Folsom lake entertainer dec 2018 0

FOLSOM LAKE DECEMBER 2018

SPIRIT OF BACCHUS HOUSE

FINE DINING GETS IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

HOLIDAY LIGHTS GUIDE WINE AND BEER TASTING IN AMADOR

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GREAT SHOWS. UP CLOSE! AN IRISH CHRISTMAS SAT-SUN DEC 22-23 DRUMLINE LIVE

WIZARD OF OZ

HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

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THE JOYOUS MUSIC OF BEETHOVEN FRI JAN 11 DANNY CARMO’S

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PARIS COMBO SUN JAN 13 BRANFORD MARSALIS SUN JAN 13 ORDINARIUS

BRAZIL’S AWARD-WINNING VOCAL GROUP

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FRI–SUN JAN 18–20 There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful Wizard Of Oz, twists its way to Folsom! The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography, and classic songs. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, Wizard Of Oz will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys.

916-608-6888 HarrisCenter.net 2 | FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER

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HIGHLIGHTS

10 ON THE COVER

Spirit of the season at Bacchus Fine dining gets in the holiday mood.

INSIDE

PHOTO BY BILL SULLIVAN

40

Holiday show picks

Harris Center is packed with seasonal events.

Corner Tavern offers the favorites.

DECEMBER 2018 · VOLUME 10 · NUMBER 1 921 Sutter St., Suite 100, Folsom, folsomtelegraph.com Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication my be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher shall not be responsible for any liabilities arising from the publication of copy provided by any advertiser for the Folsom Lake Entertainer. Further, it shall not be liable for any act of omission on the part of advertising pertaining to their published advertisement in the Folsom Lake Entertainer. A publication of Gold Country Media.

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Neighborhood lights

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Comes sailing into Folsom.

See Entertainer’s picks for bright and dazzling streets.

GENERAL INFORMATION: 916-985-2581, folsomtelegraph@goldcountrymedia.com ASSOCIATE: Bill Sullivan, 916-351-3750, bills@goldcountrymedia.com

WRITERS: Cynthia Brown, Judy Collinsworth, Matt Long, Pat Quan, Michele Smith, Bill Sullivan, and Rachel Zirin.

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■ COVER STORY

‘FINE DINING, WRAPPED UP IN A FUN BOW’

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BACCHUS HOUSE DECKED OUT FOR THE HOLIDAYS, FUN NO MATTER THE SEASON STORY BY RACHEL ZIRIN | PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN

N

Bacchus House Wine Bar & Bistro

amed after the mythological god of wine, harvest, partying and fun, Bacchus House Wine Bar & Bistro is unlike any restaurant in the area. If you are looking for a destination for the holidays, this place is perfect.

WHERE: 1004 E. BIDWELL ST., B200, FOLSOM After being an event caterer for nearly 30 years, Eric Adams decided it was CONTACT: 916-984-7500 time to open a restaurant where his guests could experience fine dining and a BACCHUSHOUSEBISTRO.COM fun experience.

With co-owner and five-star Chef Victor Octavio in the kitchen, the two opened Bacchus House only five years ago, and since has been a local favorite.

Decorated to the nines, Adams wanted to incorporate partying and fun into the restaurant décor.

“We’re a little avant-garde; a little over the top, and a little whimsical, all while encompassing fine dining, wrapped up in a fun bow no matter what season it is,” Adams said. “We are a holiday destination, and we decorate three times a year — Easter, Halloween and Christmas.”

At Bacchus House, you don’t just get a feast for the eyes, but a feast for the stomach as well.

“We’re a new American restaurant. Our signature dish is the prime rib, which has been a top seller for 30 years,” Adams said. “We have a rack of lamb, which is also a signature dish. One of our favorite dishes that folks are gravitating to is our scallops dish, as well as our wonderful risotto. We have fantastic appetizers such as our crab cakes and calamari. Chef makes the lemon wedges edible as well.”

Each day there is a new special, and every season the menu changes.

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“Everything is not only scratch-made, but as organic as possible.

We try to stay away from GMOs, all our beef is grass-fed. Even our table salt is natural sea salt,” Adams said. “We’re really conscious about putting the best product forward health-wise for folks.”

At Bacchus House, at the bar guests can find local wines from Amador and Napa counties and seasonal cocktails, as well as this year’s holiday drink, the Bohemian Raspberry.

“Every year we come up with a holiday drink. We recently saw the movie “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the whole staff and I, and we all loved it. We were making a chocolate martini, and we wanted to put a twist on it so we added raspberry liqueur and few other fun aperitifs,” he said. “We named it Bohemian Raspberry after the movie, and it is just an amazing drink.”

Bohemian Raspberry rolled out during Thanksgiving week and will be available through New Year’s Eve. When asked what his favorite thing about his restaurant was, Adams said being able to throw parties for friends and family every day.

“We’re a fine dining restaurant, but there’s no stuffiness when you come into Bacchus House. We’re a fun restaurant; we love to have a good time,” he said. “Come on down and have some fun with us while enjoying a great meal.” ✶ 10 | FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER

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CORNER TAVERN & GRILL SERVES AMERICAN-ITALIAN FOOD ‘WITH EMPHASIS ON ITALIAN’ STORY BY RACHEL ZIRIN | PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN

C

Corner Tavern & Grill

reating a neighborhood “Cheers”-type bar with great conversation, food and cocktails was something Dominick Bellizzi WHERE: 700 GLENN DRIVE, #170, FOLSOM always dreamed of, and now it has come true.

CONTACT: 916-467-7800 Bellizzi spent most of his upbringing in the restaurant inCORNERTAVERNGRILL.COM dustry from working at his uncle’s delis to pizzerias to put himself through college. The New Jersey native took a hiatus when his career took him elsewhere, but after he felt his career was finished, he found himself in the Sacramento area.

Bellizzi and his wife, Raquel, decided to open an Italian deli in Granite Bay in 2004, Dominick’s Italian Market & Deli, because there weren’t any in the area like New Jersey. Two years later, they opened Dominick’s Trattoria & Bar right next door.

As business took off, the Bellizzis expanded to Folsom and opened Dominick’s New York Pizza & Deli, but after six years, they sold it in 2016.

“We sold Dominick’s New York Pizza & Deli to do the Corner Tavern & Grill, which is something we always wanted to do,” he said. “We wanted to revive the neighborhood bistro to have a social meeting place with warm, gregarious conversation.

We want to offer great value, a great variety of homemade food and great cocktails.”

Opened in October, the Corner Tavern & Grill offers a little bit of everything.

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“We have a diverse menu. The Corner Tavern has American-Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on Italian,” Bellizzi said. “Everything is made inhouse from scratch.”

With Chef Cory Lazaldi, everything that comes out of the Corner Tavern’s kitchen is top-notch.

Some appetizers include house-made pretzels, chips and salsa, gourmet onion rings, crispy calamari, whole chicken wings, nachos and more.

Also on the menu, guests can find unique and delicious salads, as well as house-made soups.

If you aren’t hungry for a large meal, the Corner Tavern offers small plates with sliders, street tacos, seared scallops and more.

Something unique about Bellizzi’s menu is their pasta. At the Corner Tavern, there is a weekly lasagna, and Bellizzi said it’s so they can change up with flavors. Guests can also create their own pasta bowl with different sauces, meats and pastas.

Also on the menu are an assortment of burgers and sandwiches, such as an Italian sausage Philly, Jersey Philly, Cubano sandwich and a real New York pastrami sandwich. After 4 p.m., the Corner Tavern offers entrées including risotto, a chicken dish, salmon dish, a steak and much more.

For Folsom residents who love Dominick’s New York Pizza, look no further. Bellizzi brought his pizza to the Corner Tavern’s menu and added a few twists, as well as kept some traditional pizzas.

When asked what he has enjoyed most since opening, Bellizzi said the community support.

“My favorite part has been putting it all together and meeting my patrons over the years who have supported us,” he said. “The local neighborhood community has been supportive also, which is why I picked this location.

It’s in a perfect location between the neighborhoods.”

The Corner Tavern has social hour from 3 to 6 p.m. and has the NFL packages for Sundays.

“Come in, check us and enjoy,” he said. ✶ 14 | FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER

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■ ICE SKATING

ICE SKATING COMES TO EL DORADO HILLS DISTRICT ICE BRINGS NEW 6,500-SQUARE-FOOT ICE RINK TO TOWN CENTER

S

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN

everal years ago, the only outdoor ice rinks you could find in our region were those that required a lengthy trek into the sierra. Now, times have changed. While the Historic Folsom Ice Rink continues to be a hub of holiday activity this time of year, the community of El Dorado Hills is now home to its very own ice skating rink, thanks to the vision of an area church and a collaborative effort by the community.

District Church first came to El Dorado Hills in 2015, residing in Oak Ridge High School before moving to the site of Lake Hills Church above Town Center. The locally-founded non-denominational church recently teamed with El Dorado Hills Town Center to build an ice rink for the community to enjoy during the holidays, and the result is now a reality as a 6,500-square-foot rink has opened up for the season.

Perched on the hill above the Regal Theater, District Ice is already off to a triple axel spin and perfect landing in the community that has longed for its very own holiday rink, on the church property located at 7000 Rossmore Lane in El Dorado Hills.

“Our hope with District Ice is to create an opportunity for family and friends to come and hang on top of the hill during the Christmas season,” said District Church’s Lead Pastor CJ Hatlevig. “We have created a winter wonderland experience with ice skating, train rides, a 250-foot zip line and more. There is something for everyone here.”

Being bannered simply as “District Ice,” the new facility is now open for business with set times beginning at early as 10 a.m. and as late as 9:30 p.m. seven days a week. Specific session times that take place every 90 minutes are detailed for each operating day at districtice.com. The rink will be open on Christmas Eve, however, will close on Christmas Day to allow operators to spend times with their own families.

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According to Hatlevig, one does not have to be a skater to come enjoy District Ice. In addition to the rink, they have local vendors, train rides, even a zip line feature. If adventure isn’t on your agenda, a cup of coffee, cocoa or a snack may be just what you need while the kids take to the rink. There will be food and drinks for purchase and a Christmas light show every night.

“You don’t have to skate to enjoy District Ice,” Hatlevig continued. “It will truly be an awesome place to hangout. We’d love to see this become a tradition in our county for years to come.”

On select nights, District Ice even hosts a beer garden for adults that are rinkside, complete with heaters and ambient lighting for the perfect gathering of friends and family. The church operates the beer garden in collaboration with other partner charities which benefit from it on their particular nights.

Volunteers from those organizations assist with the operation of it as well.

“We wanted to create something unique and different here for the season,” explained Executive Pastor Reid McNulty, who was working at the rink Monday evening. “This is a place where people can come gather while the kids enjoy the ice rink with friends or we have people that just come up here to enjoy atmosphere. This was a big undertaking for us, and we hope the community will support it. We may be able to bring it back for years to come as a new tradition.”

All proceeds from District Ice will benefit those in need of fire relief from the Camp Fire in Butte County. Additional funds will benefit the Clarksville Region Historical Society.

Admission to District Ice is $13 for adults; skate rentals are available for those without skates for $2 each. Children 8 years and under can skate for $10 each and a $2 skate rental. Seniors 62 years and over are $11.

Complete information and ticket purchase can be done online at districtice.com.

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HAZUMI SUSHI BAR CREATES ROLLS TO FIT CUSTOMERS’ PALATES STORY BY RACHEL ZIRIN | PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN

E

xperience a variety of flavors at Granite Bay’s Hazumi Sushi Bar, and you won’t be disappointed.

Owned by the Tsui family, their Granite Bay location is their second successful restaurant. Bill Tsui said his parents, Shuk Ye Tsui and Cheuk Tsui, opened their first location in Lodi 11 years ago, and after looking to open a spot in Downtown Sacramento, they stumbled upon their current location and fell in love. Six years later, Hazumi is a Granite Bay favorite.

“Hazumi means spontaneous, and sushi is just one of those spontaneous foods,” Bill said. “A lot of our sushi is made on the fly depending on what people’s tastes are. We’ll ask our customers what they are into like spicy, non-spicy, different fish, and our chefs can come up with something spontaneously delicious. That’s more or less our motto we run by.”

Hazumi’s menu is quite extensive, which gives everyone the opportunity to find something they love.

“We’re known for our rolls and our variety of rolls. We have so many,” he said.

