The Sacramento County Bar Association’s mission is to promote justice and enhance diversity, with an emphasis on the Sacramento region’s community and legal profession.
Bon appetite!
We hope that you enjoy this special edition. Many readers will recall that (preCOVID) we generally published one “fun/special” edition a year. We wrote about SCBA members who volunteer, attorneys who have immigrated to the
Ellen Arabian-Lee Editor, Sacramento Lawyer
US, attorneys who are in rock bands, and local attorney-artists and athletes. We hope to restore this tradition. This edition focuses on favorite restaurants of SCBA members and features one restaurant owned by SCBA members. We hope that you
find some new favorite restaurants! Special thanks to photographer Taylor Allred of Food in Focus for the beautiful photos of the food and restaurants in this edition.
Photo by Taylor Allred @food.in.focus
Magpie Cafe's Shishito Peppers
INDEX Lawyer SACRAMENTO
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ellen
EDITOR
Heather
PRODUCTION
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Sacramento Lawyer welcomes letters and article suggestions from readers. Please e-mail them to editor@sacbar.org. The Sacramento County Bar Association reserves the right to edit articles and letters submitted for publication. Please contact the SCBA at 916-564-3780 for deadline information. Web page: www.sacbar.org. Caveat: Articles and other work submitted to Sacramento Lawyer become the copyrighted property of the Sacramento County Bar Association. Returns of tangible items such as photographs are by permission of the Editors, by pickup at the SCBA office only. 14 12 21 22 22 18
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Connecting Through Cuisine and Community
By Connor Olson
As we dive into this special edition of Sacramento Lawyer, let it remind us how food and drink can bring people together. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a cocktail hour, sharing this time is enjoyable and fosters connection.
This year, we have two upcoming events that capture this spirit perfectly. On October 24, 2024, join us for the Community & Justice Scholarship
Celebration. Not only will we come together to support our future legal community members, but we will do so in the chef driven Sequoia at the Cannery. It’s the perfect way to mix great company with great food, all while celebrating something important.
Then, on December 11, 2024, we’ll gather again for our Annual Meeting. This event is always a highlight, with its carefully curated menu of food,
The Community & Justice Scholarship Celebration
drinks, and desserts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our achievements, look ahead to the future, and commune with friends and colleagues.
Like great food, these events can only be enjoyed in-person. I hope to see you there!
Warm regards,
Connor Olson , 2024 President, Sacramento County Bar
58 Degrees of Connection
By Jeffrey Schaff
At this point, if you have not been to an event at 58 Degrees & Holding Co., it’s safe to say that you don’t get out much. Since taking ownership in 2017, Ed Brooks and Ognian Gavrilov, partners at the Sacramento law firm of Gavrilov & Brooks, have opened the restaurant for a variety of events. In fact, 58 Degrees has become an integral part of the Sacramento legal community, and a springboard for local and national politics. Nearly every SCBA Section, Division and Affiliate, from the Barristers to the Women’s Lawyers of Sacramento, have hosted a mixer or fundraiser in the dining room. Political candidates, such as Thien Ho and Maggy Krell, have launched their campaigns with a toast at the bar. Incumbents, such as Corey Booker and Kevin Kiley, have come to fill their coffers amongst Sacramento’s elite. All the while, Ed and Ognian remain present in the background providing both financial and logis-
Jeff Schaff is a trial lawyer and founder of Schaff Law Group, where he focuses on personal injury and civil rights litigation. He can be reached at jeff@schafflawgroup.com.
Photos by Taylor Allred @food.in.focus
Owners Ognian Gavrilov & J. Edward Brooks
tical support, with little hesitation.
To better understand how this all happened, one must go back to 2015, when the pair first joined forces to create the law firm of Gavrilov & Brooks. It was a quick marriage after the two had worked opposite each other on employment matters. Perhaps most widely known for their personal injury practice, the partners are quick to point out that they are a full-service business litigation firm. They have a fully integrated banking practice, provide employment defense services, and are one of the few firms, if not only firm, that offers probate and business litigation on a contingency fee basis. Currently, the firm has 49 employees, including 24 lawyers in the Sacramento and Los Angeles offices.
J. Edward Brooks, the elder statesmen, is the strong-silent type.
A long-time District Attorney, Ed transitioned to civil litigation with a focus on employment defense. He provides cradle to grave representation for a variety of businesses and industries. He brings stability through subtlety and a well-polished veneer.
Ognian Gavrilov, the more outspoken, eccentric member of the duo, is quick witted and gregarious. He has made a name as an exceptional trial lawyer, securing a $39 million defamation verdict amongst several other trials and has been recognized by his peers in CCTLA as Trial Lawyer of the Year. Yet, he is quick to point out that
his true passions are banking and business litigation, and his robust rolodex has led him to be a significant player in the political community.
