Santa Cruz County Holiday Gift & Dining Guide 2017

HOLIDAY 2017 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

GIFT & DINING GUIDE

S A N TA

CRUZ FOODIES

HOLIDAY

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Times Publishing Group, Inc.

SHOP

HOLIDAY FASHION

LOCAL & F L A I R 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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Don't miss these special savings!

BLACK FRIDAY SALE

CYBER WEEKEND PROMOTION

Receive $200 off any Thomas Kinkade Limited Edition purchase of $700 or more.

Black Friday, Nov. 25th

Receive $100 off any Thomas Kinkade Limited Edition purchase of $700 or more.

Offering one of the largest selections of THOMAS KINKADE’S paintings, including the popular

Disney Dreams Collection

Santa's Special Delivery Nothing matches a child’s excitement like finding a Lionel Train under the tree on Christmas morning.

In Santa’s Special Delivery, Thomas Kinkade Studios captures the magic of Christmas Eve and Electric Trains. © Lionel © 2017 The Thomas Kinkade Estate. All rights reserved.

8.5x5.5_Postcard_Santas_Workshop_Fin2.indd 1

Santa’s Special Delivery © 2016 The Thomas Kinkade Estate. All rights reserved. © 2016 Lionel, LLC.

10/19/17 3:42 PM

We wanted to give you a preview of this beautiful image, Mickey and Minnie - Sweetheart Holiday, our very first Disney Christmas painting.

Capitola Gallery • 831-476-0970 • www.kinkadecapitola.com

©Disney © 2017 The Thomas 8.5x5.5_M

Kinkade

Estate.

All rights

reserved

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121 San Jose Ave. Capitola, CA 95010 (located behind the Village Mouse)

Themed Trees: Coffee Beach Family Woodland Sports

10/12/17

Holiday Items:

Unique Gifts, Ornaments, Collectables, Figurines, Artwork, and More!

Snoozies

Byers Choice

Open Daily 10am to 6pm

(831) 476-7566 201 Capitola Avenue • Capitola, CA

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- 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE

9:16 AM

HOLIDAY 2017 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Happy Holidays

HUGE SELECTION! Ask about our

EXTRA DISCOUNTS

from

GIFT & DINING GUIDE PUBLISHER editor Patrice Edwards LAYOUT & DESIGN Kevin Markley

EASY EXCHANGES • Gift Receipts included • Exchange at any location • Gifts exchangeable until 01/10/18

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Cathe Race PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Liz Senteney CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Noel Smith SALES REPRESENTATIVE Don Beaumont Zack Urbany

Holiday Gift Guide 2017 is a publication of the Times Publishing Group, Inc.­located at 9601 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents © 2017 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved.

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

To advertise in our publications

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

Santa Cruz (831) 460-9696

Capitola Village (831) 462-9696

Old Town Sacramento (916) 443-2801

Follow us on:

Capitola Mall (831) 477-1932

San Luis Obispo (805) 784-0462

3 www.supersilver.com

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

Contents 6

Think Local First Tenth Anniversary

8

A Star Returns Home

12 Holiday Gift Ideas 22 The Perfect Holiday Gift 24 iSkate Comes to Capitola!

26 Holiday Events Calendar 28

Santa Cruz County Charitable Organizations

31 2017 Holiday Color & Style 38 Holiday Family Activities 40 Second Harvest Holiday Food & Fund Drive 42 Using Herbs & Spices in your Holiday Cooking 44 Local Cuisine Circles the Globe 46 Cheese Tart with Apricot Preserves 48 Food is Medicine 50 Traditional Holiday Dishes Around the World 52 Goat Cheese Crostini with Prosciutto and Figs 54 Roast Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic

Sat Dec 16 2:00pm & 7:00pm Sun Dec 17 1:30pm & 4:30pm Henry J. Mello Center for the Performing Arts 250 E. Beach St, Watsonville info 831 359 0850

56 Brown Soda Bread 58 Beer Pairing for your Holiday Feast 60 Make a Difference in your Community!

62 Pet Friendly Practices for the Winter Season

HOLIDAY 2017 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

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GIFT & DINING GUIDE

- 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE

FITNESS & TRAINING

RETAIL exp. 12/15/17

Tasting Room & Gourmet Retail Shop

NEW LOCATION

10% OFF in APTOS SHOP

RESTAURANTS NEW LOCATION

SERVICES

831.662.3362

Since 1926 Instruments / Accessories / Sheet Music Sales / Rentals / Lessons 831-724-4798

musicstoreguy@earthlink.net

7960J Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA 95003

Conveniently located off Highway 1 and just outside Aptos Village, the Aptos Village Square hosts a number of local Aptos businesses.

7960 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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THINK LOCAL FIRST 10TH ANNIVERSARY 2017 HOLIDAY SEASON FOR LOCAL, INDEPENDENTLY OWNED BUSINESSES

Happy Holidays! Make your holidays really truly happy. Shop the locally owned businesses of the Think Local First County of Santa Cruz, because those businesses are the core of the local economy that supports you, your family, friends, and community.

munity as being the norm. The norm for numerous small communities in which a big box store has replaced many of the familyowned businesses is boarded up storefronts and a giant parking lot surrounding a Mega-Store.

The owners and employees of those businesses who place their time and talent at risk to keep your local economy thriving, are the glue that holds us all together. They fund and work with local service organizations helping those in need as well as supporting the arts and athletic activities of our youth. Therefore, when you give gifts purchased from locally owned businesses, you are really giving the gift of community.

When you walk down a typical business street in Santa Cruz County, you see a variety of independent businesses that attract visitors from throughout the world.

Also much of the money you spend at locally owned businesses stays within our community.

Locally owned businesses and the activities of those who own and operate them, promote our special community that is by nature colorful, diverse, and unique. We who live in Santa Cruz County find it easy to accept the colorful character of our com-

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December is always Shop Local Month in Santa Cruz County.

Make your gifting truly special by shopping first at the shops that carry the Think Local First logo. Many of them also have an online presence so visit their website or Facebook page to find out about their latest sales and browse their inventory.

These are the ways you can ensure our County will retain its special quality of community involvement and support for those who live, work, and are educated here.

Think (And Shop!) Local First!

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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A Star Returns

Home

by Betty Sanchez

Melody Mennite was born and raised in Santa Cruz and received her training at The Studio, School of Classical Ballet and with Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre. Right around the turn of this millennium, Melody graduated early from high school and moved to Houston, where she has developed into one of Houston Ballet’s leading principal dancers. This December, Melody will return home to star in Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Melody has returned several times to Santa Cruz to dance in the production, and audiences here can delight in seeing how this star continues to shine brighter every year.

Melody recently took some time out of her busy rehearsal and performance schedule to reflect on her return as a guest artist to her alma mater. Since she has danced the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy so many times in her career, it is almost like interviewing the character herself. She is poised, effervescent and eloquent.

When asked what it feels like to dance at home again, she responds, “It feels amazing! The warmth and comfort of being home never fades. These are my roots. I’m struck year after year by how welcome I feel and how the environment of hard work and passion mixed with playfulness and fun stays the same through each generation of dancers. Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre is a special place to dance and I’m glad I get to come back to it each year, even if only for a few days.”

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Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch created a new “Nutcracker” last season, with Melody as the lead character, Clara. She switches gears between versions with extra time set aside to practice. She finds the challenges in guest appearances less about the choreographic adjustments, and more about the environment: different stage dimensions and texture, different lights, different people. She says that’s the fun of it and what keeps it fresh. “Honestly, all that stuff isn’t what makes the magic of ballet anyway,” notes Melody, “That comes from a heart connection between the dancers, the music, the story, and the audience in my opinion.”

This year Melody will be partnered by fellow Houston Ballet principal dancer Ian Casady. Ian was born and trained in Marin County, so it is special to welcome him back to the bay area as a guest artist. Melody says he is one of the best partners in the business and that everyone wants to be partnered by him. Ian is one of the three male principal dancers at Houston Ballet that partners Melody in classical works. Santa Cruz is in for a treat with Ian accompanying Melody on the stage at the Civic Auditorium.

In preparation for dancing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Melody spends time building stamina and fine tuning coordination, timing and nuances with her partner in rehearsal. She says her interpretation of the character has changed over the years as she’s continued on page 10

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matured as an artist, and she elaborates, “Sugar Plum Fairy is a very challenging role. She’s a bit removed from the real action of the story and in the quietness of her dances she can feel aloof or disconnected. The flip side of that is that her ethereal nature and mysterious sophistication shine in that setup. Physically, Sugar is no joke. It’s very difficult. Over the years I’ve loved honing in on tackling the purity of technique and pushing myself to grow into that effortless warmth that settles on top of the grit of mastering such challenging steps. I’ve also found ways to play with the music that have shifted each year. Sugar has changed from a challenge I used to feel overwhelmed by to a welcome reprieve of artistic and technical classical exploration.

It’s a great yardstick of growth in classical technique too! I can see how I’ve changed from year to year. I also just enjoy being a fairy queen who makes a little girl’s best dream come true... who wouldn’t love that?”

Melody says her favorite thing about the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre “Nutcracker” is the kids. “Watching them dance and create art onstage each night fills my heart. I love the atmosphere of celebration and community that Nutcracker seems to cultivate in the performers and in the audience and community. It really is a magical time of year!”

Melody is joined onstage by over seventy local dancers who perform exquisite choreography by Co-Artistic Director Robert Kelley. Some of these dancers might follow in Melody’s footsteps and become the stars of tomorrow. Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” is performed with a live 52-piece orchestra, conducted

by SCBT Music Director Pamela Martin. Performances are December 15, 16 and 17 at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased online at SantaCruzTickets.com or through scbt.org or at the Santa Cruz Civic Box Office.