“We have about three to four pages of very different rolls. All the combinations are different, so there is something for everyone. We are also known for our specialty fish that we carry seasonally, and our really creative appetizers that are not only really tasty, but aesthetically pleasing as well.”

Hazumi Sushi Bar WHERE:8685 AUBURN-FOLSOM ROAD, GRANITE BAY CONTACT: 916-771-9988, HAZUMISUSHI.COM

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Bill mentioned their most popular roll on their menu is the Shinobi, which has asparagus tempura, spicy crab and avocado inside, and it is stopped with seared barbecued albacore, jalapeños and sauce.

Other menu items include a variety of nigiri, sashimi, udon, sushi boats and much more.

When asked what he enjoyed most about the Granite Bay location, Bill said the people.

“We really love this community. Everyone seems to really love and understand sushi just as much as we do, so we can get creative and make different things for them to try,” Bill said.

“When we first opened in Lodi, they were a little bit more novice than here, so it’s refreshing to have a clientele that knows what they want and enjoy. I love seeing their face when they try something different and they say, ‘This is amazing!’ That’s probably one of my favorite things.” ✶

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■ PARTY TIPS

FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER’S

TOP 5 HOLIDAY PLANNING TIPS

BY ENTERTAINER STAFF Planning the ultimate holiday get together? There’s no better way to celebrate the season than gathering with loved ones, but, when you’re the host, poor planning can turn a festive holiday event into a stressful nightmare you may regret. We want you to enjoy entertaining this holiday season so the Folsom Lake Entertainer has put together five of our favorite tips to ensure your festivities go off without a hitch.

CHOOSE A DATE THAT WORKS FOR KEY GUESTS The holiday season is a very busy time of year. To help narrow down the ideal holiday party date, you’ll want to get the party date on the calendar early.

MAKE A LIST, CHECK IT TWICE One you have nailed down the date then it’s time to decide elegant soiree or casual buffet? Before making lists, decide what type of holiday party you’ll be hosting. Then get organized with checklists to keep tabs on the following items: Guest List: Will this be an intimate dinner or an open house for all your friends and family? Create your list and send invitations well in advance to collect RSVPs in a timely manner.

Menu: Once you know who’s coming, come up with a menu that appeases your guests’ palates. Jot down appropriate menu items and serving portions.

Timeline: Make a separate list including tasks that can be done in advance. For example, quiches and tarts are excellent finger foods that can be pre-made and frozen a day or two before the party.

Party-foul proof: Delegating is always encouraged but, if you’re recruiting your significant other or even the kiddos to help with the details, make a list for them as well to ensure no details fall by the wayside.

READY-MADE DISHES WORK BEST Creatively embellished dishes and crafty cocktails make Instagram-worthy displays but trying to re-create gourmet recipes can add unnecessary stress. If you’re DIYing the menu, stick to seasonal soups or casseroles that are both filling and tasty. Fill the table with finger foods that add a personal touch to any party.

Always be prepared by stocking the pantry with bulk cookies, crackers and mixed nuts, in case your party guests show up with big appetites.

DECK THE HALLS You may want to skip the Griswold-style light presentation and keep it simple, elegant and, best of all, stress-free. Fresh floral arrangements make classy centerpieces. Subtle hints of greenery add a classy yet festive touch to otherwise empty nooks. For exterior decor, potted evergreens at your front porch create a welcoming entryway. For indoors and outdoors, classic poinsettias are great for adding a splash of holiday cheer.

BE MERRY AND MINGLE Even if you plan on hosting an intimate feast, don’t force a sit-down atmosphere. Create a space that encourages guests to mingle. Avoid clusters of hungry guests hovering the meat and cheese tray by spreading out finger foods and appetizers throughout your home.

Party-foul proof: Set up a separate bar and beverage area away from the main food display to encourage a flow between serving stations.

Even professional party-planners run into a hitch or two along the way. Once the guests arrive and the party begins, set your worries aside. As long as you’re carefree and enjoying the evening, your guests will enjoy themselves too. ✶

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HOLIDAYS IN THE HOODS

THE ENTERTAINER’S GUIDE TO AREA RESIDENTIAL HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS STORY AND PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN The weather outside is starting to become slightly more frightful and the scenes are beginning to look delightful for the holiday season in our local region. Last month, the Folsom Lake Entertainer brought you a guide to our areas most popular tree lightings, and now we’re going to help you with your next adventure to make your holidays bright, literally.

We’re setting you on a journey to some of the area’s most popular neighborhoods to help you find your way to the brightest spots in the region that the whole family can enjoy.

So dress warm, hop in the family cruiser and crank up the holiday tunes to begin your local journey.

This year, we will start your adventure in the neighboring community of Orangevale, who has put themselves on the Santa map year after year with two heavily decorated neighborhoods that are popular sights to see.

The largest and most well-known area is Dovewood Court.

This magical place has been an attraction annually for more than a quarter century. Often packed with visitors, this location offers nearby parking areas, hot cocoa for guests and more. As you walk the court, you will often hear the “oohs” and “awes” of those visiting the court for the first time.

This particular display is one that delights generation after generation with parents who visited the street decades ago bringing their young ones to see the sights for the very first time. Regardless if you’re a first-time visitor or a returning visitor, Dovewood Court is worthy of a year traditional visit.

Butterwood Circle in Orangevale is another popular street to visit. Last year this neighborhood featured a life-sized

gingerbread house with gingerbread character and more.

In the heart of Folsom, the residents of Ledgemont Court in Lexington Hills have made their neighborhood shine.

Known as “Candy Cane Lane,” this marks the 26th year these residents have teamed up to decorate each of the dozen houses with lights, stand-up characters and music. The community is welcome to visit through Christmas.

Like many local sites, Ledgemont Court hosts a canned food drive during their display and they encourage others to pitch in and help shine a bright light for our areas less fortunate this holiday season Hildebrand Circle in Folsom brings a touch of Disney to the season annually. This neighborhood is routinely complete with Disney princesses, sparkling carriages along with Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Chip and Dale, Donald, Daisy and the gang. The characters are poised around a 35-foot lighted tree complete with a Mickey Mouse tree topper; and Mickey Mouse lights.

Copping Court in Folsom is another hot spot, featuring settings with LED lights on the houses, trees and Snoopy on his dog house. There are 14 miniature Christmas trees lining the driveway of one home; inflatable Santas, Frosty the Snowman and more.

Don’t miss the large gingerbread house; giant candy canes; candles; deer; net lighting; and one home that offers more than 5,000 lights synchronized to music from 5 to 10 p.m. daily through New Year’s Day. Darvel Court in Folsom has a pair of houses that are elab-

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Darvel Court

Dovewood Court

Hildebrand Court orate decorators year after year. In the past, these homes have been known to utilize heavy equipment to install their lavish decorations.

Orange Blossom Circle is another local favorite, featuring a number of handmade decorations.

Thorndike Way in Folsom is set to shine bright. Last year one home on this street had 8,000 LED lights alone, all synchronized to music nightly. This display also collects non-perishable food for the Twin Lakes Food Bank. Check out the lights synchronized to music from 5 to 10 p.m. nightly. The home will once again be accepting canned food items for Twin Lakes Food Bank.

Although it’s a slightly farther trek, we will take you a little bit west to Rancho Cordova for a special area. Lambrusca Drive is known for a glowing display. Among the annual characters is a welcoming baby LED polar bear; multi-colored LED linking; blinking snowmen and reindeer. There’s a laser snowflake show; lit LED deer family and tree. Another home is themed “Santa’s Toyland,” with inflatables, including the Grinch, toy soldiers and more. Neighbors have light displays with synchronized music.

While these are just a few well-known areas to visit in the weeks ahead, Folsom and the surrounding communities have many seasonal light shows to visit aside from the residential neighborhoods. The Folsom Zoo is celebrating its seventh year of nightly illuminated tours on select evenings. Global Winter Wonderland has returned to Sacramento for its fourth year.

Both of these local venues are featured in this edition of the Folsom Lake Entertainer. ✶

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■ SIP ‘N’ SAVOR

SIP ‘N’ SAVOR

CHRISTMAS PAIRINGS Sip N Savor column

By Cynthia Renee Brown

BY CYNTHIA RENEE BROWN

Christmas dinner is a perfect opportunity to showcase some new wines as a fancy addition to the more traditional holiday recipes. Be it baked, smoked, or honey-style, ham has long been considered a traditional Christmas dish. Hams typically pair well with sweeter wines such as Rieslings or Pinot Noirs that tend to be lighter in style and lower in alcohol. Red wines can also be considered a delish sidekick to a good old ham dinner, as long as the varietal tends to be lighter in body and overall style, so as not to overpower the flavorful meat, but compliment it.

If you haven’t tired of turkey since your Thanksgiving feast, a great companion to a turkey Christmas dinner hands-down, is Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc tends to brighten up the flavors, not just of the turkey, but the stuffing, mashed potatoes and other hearty sides as well. Sauvignon Blanc brings hints of earthy herbal tones to the turkey and fancy fixings, making it a clean, crisp companion.

When it comes to pairing wines with duck, one must always consider the fattiness of the particular bird along with the degree of gaminess of the meat. French wines have a long history of companionship with this particular dish no matter how it is served. Zinfandel’s, Burgundy’s and Bordeaux’s strong and complex components will stand up well against the equally robust elements of smoked, braised or even roasted duck dishes.

Prime rib as a main dish for Christmas creates the opportunity for many different wine options.

A very popular choice is to go bold, with a big, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon from California. Another option that packs a punch but tends to be a little more playful, is a Lodi Zinfandel or a rustic Tempranillo from Spain. Any of these choices can safely accommodate a generous slice of prime rib, bringing forth the subtle nuances in the meat. Although white wine lovers will want to find a way to pair their love of the lighter side of wines with a tasty prime rib meal, this particular pairing tends to be a bit more challenging. However, a crisp Chardonnay might be able to keep pace with the richness of this popular meat.

For more spicy or ethnic Christmas dishes calling for things like Asian spices, a light and slightly sweet Riesling is an excellent choice to compliment these distinct meals.

No matter what type of dinner you decide to serve for your holiday, the flavor of the wine is not the only thing to be considered. Food textures, serving sauces, rich ingredients and the intensity of the spices should all weigh into your final pairing choices as you Sip ‘n’ savor your favorite dishes this Christmas! ✶ Cynthia Renee Brown is a monthly columnist for Folsom Lake Entertainer.

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NER

■ LOCAL CYCLING

FOUR OF THE REGION’S BEST WINTER TRAINING RIDES

BY THE TRAINED STAFF OF FOLSOM BIKE | PHOTO BY BILL SULLIVAN Contrary to popular belief, keen cyclists actually do most of their riding through the cooler months of the year.

Strange, right?

The wind, cold, and rain are the ideal conditions for racking up those winter miles in preparation for peak summer form. Big base mile rides form the foundation of any rider’s winter training plans so those of us at Folsom Bike have collated our favorite longer training rides for the coming cooler months. Here are a few of our favorites that you may want to try if you haven’t already.

1. EL DORADO HILLS WINTER CIRCUIT

80 miles, 8,900 feet Difficulty 8 of 10 This one will certainly be a test of strength. 80 miles and almost 9,000 feet of climbing mean this circuit through the

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foothills is a good benchmark ride at the beginning of your winter training plan.

Head south from Town Center in El Dorado Hills before turning onto Cothrin Ranch Road. This short and stubborn climb is a great leg opener on a quieter road.

After a steep descent, the next section on the well-traveled Frenchtown Road is one of the most pleasant in the area. The route will also offer spectacular glimpses of the snow-capped mountains to the east.

From here, it’s on to Placerville and the first long climb up Highway 193. A rapid descent to Coloma will take you to the foot of the second climb up a steep Prospectus Road. Loop round from here to Pilot Hill and the regular stomping grounds of Salmon Falls Road and some more undulating terrain before returning to El Dorado Hills.

comes to planning out summer club rides, then this is the route for you. Plus, it’s unrelentingly undulating — perfect for building the stamina needed for epic summer gran fondos or road races.

After snaking your way up to Newcastle, the roads cease to be flat for much of the rest of the route. As a positive, the vast majority of the roads are quiet and you may even have a little bit of gravel thrown in for good measure!

One notable feature is the twisting descent down Baxter Grade Road at around the 60-mile mark. This awesome road weaves its way through dense forest before spitting you back out into farmland and the long descent back to Folsom where you can always relax and talk with others about your ride over coffee, brew or eats at the Folsom Grind.

