Page 993 – Bohemian | Sonoma & Napa Counties

Nov. 17: Winterblast in the SOFA district

Noted

Leilani Clark

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Nov 15, 2012

Nov. 17: Winterblast in the SOFA district

The South A Street neighborhood in Santa Rosa is a great place to spend an afternoon, what with its blend of coffee shops, restaurants and art galleries, but when Winterblast kicks off every November, the street really comes alive. In addition to the annual sofa parade (yes, it’s a parade of sofas, just like it sounds), the annual street party offers open galleries, live music, a kids zone, street performers, coffee, beer and local food vendors. It’s the perfect opportunity to break out the hot toddies and celebrate community. Winterblast takes over A Street on Saturday, Nov. 17, in the SOFA district. Sebastopol Avenue at A Street, Santa Rosa. 5—8pm. Free. 707.695.1011.

Nov.16: Angelique Kidjo at the Napa Valley Opera House

Noted

Leilani Clark

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Nov 15, 2012

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Nov.16: Angelique Kidjo at the Napa Valley Opera House

Before Sade hit the scene, there was another chanteuse in town by the name of Angélique Kidjo. The West African singer is in a class of her own, with a voice and presence that could move mountains. Logozo, Kidjo’s first album, was released in 1992 to huge success and reached No. 1 on the Billboard World Music chart. The Benin-born superstar has since split her time between music and activism for organizations like UNICEF, Oxfam and Africa for Women’s Rights. Her song lyrics span four languages, Fon, French, Yoruba (the native language of Nigeria) and English, all sung with an intoxicatingly smooth, honey-toned wonder. Angélique Kidjo plays on Friday, Nov. 16, at the Napa Valley Opera House. 8pm. $35—$45. 707.226.7372.

Nov. 15: Sere Prince Halverson at the Writers Forum

Noted

Leilani Clark

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Nov 15, 2012

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Nov. 15: Sere Prince Halverson at the Writers Forum

Writers dream about the day that their novel is finally published, gracing the shelves of bookstores and miraculously ending up as an Oprah’s book club pick. But what about all the work that goes on before that joyous day? In a talk titled “My Long, Slippery, Uphill-Both-Ways Path to Publication,” acclaimed Sebastopol author Seré Prince Halverson will share the 25-year, two-marriage, four-kid, two-agent, three-novel-long journey that lead to the publication of The Underside of Joy by Dutton. Part of the monthly writers forum series hosted by Marlene Cullen, the talk offers a chance to get real about writing fiction. Seré Prince Halverson talks about her writing journey on Thursday, Nov. 15, at the Petaluma Community Center. 320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. 7pm. $15. 707.762.6279.

A Different World

Arts

Leilani Clark

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Nov 14, 2012

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For most kids growing up in post-depression, World War II–era East Los Angeles, becoming a professional artist wasn’t an option. “Most of my friends went into the service and ended up in menial jobs,” says Roberto Chavez, born in the Maravilla area of East L.A. in 1932. “A lot of the younger kids in the neighborhood ended up in prison or strung out on dope. The medium of art helped me to see other possibilities.”

Against the odds, Chavez became a life-long teacher and painter. It’s an accomplishment that Chavez might never have seen if he’d gone the way of most of the other kids from his hometown, a once diverse, working-class neighborhood with a large Mexican-American population. From Nov. 15 through Dec. 13, the Robert F. Agrella Gallery at SRJC features the first-ever Chavez retrospective, an exhibit comprising 60 works.

Encouraged by his family and teachers from early on, Chavez took art classes in high school and went to Los Angeles Community College before transferring to UCLA, where he received a master’s in art. It was a path that took him into teaching, a profession that Chavez practiced for over 40 years; it led him from the halls of East Los Angeles Community College, where he helped found one of the first Mexican-American studies departments in the country in 1969, to teaching in juvenile halls and women’s prisons across Southern and Central California. He retired to a tucked-away corner of southern Arizona two years ago.

“Luckily, I was able to make a living doing something I really believed in, which is that art can be an influence of change for people,” says Chavez, who also spent 10 years in Fort Bragg in the ’80s and ’90s. “I had myself as proof.”

Like his childhood home, with its mix of Jewish, Mexican, Armenian, Italian, Russian and Japanese populations, Chavez’s art takes hybrid forms. Formed from a hodgepodge of influences—from European abstract expressionists to Mexican artists José Clemente Orozco and Rufino Tamayo—Chavez’s work plays at the intersection of life’s joy and pain, capturing the simpler moments (a mother sitting peacefully in a chair, a still life with fruit) along with war scenes of naked, bloody bodies.

Paintings like Belsen Landscape from 1957 have a dark claustrophobia in the vein of Norwegian expressionist painter Edvard Munch. Considering that both the Mexican and Jewish populations came to Los Angeles to escape violence—for Jews it was persecution in Eastern Europe, and for Mexicans (including Chavez’s own family) the danger caused by the Mexican revolution—the subject of war isn’t surprising.

Later works, like Late Summer, a light-filled watercolor painted in 2007, linger in the world of texture and space rather than human struggle. In another nod to European art, Chavez writes in a book complementing the new retrospective that it was an exhibit of Renoir’s flower paintings that he viewed as a young artist which opened his eyes to the medium’s possibilities.

“It helped me to see the potential of paint,” he explains. “They seemed to be not pictures of flowers, but rather paint that was alive on the surface of the canvas that created patterns, patterns that conveyed the forms of the flowers to the eye. I wanted to make paintings that had that kind of magical energy.”

