2022: East Bay Times Holiday Guide Special Section

Advertising supplement

November 20

2022 I

Supporting Local Businesses

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Table of ConTenTs Crosswords, Number Puzzles, word Games, loGiC Puzzles aNd Trivia Wuzzles ......................................................................2, 16, 19 Stickelers...........................................................................2, 8 Point and Solve .....................................................................8 Cryptoquip .......................................................................8, 18 Sheffer Crossword.................................................................8 Sudoku .................................................................................10 Super Quiz .....................................................................10, 18 Premier Crossword...............................................................11 Challenger ............................................................................14 Hocus Focus.........................................................................14 Word Sleuth..........................................................................14 Cryptoquote..........................................................................14 Wishing Well........................................................................16 Joseph Crossword ................................................................16 Multi-Sudoku 2x2 ................................................................18 Battleships............................................................................19 Even Exchange.....................................................................19

All puzzles are syndicated by King Features Syndicate Inc. and have been previously published.

©2022 King Features Syndicate · terrystickels.com

Solutions...............................................................................20, 21 In printing an article of 48,000 words, a printer decides to use two sizes of type. Using the larger type, a printed page contains 1,800 words. Using the smaller type, a printed page contains 2,400 words. The article is allotted 21 full pages in a magazine.

How many printed pages must be in smaller type?

For any comments or questions about our Puzzle Brainia section, please contact us at content@bayareanewsgroup.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

“Spirited” (PG-13) -Diehard Christmas fans no longer have to wait until December to watch new holiday movies, especially with one of the most expected films of the 2022 season out on Nov. 18! “Spirited” reimagines the well-known tale of “A Christmas Carol” in a much more modern and grand sense. Ryan Reynolds is none other than Ebenezer Scrooge, while Will Ferrell portrays the Ghost of Christmas Present. Also part of the cast are Octavia Spencer, Sunita Mani and Patrick Page. Full of musical numbers and so many jokes thrown between Ferrell and Reynolds, this release will put you right in the Christmas spirit. (AppleTV+)

BY DANA JACKSON

Q:

Do the People’s Choice Awards still exist? As a kid, I remember them being on TV. I always wanted to take a survey to vote for my favorites, but never got the chance. -- H.L. A: Yes, the People’s Choice Awards are still a thing and are still broadcast on network television.

This year, they’ll be hosted by Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”) and air on NBC and the E! channel on Dec. 6 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Voting is done online by Nov. 9 at www.votepca.com.

The awards first aired in 1975, and up until 2005, the winners were determined through a Gallup poll.

The first winners included Barbra Streisand as Favorite Film Actress and John Wayne as Favorite Film Actor. Ellen DeGeneres has won the most awards since its inception. This year, Ryan Reynolds (“The Adam Project”) will be honored with the “People’s Icon Award” for the bulk of his work.

Each category for the stars, shows and movies consist of eight nominees each and include recent films like “Halloween Ends” and “Black Adam.” *** Did they ever find a permanent host for “Jeopardy!” or will they continue to rotate the two they have now?

-- A.A.

Q:

A: In July 2022, it was officially announced that Ken Jennings

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Here’s what to watch andwhere to watch it for the week of Nov. 21, 2022.

Depositphotos

Kenan Thompson, Host of the 2022 People’s Choice Awards

and Mayim Bialik would remain hosts of the hit syndicated game show “Jeopardy!” When Alex Trebek passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2020, there was a long rotation of hosts, including NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and fan favorite LeVar Burton (“Reading Rainbow”), until it was announced the search had ended because producer Mike Richards had landed the coveted job. He was soon fired after past sexist and racist comments of his resurfaced.

In the meantime, the show called upon past “Jeopardy!” champion Ken Jennings and sitcom star Mayim Bialik (“The Big Bang Theory”) to rotate hosting duties. It was such a ratings success that they were offered contracts, and the rest is history.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

ON NOW: “The Cuphead Show!

Part 3” -- Netflix ON NOW: “Fleishman Is in Trouble” (Limited Series) -Hulu 21-Nov: “Death in the Dorms” (Limited Series) -- Hulu 22-Nov: “Trevor Noah: I Wish You Would” -- Netflix 22-Nov: “Animal Kingdom” (Season 6) -- Amazon Prime 22-Nov: “Welcome to Chippendales” (Limited Series) -- Hulu

Courtesy of AppleTV+

Ryan Reynolds is modern-day Scrooge and Will Ferrell is the Ghost of Christmas Present in “Spirited.”

