Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "christmas"

Sacramento Santas of Christmas past

2011-12-29T06:01:41Z

Every holiday season, Sacramentans enjoy their presence in malls, churches, parties and other venues as they sit on their chairs and take pictures with kids eager to tell their Christmas wishes – they are the many faces of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

One of these Santa Clauses is Stefan Michael Philpott, 53, a painting contractor who lives in Yuba City. He has played the role during the holiday for three years. He worked as a Santa at a local Walgreens in his neighborhood in Yuba City and also for the Midtown Business Association at the MARRS building.

For Philpott, he said he tries to prepare himself for the questions kids might ask him about Santa.

Philpott said that kids have asked him, "Where is the real Santa?" to which he answered, "At the North Pole with the elves making presents for kids."

The best part of being a Santa though, he said, is when the kids think he is the real deal.

"My mom said I'm taking on a family tradition," Philpott said. His father did Santa work before for 25 years.

He said that some people he knows through his day job have not recognized him when he dons the beard, even when he approached and talked to them. It is partly because he uses his Santa voice, he said.

The kids’ wishes are much simpler this year, he said, compared to previous years when he had kids with multiple items in their list, such as a bicycle and an Xbox. This year, for most kids, wishes were for one item under $100.

For 40-year-old maintenance supervisor Scott Carpenter, working as Santa this year, he said he had the same experience with kids from low-income families requesting practical items. He said some kids did not ask for toys, but items for their rooms, such as a bookshelf or a lamp, while kids from higher-income families asked for more expensive items, he said.

"One thing that is similar and true ... is the children's excitement," Carpenter said. "I walked in the room, and it's like a rock star walked in the room."

Through Renoir Staffing Services Incorporated, he has worked as Santa at Christmas parties in apartment homes for two years.

Driving from his home in Davis to Sacramento already dressed as Santa, he said people have tried to get closer to his car and waved at him smiling trying to get his attention. He said that this helps him get in the mindset that he is Santa Claus for the kids he is visiting.

Carpenter said his sons, 10-year-old Max and 5-year-old Leo, enjoyed watching him dress up as Santa – walking around the house in his tank top and Santa pants while putting on makeup and a false beard.

"They understand that I'm working, and they understand that what I do and what Santa is are two separate things," Carpenter said.

He said working as Santa Claus not only helps with his expenses during the holiday season but is also a rewarding job with kids giving Christmas cards and drawing pictures of him.

Carpenter said now that his Santa work for this year ended, he misses hearing the kids' unpredictable questions and wishes. The toughest question he had was, "Why does your beard look fake?" to which he answered, "The more you believe in him, the more real I look."

Going back to his regular work, Carpenter said he carries with him the same skill set that he has working as Santa Claus: people skills.

Another person who donned a red costume, minus the beard, is Gail Nelson. She volunteered as Mrs. Claus for Girl Scouts Heart of Central California. This year is her third year volunteering.

She said that she wore her Girl Scout pin as well, to let the girls know that she was once a Girl Scout. Nelson is the secretary for the Girl Scouts Alumni Association.

Kids often asked the 72-year-old resident of Rocklin, when she was volunteering as Mrs. Claus, how she got down from the North Pole, to which she answered, "Santa has a few extra sleighs, so he enlisted one sleigh and driver to bring me down to Sacramento because the Girl Scouts had asked for a Mrs. Claus."

Nelson told the kids that finding Sacramento was not hard at all because the sleigh has GPS. She said, "The parents are funny. They get a kick out of this."

She said the hardest thing she had to explain was why she couldn’t let the girls see the sleigh she came down with. She just said it was being serviced.

To prepare for the part, Nelson said she did research on Mrs. Claus and read all that she could find on the character. She made sure that her red Mrs. Claus dress was pressed and clean, and she wore a perfume that smells like vanilla.

Now that Christmas has passed and the new year is a few days away, these men and women who played the vital role in the merriness of the holiday had to put their outfits back in their closets, and wait to wear them again for Christmases to come.

The Sacramento Zoo hosts annual PJ Party

2011-12-25T23:06:59Z

While last-minute shoppers set out to get that final gift on Christmas Eve the Sacramento Zoo filled with visitors who took advantage of free admission as the Zoo held its annual PJ Party. Opening the Zoo on Christmas Eve has been a tradition for more than 12 years and while wearing pajamas is not required to attend, admission is free during the three hour event. Tonja Swank, the Zoo's public relations coordinator, said the Zoo typically draws 500 to 600 visitors on a regular Saturday but on days like Christmas Eve or Free Museum Day when admission is free the number jumps into the thousands.

Tales from the front lines: Working on Christmas

2011-12-24T03:38:59Z

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, when most folks are sitting down to enjoy dinner with family and friends, public safety officers, doctors and nurses and others in service industries still have to work. It’s not always easy – crime and accidents don’t take a break on holidays.

The Sacramento Press asked some of them to share their holiday work experiences. These are their stories.

FIRE DEPARTMENT:
“(Christmas) is a pretty loaded day,” Doug Bruce, an engineer with Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, said Friday. “There is a lot of last-minute things going on, so there is a lot of traffic out. We keep busy.”

Bruce said calls to the fire station can be strange no matter what the day, but during the holidays, you really never know what you’re going to get.

“A lot of times there’s the unfortunate call where something crazy happens involving the holiday spirit and it touches off a structure fire,” Bruce said. “On the other hand, there may be a call where a life is saved or property is saved and things end on a brighter note. It’s really a mixed bag.”

Being on duty on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is not boring by any means, Bruce said – but it’s not lonely, either.

“We have a lot of people who stop by and bring treats and baked goods,” Bruce said. “We just finished a toy drive, so we have a lot of folks that bring toys for that, too.”

Throughout the year, fire personnel are thanked for their work by random people who come up to say hello now and then, Bruce said.

“When someone who came through an incident that could have had grave circumstances comes back and says thank you, that really means a lot,” he added.

Bruce spoke of a woman who had been out on the town one Christmas Eve a few years ago and choked on some food during dinner.

“We arrived and she was down – she wasn’t breathing,” Bruce said. “She went into a coma for a while, but she came back and survived.”

Bruce said the woman comes by the station about twice a year to visit and bring treats to say thank you to the firemen who saved her life that day.

“When they take time to come and see us and say, ‘You did this for me back when,’ you think to yourself, ‘Wow. That’s great.’ Those are special days,” Bruce said.

For those who have to work at the fire station on Christmas, it can be hard to be away from the family, Bruce said, but many stations try to make the best of it by hosting dinner for the crew’s families.

“Some (stations) invite everyone to the station, and they’ll put on a big spread and feed everyone well,” Bruce said.

POLICE DEPARTMENT:
The police are busy year-round with calls from robbery to murder to car theft, but the holidays seem to add just a touch of excitement even to that score, according to Officer William Cho of the Twin Rivers Police Department.

“A couple of Thanksgivings ago, we got a call because someone had left a turkey on in a school oven,” Cho said Wednesday.

When Cho and his partner arrived on the scene, Cho said, they thought the building was on fire because the place was thick with smoke.

“I don’t know how long it had been in there, but the bird was shrunken, mangled and burned to a crisp,” Cho said. “The people who called us were like, ‘Oh, sorry – guess we forgot to take the turkey out.’ There can be calls like that now and then.”

Officer Arnel Agdipa, also from the Twin Rivers Police Department, said he and his fellow officers feel gratitude from the community in some unexpected ways.

“There was one Christmas out in Woodlake when the community members had a dinner set up for us at the old fire station off of Arden,” Agdipa said Wednesday. “They had food and stuff all laid out for all law enforcement and fire personnel, and we could come and go and eat when we had time. It was great having the community get together and do that for us.”

POST OFFICE:
Gary Campanale, a former express mail deliverer for the U.S. Postal Service, said Friday that working Christmas Day had its ups and downs.

“A couple of times (when delivering on Christmas Day), I was invited to share Christmas dinner,” Campanale said.

The USPS Overnight Express mail is delivered 365 days a year, Campanale said, so every year there is a chance to work on holidays.

“(Customers) were usually so appreciative that they invited me in to share cocoa or lunch or something,” Campanale said. “They were so hospitable. Even if it was for just 15 or 20 minutes, I’d take my break and go in.”

Of course, mail delivery on Christmas has its downside, too, Campanale said.

“Believe it or not, sometimes you’d be there delivering on Christmas Day, but (the package) was guaranteed for the day before – Christmas Eve – and people would be so irritated,” Campanale said. “They’d want their money back and chew your head off even though you’re working Christmas.

“This time of year it’s a crapshoot if mail is going to get there on the exact day, and sometimes it just didn’t,” he said.

HOSPITAL:
Amanda M., an emergency room nurse in the Sutter Hospital system in Sacramento, said patients who arrive in the E.R. on holidays run the gamut from psych patients who think they are superheroes to families with food poisoning.

“Sometimes we get Batman heading out to save people,” she said, “or they think they’re Superman and try to fly off things – it’s surprising.”

Cooking-related injuries around Christmas time are common, too, she said, especially during the night shift after dinner.

“We’ve seen injuries from turkey explosions,” Amanda said, “and burns from deep-frying turkeys. We’ve even had people on oxygen that get too close to flames and set themselves on fire. It’s nuts.”

And then there are the people for whom accidents happen in the most unexpected ways.

“Once, before Christmas, a guy came in who had been putting lights up on his house,” Amanda said. “He got all tangled up in them – like a Chevy Chase Christmas movie – and fell off the roof. He came in with fragments of light bulbs in his skin all over him.”

It took two people nearly two hours to dig out all the shards of glass, she said.

The work of an E.R. nurse on Christmas doesn’t always go unnoticed, however. Sometimes, Amanda said, there is an occasional showing of gratitude.

“We get a lot of patients that bring back cookies or bake cakes for us,” Amanda said. “Or someone will send a card that says, ‘Thank you for taking care of me on Christmas Eve – I was the drunk guy.’

“Whatever it is, the gesture is always appreciated,” she added.

Whether it’s a thank-you card or a plate of cookies – or the occasional $10 bill tucked in an envelope – the people who work on Christmas so others can enjoy the holiday with their families deserve a hearty “thank you” during the holidays.

As Bruce said, “It’s always nice to hear.”

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

Photo essay: Cold Christmas nights and warm brightly lit Sacramento homes

2011-12-24T00:26:55Z

During the cold winter nights, the colorful Christmas lights on homes around town bring warmth to the hearts of passers-by. Each decorated house, big and small, has its own charm – front lawns filled with Santa Claus balloons and figures, brightly lit reindeer, colorful candy cane lights, and even cartoon penguins and bears. Some homes have lights overflowing their rooftops and trees, and some have their lights dance to the tune of Christmas carols. Cars slow down in amazement, smiles on their occupants’ faces, as they gaze at the festive decorations.

Here are the photos from some of the houses Kalyn Ruijters and I took around our neighborhoods – East Sacramento, South Sacramento, and Elk Grove.

On Kalyn’s walk and search for Christmas decorated homes Wednesday evening, she ran into a crowd of merry men and women all geared to brighten up the East Sacramento streets. It was 7 p.m. when, snowmen on wheels, Santa-sleigh tricycles and other Christmas-inspired bicycles paraded from 41st Street to 45th Street as part of the 5th Annual Nite Brite Parade. Here are some of the photos from the colorful event.

Downtown Sacramento Christmas Lights Photos

2011-12-23T20:57:51Z

It’s that special time of year on Capitol Mall and Old Sacramento, Christmas lights are up inviting people to walk a few blocks and the Capitol Christmas Trees decked out in all its splendor. Over the last several years, it appears as if more lights have gone up to enrich the overall experience as an inviting destination to visit and enjoy. The Wells Fargo Center has done a fantastic job with a beautiful tree in the lobby and twinkling lights inside and out.

Merry Christmas!

Disclosure: Read more at: http://livinginurbansac.blogspot.com/ or http://zwahlenimages.com/blog/

Christmas gifts under $20

2011-12-21T06:58:43Z

Christmas is a time of giving and receiving, but the former may prove challenging – especially when you need financially friendly ideas. Even when it’s the thought that counts behind a gift, you still need to look like you’ve thought about it, and socks don’t always leave that impression.

To make this Christmas challenge a bit easier, The Sacramento Press looked at local stores in Midtown that have some fun options, each of them under $20.

The Beat

Location: 1700 J St.
Store hours:
Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The Beat is an independent music store that sells all genres, new and old. Here, a unique gift can be bought for the music lovers on your Christmas list.

Vinyl records
Suggested for: Lovers and collectors of old music.

Price range: $10 - $20
“Vinyl records transcend all age groups,” said Jeff Tyler, 47, manager of The Beat. He said that a vinyl record is perfect for the dad or grandpa who wants to reminisce their yester-years by listening to the soundtracks of their lives. Tyler asked, “Who does not want to relive their childhood?"

For $16.98, a shopper can give the unique gift of Michael Jackson’s “Farewell My Summer Love” vinyl record. It can be framed, or played on the freshly dusted record player.

In the rare vinyl records section, shoppers can find albums by the likes of The Beatles, The Platters, Green Day and Madonna. Tyler also said that there is a resurgence of interest in vinyl records among teenagers this year.

"The parents are going to know what they are,” said Tyler, “because they played them when they were younger. Grandparents will know, and teenagers are learning."

Band poster
Suggested for: Lovers and collectors of new music.

Price range: $15 - $20
These posters are just as collectible and decorative as the vinyl records above. One example is this 30 inch-by-30 inch 3 Doors Down board poster, sold for $20 and perfect for that special someone.

Metro Electronics

Location: 1831 J St.
Store hours:
Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Metro Electronics is the place for electronic parts. Any geeks who wants to build their own computer can find something they need here. There are no widescreen TVs, video games or iPod accessories. Instead, they offer parts for TVs, radios and other electronic devices, and a wide range of do-it-yourself kits for building radios, burglar alarms, LED displays and other doohickeys.

Roulette wheel
Suggested for: Any teen or adult who’s run out of things to solder.

Price: $19.95
For the adults who love soldering and making objects light up, the store carries LED mini kits, including a roulette wheel. Once built, the LED lights randomly light up a number, much like the ball on the real thing. There are other potential gifts like this for the same price, including a “riding Santa,” with lights that flash in a way to animate Santa on his sleigh.

Tyranomech
Suggested for: The people who keep taking your radio apart so they can put it back together.

Price: $16.95
A solder-less mechanical motorized wooden kit, Tyranomech is perfect for teenagers who enjoy challenges outside of Lego products. Builders follow the instructions to piece this wood dinosaur together, so that it can walk (or really wobble) across your table or counter. Batteries are not included, but there’s enough change with your $20 budget to cover that.

The store’s general manager, Bob May, 58, said that this toy is perfect for kids who want to get into basic robotics, because the kit includes real gears and motors. He also admitted to putting some of these together himself, and said they can make adults feel like kids again.

"They are different," May said. “You can say, ‘I built that’ instead of, ‘I bought that.’ ”

If a dinosaur isn’t quite what you need, there’s also an Automech for the same price, which rolls on wood wheels rather than waddles on wood legs.

Trés Chic Boutiqué

Location: 2228 J St.
Store hours:
Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A fun and friendly apparel store, Trés Chic Boutiqué has been in operation for 18 years. The owner, Susan Tiesing, 53, is proud of the fact that most of the store's special-occasion dresses are one of a kind. If you shop for something here, you won’t have worry about someone finding and wearing the same dress.

“We want our customers to have something unique and individual,” Tiesing said.

Here are some examples of items they have “in stock” now.

Guitar pick earrings
Suggested for: The girl who needs more casual (but stylish) earrings.

Price: $19.99
The funky guitar pick earrings’ fun and playful design goes well with casual denim outfits, Tiesing said. They come in red, blue and purple – but they won’t be in the store for long.

Scarves
Suggested for: Girls who wanna have fun.

Price: $19.99
This lavender scarf is a great gift for style and weather alike. Made from 100 percent pashmina, the silky material can be worn with casual or formal attire.

Fingerless gloves
Suggested for: Girls who wanna have warm hands.

Price: $15
Fingerless gloves with attached mitten are great for anyone caught texting all the time. The gloves’ fingerless tips make it easy to type when needed, and the attached mitten can be used for additional protection against the winter cold.

Vintage-inspired gloves
Suggested for: Sophisticated women, and those who think they’re sophisticated.

Price: $18
These vintage-inspired gloves are perfect for adults, according to Tiesing, because of their muted color, showing sophistication and maturity. The polyester and cotton materials are stretchable, making them comfortable to wear.

The Book Collector

Location: 1008 24th St.
Store hours:
Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

This used book store has more to offer than today’s world will admit. The store carries more than 20,000 used books, which are mostly under $15, making it a great place to find what your bookworm friends and family want. Here’s a perfect example:

“The Adventures of Peter Cottontail” and “The Adventures of Mr. Mocker”
Suggested for: Young readers and read-to-ers.

Price: $5 each
These old and worn books still have enough life in them for kids to read along, making them great Christmas gifts. Store owner Rachel Hansen said adventure stories of personified animals are classics that kids from the ’40s and ’50s enjoyed, and the kids of today will enjoy, too.

"When a parent gives a child a book,” Hansen said, “then it's not just the gift of the book, but the gift of time."

Christmas is a perfect time for these books, she said, because with bedtime stories, parents and their children can spend that special time together reading the books and enjoying each other’s company.

Peradice

Location: 918 24th St.
Store hours:
Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday noon - 4 p.m.

A card and gift store that opened in June, Peradice carries greeting cards, candles and other home goods. Lighthearted and bright, the store has plenty to offer to its customers.

“Doofus and Darling’s Manners for the Modern Man”
Suggested for: Your guy friend who sometimes doesn’t get it or your boyfriend who could learn a thing or two.

Price: $12
A fun book on a funnier subject, this book tells what it really means to be chivalrous in this day and age. Best used as a joke gift rather than as a manual.

Candle tins
Suggested for: Anyone who needs to relax this Christmas. In other words, anyone.

Price: $8
These scented candle tins come with scents like “coconut milk mango” and “tangerine teakwood.” They’re handy items when you need to cover another scent or finally have enough time to take that long, relaxing bath.

Handmade earrings
Suggested for: Moms, sisters, girlfriends, wives and any jewelry-loving female with pierced ears

Price: $18
These earrings were handmade by local Pam Nichols, a friend to the store Peradice, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Doilies are included with purchase.

Cuffs

Location: 2523 J St.
Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.,
Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Cuffs is a fun place to find both new and vintage clothing. The store has clothes and accessories for men and women, some clothes are fashionable and cute, and some are downright kinky. Let’s start with the kinky.

Toddland underpants
Suggested for: The one you know will laugh the loudest.

Price: $18
These men’s boxers come in playful prints, from owls to tuxedos. Comfortable, practical, and not a reason to smirk.

Vintage ties
Suggested for: Males who plan to look sharp in their suits.

Price: $12
These ties come in different colors and styles, and all are very classy.

“They all have their own back story,” said Kaitlyn Hester, 21, a clerk at Cuffs. “We just don’t know them.”

Mighty wallets
Suggested for: The one who keeps forgetting to pay you by “losing” his wallet.

Price: $15
Their mighty wallets are named for their strength and eco-friendly impact. Children often try to tear the demo wallet, twisting and wringing and biting, yet the wallet stays intact. It’s small and snugly and fits into your pocket while holding your cash. They come with different designs, from “Star Trek” to red flannel.

Mixed Bag

Location: 2405 K St.
Store hours:
Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

The self-proclaimed “one-stop gift shop” – for kids, at least. Mixed Bag is packed full of fun toys and goofy joke gifts, quite a few of them falling in the $20 price range. Here’s some of the highlights.

FuzzyFriends slippers
Suggested for: Kids who fit them and fiancés who need them.

Price: $19.95
These silly slippers take the form of ladybugs, bumblebees and other cute animals. They’re great for little ones who want both new slippers and new toys, and in this weather, no one needs to have cold feet.

Sock-It-To-Me socks
Suggested for: The one who’s tired of argyle.

Price: $8.50
Yes, we just went there. But these socks can get away with saying, “I thought of you when I saw these.” With patterns from bicycles to mustaches, these socks give a better connotation to “funky.”

Even if you woke up this morning to find that Christmas is creeping up on you, there’s still time to give. Make that Christmas (shopping) list, and don’t forget to check it twice. The only thing better than finding a gift that keeps on giving, is being that gift yourself.

The article is co-written with Ellen Dominguez

Trash Film Orgy at the Crest Theatre

2011-12-20T06:07:17Z

Little kids all over look forward with excited anticipation to Santa coming into town. They know he has a list that shows who’s been “naughty” and who’s been “nice.”

Saturday night several hundred “naughty” people attended Trash Film Orgy’s (TFO) showing of “Don’t Open Till Christmas,” a film directed by Edmund Purdom. The film was one of several films featured at the Crest Theater’s “Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival.”

Doors opened at 10 p.m. for an 18 and older crowd that had been waiting outside the Crest Theater. Audience members dressed in costume were given a discount on admission.

Once inside the Crest Theatre, a Christmas tree was decorated and included gifts that were given to customers. Once the gifts were opened you were given the option of keeping the gift or exchanging it at the Shaggy Elephant Gift Exchange table. In the spirit of the 18 and over crowd, gifts were specifically geared toward that age group and included many naughty, adult in nature gifts.

Several other tables were set up to sell merchandise which included Midikat Boutique, Trash Film Orgy Productions and designer Carlyfornia Love. Trash Film Orgy also had tables set up for Santa’s Trash Workshop that included games and prizes.

A Mrs. Claus Holiday Workshop was also available for film goers to make their own holiday ornaments. Santa himself, with cigarette in mouth, posed for pictures as visitors sat on his lap. Elves dressed in scanty outfits also posed for photos.

The atmosphere of the lobby, although naughty in nature, was very enjoyable and guests appreciated what Trash Film Orgy had to offer. Once the curtain call was signaled guest entered the theater to enjoy a live performance of “Trash Santa.”

The Trash Santa performance was quite enjoyable and was geared for an adult audience. The performance featured a mean Santa who used profanity and featured elves who enjoyed their porn and who created the perfect toy, represented by a tough, gun wielding sexy robot.