In 1961, Chavez began to exhibit his work at the then-new Ceeje Gallery in Los Angeles. Located on La Cienega, the gallery specialized in the expressionist and dramatic work of figurative painters, many known for pushing the margins in a city that was focused on abstract, streamlined art. Over the years, Chavez had both solo and group shows at the adventurous art space.

“I was aware that we were an odd lot that started that gallery,” he recalls. “We were also aware that there were different things going on elsewhere in the city.” From 1961 to 1970, the gallery offered an alternative to other Los Angeles galleries, which tended toward a rehash of the New York art scene, explains Chavez.

The compulsion to be true to his own vision and creative impulse, without paying much, if any, attention to what’s commercially successful, is a vein that continues to run through Chavez’s work even as he enters his eighth decade.

“The kind of art that I do and that I teach, there’s not a big place for it in the world today,” he says, when asked what advice he’d give young artists. “It’s all commercial and celebrity, and that’s all bullshit. Follow your heart and don’t look for rewards. Do it because you want to do it.”

Time of the Season

Features

Nicolas Grizzle

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Nov 14, 2012

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Swans a-Swimming: Events

Jewish Film Festival

The Jewish Community Center presents a season to remember in this 17th annual festival. Films include Hava Nagila, Reuniting the Rubins and A.K.A. Doc Pomus. Runs though Dec. 4 at Rialto Cinemas. 6868 McKinley St., Sebastopol. $10–$15. 707.528.4222.

Outdoor Skating

Dig out your ice skates for the opening of Napa’s full-scale outdoor skating rink. Open through Jan. 13. Second and Coombs streets, Napa. $12. 707.227.7141.

Napa Wine Train Thanksgiving

Take in the beauty of Napa Valley on a real-live train while enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving feast just like the one grandma made. Nov. 22, 4–8:30pm. 1275 McKinstry St., Napa. $119–$149. 800.427.4124.

Festival of Lights

Yountville is gloriously illuminated for this 23rd annual fest, featuring gourmet food and wine, a visit from Santa and carriage rides for an afternoon of holiday fun. Nov. 23, 2–6pm. Downtown Yountville, Washington Street. Free. 707.944.0904.

Heart of Sonoma Valley Open House

The 29th annual open house this year showcases 27 Sonoma Valley wineries, including Valley of the Moon Winery, Ledson and Imagery Estate, among many others. Friday–Saturday, Nov. 23–24, 11am–4pm. $45 per person both days; $10 designated driver tickets. www.heartofsonomavalley.com.

Napa Christmas Parade

Bundle up and enjoy evening parade of lighted holiday floats, then follow Santa to Oxbow Public Market for free hot chocolate and cookies. Nov. 24 at 5pm. First Street at Franklin Street, downtown Napa. Free. 707.257.0322.

Festival of Lights

Winetasting celebration with carols, wreaths, pizza by Rosso, movies, Santa and more. Nov. 24 at Trentadue Winery, 19170 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville. 2–7pm. $15–$20. 707.433.3294.

Book Sale

River Friends of the Library is holding its annual holiday book sale and bake sale. Nov. 28–Dec. 1. Wednesday, 5–7:30pm; Thursday–Friday, 10am–4pm; Saturday, 10am–3pm. Special $3 per bag of books on Saturday. Guerneville Regional Library, 14107 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville. Free. 707.869.9004.

Winter in the Wineries

A “passport” to some of the best wineries in the Napa Valley gives carte blanche for up to 15 tastings and discounts at participating vendors in Calistoga. Nov. 30–Feb. 10. $50. 866.306.5588.

Napa B&B Tour & Taste Event

The bed and breakfasts of Napa invite you inside to savor select wines and tasty treats. Transportation and entertainment included. Dec. 1, 3–7pm. $65 per person. For a list of participating inns, see www.napaholidaytour.com.

The Blessing of the Olives

Many an olive will be blessed at Historic Sonoma Square. This laid-back event includes music and refreshments. Dec. 1 at 11am. East Spain Street and First Street East, Sonoma. Free. 707.996.1090.

Lighted Tractor Parade

This small-town event features a lineup of vintage tractors, trucks and other fun vehicles all sparkled up for the holidays. Santa makes an appearance. Dec. 1, 7–8pm. Downtown Calistoga. Free. 707.942.6333.

Luther Burbank Open House

Step into Luther Burbank’s former home and extraordinary gardens with a two-day open house. Cookies and spiced tea are served in the greenhouse by those in period costume. Kids can enjoy holiday crafts, free trolley rides and the crackling wit of the inimitable Dan Flock. Dec. 1–2, 10am–4pm. Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, Santa Rosa and Sonoma avenues, Santa Rosa. $2. Ages 12 and older. 707.524.5445.

ICB Artists Winter Open Studios

The ICB Artists Association presents works of over 80 artists in the 44th annual Winter Open Studios, “Walk in an Artist’s Shoes.” Painting, fiber arts, sculpture, digital arts, photography, printmaking, fashion, jewelry and more are on display in the huge, iconic barrel-roofed structure on the Sausalito waterfront. Dec. 1–2, 11am–6pm. 480 Gate Five Road, Sausalito. 415.331.2222.

Hanukkah Hootenanny

Judd’s Hill Winery presents the seventh annual Hanukkah Hootenanny, featuring an “extravagant latke bar” and traditional jelly doughnuts. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Children’s Health Initiative Napa County. Dec. 4, noon–3pm. 2332 Silverado Trail, Napa. $40. 707.255.2332.

Windsor Holiday Celebration

Downtown Windsor buzzes with holiday cheer as folks enjoy train rides ($1), carriage rides ($1) and photos with Santa ($10), who is joined by Mrs. Claus when the tree is lit and the snow machines fire up on the town green. Dec. 6, 5–8pm. Town Green, Windsor. Free. 707.838.1260.