2. SAINT HELENA LAKE BERRYESSA LOOP

4. TWO RIVERS LOOP

54 Miles, 3,600 feet Difficulty 4 of 10 While the foothills continue to get cooler, wine country remains remarkably pleasant all through the fall and winter. This rewarding loop offers spectacular views and relatively easy terrain all the way around; making for a worthwhile day trip.

Start by climbing out of the Napa Valley to the shores of Lake Berryessa. From here you’ll skirt the lake’s western flank for 10 miles before heading back over the hills toward Saint Helena.

The climb up Ink Grade Road is a highlight of the region and the Alps-style mileage markers certainly make this quiet little climb a highlight of the ride. Your reward at the top is a fast and flowing descent back into Saint Helena for a wellearned glass of local vino.

3. GOLD HILLS FIGURE OF EIGHT

85 miles, 8,300 feet Difficulty 7 of 10 If you want to be the person who knows all of the obscure roads in the middle of nowhere when it

100 miles, 1,800 feet Difficulty 6 of 10 Pancake-flat, this route is purely about mileage and enjoying some quiet roads. After starting at Folsom Bike, head all the way down the bike trail to Sacramento.

From there you’ll join up onto the Garden Highway and remain on it all the way up to where the 99 crosses the Feather River.

This is certainly a route where wind direction matters.

Around 60 miles of the loop is on very exposed and flat roads that are dead straight so a constant headwind can make for an even more arduous ride. All of the climbing (if you can call it that) occurs right at the end of the ride as you head through Rocklin and back to Granite Bay. Overall this one of the flattest routes of this distance that you’ll find. Don’t think that will make it easy though. Strong winds can make this ride very tough indeed.

Contrary to popular belief, keen cyclists actually do most of their riding through the cooler months of the year. Strange, right?

The wind, cold, and rain are the ideal conditions for racking up those winter miles in preparation for peak summer form. Big base mile rides form the foundation of any rider’s winter training plans so we’ve collated our favorite longer training rides for the coming cooler months. ✶ Folsom Bike is locally-owned and operated by Erin and Wilson Gorrell and is Northern California’s largest privately-owned Bike Shop and Service Center.

For more tips and guides on area rides and more, go to folsombike.com.

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Folsom Historic District

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■ HISTORIC HAPPENINGS

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS

BY CHRISTINA NOVELLO

All of us have our own holiday traditions with special memories that bring the season alive.

For some of us, it’s a time to be with family we don’t see often and a time to spend uninterrupted moments with those we love away from our everyday hectic lives. One tradition for me is to watch every new Christmas movie on the Hallmark Channel. Yes, I admit it, and I can hear many women cheering and most men groaning at the thought of it. But what I love about those movies, and yes, as predictable as they may be, is the fact that each one has a storyline with a hometown holiday.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the characters’ busy life, they are brought back to what makes the holidays wonderful: sitting in front of the fireplace with no other lights on but the twinkle of the Christmas tree; making cookies or family recipes with a grandparent; going to a hometown parade and watching a giant tree being lit in a town square; a chat with Santa to tell him your Christmas wish or ice skating and warming up after with hot cocoa — the simple treasures of family, friends and giving.

With Folsom becoming such a busy place to live and work, it’s lucky we don’t have to look too far to get an old-fashioned hometown holiday. Last year, I was meeting some people at the ice rink for a morning skate. I arrived early and sat on a bench in the plaza. Since it was not yet time for the shops and restaurants to be open, it was quiet, beautiful, magical even.

The street was decorated with lights and garland, the shops stunning with holiday displays and the district tree glistening against the ice. I realized in that moment that I didn’t have to watch a Hallmark Christmas movie — I was in one.

So, if you want to find that hometown holiday where you can get a hot cocoa, ice skate with a friend, tell Santa your secrets, shop for that perfect gift and feel the magic of the holidays it is right here in the place you live, come down to the Folsom Historic District and enter a winter wonderland, where anything is possible, and everything is special. Give to someone in need, and oh, watch a Christmas movie anyway.

To embrace the magic of the season, the Historic District Ice Rink is now open daily through Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Follow us on Facebook for all the holiday events throughout the district or visit our event calendar on our website at historicfolsom.org. ✶

S

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Visit

Sutter Creek & Experience the Holidays

Where The Past is Still Present and the Charm Never Grows Old. The magic of Sutter Creek during the Holidays is undeniable. With traditions dating back over decades, balanced with the contemporary tastes of today. Main Street is a sight to behold with the beautifully preserved Gold Rush buildings decked out for the holidays.

Inside theses beautiful Gold Rush buildings are unique and contemporary stores, with handpicked items that you won’t find in the malls.

Stores with locally made jellies, jams, seasonings, wines, and more. Great for your special Gift Baskets!

Galleries feature local artists, from jewelry to blown glass and everything in-between.

Satisfy your hunger pangs in our many eateries with home roasted meats, homemade pies, cookies, and chocolates.

Bring home some specialty cheese that will delight your taste buds and add to your Holiday dinner.

Wine Tasting? We have that too. 12 Wine tasting rooms with the top of the line local wines for your holiday party and wine also makes a perfect gift.

Make it a weekend adventure and stay in a beautiful B&B or a handsome historic Hotel.

You’ll be happy you did!

Just exactly where is Sutter Creek?

We are in the heart of the Sierra Foothills. Just an hour from Sacramento and 30 minutes from Folsom.

Visit Us Today!

Suttercreek.org

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Instagram #visitsuttercreek

If fashion and accessories is your bag, Sutter Creek has several stores where you can find the eclectic or the fine items you seek.

From Sierra Mountaineering gear to Chic, it’s all here just for you.

Looking for the contemporary gifts?

You will find collectibles, clocks, jewelry and amazing home decor. All beautifully displayed.

Antiques more your thing? Sutter Creek is known for antiques.

From large to small, we’ve got it all.

Upcoming Events

Old Fashioned Christmas Open House December 7th

Las Posadas December 8th facebook.com/visitsuttercreek

DECEMBER 2018 | 33

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■ AMADOR

AMADOR BREWING COMPANY

THE GATEWAY TO SHENANDOAH VALLEY

BY MICHELE SMITH | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER Most visitors to Amador Wine Country come for the wineries, however, with the upswing of microbrewers nationwide and in California, it should be no surprise the area offers some pretty killer beer tasting opportunities as well. Move over wine tasters, because there is a really cool brewery at the gateway to wine country and it is actually the perfect stop for those who not only like beer, but those who want to quench a dry month from Amador reds. This solution would be the Amador Brewing Company located in Plymouth on the corner of Highway 49 and Main Street.

What can a beer fan expect at this fabulous location besides quality brews and exceptional customer service? This brewing company prides themselves on crafting delicious interpretations of beer that are common and not-so-common for that matter.

Every beer is balanced and super drinkable for the palate — there is clearly something for everyone.

And, for those visitors to Amador County who opted not to bring a picnic lunch — this is a must-stop due to their amazing

Amador Brewing Company

THE BEERS ON TAP AS OF PRESS TIME

DIRTY BLONDE — BLOND ALE IPA – INDIA PALE ALE DOUBLE GOAT – DOUBLE IPA ALTBIER – NORTHERN GERMAN AMBER BEER KOLSCH – KOLSCH-STYLE ALE KIT CARSON PALE ALE – AMERICAN PALE ALE DEEP HOP RED – RED ALE NIGHT HIKE PORTER – PORTER MARTHA – BELGIAN BLOND ALE CITRACHICOE – NEW ENGLAND-STYLE IPA GIMME THE JUICE – CITRUS IPA BIG BOUNTY – APRICOT STRONG ALE (SEASONAL RELEASE) POOL FLOATIE WHEAT – CITRUS-IE WHEAT BEER HOURS: 2 TO 8 P.M. FRIDAYS AND 11:30 A.M. TO 8 P.M.

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, CHECK WEBSITE

WHERE:9659 MAIN ST., PLYMOUTH CONTACT: 209-507-1900, AMADORBREWING.COM

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food. After all, who does not love a great food trucks? Any visitor needs to check the website calendar for who and when, but lovely food venues such as Incahoots, Katie’s Country Café, The Union (yummy — the owner’s also own Taste), and Big Shrimping Boil Truck to name a few. Visit the website calendar for details and this is a great way to plan ahead if you want to skip the added planning of a picnic lunch and want to enjoy a beer on your way in or out of wine country.

The story behind the brewery is nothing short of interesting as well. While Amador County has celebrated making some of the finest wine over the last 150 years, the Amador Brewing Company aims to do the same by creating the finest brews of the area.

They are reigniting a fire behind local brewing excellence by showcasing high-quality craft beers at the heart and entry to Amador wine country. Amador Brewing Company not only has a tasting room, their beers are at local establishments such as Taste, Amador Vintage Market and Imperial, to name a few. ✶

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happening around AMADOR

■ AMADOR

ONGOING/ SEASONAL EVENTS

Kennedy Mine Tours 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays Kennedy Gold Mine 12594 Kennedy Mine Road, Jackson, 209-223-9542 kennedygoldmine.com/index.html Open Mic Night 5:30 p.m. third Thursdays Rosebud’s Cafe 26 Main St., Jackson 209-257-0227 facebook.com/RosebudsCafe Old Sutter Creek Flea Market 6 a.m.-2 p.m. third Sundays Italian Picnic Grounds Highway 49, Sutter Creek 661-609-1464, oldsuttercreekfleamarket@gmail.com Knight Foundry Tours 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. second Saturday of the month Knight Foundry 81 Eureka St., Sutter Creek knightfoundry.com, theknightfoundry@gmail.com Free Holiday Carriage Rides Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 15 Sutter Creek Visitor Center 71A Main St., Sutter Creek 209-267-1344 info@suttercreek.org SutterCreek.org A Christmas Carol Comes to Baker Street West 7 p.m. Dec. 12,13,14 and 15; and 2 p.m. Dec. 16 Baker Street West (above Hein & Co.Bookstore) 204 Main St., Jackson 209-223-2215 info@bakerstreetwest.com Facebook.com/BakerStreetWest Facebook.com/Hein-Company-Usedand-Rare-Books Annual Parade of Lights 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15 Sutter Creek 209-256-1750 tlinde1213@gmail.com SutterCreek.org/ParadeOfLights Soul 4 the Season 8-10 p.m. Dec. 15 Sutter Creek Theatre 44 Main St., Sutter Creek 916-425-0077 info@suttercreektheatre.com suttercreektheatre.com

Winter Trails Day See Jan. 6 listing.

Queensrÿche - Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 7 p.m. Dec. 20 Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson 800-822-9466 JacksonCasino.com Annual Argonaut Drama & Band Holiday Benefit 7 p.m. Dec. 22 Argonaut High School Drama Multi-Purpose Room 501 Argonaut Lane, Jackson 209-257-7731 ArgonautDrama.com Christmas Dinner at the Lone Wolf 2-9 p.m. Dec. 25 Lone Wolf Restaurant & Lounge Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson JacksonCasino.com/ LoneWolfRestaurantLounge 209-223-WOLF (9653) New Years Eve at the Lone Wolf 4 p.m.-midnight Dec. 31 Lone Wolf Restaurant & Lounge Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson JacksonCasino.com/ LoneWolfRestaurantLounge 209-223-WOLF (9653) New Year’s Eve at the St. George Hotel 4:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 31 St. George Hotel 16104 Main St., Volcano 209-296-4458 stgeorgevolcano@gmail.com StGeorgeVolcano.com/Dining Facebook.com/StGeorgeVolcano/ NewYearsEve

Holmes’ Hounds Sherlockian Society 6 p.m. Jan. 1 Baker Street West Hein & Company Books and Vintage Goods 204 Main St., Jackson 209-223-9076 bakerstreetwest.com Winter Trails Day 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 6 Kirkwood Cross Country and Snowshoe Center State Highway 88, Kirkwood 209-258-7248 KirkwoodCrossCountry.com/Events Serbian Christmas Noon Jan. 7 Procession through Main Street in Jackson visitjacksonca.com 209-223-1263 Beer vs. Wine Dinner Amador Brewing vs. Scott Harvey Wines 6 p.m. Jan. 11 Volcano Union Pub + Inn 21375 Consolation St., Volcano 209-296-7711 volcanounion.com/pages/union_ events.cgi Burns Supper 6 p.m. Jan. 12 Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson MotherLodeScots.com Sourdough Slim & Robert Armstrong 8-10 p.m. Jan. 19 Armstrong.

