health Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Ron Chapman today advised consumers to return certain metal tissue box cover accessories distributed by Bed Bath & Beyond because the product may be contaminated with radioactive cobalt-60.

The Bed Bath & Beyond store in Natomas is not on the list of locations the cover was sold.

While the presence or handling of these products poses no immediate health threat, members of the public are encouraged to return “Dual Ridge Metal Boutique tissue boxes” model number DR9M, to Bed Bath & Beyond. The contamination was identified during routine surveillance operations.

Bed Bath & Beyond staff have indicated that stores in the following cities in California received the Dual Ridge Metal Boutique tissue boxes:

· Campbell	· Canoga Park
· Chula Vista	· Fontana
· Fremont	· Huntington Beach
· Irvine	· Larkspur
· Los Angeles 11854 West Olympic Blvd.	· Los Angeles 142 South San Vincente Blvd.
· Oceanside	· Ontario Mills
· Oxnard	· Pasadena
· San Diego	· San Francisco
· San Jose	· San Mateo
· Santa Clara	· Studio City
· Valencia	· West Covina
· Yorba Linda	·

In support of this nationwide voluntary effort by Bed Bath & Beyond to isolate any possible contaminated boxes, CDPH encourages the public to return any such item acquired since August 1, 2011 to their local Bed Bath & Beyond store.

CDPH staff have visited several stores and confirmed that Dual Ridge Metal Boutique tissue boxes are no longer available for sale.

Cobalt-60 is a man-made product that is typically used to sterilize medical products or in cancer radiation therapy. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission stated that scrap metal containing cobalt-60 could have strayed into a metal load smelted in India and been incorporated in these products. Bed Bath & Beyond has posted information at their website www.bedbathandbeyond.com.

Any questions from customers should be directed to Bed, Bath and Beyond at (800) 462-3966.

Freeway Feud Vying For KCRA Spot

2012-01-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Jan. 27 Natomas High versus Inderkum basketball game is in the running for the Highschool Playbook game-of-the-week feature on KCRA Channel 3.

Viewers are allowed to vote up to 15 times per hour for their favorite schools here and earn extra votes by uploading Natomas High and Inderkum basketball photos here.

At press time, the "freeway feud" teams were in the lead with more than 50 percent of the vote with the Pleasant Grove versus Sheldon game a close second. The Oak Ridge versus Ponderosa and Wood versus Vacaville games are also in the running.

Voting ends at 5 p.m. on Jan. 20 and will be announced during KCRA 3 Reports at 6:30 p.m.

Natomas Music Square Turns One

2012-01-14T10:43:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas Music Square will mark its first year in business with an anniversary celebration tomorrow, Jan. 15.

Food, games, live music and more are planned 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the music school's studio, 2210 Del Paso Road, Suite F, in Natomas.

A drawing will be held for a prize of one-month free music lessons. A special one-day only $50 discount for group classes is also being offered (restrictions apply).

Come celebrate!

Natomas Select Baseball Tryouts Set

2012-01-11T16:14:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Natomas Youth Baseball select team try-outs are scheduled for two upcoming Saturdays - on Jan. 14 and Jan. 28.

In addition to recreational baseball, Natomas Youth Baseball will be offering select baseball for the 2012 Season. Try-outs will be held 10 a.m. both dates at Rio Tierra Junior High School for 9U, 10U, and 11U teams.

Pony Baseball created select for youngsters who want to experience a more competitive season. For more information about select baseball and the try-out click here.

"Strong Mayor" On GNNA Agenda

2012-01-11T15:36:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS BY GLENN ROBINSON

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

The Gardenland Northgate Neighborhood Association will meet 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, Jan. 12 at Stanford Settlement.

Mayor Kevin Johnson's chief of staff Kunal Merchant is scheduled to speak on the "Checks and Balances Act of 2012,” a proposal to restructure city government and give the mayor more oversight on day-to-day operations, previously referred to as the "Strong Mayor" initiative.

Mayor Johnson, who is running for re-election in 2012, recently held a town hall meeting as part of his campaign at the Comcast offices in Natomas where he spoke at length about the why he favors the change he said would promote higher standards for ethics and transparency as well as create an independent redistricting commission to draw council district boundaries in the future.

Link Crew Connects Inderkum Students

2012-01-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

BY LEEANNE CARTER, INDERKUM INTERN

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Inderkum High School's upperclassmen take care of their freshmen.

They call it "Link Crew."

Link Crew is a new program dedicated to welcoming 9th graders to Inderkum. The goal: introduce incoming students to high school culture.

How does it work?

A large group of juniors and seniors meet with the freshmen class at orientation a few days before school starts. Each upperclassman is appointed to a small group of freshmen. Link Crew leaders then give their group a tour, answer questions about high school, and advice meant to help incoming students prepare for the school year.

"Link Crew is a way to change the culture of our school to make students want to belong and gives them a chance to get involved," said George Tapanes, Inderkum principal.

Freshmen say they appreciate the help learning the ropes.

"Link Crew has helped me meet new people and plan for my future," said Jesse Naranjo.

The upperclassmen also gain from the experience.

"We as leaders have an opportunity to set an example for the freshmen," said Jonathan Lindo, a Link Crew leader. "It makes me a better leader and gives the freshmen an opportunity to plan for their futures with some guidance from our Link Crew."

Link Crew benefits the whole school by developing bonds between students.

"You can see that the program builds a relationship and gets more students involved on campus," Inderkum student Courtney Rossow said.

Freshmen continue to meet regularly with their leaders once a month to talk about grades, social lives, and other high school experiences.

Said Tapanes, "We want to sustain and build on their relationships."

Puppy Found In Natomas Marketplace

2012-01-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A male, German Shepherd mix puppy was found wandering in the Natomas Marketplace parking lot near Home Depot earlier today, Jan. 11.

The dog was taken by a Home Depot employee next door to PetSmart where a scan showed no ID microchip.

The pup is described as being about six months old, dark brown with light brown feet. It is wearing a collar.

Contact THE NATOMAS BUZZ at (916) 800-BUZZ to be put in touch with the family fostering the dog.

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