Their commitment to the community extends beyond simply writing checks. Both men sit on a variety of non-profit and for-profit boards. Ed is the president of the Sacramento County Bar Foundation, the non-profit arm of SCBA, where he spearheads Kids’ Law Day and the Access to Justice scholarship. Ognian is a board member for Capital City Trial Lawyers, co-founder of the Slavic Chamber of Commerce, and benefactor of the Bulgarian LLM Student Scholarship.
Despite busy lifestyles, or perhaps because of it, the brick building in the heart of Midtown Sacramento, has become a second home. 58 Degrees, originally opened in 2014 as a wine-bar, just down the street from the pair’s Capitol Avenue office. The bar became an
after-work hangout for Ed and Ognian. In 2017, when the existing owners were on the verge of closing the business, the men stepped in to save the watering hole and its 25 employees. They remodeled, including adding a large mural by Sacramento artist Lin Fei Fei. Ed and Ognian also added a resident artist, Johnny Knudsen, who shows his work and pieces from other local artists on the walls of the restaurant. In 2020, they secured a full liquor license and navigated the pandemic through the addition of a large, temporary patio.
The bar now features a modern-eclectic vibe with mostly small bites and cocktails that rotate seasonally. The current menu features a distinctive popcorn appetizer garnished with fried capers, shallots and parmesan cheese, or for a heartier bite, the pork belly tacos that entice finger-licking clean-up. A traditional happy hour and a late-night menu bookend a regular dinner service. You can find live music on
Thursday nights, and, more recently, they reintroduced a weekend brunch—complete with bottomless mimosas—because as Og puts it “who doesn’t like breakfast?”
The balance between law firm owners and restaurateurs has resulted in a ménage à trois of sorts. Meetings with perspective clients of the firm, conferences with opposing counsel, and even staff meetings are often held at the restaurant. But just like any relationship, it has come with its challenges: managing food costs, and a new type of spoliation. The balance of time and finances has become both burden and boon. It has also presented new opportunities; Ed and Ognian have been approached about investing in other restaurants and hospitality services. Ognian recently invested in the newly opened Catina Pedregal and Ed is an investor in a meal delivery services company called Craveble.
Yet, just as it was in the days before they purchased the restaurant,
on most nights you can find Ed or Ognian holding court in a corner booth of 58 Degrees. Ognian most likely sipping his go-to bubbly, Billecart-Salmon, and dining on his self-proclaimed “best oysters in town,” while Ed often sips a more subtle bourbon. And, just like the drinks, there is a rotating cadre of regulars who sit with them – business owners, lobbyists, fellow at-
torneys, and more. As the cocktails and conversations pour around them, it is evident that 58 Degrees is a hub of activity.
Whether you go alone or wait for another event, you’re bound to make a connection. And, whether you select a seasonable bite, rotating cocktail, or the signature chambong, you’re bound to enjoy yourself.
New Laws Affecting California Restaurants
By Alden J. Parker
CAlden J. Parker is the managing partner of Fisher Phillips’ Sacramento office and the co-chair of the Hospitality Industry Group. Alden is also a member of the California Restaurant Association’s Legal Center and Board Member for the CRA’s Sacramento Chapter. He can be contacted at aparker@fisherphillips.com.
alifornia is a difficult place to run a restaurant. All aspects of operations are affected by California’s laws, from the front of the house to the back of the house, to the office. Being 100% compliant with every nuance is a difficult endeavor for the fast pace of restaurants. Now, there’s even more for California restaurateurs to know in order to be legally compliant.
California’s New Indoor Heat Illness Rule
As the kitchen heats up, so do Cal/OSHA’s regulations. A new heat illness standard (effective July 23) for indoor work areas creates the second ever indoor heat standard in the country and places con-
siderable compliance obligations on restaurants. The regulation includes a rigid compliance framework pertaining to indoor work areas (i.e., kitchens in restaurants) when the temperature reaches 82 degrees, creating numerous challenges for California restaurants, where indoor temperature cannot be readily controlled.
Starting at 82 degrees, restaurants must (1) create a written heat illness prevention plan, (2) provide fresh, pure, and suitably cool drinking water, (3) provide cooldown rest periods, (4) engage in acclimatization, and (5) train all employees on the risks of heat illness in the workplace.
When the temperature or heat index reaches 87 degrees, Restau-
rants will have additional requirements to follow.
California Changes “Junk Fee” Disclosure Rules for Restaurants
California recently passed a law (SB 1524 - effective July 1), providing that restaurants, bars, grocery stores and grocery delivery services will not have to list mandatory fees (aka “junk fees”) charged to consumers in the price for individual menu items. As a result, restaurants can continue to charge service fees and other surcharges when listed clearly for diners to see. This is an exemption for restaurants from the general rule that prohibits hidden fees or “junk fees.” Restaurants will still need to fully disclose service charges, mandatory gratuities
or other fees, on advertisements, menus and displays, in such a way that the customer can see them before ordering.