The performance was greeted with much enthusiasm and included active participation from the audience. The participation exhibited by the audience from this point forward was very noticeable and it’s this kind of spirit that draws crowds to TFO performances.

Instead of going straight into the feature film after the first TFO performance, the audience sat through a series of bizarre, unexpected and entertaining film clips, cartoons and just plain weird visuals. The audience loved the previews and vociferously commented on what they saw.

I’m not sure how long the previews lasted but it was quite popular with the audience and gave people something to talk about during intermission.

After intermission TFO continued their entertainment by putting on a game of popping balloons by sitting on them. Several audience members participated in the event. Not only did participants enjoy this but audience participation gave everyone a chance to contribute to the enjoyment of the game.

The 1984 feature film, “Don’t Open Till Christmas,” followed. The British film was directed and starred Edmund Purdom and was written by Derek Ford based on a story by Al McGoohan. It’s not your typical Christmas movie and fits into the “Slasher” film category.

The film deals with a London psycho killer who goes on a killing rampage just before Christmas. The victims are people dressed in Santa suits that he encounters. The famous Scotland Yard has several detectives set out to find the killer. The killer must be stopped before the killing becomes another annual holiday tradition.

The morbid killings elicited outlandish remarks from the audience and actually made this an enjoyable movie.

As the audience was making their way out of the theatre I spoke with a couple. Martin George and Angela Stewart said they came to see what K Street looked like now that it was open to car traffic and decided to attend the performance after seeing the line outside the theatre.

“I thought I had outgrown Santa,” said George, “but tonight’s event just goes to show that you never really outgrow that. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and loved the elves, specially the beautiful female elves. Wow, this was great.”

The event for the evening showcased TFO entertainment at its best as audience members were encouraged to interact. Crest Theater and TFO provided a night of fun adult entertainment.

Iceland Home to the 2011 Holiday Show

2011-12-20T02:51:12Z

About 20 people performed in the two performances of the 2011 Holiday Show on Saturday at Iceland Skating Rink and raised over $1,000 to help repair the large roof, the next project to make the rink a year-round facility once again.

This is the first ice show since the March 2010 fire.

“The performers have been practicing twice a week since the ice rink opened in November,” said Terrie Kerth, daughter of one of the two co-owners.

Janelle Cardoso is the director and choreographer of the show.

“All the skaters are very technically sound,” said Cardoso. “Most of them have show skating experience.”

Towards the end of the hour-long show Carmen Melissa, who was sitting next to the author, spoke positively of skater Susan Algarne, “You have skaters, then you have your skaters who are natural performers.” Algarne skated to “Let It Snow.”

Cristal Johnson, who came with her family said, “It was unexpected. We came to skate but the show was happening. We loved it.”

Over 100 people attended between the two performances.

To continue to serve the Sacramento community for another 70 years, Iceland recently gained non-profit status. Its main focus is to teach people how to skate.

“We need to let kids know there is a better place than the streets,” said Melissa. “Here you can be part of a family.”

As a volunteer for five years, Harley McCarthy enjoys being on the ice.

“Its a great way to relieve stress,” said McCarthy.

Private skate lessons are only $1 a minute and public skate can be enjoyed during the afternoon hours for $5 including skate rental.

Individuals or groups who donate to the rebuilding of Iceland will receive personalized glass blocks. More details can be found online at www.skatesacramento.com or by contacting Terrie Kerth at (916) 992-4836.

TV for the Holidays - Access Sacramento Channel 17

2011-12-19T18:53:44Z

Show the NBA you don't need their back-to-back B-ball to enjoy the holiday spirit. During those lulls in family "How have you been?" catching up, endless high calorie snacking, and playing (breaking?) the kid's brand new toys, enjoy local holiday programming made by your neighbors right here in Sacramento County. Here's the schedule of special events - a "snapshot" of our Christmas weekend programming on Channel 17 and streamed on our web site at www.AccessSacramento.org - ENJOY - Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

“Celebration Of Lights” – 9:00am

“Kid’s Corp Christmas Special” – 11:30am

“Giving – Winter Wonderland & Raley Field” – 12:00Noon

“Terry Moore Christmas Special” – 12:00Noon

“Dancing With The Stars” – 1:00pm

“Veteran’s Day Parade” – 3:00pm

“Happy Rhythm 2011 Christmas” – 4:30pm

“LiveWire! Santa Christmas Special” – 5:00pm

“Sacramento Dances – Let’s Dance Ballroom’s 2011 Holiday Gala” – 7:00pm

“Club Karo’ky Xmas Show” – 8:00pm

“Christmas With Sister Swing” – 9:00pm

“The Crib (stage play)” – 11:00pm

Sunday, December 25, 2011

“LiveWire! Santa Christmas Special” – 9:00am

“Sacramento Dances – Let’s Dance Ballroom’s 2011 Holiday Gala” – 11:00am

“Club Karo’ky Xmas Show” – 12:00Noon

“Christmas With Sister Swing” – 1:00pm

“Agape Christian Fellowship Xmas Special” – 4:00pm

“Giving – USAF Band of the Golden West” – 5:00pm

“Happy Rhythm 2011 Christmas Special” – 7:00p

“Celebration Of Lights” – 7:30pm

“Chinese Culture 25th Anniversary Celebration” – 10:00pm

All cablecasts will be on Comcast/Surewest Channel 17 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, Pacific Daylight/Standard Time. What? You don't have those services? Not to worry, you can also view the programs on our website at www.accesssacramento.org, at the times listed above. Feel free to share this schedule with your friends! Most of the above programs are also posted on Comcast "On-Demand" channel 1 under "Get Local" and "Access Sacramento". Thank you for your support of local community and public access television in Sacramento County.

Disclosure: Ron Cooper is Executive Director of Access Sacramento

Real Relationships: Holiday Hiatus

2011-12-19T16:49:33Z

“Real Relationships” will be taking a two-week hiatus for the holidays. I will be back to dish both solicited and unsolicited relationship advice on Monday, Jan. 2.

Email your questions to sacpress@live.com. Questions will be featured and answered anonymously.

Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

~Janna

Light up Midtown -- the winners

2011-12-17T06:08:08Z

Light up Midtown – the second annual event designed to bring holiday cheer to Midtown storefronts – crowned a winner on Dec. 14. Tres Chic Boutique, a dress store on J Street, claimed first prize for the second consecutive year.

The runner-up was French Cuff Consignment, a secondhand store also on J Street, and third place was awarded to Cheap Thrills Costumes and Party Clothes, a vintage clothing and costume shop on L Street.

Fifty participants competed in the contest to create “the most whimsical storefront,” which is three fewer than last year, said Heather Philpott, events and communications manager with the Midtown Business Association.

For winning, Tres Chic Boutique has $1000 in advertising grants, money that comes from the “12 Days of Midtown” event budget, Philpott said. Second and third place received $500 and $250, respectively.

Tres Chic has a window filled with white twinkle lights, framed with icicles. High-heeled shoes and an old-fashioned Santa, dressed all in white, complete the display.

“It’s about being creative, being whimsical and getting lots of lights up,” Philpott said, adding that the pretty windows helped to get the public vote, but the stores that won did so because they were able to get the word out to voters about the competition.

The display at French Cuff Consignment is a gingerbread dog house and Santa holding a note that reads, “All I want for Christmas is a puppy,” said store owner Corey De Roo. White lights and two Christmas trees frame the scene.

De Roo said she spent about $30 on the display, including several stuffed puppies. Once the holiday season ends, the stuffed animals will be donated to the Yolo County SPCA to be used for promotional work when live animals cannot be present.

Winners can spend their advertising grant anywhere, Philpott said. The owners can submit their invoices, and the MBA will pay the bill.

“I haven’t decided where to advertise,” De Roo said, “but I’ll use the money in a productive way to help inspire people to shop locally.”

Cheap Thrills Costumes and Party Clothes has a storefront with a bit of everything, said store owner Todd Aylward.

“We used lots of lights and dressed the mannequins up in holiday stuff,” Aylward said.

On one side of the storefront, one mannequin is dressed like a nutcracker, and another looks like Father Christmas. The other side features mannequins in party attire, a disco ball and a pair of checkered legs coming up out of the floor.

Aylward said he spent about $100 on the display and added that he plans to participate next year.

Voters this year had an additional incentive to cast their votes – one lucky winner’s name will be drawn to receive a gift certificate for $100 from any Midtown store, Philpott said.

The Light up Midtown competition will return next year, and Philpott said the MBA hopes to attract even more participants.

Editorial Note: A spelling correction has been made to this article after it was published.

Crest to host holiday film fests for fans of camp, Capra and corpuscles

2011-12-15T12:20:26Z

For those whose Christmas season isn't complete without watching Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed stroll through Bedford Falls warbling "Buffalo Gals," Sacramento's Crest Theatre is bringing director-screenwriter Frank Capra's 1946 Liberty Films classic, "It's a Wonderful Life," back to the big screen for nine holiday screenings Dec. 22-24.

It's just one of three yuletide-themed events scheduled for the 975-seat art deco movie palace during the week leading up to Christmas.

Also on tap: the G-rated "Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival" (Dec. 17 and 18), a syndicated package of "Greetings from the Theater Management" trailers, vintage TV segments, cartoons and the so-bad-it's-good 1964 theatrical feature "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians."

And for those who prefer strychnine to egg nog, an adults-only (18 and older) holiday movie edition of the Crest's long-running Trash Film Orgy series will showcase the 1984 UK slasher flick "Don't Open Till Christmas," along with live pre-show entertainment, including a "Trash Santa" accompanied by a posse of scantily clad elves, games, prizes and a full bar (Dec. 17).

While the Crest has established a successful tradition of showing a much-beloved, classic Christmas title each holiday season, general manager Sid Garcia-Heberger said slotting a quirky, retro festival featuring a lesser-known cinematic centerpiece like "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," or scheduling a decidedly edgy attempt at counter-programming such as TFO's holiday show, is "a roll of the dice."

"We've been showing 'It's a Wonderful Life' for the last 20 years, and in the early years business was OK, but not fantastic," said Garcia-Heberger. "But in the past five or six years, when we've been alternating 'It's a Wonderful Life' with 'White Christmas,' they seemed to really catch on."

Helping ticket sales along has been the Crest's recent partnership with social media outlets, whose heavily discounted offers like Groupon's recent 50 percent-off deal for "a movie outing to 'It's a Wonderful Life' with large popcorn and large drink" resulted in more than 1,000 $9 admission/concessions package purchases.

"But this year's festival shows are new for us," Garcia-Heberger said. "It's hard for us to gauge at this point."

But Garcia-Heberger, an admitted Christmas fan whose family's own holiday traditions include listening to the 1947 Lux Radio Theatre production of "It's a Wonderful Life" while on local road trips, said she's hopeful that the nostalgia factor and innocence of Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival, and the "irreverent Christmas fun" of the TFO holiday show, will capture the attention of both the unapologetically sappy fans of Dec. 25 like herself, as well as those whose take on the holiday season is more "snarkly" than sparkly.

Among that latter group – who are unlikely to queue up for a chance to tearfully watch Zuzu's dad "paste" her precious flower's petals back into place, but are eager to embrace a humor-laced '80s film featuring a serial killer out to off anyone donning red velvet and fur ("Fur is murder," after all) – is TFO Productions co-founder Christy Savage.

"I'm pretty damn excited about our TFO show this month," said Savage, who formed TFO Productions with fellow artists/filmmakers Darin Wood and Amy Slockbower in 2001. "I think it'll be a fun TFO show, it's pretty ridiculous. I'm more excited about Christmas than I have been for ages."

Though the six to 10 annual TFO shows have consistently proven popular – especially those featuring films by Russ Meyers, Roger Corman, and anything with a zombie – Garcia-Heberger is guardedly optimistic about the TFO show.

"The TFO audience is definitely not your general John Q. Public," she said. "They are seeking out unusual, different things for their entertainment."

In the beginning, she said the Crest had expected TFO audiences to be primarily 20-somethings. But as the series continued, they saw that TFO ticket buyers were generally in their late-30s or early-40s.

Garcia-Heberger said she and her TFO partners thinks the Crest finally has the perfect mix of salty-and-sweet holiday treats this year, and that there really is something for everyone.

The shows in detail

Described as "the funkiest, silliest and least emotional movie experience you'll have this holiday season," Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival is a cornucopia of Christmas hors d'oeuvres ranging from such tasty tidbits as the Fleischer Studio's original Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer animated short, to a main course that rockets a kidnapped St. Nicholas to the Red Planet where he must outwit the Martian high command in order to return to Earth and save Christmas.

With its cardboard robots and television-antenna Martian headgear, "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" is ripe for mockery, and one of the best jibes was delivered by orbiting space janitor Joel Hodgson and his robot pals (and fellow Satellite of Love castaways), Crow and Tom Servo, in a nonstop stream of sarcastic comments during their screening of the film on a December 1991 episode of "Mystery Science Theater 3000."

That episode was later included on Rhino Theatricals' 1988 DVD release "The Mystery Science Theater 3000 Collection – The Essentials."

In 2010, Cassandra Peterson (aka Elvira, Mistress of the Dark) added her own twisted take on "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" when her "Elvira's Movie Macabre" series put the bite on the what has been called one of the worst movies ever made. Like "MST3K's" mock-fest, Peterson's television "roast" is now available on DVD.

In 2005 – more than four decades after the film's theatrical release – Roadside Amusements published Lou Harry's novelization of Glenville Mareth's screenplay – proof, of a sort, that "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" (and its peppy theme song, "Hooray for Santa Claus") will live forever as successive generations discover what can be best described as Flash Gordon meets Kris Kringle. As a special treat, Roadside Amusements' hardcover book also includes a stocking stuffer: a DVD copy of the movie.

Also on the Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival bill: two of Max Fleischer's classic pre-War theatrical cartoons, 1936's "Christmas Comes But Once a Year," in which "whimsical inventor Grampy creates a whole Santa’s workshop worth of toys for some poor orphans," and 1944's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," a charming adventure that should not be confused with the 1964 Rankin/Bass TV classic.

But the Crest's cool yule lineup doesn't end there, fans of Christmases past will get to set their Wayback Machine dials for additional stops in the 1950s and '60s to visit such cathode-ray icons as Ozzie and Harriet Nelson and their sons David and Ricky, ventriloquist Shari Lewis and her sock-puppet pal Lamb Chop, and marionette Howdy Doody and his comrade, Buffalo Bob Smith.

Rounding out the roster of retro shorts are a series of "Greetings From The Theater Management" trailers that were made for cinema audiences in the days when filmgoers came dressed in suits and dresses, and looked forward (literally and figuratively) to take in a widescreen VistaVision spectacular, and not straight down to focus on a 2-inch cell phone text.

Like Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," the premise of Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life" has seemingly been adapted a million or so times, with each retelling focusing on how the suicidal protagonist has positively touched the lives of those in his orbit - and how his life has truly been wonderful. Among the latest TV shows receiving the "IWL" treatment was the Syfy network's "Warehouse 13."

And also like "A Christmas Carol," the sentimental "It's a Wonderful Life" has spawned its own roster of parodies, including "Saturday Night Live's" uproarious "lost ending" sketch featuring Dana Carvey as a revenge-minded George Bailey, Jon Lovitz as the evil Mr. Potter, and Jan Hooks as a club-wielding Mary Bailey.

The Trash Film Orgy's holiday show may feature an honest-to-badness movie ("Don't Open Till Christmas"), but it may be the "extras" like the "Trash Santa" and his bevy of comely elves that may turn out to be the real stars of the show.

"There will be a Santa's workshop where you can make crafts, have your picture taken with the sexy elves, and have a drink at the bar," said Christy Savage, co-founder of TFO. "And if you come in costume, you can save a dollar on admission."

Savage said audience members are encouraged to "play along," and embrace the interactive nature of the event.

"It's all about fun," she said. "It's an adult, interactive type of fun, in which we encourage audience participation – even heckling."

Just the facts

Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival | 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 18 | Featuring "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," Max Fleischer's theatrical cartoons "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (1944) and "Christmas Comes But Once a Year" (1936), plus additional shorts. | Regular admission prices apply ($6 for first show of the day – all seats; $9.50 for afternoon and evening shows – $6 for children, seniors and students)

Trash Film Orgy Xmas | 10:30 p.m. (doors open for pre-show festivities at 10 p.m.) Dec. 17) | 18 and older only | Featuring the movie "Don't Open Till Christmas," plus art-and-crafts, "Trash Santa" and his sexy elves, and more. | $10 admission ($9 if in costume)

"It's a Wonderful Life" | 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22-24 | Starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Henry Travers, Thomas Mitchell | Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes | $9.50 general admission; $6 seniors/students/matinees (Groupon alert: everyone who purchased a Groupon deal for this film may exchange their Groupon certificate for a specific show time and a concession coupon in person at the Crest during regular operating hours.) | Advance tickets available online at www.tickets.com.

Directions to the Crest

For more info: (916) 44-CREST

Naughty or Nice: If you were Santa, how would City Council fare?

2011-12-15T07:24:48Z

As the song goes, Santa’s making his list, checking it twice and deciding who gets cool goodies and who gets lumps of coal.

Between the budget, redistricting and facing dissatisfied citizens who took over a city park in protest, the City Council has been busy this year, so The Sacramento Press made its own “naughty or nice” list.

If you were Santa, how would City Council fare? Here’s our list for 2011.

Mayor Kevin Johnson: NAUGHTY
Sure, he led the way to advancing green technology in the city and supported a citizens advisory committee’s effort to redistrict the city.

But being absent for 10 City Council meetings in a single year? Tsk, tsk, Mr. Mayor.

(And we’re not bitter about not being invited to the wedding – we just really love wedding cake.)

District 1 Councilwoman Angelique Ashby: NICE
Between town hall meetings to discuss arena options and pulling neighborhoods together to search for a lost teen, Ashby found time to save a local parks program from being cut – and take on Congress for funding approval of levee improvements.

Of course, bringing Santa to Natomas on a fire truck for the first time in city history didn’t hurt her “nice” standing, either.

District 2 Councilwoman Sandy Sheedy: NAUGHTY
Two words: Arena poll. Oh, and two more: Sheedy map. It’s commendable to put voters first, but Sheedy lacks consistency. Telling voters they know what’s best for an arena, but not how to draw their own district boundaries sends mixed messages.

Kudos for keeping a popular teen center going for a third year, though – Santa wants kids to have a safe place to gather and play – and for taking over the Del Paso certified farmers market in the district to keep people eating their veggies.

Still, Sheedy gets coal in her stocking this year.

District 3 Councilman Steve Cohn: NAUGHTY
His work to develop a plan for Sacramento’s rail and transit future is bringing the city closer to becoming a true “intermodal hub” of the north state and if Cohn had his way, sleighs would be allowed on K Street – which Santa would think was very nice, indeed.

But, weeks into heated debate on redistricting, Cohn surprised the city with a compromise map that both galvanized citizens’ opinions on a sensitive topic, and left a bad taste in their mouths. With that Grinch-like move, Cohn earns a spot on the "naughty" list.

District 4 Councilman Rob Fong: NICE
As the council member voted most likely to play a practical joke by his fellow council members, Rob Fong gets points for best one-liners during a council meeting.

Standing up for the LGBT community as a community of interest during the redistricting process weighed in Fong’s favor this year, as well as his support of charitable organizations like Jumpstart 21.

We think Santa would agree that a guy who isn’t afraid of a little three-on-three basketball against local civic leaders falls squarely on the “nice” side of the page.

District 5 Councilman Jay Schenirer: NICE
Although Schenirer found himself in the middle of some battles in 2011, including redistricting struggles and unpopular budget decisions, he bucked up and trudged on in his first year on the City Council.

Schenirer helped bring a new community garden to area residents and offered to subsidize the first year of rent on garden plots for people who couldn’t afford their share. He also spearheaded the five-part “Way Up” initiative that is primed to be a model for building communities throughout the city.

For all that Santa-like generosity, Schenirer gets his name on the “nice” list – and a big mug of eggnog.

District 6 Councilman Kevin McCarty: NAUGHTY
When does Oak Park stop being Oak Park and start being Elmhurst? Somewhere along Stockton Boulevard, McCarty said during the tumultuous redistricting debacle this summer.

Santa would give a cheer for McCarty’s efforts to keep city pools open during the summer despite huge budget cuts to the parks department, and being a proponent of solar energy and “greening” city buildings gets a big ho, ho ho!

But when a whole community spends five weeks protesting a four city-block line adjustment, all the candy canes in Colonial Heights won’t make a sour move any sweeter.

District 7 Councilman Darrell Fong: NICE
The budget cycle was tough this year, and when it came down to brass tacks, Darrell Fong risked the wrath of his police brethren and voted to make cuts to the Police Department – including the layoffs of nearly 80 sworn officers – in favor of balancing the city budget.

Call him Scrooge if you will, but Fong declined his City Council salary and recently voted against pursing a lessee for the city’s parking system because it doesn’t seem fiscally responsible.

For his concern for taxpayers’ pocketbooks, Fong’s name goes on the “nice” list (but parking enforcement may still ticket his sleigh.)

District 8 Councilwoman Bonnie Pannell: NAUGHTY
Budget debates and the quest for the perfect redistricting map is enough to fray anyone’s nerves, but Pannell’s, ahem, “spirited” debate with audience members – and at times, the mayor – at City Council meetings this year earns her a bit of coal.

Yes, Pannell helped her district get much-needed development – including a new pet hospital and long-awaited grocery store – and valuable infrastructure improvements are on the horizon for the area.

Still, Pannell will need a little sugar to go with her “spice” if she wants to make the “nice” list in 2012.

City Manager John Shirey: NAUGHTY
Shirey has been in the big chair for four months now, and the city still doesn’t have a tidy budget, a full police force or flying cars. We expected more from a man who took the state to task for shredding redevelopment agencies.

On the other hand, Shirey did start restructuring his office to streamline operations, and he led the way in city pension reform by being first in line for administrators to pay a portion of their own retirement.

Still, we think Shirey can do more for our fair city. We hope you pull that Superman cape out of the closet and get down to business in 2012 – but for this Christmas? Coal.

Tell us what you think: Have City Council members been naughty or nice this year?

