The Color Test

This is just for fun … enjoy … The Color Test! Be sure to read and understand the brief directions before you start.

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14 Ways to a New Happier You in 2008.

This artivle was recently published in the Tri Valley Magazine.  Notice the number one thing to do to get a new happier you in 2008! 14 Ways to a New Happier You in 2008 by Allison Firestone Tri Valley Magazine, January/February 2008 Issue Thankfully, it’s a new year. TIME TO TAKE STOCK OF 2007. DID YOU LOSE THOSE 10 POUNDS YOU SWORE YOU WOULD? STOP SPENDING SO MUCH MONEY ON CLOTHES? START SAVING? VOLUNTEER FOR A GOOD CAUSE? TAKEUP A NEW HOBBY? If you’ve failed on most every front, don’t despair. Luckily, the New Year gives us all a second chance at a new lease on life. This year, instead of making those same impossible-to-stick-with resolutions, try simply aiming to reenergize your life. We promise that each of these 14 ideas will leave you feeling renewed and recharged in 2008. So here’s to a new happier you.

1. COLOR YOUR WORLD. Paint one room a totally bright, bold color. Think dark blue, bold magenta, or bright yellow in the kitchen, bedroom or bathroom. Use the room and your favorite colors as your inspiration, says Jill Denton, Bay Area interior designer and owner of Changing Spaces in Pleasanton. If it’s an active room, a color like red can help add energy. For the bedroom? Something cool and calming like a light blue shade is most relaxing. Warm brick colors are great in dining rooms. “It’s cozy and it makes people want to eat,” Denton said. If you’re skeptical of painting an entire room a bright color, accent walls can be a good choice, too. “Accent walls can really make people go ‘wow’ when they walk in a room,” Denton adds.

Set a Physical Fitness Goal You’ll Actually Enjoy Achieving We always resolve to work out more. But making a commitment to being active doesn’t mean you have to become a gym rat. So set a goal that excites you. If you thrive on competition, sign up for a race, like Bay To Breakers race on May 18. Start training now and register on the web site at www.ingbaytobreakers.com. Or make Sundays your day to try a new hike.Check out www.bahiker.com for a massive list of East Bay trails. If you’re the type who needs someone to hold you accountable, sign up for a personal trainer or try the four-week Bay Area Boot Camp in Walnut Creek or Pleasanton. Get more information at www.bayareabootcamp.com. Not only will you have a coach to keep you on track, but you’ll have to pay up front, giving you another incentive to stick it out.

3. GIVE YOUR FRIENDS A BREAK. GET A THERAPIST. Seriously, though, talking to someone about those things that incessantly plague you can do wonders for your outlook on life. Ask friends or consult your doctor for referrals to good therapists.

4. LEAVE THOSE FROWN LINES BEHIND. Sick of slathering all those creams, rubs, peels and screens on your face to no avail? There’s nothing wrong with some subtle outside assistance if it’ll improve your state of mind. Dr.Stephen Ronan of Blackhawk Plastic Surgery in Danville says he is the first in Northern California to offer the new Pearl laser treatment, which requires only topical numbing. “It’s a resurfacing procedure,” said Ronan. “It works very well on brown spots, wrinkles, texture, smoothness and pore size.” Also popular is the new short scar facelift. “There’s no incision behind the ear,” said Ronan. “It’s a safer surgery with less downtime, and it leaves a more natural look, less surgical or pulled.”

5. Breathe Solor Do something all alone, just for you. Hike Mount Diablo, breathe in the fresh, crisp winter air, and listen to the silence. Try taking your dog to Dougherty Hills Dog Park in Dublin and chill out with a book while your pooch makes some new friends. Or, if the sun’s shining, head to downtown Walnut Creek, kick back on one of the many outdoor benches with a cup of coffee, and peoplewatch. Even if it’s just for an hour, it’ll give you that mental recharge you desperately need.

6. CHANGE DIRECTION Is a career change in the cards? Amber Rosenberg, a San Francisco-based life coach (www.pacificlifecoach.com), offers freephone consultations if you’re considering seeking help to make significant lifechanges, like a career change. “People often inquire about coaching when they’re facing a change or a challenge in their personal or professional lives,” said Rosenberg. The first call gives you a chance to decide whether coaching is right foryou.

