The Sacramento Brief

The Sacramento Brief – December 9, 2025

CHP arrests a suspect in the Downtown shooting, Sacramento County opens $1 million in TOT grants, fog hangs over the Valley, and two festive events light up your Tuesday night.

NEWS

CHP has arrested the suspect tied to Sunday’s shooting at 8th and K.

Officers say 27-year-old Andrew Jimenez of Apple Valley was taken into custody after a pursuit and booked into the Placer County Jail on firearm and evasion charges. Two people were hospitalized in that Downtown incident as businesses and city leaders continue raising concerns over recent violence.

CITY WATCH

Sacramento County is opening $1 million in TOT grants for local nonprofits.

Applications run Jan. 5 – Feb. 6, all online.

A virtual workshop on Jan. 20 will walk applicants through eligibility and proposal strategy.

Final awards will be made by the Board of Supervisors in June, with grant agreements rolling out in July.

(These grants are funded by the transient occupancy tax in unincorporated Sacramento County.)

Grant Info:

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/tot-grant-program-available-for-local-non-profits.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

High around 53°, with dense Valley fog hanging on through much of the day.

EVENTS

Torch Club – Annual Holiday Party

Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 5:30–8 p.m.

Live music from William Mylar & Friends, guest artists, and a crowd-favorite sing-along.

No cover, but $20 donations support Meals on Wheels in Sacramento County.

21+ • 904 15th Street

Event link:

https://www.torchclub.net

Mas Taco Bar – Holiday Bartending Class

Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 6 p.m.

Craft two holiday cocktails, enjoy dinner, and dive into games, prizes, and full ugly-sweater energy.

1800 15th Street

Event link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/holiday-bartending-classes-mas-taco-bar-4795024

🎧 About The Sacramento Brief

Your hyper-local morning update on news, government, weather, and events across Sacramento.

Hosted by Carol. New episodes drop at 6:00 AM.

Show Notes

NEWS

Sheriff’s deputies uncovered a major drug operation in South Sacramento over the weekend. A raid on Bar Du Lane revealed more than $2.5 million in processed marijuana, THC wax, mushrooms, cash, and illegal firearms.

The suspected operator — 45-year-old Joseph Marques, a local security company owner — was not at the home and is believed to be in Mexico.

Three adults on scene were arrested on drug and weapons charges. The investigation continues.

Elsewhere in the city, Sacramento Police responded to an assault call around 3 p.m. Saturday. One person suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Bike officers, with help from the Public Safety Camera Network, tracked down the suspect who initially fled. He was arrested on related charges.

Police are also investigating a Sunday morning shooting near 8th and K streets. Officers found two people with non-life-threatening injuries; both were taken to the hospital. No suspect has been detained.

And just a short time later, around 1:45 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle on northbound I-5 near West El Camino Avenue.

During the stop, officers spotted a loaded firearm inside the car. The driver was arrested on DUI and firearm-related charges.

CITY WATCH

The Colonial Heights Library is postponing its reopening. A critical utility component still hasn’t been installed, meaning the building can’t maintain temperature.

The library will reopen in two phases: basic services first, followed by renovated meeting and study rooms in early 2026.

Visitors should expect a lighter book collection and some construction activity as millwork and shelving are completed, but core services — holds pickup, public computers, printing, Wi-Fi — will be available.

Source: https://www.saclibrary.org/news/colonial-heights-library-will-reopen-two-phases

WEATHER

Expect a high of 46° today with persistent fog across the Valley. No sunshine in today’s forecast.

EVENTS

If you’ve been wanting to glide across the floor like the pros, Monday nights are made for it.

Spotlight Ballroom in West Sacramento is hosting its Beginning Ballroom and Latin Dance Series, a fun, drop-in class that teaches a different dance each week — from Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot to Rumba, Salsa, and Cha Cha.

No partner needed — just comfortable shoes and a little rhythm.

And yes, you can still make it tonight.

Class runs 7:15–8:00 PM at 2534 Industrial Blvd., Suite 150 in West Sacramento.

Admission starts at $13.

Details: https://spotlightballroom.com

SHOW NOTES — Friday, December 5, 2025

CITY WATCH

• Safer Sacramento “Ripple Effect” documentary series earns a 2025 Shorty Impact Award

Link: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/-the-ripple-effect-project-wins-award.html#gsc.tab=0

TRAFFIC / ROAD CLOSURES

• Stockton Blvd on-ramp to eastbound US-50 — 55-hour closure (Dec 5, 9 p.m. to Dec 8, 5 a.m.)