Second Saturday events

2011-12-13T22:30:02Z

Sacramento art galleries hosted small crowds of visitors during the last Second Saturday of the year. Many visitors took advantage of the smaller crowds to do Christmas shopping. Galleries and other businesses sold art, crafts, gift certificates and other items to Christmas shoppers.

Festivities in Sacramento began earlier in the day with the annual Santa Parade. Thousands of children, along with their parents, lined the parade route. The parade started at the corner of 9th and I Streets and an anticipated crowd of over 25 thousand watched.

The annual parade began at 10 a.m. and participants included marching bands, cheer squads, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, several floats, car clubs, horses, community organizations, beauty queens, dancers, actors and other performers. Santa and Mrs. Claus were the most anticipated and popular members of the parade.

Another holiday event also took place later in the day during Second Saturday festivities. La Raza Galería Posada staged a community posada “Las Posaditas” on Saturday and will bring the event to Midtown again on Saturday, December 17.

The posada (lodging) is a re-enactment of the story of Joseph and Mary searching for lodging. Volunteers played the parts of an angel, Joseph and Mary.

The posada started with Galería Posada’s Program Coordinator Roberto Lopez welcoming guests and giving a little history about the posada and where the procession was going to take place.

Posada participants caroled the Midtown area with several songs that included “Jingle Bells,” “El Niño del Tambor,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and other songs.

Following the biblical story of Mary and Joseph seeking lodging and going from inn to inn the posada made a couple of stops. The first destination was Casa de Español located at 2115 J Street.

The number of carolers was around 65 when they began and each of them entered Casa de Español for some chocolate and drink treats after singing several songs.

The second stop of the evening for the posada procession was Gallery 2110 and the Sacramento Art Complex. Several visitors to the Sacramento Art Complex enjoyed the carolers who ended their singing with “Feliz Navidad.”

The procession made one final stop at the MARRS Building on 20th Street. By this time the carolers had grown in size as others joined in. A piñata awaited the carolers where they sang several more holiday songs.

Children took turns as they tried to break a piñata and afterwards tamales were provided for the posada carolers.

The posadas will take place once again at the Galería Posada on Saturday, December 17. I’m not sure if they will follow the same route but visit their website to find more information.

Real Relationships: Don't forget about yourself

2011-12-12T16:16:35Z

The holiday season is typically full of fun and festivities: work parties, family get-togethers, nights out with friends, and don't forget all the shopping! It is during this time of year that I find myself busy, tired and lacking in a little personal time. Don't get me wrong — I love the holidays, the parties, the decorations and all of it, but sometimes I get tired.

The scheduling, the invitations and the cleaning followed by the cooking, shopping and general daily life are a lot! I feel like I always get sick shortly after New Years because my body just says, "Enough already."

The solution: There isn't one. However, don't forget about yourself in the midst of all the fun. No, I am not suggesting that you go out and buy yourself a gift because you “SO deserve it...”

I was thinking more along the lines of taking a few minutes every day to sit with a cup of coffee or wine. Read a book or take a little bit longer shower. Use the time to gather your thoughts, review the day or make lists of what you need to do that day.

Tackling all the cheer with a plan will leave you more relaxed anyway, but giving yourself a physical and mental reprieve will go a long way in ensuring that you don't bite someone’s head off when they simply ask if you can pick up something from the store. (Of course I have never done that...)

You will find that the holidays are more fun, more festive and less of a strain on your resources if you remember to take care of yourself.

How do you survive the holiday season? Any great tricks to organize, tackle or refresh yourself? Share with me.

Merry Christmas!

Have a relationship question? Email sacpress@live.com. Questions will be featured weekly in “Real Relationships.”

Baking with heart, one cookie at a time

2011-12-12T05:34:07Z

For the holidays, Plates Cafe and Catering is serving Christmas cookies, baked and prepared by the women in St. John's Shelter Program for Women and Children.

St. John's provides shelter, education and childcare to homeless women with children.
As part of the shelter's six- to 12-month training program, Plates Cafe and Catering, located at 14 Business Parkway, serves as an on-the-job training site for the shelter, where the women perform restaurant positions such as cooks, waitresses and hostesses, Stuart Edgcombe, 46, Chef at Plates Cafe and Catering, said.

"It's more than just cooking," Edgcombe said. "It's teaching them life lessons."

Teresa Kamekona, 39, said her experience at Plates Cafe and Catering taught her to be accountable, manage her time better and work with other people again, but most of all regain her self-esteem.

"It felt good to be needed," Kamekona, a recent graduate of the training program, said. She said, people depended on her, which pushed her to do her best.

"You can see the joy in the women's eyes as they learn cooking skills from Chef Stu," Pasta Queen owner Susan Korec, 52, said. While renting space for her pasta business at Plates, she has seen how the women work on various kitchen tasks, Korec said.

Pasta Queen's products are also sold at the store, with parts of the proceeds going back to the training program.

Edgcombe said he and trainee Monica Ward, 37, came out with a list of different cookies that remind them of their childhood Christmas memories.

"It's a great experience for the girls to make all these different cookies," Edgcombe said. "It's another activity they can be exposed to, be responsible for and be a part of."

The Christmas cookies featured are Mexican wedding, ginger snap, chewy sugar, thumb print and chocolate chip. He said their chocolate cookie is available year-round, and is one the bestselling items in the store.

"It's the All-American cookie," Edgcombe said. "It does not matter if it is Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving."

He said they included the ginger snap cookie because, like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, it is associated with and the holidays.

"The bite of molasses and ginger says Christmas to me," Edgcombe said. He said that these cookies, because of their “snap” or crisp, are best paired with coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

Out of the five Christmas cookies, the chewy sugar cookie, he said, is the most Christmas-styled with its red, green and white sugar sprinkles.

"What makes our cookies special goes beyond the dough, sugar, chocolate chips, ginger or any of the other ingredients," Edgcombe said. "It represents memories of Christmas past."

All of the proceeds from the Christmas cookie sale, like their other products at Plates Cafe and Catering, go toward the St. John's Shelter Program for Women and Children.

The Christmas cookies, can be ordered through their website, and will be available for pickup starting Dec. 19.

Prices for the cookies are still to be determined and will be posted on their site.

Plates Cafe and Catering, which opened June last year, also serves lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Marching bands, sports cars and beauty queens featured in Sacramento's annual Santa Parade

2011-12-11T21:34:47Z

photographs by Barry Wisdom

It wasn't the glitziest parade on the block, and more ads passed by than during a Talladega Superspeedway Nascar event, but the smiles that beamed from the shoulder-to-shoulder spectators at Sacramento's 2011 Santa Parade are the stuff that Christmas dreams are made of.

Presented Dec. 9 by D&H Special Event Management, the capital city's 29th annual holiday tradition once again delighted young and old with an eclectic lineup of merry marching bands, a spate of sports cars, a bunch of Boy Scouts, a gaggle of Girl Scouts and a Santa in a pear tree. (OK – a Santa in a horse-drawn carriage.)

Horses aside, chances are if it had an internal-combustion engine, it traversed the parade route. A two-story grocery cart, sponsored by Save Mart Supermarkets, provided an impressive visual and provided a distinct counterpoint to the mini CHiPs cart that also "roared" past. Along with the novelty vehicles, there were ample examples of high-powered parade staples, including a volley of vintage Chevrolet Corvettes (many of which squired local pageant winners) and siren-blasting police cruisers.

In addition, equestrians mounted up, beauty queens charmed, the Sacramento River Cats' mascot Dinger waved, and KCRA news anchor/reporter Walt Gray donned his motocycle leathers to enliven the Saturday-morning event which launched at the corner of Ninth and I streets, and completed its rectangular route at the Westfield Downtown Plaza Ice Rink at Seventh and K streets.

KCRA and the now-defunct Weinstock's department store founded the parade in 1983, with D&H taking the reins in 1991.

Today, some 16 "presenting partners" sponsor the event, including Westfield Downtown Plaza, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Macy's and Sactown magazine.

Limitations not stopping their bell ringing efforts

2011-12-10T17:36:46Z

“It’s getting cold out here.”

Kelsey Cottle uttered this while ringing The Salvation Army bell outside Macy’s at Sunrise Mall. Yet her fellow bell ringers did not care--they were having the time of their lives.

“Yeah, they’re having fun,” Cottle said.

Meet Carl Virgin and Eulogio Lizarraga--the jubilant bell ringers. Both have cerebral palsy and are confined to wheelchairs, but they do not let it deter their efforts to give back.

“It just a good time for them to get out and people to see them,” said Cottle, who is Carl’s personal attendant through S.T.E.P. (Strategy To Empower People) services. “It’s great that they get to see them so happy and that they can do this (volunteer) like everybody else.”

Cottle recruited Carl for the bell ringing opportunity last year.

“My church talked about a need to volunteer in your community,” she recalled. “So I thought of him (Carl). I came to him and his roommate at that time about ringing the bell, and they were very receptive to that idea. I talked to their families and the people from S.T.E.P., and they all agreed that this would be a good thing for them to do.”

This year, Carl recruited his current roomate, Eulogio, to ring bells for a two-hour shift, all the time smiling and spreading some holiday cheer to all of those who walked by their red kettle.

“You can tell when they’re happy,” Cottle said. “Even though they can’t use words as much, they can get their feelings across.”

And the donors appreciated their hard work.

“I wanted to come by and say hello to them,” said Theresa, who came with her daughter to donate to the kettle. “It means more to me to see them, with their challenges, volunteering their time. It was great to see (them).”

Cottle said Carl and Eulogio may ring the bell again before the end of this Christmas season. But, without a doubt, they will be back ringing next year.

“We’ve talked about it,” Cottle said. Then turning to Carl and Eulogio, she asked, “Are we coming back again?”

“Sure,” Eulogio said … with a smile.

Disclosure: Syd Fong is the public relations director for The Salvation Army of Sacramento County. For more information about The Salvation Army, log onto www.salarmysacto.org or join the facebook page www.facebook.com/salvationarmysacramento

Iceland celebrates North Sacramento's 21st tree lighting with free skating

2011-12-09T06:59:44Z

The North Sacramento Chamber of Commerce may have thrown its annual holiday tree lighting a 21st birthday party Dec. 8, but even the adults who donned skates, munched cookies and quaffed hot chocolate eschewed the slightest trace of yuletide cynicism in favor of youthful Christmas-morning smiles.

Hosted by Iceland, the men and women, boys and girls who laced up courtesy of the venerable Del Paso Boulevard ice rink, barely noticed when the switch was thrown, and pumped current through the strings of multicolored lights that formed the "tree."

Those who didn't hit the ice themselves, found plenty of pre-Christmas cheer in picking out rinkside vantage points to watch singles, couples and entire families merrily go 'round and 'round covered by nothing but a starry, starry night.

This Modern Christmas Carol Sings

2011-12-09T00:26:25Z

Ben Scrooge is the Founder and CEO—Billionaire Boy Wonder—of Humbug , a video game company that his now deceased partner, Jake Marley, helped put on the map. But Ben is not a happy guy, a bit of a…

Scrooge as an 18-year old video game magnate? If you’re having trouble imagining it, that’s okay; I’d much prefer you buy a ticket and see it played out on stage. It’s well worth the ticket price!

I, too, was a skeptic.

No more.

Karen Pollard has conceptualized and carried out a clever modernization of the Christmas classic—a dash of Rent here, a dollop of High School Musical there--without straying so far from the original as to be disconcerting.

The staging and choreography are fairly intricate, and even at almost two hours without intermission, the show never bogged down. Nor did I—not traditionally an enthusiastic when it comes to musicals in general—ever say to myself, They’re going to sing again!? In fact, I found myself intently focused on the music, because, although some of the songs were necessarily sentimental, the lyrics of many were full of wit that threatened to whiz right by if I wasn’t paying attention.

The show is a production, of Natomas Charter School and Fine Arts Academy, where Pollard and her husband, Rick Gott teach. The cast of students, led by Christian Wheeler as the “mature” Ben Scrooge” is generally very talented and extremely energetic. The school is also fortunate to have a wonderful theater in which to perform.

A Christmas Carol runs through December 10th at 7:00pm at the Benvenuti Performing and Fine Arts Center on the Natomas Charter campus. For tickets and information www.benarts.org or (916) 491-1028

Windstorm destroys tree, not spirit

2011-12-08T01:06:38Z

A windstorm that destroyed the Christmas tree in Old Sacramento didn’t get the last laugh, as the company that provided the tree worked over several days to replace it out of pocket.

“There is really not a good explanation for what happened to the tree,” said Chris McSwain, district manager for the Old Sacramento Business Association. “The immediate cause is wind damage. I’d say two-thirds to three-fourths of the needles blew off.”

Last weekend’s windstorm might have turned a once-full tree to a skeleton, but that’s when the tree provider, Carlton Christmas Trees from the Redding area, stepped up to replace it.

“They’ve never seen anything like this happen in 40 or 50 years,” McSwain said. “They insisted on replacing it at no additional cost. They even brought people down here to undecorate the old tree and redecorate the new one.”

James Carlton of Carlton Christmas Trees said Wednesday that there was no question of replacing the tree, which sits at 100 K St.

“This is an unprecedented event that was caused because of the storm, and the last thing we wanted to do was see one of our customers deal with something beyond their control and ability to rectify,” he said. “We took it upon ourselves to do everything we could in our power and in a tight time constraint to try to restore it.”

The company, which also supplies trees to Union Square in San Francisco, Jack London Square in Oakland and the Bellagio in Las Vegas, harvests its trees from the area around Mount Shasta.

The first tree was a 60-foot white fir that weighed 7,500 pounds when it was delivered. It cost $13,000 and was paid for by sponsorships from businesses and residents. The new tree, though shorter at 54 feet, still weighs more than 3 tons and is fuller near the top, appearing taller to some, McSwain said.

“It’s bigger than the one at the Capitol, which is around 40 feet, but it’s smaller than the one at the U.S. Capitol, which is about 65 feet,” he added.

Replacing the tree was no small task, Carlton said, adding that all the tree-cutting and hauling equipment had been removed from the mountain, as it was late in the year to be getting large trees in place – something typically done by mid-November.

“We had to first locate a tree, and once we located it, mobilize our equipment to get it up on the mountain, and then we applied a preservative to the tree, and we cut 24 hours after that,” he said. “There’s a lot of logistics that had to occur over a short period of time.”

Workers from Carlton Christmas Trees began removing decorations from the old tree Monday morning, and the new tree arrived on Tuesday morning. They spent Tuesday taking down the old tree and putting up the new one, and Wednesday was spent redecorating the new tree.

“Our goal is to be done by noon (Thursday),” Carlton said Wednesday afternoon.

Video by Chris McSwain

Nick Marks, a 50-year-old Sacramentan who works in fugitive recovery for bail bonds companies, said he thinks the tree company is doing a good job.

“I was here after the storm, and the old tree just looked like it was bent,” he said. “This one’s a lot fuller, and it’s nice that they’re taking care of it for free. It looks really nice.”

The tree is part of the Theatre of Lights show, and Kelsey Leaird, a 23-year-old supervisor at the Steamers bakery and cafe at 101 K St., said it’s important to business.

“It brings in a ton of crowds,” she said, adding that the tree is an important part of the draw.

“The old tree was pretty scraggly after the storm,” she said. “Before, it was a beautiful tree. Unfortunately, we had the huge windstorm, and it fell apart.”

She said the new tree is something to once again be proud of.

“Some people had some ideas to fix the old one, like taking greenery from tree farms and wire-tying it on, but this is a lot better,” she said. “Once the company came out and saw it, they brought a new one in right away.”

McSwain said the unfortunate incident showcased the holiday spirit.

“Carlton is a family-owned business,” he said. “It’s really one of those good business stories about the way businesses really look out for their customers. Some people were calling the old one a ‘Charlie Brown Christmas tree,’ but it’s really about the spirit of Christmas, not the tree. And now we have both.”

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Sacramento Central Library hosts holiday concert

2011-12-07T04:40:30Z

The Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music enchanted an audience of approximately 350 guests at the Tsakopoulos Library Galleria. The free holiday concert was hosted by the Central Library on Sunday afternoon.

The Sacramento Public Library invited the public to celebrate music performed by the 85-member ensemble. Musicians played to a full house which has been common for many of the events held at the Central Library.

Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music’s Artistic Director, Michael Neumann, presented the Academic Orchestra and the concert also featured the Saltarello Flute Ensemble and the Clarion Clarinet Ensemble.

Neumann addressed the audience by welcoming and thanking them for attending the event.

“I’m very happy that you’re here today and I’d like to start you right off the bat with our first group, the Saltarello Flute Ensemble conducted by Alice Lenagham.”

The group, consisting of nine flutists, performed from the second floor of the Tsakopoulos Galleria and entertained guests with “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" by P.I. Tchaikovsky, Mykola Leontovych’s composition, "Carol of the Bells" and two other compositions.

Before the next group took the stage Neumann asked the audience if anyone played the flute. Less than five people raised their hand. He asked the same question about clarinet players and this time a few more raised their hand.

The Clarion Clarinet Ensemble, conducted by Sandra McPherson, walked up to a sitting area in front of the Academic Orchestra. The four clarinet players pleased the audience with four pieces that included “Over the Rainbow” and “Jingle Bells.”

Neumann once again came to the microphone to point out a couple of table in the back that had information on the Youth Symphony and volunteer opportunities. He also asked who had and who had not heard the Sacramento Youth Symphony play before. Most of the audience raised their hand, indicating that most of the audience had previously heard them play. I was one of the few who had not heard them perform before, but I soon became an avid fan.

The last group of the evening to perform had been sitting down since the beginning. Neumann introduced Angelo Moreno who was to conduct the Academic Orchestra. The Orchestra began by giving fans a great rendition of Girolamo Frescobaldi’s “Toccata.”

The audience showed their appreciation and responded with great applause as the orchestra ended their first piece.

Moreno continued to conduct with great enthusiasm as the Youth Symphony played their second performance, Jerry Lehmeier’s arrangement of Gioachino Rossini’s “William Tell Overture,” showcasing the young musicians’ talents.

Violins appeared to have the most number of musicians and they were accompanied by several violas and cellos. Flutes, oboes, basses, clarinets, horns, trumpets, trombones, percussion and a harp player completed the orchestra ensemble.

The Academic Orchestra continued their performance with Claude T. Smith’s Prelude on an Early American Folk Hymn, “My Shepherd Will Supply my Need,” which showcased the only harp in the orchestra. The last piece performed was “March Slav” by P.I. Tchaikovsky.

As the music program was about to conclude, Neumann addressed the audience, saying that what the audience saw was only about 50 percent of what the Sacramento Youth Symphony is all about. He noted that other ensembles that did not attend also existed and more information on those groups can be found on their website. Neumann concluded by inviting guests to talk to him and ask questions and he would answer them at the back tables after the show.

A Christmas sing-along concluded the event with the audience joining in and singing “Oh Christmas Tree,” “The First Noel” and “Jingle Bells.”

The Central Library once again hosted a great event that continues to make this a great venue for music, art and community events.

The concert was very well put together and the kids did a terrific job performing in front of friends, family and other guests. After all the performances were over I spoke with Neumann.

When asked how the kids are selected to play in the symphony, Neumann said, “The kids are selected by going through an audition process and every year we go through this audition process not just for the new kids that want to join but for everyone. At the end of the year every seat is vacant and everyone has to re-audition.”

Neumann also mentioned that there are different levels of orchestras, saying that the group who performed is the middle level. There’s a level above and one below.

Describing the selection process, Neumann noted that there is one audition process and afterward each musician is placed in the level best suited for them. Again, Neumann said that if they want to continue they have to re-audition and be placed according to their level.

The number of spots open for each of the orchestra levels is fairly open but there are some limits on some positions and those limits are up to the Artistic Director (Neumann).

The Sacramento Youth Symphony has been around for 55 years and Neumann noted that this is his 33rd year with the organization. Neumann also shared that they have grown since he took over in 1979 from having only one orchestra and having 65 members to 400 people.

Neumann’s passion and dedication to the organization has put the orchestra in a position where future growth continues. He attributes the growth of the program to many factors but one in particular.

“We continue to grow because we have something of great quality,” said Neumann. “We have good teachers and we have great quality and I believe people want to be involved with quality and that’s why we continue to do well.”

A quality performance was given by the Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music. Their exquisite performance was greatly appreciated by those who were able to witness the program. Their collaboration with the Sacramento Central Library was like an early Christmas present to the Sacramento community.

The partnership highlights two organizations that continue to offer their resources to the Sacramento community and the performance on Sunday showed how well it can work. The Sacramento Central Library and Sacramento Youth Symphony show themselves to be a great cultural destination for the community. Both also offer the resources that help transform young people.

Sutter's Fort Presents "Hands on History: A Simple Emigrant Christmas" 12/10!

2011-12-05T18:17:05Z

Step back in time to holidays past with festive, hands-on activities such as stringing popcorn and cranberries, candle dipping and crafting paper cut-out ornaments when Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park presents “Hands on History: A Simple Emigrant Christmas” on Saturday, December 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friends and families are encouraged to visit the Fort to enjoy docents in period attire as they interpret and demonstrate a variety of early holiday traditions and cultural activities similar to what early emigrants did in the 1840s. For instance, docents will help demonstrate and share holiday traditions from Germany, Scandinavia, Mexican California, England, and Russia. In fact, Sutter’s Fort was one of California’s early gathering places where people from around the world passed through the gates and shared differing holiday traditions, many of which are still celebrated today. Don’t miss the special “A Simple Emigrant Christmas” for one day only this December. For more information please call 916-445-4422 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/suttersfort

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento area including the Capital District State Museums and Historic Parks.

Sacramento Baroque Soloists

2011-12-05T03:22:07Z

Imagine yourself on a cold wintry night being transported back in time to a cozy, candle-lit parlor. Gentlemen play whist, ladies sip tea, and lute and flute musicians perform beloved Christmas carols.

Such was the mood evoked by the Sacramento Baroque Soloists in their “Winter’s Eve” program. Over 100 patrons attended the concert held in the intimate sanctuary of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Sacramento.