7. RENEW YOUR KARMA. VOLUNTEER. Scared of commitment? There are plenty of local one-time volunteer opportunities. Habitat for Humanity’s East Bay chapter allows volunteers to sign up for days that they want to help build homes in areas like Oakland and Alameda (see www.eastbayhabitat.org for details). Home at Last Animal Rescue offers both large- and small-scale commitments, from temporarily housing an animal to walking dogs (www.homeatlastrescue.org).You can find lists of other opportunities on www.idealist.org. All you have to do is search by your city.

8. BUY OR DO SOMETHING TOTALLY INDULGENT, UTTERLY UNNECESSARY, AND ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL. Who cares if the holidays just happened – consider it an investment in your own happiness. Snag a season pass to Heavenly at Lake Tahoe, or get a great haircut at one of those expensive salons that includes a scalp massage, complimentary wine, and three people working on perfecting your look, like Victoria’s Salon in downtown Pleasanton. This full-service salon also offers creative spa packages. Try the Heaven on Earth treatment—it includes a facial, massage, mani/pedi,scalp treatment, and hairstyling, plus lunch. Or, if you’re more of a gadget person, splurge on a top-of-the-line phone like Apple’s iPhone that does everything from taking your picture to categorizing your email. (It’ll help you stick with your “Get Organized” resolution, right?)

9. FENG SHUI YOUR WAY TO PROSPERITY Feng Shui, the traditional Chinese practice of arranging an environment that promotes peacefulness and prosperity, can be used to energize your professional life. Alexis Summerfield, a Feng Shui expert based in Lafayette, said that space-clearing techniques, colors, and symbols can encourage positive energy flow in the office, attracting wealth, good luck, and a positive reputation. “First of all, you gotta clean it up,” Summerfield says.“Old files and storage block energy.” Next, she suggested focusing on three areas of your office or cubicle: the back left corner, the front right and the back middle. Each has symbols and colors that attract that area’s specific energy. To invite wealth, put water, or a picture of water, and something purple in the back left corner. In the front right corner, which represents luck and good fortune, place something white, and a representative of prosperity, like information on your top clients and a white crystal. In the back middle, which represents reputation, add something red and fiery, like a red plant that points up in a flame-like way. Whatever you decide, the most important thing is being aware of the intention behind the object. “Otherwise, it’s just stuff,” Summerfield says.

10. EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS. Do you dream about a trip to Paris or cooking like Emeril? Whatever it is that spurs your spirit to soar, pursue your passion this year. Sign up for a hands-on cooking class at the new cooking school at Draeger’s in Danville, where you can take a master class in chocolate from Berkeley’s famous chocolate maker John Scharffenberger or learn how to make handmade pasta or Mexican desserts. Check out www.Meetup.com, which lists scores of local groups that meet monthly to share a love of anything from happy hour, to contemporary fiction to French language. If yoga’s your thing, there’s a Bay Area Yoga meet-up, as well as one for dog lovers, the Small Breed Dogs group. Not only will you have something to look forward to, but you’ll meet people with similar passions. (Singles, your ears should be perking up right about now.) Even if your passion is a little…ahem…unique, search around. There’s even a monthly meet-up group for Bay Area cemetery walks.

11. ELIMINATE MONEYWORRIES.. Learn how to invest your money wisely for now and for the future. Benjamin Wong, Certified Financial Planner at Pleasanton’s Foothill Securities, Inc., advises beginning with two basic steps. “Put 10 percent of your earnings away toward your long-term financial goals and don’t touch it,” he says. “And start a money market account for your near-term financial goals, so you don’t touch that retirement money.” The long-term savings should be put into a quality mutual fund, or a 401(k), Roth or IRA, which will shelter it from taxes. “You should never need to worry about your retirement,” Wong adds.

12. COMMIT TO A MONTHLY DINNERWITH FRIENDS.. Write it on your calendar now and stick to it for the next 12 months. Use it as an excuse to get together and try all those restaurants you’ve always wanted to check out. Spend a Saturday winetasting in Livermore (check out www.Livermorewine.com) or have brunch at Café Cacao, the ScharffenBerger Chocolate Maker’s restaurant in Berkeley. (They also give free, hour-long factory tours.) Try a different ethnic cuisine each month, perhaps starting with the varied Asian restaurants in Dublin’s new Ulfert Center, like the Vietnamese eatery Vin Pearl, or Sansar for North Indian fare on Pleasanton’s Main Street. Fire and Ice in Livermore provides upscale ambience, Mongolian barbecue,and allows diners to pick the ingredients they want a chef to grill for them.