Sutter Creek Theatre 44 Main St., Sutter Creek 916- 425-0077 suttercreektheater.com

Amador Wedding Faire 1-4 p.m. Jan. 20 Grand Ballroom Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson 800-822-9466 JacksonCasino.com Martin Sexton with Chris Trapper 8-10 p.m. Jan. 24 Sutter Creek Theatre 44 Main St., Sutter Creek 916-425-0077 info@suttercreektheatre.com suttercreektheatre.com Spaghetti Feed 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25 Italian Picnic Grounds 581 State Highway 49, Sutter Creek 209-223-6349 VTC Awards Party 5:30-9 p.m. Jan.25 Volcano Armory Hall 21349 Consolation St, Volcano 209296-7711 VolcanoTheatre.com Facebook.com/VolcanoTheatre Tom Rigney & Flambeau 8-10 p.m. Jan. 26 Sutter Creek Theatre 44 Main St., Sutter Creek 916-425-0077 suttercreektheatre.com Music City Legends 8-10 p.m. Jan. 27 Sutter Creek Theatre 44 Main St., Sutter Creek 916-425-0077 info@suttercreektheatre.com suttercreektheatre.com

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â– AMADOR

DILLIAN WINES

A DECEMBER DESTINATION

BY MICHELE SMITH | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER For visitors to the Amador County wine region, Dillian Winery is a must stop for those looking to escape the busy holiday bustle. Why? Dillian Winery offers a very intimate and quiet setting where customer service is unparalleled and staff knowledge of the wines, and area is top notch to say the very least. In fact, the personalized service keeps wine country visitors coming back to Dillian for more.

This very small winery specializes in Zinfandel, Barbera and Primotivo. The wines are made by hand in small batch fermentations and aged in 60-gallon French and American oak barrels.

Owner Tom Dillian has been growing grapes in Amador County since 1972 and is a fourth generation Amador County farmer.

The tasting room is modeled after the original home built by his father in the 1900s with the property owned by the Dillian’s since 1917. Dillian winery is clearly rich in history.

What can a wine taster expect when visiting the Dillian tasting room?

For starters, Dillian exhibits nothing short of excellence with their tasting room offerings. Visitors can taste the Vino Nostro Blend, Tre Fratelli Zinfandel, Barbera, Primotivo, Zinfandel, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc and exclusive Black Label Reserve wines for wine club members. Anyone who appreciates quality wine and wine tasting will appreciate the attention to detail that has been put in the production of each vintage.

For those who cannot make the trip up to Amador Wine country this holiday season, they can still find the wines at select Nugget Markets, Total Wine, as well as an at an abundance of Northern California restaurants including high-end venues such as Ella Dining Room and Bar, Hawks Restaurant, Back Bistro, and Downtown and Vine, to name just a few.

Dillian Wines HOURS: 11 A.M.-4:30 P.M. FRIDAY-SUNDAY WHERE: 12138 STEINER ROAD, PLYMOUTH CONTACT: 209-245-3444, DILLIANWINES.COM.

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■ AMADOR

DIVULGE AT DEAVER VINEYARDS THIS DECEMBER

BY MICHELE SMITH | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER

BY MICHELE SMITH | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER Visit Deaver Vineyards this December not only just for the wines but for gift shopping for the holiday season.

One thing that clearly sets this winery apart are their Port wines, and when combined with some gourmet chocolate you are clearly giving a fellow port aficionado the greatest gift of the season. One other aspect we would be remiss in not pointing out is that all of the ports are sealed off in different color wax that the gift recipient has to melt off in hot water in order to open the bottle. And, why the different colored wax? According to the winery, people remember colors not the names of varietals, so these two unique aspects truly make a memorable gift. Deaver Vineyards produces more port wine than any other winery in the Shenandoah Valley and offers visitors the opportunity to taste/purchase the California Port, Orange Muscat Port, Alicante Bouschet Port, Angelica Port (this one won the 2018 Double Gold Award from the San Francisco Chronicle), Barby Port, Golden Nectar Port, Petite Sirah Port, Primitivo Port, Tawny Port and Zinfandel Port. In fact, wine tasters can also taste a flight of just port wines.

A visit to Deaver Vineyards also has a variety of white and sparkling wines including a Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, almond (pair this with a bear claw to enjoy a great breakfast on a non-work morning) and raspberry sparkling wines, to name just a few. On the red varietal front, Deaver also offers a blend, Jugs N Bottle (another fun gift), Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, as well as five Zinfandels.

This winery truly offers something for everyone and a gift certificate this holiday season will guarantee a lovely gift for anyone who loves wine and wine-themed

Deaver Vineyards HOURS: 10:30 A.M. – 5 P.M., DAILY. HOURS MAY CHANGE DURING HOLIDAYS, SEE WEBSITE WHERE: 12455 STEINER ROAD, PLYMOUTH CONTACT: 209-245-4099, DEAVERVINEYARDS.COM

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gifts. A personal favorite among holiday shoppers this season is their doormats. After all, who does not want a doormat that reads, “We server only expensive wine, did you bring any?”

For those visitors who want to extend their stay in wine country, Deaver Vineyards also has a bed and breakfast onsite. The Amador Harvest Inn offers the opportunity to further enjoy the picturesque grounds where the only noise overnight visitors will hear are a cork popping or a frog croaking at sunset.

Deaver Vineyards is a family-owned winery in the Shenandoah Valley for over 150 years and produce some of the oldest Zinfandel in the area. The Tuscan-style climate of Amador County is without question perfect for producing classic Sangiovese, bold Barberas, and rich ports. ✶

Little League Sign-Ups • Family, Safe, Fun!

Boys & Girls 4 to 16 Yrs old

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Boys & Girls Special Needs Everyone Plays

■ Spring and Fall Programs ■ Adult Background Checks ■ River Cats Baseball Days ■ Coaches Training ■ Make New Friends ■ School Teams*, Play with your Class and Friends ■ All Star Tournaments ■ Skill Training and just more Fun

Little League is a family community youth sport program, teaching Character, Loyalty & Courage thru the game of baseball and softball.

Sign up the whole family, while your kids are learning and playing the game, parents help with coaching, playing catch, handing out uniforms, umpiring, and even cooking hamburgers.

Find a League Near You

Littleleague.org/find

You’ll Save 20% My First Glove Get coupon after you sign up!

Coupons Sent out to Registered League Members December 15, 2018

CA54LittleLeague.com

Our Leagues Cover: Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Placerville, Cosumnes, Roseville, Coloma, Georgetown, Granite Bay, Cool, Rancho Murieta, Diamond Springs, Camino, Pollock Pines * School teams for Tee Ball and Coach Pitch Check with your Local League for Details California District 54 Little League

California District 54 Little League, Inc. 501c3 Corporation DECEMBER 2018 | 39

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

PART TWO

A HARRIS CENTER

HOLIDAY

THE FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER’S PICKS OF MUST-SEE SHOWS

BY BILL SULLIVAN | PHOTO IS SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER

T

he holiday season is very much upon us and along with it is an abundance of local entertainment to keep your season shiny and bright. When it comes to the local stage, Three Stages at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom offers a variety of holiday performances each year starting in November and running all the way through December.

In this edition of the Folsom Lake Entertainer, we bring you part two of our picks of must-see shows for the holidays at the Harris Center so you can be sure your family and guests are in the know of all the local spirited entertainment options.

Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet Theatre presents

THE NUTCRACKER

Dec. 13-16 Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on an enchanted journey through the Land of Snow and Kingdom of the Sweets in this timeless holiday classic. Infusing fantasy with comedic choreography and stunning costumes, Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet Theatre transforms this wonderful story ballet into a feast for the eyes.

Audiences young and old will be swept away as they enjoy this wonderful holiday tradition.

Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet Theatre is the performing company of the Classical Ballet Studio located in El Dorado Hills. Many of their students become professional dancers and have continued their careers with companies around the world. This great program features

Conductor Ryan Murray and members of the Folsom Lake Symphony

Pechenova they create an impressive sound and inspire their audience.

Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Nevada Foothills presents

EL DORADO MUSICAL THEATRE’S HOLIDAY CELEBRATION FEATURING HIGH VOLTAGE

CHRISTMAS RADIO

7 p.m. Dec. 14 and 4 p.m. Dec. 16 This program is a 90-minute choral concert featuring favorite Christmas selections, from classics to pops — songs you love to hear in 4-6-8-part harmonies.

Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Foothills was founded in 1992 to bring the joy of choral music to the citizens of El Dorado County and beyond. The singers, with varied backgrounds, have been fulfilling this mission for more than 25 years and continue to expand their sphere of influence. Under the direction of Mariia

Dec. 18 This show has become a fan favorite for the holiday season. It features both new and classic holiday songs, all done with High Voltage’s unique flair. Give yourself and your entire family a special present and come see High Voltage’s Holiday Celebration.

High-energy entertainment? Exceptional singing and dancing? Flat-out fun that will have you on your feet? You’ve just described

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Harris Center tickets ONLINE: HARRISCENTER.NET IN PERSON: TICKETS MAY BE

PURCHASED AT THE TICKET OFFICE NOON TO 6 PM. MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY. IN ADDITION, THE TICKET OFFICE IS OPEN TWO HOURS PRIOR TO ANY PERFORMANCE. THE HARRIS CENTER TICKET OFFICE IS LOCATED AT 10 COLLEGE PARKWAY, FOLSOM. PHONE: 916-608-6888 NOON-6 P.M. MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY

High Voltage, the premier performing group from El Dorado Musical Theatre.

Their live performances are a showcase of your favorite songs from classic Broadway and the shows of today. It’s great entertainment for your entire family.

The High Voltage company consists of 20 young performers who are some of the top talent from El Dorado Musical Theatre.

GV Productions Las Vegas presents

BIG BAND CHRISTMAS

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 19 Join GV Production Las Vegas for Big Band Christmas this holiday season in Folsom. This will be a cavalcade of holiday hits from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s featuring the music of Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Rosemary Clooney, Nat King Cole, and the Andrews Sisters. Gary Vecchiarelli Productions of Las Vegas presents 17 musicians on stage playing the most popular music from the Big Band era. Special guests The Satin Dollz.

Curt Cetraro presents

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS WINTER SOLSTICE TOUR

7 p.m. Dec. 21 This Winter Solstice, there will be an evening of uplifting, heart-opening conscious music with three world-class artists. Each brings a unique flavor and style, the combination of which will be certain to brighten up the darkest night of the year. The program features Shimshai, Chad Wilkins and Mary Isis, all of which have impressive creative resumes.

Shimshai: Whether singing the ancient Sanskrit mantras of India, age-old Hebrew prayers, traditional folklore of South America, or performing his original works of divine inspira-

Big Band Christmas with the Satin Dollz.

tion, Shimshai’s music invokes a sentiment of ancestral devotion and a dedication to higher consciousness.

Chad Wilkens: Mystic Minstrel, Chad Wilkins, is an American/Australian singer-songwriter bringing heart-songs that reveal a better way for a generation in transitional times on our planet.

Mary Isis: Isis sings her soul songs from the heart and in the spirit of ceremony, with the prayer to awaken, uplift and empower those who listen.

AN IRISH CHRISTMAS

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 22 and 23 Take a journey through Christmas in Ireland with superb dancing, singing and authentic Irish traditional music celebrating the international spirit of the holiday season. Following last year’s sold-out performances at the Harris Center, An Irish Christmas returns with an award-winning cast of Irish dancers, led by Caterina Coyne (principal dancer Riverdance), Connor Reider (principal dancer Celtic Fyre, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, The Chieftains), and world champion Tyler Schwartz. A memorable night of family entertainment that sparkles with the charm and magic that only this festive time of the year can bring. A perfect family event.

Born in London and raised in Connemara Ireland, Caterina had a keen interest in Irish dancing. Having competed at the highest level, she won numerous major competition titles and was ranked in the top five in the world. It wasn’t long before the professional stage came calling and Caterina followed her dream of becoming a professional dancer. Having joined the troupe of Riverdance it wasn’t long before she became principal dancer, a position she

held for 10 years. Caterina danced in some of the most prestigious venues in the world such as Radio City Music Hall, NYC, and the Gaiety Theatre Dublin.

DRUMLINE LIVE HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

4 and 8 p.m. Dec 24 Bringing their energetic style of holiday joy to Folsom on the night before Christmas, Drumline Live returns to Stage One. Combining gospel, jazz, soul, Motown rhythms, and “The Nutcracker” suite to the driving force of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band, over 30 talented musicians and dazzling vocalists employ energetic choreography, spectacular lighting, and beautiful holiday costumes to create a holiday extravaganza like no other. Direct from the extraordinary musical team behind the hit movie, “Drumline.”

