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From the air, through the slightly hazy filter of the aircrafts windows, Ladakh looked like endless watercolours that refused to be framed by the horizon. On the ground, at 11,500ft above Mumbai, the painting was clearer but had acquired gentle waves, the mountains swaying slightly. Or it might have just been me feeling light-headed. Altitude does its mischief without delay. It takes about a day and a half to get used to. Our hotel was a short ride from the airport, and Jaideep Bansal, Chief Operating Officer of the Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE), was waiting at the lobby with a bottle of water with my name on it. Drink, he said, before I could say, Thank you, nice touch. I drank. And craving a hot Thukpa, I asked what was for lunch. Jaideep said the local food was unsuitable for visitors the moment they landed; it was very heavy. Lunch was paneer butter masala. Next followed briefings about the mission. The primary reason why 11 people from six countries (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and the US state of Texas, which has its own flag) had decided to walk, work and pay for this mission was the idea that they would trek to a village that has never seen a lit light bulb, that cannot be accessed except on foot, and bring the villagers from darkness to light. Our village was deep in the Zanskar Valley. Without argument, one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The idea that once can do that much good while on what would otherwise be called a holiday is tremendously attractive. Even at 11 subscribers. Somehow, authors Rudyard Kipling and Mark Twain both came to mind simultaneously as we headed west two days after landing.

Out of my window, the scenery moved by. I will leave all the purple prose that might otherwise have taken up space in the natural dyes of Roerichs paintings. But I will say this: you cant whizz past mountains. The scale is just too great. The mountains define the pace at which you pass them. All you can do is watchand close your mouth when its behind you. And open it again for the next one. And enjoy the journey with quiet gasps of breath. This is what was happening in our car. But in the trusted Tempo Traveller (otherwise known as the ass-breaker), things were a little different. I may have forgotten to mention this, but this expedition was targeted at future leaders, and the age spread was between 22 and 60-ish. Which is to say, one can never predict who our future leaders will be. At any rate, they were all in one tempo. And being asked, one by one, such questions as what is the boldest decision you have made?; what is your greatest success?; tell us about your greatest failure.

It was then, I suspect, that the mountains started speaking to me. I heard them slapping their icy palms against their foreheads and weeping dark mineral tears down their cheeks. They were quoting John McEnroe for some reason: You cannot be serious! (Alertspecifically, seniorreaders of this publication will remember the line call-challenging, profanity-spouting tennis genius of the 80s who immortalised the line.) In our car, theres some gasping, some exclamations, and some simpler questions: Man! Wow! See the colours there the shadows?

In the front seat, Paras Loomba, GHEs founder, allowed himself some ruminations. Already dabbling in homestays and astro-tourism (Ladakh has the clearest skies imaginable), he was now thinking of promoting marathons between two points in the Zanskar Valley. I did a quick calculation and suggested to Paras that the route here was good for two marathons and not just one: start one at either end, so the contestants collide at the finishing line in the middle

We arrived in Kargil, palpably different from Leh. The two always were, but the war in 1999 invested Kargil with a special tension

We arrived in Kargil, palpably different from Leh. The two always were, but the war in 1999 invested Kargil with a special tension

Stanzin Jigmet, a talented photographer from Mulbekh, a town close to Kargil and to bizarre moon-like landscapes that hypnotise tourists, was in the car with us. It was his job to document our expedition, and he was armed with a DSLR and a drone. Jigmet, who had so far been quiet, suddenly said: And we could send the drone up when they collide. The car shook with collective laughter, and it seemed to me that the mountains were speaking to Jigmet, as well. We arrived in Kargil, palpably different from Leh. The two always were, but the war in 1999 invested Kargil with a special tension and a lot more military. Tension that the sudden change of its status, to be part of the Union Territory of Ladakh rather than a district in Jammu and Kashmir earlier in the week of our journey, had exacerbated.

Independent Ladakh became a part of India in an unusual series of circumstances in the mid 19th century. The region was first overrun by vassals of Ranjit Singhs Sikh state. But in a matter of only a decade, the Sikhsand all their territory, including Ladakhwere under the British crown and then India in 1947. Although it was in 1962, when the Chinese bit off Aksai Chin to the east, that Ladakh was cut off both economically and spiritually.

The ancient trade route to Central Asia was gone, as was access to the Buddhist learning centres of Tibet. Ironically, it took a foreign invasion to glue Ladakh to India. However, a chunk of Ladakh, Kargil, is primarily Shia, which is why you see portraits of the Ayatollah on the walls of shops and eateries almost the moment you enter the district. Its also why its population has a historically uneasy relationship with the Sunni-backed separatists of Srinagar. (Think Iran vs Saudi Arabia)

For the Dalai Lamas photographs to reappear, you need to reach the Buddhist Zanskar Valley. The differences are visual: the onion domes and spires of mosques give way to the cubist lines of gompas; the maroon and yellow of robes replace the greens of flags and signage against the cold desert landscape. The Buddhists and Muslims of this region have coexisted separately (the traditionalists dont eat together) but peacefully over nearly a thousand years. Their food, of course, is different. Having been denied my thukpa in Leh, I was looking forward to a taste of balti, the aroma of which is all over Kargil.

The chef asked me for a review of his version of the dish. I told him it was missing some opium.

The chef asked me for a review of his version of the dish. I told him it was missing some opium.

That evening, I inspected the hotel buffet. And one dish stood out: Chicken Khurana. Bemused, I walked up to the chef and asked, Who is this Khurana? Is he local? The chef allowed himself an uncomfortable laugh. Heh, heh, its a special recipe from a film. One of the future leaders at my table told me there was indeed a film called Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, in which a dhaba owner dies out of the blue without revealing the secret recipe of his establishments signature dish. The predictable comic search follows, until someone accidentally drops a bit of the late patriarchs opium stash into the pot. And everybody is addicted to Chicken Khurana again. The chef asked me for a review of his version of the dish. I told him it was missing some opium.

After an early start the next morning, we stopped for a snack. What sandwiches are these? a participant asked. In a trance, I merely relayed what the mountain had just whispered to me: Sandwich a la Saklecha. Our destination was Tangtse, and it would take the better part of three days to get to it. While our journey may have started in Leh, it had really begun months ago. The reason: Tenzin Chonjor, a wiry, ever-smiling young fellow from a one-house (his house) hamlet almost directly below the 2,500-year-old Phugtal Monastery. He was the one who surveyed villages that needed electrification.

It was also his job to get communities to agree to one of the key principles that GHE follows: tourists or corporates pay for the panels and microgrids GHE fixes, but the community is responsible for their maintenance. Each village must open a bank account and contribute Rs100 a month so the infrastructure isnt neglected. No account, no panels. Chonjor is particularly suited to this job because of his other professionhe is also this vast valleys postman. He makes his collection trips once a week and ties up with a counterpart who comes from Leh. In the winter, this drops to once a month or less, and he must trek across the chadar, as the ice sheets of frozen rivers are known. His job is slightly easier, he says, than his colleagues: While there are villages for shelter on my run, he has to spend nights in caves. When there are no letters, Chonjor writes to himself and picks up his mail from Padum, says Jigmet. Chonjor must cross landslides and passes and bridges that seem to be made of twigs. What if he fell, I ask him. That would be speed post is Jigmets response. The mountains were really speaking to him. We arrived, finally, in Tangtse, a cluster of around 20 homes spread across a couple of hamlets.