13. ELIMINATE THAT POISONOUS PERSON FROM YOUR LIFE.. Let’s face it: cleaning out your closet is overrated; a pesky ex will do a lot more damage than any old flannel jacket or circa 1990 pair of patent-leather shoes. So forget your closet and clean up your personal life, because life’s too short to waste time on people who make you feel bad. Delete that ex’s phone number, stop feeling obligated to make plans with that “friend” who leaves you rethinking your dessert order and spend that extra time pursuing new relationships. (See #10 for creative spots to meet new people.)

14. DETOXIFY YOUR BODY AND CHANGE YOUR EATING HABITS.. “People eat a lot of sugar and a lot of fat over the holidays,” says Lynn Keller, a certified Holistic Nutrition Consultant in Danville. “So our bodies are a little beat up.” Keller said one way to reverse the over-indulgence is with some abbreviated detoxing. “Take a day and only consume warm liquids with a little brown rice and vegetables, but mostly broth and tea,” she said. Keller advised taking two days for this, because on the second day the digestive system cleanses itself. But Keller said detox is only the first step in breaking unhealthy holiday eating patterns.Consider trying a whole new approach to your diet, one that addresses the needs of the body,mind, and spirit. “We believe that it is never too late to restore and heal the body with the power of nutrition,” Keller says.

Bay Area Holiday Events

·  Ravenswood Historic Site “Victorian Yuletide” — Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 9. Ravenswood’s two 19th century houses will be dressed for the holidays and offer a variety of seasonal activities. Free. 2647 Arroyo Road, Livermore. 925-443-0238.   

·  “A Christmas Story” Screening — 11 a.m. Dec. 1. California Independent Film Festival Association presents the classic holiday comedy about a boy who dreams of getting a BB gun for Christmas. Scott Schwartz, who played Flick in the film, will attend. $10. Vine Theatre, 1722 First St., Livermore. 925-371-1104.

·  Valley Humane Society Santa & Pet Photo — 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 1-2. Get pictures of your pets with Santa. All animals must be on a leash or in a carrier. Proceeds benefit the Valley Humane Society. $20 per photo. Alden Lane Nursery and Garden Center, 981 Alden Lane, Livermore. 925-426-8656.

·  Antioch Victorian Christmas Tea — 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 1. Presented by the Antioch Historical Society Museum. $20. 1500 W. Fourth St., Antioch. 925-757-4169.

·  Antioch Holiday De Lites — Noon-6 p.m. Dec. 1. Event includes craft booths and children’s activities, live entertainment, a lighted boat parade and tree lighting. Downtown Antioch. 925-779-7018.

·  Gallery Concord Annual Holiday Party and Miniature Painting Show — 1-3 p.m. Dec. 1. Includes art, music, wine and light refreshments, with carols sung by the Clayton Valley High School Girl’s Choir. Free. 1765 Galindo St., Concord. 925-691-6140. 

·  Discovery Bay Holiday Home Tour — 12:30-4 p.m. Dec. 2. Tour six decorated homes sponsored by the Discovery Bay Community Presbyterian Church. Meet at the church where you will receive a map. Return to the church for a silent auction, prize drawings and refreshments. Live entertainment featuring the Liberty High School singers dressed in period costumes and signing songs of the season. $20. 1900 Willow Lake Road. 925-634-0465, 925-513-1939.

·  Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony: Brentwood — 5 p.m. Nov. 11. A tree lighting ceremony in which every light is symbolic of a life and will shine in honor and memory of a family member or friend. Will include music and poetry. Lights can be purchased for $20, with proceeds benefiting patients and families in the care of hospice. Brentwood City Park, corner of Second and Oak streets. 925-887-5678, http://www.hospiceeastbay.org. 

·  Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony: Antioch — 4 p.m. Nov. 20. A tree lighting ceremony in which every light is symbolic of a life and will shine in honor and memory of a family member or friend. Will include music and poetry. Lights can be purchased for $20, with proceeds benefiting patients and families in the care of hospice. Somersville Towne Centre, 2556 Somersville Road, Antioch. 925-887-5678, http://www.hospiceeastbay.org.