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Will you help make sure no one in Santa Cruz County goes hungry this holiday season?

Holiday Food & Fund Drive Sponsors

LIVE AT THE SANTA CRUZ CIVIC AUDITORIUM Performed with a live orchestra!

VINEYARDS

Thank you sponsors: Arts Council Santa Cruz County, Community Printers, Dream Inn /Aquarius, Google, Good Times, Organic Brand Management, The Art Institute of California - Silicon Valley, The Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, The Studio

831-724 -7071 WWW.NICHOLSONVINEYARDS.COM Shop for the Holidays and get 15% off your first order use APTOSTIMES15 code at checkout

by phone

TICKETS

OPEN SATURDAYS NOON TO 5:00 PM

5 PERFORMANCES Fri, Dec. 15, 8pm Sat., Dec 16, 1pm and 4:30pm Sun, Dec 17, 1pm and 4:30pm

831-420-5260 (press 5)

scbt.org or santacruztickets.com

online

in person

Civic Auditorium Box Office Tues - Fri 11a - 6p 307 Church St, Santa Cruz

Maestro Pamela Martin conducts the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra Music by P.I. Tchaikovsky Co-Executive Artistic Directors – Robert Kelley and Diane Cypher

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS BIG KAHUNA 217 Capitola Ave. | Capitola, CA ph: (831) 462-5320 bigkahuna@gmail.com www.bigkahuna.com Mon – Fri: 11 – 6 | Sat – Sun: 10 – 6 Santa’s back at the Big Kahuna! Come check out our HUGE Selection of Christmas shirts and rock on through the holiday season!

P.S. Santa has a big bag of shirts on sale for those who’ve been nice this year!

NICHOLSON VINEYARDS 2800 Pleasant Valley Rd. | APTOS ph: (831) 724-7071 info@nicholsonvineyards.com nicholsonvineyards.com Sip, savor, and delight in a glass of wine and the warm hospitality of Nicholson Vineyards. Enjoy the vineyard and olive grove views and share special moments with family and friends. As a club member, you will be invited to join us for weekend wine flights and special tasting events. Design the club that best fits your wishes. Select your favorite wines and enjoy your club, your way!

MANY HANDS GALLERY 510 Bay Ave. | Capitola ph: (831) 475-2500 www.ManyHands-Capitola.com Many Hands Gallery has been supporting local artists for over 28 years. We feature wall art, jewelry, ceramics, hand crafted scarves, blown glass, wooden jewelry boxes and hand woven baskets.

New to the gallery are wooden jewelry boxes by craftsman Bob Hughes. Prices starting at $160

Capitola Village & Wharf www.instagram.com/capitolavillage/ www.facebook.com/CapitolaVillage/ www.capitolavillage.com This holiday season, Capitola Village has it all! Bring the kids to welcome Surfin’ Santa to the shores of Capitola Beach, then top off your day in the Village with the annual Lighting of the Palm Tree. Holiday shop and stroll through a winter wonderland of cute shops, decorated storefront windows, twinkling lights by night, and colorful Christmas trees. And don’t miss the chance to experience a truly magical adventure—ice skating by the sea!

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HOLIDAY EVENT IN

Open 7 days a week from 7am Breakfast Burritos • Muffins • Coffee • Sandwiches Soups • Salads • Gelato • Beer • Wine • Smoothies Dinners to go • Milkshakes • Iced Coffee Drinks

NEW Espresso Bar Now Open!

Breakfast Served All Day

Aptos

Check out our new Annex next door for flowers and gifts

SIP & STROLL

1pm to 4pm

Come spend your afternoon at Redwood Village in Aptos! Enjoy strolling carolers, meet Santa and bring a gift for our local Aptos AdoptA-Family program. Sip Hot cider or wine tasting ($10 for souvenir wine glass and one wine ticket). Visit our craft booths and get to know the shops in our hidden gem “Redwood Village”! Come meet and greet with your neighbors and friends and share the holiday season!

Facebook Page: The Palm Deli • www.ThePalmDeli.com

F E UL R L S A VI L C O E N

•

SALON & WELLNESS

S

December 10 th

Come join our team

Call 688-7549 for more information.

9099 Soquel Drive, Aptos

9 0 9 9 S o q u e l D r , C o t t a g e s 5 , 7, 9 , 1 0

in the Redwood Village of Aptos

Gift Certificates Art Classes; Ages 4 - Adult Gift Making Workshops Winter Break Camps Girls Night Out Hand Made Gifts

(831) 688-8862

artfactorystudios.com

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS CORRALITOS FEED & PET SUPPLIES 2895 B Freedom Blvd. | Corralitos, CA | ph: (831)722-7884 1486 Freedom Blvd. | Watsonville, CA | ph: (831)728-2244 www.corralitosfeed.com Exceptional customer service in the retail business has always been a strong family value at Corralitos Feed and Pet Supplies. At Corralitos Feed we specialize in pet and livestock nutrition. Our stores offers a wide variety of natural pet foods. We also carry everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy. Visit the stores to check out our great selection items for all of your critters. Happy Holidays!

BILL’S WHEELS 1240 Soquel Ave. | Santa Cruz ph: (831) 469-0904 Store Hours: 10 - 6 www.billswheels.com Bill’s Wheels Skateshop has been serving Santa Cruz County since 1977. We sell skateboards and all things that have to do with skateboarding. Come check out the shop. The walls are covered with classic skateboards from the past decades. The outside walls are covered with graffiti art by artists from around the world.

SANTA CRUZ RUNNING CO. 1664 Soquel Drive | Santa Cruz ph: (831) 462-8228 www.santacruzrunningcompany.com The Santa Cruz Running Company is your one stop for shoes, apparel and accessories from nike, asics, brooks, mizuno, saucony, new balance, hoka, altra and others.

Meet the wired headphones that allow you to hear both your music and your world.

Introducing Sportz Titanium, the next generation of After Shokz headphones. More comfort, better sound, at a lower cost.

MARK AREIAS JEWELERS ph: (831)688-2799 (Aptos Center) ph: (831)624-5621 (Carmel by the Sea) www.areiasjewelers.com Mark Areias Jewelers customers know that we offer extraordinary customer service, unique custom designs, and on-site hand fabrication. We have wonderfully talented goldsmiths who will translate your visions into reality. Every customer, even the ones that are “just looking,” are valued and welcomed. In addition to our bridal department, we have antique and estate jewelry, precious colored stones, and on-site watch and jewelry repairs and cleaning.

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The largest selection of new and used sporting goods in Northern California Gifts For All Those That Play

2018 Bats IN STOCK!

Baseball Gloves & Bats $24.99 & Up

Youth Archery Skateboarding Disc Golf Bags helmets Sets $24.99 $14.99 & Up & Up $19.99 & Up

Complete Skateboards $34.99 & Up

Dumbbells & Weight Plates Starting at $1.09/lb

Lizard Skin Bat Grips from $10.99

Up to 50% OFF

2017 Winter Sports Sale Going on NOW

Save $20 off of your purchase of $100 or more.

Storm Blade Surfboards ON SALE $199.99 to $324.99

Boogie Boards Starting at $14.99

Mon - Fri 10am - 6:30pm Sat & Sun 10am - 6pm |

DGA Disc Golf Baskets $149.99

Footballs, soccer balls, Volley Balls & basketballs Starting at $9.99

Coupon good from 12/01/2017 through 12/25/2017 Not Valid on Clearance Merchandise. Coupon must be present to be valid.

Cannot be combined with any other coupons or offers.

4770 Soquel Drive (Downtown Soquel) |

(831) 475-1988 • playitagainsports-soquel.com

A Santa Cruz Neighborhood brewery specializing in British style, cask-conditioned ales.

21517 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz • (831) 713-5540 • www.eastcliffbrewing.com

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS SUPERSILVER

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 SAN LUIS OBISPO | (805) 784.0462

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 chain, basic styles such as Box, Snake, and Figaro. Eye-catching Curb/Cuban, Marina, Rope and SO MUCH MORE! Need an inexpensive chain for everyday? - Sure thing!

Looking for a unique chain, one all your friends will admire? - We got that too!

VILLAGE MOUSE 201 Capitola Ave. Capitola, CA 95010 ph: (831) 476-7566 www.thevillagemouse.com With DaVinci Beads you can put together a collection of jewelry that is truly unique and captivating.

The concept of beads as charms has caught the attention of many fashion conscious women, and the versatility of this type of charm bracelet is truly amazing. With over 500 beads to choose from, you can create custom jewelry to match your style, your personality, your passions, and celebrate your life. DaVinci Beads jewelry is interchangeable, use the same beads on a DaVinci Bracelet one day and switch them to your necklace, or earrings the next day. DaVinci Beads makes a perfect gift, and will be the kind of gift that keeps on giving, as you can buy new beads for every holiday and celebration. Nickel free so they are great for your sensitive skinned loved ones too.

THOMAS KINKADE

CAPITOLA SIGNATURE GALLERY 121 San Jose Avenue | Capitola, CA ph: (831) 476-0970 www.kinkadecapitola.com

Enjoy a cup of your favorite hot beverage in a beautiful Thomas Kinkade coffee mug.

