Holiday Magic

NOVEMBER 2021

A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers

Sharpen your skates and get ready to perfect your triple axel, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is Back!

Photo Courtesy Downtown Sacramento Partnership

Open Tuesday–Sunday, Nov. 11th through Jan. 16th and located at 7th & K streets in the heart of downtown Sacramento, the ice rink is the destination for winter fun with an exciting line-up of family-friendly events all winter long. Discover all the ways the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink presented by Dignity Health can be a part of your holiday traditions. Learn more at GoDowntownSac.com/IceRink or follow along on social media at @ downtownicerink

• Christmas Eve: 10 am – 9 pm • Christmas Day: 12 pm – 9 pm • December 26 – January 2: 10 am – 10 pm • New Year’s Eve: 10 am – 9 pm

PRICING:

• Kids 6 and under: $6 always • Regular Hours: $13/skater • Holiday Hours: $15/skater

DISCOUNTS:

• $5 off with Western Health Advantage card • $2 off with same-day SacRT HOLIDAY HOURS: ticket or pass • November 23 – November 28: • FREE for Sacramento Kings 10 am – 10pm Kids Club All-Star Members • Thanksgiving Day: 10 am – 4 pm

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus Announces the Big SGMC Comeback with the 37th Season Holiday Concert: KSGMC 202.1FM: Holiday Hits with a Splash of Sass!

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (October 13, 2021)—After 18 months of pandemic-required shuttering, the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus is over the moon to be rehearsing for the 2021 Holiday Show! One hundred and five voices strong, the chorus is led by new Artistic Director Christian Bohm, whose vision is taking the group to new heights.

The KSGMC 202.1FM: Holiday Hits with A Splash of Sass! concert is a family-friendly show with traditional seasonal favorites, showstoppers from prior years, and a few new surprises to make the season even brighter. The audience will be treated to a modern

“radio show” format bringing them through a rollercoaster of emotions (laughter, sadness, beauty, justice, thought-provoking) that will leave them awed and changed.

Evening show dates are December 10, 11, and 14, 2021. Doors open at 7:30 pm, and the curtain goes up at 8:00 pm. A matinee show is offered on December 12, 2021, with doors opening at 2:30 pm and curtain up at 3:00 pm. Please note that these dates are one week later than past holiday shows. The concert will be presented in a different venue: Pioneer Congregational United Church of Christ at 2700 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95816.

General admission tickets are $30 each. Students with a valid Student ID can purchase tickets for just $15. VIP-seating tickets are $45.

All audience members will be required to show proof of COVID19 vaccination to keep our singers and audience safe. Full details can be found on the SGMC website at SacGayMensChorus.org. Tickets are on sale now.

Start the Holiday Season with a Splash of Sass!

sense of community and provide support for gay men in the Sacramento area. Since then, the chorus has grown into an integral part of the Sacramento music community and a voice for the wide scope of LGBTQ+ folk in the greater Sacramento area. Our mission: Fostering pride and enhancing lives, one song at a time. Our vision: To build a community where no one will be afraid to sing one’s own song.

SGMC is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit: Federal Tax ID #68-0234567. SacAbout the Sacramento Gay GayMensChorus.org Men’s Chorus (SGMC) Media Contact: Lynda Walls at In 1984, the SGMC began as a 916-804-1446 or Lynda@sacgaysinging group aiming to foster a menschorus.org

To advertise, call 916-429-9901 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • November 2020 • Holiday Magic

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City Theatre to Premiere 9 Short Holiday Plays Sacramento, CA – November 3, 2021 - City Theatre at Sacramento City College continues its 2021-22 season with the return of a seasonal themed festival of all new plays called Home for the Holidays…Welcome Back! Last year’s pivot to online performances inspired the idea of a festival of short new plays called Zoom for the Holidays. Due to its success, the festival will return for 2021 with nine new short plays in Home for the Holidays…Welcome Back! Again, Luther Hanson will be directing the new short plays by nine playwrights, who include Jes Gonzales, Joy Hall Gee, David Martin, Mike Poe, Michael Pollock, John Paul PressburgNevans, Roberta Ramirez Sanchez, Tim Sapunor, and Donya Wicken. In addition to the new plays, new monologues will be presented between each play. The online performance will be a lege. The live online streaming produccollaboration between the theatre and tion will open Thursday, November 18 film faculty at Sacramento City Col- and will continue through Sunday, De-

and Saturdays and at 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets prices are $15 for general admission and $10 for students and are available online at CityTheatre.net.

