'Tis the Season 12.15.2023 by Brentwood Press & Publishing

December 15, 2023

‘ Tis the Season THE PRESS

Experiential Gift Ideas

Tips for giving unique es experiences for loved on

ABCs of Gift Giving

Local ideas from A to Z

Mac Attack

Knightsen boy opens woodworking business

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Some gifts you can’t put under the tree MELISSA VAN RUITEN

♦

ith the holiday season ♦

upon us, many people

The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers something for people of all ages.

are faced with the chal-

lenge of finding the perfect gifts for their loved ones. But what if the focus was shifted from material possessions to experiences? This holiday season, consider the gift of an experience. By offering friends and family the chance to explore, learn, and create magical memories, you can deepen your relationships and make your gift more meaningful. A 2022 survey from the travel booking platform GetYourGuide found that 77 percent of individuals surveyed preferred to receive experiences over more traditional physical gifts during the holiday season. Such gifts are now categorized as experiential gifts, and there’s seemingly no end to the possibilities when holiday shoppers choose to give experiences to their loved ones. Giving experiences can be a more eco-friendly option because it reduces the amount of waste and clutter associated with material gifts. It can also take the pressure off the recipient who may already feel like they

♦

♦ Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

have too much “stuff,” and too little room for that ‘stuff.’ Choosing to give experiences instead of objects can show loved ones how much we care for them, and the planet. One option for experience-based gifts is a membership to a local zoo or museum. These memberships provide access to yearround exhibits and events, giving the recipient the opportunity to learn and explore at their own pace. Plus, it’s a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. The Bay Area and Capitol region have a plethora of museums and zoos for all ages to explore. Zoos, Aquariums, and Gardens ♦ Oakland Zoo - Oakland, Daily, 10 a.m. 4 p.m.; $20-$24; Membership: $174 ♦ San Francisco Zoo and Gardens - San

♦

Francisco; Daily, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; $20-$31; Membership: $179 Sacramento Zoo - Sacramento; Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $15-$24; Membership: $175 Micke Grove Zoo - Lodi; Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; $3-$5; Membership: $50 Aquarium of the Bay - San Francisco; Daily, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $22-$32; Membership: $160 Monterey Bay Aquarium - Monterey; Daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $45-$60; Membership: $295 Marine Mammal Center - Sausalito; Friday - Monday. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $8-$20; Membership: $150

♦

Ruth Bancroft Garden - Walnut Creek; Tuesday - Sunday. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $5-$12; Membership: $80 UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley - Berkeley; Daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $8-$18; Membership: $95 Gardens of Golden Gate Park: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Japanese Tea Garden, and Conservatory of Flowers - San Francisco; Days and Hours vary by park; $3-$16; Membership: $85 STEM Museums Exploratorium - San Francisco; Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $30-$40; Membership: $199 California Academy of Sciences - San Francisco; Monday - Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $34-$44; Membership: $279 Computer History Museum - Mountain View; Wednesday - Sunday. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; $15-$20; Membership: $150 Chabot Space and Science Museum Oakland; Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $19-$24; Membership: $225 CuriOdyssey - San Mateo; Tuesday Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $22-$26; Membership: $185 Lawrence Hall of Science - Berkeley; Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; $20; Membership: $160 Lindsay Wildlife Experience - Walnut

see Gifts page 9B

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DECEMBER 15, 2023

Here are 4 unique holiday party themes

he holiday season is a festive time of year filled with plenty of opportunities to social-

ize with friends and family. Parties abound this time of year, and many people may find themselves hosting everything from intimate gatherings to large family dinners. As people will be attending many different events in the weeks to come, savvy hosts and hostesses may want to set their occasions apart in different ways. One option is to pick an entertaining party theme that guests can get excited about. A fun theme can provide a break from the standard traditions. Consider these four unique party themes when planning holiday parties.

Ornament exchange Decorating the home is commonplace this time of year. Who couldn’t use a new trinket for the mantle or an ornament to adorn the tree? Ask all guests to bring a gift-wrapped ornament to the party. Then place numbers in a bowl and have each guest draw a number; this is the order in which they will then select an

ornament. After the first person makes their selection, subsequent guests can choose a new ornament from the pile or “steal” one from those already picked. The guest who picked first then has one last chance to keep or steal at the end.