“A Christmas Story Christmas” (PG) -- Releasing Nov. 17, yet another Christmas movie will already be out pre-December for viewers to enjoy. Dubbed as the official legacy sequel to the 1983 film “A Christmas Story,” Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley) returns from the first film, 30

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years later. After the death of the Old Man, the now grown-up Ralphie makes his way back to his former home on Cleveland Street with the intent to give his children a Christmas just like the one he had when he was a kid. Ralphie’s longtime friends Flick and Schwartz also make appearances in the sequel.

(HBO Max) “Disenchanted” (PG) -Speaking of sequels coming decades after the original, the sequel to the 2007 film “Enchanted” heads straight to streaming on Nov. 18. A majority of the original cast will reprise the roles, including Amy Adams as Giselle, Patrick Dempsey as her husband, Robert, James Marsden as King Edward and Idina Menzel as Queen Nancy. Giselle and Robert move with their now16-year-old daughter, Morgan, from New York to a suburb called Monroeville, but when the move isn’t going exactly as planned, Giselle gets an ingenious idea just to wish for happiness instead. Unfortunately, when the spell backfires, Giselle is forced to make a plan to save her family and her homeland from demise. (Disney+) (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

23-Nov: “Wednesday” (Season 1) -- Netflix 24-Nov: “Love, Lizzo” -- HBO Max 25-Nov: “Fantasy Football” -- Paramount+ 25-Nov: “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” -- Disney+ (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. Black Adam (PG-13) Dwayne Johnson, Aldis Hodge 2. One Piece Film: Red (PG-13) Mayumi Tanaka, Kazuya Nakai 3. Ticket to Paradise (PG-13) George Clooney, Julia Roberts

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4. Smile (R) Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher 5. Prey for the Devil (PG-13) Jacqueline Byers, Virginia Madsen 6. Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (PG) Constance Wu, Scoot McNairy

7. The Banshees of Inisherin (R) Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson 8. Till (PG-13) Danielle Deadwyler, Jalyn Hall 9. Halloween Ends (R) Jamie Lee Curtis, Andi Matichak 10. Terrifier 2 (NR) David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

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Guided by the same values since 1948, Bill’s Ace Hardware is a family business – and a family Before the days of the big box stores, there were familyowned local hardware stores owned and run by folks who lived within the community they served. Few of these stores have managed to survive in the brave new world of hardware retailing. Bill’s Ace Hardware is one of the few.

The story of Vine Hill Hardware begins with Bill & Elva Wygal. After meeting at a local dance and marrying, Bill and Elva set out as migratory farm workers working their way from the state of Texas to California, living a life akin to that of Grapes of Wrath picking fruit, cotton and hops... And if they knew anything, it was all about how to work hard.

Through the years, Bill Sr. often mused that someday he would open a store where you could “buy stuff to build a house.” In 1947, Bill and Elva purchased a 6-acre plot of land on Pacheco Boulevard and it was then that this dream took shape. On the back of the lot, Bill Sr. built a house for his family of five and on the front of the lot, a hardware store.

And so, Vine Hill Hardware came to be, first opening its doors May 8, 1948.

Bill Sr. continued to run the business until his sons David, Dennis and Bruce succeeded him in 1967. The brothers went on to grow the business over the next 30 years to six stores and even started a truck accessory business, Ace Truckbox Center. The 90’s and early 2000’s were met with a lot of loss for the Wygal family as the

family mourned the premature loss of bothers Bruce and David as well as the passing of Bill Sr. and Elva. Dennis continued to carry the company forward in their wake with the help of General Manager, Wilma Hawkins and his son, Bill, who was learning the ropes of the business. Eventually Bill took over the business in 1998. In 2002, the prefix “Bill’s” was added to “Ace Hardware” as a tribute to Bill Sr. and as an identifier of family pride and Bill’s Ace Hardware’s dedication to its customers.

Now, 75 years later, Bill has proudly continued in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps and can still be found making that extra effort to locate that “special” item or

making the occasional house call to help a customer pinpoint their hardware problem.

Bill’s Ace has become a community leader in supporting education and the environment. The business currently employs over

100 local residents — young, old and in between — all trained to be helpful to every customer they serve.