Light Up a Life

St. Joseph’s hospices honor lives lost with annual candle- and tree-lighting ceremonies. Petaluma’s takes place on Dec. 7 at Center Park (the strip of trees outside the Mystic Theatre on Petaluma Boulevard South); Santa Rosa tree-lighting events are on Dec. 8 in Railroad Square; Oakmont’s is on Dec. 9 at Star of the Valley Church. A light can be dedicated to a loved one with a $10 donation. Events are free. 707.778.6242.

Petaluma Lighted Boat Parade

A dazzling parade of sparkling boats shine on the Petaluma River to ring in the season. Dec. 8 at 6:30pm. Petaluma River Turning Basin, Petaluma. Free. 707.769.0429.

Napa Holiday Candlelight Tour

This year’s tour will showcase buildings designed by “Napa’s architect” Luther Turton, opening both residences and businesses to attendees in order to show the wide range of architectural styles. Dec. 8, 3–7pm. 1219 First St., Napa. $35–$40. 707.255.1836.

Partridge in a Pear Tree: Shopping

Holiday Make-In

Looking to give the gift with a personal touch? Make it yourself at this DIY event. Multiple art-making stations are hosted by local artists, featuring a wide range of favorite handmade holiday projects to involve the whole family. Nov. 17, 11am–4pm. $15. Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, 551 Broadway, Sonoma. 707.939.7862.

Healdsburg Holiday Party

Healdsburg’s downtown merchants open their shops and welcome everyone to indulge in food and wine while shopping for the perfect holiday gift. Nov. 23, 4–9pm. Healdsburg Plaza, Healdsburg. Free. 707.433.6935.

Rohnert Park Holiday Arts & Crafts Faire

The recreation department celebrates its 33rd year of hand-made holiday arts and crafts. Nov. 23–24, 10am–4pm. Community Center, 5401 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. Free. 707.588.3456.

Dance Palace Holiday Crafts Fair

Find unique, quality gifts at 41st incarnation of this shopping extravaganza. Talented artists provide jewelry, pottery, clothing and more for a fun day of seasonal shopping. Nov. 30, 4pm; Dec. 1, 10am–6pm; Dec. 2, 10am–5pm. Dance Palace, Fifth and B streets, Pt. Reyes Station. Free. 415.663.1075.

Sonoma Valley Craft Fair

The Christmas Market includes more than 25 different vendors in addition to church-sponsored food, craft and gift-wrapping. Joining six jewelry makers will be crafters offering painted, quilted, woven, knitted, crocheted, sewn and embroidered home and fashion accessories. Dec. 1, 10am–4pm. Free. Faith Lutheran Church, 19355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma. 707.996.7365.

Muir Beach Quilters Holiday Arts Fair

Proceeds benefit the Muir Beach Quilters, who donate funds to many organizations that help those in need. A perfect complement to a day at the beach; free shuttle from Muir Beach parking lot. Dec. 1–2. Saturday, 10am–5pm; Sunday, 10am–4pm. Muir Beach Community Center, 19 Seascape Drive, Muir Beach. Free. 415.383.6762.

A Dickens of a Holiday Crafts Faire

Over 70 booths of handcrafted treasures, jewelry, household goods, ceramics and plenty more. Dec. 1–2. Saturday, 9am–5pm; Sunday, 10am–4pm. Finley Community Center, 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa. $2; under 18, free. 707.543.3737.

Marin County Antique Christmas Show

Enjoy a unique shopping experience through a bygone era of over 80 booths with antique, vintage and retro items, including home furnishings, garden decor, prints, paintings, clothes, books and more. Dec. 8–9. Saturday, 10am–6pm; Sunday, 10am–5pm. $6. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 415.499.6800.

Occidental Holiday Crafts Faire

Win special gift packages and taste delicious home-cooked food at this 27th annual fair showcasing the works of 35 talented local and regional artists. Dec. 8–9. Saturday, 10am–5pm; Sunday, 10am–4pm. Community Center. 3920 Bohemian Hwy., Occidental. Free. 707.874.9407.

Goddess Crafts Faire

Handmade gifts by local and regional women while live music and good grooves abound. Dec. 15–16, 11am–7pm. Sebastopol Community Center, 390 Morris St., Sebastopol. $5–$13; kids free. 707.823.1511.

Maids a-Milking: For the Kids

Santa’s Riverboat Arrival

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by boat on the Petaluma River to greet excited children with candy canes before a horse-drawn procession through downtown kicks off the holiday season. Nov. 24 at noon. Turning Basin, Golden Eagle Shopping Center, 2-80 E. Washington Blvd., Petaluma. Free. 707.769.0429.

Ringing in the Season

Bring your family and join in the spirit of the season making holiday ornaments and decorating cookies. Dec. 8 at 2pm. Napa Valley Museum, 55 Presidents Circle, Yountville. Free. 707.944.0500.

‘Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail’

Join Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger and the rest of the gang in this magical holiday tale produced by local youths for young audiences. Dec. 15–16 and Dec. 22–23. 11am and 2pm. Raven Theater, 115 North St., Healdsburg. $10. 707.433.6335.

VOENA: Drummer Boy

Angelic voices of this multicultural children’s a cappella choir, beautiful Victorian costuming and magical musical arrangements all come together to create a lively holiday celebration. Audience participation encouraged. Dec. 22 at 7:30pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $35. 707.226.7372.

Kwanzaa Celebration

Celebrate Kwanzaa with the African Roots of Jazz, featuring E. W. Wainwright and a room of dancing kids, on Dec. 26, 11am and 1pm. Free. Discovery Museum, Fort Baker, 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito. 415.339.3900.

