A Christmas Carol Revisited, By Ron Kustek

FEATURED COLUMNIST A Christmas Carol Revisited

By Ron Kustek

In December of 1843, just 178 short years ago, Charles Dickens wrote ‘A Christmas Carol.’ It’s been made into countless movies, abridged, interpreted and modified.

However, it is often overlooked that one of the main tenets of the book is about business, and especially how the developing economic principle of Capitalism was affecting everyday people at the time.

This was one of thefirstnovelswritten for the general public that characterized the haves (business owners) vs. the havenots (workers).

Likely, we’re all very familiar with the repentance and reclamation of Scrooge after being visited by 4 spirits: The ghost of Christmas Past, the ghost of Christmas Present, the ghost of Christmas Future, and the 4th spirit (actually the first to visit) was Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge’s former business partner.

A Christmas Carol is an illustration of how two young capitalists (Marley & Scrooge) joined forces to take over a business and in doing so, put Scrooge’s prior employer, mentor and subsequent competitor Fezziwig — out of business. It all seemed the logical progression of success, being able to leverage one’s strength in order to outcompete in the marketplace to eliminate competitors.

Besides, Fezziwig and his wife were very simple ol’ school folks, who too frequently put the joys and welfare of their employees above their own need for more profits. In fact, the Fezziwigs were known for their employee Christmas parties, where gifts, music, food, drinks, appreciation, singing and dancing among all attending was known throughout the entire city.

But as the story developed, it became clear that the way Scrooge defined being a good and smart business person had some drawbacks.

Scrooge lost the love of his life in exchange for the love of money from business. Scrooge overworked his clerk Bob Cratchit — the father of Tiny Tim who was in need of medical care beyond what the family could afford.

Think of how we sometimes manage our businesses — tightening our profit margins, hiring qualified people for the amount we choose to pay them, because we also have to provide for our own families … just as every one of our employees must do.

So let’s revisit one of the most overlooked parts of ‘A Christmas Carol’ which Dicken’s foreshadowed in his preface that he “endeavored in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humour with themselves, with each other, with the season or with me.” As a refresher, Jacob Marley died alone, without any family or other friends, leaving everything he had to Scrooge. Marley’s only earthly friend was Scrooge, so Marley arranged for Scrooge to be visited by 3 spirits, in hopes that Scrooge would better understand how to be a better person in both life and business.

Jacob Marley’s ghost confronted Ebenezer Scrooge late on Christmas Eve, and the exchange between the two former successful business partners was one of the most poignant scenes in literature and in film:

“But you were always a good man of business, Jacob,” faulted Scrooge, who now began to apply this to himself.

“Business!” cried the Ghost, wringing its hands again. “Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”

It held up its chain at arm’s length, as if that were the cause of all its unavailing grief, and flung it heavily upon the ground again.

“At this time of the rolling year,” the spectre said, “I suffer most. Why did I walk through crowds of fellow-beings with my eyes turned down….”

So, to all of us workers, employers and community members, let’s all endeavor to embrace the teachings of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and truly make a reality Tiny Tim’s request of fairness and understanding, when he simply said, ‘God Bless Us, Everyone.’ n

•••

Ron Kustek is a former senior executive at The Coca-Cola Company and small business entrepreneur currently teaching at Cabrillo College.Reach him at rokustek@cabreillo.edu

Year in Review

ACROSS

1. Coalition of countries 5. King trump-er, sometimes 8. Cuckoo bird 11. ____ weevil 12. Smelting waste 13. Kitchen-wear 15. Coke or Pepsi 16. Check-in via text, email, etc. 17. Settler transport 18. *2021 Super Bowl winner, two words 20. Before long, to

Shakespeare 21. Jeopardy 22. Auction action 23. Puts down 26. Coroner’s performance 30. Band booking 31. Snicket of “A Series of

Unfortunate Events” 34. Stravinsky’s “The ____ of Spring” 35. Mine passages 37. *Build Back Better ____ 38. Eucharist plate 39. Table hill 40. Good review 42. “Tit for ____” 43. Buck feature, pl. 45. *First female VP 47. Evergreen creeper 48. It goes with gin, according to Snoop

Dogg 50. Mongolian desert 52. *COVID-19, e.g. 55. Poison ivy or Poison oak 56. International Civil

Aviation Org. 57. Distinctive smell 59. House coat 60. Asian cuisine food thickener 61. Pelvic parts 62. Gallery display 63. Self-proclaimed greatest boxer 64. Count on