Today, Bill’s Ace Hardware has one thing in common with the Vine Hill Hardware of 1948; its goal is to make their

customers lives better and enrich the communities they serve.

4451 Clayton Road, Concord (925) 825-4100 3610 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez (925) 228-6135 billsacehardware.com

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THE DIY-ER

STOCKING STUFFERS

THE GRILL MASTER

THE OUTDOORSMAN

The Perfect Gift for Everyone on your List!

Come join us at our 23rd Annual Friends & Family Night on Thursday, December 1st and TAKE 20% OFF YOUR PURCHASE! Valid only 12/1/22 from 4 PM ‘til Close Valid on regularly priced merchandise only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. See store for complete exclusions.

Concord

4451 Clayton Rd (925) 825-4100

Martinez

3610 Pacheco Blvd (925) 228-6135

www.bills .billsa acehardware.com a @billsac ce

@billsacehardwarecalifornia

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Be sure to visit our Concord store for the largest selection of décor, laser-engraved gifts & more!

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Hardware, Customer Service and Gifts Galore; Downtown Ace Hardware Walnut Creek (The ACE with the Train)

If you have never been to Downtown Ace Hardware in Walnut Creek now is the time to go. And if you have been there, you are probably making a list and checking it twice before making another visit.

While this popular downtown hardware store has a comfortable, friendly feel that everyone enjoys they also offer more than what you may expectfrom a local hardware store. Did I mention they have a train that runs around the store (The ACE with the Train)?

But beyond this, they offer amazing customer service and

a huge variety of gift selections to help you with all your holiday needs.

Be sure to go by and visit their Holiday Place featuring unique candle and giftware selections, fresh-cut Christmas trees and their huge selection of holiday lights and décor.

The team at Downtown Ace Hardware Walnut Creek (the ACE with the Train) takes great pride in being part of the community and wants to thank everyone for supporting them. They also work towards giving back to the community as a supporter of Children’s

Miracle Network (CMN).

With this effort, they give 100 % of all funds raised from the “Holiday Roundup Campaign” through December 31 to the Oakland Children’s Hospital.

They are happy to be able to provide a friendly, safe environment for customers to shop worry free with the expert help of their amazing employees. They strive to be the local hardware store of choice in Walnut Creek and take pride in their customer service!

When you arrive at their store, you can expect to be

welcomed with a smile and a helpful hand in finding the items you need, or useful information about the project you’re working on.

They are truly blessed to have some of the best employees in the country and appreciate your business!

Beyond servicing all your hardware and gift giving needs, the store services also include: - Propane Exchange - Key & Key FOB Copying - Window Screen Repair - Bissell Carpet Cleaning Rental - Knife Sharpening

- Engraving (New) - Plastic & Glass Cutting - BBQ & Patio: Free Assembly, Delivery & Recycling of Old BBQs This place has it all!

Store Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am-7pm Sat: 7am-7pm Sun: 8am-6pm (925) 705-7500 2044 Mt Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek Order online at Acehardware.com and take advantage of their in-store pick up, curbside and delivery options. wcace.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

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50% OFF KNIFE SHARPENING

50% OF 1 ITEM $15 OR LESS

One coupon per household. Must present coupon in-store to receive offer. Limit 4 discounted knife sharpens. We can only sharpen non-serrated knives. No cash value.

One coupon per household. Must present coupon in-store to receive offer. Offer good on REGULAR PRICED merchandise only.

No cash value.

SKU: AD020

SKU: AD053 DOWNTOWN WALNUT CREEK ACE 2044 MT. DIABLO BLVD 925-705-7500 WCACE.COM

50% OFF ENGRAVING One coupon per household. Must present coupon in-store to receive offer. Limit 2 discounted engraving services.

No cash value.

SKU: AD051 DOWNTOWN WALNUT CREEK ACE 2044 MT. DIABLO BLVD 925-705-7500 WCACE.COM

DOWNTOWN WALNUT CREEK ACE 2044 MT. DIABLO BLVD 925-705-7500 WCACE.COM

$7 OFF $21+ One coupon per household. Must present coupon in-store to receive offer. Offer good on REGULAR PRICED merchandise only.

No cash value.

SKU: AD009 DOWNTOWN WALNUT CREEK ACE 2044 MT. DIABLO BLVD 925-705-7500 WCACE.COM

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Point and Solve

Cryptoquip

In this crossword puzzle variety, the clues appear in the diagram itself.