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Pipers Piping: Stage

MacHomer

Rick Miller performs Shakespeare’s Macbeth using 85 percent of the original script and 50 different voices from The Simpsons in what Miller is promising will be the last-ever presentation of the show. Nov. 17 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $10–$20. 707.226.7372.

Great Russian ‘Nutcracker’

Beloved Russian fairy-tale characters and larger-than-life puppets add to the whimsical and imaginative storytelling. Dec. 23, 3pm and 7pm. Wells Fargo Center, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $28–$102. 707.546.3600.

‘Beauty & the Beast’

Fall under the spell of this classic story about the beautiful maiden, Belle, and the fierce Beast who holds her captive in his enchanted castle. Nov. 23–Dec. 8 at 7:30pm; weekend matinees, 1:30pm. Burbank Auditorium, Santa Rosa Junior College, 1501 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. $10–$18. 707.527.4343.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’

The Marin Theatre Company presents a live radio play of this holiday classic. Five actors perform the voices of a dozen characters while creating sound effects in this throwback to the 1940s. Nov 23–Dec. 16. Tuesday, Thursday–Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm and 8pm; Wednesday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm and 7pm. $36–$57. Marin Theatre Company, 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. 415.388.5208.

‘The Nutcracker’

Contessi Ballet and the Petaluma North Bay Performing Arts Association present timeless holiday favorite featuring Hayley Hibbens as Clara and Ignacio Gonzalez as Drosselmeyer. Nov. 24 at 7pm and Nov. 25 at 2pm. Spreckels Center, 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. $15–$25. 707.588.3400.

Clark Sterling’s Broadway Holiday

The best of Broadway meets the holiday season with Broadway veteran Clark Sterling, and singers Danielle Kane, Michelle Jordan, Wesla Whitfield, Mike Greensill and Robert Dornaus. Expect show-stopping hits from Wicked, The Lion King and The Phantom of the Opera, among others. Nov. 24 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $20–$30. 707.226.7372.

‘Nightmare Before Christmas’

Travel back to Christmas Town with the Pumpkin King when Tamara Grose presents Tim Burton’s timeless movie as a whimsical ballet. Nov. 28–29 at 7pm. Spreckels Performing Arts Center, 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. $15–$20. 707.585.1137.

‘Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol’

Pegasus Theater presents Jacob Marley’s version of this classic tale by Tom Mula, directed by Mark Gregory. Told with laughter, terror and suspense by a cast of four. Nov. 30–Dec. 23. Friday–Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. Pegasus Theater. Rio Nido Lodge, 4444 Woods Road, Rio Nido. $5–$15; Fridays, pay what you will. 707.583.2343.

Holidaze in Hicksville

Dan Hicks & the Hot Licks kick off their annual “Holidaze in Hicksville Tour” in support of their Christmas album Crazy for Christmas. Classic favorites and some old hits reworked for the holiday season. Dec. 1 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $15–$25. 707.226.7372.

‘The Nutcracker’

The Stapleton Ballet presents its 24th performance of The Nutcracker, featuring vibrant new costumes and a magical tree that grows to over 40 feet. Dec. 1–2 at 1pm and 5pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $20–$32. 415.499.6800.

‘The Elves & the Shoemaker’

California Theatre Center presents the tale of two merry elves who arrive at a small village in the Black Forest to discover a poor shoemaker who clearly needs assistance. Recommended for grades K-5. Dec. 2 at noon. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Main St., Napa. $18. 707.259.0123.

Posada Navideña

The Instituto Mazatlán Bellas Artes de Sacramento presents vibrant sounds and colors in a dance show celebrating the special traditions of a Mexican Christmas. Refreshments served at a traditional Posada celebration following the performance. Dec. 7 at 7pm. Wells Fargo Center, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $15–$20. 707.546.3600.

Mayflower Community Chorus

Feel the spirit and be inspired by this African-American tradition of vibrant gospel, blues and jazz harmonies from a full 45-piece chorus. Dec. 7–8 at 8pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $5–$20. 415.499.6800.

‘The Nutcracker’

Enjoy the magic of Ballet Califia’s 17th annual production of the Nutcracker live onstage. Features choreography from David McNaughton and Shelley Scott. Dec. 7–9. Friday at 8pm; Saturday at 2:30pm and 8pm; Sunday at 2:30pm. Spreckels Center, 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. $18–$25. 707.588.3400.

‘The Nutcracker’

The Marin Ballet delights with production featuring stunning sets, intricate costuming, over 175 dancers and a sweet story to captivate the young at heart. Meet the cast at the candy cane party after the show. Dec. 8–9. Saturday at 1pm and 7pm; Sunday at 1pm and 5pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $25–$40. 415.499.6800.

‘The Nutcracker’

Santa Rosa Dance Theater with the Santa Rosa Youth Ballet Company present the timeless tale of a bright-eyed Clara and her beloved nutcracker prince. Choreographed by SRDT artistic director Tamara Statkoun. Dec. 14–16. Friday at 7pm; Saturday at 2pm and 7pm; Sunday at 2pm. Spreckels Center, 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. $20–$25. 707.588.3400.

Twisted Christmas Live No. 10

The Bohemian‘s own David Templeton presents his annual offbeat lit-comedy-variety show, a fun alternative to the usual holiday fare. Some of the Bay Area’s funniest folks will share the weirdest holiday stories aloud. This year’s theme is “The End of the World Show!” Dec. 15 at 7:30pm. The Glaser Center, 547 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. $20–$25. 707.568.5381.

‘Tapcracker’

Sherry Studio presents its 13th sensational year with this fun and offbeat performance. Students tap, jazz and hip-hop for a hilarious take on The Nutcracker that will keep you laughing throughout. Dec. 15 at 2pm and 5:30pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $12–$25. 415.499.6800.