Carrera Productions presents

CHRISTOPHER CROSS

8 p.m. Jan. 5 You can “sail” your way, into the new year with Christopher Cross at the Harris Center for the Arts on Jan. 5 in a one night performance presented by Carerra Productions. Christopher Cross made history with his 1980 self-titled debut album, winning five Grammy awards.

Now, more than 30 years after his extraordinary emergence into the music business, Cross continues his recording and performing career with a new album, “Secret Ladder,” that evokes the artistry of such great singer-songwriters as Joni Mitchell and Randy Newman while addressing contemporary concerns head-on.✶ DECEMBER 2018 | 41

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■ AQUARIUM

SEAQUEST

OPENS IN PALLADIO

BY RACHEL ZIRIN | PHOTOS BY BILL SULLIVAN AND COURTESY

T

he long-awaited SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium celebrated their official grand opening Nov. 17-20 at their location in the Folsom Palladio.

SeaQuest focuses on hands-on exhibits, including reptiles, birds, mammals, sharks, stingrays and other interactive animals.

“We’re very excited to bring SeaQuest to Folsom,” said Vince Covino, SeaQuest CEO. “As guests interact up close with the diverse array of exotic species we have planned, our goal is to create a fun and memorable experience.

If we can do that, an appreciation of our planet and our environment will become a real priority in their lives.”

The Folsom location features more than 22,000 square feet of interactive adventures, such as exotic sea life in Caribbean Cove, tropical birds in Amazon Rainforest, reptiles in Egyptian Desert, otters, sharks and eels waiting to be hand fed along The Great Wall of China and much more.

With more than 1,500 different species, guests will journey through the planet through several continents and learn about different habitats, Covino said.

“You can feed them, touch them, interact with them and really become friends with all of the animals,” he said. “We have a lot of field trips and

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SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium WHERE: 410 PALLADIO PKWY, FOLSOM INFORMATION: VISITSEAQUEST.COM,

916-673-9972

Courtesy photos

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Courtesy photos private parties. The great thing about the field trips is the children learn about the planet, and when they leave, they have a new appreciation and desire for conservation and preservation.”

Covino opened the first SeaQuest in Utah in 2016 because he loved to see his six children interact with animals.

“I just loved seeing the animals interact with people. I noticed the children come alive and now, they can do it all day,” he said. “It’s just been very exciting and invigorating to watch them do that.”

As SeaQuest’s fifth location, with others in Las Vegas, Utah, Texas and Colorado, it will continue its part in rescuing different species.

“There are animals in here right now that are alive because of SeaQuest, and we were able to rescue them,” Covino said.

“We need community members and nonprofits to reach out to us because we want to make sure the underprivileged children come here without paying. Foster children are always free at SeaQuest, as well as any certified teacher.”

Covino said SeaQuest will be opening new locations in Minnesota, New York and New Jersey in 2019. ✶ DECEMBER 2018 | 43

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

SHEN YUN 2018

WHERE ART CONNECTS HEAVEN AND EARTH

BY BILL SULLIVAN | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER

Shen Yun 2018

The spectacular Shen Yun — the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company is making its return to Northern California with four different venues hosting the New York-based performing arts tour now WHEN: JAN. 9-12 through Jan. 12. The tour is set to wrap up at the Sacramento Community WHERE: SACRAMENTO COMMUNITY CENTER Center Theater Jan. 9-12.

TICKETS: 888-633-6999; SHENYUN.COM Prior to arriving into Sacramento, the tour will appear at Zellerbach Hall in Berkley Dec. 12-16, the San Jose Center for Performing Arts Dec. 19-29 and the San Francisco Way Memorial Opera House Dec. 31-Jan 6. Ticket information and tickets for any of the performances at any venue can be found at shenyun.com and range in price from $80 to as high as $400 for premium seats and some of the venues. Tickets for the Sacramento performances will range from $80 to $200.

Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends, modern heroic tales and treasured ethnic traditions, taking audiences on a stunning, immersive journey through 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture. Wherever they perform, the artists of this exquisite company bring a blend of beauty, purity and tremendous energy that leaves audiences uplifted and deeply inspired.

Known internationally for a non-stop array of beautiful dance, enchanting orchestral music, colorful, authentic costumes and high-tech animated backdrops, Shen Yun creates an experience sure to transport audiences to another world. This is a one-ofa-kind spectacle sure to take your breath away and here are just nine reasons that the tour touts are what makes it so unique: 44 | FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER

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RECLAIMING A LOST HERITAGE Shen Yun is a performing arts company with an ambitious mission — to revive traditional Chinese culture. Why does this culture need to be revived?

There was a time when China was known as “The Land of the Divine.” People lived in harmony with the universe and saw a connection among all things. But in 1949, when the Chinese Communist Party came to power, it set out to destroy this heritage of 5,000 years. It nearly succeeded.

Today, Shen Yun rises to the challenge and is bringing authentic Chinese culture back to the world stage.

CLASSICAL CHINESE DANCE At the heart of every Shen Yun performance is an incredible art form known as classical Chinese dance. This dance system dates back a millennium ago and, dynasty after dynasty, was continually enriched.

It combines explosive athleticism with flowing elegance, and is one of the most expressive art forms in the world.

Shen Yun is the world’s premier classical Chinese dance company. In China, this art form is regularly mixed with military or modern dance styles to the point that people don’t know what exactly they’re watching. Only Shen Yun performs classical Chinese dance in its purest form, preserving its traditional aesthetic the way it was originally passed down.

AN ORCHESTRA WHERE EAST MEETS WEST Every performance is accompanied by a unique orchestra. This orchestra is the first in the world to permanently combine

classical Western and Chinese instruments.

The music’s blend of traditional Eastern melodies with Western orchestration is pioneering, and has won the praise of award-winning musicians and critics alike.

All pieces performed are Shen Yun original compositions.

REVIVING TRADITIONAL BEL CANTO Ancient Chinese theater and early European opera shared the same singing technique, believed to produce the most beautiful and pure tone of voice. The true technique for singing in the upper register has since been lost in both the East and West. But today, Shen Yun’s singers are again using this technique on the modern stage.

TRADITIONAL COSTUMES AND COLORS Shen Yun’s dance costumes and colors are true to traditional aesthetics and styles.

Their vibrant hues and exquisite detail breathe fresh life into every dance piece and story, painting the present with the splendor of the past.

Legend has it that ancient Chinese clothing was inspired by the attire worn in the heavens. Shen Yun’s costumes bring back the styles of China’s different dynasties, regions, and ethnic groups.

BRILLIANT STAGECRAFT At a Shen Yun performance you’ll see artists, quite literally, in a whole new light.

Be it lighting, sound, or stage design, Shen Yun uses traditional artistic techniques.

Every part of the production exists to sup-

port and direct attention to the remarkable performers. You will hear the orchestra’s most natural sound, and see the dancers light up the stage. The result is a performance in perfect synch.

INNOVATIVE 3D PROJECTION Shen Yun’s digital projection instantly puts you on the scene. By extending the stage to infinite realms, the projection allows storytelling without limits. It also has a few surprises.

A Shen Yun innovation creates seamless interaction between projection and performers on stage — an invention so original it has its own patent.

AN INNER DIFFERENCE There’s something that unites Shen Yun artists beyond performing arts. These artists are also spiritual seekers on a shared journey. They meditate together, study teachings together, and strive to live by the principles of truth, compassion, and tolerance. Their self-discipline is remarkable, and they believe that cultivating the heart is the way to create art that is beautifully sublime.

ALL-NEW, EVERY YEAR Every year Shen Yun premieres a brand-new performance, complete with new works of choreography and orchestral music, as well as new costumes, digital backdrops, and storylines.

It’s an enormous artistic undertaking — in 12 years, Shen Yun has produced 12 different performances, and toured with each around the world. ✶

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

SALUTING THE MAGPIE SHOW WITH PLENTY OF SWAGGER AND STORYTELLING HARRIS CENTER BOUND SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER Old friends pass through our lives similar to characters in a time-worn, dog-eared novel.

As we page through life, they return to walk alongside of us on bold new adventures at all the right moments. Such is the story of The Magpie Salute. For as much as the group represents a musical union of swaggering rock ‘n’ roll, psychedelic blues, and campfire-worthy storytelling, it also marks a reunion of musicians whose paths twisted and turned right back to each other.

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“

Pulled together by guitarist Rich Robinson, it continued a storyline he began in the Black Crowes with guitarist Marc Ford and bassist Sven Pipien. Meanwhile, vocalist John Hogg shared Hookah Brown with Robinson as keyboardist Matt Slocum and drummer Joe Magistro both joined him for solo records and tours over the years.

Now, these six individuals conjure magic on their fulllength debut of original material, “High Water I” (Mascot/ inson in the producer’s chair, the vision crystallized with the Eagle Records), for 2018 with “High Water II” to come in six-person lineup.

2019.

“Touring as a 10-piece is cool, but it’s more like a revue,” “It’s the recontextualization of playing with one another,” Robinson said. “Everything on stage was great. When you’re Robinson states. “When I was putting this thing together, ready to record, there’s a lot of space that needs to be considI was thinking about how even though we may not have ered though. We didn’t want it to get too chaotic or too hard played for almost a decade, it just comes back immediately. to sift through. The core was really important and needed to The chemistry is unexplainable. Of course, I’m the same guy shine as a strong six-piece. It was great to build something who played with the Black Crowes new last year. We were born in a sense. and wrote all of those songs, but this Now, we’re working toward something is a different context for myself, Marc, as a tight unit.”

WHEN: 8 P.M. JAN. 12 and Sven. It’s the convergence of three The Magpie Salute are launching WHERE: HARRIS CENTER, 10 COLLEGE different worlds and eras for me. We’re High Water I with “Send Me An PARKWAY, FOLSOM all here together in this one place.

Omen.” The twang of a hummable riff TICKETS: HARRISCENTER.NET Simultaneously, it’s amazing for Marc roars under Hogg’s towering delivery and Sven to play with Joe and Matt before spiraling into an entrancing and John to be in the middle of it all. melody punctuated by gang harmonies For me, that was really cool to witness. This is what I wanted and butter smooth solos. to do.”

“It’s a rock ‘n’ roll song,” Robinson said. “It’s about a rela“The more time we spend together, the more I realize how tionship that’s not working. By the time it gets to the chorus, much of my life is involved with Rich,” Ford said. “This is there’s a happier singalong juxtaposed to John’s lyrics. I enjoy probably the best band I’ve ever been in. As a player, it chalmessing around with songs that toe the line between dark lenges me. There’s something beyond us that we’re agreeing and light.” with. This music wants us to be a part of it. ” “Mary The Gypsy” charges ahead on bombastic drums and “We’re all very aware of this position we’re in,” Hogg thick guitars that give way to an anti-establishment chant. added. “Rich and Marc have this intense and long history “It’s a charge to get rid of this false positive corporate together in quite a public way. At the same time, you’ve got mentality of cynically looking at creators,” Robinson said.

Sven who’s been in the band forever, and Joe has been with “It’s the same thing it’s always been. Bankers are running Rich for 15 years. I have this history with Rich. I won’t lie; this industry and trying to tell artists how to make money. it’s all quite unusual,” he laughed. “I’m working with the Why not just create what comes naturally to you?” greatest musicians I’ve ever worked with. The dynamic is The group spreads its wings on the sweeping “Sister powerful and positive. There’s been a number of long jourMoon.” neys that suddenly all coalesce.”

“That came from John and I staying in a house together,” As those roads converged, the Magpie Salute first took Ford said. “We lived together 24 hours a day for 10 days. flight in 2016 when Robinson assembled the original We would just sit, poke at the fire, and tell stories. Many 10-piece incarnation for a now seminal Woodstock gig. The ideas came from that. That’s how ‘Sister Moon’ started. It’s so group went on to sell out four consecutive nights at The vibe-y and beautiful. John and I had never met before. The Gramercy in January 2017 chronicled with a historic Guitar track is like us meeting.”