PAGA Reform Becomes Law
California implemented groundbreaking legislation (SB 92 and AB 2288 - effective July 1) that provides significant reform to California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) and offers much-needed relief to employers, including restaurant employers. The PAGA amendments limit the types of employees who can bring claims, give employers a better chance to cure mistakes, reduce possible civil penalties, and boost procedural mechanisms that should reduce claims in court. The reduced penalties set forth in the reform measure will not apply to any pending litigation matters or where notice was given to California’s Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA) prior to June 19, 2024.
SCOTUS
Rules in Favor of Starbucks in a Labor Dispute
In a win for a hospitality employer, the Supreme Court recently sided with Starbucks in a case where the Labor Board tried to force the company to temporarily reinstate workers who were fired for hosting media interviews after hours in a closed store. (Starbucks Corp. v. McKinney (2024) No. 23-367.) Starbucks claimed that it fired the employees for violating valid company policies – but the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) convinced a lower court to reinstate the employees while a legal battle ensued over whether they were actually fired for engaging in union organizing activities. The coffee chain argued the lower court applied an incorrect standard in evaluating the NLRB’s request, which ultimately made it easier for the workers to be reinstated despite
evidence they were fired for valid reasons. Siding with Starbucks, the Supreme Court said courts must use a traditional, more stringent test to review such requests from the NLRB, not the lenient standard pushed by the NLRB.
Restaurant Data Privacy Obligations are on the Horizon
State officials who oversee California’s data privacy law recently convened a public meeting to discuss various privacy-related matters – and may have signaled that an expansion of employer obligations under the law could be in the near future. The California Privacy Protection Agency’s (CPPA) meeting in May 2024 addressed the proposed Federal American Privacy Rights Act of 2024 bill (HR 8818) and related future state legislation that would change the game when it comes to collecting data on minors, which undoubtedly will affect restaurant owners.
Agency Opposes Federal Proposal. During the open portion of the meeting, the CPPA Board disapproved of the recent sweeping federal proposal to pass the nation’s first data privacy law – the American Privacy Rights Act of 2024 (APRA). The Board noted that it disapproved of the APRA because it would preempt several provisions of the California Consumer Privacy Act and California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, CCPA). It would also limit the California Legislature’s and CCPA’s ability to protect the privacy rights of Californians. Essentially, the Board believes that any federal privacy legislation should provide the floor for American privacy rights, rather than a ceiling.
Agency Discusses Data Collection of Minors. Restaurants typically hire minors during the summer months to supplement their labor. The Board also discussed a piece
of pending state legislation that would revise the way businesses treat the collection, use, and selling of data of minors. The law currently prohibits businesses from selling or sharing for targeted advertising purposes the data of minors under 16 where the business has “actual knowledge” that the consumer is under 16 and has not obtained the opt-in consent (from the consumer if between the ages of 13 and 16, and from the parent or guardian if under 13).
AB 1949 would amend the CCPA to remove the “actual knowledge” standard in determining whether a business must treat a consumer as a child. The Board was concerned that removing the actual knowledge standard may force businesses to collect more information about consumers to determine their age for compliance purposes, and the Board discussed a potential amendment to make “constructive knowledge” (“knew or should have known”) the standard.
AB 1949 would also prohibit a business from collecting, using, disclosing, selling, or sharing the personal information of a consumer under 18 in the absence of affirmative authorization. It would also establish technical specifications for an opt-out preference signal that indicates whether the consumer is a child and establish age verification regulations.
Conclusion
Restaurant employers must stay vigilant and devote sufficient resources to stay in compliance with California’s challenging employment laws. A failure to focus on these issues will cause restaurants to suffer through expensive and dangerous litigation and enforcement proceedings.
The Transformation of Legislative Nightlife
By Larry Doyle
Most of the articles in this edition focus on the pleasures of the dining experience and the foods and beverages involved. Because my columns deal with lawmaking, legislation, the State Bar, and the like, I’m going to talk about legislative hunger… for power. The establishments that have fed that hunger have changed over the years.
Restaurants and bars have played a role in the legislative process since Sacramento became the State Capitol in 1854 and throughout the intervening years, including two world wars, prohibition, and the institution of the full-time legislature in 1966. Each era brought with it a change in appetites and establishments catering to them.
Different as they were, those
Larry Doyle, veteran of decades of experience with the California Legislature, including 18 years as Chief Legislative Counsel for the California State Bar, former member of the State Bar’s Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct, and currently a staffer for the SCBA. He can be reached at larry.doyle@sacbar.org.
eras shared a “Wild West” system where major corporations and others, acting through lobbyists, paid lavishly for food, drink and entertainment for lawmakers and the lawmakers reciprocated votes (not openly, of course). This system was severely shaken in 1974 by the adoption by the electorate of the Political Reform Act (PRA), Proposition 9, which placed very strict limits ($10 per month) on what lobbyists could spend to wine and dine the legislators who would vote on their bills. Then Governor Jerry Brown, who had sponsored Prop. 9 as an ambitious young Secretary of State, quipped that the limits would only allow lobbyists to entice lawmakers with “two hamburgers and a coke.” Many years later, the limit is the same –even though the cost of both hamburgers and cokes have increased substantially.