Each mug is artfully wrapped with one of his most popular images. Whether for you or as a gift, these magic mugs will make a great impression! In pairs or in sets, our frameless gallery wraps are perfect for any space. The 14’’ x 14’’ canvas wraps are crafted with our premium canvas reproduction techniques and hand wrapped around a deep 1-inch hardwood stretcher bar. Hung as an ensemble or by itself, this frame-less presentation gives you a versatile way to display art in your home.

Zinnia’s gift boutique 219C Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95003

ph: (831) 430-9466 Store Hours: Mon-Sat 9-7 | Sun 9-5:30 www.zinniasgiftboutique.com Stop in to Zinnia’s Boutique and experience a unique shopping atmosphere this Holiday Season. You will be delighted with the beautiful selection of local artisan treasures, gifts for the home and garden as well as jewelry, clothing, handbags, men’s items and an ever expanding lines of children and baby wear.

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LASER HAIR & SKIN SOLUTIONS • Laser Hair Removal • Dermal Fillers • Laser Rejuvination • Botox

Happy Holidays!

From All Of Us To All Of You!

FOOD & DRINK

Deer Park Wine & Spirits Deluxe Foods Panda Inn Mangiamo Pizza & Wine Bar Red Apple Cafe GREAT FOOD • GREAT SERVICE • GENEROUS PORTIONS

Bank of America / US Bank

(of equal or lesser value) MAXIMUM VALUE $5.00

Monday - Friday Only

Must present this coupon to redeem offer. Not valid with any other offer or on holidays.

Good through 1/31/18

BREAKFAST & LUNCH SERVED DAILY • 7AM-4PM (831)685-1224 • 783 RIO DEL MAR BLVD., APTOS

G 40 Y E S

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IN AT

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BR

IN APTOS SINCE 1988

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Agape Dance Academy Aptos Academic Trainers Body in Motion Brian DelCore, DDS CVS Pharmacy Del Mar Cleaners Eye Shapes Opticians Highlights for Hair J-Bella Nails Klub Nico Laser Hair Solutions Royal Paw Spa Santa Cruz Dance Supply

783 Rio Del Mar Blvd Suite 71B • Aptos

1/2 OFF 2nd Entree

BUSINESS SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

py p a H ! s y a d i l o H 831-689-9830

BANKS

Anderson & Company – HOA Management Employnet Galapagos Travel PacCom Property Mgmt.

PDM International SAR Asset Mgmt. Inc. Scurich Insurance Ship Smart Stearns Lending Wavestaff, Inc.

• Dysport

N O W N ED SI

For all your Holiday shopping needs, visit...

Deluxe Foods of Aptos

Serving the Agricultural Community Since 1924

Supporting the Aptos community for 40 years Mon. thru Sat. 8am to 9pm • Sun. 8am to 8pm Peet’s Coffee Available Mon. thru Fri 6am • Sat & Sun 7am

783 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Suite 7 Aptos, CA 95003

(831) 661-5741

www.scurichinsurance.com

783 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos (Located inside Deer Park Marketplace)

(831) 688-7442 www.deluxefoodsofaptos.com

So Close To Home!

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS LENZ ARTs 142 River St. | Santa Cruz, CA ph: (831) 423-1935 www.lenzarts.com Easel Oil Paint Set. 49.97 Regularly 89.95.

Kit Contains Table easel, brushes, palette, oil paints, canvas panel Serving you for over 47 years, Lenz Arts offers the largest selection of fine art supplies and the oldest custom frame shop on the Central Coast.

Described as “one of the last real art stores on the West Coast,” people drive for hours to take advantage of our selection of materials.

APTOS FEED 7765 Soquel Dr C | Aptos ph: (831) 685-3333 Some of the many brands we carry include: Nature’s Variety, Evo, California Natural, Wellness, Primal, Rad Cat, Nutro, Stella & Chewie’s, Modesto Milling, Scratch & Peck, Nutrina, Science Diet, Iams, Eukanuba, Taste of the Wild, Natural Balance and Innova.

WONDERLAND 4101-B2 Soquel Dr. | Soquel, CA ph: (831) 316-7261 www.wonderlandsantacruz.com

Join us for our 2nd Birthday Party on December 5th (after hours... call for details) for great deals and holiday fun. We wish our amazing local community a WONDERous holiday season and Happy New Year!

Magformers are a fun, educational, open-ended magnetic building toy perfect for kids (and grown-ups) of all ages. At Wonderland, we love Magformers as a gift idea because they inspire creativity and imagination. Wonderland is a family-owned local business, and we believe in the wonder and magic of childhood. Come check out our WONDERful selection of quality, educational, specialty toys and classroom resources. We are located at the corner of 41st Ave and Soquel Dr and we are open 7 days per week.

FATIMA’S FINE JEWELRY 307 Main St. Suite 101 | Watsonville ph: (831) 768-1887 www.fatimasfinejewelry.com Le Vian® has traditionally been recognized for finding and selecting rare, high quality, natural gems and diamonds for its collectors. Le Vian® obtained a registered trademark of Chocolate Diamonds®, so consumers would be assured that these branded diamonds are of the highest quality, meeting specific standards of what it takes to be a Chocolate Diamond®. In 2009, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office agreed and awarded the Chocolate Diamonds® trademark to Le Vian®. Today, Chocolate Diamonds® is a recognized brand, and Le Vian® holds the registered trademark in countries around the world, spanning the Americas, the European Union, China, and the Middle East.

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PIZZA

FOOD & DRINK

Deer Park Wine & Spirits Deluxe Foods Panda Inn Mangiamo Pizza & Wine Bar Red Apple Cafe

10% OFF TAKE-OUT EVERY DAY 5-8PM

WINE BAR

Klub Nico SEMI-ANNUAL

DINE-IN

FACTORY SALE

=

TAKE-OUT

Starters Salads = Pizza Whole Or By The Slice = Oven-baked Sandwiches

=

=

=

=

DELIVERY

LUNCH & Calzones DINNER Strombolis = Extensive Wine List DAILY 12 - 9PM

=

688-1477

BANKS

=

Deer Park Shopping Center - Rio Del Mar (ABOVE DELUXE FOODS)

Bank of America / US Bank

BUSINESS SERVICES

Anderson & Company – HOA Management Employnet Galapagos Travel PacCom Property Mgmt.

PDM International SAR Asset Mgmt. Inc. Scurich Insurance Ship Smart Stearns Lending Wavestaff, Inc.

PERSONAL SERVICES

Agape Dance Academy Aptos Academic Trainers Body in Motion Brian DelCore, DDS CVS Pharmacy Del Mar Cleaners Eye Shapes Opticians Highlights for Hair J-Bella Nails Klub Nico Laser Hair Solutions Royal Paw Spa Santa Cruz Dance Supply

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SAVINGS UP TO

% O F F

Get that glamorous look for the Holidays with Jimmy Crystal from Eye Shapes

FRI

12/8/17

10am to 5pm

SAT

12/9/17

10am to 4pm

Brian Shulman

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS# 136959 831.708.1284 D Branch NMLS# 892068 bshulman@stearns.com

stearns.com/bshulman

So Close To Home!

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS TRUE OLIVE connection SANTA CRUZ | 106 Lincoln St. | (831) 458.6457 APTOS | 7960 Soquel Dr. | (831) 612.6932

www.truoliveconnection.com The sophisticated PortoVino wine purse allows you to bring the party along. PortoVino is designed with a secret insulated compartment that holds a removable 1.5 liter bladder (1 bladder included) for your favorite wine or beverage. PortoVino’s exterior flap conceals the pouring spout until you are ready to party! Comes in red or black, this is the black version. $69.95

HOT FEET 219 Capitola Ave. | Capitola, CA ph: (831) 462-5320 hotfeetcapitolo@gmail.com Mon – Fri: 10 – 6 | Sat – Sun: 10 – 6

Juniper Vionic Slipper The built-in biomechanical footbed helps combat Plantar Fasciitis and reclaim your footprint!

Locally owned and operated for 46 years, Hot Feet is here to support your footwear needs! We excel at finding you shoes that are comfortable on your feet, while still looking stylish! Come check out our new winter boot collections and treat your feet to some cozy shoes!

BLUE MOON APTOS Clothing Co. 7558 Soquel Drive | Aptos, CA ph: (831) 662-0914 bluemoonaptos@gmail.com Here at Blue Moon Aptos personal service is our focus. We carry many Made in USA brands along with fair trade items, unique handmade jewelry, a large selection of sweaters, casual jackets, scarves, beautiful handbags, and so much more,

Blue Moon Aptos Play it again sports 4770 Soquel Dr. | Downtown Soquel ph: (831) 475-1988 www.PlayItAgainSports-Soquel.com Play It Again Sports has a complete line of all snow gear, skies, boots, snowboarding, clothing, etc. We have the largest selection of fitness and exercise equipment in the Monterey Bay area, or: from treadmills, benches, bikes to ellipticals, weight sets, bars- everything for your exercise and rehab needs. We are the store for everyone.

Great deals for beginners to deluxe, high-end equipment for the serious enthusiast.

We cater to every sporting and fitness need.

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StormBlade Surfboards are available in 6ft and 10ft sizes.

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st 41

Finding the perfect gift is easy this season when you Shop the Logo!

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831-316-7261 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT N U T C R AC K ER S UITE AT THE HENRY MELLO CENTER IN WATSONVI L L E

What could be a more perfect Holiday gift to yourself, your friends, and your family then to devote a crisp December day to seeing the exquisite local production of The Nutcracker Suite and to join the professional dancers and students in making a difference in the lives of others at the this special time of the year.

level will serve these dancers as they go forward in most every future field of work, study or worthy endeavor. The Vision of Agape Dance Academy has always been for the students to know that all their devoted hours will not only benefit themselves, but will bless the lives of others around them.

