Santa Cruz County Holiday Gift Guide 2020

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2020 Holiday Gift & Dining Guide

HOLIDAY 2020 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

G I FT & D I NING GUID E

PUBLISHER EDITOR Patrice Edwards LAYOUT & DESIGN Jim Johnson ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cathe Race Jondi Gumz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Camisa Composti Jim Johnson Media Consultants Don Beaumont Teri L. Huckobey Brooke Valentine Cover Photo Nadi Lindsay Holiday Gift Guide 2020 is a publication of the Times Publishing Group, Inc.­located at 9601 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents © 2020 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without publisher’s written permission.

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Times Publishing Group, Inc. Contact Times Publishing Group Office: (831) 688-7549 or Email: sales@cyber-times.com www.tpgonlinedaily.com­

8 Shop Local 10 Handling Stress 20 Charitable Organizations 23 Holiday Calendar 24 Holiday Stories and Traditions 26 Hanukkah Gift Giving 28 Dine Locally 30 Festive Meals 34 Cheesecake with Cranberry Relish 38 Show Your Pet You Care

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2020 Holiday Gift & Dining Guide

With layers of vanilla chips, oats and dried cranberries, this delicious cookie mix looks as good as it tastes!

INGREDIENTS: 1/3 cup white sugar 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 cup quick-cooking oats 1 cup dried cranberries 1 cup vanilla or white chips 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS In a 1-qt. glass jar (Mason Jars work best), layer the white sugar and brown sugar, packing well between each layer. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, spoon into jar. Top with oats, cranberries and chips. Cover and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Make a cute label with these directions and tie to the lid of the jar: Pour cookie mix into a large bowl; stir to combine. Beat in butter, egg and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Makes three dozen.

Drop by the tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

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Make a difTo: ference this holiday season, To: emember the joy of going from store to store to find that perfect gift? Somehow many of us have gotten caught up in the supposed convenience of shopping for the lowest price at some mega-store or on their website. But have you ever had to take or send something back that did not fit… or didn’t work… or maybe just disappeared and never arrived?

Shopping local is the way to go.

These days, local businesses need the boost from the local community to keep up their mojo. Our local businesses are looking forward to selling their wares to “their people”! Get up and go to a locally owned and operated store or business that has real live people providing real live service. Local businesses where you can try on or turn on or try out their products and then take them back to return or replace without having to wait forever for your refund.

Each day we see and hear the ever-present ads of national chains but we don’t hear and see the many important values independent locally owned businesses provide us both as an individual and as a community. New “big box” retailers that replace locally owned businesses often create economic costs exceeding benefits: the loss of existing jobs andTo: the cost of an increased infrastructure being the top two.

When asked to name our favorite restaurant, cafe, or shop, we almost always cite a unique local business.

We say we embrace the idea of distinctive businesses with local character, but then often forget their survival depends on our patronage.

Some corporate chains give back to areas in which they do business, but those who raise funds for local non-profits can tell you that locally owned businesses provide most of their support. Not all local businesses And, if you prefer to shop on the Internet, many of our are perfect, and “big box” retailers are not bad, but the locally owned and operated businesses have websites. overall impact is obvious: local businesses play a vital This provides the opportunity to deal both online and role in our community that corporate chains seldom do. in-person with people who are your neighbors and live Make a difference this holiday season, Shop Local! in your community.

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2020 Holiday Gift & Dining Guide

HANDLING HOLIDAY The holiday season often brings an unwelcome guest — stress. And it’s no wonder. The holidays often present a dizzying array of demands — cooking meals, shopping, baking, cleaning, and entertaining, to name just a few. And this year brings even more challenges. COVID 19 is a new normal and it is a factor in everything we do these days. If you are feeling additional stress about the holidays, you are not alone. Read on to see how it can be easier to get through the holidays this year.

When stress is at its peak, it is hard to stop and regroup. If you are feeling stress during the holidays, it also may help to talk to a friend or family member about your concerns. Try reaching out with a text, a call or a video chat. Volunteering your time or doing something to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships. For example, since we won’t be able to celebrate as usual, consider dropping off a meal and/or dessert at a friend’s home for their holiday.

We all know that the holidays this year will be different than previous years. No longer can we invite twenty people to our house for the day and spend the day inside close together. If your family or friends can’t come to your home, find new ways to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails, or videos. Or meet virtually on a video call. Even though your holiday plans may look different this year, you can find ways to celebrate. Video calls can be the the answer to some of your family traditions. Whether it be reading a story to the grandkids, a group activity such as singing, it all can be adapted to video.

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Even if it will be a small group this year, there is still the need to be organized and have a routine. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, and other activities. Consider whether you can shop online for any of your items. Most local businesses have their own websites in which to shop if you don’t want to go out. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That will help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And don’t forget, everyone else is in the same boat so shopping could get crazy.

Get your holiday chores and shopping done early.

Be aware of how the information culture can produce undue stress. Adjust the time you spend reading news and social media as you see fit. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Find an activity you enjoy. Take a break by yourself.

Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.

Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm. Take a walk, read a book, listen to soothing music.

Don’t let this become something you dread. Instead, take steps to prevent the stress and that can descend during the holidays. Learn to recognize your holiday triggers, such as financial pressures or personal demands, so you can combat them before they lead to a meltdown. With a little planning and some positive thinking, you can find peace and joy during the holidays.

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APTOS VILLAGE SQUARE 7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos www.aptosvillagesquare.com Aptos Village Square is a host to several Aptos Favorites - all of which are family owned. The Shopping Center is a place where everyone in your family can find something, practical, healthy, fun, and interesting!

Businesses include Jansen Music, The UPS Store, Showtime Pizza, Uncle Kwok’s, Fleet Feet, Hot Source Yoga, Crossfit Aptos, Studio E Dance, Quality Water, Let It Shine Hair Salon, and Caledonia Salon.

Conveniently located in the heart of Aptos — take the State Park Drive exit off Hwy 1 heading south.

ARTS COUNCIL SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 1070 River Street, Santa Cruz info@artscouncilsc.org It’s here! We are so excited to announce the official launch of the Visual Arts Network: art on your schedule, any time, all year long at visualartsnetworkscc.com.

This online hub is a curated directory of 357 Santa Cruz County visual artists, showcasing their work and artistic vision. Jump on in and explore the Network to get your art fix anytime! You can search by artist name, medium, location, and more to meet a new artist in your neighborhood or connect with your favorite local creators. Not sure where to start? Stay tuned here throughout the year to learn more about featured artists every week.