DOWN

1. “Monty Python” broadcaster 2. Rioter’s take 3. Cantina pot 4. Fasteners or holders 5. Cover story 6. *Suez ____, too tight for Ever Given 7. Like custard 8. Mythological ship 9. “High” time 10. Wayside stop 12. Thinly spread 13. Look forward to 14. *____ Papers, leaked offshore account information 19. Banana refuse, pl. 22. Exchange for money 23. Old World lizard 24. *January 20th honoree 25. Anti-elderly one 26. Those not in favor 27. Pita, alt. sp. 28. Take without asking 29. Gossiper, Yiddish 32. *Perseverance landing spot 33. Edible tuber 36. *Kabul’s organization in power 38. *The Nobel ____ Prize was awarded to Ressa and Muratov 40. Snoop around 41. Snowmobile brand 44. Give the boot 46. *”Stronger” by Cindy

McCain, e.g. 48. Southwestern hut 49. Sushi restaurant staple 50. ____ gum, food additive 51. Leave out 52. Home to the Leaning

Tower 53. Not in use 54. One in mattress 55. Spot for a facial 58. *Actor Liotta, star in

“The Many Saints of

Newark”

The holidays may be different for everyone this year. Why? Every two years, Venus, planet of values, resources, beauty, love and relationships, retrogrades.

This year, Venus is retrograde from December 19, 2021 to January 29, 2022. When Venus retrogrades we are trned inward to assess and re-evaluate values, resources, money, and relationships. Venus is above all about relationships, as Venus rules Libra (sign of the “I and Thou”).

It is a time to consider the quality of our relationships, their value, and how we value ourselves within relationship. As our love nature has turned inward, it’s best to consider others first as friends, rather than lovers. It is definitely NOT a time for becoming engaged or married. Venus, planet of beauty, when retrograde is also a time to renovate and redecorate (carefully) and to bring more beauty into one’s life.

Important note: It is NOT a time to make valuable and important purchases, not a time for loans, excessive use of money. During Venus retrograde the true value of things becomes confused.

As in all retrogrades, people and events from the past appear for continuance, completion or for closure. We might ask ourselves do we love enough? We may feel difficulty with spontaneity or expressions of love and care. Challenging relationships may end. Nothing superficial is allowed. Venus retrograde can be a deeply spiritual time where we create new relational patterns and interactions. It’s enlightening to remember that the Solar Angels who created us (humanity) came from Venus; our God camefromVenus,asdidthebeesthatpollinateflowers. In the sky, over eight years of Venus retrogrades, a magical geometry is created by Venus. The retrograde cycles, rhythm and motion of Venus create a mystical rose pattern, revolving very slowly in sidereal space. It is a 5-8 ratio (five petals over 8 years) of Venus.

The Mayans who followed the path of Venus knew of this, and called this rose pattern the pentagram or five-petaled rose of Venus. This rose petalled pattern signifies actually the “heart” or essence of Venus as Earth’s elder sister, her guardian of knowledge, wisdom and beauty. When Venus is retrograde she is closest to the Earth. For 40 days and 40 nights,Venusisretrograde.Thenumberfortyissignificant. n

ARIES

You will assess and reassess your professional life and work in the world. Be sure not to do less than is expected. Pay attention and complete all tasks. This isn’t your greatest strength but it’s important now that projects be on time, that negotiations go smoothly, that you do your very best and more the next several months. Review goals. Do you like your work? Are you challenged? Are you dutiful? These are important questions.

TAURUS

You will sense the need for a spirit of adventure. Perhaps you will reassess your faith and beliefs. A great vision settles upon you. Venus is your guardian angel (also Gemini, Capricorn and Pisces). But Venus likes you best! On your mind are faraway places, visions and dreams, higher learning, teaching and creating realities altogether new. Consider how your values and beliefs affect your relationships. Do they help or hinder? Do they include others’ thoughts, ideas and needs?

LEO

Evaluating daily tasks you ask are they effective and efficient, orderly and organized? Increase technical work skills that affect work routines. Expect challenges in communicating and understanding due to Venus retrograde. Notice if animals begin to feel unease, agitated or become ill. You too, must look after your health. Go slower than usual, know that resting is good and all that happened in your past also was good. There was love.

VIRGO

You think about romance, children, creativity, pleasure, entertainment. Creating a winter garden, beginning a creative project, visiting museums and galleries, choosing to be playful instead of serious, remembering generous moments from the past, reconnecting with loved one – these and more are part of your life the next several months. They’ve already begun actually. Consider changing the way you ask for affection. Expressing it more is one way.

LIBRA SAGITTARIUS

Take extra care with friendships. Be patient and kind. You’ve been mentally active, engaged, diligent and industrious for so long. This is the year to settle down, learn to have late afternoon tea, for deep friendships of trust, and to assess resources slowly and cautiously with gratitude. An internal orientation eventually rebalances your energy, helps organize your future. You will see goals clearly and visualize how to reach those goals. Learn archery, tend to horses, go to chef’s school.