But while the PRA put some clamps on lobbyist spending, hunger and thirst prevailed – as did the need for many lawmakers to cut loose at the end of a long day, week, or session. This was also an era, according to former Assemblymember William T. (“Bill”) Bagley, of exceptional camaraderie between lawmakers of both parties,
who could dispute partisan policy issues during the day and break bread, share drinks, and swap stories in the evening. It’s possible alcohol (maybe just good food and vibes) proved to inspire members to great flights of legislative creativity, often of the bipartisan variety.
The best known of these was the 1987 “tort reform” deal finalized by Assembly Speaker Willie Brown, Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Bill Lockyer, and a select group of lobbyists for insurance companies, trial lawyers, doctors, and manufacturers, which took place at Frank Fat’s, a dynastic and delicious Chinese American restaurant on L Street a block from the Capitol. As described by former Sacramento Bee reporter Jim Richardson, the agreement included “a drastic restriction in product liability laws offset by fee increases for lawyers prosecuting medical malpractice cases. Doctors got promises that protections already in place against lawsuits would not be touched. Insurance companies won a reprieve from threatened regulations gaining momentum in the Legislature.”
The deal also included an agreement to cease hostilities for five years. Notably, the outline of the
deal was transcribed by Lockyer on one of the restaurant’s napkins, thereby earning the title “Napkin Deal.” A poster of the napkin still hangs in Frank Fat’s. (I have one in my home office, too.)
It’s uncertain what the “reformers” ate that night. Richardson refers to “plates of potstickers, Kung Pao chicken and other delicacies,” while an article by George Skelton of the LA Times, regarded as the dean of the (now disappearing) Capitol press corps, says it was chicken wings. It hardly matters. They weren’t there for the food. (But the food is truly worth going for.)
Frank Fat’s was only one of many after-hours hangouts for lawmakers and lobbyists over the next few decades. Joining it on the north side of the Capitol were, at various times, David’s Brass Rail (a Jerry Brown favorite), the original Torch Club, the Broiler on J Street (and later in the “Ban Roll-On” building on the corner of 12th and K), the Lobby (which became Brannan’s, which became Chops, which became the Diplomat, which is now Prelude Kitchen and Bar), the Esquire Grill, and others I, a relative old-timer, disremember. Some of these, like the Torch Club, have their own associated lore from the 1970’s and ‘80’s.
On the south side of the Capitol was Posey’s Cottage, where Skelton remembers, during the 1960’s, “legislators, lobbyists, journalists and hacks stood three-deep around the horseshoe (bar) at noon, patiently waiting for a table.” Posey’s closed in 1995, but the sign is still there.
Other events have changed the free-wheeling spirit of the nighttime revels of many lawmakers. The #MeToo movement beginning in 2017 had a sobering effect by instilling the recognition that, even after hours, people – including powerful elected officials – need to be responsible for their actions, as a couple of former lawmakers can attest.
Then, the COVID pandemic of
2020-21 effectively (and to some extent literally) shut down everything – the Legislature, the Capitol, and downtown Sacramento – for over a year. With additional obstacles resulting from civil unrest, looting, vandalism, and the aftermath of the George Floyd murder, many known and appreciated eateries could not make a go of it when the COVID restrictions were lifted. Even today, parts of the K Street Mall on the south side of the Capitol have not fully recovered. Another major factor in the transformation of legislative nightlife was the demolition of the Annex attached to the east side of the Capitol which had housed the Legislature’s staff and committees, who moved into the Capitol Swing Space building located at 10th and O Streets. This development fundamentally changed the dynamic between the Legislature, lobbyists, and the public in many ways. Where previously lobbyists and members of the public could literally “walk the halls” of the Capitol, dropping by lawmakers’ offices in the hopes (often realized) of catching a quick meeting with staff, perhaps even the legislator themself, “drop by” visits are now impossible. The serendipity that has always been a factor in lawmaking is consequently much less of a factor. This has carried over to a certain extent to the after-hours gatherings.
Geographically, the fact that the Capitol Swing Space is on the formerly less active side of the Capitol has changed the dining dynamics of its denizens, with new restaurants (and some old ones, like Fox & Goose Public House) rising and others on the north side declining. There are still several north side restaurants flourishing, like Ella, the Brasserie (which replaced the second incarnation of The Broiler), and Mayahuel, but their legislative evening trade is more often for fundraisers than for lawmakers simply sharing a few drinks and food. More of the socializing appears to be happening on the south side of the Capitol, in what is becoming an active R Street corridor. Finally, the substantial increase in partisanship that has been the rule since the 2016 election has made the idea of lawmakers from different parties working together on major legislation a waste of effort. With Democratic super-majorities in both houses of the Legislature (a lobbyist friend of mine remarks that all the seven Republican members of the State Senate could hold their caucuses in an SUV), why bother?