Explore the Network: www.visualartsnetworkscc.com. Please email Ann Ostermann at ann@artscouncilsc.org for more information.

BAY PHOTO LAB 920 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley 800.435.6686 www.bayphoto.com Bay Photo Lab has a long history of innovative photographic printing and photo finishing services.

Located in the coastal redwoods outside of Santa Cruz, California, we have been providing Professional Photographers with the highest quality printing and customer service for over 40 years. We are committed to providing personal attention and a wide range of products. We pride ourselves on our quality printing and fast delivery.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!

Bring your images to Bay Photo and join the many professional photographers who depend on us for outstanding quality, excellent value, and exceptional customer service.

BUBBLE LOUNGE 30 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos 831.708.4100 www.bubbleloungesc.com Our boutique carries a carefully curated and unique selection of yoga wear, loungewear, natural cosmetics, skincare and body products.

We also carry a large assortment of owner favorite gifts, candles, and jewelry from local artisans. Our favorite daily comment is “this place has everything a woman could possibly want.”

Come check out our Goddesswear. It is a year-round favorite. Brazilian styling hugs every curve while still offering extreme comfort with expertly designed pants, leggings, jackets, skirts, and shorts. A perfect gift for the holidays!

We love our clientele at Bubble Lounge and look forward to giving only the best customer service!

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CAPITOLA VILLAGE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION www.capitolavillage.com Named a best California beach town by “USA Today”, with 90 shops, restaurants and lodging on the beach.

Capitola Village has a unique charm with its beautiful beaches and historic and colorful architecture, reminiscent of a Mediterranean village. Capitola Village is a great place to walk around and explore the eclectic mix of boutiques and restaurants.

You will find gift shops, wine tasting rooms, galleries, apparel shops, surf shops, and more! Relax on the beach or get a little more adventurous and learn to surf or paddleboard during your stay, you can even rent a boat to explore the bay.

CLEAN JUICE 100 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos 831.661.0614 www.cleanjuice.com/locations/aptos Today’s lifestyle is busy and on-the-go, leaving many people with hardly any time to plan their meals.

Being too busy to stop and eat a healthy meal sometimes leaves us with no choice but foods that are fast and convenient, which usually isn’t the healthiest choice.

Clean Juice cold-press juice cleanses give you the quick and convenient solution you need but are packed with nutrition. Following a Clean Juice cleanse is a great way to give your body the attention it needs—fresh, healthy and safe organic ingredients in a convenient juice cleanse program. Cleansing is a safe, easy and healthy way to bring your mind, body and spirit back to life.

It’s simple to get started, and you’ll find the benefits are endless the more you explore the world of organic juice cleansing!

CORRALITOS FEED & PET SUPPLIES Our Country Store: 2895 B Freedom Blvd, Corralitos Our City Store: 1486 Freedom Blvd, Watsonville 831.722.7884 831.728.2244 www.corralitosfeed.com At Corralitos Feed and Pet Supplies we specialize in pet and livestock nutrition. We carry everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Visit our Country Store in Corralitos for boots as well as horse and and supplies including straw, hay and alfalfa. We also carry a full line of pet foods and products.

Visit our City store in Watsonville for all your pet needs. We also have live animals including birds, reptiles, rabbits, chickens, and fish, along with the full line of products and food for these pets.

Come by and say hi and let us help you with all your critters!

BELLA DAWNA 7556 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.688.3203 www.belladawnaesthetics.com BellaDawna is a modern apothecary spa located in Aptos. We offer a variety of skin care, waxing, spray-tanning, and make-up services; as well as a boutique with a variety of natural, bio-dynamic, and non-toxic products for face, body, bath, fragrance, and nails. When dealing with hyper-pigmentation, acne, and affective anti-aging, we can customize a series of treatments and at-home care for lasting results.

The BellaDawna atmosphere is relaxing and down to earth. We offer quality services and pride ourselves on our expertise. Our goal is for everyone to feel comfortable; and we want to provide you with a service that fits your lifestyle.

Visit www.michaelsonmainmusics.com for our live music calendar.

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PET PALS DISCOUNT PET FOOD AND SUPPLIES 3660 Soquel Dr, Soquel 831.464.8775 www.petpals.com Pet Pals Discount Pet Food and Supplies has been family owned since 1987. We are not a chain or franchise.

We aim to provide brand name pet food and supplies at the lowest discount prices at our 17,000 square foot warehouse store. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you and your four-legged friends find exactly what you need.

We take pride in our local roots and give back to the Santa Cruz County pet community whenever possible. We offer a low-cost vaccination clinic and host pet adoptions every weekend.

Please reach out if your nonprofit or pet organization would like to connect with the Pet Pals team.

ROOSTERS 28 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, CA 95003 831-612-6938 www.RoostersMGC.com At Roosters Men’s Grooming Center, we provide authentic barbering services designed with men in mind.

Whether you come in for the Roosters Club Cut or Signature 7-Step Facial Shave, you can be confident you will leave looking and feeling your best. Schedule an appointment with one of our talented barbers or stylists and receive hair care and grooming services specifically tailored to meet your needs.

Give the gift of Roosters to the gentlemen in your life so they can experience the comforts of an oldschool barber shop with grooming techniques for the modern man.

Our distinctive services come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK 800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville 831.722.7110 thefoodbank.org Help Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County continue to fill the gap and feed hope by providing healthy food throughout the current crisis and beyond.

100% of the funds raised during Holiday Food and Fund Drives goes to providing food to distribute at our 165 partner agency and program locations. Second Harvest Food Bank has the ability to provide 4 meals for $1. Distributions have doubled since March 2020.

We hope you can be a part of the action this year. Be a Hunger Hero and join us!

SUPER SILVER Santa Cruz: 1301 Pacific Ave, 831.460.9696 Capitola Mall: Across from Food Court 831.477.1932 Capitola Village: 214 Capitola Ave 831.462.9696 Sacramento: Old Town 916.443.2801 www.supersilversantacruz.com Super Silver has a wide variety of chains to choose from, ranging from 14” to 36” (and everything in between!) Come in and try on some of our gorgeous thick Italian chains and handmade Bali Necklaces!

No matter what you’re looking for, you will find it at Super Silver! We have a huge assortment of chains, basic styles such as Box, Snake, and Figaro. Eye-catching Curb/Cuban, Marina, Rope and SO MUCH MORE! We even have Chains for infants and children! Ask about our Amber Teething Necklaces.

Stop by Super Silver, your one stop shop for all things Sterling Silver!