Simply enter the answers in the directions indicated by the arrows.

RVDU SRQ QB SVD IFZD OXUC QB

BEKXS TQQO UQSVXUW FTXOD, SVFS

ZXWVS GQIIXPTH PD CXI-GDFE-XSH. Today’s Cryptoquip Clue: Q equals O

Crossword

by Eugene Sheffer

Answers on page 20

ACROSS 1 Dame Dench 5 Pulsate 9 To and — 12 Part of the loop 13 St. Louis landmark 14 Erstwhile acorn 15 Lucky 17 Genetic matter 18 Requests 19 Arbuckle of old Hollywood 21 “Metamorphosis” author 24 Hagar the Horrible’s daughter 25 Lotion additive 26 Sugar measure, in song

©2022 King Features Syndicate · terrystickels.com

The Cryptoquip is a substitution cipher in which one letter stands for another. If you think that X equals O, it will equal O throughout the puzzle. Single letters, short words and words using an apostrophe give you clues to locating vowels. Solution is by trial and error.

30 Crossword clue abbr.

31 Spin 32 Playwright Levin 33 Blood lines?

35 Zooey’s “New Girl” role 36 Mosque bigwig 37 Six-pack, often 38 Cat’s-paw 40 Ape 42 Ostrich’s kin 43 Old phonograph 48 Scepter 49 One 50 “Exodus” author 51 — out a living 52 Timber wolf 53 Bound

What number comes next in the following sequence?

7

4

12

9

27

DOWN 1 Peter Pan rival 2 Popular card game 3 “Le Coq —” 4 Consumption 5 Tellers’ workplace 6 Historic periods 7 Performance 8 Certain tarot card 9 With extra alcohol, as wine 10 Carry on 11 Fine 16 Part of N.A. 20 Curry of TV 21 Potent Polynesian drink 22 Winged

24

72

?

23 Ability to face adversity 24 — d’oeuvres 26 Take to the pool 27 Chart format 28 — Major 29 Scottish girl 31 Waiter’s load 34 Type squares 35 Happy 37 Agent 38 Father, in France 39 Out of control 40 Baby’s bed 41 Director Preminger 44 Yoko of music 45 Anger 46 By way of 47 Kreskin’s sense

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Creative Stocking Stuffers That Won’t Break the Bank The Entertainer I Presented by Bay Area News Group The stocking hung by the fireplace stuffed to the brim with goodies is an iconic symbol of Christmas. They sit there just waiting to be dumped out all over the floor. And, be honest: Who wants a pair of white socks or a bag of candy coal?

These stocking stuffers are sure to bring out a “ho ho ho!” from young and old alike!

From tech to coffee to fun and games for kids of all ages, these little packages snuggled deep in a knitted stocking may end up being the most-loved gifts of them all. Plus, they are all around $10, so they won’t break your holiday bank.

These trinkets prove that good things still do come in small packages!

Tech Talk A cell phone stand keeps texts and videos in clear view and them hands-free.

Most options are compatible with any smartphone.

Plus, the stand keeps cables organized on their desk, kitchen counter, or bedroom nightstand.

Are they tired of messy fingerprints on their tech gear? A screen cleaning pad is a reusable faux suede cloth sized for home or office use and is perfect for all their touch screen devices.

Ensure they never misplace their AirPods or headphones again with a carrying case that protects their investment in regular or wireless earphones. Many come in all different shapes, colors, and sizes—so check your local retailer for options and get creative!

Time to Relax Do they need some relaxation after the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations?

A reusable pouch filled with skincare products like facemask and lotions is great for your on-the-go loved one.

Who wouldn’t love luxury soaps? They make for a beautifully packaged gift and come in all sorts of fragrances—lavender, carrot, cucumber, fig, peach, cherry blossom, tangerine, you name it! These are sure to pretty up everyone’s guest bathrooms!

Even little girls and boys need a chance to relax! Crayola Bath Dropz are fragrancefree, non-toxic water-coloring tablets that will magically change your tub to blue, yellow, or red.

Why should kids have all the bath time fun? Create rich bubbles and vibrant colors while treating your skin with beneficial ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and essential oils. Bath bombs are the perfect stocking stuffer for someone who is already a fan or as an introduction for newbies. They often come in fun shapes like cupcakes, hearts, and donuts, too!

For the Coffee Lovers A package of coffee paired with a trio of mini syrups makes a great stocking stuffer for every coffee lover in your life or your favorite at-home barista!

For Kids of All Ages Have a budding astronomer in your midst? A mini star projector beams the constellations of the astrological zodiac onto the walls of your home.

Fun and educational, a mini star projector is the perfect way to bring the planetarium home!

dszc via gettyimages.com

Edwin Tan via gettyimages.com

Does your family love games?

Codenames Board Game is a spy game for multiple players ages 10 and up. Two rival spymasters know the secret identities of 25 agents, and teammates know the agents only by their code names given on the cards. Add this unique game to your holiday fun!

Or, keep them laughing all day long with a holiday joke book for boys and girls.

For Anyone and Everyone Save the planet with easyclean reusable straws. Most are dishwasher safe, and some even come with a linen carrying case! They’re perfect for a greener lifestyle.

You can also consider getting them a personalized key chain. Many retailers offer options with common names, or surf the web for a way to make a truly customized gift

in their favorite color or style.

It’s just the thing to let them know how special they are!

Are they ready to travel? Get them prepared with a universal power wall charger with a power plug adapter. Look for an option that will work in many countries.

Ready, set? Shop! Time to shop to fill those stockings with fun and affordable gifts for everyone.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

Sudoku

Super Quiz

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once.

Take this Super Quiz to the Ph. D. Level. 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the Graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph. D. Level.

Answers on page 20

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

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Premier Crossword by Frank A. Longo

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Answer on page 20

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

Ghirardelli’s Annual Warehouse Sale is Back Starting December 9 through December 11, exclusively at the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Factory Outlet in San Leandro; the annual warehouse sale is back.

Make the Holidays a bite better and shop great deals on seasonal chocolate squares flavors including Peppermint Bark, Caramel, Mint Cookie and Peppermint Hot Cocoa.

Stock up a variety of holiday gifts including our exclusive 80ct squares gift bags, bars, holiday gift baskets! Save on all Ghirardelli baking mixes, chips and more. Plus get a FREE gift with $75 purchase (while supplies last).

Visit Santa and get a festive family photo on Friday & Saturday from 12pm -4pm.

Lastly, enjoy a Ghirardelli World Famous Hot Fudge sundae made decadent handmade hot fudge or warm up with a delicious Ghirardelli classic hot cocoa.

Don’t miss out on this 3 day only Ghirardelli Chocolate Warehouse Sale Event!

• Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Factory Outlet • 139th Ave, San Leandro • Friday, Dec. 9 – Sunday, Dec. 11 • 9am -5pm ghirardelli.com/warehousesale

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

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3 DAYS ONLY

ANNUAL CHOCOLATE WAREHOUSE SALE DECEMBER 9TH - 11TH 9am - 5pm 139th Ave San Leandro

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Challenger

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Hocus Focus

Answers on page 21

Cryptoquote

AXYDLBAAXR is LONGFELLOW One letter stands for another. In this sample, A is used for the three L’s, X for the two O’s, etc.

JMZ

VC

YF

LQR

—

JTKR

LM

JVIL

YC

LQR

JVIL

MI

YC

LM

JVKR

MYXCROKRC

MI

KMOLTVXR

OVKVAJ

SROO.

OVIR;

VL

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NOV 18 - DEC 1

B L AC K F R I DAY SA L E

L A S T C H A N C E S AV I N G S T H RO U G H O U T O U R S H O W RO O M S & O N L I N E .

M A N Y I T E M S U P TO 5 0 % O F F

T E R R AO U T D O O R .CO M I 8 8 8 . 4 4 9 . 8 3 2 5 SAN RAMON I MOUNTAIN VIEW I BURLINGAME I LOS GATOS BERKELEY I WALNUT CREEK I MILL VALLEY I ROCKLIN

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Wishing Well HERE IS A PLEASANT LITTLE GAME that will give you a message every day. It’s a numerical puzzle designed to spell out your fortune. Count the letters in your first name. If the number of letters is 6 or more, subtract 4. If the number is less than 6, add 3. The result is your key number. Start at the upper lefthand corner and check each of your key numbers, left to right.

Then read the message the letters under the checked figures give you.