CAPRICORN

A sense of independence is most important to you and for your well-being. For several months you feel restless, realizing something’s changing foundationally in your life, your self-identity, your usual ways of being. You will experience your usual winter identity as Persephone (females and males) living underground with Pluto. You become deeply internal. Continue eating the pomegranates and persimmons. They keep you alive and well. Spring does come. That’s a promise.

GEMINI

You will be concerned with resources and sharing feelings. Nothing about this Venus retrograde is light for you. Love will call you to be kind and patient and more sharing. Also to be honest about finances, resources, desires, intimacy and relationships. Are you studying the mysteries yet? At some point you will commit to this. Then your life will change. You may look back for a while, remembering things.

CANCER

Many people passed your way and left an indelible mark on your heart. You will remember relationships, past and present, assessing their goodness, value, what you learned, gave and received. All relationships help us learn how to be in them. Then one day we’re ready and the real relationship comes along. Your practicality creates a solid foundation of trust. You question what is most important in relationships. You question everything. You will experience an interesting state of insulation the next several months. You will ponder upon many things – the state of your home, the foundations of your life, your parents, especially mother. You’re both mental and sentimental. As you sustain and nourish others you’ll need to hide away, hibernate with warmth and comfort. Tranquility will be your aim. Forgiveness the outcome. Forgiveness is an act that frees us, freeing everyone around us, too.

SCORPIO

Your mind expands exponentially through study, training, travel, culture and the mysteries. One study particularly important is the Electric Universe. It seems our present scientific systems are all wrong. Gravity isn’t holding us together. Electricity is. Studying this subject of the electrical universe places you on the very edge of the new reality. Continue to visualize your dream/vision. It comes quietly on little cat’s feet. During these times, always be sincere. Don’t fret over delays. •••

AQUARIUS

There are four rulers of Aquarius. The dour strict rule-oriented Saturn (old ruler) who criticizes a lot. The revolutionary Tesla-like newbie Uranus creating the Aquarian Age. The loving wise teacher, Jupiter. And the lightninglike revelatory Uranus (again). Which would you like to be? Knowing the rulers of each sign and what their tasks are allows us to assume multiple and different identities. Blending Uranus and Jupiter is good (wisdom and love). When we’re Saturn we scare everyone. Jupiter loves you. Maintain all that comforts you.

PISCES

Be caring and kind to everyone. Have as your new year’s intention to bring harmony to all relationships and interactions. Have this as a goal. You may reconnect with past friends and lovers. There are several you would like to see, talk with, create new friendships with. This may or may not happen. Many are on another path. Be generous, helping those in need. Everyone is in need of something. Discover it. Offer it. Don’t withdraw. Love more. Choose wonder!

All students, staff and families can use the PVUSD District Office, Cabrillo and County Office of Education locations to receive a free COVID-19 test.

PVUSD District Office Testing Site 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday–Wednesday Dec. 20-22, and Dec. 27-29 Closed Dec. 23-24 / Dec. 30-31.

“PVUSD” from page 24

Will I be able to test my child before we return back to school from Christmas break?

We encourage all parents to test their child prior to returning back to school from winter break, especially if they have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive relative or have any symptoms.

All students, staff and families can use the PVUSD District Office, Cabrillo and County Office of Education locations to receive a free COVID-19 test. The PVUSD District Office testing site is available 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 20-22, and Dec. 27-29 and closed Dec. 23-24, and Dec. 30-31.

We are requesting expanded times for the week of Jan. 3 and will release the dates and times once they are confirmed.

Will students have to quarantine after they return back to Mexico?

PVUSD continues to follow current local and state health requirements. There are currently no travel quarantine requirements for students and families traveling to Mexico.

As noted in the previous question, we encourage families to test for COVID-19 if there are any concerns about the possibility of having COVID-19. n

PARKING FOR HOPE December 18-25 The City of Santa Cruz with the Downtown Association of Santa Cruz host the eighth annual Parking for Hope holiday program Saturday, Dec. 18, through Saturday, Dec. 25, when proceeds from street meters are donated to Hope Services, a local nonprofit.

Hope Services has helped to keep Pacific Avenue and other downtown Santa Cruz streets clean for 23 years while providing training and support services to adults with developmental disabilities.

The nonprofit’s Downtown Litter Abatement Crew employs six part-time workers who enjoy being outdoors and appreciate the work. To date, Parking for Hope has generated $202,525.

SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT LIMITS This new program from Community Bridges brings enrichment activities like yoga, art, music, tai chi, cooking, tech and support groups to seniors age 60 and up in their homes at no cost.

To participate, you need an internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone. To participate, view the calendar at https://communitybridges. org/SCWOL/ and find a class. That day and time, click on the link in the calendar to be connected. If you have a problem connecting, call Clara Munoz at (831) 458-3481.

STRIKE OUT HUNGER RETURNS TO BOARDWALK BOWL After a year’s hiatus due to the pandemic, the Boardwalk Bowl in Santa Cruz is once again hosting the Strike Out Hunger food drive through Jan. 2. Bowlers of all skill levels and ages can participate. They get to bowl for free by bringing a can of food for Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to help feed local families.

In 2019, Strike out Hunger provided 21,334 meals to local families in need.

Participants who make a $100 cash donation to Second Harvest during Strike Out Hunger will receive 25 free bowling passes for use during future visits to the Boardwalk Bowl.

Boardwalk Bowl league players who bring in 3 cans of unexpired food during league play get 3 bowling passes for future use.

“We are very proud to again offer Strike Out Hunger in support of Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County,” said Willie King, director of Boardwalk Bowl. “Strike Out Hunger helps feed local families in need while having fun.”

Now in its 14th year, Strike Out Hunger received the Charity of the Year Award from the Bowling Proprietors Associations of Ameirca and is the official charity of the Northern California Bowling Centers. For information, visit https://boardwalkbowl.com/strike-outhunger Some restrictions apply.

APTOS LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL REGISTRATION Registration is open for the spring season of Aptos Little League Baseball.

Little League is open to boys and girls age 5 to 13.

Early bird registration ends Jan. 2. Starting Jan. 3, fees increase by $20.

Kids who play Little League learn teamwork, sportsmanship and baseball skills through an organization that has been part of our community since 1949.

Games and most practices are at Aptos Junior High School & the Polo Grounds In Aptos. To register, visit www.aptosll.org PROPERTY TAX BILL DUE The Santa Cruz County has mailed out property tax bills, and the second installment due date is Feb. 1. The bill becomes delinquent after April 10.

The first installment was due on Nov. 1 and became delinquent after Dec. 10. Penalties will be incurred if not paid before becoming delinquent.

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by December 23

SUPPORT FOR MOTHERS OF SURVIVORS Survivors Healing Center is offering online women’s support groups and mothers of survivors of childhood sexual abuse support group. The goals are to empower through a healing process and prevent sexual abuse of children and youth.

You are not alone. You are not to blame. More information: (831) 423-7601 or www.survivorshealing center.org

LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY ACTIVITIES The La Selva Beach public library is now open Tuesday thru Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday). Tues-Thurs: 11-6 • Fri-Sat 12-5. Book drops open 24/7. Contact us by phone: 831.427.7713; text: 831.264.0647; online chat: https://www.santacruzpl.org/contact/?display=chat; or send a question at https://www.santacruzpl.org/contact/

Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays, 11 am – noon outside on the patio. Dress for the weather.

R.E.A.D Reach Every Amazing Detail: Wednesdays 3- 5 pm. One-on-one reading comprehension instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade with California credentialed teachers. Sessions last 25 minutes. By appointment only.. Call 831-427-7717 or email pro@santacruzpl.org

Stories for Bedtime: New programs every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. on Facebook, presented by SCPL Librarian Jackie. The episode then is added to the library’s YouTube Channel after that. See Storytimes for Children playlist at the SCPL YouTube page: https:// www.youtube.com/user/santacruzpl

Passionate Readers Book Discussion: 4th Thursday at 10:30 am.

In-Person Tech Help: Fridays 10 am to noon. Techsavvy staff will help you troubleshoot your issue with a 25-minute (or less) appointment. Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/laselva

Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit information desk or call 831-427-7713 for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. Visit https://tinyurl.com/la-selva-library-events for more details and future events.

PUBLIC LIBRARY CAREER WORKSHOPS The Santa Cruz Public Libraries presents career development workshops for teens and adults through April, thanks to grant funding.

Second Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill workshops at 10 a.m.

Third Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill workshops in Spanish, 10 a.m.

Hours for English/Spanish bilingual career assistance at the downtown Santa Cruz library will begin in January.

These services are funded by two Library Services and Technology Act grants. A $100,000 project called the “Santa Cruz Workforce Collaborative” brings together Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s Workforce Development Initiative; Cabrillo College’s Career Technical Education; the Workforce Development Board’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs; Goodwill Central Coast’s training and employment services; and the nonprofit Your Future is Our Business.

