*FOOT NOTES

In this week’s *foot notes:

As a host, you’ll want people to remember your party for years to come. So, the cracked crab is chilled, the oysters are shucked, the white chocolate is melted and the strawberries are fresh. Have you missed anything? Here are a few other ideas just in case.

* Santa will make a surprise one-hour visit to your party for about $125. Absolutely Everything, one of many entertainment agencies in the Valley, can also provide elves, clowns, magicians, celebrity look-alikes and whatever you want for any kind of party. Prices vary. (818) 883-3311.

* Live music can always enliven a gathering. Maybe you can’t afford a full band, but a solo performer can enhance the partying spirit. Eric Rigler is one of Celtic music’s most sought-after recording session players. His bagpipe can be heard on the “Braveheart” and “Titanic” soundtracks. When he’s not performing with his band, Bad Haggis, he runs a bagpipe booking agency for private parties. The going rate is $200-$250 for one hour (usually enough) depending on availability. (310) 547-2102.

* Don’t burden your guests with the chore of finding a place to park. Quality Parking Service will provide valet parking for your party. According to the company’s brochure, all personnel wear tuxedo-style uniforms and are trained “by professionals in the parking industry.” The rule of thumb is $18 per hour per attendant, but other variables can increase the cost. (818) 382-6699.

* For those guests who can’t find their cars with or without a valet, make sure to have the number of a taxicab service handy. Considering the alternatives, a cab ride is a bargain--$1.90 plus $1.60 per mile along with a 20 cent charge every 40 seconds. Valley Cab Co. at (818) 787-1900 or United Taxi at (818) 780-1234.

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“Tis the season to be jolly” and what better way than to have a few friends over and call it a party! For a truly successful get-together, the old adage “It’s not the people in the party, it’s the party in the people” certainly rings true. A good host, however, can only do so much. *