Newly Launched Program Celebrates the State’s Diverse & Abundant Cultural Treasures

The California Arts Council has announced the 14 districts that will serve as California’s inaugural state-designated Cultural Districts, highlighting thriving cultural diversity and unique artistic identities within local communities across California:

Balboa Park Cultural District, San Diego – San Diego Region
Barrio Logan Cultural District, San Diego – San Diego Region
The BLVD Cultural District, Lancaster – Los Angeles Region
The Calle 24 Latino Cultural District, San Francisco – San Francisco Bay Area Region
Downtown San Rafael Arts District, San Rafael – San Francisco Bay Area Region
Eureka Cultural Arts District, Eureka – North Coast Region
Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District, Grass Valley/Nevada City – Gold Country Region
Little Tokyo, Los Angeles – Los Angeles Region
Oceanside Cultural District, Oceanside – San Diego Region
Redding Cultural District, Redding – Shasta Cascade Region
Rotten City-Emeryville Cultural Arts District, Emeryville – San Francisco Bay Area Region
San Pedro Waterfront Arts, Cultural & Entertainment District, San Pedro – Los Angeles Region
SOMA Pilipinas – Filipino Cultural Heritage District, San Francisco – San Francisco Bay Area Region
Truckee Cultural District, Truckee – High Sierra Region

“State-level designation of Cultural Districts, with California’s diverse geography and regional variety, allowed for an entirely new and comprehensive look at our deeply valued cultural assets,” said Donn K. Harris, California Arts Council Chair. “Each community’s personal and generational commitment to these assets speaks of a state deeply invested in the places and people that celebrate local traditions and creativity. Our goal with the pilot launch of this new program was to support a group of districts that met high but broad standards of coherence, vision, and purpose – ones that could set an example for districts that will follow as the program develops and grows.”

Originating with the adoption of Assembly Bill 189 in 2015, authored by Assemblyman Richard Bloom, the California Cultural Districts program aims to leverage the state’s artistic and cultural assets. Aligning with the mission and values of the California Arts Council, the districts will celebrate the diversity of California while unifying under an umbrella of shared values-helping to grow and sustain authentic grassroots arts and cultural opportunities, increasing the visibility of local artists and community participation in local arts and culture, and promoting socioeconomic and ethnic diversity. Districts will also play a conscious role in tackling issues of artist displacement.

Pilot cohort districts will offer feedback to the Council to ensure the subsequent launch of the full program in 2019 will be supportive, accessible and appropriate for all types of cultural centers.

The 14 districts that comprise the program’s first cohort were selected with variety in mind, intended to help tailor the program to meet the complex needs of a state kaleidoscopic in nature. Districts range developmentally from emerging to established; include an emphasis on cultural consumption, cultural production, and cultural heritage; and are located in urban, suburban and rural areas.

“State-level designation of Cultural Districts, with California’s diverse geography and regional variety, allowed for an entirely new and comprehensive look at our deeply valued cultural assets,” said Donn K. Harris, California Arts Council Chair. “Each community’s personal and generational commitment to these assets speaks of a state deeply invested in the places and people that celebrate local traditions and creativity. Our goal with the pilot launch of this new program was to support a group of districts that met high but broad standards of coherence, vision, and purpose – ones that could set an example for districts that will follow as the program develops and grows.”

“These Cultural Districts showcase California’s cultural diversity and vibrant experiences,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “The districts are one more way to highlight the one-of-a-kind places throughout our state that inspire residents and visitors alike.”

Selection for the California Cultural Districts was conducted through a multistep process, including an open call for initial letters of intent, a peer panel review, site visits for semi-finalists, and an invited finalist application. The program was highly competitive and received interest and submissions from dozens of communities across the state.

Harris added, “We know there are many gems waiting to be polished, and the California Arts Council is committed to providing support and ongoing service so that all deserving districts have the opportunity to be recognized. We will continue to encourage local efforts that address the social and economic challenges and opportunities that may arise as these districts evolve.”

Additional new districts will be eligible to apply for state designation in 2019 through a finalized certification process.