Tropical holiday

The weather outside may be frightful, but a tropical island party can be utterly delightful. Give the event an island flair with fruity drinks, grilled kabobs, coconut desserts, and steel-drum music.

There are many different party themes that holiday hosts can consider this season.

Grinch party

A party devoted to the Dr. Seuss character The Grinch can be a fun way to pass time together. While the holidays are supposed to be holly and jolly, a Grinchthemed party can put the emphasis on being a little bit more naughty than nice. And who doesn’t enjoy an ample serving of roast beast? Have guests come decked out in Grinch costumes or Grinchemblazoned T-shirts or other clothing.

Christmas karaoke

Set up the karaoke machine or utilize one of the services available online, and make sure that guests are prepared to belt out their favorite holiday tunes whether traditional carols or pop hits. A group of ladies can join together for

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

The Waitresses’ “Christmas Wrapping” or guests can try their hands at hitting the high notes of Mariah Carey’s ubiquitous “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

Chances are serving some liquid courage will help guests loosen up and be more inclined to grab the microphone. – Metro Creative

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Christmas Eve is a great time to embrace various traditions that help to make the season even more special.

together!

How to make Christmas Eve special for kids

ently by different people, even those who live under

the same Santa-ready roof. Adults may see Christmas Eve as crunch time when they must prepare food for the next day or set up presents for their children to open in the morning. Children, on the other hand, are focused on Santa’s visit and little else. Parents naturally want to make Christmas time as special as possible for their children, and that may involve ensuring that Christmas Eve is just as memorable as Christmas Day. The following are some ways to impart more magic into Christmas Eve celebrations.

Attend Mass at midnight

Practicing Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas. On Christmas Eve, churches often hold celebrations that may include late-evening or Midnight Masses that celebrate the birth of Christ when the calendar switches over to December 25. While it does make for a late night, it can be thought-provoking for kids and a unique experience.

Bake fresh cookies

Children like to leave out a plate of

Let’s create

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

hristmas Eve is viewed differ-

cookies and a glass of milk for Santa. That makes Christmas Eve a perfect time to whip up a fresh batch of cookies. Explore different recipes to come up with a unique offering each year.

Read a Christmas story

Watching television or looking at a tablet or mobile phone before bed can be too stimulating when it’s time for children to wind down for bed. Choose a holiday tale or tales that can be read as a Christmas Eve bedtime story. Reciting the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas)” is a great way to set the Christmas Eve mood.

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Make a batch of ‘reindeer dust’

Why should Santa’s reindeer be left out when it comes to receiving treats? Reindeer dust, made from a combination of oatmeal, rice cereal, dried fruits, and glitter (if desired), is purported to attract Santa’s reindeer and provide them a nibble at the same time. Plus, it’s generally safe for other animals in the yard to eat.

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Go caroling

Caroling may not be the norm, but some families may want to revive it. Closeknit communities can organize familycentric caroling opportunities and roam the cul-de-sacs and other pedestrian-friendly areas singing popular songs. – Metro Creative

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The ABCs of gift giving A is for All in One Limousine

All in One Limousine has the best transportation for all your travel needs, including airports, winery tours, weddings, dinners and holiday parties. Gift certificates are available. Our fleet includes stretch limos sedans, SUV, party bus and passenger vans. Call Cindy at 925-513-4175 or visit www.allinonelimos.com (TCP# 24869)

B is for Brentwood On Ice

Lace up those skates and celebrate the season at Brentwood On Ice in downtown Brentwood across from City Hall. The community rink provides residents and visitors with a holiday tradition like no other. Open seven days a week, the seasonal rink has something for everyone. Mention this ad and receive $1 off skate rental. Visit www. brentwoodonice.com for rink hours and information or call 925-516-7664.

C is for Continente Country Store

Continente Country Store prides itself on its rich family history, longstanding roots in the East Bay Area and is committed to offering their customers quality products at a fair price. They offer a variety of baking goods, nuts and candy, including gift packs that are great gifts for loved ones. Continente Country Store is the perfect place to pick up any snacks or specialty items for the holiday season. For more information and to shop, visit https://www. continentecountrystore.com/

D is for Dance

Give the gift of dance this holiday season from East County Performing Arts Center! Two months of dance, June Recital Costume, Tutu and Wand – all packaged under the tree for $179! www.Brentwooddance.com or call 925-240-5556.

