Gifts from Pets, By Joyce and Barry Vissell

FEATURED COLUMNIST Gifts from Pets

There is a magnet on our refrigerator that reads, “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” — a quote from Anatole France.

Pets awaken our hearts in a way that nothing else can. Yes, human relationships are very important, perhaps even more important, but our pets can open our hearts in a quiet very sweet way that nothing else can. If you cannot have a pet of your own, perhaps you could bond with someone else’s pet.

Barry and I have had many pets, mostly golden retriever dogs starting when we were 25 years old. We have also had cats, and at one time had five cats all from the local shelter. Currently we have one feral rescued cat named Gertie, who lets us pet her and loves our company as long as we do not bring her inside, and also we have two golden retrievers, Honey and Gracie.

Our pets bring so much joy and peace to our lives. We always know that they will love us. Our dogs’ greatest desire is just to be near us and walk with us and love us.

Whenever I feel sad about something or need to feel peaceful, I go to our older dog Gracie who is very motherly and I bend down and hug her in a very big full hug.

She stands there very patiently knowing that what is happening is very important. After I am done hugging her, I always feel better and then she looks up at me with her soft brown eyes and wags her tail in love and devotion.

We feel completely accepted by all of the goldens we have ever had. They love us just the way we are; we do not have to be any different. We are their heroes, their object of devotion. Each and every morning they greet us with 100% enthusiasm.

My parents moved to be near us seven years before my father died at the age of 89. My father became totally deaf and hearing aids did not much help.

A heavy object could fall right behind him and he would not even know, his hearing was that bad. I got the idea to get him a cat. I did not even ask my mother, as she would say no as she had said all along for their many years of marriage. Of course, I should have gone through my mother, but I just felt it was so important.

I went to the shelter and picked out this beautiful totally black cat that was about nine months old. I named him Ben. With great excitement, our whole family marched up to my parents’ next door apartment with Ben.

My mother was all set to object when she saw how happy my father was. He was ecstatic!! I wrote down on a piece of paper that we had named him Ben. From that minute, Ben was my father’s best friend.

Ben sensed that my dad could not hear his purring so he would lie on top of him when he rested on the couch and purr very loudly so that my father could feel his vibration. Ben followed my father everywhere and when others in the room were talking and my father could not hear them, he petted Ben and very softly talked to him and Ben purred very loudly so that my father could feel him.

Before Ben came into his life, my father was starting to withdraw as he could not hear anyone. Ben changed all of that. My dad woke each morning with joy in his heart to be able to spend another day with Ben. And Ben was very funny, causing hours of laughter with my mother as well. She had grown to love Ben very much.

When my father suddenly died, my mother lived alone in the apartment next door to us. Ben took it upon himself to be her guardian.

He sat next to her always. Every week, I took my mother out to lunch at her favorite restaurant. If we were gone too long for Ben, he would loudly cry out when we returned, letting us both know that we should not keep her away for such a long time.

The night before my mother died, we had been up for over twenty-four hours with her. She was absolutely unresponsive during this time, and it was obvious that death was imminent. Barry and I were so tired that we could hardly keep our heads up. I called Hospice and asked for advice. They had been on the scene with my mother for three months.

A night nurse came that we did not know. She was wonderful with us and helped us stay awake for another hour. Then she had to leave and she told us to go and get some sleep.

My mother, she informed us, had essentially died. Her body was just taking time to completely close down. She suggested that we leave my mother in the hands of her beloved cat.

Ben rose to the occasion with such love and loyalty. He lay upon my mother’s chest and purred very loudly. I got up to check on my mother in the middle of the night and as I was nearing her room, I heard very loud purring, almost like a motor, Ben was still on the job!!

Then Ben became our cat and we enjoyed him for several more years until he peacefully passed on from this world.

There is an anonymous poem, also on our refrigerator, that I read almost every day. I am going to share my favorite lines:

By Joyce and Barry Vissell

If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles. If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it. If you can ignore a friend’s limited education and never correct him/her. If you can conquer tension without medical help and sleep perfectly without the aid of drugs. If you can overlook it when something goes wrong through no fault of yours and those you love take it out on you. If you can honestly say that deep in your heart you have no prejudice against creed, color, religion, or politics. Then, my friend, you are almost as good as your dog.”

I want to be as good as our dogs. I want to give love and understanding unconditionally. I want to be ready to play and have fun at a moment’s notice. Our dogs give us so much love and joy that Barry and I feel that we will never be without a dog through our dying days.

And just remember, dog spelled backwards is God. n

•••

Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors in Aptos who are passionate about conscious relationship and personal-spiritual growth. They are the authors of 9 books and a new free audio album of sacred songs and chants. Call 831-684-2130 for information on counseling sessions by phone, online, or in person, their books, recordings or their schedule of talks and workshops. Or visit their web site at SharedHeart.org for their free monthly e-heartletter.