‘Sophie & the Enchanted Toyshop’

Marin Dance Theatre performs this full-length, two-act children’s ballet in which a kindly toymaker gifts young Sophie with a magical journey to a beautiful snow kingdom. Meet the cast at the Teddy Bear Tea Party after the matinee. Dec. 15 at 1pm and 5pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $27–$36. 415.499.6800.

‘The Nutcracker’

Sebastopol Ballet presents 20th annual production, with complimentary sugar plum parties before matinees starting at 1pm. Dec. 21–23. Friday at 7pm; Saturday at 2pm and 7pm; Sunday at 2pm. Analy High School, 6950 Analy Ave., Sebastopol. $10–$20. 707.824.8006.

Drummers Drumming: Music

Dorado Schmitt & the Django Reinhardt Festival All-Stars

Legendary manouche gypsy guitarist Dorado Schmitt even looks the part of the two-fingered 1920s superstar guitarist Django Reinhardt. He heads a five-piece band in this tribute to the jazz master. Nov. 15 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $25–$30. 707.226.7372.

Angélique Kidjo

Grammy Award–winning music recording artist deemed “Africa’s premier diva” has collaborated with Carlos Santana, Peter Gabriel and others. Nov. 16 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $35–$45. 707.226.7372.

Mickey Hart

Percussionist for the Grateful Dead translates the language of rhythm and speaks the word of the drums beneath his fingers. See what they have to say about the holiday season on Nov. 29 at 8pm. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Main St., Napa. $35. 707.259.0123.

Glen Campbell: The Goodbye Tour

The crooner Glen Campbell has lived an interesting 75 years, and on his last tour he sings, tells stories and reflects on his life. Featuring Victoria Ghost. Nov. 30 at 8pm. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Main St., Napa. $75. 707.259.0123.

Concerts by Candlelight

Stephen McKersie conducts the Marin Symphony Chamber Orchestra as its chorus members invite listeners to join in the heart-warming harmonies of the season. Dec. 1–2. Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday at 4pm. Church of Saint Raphael, 104 Fifth Ave., San Rafael. $25–$30. 415.479.8100.

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Dmitri Matheny Group

Flugelhornist Dmirti Matheny plays the sounds of the season with Clairdee on vocals and a jazz ensemble accompanying. Includes a farm-to-table dinner with wine. Dec. 2 at 3:30 pm. Longmeadow Ranch Winery, 738 Main St., St. Helena. $20. 707.963-4555.

Straight No Chaser

A hilarious take on the holiday season by the male a cappella group Straight No Chaser is sure to put the season in perspective. The YouTube sensation has jumped from the internet to the real world, and has made numerous television appearances in addition to touring. Dec. 2 at 7:30pm. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $39–$49. 707.546.3600.

Dick Dale

Legendary surf guitarist returns to Petaluma, this time with the Pyronauts. Dec. 6 at 8pm. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. $24–$26. 707.765.2121.

Chris-Mix

It’s the seventh annual Chris-Mix, featuring American Idol‘s Casey Abrams and Def Jam recording artist Ryan Star performing an acoustic set. Fundraiser for Children’s Village with the Pat Jordan Band opening. Dec. 6 at 8pm. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $12. 707.546.3600.

Raise the Youth

Benefiting Marin Youth Performers, this third annual Raise the Youth fundraiser will feature performance highlights from this past year’s musical theater productions and advanced teen musical ensembles. Dec. 7 at 7pm. $15–$60. 142 Throckmorton Theater, 142 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley. 415.383.9600.

Remarkable & Refined

World-renowned pianist Anton Nel is lauded for his delicate touch and virtoustic finesse. Dec. 7 at 7:30pm. Newman Auditorium, SRJC, 1501 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. 415.392.4400.

Craicmore Celtic Yuletide Celebration

Joyful and heartfelt seasonal songs like “I Saw Three Ships,” “The Wassail Song” and “Sleigh Ride,” along with traditional Scottish and Irish music, trace the roots of some of America’s Christmas traditions to their Celtic origins. Dec. 8 at 8pm. $10–$22. Dance Palace, 503 B St., Point Reyes Station. 707.663.1075.

‘Amahl & the Night Visitors’

Gian Carlo Menotti’s beloved operetta about a poor boy and his mother’s magical encounter with the three traveling wise men comes to life. Dec. 8–9. Saturday at 8pm; Sunday at 3pm. Glaser Center, 547 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. $10–$15. 707.874.1124.

Posada Mexicana

This celebration features 30 folkórico dancers and 10 mariachis Ballet Folklórico Costa de Oro in a “south-of-the-border” celebration laden with seasonal accents, including a traditional Christmas processional (posada), Mexican holiday songs (villancicos) and many more acts. Dec. 9 at 2:30pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $20–$30. 707.226.7372.

Dave Koz

Jam on fresh lively seasonal favorites with smooth-jazz saxophonist extraordinaire and his magical combination of musicians, including David Benoit, Sheila E, Javier Colon and Margo Ray. Dec. 14 at 8pm. Wells Fargo Center, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $39–$69. 707.546.3600.

The English Beat

Nothing says “holidays” like second-wave ska, and nothing says second-wave ska quite like the English Beat. Dec. 15 at 8:30pm. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. $31. 707.765.2121.

Snoop Dogg

No one says “merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, happy Kwanzaa and a blazin’ New Year” quite like Snoop Dogg. Or is that Snoop Lion? Either way, a chance to see Snoop, who is rumored to be related to Peanuts character Snoopy (they’re both dogs, after all), is good any time of year. Dec. 15 at 9pm. $70. Phoenix Theatre, 501 Washington St., Petaluma. 707.762.3565.