E is for Eyeglasses

Whether you need a prescription or want fashionable frames, eye glasses can make a unique gift. At Vision Optix Optometry, they will help with all of your vision needs, including eye exams, glasses and contact lenses. Located at 3840 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Call 925-5130323 or visit www.visionoptix.com

F is for Frankincense

Let Holm Essentials help you navigate a world of possibilities in natural healing and general wellness with a multitude of products from doTERRA for every aspect of your health journey. Contact Heidi, your resident essential oils expert, at (925)7830606 or visit https://www.doterra.com/US/ en/site//HeidiLHolm.

G is for Gift Baskets

Find a great collection of fruit, nut and gourmet food gift baskets at Gursky Ranch. Give a unique, handcrafted gift basket themed for the holiday season this year. All baskets are hand-processed in the Gursky Ranch store, located at 1921 Apricot Way, in Brentwood. The store is open daily through Dec. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 925-634-4913 with any questions.

H is for Hamburger

Snag a gift card and give the gift of a juicy, all-American burger at Digger’s Diner, located at 2261 Balfour Road, in Brentwood. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 925-240-8958.

I is for Ice Cream

Family-Owned and -operated, Sip and Scoop California is located at 234 Oak St in Brentwood. This cute downtown business is a great place to meet up with friends and get a delicious hot coffee or ice beverage, a scoop of Ice Cream, yummy bubble waffle, toast, or breakfast sandwich. Mention this ad to get $1 off your order of $10 or more. You can follow Sip and Scoop on Facebook and Instagram.

J is for Jam

Coo Moo Jams is a local artisanal jams business that currently has three delicious flavors available, Apricot Habanero, Peachy Mango Madness and Triple Berry Moogarita! They also feature a spicy Worcestershire sauce “Wooster Sauce”. All flavors come with a warning of “may become addicting.“ All the jams are available at Alluv Place, Brentwood Craft Beer and Cider, Gursky Ranch, McCauleys Olive Oil Store, The Pink Door and Urban Edge Farms. Visit www.coomoojams. com for details or to place your order. They are available to ship anywhere in the United States.

K is for Karaoke

Like being the star of the show? Come on down to 311 Oak St. Pub on Tuesday nights where they have karaoke with DJ Lisa from 8 p.m. till midnight. They offer several drink specials and Taco Tuesday deals including $3 carne asada, pork or chorizo tacos served with cilantro, onions, and their homemade salsa roja, with the kitchen staying open till 9:30 p.m. So grab your friends and head down to 311 Oak St. in downtown Brentwood. Check them out on Facebook or call 925-626-5547.

L is for La Fuente

Sensational Mexican food, featuring rich flavors that have taken generations to perfect. The ambiance makes you feel you’re in Mexico enjoying a meal with family and friends. Enjoy that meal with a full salad bar and, in the winter, a savory and comforting bowl of soup! 642 First Street, Brentwood. 925-5162233 www.lafuentebrentwood.com

M is for Music

Give the joy of music to fill the holiday season. Geddes Music provides new and used instruments with services and supplies to keep the music going. We are also offering a holiday special of 10% off all Christmas related collection sheet music and song books in stock! Geddes Music can be found at their new location, 625 First St. downtown Brentwood or call 925-634-6684.

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For all of you last-minute shoppers, The Press has you covered with some great gift ideas and fun things to do. Below, you will find local selections from A to Z, to complete your shopping list!

N is for Nutcracker

The Nutcracker’s Grand Opening is on December 15-17th at the historic California Theatre in downtown Pittsburg. Come and immerse yourself in the enchanting tale of Clara, who receives a nutcracker as a Christmas gift. Watch as toys spring to life and embark on an epic battle against a formidable army of mice. It’s a fairy tale come to life that you won’t want to miss! Make “The Nutcracker” part of your family’s holiday tradition. Dancers from The Ballet Company of East County will offer five performances at the California Theatre 351 Railroad Avenue in Pittsburg. For tickets visit www.tickets831. com or www.brentwooddance.com.

O is for Optometry

Delta Vista Optometry is a great place to go for eyecare and eyewear as they offer both vision and medical eye care services for all ages. They have been serving Brentwood since 1987 and are located in downtown Brentwood at the corner of Chestnut Street and Brentwood Blvd. HSA/FSA benefits and many medical and vision insurance plans are accepted. Call today 925-634-0303 to schedule an appointment with their friendly, attentive and experienced team. Visit www.deltavistaeye.com

P is for Pets

Brentwood Family Pet Care offers all their clients and patients the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly, compassionate service. The best gift for your pets is good health - exams, vaccines, antiparasites, spay/neuter - good food and lots of love. Let them help keep your pets (young or old) healthy and happy. Located at 4421-A Balfour Road in Brentwood. Visit www. BrentwoodFamilyPetCare.com, or call 925-240-7387.

