Capitol Bowl Remodel Update

Capitol Bowl's exterior is undergoing a nice face lift.  We stopped by last weekend to see how great our little home town bowling alley is progressing and the place was jumping with activity.  It is such a great place to take your family for entertainment and dining.

Remembering Erleen Culver

Published in The Sacramento Bee on December 14, 2012
Erleen G. Culver, age 97, passed away on December 10, 2012 in her West Sacramento home. Born in Oakland and having moved to West Sacramento at the age of 7, she was one of West Sacramento's longest living residents. Together with her husband, James (deceased), of 54 years, raised 3 children: Terri (Joseph) Culver- Escobar, Cathy (Phil) Crawford and James (Carol) Culver (deceased). She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Erleen is survived by 1 sister, Marion (Art) Olesen of Fresno, CA, and predeceased by 2 brothers and 3 other sisters. She was also a survivor of Breast Cancer. Erleen worked for the Washington Unified School District for 39 years as a teacher, consultant and principal. She was a member of Soroptimist International of West Sacramento, Delta Zeta Sorority, Business and Professional Women's Association, the California Retired Teachers Association and a 75 year member of the California Parlor #22 - Native Daughters of the Golden West. Erleen served on the Grand Jury and supported many great causes including the Sacramento Hearing Society and The West Sacramento Historical Society. Erleen was an avid River Cats fan, having been a Season's Ticket holder since the team began. Known as a renowned International traveler, she also took much pleasure in playing Bingo and team bowling. In her spare time, she was a seamstress, having sewed for many friends, family and acquaintances. In lieu of flowers, please forward any donations to: Soroptimist International of West Sacramento Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 94, West Sacramento, CA 95691. Viewing will be held at Harry A. Nauman and Son Funeral Home, 4041 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento on Sunday, December 16th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at Harry A. Nauman and Son on Monday, December 17th at 1:00 p.m. followed by Graveside Service at Odd Fellows Lawn Sacramento, CA, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband. Celebration of Life and potluck at her home in West Sacramento. Published in The Sacramento Bee on December 14, 2012.  Read more here.

West Sacramento City Hall decorated for the holidays

The holiday tree in front of our City hall stands tall and bright even though storms caused the annual West Sacramento Christmas tree lighting party to be cancelled this year.

New Water Tower on Jefferson Boulevard

A new 80-foot cell tower designed to resemble a water tower has been installed at 3200 Jefferson Blvd., near Tower Mart and Linden Road. On one side is a mural of wine grapes and the other side says The City of West Sacramento.  

Remembering Stephanie Ann Reynolds

Stephanie Ann Wilson Reynolds,  January 8, 1962 - November 19, 2012.  

Stephanie was my carpool mate for almost 20 years, and we commuted to and from UC Davis everyday. In 2009, Steph was forced to retire due to declining health. We continued to have great times together and last January we went to Las Vegas to celebrate her 50th birthday. Steph leaves her dear sister Jeannette Reiff and husband Gary, nieces Maddy, Cece and Sophie, her favorite aunt Sharon Kay Dalton, her mom Shirley Wilson and her dog daughter and constant companion, "Lexi", aka Lexington Sweet and Sassy. Steph was preceded in death by the love of her life Greg "Mongo" Reynolds. Those who wish to remember Stephanie can make a donation to the Scleroderma Foundation in her honor. I sure miss you Steph!

