5EPTYUIORASDFGHK

 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide  5EPTYUIORASDFGHK

Table of Contents

Wordsearch: Winter Holiday!...... page 7

Make it Yourself!...... page 8

Travel: 2011–2012 Winter Snow - Much- Fun Guide by Carmel L. Mooney...... page 9

Who Wrote That? Bruce Hale by Patricia M. Newman...... page 11

The Book Report: It’s Almost Christmas! by Connie Goldsmith ...... page 13

Calendar of Events...... page 24

Parties! Parties!...... pages 26-27 Please

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Publisher: George Macko General Manager: Kathleen Egan Contributing Writers: Connie Goldsmith, . Carmel L. Mooney, Patricia M. Newman Art Director: John Ochoa Junior Designer: Ryan Vuong Sales Manager: Patty Colmer Advertising: 916-429-9901 Distribution/Subscriptions: George Macko Cover Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/26015375en06

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 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Holiday Music Program ZooBiz

et ready for some holiday fun on your next circle, a youth violinist, a number of talented Holiday Gifts that Give Winter is a great time to visit the visit to the California State Capitol Museum school choirs and many more. This special holiday Sacramento Zoo and take a break from the hectic holiday Gat a free holiday music program, held daily, experience is made possible by the State Capitol hustle. While visiting the zoo, stop by Zoofari Market and December 1 through December 23, will be from Museum and California State Parks in associa- find some unique gift items for family and friends or find the 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. tion with the California State Legislature Joint perfect gift for those hard-to-buy-for people in your life at the To set a festive stage and spread holiday cheer, Rules Committee, the Governor’s Office and the membership office: a Zoo Parent certificate, a gift membership beautiful vintage decorations create a lovely Department of General Services who have worked to the Zoo, or a brass paver. Call (916) 808-5888 for details backdrop for a variety of diverse and amazing collaboratively to preserve holiday traditions or visit saczoo.org. live holiday musical performances in the Capitol inside the Capitol. Holiday Magic - Holiday Animal Treats - Saturday, Rotunda each day. Visitors will enjoy live musi- The California State Capitol Museum is located December 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Why should only humans cal entertainment that includes a Salvation Army at 10th Street between L & N Streets, Sacramento, receive gifts during the holidays? It’s time for Holiday Magic brass quintet, a Cal-Trans choir (made up of a First Floor Rotunda. For more information about – bundle up and watch the animals unwrap their holiday good- spirited group of state workers), trombone jazz, scheduled performances, call (916) 324-0333 or ies and see Gus the Green tree frog in his holiday attire. world and baroque music, bell-ringers, a harp visit www.capitolmuseum.ca.gov. Pajama Party - Free Admission Day, Saturday, Decem- ber 24, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Celebrate Christmas Eve with a Pajama Party and the animals! Shop at Zoofari Market where you’ll find a variety of unique last minute gifts. Have a Happy Holiday at the Zoo enjoying this free day. The zoo opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 1:30 on Saturday, December 24. Zoo is closed Christmas Day, December 25.

Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is home to over 140 native, rare and endangered species and is one of over 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Located near the corner of Land Park Drive and Sutterville Road in William Land Park, the Zoo FINISH is wholly managed by the non-profit Sacramento Zoological Society. This Sacramento treasure inspires conservation awareness through education and recreation. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., general admission is $11; children ages 2 to 11 are $7 and one and under are admitted free. Parking is free throughout the park or ride Regional Transit bus #6. For information, call (916) 808-5888 or visit saczoo.org.

Help Santa find his way START to the houses!

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide  5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Discovery Museum Science & Space Center Calendar

Creative Moon Cookies - Saturday and Sunday, December 3 and 4 In 2009, NASA verified the existence of water ice on the moon. This weekend, each child frosts a cookie and adds “sugar ice”. Decorate this delicious treat and enjoy outer space fun in our Space Quest exhibit. Wash the cookie down with Tang- the drink of astronauts. Bring a camera for some photo shots! Planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. are included with admission (ages 4 and above only). Food Factor Robot Challenge - Saturday and Sunday, Decem- ber 10 and 11 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Science Discovery activities 12:30 to 4 p.m. The Discovery Museum Science and Space Center is celebrating 60 years of sensational science milestones. In the last ten years, there has been great advancement in food safety. This year the Museum’s FIRST* LEGO League robotics team competed in the challenge, Food Factor. Visit the museum on this weekend to learn about their project (presentations at noon and 2 p.m.). Complete a coloring sheet! For a $3 fee, guests have 30 minutes to add a special feature to a pre-built Lego Mindstorms NXT sumobot. After the feature is added, the sumobot competes against the Museum’s FLL Robotics Team’s sumobot. Planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. are included with admission (ages 4 and above only). Cruisin’ on Mars - Saturday and Sunday, December 17 and 18, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Discovery Museum Science and Space Center is celebrating 60 years of sensational science milestones. In 2003, NASA selected two exploration rovers to go to Mars-Spirit and Opportunity. Working together, families build a Mars scene with a “rover” model and pretend Mars rocks. Remember to visit the Mars corner in our Space Quest exhibit. Planetarium shows at 1 and 3 p.m. are included with admission (ages 4 and above only) and are highlighting the science of the Mars rovers and the planet itself.

The Museum opens at 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Science Discovery activities are 12:30 to 4 p.m. Discovery Museum Science & Space Center is located at 3615 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento. Admission is $6 adults (18+), $5 seniors (60+), $5 teens (13-17), $4 children (4-12), $0 children (3 and under). Ages appropriate for 4 to 12 years old. For more information, call (916) 808-3942 or visit www.thediscovery.org

 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Effie Yeaw Nature Center Natural Bridges State Beach Holiday Shopping Event - Saturday, November 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Help nature education programs and pick up some bargains for Located at the end of West Cliff Dr. in Santa Cruz (831) 423-4609 nature lovers and kids on your gift list. All profits from this annual sale benefit the Nature Center’s education programs. Choose from many cool new shop items as well as special guest vendors. Tours of the Monarch Grove - All Saturdays and Sundays now through January at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Birding Basics - Sunday, November 4, 1:30 p.m. Join a Docent Naturalist for a tour of a state designated insect preserve. Thousands of mon- Are you interested in bird watching, but don’t know where to start? arch butterflies are return each fall to one of the larger over-wintering sites in the United States. Come to the Nature Center to learn the basics for beginning birding. Learn the story of this beautiful creature and its fascinating seasonal migration. Public tours are You can look for common winter birds found around the Nature offered on weekends and no reservations are necessary, or you may call 423-4609 to arrange a Area. Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair from the Center. tour for a group of 10 or more. Meet at the Visitor Center for the hour-long program.

By the River’s Edge - Saturday, November 10, 10:30 a.m. Events made possible by California State Park Docents, California State Parks and Friends of Santa Who lives at the river’s edge? Explore the habitat where beaver, Cruz State Parks. otter, herons, and other wildlife live.

Nature Story Time - Sunday, November 11, 1:30 p.m. Join a Nature Center Naturalist to hear a story from some of our favorite nature story books. Winter Holiday! Tracks: What do they reveal? - Saturday, November 17, 10:30 a.m. Tracks reveal animals that you may not see while on your nature hike. Become a nature detective and discover the tracks of animals he end of the year signals the beginning of the best time of the year: the winter holiday living in the Nature Area. season! It’s a wonderful time to enjoy family, friends, feasts, and festivities of all kinds. THave fun searching for the hidden words related to the winter holidays. Look carefully; Cold Blooded Creatures - Sunday, November 18, 1:30 p.m. words can appear vertically, horizontally, diagonally, backwards and upside-down. Make a Some have scaly skin, some have slimy skin, some have legs and copy and give one to a friend and see who can find everything on the list first! Have fun and some don’t! Can you guess what they are? Join the staff at the Effie Happy Holidays! Yeaw Nature Center and find out!