THE NINE PLAYS & PLAYWRIGHTS The nine short plays and playwrights are Reverie by Jes Gonzales, Security Blanket by Joy Hall Gee, Ghostlight 2 by David Martin, What are the Chances? by Mike Poe, Firmly Lodged

by Mikey Pollock, Puppet Meet-up by John Paul Pressburg-Nevans, Mandatory Retreat by Roberta Ramirez Sanchez, From the Cells of the Plague Monks by Tim Sapunor, and Welcome Back to the Lodge by Donya Wicken.

THE PRODUCTION Home for the Holidays…Welcome Photos Courtesy Sacramento City College Back! will be directed by Luther Hanson (Zoom for the Holidays, Alice in cember 5, but with no performances Wonderland: A British Panto, Miracle Thanksgiving week. Performances are on 34th Street). The cast will feature live at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, see Plays page 5

CITY THEATRE OF SACRAMENTO CITY COLLEGE PRESENTS

ALL PERFORMANCES

STREAMING

ONLINE!

New for 2021 – A holiday-inspired festival of short plays by Joy Hall Gee, Jes Gonzales, David Martin, John Paul Nevans, Mike Poe, Michael Pollock, Roberta Ramirez Sanchez, Tim Sapunor & Donya Wicken.

STREAMING LIVE AT 7:30 PM

November 18, 19, 20 December 2, 3 & 4 STREAMING LIVE AT 2 PM

B Y9 A NCNAEL W SW H BRUI GRHNT S BY LO P LA AY E RE HNAI N D I R E CDTI RE EDC TB EYD CB Y H RLIUSTTHI N CSHOONL S O N

November 21, December 5

Tickets available at www.CityTheatre.net

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Plays:

continued from page 4

14 actors playing multiple characters.

The design team will include Shawn Weinsheink (scenic & lighting design), Nicole Sivell (costume design), and Kristen Anderson (live media coordinator).

ABOUT CITY THEATRE City Theatre is the performing arts program at Sacramento City College, part of the Los Rios Community College District, in Sacramento, California. City Theatre’s season consists of four Mainstage productions, two Storytime children’s productions, and the elementary school touring troupe known as The Pennywhistle Players, though all children-related theatre is currently on hiatus. During the summer, City Theatre produces the annual Sacramento Shakespeare Festival. The company welcomes all members of the community to audition and participate in their award-winning productions.

WHAT: City Theatre presents Home for the Holidays…Welcome Back!

9 plays by Jes Gonzales, Joy Hall Gee, David Martin, Mike Poe, Michael Pollock, John Paul Pressburg-Nevans, Roberta Ramirez Sanchez, Tim Sapunor, and Donya Wicken Directed by Luther Hanson WHERE: All performances are streaming live online

Ticket Pricing: $15 general and $10 student Available Only Online: www.citytheatre.net Tickets must be purchased at least 15 minutes before the performance begins.

WHO: Playwrights: Jes Gonzales, Joy Hall Gee, David Martin, Mike Poe, Michael Pollock, John Paul Pressburg-Nevans, Roberta Ramirez Sanchez, Tim Sapunor, and Donya Wicken Director: Luther Hanson Cast: Elisabeth Beatman, Mariah Coburn, Noah Galvan, Kellee Grimes, WHEN: Joe Kowalski, Lauren Ormond, Sarah November 18-21 and December Palmero, Kathleen Poe, Mike Poe, 2-5, 2021 Ted Mulhauser, John Paul PressburgThere are no performances Thanks- Nevans, Robin Sanchez, Tim Sapunor, giving weekend.

Racine Strong Opening Night: Thursday, Novem- Scenic & Lighting Design: Shawn ber 18 at 7:30 pm Weinsheink Performance Times: Costume Design: Nicole Sivell Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at Live Media Coordinator: Kristen 7:30 pm Anderson Sundays at 2:00 pm Production Stage Manager: Kat TICKET PURCHASES: Hansell

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GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION December 11 from 10am to 6pm Music • Authors • Giveaways Story time with Mayor Bobbie Books & Gifts for All Ages • Temple Coffee • Kalani Kakes Treats Breakfast & Lunch • Play Area • Conference & Coworking Space Quiet Room • Community Events 9257 Laguna Springs Dr, Suite 130, Elk Grove • 916-538-3482

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Warm and wow guests with homemade hot mulled apple cider When hosting friends and family at home, it’s understandable that hosts direct so much of their focus to the foods they plan to serve. The main course is often the focal point and most memorable aspect of a dinner party, and that’s true whether the get-together is a backyard barbecue, a holiday meal with the family or a formal affair with colleagues.