This year Agape Dance Academy is combining with Jacob’s Heart Cancer services for Children, and Hospice Santa Cruz County share the gift of this high caliber, superb production of the Nutcracker Suite at the Henry Mello Center for the performing Arts in Watsonville.

Hospice Santa Cruz had this to say of their expertise of our nutcracker in the past.

Graced with professional dancers from the San Francisco Ballet in the Roles of sugar plum fairy and her cavalier, our students have the opportunity to share the stage and watch from the wings as professional dancers execute with perfection the Sugar plum pas-de-deux. These dancers are some of the best in the world as they have danced with both San Francisco Ballet and American Ballet Theater, both companies among the elite companies in the world of which only the best dancers ever receive a professional contract with!

Guest artist Kimberly Marie Olivier and Artistic director Melanie Useldinger share the same heart for combining the beauty of classical ballet with outreach to our community. As an adjunct to the Music in May program Olivier offered to teach a master class at Agape Dance Academy. The students were thrilled and a match was made.

Students, parents, community members, are joining forces all over the world to bring beautiful Nutcracker Ballets to almost every region in the world. As early as August and September auditions begin to cast the beloved roles to students training five and six days a week with rigorous discipline to achieve the amazing goals that ballet has for them.

As artistic director Melanie Useldinger knows, achieving a high caliber classical ballet training means saying no to most everything a typical teen is doing In their formative years, however to have a rare skill combined with focus and determination at that

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I wanted to thank you and your dance company for bringing so much light into the lives our Hospice employees and our families of grieving children that we serve. The ones that you blessed with your generosity are the women and men that aid our dying patients at bedside and the children from our community that have lost a mother, father or sibling.

I can’t tell you how excited they all were to attend your stunning performance. I spoke with a mother of two children that have lost their dad, and she told me that her son and daughter had never seen the Nutcracker and they were in awe of the costumes and talent of your dancers. The daughter was inspired to become a ballerina just watching the beauty that you offered this family. The mother’s face just lit up talking about it.

May you and your talented team of dancers and costume designers know that you all made a profound impact on the community that you serve.

Add this Nutcracker to your perfect Holiday Season and be part of making a difference in the lives of others in Santa Cruz County and beyond!

Nutcracker Suite at the Henry Mello Performing Arts Center Dec 16, 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – Dec 17, 1:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.

Tickets available at santacruznutcracker.com

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LOOK GREAT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP APPLICATION, EYELASH & EYEBROW SERVICES. ENJOY A HINT OF COLOR WITH A SPRAY-TAN. RELIEVE STRESS WITH RELAXING MASSAGE THERAPY, AND LOVE YOUREvent SKIN WITH ...with Special Makeup Application, PROFESSIONAL FACIAL TREATMENTS. Facials, and Eyelash & Eyebrow services.

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CAPITOLA VILLAGE POP-UP ICE SKATING RINK CREATES HOLIDAY

MAGIC “iSKATE Capitola” Glides into California’s Oldest Seaside Resort Town for Three Weeks of Unique Winter Fun.

This winter, locals and visitors can trade flip-flops for ice skates and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience at Santa Cruz County’s first eco-friendly, synthetic ice rink. Located in Esplanade Park, in front of the stage and overlooking Capitola Beach and the Monterey Bay, the seaside ice rink will be open to the public December 15, 2017 through January 7, 2018.

The open-air skating rink will be made of synthetic ice designed to give the same feeling as skating on real ice without the water waste and energy costs of conventional ice rinks. No ice, no Zamboni! The rink will be 30 feet X 40 feet and can hold a maximum of 40 skaters per session. “iSKATE Capitola” gives visitors something new and exciting to do over Winter Break, extending the warm, fuzzy feelings of the season into January, emphasis on warm. Folks from out of town can still travel light and leave the hats, gloves, and ski jackets at home.

Corrie Sid, owner of the Capitola Hotel, played a key role in bringing the holiday ice skating rink to Capitola Village, lending a touch of kismet to the event —the old Capitola Roller Rink was built in 1933 where her property now stands. “I’m obsessed with the history of Capitola and finding a way to honor that past has been a driving force for me. Bringing this event to our village during the holiday season seemed like the perfect way to celebrate our amazing community! iSKATE Capitola is a community building effort and we hope that locals flock to Capitola Village during this amazing time of year.” “iSKATE Capitola” adds to a festive holiday lineup of beloved an-

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nual traditions in Capitola Village including Surfin’ Santa, the Lighting of the Palm Tree, and the nostalgic glow of Depot Hill homes outlined in white lights. Meanwhile, Village shops and restaurants sparkle and show their holiday spirit with decorated storefront windows and even more twinkling lights.

BIA board-member and Shadowbrook owner, Ted Burke, says, “Capitola is a very special place year-round but is especially so during the off-season winter holidays. Forty-nine well-decorated local shops offer a wide variety of unique gift items and thirty-one hospitality-focused restaurants make small-town friendly Capitola a popular dining destination before and after shopping and iceskating activities. Capitola visitors also enjoy periods of free holiday parking in the Village.” “iSKATE Capitola” will run three skating sessions per day from 10am to 12noon, 2pm to 4pm, and 6pm to 8pm Monday through Sunday. Admission is $10 and ice skate rentals will be available for $5, or visitors may bring their own.

About the Capitola Village & Wharf BIA: The purpose of the BIA, or Business Improvement Area, is to promote tourism and business in Capitola Village. The BIA was formed to extend our reach through the power of our pooled resources. Business members and our community benefit from an increased presence through our website, brochure, social networking, advertising campaigns, events and more. Our small business community is an important part of the character of Capitola Village that people know and love. Bringing in foot traffic, especially in the off season, and supporting these businesses allows the Village to remain the special place that it is. Visit our website at capitolavillage.com

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Surfin’Santa NOVEMBER 25, 2017 CAPITOLA MAIN BEACH

Santa & his reindeer will canoe into Capitola Main Beach. Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave-riding arrival. Once Santa has toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair to hear holiday wishes and have a nice visit with all the children.

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November 17 - December 24 Santa at the Capitola Mall!

Kids, bring your Christmas list and get a photo with Santa!

On certain days your pets can also visit Santa for a photo.

Please visit www.capitolamall. com for more information.

Holiday Calendar

November 23 - December 25 Capitola Village FREE Holiday Parking 3-Hours The holidays will be happy for Capitola Village shoppers. The parking meters will be bagged, offering FREE 3-Hour parking November 23 - December 25. Come on down and take a stroll, do some shopping, have a bite to eat and enjoy the oldfashioned holiday charm of Capitola Village. Free parking– what a nice gift! Happy Holidays!

November 25 - December 18 Santa’s Reindeer Round-up Santa needs your help! It seems the whole team of reindeer is hidden in stores throughout Downtown Santa Cruz. Help him find them before his big night! Pick up a map, have fun with this scavenger hunt and you could win Downtown Dollars and other great downtown prizes!

November 25 Surfing Santa 12:00 Noon - 3:00 PM — Capitola Main Beach Surfing Santa arrives with his outrigger canoe and surfboard on the shores of Capitola Main Beach at 12 noon. Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave-riding arrival. Once Santa has toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair to hear holiday wishes and have a nice long visit with all the children. The event is free and hosted by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce. For more information call the Capitola-Soquel Chamber at 831.475.6522 December 1-3 Heritage Holiday Craft & Gift Fair Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Friday December 1 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. , Saturday and Sunday December 2 & 3 10 a.m. – 4pm.

Crafts, gifts, antiques and col-

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lectables, food court, toy trains, visit Santa and free carousel rides. Great family fun! Call for more info 831-612-9118.

counts. Finish your holiday shopping early, save money and support local businesses!

For more information visit www.watsonvillefactorysale.com

December 2 Lighted Boat Parade 5:30 p.m., rain or shine at Santa Cruz Harbor, Santa Cruz.

Sponsored by the Santa Cruz Yacht Club and including a canned food drive benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank, the Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor.

Charter boats available. This is a family event with hot drinks and snacks available at various locations through the south harbor. Visit www.scyc.org or call 475-6161for more information.

December 2 Aptos Village Holiday Tree Lighting 2 p.m. – 5p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road Join us for our Annual Holiday Craft Fair & Tree Lighting at the Aptos Village Tree! There will be local vendors, hot chocolate, Christmas Carols, and a special visit from Santa! Bring the whole family down and help us decorate the tree. Free event. Call 688-1467 for more information.

December 2 Watsonville Holiday Factory Sale 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at various shops and factories in Watsonville.

This annual event features local businesses offering great Christmas gifts at deep dis-

December 3 Gingerbread House Event at Seascape Beach Resort 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Santa, Mrs. Claus, Jackie Frost, Santa’s Elf, and other beloved holiday characters will be entertaining the children tableside.

Guests will enjoy afternoon snacks, eggnog, and hot chocolate and sparkling cider.

The Gingerbread House kits are specially baked and preconstructed. There is a candy bar that includes a wide variety of sweets to decorate each house. Please bring the donation of a wrapped toy benefiting Toys for Tots. Toys for Tots requests that toys are to be new and unwrapped. Please, no guns or toys of aggression, and for health reasons Toys for Tots cannot accept unpacked stuffed animals. Reservations are required by December 1st and can made by calling Seascape Beach Resort at 831662-7141. The cost is $54.95 for one Gingerbread House kit for up to four guests. Each additional house kit is $35.00.