The mission of the California Arts Council, a state agency, is to advance California through the arts and creativity. The Council is committed to building public will and resources for the arts; fostering accessible arts initiatives that reflect contributions from all of California’s diverse populations; serving as a thought leader and champion for the arts; and providing effective and relevant programs and services.

Members of the California Arts Council include: Chair Donn K. Harris, Vice Chair Nashormeh Lindo, Larry Baza, Phoebe Beasley, Christopher Coppola, Juan Devis, Kathleen Gallegos, Jaime Galli, Louise McGuinness, Steven Oliver, and Rosalind Wyman. Learn more at www.arts.ca.gov.

During Summer Nights, Nevada City’s landmark historic district is closed to motorized traffic and filled with arts, crafts, classic cars, food, drink and music. Leading Sierra foothills musicians perform on outdoor stages throughout the downtown area. Hours are 6-9:30 p.m. There is no admission charge.

Summer Nights visitors can enjoy a meal at one of our many and varied restaurants, unwind with some live music or just relax with a leisurely stroll around our stores and the top class craftsmen selling their wares on the street. “Summer Nights is a Nevada City tradition – the whole town comes alive,” says Cathy Whittlesey, Director of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce which sponsors and produces the events. “It’s the must-attend event of the summer season — a real community party, showing off the best of Nevada City.” Here are our recommendations for the best ways to make the most of Nevada City’s Summer Nights:

Fabulous Music!  Put on your dancing shoes and come on out. Don’t miss these great free concerts! (see entertainment schedule below)

Kid Friendly Fun! Summer Nights is for everyone. There are bounce houses, face-painting and more to make sure that kids will have a great time at this family affair.

Eat and Drink with Friends and Family! Enjoy a meal at one of Nevada City’s fine restaurants, ice cream from our local stores, delicious treats from our Food Court or just hang out at our beer and wine garden listening to great live bands. There’s food for all tastes and pocketbooks at Summer Nights.

Crafts and Art! Town will be filled with arts and crafts booths featuring cool, one-of-a-kind gifts designed and produced by local artists and crafters as well as hand-picked out-of-town vendors. If you’re looking for summer gifts, Summer Nights is the perfect place to come.

Special Additions! A Classic Car Show every week. And don’t miss the exotic music and dance of Troupe Al Ama Belly dancers!

For more information: www.nevadacitychamber.com

Entertainment Schedule

July 12th:

Sgt. Funky + Aerial Lab/Fire Tribe + Troupe Al Ama + David Ayala + Gary & Eva + Star People Band + John Girton

July 19th:

Good2Go + Aerial Lab/Fire Tribe + Troupe Al Ama + David Ayala + Nut Boyz + Ivan Najera & Friends + Heifer Belles

July 26th:

LoLo + Elevation + Dream & Dreamer + Troupe Al Ama + George Souza + Aerial Lab/Fire Tribe + David Ayala

The Children’s Festival is a one-day Renaissance Faire for children of all ages. It will be held in Pioneer Park on Friday, July 21st. This year’s festival will include over twenty arts and crafts tables, strolling minstrels, face-painters, a bridge-guarding troll, sword dancing, juggling, medieval fencing, Queen Elizabeth, Pepper the Witch, Penney the Clown, Pyrate Skool, and Claude – the life-sized mechanical dragon. Children of all ages are welcome and costumes are encouraged!

There are two sessions: from 9am – noon and from 5pm – 8pm and there is a $3 charge per session. Refreshments will be available for purchase. There will be re-usable totebags available for a suggested donation of $1, or you can bring your own bag to take home all of the wonderful things you will make at the festival. The Children’s Festival is sponsored by the Nevada City Rotary Club and is supported by The Center for the Arts.

Hourly pick ups in front of the NC Chamber of Commerce, 4 days per week- Thur- Sunday. Yuba Bus is established as a community partner with SYRCL to provide a safe, informative and responsible experience at South Yuba River State Park- 49 Crossing Bridge. Look for Yuba Bus at Summer Nights (3 Wednesdays, July 12, 19 & 26) for more information and scheduling.