Dwight Yoakam

His new album features collaborations with Beck and Kid Rock. But will he sing “Feliz Navidad”? Find out on Dec. 15 at 8pm. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $50–$90. 707.546.3600.

SingersMarin

Join Jan Pedersen Schiff and the seven youth and adult choral ensembles of SingersMarin for a performance of ‘Tis the Season: A Winter Fantasy. Caroling kids lead the audience in a sing-along throughout the show for a magical holiday concert. Featured guest artist this year is Golden Gate Brass. Dec. 16 at 4pm. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $20–$30; students and children are half-price. 415.499.6800.

Eileen Ivers: An Irish Christmas

“The future of Irish fiddle” and “the Jimi Hendrix of the violin.” She plays contemporary music with the Santa Rosa Symphony under the baton of Michael Berkowitz. Dec. 16 at 3pm. 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. $37–$80. 707.546.3600.

A Chanticleer Christmas

Spiritual sounds of the season sung by the male chorus known around the world as “the orchestra of voices.” Dec. 16 at 4pm and 6:30pm. St. Vincent Church, 35 Liberty St., Petaluma. $35–$65. 415.252.8589.

Chris Isaak

Bay Area native Chris Isaak’s voice was made for Christmas carols, and it’s a probable 12-to-7 they’ll be in abundant supply for this concert. Dec. 16 at 8pm. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Main St., Napa. $75–$90. 707.259.0123.

Willie K

Hawaiian guitarist, singer and storyteller brings his Christmas show to the Opera House. Hawaiian food will be served in the Cafe Theatre before the show. Dec. 19 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $20–$30. 707.226.7372.

Windham Hill Winter Solstice

An annual holiday tradition, Windham Hill’s Winter Solstice presents some of the label’s most celebrated New Age and pop recording artists. Dec. 20 at 8pm. Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St., Napa. $12–$20. 707.226.7372.

Narada Michael Walden

Grammy award-winning producer, drummer, performer and hit songwriter Narada Michael Walden is the real Santa Claus, and he’ll look the part in this “annual holiday jam beach party freak out” benefit for his music education foundation. Dec. 21 at 8pm. $75. 142 Throckmorton Theater, 142 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley. 415.383.9600.

Bootsy Collins & the Funk Unity Band

The Parliament-Funkadelic bassist brings peace, love and funky grooves to the world. No doubt the holiday spirit runs deep in this man’s veins—he released a Christmas album in 2006, called Christmas is 4 Ever. Dec. 21 at 7pm. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Main St., Napa. $45–$55. 707.259.0123.

The Christmas Jug Band

They’ve been called the “kings of folk-skiffle-swing holiday hijinks,” and the Christmas Jug Band is just that. Their jugabilly mystique is intriguing, and it sucks in even the most skeptical ears. Dec. 21–22. Friday at 8pm ($17–$24); Saturday at 9pm ($24). Sweetwater Music Hall, 19 Corte Madera Ave., Mill Valley. 415.388.3850.

Sing-Along Messiah

Sing along with a hundred voices and a full orchestra to Handel’s Messiah while benefiting the music-education programs of the Santa Rosa Symphony in this 32nd installment of a Redwood Empire holiday tradition, conducted, as ever, by Dan Earl. Dec. 22 at 7:30pm. Spreckels Performing Arts Center, 5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park. $20–$25. 707.522.8786.

Nostalgia fest 2012

Victims Family, Punch the Clown, Coffee & Donuts, the Louies, Edaline, Headboard, Jr. Anti-Sex League, Seven Year Winter—remember these bands? What a holiday treat that they’d all reunite for one special night. It’s a Christmas miracle! Dec. 22 at 5pm. $10–$25. Phoenix Theatre, 501 Washington St., Petaluma. 707.762.3565.

Talking Turkey

Columns & Opinion

Juliane Poirier

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Nov 14, 2012

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It’s commonplace for cause-related groups to issue talking points before Thanksgiving, so when people confront their backwards-thinking Uncle Bill or uninformed Aunt Jennifer over dinner, they can have pertinent facts at hand with which to pitch their cause.

I typically advise against political discussions with relatives who don’t share your values; best to keep the peace in families. However, I make a small exception this year on behalf of a nonpartisan issue: the defeat of Proposition 37 via a huge corporate misinformation campaign.

Proposition 37 sought to require labeling of foods containing genetically engineered ingredients. In the effort to give citizens the right to know what is in their food, those advocating on behalf of the populace raised $9.2 million (full disclosure: I helped others raise some of that money) and many spent uncounted hours volunteering.

Those threatened by Proposition 37 didn’t need to go out and raise the money—they simply wrote checks totaling $46 million and bought a lot of television time. Monsanto handed over $8 million to block our right to know. Dupont, Dow, Pepsi, Coke and Kraft all gave $2 million or more each. The list was exclusively corporate donations. The Grocery Manufacturers Association gave over $2 million; their members include ConAgra, Coca Cola, Starbucks, Target and hundreds of manufacturers.

The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) also includes the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, so when you talk to your relatives about how important it is to know what’s in your food, let them know that the misinformation commercials were paid for in part by a prison system several states away. To the other relatives, mention that on the GMA membership roll is a North Bay business called the Perfect Puree of Napa Valley.

Locally based food companies that do not belong to the GMA supported Proposition 37, including Amy’s Kitchen, located in Petaluma. Donors supporting the right-to-know campaign included individuals—thank you Kent Whealy ($1 million), Ali Partovi ($289,000) and Mark Squire ($258,000). Donors also included Dr. Bronner’s and Lundberg Farms.