Q is for QuikStop

Convenience is a gift in itself, and QuikStop offers many convenient options for holiday shopping. Pick up a gift card, or lottery tickets to stuff in a stocking or put under the tree. Grab some snacks or gas up for holiday travel. Located at 3940-A Walnut Blvd. in Brentwood, 925-634-0369 and open 24 hours.

R is for Rockin’ Jump The Ultimate Trampoline Park, Rockin’ Jump, is a favorite indoor activity for all ages. Get the jump on your holiday shopping by stopping by and picking up Rockin’ Jump’s ultimate stocking stuffer gift box which includes a $25 gift card, $5 bonus card and grip socks, all for only $25. Rockin Jump is located at 5641 Lone Tree Way. Call them at 925-281-3335 or visit www. rockinjump.com/brentwood

S is for Serendipity

Serendipity Cellars is Brentwood’s newest winery and located minutes from downtown Brentwood. It’s a beautiful one-ofa-kind unique boutique winery that demonstrates their passion for the artistry that goes into wine making. Head out for some tastings or pick up some wine by the bottle or case for those lastminute holiday gifts. Located at 1600 Chestnut St. Call today for hours 925-477-0572 or visit www. serendipitycellars.com

T is for Teeth

Now is the time to have your teeth checked! Most insurance benefits or FSA’s expire at the end of December. Call us today to schedule your child’s exam and cleaning before the year ends! 925-516-4107

U is for the Ultimate UV Tanning

Come into Tan Republic for the ultimate tanning experience in Brentwood’s newest tanning salon. Luxury tanning equipment, red light therapy, sunless tanning and more. No appointments necessary. Monthly memberships available. Located at 2430 Sand Creek Road, Suite D. Call (925)306-4041. https://bit.ly/ TanRepublicBrentwood

V is for Vintage

Curious-ity is your one stop shopping solution for thoughtful Vintage & Holiday gift giving. Whether you are looking for vinyl records, crystals, artwork, vintage collectibles, signed sports memorabilia or artisan originals, Curious-ity has something for everyone on your gift list. Visit us and browse through our eclectic selections of holiday décor and gifts-you never know what treasures await you. From everyone at Curious-ity, have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Located at 629 First Street, Brentwood, 925-684-7941, www.curious-ity.com.

W is for White Teeth

Come in for a 30-minute cosmetic teeth whitening service and enjoy 50% off until the end of January 2024. Guaranteed zero sensitivity. Visit Tan Republic at 2430 Sand Creek Road, Suite D. Call (925)306-4041. https://bit.ly/TanRepublicBrentwood

X is Galaxy Kids Code Club

Give the gift of coding for the holidays! Coding is the most important skill for the future. Computing jobs are the #1 source of new wages and command the highest salaries. Gift Certificates are available now for our coding classes and camps as well as our toy store. Turn your child’s love of technology into skill building for their future success! Visit our website at www. galaxykidscodeclub.com for a full list of classes and camps or contact us at 925-464-2766. Galaxy Kids <Code Club> 312 Oak St. Brentwood.

Y is for Frozen Yogurt

Head over to Cool Spot in Brentwood where you can enjoy frozen yogurt, fresh baked cookies, refreshing slushies & specialty coffee drinks. Take advantage of the holiday gift card promotion, buy a $25 gift card and get $5 extra for free! Mention this ad for 15% off your next yogurt. Open till 8:30 PM Sun. – Thur. and 9 PM Fri. & Sat. 390 W. Country Club Dr. 925-626-7142.

Z is for ZEN

Sit Back, Relax & Breathe at Crystal Salt Cave & Event Center. Inhaling surgical-grade dry salt particles is an alternative treatment for lung and skin problems that will reduce inflammation in your respiratory tract, improve breathing, and the appearance of your skin. Rent their studio space for your next event. Crystal Salt Cave at 8065 Brentwood Bvld, Suite 2, is open Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm by appointment. Call us at (925)392-7258 or visit www.crystalsaltcave.com.