Answers on page 21

Crossword ACROSS 1 Jalapeño, for one 7 Green stone 11 Jockey Eddie 12 Nepal setting 13 Deskside item 15 Cover with frost 16 Mob revolt 18 Witty remark 21 Not his 22 Richard of “Becket” 24 Longoria of TV 25 USO patrons 26 Boxing great 27 Captain Ahab’s ship 29 Bend 30 Fuzz 31 Having a shiny coat 32 Congo’s former name

by Thomas Joseph 34 Edible gift 40 Highway exit 41 Consumption 42 Little devils 43 Didn’t go DOWN 1 Fido’s foot 2 Pitcher’s stat 3 Machines with CPUs 4 Cookout sites 5 Put up 6 Lounge attire 7 Reddish quartz 8 Inquire 9 Spotted cube 10 Consume 14 Way to serve roast beef

16 Whoop it up 17 Baghdad native 19 Stable section 20 Apartment sign 21 Cool, to jazzmen 22 Auction signal 23 Veto 25 Suggested 28 Opens a jacket 29 Cinco de Mayo event 31 Endowment 33 Sacred bird of Egypt 34 Work wk.’s end 35 Ewe’s mate 36 Diamond worker 37 Singer Starr 38 — out (scrape by) 39 TV’s Danson

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How to Host a Christmas Party like an Event-Planning Pro The Entertainer I Presented by Bay Area News Group From family get-togethers to office parties to themed Christmas parties, the holidays are about spending time with the ones you love most. Should you become the host or hostess of said party, you may need a few pointers to get you through it.

Here are eight tips for hosting the perfect Christmas party.

Party Planning Tips • Choose a theme. Streamline your party planning by choosing a Christmas party theme. Deciding on a theme will not only help guide your menu, activities (such as games, crafts, a photo booth, etc.), and decorations, but it’ll show your guests just how much thought and effort you put into planning the event.

Potential traditional holiday party themes include Ugly Christmas Sweater Party, Christmas Character Party, or a Gatsby Christmas. If you’re throwing an online Christmas party, you may want to choose something that’s more interactive, like online holiday bingo or virtual Christmas trivia.

• Set a date. There are only four Saturdays in the holiday season, which makes choosing the perfect date for your Christmas party a bit tough.

If there are kids on the guest list, you may need to pick a time that’s early enough that they’ll be tucked in by bedtime. Before you decide on a date, take your guests, their priorities, and your vision for the party (such as casual cocktails, office party,

family-friendly affair, etc.) into account.

• Decide on a location.

Throwing a house party is convenient and affordable.

However, if you plan on inviting a large number of guests, you may want to consider renting an event space. If you’re on a tight budget and hosting the party at home isn’t an option, look for a free location (such as a local park, community center, or library).

To help you decide on a location, think about the number of guests, the food you’ll serve, whether or not there will be alcohol at the party, and the overall atmosphere you’d like to create. If you’re hosting a virtual Christmas party, you’ll need to decide on a “virtual venue.” A few options include Zoom, Google Hangouts, and Group FaceTime.

• Plan the menu and set a budget. After you’ve nailed down the theme, date, and location, you’ll need to plan a menu.

If money is tight, consider making the party a potluck or opt for snacks and appetizers instead of a full-on meal. If you’re going the remote route, you could ask everyone to have a packet of cocoa on hand, or you could send out goodie bags ahead of time.

• Send an evite. Once you’ve figured out the who, what, when, and where, send out email invites. This way, you’ll be able to bypass the stress of purchasing and mailing customized invitations. Just be sure to give your guests plenty of notice!

Tips for Hosting an Unforgettable Christmas Party • Create a Christmas party playlist. A party just isn’t a party without music. If you’re

mihailomilovanovic via gettyimages.com

having a hard time choosing songs for your playlist, online streaming services like Spotify and Pandora have hundreds of pre-made holiday playlists available. Just pick one, and you’re finished!

• Set the mood. For many, the holidays kindle memories of friends and family, favorite dishes, and welcoming smells. Bring these memories to life by filling your home (or the venue) with cozy, seasonal scents. You can do this by making a stovetop of slowcooker potpourri, decorating with perfumed pine cones or sweet-smelling garland, or lighting a holiday-inspired candle.

• Hang some mistletoe.

Another affordable way to make your home or venue feel

svetikd via gettyimages.com

more Christmassy is to hang a sprig or two of mistletoe. You could hang a spring by the front door, above the staircase, or over the dining table.