Food might be a focal point, but guests also will need something to drink. Traditional spirits like wine and cocktails are the standard, but hosts who want to get a little creative should not hesitate to do so. When choosing a special beverage, timing is everything. Guests wil want to cool down on warm summer evenings, so something cold and refreshing can make for the perfect signature cocktail. When hosting on nights when the mercury has dropped, a warm beverage can heat up guests in a matter of minutes. On such nights, hosts

can serve this version of “Hot Mulled (Sherried) Apple Cider” courtesy of Laurey Masterton’s “The Fresh Honey Cookbook” (Storey). One added

benefit to Masterton’s recipe is it can produce a welcoming winter aroma, helping hosts establish a warm ambiance for the festivities.

Hot Mulled (Sherried) Apple Cider Serves 16 1 gallon apple cider 1 orange, unpeeled, cut into slices 1⁄4 cup whole cloves 4 sticks cinnamon 1⁄4 cup honey, preferably cranberry honey 1 cup sherry (optional) 1. Combine the cider, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, and honey in a large pot over medium heat. If you are picky about things floating in your cider, make a little bundle out of cheesecloth and place the cinnamon and cloves inside before adding to the cider. I like to chew on cloves, so I just toss everything in. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer over low heat for an hour or so to spread these lovely winter aromas around your home.

2. If you’re serving it to adults, add the sherry. It might make everyone want to go sledding!

Best Holiday Wishes

To advertise, call 916-429-9901 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • November 2020 • Holiday Magic

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Tips to keep your tree fresh this holiday season Christmas trees are often the pièce de résistance of holiday decor. Few things draw the attention of holiday guests quite like an awe-inspiring Christmas tree, especially when that tree maintains its fresh, healthy sheen throughout December.

Many families purchase fresh trees over Thanksgiving weekend or during the first weekend of December.

Though the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day may seem like a long time to keep a tree looking great, there are a handful of ways for holiday celebrants to help their trees maintain that undeniable appeal for the long haul.

• Pick the right tree. Choosing the right tree is one of the simplest ways to keep a tree looking good throughout the holiday season. A freshly cut tree that buyers choose and cut down themselves or have cut down can reassure them that the tree is likely to stay strong throughout December. Trees

purchased from a tree lot may have been cut down long before they made it to the lot, which can make it harder to keep them looking good until Christmas Day. • Cut an inch off the base of any tree that is not freshly cut. MSU Extension at Michigan State University notes that all Christmas trees are conifers, which means they have resin canals in their trunks. Once a tree is cut, the resin can block the pores and make it harder for the tree to take in water. Cutting an inch off the base of a tree that was not freshly cut just before putting it in the stand can help ensure it gets the water it needs to stay healthy and firm. MSU Extension notes that this approach should be taken with any tree that was not cut within six to eight hours of being put in a stand.

• Replenish the water supply every day. Fresh tree veterans recognize that Christmas trees can be very thirsty, especially within the first week or so of

being cut and brought home. Fill the stand with water each morning and, if necessary, refill it each night before going to bed. The more water a tree gets and drinks, the more likely it is that the tree will look healthy all the way to Christmas Day. MSU Extension notes that many decorative or antique tree stands do not hold much water, so anyone with such a stand may need to replenish the water supply more than once or twice per day.

• Keep the tree away from a heat source. For safety’s sake, trees should be kept away from heating vents, fireplaces and space heaters. But keeping trees away from such heat sources, and ensuring they are not spending the daytime in direct sunlight, also decreases the chances they will dry out before Christmas Day. A handful of simple strategies can help holiday celebrants keep their Christmas trees looking good throughout the month of December.

Operation Cratchit Stanford Settlement’s Annual Christmas Basket Program

Who can help?

We need YOU to help provide over 700 houses in the North Sacramento Area with Christmas baskets!

Anyone!

Individuals, families, schools, businesses, sororities, fraternities, professional associations, churches, service groups . . .

What do we need?

New, unwrapped toys and gifts for children and teens New Christmas wrapping paper Non-perishable food items: canned or packaged foods Cash donations

How can I help?

Join Us In The Holiday Spirit!

Donate one or more of the items listed below Organize your own food or toy drive to benefit Operation Cratchit Give your time and talent by volunteering!

