Alana Sugar

Every summer I celebrate my home-grown, gorgeous herbs by making pesto. Pesto comes from the word “pestare” which means “to pound” or “crush.” The traditional ingredients (fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, parmesan cheese and sheep cheese called Fiore Sardo) were crushed and ground in a mortar and pestle. The good news is a modern food processor works just as well!

Pesto is really simple to make at home and the fun part is you don’t have to stick to the traditional ingredients. I like making pesto from a variety of leafy greens like spinach or arugula, and whatever herbs I happen to have on hand, such as basil or parsley. Using a wide array of fresh, seasonal greens, herbs, veggies and other items, you can create a masterful, versatile pesto with endless possibilities.

Here are some recipes to get you started:... Read More

For the fourth consecutive summer, the fun and free “Time Travel Weekends” historical street theater program will resume in Old Sacramento on Saturday, June 29, and continue on Saturdays and Sundays through August 25, 2013.  To the delight of guests near and far, the lively program takes Old Sacramento visitors on a trip to the 1800's with hilarious street theater, exciting parades, interactive craft activities for children and knee-slapping shows in the Eagle Theatre.  Offered on weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the continuing program is designed to bring a lively and theatrical flair to the streets of Old Sacramento, reflecting the exciting atmosphere and character of the early gold mining period. 

There are just two weeks left before the 9th annual Run 4 Independence, held on Saturday, June 29 at Elk Grove Regional Park!  It’s your opportunity to join hundreds of friends to fight hunger! The event will begin at 8 a.m. with a Kids’ ¼ and ½ mile race.  The 10K run and 5K run/walk starts at 8:30 a.m.  This event is the largest annual fundraiser for the Elk Grove Food Bank Services.

For your convenience, you can register for the Run at Leatherby’s Family Creamery, 8238 Laguna Boulevard on Saturday, June 15, 2013 and Saturday, June 22, 2013, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

You can also register by visiting www.run4independence.com.