Remembering John Ohlson June 21, 1915 - November 23, 2012

OHLSON, John Algoth June 21, 1915 - November 23, 2012 John Algoth Ohlson, 97, died peacefully in his West Sacramento home on November 23, 2012. John was an active community member in the Sacramento area for six decades, was loved by many for his generous heart and community spirit, and he will be missed. John was born in New Haven, Connecticut and at the age of three moved to North Park, Illinois. At the age of ten John began what would be a life-long love of the creative arts, by taking classes in printmaking. John began making yearly linoleum block greeting cards of great beauty. He continued sending friends and family these cards well into his nineties. Another life-long love was his love of books and movable-type printing. He was a member of the Sacramento Book Collector's Club for several decades. John printed announcements, invitations, letterhead and posters for the club and for numerous organizations, with his movable-type presses. John pursued his college education at North Park College for two years, transferring to Northwestern University and graduating with a degree in Psychology. He continued his studies with graduate work at Stanford University. While at Stanford, he became interested in the Society of Friends and became a Quaker. He served as a firefighter during World War II for his alternate service. Then he was sent to Duke University in North Carolina to continue his alternate service as a psychiatric orderly. In 1938 John met Grace Kneedler. Their courtship continued through the world war and they were married in 1945. The one event that brought John sadness in his later years was losing Grace in 2000. John and Grace lived in Durham, North Carolina, where John became a Psychologist on the staff at Duke University. Their daughter, Mary Britta, was born there in 1947, and their son Nils, was born in 1950. When John got a job at California's state mental hygiene clinic, the family moved back to California. In the 1950's John became involved in local politics. He was elected to the Yolo county Democratic Central Committee, a position he held for over 50 years. John was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and loved times spent with family. He loved hiking and camping in the Sierras, and did so yearly until age 96. John is survived by daughter Mary B. Ohlson of El Cerrito, son Nils Ohlson of Alameda, grandchildren Isabel Malonzo, Daniel Ohlson Sundheim, and Jackson Crowe Sundheim, and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 5 at 2pm at West Sacramento's City Hall, 1110 W. Capital, West Sacramento. In lieu of flowers donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Published in The Sacramento Bee on December 30, 2012 Read more here

The West Sacramento Historical Society has published a wonderful memoir honoring long time West Sacramentan John Ohlson. Read more about his life in this article by Louisa R. Vessell on their website.

Feed West Sacramento

Whitey's Jolly Kone graciously hosted a 'Drive Thru' Canned Food Drive benefiting Yolo County Children's Alliance, Out of the Box Ministries, and the Christmas Basket Project on Sunday. Thank you to all folks who stopped by with donations of canned and boxed foods, toys and clothing for the Holiday "Drive Thru" Community Food Drive!

Mother Nature prepares her holiday dressing

Carolyn sent us this great photo of some very festive Madrona trees she saw yesterday...Thanks C...they do remind me the holidays are coming soon! Trivia:  The Salinan, Miwok, Pomo, and other California tribes have long used the berries of Pacific madrone for food and to make cider and the berries were strung to make necklaces. Bark tea was drunk to treat colds and sore throats and Pomo women used an infusion of the bark as an astringent beauty wash to close the pores and soften the skin on their faces.

RIP Richard Finley

Baseball has always played a big part of the social life of kids who grew up in West Sacramento.  Any of my friends who played or hung around with those who played Little League, Babe Ruth and Legion Base Ball will remember Dick Finley.

Richard Finley went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 30, 2012. Richard was born on February 7, 1926 to Claude E. and Irma Finley. He graduated from Grant Union High School in 1943 and joined the Navy during World War II. After being discharged from the Navy, Richard worked at the railroad for 15 years. God opened doors for Richard to work at the West Sacramento Fire Department for 23 years. There he became a loyal employee and moved up the ladder to become Fire Marshall. Richard enjoyed RVing and fishing with friends and family. He coached Babe Ruth and Little League for 15 years and loved every minute of the game and kids. During his coaching career, Richard helped 3 young people become Major League Players. His true hobby and passion was gardening for others. He would grow produce and distribute it amongst his family, friends and his church. Everyone knew that Richard grew the best cantaloupe in West Sacramento and maybe the country. He is survived by and remains in the hearts of his beloved wife Ruth E. Finley, brother and sister-in-law, Gordon and Sandy Finley. His children, Bruce (Linda) Finley, Brook (Rodney) Egbert, Bridget (Wayne) Lukins. Also 7 step-children Debbie Raines, Cindy Sasser, Judy Weller, Patty Little, Jenny Corder, Barbara Haugan and Jerry Fevold. He had 5 grandsons and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial will be held at Tyler St. Church of Christ at 10:00 A.M. November 10, 2012, 5029 Tyler St. Sacramento, CA near Highway 80 and Madison Ave. Graveside services will be held Friday, November 9, 2012 at 11:00 A.M at Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery 5810 Midway Rd. Dixon, CA 95620. River Cities Funeral Chapel Published in The Sacramento Bee on November 6, 2012 Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sacbee/obituary.aspx?n=richard-finley&pid=160897714#storylink=cpy