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AVENUE CAFE Avenue Cafe 427 Capitola Ave, Capitola 831.515.7559 Come in, Relax and Enjoy! There’s nothing better than dining at a great neighborhood restaurant with family and friends. The kind of neighborhood restaurant that inspires people to introduce others to their find. Avenue Cafe Capitola was created with that in mind. We serve traditional breakfast and lunches as well as Mexican dishes. We are a family owned and operated restaurant serving delicious recipes made from the best and freshest ingredients. Fresh and Authentic... Whether you eat-in or take-out, we take great pride in making sure you get delicious food made from quality ingredients.

HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE 21210 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley 831.335.1210 www.heavenlyroadsidecafe.com Founded in 1955 as Heavenly Hamburger, Heavenly Roadside Cafe is one of Scotts Valley’s landmark destinations. Our goal is to provide good food and good service in a warm and friendly environment.

We always use fresh, local and organic fare when possible. Join us for a great breakfast or lunch.

We serve old-time favorites with modern additions and some new twists. Our most popular breakfast items include the Crab Cake Benedict, Loaded Potatoes, and the California Scramble. The John Wayne Burger topped with house made onion rings is also a favorite. Come see us!

KAITO 830 41st Ave., Santa Cruz 831.464.2586 www.smilekaito.com The name Kaito means “Ocean Lover” as fits those who love the beach town of Santa Cruz.

At Kaito we are focused on providing the best service & food with the highest levels of customer satisfaction. We will do everything we can to meet your expectations. With a variety of offerings to choose from, we’re sure you’ll be happy. Look around our website and if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us. Check back later for new updates to our website. There’s much more .... We hope to see you soon!

MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2591 Main St., Soquel 831.479.9777 info@michaelsonmain.net • www.michaelsonmain.com Michael’s on Main offers what we like to call “Americana Cuisine” — you will find fresh local-caught fish, pizza, tacos, as well as pasta, vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten free choices.

The ambiance at Michael’s on Main is warm and inviting. Indoor spaces are decorated with works of art by local arts and our outdoor seating overlooks beautiful Soquel Creek.

We also feature live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays.

Visit www.michaelsonmainmusics.com for our live music calendar.

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Agape Dance Academy presents: NUTCRACKER the MOVIE

year of 2020.

Please help us reach our goal of funds that will be the source of the a truly high quality movie that shows off the incredible talent that has been celebrated year after year of our live This holiday season our community needs entertainment, Nutcracker performances! Please consider any amount that you are able to give to this Jacob’s Heart needs donations, project as every bit helps! Go Fund Me: Agape Dance and all the arts needs funds to continue training https://gf.me/u/y7tgvp up dancers for greater purposes!

Agape Dance Academy is so excited to present our Nutcracker holiday tradition at the Boardwalk Drive-In theater! This exciting, beautiful Nutcracker Movie is filmed in Santa Cruz by Taylor Productions with master dancers, local ballerinas, Agape Dance alumnae and fun community leaders! Dramatically filmed in small groups and produced into a huge hour of holiday excitement! Ticket sales benefit Jacob’s Heart and the local ballet arts!

(Director of Agape Dance, Melanie Useldinger).

Miracle Nutcracker.

We’re looking for a miracle this Christmas , of a beautiful work-of-art movie version of the beloved Nutcracker Ballet 2020. We hope to lift the human hearts of audiences, participants, dancers, community members and creators with this very special Nutcracker movie that will create beautiful memories of triumphant times in the challenging

2020!

happy holidays in

Dine & Shop during the Holidays and enjoy the magic of the season. This year many stores will be accepting donations for Salvations Army Come stroll the village & enjoy the beautiful lights, check out the decorated storefronts & the lights of Depot Hill “Angel Tree” Your Angel Tree donation helps keep joy & hope alive for local Santa Cruz County families Please visit our Facebook page & see what shops will have extended hours for your shopping pleasure

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SANTA CRUZ COUNTY CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS It’s amazing to see how many organizations and people are involved in helping others in our county. Whether it’s kids or seniors, the homeless, sick or helpless, there are charitable organizations that can assist in making this holiday season one of hope for those in need. You can take part in this effort by volunteering or giving your donations to be part of bringing joy to others less fortunate.

ADVOCACY INC 5274 Scotts Valley Dr., Ste 203, Scotts Valley (831) 429-1913 • www.advocacy-inc.org Advocacy, Inc. is an independent nonprofit agency serving Santa Cruz and San Benito counties for over 40 years.

Our agency is comprised of the LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program and the Patients’ Rights Advocate Program.

We act as a voice for those patients/ residents who are unable to speak for themselves because of prejudice, fear and/or disability, Train and consult with medical and mental health professionals on patients’/residents’ rights, quality of care, treatment and quality of life issues.

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APTOS ADOPT-A-FAMILY 9601 Soquel Drive Ste A, Aptos 831.688.7549 • cathe@cyber-times.com The Aptos Adopt-A-Family Program sponsors families that are experiencing medical and/or financial catastrophes within their family. This year especially we can use all the help we can get! In order for families to enjoy the season with a minimum of stress, our volunteers “adopt a family” and help them out with their holiday needs. You can help by sending in a donation or offering to sponsor a family yourself! This is your way to give back to the community. “Neighbor Helping Neighbor”!

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SANTA CRUZ CHAPTER 550 Water St. Ste L-2, Santa Cruz 831.647.9890 • www.alz.org The Santa Cruz Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers countywide services for families coping with Alzheimer’s disease. These include: Helpline, 1-800-272-3900, support groups, an informational library, a newsletter, and a wanderer’s identification program. If you would like to learn about Alzheimer’s more please call The Alzheimer’s Association Santa Cruz at 464-9982 or visit our website.

AMERICAN RED CROSS - SANTA CRUZ COUNTY CHAPTER 2960 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz 800.733.2767 • www.redcross.org The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its congressional charter.

The International Red Cross Movement provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Get your disaster preparedness kits and register for CPR and First Aid classes at www. redcross.org BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 1500 41st Avenue, Ste 250, Capitola 831.464.8691 • www.santacruzmentor.org Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County’s mission statement is: To assist children and youth to achieve their highest potential by providing quality mentoring relationships.” For over 27 years they have served youth by creating mentoring relationships between children and carefully screened adult volunteers who provide guidance, friendship and appropriate role modeling. Please call us or visit our website if you are interested in volunteering.

CASA -- COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN 813 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville 831.761.2956 • www.casaofsantacruz.org CASA volunteers are everyday people, trained by CASA, and then appointed by judges to advocate for the safety of children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect.