Things (with the probable exception of Frank Fats’ menu) almost certainly will change yet again in the future. But how much and in which direction, no one can say. I have a real hunger to find out.
Photo Courtesy of Fat Family Restaurant Group
Frank Fat's - Downtown Sacramento.
Celebrating Diversity and Excellence at the Sacramento County Bar Association Bench Bar Reception
By Jamie Mauhay Powers
OJamie Mauhay Powers is a dedicated advocate for community empowerment and social justice. Inspired by her grandfather, who practiced law in the Philippines, Jamie pursued a career in government, serving in various roles within the California Legislature, then transitioned to nonprofit advocacy, which eventually led her to practicing law. Jamie currently manages the mass tort department at Kershaw Talley Barlow, a plaintiff’s civil litigation firm. Jamie is also an Adjunct Professor at Lincoln Law School and a Board Member of local and national legal associations, including the Women Lawyers of Sacramento, where she advocates fiercely for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She can be reached at jamie@ktblegal.com.
n April 25, 2024, the Sacramento legal community gathered at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Sacramento to recognize the achievements of the region’s judicial officers at the SCBA’s Bench Bar Reception. This event not only showcased the incredible achievements within our judiciary, but also highlighted the unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion that defines Sacramento. As a proud member of the Sacramento legal community and an advocate for diversity, I am deeply honored to share the highlights of the evening.
One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of Judge Michael G. Bowman, who gracious-
Hon. Michael G. Bowman, Sacramento Superior Court, 2024 SCBA Judge of the Year.
ly accepted the Judge of the Year Award. During his acceptance speech, Judge Bowman paid tribute to his predecessor, Hon. Russell L. Hom (Ret.), whose mentorship was invaluable during his tenure as Assistant Presiding Judge. Judge Hom paid an equally heartwarming tribute when he introduced Judge Bowman, sharing stories about Judge Bowman’s first court appearance in his courtroom and how their professional relationship turned into a true friendship. Judge Bowman also extended heartfelt appreciation to his family, thanking his wife and daughters for their part in supporting him throughout his legal journey.
Judge Bowman’s speech underscored the remarkable achievements of the Sacramento Superior Court and its dedicated staff, particularly in navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis. He concluded by acknowledging the collaborative efforts within the Sacramento legal community, saying it was truly a “team effort.”
The evening was also graced by the presence of three remarkable
keynote speakers, each a trailblazer in her own right. This year marks the first time that all three Chief Judge/Justice positions in the Sacramento region are held by women, each breaking new ground in the process. Justice Laurie Earl, Judge Kimberly Mueller, and Judge Bunmi Awoniyi are rewriting the narrative and shaping a more inclusive future for our region:
• Justice Laurie M. Earl: As the first LGBTQ+ Presiding Justice to serve in the Third District Court of Appeal, Justice Earl’s presence is a powerful testament to the progress we have made in embracing diversity within our judiciary.
• Judge Kimberly J. Mueller: The first woman to serve as Chief Judge in the Eastern District of California, Judge Mueller’s achievements pave the way for future generations of women in law, setting a new standard for what is possible.
• Judge Bunmi O. Awoniyi: The first Black Presiding Judge in Sacramento Superior Court, Judge Awoniyi’s leadership and
dedication are inspiring and highlight the importance of representation and inclusion in our legal system.
The significance of having these three women on stage together cannot be overstated. When they first started practicing, the keynote speakers at such events were markedly different – predominantly white male and lacking in diversity. Their presence in these prominent roles sets a new benchmark for what is achievable for women in law and serve as inspiration for all of us. Personally, as a woman of color in the legal profession, this evening served as a reminder of the importance of having diverse voices on the bench to ensure the judiciary reflects the communities it serves. Seeing these women in such influential positions not only breaks barriers but also paves the way for future generations.
Judge Bunmi Awoniyi presented on the state of the Sacramento Superior Court. She recognized the significant appointments and retirements within the judiciary over the past year and highlight-
Hon. Bunmi O. Awoniyi, Sacramento Superior Court Presiding Judge.
Hon. Kimberly J. Mueller, Chief US Eastern District Judge, and Justice Laurie M. Earl, Third District Court of Appeal.
ed the court’s accomplishments, including the forthcoming Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye Sacramento County Courthouse, set to be completed around late 2025.
Judge Kimberly Mueller followed and discussed the state of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. She spoke about a notable “generational change” marked by retirements and elevations within the judiciary, as well as the pressing need for additional judgeships due to the high caseloads. Judge Mueller urged attendees to advocate for these needs with their senators and congressional representatives.