For more information visit www.stanfordsettlement.org or call 916 927-1303 To advertise, call 916-429-9901 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • November 2020 • Holiday Magic

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

The 10th annual Pioneer Congregational Church family holiday musical spectacular “Songs of the Season Mystery and Memories”, the 10th annual Pioneer Congregational Church family holiday musical spectacular will be performed Sunday, December 5 at 5:00 p.m. Capital Public Radio’s Donna Apidone is the “story teller”.

Pioneer Music Director, Jim Jordan, has drawn musicians and singers from the four-county area for the holiday production.

“The jubilant secular and joyous sacred pieces are wrapped in a beautiful story masterfully told by Donna Apidone.

This will be an evening sure to delight young and old alike,” says Jordan.

Soloists include: Jori Gonzales, Dr. Darrick Lawson, Heather Clark, Claire McKnight and Brianne Hidden.

The 20 voice choir and 17 piece orchestra is from a variety of community musical organizations from the West Sacramento Symphony, Symphony d’Oro Rancho Cordova, Sacramento Choral Society, and California State University, only a partial listing.

Music Director Jim Jordan originated the “Songs” concert and a champagne reception will follow the performance to acknowledge his retirement.

Tickets are available at the Pioneer office at 916-443-3727, tickets are $20 with children under the age of ten free. Parking is available at Sutter Community Garage, 27th and N Streets. The historic Pioneer Congregational United Church of Christ (UCC) is located at 2700 L Street, across from Sutter’s Fort.

Photo Courtesy of Pioneer Congressional Church

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Classic holiday films families can enjoy together The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Few traditions may elicit more collective belly laughs than holiday movie night, a tradition in millions of households across the globe. Families can consider these classic holiday films as they plan family movie night this holiday season.

• “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947): This classic is centered around a man named “Kris Kringle” (Edmund Gwenn) who claims to be the real Santa Claus after a successful stint as a department store Santa in midtown Manhattan. A trial to determine if Mr. Kringle is telling the truth soon follows. This version of the tale has earned a 96 percent rating on the popular film review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

• “A Christmas Story” (1983): Though it airs all day long on Christmas on the cable television network TBS, families can get a head-start on that marathon and watch the film uninterrupted whenever they choose. Families can laugh together as 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) hopes to unwrap his official Red Ryder BB gun on Christmas morning.

The film, which boasts an 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, includes a memorable performance

by Darren McGavin, who plays Ralphie’s father.

• “Babes In Toyland” (1934): Also known as “March of the Wooden Soldiers,” this nearly century-old classic stars the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy as two helpful tenants living in Mother Peep’s shoe in Toyland.

• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1967): An animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic, this film has entertained scores of children since it was first released more than 50 years ago.

• “Holiday Inn” (1942): Hollywood legends Bing Crosby and

Fred Astaire star in this classic that is perhaps most remembered for introducing the Irving Berlin class “White Christmas” to the masses.

The film boasts a 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has something for fans of song, dance and romance.

• “Arthur Christmas” (2011): Not all Christmas films date back to the 20th century. This animated tale tells the story of Arthur (voiced by James McAvoy), Santa’s youngest son who is thrust into the Christmas Eve business of delivering presents when his father fails to deliver a present to one child out of the hundreds of millions of kids on his list.

• “A Christmas Carol” (1951): Many holiday season celebrants cannot imagine letting a season go by without watching at least one adaptation of

Charles Dickens’ classic tale.

The 1951 version is widely considered the most faithful to Dickens’ 1843 novella that recounts the story of Ebenezer

Scrooge. Alastair Sim stars as Scrooge, and many consider his performance the best of any actor to take a turn as the notorious 19th century miser.

Sac Civic Ballet & Deane Dance Center Present TWO one-act Holiday Ballets . . .

Veterans Memorial Center Theater

203 E 14th Street, Davis, CA TICKETS:

The Story of Noah’s Ark Followed by

The Nutcracker

Adult - $20 Seniors & Children - $15 Tickets available at door or deanedancecenter.com

Call 916-453-0226 for questions

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Hospice and Palliative Care...

Ensures Quality of Life at the End of Life Many people shy away from the words hospice or “end of life care” and do not broach the topic.

This subject is often only considered at the last minute when a decision is much needed, within a day, or at times, within a few hours. We at Absolute Compassion believe there is a better way.