Pack 49 Community Service Presentation

Cub Scout Pack 49 presented the West Sacramento VFW Post 8762 with a bench that was handcrafted by the Scouts, with a little help from some of the dads, at their fundraiser breakfast held at the Post on Sunday.

City of Slow Rivers-A love letter to Sacramento

Check out this great spoken word piece by outgoing poet laureate Bob Stanley; “City of Slow Rivers”. The accompanying video was produced by Capital Public Radio’s Andrew Nixon, and combined I believe they make a terrific love letter to the city of Sacramento. Enjoy and share! Thanks Andrew Nixon for sharing this with us! -------- Published on October 19, 2012 by Isaac Gonzalez in Arts and Entertainment, Sacramento News, Top Stories, Uniquely Sacramento, Video

Honoring Grandpa Frank Norton

"Growing up in Broderick" by Frank Norton

https://west-sacramento.blogspot.com/2022/07/growing-up-in-broderick-california.html

My grandpa, Frank Norton was born on this day in 1910 in Broderick, CA. My sister and I are third generation West Sacramentans. This was grandpa's badge when he was Commissioner of the Washington Fire Department. Just a little bit of history to honor my grandpa's memory. He was the ultimate story teller and historian on the history of The Town of Washington, Broderick and West Sacramento.  Post by Debbie.

"Growing up in Broderick" by Frank Norton

Birthday Bash for Russ Solomon - 87 Years Strong!

Russell Solomon and friends gathered to celebrate his 87th birthday last night at the Elkhorn Saloon on the Old River Road in West Sacramento. Russ was born  in Sacramento in 1925 and was founder of the world-wide music store empire Tower Records. How many of you had your first job at the old Tower Records Warehouse in West Sacramento. Photo Courtesy of Kiny McCarrick.

Endeavour passing over West Sacramento

How exciting it was in Sacramento this morning as everyone eagerly waited to catch a glimpse of the space shuttle Endeavour as she (SacBee.com photo) passed over our State Capitol Building. The above shot is from my front yard as she set off on her return journey to Southern California to be permanently displayed in a museum. Endeavour flew 25 times, mostly to supply the International Space Station. It spent 299 days in space and circled Earth nearly 4,700 times, logging 123 million miles.

Celebrating our photoblogs 5th anniversary

The West Sacramento Photo of the Day team is celebrating our 5th anniversary. When we started this photoblog five years ago I had no idea how much fun it would be and that it would also be a resource to others. Thanks to our "Blaudience" for visiting and reading our blogs, viewing our photos and posting your comments. Here is to another year!

Mangia, Mangia!! Spaghetti Feed for Michael G. Carr

On Friday, October 26,2012 at 6:00 p.m. the west Sacramento VFW Hall, located at 905 Drever Street, will host a Spaghetti Feed to benefit retired West Sacramento Fire Captain Mike Carr's fight against cancer. Mike was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia in May of this year and has been valiantly fighting ever since. Mike’s fight has now come to the point where he will need a bone marrow transplant in San Francisco at UCSF. The transplant is an out-patient process that requires Mike to stay in San Francisco for approximately 3 months. During this time, Mike and Betty, his wife of 46 years will need to find housing close to UCSF so that Mike can get to his daily appointments. As you are aware housing in SF is not cheap and will likely cause Mike and Betty a hardship if they do not receive some help from friends and family. We ask that you join us in support of Mike and Betty by attending the Spaghetti Feed, or by making a donation. Tickets are $20.00 a person. Please call to RSVP by October 15, if you plan to attend since seating is limited.