The Sacramento Baroque Soloists, now in its 10th year, was founded by Lisa Marie and Michael Lawson. While the group’s focus is on music from the 17th to the 19th centuries, the “Winter’s Eve” program spanned over 500 years, including works from the Middle Ages, rearranged in baroque style, to contemporary Celtic tunes.

Period instruments added an authenticity and unique sound to the program. Cathie Apple brought sparkle and depth to the music with her traverso, a wood baroque flute. Michael Lawson provided a lush sound with his 18th century cello and a theorbo, a very long-necked lute-like instrument.

Also contributing greatly to the program were Robin Houston on baroque oboe, Ellen Deffner on harpsichord, Lisa Marie Lawson on a harp and a 1727 violin, Marieke Furnee on violin and Steven Coughran on drums.

The program of 18 selections began with sweet strains of Marieke’s violin from the balcony, followed by a procession of musicians to the front of the sanctuary. “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” featured a soothing cello and violin duet. “Sleep Sound in Da Morning” was a toe-tapping traditional Shetland fiddle tune. Michael Lawson brought jazz, Celtic and baroque influences to his arrangement of “Lo How a Rose.”

The group entertained with one of last year’s audience favorites: “Twelve Days of Christmas,” which included a comical oboe squawking “six geese a-laying. The “Huron Carol” from Canada brought a different tone to the evening with Huron chanting and Lisa Marie’s pleasing low-range vocals.

Patron Barbara Zettel said the holiday concert suggested a “simpler, gentler time when everyone played together at gatherings". She also marveled at how the performers blend their lives and their art so well. Most of the artists not only perform with the Sacramento Baroque Soloists but teach locally, arrange music, study historical instruments and play in other ensembles.

The final Sacramento Baroque Soloists program of the season will be in March and will feature cello sonatas of the baroque era.

Natomas tree lighting suffers gusts, but boasts gusto

2011-12-02T03:22:34Z

photographs by Barry Wisdom

Wednesday's Grinchy wind storm may have turned the centerpiece of the South Natomas Community Center's holiday tree lighting into a slightly bent, Whoville caricature, but the shiny bright ornaments, entertainment, refreshments and neighborhood fellowship were straight-up festive.

Emceed by Sacramento Councilmember Steve Cohn, the ceremony featured music by the drummer boys and girls of the Natomas High School Drum Corps, as well as the Natomas Middle School Choir and the Heritage Park Chorale.

"Santa Claus" also made an appearance to lend an ear to the whispered wishes of the children during the event's post-lighting reception in the community center.

Sacred Heart Holiday Home Tour kicks off the holiday season

2011-12-01T23:29:03Z

The holiday season kicks off on Friday with over-the-top holiday decorations that sparkle and shine behind the doors of five homes in the “Fabulous Forties.” The 38th annual Sacred Heart Holiday Home Tour welcomes thousands to tour arguably the most gorgeous homes in Sacramento to benefit the Sacred Heart Parish School.

“Our goal is for these homes to be like Christmas explosions. It just really ignites the spark for the holiday season,” said Leslie Wilson-Lopez, co-chair of the home tour and Sacred Heart school parent.

The homes on this year’s tour include four in the colonial style circa 1920 and one new home that has been added to a foundry (a factory that produces metal casings) dating back to 1915.

Each home is decorated by local designers and florists who start drafting their designs months in advance.

“No two houses are the same, and the designers have really gotten creative this year,” Wilson-Lopez said.

Co-designer of the foundry home on 44th Street and part owner of Beyond the Garden Gate, a home and garden store in Davis, Pat Stromberg, said that they got their design inspiration from the owner who spent much of her youth living in France.

“Rather than hanging stockings from the fireplace, we have European vintage shoes in the family room, which are traditional decorations in Provence, France,” Stromberg said. “We also have 13 beautiful desserts representing and honoring Christ and his 12 apostles, a tradition to eat at Christmas in France.”

In Provence, France the traditional Christmas meal consists mostly of vegetables and is followed by 13 desserts. Thirteen signifies the number of people at the last supper, the last meal Christ and the apostles shared together. The meal and desserts are eaten before going to midnight mass on Christmas.

The home will have three Christmas trees: two inside and one out front. One tree will be decorated with actual instruments and ornate ribbon that will complement the elegance of the living room, which has a baby grand piano.

“If you think of going to an opera or a symphony, that is what the living room is like,” Stromberg said. “We love the sparkle of the living room and the warmth of the family room.”

One of the five homes is designed by the homeowner herself, Jill Dudensing, who is an interior designer.

“She has a real eclectic contemporary minimalist style,” Wilson-Lopez said. “She likes a traditional Christmas, so it’s like Norman Rockwell meets Andy Warhol in her home.”

Each of the homes has been labored over by designers for months, and most started the installation process of the holiday décor weeks ago.

This year, in addition to the decorations on the bottom floor of each of the five homes, the backyards have been incorporated into the holiday design. Landscaping, lights, wreaths and flowers have been added to many of the backyards, Wilson-Lopez said.

In addition to viewing the homes and getting holiday decoration ideas, guests can actually purchase decorations from the local retailers who designed two of the homes.

Don Garcia from Haus Home Décor and Specialty Gift is the designer for one of the homes on the tour. Hand-blown German glass bird ornaments are decorating the Christmas tree in a bird-themed room at one of the colonial homes. An entire line of hand-blown German glass ornaments are sold locally at the store.

After the walking tour, visitors are encouraged to stop by the Holiday Cafe & Gift Shop located at the Sacred Heart Parish School, 856 39th St. The cafe will have warm beverages, champagne, wine and other holiday treats available. There will be vendors selling holiday gifts including home accessories, hostess gifts, holiday ornaments, candles, candy, jams and jellies, wreaths and more. No ticket is necessary for admittance to the cafe and gift shop.

The walking tour starts on 46th Street between J and M streets, and parking is available in front of all of the tour homes and at the Holiday Cafe & Boutique, located at the Sacred Heart Parish School. The tour should take approximately two hours to complete, and the homes can be viewed in any order.

The tour times are as follows:

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Friday
10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Saturday
11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Sunday

Tickets can be purchased for $30 at the Sacred Heart Parish School or at one of the tour homes located on 46th Street. To purchase tickets online visit the website here.

All proceeds go to support the Sacred Heart Parish School in East Sacramento. The entire home tour is organized and run by parent volunteers.

For more information about the Sacred Heart Holiday Home tour, visit the website here.

Man on the Street: Black Friday

2011-11-25T06:14:25Z

Black Friday: To some, it’s THE day to kick off the Christmas shopping season and snag unbelievable deals on high-end items, even if it means camping overnight or cutting a Thanksgiving meal short. To others, it’s a day to avoid shopping centers at all costs.

The Sacramento Press asked locals to share their Black Friday plans, strategies and experiences. Here is what they had to say:

Ramona Powell, a 54-year-old transportation consultant from Sacramento, said she plans to do some shopping on Friday.

“I’ve looked online at what Wal-Mart, K-Mart and Target, JC Penney’s and Macy’s have,” she said. “My tradition has been to go out at about 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving and camp out.”

She said her best deal was a $199 laptop from Best Buy a few years ago. However, with some stores opening at 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving, she said she might shop online this year instead of cutting her dinner short.

Jessica Russell, a 30-year-old in the military from Syracuse, N.Y., said she is in Sacramento visiting family and will hit the stores on Black Friday.

“You get the paper on Thursday, check out the ads and decide what you want,” she said. “Then you figure out which store you’re going to and head straight for the deals.”

Russell’s brother, 25-year-old Justin Russell, is a Sacramentan who is also in the military.

“I’m going to be watching the kids while my wife and sister go shopping,” he said with a laugh. “I don’t want to go do that.”

Lana Hom, a 48-year-old nurse from Sacramento, said she will be going shopping with her family when the stores open at midnight on Thanksgiving.

“We’re planning to shop,” she said. “We’re going to leave dinner a little early and get to the stores.”

She added that she only shops in a small group, since having too many people would just slow them down.

For some, such as 16-year-old student Jose Guerra of West Sacramento, Black Friday is a good time to socialize and spend time with friends on a day off.

“Go to the mall and get a coffee to keep you warm,” he said. “I’m going to buy as many things as I can get good deals on, maybe an iPad, some shoes and a hat.”

For 43-year-old Michael Ault, executive director of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership, Black Friday isn’t the most important shopping day.

“There’s one sale a year that I do,” he said. “It’s the day after Christmas, when Nordstrom has their men’s suits and dress shirts on sale. I get up at 5:30 in the morning.”

Regarding Black Friday, Ault said he has found lately that a lot of deals can be had online that are similar to those in stores, and it’s not necessary to get up at 4 a.m.

“I don’t really look at Black Friday as the best time to get deals,” he said.

Do you have any Black Friday stories, deals or strategies you’d like to share? Let us know in the conversation below.

Light Up Midtown 2011

2011-11-24T20:12:18Z

The Midtown Business Association is inviting businesses to light up Midtown by transforming their store windows into a winter wonderland this season with an opportunity to win a $1,000 advertising grant from the MBA.

This is the second year the MBA has hosted “Light Up Midtown” in the hope of opening the doors of local businesses to more customers this holiday season.

“We wanted to find a way to dress up the district and be festive and let people feel very involved in it,” said Heather Philpott, MBA communications and events coordinator.

“Businesses can take ownership of the project and get an opportunity to be a part of making the district look great,” Philpott said Wednesday, “and besides, who doesn’t like a little competition?”

The prizes – advertising grants of $250, $500 and $1,000 – will be awarded to the top three vote-getters. The grants are coming from the MBA events/marketing budget, Philpott said.

“Instead of us spending $1,000 to put lights up and do a little decorating Midtown,” Philpott said, “we let the businesses decorate and win something that is valuable for them in the long run.”

Midtown business owners and their elves have until Tuesday to register for the competition. Businesses must be located within Midtown Property Business Improvement District boundaries to apply, according to the competition rules.

Then, they can deck the halls – and storefronts and windows and anything else that will hold garland and sparkle – to transform their businesses into festive displays.

Visitors and shoppers will vote online for their favorite starting Dec. 1.

Voting continues through Dec. 12, Philpott said, and winners will be announced live Dec. 14 on the morning newscast of Good Day Sacramento.

More than 50 Midtown businesses participated in the competition last year. The top three winners of 2010 were Trés Chic Boutique, Mulvaney's B&L and Cyber Electronik.

Mulvaney’s and Trés Chic Boutique have already registered to compete again this year, Philpott said Wednesday.

Summer Hairabedian, lead stylist at last year’s big winner, Trés Chic Boutique, said that she and the other Trés Chic employees are already planning this year’s decorating scheme.

“I can’t disclose that information,” Hairabedian, 28, said when asked what this year’s theme would be. “It’s top secret.”

Trés Chic Boutique, 2228 J St., a clothing store specializing in prom, pageant and special occasion dresses, won Light Up Midtown 2010 with a glimmering “white wonderland” theme, Hairabedian said.

“We had a white crystal ball gown in the window,” Hairabedian said, “with white reindeer and snowflakes and lights and gold presents to accent it.”

Trés Chic used its 2010 prize to advertise in local school newspapers and Midtown Monthly magazine. Hairabedian said she is unsure what they would spend the prize on this year if they were to win again.

Other businesses already getting their icicles and ornaments ready for the fun include Relles Florist, Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop and Mosaic Salon.

“We mostly decorate the windows and add light to it,” said Jim Relles, 64, owner of Relles Florist at 2400 J St. “This year we might do some exterior (decorations), but either way, we will have very festive Christmas windows.”

Relles said if his business wins one of the advertising grants, he would like to put it toward radio advertising just before Valentine’s Day.

“We had 18,000 lights in our window last year,” said Todd Buckley, 34, co-owner of Mosaic Salon at 2700 J St. “We’ll do a little twist on the decorations this time, but the lights will be included.”

Although most of Mosaic’s advertising is word-of-mouth, Buckley said he’d probably try to do some radio advertising if his business wins a prize this year.

Philpott said there are some new competitors this year, too: Faces Nightclub, Felicia Strati, City Suds and J 27 Gallery are just a few.

Felicia Strata is a clothing boutique at 1901 Capitol Ave., and City Suds is a neighborhood laundromat at 1830 L St.

The initial idea for Light Up Midtown came from Amber Schmaeling, MBA marketing and outreach director, and Philpott and other MBA staff helped make the idea a reality in time for the 2010 winter holidays.

“People enjoy the way the malls dress up for the holidays,” Philpott said. “Hopefully this gives the same warm, fuzzy feeling and gets people to shop at smaller local businesses.”

For more information and to cast your vote, visit www.exploremidtown.org. Only one vote per person is allowed.

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

Christmas with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra

2011-11-21T03:25:35Z

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra mesmerized the audience Saturday afternoon at Power Balance Pavilion in the first of two Christmas shows.

For those of you who may not be familiar with TSO, they are a progressive rock band that incorporates classical, orchestral, symphonic and progressive elements into hard rock and heavy metal. They are famous for their series of rock operas and storytelling.

This was a high-energy show with a combination of lasers, lights, pyrotechnics and video screens all synchronized to TSO’s music.

Dressed in black, the orchestra made their way on stage while chimes were playing. As they were assembling onstage, there were clips of Martin Luther King Jr. from the famous "I Have a Dream" speech, as well as John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and others, with each round of new faces drawing applause and cheers. Once onstage they started playing “Who I Am,” with video screens and lights blazing in perfect unison.

The talented storyteller Phillip Brandon started weaving a tale of an angel coming down to Earth on Christmas Eve. Brandon’s phenomenal voice, reminiscent of the famous James Earl Jones, drew the crowd into the tale as a hush came over the audience. After the introduction, the orchestra started playing “An Angel Came Down,” complete with lights and lasers.

As the orchestra began “First Snow,” it actually started to snow in the arena. OK, not really snow, but the pretend kind of snow. You know the one with tiny bubbles raining down? Couple that with all the video screens filled with snow added to the sensation of real snow. It was quite breathtaking, leaving the audience in complete awe as they listened to an extremely talented line-up of musicians.

A newcomer to TSO, violinist Asha Mevlana was off the charts rocking it with her purple high-tech violin. As she ended a solo routine, the crowd gasped in unison as she snapped her bow in half over her knee, ending the song. This was so much more dramatic than smashing a guitar to smithereens, since it was completely unexpected.

As they wrapped up the story, the orchestra treated the audience to a number of songs, including a mix from one of their albums, “Christmas Canon Rock,” at which point they brought out founder, composer and producer Paul O’Neill.

This was my first exposure to TSO, and I have to say they left me wanting more, even after a two-and-a-half-hour performance.

Sacramento Family Keeps Daughter's Memory Alive through Toy Drive

2011-11-18T18:20:35Z

When Rosie Carollo was hospitalized at the Sutter Children’s Center, Sacramento due to a rare form of childhood epilepsy at just 6 months old, she took great delight in the toys, movies and activities in the hospital’s Child Life Program.

After Rosie’s passing in 2004, just shy of her second birthday, her parents, Nicole and George Carollo, were determined to keep her memory alive by giving back to the Sutter Children’s Center – a children’s hospital located inside Sutter Memorial Hospital in East Sacramento – after they provided such great care for their young daughter.

“Rosie was our first child and the light of our lives,” said Nicole Carollo. “When she passed I was almost desperate to find a way to help other children like her. I cannot take care of my baby anymore, but I can help others. We chose Sutter because of the wonderful experience we had with the Child Life Team and we want to give back to them and help brighten up the lives of other babies and children there.”

While strolling through their neighborhood admiring holiday decorations and looking to get a few ideas for their own house, the Carollos noticed barrels in front of homes for people to donate food as they, too, strolled down the street appreciating the decorations. It was at this moment that the Carollos had the idea to host a toy drive in Rosie’s honor.

After observing how much joy that toys brought Rosie while she was in the hospital, the family decided the best way to honor Rosie and give back to the hospital was by donating toys to the Sutter Children’s Center in hopes of creating joy for other kids during their time in the program.

The Carollos began their charitable toy drive in 2007. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Rosie Carollo Christmas Lights Toy Drive, which will be held from 5-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, and is part of the Carollos’ intricate Christmas display at their home at 3961 Fair Oaks Blvd. in the Arden-Arcade area of Sacramento. New, unwrapped toy donations, as well as any cash or check donations, will be collected to give to the brave children at the Sutter Children’s Center.

In the four previous years, this event has made quite a splash in donations. During the inaugural event in 2007, the Carollos collected 741 items and $236 in cash. Last year, this special event collected more than 1,600 items, up 50 percent from the previous year, and had more than 400 people in attendance the night of the toy drive.

This year, the Carollos and the Child Life Program are requesting Pillow Pets, crib-side soothers, toy doctor kits, infant rattles and toys, Lego sets, teen crafts and DVDs for children and teens. Monetary donations are accepted the night of the toy drive as well as gift cards to stores such as Target, Toys “R” Us and Walmart.

“The first year we did it, we had no idea it would become this big,” said Nicole. “We just thought it would be a little toy drive.”

Four years later, the Carollos look forward to the company of hundreds of Sacramento residents who gather in celebration of little Rosie’s life and the life of every child cared for at the Sutter Children’s Center. The family strives to create awareness about infantile spasms which Rosie endured.

“This is easily the happiest night of the year for me,” said Nicole.

Guests and their families enjoy the elaborate display of 15,000 Christmas lights, a gingerbread village, flying reindeer and a life-size nativity scene along with cookies, hot chocolate and even a special visit from Santa Claus. The Carollo family has made it their lifelong goal to spread little Rosie’s story and increase the awareness of infantile spasms. In the future, they hope to set up a foundation in Rosie’s name to raise funds for infantile spasm research.

If you would like to be a part of this event but cannot make it out on Dec. 11, the family is gladly accepting donations through the entire month of December at their driveway drop box located at 3961 Fair Oaks Blvd., at the corner of San Ramon Way and Fair Oaks Boulevard. For further information on how you can help, e-mail Nicole Carollo at N_Carollo@yahoo.com, or visit the “Rosie Carollo 5th Annual Christmas Lights Toy Drive” page at www.facebook.com.

The Child Life Program is an important part of each child's hospital experience at the Sutter Children’s Center. Child Life specialists work with the child, parents and hospital staff to make life as normal as possible and to minimize the emotional trauma to the infant, child or adolescent and his or her family. As a member of the health care team in both outpatient and inpatient settings, Child Life specialists provide essential life experiences for gaining a sense of mastery, for play, for learning, for self-expression, for family involvement and for peer interaction. The program also “employs” three full-time canine therapists as part of its Pet Therapy Program. The Sutter Children’s Center is a comprehensive “children’s hospital within a hospital” that offers on-site 24-hour pediatric and neonatal care physicians. It provides a patient- and family-oriented approach of more than 50 board-certified subspecialists and a full medical transport team. The Sutter Children’s Center is nationally recognized as a center for excellence by the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions for its outstanding care for children. Additionally, the Sutter Children’s Center is approved by California Children’s Services and is the only non-university facility in Northern California granted associate membership with the California Children's Hospital Association. For more information, visit http://checksutterfirst.org/children/.

Disclosure: Help the Carollo family by giving back this Holiday Season and gain awareness about the danger of childhood epilepsy and infantile spasms.

Sing-Along Messiah Tradition Returns to South Sacramento Dec. 11

2011-11-14T23:04:30Z

Singers and audience members are invited to a free "Sing-Along Messiah" concert Sunday, December 11, starting 4 p.m. at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5625-24th Street, Sacramento (off Fruitridge Road between Freeport Boulevard and Highway 99). Ample free parking is available.

Choral conductors from area churches and schools will take turns leading the massed volunteer choir, which is expected to consist of more than 100 singers. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Messiah music scores; a limited quantity of Messiah scores will be available for purchase ($10) at the door.

"By popular demand, we are repeating last year's very successful event, says Dr. May Tuan Tucker, Bethany Church music director. "This year's concert will again offer the opportunity of singing solos to anyone and everyone wishing to perform them in group fashion at the front of the church." She points out that most Sing-Along Messiah events feature guest soloists, with participation by all others limited to chorus selections. The 2010 Sing-Along Messiah attracted participation by more than 200 people from throughout the region.

There is no charge to participate as a singer or audience member, and free refreshments will be served following the concert. A goodwill offering will be taken to benefit the South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership Food Closet, which is struggling to provide emergency supplies of groceries to thousands of in-need area residents this holiday season.

The Messiah, composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741, is based on biblical passages that tell the story of Christ. This musical celebration has since become a Christmas tradition in many parts of the world. The December 11 concert will feature primarily the Christmas portions of the Messiah, and will include the triumphant "Hallelujah Chorus."

Singers of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend either or both of the informal "drop in" rehearsals prior to the December 11 concert. Rehearsals are set for Sundays at 4 p.m. at Bethany Church on November 20 and December 4. For more details, contact May Tucker at (916) 428-5281 or e-mail cathy@bethpres.com.

A downloadable flyer is available at www.bethpres.com.

The Sing-Along Messiah is presented by volunteers of Bethany Presbyterian Church, which is the oldest Presbyterian church in the South Sacramento/Land Park area. Bethany has long been known for its "welcoming" attitude and openness to all, regardless of background or faith tradition. The church's guiding vision affirms that in all things church members are to be "authentic, loving, caring, compassionate, courageous, accepting, and people of hope, joy and love." The Rev. Lorie Sprinkle has served as pastor since 2007. Bethany is the host site of the South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership Food Closet and the Southeast Asian Assistance Center, as well as the venue for diverse community group gatherings such as the Sacramento Banjo Band, the Daughters of Scotia and the Capital City Squares square dance club. Bethany, which was founded in Oak Park and eventually relocated to South Sacramento due to freeway construction, will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014.

Disclosure: Cathy is Hospitality Commission Chairperson at Bethany Presbyterian Church.

Downtown Plaza Ice Rink returns on Nov. 4

2011-10-11T03:29:26Z

On Nov. 4, a festive Sacramento tradition will continue with the opening of the Downtown Plaza Ice Rink. 2011 marks the rink’s 20th anniversary of bringing locals together to celebrate the holidays on ice.