Also visit us at YubaBus.com Social Media Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @yuba_bus. 530-517-8272

This summer, Sierra Stages brings the excitement of the hit musical “Chicago” to Nevada City with an all-local Nevada County production playing from July 13 through August 5 at the historic Nevada Theatre. Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, “Chicago” tells the story of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who murders her lover. Desperate to avoid a conviction, Roxie dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer, Billy Flynn, to transform her crime into a barrage of sensational headlines.

Most audiences know “Chicago” from the 2002 movie version with Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renee Zellweger, and Richard Gere. Originally premiering on Broadway in 1975, “Chicago” is a modern classic of the American musical theatre, with a catchy score by John Kander and Fred Ebb (perhaps best known for another modern classic, “Cabaret”) and a funny and engaging book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse (who directed and choreographed the original production). The show is wholly entertaining and incredibly artful as it leads the audience to contemplate the ease with which public opinion may be manipulated with a little smoke and mirrors and a lot of razzle-dazzle.

“Chicago” is directed by Robert Rossman, with dance direction by George Jayne and music direction by Ken Getz, who will conduct the 16-person onstage band. The local Nevada County cast includes Kate Haight, Jacquelynn Kolenko, Jonathan Hansard, Sara Noah, Micah Cone, Janet Rossman, Trish Adair, Erin Beatie, Audrey Delgado, Heidi Grass, Tinley Ireland, Tina Kelly, Michaela King, Heather Lucas-Ross, Hailey Patrick, Kimberly Shepard, Angela Williams, Elliot Childs, Chase Coney, Kris Meadows, and Jonathan Willis.

“All of us are excited to be mounting a local production of ‘Chicago’ as our ninth annual summer show,” says musical director Ken Getz. “It’s an extremely popular musical and not many theatres are given the rights to perform it because both the Broadway revival and the national tour are continuing to go strong after more than 20 years. We have put together an amazing cast, band, and production staff for the show, and I’m certain we are going to have almost as much fun performing ‘Chicago’ as the audience will have attending the show.”
Performances of “Chicago” are Thursdays at 7 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM. General Admission tickets for the first two “preview” performances on Thursday July 13 and Friday July 14 are $20. Thereafter General Admission tickets are $28. Reserved Seating is also available (in advance) for all performances for $38 and is a great way to provide additional financial support for the production and Sierra Stages. Student Rush is also offered for $15 at the door (subject to availability) 30 minutes before each performance (age 25 & under with a valid student ID). For tickets and information, visit www.SierraStages.org or call Sierra Stages at 530.346.3210.

Following “Chicago”, Sierra Stages will conclude its ninth season with the intimate musical from the bustling streets to the quiet rooftops, “Ordinary Days” tells the story of four New Yorkers whose lives are unexpectedly interconnected by circumstance. Warren house-sits a cat for an imprisoned guerrilla conceptual artist. Deb has come to New York for grad school. Jason has moved in with his new girlfriend, Claire, and they negotiate the perilous shoehorning of one person’s stuff into another’s small apartment. The series of funny and fortuitous events in this intimate, fast-paced musical proves that ordinary days can be simply extraordinary. Sandra Rockman directs, with musical direction by Ken Getz.

Sierra Stages is a nonprofit community theatre based in western Nevada County with a mission to provide quality productions that are affordable and accessible to everyone. Since it began eight years ago, Sierra Stages has presented 30 plays and musicals and has been recognized by the Sacramento Area Regional Theatre Alliance with six Elly Awards and 58 Elly Award nominations. The annual Elly Awards honor outstanding achievements of community theatres and artists in the greater Sacramento area. Sierra Stages performs at various local venues, including the Nevada Theatre in Nevada City and the Off Center Stage in Grass Valley.

Know and Go

What: Sierra Stages presents “Chicago”

When: July 13 – August 5, 2017, Thursdays at 7 PM; Fridays & Saturdays at 8 PM; Sundays at 2 PM

Where: Nevada Theatre, 401 Broad Street, Nevada City, CA

Information: www.SierraStages.org or call 530-346-3210

“They Both Reached for the Gun” with cast members from the Sierra Stages production of CHICAGO playing July 13-August 5 at the Nevada Theatre

Photo credit: David Wong

Every summer, for the last 32-years, the Sierra Storytelling Festival has gathered people together from near and far, among the towering pines and sloping lawns of the historic North Columbia Schoolhouse, to hear the nation’s top tellers share the great range of human experience through artfully told stories.