Knowledge and education can give us peace of mind in moments when medical decisions have to be made for loved ones, friends and neighbors. Being familiar with what hospice and palliative services are, as well as understanding ones’ rights and options, can be of tremendous comfort to all involved in these stressful moments of decision making.

Patients with incurable medical conditions and less than six months of life expectancy can benefit from hospice and palliative care services provided by a compassionate team of health care professionals who support all areas of wellbeing: the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a patient’s care. Hospice and palliative care services focus on quality of life during that moment, managing pain and symptom relief rather than curative treatments.

We encourage you to attend one of our community trainings/classes and meet with our team of dedicated professionals, so you can have peace of mind while making or helping someone else make quality of life decisions. Please call or email us for questions or concerns regarding hospice and palliative care services.

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May you have a plentiful harvest of JOY and LOVE!

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

How to participate in GivingTuesday The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is widely referred to as the holiday season. Holidays such as Chanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa all take place in this typically six-week window. During this period, there’s another, possibly lesser known, event that can elicit many of the same warm feelings generated by more recognizable holidays.

GivingTuesday is held on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving every year.

Though that typically means the day is celebrated after the calendar turns to December, this year GivingTuesday takes place on Tuesday, November 30.

day is often characterized as hashtag activism, which involves social media users employing Twitter hashtags to show support for a cause. Twitter hashtags do not utilize spaces between words, so GivingTuesday references adhere to this practice.

How can people participate in GivingTuesday?

The organizers behind GivingTuesday note that the day is about all types of giving. Individuals who want to participate can donate money, food and/or clothing; start an advocacy campaign; help a neighbor; or commit an act of generosity. Participants need not make their GivingTuesday What is GivingTuesday? efforts part of any official event asGivingTuesday organizers describe sociated with the day, but those who the event as a “movement that un- want to can visit VolunteerMatch. leashes the power of radical generos- org to look for volunteering opportuity around the world.” GivingTues- nities in and around their communi-

ties. Employers and even local governments also may sponsor or host events on GivingTuesday. Twitter users also can use the hashtag #GivingTuesday to promote causes and/or encourage donations throughout the day. Some organizations may match users’ donations up to a predetermined dollar amount, and users can

Art That Makes People Happy

The most popular gift 25 years ago It’s easy for adults to experience a little nostalgia when holiday shopping for their children. The holiday season has long been considered a special time of year, and much of that magic can be traced to the joy kids feel when unwrapping gifts from mom, dad and, of course, Santa Claus. Many parents who now have youngsters at home grew up in the 1990s. When such moms and dads are shopping for holiday gifts this season, they might wonder what was the musthave item for them back when they anxiously awaited the arrival of Christmas morning? According to Insider.com, who worked in conjunction with the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, 1996 was the year of “ Tickle Me Elmo.” This ticklish toy was the most sought-after item of the

1996 holiday season, and it was so popular that retailers experienced shortages. Those shortages led to some surprising sales on the secondary market, with figures that will undoubtedly drop some jaws even now, a quarter century after the Tickle Me Elmo craze erupted.

Though the Tickle Me Elmo doll retailed for around $30 in 1996, some parents intent on getting their youngsters the most in-demand gift that year reportedly spent more than $1,000 on a single doll. To put that latter figure into perspective, data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that the average price of a new car in 1996 was $18,525. And according to Yahoo! Finance, drivers in the market for a used car in 1996 could have purchased a 1986 four-door Oldsmobile for just over $2,600.

enter #GivingTuesday into the Twitter search engine to discover such efforts. Parents can even help children find ways to participate by visiting GivingTuesdaySpark.org.

GivingTuesday is a global effort that emphasizes the power of generosity.

Individuals can learn more at GivingTuesday.org.

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Toy buying tips when shopping for kids Shopping for gifts for kids makes many shoppers nostalgic for their own childhoods. Few adults can forget the joy of finding the perfect gift under the tree on Christmas morning. Recreating that magic for a youngster can be as joyous for gift givers as it is for kids. That’s especially so when shoppers make it a point to give safe, age-appropriate gifts.

Whether shopping for their own children or their grandkids, nieces or nephews, shoppers can keep these tips in mind to ensure they give toys that are as safe as they are fun.

• Speak to Mom and Dad first.

When buying for a grandchild, niece or nephew, shoppers should first ask Mom or Dad for suggestions. Parents will know which types of toys their children like, and

they’ll also know the child’s level of maturity. Some kids may not be mature enough to play with otherwise age-appropriate toys, while others may be mature beyond their years and enjoy more complex toys than their age would suggest. Parents will know what makes a good toy and what doesn’t.