The next morning, Independence Day. A public holiday. But a working day for expeditioners. It was time for Shakir Hussain to take over. He was a man of clear thoughts, with no formal training as an electrician and a slightly incongruous fear for someone who works at an altitude. On many electrification jobs, he has had to cross rickety, high-slung bridges across rampant rivers, or carry equipment clinging to mountainsides, as hungry rocks waited below. I prefer to cross bridges at night, he said Why? Because you cant see in the dark. I have been terrified of heights since I was a child. As for his electrical work, hes so competent that he can do it with his eyes closed. He had done the wiring for the grids in advance. The future leaders (now temporary electricians) were divided into teams that would carry the solar panels to the roofs and do some of the fitting. Hussain laid out the equipment, bulbs, holders, wires, screws, pliers, hammers and other materials and reminded the participants sombrely that anything lost would mean darkness for the people they had come to help.

The teams got to work with enthusiasm. Competing against each other to get the job done. (Even I, who generally prefers to observe work rather than really do it, was ambushed into fixing a bulb holder, a task I performed quite artistically.) The expeditioners were extremely happy, their sense of accomplishment making their sweat glisten. I mentioned Mark Twain earlier. Do you recall Tom Sawyer making his friends feel like it was a privilege to paint his fence? Delightful.

The solar microgrids set up in Tangtse mirror those GHE installed in other villages earlier. The panels soak up the sun, and 12-volt batteries allow seven (GHE-made) light bulbs and a few appliances to work for about 10 hours in a household. This may include four hours of televisiona limit built in by GHEif the villagers buy the ones it manufactured (Rs11,500 apiece). The TVs, like everything else, work on direct current. One reason to use DC (most modern appliances run on alternating current, as is the power in your home) is that there are fewer transmission losses. The other is that shocks are much milderbelow 48 volts. The downside: it cant be transmitted over long distances like AC can.

Here in Zanskar, DC could be the only option for basic needs. On the way to Tangtse, even in hamlets like Fotu Lalok right on the highway from Leh to Kargil, the high wires that serve army posts dont stoop to reach places like Nawangs tea stall, Enfield service station and homestay. The cost of drawing wires from the main grid to the spread-out villages of Ladakh, where most of its 3,00,000-odd population lives, is deemed too high. This is the power gap GHE aims to plug.

On our return journey to Leh, Loomba stopped and pointed to a pass in the mountains. It was that pass (Kongski La, 17,000ft) that he had been trying to cross six years ago with the help of a guide who was a certified mountaineer. It was night, and the mountaineer had surrendered his role to Loomba in despair. They had been looking for a village called Sumda Chenmoa village without electricity. What they had found was a couple of old herdsmen, huddled in a 4x4ft shanty, listening to a Chinese radio station (the only airwaves available). Shelter for the night was given and directions the next morning. Thats how I met (Tsering) Dorje. The men in the hut were his grandfather and a relative. Dorje was about to leave his village but stopped when I told him why I had come.

This was July 2013. Loomba came back the next month with modest solar lanterns. Soon after, with the cooperation of the local villagers, he and Dorje (a trained electrician) installed a solar microgrid. And with that, you could say, GHE was born. By the time this article is on the stands, the company will have covered 100 villages in the region. Along the way, GHE picked up a slew of international awards and a place at the table at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

That the story starts with the attempted distribution of a few solar lanterns is genuinely moving. That Dorje came on board and has played a major part in the near-100 projects since is equally touching. And a touching story is like the opium in the Chicken Khurana. It gets people hooked. Of the 11 participants on the expedition, four had crowdfunded their trip, and each had to tell their donors a story. In broad strokes, the stories were similar. Their underlying themes: they had been selected to be part of a future leaders expedition; the mission was to take a remote village from darkness to light; the inaccessibility of the village (non-motorable); and the lasting impact of their tripleaving behind a basic infrastructure facility that would be sustainable and green. The fourth is something that everyone agreed on after the expedition was completed. But Tangtse didnt fit the second two. Several of its homestays had power in the areas the host family used, even if erratically. One of the crowd-funders I spoke to said this was the first shock. Other participants were surprised but more tempered. Most of those who paid their own way said it didnt really matter.

But where did this light come from? The fact is that the faint government footprints, planted decades ago, could still be seen, though the story they told was a story of neglect. I asked Motup Tashi about this, the dish antennas and the cell phones that people possessed, toys that didnt work because there was no network. Tashi lives in a hamlet of Tangtse but attended a senior school in Delhi and then Ramjas College. He has a masters degree in environmental science. He told me he would study by kerosene lamp when he was four or five, but a couple of years after that, solar power came to his village. He is 27.

However, the power went off about a decade ago, and no one came to fix the lines. Winters became harder. And this is how GHE reinterprets its darkness to light pitch: the darkness of the winter is lit up by its bulbs. The presence of satellite TV dishes had puzzled the participants of the expedition on arrival. These were put up partly with the hope that the precarious power systems in some homes would work, so a subsistence diet of news and entertainment could be consumed. Now that they had a microgrid, Tashi said, his father had decided to invest in a GHE TV set. As for the cell phones, he laughed. Those had to be taken to Padum, the nearest town with mobile reception (70km away) where people could make calls and download stuff for the dreary wintermuch like the way they stored dried yak meat.

By taxi, it takes Rs600 to Rs700 to reach Padum from the village. Given the distance, you cant usually return the same day, so add a nights stay to the mix and you could be spending Rs2,000 to Rs3,000 just to make a phone call to find out the results of a job interview. In some ways, the Rs3,000 phone call tells the story of Zanskar being cut off better than the lack of a metalled road. Because these places are accessible by road. Not good ones, but roads. The joke in these parts is that its better to be close to Pakistan; you get good roads. Our journey back to Leh was bumpy but entirely motorable. The vehicles were parked at Tangtse all along.

As for the first theme, that of selection, participants told me there were a few calls that covered how they would pay (and some haggling), their general health and their overall interests. In short, it was if you pay, you go. But being selected works well for crowd-funders. The arbitrage comes from the vicarious gratification felt by donors who wished they had the time to invest in a fortnight of adventure and goodness. One of the participants, somewhat alarmed by the high cost of the journey, put together a generous estimate of his own: it worked out to about a thousand dollars less. Such a price would make a trip like this much more accessible to young Indian travellers. The main costs, of course, were the panels and personnel. The stay was inexpensive (shared tents and village homestays). As for the food, there were pancakes and pasta (nearly a local staple like Maggi) and one day, there was even a pizza. But where was the local food?