The Sierra Storytelling Festival is pleased to welcome award-winning international storytellers Muriel Johnson, Kevin Kling, Judith Black, Andy Offutt Irwin, Diane Ferlatte, Johnny Moses, from July 21 to 23, for three days of song, dance, poetry, and stories.

“We are blessed as a community to have an event like the Sierra Storytelling Festival in our area,” says Molly Jochem, Executive Director of the North Columbia Schoolhouse Cultural Center. “The Storytelling committee works hard to create a line-up of diverse world-class tellers whose styles flow organically and keep the audience engaged.”

This year’s lineup features an array of tellers including one who has performed for a president, a popular NPR commentator, a Grammy-nominated artist, a local favorite and more.

Judith Black is one of the nation’s foremost storytellers, creating and telling compelling, humorous, and riveting stories. New perspectives on our national history, tickling familial dysfunction, aging, and human quirks, are all fodder for Black’s tales. She has performed on stages from the Montreal Comedy Festival to The Smithsonian Institution, to the Art Museum of Cape Town, and has appeared an incredible fifteen times at the National Storytelling Festival. And if that wasn’t impressive enough, she is the winner of the Oracle Award, storytelling’s most coveted laurel.

Grammy-nominated and internationally renowned storyteller, Diane Ferlatte, fondly remember her childhood years of sitting on the porch of her grandparents’ home in New Orleans, captivated by the oral stories of family generations past, their spirit, their journeys, and their heartfelt fantasy coming more alive in each moment. She views storytelling as a traditional art form that can promote literacy, imagination, and values in the young. While emphasizing African American stories, she loves to tell stories that hold truths touching upon our common humanity, including personal and historical stories. Ferlatte frequently incorporates music and song into her performances. Erik Pearson, her musical sidekick, often accompanies Diane on banjo & guitar.

As a storyteller and early childhood educator Muriel Johnson has shared traditional folk tales and personal stories with thousands of children and adults across the United States, performing at schools, museums, libraries and festivals. Last spring Muriel was honored to share stories in the townships of South Africa and at the local Story Club in Cape Town. Johnson’s warm gentle presence connects immediately with the audience as she transforms herself into different characters. Her voice, movements, expressions and loving spirit will resonate with anyone listening. This will be Johnson’s third time gracing the Sierra Storytelling Festival stage.

Kevin Kling, best known for his popular commentaries on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered and his storytelling stage shows like Tales from the Charred Underbelly of the Yule Log, delivers hilarious, often tender stories.  Kling’s autobiographical tales are as enchanting as they are true to life: hopping freight trains, getting hit by lightning, performing his banned play in Czechoslovakia, growing up in Minnesota, and eating things before knowing what they are. He appears often at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee and has authored five books published by Borealis Books, The Dog Says How, Holiday Inn, Big Little Brother, Big Little Mother and On Stage with Kevin Kling. His book, Come and Get It, was chosen as the 2012 Minnesota Center for Books Arts “Winter Book”.

Johnny Moses is one of the most popular storytellers in North America. With beauty, wisdom and humor, he shares both traditional and contemporary stories in a wide variety of settings, including festivals, libraries, schools, and private gatherings. Moses’ has shared stories with thousands of people, including audiences at the prestigious National Storytelling Festival, as well as at the Lincoln Center, University of California, University of Washington, Naropa Institute and the New York Open Center. His songs and stories delight all children, whether wide-eyed preschoolers or jaded high school students. As they listen to Moses’ unique and authentic voice, the kids laugh, learn, and are uplifted. And they always ask him to come back again.