Donations, if you cannot attend, can be made by calling any of the numbers below. Checks can be made out to Michael G. Carr.
Thanks so much for your help!
Please call either: Bob Perry 371-8839, Don Logsdon 371-5822 or Julie Coulombe 483-8808.

Sofa Talk with Kevin Hart

A new level of journalism has recently been exposed to residents in West Sacramento.. If you think you are you ready for "Sofa Talk"check out the Kevin's recent interview with Michelle from Wicked West Pizza...https://www.facebook.com/SofaTalk

RIP Peter J. Rossi

ROSSI, Peter J.
An absolutely amazing man; Wonderful Husband, Father, Son, Opera Singer, Businessman and Restaurant Owner. He was called to be with the Lord on September 8th, 2012 at the age of 72. Beloved husband of Emily for 48 years. Peter was born on June 20th, 1940 in Lucca Italy, came to America with his parents Felice and Erina and brothers Arnold and Dino in 1947.

Settled and grew up in San Francisco, where his sister Sandy was born. He attended Saints Peter and Paul Grammar School and Sacred Heart High School. Studied architecture and construction engineering at San Francisco City College and also attended the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where he received a music scholarship. Met his lovely wife in San Francisco, and they were married on January 18th, 1964 at Saints Peter and Paul Church. Shortly after starting his career in the construction industry, Pete brought the family to Sacramento. He became an icon in the industry and retired from Performance Contracting, Inc in 2000. He continued to consult in the construction industry and eventually jumped into the restaurant business (Vince's) as a partner with his son Robert. He loved to sing opera and performed many concerts in the Sacramento area and could be found on Saturday nights at Vince's singing his heart out for his many fans. He was also the Cantor at the 8:00AM mass at Saint Mary's Church where he was in the choir for more than 35 years. He was also a member of the Saint Mary's Social Club, Knights of Columbus, and Jesuit High School Boosters.

Pete was predeceased by his father Felice and brother Dino. He is greatly missed by his wife Emily, mother Erina, children Craig (Destiny), Teresa, Robert (Francisca), and Elizabeth. Brother Arnold (Sandra) and sister Sandy, sisters-in-law Clara and Janet (Toby). Forever remembered by his grandchildren: Julian, Francesca, Daniella, Billy, Giacomo, Amantina, Alondra, and many nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. We are all blessed to have witnessed the strength, love and kindness of Pete. His voice brought chills to the skin and tears to the eyes, a truly divine man with a gift from Heaven. Now he sings with the Lord.

Visitation at Saint Mary's Church (1333 58th Street, Sacramento) on Friday September 14th from 4:00 to 7:00pm, Rosary at 7:00pm. Funeral Mass at Saint Mary's Church (1333 58th Street, Sacramento) on Saturday September 15th at 11:00am with reception to follow in the hall. Entombment at Saint Mary's Cemetery after reception. Donations in Pete's honor can be made to Saint Mary's School, the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association .

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sacbee/obituary.aspx?n=peter-j-rossi&pid=159845827#storylink=cpy

RIP Lou Arges

ARGES, Louis
Entered into rest at his home in West Sacramento on September 11, 2012, at the age of 90. He is greatly missed by his children Demetre and Tambi, brother Phillip, sister Katherine, grandsons Julian and Benjamin, and many relatives and friends.

Lou was an icon of the Sacramento valley. A sheepherder, farmer and businessman, he was a hard worker who made his ambitions come true. Many will remember him as 'The Pipe King,' where he was respected and admired by his friends and peers and could still be found driving his tractor and forklifts every day on his ranch.

An avid hunter and fisherman with dozens of trophy bucks under his belt, Lou spent some of his greatest years hunting the Sierra Nevada mountains all the way to Idaho and Montana.

Lou was a pioneer of his time and will be sorely missed by all.