Most funding that supported our right to know came from California; most funding to defeat it came from out of state. Help your relatives understand that to follow the money is to discover the motives for a campaign. It is naive to think that fair information is going to come from the corporation whose engineered foods would have to be labeled.

Corporations profiting from GE ingredients did not want you to vote for Proposition 37. But it’s not over.

You can sign the Right-to-Know petition to the FDA seeking a federal labeling law. Go to justlabelit.org, and take a stand for the will of the people over giant corporate money.

Holiday Spotlight

Theater

David Templeton

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Nov 14, 2012

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Many local theater companies are serving up a spicy blend of holiday shows this season, from new twists on old classics to originals, some of which capture the holiday spirit of magic and wonder without actually being about the holidays.

On Thanksgiving weekend, two original shows open in Santa Rosa, both designed as audience-dazzling Events with a capital E. The Imaginists Theatre Collective presents ‘The Ratcatcher,‘ a world premiere musical featuring brand-new music written and performed by local roots band the Crux. Based on The Pied Piper of Hamlin, The Ratcatcher (Nov. 23–Dec. 16) mixes a fairy-tale/town-hall-meeting vibe with that of an off-kilter cabaret show. Given the escalating reputation of the Imaginists as unpredictable creators of genre-defying works, and the local following enjoyed by the Crux, this should be quite an experience.

The same can be said for Actors Basement’s slightly wacky and innovative production of Merlyn Q. Sell’s ‘Circus Acts’ (Nov. 23–Dec. 2). Set backstage in a flea-bitten circus, the play is written as six distinct acts, each featuring different dysfunctional members of the troupe who deal with personal and professional crises. Alternately funny and bittersweet, the show will be performed at the Glaser Center in two separate performance spaces called “rings.” Audience members will choose whether to begin with ring one or ring two, changing their experience of the show as each ring gets the story in a slightly different order.

The beloved Christmas fable ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ materializes in two different versions. At Mill Valley’s Marin Theatre Company, the story of poor beleaguered George Bailey and his guardian angel appears as a live “radio play” in a bouncy adaptation by Joe Landry (Nov. 27–Dec. 16). At Sixth Street Playhouse, George Bailey may still be depressed, but he sings his heart out in an original musical version (Nov. 30–Dec. 23). Created by Marcy Telles, Craig A. Miller and Janis Dunson Wilson, the show features some truly catchy and heartwarming tunes, underscoring George’s path from despair to redemption.

Out in Rio Nido, Pegasus Theater Company brings us a twist on another holiday classic. In ‘Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol’ (Nov. 30–Dec. 23), written by Tom Mula, the familiar tale is retold from the point of view of poor shackled Marley, the one-time business partner (now dead as a doornail) of crotchety old Ebenezer Scrooge.

Finally, though not technically a holiday tale, the Santa Rosa Junior College theater department presents Disney’s suitably magical family musical ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (Nov. 23–Dec. 8). It is, after all, the season for magic.

Ancient Oak Cellars

Swirl

James Knight

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Nov 14, 2012

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At 97 years young, Corrick’s is the last place one would expect to go changing things up. That’s what shoppers treasure about the place. For generations of Santa Rosans, Corrick’s has been the go-to destination for graduation fountain pens, wedding invitations, real cards that one sends with a stamp, the odd 25-cent manila envelope. The value of the friendly, need I say hometown service, amounts to much more than nostalgic whimsy.

So the recent inclusion of a winetasting room was a real eyebrow-raiser. Really? How much convincing did it take to open their aisles of fine china and crystal to the world of winetasting yahoos? None at all, beams co-owner Keven Brown. He says he couldn’t be happier.

Brown always thought that Corrick’s matched the selection of wine paraphernalia seen in better tasting rooms; they just didn’t have the wine. So he sent the china and silverware on a hike across the floor, and enlisted Ken and Melissa Moholt-Siebert to open their first tasting room. Their product, Brown says, is a nice fit with the arts and crafts that he features from local artisans like Nichibei Potters, represented in galleries nationwide.

Also represented nationwide, Ancient Oak ramped up to 8,000 cases in just six years. Ken’s grandfather planted Pinot Noir at the home ranch on Old Redwood Highway 18 years ago. “This is more than a hobby for us,” says Melissa, who formerly worked in neuroscience in Portland, Oregon, although Ken hops off the tractor now and then to pick up his architecture career.

Until now, it was near impossible to open a tasting room in Santa Rosa’s downtown, while its visitors center found that nearly half of visitors were looking for local winetasting opportunities. City council wised up. The code was amended to state that tasting rooms are allowed “by right,” which basically means less red tape, more red wine.

Ancient Oak’s 2009 Siebert Ranch Pinot Noir ($35) has a savory, marjoram aroma, fine tannin and cherry fruit. No doubt, as Melissa says, it’s a great foil with lamb (their estate vineyard is maintained with a resident flock of Corriedales). But the 2010 Russian River Valley, Pagnano Vineyard Zinfandel ($32) is the jewel here, packed with luscious boysenberry fruit. The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($32) hails from an Alexander Valley vineyard developed by the late architect John Carl Warnecke. With chocolate cordial aromas and soft tannins, here’s a Cab to enjoy now. Or decant in one of Corrick’s fine selection of crystal displayed just outside the “no wine beyond this point” sign. Step carefully.

Ancient Oak Cellars, 637 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. Open Monday–Saturday, 11am–5pm. $10 tasting fee. 707.536.1546.