Justice Laurie Earl closed the keynote addresses with insights on the state of the Third District Court of Appeal. She praised the
court’s diversity and productivity, acknowledging Governor Gavin Newsom and Judicial Nominations Secretary Luis Cespedes for their recognition of the value that women bring to the bench. Justice Earl also highlighted the court’s extern program, which will welcome six students from area law schools this summer.
Lastly, Judge Mueller’s concluding reflections on her tenure encapsulated the essence of the evening, drawing parallels to Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of the moral universe bending towards justice.
The success of the event was also due to the exceptional emceeing by Connor Olson, SCBA President. Connor skillfully guided the evening’s proceedings, ensuring a
seamless and engaging experience for all attendees. His efforts, along with those of the SCBA’s extraordinary team, created an event that was both inspiring and inclusive.
The evening was a true celebration of the diverse and dynamic Sacramento legal community, with attendees ranging from retired judges who have been practicing for 40 years to first-year law students. This year’s SCBA Bench Bar Reception was more than just a symbolic event: it was a call to action. It reminded us that progress is not only possible but imperative.
The doors that have been opened by the trailblazers in our community must remain wide open for those who follow.
SCBA Bench Bar attendees.
GAVRILOV & BROOKS
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
BOUNTY OF BEVERAGES Bar Sponsor
SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE Dessert Sponsor
SILVER GOLD
BRONZE
SCBA Business Law Section
SCBA Public Law Section
SCBA Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Section
Sacramento District Attorney’s Office
Law Office of Keith J. Staten
F.W. Huntington & Associates, Investigations
Magpie Café
By Krista A. Lister
It was love at first bite. Cliché, I know, but true! My husband and I discovered Magpie Café when I was a first-year law student at Lincoln Law School of Sacramento, and it has been our favorite restaurant in Sacramento ever since.
We have always been obsessed with trying all the new restaurants that pop up on Sacramento’s grid and finding great restaurants and coffee shops when we go on weekend trips or long vacations. When we finally made it to Magpie, we quickly declared it our new favorite restaurant and one of the best meals we had ever experienced. Over a decade later, we still feel the same.
Magpie is a small, independent restaurant in the heart of Midtown Sacramento, owned by husbandand-wife team, Ed Roehr and Janel Inouye. Situated on the corner of 16th and P Streets, Magpie contributes to Sacramento’s thriving restaurant scene with its relaxed ambiance, flavorful seasonal dish-
Krista is an attorney in Sacramento, and the Treasurer for the Women Lawyers of Sacramento. She can be contacted at kristalister3@gmail.com.
es, and a stellar array of cocktails and wines.
On any given night, Ed or Janel can be seen checking in on their patrons, telling stories about how they acquired a special ingredient on the menu or the inspiration for one of their new dishes. Seeing their dedicated staff at the front and back of the house year after year is a testament to their quality as an employer and small local business.
Magpie’s food is always excellent. The quality can be attributed to Magpie’s embrace of Sacramento’s title as America’s Farm to Fork Capital and its use of seasonal and local food from Sacramento and the Central Valley region. Depending on the time of the year, you can always expect seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables thoughtfully incorporated into mouthwatering
Krista’s headshot by Diana Jahns Photography Food photos by Taylor Allred @food.in.focus
Back-of-the-house staff expertly preparing Magpie's delicious fare.
Preparation of the dining table centerpieces with fresh flowers from Elle Huftill of Sweet Mabel's Farm.
dishes. You can also expect dairy and meats from local farmers and ranchers, including cheese from Cowgirl Creamery, pork from Llano Seco in Chico, or Wolfe Ranch Quail in Vacaville.
Magpie’s menu has something for everyone, whether you need a light bite before heading to a show or have time to sit and enjoy a full meal. I was privileged to introduce a colleague to Magpie on a recent summer night. We shared a great conversation over a beautiful selection of dishes and cocktails. As we waited for our food, we enjoyed a taste from a bottle of Rosé of Grenache from Lotis Wine. As he poured, Ed explained Magpie’s commitment to supporting small women-owned winemakers, and talked about how he and Janel took a day trip and drove to the winery to pick up the bottles themselves. We started our meal with the Jimmy Nardello and Shishito Peppers, a vibrant dish of green and red peppers accompanied by garlic Caesar dressing, crispy garlic, and breadcrumbs. The combination of
the sweet taste of the peppers with garlic was the perfect way to start the meal. Next, we enjoyed the Beer Batter Fried Mixed Vegetables with fresh green beans, onion, zucchini, and aioli for dipping. The batter was light and crisped to perfection.
As the restaurant started to fill with people, lively conversation and the joy that comes with shar-
Jimmy Nardello and Shishito Peppers.
Farmer’s Friend Cocktail.
Beer Batter Fried Mixed Vegetables.
ing a meal with others, we ordered the Stone Fruit and Burrata with Seka Hills Olive Oil, balsamic, fennel, basil, and mint. If there is a dish that defines the perfect cold dish for a hot summer night, that is it. To bring our meal to a close, we had the House made Pasta with Pork Belly. The rigatoni was perfect with a sauce that clung to the pasta as if it were ladled directly from a pot on a stove in Italy. I would be
remiss if I did not mention that the pasta is made fresh, in-house by Ed and his team.
Our meal would not have been complete without gorgeous cocktails from the bar. My colleague ordered the Port of Rye; a perfect mixture of Sonoma Rye, port wine, fennel pollen, and bitters. I enjoyed the Farmer’s Friend; a spiced strawberry shrub made from strawberries from Root 64, a one-acre urban farmstead in Tallac Village, bourbon, and ginger beer. Both drinks paired perfectly with our meals. I left Magpie feeling happily full and grateful that I was able to share its magic with someone new.
I highly recommend checking out Magpie if you have never had the chance, or revisiting if it has been a while. Whether an intimate dinner for two, a dinner with colleagues or clients, or a table full of family and friends for a birthday, Magpie never disappoints. You can even book the restaurant for events like hosting client dinners or firm holiday parties.
I encourage you to check out Magpie’s story and menu on https://www.magpiecafe.com/ or follow them on Instagram @magpiecafesacramento.
House made Pasta with Pork Belly.
Port of Rye Cocktail.
Stone Fruit and Burrata.
SCBA Member Favorites Restaurants and Hang Outs
SCBA recently asked its members about their favorite local restaurants and places to hang out. Many recommendations were received, and some are highlighted here.
Tamarin Austin, Austin Clean Water Advisors, Inc.
“Swiss Buda (Sacramento) for breakfast!”
Moxie (Sacramento): “Always delicious. Romantic. Quiet. And the specials are to die for - don’t bother with the menu.”
Sean Wiseman, Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, LLP.
Localis (Sacramento): “Chef Chris Barnum-Dann is entertaining, engaging, relatable, and truly a visionary chef. You really get the sense from him that you’re having one of the best meals of
your life, which drives everything that he does. Every time we’ve dined at Localis over the years, both before and after their remodel, the meal has been one of the top dining experiences of our lives and unforgettable to say the least. We’ve dined anywhere and everywhere, including at many 1-3 star Michelin restaurants, including The French Laundry in Yountville. If given the option to dine at The French Laundry or Localis on a moment’s notice, my wife and I would choose Localis, hands-down. You really have to check it out.”
Eunice Majam-Simpson, Daponde Simpson Rowe PC
“Fiesta Philippines (Rancho Cordova) is one of my new favorite places for Filipino Food…you can conduct a survey but there’s not a lot of sit-down Filipino restaurants around. This may be the only one in the area. Their food is great, some of which are still traditional. The portions are good as well. While I am a U.S. Citi-
zen, the food reminds me of the scrumptious meals from the country where I was born. It is nice to have a place like this nearby. I live in the foothills, but I do not mind making the drive to Rancho Cordova when I get the craving for Filipino food. They have a good selection for their catering as well. When I’ve made a big order, it is always ready by pick up time…”
Gage Marchini, Abbott & Kindermann, Inc.
“Majka Pizzeria & Bakery (Sacramento) is a wonderful local restaurant owned and operated by husband and wife team Alex Sherry and Chutharat Sae Tong. Each week, Alex creates a unique menu offering a pizza of the day, in addition to their regular offerings, which is developed based on the in-season produce available at the Sunday farmers market near Southside Park. This past year, Majka was selected by the Crocker Art Museum to reopen the Museum’s cafe. At this second location Majka still offers pizza, but also
includes excellent sandwiches. Chutharat keeps each location stocked with deserts and other treats like ice cream and miso chocolate chip cookies. If you go, keep an eye out for window art by their resident artist daughter, 6-year-old Esme. P.S. - Don’t forget to try Alex’s green sauce!!”
Alana Mathews, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
“The Kitchen is now a Michelin star restaurant, but even before it earned this prestigious rating, it offered the premier dining experience in our region. The food is beyond amazing, the service is impeccable, and the Executive Chef is such a dynamic personality. I love the Kitchen and have never been disappointed with the seasonal menu or wine selections. It’s simply the best!”
patio. Their time-tested menu is classic and the people that work there are knowledgeable and welcoming. When the weather turns, the cozy throwback décor of Frank Fat’s (downtown) compliments their fresh ingredients and classic dishes.”
58 Degrees: “This restaurant has an excellent ambiance. Very comfortable and has outdoor and indoor seating. Fantastic drink menu and the service is excellent. Has a couple of TVs too, so if there is an event on, you are able to watch.”
“Paragary’s Midtown is the best place when the weather is nice and you can enjoy their
“Origami Grill in East Sacramento. Their food is excellent and reasonably priced. Big portions. Great variety, including vegan and vegetarian. Perfect seasoning.”