Friends are invited to attend a celebration of life service on Tuesday, September 18th at 11:00 A.M. at River Cities Funeral Chapel, 910 Soule St., West Sacramento.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on September 16, 2012

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sacbee/obituary.aspx?n=louis-arges&pid=159902631&fhid=8304&FBNF=ShareObitAt&refsvce=facebook#.UFYLuTmP4TE.facebook#storylink=cpy

Taco Bell "Border Sauce" Wisdom

We stopped by Taco Bell today and I have to admit this is the first time I have noticed the Border Sauce Sayings. I haven't always been a Taco Bell customer, but the new store on Lake Washington Boulevard makes it easy to drive through. Also, I like that the calorie count is posted on their menu.

Farewell Sally Buchholz

Most of you will recognize Sally, the sign spinner for Round Table. She has been doing duty at the corner of Jefferson and Lake Washington Boulevards for many years and always had a smile and a wave for the passersby. Sally has retired and moved to Washington to be near her family.
We will miss you Sally!

The chair is empty -- they are not here. The POW MIA Remembrance Ceremony

The POW MIA Remembrance Ceremony at the VFW in West Sacramento. The United States’ National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed across the nation on the third Friday of September each year. National POW/MIA Recognition will be on Friday, September 21, 2012.

Soggy Doggy Swim Day

There was a great turnout today for the 3rd Annual Soggy Doggy Swim Day at the West Sacramento Recreation Center. Swimming was limited to dogs only, but many humans joined in to wade ankle deep with their pets.

Slow Food In Istanbul

This food vendor was stationed in the plaza near the Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul. The roasted corn and chesnuts were delicious...Maybe someone in West Sacramento will try this venture...I would buy it!!

Bridge District Water Storage Facility and Park Project

Thank you Nick for sharing info with us and letting us shoot your photo today!


The Bridge District Water Storage Facility and Park Project on Ballpark Drive adjacent to the Ironworks subdivision is nearing completion. The contractor is scheduled to have the 3 million gallon water reservoir / pump station on-line by January 2013 and completing the park, including amenities, by the end of summer 2013.

River City Junior Radiers

The River City Junior Raders Football Program has begun the 2012 Season! Show your support for West Sacramento youth football. http://www.rcjrfootball.org/.

Good Eats at the River Cats Game

Be sure and try the Homemade chips and Onion Dip at Raley Field! Yummy and delicious the kids went back for more!

Pelicans and Egrets

Thank you Debbie Johnson for this great shot of the visiting Pelicans and Egrets hanging together at the retention pond off Enterprise behind Starbucks.

Games of the XXX Olympiad-London 2012

You can bet we all had a cold one in hand as we watched the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony on NBC tonight to see the Parade of Nations and the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron. From 27 July until 12 August 2012 we will be tuned in to root for our Team USA! Thank you to Walmart in West Sacramento for allowing us this photo opportunity.

Port of West Sacramento's New Signage

The previous sign said "Port of Sacramento". The new sign proudly announces the correct location of the Port property which is in West Sacramento.

Raley Field Artwork

This mural of ball players sitting on the bench is hanging from the fence on the 3rd Street side of Raley Field...

Sushi Art at the Nugget Market

I could not help myself yesterday..this beautiful Tempura Shrimp Roll called out to me as I walked by. The Sushi Chef at the West Sacramento Nugget Market prepared one especially for me. Our family has been working on healthy eating and I think this fit in with our program!

Remembering Fiore Garibaldi

GARIBALDI, Fiore John
12/25/1913 - 06/20/2012
Entered into rest on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 in West Sacramento, CA, at the age of 98. Born December 25, 1913 in Bryte, CA. After returning from World War II, as a Prisoner of War, he would then return to Bryte, CA where he would reside for the remainder of his life. He was preceded in death by Dolly, his beloved wife for nearly 65 years. He is survived by his only child, Jeanne Binns and her partner Michael, devoted grandfather (Gramps) to Steven Binns and his wife, Lynn and Renee Lowder and her husband, Jack, and great-grandfather (Papa Fiore) to Hunter and Fallon Binns and Delaney and Gage Lowder. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Fiore will always be known for his love of the outdoors and his compassion for his family. He was a hard working man with a big heart. Fiore was very much loved and he will be missed by his family and friends. He shall remain in our hearts forever. The family invites friends to attend the Visitation on Sunday, June 24, 2012 from 2-5pm at NICOLETTI, CULJIS & HERBERGER Funeral Home, 5401 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA. Services will be held on Monday, June 25, 2012 at 10am at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 1066 26th St, Sacramento, CA. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/sacbee/obituary.aspx?pid=158162685#storylink=cpy