• Learn what to look for on labels. Toy labels are great sources of information, but shoppers must know what to look for. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that toy labels include information about age-appropriateness (i.e., “Ages 3 & Up”) as well as directions regarding how to use the toy. If the instructions seem a bit complex for the child the item will be for, look for something else. Children’s toy labels also include additional information that consumers may not

What is Green Monday?

Black Friday was once the biggest day of the holiday shopping season for shoppers and retailers alike. However, in recent decades, retail holidays like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday have become popular in their own right. And even more recently, Green Monday has thrown its hat into the ring.

What is Green Monday?

Green Monday is so called because it is one of the most profitable days of the year for retailers. The origins of the name “Green Monday” are debated, as both eBay and Shopping.com have been credited with creating the moniker.

When is Green Monday?

Green Monday is the second Monday in December and will take place on December 13 in 2021.

Where does Green Monday rank for retailers?

Retail holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday still generate more sales for retailers than Green Monday. A 2016 report from Statista.com noted that Green Monday sales figures totaled around $1.6 billion in 2016, while Adobe Analytics figures indicate Black Friday spending, including in store and online

purchases, totaled $9 billion in 2020. However, Green Monday sales grew by 31 percent between 2018 and 2019. That suggests consumers are increasingly looking to Green Monday as a day to score deals on products that will still arrive in time for Christmas.

Industry experts predict that retailers will acknowledge that growing popularity by offering more and more Green Monday sales in the years to come.

What kind of deals can be found on Green Monday?

An analyst with DealNews.com noted that, in 2019, Home Depot offered up to 60 percent off with a coupon code for an extra 10 percent off as part of its Green Monday promotions. Discounts with other retailers ranged from 20 percent to 50 percent off, and popular online retailers, including Amazon, have offered their own Green Monday deals.

So as the day becomes more popular, shoppers can expect more deals.

Green Monday is the latest retail holiday to take place in December. Patient and lastminute shoppers may find great deals this December 13.

be familiar with. For example, toys labeled “ASTM F963” meet the latest safety standards from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. An “ASTM D4236” label indicates the materials associated with the art toy have been reviewed and deemed safe by a toxicologist.

More information about toy label requirements can be found at cpsc. gov. The AAP advises that electric toys should only be given to kids if they include the UL label. That means the toy has been certified by the global safety certification company UL, LLC. • Avoid certain features. The AAP notes that toys that are loud, shoot objects into the air or contain small pieces pose a threat to children.

Especially loud toys can damage children’s hearing, while projectiles can increase the risk of eye injuries

or choking. Toys with small pieces also pose a choking risk to young children who may try to put the pieces into their mouths.

• Err on the side of caution. Consumers who are uncertain about the safety of a given toy, even after reading its label, should err on the side of caution and only give toys they’re confident won’t pose a safety risk. Even toys that may seem safe could be dangerous to kids who might otherwise seem old enough. For example, the AAP advises against giving kids under 12 hobby kits and chemistry sets.

That’s because such kits may contain dangerous chemicals that even pre-adolescents are not old enough to handle safely.

Shoppers must consider a host of factors when looking for safe toys for kids this holiday season.

RIVER CITY CHORALE David Vanderbout, Artistic Director Presents

Sing Joy: Holiday Celebration!

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH EXCITING NEW SONGS AND TRADITIONAL FAVORITES SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 7:30 PM Town & Country Lutheran Church 4049 Marconi Ave. , Sacramento

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 4:00 PM

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 7869 Kingswood Dr., Citrus Heights (near Sunrise Mall)

ADVANCE TICKETS $20.00 ($25.00 at the door) DECEMBER 4 ONLY: Student special, $10.00 at the door with student ID.

www.rivercitychorale.org

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916-297-7778

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Customer Appreciation Sale

3 DAYS ONLY DECEMBER 3-5 SAVE UP TO $10 Off Dry Dog and Cat Food 20% Off Pet Supplies

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GRASS VALLEY (530) 272-7701 649 Sutton Way

AUBURN (530) 885-7711 1775 Grass Valley Hwy

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

IMAX® Enhanced to Launch on Disney+ with Titles from the Marvel Cinematic Universe in IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio NEW YORK & LOS ANGELES – November 8, 2021 – For the first time ever, fans will be able to stream some of their favorite Marvel titles in IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio at home with IMAX Enhanced on Disney+, launching on November 12th as part of Disney’s company-wide Disney+ Day global celebration.