“The rink will bring that New York City ice-skating feel (to) the heart of downtown Sacramento,” said Downtown Sacramento Partnership Marketing Director Lisa Martinez. The rink, located at 7th and K streets, provides locals with the feel of a big city winter.

Martinez said that there is a painstaking process to turn St. Rose of Lima Park into a functional ice-skating rink.

“It takes about three weeks, as long as the weather permits,” she said.

The first step is to lay out a layer of plastic and level the park with sand, Martinez said. After that, the park’s huge air-conditioning unit cools what will be the actual skating rink.

Martinez explained that once cool enough, workers will take a hose and gently spray the surface of the rink until it builds up a layer of frost that turns into ice. This is the ice that people will eventually skate on.

She also said that Sacramento’s relatively warm winter climate can make the task of sustaining the ice a little difficult.

“Once we have an inch or two of ice, we will paint the ice with a white layer … to give it that frosty coating and a nice surface for people to skate on,” she said.

People in the Sacramento area are excited about the rink. Adam Sereno, a resident of Rancho Cordova, said that he has never been ice skating and is looking forward to learning how to do it this year.

“To be honest, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said. “It’s great that the city puts so much effort into maintaining things like this.”

Martinez said that in the rink’s 20 years, the DSP has had plenty of time to perfect the event.

Every Tuesday, a family skate night will be held, and Martinez said it will create a festive and family-friendly environment.

“We’ve made a commitment to the community to produce a quality holiday event for families,” she added. “We have a 20-year tradition, and we hope to continue it for another 20 years.”

The rink will be open seven days a week from Nov. 4 through Jan. 16. The rink will be open on Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It will be open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Hours will be extended during December for Christmas break. General admission is $8 for a two hour session, and skates cost $2 to rent.

Video of workers creating ice rink below courtesy of Downtown Sacramento Partnership

“White Christmas” Still a Seasonal Joy

2010-12-24T20:33:53Z

The beautiful 1946 Art Deco Crest Theatre is a Sacramento treasure.

Irving Berlin’s song “White Christmas” is one of our most recognizable holiday tunes, played and sung by every performer imaginable.

The iconic 1954 Christmas movie of the same name is a timeless classic, a sentimental love story filled with lavish musical production numbers, beloved stars, gorgeous sets and costumes, and those wonderful Irving Berlin songs.

Presenting the film on the big screen at the Crest for a limited run is a stroke of genius.

Sacramento audiences are treated to a wonderful moviegoing experience whenever the Crest opens her doors for a classic film event. Whether it’s the Singalong Sound of Music, as presented by Outword magazine earlier this year, or a reprise showing of Gone With the Wind, the Crest is the perfect venue for the great movies of yesteryear. From the glorious neon marquee and the cozy ticket booth outside to the gilded, swooping wall sconces and ceiling lighting in the main theater, the Crest speaks to us of a simpler, more elegant age. When theatergoing was a dress-up event and a night out on the town was the only way to see our dreams in Hollywood splendor, the Crest was one of the premier entertainment destinations.

The audience at Thursday’s evening showing of “White Christmas” reflected some of that wonderful sense of community. Most of the not-too-uncomfortable seats were filled, the snack bar was serving amazing quantities of popcorn, and there was much excited chatter. All over the theater, people laughed and snapped pictures with their friends. When the elaborate crimson curtain rose on the Paramount Pictures logo, and the screen assured us that this film was shot in VistaVision, the crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Over the course of the next two hours, there were many more outbreaks of spontaneous applause. On screen, Bing Crosby crooned, Danny Kaye cracked wise, Vera-Ellen danced her heart out, and Rosemary Clooney sang. Of course the storyline, dialogue, musical numbers, and every laugh were more than just familiar to most of the audience; sometimes the chuckles preceded the jokes.

I doubt that I am giving away any secrets by telling readers that the guys and gals ended up in the correct pairings, the Inn and the general’s dignity was saved, and of course it snowed. The corny, marvelous film is still what it always was: holiday entertainment.

"White Christmas" is showing three more times today: at 1:00, 3:45, and 7 pm. Take the family, sit back, and enjoy a little bit of the holiday spirit of yesterday on the big screen, as it was intended.

The Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street | Downtown Sacramento | (916) 44-CREST (info)

*SPECIAL DEAL*
Everyone attending a screening of this film gets a free skate rental coupon for the Westfield Shoppingtown Holiday Ice Rink!
Advance tickets on sale now at tickets.com, Crest, 1-800-225-2277.

General Admission $9.50
Senior/Student/Matinee $6.00
Playing in Theatre 1

Roseville Police Don't Sing Hallelujah

2010-12-21T05:59:18Z

Police ejected a flash mob of hundreds of choral singers tonight from the Roseville Galleria mall. The choral singers, many clad in their Christmas clothes, had been anticipating singing an “impromptu” rendition of the “Hallelujah Chorus” in the food court.

The performance was conceived of by the Sacramento Choral Society and over the last few weeks, word quickly spread via email, Twitter and good old-fashioned word of mouth. As the 7:30 performance time neared, dense traffic in the food court came to a near standstill while singers clutched their sheet music for the 4-minute song.

When mall security was unable to redirect the crowd, the Fire Department closed the mall and ushered everyone outside. Denied their chance to sing inside, the crowd collected in the outdoor courtyard and began singing Christmas carols.

Despite repeated Police orders to leave the vicinity, the determined carolers of all ages stayed and at the appointed time, the “Hallelujah Chorus began”. With such a large group, the song was somewhat disjointed but the soprano voices soared above it all and the crowd got what it came for.

As the song finished, a Police helicopter arrived with bright searchlights and bullhorns ordering the crowd to disperse. But, by this time the chorus had been sung and people were leaving on their own, singing “Jingle Bells” and waving merrily at the helicopter overhead.

On a serious note, the impact of closing the mall must have been particularly hard for store-owners who were just recently able to re-open after the Galleria fire.

Camerata California to sing "Child's Christmas in Wales"

2010-12-19T01:39:56Z

Child’s Christmas in Wales is a new work, at least on the West Coast. It was commissioned in 2003 for a mixed choir, soloists, and chamber symphony in New Jersey.

Matthew Harris comes to us this Sunday with a composing track record as long as Santas beard, and with the kudos that come from doing much more with his choral scores than anyone ever expects. So I found out by Googling “Matthew Harris Composer”.

I asked two of the Chanteuses, who are also in the Camerata, how they liked the work. They were excited, and now so am I. went to his website to check things out. He is quite modest about commissions for choral works. There are plenty of them, and serious choral directors say it is a great pleasure to direct and produce his works. One group, a Galway, Ireland Men’s Choir commissioned a work “Three Plums”, which they used to win acclaim at the Cork Choral Festival. He also makes it very clear that his arrangements of choral pieces are easily accessible to community choral groups.

I am sure Child’s Christmas in Wales will exceed expectations tomorrow Sunday December 19th at Westminster Presbyterian Church 4 PM. They have plenty of seats, and the price is right, $22 for adults, and $20 for seniors. Ed Ortiz wrote three columns in Friday’s Ticket section. You should read it before going.

I did engage in about an hour of conversation with Matthew Harris. He answered every question I could think of, like: Why do A Child’s Christmas?

“I thought I could add some music that would create an ambient cultural setting. You know Welsh Choirs have a long history of beautiful singing, and that was what Thomas was hearing in his village, and others. These hymns and drinking songs were what remained with him as he grew into a justly famous adult poet, and began his concert tours in Europe and the US. If you want to hear Thomas read this work, like I did, look for a podcast on iTunes.”

How do you handle all the “he saids?” I asked, carefully.

“I get the chorus to be like a Greek chorus to create a kind of village dialog. I just love creating a setting for the eccentric characters that Thomas put into his poem, ”

I, myself, remember meeting Thomas, in a Greenwich Village bar after one of his readings. He was full of wonderful gestures, and lilting voice, very musical without rehearsed vocalese or reliance on specific tunes. He was also very good about downing pints and keeping a running conversation of poetic merit without losing his place.

Harris plans to work this inner music and rhythm into his solo lines, and choral parts, and also to inject instrumental snippets from the BBC radio in the British Isles of the 1930’s and 40’s, Thomas’ formative years. He says these are embedded in larger chunks, and that there is a minimum of dissonance for dissonances sake.

Harris has the Camellia Symphony, the Camerata California Choir, and four very adept solists. One of them, Pedro Betancourt, was featured in a recent fall Turner Harmonie concert to a great deal of adulation. Pedro also sang at the Carmel Mission Messiah, all of the very demanding tenor solos.

I asked Harris what he is working on now.

“A work about Cain and Abel, “Mark of Cain”--that draws more recent scholarship into the family relationships depicted in the book of Genesis. I have a solo soprano taking the role of the serpent. And another work is called “In the Arms of Music”, which celebrates all the music I really love.”

So I am sure you readers will like this Sunday’s program. Let me know your comments, as I will also be reviewing it for this paper.

Radio City Music Hall Rocks Arco Arena

2010-12-18T01:53:05Z

Fifteen semi-trailers for sound stage, all bedecked in red and white, brought Radio City Music Hall's Rockettes to Sacramento.

Wedensday, the Rockettes went out to dance in Sacramento for Christmas on a national 35-city tour. Right as the red curtains went up, the crowd started buzzing, and they were off, first the legs, then the whole row of dancers came out to give the crowd what it was waiting for.

With a cheesy Santa cheering up the crowd and the dancers dressed as reindeer in glowing antlers, the show began.

The sound stage and setup were two of the most spectacular parts about the show, from LED projection screens giving a history of the Rockettes and their time with Radio City Music Hall. From Santa's magic floor entrance to the panels the 50-plus Santa's came out of for the dancing Santa's number, this is a well-thought-out show.

A personal favorite part of the show was the nutcracker number, when all the dancers danced with large fluffy bears and dolls. These costumes must have weighted a ton, and must have been awfully cumbersome, but they danced light as air in toe shoes and made a number that might have been reserved for children light-hearted, playful, whimsical and fun.

Another crowd pleaser was the precision toy soldier number, which has been a part of the Christmas spectacular for as long as it has run. But knowing the crowd has changed since the 1920s, when the Rockettes started, there was a lot of new dance styles throughout the whole show, including zubma and hip hop in addition to the wealth of the classic leg lifts.

The show ended with a nativity scene, and the three wise men bringing their gifts, which then erupted in a singing sensation with snowflakes and streamers shooting out to the front-row crowds that were covered by the end of the performance.

Aside from feeling, it was slightly akin to a Christian rock concert at the end. It was a wonderful show and makes the watcher fully understand why the Rockettes have been around for over 76 years.

Photo credit: Kati Garner

Shedding convenience for military families

2010-12-17T02:25:16Z

Rodney Stanhope is living in a shed at Arden Fair Mall, and he isn’t there to shop.

The shed lacks running water or kitchen facilities, and he “showers” with baby wipes. His living space is just big enough for a cot, a couple of camp chairs and a small shelf for his computer.

Stanhope, a Navy veteran and small business owner who normally lives in Placerville, has one mission this holiday season: collecting toys for military families with one or both parents deployed overseas.

“We can’t bring mom or dad home, but we can make sure they have a happy Christmas,” Stanhope said. “Their parents are out there fighting for our freedom and putting their lives on the line.”

Though he partners with the National Guard, he said toys go to children from all branches of the military, and they’re used all across California, distributed through military personnel tasked with helping families of deployed service members.

Stanhope said that after doing this annually for six years, he was ready to call it quits last year, but something changed his mind.

“Travis Air Force Base had a whole division coming home, 1,200 men,” he said. “(A program called Welcome Home Warrior) had Santa, and he had a sack, and the kids each got a toy. Then, when it was all done, they said, ‘And now there’s one more gift,’ and doors rolled up and their parents came out.”

After only being able to collect 300 toys, Welcome Home Warrior turned to Stanhope for the rest.

Witnessing the surprise Christmas gift for the children made Stanhope vow to keep doing it.

“It still gives me goosebumps just thinking about it,” he said.

Last year, he and other volunteers collected 15,000 toys and enough money to purchase 10,000 more toys, but this year has been difficult.

He has been at the shed since Dec. 10, and will stay there until Dec. 22.

“We have a big hole to fill,” he said.

Last year, Stanhope received a lot of media attention after his generator was stolen, but he said he has had trouble getting the word out this year.

Most-needed are toys for toddlers and kids over 14, but everything helps.

To make it easy for people to donate, Stanhope said anyone can bring toys, money and gift cards to the shed, located in the Best Buy parking lot across from Cheesecake Factory, or make monetary donations online.

Stanhope works through Yellow Ribbon America, a national nonprofit organization, so donations are tax-deductible.

The shed is technically open from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m., with uniformed service members on-hand until 1 p.m., but Stanhope said it’s effectively available 24 hours per day.

“I’m used to lack of sleep,” he said with a laugh.

The hardest part, he said, is being away from his wife for 12 days, as they will celebrate their first anniversary at the end of the year. And the cold.

“But that’s nothing compared to the military,” he said. “Some of them are deployed for over a year without seeing each other.”

Jayma Valentine, who spent 20 years in the Air Force as a nurse, brought a gift card to the shed Thursday afternoon.

“I come every year,” she said. “I don’t have kids of my own, so I figure I can give to them and help them get some decent Christmas presents.”

In addition to donations, volunteers are needed.

Nicolas Brown of El Dorado Hills was helping man the shed Thursday afternoon, and he said he came down to support a good cause.

“I’m a big military supporter,” he said. “They’re protecting basically everything we hold dear.”

To contact Stanhope directly, e-mail him at yellowribbonamerica@yahoo.com.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Lighting Up The Holidays

2010-12-16T18:08:04Z

The company responsible for lighting up the holidays in Fair Oaks Village is again jumping in to lend a hand. Christmas in the Village located in Fair Oaks, CA is an event which is currently celebrating its 27th year. This year’s display utilized over 8500 super efficient LED lights, using less than half the power of a blow dryer to light the 80’ legacy tree in Plaza Park located in Old Fair Oaks. John and the staff of Brothers Electric conduct fund raising activities throughout the year to fund the expense of each year’s light installation. John is already making preparations to “rally the troops” to help with this year’s de-lighting needs, as well as coordinating volunteers for next year. Each year the display is based off of community volunteers and each year the tree lighting ceremony commences without a hitch. The tree is currently on display in the village and attracts many residents from all over the Greater Sacramento Area to enjoy.

Disclosure: Michelle Buller works in Public Relations for Christmas in the Village

The GrubCrawl gets going with Groupon

2010-12-13T09:23:50Z

AS THE HOLIDAYS DRAW EVER CLOSER, I'M SURE I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE TRYING TO STRETCH A BUCK AS FAR AS IT WILL GO,...

That's why GrubCrawlUSA.com is Ho, Ho, Happy to announce their partnership with Groupon.com and over 15 area restaurants for four (4) upcoming events in the Sacramento region. With today's deal you get 1 ticket to a social dining event with GrubCrawl Sacramento for half off. As crawlers hop from restaurant to restaurant over the course of a night, either on foot or by pedicab (for a small extra fee), their tummies fill with free food and discount drinks from eateries and bars like Tamaya Sushi, TexMex, Aura, Morgans Bistro @ the Sheraton Grand, Vive, Shenanigans, Table 260, Pyramid, The Limelight, and Blue Cue, inflating to a greater and greater size until the crawl becomes more like a waddle. Luckily, the new friends they've made during the crawl, which brings together epicureans from around the Sacramento area, can help them roll home in time for sunup. With today's deal, choose from four belly-busting events:

•The Third Annual Christmas Crawl beginning at 5 pm on Saturday, December 18th, 2010
•Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday GrubMarch beginning at 1 pm on Monday, January 17th, 2011
•Pre-Valentines Sexy Saturday Singles Mingle beginning at 5 pm on Saturday, February 12th, 2011
•Sensual Sunday's Couples Crawl beginning at 4 pm on Sunday, February 13th, 2011

Save a bundle & spread some cheer while you support local businesses this Holiday Season,...and remember,..you know you got enough to eat and drink if you're "Crawling"!

Written by Cline Moore

GrubCrawl Founder

TubaChristmas in Town

2010-12-12T06:01:51Z

The walls of McClatchy High Auditorium vibrated mightily today when 150 tubas gathered for the 31st annual TubaChristmas concert. Big, bold, and brassy sounds of tubas, euphoniums, sousaphones and baritones filled the space and entertained an estimated crowd of 800. During the free Christmas music concert, the audience sang with gusto, asked questions about the different instruments and wanted to hear the very lowest sound that tubas can make.

Steve Iwata and others conducted the aural and visual feast for the senses. Powerful, yet melodic sounds arose from instruments decorated with garlands and blinking lights while the players themselves were adorned in red and green TubaChristmas knit hats.

TubaChristmas is an international event that began in New York City in 1974. Hundreds of cities sponsor TubaChristmas concerts with the largest one held at Disneyland in Anaheim where approximately 600 tuba players perform.

This year’s Sacramento event included players ranging in age from 10 to 80. Most were from the Sacramento area, but some traveled from Reno, the Bay Area and Washington State and multiple generations of families played together. TubaChristmas in Sacramento is held every year on the second Saturday in December.

New Family Holiday Event at the Folsom Zoo

2010-12-11T08:14:26Z

A festive celebration for animals will be taking place over this holiday season. The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary will continue to host a Wild Nights and Holiday Lights commemoration this week and next. This is a unique after dark opportunity to see the zoo’s sanctuary animals along with experiencing some holiday festivities.

This event started last weekend and continues on Saturday December 11 and then on the 16th to the 23rd. General weekend admission fees will apply during this period. The whole zoo sanctuary has been decorated with tens of thousands of holiday lights. Many local donations of money and time have come through and have livened up the sanctuary.

This event is special for various reasons most important is that entrance fees will help support the amazing animals at the zoo sanctuary. This event also includes light decorations with thousands of colorful environmentally friendly LED lights adorning the zoo. An enchanted forest of festively lit trees, donated by Bambi's Christmas Tree Land, decorates an area where Santa Claus greets visitors. In that same area carolers and seasonal food and drink are provided. Visitors can talk to Santa Claus and also the zoo’s Santa Claws. All the activities are dependent on weather conditions. This weekend the weather has been very cooperative.

(Santa Claus with some visitors)

(Santa Claws with some visitors)

This is the first annual Wild Nights and Holiday Lights event. The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary will be open during these nights from 6 to 9 p.m. Presentations at different animal exhibits will take place each evening, check the event board just inside the zoo entrance for times and details

This is a great place for parents and grandparents to bring their families and enjoy strolling carolers, zoo animal presentations, and beautiful holiday lights. After finishing the zoo board the Starlight Express (a miniature scale live steam train). The train will take you on a tour ride through part of the City Lions Park. The event is suited for younger children and the children that attended on Friday night seemed to have enjoyed the Wild Nights and Holiday Lights zoo tour. Although most of the animals there are nocturnal it was hard to see many of them. Some enterprising visitors brought small LED flashlights to help spot many of the animals hiding in the dark.

Many of the helpers at the zoo are volunteers and were more than willing to answer questions. Holiday decorations throughout the zoo were donated as was time and people to decorate cages, walkways, Christmas Trees and other structures.

Carolers volunteered their time and included school, church, community, and family groups. If you do get the chance to visit the Folsom Zoo during this event you can later email your thoughts about the event to: shilton@folsom.ca.us. These suggestions will be taken into consideration for future Wild Nights and Holiday Lights events.

Slideshow Photos (David Alvarez Photography):

1 and 4 - Tiger Exhibit

2 and 3 - Coyote and Fox Exhibit

5, 6 - Bears

7 to 11 - Holiday Lights

12 - Carolers, 13 - Festive Sign, 14 - Mr. and Mrs. Claus

Local theater teacher gets kids out of their shells for the holidays!

2010-12-09T04:16:33Z

Theater has always been a form of art native to children. Watching them play and create their own games and stories has been a staple of the family tradition, and more than a few parents have taken the opportunity to canonize these moments on YouTube.

Cynthia Speakman, a local actor and teacher with the Sacramento Metro Arts Commission, has been in the game for over a decade, working with children to improve their performing skills and ability to be outgoing and expressive.

"I think it's very natural for kids to act because they have an enormous need to communicate to others," says Speakman. "Even the kids who aren't extraverted want to be more confident, and for parents it's a remedy of sorts for getting [their kids] out there when they see them as 'too shy.'"

Speakman always emphasizes the idea of the storyteller in her after-school programs, and says that what gets kids going more than anything else is their ability to not only be in a story, but also to see how one is made.

"I think that's what theatre should be about when you're a little kid," says Speakman, "how a story is put together in a visceral way, and how to communicate verbally so you can get through those presentations that you're going to have to do your whole life!"

Over her career as a teacher, working in the multi-purpose rooms of many local elementary schools such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Crocker Riverside, she has taught over 2,000 children and young adults the mystique and fun of the stage.

One of her more recent students, Will Block, 15, played the role of Puck in the Sacramento Shakespeare Festival's 2010 production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." His younger brother, Tom Block, 13 and another of Speakman's students, played Wally Webb in City Theatre's production of "Our Town."

"Some of my students have gone on to do bigger things with their acting," says Speakman. "The majority of my students have more confidence, and that's what I'm after."

When she's not teaching children the joys of theater, she enjoys performing in a local troupe called StoryVoices, a group of spoken word artists who create theme based programs for fundraisers and benefits. She also performs as a guide for Hysterical Walks, a walking tour of Old Sacramento.

Her most recent program is a workshop that stimulates cultural awareness in kids. The children come together at the California Stage and throughout the three day camp they conceive, write, rehearse and perform vignettes for family and friends about what New Year's celebration is like in other countries.

The workshop will take place over the break between Christmas and New Year's. The workshop is from Tuesday, Dec. 28—Thursday, Dec. 30, and last from 9 a.m.—3 p.m.

For more information about classes, contact Cynthia Speakman. For more information on the workshop, visit here.

PHOTOS:

1. Cynthia Speakman (Courtesy of Studio 24)

2. Speakman performing for an audience during a Hysterical Walk

3. StoryVoices (from left to right: Marni Webb, Jan Ahders, Cynthia Speakman, Claire Lipschultz

Everything is Awesome: Photographs by Keith Telfeyan

2010-12-07T02:04:02Z

Everything is Awesome, a solo exhibition of photographs by Keith Telfeyan, opens at Cuffs, 2523 J Street, Midtown Sacramento, on December 11, 2010 and will remain on view through January 7, 2011. Cuffs is open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm and Sun Noon-7pm.

The public is invited to a reception with the artist on December 11, from 6pm-10pm, as part of Sacramento’s 2nd Saturday Art Walk. Enjoy holiday snacks and drinks and Christmas tunes dj-ed by Shaun Slaughter while taking in the show. Cuffs is also sponsoring a toy drive to provide holiday gifts for children in need. Anyone who donates a toy will be entered in a drawing for a $50 certificate to the shop.

For his first solo show at Cuffs, Keith has created a series of digital C-prints from 35mm film entitled Everything is Awesome. Focusing on seemingly mundane, everyday sights, he executes the photographs in a way that causes the viewer to take a second glance—realizing the series title is, in fact, true.

With photography, Keith is able to capture scenes exactly how he perceives them, delivering his fresh take of the world to people who may otherwise be unswayed by a lamp post or a flock of birds. His work offers vision fields that give a lush and clean vicarious experience, bringing out transcendence through texture while alluding to the banal, ordinary moments of life being lived.

In Keith’s words: “Everything is everything. Sorrow and trees and architecture and love and chemistry and politics and the world. It’s awesome…to see a wave of oneness within each particular thing. Or perhaps the everyday itself is simply worth seeing in a new way.” Keith’s philosophy is tied in intrinsically to the photographs in this show. Attendees will leave with a novel view of the everyday and the knowledge that, yes, everything is awesome.

About the artist
Keith Telfeyan makes video art, short films, and photographs. He received his MFA from Parsons the New School for Design in 2009, and his Bachelor’s degree in Film from the University of California, Berkeley in 2003, where he also studied Philosophy and Rhetoric. His artwork has been exhibited throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. He was born and raised in Sacramento, California and resides in Brooklyn, New York. He is left-handed and keeps an active dream journal.

For further information about Keith Telfeyan and to see more examples of his artwork visit his website.

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All images by Keith Telfeyan:
1. Electric Spirituality
2. Pixilated Abyss
3. Slow Motion Explosion

Disclaimer: Alison Kranz is Public Relations contact for Keith Telfeyan.

Fab Forties Aglow

2010-12-07T01:02:46Z

‘Twas the first weekend in December and all through East Sacramento, five homes were decked with holiday decorations and filled with Christmas spirit. Local decorators hung stockings by the chimneys with care so thousands of visitors could enjoy Sacred Heart’s Holiday Home Tour.

Now 37 years strong, the tour has witnessed custom homes in the Fab Forties district (38th to 46th streets, bordered by J Street and Folsom Boulevard) cover their doorways in wreaths and garlands, display Christmas trees in their living rooms, and illuminate their windows with the sparkle of ornaments and the flickering glow of candles for the benefit of Sacred Heart Parish School.

Tour Chairperson Leslie Lopez said the decorators gave it their all, and that this year, it looked like Christmas exploded.

“Every single home was amazing,” she said.

Decorators from Holiday Home, Haus Home Decor and Specialty Gift, Twiggs Floral Design Gallery, East Sac Florist, Impressions Designs, Inspired Interiors, and Beyond the Garden Gate all volunteered their time and resources to stage the homes in Christmas flare.

Not only were homes done up in holiday charm, but Sacred Heart’s new library and gym were also recipients of a holiday makeover, compliments of Holiday Home.

Holiday Home’s owner Carol Shellenberger, along with a team of volunteers and students from the Art Institute of California, went to work transforming the school’s library into a winter wonderland.

“It was more theatrical this year, requiring installations and more than just decorating,” Shellenberger said.

Shellenberger added a touch of seasonal magic to the library, which was themed after the classic children’s novel “The Secret Garden,” by constructing six-foot-high walls and hand carving styrofoam into moss-covered rocks to place throughout the room.

A gazebo sat poised at the center of the room, housing a tree inside. Manzanita branches painted snow white and covered in ornaments gave visitors the impression that they were meandering through a real garden, lightly dusted in fresh snow.

In her fourth year on the tour, Shellenberger and company had previously worked exclusively in home settings.

“We work with what the homeowner has,” she said.

With a small budget, Shellenberger explained that her company makes many of their own ornaments and decorations, making good use of cellophane and wrapping paper for candy canes, oversized lollypops and other whimsical diversions.

“We are not interior designers,” she said. “We are decorators and designers.”

Homeowners are not always sure about how they’d like to decorate their homes, but Shellenberger said they are usually vocal about what they don’t like.

All homes are volunteered for use on the tour by homeowners wanting to benefit Sacred Heart School. Three of the five homes this year were volunteered by homeowners who don’t currently have children attending the school.

Lopez said the proceeds from the tour go to help offset tuition for students in need of assistance. Due to the economy, the number of families needing assistance has risen by six percent over the last three years, Lopez said.

“The tour acts as the school’s biggest fundraiser of the year,” she said.

In years past, the tour has drawn about 4,000 people from Northern California and Nevada over the course of the weekend. As of Saturday night, Lopez said the funds raised this year had surpassed those of last year.

Lopez said they hoped to net as much as $75,000 from the tour’s proceeds, but this year’s official count has yet to be tallied.

Photos | Kati Garner

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-04T22:01:43Z

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening,
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight,
We're happy tonight.
Walking in a winter wonderland

That’s how the famous Christmas song Winter Wonderland begins. Composer Felix Bernard and lyricist Richard B. Smith published the song back in 1934. The theme for this Christmas event at Fairytale Town, Winter Wonderland, seemed to follow the stanza of the song (and now I can’t get the song out of my head). Everyone seemed to be happy walking in a Winter Wonderland.

This is probably a child’s favorite time of the year. Within the next few weeks many children will be looking toward sitting by the Christmas tree and opening up gifts that will bring that much anticipated present on Christmas day. Friday night, Fairytale Town gave a glimpse into Christmas and this celebration will continue on Saturday night from 5 to 8 o'clock.

From the outside of the facility passers-by immediately notice the Christmas lights surrounding Fairytale Town. The sounds of children enjoying the transformed theme park can be heard. The smell of kettle popcorn popping, and Christmas music also made its way outside of Fairytale Town.

Carolers strolled Fairytale Town as it was transformed into Winter Wonderland for two days of festive celebration. Christmas Carols were heard throughout the night as the Fairytale Town’s Volunteer Caroling Group serenaded their guests. The excitement in the children’s voices could be heard all around the area. The theme park had all the playground diversions as well as special guests that made the evening a very special Christmas event.

(Stand Out Talent carolers)

There were many stations set up all around Winter Wonderland for children to participate in. Santa’s Workshop was open and it included an area for children to participate in free hands-on activities. Children could also decorate their own winter wreath at the Water Wheel station. One of the most popular areas was the cookie decoration station. Children could decorate their own cookies and enjoy them at the spot. “Mmmm, yummy. That’s the best cookie I’ve ever had. Mom can we do another? Grandpa, I think we should make one for mom and grandma!” were some of the comments utter by kids who created some great works of edible art.

(Volunteers helping children decorate Christmas ornaments)

There were also some vendor stations set up for Christmas stocking stuffing and gifts. Complimentary gift wrapping was available as well. Besides regular staff there were many volunteers from various local High Schools and organizations. Many of the crafts being sold were hand made by the vendors who occupied some of the vendor stations.

Father Christmas was available for pictures and children were able to visit and tell him what they would like for Christmas. Sisters Cierra and Valerie sat with Father Christmas and were some of the visitors that posed for a photo. A real family atmosphere was available for all to enjoy. Parents and grandparents seemed to enjoy Winter Wonderland as much as the kids. Fairytale Town closes earlier for the two days that it transforms into Winter Wonderland. At the beginning of the event not many people seemed to be at the park but as the evening went on more and more visitors entered to enjoy the festivities.

Fairytale Town is a non-profit organization and is mainly supported by admissions to the park as well as membership charitable contributions and other tax-deductible gifts. Many of the park’s representatives for the night were volunteers and just like the Sacramento Zoo across the street they rely on many trained volunteers. Volunteers in turn get training, work and volunteer experience, and get satisfaction working within their community. Field trips and workshops are also offered by Fairytale Town. There is much to do here and you can follow special events and see what else is available by logging in to their website.

If you haven’t visited Fairytale Town it’s basically a small theme park with attractions and playground areas with a fairytale theme. It’s geared more towards elementary school age children (and younger) and includes a King Arthur Castle which is one of its original structures still around. Some areas that children can enjoy are Humpty Dumpty’s Bridge, the Old Woman in the Shoe play structure, a full size Tipi and all can walk the Crooked Mile. These are just some of the notable areas that visitors can enjoy. There are more than 30 areas that visitors can climb, walk, play on, and experience. Some live animal areas are also situated around the park.

Humpty Dumpty also walked the park and posed for pictures with kids. Fairytale Town has been around since 1959 and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The festive atmosphere created during the two day Winter Wonderland event is sure to attract many more visitors and it's a great family attraction. Fairytale Town has many activities throughout the year and many educational programs are available as well.

Photos by David Alvarez

1 - Posing with Father Christmas sisters Cierra and Valerie

2, 3 - Stand Out Talent Carolers

4 - Vendors Walt and Victoria showing off their hand made art

5 - Mandi and Heather hand made craft station

6 to 9 - Some of the critters around Winter Wonderland

10 - The Frostie Family

53rd and S streets neighborhood full of Christmas spirit

2010-12-04T08:07:26Z

These photos were taken with an iPhone in the Elmhurst area (53rd street, S street, T street).

Most of the homes had arches on the sidewalks made of PVC pipe and strung with lights.

My favorite house of the block was the one with the snorkeling Santa.

This is the house with the snorkeling Santa!

Santa lives in a Yellow Submarine.

A jellyfish, maybe?

A Christmas tree Snowman.

Sacramento performing ambassadors continue the legacy of local Christmas performance

2010-12-04T01:06:48Z

Some things continue to improve with time, and the annual “Holiday Tapestry” Christmas performance by Galena Street East is no exception.

On Friday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., the young performers of Galena Street East will put on the 39th performance of “Holiday Tapestry” in Sacramento. The show has been a staple of Sacramento’s performing arts community for decades, and the group that has produced several Broadway performers continues the legacy with this year’s performance entitled “Celebration of Lights.”

Galena Street East is a nonprofit organization founded by artistic directors, Richard and Jeri Clinger, in 1972.

Since the group began, “Holiday Tapestry” has had performers starting at the age of 4 and continuing until they are 18. The performers are trained in vocal music, ballet, jazz, clogging, modern, lifts, and various styles of international folk dance by renowned choreographers and stylists from throughout the country. The result is a program that is as diverse as it is entertaining.

“When my husband and I began this group, we envisioned a program that would not only train these performers in music and dance, but would teach them to serve with their talents,” said Jeri Clinger.

“We are so proud of our alumni who have gone on to excel in their various professions, and are also thrilled that ‘Holiday Tapestry’ is continuing on as a Sacramento tradition after 39 years. This is very exciting for us.”

Commitment is the name of the game for members of this performing ensemble. Rehearsals are conducted twice a week, and the performers are expected to attend if they plan on performing in the scheduled shows.

During the holidays, preparations for “Holiday Tapestry” include not only the directors and performers, but the parents of the children as well. Parents volunteer their time to manage committees such as advertising, ticket distribution, costuming, and other such duties.
In fact, this year’s “Holiday Tapestry” chairperson is a former member of the group who is now sharing the experience with her teenage daughter, one of this year’s performers.

“It takes a lot of time and dedication to put a production like this on, and the parents help us out immensely to make sure everything goes smoothly. It truly is a team effort,” added Clinger.

Choreographer Sydney Allen knows this to be true. Allen graduated from the program last year and is now assisting with teaching and choreography this year.

“I learned so much from being a member of this group, and have been taught that giving back is so important. This is my way of giving back. ‘Holiday Tapestry’ requires a lot of support, and I’m glad to offer assistance to a program that gave me so much.”

This year, the show will include several favorites from years past as well as some new numbers specific for this year’s show. The repertoire for this year will include partner dances with advanced lifts, clogging, tap dancing, international folk dances from around the world, holiday-themed musical numbers, and a dance number in the style of the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes.

The group is broken up into five groups: the International Children’s Chorus, Allegro, East Street Gang, the East Street Cloggers, and Galena Street East.

Young children start the program in the Children’s Chorus and advance into the more technical groups as they mature. The Galena Street East group tours every summer and have represented California throughout the United States and the world.

Galena Street East has been recognized as one of the “Best in Sacramento” for performing groups by Sacramento Magazine, and has been prominently featured on KCRA-TV’s A-List as well.

“The program allows for children to learn the basics of music and movement in the beginning, and then take on more advanced music and dance as they progress. It’s very important to us that these kids have a solid foundation for success and learning as they continue on,” said Clinger.

The hours of rehearsal and hard work are about to pay off. On Thursday, Dec. 9, and Friday, Dec. 10, the group will put on shows for local schools during the day, highlighting their international repertoire as cultural education for students.

The countries represented in the international folk numbers this year include Russian, Ukraine, Canada, Ireland, and India. Several members of the ensemble joined the group after seeing Galena Street East perform for the schools.

“Sacramento is our home, and has been our home for 42 years. We love sharing our performance with the schools and the community during this time of the year,” said Clinger. “We invite the whole community to come out and see why ‘Holiday Tapestry’ has remained such a legacy for this area.”

Tickets are available by calling 731-4090 or by purchasing them at the door.

Performances will be held at the Hiram Johnson High School Auditorium in Sacramento with showtimes beginning at 7 p.m. on Dec. 10, a 1 p.m. matinee on Dec. 11, and 7 p.m. show on Dec. 11 as well.

The group’s website is www.galenastreeteast.org.

Clay Merrill is the Publicity Chair for Galena Street East, and is actively involved in the Performing Arts in the Sacramento area.

"Theater of Lights" brings holiday charm to Old Sac

2010-11-29T03:40:27Z

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Old Sacramento, what with Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, stepping out onto the Shasta House balcony for readings of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and all.

Volunteer actors from the Old Sacramento Living History Program played the roles of Clemens, Santa Claus, and an anonymous sleeper roused awake by the loud crash of Santa’s sleigh in the holiday production “Theater of Lights.”

The quaint historic portion of K Street between Second and Front streets became the audience floor as a theatrical light show was presented from the balconies of buildings on either side Saturday night.

Production and inspiration for this event began last year by Stage Nine Entertainment Group owner Troy Carlson.

“We wanted to develop a Christmas program that was not only historical but also entertaining,” Carlson said.

Historical lessons of the night came from a narration provided by the Clemens character, who revealed that Sacramento was known in his time as the “city of saloons” and had a reputation for kindness.

“Our ultimate goal is to make this not only a regional but a statewide draw as something that people plan as part of their holiday celebration to come and see,” Carlson said.

With a team of decorators, scriptwriters and actors volunteering months in advance, the first show of this year began the day after Thanksgiving and will run two shows daily Thursday through Sunday at 6 and 7:30 p.m. through the first week of January.

Sound effects, provided by George Lucas’ Skywalker Sound, broadcast in stereo. The narration is enhanced by the lively sounds of jingle bells, holiday cheer and lights beaming to life.

“It’s the same type of sound you’d get when going to a movie,” Carlson said.

As the Polar Express steam train rumbled its way to a stop nearby, a sense of magic and nostalgia added to the night’s ambiance. A towering Christmas tree at the intersection of K and Front streets was lit up by Christmas stockings and sugar plum lights, illuminating in sequence with the narrator’s cues.

Roseville resident Kat Durr didn’t know about the event but happened upon it while enjoying an evening of shopping with a friend.

“It was cute, ” she said. “I liked the lights.”

Some 200 people stood in the middle of the street, mesmerized as the first of two 20-minute shows came to life around them. According to Carlson, about 20,000 people enjoyed last year’s production throughout the course of the holiday season.

Seattle resident Kelsey Ryland proved that it’s not only regional visitors who are enjoying the festive charm of Old Sacramento during the holidays.

“The lights were fabulous and it was so well orchestrated,” Ryland said. “I don’t always love the holidays, but this was awesome.”

Photos courtesy of Laurieann Cunningham

Sing-Along Messiah Tradition Comes to South Sacramento Dec. 12

2010-11-16T02:14:29Z

Singers and audience members are invited to a free "Sing-Along Messiah" concert Sunday, December 12, starting 4 p.m. at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5625-24th Street, Sacramento (off Fruitridge Road between Freeport Boulevard and Highway 99).

"To make this truly a participatory event, we are not going to have professional soloists," says Dr. May Tucker, Bethany Presbyterian Church Music Director. "Solos will be performed in group fashion at the front of the church by anyone and everyone who desires to sing them." She points out that most Sing-Along Messiah events feature guest artists as soloists.

There is no charge to participate as a singer or audience member, and free refreshments will be served following the concert. A goodwill offering will be taken to benefit the South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership Food Closet, which is struggling to provide emergency supplies of groceries to thousands of in-need area residents this holiday season.

The Messiah, composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741, is based on bible passages that tell the story of Christ. This musical celebration has since become a Christmas tradition in many parts of the world. The December 12 concert will feature primarily the Christmas portions of the Messiah, and will include the triumphant "Hallalujah Chorus."

Singers of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend one or more "drop in" rehearsals prior to the December 12 concert. These informal rehearsals are set for Thursdays 8-8:30 p.m. at Bethany Church on November 18, December 2 and December 9. For more details, contact May Tucker at (916) 428-5281 or e-mail office@bethpres.com.

A downloadable flyer is available at www.bethpres.com.

The Sing-Along Messiah is presented by volunteers of Bethany Presbyterian Church. Bethany Presbyterian Church is the oldest Presbyterian church in the South Sacramento/Land Park area, drawing participation from the Pocket, Greenhaven, Elk Grove/Laguna, Fruitridge, Florin, East Sacramento/Rosemont and midtown/downtown Sacramento neighborhoods. The church, which moved from Oak Park to its current site in 1954, will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014. The Rev. Lorie Pfursich Sprinkle serves as pastor.

Summer Porch- Gift Giving from 'The Good Ol' Days'

2010-11-14T04:07:13Z

Have you ever discovered a place that made you say "everybody should see this place"? I did on a recent drive down J Street. What caught my eye was the shop owner putting some of her items outside for passerbys to get a visual and a taste of what could be in the store. I quickly found myself parking right in front so that I could get a better view of what I was hoping I was seeing. What the shop owner was putting out were items of furniture that I hadn't seen in a long time, ever since I was a kid.

After perusing all the fun things outside, I couldn't wait to go inside. I was like a big kid waiting to go into a candy store. The moment I walked into the store I was greeted by Cheri the shop owner, and immediately all five, wait, all six of my senses began to come alive. I asked her how did she get started in this unique business and she said:.

"Oddly enough I was trying help my mom get rid of a lot of great stuff. I decided it was pointless when she started buying for me instead of parting with her things. I ended up opening a space in a local antique mall and really loved it. Then I rented a back porch from a friend who had a store in Carmichael. I came up with the name Summer Porch at that time and it stuck. I started my own store a while later and was open for 2 years on F Street in East Sacramento. I closed for about 9 months and then reopened here on J Street."

Now back to my senses. Of course the first sense was all that I saw that was pleasing to the eye, from the nicely decorated displays, the unique items that fill the store, the colors, the lights, the wall hangings, the chandeliers, the antique furniture and the antique Chambers stove just like the one used by Rachel Raye on her TV show. It was in very good condition considering it was older than me and I was told that it works just fine. Cheri then pointed out the massive hand made chinese doors from the 1800's. I thought to myself that these doors would be perfect for a wine cellar, a majestic master bedroom suite or something similar in nature.

The second sense was the smell and fragranted aroma that filled the store. Not overwhelming, but oh so lightly and subtle to the nose. I didn't consider this a thrift store or even merely an antique store for one reason, it didn't have that heavy musty smell that sometimes is so noticeable in those stores. Rather, it had the sweet smells of hand made soaps and candles and items of days gone by.

The third sense that came alive was touch, especially when I broused and felt textures of things I hadn't touched in a long long time such as the wood items, the clothing material, and then the textures of things I had never experienced before such as the hand made pumpkins made from some sort of velvety material. I just wanted to go around and touch everything, but I held back. As I watched other customers who came into the store, I could tell they were feeling just like me and were touching and smiling as well. Just something about the place made you feel at home. Of course Cheri is very personable with everyone and even her gentle demeanor gave you the feeling of stepping back in time where shop owners treated customers good and knew about every item in their shop. She answered questions left and right and mingled with the customers.

The fourth sense that caught my ear was the music that was softly playing througout the shop. It was from an era before my time, but because it was so well balanced with the theme of the shop it added to the elegance and quality workmanship of the items from that time period. The music resembled the sound of a record on the old RCA Victor phonograph. In fact, Cheri's dog "Jack", reminds me of the dog in those RCA Victor advertisements. He is a sweet and gentle dog who has become the friendly greeter to those visiting the shop. As much as you will like Jack the dog, he is not for sale because he loves his job there.

The fifth sense of taste came alive, not because Cheri had edibles to eat in her store, but because the things she had such as the homemade preserves, the wooden pie cooler and the other items generally found in the kitchen gave your taste buds a yearning for the foods associated with those items.

The final sense I am calling the sixth sense, is "Nastalgia". It is the euphoric feeling one gets when they are surrounded by remembered items at every turn. The same kind of items that help make up the mosaic of their life when they were younger and during simpler, easier and quieter times. Like the antique frame from a hotel in Virgina City, Nevada with an old movie backdrop inside. It is over 7 feet high and would make a great wall hanging in someone's home theater setting. These are the kind of things that create lingering memories, and when you re-visit them in your mind, that sixth sense kicks in and kicks you into the past. Ahhhhh. I love. it.

