Trade a new toy for a Christmas concert

Gordon Hawkins had a vision when he formed Silver Hawk Community Outreach: to assist the community with various needs of projects centered around the performing arts.

The newly organized foundation will present "A Toy For Every Child," at 7 p.m. today and Tuesday at the Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St. Admission is one new, unwrapped toy to be donated to Toys for Tots.

"It started as a thought to benefit a charity, while giving something back to those who are donating to it," Hawkins said.

He has created a 40-piece choir, of early teens to adults. They live in Carson City, Incline Village, Carson Valley and South Lake Tahoe. The orchestra includes 36 musicians.

The choir and concert will perform eight numbers, with five special numbers between them. Duets will be performed by Donna Sue Hawkins and Joanne Detter, and Melody Ward and Tiffany Hawkins.

A contemporary a cappella quartet called "Relaxed Fit" with Rolan Campell, Kenyon Jarvis, David Steel and Ben Gillard, will perform "Carol of the Bells" and "Little Drummer Boy."

Hawkins was a little concerned the project would come together in time.

"It wasn't until (Dec. 8) the final piece of my orchestra came together," he said. "But we've laid the groundwork and are going to continue. We've learned a lot. Next time, it won't be nearly the headache."

Hawkins and said the experience has been one headache after another.

"You always find people who are more than willing to volunteer to help and many who are way too busy this time of year. Once people see the type of performance we're offering, more of them will want to be involved in the next one."

The music will feature traditional carols. Violinist and Carson High School student Michael Lesmes, 17, is concertmaster. Fremont Elementary School's choir also will perform.

Brent Boynton from KOLO-TV News Channel 8 is the emcee for Monday's concert; JJ Christy of KBUL Radio is Tuesday's emcee.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., general seating is at 6:50 p.m.