CASA empowers volunteers to influence life-changing decisions for a child in foster care. If you love children and want to offert your support, please feel free to contact us for the next training date. Your support will mean a lot to a child in need.

CENTRAL COAST CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING 1350 41st Ave. #101, Capitola 831.462.8720 • www.cccil.org CCCIL’s Mission Statement: “Many people with disabilities are excluded from full participation in society. CCCIL is an advocacy and information center organized by and for people with disabilities, serving Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito Counties. Our purpose is to make our communities more accessible, and to empower people with disabilities with information and skills to live fulfilling lives in our communities.”

CCCIL’s services include housing assistance, personal assistance services, peer support, independent living skills training and systems advocacy.

COMMUNITY BRIDGES 519 Main St., Watsonville 831.688.8840 • www.communitybridges.org Since 1977, Community Bridges has been a catalyst for a brighter future by providing basic resources for the people of Santa Cruz County. Our family of ten vital programs across 20 different sites serves thousands of local children, families, and seniors each year. Every day, we provide services that lead to positive change in people’s lives. Our programs give community members access to transportation, healthy food, health care, and senior daycare. We offer early education, grade school tutoring, and classes in breastfeeding, parenting, and literacy. We provide these and other services without charge, or at very low cost.

EASTERSEALS CENTRAL CALIFORNIA 9010 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.684.2166 • www.easterseals.com Easterseals Central California (ESCC) has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives since 1947. From child development centers to autism services and job training for people with disabilities, Easterseals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals.

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 406 Main St. #326, Watsonville 831.728.9791 • wwwfitsantacruz.org Since 1992 Families In Transition has been serving members of Santa Cruz County by providing temporary rental assistance and case management to families who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Our case managers work closely with program participants to identify barriers to housing and come up with individualized housing stability plans to ensure client success.

FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY OF THE CENTRAL COAST 104 Walnut Avenue, Ste 208, Santa Cruz 831.423.9444 • www.fsa-cc.org Family Service Agency of the Central Coast is a private, non-profit agency offering a variety of clinical, crisis, educational, outreach and supportive services designed to maintain and strengthen family and community life.

Their programs include: Counseling Services, Senior Outreach, Suicide Prevention, I-You Venture and Renaissance.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY 108 Magnolia St., Santa Cruz 831.469-4663 • www.habitatsc.org Habitat for Humanity Santa Cruz County

is an independent locally operated and funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Our mission is to build decent, affordable homes and provide home ownership opportunities to qualified families who live and work in Santa Cruz County. Families purchase our homes with a down payment, sweat equity, and a 0% interest monthly mortgage. Please visit our Restore at 19 Swift St. in Santa Cruz! We accept donations of, and then resell, new and used building materials, furniture, hardware, tools, and appliances at a fraction of the normal retail price.

HOSPICE OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley 831.430.3000 • www.hospicesantacruz.org Hospice of Santa Cruz County provides expert medical care, emotional and spiritual support to patients and families in our community so that the final months of life can be spent at home - in comfort and with dignity. The H.U.G. (Healthy Understanding of Grief) program helps hundreds of children each year sort through their feelings of grief and loss in a healthy manner. Clients & families are helped in creating a network of support and are offered assurance and education regarding end-of-life planning.

JACOB’S HEART CHILDREN’S CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES 680 West Beach St., Watsonville 831.724.9100, • www.jacobsheart.org Since 1998, we have served more than 600 children and 2,500 of their family members who have heard the devastating words, “Your child has cancer.” Through the years we have celebrated remission for hundreds of children and have grieved with families at the loss of a precious child. Through it all, we remain steadfast in our mission; our reason for existence is an unwavering dedication to providing support to parents and families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses in Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito and South Santa Clara Counties.

LIVE OAK SENIOR CENTER 1777 Capitola Rd. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831.476.3272 • https://seniorcenter.us The Live Oak Senior Center was established in 1974 by a group of Live Oak residents committed to providing a place for resources for seniors. Today many of the original non-profits continue to provide services to seniors in the Santa Cruz community. In addition, we provide space for groups to meet on a weekly, monthly or one-time basis. Our location in Live Oak, easily accessible by bus and with ample parking, allows us to provide a place for the community to meet for a variety of reasons: to get advice on Medicare supplements, to have lunch, to play bridge, to paint, to discuss current events and to exercise.

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PAJARO VALLEY SHELTER SERVICES 115 Brennan Street, Watsonville 831.728.5649, • www.pvshelter.org Pajaro Valley Shelter Services provides families with a path to stable, selfsufficient futures through short- and longer-term housing and supportive services. Pajaro Valley Shelter Services has an emergency shelter and sixteen units of transitional housing where families can stay up to two years.

THE PREGNANT MARE RESCUE FOUNDATION P.O. Box 962, Aptos 408.540.8568 • PregnantMareRescue.org The Pregnant Mare Rescue is a temporary horse sanctuary serving the communities of Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.

We provide a safe haven for unwanted mares to have their babies, and a place for orphaned foals to grow. We have developed children’s programs where the unwanted horse heals the troubled child. What we discovered is horses help everyone, not just children. People from every walk of life benefit from the various nonriding programs offered at our ranch.

We have created an environment that supports and encourages the horsehuman connection.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF SANTA CRUZ & SAN BENITO 800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville 831.722.7110 • www.thefoodbank.org The Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County provides food and necessities to people in need throughout our community. It serves 60,000 working poor families, seniors, and children each month. Second Harvest provides food to 180 programs and agencies operating pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, group homes, childcare, rehabilitation programs

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and more. Call 662-0991 from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday - Friday, if you or someone you know needs food. For more information go to thefoodbank.org. Every $1 donated provides five meals.

SPECIAL PARENTS INFORMATION NETWORK (S.P.I.N) 294 Green Valley Rd., Ste. 313 Watsonville 831.722.2800 • www.spinsc.org Parents of children with special needs may feel isolated and overwhelmed with the medical, emotional, financial, educational and social issues they face as they raise their child. SPIN is a non-profit parent-to-parent support and information network serving parents, guardians and families in Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties who have a child or children with special needs of any age. SPIN is a Family Empowerment Center on Disabilities.