Letters to the Editor:November 13, 2012

Letters to the Editor

Bohemian.com

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Nov 14, 2012

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Beyond the Hootenanny

You made an excellent decision when you chose to shine a Boho Award spotlight on Josh Windmiller of North Bay Hootenanny (“Honoring the Arts,” Nov. 7). For years, Josh has unflaggingly nurtured the folk-Americana community in Sonoma County, creating a vibrant scene where new artists can matriculate from open mics to headline slots at the Mystic Theatre and into radio airplay.

Not only is Josh a tireless booster of great local music and roots culture, but he is an abundantly productive artist in his own right. He is the creative force behind the Crux, who in 2012 released a full-length CD, played dozens of gigs large and small—including a tour of the Northwest—and were voted Best Americana Band by readers of this august journal.

Lastly, I was privileged to work closely with Josh on This Train: A Woody Guthrie 100th Birthday Jubilee, which attracted thousands of folks to Railroad Square this summer to take in headliner Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and a dozen local artists. I’ve worked with a lot of people over the years on a lot of big projects, but working with Josh was a rare pleasure and privilege. His commitment to the music and the experience is uncompromising; his drive, determination, and sheer hard work are a marvel to behold, and still, somehow, he remains unfailingly thoughtful, upbeat and kind.

Simply put, Josh is a treasure, and we’re lucky to have him. Thanks for giving him his due in your pages.

—Dale Geist

Kenwood

Thanks for writing, Dale! While we’re on the subject, now’s a good time to mention that the photo of Josh in last week’s paper was shot by Brian Howlett.—The Ed.

Local Is Lovely

Local food systems all over the United States face challenges and threats. Organic farmers in Sonoma County have to compete with commercial superstores, economic incentives that favor big business and consumers who are misinformed on what is local and good for the environment. This means there’s a constant price difference between commercial produce and local organic produce.

Local farms aren’t getting any help from the government and have to deal with small business taxes that make their business just that much harder to keep afloat. Shoppers are tricked by million-dollar ad campaigns into buying food at the “local” Walmart, drawing business away from the local economy.

But people here in Sonoma County are starting to get the picture. They are appreciating and purchasing more local grass-fed beef and dairy. Local restaurants create seasonal menus that correspond with the local harvests so they can buy from organic farms year-round, and some restaurants even have their own farms! Not to mention the growing sizes of farmers markets.

According to Michael Shuman’s paper “The Competitiveness of Local Living Economies,” “Local ownership in business pumps up the multiplier effect of every local dollar spent, which increases local income, wealth, jobs, taxes, charitable contributions, economic development, tourism, and entrepreneurship.” Every time we spend that extra dollar to buy something grown or raised local, we are boosting our economy and our own health.

Keep it up, Sonoma County!

—Hannah Noel Paquette

Healdsburg

One Brave Senator

Although many will recall his George McGovern’s 1972 loss to Richard Nixon and his subsequent leadership in getting us out of Vietnam, his truly lasting legacy will be his war on hunger and malnutrition.

In 1977, McGovern’s Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs published dietary goals for the United States. It marked the first time that a U.S. government document recommended reduced meat consumption. The meat industry forced the abolition of the committee, voted McGovern out of office, and warned bureaucrats never to challenge meat consumption again.

Now, after 35 years of studies linking meat consumption with elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and other killer diseases, the MyPlate icon, representing the USDA’s current dietary guidelines for Americans, recommends vegetables, fruits and grains, but never mentions meat and shunts dairy off to one side. It all started with one brave senator from South Dakota.

—Steve Alderson

Santa Rosa

Write to us at le*****@******an.com.

Hayden’s World

News

Leilani Clark

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Nov 14, 2012

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Fifty years ago, Students for a Democratic Society released the Port Huron Statement. As one of the first American student activist movements of the ’60s, the group’s manifesto declared racism and Cold War alienation to be the two biggest issues facing Americans and humanity. Tom Hayden, later known as Mr. Jane Fonda in some circles, was the manifesto’s main author. The former California state legislator continues to work as both a chronicler and participant in activist movements. Hayden speaks on “Participatory Democracy: From Port Huron and Occupy Wall Street—What’s Next?” in an event sponsored by the Praxis Peace Institute and the Dominican green MBA program on Thursday, Nov. 15, at Dominican University. 50 Acacia Ave., San Rafael. 7:30pm. $20. 707.939.2973.

Savio’s Legacy

As the leader of the Free Speech movement at U.C. Berkeley, Mario Savio left an indelible mark on the school’s history of activism. “There’s a time when the operation of the machine becomes so odious, makes you so sick at heart, that you can’t take part,” spoke Savio on the steps of Sproul Hall in 1964. “And you’ve got to put your bodies upon the gears and upon the wheels . . . upon the levers, upon all the apparatus, and you’ve got to make it stop!” Savio spent the last years of his life teaching at Sonoma State University, and recently, donors funded the establishment of the Mario Savio Speakers’ Corner on the northwest corner of Stevenson Quad at SSU. A dedication honoring the free speech leader’s life takes place on Thursday, Nov. 15, in Stevenson Quad at SSU. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Noon. Free.

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Nov. 17: Winterblast in the SOFA district

Nov.16: Angelique Kidjo at the Napa Valley Opera House

Nov. 15: Sere Prince Halverson at the Writers Forum

A Different World

Time of the Season

Talking Turkey

Holiday Spotlight

Ancient Oak Cellars

Letters to the Editor:November 13, 2012

Beyond the Hootenanny

Local Is Lovely

One Brave Senator

Hayden’s World

Nov. 17: Winterblast in the SOFA district

Nov.16: Angelique Kidjo at the Napa Valley Opera House

Nov. 15: Sere Prince Halverson at the Writers Forum

A Different World

Time of the Season

Talking Turkey

Holiday Spotlight

Ancient Oak Cellars

Letters to the Editor:November 13, 2012

Hayden’s World