Coyote Tales - Saturday, November 24, 10:30 a.m. R G J N N E W Y E A R S E V E E S Join us for a Native American story about Coyote, then get a S C R N H M T D P R E S E N T S H close-up look at a coyote pelt, skull and mounted specimen. E U W I T Z I I P S E I K O O C R Flying Tiger - Saturday, November 31, 10:30 a.m. Have an up-close visit with the Center’s newest animal resident, Q F A N N T S G N I K C O T S E Q a young great horned owl. Find out how these birds have earned S A P L A C X C K S U N J A E D A this fearsome nickname. L H U O C K H H G I E L S D N C A Winter Nature Camps – enrichment for children - 9 a.m. to Noon L E F W P A V I R U B L N C U H Z $20 members/ $25 non-members per child per class; see full E N Z A E O T E L T S I M F T R N program descriptions and registration information at www.sacna- turecenter.net B S Y X M X X N U Q E S F R C I A Pre-registration recommended Dec. 20, Fishy Tails (K - 2 nd grade) - Holy Hibernation! (3rd E J Y X C I A W A R S V U O R S W – 6th grade) L C N O H X L A I S K Y C S A T K Dec. 21 December After Dark (K - 2 nd grade) - Winter Solstice (3rd – 6th grade) G G O A T S B Y X L A Y I T C M X Dec. 27 Mucky Marshes (K - 2 nd grade) - Wetlands of Life (3rd – 6th grade) N V S E N A C Y D N A C D Y K A J Dec. 28 Feathered Friends (K - 2 nd grade) - Solstice Song (3rd I E G O O R C S M K D H W B E S E – 6th grade) J G R L B G H A K K U N A H R Q V Family Nature Camps – activities for kindergarten through adult (children must be accompanied by an adult) 9 a.m. to Noon $10 members/ $15 non-members per person per class; see full program descriptions and registration information at www.sacna- Candy Canes Jingle Bells Reindeer turecenter.net Pre-registration recommended Christmas Kwanzaa Santa Claus Dec. 22 Designed by Nature Cookies Mistletoe Scrooge Dec. 29 Plants of Winter Solstice Family New Year’s Eve Sleigh The Nature Center will be CLOSED on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Frosty Nutcracker Stockings There is an Ancil Hoffman Park entrance fee of $5 per car. All programs are free unless stated otherwise. Donations gratefully ac- Grinch Presents Tinsel cepted. The Nature Center is located in Ancil Hoffman County Park, California Avenue and Tarshes Drive, Carmichael. For more infor- Hanukkah Toys mation call (916) 489-4918 or visit www.sacnaturecenter.net.

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide  5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Make it yourself! Felt Christmas Tree Softie Paper Plate Rudolph his felt Christmas tree softie craft for kids is simple enough for even sn’t this Rudolph The Red- Tbeginner sewers to create a really nice Nosed Reindeer hand- Christmas decoration - and the possibilities Isome? He makes a lovely for decoration are endless! Christmas display and is an easy Christmas craft for all You will need: ages. Green felt (sparkle felt if you an find it!), needle and thread, ribbon (optional), You will need: fabric glue, decorations (buttons, sequins, A small paper plate, a large ribbons etc). toy stuffing paper plate, brown paint, brown card, red pompom, 2 You will need to: large wiggle eyes, brown pipe Cut 2 tree shapes from green felt or a cleaners (chenille stems), simple triangle will do just fine. If you glue plan on hanging the tree, cut a length of ribbon and slip the ends between the two You will need to: felt trees so the ribbon hangs from the top Paint the plates brown and leave to dry. Glue the plates together along the of the tree. rim. The small plate is the head, the large is the body. Cut four rectangles of With a small running stitch, sew the trees card and glue these along the back of the large plate to form the legs. On the together. Leave a gap with which to stuff small plate, glue a red pompom nose and the two eyes and draw on a mouth. the tree. Fill the tree with toy stuffing. Be careful not to overfill, as the tree Finally twist some pipe cleaners into antler shapes (maybe 3 pipe cleaners for should sit fairly flat. Sew the gap closed and glue on the decorations! each antler) and stick to the top of the head. Snowman Craft Window Angel Craft

his adorable snowman craft is a perfect his window angels make a lovely Christmas or winter craft for kids of all Christmas craft for kids that will Tages - although younger children may need Thelp you decorate your windows help and supervision. for the holidays! They are fun to make You will need: and very pretty, too. A 6cm polystyrene ball, a 4cm polystyrene You will need: ball, a baby sock, circle stickers, pipe cleaner Skin tone card, thread or wool (chenille stems), scrap of orange craft foam or (yarn), gold tissue paper, gold pen, card, card for base, glue. tracing paper, gold pipecleaner (chenille stem), felt tip pens, glue You will need to: stick Cut out a circle of card. Glue the larger ball onto the card and the smaller ball on top. A hot You will need to: glue gun is best for this so best if an adult prepares this ahead of time. Make the Cut a heart shape from tracing hat by cutting through the sock at the heel. Tie the cut end with a small piece of paper for your angel’s wings. Decorate with gold pen. Cut a triangle from yarn and slip the ankle cuff over the head. Cut diagonally across the remainder gold tissue paper, glue the triangle onto the tissue paper wings. Cut a circle of the sock from the cut edge to the toe, then open it out so you have a strip of from skin tone card and glue it to the point of the triangle. Cut strands fabric. Tie this around the snowman as a scarf. Add stickers as eyes, mouth and of wool for the angel’s hair, and glue on. Fold the pipecleaner in half and buttons and stick on a scrap of foam as a carrot nose. form a loop in the center. Twist the ends together and stick to the back of To make the arms, cut the pipe cleaner into 3 pieces. Cut one of the pieces the head. This is your halo. Finish by drawing on a face. in half again. Twist one of the smaller pieces around a longer piece to make the Stick to your window and watch the winter sun shine through and make her hand. Push the arm into the snowman (adult help may be required). Repeat sparkle! with the other arm. Crafts courtesy of: www.Activity Village.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy

 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF 2011-2012 Family Winter Snow-Much-Fun Guide By Carmel L. Mooney The Himalayan is the only restaurant in Big Bear to offer Indian and Nepalese food. It is outstanding. With delicious BIG BEAR LAKE sauces, warm and delicious Naan, Tan- One of California’s best places for snow doori entrees, and using only the fresh- much family fun is Big Bear Lake, Cali- est herbs and ingredients, this place is fornia. We love it more each time we go. healthy and wonderful. Even our tween There’s so much to do once you arrive on loved every bite. It’s family operated and “Big Bear time.” provides great family food with exotic Even though Big Bear has some of flavors. It’s the perfect place to warm up the best skiing and snowboarding in the with remarkably good and filling food state, with virtually no lines, the pinnacle after a day in the snow. of our most recent trip was a 8 wheel Mountain West Vacation Rentals pro- drive off road adventure. It was more than vided us the ideal location from which to spectacular to experience the back country get the most out of our delightful Big Bear of the San Bernardino mountains from Adventure. Our cabin was clean, cozy, a heavy duty off-road vehicle. Our tour well-appointed and central to all the fun. with Big Bear Off Road Adventures was We enjoyed games, movies, a telescope, nothing less than fabulous and absolutely a wonderfully stocked kitchen, extra blan- unforgettable, taking us to breathtaking kets, and nice, rock fireplace. It truly felt vistas and allowing us a behind the scenes like a home away from home. That’s so Photo courtesy Lisa M. Power perspective on the beauty that is so unique important when you travel with a family to Big Bear. and are go, go, go with lots to do and see. We stayed at the Hilton Quebec which native people. The food is a cultural ex- We even got to “off-road it” and explore The folks there were friendly and helpful. was within walking distance of every- perience where delicious native foods like an area where Bonanza was filmed many It’s a top notch vacation rental operation. thing the picturesque city offers. This smoked sturgeon and seal are extraordi- years ago. The abilities of the off road Take note that Big Bear Lake is less proved invaluable. nary. And home baked breads made by vehicle allowed our family to traverse than two hours from Disneyland and We enjoyed dog sled races and show native grains like bannique bread made thick, virgin powder and to see winter LAX or Orange County airport. With shoe races and live bands on the Plains with wild berry corn and flour are tanta- wonderland sights that were literally inac- the great specials Southwest airlines is of Abraham. The Carnaval Day Parade lizing. The foods are prepared by native cessible to anyone else. It’s not just a ride; offering along with some fantastic spe- rivals the Macy’s Parade and is a must peoples or by elders using generations- it’s an adventure! cials Disneyland is running, its easy to see with dozens of gigantic inflatable old techniques. Local cheese and locally Right before we went off-road, we even combine the two into an affordable and characters including Bonhomme. crafted adult beverages for mom and dad, stopped at Maggio’s Pizza and got the frugal all-in-one southern California fam- Also one magical evening we were en- make this so unique and delightful. Even best “to go” salads and calzones we could ily vacation. chanted by a lovely ice skating session just the herbs used to prepare the foods, over have ever dreamed of. Fresh, delicious When visiting Big Bear Lake in the blocks from our hotel at Place D’Youville 90 of them, are locally produced. ingredients made our lunch stand out as winter, remember that mountain weather where families with kids of all ages skate The entire community is full of historic truly memorable. can change quickly so stay informed of under gently falling snow to music. and educational buildings and a walking We love skiing at Big Bear. Friendli- chain control warnings. For road condi- Bonhomme arrived and the kids went tour is a must.. ness and no stress are what make skiing tions call: 1-800-427-ROAD Plan your wild with excitement. It was like a scene Also just outside the city of Quebec we at Big Bear a sheer delight. Much more next Snow-fari to Big Bear Lake! www. out of the movie with the beautiful and enjoyed Montmorency Falls Park where than just a skiing and snowboarding bigbear.com historic buildings and lights framing we took the grand cable car ride up the destination, it has all the bases covered 1800-4.BIG.BEAR the rink. mountain to a spectacular historical and when it comes to an all inclusive snowy www.4bigbear.com/ One highlight was a guided Snow- natural wonder. These falls are higher family destination that rivals Tahoe or shoer’s Walk on the Plains of Abraham than Niagra Falls and simply amazing. Vail. Snow Summit and Bear Mountain CARNAVAL DE QUEBEC where our entertaining guide dressed in www.carnaval.qc.ca visitors will appreciate the unique fla- Every year thousands of visitors from period costume, narrated and sang with vor with beautifully manicured slopes, around the world come to Quebec City us while weaving a tale of the history of Another novelty of the Quebec City friendly and competent instructors, and to enjoy the festivities of one of the the area. area is the Hotel de Glace just a few miles the feeling that you’ve stepped back in to world’s most enormous family friendly Just a few beautiful miles from Que- form the city. Every year, for less than a simpler day when a family could spend winter festivals. Quebec Winter Carnival bec City is Le Nordique a gorgeous spa three months, a wonder of frozen water more time skiing and less time waiting is ranked among the world’s top ten best retreat where visitors can enjoy mas- brings families from around the world to have fun. winter festivals and is considered one of sages, hydrotherapy pools and more, all into a mesmerizing world of sleeted chan- Moonridge Park is a wonderful zoo/ the world’s 1000 must-see destinations. amongst majestic mountain backdrops deliers, indoor polar slide, ornate frozen animal park open all year so a family can Parades, rides, attractions, sporting and frozen rivers and lakes. furniture, and refrigerated artistry. really enjoy seeing animals in their natural events, dog sledding, dining, ice sculp- A beautiful hotel property nearby, Le In just a matter of weeks this engineered winter environment. It’s exhilarating to tures, ice buildings, skating, skiing, snow Manoir du Lac Delage offers sumptuous spectacle is re-designed and re-constructed actually see a snow leopard romping in shoeing and more create a world class meals and gorgeous views. We spent the each winter season from hundreds of tons the snow. or a bear family frolicking in vacation destination in one of North afternoon eating a simply wonderful lunch of ice and tens of thousands of pounds of fresh powder. America’s most majestic cities. and partaking in a fun outdoor activity packed snow. Try a beginners snow shoe tour at the Flying into Quebec City at Jean-Lesage called Rand Orientation where, on snow- No two years are alike as several dozen Big Bear Discovery Center, or an after- International Airport is hassle free. shoe, participants hunt for markers in the uniquely themed rooms and suites, and a noon on the Alpine Slide or tubing. The The magical and historical city of forest from coordinate clues and a compass. glacial nightclub create an unforgettable “snow much fun” options are virtually Quebec is transformed into a winter It was a wonderful way to see the back coun- lodging experience created for brave endless. wonderland worthy of a movie or fairy try and exercise while testing our skills. adventure-seeking families looking to be Before you retreat back to a comfy tale. Music, events, dining and activities Also nearby is the Wendake nation’s awed for a day visit or for a more adven- cabin, you’ll want to explore the won- abound that celebrate Carnaval. Bon- hotel and museum. Home of the first turous overnight stay. derful dining in Big Bear. Again, lots of homme, the snowman, is the mascot inhabitants of the Americas, this village From the moment they enter this choices. Sonora Cantina serves great food whom children revel in spotting and is very intriguing. The four star hotel, aesthetic spectacle, guests are taken into and great family ambiance at reasonable meeting throughout the city during the Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations, blends prices, and with good portions. Carnaval festivities. tradition and culture of the Wendake See Travel, page 10

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide  5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Travel Continued from page 9 another realm of beauty and tranquil- fact, that some guests comment on the ity as light plays a visual extravaganza eerie stillness, even with no doors on on the eye with colors, textures, and the rooms. lighting. A day or early evening visit and tour For those brave enough to take the may be more enjoyable for most. The class and prepare adequately, sleeping crystalline ice sculptures and intri- in the Hotel de Glace is successful only cately designed walls, indoor ice slide, with the help of arctic rated sleeping bars, and discotheque are an unforget- bags, and meticulously planned pre- table sight to see and experience. In sleeping organization. If sleeping in a fact, over a half million visitors have room where cell phones freeze, cameras experienced this wonder just since malfunction, and even boots and sweat- 2001. ers must be protected, sounds doable, www.hoteldeglace-canada.com get ready to slumber, or not, on top of a mattress placed on a block of ice as a GRANLIBAKKEN bed foundation. Granlibakken Lake Tahoe Conference Upon arrival, and before entering the Center and Lodge offers a wonderful low- ice hotel, families warm up in the new, profile, relaxing way to experience skiing separate, and heated Entrance Pavilion and snow fun in the beautiful Sierra Ne- to purchase tickets. There the North vada, without crowds, lines, and noise. Face hosts a boutique which promises In a class all its own, Granlibakken your last chance at cold weather gear provides a serene, high country, alpine before entry. Having entered, guests setting for families to dine, ski, snow- can access the Celsius Pavilion where board, sled, snowshoe, and unwind soups, sandwiches, light fare, and bev- in a peaceful, unpretentious, tranquil, erages can be enjoyed in the new light mountain setting. snack area. Locker rooms are offered The first thing you will notice upon as most overnight guests do take the arrival is that a warm and welcoming preparation course seriously which staff provides first class hospitality in teaches them to raise their core body a down-to-earth fashion. temperature before bed by indulging Plan to dine in the lovely Cedar in the spas and sauna in a methodical House restaurant in the main lodge. manner, right before turning in. Most Daily specials change but delicious personal items are left in the lockers signature specialties like the flat iron or back at the Sheraton as they would steak, authentic German schnitzel Beautiful Quebec. freeze in the rooms. with potato pancakes, fish and chips, www.hoteldeglace-canada.com - The and generous helpings of homemade Hotel de Glace partners with the Four spaghetti will help you fuel properly Located on 74 pristine wooded acres, Bowl to offer unbelievably inexpensive Points by Sheraton Quebec about for the next day’s activities. Granlibakken offers groomed snow- cooperative ski packages where you can a mile away. Check-ins take place The desserts are delicious… A talented shoe trails, cross country trails, its own stay at Granlibakken to enjoy the low through the Sheraton, where typical musician, www.baronvonremmel.com, private ski hill, sledding hill, full rent- key quietude, yet ski at these larger hotel amenities, and warmth are only will serenade your clan in this lovely als, lessons, and everything you’d find giants for greater challenge. Packages a 2-3 minute complimentary shuttle rustic, timber-built restaurant, where a at a larger ski resort but on a smaller starting around $100 will get you the away and a warm and cozy room is blazing fireplace and full bar only add to and much more intimate scale. The ski best of both worlds plus a shuttle to waiting, just in case. As locals say, the après ski ambiance. Kids love to dance staff is helpful, patient, and knowledge- these neighboring resorts. “There is no shame in not making it and sing with the performer and a great able. The ski instructors are excellent The lodging at Granlibakken offers through the night.” time is had by all. with children. If you’ve never skied or condos, townhouses, studios, suites, Overnighting parents at the ice hotel You won’t want to miss an opportunity snowboarded or even if it’s just been and varying types, with many plans can enjoy an ice cocktail in the Ice Bar. to unwind in the huge outdoor spa or a long time and you need a refresher, offering full kitchens. This makes Guests are provided complete sleeping heated outdoor pool, framed by a snowy a private or group lesson with one of an environment perfect for several equipment, access to the hot tubs and backdrop and blanketed by the stars. After the highly qualified instructors, can be families to vacation together or for sauna area, a hot wake-up beverage, warming up in the sauna you’ll probably the added boost you need. This is the a winter family reunion. High speed and breakfast. choose to retreat back to your suite or perfect place for beginners. Internet, spa quality toiletries, and Some suites at the Hotel de Glace condo to enjoy a relaxing board game At the bottom of the ski hill there’s daily housekeeping service all add to even boast fireplaces that are strictly for or movie in front of your own crackling even a small Ski Hut restaurant, serv- the comfort. ambiance and eye appeal, since they are fire. ing excellent fresh fare you might not For nearly a century, Granlibakken specially designed to not emit heat. Get a good night’s sleep so you don’t expect. Outstanding freshly hand-made has had a fascinating history with ties In order for the arctic sleeping bags miss the delicious buffet breakfast offered burritos, tacos, chili, guacamole, fresh- to the Olympics and much of the heri- to function correctly one must wear the each morning. The fare changes daily ly-made chips, homemade soup and a tage of Lake Tahoe. correct synthetic fibers and socks and but offers satisfying staples like omelets, dozen other choices will both surprise This gem may be small in comparison have clean, dry, and unworn clothes bacon, sausage, hot cereal, an array of and satisfy your exercise-induced hun- to some of the larger Tahoe area ski separately reserved just for sleeping, fresh fruit and berries, pastries, yogurts ger pangs. The portions are positively resorts but is big on hospitality, quality, as moisture is the enemy. and more. Famous bread pudding, quiche huge and priced reasonably. and serenity. Unless you’re seeking the One amazing attribute is the extreme Lorraine, cheese blintzes along with qual- Should you decide that more chal- hustle and bustle, noise, busyness, and insulation and acoustic property of ity coffees and teas make this a superb way lenging skiing or snowboarding is in excitement of the gigantic neighboring the ice structure. Even with the blar- to begin the day. order, Granlibakken partners with resorts, you will be pleased with every ing music from the disco, the suites After prepping for the day ahead Homewood, Alpine Meadows, Mt. facet of this hidden treasure. Good things and rooms are supremely quiet and with breakfast, it’s time to decide what Rose, Northstar at Tahoe, Sierra at really do come in small packages. serenely peaceful at night. So quiet in to do first. Tahoe, Squaw Valley USA, and Sugar www.granlibakken.com