TEEN KITCHEN PROJECT P.O. Box 1853, Soquel 831.316.4540 x707 • teenkitchenproject.org A nonprofit organization that brings young people into the kitchen to learn to cook delicious and nourishing food. Teen Kitchen Project offers our delicious, locally sourced and organic food philosophy to events from parties and business meetings, to fund-raising events for fellow nonprofits like the United Way of Santa Cruz County, PEO Sisterhood, and Team G Childhood Cancer Foundation.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 7807 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003 831.662.2000 • www.cfscc.com Community Foundation Santa Cruz County is a tax-exempt public charity

serving people who share a common interest to improve the quality of life in Santa Cruz County, and beyond, through philanthropy. Founded in 1982, we provide individuals, families and businesses with ways to make giving simple, powerful and personal. We offer professional advisors resources and tools to help you meet your clients’ charitable goals.

THE VOLUNTEER CENTER 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz 831.427.5070 • www.scvolunteercenter.org The Volunteer Center was founded in 1967 to address the pressing needs of our local community through volunteer service. We offer 22 programs that engage young people, families, seniors, working professionals, and people with disabilities in meaningful service. We have the capability of connecting people with volunteer opportunities on the web, by phone, or at one of our Centers.

VALLEY CHURCHES UNITED MISSIONS 9400 Highway 9, Ben Lomond 831.336.8258 • www.vcum.org Valley Churches United Missions is hosting its Annual Valley Christmas Project providing food, toys, gifts, necessity items, and gift certificates to families, seniors, disabled and homeless.

Donations of cash, food, food vouchers, gift certificates, new toys, cookies, senior gifts, Christmas trees, gift-wrap, poinsettia plants, new blankets, socks, jackets and teenage gifts are accepted.

Send cash donations to Valley Churches United Missions, P.O. Box 367, Ben Lomond, CA 95005.

HERITAGE HOLIDAY CRAFT AND GIFT FAIR November 18 The 2020 Edition of the Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair will be a VIRTUAL EVENT. We still want you to be able to shop with our Holiday Fair Family of crafters so we are busy building that experience on our website. Launching November 18th, we will have pictures and contact information of the vendors you visit from year to year at our live event.

You will be able to access their website and or by phone and shop all those special one of a kind items like you’ve done at each year’s event. Be sure to check back often as we continue adding vendor information to the site. https:// fairgrounds-foundation.org/holiday-fairgoes-virtual/ HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2020 Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds November 27 - December 27 Between 5:30 and 9:30pm The Agricultural History Project and Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds have joined to present the first Holiday Lights Adventure. Visitors will experience this first ever event from the warmth and safety of their vehicles. Holiday Lights 2020 will light up the Fairgrounds with an extravagant display of holiday cheer along a half mile route. After this visual feast the journey ends with drive though food booths. Holiday Lights 2020 will run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings from November 27 through December 27 between 5:30 and 9:30 PM. Closed Christmas Day. Tickets are available at www.fairgrounds-foundation.org and priced at $15 per vehicle in advance, $20 at the gate.

LIGHT OF HOPE FOR DOMINICAN WELLNESS CENTER NOV. 20 5:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20 Rodney Terra Jr. and Jared Bogaard of the Dominican Hospital Foundation invite the community to “Light of Hope,” a virtual event at 5:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, in lieu of the annual Holidays d’Eleganz gala.

This 45-minute experience, designed to inspire and enlighten, will showcase the compassionate and innovative care at Dominican Hospital in this year of the COVID-19 pandemic and the CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Light of Hope 2020 Fund-the-Need supports a new medically-integrated Wellness Center with physician-guided program oversight, care coordination, resources for prevention and screening and health education. The goal is $315,000.

To view Light of Hope, go to https://e.givesmart.com/events/iLn/ where donations can be made online.

Or send a check to Dominican Hospital Foundation, 1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95065.

SANTA CRUZ HARBOR LIGHTED BOAT PARADE December 5, 2020 5:30pm - 7:30pm Sponsored by the Santa Cruz Yacht Club, the Lighted Boat Parade features beautifully decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor.

Parade begins at 5:30 pm, rain or shine.

Family friendly and perfect for all ages!

FIRST NIGHT OF CHANUKAH COMMUNITY CANDLE LIGHTING Thursday, December 10, 2020 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Bring your menorah and candles to Temple Beth El on the first night of Chanukah! We will have sufganiyot (doughnuts), dreydl, and a Community candle lighting filled with songs and blessings. Temple Beth El is located at 3055 Porter Gulch Rd, Aptos Please call 831.479.3444 for more information.

AGAPE DANCE ACADEMY PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER December 18-20 The Agape Dance Academy will present its Nutcracker holiday tradition Dec 18-20 at the Boardwalk Drive-In Theater, 400 Beach St. at 5:30 and 7:30pm. This version of the Nutcracker was filmed in Santa Cruz by locals with local performers and community leaders. Ticket sales will benefit Jacob’s Heart. Bring the family to this movie in the safety and comfort of your own car. Cost is $45 per car. For tickets, visit agapedance.com.

STOP IN FOR SANTA Food Bank Fundraiser December 3, 2020, 4-6pm 930 17th Ave, Santa Cruz Santa is visiting our fire department to help local Firefighters collect food and donations for Second Harvest Food Bank!

This is a drive-through minimal contact event. Families can drive through the market path in the front of the fire house to deliver non-perishable food and checks (made out to Second Harvest Food Bank).

Santa and his firefighter “elves” will be available to collect your donations. Free firefighter hats and candy for the kids!

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Is there really a Santa Claus?

Today, Santa Claus still brings toys and gifts to good little boys and girls around the world. Sometimes children have doubts about Santa Claus and wonder if he is real. One little 8 year old girl named Virginia O’Hanlon decided the way to find out if there really was a Santa Claus was to ask the best source she could find - the New York Sun newspaper. Virginia wrote a letter to the New York Sun newspaper in 1897. Virginia’s letter and response are shown below written by the Sun editor, Francis P. Church.

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Originally published in The New York Sun in 1897.

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e take pleasure in answering thus prominently the communication below, expressing at the same time our great gratification that its faithful author is numbered among the friends of The Sun: Dear Editor: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.”

Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Signed Virginia O’Hanlon The answer as published in the New York Sun was: Virginia, your little friends are wrong.

They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age.

They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy.

Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias.

There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no

romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The external light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see.

Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

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HANUKKAH GIFT GIVING

or Jewish people around the world, Hanukkah is marked by lighting candles on the menorah for eight nights, eating latkes, and spinning the dreidel. But when the holiday starts — on the evening of Dec. 10 this year — many Jewish Americans will be focused on a different tradition: gift-giving.

