SANTA CLAUS IS COMING
TO TOWN!
by Margaret Williams

"The kids in girl and boy land will have a jubilee" if you're going to do your shopping at one of the well-equipped Karaoke stores in San Diego. Topping many of big and little kids' Christmas lists this year is the ever-popular Karaoke equipment. And why? Because "kids" of all ages love to sing.

Haven't you seen the littlest tykes holding a makeshift or toy microphone and singing their hearts out? I have. And this is good, because it's starting them on a road through the great world of loving and making their own music. Had this been known when my daughter was 2 years old, she would have had this equipment along with the toy "grand piano" that Santa brought!

Then there are the teen years, when the kids are "rockin' their limbs off" with those hot Karaoke CDs, gathering that all-important self-esteem and conquering their fear of singing before an audience solo or with a group.

As I've mentioned in previous articles, this can be such great therapy, whether it be for behaviorally challenged young people or patients in a nursing home. I've been amazed in witnessing the progress made in each instance.

Did you happen to catch the NBC TODAY Show segments in November, when the gifts awarded to runners up were none other than top-of-the-line Karaoke systems?

Now for you armchair Santas, there is Express Karaoke on the Web where one can access his/her favorite selections or artists, learn what is on each disc, and order online. If you want to save the shipping charge, visit some well-equipped Karaoke stores. The ones I frequent are Sing Young in Kearny Mesa and Bertrand's in North County. One can find everything from CD labels, carrying cases, bargain CDs, to the popular Gift Certificate.

So, instead of that time-honored Lionel train set, why not get onboard the Karaoke track. For you guys and gals who are on the receiving end, a word to the
wise -- "he's making a list and checking it twice, gonna find out who's naughty and nice." Happy shopping, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

I always appreciate receiving your thoughts and ideas. "You can reach me by -- e-mail": fritzysox@aol.com