I asked Cheri about her customers and she said

"My customers are great. They enjoy seeing things from their past. I hear all the time, “My Grandmother had that”. I think that some people are emotionally moved and want to find that one thing that evokes a memory and others just love shopping for unusual items. Most of my customers love a bargain and that is good because my prices are great. I sometimes notice that my prices are lower than some of the local thrift stores. I think they also like the customer service. I will deliver if it is “in the neighborhood" and it will fit in my SUV. I try to make things work for people I will hunt for an item and notify my customers when a certain item is in the store to give them first dibs. Sadly many shops in my area have gone out of business and what I want people to understand is if you want unique shops that provide more than the status quo please buy local and that is why I try to buy as locally as possible."

Many of the items that are in the store are created by local crafters and artisans, such as many of the wood items are found, made and re-created by Michael Toupe. "He loves to create things from wood. He uses old found items and repurposes them. Michael makes one of a kind items and he doesn’t like to duplicate anything. He restored antiques for 15 years in Southern Calfornia so he can take something seemingly useless and turn it into a work of art. He even sanded the ends of his fingers off working on a piece, he insisted on creating a smooth finish and needed to hand sand it. He is still healing".

Others include: Lynne Britt – she makes soap. She uses pretty and whimsical molds and fills them with beautiful scents and all the soaps are good for your skin with essential oils.

Lisa Cox – She makes cards from old postcards and has a great collection of neat finds.

Lisa Newton – She makes typewriter key jewelry, watchface jewelry, and is always looking for the newest idea for something refreshing.

Ron I -- He makes incredible hand made, one-of-a-kind jewelry that are gifts to bless and impress that special someone.

Joann Brian – She makes jams and jellies and they are amazing!

Margaret – 100% silk velvet pumpkins with real pumpkin stems. She dyes her fabric and comes up with beautiful colors.

At Summer Porch, you won't find electronic toys or the latest fashions, but you will find vintage clothing, magazines, tonka toys and all sorts of gifts that will bring back a smile from the good ol' days or sheer delight from someone who has never seen a gift Item like that.

No matter what the occasion is to give a gift, whether it is a birthday, a wedding, Christmas or your favorite holiday, shopping doesn't have to be the 'same ol' same ol' ' anymore. The Summer Porch store I found on J Street takes you out of the boring gift buying trip into the exciting and adventurous "heart & soul' gift buying from the past. And you will save money. This is a great place to go with a friend, and if you are a guy, your girl will thank you for bringing her there. Tell your family and friends about Summer Porch, they might just buy you something from there.

Summer Porch is located at 3254 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95816 The hours of unique gift shopping are Wednesday-Sunday 11am-6pm.

You can visit Summer Porch online to get directions to the shop at www.shopsummerporch.com

B Street's Busfield unwraps new yule show for the holiday season

2010-11-12T23:08:40Z

photographs by Barry Wisdom

The lobby full of faux fir trees laying in wait for candy canes and garland is a sure sign that B Street Theatre artistic director and co-founder Buck Busfield is once again playing Kris Kringle for Sacramento-area theatergoers.

For 14 of the past 17 years, Busfield the playwright has muffled Marley, scratched Scrooge, kicked the crutch out from under Tiny Tim and canceled Christmas for the children in Wales in favor of stuffing audiences’ stockings with an original holiday-themed play of his own device.

Busfield said what has since become something of a yuletide tradition for him and his company – which continues this year with Sunday’s main-stage opening of “Northport Cottage” – was initially born of desperation, and not an overwhelming desire to deck the halls.

“We opened the theater with no real plan, and after we did our first four shows, we couldn’t find anything that had that Christmas feel,” said Busfield, who recalls that the theater’s first “holiday” offering, James McLure’s “Pvt. Wars” – about a psychiatric ward populated with Vietnam veterans – had about the same level of popular support as the war itself.

While he and his B Street co-founder/brother Tim Busfield were all about branding their new shop as “small and new and something edgy,” Busfield noted the fiscally responsible sibs came to the conclusion that, “next time, we’d better try something else.”

But the dearth of appropriate published plays (small cast, quirky with elements of comedy and drama, set during the winter solstice) forced Busfield to dash away, dash away, dash all the way to his computer keyboard to try his hand at writing his own dickens of a seasonal script.

Mining a lifetime of old-fashioned family Christmas memories that centered on his college professor parents celebrating dour holidays by refilling their old fashioneds was maybe too edgy, however, and Busfield retreated to his imagination for such original holiday works as “Holiday Tales from Around the World” (1994), “And All Through the House” (1995) and “A Lot of Life” (2001).

By year three, Busfield said, his holiday-writing project born of necessity was becoming a habit with no plans for rehab. Not only were the B Street audiences circling the shows on their advent calendars, but also other companies around the country began producing Busfield’s shows for their own holly-hungry audiences.

In December, San Pedro’s Little Fish Theatre will stage Busfield’s “And to All a Goodnight,” which premiered at B Street in 1997.

“All theaters do better at Christmastime,” said Busfield, who’s unwrapping two additional Christmassy shows this season, Lisa Kron’s “Well” (B3 Series, now playing) and Allison Gregory’s adaptation of Barbara Park’s “Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!” (Family Series, opening Nov. 20). “Parents are willing to go out and spend money on themselves and their kids. Audiences in general are interested in coming out during the holiday season to have a good time.”

Busfield’s recipe for the holiday play that is at once both sweet and spicy, that goes down smooth like nutmeg-laced egg nog, continues to be distilled and refined to a perfect, intoxicating blend of hilarity and pathos.

Those who return year after year to imbibe a B Street Christmas cocktail often find themselves sliding easily from laughter to tears without giving a figgy pudding if their seatmate catches them wiping away the odd tear.

The recipe is tricky, Busfield said. “If it’s too silly I hear about it, if it’s too serious I hear about it.”

Creating characters for specific B Street company members helps maintain a consistent tone onstage and off, said Busfield, who has cast a host of familiar faces for “Northport Cottage,” including Dana Brooke, Kurt Johnson and Mitch Agruss.

Brooke plays Kellin Delahanty, who “careens toward her past to better understand her present.” Her destination? The small Lake Michigan cottage she visited as a child. Johnson is the unsuspecting motorist who gets taken along for the ride on her journey of self-discovery.

For Brooke and Johnson, both former B Street apprentices, returning to B Street for a Busfield Christmas show is like coming home for the holidays.

For Johnson, “Northport Cottage” is Busfield’s holiday original No. 7. His first was 1994’s “Holiday Tales” opposite Dave Pierini, who is featured in “Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!” Agruss is right behind Johnson with six Christmas originals, and Brooke has four.

Though it’s clear Busfield has affection for each of his company members, perhaps there are none more than the venerable Agruss, who Sacramento baby boomers may know as afternoon children’s TV host “Cap’n Mitch.”

“Mitch has qualities that nobody else has,” said Busfield, who first brought Agruss back to the stage after a three-decade absence for B Street’s 1995 production of “Fool for Love.”

“When he walks on stage, there’s an extraordinary decency and acting skill that’s larger than life,” said Busfield. “You can’t act that at all.”

Busfield said rehearsing the Christmas shows is not unlike an office Christmas party and that the casts look forward to the generous reception given them by holiday audiences, who Busfield said are generally “warmer and happier.”

“For actors, it’s always fun to do a new play,” Busfield said. “Plus, they’re pragmatic, and it’s always good to have jobs during the holidays.”

_________________________

BEFORE YOU GO

WHAT: “Northport Cottage” by Buck Busfield, a world-premiere comedy for the holidays.
WHEN: Previews 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14. Opens 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14, and runs through Jan. 2, 2011 (6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, 2 and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 9 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays).
WHERE: B Street Theatre Mainstage, 2711 B St.
WHO: Written and directed by Buck Busfield, featuring Dana Brooke, Kurt Johnson and Mitch Agruss.
HOW MUCH: $12-$30.
FOR INFO: (916) 443-5300; www.bstreettheatre.org.

East Sac Rotary prez is now bald after losing a bet

2010-02-20T01:37:53Z

East Sacramento Rotary Club president, Carroll Dudley, now has a nice clean look. He is completely bald after the fellow Rotarians took turns shaving his hair and mustache during the most recent group luncheon.

The hair shaving was the culmination of an event in which the East Sac Rotary celebrated raising $6,144 for The Salvation Army during the 2009 Christmas Red Kettle drive. Before the holiday season began, Dudley pledged that he would go bald if the club, as bell ringers, would generate $6,000 or more. More than 25 members of the East Sac Rotary took that challenge.

“I hadn’t had my head shaved off since 1970 when I went into the Air Force,” Dudley said. “It’s been 30 years since the mustache has been off. In fact, my wife has only seen me once without it (mustache).”

The shaving process took about 15 minutes. Many of Dudley’s fellow Rotarians took pictures of it while cracking some bald jokes at his expense. But for Dudley, it was well worth it.

“Can’t think of a better way to raise a lot of money for a good cause,” he said.

The East Sacramento Rotary Club has been involved with the kettle drive for over 30 years, raising more than $200,000 over that time period.

“It’s one thing to ring a bell for two hours in front of store,” said Major Tedd Lowcock, Salvation Army officer, “but it’s entirely different when you’re willing to give something up like your hair.”

The money raised from the bell ringing efforts will go to help fund Salvation Army programs in Sacramento County. These programs include a transitional homeless shelter, assistance for families, youth and senior programs, and summer camp.

350 families adopted through SFBFS program

2009-12-29T22:55:01Z

I’ve been volunteering at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) on a regular basis for the better part of a year now. Generally, I’m there twice a week; more if they’re having an event or need a little extra help. The holidays are always a busy time at SFBFS with their Turkey Drive, Run To Feed The Hungry and Adopt-A-Family all happening in quick succession. Despite the immense amount of planning required for these events and the short time frames, these events are always tremendously well organized by the SFBFS staff, so all that we volunteers have to do is show up.

I was fortunate enough to help out at the Thanksgiving events this year and thoroughly enjoyed them, thus I was looking forward to the Christmas Adopt-A-Family program. The program was being led by the staff at the Saca Community Learning Center (an SFBFS satellite office in North Sacramento). The program sought to help clients who attended the classes offered and received services over the past year. In all, 274 families signed up. If one only looked at the numbers, facilitating gifts between 274 adopted families and those doing the adopting would seem a small task when compared with recent events providing Thanksgiving food boxes to 5,500 families, arranging the distribution of 3,000 frozen turkeys to other community groups, or trying to coordinate parking for 28,000 Run To Feed The Hungry participants. However, as the adopting families began to bring in their holiday purchases, it quickly became evident that this was no trivial undertaking. For ease and organization, as the gifts came in, the gifts were put into large bags, several gifts to a bag; and most families had multiple bags. Doing the math, then, you realize that the number of Christmas presents that we were dealing with easily reached the several-thousands.

I was given the task of organizing the gifts as they came in so they could be catalogued and then easily located when the time for distribution came. We set up a numbering system and organized two huge rooms full of gifts. We sorted out gifts that had lost labels, tracked down presents that had been separated from their mates and rewrapped packages that had lost their wrapping. We tracked the gifts as they came in and monitored them as they went out. Hiccups arose and were sorted out (primarily by Genevieve Deignan, Saca CLC Building Director, who really made this whole thing work), and by the evening on Wednesday December 23rd we had brought in, catalogued, organized and then distributed Christmas presents to over 350 families (because of the tremendous outpouring of gift donations, we were able to make up another 75+ gift bags to give to those who hadn’t signed up as part of the Adopt-A-Family program).

So it was finally over. We’d worked for many weeks, organizing a ton of gifts, to give to a huge amount of deserving people. When working on big events like these, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers - turkeys donated, runners attending, families adopted. They’re tactile; a way to measure your success. But in the end, though, you realize that it isn’t about the numbers. They’re not the point. They’re not the reason you do this. Helping a man carry gifts to his car and knowing that the kids in the back seat will have something under their Christmas tree is the point. The gratitude in the eyes of an elderly grandmother taking care of her three young grandchildren is the point. Seeing the eyes of another volunteer well up from being able to help someone who has nothing; that is the point. These are the reasons we do this. The people at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services know this better than anyone.

The above was written by SFBFS volunteer Chris Suter

Evans, Kings earn praise from Cavs‏

2009-12-26T22:36:36Z

The Sacramento Kings (13-15) may have lost to an eastern conference power in the Cleveland Cavaliers (23-8) on Wednesday night, but the team's rookie guard Tyreke Evans impressed all-stars LeBron James and Mo Williams.

Evans posted 28 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds, a steal and a block in an 117-104 overtime loss to the Cavaliers.

"He's a terrific young player," Williams said, who defended Evans for much of the night. "Six-foot-six-inch point guard who can handle the ball...has a quick first-step. You know he's a match-up problem waiting to happen."

James always steps up to defend the opposing team's best player down the stretch, and Evans was no exception.

"Tyreke's going to be a great player," James said. "They got an unbelievable guy here in Sacramento. They should be really excited about him. He'll take them to a championship, definitely."

Evans wasn't the only player to impress the Cavaliers. Cleveland head coach Mike Brown said that the Kings played well as a whole, mentioning Jason Thompson, Spencer Hawes and Omri Casspi.

"It's a much improved team," Brown said. "Coach (Paul) Westphal has done a nice job with that group of guys. They have some nice young talent with height and athleticism. They play hard."

Williams agreed with his coach's statement.

"We expected them to come out with a lot of energy," Williams said about the Kings.

The Kings will have to exert the same energy against long-time division rival and defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers tonight.

The Lakers, who are tied with the Boston Celtics for the best record in the league (23-5), will play without former King Ron Artest, who injured himself tripping over a box and falling down a flight of stairs at home.

The team is also coming off a 102-87 loss against the Cavaliers on Christmas day.

Photo by Rob Small.

Pets dressed for the holidays

2009-12-25T00:35:14Z

Thanks to those of you who have sent pictures of your pets. We'd love to have many more photos from your family gatherings or celebrations. Please continue to send your pet photos to journalism@sacramentopress.com

Gertie is a 1-year-old pug. Her owner is Tyler Williams.

Bradley Wiggins, a Westie sits in front of owners Ali Tabatabai's and Monica Gutierrez's tree.

Suzanne Hurt holds Appa, a toy Australian Shepherd and Lhasa Apso terrier mix. Jonathan Mendick and Samedi Thach are the owners of 4-month-old, Appa.

Beau, a miniature Schnauzer, dreams of sugarplums and fairies but Cal still lost yesterday's game despite wearing this t-shirt. Loren and Elaine Belcher own 13-year-old Beau.

Unruly crowds? NOT

2009-12-24T02:54:50Z

Arden Fair Mall sported well-behaved crowds today. Last night a midnight sale for the new Air Jordan athletic was cancelled when potential shoe buyers rushed mall doors and started pushing others.

That sale was cancelled.

This afternoon the scene seemed like a normal, bustling shopping day right before Christmas: Parents and kids endured lines waiting for Santa pictures to be taken, shoppers traversed escalators and stores,lovers sneaked kisses, clerks and delivery persons carried on.

Here are some scenes:

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

The not-so-hectic last minute shopping

2009-12-24T00:28:29Z

I was expecting chaos, crowds of procrastinating shoppers rushing about in a total frenzy. Instead, it seemed like an ordinary day at the Downtown Plaza, except with fewer stores than I remembered. With lower anxiety than anticipated, I imagined all sorts of people would be willing to let me in on their last-minute shopping adventures.

Most of the people I asked were not Christmas shopping, or at least that's what they told me. With that said, I did manage to talk to a few interesting shoppers. The first people willing to share was an engaged couple, relaxing on a luxurious green velvet couch in the furniture department in Macy's. They were shopping for their parents. His dad is getting a pair of shoes and a sweater this year. Her mom is getting a robe and a little Coach wristlet. They both confirmed that the most difficult people to shop for were each other. She had already gotten him a few things, which she obviously couldn’t disclose, and he assured me that “Santa” had her covered.

When I asked two young men if they were Christmas shopping, one of them looked me in the eye, and replied with a confident, “yes.” He was shopping for his mom and grandma. For his grandma, he bought a pearl necklace; she was easy to shop for, he said. His mom was more particular. Holding up his single-gloved hand, he gave me an example, "She only wants leather gloves." But instead of gloves this year, he settled on a hat. His friend, on the other hand, is not celebrating Christmas.

The most interesting Christmas gift was in Brookstone. While the majority of the store is stocked with every memory-foam product imaginable, there was something else that stood out. Three young shoppers were positioned in front of a display of miniature aquariums, debating which colored rocks looked the coolest. In these aquariums were live, tiny, swimming frogs. One of the young gentlemen said he and his sister decided not to get each other gifts this year, but then his sister got him something, so he was now obligated to reciprocate. She made it easy for him and e-mailed him a direct link to the tiny swimming frogs on the Brookstone website. He soon realized that simply clicking "Add to Cart" and "Make Payment" was not an option for live frogs and had to come to the store to make the purchase.

One woman still had pretty much everyone in her family to shop for, but she wasn’t worried about that. She was mostly concerned about what to get her new love interest. She was on her way to a music store to get the soundtrack to the movie Invictus, which they had recently seen together. When asked if he expressed interest in the film’s music, she said, “No, but I did.” After that realization, she decided against the soundtrack. She then asked me for my advice on a gift certificate for a professional massage. I told her it was great, but could get a bit pricey for someone on a budget. She then informed me that she was the professional masseuse.

For all you last-minute shoppers, I wish you good luck. I will probably see you out there.

Calling all pet owners: Send us your photos

2009-12-22T21:44:07Z

Tis the season to decorate your house, your tree and many times, your pet.

We'd love to see your photos of your pets dressed up in their holiday best. Send your photos to journalism@sacramentopress.com with the name of your pet, your name and where you live, and we'll put together a photo essay of the photos we receive.

Give a Gift to the Earth- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Your Holiday Waste

2009-12-21T20:53:56Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Utilities Solid Waste Services reminds residents that many of the special items used during the holidays can be recycled or reused.

“Everything from trees to boxes and wrapping paper and ribbons can be reused or recycled,” says Edison Hicks, Integrated Waste General Manager. “Even large amounts cooking oil, fats and grease can be recycled by taking them to the Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station or North Area Recovery Station.”

The City of Sacramento encourages residents to recycle wrapping paper, bottles, cans, mail order catalogs, boxes, and greeting cards by placing them in blue recycle bins with commingled recycling. Christmas trees can be recycled curbside on regularly scheduled loose-in-the street green waste collection days. Ribbons, boxes, and wrapping paper can be reused. Residents who deep-fry turkeys or who generate a large amount of fats, oils and grease can recycle that food waste by collecting it in gallon jugs and bringing it to the Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station at 8491 Fruitridge Road or the North Area Recovery Station at 4450 Roseville Road.

Recycling this holiday season and year-round can also help residents save money each month on their utility bill. Residents who recycle more will have less waste to put in their garbage can. Residents who place half-full garbage cans out each week should consider reducing their garbage can size for up to a 37% discount ($7.49) on their monthly garbage collection rate.

For information about when to put out trees for collection and more ways to reduce, reuse and recycle this holiday, please visit http://www.cityofsacramento.org/utilities or call 311.

The Midtown Holiday Ice RInk

2009-12-20T04:17:03Z

The Midtown Holiday Ice Rink is the place to be! School is out, Santa is near, the weather is great and the ice rink is HERE!

Don't miss out on some festive Holiday fun for the whole family!

The Midtown Holiday Ice Rink is open daily from 10am-10pm. Don't miss a special Skate with Santa on December 23rd from 6-8pm!

Photo courtesy of Tyler Waaler www.TylerWaaler.com

Pet Photos with Santa - in Midtown

2009-12-19T01:34:39Z

Santa welcomes his furry, feathered and scaly friends to join him for photos in his Midtown Toy Shoppe this Sunday, December 20th from 2-4pm.

Photos start at $10 and proceeds benefit the Friends of the Sacramento City Animal Shelter.

Santa's Midtown Toy Shoppe

1801 L Street, Suite 70 (between 18th & 19th)

It's a Crappy Christmas at Movies on a Big Screen

2009-12-16T23:02:55Z

Disclaimer: the contributor of this and his wife run Movies on a Big Screen (MOBS), Sacramento’s weekly screening series of documentaries, general independent film, classics and cult titles. The following is blatant self-promotion of a MOBS event.

According to Andy Williams' 1963 carol, "It's the most wonderful time of the year." Well this year, Movies on a Big Screen has decided to restore some balance to the equation by offering two Crappy Christmas shows!

On Sunday, December 20, Movies on a Big Screen will "present" the 1964 anti-classic, Santa Claus Conquers the Martians, also known by the far more thrilling title, Santa Defeats the Aliens. Briefly, this "fun-filled romp" involves Martians (and their cardboard robot, Torg) kidnapping Santa and two Earth children and taking them on a cross-planetary trip back to their home base on Mars. When they (finally) arrive, Santa, with the help of the other abductees and a rather simple-minded Martian lackey, overcomes the Martians by bringing fun, happiness and Christmas cheer to the children of Mars. The "film" also features a young Pia Zadora playing a blank-faced Martian child, along with the most realistic (ahem) polar bear you'll ever see. You know you're in trouble when "Costume" is misspelled in the opening credits.

The following week, on Sunday, December 27, things just get crappier when MOBS takes any remaining good will you may have left and kicks it to the gutter by showing the 1959 Mexican film, Santa vs. Satan. This was shown at MOBS last year, and in a baffling development, is actually back by popular demand (?). The English language version will be shown (that should be read as, "with bad dubbing"). This year, the "motion picture" will be hosted by nationally syndicated late night horror host, Cinema Insomnia's Mr. Lobo. Crappy Christmas presents will be handed out to an unlucky few; there won't be presents for everyone just to make it even crappier.

About Santa vs. Satan:
Santa lives on a cloud floating over the North Pole where, rather than elves, children from all over the world help make toys -- and they're really more like enslaved laborers. Is this a Santa that you would want coming down your chimney? Not so much. He's pretty creepy with an overly sweet voice paired with a disturbing (and decidedly unjolly) laugh with insincere and sometimes vacant eyes staring at children through odd Sid and Marty Krofft-like devices. However, Satan is determined to undermine Santa so sends his minion, Pitch (a skinny guy in a cheap, red suit), to the surface to make the kids of the world hate Santa and engage in vandalism. Did I mention the vampiric mechanized reindeer? No? Or the interpretive dance in Hell? Hmm...