Player cover featuring the two six-stringers. By the top of In the end, The Magpie Salute’s story is just beginning to 2018, the band delivered a total of 77 seismic sets worldwide get good. Baptized by “High Water,” these friends start anew. comprised of a 170-song repertoire of covers, Crowes’ tunes, “I want people to realize it’s something different and also and solo material. Acclaim came from Guitar World, Relix, a little familiar,” Robinson said. “I hope they can connect it and more, while Rolling Stone summed it up succinctly as to the records that defined their lives. Music is there to give “Explosive.” They unveiled their debut, “The Magpie Salute us joy, perspective, and show angles we haven’t seen before. I (Live),” topped off by one original “Omission.” By the time they retreated to Dark Horse Studios in Nashville with Rob- appreciate it more than ever. It’s a gift.” ✶

Music is there to give us joy, perspective, and show angles we haven’t seen before.”

The Magpie Salute

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

MUSIC HEALS:

Daniel Castro

Laurie Morvan

A BENEFIT CONCERT FOR THE COMMUNITY AFFECTED BY THE CAMP FIRE

BY RACHEL ZIRIN | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER

Music Heals

Ticket sales for “Music Heals: A benefit concert for the community affected by the Camp Fire” open Dec. 14, and this is not a show you want to miss.

While the concert will take place in March of 2019, there will still be a need TICKETS ON SALE: DEC. 14 for those affected by the Camp Fire, one of the most destructive and deadly in WHEN: 7 P.M. MARCH 13 California history.

WHERE: HARRIS CENTER, 10 COLLEGE PARKWAY, FOLSOM Mary Carrera, of Carrera Productions, decided to put on this benefit when PURCHASE TICKETS: $30-$50 she was organizing a different show at the Harris Center on Nov. 14.

HARRISCENTER.NET “That night in the Harris Center it was very smoky inside. It was so smoky I was worried the smoke alarms would go off,” she said. During that same night, one of her friends mentioned to her that he would like to help underwrite a benefit show if she were to host it. As the evening went on, things started to fall together.

Carrera said right after the show started, she was checking her email and one came from an agent noting he had a handful of artists that wanted to perform for free. Carrera was interested.

“After that email, it all started to connect,” Carrera said. “I needed a date for the concert, but the date soonest available at the Harris Center was in March, and I was concerned it was so far out, but really, there is a need for money and there will be a need for a long time.”

The nonprofit collecting funds that go directly to the affected community is the North Valley Community Foundation, based in Chico. Carrera said she heard from the foundation that it will take a minimum of 10 years before anything is close to normal in Paradise, so the need for help will continue for years.

Proceeds from the Music Heals concert will be sent directly to the North Valley Community Foundation.

The line-up for the charitable evening includes Laurie Morvan Band, Tom Rigney and Flambeau, Daniel Castro, Mighty-Mike Schermer and special guest Roy Rogers.

Laurie Morvan Band is a five-piece high energy, rockin’ blues band lead by its fiery female lead guitarist/vocalist. This tight-as-nails machine from Long Beach has fired up more than 70 festivals and 700 shows together throughout the U.S., 48 | FOLSOM LAKE ENTERTAINER

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Mike Schermer

“

Tom Rigney and Flambeau

After that email, it all started to connect. I needed a date for the concert, but the date soonest available at the Harris Center was in March, and I was concerned it was so far out, but really, there is a need for money and there will be a need for a long time.”

Canada and Europe. Morvan’s much anticipated sixth album “Gravity,” released this year, was an immediate hit with both fans and critics.

Tom Rigney is one of the premier Roots Music fiddle players on the planet. His band — Tom Rigney and Flambeau — specializes in Cajun two-steps, blues, New Orleans grooves, Boogie Woogie piano and beautiful ballads and waltzes. Much of the repertoire is composed by Rigney, but they mix in a few classics from the Cajun/New Orleans songbook. Along the way you may pick up a trace of Rigney’s Irish roots, or echoes of Eastern Europe — it just makes the musical gumbo that much tastier. Rigney’s high-energy showmanship pulls the audience into his performances and makes them feel they are a part of the music and the show.

Describing Daniel Castro as a blues artist doesn’t begin to tell the whole story. A highly accomplished guitarist and singer/songwriter with a strong musical point of view grounded in the very best blues traditions is more like it. Combine those talents with original blues-based material and you begin to understand Castro’s strengths as an artist.

Mighty-Mike Schermer was a fixture on the Bay Area blues scene for more than 20 years when he relocated to Austin, Texas in 2009 and joined the touring band of swamp-boogie piano legend Marcia Ball. He carved out a solid solo career, with four critically acclaimed albums, an award-winning single and thousands of performances at festivals and nightclubs all over the world. He also became the “go to guy” sideman for such heavyweights as Elvin Bishop, Maria Muldaur, Angela Strehli, Bonnie Raitt, Howard Tate, Charlie Musselwhite, Sista Monica, Shana Morrison and many more. Oh yes…we may be judged by the company we keep, but when the spotlight shines a solo artist must be able to bring the goods all on his own. Mighty-Mike Schermer delivers on all fronts.

Virtuoso slide guitarist and Grammy-nominated songwriter/producer and recording artist Roy Rogers remains defiantly upbeat on his 12th solo album Into the Wild Blue. Even though 64-year-old Rogers has lost long-time friends like blues legend John Lee Hooker, his recent recording partner of eight years, Ray Manzarek of The Doors, as well as his younger brother Robert. He says, “life’s too short” to wallow in grief or what was lost. “I want to celebrate life through my music.”

Into The Wild Blue wails, squawks, stomps and boogies with authenticity — ready for the open road and the live stage. Years of working with the likes of John Lee Hooker, Bonnie Raitt, Carlos Santana, Sammy Hagar and Steve Miller has given him a pop musicality.

Carrera Productions proudly presents and thanks all who have attributed — especially the Dick Droese Fund, along with many supporters and sponsors. ✶ DECEMBER 2018 | 49

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ENTERTAINING ONE MILLION

FOLSOM’S HARRIS CENTER TO CELEBRATE ONE MILLIONTH TICKET SALE IN DECEMBER

S

BY BILL SULLIVAN | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER

ometime in the month of December Folsom’s Harris Center for the Arts will hit a milestone when it comes to measurement of their local success. In just seven years, the facility has grown to a level beyond what was imagined and will sell its one millionth ticket.

“Opening night feels like a lifetime ago,” said Executive Director Dave Pier, who was on board to open the center. “But it’s not a lifetime ago. It’s a million tickets ago.”

The Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College opened in February 2011 under the name Three Stages and hosted 130 events during its inaugural season. That year, the $50 million facility offered events of every stripe across its three different stages — music, dance, theater, lectures. Since then the Center has grown; in the current 2018-19 Season, the Center will host nearly 400 events and attract audiences of 150,000 attendees.

The Center’s first performance in 2011, fittingly, was “A Chorus Line,” the beloved Broadway musical that depicts the ups and downs of life on the stage as experienced by those who sing in the chorus.

As of Nov. 20, the Harris Center estimates that the millionth ticket will be sold in the following next two to three weeks.

The person who buys that fabled ticket will also receive a bonus: 10 complimentary tickets to attend any of the Harris Cen-

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ter’s spring presentations — which includes eight national tours of Broadway shows, as well as a plethora of major dance, music and other events.

One million is a number that certainly stands out, but there are other equally impressive numbers when it comes to the Harris Center. Since opening, it has been home to over 2,900 events, featuring artists from over 50 countries, generating over $37 million in ticket sales. Last season alone sales topped $5.4 million, the highest to date, and the 2018-19 season is on track to be higher still. Another figure: as of Nov. 15, over 1,740 volunteers have donated a total of 254,560 hours in support of Center operations — that’s around 35,000 hours a year.

In general, the Harris Center prides itself on being a beehive of activity, building community through performances. There’s a vibrant presenting program that brings touring artists from around the world to perform and share.

That program, by itself, brought 200 events to the Center by the 2013-14 season. Add a growing list of partner organizations with whom the Harris Center works to mount events — active community groups like the Folsom Lake Community Concert Association, Folsom Lake Symphony, Placer Pops Chorale, Sacramento Guitar Society, and commercial promoters like SBL Entertainment and Carrera Productions — as well as the many Folsom Lake College performing groups in dance, theater and music that use the Center, and it’s apparent that the Harris Center has become a cozy home for the arts on the foothill side of the Sacramento Valley.

But a ticket purchased is only a part of the picture that constitutes the Harris Center; besides performances, there are a million other reasons to visit the facility. A visitor may drop by to see an art exhibit in the Bank of America Gallery, which is open to the public free of charge. An area K-12 student might be bused in with her classmates to see a Thursday morning show by El Dorado Musical Theatre or an artist from a different country all together. Or, when school gets out for the year, that student might attend one of the Summer Arts Academy offerings in visual arts, theater, dance or music production. Through Folsom Lake College’s many instructional programs in the arts, college students can learn the craft of technical theater first hand in the Center’s scene shop, practice with a music ensemble in one of many rehearsal spaces, attend a drawing class in the visual arts lab, or visit with faculty whose offices are in the Center. All of these opportunities lie inside the 80,000-square-foot facility. The Harris Center has truly earned the title of a “home for the arts.”

Yet the impact of such a vibrant regional arts center is not only cultural, but also economic, for the Center is also a vibrant business. “The arts provide jobs, and the arts have a real ripple effect across the local economy,” notes Pier. “Since the opening of the Harris Center in 2011, the Harris Center and its audiences have generated $10 million annually in related spending — that’s over $74 million since 2011. Hundreds of full-time equivalent jobs have been cre-

ated, and local and state revenues generated by the Center and its audiences have been over $7.5 million.” These figures are based on economic modeling by Americans for the Arts, a national arts advocacy and research organization, which bases its estimates on studies of venues and audiences like those of the Harris Center. “The Harris Center is a cultural and economic force in the community that wasn’t here eight years ago,” Pier said.

Not one to sit on its laurels, the evolution of the venue and its programs is ongoing. Just this past summer, the facility dramatically upgraded its sound system in the main hall, the 851-seat Stage One. All speakers and amplification are by d&b audiotechnik, a top-tier brand in the industry.

“If it were a car, it would be a Ferrari,” noted Eduardo Garza, the Interim Technical Director for the Harris Center, who oversaw the system’s installation. “The line array technology delivers more clarity, and the d&b Array Processing tailors the sound to the actual shape of the hall, resulting in uniformly excellent sound quality for all seats. You cannot go to another theater now and have better sound.”

In addition, significant improvements to the facility’s ticketing system and website are underway and will be unveiled in February 2019. Additional equipment has been purchased to activate the Center’s recording studio, located alongside the 100-seat Scott-Skillman Recital Hall and across from the 200-seat City Studio Theater.

The ranks of Harris Center donor members making annual contributions to support Center operations has grown to over 500, and to secure and expand the Center and its programs’ for the long run, larger gifts have begun to come in as well — most notably, from the estate of long-time supporters Sevy and Neva Cimaroli, in recognition of which the Center has established the Cimaroli Society for legacy gifts to the Center.

“The Harris Center has nestled into the community quite comfortably, becoming part of the fabric of everyday life. It’s hard to imagine that it wasn’t always here, even though we’re still less than a decade old. Our future is quite bright.”✶ DECEMBER 2018 | 51

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CHRISTOPHER CROSS SETS SAIL INTO HARRIS CENTER 5-TIME GRAMMY WINNER MAKES ONE NIGHT APPEARANCE JAN. 5

BY BILL SULLIVAN | PHOTOS ARE SPECIAL TO THE ENTERTAINER In the ‘80s, his voice sang lyrics that taught many of us to do the best that you can do and to always appreciate the serenity and beauty that sailing has to offer the soul. Now, five-time Grammy winner Christopher Cross will be bringing his best when he sails into Folsom’s Harris Center on Jan. 5.

Cross made history with his 1980 self-titled debut album, winning five Grammy awards, including — for the first time ever — the four most prestigious awards: Record of the Year (for the single “Sailing”), Album of the Year, Song of the Year (also for “Sailing”), and Best New Artist.

Now, more than 30 years after his extraordinary emergence into the music business, Cross continues his recording and performing career with a new album, “Secret Ladder,” that evokes the artistry of such great singer-songwriters as Joni Mitchell and Randy Newman while addressing contemporary concerns head-on — a combination which is sure to please his loyal fan base.

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very Joni-like feel and style.” energetic live performances. With hits such as “Sailing,” “Arthur’s Theme,” “Ride Like The Wind” and “Never Be The Same,” he’s sold As always, Cross enlisted the finest support musicians, including millions of records globally, and has enjoyed great success on the bassist Will Lee (of the Fab Faux and Late Night with David LetBillboard charts. Cross is a five-time Grammy winner, Academy terman), drummer Keith Carlock (Steely Dan and Toto), guitarist Award and Golden Globe recipient.