·  Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony: Pittsburg — 4 p.m. Nov. 26. A tree lighting ceremony in which every light is symbolic of a life and will shine in honor and memory of a family member or friend. Will include music and poetry. Lights can be purchased for $20, with proceeds benefiting patients and families in the care of hospice. Corner of Fifth Street and Railroad Avenue, Pittsburg. 925-887-5678, http://www.hospiceeastbay.org.

·  Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair — 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 15-16, 21-22 and 23-24. Featuring arts and crafts, merchants, gift items, musicians, live entertainment and more. Telegraph Avenue between Bancroft and Dwight, Berkeley. http://www.telegraphfair.com.

·  Tilden Regional Park’s Christmas Fantasy in the Woods — 5:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 23-Dec. 23. Includes an outdoor light display, themed trees, holiday gifts, food and beverages. Santa visits Mondays and Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. Entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard, Berkeley. 510-525-2233, http://www.ebparks.org.

·  “Help is on the Way for the Holidays IX” — 5:30-11:30 p.m. Dec. 2. An all-star holiday benefit concert featuring performers from Broadway, film, television, recording, dance and more. A silent auction takes place before the performance. Proceeds benefit Meals of Marin and the Positive Resource Center. $45-$150. Also: Handel’s “Messiah,” 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20-21. Featuring American Bach Soloists. $20-$55. Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F. 415-392-4400, http://www.cityboxoffice.com, http://www.americanbach.org.

·  “Star Quest Hollywood Christmas” — 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15; 2 p.m. Dec. 16. A musical variety show performed by the Pleasant Hill Star Quest actors, ages 6-16. $15. For ages 2 and older. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW.DANCE  

·  Alameda Civic Ballet “Nutcracker” — 7 p.m. Dec. 22; 2 p.m. Dec. 23. Features dancers of the Alameda Civic Ballet, the Alameda Ballet and local guest artists. $17-$27. 2200 Central Ave., Alameda. 510-864-2256, http://www.alamedaballet.com.

·  Contra Costa Ballet’s “The Story of the Nutcracker” — 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30; 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1. The narrated production of the holiday classic is intended for the entire family. $12-$15. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek, 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.

·  Danville “Impressions of the Nutcracker” — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7; 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8; 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 9. In addition to the traditional ballet roles, the production features tap-dancing soldiers and acrobats performing the role of Chinese Tea. Presented by the San Ramon Valley Dance Academy. $15-$18. Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. 925-314-3400.

·  Diablo Ballet “Nutcracker” — 9:30 and 11 a.m. Nov. 28; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Presented in conjunction with Civic Arts Education. $4-$26. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW.

·  “The Hard Nut” — Dec. 14-16 and 20-23. Mark Morris’ dance company presents his fanciful retake on the traditional Nutcracker ballet, with dancing Barbie dolls, go-go boots and hilarious dancing snowflakes. Presented with the Berkeley Symphony Orchestra, and Children of the Piedmont Children’s Choirs. Presented by Cal Performances. Call for showtimes. $32-$60. Zellerbach Hall, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Avenue, UC Berkeley. 510-642-9988, http://www.calperformances.net.

·  Moraga “Nutcracker” — 7 p.m. Dec. 14; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15; 2 p.m. Dec. 16. Presented by the California Academy of Performing Arts. $7-$20. Rheem Theater, 350 Park St., Moraga. 925-376-2454, http://www.capadance.net.

·  Moving Arts Dance presents “Back to Wonderland! The MAD Hatter Performance and Tea Party” — The dance company reprises Anandha Ray’s tongue-in-cheek take-off of the Alice in Wonderland story. Guest appearances include Tony and Elaine LaRussa. 8 p.m. Nov. 30; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 1, Moving Arts Dance Center, 2335 Whitman Road, Studio D, Concord; 4 p.m. Dec. 2, De La Salle High School, 1130 Winton Drive, Concord, $15-$30, 925-835-8399, http://www.movingartsdance.org/index.shtml.