The grant also funds devices and hotspots, transportation to interviews, and MBEP’s Monterey Bay Career Coach Tool for job seekers.

A second grant for $15,000 creates a formal partnership between Santa Cruz Public Libraries and the Workforce Development Board of Santa Cruz County, supporting education and training for library staff and a Resource Fair for job seekers in the spring.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASS REGISTRATION Registration is open for Winter 2022 Italian language classes beginning Jan. 17.

Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with our native Italian-speaking instructors over 10 weeks of classes. Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally fluent, or everything in between, the Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz is offering classes for you,

Register today to secure your spot and take advantage of the early bird pricing, which ends Jan. 3. Pricing & location (on-line, in-person, or hybrid) varies by class; for details, see https://www.dantesantacruz.com/classes For questions, email: dantesantacruz1265@gmail.com

CABRILLO SPRING REGISTRATION Registration is under way for the spring semester at Cabrillo College, which begins Jan. 24. Visit https://www.cabrillo.edu/catalog-and-classschedules/#browse-classes for more information.

AGRI-CULTURE, INC. 2022 SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE Agri-Culture is accepting applications for its four college scholarships, with Jan. 28 the deadline to apply.

They are: • Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship: $4,000 for a student entering or currently attending college and majoring in agriculture. (includes $2,000 from

American AgCredit). • Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship: $1,500 for a student active (past or present) in

California High School Rodeo Association District 4 or California 4-H Horse Program, entering or currently attending college and majoring in agriculture and/or animal sciences. • J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship: $1,000 for a student entering or currently attending college and majoring in agriculture. • Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship: $2,000 for a student entering or currently attending college and majoring in agriculture or a related field, or majoring in culinary arts.

The online application is at: http://www.agri-culture. us/scholarships/ To request an application, contact the Financial Aid office at your school or the Agri-Culture office, 141 Monte Vista Ave., Watsonville, CA 95076 or call (831) 722-6622 or (831) 818-1193 or email: agri-culture@sbcglobal.net. BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS GET $296 MILLION As part of Gov. Newsom’s Clean California initiative, Caltrans will fund local beautification projects in communities throughout the state with $296 million in competitive grants. Applications for grants up to $5 million began Dec. 1, and Caltrans will announce grant recipients on March 1.

Applicants must be local or regional public agencies, transit agencies, or tribal governments. Nonprofit organizations may be sub-applicants. Half of the overall funds must benefit or be located in underserved communities.

Eligible projects shall include, but not be limited to: Community litter abatement and beautification, litter abatement events and educational programs.

A local match ranging from 0% to 50% of the project costs is required.

Projects will be selected based on need and potential to beautify public space and for greening to provide shade, reduce the urban heat island effect, and use of native drought-tolerant plants, along with public engagement in the project proposal. Information: https://cleancalifornia.dot.ca.gov/local-grants

ONGOING EVENTS

Ongoing thru Dec. 26 HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT THE FAIRGROUNDS 5:30-9 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project presents Holiday Lights, a drive-though light show at the fairgrounds.

Holiday Lights is open rain or shine Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, featuring giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights. Santa, reindeer, snowmen, lighted tunnels, and many magical moments. Tickets are purchased for time slots, $20 per vehicle purchased at https://fairgrounds-foundation.org/holiday-lights/ and $25 at the gate; oversize vehicles, $45.

Tuesdays FARMERS’ MARKET AT RAMSAY PARK 2–6 p.m., Ramsay Park, Watsonville El Mercado is a new farmers’ market hosted by Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley.

There will be healthy locally grown produce, a veggie Rx redemption site, cooking demonstrations and wellness screenings. Sponsors include Lakeside Organic, Salud Para La Gente and Kaiser Permanente. Visit pvhealthtrust.org/elmercado for more info.

CENTRAL FIRE DISTRICT ELECTIONS HEARING Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County invites all interested persons to attend public hearings on districtbased elections at 9 a.m. on January 13 and February 10, at 930 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz.

Board members will discuss, consider, and take action on one or more district map(s). Actions may include modification of division boundaries, sequencing of elections. For more information, contact (831) 479-6842, or email: PublicComments@centralfiresc.org Information: https://www.centralfiresc.org/2279/Re-DistrictingProcess-2021-2022.

First Tuesdays of the Month UCSC ARBORETUM: FIRST TUESDAYS FREE 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., UC Santa Cruz Arboretum, 1156 High St, SC Community Day at the UCSC Arboretum means free admission on the first Tuesday of every month 9 a.m-5 p.m. Guests are invited to explore the biodiversity of the gardens, enjoy bird watching or relax on a bench in the shade. https://arboretum.ucsc.edu Third Thursday Each Month PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM 6 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated