The California rice industry will honor the efforts to preserve the Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Colony during the 10th annual California Rice Commission Circle of Life Reception, from noon to 2 p.m. in the Magnolia Room at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento, 1230 J St. The colony, which was established near Colma, Calif in the late-1800s, is said to be the first settlement of Japanese is America. The annual Capitol Roller Sushi Competition, with legislators making California rolls to compete for a framed samurai sword, are among the reception’s highlights. 
It also will feature a tasting of dishes that highlight California rice, a chef preparing sushi, and the debut of a new creation from chef Russell Michel, his signature Spice-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin, which showcases locally grown brown rice from the Sacramento Valley. Info: (916) 387-2264 or jmorris@calrice.org