FPA Blog
Forestville News & Events, December 2018
It’s All About the Holidays!
Posted December 1, 2018
by Lucy Hardcastle
For years, Earl Stevens made sure the downtown holiday tree was cut, hauled, put up and decorated so we could celebrate our very own town tree lighting. When an indispensable volunteer like that retires, what happens? The Wood and Trappe families knew what to do. They stepped in and have now made this formidable task a fun family and friends’ event where everyone from their darling toddlers to town patron Hal Wood shows up to make it happen.
A grant from the Forestville Community Fund helped pay for the lift, but the bulk of the work, carefully placed ornaments and stringing the lights, is done by this dynamic can-do family group. It looks beautiful! Let’s hope this new tradition lasts for generations to come.
Adding to our holiday spirit, the Fire Department put up illuminated decorations on phone poles and kids from Forestville School who (for a small donation) painted holiday themes on downtown windows. That was something I loved to do when I was a kid. Looks like the town is ready. Are you?
If not, I have an idea. You can find amazing gifts at the Pharmacy, the Service Station and even the Hardware Store. Don’t forget our local restaurants and wineries for gift certificates. These “mom and pop” operations depend on us locals to keep them in business.
Yes, I know how easy it is to get stuff online and not lift more than an index finger to make it happen. It’s just that getting out and about, seeing what’s going on in our town, what stores have to offer, participating, supporting and visiting with others makes us feel good. After all isn’t that what we hope to get out of the holiday’s when all is said and done?
You don’t have to go far for entertainment this month.
Play: Jason and the Argonauts, Starts 12/1
Starting Saturday, December 1 at 6:30PM is the play “Jason and the Argonauts” at Forestville School Auditorium. It repeats Sunday at 1 then December 7 & 8 at 6:30PM. Last performance December 9 at 1PM.
El Mo Winter Dance Performance, Starts 12/5
El Molino’s Winter Dance Performance is at 7PM Wednesday, December 5, then December 6 and 7. My husband got a sneak preview as a substitute teacher for them and says it’s wonderful.
Choir Concert, 12/11 – Band Concert, 12/13
If you are a fan of music, the Choir Concert is Tuesday, December 11 at 7PM and the Band Concert December 13 at 7PM. In addition to practicing for their shows, those students had to put up with jackhammers of late. Ground has broken on their new Performing Arts Center. It’s going to be great!
Winter break is from December 21 until January 8. Be careful driving with more kids out and about.
Russian River Cycle Service
While YOU are out and about, you may notice the bright yellow paint that heralds the opening of Russian River Cycle Service. Check out the cute bike “decoration” that sits outside. I’ve only peeked in so far, but it looks beautiful inside. I’m not surprised as owner Brian Borchers was so creative with the bike kiosk he built for the downtown park awhile back. He’s a talented guy who’s been in the bike business for years. Rentals available. Stop in to say hello.
Elf, Free 1st Friday Movie
The FREE First Friday Night Movie December 14 is my favorite holiday movie ever…Elf. Doors to the Methodist Church open at 6:45PM for cartoons, then Elf shows at 7PM. Santa’s coming too so bring your biggest smiles for free photos. Movie has Spanish subtitles. Think hot chocolate, Christmas Cookies and popcorn for sale. Is this sweet or what?
Nominations Welcome for Volunteer or Business of the Year
Did you know you can nominate someone for Volunteer or Business of the Year for 2018? Forms are at the bank, the pharmacy, the Service Station, Sheer Salon and Sequoia Property or drop it off at the next Chamber meeting, 5:30PM on December 5 at the Fire Station.
New Diabetes Group
The Forestville Wellness Center is forming a new Diabetes Group in January. Good timing for if you are like me, you’ve made some poor food choices this month and may need help getting back on track to lead a healthy life.
Annual Chamber Crab Feed, 1/19/19
The Chamber is busy working on plans for their annual Crab Feed to be held at Holy Ghost Hall January 19. It’s a not-to-miss feast with music, dancing, prizes along with pasta, salad and lots of crab to enjoy.
Toys for Tot Drop Off
Bring Toys for Tot donations to the Fire Station from now until Christmas. You will make someone very happy, maybe even you!