December 2 - 3 Art in the Cellars 11am - 5pm at Bargetto Winery, 3535 North Main St., Soquel Get an early start on your Holiday shopping at Bargetto Winery’s annual Art in the Cellars. Browse local artists in our historic winery cellar and

Holiday Art & Craft Faire Simpkins Swim Center Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 AM - 4 PM Free Admission & Parking Unique hand-made gifts for everyone on your list, created by local artists and craftspeople.

You’ll find jewelry, chocolates, ornaments, soaps, art glass, ceramics, gloves, scarves, art, nightlights, cards, succulent mini-gardens, aprons, quilts, handmade clothing, & more!

For more info., including the list of artists with images of their work, visit www.scparks.com.

enjoy award winning Bargetto wines and hot spiced Chaucer’s Mead. Wine tasting is available with purchase of $10 souvenir wine glass. For more information call (800) 422-2258 or visit www.bargetto.com December 6 Scotts Valley Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Lights Festival 2 – 7 p.m., Scotts Valley Community Center 360 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley Join us for the Scotts Valley Tree Lighting Ceremony! Music and fun starts at 2 p.m., as we welcome Santa, and enjoy food and games. FREE, call 831-438-1010 or visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com.

December 9 Agricultural History Project 11am-3pm, every month we produce a 2nd Saturday on the Farm, a family event that focuses on a particular area of agriculture each month. Visitors can participate in the regular activities of the Ag History Project plus others related to the day’s special focus.

December 10 1st Annual Holiday Sip n’ Stroll at Redwood Village in Aptos 9099 Soquel Drive Aptos 1pm – 4pm.

Come spend your afternoon at Redwood Village in Aptos! Enjoy strolling carolers, meet Santa and bring a gift for our local Aptos Adopt-A-Family program. Sip Hot cider or wine tasting ($10 for souvenir wine glass and one wine ticket). Visit our craft booths and get to know the shops in our hidden gem “Redwood Village”! Come meet and greet with your neighbors and friends and share the holiday season! Call 688-7549 for more information.

December 14 – One night only!

Santa Cruz Chanukah Train Gather at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for the lighting of the menorah at 6:15 pm, and then set off on an incredible 1-hour train ride on vintage excursion cars adorned with thousands of shining lights and Chanukah decorations. Share in Chanukah traditions and ride the train through the streets of Santa Cruz listening to Chanukah stories, playing dreidel, and enjoying kosher refreshments provided by Chabad by the Sea. Create a new holiday tradition with family and friends as we experience the lights, stories, and traditions of Chanukah in a whole new way! Tickets are $33 adult, and $27 children. For more information call (831) 335-4484

tola Village! Open daily from December 15, 2017 through January 7, 2018. From families with kids on Winter Break to couples, friends, and co-workers, everyone can enjoy ice skating with the beautiful Monterey Bay as the backdrop. Don’t miss the chance to create holiday memories with your loved ones!

November 24 – December 23 Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train Departs from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, roll through the streets of Santa Cruz as passengers lend their voices to holiday carols, sip hot spiced cider, and listen to musical entertainment while Santa visits the little ones, or the young at heart! Bring the whole family for festive fun. Happy Holidays! For more information call (831) 335-4484 December 15, 16, 17 The Nutcracker Ballet Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre A Santa Cruz tradition! Our sixteenth production with full professional orchestra at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Guest starring SCBT alumna Melody Mennite, who will be partnered by fellow Houston Ballet principal dancer Ian Casady. The

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra is conducted by our Music Director Pamela Martin. For more information please visit www.santacruzballet.com December 16-17 The Nutcracker Ballet Agape Dance Academy Mello Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. Our gift to the community, Agape Dance Academy presents the Nutcracker performances at The Henry Mello Center in Watsonville. Bring your family and friends and join us for this classic, timeless ballet performed by local talented adults and children. For more information please visit agapedance.com December 31st Seascape Beach Resort New Year’s Eve Party 6:30 pm-12:30am $107 per person - gratuity included Enjoy a lavish dinner and dessert buffet, following by dancing with live music by Mike Hadley and the Groove, and a midnight champagne toast.

21 and Over | Doors open at 6:30pm | Dinner 7:00pm- 9:00pm } Dancing 8:30pm12:30am Call (831)662-7141 to make your reservation.

HERITAGE HOLIDAY CRAFT & GIFT FAIR December 1, 2, & 3

Friday 10 AM to 6 PM Saturday & Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds HWY 152 - Watsonville http://holiday.fairgrounds-foundation.org

Celebrating Our 40th Year!

CRAFTS, GIFTS, ANTIQUES, TOYS, COLLECTIBLES, FOOD, & THOSE ONE-OF-A-KIND GIFTS THAT YOU WON’T FIND AT THE MALL! 3 BIG BUILDINGS FILLED WITH CRAFTERS & GIFTS!

ADMISSION $6

December 15 - January 7 iSkate Capitola Glide into the holidays and join us for a fun and festive ice skating adventure in Capi2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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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.

Whether it’s helping to provide shelter, holiday

APTOS ADOPT-A-FAMILY 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 831-688-7549 cathe@cyber-times.com The Aptos Adopt-A-Family Program sponsors families that are experiencing medical catastrophes within their family. This 2017 season we are also partnering with Jacob’s Heart. 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. Charity begins at home.

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gifts for children, food for families, helping the victims of personal disasters, or just being there as support in the most difficult of times for others, this is the time of year to connect with one or more of these organizations. Once you become part of this effort during the holidays, you may find yourself involved the whole year because the need never goes away.

Whatever role you decide to take, you are “Paying it Forward!”

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SANTA CRUZ CHAPTER

AMERICAN RED CROSS SANTA CRUZ COUNTY CHAPTER

1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-464-9982 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. For more information, call the Alzheimer’s Association of Santa Cruz at 464-9982.

2960 S oquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-462-2881 sccredcross.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.sccredcross.org.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 1500 41st Ave, Suite 250, Capitola, 95010 831-464-8691 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.

EASTERSEALS CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE

9010 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003-4002 (831) 684-2166 www.easterseals.com For nearly 100 years, Easterseals has been an indispensable resource for people with disabilities and their families. We exist to provide the best services and opportunities for people with disabilities in communities nationwide.

19 Swift St. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-824-4704 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.

Habitat for Humanity is not a giveaway program. Families purchase our homes with a down payment, sweat equity, and a 0% interest monthly mortgage. Please visit our Restore! The ReStore is a volunteer-driven home improvement store. 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.

CASA -- COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN 813 Freedom Blvd. Watsonville, CA 95076 831-761-2956 www.casaofsantacruz.com 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.

CENTRAL COAST CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING 1350 41st Ave. #101 Capitola, CA 95010 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.

CCCIL’s 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 236 Santa Cruz Ave., Aptos, CA 95003 831-688-8840 www.communitybridges.org Since 1977, Community Bridges has been a catalyst for a brighter future by opening doors, offering hope, and providing a hand up to the people of Santa Cruz County.

Our family of ten vital programs, across twenty different sites, meets the needs of 27,000 children, families and seniors each year. Together, we are unstoppable.

HOSPICE OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 700 Frederick St. #301 Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (831) 728-9791 fitsantacruz.org Families in Transition aims to provide housing strategies for those who are homeless or at risk. All services and programs promoted by this organization support financial independence, healthy childhood development, and an increased sense of well being. Donations to this organization can include funds and gift certificates for clothes, furnishings, or food. You can also support this organization by shopping at one of hundreds of participating stores by visiting www.onecause.com,

940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 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.

FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY OF THE CENTRAL COAST 104 Walnut Ave, Suite 208, Santa Cruz, 95060 831-423-9444 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.

JACOB’S HEART CHILDREN’S CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES 680 West Beach St. Watsonville, CA 95076 831-724-9100 www.jacobsheart.org 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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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.

KINSHIP CENTER 124 River Rd, Salinas, CA 93908 www.kinshipcenter.org 831-455-9965 Kinship Center (formerly Above the Line) is a California nonprofit agency that creates and supports permanent families for children through adoption, relative caregiving, or other guardianship. Our commitment is to permanent rather than temporary solutions, as decades of research have shown that children need stable, permanent families in order to thrive.

cessible 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.

PAJARO VALLEY SHELTER SERVICES 115 Brennan Street, Watsonville, 95076 831-728-5649 www.pvshelter.org To help homeless women, children, and families obtain stable housing through shelter and services. Pajaro Valley Shelter Services has an emergency shelter and sixteen units of transitional housing where families can stay up to two years.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF SANTA CRUZ & SAN BENITO 800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville, 95076 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 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) SOUTH SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

LIVE OAK SENIOR CENTER 1777 Capitola Rd. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-476-3272 eblosc@gmail.com 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 ac-

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294 Green Valley Rd., Ste. 313 Watsonville, CA 95076 722-2800 cpinheiro@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-toparent 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, CA 95073 831-316-4540 x707 angela@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.

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 7807 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 831-662-2000 www.cfscc.com The Community Foundation 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, CA 95062 (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, CA 95005 831-336-8258 vcum.org Valley Churches United Missions is hosting its 29th Annual Valley Christmas Project providing food, toys, gifts, necessity items and gift certificates to families, seniors, disabled and homeless. Other projects include Adopt-a-Family, Adopt-a-Senior programs and Christmas Food Drive and serves areas from San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley, Bonny Doon, Summit and Holiday Mission Outreach countywide.

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.