·  Oakland Ballet “Nutcracker” — 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 21; 8 p.m. Dec. 22; 2 p.m. Dec. 23; 11 a.m. Dec. 24. The 35th annual production is accompanied by members of the Oakland East Bay Symphony and conducted by Michael Morgan. Matinee shows include family-oriented party. $15-$50/matinee parties $10. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. 925-685-8497, http://www.paramounttheatre.com.

·  ODC Theatre’s “Velveteen Rabbit” — The San Francisco company’s annual holiday dance production about a boy and his magic stuffed rabbit. Nov. 23-Dec. 9. Call for showtimes. $10-$40. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St., S.F. 415-978-2787, http://www.ybca.org.

·  “Once Upon A Christmas” — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22. Presented by the Ballet School, Lareen Fender’s Ballet Joyeux. $22-$25. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.

·  Pittsburg “Nutcracker: A Christmas Tradition” — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8; 2 p.m. Dec. 9. The Peninsula Ballet Theatre presents Carlos Carajal’s “Nutcracker,” with live orchestra. $10-$20. Creative Arts Building, 250 School St., Pittsburg. http://www.cabconcerts.com.

·  San Francisco “Dance-Along Nutcracker: Ratified!” — 2:30 p.m. Dec. 8; 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec. 9. Performed by the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band. Opening-night gala, 7 p.m. Dec. 8. Featuring a performance by City Swing and a holiday reception. $16-$50. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St., S.F. 415-978-2787, http://www.yerbabuenaarts.org.

·  San Francisco Ballet “Nutcracker” — Performances of the famed 63-year-old production are Dec. 13-30 (no show on Dec. 25), with most dates offering two performances. Call for showtimes. $18-$198. War Memorial Opera House, 201 Van Ness Ave., S.F. 415-865-2000, http://www.sfballet.org.

·  Smuin Ballet’s Christmas Ballet — 8 p.m. Nov. 23; 2 and 8 p.m. Nov. 24; 2 p.m. Nov. 25. $40-$55. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org, http://www.smuinballet.org. Additional performances are Dec. 13-23. Call for showtimes. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Mission and Third streets, S.F. 415-978-2787, http://www.ybca.org.

·  Valley Dance Theatre’s “Nutcracker” — Noon and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 p.m. Dec. 15; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 16 and 22. $23-$31. Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center, Livermore Avenue and First Street, Livermore. 925-373-6100, http://www.livermoreperformingarts.org.THEATER

·  Act Now Presents “The Eight: Reindeer Monologues” — Nov. 30-Dec. 22. Jeff Goode’s dark comedy follows the scandal that ensues when one of Santa’s reindeer accuses him of sexual harassment. Friday-Saturday, 8:15 p.m.; Sunday, 2:15 p.m. $12.50-$28. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.

·  ACT’s “A Christmas Carol” — Dec. 5-23. Call for showtimes. $25-$80. American Conservatory Theatre, 415 Geary St., S.F. 415-749-2227, http://www.act-sf.org.

·  Center Repertory Theatre Company’s “A Christmas Carol” — Dec. 6-16. Call for showtimes. $38. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org, http://www.centerREP.org.

·  Contra Costa Christian Theatre Company — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7-8, 13-15; 2 p.m. Dec. 8 and 15. “Christmas at the Biltmore,” a new work by Brentwood playwright Steve Kinsella. follows a group of visitors who arrive at a luxury hotel for Christmas vacation. $15-$20. Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Ave., Walnut Creek. http://www.ccchristiantheatre.org.

·  “It Could Have Been A Wonderful Life” — Dec. 7-16. A solo comedy based on the classic holiday movie. Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. $25. San Francisco Playhouse, 533 Sutter St., S.F. 415-820-1475, http://www.brownpapertickets.com.

·  “Miracle on 34th Street” — Nov. 17-Dec. 29. Presented by Lafayette Town Hall Theatre Company. The classic holiday tale about a man who claims to be the real Santa Claus. Call for showtimes. $12-$32. 3535 School St., Lafayette. 925-283-1557, http://www.thtc.org.

·  “Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge!” — Dec. 1-Jan. 12. A playful spoof on Dickens’ “Christmas Carol.” Wednesday-Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 3 and 8 p.m. $38. San Francisco Playhouse, 533 Sutter St., S.F. 415-677-9596, http://www.TicketWeb.com.