10 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF

professional comic expert was hired to complete the graphic part of the books. “I didn’t realize it at the time,” Hale Who Wrote That? says, “but as a kid I read Edgar Rice Burroughs’ books about Pellucidar—a The Creators of Your Child’s Favorite Books world at the center of our world—and that must have gone deep into my Featuring Bruce Hale By Patricia M. Newman subconscious.” After the release of the second Underwhere title, Hale hap- pened across one of the Burroughs’ n my head, there are pictures of books. “Ah-ha! That’s what I was do- what you have written. When I ing. It was a completely unconscious “Iread your books and I stop, I always homage.” think that I had the TV on.” –Bridget Hale recharges his creative batter- M. ies with hikes, rambles on the beach, In fourth or fifth grade, Bruce Hale movies, books, and music. He sings once told his pal nicknamed Billy the tenor with Latin and a cappella jazz Kid that he wanted to be a children’s au- groups to shift the energy to a dif- thor—an about-face for a child who didn’t ferent part of his brain, so when he like to read before third grade. “I was run- returns to writing, fresh ideas pour ning around causing trouble,” Hale says out. In school visits, Hale encour- of his high-activity level. “[Although] I ages students to express themselves was into stories since I was really young. creatively. “Creative intelligence is not My dad was an amazing storyteller.” One always emphasized in schools…There’s and Men.” –William M. (high school day, the Hale family television died. “It some sort of alchemy that happens when sophomore) was a sad occasion,” he says. His desper- you express yourself creatively. It feeds a Next month: Donna Jo Napoli ate parents read Edgar Rice Burroughs’ deeper part of you.” Tarzan of the Apes to him, and Hale was Although Hale bows to the demands hooked. He and his pal Billy climbed of adulthood, he says, “There’s a part of Patricia Newman is the author of Jingle their favorite tree to read classics such as me that never evolved past twelve years the Brass (Farrar, Straus & Giroux), rec- The Wind in the Willows, Mad Magazine, old…I’m plugged into what works and ommended by the Smithsonian National and later The Hobbit and the Lord of the film noir titles, e.g.This Gum for Hire and what doesn’t.” Hale attempts to find the American History Museum. Her newest Rings Trilogy. The Malted Falcon. Unknowingly, Hale fun in everything he does, and his books book, Nugget on the Flight Deck (Walker), Hale grew up in Southern California, launched a competition between friends are his proof. received the California Reading Association’s and moved to Japan to write, cartoon, and and family members who submitted their “Without your books sparking my inter- Eureka! Silver Honor Award for excellence teach English. “I used Simon and Garfun- title ideas to him. In order for him to use est in reading, I would have never finished in children’s nonfiction. Visit her website at kel and The Beatles songs as my text,” he the title it had to make him smile and be the likes of To Kill a Mockingbird, www.patriciamnewman.com to watch the says about his teaching experience. After a close enough tie to the original film for The Merchant of Venice, or Of Mice trailer. a couple of years, Hale flew to Hawaii to people to get it. crew aboard a boat in the South Pacific, “I love the Chet Gecko books. I bet but fell in love with Hawaii and stayed for even my grandfather eight years until he moved to his current would love them, and he’s dead.” home in Santa Barbara, California. –Federico M. MORE ABOUT While in Hawaii he self-published a few Hale admits that his first Chet Gecko picture books, but did not find his passion manuscript was long on voice and charac- Bruce hale until he came up with the idea for the Chet ter, but short on structural development. Gecko series. A film noir buff, Hale easily The initial concept changed from easy How to Contact Bruce Hale slid into the hard-boiled detective voice reader to middle grade novel, with his edi- Websites: http://brucehale.com that makes the series popular with kids, tor providing the necessary instruction for www.brucehalewritingtips.com and a gecko as a main character seemed constructing a successful mystery. With logical for an author in Hawaii. “I gave the release of The Malted Falcon, an Edgar myself permission to be goofy,” he says, Award nominee, Hale says, “I was really Bruce Hale’s LIBRARY but he was two books into the series before hitting my stride with the series.” Guys Read: Thriller, “Nate Macavoy, Monster Hunter,” Walden Pond he hit on the idea to parody his favorite An experienced cartoon artist, Press, 2011. Hale conceived Chet Gecko’s Snoring Beauty, Harcourt, 2008. look. His cartoon style worked The Underwhere Series (HarperCollins): well for the interior art in the Prince of Underwhere, 2008. books, but the covers required Pirates of Underwhere, 2008. a fully-dimensional commercial Fat Cat of Underwhere, 2009. style for which the publisher contracted another artist. Chet Gecko Mysteries (Harcourt): The Underwhere series is The Chameleon Wore Chartreuse, 2001. part narrative, part graphic The Malted Falcon, 2003. novel about a world beneath The Possum Always Rings Twice, 2006. our own where the inhabitants From Russia With Lunch, 2009. wear their underwear out- Dial M for Mongoose, 2009. side their clothes. Hale draws on past experience with film Upcoming scripts to make the dialogue Pooch in Boots, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, TBD. as terse as possible. Although Big Bad Baby, Dial, TBD. Hale read comics as a child, his Mole Men of Underwhere, HarperCollins, TBD. cartooning experience wasn’t quite right for the series, so a

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 11 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK

12 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF

THE BOOK REPORT It’s Almost Christmas!

By Connie Goldsmith

re you having a hard time finding that last-minute gift for a friend’s child, a favorite nephew or niece? ALook no further than your local bookstore. Think about making books part of your Christmas tradition. You’re sure to find books to delight each discerning munchkin. Books often live on to become cherished memories, unlike many toys that break in a day or two. Check out the feast of Christmas books available this season. sleigh! Filled with brilliant Christmas colors and glow- decorate the tree with. Each spread shows a different “The Little Christmas Elf,” by Nikki Shannon Smith, ing golden highlights, this humorous story is a blast to room: kitchen, bedroom, dining room, and nursery. illustrated by Susan Mitchell. (Little Golden Books). read aloud. The kids are sure to demand nightly readings Your own little ones will have fun searching for the Did you grow up with Little Golden Books? Do you long after the holiday passes. ** Reviewer’s pick of stars and finding unexpected treasures as well. Fold know many of your old favorites are still around and the month** outs, pop-ups, lift-the-flaps, this book is a feast for new ones are always being added? In this new story, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” by Laurel Long. (Dial). the eyes. the littlest elf Nina is working on her first toy. Santa Each Christmas brings at least one new rendition of this “Can You See What I See? Toyland Express,” by Walter shows up at the elf cottage with his sleigh to collect old favorite lovingly drawn by a talented artist. This ver- Wick. (Scholastic). This is the newest in the best-selling the toys, but Nina couldn’t finish her teddy bear in sion is perhaps the most beautiful in recent years. The series of search-and-find adventures by talented photog- time. She stays up late into the night to finish the bear lush art suggests a medieval countryside with distant rapher and author Walter Wick. This story follows the and it’s a good thing she did! For Santa is short one hillside castles, by turns softly glorious and bluely mys- life of a wooden toy train set from workshop through present for a very new baby. “A gift for the littlest terious. As per tradition, previous gifts are included on several scenarios. First, the trains are pictured in the baby from the littlest elf!” says Santa. This sweetly the next day’s page. See whose eyes are sharp enough window of a toy store, then as a gift to a lucky child. tender story feels like a Little Golden classic already to spot the hidden treasures (front and end papers hold They pass through years of playtime and end up in an and the gentle art evokes the happiest of childhood clues). The final double-page spread where the true loves attic as the child grows up. Fortunately, our lovely train memories. meet is exquisite. This is not just a children’s book. It set is rescued at a yard sale and once more returned to “Oh, What a Christmas,” by Michael Garland. (Scho- makes an outstanding holiday coffee table book or a gift its former beauty. The hidden objects are tricky to find. lastic). Santa sets off as usual from the North Pole with for anyone who loves this two-hundred-year old English Younger children will need guidance to find many of his reindeer and a sleigh filled with toys. But when the Christmas carol. them. Train lovers of all ages will enjoy this poignant harness breaks, what do the reindeer do? They streak “Christmas in the Mouse House,” by Maggie Kneen. story and its visual challenges. off into the night leaving Santa and the sleigh to careen (Templar Books). This adorable book is double fun. down a hill and crash into a barn. One sleepy sheep peeks It’s Christmas Eve at the Mouse house but Papa hid Connie Goldsmith (www.conniegoldsmith.com) lives in out at Santa, followed by cows, goats, pigs, and an old the tree ornaments – twelve golden stars. The Mouse Carmichael where she writes for adults and children. Her dog. Santa will not fail in his duty to deliver gifts to the siblings join together to search the charming cottage newest nonfiction juvenile books, “Battling Malaria: on the world’s children. With a wiggle of his magical nose, he for the stars. Grandpa suggests the kids make their own Front Lines Against a Global Killer,” and “Leukemia,” one harnesses the surprised barnyard animals to his sleigh ornaments. The little mice open doors, cupboards, of the USA Today Health Reports series, recently came out. and flies into the night. One little boy can’t believe his windows, clocks, and books. Sometimes they find a Her books can be found in school and public libraries, and eyes when he spies the barnyard creatures pulling Santa’s gold star; sometimes they find other things they can at online booksellers.