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Zinnia’s Gift Boutique, offers an assortment of delightful items and gifts for the home and garden. The warm and welcoming atmosphere presents distinctive home and garden decor, gourmet cooking items, fine furniture, jewelry, clothing, handbags, men’s items, local artisan pieces & more!

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HOLIDAY FAMILY ACTIVITIES IN SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

The holidays have snuck up on us again! The kids are out of school (and probably bored!) and friends and family will be visiting. Fortunately, we live in an area that has something for everybody.

If family and friends from out of town are here—show off your town! Hiking, biking, walking, skating, there is a wide variety of family-friendly activities in Santa Cruz County. Here are some ideas for keeping everyone busy during the holidays.

HIKING

In Santa Cruz County we are lucky to have several state parks for hiking. Big Basin, Henry Cowell, and Nisene Marks are just a few.

They all have several miles of marked trails, incredible waterfalls, and the most giant of all redwoods. Let’s not forget Wilder Ranch State Park. With miles of trails to hike or bike and breathtaking views, Wilder Ranch State Park is a must-do experience that the whole family can share. Another great place to hike is the Land of Medicine Buddha hidden in the hills above Soquel. This Buddhist retreat welcomes visitors to come and explore their beautiful trails and ornate prayer wheels and statues.

WILDLIFE

Standing on a wooden walkway surrounded by a serene expanse of water and wetland reeds in Neary Lagoon, you’d never guess you were smack dab in the middle of a residential neighborhood.

Yet a short ten-minute walk inland from the Santa Cruz Wharf reveals this serene wildlife refuge. Free weekly guided nature walks of the Wetlands of Watsonville are an up-close way to experience the area’s bird population. You can visit the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, have lunch at one of the amazing restaurants, do a little shopping, and experience a variety of wildlife which swim, fly, and sunbathe around this local point of interest. Free docent-led tours of the Monarch butterfly grove at Natural Bridges State Park are offered mid-October through mid-January, and the cliffs above Davenport provide one of the best spots to watch the California Gray Whale migration from December through early spring. You can also book Whale Watching Trip and spend the day at sea!

MUSEUMS

Learn about Santa Cruz surfing legends, the early American Indian population, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and more at museums such as the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, Agricultural History Project, San Lorenzo Valley Historical Museum, Capitola Museum and the Aptos History Museum. The Santa Cruz Art and History Museum downtown (admission-free the first Friday of every month) is a popular attraction as is the Santa Cruz Natural History Museum.

ARCADE, RIDES, AND FOOD!

The admission-free, family-friendly Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic seaside amusement park. Overlooking Main Beach in Santa Cruz, the boardwalk was built in 1907 as the “Coney Island of the West Coast” and features two national historic landmarks: the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the Looff Carousel.

These classics join over 40 rides and amusements at this landmark attraction. Enjoy the indoor arcade at Neptune’s Kingdom, miniature golf, gift shops, and classic boardwalk treats like funnel cakes, deep-fried Twinkies®, churros, kettle corn, cotton candy, saltwater taffy, and more.

PLANT LIFE

Take a walk through the UCSC Arboretum and you will be astounded by the beauty which surrounds you. For a $5 admission fee (free the first Tuesday of each month) you will see rare

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plants from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa along with several theme gardens. The Museum of Art and History in downtown Santa Cruz has a rooftop garden that includes sculptures, fountains, and a place to sit and enjoy the sight. Wander through bamboo gardens at Bamboo Giant in Aptos, smell the scents of rare roses at Roses of Yesterday and Today and see exotic plants from around the world at Sierra Azul Nursery.

ART GALLERIES

Peruse galleries exhibiting rare glass artwork, the work of local watercolor painters and more. The Pajaro Valley Arts Council, Santa Cruz Art League, and Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center are just some of the free galleries you’ll find around town.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

A multitude of free outdoor adventure opportunities await. Capture the surfing spirit and watch surfers at Steamer Lane, or check out Pleasure Point, where experienced wave riders challenge themselves at “The Hook”. Families can enjoy scenic bike rides along East Cliff and West Cliff Drives in Santa Cruz. And the bike trails at UC Santa Cruz are popular with all riders and skill levels.

Check out a Disc Golf Course. This is a free way to try out another type of golf – just bring a Frisbee® and you’re set!

ENJOY THE BEACH

With 29 miles of coastline and mild offseason temperatures, finding an admission-free beach for a romantic stroll or watching a beautiful winter sunset is easy. Favorites include Main Beach, Capitola Beach, Rio Del Mar Beach, Manresa, Twin Lakes Beach, Seacliff Beach (get a glimpse of the famed Cement Ship), and Seabright Beach. Put on your rain boots and explore the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach, Pleasure Point and Wilder Ranch. If the weather or tides aren’t cooperating for a pooling adventure, consider visiting the Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Lab to experience some tide pool creatures first hand – literally – in their touch pools.

RAISE YOUR GLASS

If your group is all adults, then why not make a day of wine tasting? The Santa Cruz Mountains are known for their exceptional wines. The small production vineyards, the passionate and often present vintners, and the area’s varying climate give the region a truly unique tasting experience. Santa Cruz County is the perfect destination to raise a glass, but with over 70 wineries and tasting rooms, it may be hard to know where to begin. Don’t forget to bring your designated driver!

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SECOND HARVEST LAUNCHES HOLIDAY FOOD & FUND DRIVE AT KICKOFF LUNCHEON Second Harvest Food Bank just entered its most intense two months of the year, in which it encourages and empowers the community to organize the dozens of local food and fund drives throughout the county which together raise over half of the food Second Harvest provides all year long. This is the Holiday Food & Fund Drive, which was launched at the Annual Kickoff Luncheon on November 2nd at Twin Lakes Church in Aptos.

The drive is Second Harvest’s biggest campaign of the year, and 100% of the food and funds it raises will support its network of 200 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, food distributions, and programs throughout the county.

This year’s co-chairs— Jess Brown, Executive Director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, and Martina O’Sullivan, engaged citizen—rallied the crowd to meet this year’s goal of 4.75 million meals, up from 4.5 million meals last year.

A range of compelling speakers shared their own strategies and tips for different food and fund drives, and some allowed their competitive spirit to shine through, like Plantronics CEO Joe Burton, who proclaimed his intent to rally the Plantronics community to raise more than ever this year.

Another compelling speaker had only eight years under her belt.

Third-grader Dorothy DeLisle from Valencia School read a speech in which she shared her experience educating her classmates about hunger in the community and raising funds to feed people in need. It only costs 25 cents to give a meal to a hungry person, Dorothy explained. “The more people who know this, the more hungry people can be fed.”

Second Harvest CEO Willy Elliott-McCrea closed the lunch by sharing the three things that make the Holiday Food & Fund Drive so powerful.

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“Every single dollar goes to food for our network of over 200 partner agencies and programs—with their 3,000 volunteers—on the ground throughout the county . . . food pantries, soup kitchens, assisted living homes, youth programs, and more,” he said. “So, every quarter, every can, every carrot donated goes straight to nourishing hungry neighbors.”

Continuing with tradition, Second Harvest staff distributed “mini barrels” for the assembled leaders, coordinators, and volunteers to take to their workplaces or private fundraisers to collect funds.

“A dollar is not a dollar,” Elliott-McCrea explained. “Every single dollar raised is really more like eight dollars.” That’s because Second Harvest buys in large quantities, gets steep discounts, and trades food with other food banks.

“Taken together [in this room],” Elliott-McCrea concluded, “we’ve got centuries of experience, and a bottomless reservoir of compassion and energy. So, as we kick off the Holiday Food and Fund Drive, let’s learn from each other, challenge each other, and work together this holiday season to ensure no one goes hungry in our community,” Elliott-McCrea said.

ABOUT SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY Founded in 1972, Second Harvest Food Bank was the first food bank in California and the second in the nation. Its mission is to end hunger and malnutrition by educating and involving the community. Its network of 200 local agencies and programs feeds 55,000 people in Santa Cruz County every month. For every dollar donated, it provides four healthy meals. “Together we fight hunger all year long.” www.thefoodbank.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

FOODIES

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USING HERBS & SPICES FOR YOUR HOLIDAY COOKING Once you’ve mastered the herb and spice basics you’ll enjoy cooking a lot more. The food will taste better, smell better, and impress your friends/family/coworkers/pets as you celebrate the holidays.

HERB BASICS Most herbs can be found dried or fresh and can be used either way with ease. Herbs are usually the leaves and greener parts of the plant while the seeds, bark, roots, etc. are normally considered a spice.

Fresh herbs are often used as garnishes and have great aromatic qualities that work very well for roasting and sautéing, or for chopping and mixing into foods such as mashed potatoes.

Dried herbs are best when used with oil, butter, fat, or water imparting the oil or cooking liquid with their flavors. Crush the herbs with your fingers or sauté them a bit and using a mortar and pestle also works very well.

Spices are almost always used in their dried form. They can be found whole (peppercorn, nutmeg, strips of cinnamon bark, various seeds, roots) or ground. Spices are much more varied in flavor than herbs and tend to pack a bigger punch.

When storing both spices and dried herbs, it is best to keep them away from air, heat, and sunlight in a cupboard. They last longer that way.

BASIC HERBS BASIL: Basil can be found both fresh and dried in many variet-

ies, though sweet basil is the most common. Sweet basil has a slightly sweet, bold flavor with a peppery bite that goes really well with tomatoes, mild cheeses, and pork. It is the primary ingredient in pesto, and is used extensively in Mediterranean and Asian cooking. It’s very good chopped and mixed into pasta with a little butter.

