Casa del Pomba

House of the Dove

Christmas 2010 Press Release

Casa del Pomba
House of the Dove
352 Hillcrest Ave
Livermore, CA 94550
 
PRESS RELEASE
Publicity Contact:
Jeanie Haigh
925-373-7982
cell – 510-409-6754
jhaigh@webbearings.com
For Immediate Release
20 Nov 10
 
Christmas Display Grand Opening Friday, December 3. Open until January 1.
 
-  The biggest and best holiday display in Livermore is set to open on Friday, December 3 at 6:30 pm. A holiday tradition now in its 28th year, this year’s display is sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit. The front yard of Deacon Dave Rezendes’ home at 352 Hillcrest Ave in Livermore, Casa del Pomba, is visited by tens of thousands of guests each year.
 
The theme each year changes, and is always kept a secret until opening night ceremonies. On December 3rd, the home and yard will be dark as a candlelight procession makes its way down the blocked off street. Members of the community are welcome to join the procession which will feature the St. Michael’s choir leading Deacon Dave to his home. The Handbell Choir from Asbury United Methodist Church will also perform. There is a blessing of the lights, the theme is announced, and the lights are turned on. At that time, guests are invited to walk through the yard. It is a spectacular evening, a perfect way to get in the holiday spirit. Members of the non-profit group Good News Bears will help Deacon celebrate his special night by serving refreshments. Visitors wishing to support the group are invited to bring a new stuffed animal or cash donation to help them meet the ever-increasing need for “stuffed love” at shelters, hospitals, and emergency services. Find out more about their good work at www.goodnewsbears.org
 
Last year, the theme was “Christmas Is….”. Visitors entered the driveway under an 18’ revolving tree of lights. Throughout the display, volunteers created vignettes showing what Christmas means to them. The first scene depicted a family in the living room watching classic holiday cartoons such as Frosty the Snowman. A frazzled husband and wife shopped in another scene. Ice skaters rotated in one corner of the yard, while nearby, the reason for the season, the birth of Christ, was shown in the manger. Guests were invited to share what Christmas meant to them and the heartwarming responses were posted in the entry to share with all.
 
How many lights this year? What is the theme? You’ll have to stop by and find out! More and more LED lights are added each year. As usual, each light in the yard is a prayer for peace, and for the safety of our military. Approximately 30 volunteers work hard throughout the year to put on the display. They are from many faiths, and welcome guests of all faiths. Be sure to walk through to gain the total experience. The crew members love to share the spirit of the holidays, and are often on hand to answer any questions. Just look for anyone wearing a red “Casa del Pomba” ball cap or jacket.
 
Deacon Dave opens his yard from the opening on December 3rd until January 1st. The hours are 6 pm to 9:30 pm Sunday through Thursday, and from 6 pm until 10:30 pm Friday and Saturday. The gates may be closed during inclement weather, although every effort is made to leave the lights glowing. There is no admission charge. All the donations collected in the coin toss, ponds, and at the door are for Santa’s Secret Service. This program has provided a visiting Santa, carolers, and gifts to area nursing homes, shelters, and hospitals for over 50 years. Visit www.casadelpomba.com for more information on the display, Santa’s Secret Service, and Deacon Dave’s family history. A big thank you to Unforgettable Memories for the opening night sound system; to Festo for our entry automation, Good News Bears for serving refreshments; and the fantastic crew who makes it all happen.
 
Be sure to make room in your busy holiday calendar for a visit to Casa del Pomba on Hillcrest Avenue in Livermore. Take East Avenue to Hillcrest, and then follow the glow! It’s worth the trip and sure to make your season bright. Besides, you never know when Santa Claus will show up! Check out the webcam at www.casadelpomba.com/webcam.htm and see the happy smiles on visitors. Come experience the “Cheer Factor”!                     

Christmas History

Past Years Index

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Christmas Safety Tips

Origin of the Nativity

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