The new collaboration was announced today by The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS), IMAX Corporation (NYSE:IMAX), and DTS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xperi Holding Corporation (Nasdaq: XPER).

With IMAX Enhanced on Disney+: · Subscribers will get more picture with IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio across 13 Marvel titles – all they need to do is hit play · IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio is 1.90:1, which offers up to 26% more picture for select sequences – meaning more of the action is visible on screen, just as the filmmakers intended · In the future, the collaboration will deliver even more enhanced audio and visual technology to Disney+, including immersive IMAX signature sound by DTS The 13 titles available at launch include the Disney+ premiere of Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi

brary at-home where they can now watch the Avengers assemble with more picture than ever before.”

“Disney, Marvel Studios, and IMAX have collaborated for years to bring the world’s most popular films to the big screen, and on Friday we’ll start to bring IMAX technology to subscribers with IMAX Enhanced viewing in the Disney+ app,” said Michael Paull, President of Disney+ and ESPN+. “We’re thrilled to create new value for Marvel fans and audiences on Disney+, and we’re looking forward Photo Courtesy IMAX to offering even more IMAX EnFrom Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings to Iron Man, 13 Fan-Favorite Marvel Movies will be Available to hanced functionality in the future.”

Watch at Home in IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio for the First Time Ever on Disney+ Day, November 12 “We are thrilled that fans of the and The Legend of The Ten Marvel Studios are giving the fans MCU will soon have the opporRings on November 12th as well what they want: the most immersive tunity to experience IMAX’s Exas other fan-favorite MCU mov- viewing experience throughout the panded Aspect Ratio, in their own ies like Iron Man, Guardians of life of a Marvel Studios film, from homes with the launch of IMAX see IMAX page 21 the Galaxy, Guardians of the Gal- exclusive theatrical release to the liaxy Vol. 2, Captain America: Civil War, Doctor Strange, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, Ant-Man and The Wasp, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, and Black Widow (content availability varies by region).

“For more than a decade, IMAX has helped filmmakers take fans across the Marvel Cinematic Universe in theaters and now that epic journey crosses into a new world: the home,” said Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX. “IMAX, Disney, and

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Did you know?

Lights on a Christmas tree may seem like a relatively recent phenomenon, but people who can’t wait to deck the halls each December may be surprised to learn that this beloved tradition dates all the way back to the late nineteenth century. Edward Johnson, a friend and colleague of Thomas Edison, introduced holiday light bulbs in 1882. Prior to that, candles were lit on trees and families would briefly gaze at this awe-inspiring bit of holiday decor before the candles were quickly extinguished. Johnson is credited with being the first to suggest light bulbs, which were invented by his friend Edison, be used to light trees in place of can-

IMAX:

continued from page 19

Enhanced on Disney+,” said Jon Kirchner, chief executive officer of Xperi. “DTS is proud to be an integral part of IMAX Enhanced and we are looking forward to unlocking more exciting technology for Disney+ subscribers in the future, which will include immersive IMAX signature sound by DTS.” IMAX is the world’s most immersive canvas for filmmakers to bring their visions to audiences around the globe. With IMAX Expanded Aspect Ratio, filmmakers can create a more immersive experience in theatres and now in the home, allowing audiences to see more of the action. Marvel fans have long called for more of The IMAX Experience at home, and now with certain IMAX Enhanced features on Disney+, subscribers will get what they have been waiting for - additional image at home as intended by the incredible teams behind some of the world’s most popular films.

With IMAX Enhanced, IMAX and technology partner DTS will enable content that can be viewed

Revere courT Memory Care

dles. While many were impressed

by Johnson’s eight-bulb holiday display, it remained a novelty until the 1920s, when preassembled lights became more accessible.

Since then, Christmas tree lights have taken hold as a must-have piece of holiday decor in households across the globe. in-home with the highest fidelity, which ensures that filmmakers’ creative intent is fully optimized for an IMAX-quality presentation.

Disney+ is the first major streaming service that will elevate the at-home viewing experience with IMAX Enhanced, rewarding its subscribers with new ways to reexperience the Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond.

Today’s announcement is the latest evolution in the storied relationship between IMAX and Marvel Studios, with audiences first entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe in IMAX in 2010.

Since then, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has earned well over $1.6 billion across IMAX screens globally, making it the highest grossing franchise in IMAX history. Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame were the first films shot entirely with IMAX digital cameras, and all titles available on November 12th feature select sequences in IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratio.