Link: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-3/d3-projects/d3-us-50-hov-lane-0h08u

• California International Marathon road closures (Sunday, Dec 7, Folsom to Capitol)

Link: https://runsra.org/road-closures-for-dec-7-california-international-marathon-2025/

EVENTS – FRIDAY

• Fido Fridays at Midtown Lounge

Link: https://www.midtownloungesac.com/events

• Winter Wonderland Speakeasy & Craft Fair – Flower Fist Art Market

Link: https://www.flowerfistartmarket.com/events

EVENTS – SATURDAY

• Sacramento Holiday Cruise – City Cruises, Old Sacramento

Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/sacramento-holiday-cruise/

• Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament – Docent-led tours

Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/cathedral-tours/

• Xfinity Free Skate at the Ice Rink – Ali Youssefi Square

Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/xfinity-free-skate-at-the-ice-rink/

EVENTS – SUNDAY

• BoomBox Bingo with Geeks Who Drink

Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/boombox-bingo-with-geeks-who-drink/

• Afternoon Tea – AC Hotel Downtown

Link: https://www.downtownsac.org/events/afternoon-tea/

SHOW NOTES — December 4, 2025

I’m Carol — it’s Thursday, December 4, 2025. Let’s get you caught up.

Commercial fire in South Natomas:

Sacramento Fire responded late Wednesday night after an RV caught fire next to a building near Northgate and Jefferson Avenue. Crews arrived around 9:20 p.m. The cause is still under investigation.

Earlier in Natomas:

Two adults and a 17-year-old were arrested after a brief pursuit early Wednesday morning.

Just after 3 a.m., officers attempted a traffic stop near Hovanian Drive and Alboran Sea Circle. The driver fled, crashing into a tree at Arena Boulevard and Gateway Park.

All three were detained, including a 17-year-old wanted on outstanding felony warrants. They were taken to the hospital for evaluation; no major injuries reported.

Monday arrest:

On Monday around 4:40 p.m., officers responded to the 2800 block of Meadowview Road for a robbery involving force. The victim suffered a minor arm injury. Officers quickly located the suspect nearby and made an arrest on robbery-related charges.

High of 57 today — early fog clears by midday with sunshine breaking through around noon.

SMF LEVEL-UP

Sacramento International Airport is finally activating that long-empty pre-security space in Terminal B.

The County has approved a 10-year agreement with Local Flights LLC — the team behind The Rio Pub — to open Local Flights Brews & Bites in Spring 2026.

Expect:

• A full bar
• Sit-down dining
• Grab-and-go options
• A dedicated coffee shop

The menu will be led by chef Adam Pechal, known for elevated comfort food and seasonal small plates.

This reopening marks a major step in SMF’s concessions refresh, pushing participation by small businesses to 47%, exceeding their goal. More food concepts are rolling out through 2025 and 2026.

(County announcement: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/smf-announces-new-pre-security-restaurant-in-terminal-b-operated.html#gsc.tab=0)

Events

The Predictable Cashflow Blueprint

Tomorrow — 10 to 11 a.m. (online)

A practical walkthrough on generating monthly income with Section 8 single-family rentals. Covers acquisition, funding, tenant placement, and scaling, led by Conner O’Halloran and Sean Attard. Includes a Q&A.

Event link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-predictable-cashflow-blueprint-tickets-1975148366935?aff=

From Paycheck to Possibility: Your 2026 Ownership Plan

Tomorrow — 10 to 11 a.m. (online)

A year-end reset session with coach and author Sara Roy. The workshop focuses on clarifying your 2026 goals, unpacking lessons from 2025, mapping out pathways to business ownership, and exploring funding routes. Includes Q&A.

Event link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/from-paycheck-to-possibility-your-2026-ownership-plan-tickets-1967219109312?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

SHOW NOTES — Dec 3, 2025

NEWS:

• Man found fatally injured near Stockton Blvd & Broadway early Tuesday morning.

• Later that morning, officers found an 11-year-old stabbed on Ferrell Way; the child died at the hospital.

• The suspect — the children’s father — was later located in San Joaquin County and killed during a CHP pursuit on I-5 near Highway 12.

CITY WATCH:

Sacramento County honors Dr. Jacqueline Abdalla for major improvements in jail medical care and expanding Medication-Assisted Treatment.

Source:

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/recognizing-dr-abdallas-leadership-in-opioid-treatment-and-patie.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER:

Sunny, high around 61°.

EVENTS:

• Sex Ed Trivia, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Radclyffe’s

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sex-ed-trivia-tickets-1592255201169?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

• Line Dancing Wednesdays, 8 p.m., Our Place

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/line-dancing-wednesdays-at-our-place-dance-drink-dine-tickets-1553594245209?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

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Music by: Steven Oxen

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

I’m Carol — let’s get you caught up.

NEWS

The District Attorney’s Office says Lejon Mabon has been sentenced to 41 years to life for a 2021 home-invasion where the homeowner was shot twice but survived. Detectives tied Mabon to the scene through DNA recovered from clothing left after the attack.