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 13 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Celebrate Holiday Magic at the Sacramento Zoo

he holidays are here and it’s time to en- for Toys for Tots and food donations go the joy the season! Bundle up the family Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services. Tfor Holiday Magic at the Sacramento Searching for some great holiday gift ideas? Sac- Zoo on Saturday, December 10, from 10 ramento Zoo has something for everyone on your a.m. to 4 p.m. Throughout the day, special holiday list, including Zoo memberships, Zoo Parent gifts will be delivered to the animals. See packages and unique items in the Zoofari Market. them pounce, tear and stomp into their one- A Sacramento Zoo membership makes a of-a-kind holiday gifts. Zoo keepers will be great gift; for only $80, families (2 adults on hand to let you in on interesting animal and their minor children) receive FREE ad- facts and answer any questions you have. mission to the Zoo for one year, many other discounts, and free or discounted admission to more than 100 zoos nationwide. Schedule of Enrichments A Zoo Parent package fits everyone! Give a 10:30 a.m. - All enrichments will happen gift of a snow leopard, orangutan, or any oth- at the animals’s exhibits er animal at the Zoo. We’ll keep them here, 11 a.m. - Orangutan: fabric stockings and of course, but for $50, your special someone presents with edible treats will receive a certificate of adoption, animal 11:30 a.m. - Bongo & Red River Hog: fact sheet, bumper sticker and an invitation pumpkin bowls with produce to our annual Zoo Parents’ Picnic. Noon - Black and White Ruffed Lemur: Zoofari Market’s doors open to a world cardboard gingerbread house of monkeys, snakes, jaguars and many more 12:30 p.m. - Sumatran Tiger: wrapped exciting and unique items. Unusual wildlife boxes with spices and ice items are a specialty of Zoofari Market. 1 p.m. - Hyena: frozen snowman There are glass animals, jewelry, puzzles and 1:30 p.m. - Ground Hornbill: holiday stuffed anteaters. Children will love snow piñata with crickets leopard and tiger masks, giraffe hats, books 2 p.m. - Lion: wrapped boxes and piñata about zoo babies as well as zoo games. with spices and ice 2:30 p.m. - River Otters: frozen orna- Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is home to over 450 ments with treats inside native, rare and endangered animals and is one of over 3 p.m. - Kangaroo & Emu: Christmas tree 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and with edible ornaments Aquariums. Located near the corner of Land Park Drive Giraffe: edible wreaths, Christmas tree and Sutterville Road in William Land Park, the Zoo is and piñata wholly managed by the non-profit Sacramento Zoological Society. This Sacramento treasure inspires conservation Visitors’ tip: keep an eye out for off-sched- awareness through education and recreation. Open ule enrichments throughout the day daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., general admission is $11; Bring a new, unwrapped toy or non-perish- children ages 2 to 11 are $7 and one and under are able food item and receive a $1 off your Zoo admitted free. Parking is free throughout the park or ride admission. The U.S. Marine Corps and 101.9 Regional Transit bus #6. For information, call (916) The Wolf will be taking your toy donations 808-5888 or visit saczoo.org.

14 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Learn Basic Bird Watching

n Sunday, December 4, the Effie Nature Center will hold a special program, “Birding OBasics,” at 1:30 p.m. If you are interested in bird watching, but don’t know where to start, this is the perfect program for you. Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, located in beautiful Ancil Hoffman Park, to learn the basic for beginning birding. A member of the staff will help guide you to look for common winter birds found around the Nature Area. Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair from the Center. The Effie Yeaw Nature center is located at 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 15 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK

Dinomazes The Colossal Fossil Book of fun! Sutter Creek hey’re ginormous! Two things kids love--dinosaurs and mazes--”Di- Old-Fashioned TnoMazes “is a one-of-a-kind col- lection of 31 super-sized, colossal fossil mazes. It is hours and hours of fun that Christmas spans hundreds of millions of years. Cre- ated by Elizabeth Carpenter, Mazeology founder and author of the award-winning njoy Victorian splendor this Holiday Season “Mummy Mazes,” “DinoMazes “features in historic Sutter Creek, with its annual Old several new mazes and redrawn original E Fashioned Christmas Open House celebration. mazes.Work your way through the skel- The streets of Historic Sutter Creek come alive etons of a Stegosaurus, Velociraptor, T. with Christmas spirit as they are transformed to Rex, Triceratops, plus giant sloths and a an era gone by with Charles Dickens characters saber-toothed tiger. Discover the earliest and carolers in period costume, strolling along the known turtle, Proganochelys--unable to beautifully lit streets of this magical Gold Rush retract its head, it grew fierce spikes on its Town. neck--and Acanthostega, an ancient “fish” Friday Night, at around 6 pm, Santa and Mrs. with feet instead of fins. The dazzling il- Claus will arrive in their sleigh to light the com- lustrated mazes are challenging--start at a munity Christmas tree next to City Hall. On Main tail, find your way through the rib cage, Street the shopkeepers will be open late to offer and exit at the mouth. Interspersed are a warm and friendly Open House, with snacks, miniature speed mazes--how fast can you refreshments, and wonderful displays of unique get through the Styracosaurus head? Each items ready for your Christmas List. And for the maze comes with sidebars and captions children, free photos with Santa will be available about the animal, including meaning of inside the Methodist Church where Santa will hear the name, when the creature lived, and its their Christmas wishes. Arts and crafts will also be lifestyle and habitat. And once completed, available there along with homemade cookies and kids can decorate and color them. The hot cider. The whole community is invited to share pages tear out as 12” x 171/2” posters, in the holiday fun on Friday evening from 5 until ready to be displayed. 9 p.m. The merriment continues on Saturday with holi- day music, festive shopping, and Charles Dickens characters strolling down the street. In the evening, at 7 p.m. is the Las Posadas Candlelight Walk. Winter Wonderland at The public is invited to participate in this beau- tiful reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem. The parade will begin at the Im- Fairytale Town maculate Conception Catholic Church on Spanish Street where Mary will mount a donkey and she and Joseph will process down historic and beautiful ather Christmas will be making seasonal holidays from around Spanish Street, lined with flickering luminaries, a special holiday stop this season the world. and then onto Main Street as they go from Inn to Fat Fairytale Town for its Winter To enjoy this Winter Won- Inn looking for shelter. Narrators will retell the Wonderland event on Saturday, De- derland affair regular weekend familiar story and musicians will lead in singing cember 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. park admission is only $4.50 familiar Christmas carols that everyone is urged Father Christmas will take the (Children 1 years of age and to join in and sing along. Truly a heart warming center stage, listening to holiday under will be admitted free). experience for all ages, the Las Posadas Candlelight wish lists, and welcoming fami- For more information call (916) Walk will be an evening you will cherish forever. lies to take holiday pictures for 808-7462 or visit our website at Dress warm so you can enjoy the entire evening. $5 each. The Children’s Theater www.fairytaletown.org. Sutter Creek, with all of its classic Holiday will become Santa’s Workshop Fairytale Town is located at charm, will rekindle the Spirit of Christmas in filled with holiday decorations 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacra- your heart. Come and enjoy these free events. For and cheer. Also happening mento. For more information, more information call (209) 267-1344 or visit throughout the park will be free call (916) 808-7462 or visit www.suttercreek.org. arts and crafts celebrating the www.fairytaletown.org

16 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF

with the humor of Wilders’ understanding of the human character. Tickets are $10/Adults, Christmas at Northminster $5/Students.