With a silly putty voice, hilarious heart-filled stories, and amazing mouth noises (arguably, the greatest whistler in the world) one-person-showman, Andy Offutt Irwin, is equal parts mischievous schoolboy and the Marx Brothers, peppered with a touch of the Southern balladeer. One of the most sought after performing storytellers in the United States, Irwin is especially known for relating the adventures of his eighty-five-year-old-widowed-newly-minted-physician-aunt, Marguerite Van Camp, a woman who avoids curmudgeonship by keeping her finger on the pulse of the changing world around her as she seeks to grow – even at her advanced age – in the New South.                 


In addition to performances by these tellers, the Sierra Storytelling Festival features several special events including a Storytelling Workshop with Judith Black on Friday afternoon, the hugely popular Story Slam on Saturday afternoon which is open to the public, a Children’s Concert performed by Andy Offutt Erwin Sunday morning, and an Open Telling also on Sunday morning for up-and-coming storytellers. The Festival also hosts Friday and Saturday Gala Evening Concerts with all featured tellers.

“The tellers love performing at the Schoolhouse,” says Jochem. “From the beautiful grounds and historic building to the local food vendors and story slam, the Sierra Storytelling Festival is unlike any other festival.”

Gather your friends and family, pack a picnic and blanket and settle into a weekend where time stands still, magic and wonder fill the air, and the art of story is alive and well.

This year’s festival features local and organic food and drink, beer and wine, for purchase. Attendees should bring a pillow or blanket for provided bench seating or their own low-backed folding chairs, flashlight, and layered clothing as the days are warm and the nights are cool. Pets (except for properly certified dogs) are prohibited. No onsite overnight camping is available.

KNOW & GO

WHAT: 32^nd Annual Sierra Storytelling Festival

WHEN: July 21-23, 2017

WHERE: Historic North Columbia Schoolhouse, 17894 Tyler Foote Road, Nevada City

TICKETS: $8.50-$82.50, Early bird tickets available until July 5, Individual tickets and Festival Passes available online at www.sierrastorytellingfestival.org or by phone (530) 265-2826

An energetic self-taught artist, she has been painting since the age of 12. Her larger works are painted in the studio and her smaller plein air paintings on location in various California locations. Lombard attributes her influence to master painters, John Singer Sargent, Franz Marc and Henri Matisse. A nature lover who finds inspiration everywhere, her bright colorful paintings are interpretations of nature that often start with charcoal line drawings on linen later becoming the armatures on which she hangs her swaths of color. Lombard is a 16-year Nevada City resident and a native of Southern California. She has resided in Cape Cod, Caspar, CA and in Oakland where she lived in a warehouse studio on the estuary for 20 years prior to moving to Nevada County.

www.thealexandergallery.net

www.betsylombard.com

This September, the Nevada City Film Festival and Inn Town Campground have teamed up to offer visitors an affordable vacation package to explore the beautiful historic Gold Rush era town and enjoy its growing arts scene.

Nevada City, is home to the “Sundance of the Sierra” also known to locals as the Nevada City Film Festival! From September 8-15, the Nevada City Film Festival makes art into a party, bringing emerging and top independent filmmakers showcasing award-winning short and feature length films from around the world to this beautiful historic town in the Sierra Foothills. The week-long celebration of art, music, and independent filmmaking, includes film screenings, workshops, a VR and multi-media pavilion, music concerts, live comedy, after parties, and more!

Visitors can spend their days swimming in one of Nevada County’s many gorgeous lakes or at the mighty Yuba River; mountain biking or hiking along miles of scenic trails; shopping local boutiques for unique handmade items; or enjoying local craft beer and wine at one of our downtown restaurants. And in the evenings enjoy world-class films and entertainment in a truly festive setting.

Other happenings during film festival weekend include the 51st annual Constitution Day Parade featuring the world famous Marching Presidents, in addition to the Revolutionary War Living History at Pioneer Park, the Gold Country Duck Race on Deer Creek, and a free outdoor big band concert in the downtown historic district.

Visitors will quickly realize why Nevada City was named one of the Top River Towns in America by Outside magazine, one of America’s Coolest Small Towns by Budget Travel, and the Best Budget Town of the West by Sunset magazine.

This package features 2 night’s camping at the Inn Town Campground, 2 Festival Passes to the 17th Annual Nevada City Film Festival, and 2 Yuba Bus Passes, a total value of $300 for only $160. Package is only good September 7-16, 2017. For more information go to www.inntowncampground.com or call (530) 265-9900.

