Any ideas? Anyone in the Sacramento area offer any recommendations of
flight schools?

I know that learning to fly is expensive, but that's the way it is. The
economics of helicopter operations dictate what an operator needs to charge.
It's the same old story that has been on this board before, if you are willing
to make some large changes in your life, you might make it as a helicopter
pilot. Even with the money invested in the certificates, there is no promise
of a job in this industry. Remember, if it was easy, everyone would be doing
it!

As far as schools in the SAC area, I believe there is a school in Lincoln
(forgive me but I can't remember the name). Silver State has a school up and
running at McClelland airport. I've seen as many as 6 or 7 R-22's and R-44's
roaming around there. Of course Silver State seems to have some negative
conotations about them, but I have no firsthand knowledge good or bad about
them (you might want to go to JustHelicopters.com and do a search of them). If
you are willing to drive a bit, Helicopter Adventures has a facility in
Concord. I've had a few dealings with them over the years and they have always
been straight shooters.

Good Luck,
Jim