Jesus Birthday Party - Friday, December 16, 7 orthminster Presbyterian Church, located at distinguished honors that a pianist can achieve. Other p.m. 3235 Pope Avenue, Sacramento, is gearing artists receiving this distinction include Leonard Bern- Celebrate the true meaning of the season. Enjoy The N up for the holiday season and invites every- stein, Billy Joel and Van Claiborne. He will recreate the Christmas Story, followed by ice cream and birthday one to join in the following special Christmas music from A Charlie Brown Christmas for a fun-filled, cake, piñata, and games. Special features will include activities. very child friendly concert. Tickets are $10/Adults, music by the Children’s Choir, Youth Praise Band $5/children. and Children’s Orchestra. Attendees are invited to Advent Craft Faire - Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m. bring an unwrapped gift for an underserved child in to 2 p.m. The Long Christmas Dinner - Friday, December 9, the community. It’s a family fun day of “Make and Take” free 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 10, 2 and 8 p.m. Christmas crafts including ornaments, charm The Northminster Players present their first Christmas Eve Service - Saturday, December 24, 5 bracelets, Gingerbread houses and Christmas production of Thornton Wilders’ “Long Christ- p.m. centerpieces. Materials and assistance are provided mas Dinner,” directed by Brian Frishman. The A special family service of candlelight and lessons free by Santa’s helpers. Enjoy a light lunch served at play depicts 100 years of the and carols. The Children’s Choir and Praise Band will noon. All ages are welcome. Bayard family Christmas dinner, breaking the be sharing in the music. Come and experience a Living boundaries of time as one measures it, and in- Nativity with a donkey, sheep, goats, and the Holy The Jazz Music from A Charlie Brown Christmas viting the audience to share in one long happy Family. Come celebrate this Holy Night! - Sunday, December 4, 1 p.m. Christmas dinner; past, present and future. The Renowned Jazz musician Jim Martinez has been audience will experience family stories told and For more information call (916) 487-5192 or visit north- recently named A “Steinway Artist,” one of the most retold in this serious and tender play lightened minsteronline.org.

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 17 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Rancho Del Oso Nature & History Center Located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz off Highway 1 (831) 425-1218

Wildflower Hikes - Sunday, December 11, 10a.m. Meet at the Rancho del Oso Hwy 1 Gate at the base of the Skyline to the Sea Trail to take a hike among wildflowers in Rancho del Oso’s Waddell Valley! A docent will lead a 3-mile hike to view a variety of wildflowers-there’s always something exciting in bloom! The hike starts at the Rancho del Oso gate. Photographers are easily accommodated. For more informa- tion or to sign up, call the nature and history center at (831) 425-1218, or just show up with lunch and energy to hike. The park is located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz on Highway 1.From Half Moon Bay take Highway 1 south 30 miles. The gate to Rancho del Oso is located along Highway 1 just south of Año Nuevo State Reserve.

The Hidden Lives of Native Animals - Sunday, December 18, 1 p.m. Join a state park docent on this leisurely 2-hour walk to search for tracks and other “signs” that animals leave. Search for clues and evidence of how predator and prey, from deer The Polar Express and bobcats to hawks and lizards, survive in our streams, forests and fields. Bring walking shoes, water and a snack. Park and meet at 1 p.m. at the Highway 1 gate to Rancho del Oso/Big Basin State Park, approximately 17 miles north returns to IMAX 3d of Santa Cruz / 30 miles south of Half Moon Bay. Heavy rain cancels the walk. For more information or questions call (831) 425-1218 ack by popular demand, The Polar Audiences will become totally immersed in the Express: An IMAX® 3D Experience IMAX 3D presentation, digitally re-mastered us- B will return this holiday season to the ing proprietary IMAX 3D DMR™ technology Esquire IMAX Theatre now through De- … grasping at falling snowflakes, ducking as the Intrested in cember. Ticket prices are $16.50 for adults, train screeches into their lap and feeling the howl $14 for seniors and $13 for children. Tick- of the steam whistle via state-of-the-art digital advertising in ets are available now online at www.imax. surround sound. California Kids. com/sacramento. Polar Express, an inspiring holiday adventure, “We are pleased to be able to bring back this is based on the classic Caldecott Medal-winning Call today IMAX holiday favorite this holiday season,” children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When exclaimed Doug Link, Esquire IMAX Theatre a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary for ad rates director. “Every year we have special requests train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a (916) 429-9901 for this film and we are happy bring back this journey of self-discovery that shows him that special family holiday tradition to downtown the wonder of life never fades for those who Sacramento.” believe.

18 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Maidu Museum & Winter warehouse book sale Historic Site Events he Friends of the Sacramento Public videos, books on cassette and more will Library are sponsoring a big Ware- be sold at prices ranging from $.50 to $2. Decorated Pine Needle T house Book Sale on two consecutive Many items would make great holiday gifts. Basket Class - Saturday, Saturdays, December 3 and December 10. All proceeds, after expenses, benefit the November 11, 9:30 a.m. Public sale hours will be noon to 4 p.m. Sacramento Public Library. to 3:30 p.m. on December 3 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on The Book Den store will be open Spend a Saturday get- December 10. A preview for Friends’ mem- during Warehouse Sale hours. At the ting back to nature as bers only is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon, Book Den shoppers select from indi- y o u c r e a t e a b e a d e d December 3. Prospective members may join vidually priced better books, including pine needle basket for at the door for $15 and attend the preview. collectibles, and other materials, with your home or as a beau- The sale will be held in the Friends’ ware- most books priced at $3 and up. The tiful gift for someone house, at the rear of their Book Den store, Book Den is regularly open Thursday special. Native Cali- 8250 Belvedere Avenue, Suite E, between through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. fornian artisan basket Power Inn Road and Florin-Perkins Road Book donations are welcome. For more weaver Joan Denys will just south of 14th Avenue. More than information call (916) 731-8493 or instruct this day-long 70,000 paperback and hard-bound books, visit [email protected]. workshop. Fee: $42/ 39 Resident Discount; $10 material fee due at class/ Course Code: 55931/ Pre-registration is required

Holiday Indian Arts and Crafts Fair - Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come join the staff at the Maidu Museum for a rare opportunity to purchase one of a kind Native American art. Basketry, jewelry, carvings, painted gourds, Christ- mas ornaments, carved abalone and many other beautiful objects will be available for sale. Buy directly from the artist. It is on the same day as the Maidu Community Center Craft fair which is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a free event.

Free Holiday Museum Days at the Maidu Museum Please join the Museum staff for the holiday season with free admission to the museum on December 20, 21, and 22. Bring your out-of-town family and friends to enjoy a cultural treasure of the area. Drop in activities: 3rd Sat Art Walk / Night Out at the Museum Enjoy an evening at the museum with cultural heritage programs, exhibits and speakers. View current Native Ameri- can Art exhibits in the Zents Gallery on the main floor and the Indigenous Art Gallery on the mezzanine. Refreshments served.

November Feature: Gardening, Eating and Healing with Na- tive Plants Saturday, November 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Living Wild author Alicia Funk and Mountain Maidu Language teacher Farrell Cunningham will facilitate a discussion about gardening, cooking and healing with native plants of the Sierra Nevada, followed by a food tasting. This event will serve as an appetizer for our upcoming Salmon Seaweed and Manzanita Cider Exhibit which opens in January.

Museum Hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sat- urday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and free 3rd Saturday evenings of each month 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Historic Site: Guided Tours Saturdays at 10 a.m. The Maidu Museum and Historic Site is located at 1970 Johnson Ranch Drive, Roseville, Roseville. For more information, call (916) 774-5934 or visit www.roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum.

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 19 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Have fun coloring!

20 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF A Simple Emigrant Christmas Memories et ready to experience lavishly re-created period décor, an impressive array of live holiday music and captivating storytellers during two Christmas G upcoming special “Christmas Memories” events at the Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park. Surrounded by docents in period costume, n Saturday, December 10, step back in time to holidays past with Mansion visitors will be transported back in time to the festive, hands-on activities such as stringing popcorn and cranberries, very place where thirteen of California’s early gover- Ocandle dipping and crafting paper cut-out ornaments when Sutter’s nors and their families lived, spent Christmas seasons Fort State Historic Park presents “Hands on History: A Simple Emigrant and shared holiday traditions. In fact, then-Gover- Christmas.” Friends and families are encouraged to visit the Fort, 10 a.m. to nor Edmund G. Brown and his family were the last 5 p.m., to enjoy docents in period attire as they interpret and demonstrate first-family to celebrate Christmas in the stately a variety of early holiday traditions and cultural activities similar to what mansion. And, to add to the festive activities, Mr. early emigrants did in the 1840s. For instance, docents will help demon- and Mrs. Claus will make special visits to the Man- strate and share holiday traditions from Germany, Scandinavia, Mexican sion to meet excited little ones and be available for California, England, and Russia. In fact, Sutter’s Fort was one of California’s holiday photographs. early gathering places where people from around the world passed through Christmas Memories will be held December 3 and the gates and shared differing holiday traditions, many of which are still 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Governor’s Mansion State celebrated today. Don’t miss the special “A Simple Emigrant Christmas” Historic Park is located at 1526 H for one day only this December. Street, Sacramento. Admission is Admission is $6 per adult, $4 per youth (ages 6-17), free for children 5 $6 for adults, $4 for youth (ages years and under. 6-17), children five and under are Sutter’s Fort is located at 2701 L Street, Sacramento. For more informa- free. For more information, call tion call (916) 445-4422 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/suttersfort (916) 323-5916 www.parks.ca.gov/ governorsmansion Help the children get to school... Have fun coloring!