CALL TO ARTISTS

The Santa Cruz County Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services announces an opportunity for local artists to help contribute public art to library projects in Live Oak and Aptos.

Both calls to artists are due Jan. 21.

For details about the application processes, site plans and other materials, go to http://www.scparks.com/ Home/AboutUs/WorkWithUs/CalltoArtists.aspx.

Aptos Library

An artist will be selected to create a site-specific public art component for new Aptos Branch Library.

The new library’s design will be inspired by the concept of “forest, coastal, and terrace” and other local environmental elements. The proposed public artwork should help create an inviting space where people of all ages will gather, learn, connect, and share.

Proposals should reflect the community’s identity and values while celebrating the unique culture and natural beauty of Aptos, and may incorporate a literary element and/or community participation component.

All proposals for this project must address outdoor fencing and gate needs.

The budget for the public artwork, which includes all costs associated with, but not limited to design, materials, travel, insurance, fabrication, installation, and documentation of the artwork, is $106,000.

Live Oak Annex

The budget for public artwork at the library annex at Simpkins Family Swim Center is $85,500.

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.

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.

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

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.

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by January 24

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.

CAPITOLA LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

In-Person Tech Help: Tuesdays — 10 a.m. to noon. • Are you stuck with a technology question? Tech savvy staff at the Capitola Library would like to help you troubleshoot your issue with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Hidden Gems Film Club: Sunday, Jan. 9 — 2-6 p.m. • The Santa Cruz Public Libraries invite you to an evening of cinema. Enjoy these “hidden gems.” Preschool Storytime: Tuesday, Jan. 18 & 25 — 10 to 10:30 a.m. • Read stories, sing songs, and chant rhymes. There will be an art & craft project to pick up and complete at home. Aptos/Capitola Youth Chess Club: Tuesday, Jan. 18 — 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. • Play chess, one of the world’s oldest and most popular games, against other kids. One-hour meetings include 15 minutes of instruction by chess master Dana Mackenzie. For ages 6-18. Homework Help: Tuesday, Jan. 25 — 3 to 5 p.m. • Bring your assignments to a FREE drop-in Homework Help sessions. Students to grade 12. Call 831.427.7713 for information. STEAM: Fridays, Jan. 21 & 28 — 2 to 4 p.m. • Every week a new project idea to build or explore. Projects will include Science, Arts & Crafts, model building. For ages 6-11.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS

Alzheimer’s Association is offering video and phone meetings for caregivers throughout the month: Second and Fourth Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 2-3:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitators: Jill Ginghofer and Laurie McVay. First and Third Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 5:30-7 p.m. via video or phone — Facilitators: Francie Newfield and Kathleen McBurney. Second Saturdays Scotts Valley, 10-11:30 a.m. via video or phone — Facilitator: Diana Hull. Register by calling 800-272-3900 or email ymflores@alz.org. ••• Second Wednesdays Spanish, 7-8:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitator: Yuliana Mendoza. Register by calling 831-647-9890 or email ymflores@alz.org.

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

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/ReDistricting-Process-2021-2022.

ONGOING EVENTS

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

Wednesdays in January

TECH TALKS

11 a.m.-Noon, Zoom Classes Is your New Year’s resolution to learn more about technology? Then the Santa Cruz Public Libraries is the place for you. Learn more about using your phone or tablet with this month’s series of Tech Talks. Each class is free. Registration is required.

Topics: • Thursday, Jan. 6: All About Android Photos, make the most of your camera and google photos on your android device. Register at https://santacruzpl. libcal.com/event/8611946. • Thursday, Jan. 13, All About Apple Photos.

Storing and sharing photos on your Apple mobile device. Register at: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/8611956. • Thursday, Jan. 20, Google Calendar Optimized, learn to organize your schedule and life with calendar apps for both Apple and Android users.

Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/8611983. Call 831-427-7713 for help with registration. If you are new to using zoom, see santacruzpl.org/digitallearning.

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 by a licensed grief counseling therapist, on the third Thursday of each month. Register at https://www.birchbarkfoundation.org/griefsupport or call 831-471-7255.

Saturdays & Sundays

ECOLOGICAL RESERVE TOURS AT ELKHORN SLOUGH

Tours start at 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday,1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville Volunteers lead walks highlighting the natural history of the Elkhorn Slough. Capacity is limited due to physical distancing requirements, and individuals must sign up on a first-come, first-served basis.

Groups of six or more should call ahead at (831) 728-2822 or visit https://www.elkhornslough.org/ group-reservation/ to reserve a tour. For more info, visit www.elkhornslough.org/esnerr/tours/