‘TIS THE SEASON

DECEMBER 15, 2023

The ABCs of gift giving A is for All in One Limousine

B is for Brentwood On Ice

C is for Continente Country Store

D is for Dance

E is for Eyeglasses

F is for Frankincense

G is for Gift Baskets

H is for Hamburger

I is for Ice Cream

J is for Jam

K is for Karaoke

L is for La Fuente

M is for Music

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For all of you last-minute shoppers, The Press has you covered with some great gift ideas and fun things to do. Below, you will find local selections from A to Z, to complete your shopping list!

N is for Nutcracker

O is for Optometry

P is for Pets

Q is for QuikStop

S is for Serendipity

T is for Teeth

U is for the Ultimate UV Tanning

V is for Vintage

W is for White Teeth

X is Galaxy Kids Code Club

Y is for Frozen Yogurt

Z is for ZEN

‘TIS THE SEASON

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DECEMBER 15, 2023

Teen follows in his grandfather’s footsteps MELISSA VAN RUITEN

nightsen resident Mcintire Krause, 14, grew up listening to his grandfather’s

Mcintire Krause, 14, took up woodworking to honor his grandfather’s memory and raise money for his 4-H animals.

stories about building custom homes for

a living.

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Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

“Being able to use your own imagination (is my favorite part),” Mcintire said. “It’s like Legos, but for adults. You just build what you want, and you can either sell it or use it, and just kind of have your own ideas.” Mcintire’s favorite projects have been ones he’s made on a lathe, a tool that shapes a rotating piece of wood. For the holidays, he’s been making a lot of wood-turned Christmas trees. “The wood is spun in a circle, and you have chisels that you use to carve away at the wood to create the shapes and form of the project,” Mcintire said. “It’s soothing. It’s kind of like making a sand castle and scraping

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“Mcintire would hear stories of how he built homes that had secret doors and all the crafty cool stuff, so he was really intrigued,” Amanda Krause, Mcintire’s mom, said. “My dad did all the cabinetry in my parents’ house. So, he talked to Mcintire a lot about all the stuff he did, and I know that really inspired him.” Mcintire’s grandfather passed away in July of 2022. By December, inspired by his grandfather’s legacy and looking to make some money to purchase 4-H animals, Mcintire decided that he’d like to try his hand at making some wood projects to sell to friends and family. Mac Attacks Wood Crafts was born. Since Mcintire never got the chance to work with his grandfather due to ongoing health problems he took the stories and combined them with his own research. “He’s definitely self taught,” Krause said. “He sat and watched YouTube videos and Googled ideas. His dad knows a little bit about everything, so he’s got him to go to if he gets stuck on a project, but 99.9% of the time he’s just watched those YouTube videos and, of course, trial and error.” Creating something out of raw materials fascinates Mcintire. Using some of his grandfather’s tools, he started experimenting with different types of wood and designs.

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away at the edges of the sand, molding it into your own little castle.” Mcintire’s woodworking business has been a success, and over the past year he’s participated in a handful of local vendor events. He said customers are always surprised when they find out that he is the one who has worked to create everything, but they appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of his work. He’s always on the lookout for new events where he can sell his work. The money Mcintire made by auctioning his 4-H animals at the end of last season enabled him to buy an old school bus, which he plans to convert to an RV to use at future county fairs and 4-H shows. “He’s always had this mindset of ‘I’m going to convert a bus into a home, and that’s where I’m going to live,’ ” Krause said. “He gutted the whole, entire thing on Day 1. Ripped everything out, from the flooring to the seats, to everything. He probably built the bed three different times, before he found one that worked. He built the couch frame and made the cushions, and he made the kitchen counter. Then, he painted the inside and did a mural on the front.” Mcintire is slowly building his collection of tools, according to his mom, to continue his motivation and achieve his visions for future projects. “I plan on scaling (my business) up and getting better and bigger tools,” Mcintire said. To learn more about Mac Attacks Wood Crafts and see his new projects, you can follow him on Facebook https://bit.ly/3TlZLlc and Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/macattackswoodworkingcrafts/