Eric Johnson, saxophonist David Mann, and vocalists Michael McDonald and Jeff Foskett (Brian Wilson’s musical director).

Indeed, the 13 tracks, mostly written with his long-time collaborator Rob Meurer, continues the exploration of adult subject matter “Eric and Michael are usually on every record I make,” said Cross, broached in his preceding album “Doctor Faith” (2011). and in McDonald’s case, he joins Cross vocally on the poignant and uplifting anthem, “Light the World,” which also features an African “My passion and commitment to music haven’t diminished a bit, chorus alternating the lyrics in Swahili. and I make no apologies for exploring mature subjects,” said the San Antonio native, now living in Austin after decades in Southern “I have traveled to Africa with my kids, my daughter was a youth California.

AIDS ambassador,” Cross said. “She helped with testing in a village in Tanzania and spent another week in Kenya. I was very touched “Of course, I’m still a romantic at heart,” added Cross, whose clasby the people I encountered there. I wrote the song with Stephen sic hits — including “Ride Like the Wind,” and the Oscar-winning Bray who is a close friend and a wonderful collaborator. He worked “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” from the film starring with Madonna early in her career and composed music for “The Liza Minelli and Dudley Moore —remain staples on radio to this Color Purple” on Broadway. For the Swahili chorus, we enlisted day. the assistance of the interpreter we had in Africa who was the head This romantic side is readily evident on “Secret Ladder” songs like of African Studies at UCLA. It is “Simple,” in which he elicits the tuneful really a magical component to the sense of love and serenity that marked song. You feel like you know what “Sailing.” But from the album’s first WHEN: 8 P.M. JAN. 5 they’re saying, even though you song, Cross evinces a sharpened focus in WHERE: HARRIS CENTER, 10 COLLEGE PARKWAY, FOLSOM don’t.” addition to his magic melodic touch.

CONTACT: CARRERA-PRODUCTIONS.COM, 916-941-9001 “The Times I Needed You” emThe bluesy “Reverend Blowhard” “is OR HARRISCENTER.NET, 916-608-6888 ploys a vocal chorus, arranged by an unvarnished commentary on TV Meurer, intentionally reminiscent evangelists,” Cross said. He acknowlof the Beach Boys. edges a definite cynicism in this open“It’s very much a tribute,” Cross said. “Brian Wilson’s writing was ing song that bears the influence of both Newman and Steely Dan’s a big influence on me and Carl Wilson was my No. 1 vocal influDonald Fagen and Walter Becker, “who are lifelong influences on ence growing up. Years later, we became very close. Carl sang on my the songs Rob and I write.” second album (1983’s “Another Page”), and we did a lot of touring There are other hard-hitting songs on “Secret Ladder,” most notably “Got To Be a Better Way,” which rails against a man “seething in together and vocal sessions for other artists. He’d always say, ‘We make a nice sound’ — I just treasure that.” his world of carbohydrates and TV” while lacking any empathy for While Cross is an avowed pacifist, he is a big supporter of his fellow man, and “Island of Anger.” those who serve in the armed forces. “Secret Ladder” includes the “We look back at our lives and see the idealism when we were late-added track, “We Will Remember You,” as a means of honoring kids,” Cross reflected, “and then look at the way things are now and their service. see how so many are disillusioned and almost immobilized with “My father was an Army doctor and my mother, a nurse,” he said. outrage.”

Yet Cross remains a spiritual, if not religious, artist, and the “Secret “I feel strongly that returning vets and those who made the ultimate sacrifice deserve to be recognized and never forgotten. The song itLadder” album title manifests this. The conceptual album cover art, self is neither pro- nor anti-war. The children’s choir really enhances by photographer/graphic designer Sandrine Lee, expressly suggests the message. We recorded it after the album was finished, but I felt a Magritte painting in its depiction of human figures climbing the that it definitely needed to be included.” fretboard of an upright acoustic guitar surrounded by a blue sky Cross’ own children influenced the instructive “Wonderland,” a filled with clouds, at the same time invoking Joni Mitchell’s lyric in “For the Roses” — “And pour your simple sorrow/To the sound hole dreamy, lyrical take on reality which is enlivened by Johnson’s rock guitar play. and your knee.”

“It’s a general thesis on where things are, a way of looking at life,” “I write my songs on the guitar, and that’s how I realize my spiriCross said, “and how we’re wishful for our kids and their future. At tuality,” Cross said. “Music is the source, the wellspring. The people the same time, it’s hard not to be frustrated and cynical.” coming out of the guitar’s sound hole on the cover are climbing the ladder to a higher plane.”

“Secret Ladder” ends with the loving, lushly orchestrated “A Letter Cross also said that “Secret Ladder’s” “I Don’t See it Your Way” is a to My Children.”

Joni Mitchell-influenced track.

“It’s a very personal song,” he said. “I wanted to make a lasting statement for my kids that reflected both the wonderful mystery of “I dedicated my last album to her,” Cross said. “She remains my their births and my deep feelings for them now that they’re grown.” biggest influence, musically. She’s a hero to both Rob and me. This ✶ song is about the end of a relationship, and we tried to write it in a

Christopher Cross

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

LIVE music and entertainment shows

Thunder Cover

POWERHOUSE PUB

Tower of Power

THUNDER VALLEY CASINO RESORT

1200 Athens Ave. in Lincoln.

Information and ticket sales: 916-408-7777, thundervalleyresort.com.

Dec. 9

Ram Chiang & Angela Pang Dec. 28

Tower of Power

50th Anniversary Tour Dec. 31

Creedence Clearwater Revisited New Year’s Eve

Jan. 11 and 12

My Dream - Chinese Performing Arts Show

Jan. 20

Legends of Motown Tribute Show Jan. 26

Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame Feb. 1 and 2

Australia’s Thunder From Down Under

Jan. 18

Formerly of The Eagles

Feb. 22

Jan. 19

Dec. 1

Dec. 14

Dec. 6

Dec. 15

Dec. 7

Dec. 20

Groove Line Chris Scoville

Little River Band

TBA

Dec. 28

Fresh Maker

Press Play Dec. 29

Dec. 8

Dec. 21

Dec. 31

Dec. 13

Dec. 22

8 Track Massacre X-mas Acoustic

Thunder Cover

Spazmatics New Year’s Bash

The Guitartionist Inspector 71

GOLDEN 1 CENTER

500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento.

Information and ticket sales: 916-928-0000, golden1center.com Dec. 7

Dec. 15

Jan. 11-13

Dec. 8

Dec. 17

Jan. 16

Metallica

Michael Carbonaro

Dec. 27

Skid Roses

Cliff Huey and 27 Outlaws

Retroactive Dance Band

Feb. 16

Valentine’s Soul Jam 2019 The S.O.S Band, Club Nouveau & Cherrelle

Don Felder

614-D, Sutter St., Folsom. Tickets available at: powerhousepub.com

V101 Holiday Jam

Travis Scott

Harlem Globetrotters

WWE Monday Night RAW

Elton John

B STREET THEATRE

2700 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento. Tickets and information: 916-443-5300, bstreettheatre.org Nov. 30-Dec. 30

“A Christmas Carol”

Family theater: The return of this hilarious adaptation of Dickens’ classic story, Ebenezer Scrooge has had enough of his yearly redemption and does everything he can to bust out of it.

Dec. 15

Dirty Cello

Music: high energy and unique spin on blues and bluegrass.

Dec. 15-30

“Halftime With Don”

Theater: Don Devers was a celebrated NFL star linebacker for nine years. Now in his 50s, the toll of his excellence has decimated his body and mind.

Dec. 15

Burlesque + Stand-up Comedy

Game: A rapid fire event series where performers have the audience separate the truth from fiction.

Dec. 15

Sacramento Emerging Artist Showcase

Variety: Capital City’s newest circus artists, musicians, drag performers, comedians, burlesque performers, variety acts, singers, dancers and slam poets.

Jan. 8-Feb. 17

“House on Haunted Hill – The Comedy”

Theater: The classic 1959 horror film starring Vincent Price is given a hilarious adaptation.

Jan. 5

Jan. 16

Music: Celtic all-star Grateful Dead jam band.

Music: Mixing genres and blurring musical lines, no two shows are alike

Wake The Dead

Portland Cello Project

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LIVE

■ ENTERTAINMENT

theater performances Brewers Grade

RED HAWK CASINO

1 Red Hawk Parkway, Placerville.

Tickets available at redhawkcasino.com.

Dec. 7

Clean Slate

R&B top 40 old school Dec. 8

Thunder Cover Today’s hits Dec. 14

Audioboxx Classic rock Dec. 15

Audioboxx Classic rock Dec. 21

The Spazmatics The ‘80s

Dec. 22

Dec. 28

Country

Classic rock top 40

Bobby Zoppi & the Corduroys

Island of Black & White

Dec. 24

Dec. 29

Country

Dance hits, the ‘70s and today’s hits

Cash Prophets Dec. 25

Ray Reynolds Country Dec. 26

Random Strangers Country Dec. 27

Ranell Carpenter Blues

Rock Monsterz

Dec. 30

Buck Ford Country Dec. 31

Brewers Grade Country Dec. 31

Fresh

Classic rock top 40 Latin

“The Magic Toyshop”

SUTTER STREET THEATRE

717 Sutter St., Folsom.

Tickets and information: 916-353-1001, sutterstreettheatre.com OLD TYME RADIO SHOW

Folsom Old Tyme Radio Show 4 p.m. second Saturday of the month

OLDE COLOMA THEATRE

380 Monument Road, Coloma.

Tickets and information: 530-626-5282, oldecolomatheatre.org

“The True Meaning Of Christmas” or “Presents And Promotions” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 16 – Dec. 23

CAPITAL STAGE

2215 J St., Sacramento. Tickets and information:916-995-5464 or capstage.org.

“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”

Dec. 6 – 30 In this charmingly imagined sequel to “Pride and Prejudice,” Mary Bennet is growing tired of her role as dutiful middle sister in the face of her siblings’ romantic escapades.

OFF BROADWAY SERIES

“Holiday in the Hills”

8 p.m. Fridays and Saturday, 4 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 1 – 23 The story takes place in the late 1880s right here on Sutter Street where the residents of the town and surrounding areas have gotten together to celebrate the holidays. A lot of research went into the people and places, give or take a year or two, and characters on stage were an actual residents or visitors to Folsom at that time of year.

New Year’s Eve with Johnny Carsino

Dec. 31 A musical comedy to die for. The Mafia is getting in on late night show business. Johnny Carsino hosts this night of music, dance, comedy and fun with a Sicilian twist. Loosely based on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, you don’t want to miss this slightly twisted night of fun.

FAMILY SERIES

IMAGINATION THEATER

El Dorado County Fair Grounds, 100 Placerville Drive, Placerville Tickets and information: 530-642-0404, imaginationtheater.net

Madeline’s Christmas

7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23-Dec. 22 It’s the night before Christmas and everyone is sick in bed. All except brave Madeline, who is up and about and feeling just fine. Taking care of eleven little girls and their teacher Miss Clavel is hard work, but Madeline finds help from a magical merchant peddling flying carpets door-to-door.

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“The Magic Toyshop”

1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 8 – Jan. 6 When the Master Toymaker sprinkles a touch of Magic Doll Dust on the wonderful dolls he has made, they come to life in a surprising way. They realize how unusual they are when they find they can walk, talk and breathe. The Master Toymaker realizes it too, and decides he does not want to sell them. They are too wonderful to be “mussed, crushed and handled” by loving children. The dolls, however, take the opposite view.

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■ ENTERTAINMENT

UPCOMING

LIVE theater&music performances

HARRIS CENTER

10 College Parkway, Folsom. Tickets and information: 916- 608-6888, harriscenter.net.

Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet Theatre: “The Nutcracker” Featuring Conductor Ryan Murray and members of the Folsom Lake Symphony 7 p.m. Dec. 13, 14; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15, 16 Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on an enchanted journey through the Land of Snow and Kingdom of the Sweets.

Cantare Chorale Of The Sierra Nevada Foothills: Christmas Radio 7 p.m. Dec. 14 and 4 p.m. Dec. 16 A 90-minute choral concert featuring favorite Christmas selections, from classics to pops in 4-6-8-part harmonies.

El Dorado Musical Theatre Holiday Celebration

7 p.m. Dec. 18 This show has become a fan favorite for the holiday season. It features both new and classic holiday songs, all done with High Voltage’s unique flair.