·  “Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical” — Through Dec. 30. A holiday chapter from the “Nunsense” franchise, in which the first “TV Special” taped by the sisters in their convent basement studio for Cable Access featuring new songs and Christmas carols. Wednesday, 3:30 and 7 p.m.; Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. $15-$25. Willows Cabaret at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. 925-798-1300. http://www.willowstheatre.org.

·  Pleasanton Playhouse: “Forever Plaid — Plaid Tidings” — Nov. 30-Dec. 9. The Forever Plaid singers return for a comedic holiday-themed revue. Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $20. Studio Theatre, 1048 Serpentine Lane, Suite 309, Pleasanton. 925-462-2121, http://www.pleasantonplayhouse.com.

·  San Francisco Impact Theatre — Nov. 16-Dec. 22. “A Very Special Money & Run Winter Season Holiday Special.” Wayne Rawley’s action-comedy series for the stage returns with a Christmas spoof about outlaws on the lam meeting up with a pregnant virgin. Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. $10-$15. 1834 Euclid Ave., Berkeley. 510-464-4468.

·  San Ramon Community Theater: ” ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” — Dec. 14-23. A theatrical adaptation of the famous holiday poem. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $10-$15. Front Row Theater, Dougherty Station Community Center, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. 925-389-7529, http://www.sanramoncommunitytheater.org.

·  “A Star Quest Hollywood Christmas” — 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15; 2 p.m. Dec. 16. A musical variety show performed by the Pleasant Hill Star Quest actors, ages 6-16. $15-$15. For ages 2 and older. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW.CLASSICAL

·  American Bach Soloists present Handel’s “Messiah” –7:30 p.m. Dec. 20-21. $20-$55. Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F., 415-392-4400, http://www.americanbach.org.

·  “Born of Light” — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16-17. A Christmas concert by the Chancel Choir and the Pro Sonus Chamber Symphony, plus soloists. Free. First Presbyterian Church, 2407 Dana St., Berkeley. 510-280-6176.

·  “A Chanticleer Christmas” — 8 p.m. Dec. 10. The award-winning a cappella 12-man singing ensemble performs arrangements of traditional and favorite Christmas songs. $22-$44. First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way, Berkeley. (Repeats through Dec. 23, various locations.) 415-392-4400, http://www.chanticleer.org.

·  Contra Costa Wind Symphony — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17. Featuring traditional carols, familiar favorites and an audience sing-along. Free. Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. http://www.CCWindSymphony.org.

·  Danville Girls Chorus presents “Songs of the Season” — 10 a.m. Nov. 29. Featuring holiday selections from around the world. Plus the San Ramon Valley High School Chamber Singers. $7-$10. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.

·  Diablo Symphony Orchestra’s “Festival of Carols” — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18. The orchestra performs traditional and contemporary holiday music. $12-$20. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.  

·  Flock of Flutes Holiday Concert — 5 p.m. Dec. 9. The Bay Area’s only flute choir performs a holiday concert. $10 advance/$12 door. Civic Arts Education Center, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. 925-943-5842, http://www.arts-ed.org.

·  Oakland East Bay Symphony “Let Us Break Bread Together” Holiday Concert — 4 p.m. Dec. 2. Michael Morgan and the symphony are joined by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Piedmont Choirs, Mt. Eden High School Choir and klezmer ensemble Kugelplex for a concert of spirituals, classical and sacred music, and other holiday favorites. $10-$40. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland, 925-685-8497, http://www.paramounttheatre.com.

·  San Francisco Girls Chorus presents “Silver Bells and Golden Voices” — 8 p.m. Dec. 14. Traditional holiday music and an audience sing-along. $12-$22. Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. (Repeats Dec. 23. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., S.F.) 415-392-4400, http://www.cityboxoffice.com.

·  Voices of Musica Sacra — 8 p.m. Dec. 8. The chorus presents a selection of holiday carols by Alfred Burt. $12-$15/12 and younger free. Santa Maria Catholic Church, 40 Santa Maria Way, Orinda. (Repeats 3 p.m. Dec. 9. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1924 Trinity Ave., Walnut Creek.) 925-930-0516, http://www.vmschorus.org.