Photo credit: Erin Thiem

Photo Credit: Kial James

Photo credit: Kial James

“Judi’s of Nevada City is having their spectacular summer sale, with up to 70% off selected spring and summer merchandise. Judi’s sells contemporary women’s wear in an elegant boutique in downtown Nevada City at 246 Commercial Street. They offer a wonderful selection of beautifully designed clothing and accessories, selected with the Judi’s philosophy in mind: great fabrics that are comfortable, easy care, and mostly washable. Among the lines they carry are Curio Knits, Cut Loose, FLAX, French Dressing, Jag Jeans, Nomadic Traders, and leather handbags by Latico and Rock, Paper, Scissors. They are proud to carry merchandise that is made in the USA, including Comfy, Cut Loose, Maruca Handbags, and Vine Street – and they support local artists and craftspeople by featuring their handmade jewelry and accessories. Judi’s is open Monday through Saturday from 10am – 6pm and Sunday from 11am – 5pm.”

Please join us for our bi-annual, semi-legendary, Warehouse Sale at 75 Bost St. #2 in Nevada City. Once again we are rolling up our door and clearing out our warehouse of overstock, 2nds, Samples, and clearance clothing and accessories. Discounts from 20-75% off select items by local designers Phoenix Rising Designs. Come to our bi-annual shopping extravaganza and find those perfect treasures for yourself and for your loved ones. Please spread the word…your friends will thank you for it.

Wendy will be displaying her bold and whimsical acrylic on canvas botanicals and marine life. There will be an Opening Reception held July 7 from 5-7pm, music by Tom McDonald & Tony Unger.

Thursday July 13 – Sunday July 16 2017

The 21st annual California WorldFest is July 13-16th, 2017 and features seven stages of music and dance from around the world, camping with family and friends, workshops, yoga, indigenous peoples village, international food, fine crafts, and the renowned children’s program… celebrate mid-summer with us under the cool, tall pines of the Sierra foothills.

For information:   www.worldfest.net

Come Join the Fun at Cheesemaking Classes This Summer!

Tuesday, August 8th and September 12th at 1:00 pm – Cheesemaking 101
Learn to make fresh cheeses – fromage blanc, ricotta & cream cheese.

Sunday, August 20th at 10:00 am – Hard Cheeses
You’ll learn all about making semi-hard and hard cheeses. You’ll be leaving with a tomme-style cheese for aging at home.

Sunday, September 24th at 10:00 am – Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella and burrata in 30 minutes! You’ll receive lots of practice stretching curd.

All classes include plenty of cheese tasting. You’ll learn about cheesemaking, as well as salting, brining, waxing and aging. We’ll cover ingredients, milk type, rennet, culture and salt. All students leave with the cheeses they make. Classes are limited to 6 students. Call the shop to register 530/478-1665. Private classes are also available.

Discounted tickets for the 4th of July Celebration are still available online, cut off time is 4pm today, July 3rd! If you order online, you will have to pick tickets up at the Grass Valley Chamber, 128 East Main Street in Grass Valley, telephone 530/273-4667. Hours today are 10am – 4pm. Tuesday July 4th, hours 10am – 2pm, discounts still apply.

Tickets are also on sale at the Nevada City Chamber, 132 Main Street, Nevada City, telephone 530/265-2692. Hours today 9am – 5pm and Tuesday, July 4th 11:30am – 3:00pm.

Fairgrounds gates open at 3 p.m. and entertainment begins at 4 p.m.  2017 Admission rates $10 in advance, $20 at the gate. For more information:  www.nevadacitychamber.com or call 530.265.2692

Entertainment Schedule

Pine Tree Stage

4:00 – 6:00 Northern Roots Reggae-Soul Band

6:30 – 9:30 Bob Mora Blues Band

On the Dance Pad

4:00 – 4:30 Tommyknocker Cloggers

6:30 – 9:30 DJ Greg Whatley

The grounds will also host a craft fair, bounce house, face painters and balloons.