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‘TIS THE SEASON

DECEMBER 15, 2023

Gifts from page 3B

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p.m., Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; $23-$30; Membership: $200 ♦ Crocker Art Museum - Sacramento; Wednesday-Sunday 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; $8-$15; Membership: $85 ♦ Blackhawk Museum - Danville; FridaySunday, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; $15-$20; Membership: $180 ♦ Museum of the African Diaspora - San Francisco; Wednesday -Saturday,11 a.m. -6 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; $6-$12; Membership: $95 All membership prices listed are at the family level, but other levels are available and vary in price. Most memberships include reciprocal benefits to similar museums, state and nationwide. Check websites for full details. Another option is to give a series of classes or workshops in a subject that interests your loved one. Whether it’s cooking, painting, coding, or dance, classes can provide a fun and educational experience that can lead to new hobbies or even career paths. Classes and Workshops ♦ East County Performing Arts Center Brentwood; Dance and performing arts classes for toddlers through adults; (925) 701-9889; eastcountypac@gmail.com ♦ Galaxy Kids Code Club - Brentwood; Computer programming (coding), engineering, and technology education programs for children of all ages; (925) 464-2766; info@galaxykidscodeclub.com ♦ Geddes Music - Brentwood; Familyowned and-operated for over 20 years, services include; buy, sell, and trade new and used musical instruments, school band instrument rentals, music lessons, musical instrument repair and piano tuning services; (925) 634-6684; support@geddesmusicstore.com ♦ Starry Night Studios - Brentwood; Offering family-friendly paint nights, special events, and art classes for kids; (925) 308-9150 ♦ Secret Garden Designs - Brentwood; Workshops to suit all needs, for all ages – from terrariums to succulent wreaths, and everything in between; (925) 684-7487; secretgardendesigns18@gmail.com ♦ Black Diamond Kids Center Brentwood; A sports, education and entertainment center that offers

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gymnastics and tumbling classes for kids; (925) 516-6619; Brentwood@ bdkidscenter.com The Playhouse Brentwood Brentwood; Indoor playspace for children ages five and under, also offering events and classes; (925) 306-7881; ThePlayhouseBrentwood@gmail.com Created by You - Brentwood; Located at the corner of Central and Brentwood boulevards, Created by You takes the idea of a paint-yourown art studio and takes it to the next level. They offer a variety of projects, including: DIY wood signs, wood shop creation, nail-string art, canvas and glass painting, build and plant

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projects, same day ceramics, resin, and glass etching. More information can be found at createdby-you.com or by calling 925-392-8672. For those who love to travel, planning a day trip, weekend getaway or a vacation is a foolproof gift for adventure lovers. This could be a chance for them to explore a new city, relax on the beach, or go on an adventure they’ve always dreamed of. From amusement parks and National Parks to Disney, Legoland, and Great Wolf Lodge, the memories created on these trips will last a lifetime and can bring friends and loved ones closer together. – Metro Creative contributed to this report.

idays l o H y p p Ha

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Creek; Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; $13-$15; Membership: $100 SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity - Sacramento; Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $15-$18; Membership: $150 Hiller Aviation Museum - San Carlos; Daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $14-$21; Membership: $105 Aerospace Museum of California McClellan; Thursday - Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $10-$15; Membership: $100 Art, Culture, and History Museums Children’s Creativity Museum - San Francisco; Friday. - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $20; Membership: $209 Musee Mecanique - San Francisco; Daily, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Free admission, but bring quarters for the arcade Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum - Sacramento; Thursday - Saturday; noon-5 p.m.; $3-$4; Membership: $100 Oakland Museum of California Oakland; Wednesday - Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $12-$19; Membership: $135 Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco: de Young and Legion of Honor - San Francisco; Tuesday - Sunday; 9:30 a.m. -5:15 p.m.; $11-$20; Membership: $229 Walt Disney Family Museum - San Francisco; Thursday - Sunday; 10 a.m. -5:30 p.m.; $15-$25; Membership: $245 Asian Art Museum - San Francisco; Thursday 1-8 p.m., Friday–Monday, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; $14-$20; Membership: $179 California State Railroad Museum Sacramento; Daily, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; $6-$12; Membership: $110 Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum - San Jose; Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $8-$10; Membership: $60 Bay Area Discovery Museum - Sausalito; Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $15-$20; Membership: $209 Contemporary Jewish Museum - San Francisco; Thursday- Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $14-$16; Membership: $115 Pacific Pinball Museum - Alameda; Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; $12-$22; Membership: $400 SFMOMA - San Francisco; Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thursday 1-8

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Practical presents for busy professionals

he holiday season is synonymous with giving. Families engage in gift-giving come

the holiday season to show their loved ones how much they appreciate them. Such sentiments are thoughtful and can have a big impact when shoppers find the perfect gift. The perfect gift, however, can be

elusive. No one wants to give a gift that won’t end up being used, and some people on shoppers’ lists may prove more difficult to shop for than others. That might be the case with busy professionals who are seemingly always working. This holiday season, shoppers can consider these four ideas for loved ones climbing their way up the corporate ladder.