·  Walnut Creek Concert Band’s “Sounds of the Season” — 7:30 p.m. Nov. 27. Featuring selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and other holiday favorites. Guest soloist is Mic Gillette, former lead trumpet for Tower of Power, who will perform the Haydn Trumpet Concerto. $12-$15. Lesher Center for the Arts, Civic Drive at Locust Street, Walnut Creek. 925-943-SHOW, http://www.lesherartscenter.org.

·  WAVE (Women’s Antique Vocal Ensemble) Christmas Concert — 8 p.m. Dec. 21. The concert titled “From the Rising of the Sun” features music for the Christmas season. $5-$15. Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland. http://www.wavewomen.org.

·  San Francisco Symphony presents Handel’s “Messiah” — 8 p.m. Dec. 13-14. $20-$82. Davies Hall, S.F., 415-864-6000, http://www.sfsymphony.org.pop/rock/jazz

·  David Benoit: A Charlie Brown Christmas — 4 p.m. Dec. 9. The jazz musician and his band perform songs from the Peanuts TV Christmas special and other holiday tunes. $25-$35. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Way, San Ramon. http://www.sanramonperformingarts.com.

·  “Gospel Christmas” — 7 p.m. Dec. 9. With Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers. $15-$55. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., S.F. 415-864-6000, http://www.sfsymphony.org.

·  Live 105’s Not So Silent Night — 6:15 p.m. Dec. 7. Featuring Modest Mouse, Jimmy Eat World, Angels & Airwaves, Spoon, Paramore. $39.50-$105. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove St., S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.

·  Manheim Steamroller Christmas Show — Dec. 20-Jan. 6. The pop-rock band is backed by a 10-piece orchestra for its popular holiday concert. 8 p.m. weeknights (except Dec. 24, 2 p.m.); Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 and 7 p.m.; no shows Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. $65-$75/$100 for New Year’s Eve show. Post Street Theatre, 450 Post St., S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.

·  Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Christmas Concert — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1. $15-$35. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland, 925-685-8497, http://www.paramounttheatre.com. Also: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Dec. 24. $15. Slim’s 333 11th St., S.F. 800-225-2277, http://www.tickets.com, http://www.slims-sf.com.

·  Smooth Jazz Christmas — 8 p.m. Dec. 15. Featuring Dave Koz, Jonathan Butler, Wayman Tisdale and Kimberley Locke. $39.50-$85.50. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com, http://www.paramounttheatre.com.

·  Trans-Siberian Orchestra — 8 p.m. Nov. 21. The hard-rock band returns with its annual holiday-themed concert. $24.75. HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.New Year’s Eve

·  Bimbo’s 365 Club New Year’s Eve Show — Dec. 31. Featuring the New Morty Show with Connie Champagne and Vise Grip, Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys, the Frisky Frolics and the famous Girl in the Fishbowl. Doors open 8 p.m. Cocktail attire recommended. $60. 1025 Columbus Ave., S.F. 800-225-2277, http://www.tickets.com, http://www.bimbos365club.com.

·  Black Comedy Explosion — 10 p.m. Dec. 31. Featuring Earthquake, Lavelle Crawford, Sheryl Underwood and Rueben Paul. $39.75-$67.75. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com, http://www.paramounttheatre.com.

·  Cake, the Lovemakers — 9 p.m. Dec. 31. $69.50-$79.50. Warfield, 982 Market St., S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.  

·  Les Claypool’s NYE Hatters Ball Extravaganza — 9 p.m. Dec. 31. $59.50. Fillmore, Geary Boulevard and Fillmore Street, S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.

·  New Year’s Eve Comedy Countdown — 9:30 p.m. Dec. 31. Featuring Greg Proops, Mitch Fatel, Paul F. Tompkins, Todd Barry and Tig Notaro. $59.50. Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon St., S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.

·  Mars Volta — 8 p.m. Dec. 31. $50. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove St., S.F. 925-685-8497, http://www.ticketmaster.com.

Source: Contra Costa Times 

Craig Ferguson on Pleasanton

Some friends and I went to Tommy T’s in Pleasanton to see Craig Ferguson (Host of the Late Late Show and former actor on the Drew Carey show where he played Drew’s boss). 

Craig started his routine with a bit on Pleasanton.  It was so funny that he opened his show (Late Late Show) the following Monday with the same bit.  Check it out, on You Tube