“It’s important to recognize that it is an American Jewish phenomenon, this gift-giving that’s part of Hanukkah,” Rabbi Menachem Creditor, scholar in residence at the UJAFederation of New York, tells TIME. “It’s not historically part of Hanukkah at all.”

In that, gift-giving on Hanukkah is not unlike gift-giving on Christmas — it has little, if anything, to do with the religious requirements of the celebration.

The story of Hanukkah — which, in its varying versions, celebrates the rededication of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem around 200 B.C., and how a small amount of oil miraculously lasted for eight nights — is not told in the Hebrew Bible, but is instead found in the first and second Books of Maccabees.

This makes Hanukkah less important religiously than other holidays like Passover, Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah.

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similar to the weekly Sabbath. On Hanukkah, however, no such rest is necessary.

WHAT SOME PARENTS DO TODAY Today, some families prefer to give Hanukkah money rather than gifts because they view gelt as a more authentically Jewish tradition. Minka Goldstein, a mother of six, says she gives one dollar per candle, not counting the shamash (the “helper” candle used to light the other ones). On the first night her kids receive one dollar; second night, two, etc. The total is $36 for eight nights, and she says her children (and now grandchildren too) love it.

Goldstein uses this as an opportunity to teach her kids how to spend wisely. When they were little, she took her kids to Toys R Us and let them decide what to buy with their $36.

FROM GELT TO GIFTS Dianne C. Ashton, Director of American Studies at Rowan University and author of Hanukkah in America: A History, explains that the trend of exchanging Hanukkah gifts really took off in the 1950s. At this time, Jewish child psychologists as well as rabbis started promoting gifts as a way to make post-Holocaust Jewish kids happy to be Jewish, rather than sad about missing out on Christmas.

Christmas envy remains a concern for many Jewish parents today. Janet Zuckerman, a mother of three, says it is particularly hard for her kids this time of year because their cousins celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas and receive presents for both.

MAKING IT MEANINGFUL Like Zuckerman, most parents do give some gifts for Hanukkah. Though gifts might make Hanukkah seem like a “Jewish Christmas,” there can be value in taking time to select a thoughtful and tasteful gift for a child you love. And there is undeniable pleasure in seeing children excited to play with new toys — especially when those toys are helping them learn and develop new skills.

Rabbi Sandy Rubenstein, director of Jewish Chaplaincy Services at the Jewish Social Service Agency in Rockville, Maryland, offers some advice for families that want to give gifts, but also want to avoid excessive materialism. She suggests that families can light candles to honor justice or peace, or talk about what brings light into one?s life or what places in this world need more light. Even with gift giving, family holiday celebrations can still aim to foster social consciousness.

One parent doing just that is Jill Myers, a mother of two.

Growing up, she received a gift every night of Hanukkah.

But when she got married, her South African husband found the custom totally foreign: “He was like, ‘What are you talking about, gifts?’”

When Myers’ kids do receive Hanukkah gifts, she has them look through their toys and determine what they no longer play with and can, thus, donate. Also, at winter break of each year, her children decide where to give whatever is in their home tzedakah (charity) box.

Myers says, “They don’t always see the tzedakah we give so those are two things I’ve tried to balance with gifts. Some years they might get something every night but one night it was from us, one night from our parents, and other nights a Yanovich says, “Growing up for my husband and me, as book from the book fair.” well as for our children, Hanukkah was time for latkes, sufganiyot, gelt, and lighting candles. One unforgettable STICK WITH SMALL STUFF year one child expected a present every night so I gave one Like Myers, you can consider letting other relatives and sock one night and then the other the next night, laughing friends cover most of the eight nights. For your gifts, you all day about it.” can choose to give more modestly. Myers says she feels comfortable giving her kids small gifts like books. This year Yanovich’s main piece of advice for parents: “We should not her children looked at catalogues and picked out board games compete with Christmas.” to play as a family. “We try to keep down on the electronics and try to make it about family – -not a Christmas-like bounty of stuff.”

Your children may be surprised to learn that the custom of gift-giving is largely American. Beatriz Yanovich and her husband came to the United States from Colombia. Her three children grew up in Richmond, Virginia.

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he Parish Pub in Aptos was started in 2017 by four friends who have worked in Santa Cruz restaurants and bars for over 20 years. They decided to start a sister pub to the already established Parish Publick House on the West side of Santa Cruz. Joel, Nate, and Erik, teamed up with their friend Karen to create a service oriented pub with a neighborhood feel. They have an emphasis on warm service, quality fresh food, a comfortable family friendly atmosphere, and the best beer and cocktails they can serve.

The year 2020 has brought unique challenges to all of us, and this young restaurant was no exception. As the shutdowns began, the owners knew that safety needed to be their top priority, as they worked to keep staff employed and to help feed their community. They implemented new training procedures for staff and strict policies for all persons, to ensure the community was safe as it could be. They had great success batching their delicious craft cocktails and sending mason jars of goodness out into the community. The partners reworked the to go ordering system and offered an updated online version through their website to limit contact.

As the restaurant has slowly reopened, they have welcomed back patrons with open arms, from six feet away of course! They have expanded the patio seating and have carefully spaced all tables inside and out to ensure the Santa Cruz County community is safe as possible.

The Parish Pub Aptos is currently open for to go food, patio dining and inside seating. They continue to offer delectable cocktail offerings to go, which is great to think about as the Holidays approach, and have gift cards for stocking stuffers. The kitchen has been led by Chef Dave Baskerville who has increased the delicious “small bite” offerings to offer quality food and flavors. Bar Manager Melissa Stoll has continued to scout exceptional beers and to make a fun and innovative craft cocktail menu. Current staff favorite has been the Curry Chicken Lettuce Wrap paired with the tropical inspired Tiki Tok. In addition, the Parish Pub was an early adopter of the Impossible Burger and offers many other vegetarian and healthy options to ensure there is something for everyone.

From the bottom of their hearts, the Parish Pub would like to thank their community for their patronage and their support. The challenges of this year have kept coming, but the community support has made it all seem possible. We can’t wait to see your friendly masked faces!

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MAKE MEALS MORE FESTIVE WITH A UNIQUE

Looking for new ways to elevate fall favorites? Add a ruby red pop of color and sweet burst of flavor to your dishes with a unique seasonal ingredient: pomegranates. Known for their sweet taste, brilliant red color and antioxidants, pomegranate arils, or seeds, bring a touch of sweetness that elevates savory and sweet recipes like no other ingredient.