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DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 21 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK First 5 Sacramento offers its top 5 parenting tips for winter season First 5 Sacramento offers resources on a About First 5 Sacramento olidays, weather and current econom- • Take time out for yourself – go some- variety of topics including effective parent- Research shows that a child’s brain de- ic conditions are among the seasonal where safe until you feel calmer. ing, breastfeeding, nutrition, school readi- velops most dramatically in the first five Hchallenges families with children ages • Build a support network of family and ness for children ages zero to five, crisis years and what parents and caregivers do zero to five may face. friends. intervention and more. The organization during these years to support their child’s While the winter months traditionally • Be consistent and create routines – kids also works with community partners to growth will have a meaningful impact usher in holiday celebrations, seasonal need structure. increase support of parenting services avail- throughout life. Based on this research, cheer and fun activities for many, this time • Simplify routines during stressful times able to families in the area. Among those California voters passed Proposition 10 of year can also create stress and concerns – for example, set out school clothes the is 2-1-1 Sacramento, a free, confidential in 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax for others. To help families with children night before. phone line with information on commu- on tobacco products to support programs ages zero to five cope with challenges they • Take care of yourself – exercise, rest and nity, health and social services. for expectant parents and children ages may face this winter season, First 5 Sac- eat well. Model these positive behaviors 2-1-1 Sacramento offers a one-stop zero to five. In the last year, First 5 ramento is providing its Top 5 parenting for your children. source of information for community Sacramento distributed approximately tips along with some valuable resources services and resources. By dialing 2-1-1, $14 million a year in Prop 10 revenues where people can get support. Research shows that when parents have callers can receive personalized informa- to programs and services that meet local The stress of the holidays, the seasonal the right tools and get the advice they tion from a live resource specialist about needs. Each county has a First 5 Chil- weather change, and the down economy need, children have the best opportuni- programs and services to help families dren and Families Commission providing can add strain for parents, shorten their ties in life to be fulfilled, healthy citizens. in many different ways, ranging from unique local services for that county. patience and test their parenting skills. First 5 Sacrmaneto’s goal is to prevent access to healthcare or learning effective Surrounding First 5’s include: First 5 First 5 Sacramento offers the following ef- crises from happening and protect chil- ways to discipline your children. 2-1-1 is Yolo: 530-669-2475; First 5 Placer: fective parenting tips to help relieve stress dren from events that can disrupt their confidential and available in more than 530-745-1304; and First 5 El Dorado: while investing in your child’s growth: developmental cycle.” 150 languages. 530-672-8298.

22 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF

Find the differences! Have fun coloring!

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 23 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK Calendar of Events

December 3 and 10, Winter Jason Wright of the lively folk Warehouse Book Sale, Noon group Scarves will perform holi- Arts & Critter Nature to 4 p.m., 8250 Belvedere day favorites. Delicious treats Avenue, Suite E, Sacramento. will be provided. The program The Friend of the Sacramento will begin with a brief meeting to Crafts Events Events Public Library will host this elect new members to the Friends book sale at the Book Den store, of Arden-Dimick Library board December 3, Monthly Holiday December 4, Birding Basics, 1:30 December 11, Nature Story Time, between Power Inn Road and which the public is welcome to Card Craft, 1 p.m. 5600 South p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Car- 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Florin-Perkins Road, just south attend. For more information, Land Park Drive, Sacramento. michael. Are you interested in bird Way, Carmichael. Join a Effie Yeaw of 14th Avenue. More than call (916) 264-2920. The Belle Cooledge Library pres- watching, but don’t know where to start? Nature Center Naturalist to hear a 70,000 paperback and hard- ents a free craft-making program Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center story from some of their favorite bound books, videos, books on monthly. Join the fun and bring to learn the basic for beginning birding. nature story books. For more infor- cassette and more will be sold at December 16, Jesus Birthday the family for this craft-making You will guided to look for common mation, call (916) 489-4918. prices ranging from 50 cents to Party, 7 p.m., 3235 Pope Av- craft. There will be a variety winter birds found around the Nature $2. For more information, call enue, Sacramento. Celebrate of craft supplies to make your Area. Bring your binoculars or borrow a (916) 731-8493. the true meaning of the season. own special greeting cards or pair from the Center. For more informa- Join the members of Northmin- gift tags. Plus, the library will tion, call (916) 489-4918. ster Presbyterian Church for provide rubber stamps, stickers, Special December 4, Jazz Program, The Christmas Story, followed and many other crafting materi- 1 p.m., 3235 Pope Avenue, by ice cream and birthday cake, als. For more information, call December 10, By the River’s Edge, Sacramento. Renowned Jazz piñata, and games. Special fea- (916) 264-2920 or visit www. 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Events musician, Jim Martinez, has been tures will include music by the saclibrary.org. Carmichael. Who lives at the river’s edge? recently named A “Steinway Children’s Choir, Youth Praise Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center Artist,” oneof the most distin- Band and Children’s Orchestra. December 1 through 23, Holi- and explore the habitat where beaver, guished honors that a pianist Attendees are invited to bring day Music Program, 1l a.m. to 1 December 3, Jewelry Workshop, otter, herons and other wildlife live. For can achieve. He will recreate the an unwrapped gift for an under- p.m., 10th Street between L & N 1 p.m., 2901 Truxel Road, more information, call (916) 489-4918. music of A Charlie Brown Christ- served child in the community. Streets, Sacramento, First Floor Sacramento. Teens and adults mas for a fun-filled, very child For more information, call (916) Rotunda. Visit the California State are invited to the South Natomas friendly concert at Northminster 487-5192 or visit northminste- Capitol Museum for this free pro- Library each month for a jewelry December 17, Tracks: What do they Presbyterian Church. Tickets ronline.org. gram. Enjoy vintage decorations and workshop. Work with different reveal?, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo are $10/adults, $5/children. For live holiday musical performances in jewlery-making materials each Way, Carmichael. Tracks reveal animals more information, call (916) the Capitol Rotunda each day. For month; all craft supplies are pro- that you may not see while on your 487-5192 or visit northminste- December 24, Christmas Eve more information, call (916) 324- vided. For more information, call nature hike. Become a nature detective ronline.org. Service, 5 p.m., 3235 Pope 0333 or visit www.capitolmuseum. (916) 264-2920 or visit www. and discover the tracks of animals living Avenue, Sacramento. A special ca.gov. saclibrary.org. in the Effie Yeaw Nature Area. For more family service of candlelight and information, call (916) 489-4918. December 9, The Long Christ- lessons and carols will be held mas Dinner, 8 p.m., 3235 at Northminster Presbyterian December 3, Holiday Shopping December 8, Felted Soap Craft, Pope Avenue, Sacramento. The Church. The Children’s Choir Event, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 2850 4 p.m., 9845 Folsom Boulevard, December 18, Cold Blooded Northminster Players present and Praise Band will be sharing San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Sacramento. Teens are invited to Creatures, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San their first production of Thorn- in the music. Come and experi- Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature the Rancho Cordova Library to Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Some ton Wilders’ “Long Christmas ence a Living Nativity with a Center, located in Ancil Hoffman make Felted Soaps. Make weird have scaly skin, some have slimy Dinner,” directed by Brian Frish- donkey, sheep, goats, and the Park, and help nature education felted soap sculpture which is a skin, some have legs and some don’t. man. The play depicts 100 years Holy Family. Join and celebrate programs and pick up some bar- great gift and is fun and amazingly Can you guess what they are? Join of the Bayard family Christmas this Holy Night. For informa- gains for nature lovers and kids easy to make. For more informa- the staff at the Effie Yeaw Nature dinner, breaking the boundaries tion, call (916) 487-5192 or visit on your gift list. All profits from tion, call (916) 264-2920. Center and find out. For more infor- of time as one measures it, and northminsteronline.org. this annual sale benefit the Effie mation, call (916) 489-4918. inviting the audience to share in Yeaw Nature Center’s education one long happy Christmas din- programs. Choose from many cool December 10, Gingerbread ner; past, present and future. new shop items as well as special Houses, 2 p.m., 9845 Folsom December 24, Coyote Tales, 10 a.m. The audience will experience guest vendors. For more informa- Boulevard, Sacramento. Families 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmi- family stories told and retold Storytime tion, call (916) 489-4918. are invited to the Rancho Cordova chael. Join the staff at the Effie Yeaw in this serious and tender play Library for this fun holiday project. Nature Center for a Native American lightened with the humor of Thursdays, Storytime, 11 a.m., Make gingerbread houses iwth gra- story about Coyote, then get a close-up Wilders’ understanding of the December 3, Advent Craft Faire, 2901 Truxel Road, Sacramento. ham crackers, candies and frosting. look at a coyote pelt, skull and mounted human character. Enjoy another 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3235 Pope Av- Children ages 3 to 5 years are You bring the creativity, and the specimen. For more information, call show Saturday, December 10, 2 enue, Sacramento. It’s a family fun invited to the South Natomas library will provide the supplies. (916) 489-4918. p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets are $10/ day at Northminster Presbyterian Library for preschool storytime. For more information, call (916) adults, $5/students. For more in- Church. Families can enjoy “Make For more information, call (916) 264-2920. formation, call (916) 487-5192 and Take” free Christmas crafts in- 264-2920. December 31, Flying Tiger, 10:30 or visit northminsteronline.org. cluding ornaments, charm bracelets, a.m,. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Gingerbread houses and Christmas December 15, Holiday Crafts, 4 Carmichael. Have a close-up visit centerpieces. Materials and assistance Saturdays, Storytime, 11 a.m., p.m., 4660 Via Ingoglia, Sacra- with the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s December 13, Holiday Con- are provided free by Santa’s helpers. 2901 Truxel Road, Sacramento. mento. Families are welcome to join newest animal resident, a young cert, 4 p.m., 891 Watt Avenue, Enjoy a light lunch served at noon. Infants to age 5 are invited to the the fun with the staff at the North great horned owl. Find out how Sacramento. Families are invited All ages are welcome. For more South Natomas Library for “Story Natomas Library making holiday these birds have earned this fearsome to this free holiday folk concert information, call (916) 487-5192 or and Play Time”. For more informa- crafts. For more information, call nickname. For more information, at the Arden-Dimick Library. visit northminsteronline.org. tion, call (916) 264-2920. (916) 264-2920. call (916) 489-4918. Musicians Ann Howard and

24 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

Drop In Family Craft – Candle Drop In Family Craft – Lumi- You can hand-dip a wax candle Dipping - Saturday, December naria - Friday, December 30, in the garden courtyard at this 3, 1 to 4 p.m. 1 to 4 p.m. free event. Rain Cancels. You can hand-dip a wax candle You can fashion a tin lantern in in the garden courtyard at this the garden courtyard. The event The Santa Cruz Mission State free event. Rain Cancels. is free. Rain Cancels. Historic Park is located on School Gardens of Time St. off of Mission and Emmet Street Candle Dipping - Saturday, in Santa Cruz. Please call (831) Hides and Tallow - Saturday, December 31, 1 to 4 p.m. 425-5849 for more information. December 17, 1 to 2 p.m. Come and see how Mission Santa Cruz participated in a world economy back in the early 1800’s. Look at some of the major products of the mission; leather and tallow, and demon- strate how they were used. You will see how a branding iron works and get to make your own candle. The event is free. Rain Cancels.

Drop In Family Craft – Ramil- lettas - Friday, December 23, 1 to 4 p.m. Create colorful layered paper decorations at this free event. Rain Cancels.

Count the hidden Christmas presents and Have fun coloring!

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 25 5EPTYUIORASDFGHK

Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Fun ideas for an Art Party Birthday www.birthdaypartyideas4kids.com table(s) where the children will Art Party Games Paint the be sitting. On the white paper nose on the clown - Draw or scatter pens, pencils, markers and print out a large poster size Mix and match these ideas to create color crayons around the table clown. Place a large round white your own special party. and ask them to color where they circle where his nose is. Assign will be sitting. each party guest a different color • Use empty paint cans to hold paint. Blindfold them one at a Invitation Ideas for flatware. time and them have them try an Art Party • Set out large artist palettes with and paint a nose on the clown in a different colored candy (skittles their color. The birthday party • Make invitations for an Art or M&M’s work great) in each guest who gets the closest to the Party in black and white coloring place on the palette. nose wins a prize. book design and attach a crayon • Use artist palettes for plates. Play Dough sculptures so birthday party guests can • Buy several different packages - Give each child a small can color in the Art invitation. of solid colors plates, napkins, of play dough. Tell them that • Have your child color a picture on cups and flatware and mix and they will be sculpting different the front of blank note cards, then match them around the birthday things that are birthday related send through the printer to add the cake table. … but they only have 1 minute birthday information on the inside. • Tie brightly colored helium to make their sculpture. Call • Or use any brightly colored balloons on the back of each out a birthday item and have pre-made invitation. chair around the table and tie all the kids sculpt that item with several different colors of within 1 minute. Then have curling ribbon. them mash their creations into Art Party • Tie brightly colored helium a ball and call out another birth- Decorations balloons to the mailbox. day item. Some fun birthday • Large crayons (the big plastic items for the kids to sculpt are: • Attach large sheets of white crayola banks), large paint brush- birthday cake, candle, cupcake, are: Dart Paintings - Pin bal- vases and let each party guest butcher block paper to cover the es (string mops) and posters. number (age of the birthday loons filled with paint on can- take their masterpiece home as Fun Idea: Ask your local hard- child), balloon, ice cream in a vases and let the party guests a party favor after the party. ware store for aprons or find bowl, etc. throw darts at the balloons Sidewalk Chalk - Set out inexpensive aprons at a craft Art Party Activities Art to pop them. Have one large several containers filled with store. Use to keep clothes clean Centers - Set up several Art canvas that the birthday child sidewalk chalk on a paved and also as a party favor they can centers around the art party can hang up in their room after decorate and take home. area. Some fun Art center ideas the Art party or use smaller can- See Birthday Party Ideas, page 27

26 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • DECEMBER 2011 5EPTYUIORASDF Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties! Parties!

Supply lots of different kinds (about 2 x 3 inches) of famous paper, pastels, small pads of Birthday Party Ideas of frostings, sprinkles, candies paintings. Glue them onto tooth- drawing paper, markers or and writing gel. picks and place the toothpicks in crayons. Art shaped candies, Continued from page 26 Kool-aid or Sprite - For a already baked cupcakes. Display Play Dough mini cans, side- fun Art Party experiment mix them on a cupcake stand. walk chalk surface and let the party guests cookies they can ice and decorate Sprite or water with a little food Let the kids make food make their own sidewalk themselves, or serve birthday coloring in the primary colors of sculptures with baby carrots, art. For fun you can also set party sundaes with lots of top- red, yellow and blue in 3 separate cheeses, celery, olives, etc. - held Goody bags out spray bottles filled with pings they can make to order, or pitchers. With these colors you together with toothpicks. Empty paint cans the kids water (for erasing) and items individual birthday party cakes can mix drinks for party guests in can decorate, buckets or to trace around. the kids can ice and decorate any color of the rainbow. Green containers that will hold art Painting - Hang up large themselves. = yellow + blue, Orange = red Art Party Favors supplies, apron with pock- poster boards on fences or Set up a cupcake decorat- + yellow, Purple = blue + red. Aprons that the kids can ets - fill pockets with art walls. Give each poster station ing station and let the kids Masterpiece cupcakes - be- decorate at the party. Art supplies and fun art shaped a set of watercolors, a brush, decorate their own cupcakes. fore the party make small copies supplies - paint brushes, candy. small container of water and paintbrushes. Paint Can Glam - Ask your local paint or home improve- ment store for empty paint cans. Let party guests deco- rate the outside with paint pens or stickers. Use these as goody bags to hold party favors after the Art party. Masterpiece Copy - Choose a famous painting and make a color copy of it. Cut the copy into different pieces and label them 1, 2, 3, 4 ... etc. on the back. Buy several canvases and also number them on the back. Give party guests a piece of the masterpiece art copy and a canvas. Ask them to paint their piece of canvas to match the smaller copy piece. When they are done put the pieces together and show them the finished masterpiece. Bead Bracelets - Make colorful art bracelets from beads. Let the party guests take them home as a party favor. Picture Frames - Decorate picture frames with foam stickers, paint and stick on jewels. Finger Paints - Cover tables with large sheets of butcher paper. Set out differnt colors of finger paints, brushes and sponges and let them experi- ment with the finger paints. Play Doh - Set out cans of Play Doh, rolling pins and cook- ie cutters. Let the guests create freely or give them objects to copy such as a party hat, birth- day cake or birthday card. Art Party Food Ideas Instead of birthday cake - Let the kids create their own works of art by serving birthday

DECEMBER 2011 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide 27