Ghiradelli Square Tree Lighting, and the Gail Dobson Youth-in-Jazz Group

Last night, the Christmas season was upon us - and was celebrated in lavish style by the good people of Ghiradelli Chocolates. Thousands gathered to see the over 30 ft high tree, decorated with larger than life Ghiradelli candy bars, explode with brillant lights at the flick of a switch amidst snow flurries from an appropriately placed snow machine on the roof of a nearby building. The tree lights were a sparkling white, and perfectly illuminated the strategically placed candy bar ornaments.

This event was a benefit for Music in Schools - an organization that recognizes that music expands our children's intelligence and opens their minds in new ways. As announced by Roberta Gonzales, Ghiradelli is running an instrument drive for our schools; anyone who donates a used musical instrument will receive a special gift by Ghiradelli Chocolates.

Gail Dobson, a musical icon in San Francisco, was swinging with her Youth in Jazz singers accompanied by the Arts School band. Her group of talented kids ranged in age from 8 to 18, and sang group numbers as well as solos of such favorites as Feliz Navidad and Let it Snow. Feliz Navidad was sung by Olivia, one of the youngest members of the group - and a wonderful rendition of Merry Christmas Darling was sung by Layla Kovacevic (my daughter). A few jazz tunes such as Summertime and Dance the Samba were added to highlight other vocalists, such as Gail herself, and to spice things up. The band was jammin' and the uptempo music was the icing on the cake for this wonderful event.

The crowd was delightful, and everyone in San Francisco has the Christmas spirit of joy and excitement! The Christmas season is definitely upon us, and I hope all who left this glorious place left with the same sense of happiness and inner peace that I did.