2 Transform salad or grain bowls into festive delights

The saying goes you eat with your eyes first, so brightening up your dish with pomegranate arils’ ruby red color will instantly make your lunch or dinner appear even more tempting. Try tossing them into salads, grain bowls or guacamole! Whether you’re creating a weekday or special The good news is, you don’t have to go through the hassle occasion meal, using POM POMS in the dish or as a garnish of opening a pomegranate and removing the arils yourself will instantly make it pop, while adding a healthy burst of - POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils make enjoying antioxidants and fiber. pomegranates easy with their convenient ready-to-eat packages. Available October through January, POM POMS 3 Wow your family with delicious meatless meatballs are offered in an 8-ounce cup for cooking or baking, or These meatless “meatballs” have plenty of rich flavor, thanks a 100-calorie 4-ounce single serving for easy snacking. to the warm spices and refreshing pomegranate taste. Serve Because they’re straight from fresh pomegranates, POM as an appetizer or atop spaghetti squash for a meal the whole POMS are a good source of fiber and are known for their family will love! antioxidant goodness.

4 Boost the holiday factor in drinks and desserts Here are some fun ways you can use pomegranate arils on Sprinkle bright red pomegranate arils in your cocktails, your table this fall. mocktails or punch to create extra-cheery holiday beverages 1 Brighten up your breakfast you can feel good about. They add flavor and visual flair, Adding pomegranate arils to typical breakfast fare like even to simple mugs of cider or glasses of champagne. oatmeal, yogurt or smoothies gives morning meals the flavor Garnish basic desserts with pomegranate arils to transform and touch of healthiness they deserve. How about sprinkling them into a celebration. onto a slice of peanut butter covered toast? Breakfast will Find more recipe inspiration using POM POMS Fresh never be the same with these juicy morsels.

Pomegranate Arils at POMWonderful.com.

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MEATLESS MEATBALLS WITH POM HARISSA SAUCE Prep time: 50 minutes; Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes Meatball Ingredients: 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs 1/3 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin 2 tablespoons olive oil 3/4 cup onion, finely chopped 3/4 pound eggplant, diced 1/4 inch 1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt 3/4 cups toasted walnuts, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 large egg, beaten 1/2 cup POM POMS™ Fresh Pomegranate Arils Sauce Ingredients: 1 cup POM WonderfulŽ 100% Pomegranate Juice 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce 2-3 tablespoons harissa 1 teaspoon honey 1/4 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger Plain yogurt for serving POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils for garnish Extra flat-leaf parsley for garnish Preparation: 1. Make meatballs: Heat oven to 350 F. In bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, cinnamon and cumin. Set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, eggplant and salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in walnuts, garlic and tomato paste.

3. Transfer half the eggplant mixture to food processor and blend until smooth. Add back to eggplant mixture. Stir in breadcrumb mixture and egg.

4. Generously coat hands with oil or water and form mixture into 24 1-and-1/4-inch balls. Place on baking sheet 1/2 inch apart.

5. Bake until cooked through, 25-30 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, make harissa sauce: In medium saucepan boil POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice over medium high heat until reduced by half, 12-15 minutes.

Whisk in tomato sauce, harissa, cumin and ginger.

Let cool slightly.

Top meatballs with POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils and parsley. Serve with harissa sauce and yogurt.

(BPT)

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK

Boosting Healthy Cooking

By Delia Bernal

The club’s mission is building and boosting alternative food literacy in our community.

Did you know Second Harvest’s nutrition team has created a cooking club?

Food literacy is about understanding the effects your food choices have on your health, the environment and our economy. We’ve seen a need for helping improve basic education about food, it’s nutritional values, eating routines, how and what we should eat, all according to people’s individual needs and resources. Food isn’t the same for everyone.

We’ve also incorporated some of the principles of ancient scientific wisdom such as Ayurveda which teaches that it’s important including different tastes in our daily meals to digest and absorb food properly.

It also teaches that one of our connections to the earth is through the food we eat. It’s valuable that food be more natural, less processed and more seasonal, which is not only healthier but sustainable and generally less costly.

To promote learning, we created The Cooking Club as a new Current Nutritional Outreach offering for participants to help them make better decisions on food, share their knowledge through recipes, tips, and During the on-going health crisis, Second Harvest’s nutritional training has gone virtual with recipes included in have fun at the same time. the 25-pound food bags being distributed across the county Connecting with the Cooking Club and via online nutritional trainings.

The club is also a way of creating a growing network of We’re not trying to change peoples’ diets so much as provide information that can be passed on to the community-at-large healthier alternatives to high-salt, fat and sugar consumption. by the participants and Nutrition Ambassadors (NA’s). For our Cooking Club we invite anyone interested to be part Second Harvest, the first food bank in California, sources of it for up to 6 months. Contact Second Harvest by phone over 8 million pounds of food (in normal years) from (831)722-7110 or through our website www.thefoodbank. farms, grocery stores, food manufacturers, distributors, and individuals. It distributes through 100 food pantries, org - to volunteer schools, soup kitchens, group homes, youth centers, and Each month we’ll address a different food-related topic more, plus another 100 Second Harvest program sites. around nutrition and health. We then demonstrate what Included are People’s Pantry at Twin Lakes Church, Grey we’ve discussed by cooking delicious and nutritious recipes. Bears, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Community Bridges – Other interesting facts are, most of the club’s recipes are Mountain Community Resources, Valley Churches United creatively prepared so people can continue cooking recipes and others across the county. with variations. If participants have recipes they’d like Healthy eating is a key part of the food bank’s mission. More sharing, we’re interested! We’ll also play around with some than 60 percent of the food traditional recipes and switch some of the ingredients so they’re more plant-based. Incorporating more vegetables distributed by Second Harvest is fresh produce and has won into our diets is easy, inexpensive and creates healthier it the distinction of being the healthiest food bank in the eating. The idea is creating exquisite, more interesting nation. dishes that are nutritionally balanced.

Please visit www.thefoodbank.org and check out the But to be clear, the idea isn’t replacing meat or suggesting latest recipes. everyone become vegetarian or vegan. Our goal is presenting Delia Bernal is Nutrition Program Education Manager at Second Harvest Food Bank broader recipe options with more ingredients coming from of Santa Cruz County. plants. Its as simple as that.

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DELIA’S CRUST-LESS PUMPKIN PIE Ingredients • 2

cups cooked pumpkin large eggs • 1 cup condensed milk (sweetened) • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp of ground ginger • 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice • 1 tsp of vanilla extract Utensils: Blender, pie dish (8 3/4 in. dia), spatula.

