
Hunger in U.S. Drops to Lowest in a Decade as Economy Improves
The number of people facing hunger in the U.S. declined last year to the lowest since 2007 as unemployment fell and some states strengthened child-nutrition programs.

The Capital Region’s Small Wineries Offer Something Napa Cannot
“Farm to Fork” is not just an advertising slogan: It reflects a
big part of the region’s identity, and that reputation is
growing. Wine has become one of California’s most recognizable
crops and production has grown tremendously over the last two
decades. California is home to 4,700 wineries and produces more
wine than any other U.S. state.

Chef’s Choice
Having left behind his metal music roots, Localis’ Chris Barnum-Dann still marches to the beat of his own drum
Chris Barnum-Dann is meticulous, driven and creative. A little OCD with a rocker persona, those close to him say, but in a way that’s an asset for the man focused on shaking the Sacramento culinary scene. He’s unapologetic about his restaurant’s changing menu or pricey offerings. Barnum-Dann is making his mark, not pleasing the masses.

Alchemist Switches It Up
Sacramento-based community development corporation selects new executive director
If Davida Douglas had one word to describe her ideal Sacramento community, she would choose “equitable.”

Helping Cooks Go Pro
Cottage Food Program turns homemade treats into a food business
When Davy Bui decided to start a bread-baking business, he wasn’t sure how much demand there would be for his “drunken” loaves.

Truckin’ to the Suburbs
Food truck events find acceptance and easy rules to operate in cities on the outskirts of Sacramento
SactoMoFo, which had held regular events over the years that opened the door for food trucks in Sacramento, hosted its 10th and final central city gathering at the Railyards on April 29.

How Rubicon Became My Home Away From Home
Rubicon Brewing Company’s closure a blow to Sacramento
On Tuesday, Rubicon Brewing Company announced that after 30 years they are closing their doors at the end of the month. The news hit me much harder than it should have and I have been trying to figure out why. Finally it came to me. Rubicon wasn’t just another brewery. It was Midtown. To me, it was everything good Sacramento had to offer.

Next Stop: Nixtaco
Leaving a career in international finance, Roseville man opens taqueria inspired by his Mexican roots
Patricio Wise spent more than a decade climbing the ladder in international finance, and he attributes his success to hard work and a belief in scientific methods. Last year, though, he started working with a different kind of formula: recipes, to be exact. He opened Nixtaco, a taqueria and craft beer spot on Cirby Way in Roseville, fully-equipped with a menu of cuisine inspired by his native Monterrey.

Feels Like Home
New coffee shop and bakery in Old Town Galt part of historic area’s revitalization
Just off of the historic Lincoln Highway, Old Town Galt is getting a second chance at life as revival efforts bring new events and businesses to the downtown streets. The newest addition, The Coffee Shop Bakery, embraces small-town pride, classic cars and coffeecake.

How Sweet It Is
After a difficult recession, several Capital Region dessert shops cautiously expand
During the economic recession and its aftermath, some restaurants and sweet shops in the region were hit hard by the rising cost of ingredients and cost-conscious customers, and forced to shutter their doors or scale back on business.