You know, it's not really a Christmas movie without dialog like, "There's a prowler out there -- he's come to kill your wife. And your children. He's going to murder you!"

It's best summed up by the following online review:
"How can a movie get everything so very, very wrong and yet be so very, very right? If you aren't the least bit familiar with this surreal trip into an extremely non-traditional view of jolly ol' St. Nick, perhaps the less known the better, as half the fun of this colossal mess is staring in dumbfounded awe at what is transpiring on the screen. It's a hoot. A damned scary hoot, granted, but certainly a hoot." - dvdinmypants.com

Details about the Crappy Christmas shows:

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians
Sunday, December 20, 2009
7:30 PM
Movies on a Big Screen at The Guild
2828 35th St, Sacramento (at the corner of 35th & Broadway)
Admission: $5.00

Santa vs. Satan, hosted by Cinema Insomnia's Mr. Lobo
Sunday, December 27, 2009
7:30 PM
Movies on a Big Screen at The Guild
2828 35th St, Sacramento (at the corner of 35th & Broadway)
Admission: $5.00

"All this trouble over a fat little man in a red suit" - Voldar, in Santa Claus Conquers the Martians.

http://www.moviesonabigscreen.com

A Christmas Story at the Crest

2009-12-14T23:15:38Z

Downtown's Crest Theater will screen A Christmas Story, the retro comedy classic based on Jean Shepherd's novel, in the third annual Christmas Story at the Crest event Saturday, December 19. Beginning at noon, guests will enjoy several tables of home-baked sweets and hot chocolate in the lobby of the gorgeous art deco theater, while awaiting their turn to meet a real-bearded Santa, available to take gift requests and photos with hopeful children and adults. The film begins at 1 p.m. Ten dollar tickets will benefit Jesuit High School.

For the uniquely uninitiated, A Christmas Story is the campy cult classic about 1940's school kid, Ralphie Parker, who wants nothing more than for Santa to deliver an "Official Red Ryder, Carbine-Action-Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle" on Christmas morning, in spite of all the tyrannical, short-sighted adults who can only obsessively respond "You'll shoot your eye out!"

En route to this goal, of course, hilarity ensues. Ralphie is regularly chased by the neighborhood bully, watches his buddy freeze his tongue to the school flagpole, and has his own mouth washed out with soap (Lifebouy, to be exact) for uttering words he learned from his father, who "wove a tapestry of obscenities that as far as we know is still hanging in space over Lake Michigan."

The film, which airs on television throughout the holiday season, is only seen once a year locally on the big screen, and then at the only local theater with the proper historical street cred to do it justice. The Crest lobby and big theater set the right tone -- a little bit old fashioned, a little bit edgy, a little bit sweet, a little bit tongue-in-cheek.

Tickets can be purchased at the theater box office or online at tickets.com.

'Twas the Second Saturday Before Christmas

2009-12-12T01:21:26Z

I woke up this morning thinking "hey, tomorrow is Second Saturday". Of course I am talking about the monthly Art Walk and experience that happens in and around Sacramento's Midtown area.

Even though the forecast is calling for some chance of rain, that should be no excuse not to come to midtown and be a part of the monthly festivities and feel the season in the air.

Since last Christmas there have been some additions to the monthly event. For one, Midtown is hosting an ice skating rink between K St and L St on 20th St.

Tickets: Admission:
Adults, $8
Children, $5
Skate Rental: $2

Info Phone: (916) 442-1500

Secondly, artist Michael Kennedy opened the new Kennedy Gallery at 1114 20th Street, next to Headhunters. Michael's new gallery is the site of many artist who display and sell their work in a very eclectic artisan setting. Their website is: http://www.kennedygallerysac.com/

This Second Saturday, December 12th, the Kennedy Gallery will be open for visitors to view the art of

Angela Ridgeway Judith Monroe Terrie Bennett Margaret Sarantis Dana Bilello-Barrow Monica Lunardi Steve Anderson

Margaret Sarantis Pat Orner Keith Hopkins Michelle Mackenzie Kristen Hoard Phil Meyers Michele Fisher Pat Livingston

and local textured metal sculpture artist Lori Wylie( art shown).

A Christmas gift of art is not only a thoughtful gift but it is a unique gift that the recipient will just love to keep. There will be something for everyones budget.

So this Saturday, December 12th is a great time to get into the Christmas spirit and mingle with the artist and bless their art sales this season while finishing your shopping.

Lori Wylie's art photos are used by permission. No other uses of her art are permitted except by written permission from her. The art shown are representative of her work and not necessarily art on display this month. Lori can replicate any piece she has done in just about any size to fit your space and budget. Giant mobile shown is a permanent piece of art for the public who visit the Sutter Rehabilitation Wing in Roseville. It measures 12 feet x 12 feet and may be the largest hanging mobile in California.

Picture of artist Keith Hopkins/Pat Orner and Kristen Hoard/Michelle MacKenzie spaces at Kennedy Gallery are from http://2nd-sat.com/

You're invited to a Holiday Party benefiting Diogenes Youth Services

2009-12-09T00:35:08Z

You're invited to the 23rd Annual Christmas Party Extravaganza benefiting Diogenes Youth Services.

One of Sacramento's hottest holiday events. Whether you want to meet new Sacramentans, celebrate the holidays in style, or help at-risk youth in the Sacramento area, this event is not to miss. The party includes:

Catered Appetizers from Tuli, Zocalo, Hot Italian and Rail Bridge Cellars
Live Music by Utz and the Shuttlecocks
Valet Parking
A Full no-host Bar
Fashion Show presented by A&A Music Events
Special Performance by Sacramento Kings Dancers

When: Thursday, December 17, 2009
7:30pm - 11:30pm

Where: Niello Audi Dealership (2350 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento)

Tickets: $60 in advance, $75 at the door | Buy Tickets Online

Dress: Formal attire please

Visit www.christmaspartyextravaganza.com for more information.

All proceeds from this event go to Diogenes Youth Services. Diogenes started in 1969 as a counseling and crisis intervention center and has grown to become one of the only local non-profit agencies offering free comprehensive services focused primarily on 12 to 17 year-olds. On any given night there are at least 300-400 teens living on the streets in the Sacramento area and thousands more in crisis just one step away. For more than 40 years, Diogenes Youth Services has cared for these runaway, homeless and at-risk youth.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of this event? Email a board member to find out how.

Historic Holiday Display at 10th & L

2009-12-07T07:06:23Z

Those passing by Grebitus & Sons Jewelers at the corner of 10th and L Street this month will see a piece of Sacramento history in the window; a trio of life-size animated figures (a man, a woman and a dog) in front of a Christmas tree. The figures are products of the Gaffney Display Company, the family firm who created the figures for the Breuner's furniture store chain's annual Christmas window display.

The idea started at November's Sacramento County Historical Society meeting, where Mark Gaffney gave a presentation on the history of Gaffney Display Company and their years providing animated figures for Breuner's. Mark's parents started Gaffney Display in 1936, and Mark has carried on the family tradition. The Gaffney figures were used to create whole animated scenes, placed in windows throughout much of the Breuner's furniture store chain. The store was founded here in Sacramento, but at its height had about 40 stores throughout United States. New displays made their debut at the Oakland store, then were moved to Sacramento the following year, then to Reno, and so on to approximately a dozen stores that hosted holiday displays. The Gaffney family drew sketches to design the scenes, designed the mechanical workings of the figures, and built the figures with papier-mache exteriors, often using members of the Gaffney family as models for creating molds of hands and arms. The figures are not as slick as Disney animatronics, but maintain their own unique charm. Breuner's stopped hosting holiday displays in its store windows in the 1980s, and the firm went bankrupt in 2004. The stores are gone, although the company still sells furniture via the Internet. The Gaffney family still stores many of the display figures, and still works in the commercial display business, in addition to Mark's other career, winemaking.

After the presentation, an idea arose during the question-and-answer period: Why not re-create a Breuner's display in a store window downtown? The simple answer was that such a window would require two things--a window, and some money. Several ideas were fielded, but one person at the meeting took the extra step to turn an idea into action: Bo Grebitus, of Grebitus & Sons Jewelry. The Breuner's displays were a cherished memory for many Sacramentans over the years, including Bo and his brother Ted. They contacted Mark Gaffney and arranged to have a small display set up in the window of their jewelry store. Their location, recently relocated from inside Westfield Downtown Plaza to the corner of 10th and L, is located on a busy pedestrian corner where many people can see the display. The display is simple, consisting of a man and woman decorating a Christmas tree, while a dog jumps up for a bite of a decorative popcorn garland.

The Grebitus brothers had other reasons to be interested in the Breuner's displays. Their mother Elizabeth was the daughter of C.H. Breuner, president of the Breuner's department store. As the children of two families with deep roots in the city of Sacramento, hosting a display of the historic Breuner's displays was more than a piece of local history; it was also a chance to share part of their family history.

The animated figures operate during regular store hours, until approximately 6:00 PM. After the store closes, the figures must be turned off, otherwise their movement would activate the store's motion sensor alarm. They will remain on display through the end of December.

Theatre of Lights

2009-11-26T04:57:50Z

On the evening of Nov. 25, Mayor Kevin Johnson kicked off the first annual Old Sacramento Theatre of Lights with the ceremonial lighting of the Old Sacramento Christmas Tree. For more information regarding this ongoing event, visit: oldsacramento.com.

Photography: anthonybento.com

A Little naughty with your nice this holiday

2009-11-26T03:15:43Z

Treat yourself to a tasteful helping of holiday humor with the wickedly truthful "The Santaland Diaries."

Presented by Capital Stage in Old Sacramento, "Diaries" focuses on the crazy, "insane things" the holiday season tends to bring out in just about everyone - parents and hired elves alike.

"This is an adult take on how adults act around Christmas," said Peter Mohrmann, Capital Stage manager. "We've told every Christmas story over the last few years, we really wanted to show something different."

Unlike cheery Christmas classics such as "It's a Wonderful Life," "White Christmas" and "Christmas Carol," "Diaries" has more of a "witty, sardonic and unpredictable" aftertaste, according to the Capital Stage website.

Before David Sedaris became the best-selling author and Grammy-award nominated humorist he is today, he was an unemployed, struggling writer in New York. In a desperate attempt to make a few bucks, Sedaris was hired as "Crumpet the Elf" at the famous Santaland Macy's display in New York City. Similar to the movie "Bad Santa," Sendaris experiences the other side of rosy cheeks and cheery Christmas tunes — exasperated holiday shoppers.

"[Sendaris] did a reading of "The SantaLand Diaries" in Chicago in the early 90s on National Public Radio," Mohrmann said. "That is really what brought so much attention to him, it launched his career."

The show became so popular, it is shown across the country and has become a National Public Radio annual tradition, Mohrmann added.

Capital Stage artistic associate Janis Stevens will direct Foothill Theatre Company member Gary Alan Wright in this one-man play. Also, this one-hour play has been recommended for "Mature Elves" due to some graphic language.

In the spirit of giving, Mohrmann hopes the comical play will excite people to see more local performances in and around the Sacramento area.

"It is important to really see all the great theatre performances going on," he said. "That is my wish for the holiday season."

Capital Stage is located at 1000 Front St. in Old Sacramento. "The Santaland Diaries" will hold previews starting Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. Opening night is Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary depending on the date and time. The schedule can be viewed here.

Capital Stage is also running "Dinner & Show" tickets, which features a three-course meal on the Delta King. Tickets range from $49 to $56, not including taxes or gratuities.

Group rates and ticket discounts (students, seniors, preview days) can be viewed here.

Tickets can be purchased here.

"The Santaland Diaries" will conclude on Dec. 27 at 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy Capital Stage website.

'Some Assembly Required' features vintage toys, brings back memories

2009-11-21T03:16:02Z

A 1950s Lionel train advertisement shows a father, mother, little girl and boy peering into a window display featuring a model train going through a city, over a bridge and into the mountains. The father appears to be the most interested -- head cocked, hand on his chin, ready to help his child build the toy train set.

An adjacent Lionel Train advertisement shows a father sitting on the ground assembling a train set, while his son sits in the background frowning.

California State Railroad Museum's "Some Assembly Required" exhibit, which opened today, featured a somewhat similar scene. Many families were in the museum, but the historical toy exhibit seemed to strike the strongest chord with older men.

Filled with erector sets, trolleys and wind-ups, the exhibit shows vintage toys from the 1870s to the 1960s. The pièce de résistance is a layout, complete with a working Lionel Train set, that looks like the window display of Bullock's department store in 1956 Los Angeles.

For Jeff Hall, a 54-year-old who was born in Los Angeles, the layout brought back a lot of memories.

"I had a Lionel train set and looked forward to putting it around the Christmas tree every year," he said. Hall, the father of four daughters, said he brought home a train set for his children one year, but it wasn't a big hit.

"They were into other things," he said. Two were interested in horses and the other two were more into sports.

It was a similar story for another father, John Curtis, who also grew up putting a train set around the Christmas tree. While his 4-year-old daughter Emily likes riding real trains, Curtis said she doesn't really play with toy trains.

"(Emily) likes to play on the Nintendo DS, she's big on Barbies and she's all about Play-Doh," Curtis said.

Jeff Allen, a CSRM volunteer docent in his 50s, said he played with nearly every toy in the exhibit when he was younger.

"It really gives you an idea of what toys were like. I remember playing with most of these," he said. "When I'm working around these toys, it's like I'm 4 years old."

Allen said he played with toy trains as a kid, and still has two sets of operational model trains. He said that his love of trains led him to become a docent, adding that working at the museum "is a kick" because he can be around trains.

In addition to "Some Assembly Required," the permanent display of toy trains on the third floor is a must-see. The exhibit shows the history of the toy train, nearly every train size available from Z scale (smallest) to G scale (largest), and interactive toy sets and layouts.

In keeping with the holiday spirit, the museum's first floor also features a working toy train chugging around a Christmas tree.

Those who seek an additional holiday-themed train experience can sign up for Santa's Steam Train, Nov. 27-29. The steam train departs from the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot adjacent to the museum and riders also have admittance to the museum and the 13th Annual Toy Train Holiday Show.

The annual show, on Thanksgiving weekend, features local hobbyists displaying their toy and model train layouts in the museum. Tickets for Santa's Steam Train are $15, $7 for ages 6-17, free ages 5 and younger. The train departs hourly from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

California State Railroad Museum, 125 I St., is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Museum admission is $9, $4 ages 6-17, free ages 5 and younger. "Some Assembly Required" runs until Feb. 20.

All photographs are of "Some Assembly Required," except for image 5, which shows the Christmas tree display on the first floor.

Downtown Sac welcomes the holidays

2009-11-20T21:06:53Z

A worker uses a plumb line to make sure Westfield Downtown Plaza's Christmas tree stands straight. It was delivered by crane early this morning.

The tall tree was lowered into a hole in the concrete in front of the plaza.

Huge planks of wood are used as shims to straighten the trunk.

This worker walked the circumference of the tree, using his plumb line from all angles, to ensure the tree stands upright.

This year will be a brighter holiday for Sacramento. The first-ever Carnival of Lights will delight visitors with a dazzling display of lights throughout the Central City from the waterfront through Midtown starting the week of Thanksgiving through January 3.

The Carnival of Lights will kick off in Old Sacramento the night before Thanksgiving with the annual Old Sacramento Tree Lighting and the Theatre of Lights, produced by the Old Sacramento Business Association.

The Theatre of Lights will bring history to life through a narrated show of lights, sounds and visual effects. The light show will take visitors back to a time when the beloved poem The Night Before Christmas was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857.

The first Tree Lighting of the season and Theatre of Lights inaugural night will take place on November 25 at 6 pm in Old Sacramento at Front and K streets. Two 10-minute light shows will run every Thursday through Sunday at 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm through January 3.

For more information, visit www.oldsactheatreoflights.com.

The Carnival at St. Rose is a 5-week holiday event that will transform 7th and K streets into a festive winter carnival. The event will take place in lieu of the ice rink this holiday season due to conflicts in construction schedules with the K Street Streetscape project and renovation of St. Rose of Lima Park.

Open daily November 27 through January 3 from noon until 8:00 pm, the Carnival at St. Rose will feature a ferris wheel, classic carnival and arcade games, and food vendors.

First 100 in line get in free November 27th.

In the spirit of the season, the carnival will also incorporate live entertainment, a gingerbread house chef challenge, a craft fair, and charity events. Admission to the event for a two-hour session is $6 for children and seniors and $7 for adults. Private parties and group discounts are available with advance reservations.

The Carnival at St. Rose is produced by the DSP and is expected to draw visitors from all over the region. The event is presented by the Westfield Downtown Plaza and sponsored by the University of San Francisco – Sacramento Campus, UC Davis Children’s Hospital, KCRA 3, My58, Johnny Rockets and the Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza.

For more information, visit www.downtownsac.org/carnival.

SacPress photos | Kati Garner

Sutter's Fort Christmas tree lighting ceremony

2008-12-07T08:41:55Z

It took about thirteen extra seconds, but at the end of a rousing countdown Midtown got its own Christmas Tree.

Here is the video of the countdown.

Tonight the Midtown Business Association, The City of Sacramento, and California State Parks all helped light up the beautiful Christmas tree at Sutter's Fort on the corner of 26th and K streets.

Vice Mayor Steve Cohn, California state assemblymember Dave Jones, and Mayor Kevin Johnson all had kind words for the crowd.

There was plenty of cheer in the crowd. Sometimes living in Midtown it feels like there are no families or kids in the nighborhood, but at this event families and children were front and center. The kids running around playing and festive atmosphere warmed my heart and the tree was beautiful.

J street will also be lit up for the holiday season. To read more visit the Midtown Business Association myspace page.

No Force on Earth Can Stop One Hundred Santas!

2008-12-05T10:12:26Z

Holidaze got you down? Looking for something outside your regular routine? Your Local Union of St. Nick wants you to bring holiday cheer to your fair city!

About this time every year legions of Santa Claus visit cities around the globe bringing their own variety of holiday weirdness; Sacramento is no exception. Armed with holiday cheer, candy canes for the children, and demented gifts for the jaded, tens and hundreds of Santas have their last hurrah before returning north to complete the daunting task of preparing to deliver hand crafted toys to girls and boys throughout the world. As populations grow and the polar ice sheet melts, this time of year can be very distressing for the jolly old elf, so it’s understandable that he requires a little R&R to blow off some steam before the big day.

Santacon, or Sanarchy as it’s popularly known, had it’s humble beginnings when Santa Claus, a self admitted alcoholic, and the Kris Kringle Institute Class of ’94, descended on San Francisco for a little pre-holiday romp through the City. Welcomed everywhere like a rich uncle, the cavalcade of cacophonic kringles skipped from one holiday party to the next. Department stores, city parks, public transportation, unsuspecting dinner parties, strip clubs, nightclubs, and mosh pits played host to the merry melee; by the end of the evening an institution had been born.

Fourteen years later Santacon occurs on various days in December in nearly every state of the union, Canada, Germany, Bahrain, France, Sweden, Australia, South Korea, Austria, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, and mainland China. Sacramento is no exception having hosted Santacon since 2003. This year’s event begins (with the hopes of not ending) at the Sacramento County Jail from where the clan heads to the Amtrak station to welcome San Francisco Santas. From there it’s off to the Back Door Lounge for some twisted caroling at the piano bar followed by merry mayhem towards points east unknown.

For more information and how to participate visit http://santarchy.com

A Christmas Carol

2008-12-04T00:47:51Z

Curmudgeons, cripples, and Christmas spirit — what more could you ask for in a traditional holiday play?

After listing some of the local plays currently in production in my last article, I couldn't wait to start seeing some of them for myself. B Street Theatre's version of A Christmas Carol looked like the perfect place for me to begin.

The audience was packed with children, families, and Dickens readers eager to see Buck Busfield's rendition of the timeless classic. The scene opens on Miss Havisham's establishment, where Charles Dickens comes to find his peace, quiet and inspiration.

It's Christmas Eve and he has a day to finish writing his Christmas novel. Amid "humbugs," insults thrown at absolutely everyone, and a general dislike of Christmas spirit, Dickens is established as the play's Scrooge. And what happens to Scrooge in the novel happens to Dickens in the play.

The cast really worked together to produce a polished production that not only entertained the adults, but continually held the attention of the children. Sophisticated dialog and character development were combined with the right amount of over-acting and exaggeration — exercised to carry the message to children — to produce a play fit for the entire family.

Greg Alexander stars as Charles Dickens, making Dickens' whiny, spoiled brat of a character actually quite lovable with his comedic timing and facial expressions. Other roles that really stand out for me are Jamie Jones' portrayal of the aggressive, man-hating Miss Havisham, and Sara Perry's role of Alice as the epitome of Christmas spirit.

Overall, Busfield's version complements Dickens' novel and reinforces the timeless adage of Christmas Spirit.

For more information about B Street Theatre, or to reserve tickets for the show, visit www.bstreettheatre.org.

Black Friday

2008-11-30T01:33:26Z

While it was Black Friday to everyone else, I was working in the best location for the occasion, the Downtown Plaza.

Even around noon people were still heavily gathered in their favorite stores to get the best deals on electronics, home-wear, clothing and more.

Everyone, including the jolly decoration at the mall, was in the Christmas spirit. I was in a Sac Press spirit, and decided to shower the community with gifts from SacPress.

I managed to cover all areas of the mall with copious amounts of buttons, stickers, fliers, etc., all with the Sac Press logo on them.

Maybe now the people of Sacramento will be in the spirit of both Christmas and The Sacramento Press. I am personally hoping for some Christmas stories to start popping up on the front page soon.

The true meaning of the HOLIDAYS is ______?

2008-11-29T20:07:23Z

Time and time again we join in and celebrate this holiday season - may it be with dradles or santa hats.

Basically, all I want to know is what "the holiday season" really means to YOU!

" I enjoy the holidays because I feel that no matter what is going on in someone's life, this is the perfect time to just let the magic sweep in through the chilly winds and shine on us through all of the glittering lights. Personally, I feel that the holidays mean another chance to live life and enjoy it for the last bit of innocence it holds through the placement of a Christmas tree."

- Quothia

Cant wait to hear what you guys think!