And in a follow-up to yesterday’s standoff, authorities say the suspect took his own life after more than five hours.

CITY WATCH

The Sacramento Metropolitan Cable Television Commission meets Thursday, December 4 at 2:30 p.m. at 700 H Street. The meeting is open to the public and will air live on Metro Cable 14 and the Metro 14 livestream:

https://metro14live.saccounty.gov

Sacramento County is updating its 2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and is asking residents to participate. Kickoff meetings take place Wednesday, December 3 at the Coloma Community Center — a planning committee session from 1–4 p.m., followed by a public meeting from 5:30–7 p.m. Details are available at StormReady.org:

https://waterresources.saccounty.gov/stormready/Pages/default.aspx

WEATHER

Cool this morning in the high 30s, warming to about 57 this afternoon with a little sunshine later in the day.

EVENTS

The California Book Club is hosting an Ask An Expert session focused on Joan Didion’s Where I Was From — an accessible dive into California’s history, identity, and one of Sacramento’s literary icons.

Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Sierra 2 Center & 24th Street Theatre. Free admission.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ask-an-expert-on-joan-didion-california-book-club-where-i-was-from-tickets-1772720868839?aff=oddtdtcreator

Just a short hop away, Taylor Swift Yoga offers a dynamic, all-levels flow set entirely to Taylor’s hits. Mats and blocks provided with ample street parking.

Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 7:15–8:15 p.m. at her Elevated, 1900 28th Street in Midtown. Tickets: $21.05.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taylor-swift-yoga-tickets-1927504591119?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

The Sacramento Brief — Monday, December 1, 2025

Hosted by Carol

NEWS

Barricaded suspect, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Stillman Park.

UPDATE: Suspect deceased due to a self inflicted wound.

ParkSacramento Police and the Sheriff’s Office reported multiple arrests over the weekend. Officers recovered two stolen vehicles after short pursuits in South Sacramento — one near Freeport & Blair and another near Meadowview & Detroit. Downtown, officers used the Public Safety Camera Network to stop a bike theft near 10th & J Street. A separate traffic stop in the 4500 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd led to the arrest of a driver with an illegally possessed, loaded firearm. And in North Sacramento, officers arrested a wanted driver in a stolen car near Marconi & Connie.

Sheriff’s detectives also closed a major case from October 12th — an armed robbery at a Sacramento County car show. A 17-year-old accused of pulling a knife on a victim and 25-year-old Joseph Barrera, who allegedly stole the wallet and used the credit cards, were both arrested and are now in custody.

CITY WATCH

The City of Sacramento’s Department of Utilities is spotlighting its long-running High School Summer Student Program. For nearly 20 years, the program has offered paid summer work for teens in water distribution, drainage, wastewater, engineering, and lab services. Although paused during the pandemic and again in 2024 due to budget constraints, the program has historically hired 15–25 students each year, with some returning for full-time jobs. The Sacramento County Youth Commission will be accepting public comment on ways to expand youth access to this program.

🔗 https://agendanet.saccounty.gov/YouthCommission

WEATHER

A chilly start with a low of 41, warming to a high near 54.

EVENTS

• Small Business Spree Holiday Bingo – Old Sacramento Waterfront

Grab a bingo card at the Visitors Center or after riding the Polar Express and complete activities across more than 150 local shops. The more squares you hit, the bigger the prize — from Waterfront swag to a 2026 Polar Express family four-pack.

🔗 https://www.oldsacramento.com/post/small-business-spree-bingo-card

• 12 Days of Midtown

A 12-day celebration of holiday events across Midtown — from cocktails and raffles to free gift wrapping, shopping deals, and seasonal theater productions. Times and costs vary by event.

🔗 https://www.downtownsac.org/events/12-days-of-midtown/

I’m Carol — it’s Friday, November 28, 2025. Let’s get you caught up.

A deadly crash in Arden-Arcade yesterday afternoon left one woman dead. CHP said she had been crossing Marconi Avenue from north to south just before 2 p.m. when a Toyota struck her near Burnece Street. First responders arrived quickly, but she later died from her injuries.

And just a few hours later, emergency crews were dealing with another serious scene in Citrus Heights. Around 6:30 p.m., Sacramento Metro Fire responded to a multi-vehicle crash on the 7500 block of Antelope Road. Six people were involved. One person was taken to a local hospital, while the other five declined transport. CHP remained on-site into the evening as investigators worked to determine the cause.

CITY WATCH

Sacramento County property tax reminder: the first 2025–26 installment is due Tuesday, December 10th. Payments must be received, postmarked, or paid online by that date to avoid a 10% penalty. No partial payments are accepted.

County offices are closed Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28.

Emergency services and garbage collection will continue.

Normal hours resume Monday, Dec. 1.

