In Memory of Omar Ahmad, Hometown Days Is Underway in San Carlos

 Madsen Field was swarming with parents and children Friday night, as the Central Jazz Band prepared to launch into their rendition of Fat Cat.

 The sky was clear just before dawn, and beach blankets laid atop dark green grass. Parents gripped cameras and recorded their children while their dogs ran free through the field.

 The sizzle of grilled hot dogs could be heard along with distant, half-heard chatter and an occasional blare of a trumpet.

 Friday night kicked-off the 31^st annual Hometown Days sponsored by SCEF. Vice-Mayor Andy Klein opened the night by dedicating this years festivities to the late Omar Ahmad.

 “Tonight, when you’re having fun, take a minute to remember Omar,” Klein said.

 And with that, the jazz band tore into “Fat Cat” a jazzy standard they’d been practicing for months, since their last Christmas concert.

 Saxophone solos ripped through the air; piano keys tinkled as the sun gradually went down on the park; and the electricfied strains of gently plucked guitar strings echoed.

 The stage had been set for a weekend of fun and entertainment.

 The annual Hometown Days Parade will leave Central Middle School tomorrow at 9:45 a.m. Tomorrow will feature the San Francisco Jazz Band, while Sunday will feature the Pet Parade Awards and a High School Battle of the Bands.