Serves: 8 • 2

PREPARATION 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease pie dish.

2. Place all the ingredients in a blender 3. Blend until smooth 4. Pour the blended mixture into the pie dish.

5. Bake 20 minutes to 400°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake 20 to 25 minutes longer or until a little knife inserted comes out clean.

Enjoy!

WINTER SQUASH SOUP Health Benefits Eye health, bone health, digestive and immune function. Low in calories but loaded with vitamins and minerals that works as potent antioxidants.

Other options to prepare it Soups, stews, curries, baked, roasted, mashed squash, grilled, stuffed with grains, top salads with roasted chunks, pasta sauce, add pureed to baked goods and milk to make smoothie.

Ingredients 2 cups diced peeled butternut squash butter • 1 carrot finely chopped • 1 onion finely chopped • 2 cloves garlic minced • 1/2 tsp cumin powder • 1 tsp curry powder • 2 cups vegetable broth • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained • 2 cups baby spinach • 1 Tbsp fresh sage minced • Salt and pepper to taste • Basil to garnish (optional) •

• 1tsp

Serves 4

PREPARATION 1. In a large saucepan add butter, onion, carrots, butternut squash, and spices. Cook for 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.

2. Add the broth bring a boil. Reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

3. T ransfer the preparation in a blender add the sage, salt and pepper to taste and blend until smooth.

4. Return the preparation to the saucepan; stir in the beans and spinach and cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat.

Serve and add basil to garnish.

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Cheesecake with cranberry relish CHEESECAKE

CRANBERRY RELISH

Crust 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 4 tablespoons sugar 1/4 pound butter, soften

Combine dry ingredients. Stir-in butter, use hands. Consistency should be some what dry and flaky, yet will stick together if pressed.

Form crust to bottom and sides of 11 inch spring pan.

Filling 2 pounds cream cheese 1 cup sugar 4 eggs 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Using an electric mixer combine first four ingredients. Whip until very smooth. Mix in lemon juice. Add to the pan with the formed crust. Bake 40 minutes at 350°.

Topping 1 pint sour cream 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon rind

Remove from oven and let cool 20 minutes. Turn oven up to 475°.

Combine all ingredients, Mix until smooth. Pour on top of cake, bake for 15-20 minutes at 475°. Let cool before refrigerating.

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1 quart fresh cranberries 1/2 cup water 12 whole allspice 2 sticks cinnamon, broken 1 cup brown sugar Orange rind for garnish

Place the berries in a covered pot. Add the water. Tie the whole spices in a little cheesecloth bag and place in pot.

Cover and simmer until fruit is soft and broken, about 25 minutes.

Remove the spice bag and discard.

Run the berries through a food processor or press through a colander and return to the pan. Stir in the sugar over medium heat until dissolved. Cool before serving.

Spoon on top of cheese cake.

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1 Keep the tree in a cool shady place like the garage or porch until ready to bring indoors and decorate.

2 Saw a thin disk (1/4 inch) off the trunk prior to placing the tree in a water holding stand.

3 Make a cut perpendicular to the axis of the stem, NOT at angles or a v-shaped cut.

4 Make sure to place the tree in its water holding stand within 4-6 hours after making a cut to the trunk.

5 our stand must be able to hold enough water for the size of the tree. A good rule-of-thumb is one-quart capacity for every inch of diameter of the trunk.

6 Water temperature makes no difference.

7 There are a number of water additive products on the market. These products are not required to maintain a healthy tree but can be very helpful. Consult your local farm or nursery for advice. The most important thing is to maintain an adequate water level.

8 Check water levels often in the first few days. A tree will absorb the most water after it is recently cut and placed in water.

9 Make sure the tree is displayed in a place away from heat sources (fireplaces, tv sets and computers) and draft sources. Always check electrical devises (lights and other decorations) BEFORE placing on the tree.

10 Unless required by local law, avoid spraying preservatives or fire retardants on the foliage of the tree.

Some of these commercially available products actually increase the rate of moisture loss from a tree and can change the appearance of the tree. The most fire-retardant tree is one that is properly watered and cared for. Fresh Christmas trees do not cause fires.

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5 WAYS TO SHOW YOUR PET YOU CARE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

During the holidays, there are endless ways to show the humans around you how much you love them. Finding ways to extend the joy of the season to pets who are a part of the family takes a bit more creativity. pet parents plan to give their pets a gift or stocking stuffer this holiday season, according to a recent Pet Releaf survey conducted by The Harris Poll. Not only is hanging a stocking 1 Spend quality time together: Between shopping, for pets a fun way to include them in a family tradition, it’s cooking and decorating, the hustle and bustle of the season also a great opportunity to give products a test run. Look can be distracting. However, no matter what’s going on, it’s for pet products offered in trial or small sizes, such as CBDimportant to spend quality time with your pet each day. So, infused Edibites Hemp Oils, Liposome Hemp Oils, or Hemp go on some extra long walks with your dog, extend your Oil Capsules. cat’s playtime sessions and brush your pet’s coat. These activities may help alleviate situational anxiety brought on 4 Decorate safely: When selecting holiday décor, prioritize your pet’s safety above all. Steer clear of plants toxic to by shifting holiday routines. pets, like holly, poinsettias and mistletoe; and avoid stringy 2 Pamper your pet: The holiday season can be tiring items such as tinsel, curling ribbons or other tree and gift and stressful on every member of the family, including trimmings that when ingested, can cause intestinal blockage. your dog. Gift your dog relaxation and better health with Pet Releaf CBD-infused Edibites. Whether your dog is 5 Outfit your pet: Taking a festive family portrait for this in incredible health or is experiencing discomfort, these year’s greeting card? Just want your pet to be comfortable chews offer a needed immune system turbo boost, making and stylish on all those winter walks in the months ahead? them a great daily supplement. Not only that, they have With several major retailers offering ugly holiday sweaters calming and soothing properties, which may help ease for pets in a variety of sizes and designs, it’s easy to get your your pet’s situational anxiety should travel or houseguests pet in on the fun. be part of your plans this season. Containing human-grade For more pet parent tips and insights, visit ingredients, no fillers and no chemical preservatives, these petreleaf.com/blog. handmade chews come in flavors like Peanut Butter & Banana, Blueberry & Cranberry and even Pizza!

The holiday season is all about showing loved ones you care.

This year, make sure that also includes furry friends.

3 Stuff your pet’s stocking: A whopping 72 percent of (StatePoint) Here are five ideas for celebrating with furry friends this holiday season:

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