“SacYard Community Tap House is a fantastic spot to spend Sacramento summer nights. The atmosphere is perfect for kids because it has plenty of outdoor space and there are usually a lot of parents around. If you are a beer lover, they have a diverse and rotating selection of craft brews - something new to try with each visit. My favorite aspect of SacYard is really the community. If you live anywhere close by, odds are that you will run into a neighbor or a friend. Those types of interactions are what I love most about Sacramento and SacYard does a great job fostering them.”
Roy Westfall, Department of Social Services: “Shangri La (Fair Oaks) is one of my favorites. The patio is great. The service is great. The food is great. They support the community.”
Other member recommendations and comments:
Boulevard Bistro
Scott’s Seafood on the River
Kru
Miyagi
One Speed
Plan B
Matteos
Mikuni
Bernardos
Wildwood
Bombay Bar & Grill
Tres Hermanas
(Continued on page 25.)
Alden Parker, Fisher Phillips
Greg Reaume, In House Counsel, Kairos Power
Kellen Sinclair, Stawicki Anderson & Sinclair
(Continued from page 24.)
Sac City Brews: “It is inclusive, kid friendly and pet friendly. The food is delicious with a lot of options. The owner is a mother and chef and an active member of the community. The staff is kind. This was our family’s COVID spot to go to and we did not get sick going there. They have fundraisers, trivia night, burger night, special coursed dinners, and all kinds of events for everyone.”
Burger Patch: “…a locally owned and operated restaurant on K Street in Midtown that’s open until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and until midnight on other nights, so it’s a great choice for a tasty meal on a late evening.”
OBO: “It’s close to my office, fast, easy, pricedright, and the food is great.”
Lawyer SACRAMENTO
MIXING CONNECTION AND CELEBRATION
The Barristers’ Club of Sacramento’s 29th Annual Summer Associates Reception
By Carly M. Moran
On July 25, 2024, the Barristers’ Club of Sacramento hosted its 29th Annual Summer Associates Reception, an event dedicated to celebrating the achievements of our Diversity Fellowship Program participants and the welcoming of law students, summer associates, and new lawyers into the region’s rapidly growing legal network.
This year’s Reception, held at “the Mix Downtown”, welcomed a distinguished crowd of over 100 guests, including judges, seasoned attorneys, and law students. The evening’s ambiance was enhanced by a selection of delectable hors d’oeuvres and refreshing drinks, set in a spacious yet intimate ven-
ue that encouraged genuine interaction and collaboration amongst attendees.
The Reception was evidenced by a remarkable display of networking and camaraderie as esteemed judges and seasoned attorneys came together to extend their support and guidance to emerging law students and rising attorneys. Attendees engaged in a mix of conversations ranging from anecdotes about challenging cases to discussions about the rigors of preparing for the Bar Exam. These shared experiences fostered a sense of community and understanding amongst attendees, creating bonds through both triumphs and challenges and reinforcing the satisfac-
tion that comes with being part of the legal field.
The Barristers’ Club extends its deep gratitude to the sponsors and guests whose support was instrumental in making the 29th Annual Summer Associates Reception a resounding success. The warmth and welcoming enthusiasm of the attendees was a testament to the event’s role as being more than just a networking opportunity, but as an event that fosters professional relationships, celebrates academic and career achievements, and advances the goals of diversity and inclusion in Sacramento’s legal community.
As we look to the future, the Barristers’ Club remains committed
Carly M. Moran is Vice President of the Barristers' Club and practices litigation in the Sacramento region.
Left to right: Marisa Gonzalez, Savanna Corr, Tatum Kennedy, Brandon Jack, Carly Moran, and Danielle Nafekh.
Thuy Tien Duflot and Tien Duong.
Photos by Jessica K. Wilson Photography.
Attendees.
to supporting and connecting the bright minds shaping the future of law and looks forward to a future filled with more opportunities for mentorship, connection, and growth. Plans are already underway for future events that will further enhance networking opportunities and celebrate the achievements of new talent in the legal field. Stay tuned!
Hon. Peter Southworth and Drew Lewis.
Kaleigh Adams, Hon. Shama H. Mesiwala and colleagues.
Judge David Brown (ret.) and Ognian Gavrilov.
Attendees.
ANNUAL MEETING
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2024
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
SHERATON GRAND HOTEL SACRAMENTO
Ognian Gavrilov, SCBA Nancy Sheehan Distinguished Attorney of the Year
Special Keynote Presentation by Judge Dena M. Coggins
New 2024 SCBA Members Reception by invitation only
SCBA Directors and Officers Oath of Office President’s Award
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2024
Registration opens 4:30, Networking
Reception 5:00, Annual Meeting 6:00
SHERATON GRAND HOTEL
1230 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
REGISTRATION COST*
$75 SCBA Members
$95 Non SCBA Members
$25 Students (must be enrolled in law school)
*Free for All Inclusive, Lifetime members
Register/Sponsor: https://sacbar.org/annual-meeting