GV Productions Las Vegas Big Band Christmas

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 19 A cavalcade of holiday hits from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s featuring the music of Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Rosemary Clooney, Nat King Cole, and the Andrews Sisters. Gary Vecchiarelli Productions of Las Vegas presents 17 musicians on stage playing the most popular music from the Big Band era. Special guests The Satin Dollz.

Sacramento Master Singers A Master Singers Christmas

7 p.m. Dec. 20 Commencing with an opening candlelight processional, audiences are surrounded by aural sonority and spectacle as the choir performs a wide range of repertoire, from traditional melodies to the latest in multicultural songs and timeless songs.

Ballet Folklórico de Sacramento Posada Navideña

7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 Come spend a Christmas in Mexico, let the talented dancers and musicians of Ballet Folklórico de Sacramento bring all the fun, magic and lively colors. Posada Navideña features the 25 dancers, musicians and performers of premier Mexican folk dance company Ballet Folklórico de Sacramento.

An Irish Christmas 2018

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 22 ad 23 Take a journey through Christmas in Ireland with superb dancing, singing and authentic Irish traditional music celebrating the international spirit of the holiday season.

Drumline Live Holiday Spectacular Following last year’s sold-out performances at the Harris Center, An Irish Christmas returns with an award-winning cast of Irish dancers, led by Caterina Coyne (principal dancer Riverdance), Connor Reider (principal dancer Celtic Fyre, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, The Chieftains), and world champion Tyler Schwartz.

Drumline Live Holiday Spectacular 4 and 8 p.m. Dec. 24 Bringing their energetic style of holiday joy to Folsom on the night before Christmas, Drumline Live returns to Stage One. Combining gospel, jazz, soul, Motown rhythms, and The Nutcracker Suite to the driving force of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band, over 30 talented musicians and dazzling vocalists employ energetic choreography, spectacular lighting, and beautiful holiday costumes to create a holiday extravaganza like no other.

Emery Entertainment Robert Dubac’s “The Book Of Moron”

8 p.m. Jan. 4 Robert Dubac’s newest Off-Broadway solo hit has been described as one of the most “hilarious,” “intelligent” and “scorching” satirical attacks on “idiocracy” since Mark Twain.

Carrera Productions Christopher Cross

8 p.m. Jan. 5 Christopher Cross made history with his 1980 self-titled debut album, winning five Grammy Awards, including the four most prestigious awards: Record of the Year (for the single “Sailing”), Album of the Year, Song of the Year (also for “Sailing”), and Best New Artist.

Vita Academy The Great Composers Chamber Music Series 2 p.m. Jan. 6 Susan Lamb Cook gathers together musicians from around the country to present exciting and engaging performances of some of the greatest chamber music ever written. The Great Composers Chamber Music Series presents “Rising Stars of Chamber Music,” young emerging artists performing chamber music classics.

Kids Helping Kids 7th annual Gala Ben Rector 7 p.m. Jan. 10 Kids Helping Sacramento is a nonprofit organization operated entirely by high school students who believe that learning is best by doing, and doing is best by serving others. In the past six years, they have raised over half a million dollars to serve various populations of children, including pediatric cancer patients, foster-care youth, as well as a powerful global cause rooted in the country of Nicaragua.

Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: The Joyous Music Of Beethoven

7:30 p.m. Jan. 11 The boisterous Rage Over a Lost Penny, the exhilarating Polonaise, the intimate Bagatelles, the “Theresa Sonata” (who was she?), and the “Farewell Sonata” (who was leaving , and why was Beethoven deeply affected?)

Malko Performing Arts Academy Snow Queen II

6:30 p.m. Jan. 12 Inspired by the classic fairytale Snow Queen

by Hans Christian Andersen; Artistic Director Sergey Malko writes a twist entitled Snow Queen II filled with spells, magic mirrors, evil trolls, dancing, and the magical power or friendship and good always prevails over evil.

Carrera Productions The Magpie Salute

8 p.m. Jan. 12 The Magpie Salute is an exciting new band that features musicians who have played together for decades throughout various projects and share a musical bond. The band brings Rich Robinson, the guitarist and co-founding member of The Black Crowes, together with two key members of Crowes fame. With guest, The Stone Foxes.

Paris Combo

1 p.m. Jan. 13 Two decades spent crisscrossing the globe — playing to enthusiastic audiences from Sydney to San Francisco and Berlin to Beijing — have enabled France’s Paris Combo to create a unique, cosmopolitan sound, a fun-loving mix of swinging gypsy jazz, cabaret, French pop and Latino and Middle Eastern rhythms.

Cahoots NI’s Production of Danny Carmo’s Mathematical Mysteries

1 and 3 p.m. Jan. 13 From Northern Ireland comes a spectacular show where math, theater and digital technology collide in an interactive performance. Danny Carmo thought school and, in particular, math wasn’t for him. He was more interested in dreaming about becoming a magician. But as he learned the tricks of the trade, he realized that math was not only essential, it was the secret.

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calendar of events

Submit events to: calendar@goldcountrymedia.com.

Ice skating in Historic Folsom See now through Jan. 21 listing.

photo by Bill Sullivan

Now through Dec. 21

CARRIAGE RIDES will be available 6-9 p.m. Dec. 1-21 at Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 310, El Dorado Hills. 916-933-3013, edhtowncenter.com.

Now through Dec.24

SANTA PHOTOS: Families are invited to visit with Santa to share wish lists and to take purchased photo, 1-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 24-Dec. 24. California Welcome Center, 2085 Vine St.., Ste 105, El Dorado Hills. 916-933-3013, edhtowncenter.com.

Now through Jan. 21

HISTORIC FOLSOM ICE RINK SKATING is 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. open daily including holidays.

Downtown historic Folsom. Info: historicfolsom. org.

Dec. 7 and 8

2018 HISTORIC FOLSOM HOLIDAY HOME TOUR will feature four charming historic homes beautifully adorned for the holidays, two festively decorated historic churches, with added stops at the Folsom History Museum, Pioneer Village and the Murer House. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8.

Tickets are $20 and available at Bacchus House Bistro, Dorothea’s, Folsom History Museum, Folsom Chamber of Commerce, Green Acres

Nursery (Folsom, Roseville), Not Too Shabby, Raley’s (Blue Ravine), the Murer House and at folsomhistoricalsociety.org. 916-985-2707, 916985-3250.

Dec. 8

TOTS FOR TOYS -TATER TOT CRAWL. Bring a new unwrapped toy to any of the participating locations and receive a free order of tater tots. Participating locations are: Marly & Moo, Samuel Hornes Tavern, Fat Rabbit, Gaslight Co, Heckle Alehouse, Hacienda Del Rio, Snook’s Chocolate Factory (dessert tots). 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8. historicfolsom.org.

Dec. 8 and 9

9TH ANNUAL HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS TOUR will highlight five residences in El Dorado County. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 8-9. 916-317-7862, assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills.

CHRISTMAS IN COLOMA is an old-fashioned holiday celebration with crafts, games, wreath making, live music, wagon rides and more. Dec. 8-9 at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park.

530-622-3470.

Dec. 15

EL DORADO HILLS FIREFIGHTER SANTA RUN FINALE will have Santa, Mrs. Clause and the Elves traveling through Town Center to collect canned food and new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots.

It will finish with a fireworks show, cookies and hot chocolate provided by the El Dorado Hills Fire Department. 6-7:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 310, El Dorado Hills. 916-933-3013, edhtowncenter.com.

COMMUNITY PERFORMANCES will spotlight local numerous choirs, dance troops and nonprofit organizations. Three separate shows at noon, 1 and 3 p.m. Dec. 15. El Dorado Hills Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 310, El Dorado Hills. 916-933-3013, edhtowncenter.com.

Ongoing

SATURDAY FARMERS’ MARKET around the Historic Railroad Turntable and Public Plaza in Historic Folsom every Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., year-round.

More than 40 farmers/vendors represented.

Certified farmers’ locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables. Freshly made baked goods, fresh eggs and dairy items, live music and more. Park in the parking structure located at 905 Leidesdorff St. at the corner of Reading and Leidesdorff streets. Info: 916-806-3989 or email info@ bemoneysmartusa.org. ✶ DECEMBER 2018 | 57

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■ REAL ESTATE

HOME IS WHERE THE TRADITION IS

BY PAT QUAN

Who was it that said, “Home is where the heart is?”

It’s fairly common knowledge that the housing market slows down considerably during the holiday season. Why? Logic says sellers’ lives are too busy. But what is really happening? Tradition. Elvis should have sung “Home is where tradition is.” Unofficially, from my own personal experiences, more traditions are created, experienced and established during the holiday season than in any other time of year. The home seems to be where a majority of traditions occur.

In other times of the year, these traditions are called routines.

My tradition starts with my holiday kickoff event for my clients. The event is at a local business. But even that tradition has another tradition that involves the home; my clients all take a pumpkin pie home to enjoy with their family.

Thanksgiving is the start of home holiday traditions. There’s the “kids” table that’s set up in the next room because there’s too many people for the main dining area. That area goes unused for 363 days of the year. The day we need it, it’s too small. I need a bigger home.

We have traditions in our home, probably not unlike yours. The tree goes in the same place in the same room and maybe even on the same weekend of the year. While it goes up, we do a lot of the traditional things in memorable ways — putting on the lights, placing the star on top, choosing music, drinking hot chocolate, telling stories, laughing, reminiscing about ornaments and just creating memories.

The kitchen is central to tradition. Is there enough counter space for that fourth tray of cookies that’s hot out of the oven? Give Grandma room to make her awesome best-in-theworld cranberry sauce. My wife’s grandmother

used to cut the ham on each side before she baked it. That was passed down as a tradition. It turns out that in the “old” days, the pan wasn’t wide enough so she cut the ham. The counter turned into a buffet table. I guess that was an update as it’s customarily a mailbox, key holder, magazine stand and work table (I’m sitting at it right now as I write this column).

So really, who wants to sell their home at that time of year? Some clients say, “I’ll sell after one more holiday season.” Many homeowners sell after the kids have left the home as they’re ready to downsize. Frequently, it’s the kids that feel like they’re losing their House of Memories.

But the reality is that during the holidays, sellers sell and buyers buy. It can be a wonderful time to buy a house. I recall several families that couldn’t wait for their home to close so they could continue those traditions in the new home; the home with more counter space for cookies, higher ceiling for taller trees, wider mantle for the menorah or hanging stockings; ensuite for visiting relatives, pull-out cabinets to hold large pans, large pantry, theater room to watch “It’s a Wonderful Life,” while the “Grinch” plays in the bonus room.

Here’s one more tradition. Compared to last year, Folsom and El Dorado Hills homes are selling for more, inventory is down, homes sell faster and sales price to list price is up. But for the other 11 months of the year, we’ll just call it routine.

As we near the end of the year, I give thanks to my family and all of the good things in my life, including the joy and success of being a Realtor in this wonderful community. Helping people solve their real estate needs to fit their changing lifestyle is very rewarding.

To contact Pat Quan, call 916-812-4341, email pquan@ cbnorcal.com or go to PatQuan.com. BRE #01918240.

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at Red Hawk Casino December 2018

2018 A-LIST

EST B D E VOT

IC

US M E LIV

Fridays

9:30PM - 1:30AM

DEC 7 • Clean Slate (Old School R&B, Top 40) DEC 25 • Audioboxx (Classic Rock) DEC 26 • The Spazmatics (The Ultimate 80s New Wave Show) DEC 27 • Island of Black & White (Reggae, Funk, Classic Rock)

New Years Eve DECEMBER 31

Saturdays 10PM - 2AM

DEC 1 • BB McKay & the Bumps (1950s Jump Swing & Rockabilly) DEC 8 • Thunder Cover (Today’s Dance Hits) DEC 15 • Audioboxx (Classic Rock) DEC 22 • Bobby Zoppi & the Corduroys (Country, Southern Rock)

5PM - 9PM Brewers Grade (Country)

DEC 29 • Rock Monsterz (Dance Hits from the 70s to Today)

Holiday Entertainment 8PM - 12AM

10PM - 2AM Fresh (Latin, Classic Rock, Top 40)

DEC 24 • Cash Prophets (Country) DEC 25 • Ray Reynolds (Country) DEC 26 • Random Strangers (Country) DEC 27 • Rannell Carpenter (Blues, Top 40) DEC 30 • Buck Ford (Country)

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