It was planned, the organisers said, for our last evening in Tangtsewhen the lights would be lit and there would be a celebration. That celebration never happened: there was just a simple ceremony at the village monastery. A little girl, all of three, who belonged to the village had passed away. And even though everyone had done their best to light Tangtse up that evening, it was this gloom that hung over all of us. GHE is an organisation that cant be slotted comfortably into a particular category. It isnt an NGO, but its work resembles that of one. GHE treks to where the government has only carelessly trodden. Its certainly not charitable, but in its communication, it attempts to foster the spirit of altruismin its clients, and their friends, and their friends.

On our last day, I find Loomba in the lobby of the Leh resort engaged in a webinar with participants of the next expedition. Amid talking about the mission, he says, We believe that people work best with their stomachs full, so we will have our own cooks you can even expect pizza. I was about to add and Chicken Khurana, but a wise mountain told me not to.

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In Ladakh, bringing power to the people is complicated business - Cond Nast Traveller India - The Last Word in Travel

The 20th annual Hanging of the Bows on the Memorial Christmas Tree took place Sunday evening in Cherry Creek. Pictured is the tree in the gazebo of the Memorial Park on Main Street in the hamlet, as participants gathered to honor and remember their loved ones.P-J photo by Sue Ann FishThe 20th annual Hanging of the Bows on the Memorial Christmas Tree took place Sunday evening in Cherry Creek. Pictured is the tree in the gazebo of the Memorial Park on Main Street in the hamlet, as participants gathered to honor and remember their loved ones.P-J photo by Sue Ann Fish

The 20th annual Hanging of the Bows on the Memorial Christmas Tree took place Sunday evening in Cherry Creek. Pictured is the tree in the gazebo of the Memorial Park on Main Street in the hamlet, as participants gathered to honor and remember their loved ones.P-J photo by Sue Ann Fish

CHERRY CREEK Sunday evening capped off a gray, rainy and cold first day of December, but the mood in the gazebo of Cherry Creeks Memorial Park was anything but that, as nearly 50 participants gathered for what would be the 20th hanging of the bows on the two Memorial Christmas trees in the park.

Sponsored by the Cherry Creek Community Association Inc., the gathering began in the Torn Hall, where those participating picked up the bows they had ordered a few weeks prior. Bows colored red, white and blue were hung in honor of those who served in our nations military.

Pink bows were in remembrance of those lost due to cancer, while white bows designated emergency personnel. Red bows were hung in honor of all others being remembered.

For some, the grief was fresh. For others, it was not. But for all, it was a nostalgic remembrance of loved ones no longer present, and a way to remember them, and include them in a Christmas celebration of life.

The idea for the annual hanging of the bows on the Memorial Tree originated in Buffalo, and was brought to Cherry Creek by Barbara Smith.

The 20th annual Hanging of the Bows on the Memorial Christmas Tree took place Sunday evening in Cherry Creek. Pictured is the tree in the gazebo of the Memorial Park on Main Street in the hamlet, as participants gathered to honor and remember their loved ones.P-J photo by Sue Ann Fish

I thought it would be a nice idea to adopt in our little town and be a good way to remember our loved ones, Smith said. We began in 1999, and the entire event was held at the Methodist Church. We hung the bows on the big evergreen tree outside the church, then went inside for a reception of hot cocoa, coffee and cookies.

Smith enlisted the help of her friend, Nancy Hall, and they sat together and made and labeled all the bows for the inaugural event.

Twenty years later, the Memorial Tree Celebration continues to grow. In 2006, the gazebo was added to the Memorial Park on Main Street, and a tree was placed in it for the celebration. A few years later, the number of loved ones being honored had grown to the point where another tree was needed to hold the bows. The celebration now includes two evergreen trees, one in the gazebo and one beside it. What began as a cocoa and cookie reception has now become a buffet supper at the Trillium Lodge, located across the street from the Memorial Park, followed by a Christmas Carol Sing.

This years celebration in the gazebo was led by Nancy Hall, who welcomed everyone to a celebration, of remembering loved ones that we have lost, and thanked everyone for attending. Hall then led the group in prayer and the singing of the traditional closing song, Silent Night.

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Hanging Of The Bows | News, Sports, Jobs - Jamestown Post Journal

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

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You can buy these pools, hot tubs and swim spas with 0% APR and no interest, fees or charges for 12 months. To complement their amazing collection of pools, hot tubs and swim spas, the company provides free installation and exclusive annual service discounts. The products are equipped with latest technological to ensure you have a great soothing and relaxing experience with your family. If you're looking to buy pools, hot tubs and swim spas, you can look at the amazing collection at The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company is one of the most prominent swimming and spa product suppliers in the industry. The company has a team of experienced professionals who strive hard to ensure full satisfaction to the customers. In addition to pools, hot tubs and swim spas, the company also offers rectangular gazebos, square gazebos, bespoke pavilion, and softub gazebos, just to name a few.

Talking about their hot tubs and swim spas, one of the representatives from the company stated, "Hot tubs bring family and friends together like nothing else. Soaking time is perfect for sharing conversations as you relax and let the day's stresses slip away. The benefits are therapeutic, not only physically but emotionally and mentally as well. Your hot tub will add new dimensions to your life and your lifestyle. From an evening swim, to water aerobics or Olympic training, our swim spas are designed to meet your requirements."

About The Hot Tub and Swim Spa CompanyThe Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company is one of the only multiple UK and European award-winning swim spa, hot tub, swimming pool, and wellness companies. Their mission is to deliver the best possible lifestyle products and services, now and in the years ahead. They specialise in technology-driven, quality products, delivered, and maintained by reliable and factory-trained in-house staff. The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company values are to deliver the best possible product to customers using the best possible materials, while also utilising specialist expertise and experience.

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Contact DetailsThe Hot Tub and Swim Spa CompanyRuxley Manor Garden Centre Maidstone Road Sidcup, Kent DA14 5BQTel: 0208 300 4003Email: sales@hottub-swimspa.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/the-hot-tub-and-swim-spa-company-offers-0-financing-on-pools-hot-tubs-and-swim-spas-with-as-little-as-500-deposit-1266844.htm

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The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company Offers 0% Financing on Pools, Hot Tubs and Swim Spas with as Little as 500 Deposit - Press Release - Digital Journal

Help usher in the holiday season in South Whitley with the return of the annual Home for the Holidays event.

The event will take place on Dec. 7 starting at the Town Park Gazebo at 4:45 p.m.

There will be the opening ceremony which includes the arrival of Santa Claus. Santa will help light the large Christmas tree in the gazebo at 5 p.m.

Afterwards families will have the opportunity to visit various locations throughout the town, each offering different food and holiday activities.

At the Brownstone on State Street stop to take a photo with Santa. The South Whitley Preschool will have a cookie decorating station there as well and Riverside Cafe will have homemade tacos and tamales available.

At South Whitley Town Hall vendors will be stationed offering a variety of holiday wares. PTO will be serving popcorn and juice.

At American Sugar there will also be vendors for families to stop and see what goodies are available for sale.

First Baptist invites attendees to stop by the Schultz Center to take part in a holiday activity. Also there, the Rainbow Preschool will have a holiday activity for guests to take part in. Starting at 5 p.m. bells will ring in the holiday season at the Schultz Center as well.