Property tax info:

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/first-installment-of-county-secured-property-taxes-due-dec-10-20.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

High: 57°

EVENTS

Gunther’s Ice Cream x Local Art Pop-Up

Artist Kevin Wilhite debuts 40+ hand-painted portraits of every Gunther’s Ice Cream flavor, plus a new storefront piece.

Friday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Gunther’s Ice Cream

https://www.instagram.com/p/DRgTslCEe7s/

“This Is How We Do It” – 80s/90s R&B & Hip-Hop Night

DJ Lady Char brings TLC, Mary J., Aaliyah, LL Cool J, Biggie, Pac, and more.

Friday, 9:30 p.m., $20–$27 at The Starlet Room

https://www.harlows.com/event/this-is-how-we-do-it-80s-90s-rb-and-hip-hop-party/the-starlet-room/-sacramento-california/

Merry Market at Bogle Family Vineyard

Sip, stroll, and shop local artisans — chocolates, pottery, jewelry, candles, tamales, olive oils, tacos, and more.

Saturday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. in Clarksburg

https://boglewinery.com/events/#

Amazing Dogs Rescue – Adoption Event

20+ pups ready for homes at PetSmart on Watt Ave. Browse online or stop in to meet them.

Sunday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

https://amazingdogsrescue.org/event/puppy-rescue-dog-adoption-event-at-sacramento-petsmart-on-11-30-2025/

Museum Store Sunday – California Automobile Museum

10% off storewide, or 20% for members — models, memorabilia, vintage books, and more. Participate in the Museum Passport program for a chance at a holiday gift basket.

Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

https://www.calautomuseum.org

RSS Show Description – Thanksgiving Edition

A softer Thanksgiving-morning edition of The Sacramento Brief.

Carol sets aside the crime and chaos for a day to regale listeners with gratitude, good news, and the quiet kindness happening across Sacramento. Today’s City Watch includes holiday closures, modified SacRT service, and Waymo’s new authorization that brings autonomous vehicles closer to local roads. Plus a foggy start, a calm 57-degree forecast, and a few light holiday events for anyone looking to step out after their Thanksgiving meal. A warm, easy start to the holiday.

The Sacramento Brief — Show Notes

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

TOP STORIES

Two Arrests in Separate Incidents Monday

I Street & Alhambra Blvd — Disturbance Arrest

Around 10 a.m., officers responded to reports of a man swinging a machete. The suspect, who was on parole, was quickly detained. Officers found drug paraphernalia and later connected him to a recent robbery. He was arrested on multiple related charges.

And while officers wrapped up that call, another incident unfolded across the city—

Freeport Blvd — Subject Stop Arrest

Just after 2 p.m., South Command officers investigating a burglary contacted two individuals on Freeport Boulevard. One suspect attempted to flee but was caught almost immediately. He was found with narcotics and arrested for related charges.

CITY WATCH — FUN THANKSGIVING PSA

As Thanksgiving approaches — with turkey, pie, and maybe that one relative you only see once a year — Sac Metro Fire wants the only thing heating up to be dinner, not your kitchen.Thanksgiving is the number one day for cooking fires, usually because someone wanders off from the stove like their stuffing is self-aware.

Quick safety reminders:

• Stay in the kitchen and keep a lid nearby.
• Set a timer so nothing turns into a culinary crime scene.
• Skip the stove if you’re tired or have been sampling the cocktail lineup.
• Keep kids back from hot pans and dangling cords.
• And please… never deep-fry a frozen turkey. Instant fireworks.

If a fire breaks out:

• Oven fire: Turn off the heat; keep the door closed.
• Small grease fire: Slide a lid over the pan — never water.
• Anything larger: Get out and call 9-1-1 from outside.

WEATHER

High: 58°

Cool and crisp heading into the holiday.

EVENTS

10th Annual Friendsgiving at Crawdads

Wednesday, Nov. 26 • 5 p.m.–Midnight

DJ Nadz, great food, dancing, and six hours of Friendsgiving energy on the Garden Highway. Ages 21+.

🔗 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-10th-annual-friendsgiving-tickets-1942504556419

If your holiday week could use a little support instead of a dance floor—

Free Thanksgiving Meal & Grocery Box Giveaway

Wednesday, Nov. 26 • 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Hosted by Generations Church in South Sacramento. Hot meals and Thanksgiving meal boxes available — no questions asked.

🔗 https://www.instagram.com/p/DRfu-wFEspw/

And once the sun goes down, Old Sacramento lights up—

Theatre of Lights — Old Sacramento Waterfront

Tree Lighting Ceremony: Wednesday Night

A rooftop retelling of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas with lighting, sound, and a cameo from Jack Frost. Shows run Fridays–Sundays all season. Parking garages and SacRT stops are nearby.

🔗 https://www.oldsacramento.com/event/theatre-lights