Whether you choose to host a virtual Christmas party or an in-person, themed party, these tips are sure to make it an event to remember.

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Multi-Sudoku

Super Quiz

Each puzzle consists of two or more Sudoku grids overlapping each other in various configurations. Overlapping areas must comply with the rules of more than one grid.

Take this Super Quiz to the Ph. D. Level. 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the Graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph. D. Level.

Answers on page 21

Cryptoquip The Cryptoquip is a substitution cipher in which one letter stands for another. If you think that X equals O, it will equal O throughout the puzzle. Single letters, short words and words using an apostrophe give you clues to locating vowels. Solution is by trial and error.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

Battleships Each Battleship puzzle represents an ocean with a hidden fleet of ships, which may be oriented horizontally or vertically within the grid such that no ship touches another, not even diagonally. The numbers on the right and on the bottom of the grid show how many squares in the corresponding row and column are occupied by ship segments. Occasionally some squares may contain given ship or water segments to help start the puzzle.

The object is to discover where all ships are located.

Even Exchange Each numbered row contains two clues and two 6-letter answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

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Answers on page 21

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Wuzzles - Page 2

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Point & Solve - Page 8

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Cryptoquip - Easy - Page 8 WHEN TWO OF THE SAME KIND OF FRUIT LOOK NOTHING ALIKE, THAT MIGHT POSSIBLY BE DIS-PEAR-ITY.

Stickelers - Page 2 The answer is 17 pages.

Let x be the number of pages in smaller type. Let (21 - x) be the number of pages in larger type.

48,000 = x (2,400) + 1,800 (21 - x) 48,000 = 2,400x + 37,800 - 1,800x 10,200 = 600x 17 = x

Stickelers - Page 8

Sheffer Crossword - Page 8

The answer is 69. The sequence is as follows: Subtract 3, multiply by 3, subtract 3, mutiply by 3, etc.

Sudokus - Page 10

Premier Crossword - Page 11

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022

Challenger - Page 14

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Wuzzles - Page 16

Joseph Crossword - Page 16

Cryptoquote - Page 14 GOD GAVE US THE GIFT OF LIFE; IT IS UP TO US TO GIVE OURSELVES THE GIFT OF LIVING WELL. — VOLTAIRE

Cryptoquip Hard - Page 18 Multi-Sudoku - Easy - Page 18 Battleships - Page 19

Even Exchange - Page 19

Wuzzles - Page 19

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Healthy Holidays: Using Seasonal Produce Healthy Living I Presented

by Bay Area News Group While many associate summer with an abundant harvest of fruits and vegetables, plenty of delicious ingredients are best enjoyed in the early weeks of winter.

Using in-season ingredients in your holiday meals is a great way to ensure your food has the richest flavors and is full of nutrients. As a bonus, in-season produce is less expensive, so your expansive holiday menu won’t break the bank! Here are six of the best in-season fruits and vegetables to include on your holiday table this year.

Brussels Sprouts Winter is a wonderful time to harvest brussels sprouts, so look for them in your local markets—in abundance! Low in carbohydrates but high in fiber, this vegetable has made a popular resurgence lately due to its nutty flavor and versatility. Fresh brussels sprouts taste far superior to their frozen counterparts, so take advantage and include them in your holiday meals. As a side dish, this vegetable can be roasted or shredded raw, so you can include it in various forms on your holiday table.

Leeks An often-overlooked vegetable in the same family as onions and garlic, leeks are a delicious and nutritious winter crop that can add a surprising twist to your holiday meals. Because they’re high in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, leeks are an excellent choice for soups and side dishes that would otherwise be composed mainly of carbohydrates

and refined ingredients. For example, this Leek Gratin recipe has all the flavors of the traditional potato dish but packs a better nutritional punch. If you like to serve a simple vegetable appetizer during the holidays, try this Parmesan Roasted Leek recipe for inspiration.

Apples Apples are a staple in holiday cooking, so it’s a bonus that you should be able to find a wide variety of types readily available this time of year.

Full of flavonoids (a type of antioxidant) and fiber, apples can add sweetness to a dish without contributing to a sugar crash later. Use apples as a dessert ingredient (like in this low-calorie Cider-Sweetened Apple Pie) or harness their complex flavor in a savory dish like this vegetarian Apple Quinoa Spoon Bread that could replace a typical holiday stuffing recipe.