Remembering Allen Cadero

R.I.P Allen Cadero 1951-2012. Many folks are remembering the good times they had with Allen Cadero and the "Merry Band of Misfits"...a bunch of kids who graduated from James Marshall High School in West Sacramento. Allen was an active citizen in our community and served on many local boards and committees including the West Sacramento Parks and Community Services Commission, West Sacramento Historical Society, The West Sacramento Arts Guild, and the Special Olympics. Allen was named Citizen of the Year by the California Parks and Recreation Society in 1994 for his extensive involvement in the community. Allen, the entrepreneur, had successful business partnerships in the Sacramento Valley and opened Cloth Country on Jefferson Boulevard, moving it to the Merkley Ave location then to Old Sacramento. Family and friends will be gathering for a private memorial.

San Pedro Festival Queens 1939-1979

The high point of the San Pedro Association Festa activities this afternoon was the honoring of the past Festival Queens. Thank you Charise Perrigo Salivar for sharing the above photo of the Queens from 1939 to 1979. Below photo is Charise (1978) and her Aunt Rosemary (1951). The 90th Anniversary Festa will continue tomorrow at the San Pedro Park in Bryte. The event is open to the public.

San Pedro Association-Celebrating 90 Years

"San Pedro Association will have a Festa this year in celebration of what was first started 90 years ago. On Saturday June 23rd we are inviting all members to a Free dinner of Soupas, entertainment and fun. If your not a member, then JOIN, it's all for a worthy cause and starts at only $25 per year. If not then guests can make a small donation for the fantastic meal. Beverages are included too. Then the real fun begins on Sunday June 24th when we will start with a 9am Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bryte (ok West Sacramento). Then after we will have a PARDADE ( ok Procession) to the park. Including our members, flags, past queens, a marching band, a floats , cars, firetrucks and horses. We are looking for anyone who wants to join in and be apart of this historical occasion. After that have lunch at San Pedro Park where Carne De Spit plates will be sold, along with Linquicia sandwiches, beer , wine, soda and other treats will be sold. More games entertainment, auctions, and fun to be experienced at the Historic San Pedro Park. Tell your neighbors and friends who want to go back to the good old days at San Pedro Portuguese Association Festa June 23rd & 24th 2012."

VFW Hall in Bryte

According to Ronald J. Ramos, the VFW Hall in Bryte was built by Jordan "Pappy" Ramos originally as the Bryte Theater. It showed one movie, The King and the Egg and closed then sold to the VFW as a meeting place for all of the many WWII veterans who lived in Bryte. A monument to Pappy is in the front at the entrance. Thank you Ron, for sharing this bit of history about our wonderful community!

Strawberries Galore at Earth's Fresh Food Market

Featuring fresh fruit and veggies daily Earth Fresh Food Market offers fresh produce, fruit, locally grown pistachios, honey and international foods. These strawberries were so delicious we'll be back for more later this week!

Board Break-A-Thon for Virginia Mochel

Southport ATA is hosting a fundraiser in support of Virginia Mochel on Saturday June 9th, 2012. Virginia is a 2nd grader at Our Lady of Grace Elementary School. On Easter Sunday, 2012 Virginia relapsed with Leukemia after 2 1/2 years in remission. Virginia needs a bone marrow transplant and is currently undergoing treatments. You can support Virginia by joining a team in the Board-Break-A-Thon, sponsor a board breaking team or simply make a donation at Safe Credit Union for “Glenn Mochel/Virginia Mochel Donation Fund”