Disney+ Day is a global celebration that will come to life across The Walt Disney Company on Friday, November 12th with new content releases, fan experiences, exclusive offers and more.

Loving Someone Who Has Dementia How to find hope while coping with stress & grief Book Study & Discussion Group for Family Caregivers

Thursdays from 10am - 11:30am

November 4th, 11th & 18th December 2nd, 9th, 16th Presented by Julie Interrante, MA Author, Engaging the Wisdom of Your Soul Books to be purchased prior to the book study at Amazon or at

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Wishing you and your loved ones a magical Holiday Season

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Revere Court Memory Care offers a Day Club, Respite & Residential Care for those with a memory impairment, also offering Support Groups and Monthly Seminars for Caregivers and loved ones.

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901

Crustless pie a treat for those with gluten intolerance The holiday season is a popular time to entertain. Food is often a focal point of holiday season entertaining.

Individuals who navigate food allergies or intolerances may shy away from certain celebrations out of fear that a nibble of this or a bite of that may trigger an allergic response. In such instances, concern about ingredients can cast a pall over normally festive occasions.

Those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerances must be mindful of the foods they consume. Meals or desserts containing gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, semolina, rye, barley, graham, spelt, farina, and more, can trigger intestinal distress and other symptoms. With delicious pies, cakes and cookies on the holiday serving table, gluten is likely to make an appearance. However, with careful planning, people who cannot stomach foods that contain gluten can still indulge in their favorite holiday flavors.

“Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie” is a variation on traditional pumpkin pie served at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Without the crust, individuals who avoid gluten can still dive into that pumpkin-andspice combination that’s so popular around the holiday season. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of Libby’s® Pumpkin.

Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie Makes 8 servings

3⁄4 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves 2 large eggs 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s® 100% Pure Pumpkin 1 can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé® Carnation Evaporated Milk

Nonstick cooking spray

Whipped cream (optional) 1. Preheat oven as directed below.

Glass baking dishes without crust require a cooler oven, and in most cases, a longer baking time.

2. Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease bottom of baking pan or baking dish.

3. Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in a small bowl. Beat eggs in a large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

4. Bake as directed below or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean.

5. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours.

Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Cooking times

9-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 55 to 60 minutes 10-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 8-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 9-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 8-inch-square baking pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes Bring in your books for trade

8-inch-square glass baking dish: 325 F; 50 to 60 minutes 9-inch-square baking dish: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 11x7-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 13x9-inch baking pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 13x9-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 40 to 45 minutes

Crawford’s Books Family Owned Independent Bookstore

New Books can be ordered from us through bookshop.org/shop/crawfordsbooks

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Super Saturday Sidewalk Sale 1st Saturday of the month 10am-3pm $1 per book - $10 per bag 5301 Freeport Blvd. #200 Sacramento CA 95822 Monday – Saturday: 10am – 6pm Sunday: 11am – 3pm

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We’re back!

Tickets online at www.cplayhouse.org or by calling the Chautauqua box office at 916.489.7529

Festival of Lights Parade and 14th Annual Tree Lighting Enjoy the festive music and beautiful lighting of the Tree of Grace on Fulton Avenue. Brought to you by the Fulton Avenue Association and the Fulton-El Camino Recreation and Park District.

The Parade will begin promptly at 5:00 pm, travel South on Bell Street, East on Cottage Way, North on Fulton Avenue and end at the Department of Human Assistance parking

lot at 2700 Fulton Avenue. The Parade route is approximately 1.4 miles.

Immediately following the Parade, the Annual Tree Lighting will begin with food and pictures with Santa available for all participants. The event will conclude with awards for the Festival of Lights Parade. https://www.fecrpd.com/202112-04-festival-of-lights-paradeand-14th-annual-tree-lighting

Santa’s Christmas Caper or Who Stole the Star?

By Warren Harrison An all new Christmas adventure for children!

PERFORMANCE DATES: December 4-18 – Saturdays at 1:00 p.m.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)

Instead of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic – join us for three actors endeavoring to perform every Christmas story ever told!

It’s a small miracle making all Christmas myths seem both utterly ridiculous and absolutely essential!

PERFORMANCE DATES: December 3, 4, 5,9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23 Evenings at 8 pm, Sundays at 2 pm

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Holiday Magic • November 2020 • A special advertising section of Valley Community Newspapers • To advertise, call 916-429-9901