BAY LEAVES: Bay leaves are used most often in soups and

stews, and normally used to flavor braised meats. They’re also excellent to use in bean soups. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

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CAYENNE PEPPER, CHILES, CRUSHED RED PEPPER, CHILI POWDER CAYENNE: is very hot and bright red/orange. It’s not so much about the flavor, as the heat that it brings to a dish. If it needs a little pep, add a pinch of cayenne.

Red chili adds color, flavor and heat to a dish. Cut off the end, dump out the loose seeds, and slice thinly. Add these to vegetable dishes, stir fries or dried beans while they cook.

CRUSHED RED PEPPER: A standby in pasta, sauces, soups, when marinating meats, etc.

CHILI POWDER: Much more smoky and is used for Cuban, Spanish, Mexican, and Indian cooking. It’s great in ground beef for tacos or chili.

CURRY POWDER: Curry powder varies so much from recipe to recipe that you’ll never find two that are alike. You can buy curry powder ready made or mix it yourself. Common spices used in curry powder include: turmeric • cumin • coriander • chili powder • cardamom • cinnamon • ginger • garlic. Curry powder is for seasoning meats and, beans and vegetables. Try several different curry powders, or making your own.

OREGANO: Great with vegetables, in beef stew, in sauces,

with meat and fish, with beans and with Parmesan cheese and white beans. Combine it with lemon, garlic and olive oil then marinate some beef or pork in that.

PARSLEY: Parsley leaves can be curly or flat, with a very fresh,

green taste and works well with spicy or heavy foods. It can also be used to perk up soups, stews and sauces. It’s a very common garnish. For plain white rice, just add some butter, salt and pepper and a generous amount of dried parsley. Simple but satisfying.

PEPPER: Pepper comes in two forms: peppercorns and ground.

You can get pink, green, white or assorted black peppercorns or find them all mixed together. On the hotness spectrum Black pepper & white pepper are at the top - red is in the middle, and green is on the lower end.

ANTONIO GOMEZ SEVERINO’S BAR & GRILL Nestled in beautiful Aptos, few restaurants make you feel as “at home” as Severino’s Bar & Grill. Overlooking lush gardens, their famous koi pond and cascading waterfall, Severino’s Bar & Grill has welcomed guests since 1985.

Their friendly atmosphere has been a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

Appointed executive chef to run Severino’s Bar & Grill in 2001, Antonio Gomez got his start in catering, and has been cooking since he was 15 when he was inspired by a culinary professor at Cabrillo College. Antonio has been honing his skills for over 20 years and is always looking for new flavors and techniques; fusing together different tastes to create exciting recipes is something of a specialty of his. He says that what he likes about serving as executive chef at Severino’s Bar & Grill is “the pace, the food, the people and the management.”

Antonio is proud to have won 14 first place awards for his Manhattan and Boston clam chowders at the Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook Off. Chef Antonio uses fresh California produce to deliver tasty, locally inspired dishes to the table.

When not working, he enjoys soccer, mountain biking and preparing meals for his extended family and friends.

Severino’s Bar & Grill offers a continental menu with specialties that include a variety of delectable pasta, meat, and seafood dishes. Dine in one of their cozy booths or enjoy their serene outdoor patio while the soothing sounds of the waterfall enhance your dining experience. Enjoy live entertainment on select evenings and Happy Hour every day of the week. Wedding packages and conference facilities are also available. The Seacliff Inn, featuring Severino’s Bar & Grill, is a full service hotel just a short walk to the beautiful Seacliff State Beach.

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THE WORLD’S ON YOUR PLATE LOCAL CUISINE CIRCLES THE GLOBE If you’re hungry and live in Santa Cruz County, you’re in a good place. Your choices of cuisine are expansive and delicious! We live in one of the most unique areas in the world; right outside our back door is fresh produce, seafood, and a myriad of restaurants from which to choose our favorite local fare.

Residents and visitors to our area enjoy fresh produce equaled nowhere else in the world. Almost every kind of vegetable or fruit, from artichokes to apples is grown in Santa Cruz County and you can be assured that it’s being offered on our restaurant’s menus. Local fishermen bring us fresh seafood year-round, including salmon, crab, calamari, and halibut. Almost any time of the year, you can dine out and find something locally grown or caught on the menu.

From north Santa Cruz County to Watsonville, there are a variety of international restaurants offering a wide array of eating choices: Mexican, Asian, Pacific, Italian, Greek, German, Indian, Thai, Korean, South American, the list goes on. If you desire a specific

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cuisine, you can almost always find it in Santa Cruz County. We are definitely an “international” area.

In many cities and towns there is a “Restaurant Row” populated largely by national chains – you won’t find that here. We pride ourselves on having independent restaurants offering their own idea of a perfect meal. What you will find is cuisine made with the finest in fresh produce and interesting entrees. Our area is a vacation destination for many visitors. Your out of town guests will never forget their restaurant experience here!

So don’t wait just for a special occasion, start your adventure with a food safari today. Talk to your friends, visit the Internet, read reviews, and find someplace you haven’t been to before, and soon your friends will be asking you about where to go for dinner, lunch, or breakfast.

There are so many amazing restaurants to choose from in Santa Cruz County, but it’s worth the search. Good hunting!

CHEF ALEJANDRO CORRES at Seascape Beach Resort One of the most picturesque Monterey Bay restaurants, Sanderlings features an award-winning menu including traditional and contemporary dishes made with the freshest local ingredients, accompanied by a fine selection of local wines, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails.

Chef Alejandro Corres has more than 17 years of experience in the culinary field. He grew up tasting the bold flavors and unique ingredients found in his family dishes. Attending family gatherings gave Corres his first glimpse into the magic of food that led him down a unique and determined path to becoming a chef. After life brought him to Watsonville where he worked in the fields picking strawberries he wanted a change and signed up for adult school and simultaneously found a position at Casanova’s in Carmel as a dishwasher. He was enthralled with the idea of creating dishes instead of cleaning them and boldly asked to learn prep work at a neighboring restaurant, Julian’s. There he learned the art of pasta making as well as many Italian cooking techniques. Finally, he earned a coveted position at Los Laureles Lodge as sous chef for eight years. Corres was a perfect match for the opening of sous cook at the Duck Club at the Monterey Plaza Hotel where his budding career would lead to a degree. His superiors at the Duck Club were impressed with Alejandro. The Plaza invested in his education by sending him to the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in the Napa Valley. The culmination of many years of experience led Corres to a degree from this renowned culinary institute. As Executive Chef at Sanderling’s Alejandro Corres draws from his experience to create worldly dishes with a regional focus. He applies his energy and talent toward inventing unique dishes that bring a modern flair to Sanderling’s.

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DIRECTIONS

1) Combine dry ingredients to form the dough In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Incorporate the butter, and mix until a coarse crumb forms. tart shell dough

2) Add water and mix dough Add 2 tablespoons of the ice water, and continue to mix until the dough starts to come together. If it is still dry and not yet sticking together, add additional water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough can be formed into a ball.

CHEESE TART WITH APRICOT PRESERVES EQUIPMENT: 2 large mixing bowls stand mixer, hand mixer (optional) or mixing spoons and a fork 9” tart pan or pie pan zester or microplane sifter or strainer to sift dry ingredients measuring cups and spoons INGREDIENTS FOR THE TART DOUGH: 1 ½ cups all purpose flour 2 Tbs sugar ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup cold unsalted butter About 4 Tbs ice water INGREDIENTS FOR THE FILLING: 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature 5 oz chevre ½ cup sugar Grated zest of one lemon 1 tsp vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon salt 2 large eggs ¼ cup heavy cream 12 oz apricot preserves, or other preserve like lemon curd

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If making the recipe in a tart pan, divide the dough in half and treat each half as below.

3) Shape the tart shell and refrigerate Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and shape it into a flat disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight. If you will be saving a portion of the dough for future use, use it within a week, or freeze it.

4) Form your tart shell Press the dough into a buttered pie dish, or tart pan. Using a fork, lightly prick the bottom of the shell. Line the shell with aluminum foil (you can reuse it later!) Refrigerate the tart shell for 20 minutes; preheat the oven to 400° F while the shell chills.

5) Pre-bake your shell Bake the shell until the dough is a pale golden color, shy of brown and toasty. Remove the foil and allow the shell to cool for at least 20 minutes; this should give you time to prepare the filling. Decrease the oven temperature to 350° F.

6) Prepare the filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheeses until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, lemon zest, vanilla and salt and combine.

Beat in the eggs one at a time and add the cream; mix thoroughly, until the filling is smooth and creamy.

7) Fill your tart shell and bake Pour your cheese filling into your pre-baked tart shell. Bake until the top is set and has puffed up slightly, about 30 minutes for a tart and a bit longer for a pie dish.

8) Dress with jam or preserves and chill Pour the apricot preserves over the top of the tart and spread evenly across the surface. Chill the tart before serving.

Find these recipes and more at www.MountainFeed.com

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Happy Holidays from our family to yours.

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American Cancer Society, Aptos High School, Aptos Jr High School, Aptos Little League, Aptos Sports Foundation,Cabrillo College, Catholic Charities, Girl Scouts, Good Shepherd,Highlander Pirates, Homeless Service Center, Hospice, Incline Village High, La Selva Beach Library, Main Street School, Mid County Pony League, Monterey Bay Youth, New Brighton Middle School, North Tahoe High, Omega Nu, Pop Warner, Resurrection Church, Santa Cruz County Veterans,Salesian Sisters, Saint Francis, Santa Clara University, Santa Cruz S.P.C.A.,Second Harvest Food Bank, Soroptimist of Watsonville, Soquel High School, Special Olym2017 HOLIDAY & DINING GUIDE pics, Truckee Football, Twin Lakes Church/School, Valencia Elementary SchoolGIFT & Watsonville High - School.