Cauliflower Cauliflower is a popular vegetable choice these days, and for good reason. Its high

nutrient content (including vitamins C, E, and K, folate, fiber, lutein) and antioxidants make it a great choice for adding something healthy to a meal. This holiday season, use in-season cauliflower as a substitute for popular dishes like mashed potatoes and cheesy sides. You’ll get a similar texture and flavor profile with far more nutrients and fewer carbohydrates.

Pears Pears are a late fall/early winter fruit in many areas, so you can often find them in-season at your local market.

High in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, pears are a great ingredient to use in your holiday cooking to promote overall health. You can feature this ingredient alongside meat to add some natural sweetness to the dish. If you’re looking for a holiday recipe that doesn’t revolve around ham or turkey, try this Pork Tenderloin with Blue Cheese and Pears to wow your guests. As a dessert ingredient, pears bring moisture and sweetness to a dish, so you can choose recipes

that are low in added sugar or oils like these Cranberry and Goat Cheese Stuffed Pears.

Leafy Greens (Kale, Chard, Etc.) Leafy greens are a popular choice for healthy recipes year-round, but during winter months, these vegetables are in-season in many areas and thus less expensive.

Adding leafy greens to your holiday recipes will infuse the meals with vitamin C, folate, calcium, and potassium, a key nutrient to combating

bloating and water retention from high levels of sodium (a common occurrence during the holidays!). You can make leafy greens the star of your holiday side dish with an easy recipe like this Kale, Roasted Pepper, and Olive salad, or add greens to a soup to turn leftovers into a filling and delicious healthy meal in the days following a big celebration.

Including these seasonal fruits and vegetables in your holiday meals will make them nutritious and delicious!

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Looking for a unique Christmas gift that includes Arabian horseback riding?

Who remembers those pony rides “back in the day?” Did you ever imagine today you would be riding a magnificent Arabian? Was that where you began your journey to the joy of riding?

Many sites recommend Arabians for beginners. Their size and temperament makes them appropriate for new riders. If you want a well trained horse and you want to work with excellent trainers On The Bit is the perfect solution.

Whether you are a new or an experienced rider, the On The Bit team is ready to elevate your riding skills.

What are you waiting for?

Daniel Costa’s first introduction to horses is not unfamiliar. It all started with a visit to an Arabian barn with a friend at the age of eight and the horses took it from there.

Lessons followed and Daniel’s passion grew. Now he and his wife, Liana Costa, own and operate On The Bit, Inc. This is a boutique training facility in Clayton, CA, in the picturesque San Francisco Bay Area. Their mission is to provide the same experience that initially drew Daniel in by hosting riders in a beautiful and inspiring space filled with graceful, high performing horses. What is their breed of choice? The purebred and Half-Arabian breed is the answer of course.

Their motto “Positioning for Success and Happiness,” is more than just a saying. It’s the way Daniel and Liana perform every action at their facility. On The Bit provides a variety of programs, from your first time

stepping up into the stirrups to the experienced trips around the right and into the winner’s circle. The Arabians and HalfArabians within their program offer the versatility to guide your experience, from show horse to lesson programs. They look forward to welcoming you to the Arabian community, where life-long connections with horse and equestrians are created.

Under the guidance of head trainer, Leigha Perry, On The Bit offers a full lesson program including a training program, access to trails and day activities to meet the Arabian horse. For those just starting out, basic horsemanship is taught including the care and maintenance of their mounts. Once the basics are down, there are multiple opportunities to grow and many paths to take from local, regional and national competition to leasing and potential ownership.

The farm offers a familyoriented fun and inspiring atmosphere where good

sportsmanship and positivity are encourages. And the best breed to make that happen is the Arabian. They are known for their versatility, personality, agility, beauty and ability to connect with their rider.

Arabians excel at them all.

They are the ultimate teacher – affectionate and intelligent.

All visitors can expect a clean, organized and welcoming facility with happy and healthy horses in a serene and tranquil environment. If you feel something is missing in your life, you have a goal to achieve, or you want your kids to learn sportsmanship, commitment and hard work – schedule an appointment with On The Bit… You won’t be disappointed!

On The Bit (925) 515-1009 facebook.com/onthebitinc

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Holiday Special Lesson Price: $85 Introductory Lesson

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On The Bit, Inc. Clayton, CA

925-515-1009 www.onthebitinc.com

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