Other places offering holiday activities to take part in are Hipp Drug, Marathon Gas and South Whitley Library.

Then stop at Moyers Cafe for a sweet treat with their Hot Cocoa Bar.

From 6 to 7 p.m. carolers will be performing at the Schultz Center.

The event will conclude with a live nativity presentation in front of Crossroads Bank.

See more here:
South Whitley's Annual Home For the Holidays Event is Saturday - The Post & Mail

Alice Coyle acoyle@wickedlocal.com @accoyleWL

WednesdayDec4,2019at4:00PM

Check out Winter Wonderland and other great reader photos by following wickedlocalpix on Instagram. Your amazing image could be our next Wicked Local Reader Photo of the Day. Email pictures with captions to readerpix@wickedlocal.com.

We're always asking our readers to share their photos with us. From cute pet pics and fall foliage photos, to our recent call for class reunion shots, you keep coming through by capturing amazing images and sending them to readerpix@wickedlocal.com.

Now we're putting the focus on some of the best reader images we receive by featuring them as the Wicked Local Reader Photo of the Day on Instagram and Facebook.

While its not quite winter according to the calendar, you wouldnt know it from snow-covered scenes like this one captured by Barbara Ellen Crispi at sunset after the storm. Decked in white lights and a blanket of fresh snow, against the pink and gold sunset sky, this lovely gazebo invites us into a pristine winter wonderland.

Your amazing image could be the next reader photo featured. Email pictures with descriptive captions to readerpix@wickedlocal.com.

You'll find more great reader photos by following wickedlocalpix on Instagram. Share images with us using #wickedlocal.

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Wicked Local Reader Photo of the Day, 12-4-19 - Wicked Local Brookline

Jonathan Van Ness: Road to Beijing | Dec. 6, 8 pm | The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

Can you believe? JVN, the nonbinary, hairdressing, life-changing guru from Queer Eye, is coming soon to a theater near you. The most quotable member of the Fab Five has quickly and rightfully garnered a loyal band of followers. When hes not making over the lives of Americas least stylish, hes sharing his larger-than-life personality with the world through social media, his web series (Gay of Thrones), his podcast (Getting Curious With Jonathan Van Ness), and, now, his traveling one-man show. All the while, hes been pursuing a lifelong dream of becoming a figure-skating phenomjust in time for the 2022 Winter Olympics. His journey on the ice inspired this energetic live show, a mixture of cirque-du-so- gay-realness and stand-up comedy.

Dallas Millennial Gala | Dec. 14, 8 pm | The Statler

In its fourth year, the Dallas Millennial Gala has the theme STEM, Space & Beyond, benefiting underserved students pursuing STEM education. Hundreds of hip young Dallasites will put on their black-tie best and dance the night away.

The Last Bandoleros | Dec. 13, 10 pm | Granada Theater

The four-piece outfit from San Antonio is stirring up the country scene with a much-needed dose of Tex- Mex. Along with guitarists Jerry Fuentes and Derek James, brothers Diego and Emilio Navaira are continuing the legacy of their late father, a Tejano music icon, with modern flare.

Jingle Ball | Dec 3, 7:30 pm | Dickies Arena

KISS FMs annual Jingle Ball brings the worlds hottest pop stars together on one stage for one night only. At Fort Worths new Dick- ies Arena, you can catch Camila Cabello, Sam Smith, Charlie Puth, Lauv, Why Dont We, andlast but certainly not leastLizzo.

Holiday Show & Tree Lighting | Dec. 7, 26 pm | Klyde Warren Park

The urban park rings in the season with a day of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, face painting, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The show has its grand finale at sunset with the lighting of a big, sparkling Christmas tree.

Winter Faire & Market | Dec. 7, 11 am5 pm | Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre

Shakespeare Dallas turns back time with an olde English marketplace complete with Elizabethan characters, merry music, games, and treats. Pro- ceeds go to the companys winter production of Pride and Prejudice.

A Christmas Carol | Through Dec. 29 | Wyly Theatre

The 1938 film rendition is frankly creepy (those urchins under the robe of the Ghost of Christmas Present will haunt us forever), so youre better off watching Dallas Theater Centers fresh take on Charles Dickens enduring masterpiece.

12 Days of Christmas | Through Dec. 29 | Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

In the winter, the Dallas Arboretum makes up for its lack of blooms with opulent decor. Its 12 Days of Christmas display is the crown jewel of the season. The series of a dozen Victorian-style gazebos depicts each verse of the carol.

Dallas Holiday Parade | Dec. 7, 10 am | Downtown Dallas

Lovingly known as the Miracle on Commerce Street, the holiday parade draws nearly half a million spectators each year. Majestic floats, over-the- top characters, marching bands, dance squads, and, of course, Santa turn downtown into a winter wonderland for at least one morning.

Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops | Dec. 615 | Meyerson Symphony Center

Its one of Dallas most magical holiday traditions. The Dallas Symphony decks its hall, and the orchestra runs through all the best Christmas classics in a concert that will leave you caroling all the way home.

Once on This Island | Dec. 1722 | Winspear Opera House

Part of the venues Broadway Series, this Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of a brave young peasant (Ti Moune) who falls in love with a grand homme from the rich side of the island. With the help of four gods, she risks everything to return to him.

The Nutcracker | Nov. 29Dec. 8 | Winspear Opera House

Texas Ballet Theaters production of this holiday classic is nothing short of magic, from the mesmerizing choreography to the glittering costumes to the opulent set. Both kids and adults will be left dream- ing of Sugar Plum Fairies.

Lights All Night | Dec. 27 & 28 | Dallas Market Hall

The year-end EDM festival celebrates its 10th anniversary with a star-studded lineup led

by Skrillex, Bassnectar, Virtual Self, and Louis the Child. The concert promises earth-shattering sound and lights, a football field-size LED screen, and interactive art installs.

Dear Evan Hansen | Nov. 26Dec. 8 | Music Hall at Fair Park

Evan Hansen is an awkward teenager who struggles to fit in, but when he finds himself at the center of a tragedy at his high school, he lies his way to the life he always wanted. This touching musical won six Tony Awards after its opening in 2016.

Cher | Dec. 19, 7:30 pm | American Airlines Center

No matter how hard you try, theres no pushing Cher aside. The woman who made us Believe in life after love renewed our faith with 2018s Dancing Queen, a collection of refreshing ABBA covers that marked her first album in five years. Also shes great on Twitter.

DaBaby | Dec. 21, 8 pm | South Side Ballroom

Is there room for another Baby in the rap game? DaBabynot to be confused with Lil Baby, with whom he collaborated on Babyproved that there is with his debut studio album, Baby on Baby, which had hits like Goin Baby and Baby Sitter.

The Crystal Charity Ball | Dec. 7, 7 pm | Hilton Anatole

Perhaps the most opulent gala of the winter social season, The Crystal Charity Ball is a time-honored tradition in Dallas. Its exclusive and its expensive, but it does a lot of good for childrens charities in Dallas County.

My Mixtapez Most Wanted Fest | Dec. 13, 6:30 pm | The Bomb Factory

Houstons favorite hot girl, Megan Thee Stallion, rides into town to headline this rap festival with Moneybagg Yo, Boosie Badazz (formerly known as Lil Boosie), and prolific producer Mike WiLL Made It.

Black on Black | Dec. 6 & 7 |Dallas Black Dance Theatre Studios

The dancers of Dallas Black Dance Theatre and DBDT: Encore! come together to showcase invigorating original works in their studios intimate setting. The performance is preceded by a happy hour and followed by an after-party.

BMW Dallas Marathon | Dec. 1315 | Dallas City Hall Plaza

The annual BMW Dallas Marathon weekend starts off easy with the Friday Night Lights Mile; continues with a 10K, 5K, 2-mile walk, and kids race on Saturday; and finishes Sunday with the marathon, half-marathon, 50K ultra, and relay races.

Originally posted here:
The 20 Best Events in Dallas This December - D Magazine

The Connecticut River valley will be a great place to get into the holiday spirit this weekend, with festivities scheduled in Chester and Essex offering a chance to celebrate good cheer with friends and family.

On Friday, Dec. 6, Chester will once again come alive for a special holiday First Friday celebration with the lighting of the Christmas tree and menorah and holiday carols sung outside the downtown shops and restaurants until 8 p.m. Festivities start in front of The French Hen at 6 p.m. Santa is scheduled to arrive at 6:30 p.m.

Attractions include The French Hens elves serving up their holiday cocktail the White Christmas and the Chester Gallery showcasing its annual Postcard Show. At Lark, artist Rachel Carlson will unveil a new body of small works painted on New York City Metrocards. Kismet Chester will display owner and jewelry designer Gillian Daviss Glitter & Gold Collection along with a pop-up sale and visitors are encouraged to sip sparkling wine and peruse sale items all weekend long at the-e-list.com shop.

Kids can enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies with any of the kids meals at The Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille on First Friday, and they can also send a letter directly to Santa from one of the Santa mailboxes on site. )There will be some spiked eggnog for adults, too.)

The musicians of Arrowhead and Friends will perform for shoppers enjoying with a glass of holiday cheer while surveying the t paintings of artist Leif Nilsson at the Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery. The evening also marks the last chance to tap Caryn Paradis, LLC Interior Design for free design tips as part of its Ask the Designer workshop.

Elsewhere around Chester, shops will be open until 8 p.m., with most offering complimentary snacks or beverages.

Also running from 5 to 9 p.m. there will the annual Chester Holiday Extravaganza at the Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty Street, which will feature a wide array of goods from local artisans as well as live music and food. This year, goods will include handmade soy candles, nature inspired jewelry, handmade felted ornaments, all-natural cleaning products, back packs, pouches, totes, and more.

This is just another way that the Chester community comes together to celebrate our town, our merchants, and our residents, said First Selectman Lauren Gister. Chester is a fun town and this is a night when everyone can come and experience our fun and excitement.

Lots to Do in Essex

Over in Essex, on Saturday, Dec. 7, there are a bevy of festivities planned including the bi-annual Essex Auxiliary Holiday House tour, the village Holiday Stroll, and the Ivoryton Illuminations.

We have so much going on town, there is something for everyone to enjoy, said First Selectman Norm Needleman.

Seven homes in the village of Essex will be decorated with festive arrangements for the Holiday House Tour (see Time for the Bi-Annual Holiday House Tour in Essex on page 5). In addition, there will be a Holiday Boutique at the Town Hall at 29 West Avenue. Tickets for the tour are $40 the day the event and will be sold at the Town Hall.

From 1 to 4 p.m. the village of Essex will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland as the Essex Board of Trade celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Essex Holiday Stroll complete with old-fashioned, horse-drawn wagon rides with Santa from 1 to 3 p.m.; food trucks; a Santa letter drop at the town gazebo; pictures with Santa at the gazebo from 3 to 5 p.m.; church bells will be chiming; and boy scouts selling holiday ornaments.

In addition, specialty shops throughout town will offer stroll specials, restaurants will feature festive dining menus, and streetscape luminaires will light the way for an end of the day stroll to visit the Griswold Inns Christmas tree in Griswold Square.

Happening the same day from 5 to 8 p.m. the epic Ivoryton Illuminations will light up the brightest town center for the 10th year in a row.

What started as a conversation between friends has grown into the third-largest holiday light show in the state, something for which the village of Ivoryton is very proud.

Honestly, we never thought it would get this big or last this long, said event founder Chris Shane. Our first year we had 100,000 lights; last year we had 500,000. It really is something.

A lot of work goes into the planning and execution of the ornate display.

We start working on it in October, getting the lights out of storage, testing them all and ordering what we need, said Shane.

A key attraction of the evening is the lighting of the big tree at 6 p.m. and the aerial arrival of Santa in his sleigh (courtesy of some volunteers operating construction equipment). In addition, unwrapped toys that are donated to the Ivoryton Library during the month of November are given out by Santa Claus, who also meets with children to hear their Christmas wishes, pose for free photos, and give out special gifts and candy canes.

This is really why we do all this, to see the children smile, said Shane.

Also part of the event, there is an elf hunt, carol singing, a Holiday Bazaar, hot chocolate and mulled cider, the Lions Club hot dogs and hamburgers, cookie decorating, live music, a petting zoo, and an opportunity to write a letter to Santa and soldiers serving far away.

Every year this event gets bigger and better and the community looks forward to the opportunity to come together, to celebrate the holidays, in the beautiful village of Ivoryton, said Needleman.

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More Ways to Celebrate the Holidays - Zip06.com

THURSDAY12/5

Venice: History & Art from the Grand Canal to the Black Sea 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dec. 5, Selby Public Library, A presentation by Dr. Rosanne Martorella. A Sarasota Italian Cultural Events. italyinsarasota@gmail.com.

Annual Downtown Christmas Walk 5-8 p.m. Dec. 5, Historic Downtown Venice, 101 W. Venice Ave. #23, Venice. Stroll downtown. aglow with holiday lights and festive dcor. Check out the winners of the storefront decorations contest for most creative; most elegant; most traditional; most creative use of products; most whimsical; and best use of lights. You might meet Santa and Mrs. Claus who will be out for a stroll too. Stores will offer discounts and specials and local restaurants will have holiday music and dining deals. Buy local! 941- 484-6722; http://www.visitvenicefl.org.

Road to 2020 Speaker Series 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. Featuring keynote speaker George Papadopoulos, an international energy lawyer hailing from Chicago who was Trumps foreign policy adviser during the 2016 presidential campaign. Other speakers include author, commentator and activist Trevor Loudon speaking on the Marxist in our Government Will our Republic Stand? and John Loudon, 14-year member of the Missouri Legislature, speaking on Florida Citizen Voters: The War on Your Vote. VIP Reception at 5:30 p.m. and program at 6:30 p.m. Get tickets at RoadDec.Eventbrite.com.

A Motown Christmas featuring the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Dec. 5 and 6 and Dec. 18-20, at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. http://www.sarasotaopera.org or http://www.westcoastblacktheatre.org.

Hello, Dolly Dec. 5-15, 19-22, a Main Stage production, at The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-365-2494; http://www.theplayers.org.

Assisted Living the Musical: THE HOME for the Holidays Through Dec. 22, the Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. Recognized as one of the most successful, nonprofit community theaters in the country, entertains with full-scale musicals, oneact plays, other stage productions, and a summer childrens theater. 941-488-1115; http://www.venicestage.com.

FRIDAY12/6

Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast 7:30-9:30 a.m. Dec. 6, Venetian River Club, 502 Veneto Blvd., Nokomis. The Venice Area Chamber of Commerces annual breakfast features Dr. Jerry Parrish, chief economist and director of research at the Florida Chamber Foundation. $35 for chamber members; $40 future members. Register: https:// venicechamber.com/economicbreakfast/.

Jazz at Two Concert: The Bud Leeds Ensemble 2-4 p.m. Dec. 6, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Venice, 1971 Pinebrook Road, Venice. Presented by South County Jazz with Morrie. $15 at the door. jazzwithmorrie.org.

Gazebo Starlight Cinema: Home Alone 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, near the gazebo in Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice. https:// http://www.visitvenicefl.org/calendar/.

Christmas Joy 7 p.m. Dec. 6, Venice Community Church, 825 The Rialto, Venice. Michelle Kuhl, piano, and Jamal Sarikoki, organ and baritone. 941-488-5525; http://www.venicecommunityconcertseries.com.

The Venice Symphony Youth Orchestra 7 p.m. Dec. 6, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 1115 Center Road, Venice. Symphony Strings and Concert Strings performing Bachs Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, Corellis Christmas Concerto and Vivaldis Gloria. Free. http://www.thevenicesymphony.org; 941-207-8822.

Art & Design Show Sarasota Dec. 6-8, Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Formerly the Sarasota Craft Show, this juried show of premier crafts features work in decorative fiber, wearable art, leather, jewelry, glass, ceramics, wood, painting and sculpture by more than 80 of the nations top artists. Free admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday. 941-365-0818; 845-355-2400, http://www.artanddesignshowsarasota.com.

SATURDAY12/7

Prayer Walk the Loop Join Betty Osceola and Rev. Houston R. Cypress on an organized prayer walk from 9 a.m. Dec. 7 to 7 p.m. Dec. 8. The two well-known activists / conservationists are leading the charge to protect the Big Cypress National Preserve. The walk along Loop Road will start just off the Tamiami Trail in the Big Cypress National Preserve and last until 7 p.m. the following day. The goals are to educate and call attention to the plight of indigenous families and non-indigenous landholders and the Western Everglades Restoration Project. Walkers can camp overnight and stay for an evening chat with the participants Saturday. http://www.LoveTheEverglades.org; 786-897-4582.

2019 Fall Car Show 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 7. The SWFL Fall Nationals Car Show takes place at JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway S. Drive, Fort Myers. See hundreds of show cars, plus food, music, vendors and a large swap meet. Admission is $10; free for age 12 and younger and active duty military. A portion of the proceeds benefits the United Cerebral Palsy organization of Southwest Florida and Keep Lee County Beautiful. Free parking. http://www.rpcharities.com.

Venice Aviation Society Inc. Airport Open House 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 7, Suncoast Aviation, 400 Airport Ave. E., Venice. http://www.veniceaviationsociety.net.

History Walking Tour of Downtown Venice 9:30-11 a.m. Dec. 7, Michael Biehl Park, 100 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. A guided walking tour that covers the history of Venice and various buildings. $15. Reservations required at VeniceFloridaTours@yahoo.com or call Tiffany at 817-793-8433. Info: http://www.Facebook.com/VeniceFloridaTours.

Laughter in the Park (Laughter Yoga) 10 a.m. Dec. 7, Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice. An aerobic exercise with no yoga mats or poses involved. Free. http://www.laughteryogavenice.com; 203-856-6427.

Venice Area Beautification Inc.s Christmas Boat Bash 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 7, Venice Area Beautification Inc., 257 N. Tamiami Trail, Venice. Catered by Cafe Venice, with cash wine and beer bar, live music by Cryin Shames. Tickets $50. Info: 941-207-8224; http://www.vabi.org/2019-boat-bash.html.

Venice Christmas Boat Parade 6-7 p.m. Dec. 7, Intracoastal Waterway, Venice. http://www.venicechristmasboatparade.com.

Christmas with The Gulfshore Tenors Dec. 7, Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte. $25-$35. 941-625-4175; http://www.theculturalcenter.com; sunevents.com.

SUNDAY12/8

Venice Bible Church Celebration 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8, Maxine Barritt Park, 1800 S. Harbor Drive, Venice. Praise and worship followed by a potluck and baptisms. Bring a chair, bring a friend, bring a dish. http://www.venicebiblechurch.com.

The Venice Chorale Holiday Pops with Brass 7-9 p.m. Dec. 8, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Building 5, Venice. $20-$25, $5 for students. http://www.thevenicechorale.org; 941-218-3779.

MONDAY12/9

American Jewish Committee Gala Dinner & 2019 National Leadership Award 6-8 p.m. Dec. 9, Michaels On East, 1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota. The 2019 National Leadership Award will be given to Anne Virag, AJC Regional President. The event raises money to provide critical support its programs. Single tickets are $275 or a table at $1,250. 941-365- 4955 or email liptonb@ajc.org.

TUESDAY12/10

Merry, Merry, Sarasota! A Holiday Concert 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10, Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. Classical music associated with the holidays, plus seasonal favorites. Featured soloists: Johanna Fincher, soprano; Aaron Romm, trumpet; and Nicholas Arbolino, English horn. Robert Vodnoy is the music director and conductor of the 18-piece orchestra. A free meet-the-artists reception follows the concert. $25 adults; $15 students at http://www.redeemersarasota.org/ chamber-orchestra-of-sarasota/ or at the church office, and at the box office the night of the show beginning at 6:30 p.m. chamberorchestrasarasota.org or call 219-928-8665.

Luncheon & Ken McBride himself 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 10, Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. The Venice Area Womens College Club presents Ken McBride in a sing-along event. Guest welcomed. $22. 612-597-2299.

The Venice High School Orchestra performs 7-9 p.m. Dec. 10, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Building 5, Venice. Free. 941-800-2610.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Winter Semester Registration Now open to the general public. More than 100 courses, classes and programs on diverse subjects, including art appreciation, culture and travel, health and well-being, global issues, science, philosophy and religion take place from Jan. 13 to March 6. Highlights include:

The Listening to Women series, featuring six sessions from Feb. 6-March 12 focusing on innovative women.

Einsteins Circle discussions, including Full Speed Ahead: Back to the Moon! with Kenneth Bechis (Feb. 5); Stalin and Roosevelt, Gorbachev and Reagan, Putin and Trump with Robert Toplin (Feb. 19);

The winter lectures series, which includes talks including Forged by Fire: RescuersMoral Heroes of The Holocaust with Andre Krauss, on March 5.

The CONNECTIONS documentary film series, moderated by Julie Cotton, screens films on Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. On tap: The Biggest Little Farm (Jan. 21); RGB (February 11); Catching Sight of Thelma and Louise (March 3); and two more.

Register at 941-309-5111 or visit http://www.OlliatRinglingCollege.org.

WEDNESDAY12/11

City of Venice Casual Bike Ride 10-11:30 a.m. Dec. 11, from the City Hall Parking Lot, 401 W. Venice Ave., Venice. An easy-paced 6-mile ride around the island of Venice along the Venice Island Loop. BYO bike and helmet. http://www.visitvenicefl.org. Email dculpepper@venicegov.com.

Holly Jolly Trolley Tour 11 a.m. Wednesday and 2 p.m. Sunday in December and a special Christmas Eve tour at 2 p.m. Dec. 24, DST Trolley Depot, 1826 Fourth St., Sarasota. Guide Jenny Jingle narrates a special daytime holiday tour with cocoa at the Trolley Cottage before the tour, carols and Christmas stories of Sarasota. Prizes will be awarded for Best Ugly Sweater on every tour. Vist the Holiday Boutique in the Vintage Sarasota Gift Shop. discoversarasotatours.com; 941-260-9818.

Handle With Care Dec. 11, FSTs Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. Emmy nominee Jason Odell Williams holiday comedy about an unusual meeting on Christmas Eve. http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org; 941-366- 9017, ext. 338.

Francisca Mendoza, violin, and Aza Torshkoeva, piano Noon Dec. 11, David Cohen Hall at Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Program: Mlodie by Tchaikovsky; Liebesleid (Loves Sorrow) and Schn Rosmarin (Fair Rosmarin) by Fritz Kreisler; Romance by Henryk Wieniawski; Un Sospiro, Concert Etude, S. 144, No 3 by Franz Liszt; Meditation, from Thas by Jules Massenet; and Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) by Pablo de Sarasate. The Music Matinee Series is presented by Sarasota Concert Association. Free. 941-225-6500; scasarasota.org.

LOOKING AHEAD

Meditate for Peace 5 p.m. Dec. 12, William H. Jervey, Jr. Public Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. The practice is simple: Sit in silence and meditate, pray or just hold good thoughts. Bring a peace reading to share. Hosted by the Venice Peace Project. http://www.venicepeaceproject.org.

The December Mixer 5:30 p.m. Dec. 12, Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold, 2389 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. Hosted by the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce. Bring a toy to donate to Child Protection Center. http://www.venicechamber.com; 941-488-2236.

VHS Guitars and Keyboards 7-9 p.m. Dec. 12, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Building 5, Venice. The students of Venice High School perform. Free. 941-800-2610.

Under The Streetlamp: Hip To The Holidays 8 p.m. Dec. 12, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. A joyous performance of holiday tunes, plus songs from the American Radio Songbook. Sing along, dance in the aisles. 941-953- 3368; 800-826-9303; http://www.VanWezel.org.

The Venice Art Center presents Holiday Tea 2:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Venice Art Center, 390 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. Win a prize for the most elegant or most creative hat. Music by Le Voci Di Venezia, a student chorus from Venice High school. $40 members, $50 nonmembers. 941-485-7136;

The Venice Art Center presents Holiday Tea 2:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Venice Art Center, 390 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. Win a prize for the most elegant or most creative hat. Music by Le Voci Di Venezia, a student chorus from Venice High school. $40 members, $50 nonmembers. 941-485-7136;

Friday Night Concert Series 7-9 p.m. Dec. 13, Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice. Featuring Mindy Simmons. 941-484-6722; http://www.visitvenicefl.org.

Nate Najars Jazz Holiday 8-10 p.m. Dec. 13, Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. http://www.natenajar.com/upcomingshows/.

Beautiful The Carole King Musical Dec. 13-15, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The inspiring true story of Kings remarkable life and the music that changed America. Evening shows at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 6:30 p.m. Sunday and matinees at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. 941-953-3368; 800-826-9303; http://www.VanWezel.org.

Abounding Grace Fellowship Event 5-9 p.m. Dec. 14, Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice. Cookies, carols, and Christmas story. http://www.venicegov.com.

Venice Blalock Park Tree Lighting Sundown Dec. 14, Arboretum at West Blalock Park, 401 Pensacola Road, Venice. Music performances by local kids, crafts, refreshments and Santa. Pay a visit to the jolly elf near the Venice Museum & Archives and the Venice Community Center. 941-207-8224; http://www.vabi.org.

Bicycles International Glow Ride Dec. 14, starts at Maxine Barritt Park and ends post-ride food, drinks and music at Sharkeys on the Pier. A night bicycle parade-like ride through the City of Venice, stopping by the Venice tree lighting ceremony at West Blalock Park. Proceeds benefit a local charity.

Live Music for Charity 6-9 p.m. Dec. 19, Ciao Gelato, 317 W. Venice Ave., Venice. Donate a toy or cash. All musician tips go to local charities and will be matched. Music by George Byrne. 941- 445-5840; email rockbud@comcast.net.

A Very Merry Holiday Pops Concert Dec. 20-21, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave. at the Venice High School campus. The Venice Symphony performs an eclectic selection of seasonal music, from holiday classics to songs from holiday films with special guests the Sarasota Key Chorale. http://www.thevenicesymphony.org; 941-448-1010.

The Ten Tenors Home for the Holidays 7 p.m. Dec. 22, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. A mix of festive favorites and modern holidays hits. 941- 953-3368; 800-826-9303; http://www.VanWezel.org.

Sounds of the Season Dec. 22 at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. The Choral Artists of Sarasota performs its 41st season. Tickets start at $20 at http://www.ChoralArtistsSarasota.org; 941-387-4900.

Menorah Lighting 5 p.m. Dec. 22, 395 Dearborn St., Englewood. Music and food. Co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. 941- 493-2770.

A Christmas Carol 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. A cast of 23 performers weaves music through Charles Dickens classic tale, including renditions of beloved holiday songs and hymns, like God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and Good Christian Men Rejoice. 941-953-3368; 800-826- 9303; http://www.VanWezel.org.

Menorah Lighting 5 p.m. Dec. 26, Warm Mineral Springs, North Port. Cosponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. 941-493-2770.

Venice Klezmer Festival 4:30- 6:30 p.m. Dec. 29, at the Gazebo at Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice. A concert by Boris & Natasha and the Freilach Klezmer Band, a giant menorah made out of Legos, a live appearance by Judah the Maccabee, the lighting of the 12-foot menorah, a performance from Chabads Hebrew School of the Arts students, Dreidel House. Traditional Hanukkah food including falafel, latkes, donuts, and Matzah ball soup. Free. Cosponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. 941-493-2770; http://www.chabadofvenicec.com.

ONGOING

The Fence Through Feb. 8, Regatta Island in Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. This huge public photo exhibition a showcase of the best from Gulf Coast photographers appears on both sides of a fence between the islands twin bridges. Each photo series is comprised of as many as five images that share a thematic connection or tell a story. Free. 6 a.m.-6 p.m. 941-358-7275.

AT MAJOR VENUES

Asolo Repertory Theatre 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-351- 8000; http://www.asolorep.org.

Harmony for the Holidays Dec. 21-22. Shows at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 and 5 p.m. Sunday.

The Sound of Music Through Dec. 28.

In the Conservatory: Gruesome Playground Injuries Dec. 31-Jan. 19.

Bookstore1Sarasota 12 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. http://www.sarasotabooks.com or 941-365-7900.

Kathryn D. Sullivan speaks 2 p.m. Dec. 12. The first American woman to walk in space will chat about and sign her new book Handprints on Hubble. Reservations suggested.

Book clubs meet:

The Mysteries to Die For Book Club 11 a.m. Dec. 10. Led by Elsie Souza. Book: Death at La Fenice by Donna Leon.

Short and Satisfying Book Club 1 p.m. Dec. 13. Led by Georgia Court. Meets at Book: The Linden Tree by Csar Aira.

The Poetry Book Club 2 p.m. Dec. 16. Led by Georgia Court. Book: Like by A. E. Stallings.

Learning to Love Spanish Book Club 5:30 p.m. Dec. 18. Led by Carlos Goebels, discussing Love Poems by Pablo Neruda.

Cultural Center of Charlotte County 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte. 941-625-4175; http://www.theculturalcenter.com; sunevents.com/.

The Nutcracker Dec. 14-15. Presented by Hands and Hearts For Performing Arts Inc.

Swinging Big Band Monday Nights Dec. 16.

A Christmas Celebration Dec. 18. Presented by the William H. Wakeman, III Cultural Center Theater.

Florida Studio Theatre 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-9000; http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org.

Winter Mainstage:

Bright Star Through Jan. 3. Gompertz Theatre.

Handle with Care Dec. 11-March 8, Keating Theatre.

Cabaret:

Thats Amore! Through Feb. 2 in Court Cabaret.

Childrens Theatre:

Pinocchio Saturdays and select Sundays through Jan. 2. Keating Theatre.

The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. 941-552- 5325; http://www.gpactix.com.

Strings Con Brio Dec. 12.

Nate Najars Jazz Holiday Dec. 13.

Pine View Jazz Band Dec. 14.

Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum 900 W. Marion Ave. in Punta Gorda. http://www.militaryheritagemuseum.org; 941-575-9002.

Sun Coast Wind Ensemble 7 p.m. Dec. 7

Ring in the Holidays 2 p.m. Dec. 13-14.

Bob Hopes Christmas Gala 5:30 p.m. Dec. 20-21. Bob Hope impersonator Bill Johnson will be joined by Holly Faris as Phyllis Diller.

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WHAT TO DO, WHERE TO GO - Key West Florida Weekly

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (PRWEB) December 04, 2019

The Casita is a uniquely designed 1,070 square foot 2-Story home that features a spacious open first floor layout with living room, kitchen, nook and powder room. On the second floor there can be 1 to 2 bedrooms with a full bathroom and a laundry area.

To complement the exceptional design of The Casita, the home features airy 9 first floor ceilings with large casement windows and transom windows above for lots of natural light. The energy efficient tankless gas water heater doesnt eat of valuable space, and along with the recessed LED lights, helps reduce monthly utility bills. The recessed front entry and 14/12 gable peak adds dimension and curb appeal to the exterior of the home that would fit into any community or neighborhood. The kitchen is modern and well-appointed with a center island, tall pantry cabinet, 42 wall cabinets and modern stainless-steel appliances.

The second-floor master bedroom is spacious and perfectly sized with a large closet, as well as private entry to the bathroom. The bathroom features a full tub/shower combo with a large double bowl bath vanity and separate door to the hallway. The homebuyer has the choice of doing one or two bedrooms on the second floor and both options provide space for a second-floor laundry area.

For more information The Casita from Manorwood Homes, visit: https://www.manorwoodhomes.com/casita.

About the Modular Home Builders Association:The MHBA is the only national non-profit trade association exclusively serving the modular home industry. Each month the association selects a home from its members to highlight the advantages of modular construction. For more information on MHBA, modular homes, and the monthly contest, please visit http://www.modularhome.org.

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The Casita by Manorwood Homes wins Modular Home of the Month - PR Web

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999 sq ft Floor1000 sq ft 1499 sq ft Floor1500 sq ft 1999 sq ft Floor2000 sq ft 2499 sq ft FloorMore than 2500 sq ft Floor

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This report strategically examines the micro-markets and brings to light the impact of technology upgrades on the performance of the Modular Homes market. Researchers conducting the research also carry out a comprehensive analysis of the recent amendments in the government regulation and their impact on the competitive landscape of the industry.

The research assesses the recent progress in the competitive landscape including collaborations, joint ventures, product launches, acquisitions and mergers as well as investments in the sector for research and development.

The authors of the study also offer a holistic view of the global Modular Homes market based on the earnings, volume, and sales recorded. The research report furnishes clear guidelines for players to intensify their market position in the global Modular Homes market. It prepares them to deal with potential challenges and optimize profitable opportunities by providing an extensive analysis of the market scenario.

It also guides them to recognize new business goals simultaneously keeping track of the changes in the customer preferences, needs, and the vendor landscape of the global Modular Homes market.

Key Coverage of the Report

Region and country-wise assessment from the period 2016-2026. For the study, 2016-2017 has been utilized as historical data, 2018 as the base year, and 2019-2026, has been derived as forecasts for the Modular Homes market.

Regional Competitors pipeline analysis.

Demand and Supply GAP Analysis.

Market share analysis of the key industry players.

Strategic recommendations for the new entrants.

Market forecasts for a minimum of 6 years of all the mentioned segments, and the regional markets.

Industry Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, and recommendations).

Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations.

Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends.

Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments.

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The report on global Modular Homes market is intended to offer business owners, stakeholders and field marketing executives a broad overview of the business they should be focussing on for the estimated period. The research further holds vital information on the size of market and data on the prominent leaders product owners have to compete with, in the coming years. Assessments of the broad strengths, as well as weaknesses too, add value to the overall research. Products details not only cover the popular applications and its performance, but it also unveils certain trends and value of specific products within specific regions.

Key points from Table of Content:

Chapter 1. Market Synopsis

Chapter 2. Executive Summary

Chapter 3. Indicative Metrics

Chapter 4. Modular Homes Segmentation & Impact Analysis

Chapter 5. Modular Homes Market By Product Type Insights & Trends

Chapter 6. Modular Homes Market By Application Insights & Trends

Chapter 7. Modular Homes Market By End Use Insights & Trends

Chapter 8. Modular Homes Market Regional Outlook

Chapter 9. Competitive Landscape

Chapter 10. Company Profiles

Chapter 11. Modular Homes Market Dynamics

Chapter 12. Modular Homes Market Effect Factors Analysis

Chapter 13. Modular Homes Market Research Finding/Conclusion

Chapter 14. Modular Homes Market Appendix

Chapter 15. Methodology

Chapter 16. Analyst Introduction

Chapter 17. Data Source

Chapter 18. List of Tables and Figures

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Modular Homes Market Research Report And Predictive Business Strategy by 2026 | Market Expertz - The Bay State Herald