Glitzmas
They don't have a Christmas album, but you'll have to look hard to find a better present under the tree than a live holiday show by Waylan St. Palan & the Magic Elves. St. Palan's sleigh arrives at the High Noon Saloon on Dec. 16 (9 p.m.). Led by Brooklyn-based former Kisser Nate Palan, it's the hippest Christmas band south of the North Pole. Expect saxophones.
The gift of life
If there is a personification of the true meaning of the holiday, faith, hope and joy, it is Madison musician Marques Bovre. For years Bovre has set the bar high for local songwriters and performers. Now he sets the bar high for all of us who ought to count blessings and see every day for the gift that it is.
Bovre's coping with brain cancer has been an incredible run of humility, positive thinking and love. Those who were there say he shone among some of the state's best musicians at last Sunday's High Noon benefit to help offset his health care costs. As the spirit moves you, you can still send a greeting of love or financial support to Bovre and his family at this address: Friends of Marques Bovre, c/o Heartland Credit Union, 555 W. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703