Luggage

Business travel took a hit during the pandemic, and a spring 2023 report from the research firm Morning Consult predict-

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ed that it may never return to what was considered normal prior to the pandemic. However, the report indicated that the average business traveler is now younger and earning less than the average business traveler before the pandemic. That makes luggage an ideal gift for the up-andcoming professional who may be traveling more and could benefit from some stylish, sturdy and durable luggage.

Fountain pen

Few small items exude a greater sense of sophistication and success than a highend, engraved fountain pen. Established professionals will appreciate the sleek and impressive appearance of a hand-crafted, customized fountain pen, which can be used to write memos or sign important documents in style.

Temperaturecontrolled smart mug Caffeine is the secret behind many a professional’s success. A temperaturecontrolled smart mug can ensure your favorite corporate executive’s coffee maintains its ideal temperature no matter how hectic the day becomes.

Yoga sessions

Stress is part of the job for many successful professionals. In fact, the American Institute of Stress reports that 94 percent of workers report having chronic stress at work. The competitive nature of the corporate world may not afford many opportunities to decompress during the workday, but the National Institutes of Health reports that yoga can play an effective role in reducing stress and

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Sessions at a local yoga studio can be just the gift for busy professionals who need to unwind. anxiety. Some yoga sessions, which can be purchased from a local yoga studio such as Connect Yoga at 857 2nd St. in Brentwood (925) 877-4876; connectyogabrentwood. com), or even through an app users can access on their smart TVs, can be just what successful executives need to unwind in a healthy way after a long day at the office. Successful professionals have a lot on their plate. A gift that can make their workdays better is sure to be a hit this holiday season. – Metro Creative

Joyful Wishes & Happy Holidays! Gift Certificates Available

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Holiday Give Back

Last-minute holiday shopping can be stressful. However, various sought-after items can be secured at the last minute, ensuring gift givers’ loved ones have a happy holiday season.

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Courtesy of Metro Creative

KINDNESS.

Last-minute inspiring ideas for holiday shoppers Putting off holiday shopping until

the last minute can make for a stressful home stretch to the season, and there’s no guarantee store shelves won’t

purchased online will arrive on time.

Despite how unappealing last-minute shopping can be, it’s still a fact of life for millions of holiday shoppers. As the clock winds down this holiday season, shoppers can look to these ideas for inspiration. ♦ Gift cards: They may never earn a distinction as the most sentimental item to give a loved one during the holiday season, but they are surprisingly sought-after. In fact, a survey from the National Retail Federation found that 54 percent of participants identified gift cards as the most-wanted gift of the 2022 holiday season. Chain retailers, small businesses and restaurants are among the many establishments that sell gift cards, so shoppers are bound to find a card to please anyone on their shopping list. ♦ Food/beverage: The holiday season is a

phone or given as a CD, make an ideal gift for loved ones who spend a lot of time behind the wheel. – Metro Creative

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popular time to indulge in some great food and wash it down with a favorite wine or another adult beverage. That makes food and beverages a great holiday gift. Shoppers can take a loved one out to a favorite restaurant, prepare a homemade treat or purchase a favorite dish from a local specialty grocery store or eatery. Pair the food with an appropriate beverage and this accessible last-minute gift idea is sure to be a hit. ♦ Tickets: Tickets to a movie, sporting event, live theater performance, or concert are another gift idea that likely won’t be gobbled up by early-bird shoppers. People of all ages enjoy experiences, and a 2022 survey from the travel booking platform GetYourGuide.com found that 50 percent of survey respondents indicated they would enjoy tickets to a concert or show. ♦ Books: They make an ideal holiday gift for everyone from young kids to grandparents. Traditional print books are small enough that they can likely arrive on time even if they’re purchased just a few days before Christmas. E-book sellers enable gift givers to pick the perfect time to notify loved ones they have received an electronic book. Audiobooks, which can be downloaded to a smart-

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Holiday Greetings

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