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FOOD IS

MEDICINE We all use Extra Virgin Olive Oil in salads, to sauté our favorite food, drizzled over fruit, and on our hair and skin. Olive oil is not only a health benefit to all but come in incredible flavors in which to enhance your favorite dish. In recent times it has come to light that CBD Infused Olive Oil can be a useful and healthful addition to anyone’s daily routine.

Cannabidiol or CBD is a non-intoxicating component of the cannabis plant with enormous therapeutic potential. Although CBD doesn’t make people feel high like THC does, it’s causing quite a buzz among scientists, health professionals, and medical marijuana patients who are using CBD-rich products to treat a wide range of conditions—chronic pain, cancer, Crohn’s, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, PTSD, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, antibiotic-resistant infections, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, and more. Extensive pre-clinical research and some clinical studies have shown that CBD has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, anti-tumoral, and neuroprotective qualities.

Cannabidiol and THC (the one that causes you to get high) are the two most abundant constituents of the cannabis plant. Although CBD and THC interact synergistically to potentiate each

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other’s curative qualities, most people are unable to experience the benefits of CBD due to the legal standing and psychoactive properties of THC. Luckily, there are many other components of the cannabis plant that are also synergistic with Cannabidiol and increase its efficacy. One such class of compounds found in cannabis and other plants are called terpenes. Terpenes are the aromatic molecules found in plants, and the specific ratios of terpene molecules found in cannabis are important for improving health in conjunction with CBD. The True Olive Connection carries a full line of CBD oils made by a local company called Presta, using their own extra virgin, high polyphenolic, organic olive oil. These CBD oils have been very successful in helping customers drastically improve their health outcomes. Presta CBD tinctures have been touted as the best in the business because of Presta’s ability to remove all THC from their products while retaining all of the cannabis terpenes, resulting in a formula that has zero trace solvents and 0.00 percent THC. Presta’s process renders their products non-psychoactive yet more potent than other CBD oils due to the specific ratio of cannabis terpenes that are infused in their oil. These products have proven to be very useful for those with professions that require focus and mental clarity, such as EMT’s, professors, and drivers. Our clients tell me daily this product is the only formula that has helped them with symptom relief. We are using on our pets as well. This offers tremendous relief for joint pain, stiffness, cancer tumors, fatty tumors, anxiety from fireworks, the list goes one. Our two elderly dogs take it every day and love it!

Presta CBD was the first in the business to add steam distilled cannabis oil to their products, one of many innovations that are bringing the medicinal, non-psychoactive aspects of cannabis to the market.” The future relationship between True Olive Connection and Presta is bright; Presta’s research team collaborates with some of the Nation’s top Health Professionals, and by applying the principals’ neuroscience and physiology, continually develops their line of health improving products.

Your one stop shopping for custom, local, and imported specialty food & gift items Over 50 Gourmet, Fresh, Extra Virgin Olive Oils & Aged Balsamic Vinegars to choose from

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2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY DISHES AROUND THE WORLD

FRANCE Smoked Salmon

SWEDEN Saffron Buns

France is the leading producer of smoked salmon in Europe the holiday demand is immense.

On December 13, the official start of the Christmas season in many Nordic countries, citizens of Sweden and other Scandinavian nations celebrate St. Lucia Day in part with these rolls that are lightly sweet, and just rich enough with eggs and butter.

BRAZIL Arroz Ă grega ENGLAND Beef Wellington A whole tenderloin may be wrapped and baked, and then sliced for serving, or the tenderloin may be sliced into individual portions prior to wrapping and baking.

Many spices may be added to enhance the flavour; some examples are allspice and ginger.

a Brazilian dish, consisting of rice cooked with raisins and small pieces of vegetables, the most common of them small cubes of carrot, green peas, sweet corn and spring onions.

JAPAN Fried Chicken Dozens of people in Tokyo have spent Christmas eve queueing at KFC branches across the city, in anticipation of the restaurant chain’s Christmas menu.

It is thought 3.6 million households will have KFC as their Christmas feast in Japan this year.

Historically, the country does not celebrate Christmas and it is not a national holiday unlike many countries in the West.

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CHINA Tangyuan

MEXICO Chiles en nogada

AUSTRIA Sachertorte

These are round dumplings of glutinous rice, sometimes solid but typically filled with sweetened black sesame paste or red bean paste, and boiled before serving.

This festive dish is comprised of meatstuffed, fire-roasted poblano peppers covered in a creamy walnut sauce and a pomegranate seed garnish.

This chocolate sponge and apricot jam cake is one of the most famous Viennese culinary specialties.

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Pour cooking grease into a container, freeze it and place it in your garbage.

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GOAT CHEESE CROSTINI WITH PROSCIUTTO & FIGS

Crostini is a perfect appetizer for any occasion. It is an elegant addition to any table and easy to make for any level of cook. You can use any fruit preserve you choose in this recipe. Although, fig preserves go so well with goat cheese it is the perfect match!

Once you toast the crostini in the oven it is easy to complete this

dish. The smell of balsamic vinegar simmering in your kitchen is indescribable; add vanilla extract or a dash of red wine while it’s simmering for an incredible aroma when people enter your kitchen.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

8-10 slices of crusty bread 2 tbsp olive oil 4 oz goat cheese 3 tbsp fig jam 1 cup balsamic vinegar 8-10 slices prosciutto 1 bunch arugula 2-3 figs, quartered

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. 2. Lay out the bread on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

3. Bake until bread turns crispy. Remove from oven and let the crostini cool down.

4. While the bread is cooling, heat the balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pan over medium high heat. Let is simmer until it turns into a syrup. Remove from heat and allow the glaze to cool.

5. Crumble goat cheese onto the crostini then top with fig jam, prosciutto and a few pieces of arugula.

6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze on top of the arugula and then top with quartered figs.

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ROAST LAMB

WITH ROSEMARY AND GARLIC This lamb roast is seasoned with just a simple rub of rosemary and garlic; sprinkle the lamb with coarse salt after removing from the oven to really accent the flavors.

METHOD

Yield 8 servings (serving size: 3 ounces)

2. Secure roast at 1-inch intervals with heavy string. Rub surface of roast with rosemary and garlic. Place roast on the rack of a broiler pan or roasting pan; insert a meat thermometer into thickest portion of roast. Bake at 450° for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until thermometer registers 136° (medium-rare) to 150° (medium).

INGREDIENTS 1 (3-pound) rolled boned leg of lamb, trimmed 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt

1. Preheat oven to 450°.

3. Sprinkle with salt. Place roast on a cutting board; cover loosely with foil. Let stand 10 minutes. (Temperature of roast will increase 5° upon standing.) Remove string before slicing.

CHEF’S TIPS 1. Go bone-in for flavor. Boneless is easier to carve.

2. There’s no need to marinate it.

3. Lamb is good rare to well-done. So know what you like.

4. Let the meat rest after cooking.

5. Always slice the meat against the grain.

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INTERNAL TEMPERATURES FOR LAMB Rare: 125°F (about 15 minutes per pound) Medium-Rare: 130°F to 135°F (about 20 minutes per pound) Medium: 135°F to 140°F (about 25 minutes per pound) Well-Done: 155°F to 165°F (about 30 minutes per pound)

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DIRECTIONS

1) Pour the flour into a large mixing bowl and stir in the flaked oats.

2) Slowly dribble 1 1/2 cups of the buttermilk into the flour and oats, stirring until a soft, shaggy dough forms.

BROWN SODA BREAD WITH WHISKEY-SOAKED CURRANTS & FLAKED OATS

EQUIPMENT measuring cups and spoons large mixing bowl plastic wrap cookie sheet oven small bowl for soaking currants INGREDIENTS 4 cups white whole wheat flour, plus more for working the dough 1/2 cup flaked oats, plus more for topping the loaf 1 3/4 cup buttermilk, divided 1 cup dried currants Whiskey, for soaking the currants 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon sea salt Heavy cream, for glazing the loaf

3) Cover the bowl and let sit in a warm place for at least 12 and up to 18 hours. Prepare the currants at this time, too, if you want them on the stronger side. Preheat the oven to 450° F. If you have not already done so, spoon the currants into a small bowl and cover them with whiskey. Let them soak for 15 minutes.

4) Meanwhile, finish the bread dough. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup buttermilk into the bread dough, then sprinkle in the baking soda and salt. Beat until the dough forms a uniform mass.

5) Flour a work surface and turn out the dough onto the surface.

Drain the currants, reserving the whiskey for later uses, perhaps, and knead the currants into the dough. Form the dough into a ball.

6) Brush the loaf with heavy cream and dust the top with flaked oats. With a serrated bread knife, score the top of the loaf about 1/2” deep.

7) Place the dough on a greased baking sheet, or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 450° F for 25 minutes. Decrease the oven temperature to 400° F and continue baking 20-30 minutes longer, until the bread is browned and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool before slicing, if you can stand it.

The bread will have a better texture if allowed to rest after baking.

Serve with plenty of butter.

Find these recipes and more at www.MountainFeed.com

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2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

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BEER PAIRING FOR THE HOLIDAY FEAST KNOW YOUR BEER – KNOW YOUR FOOD

While you may think of wine as the companion to food, a good beer a can bring out the best in any dish – if you know which kind to choose. From amber ales to hearty stouts, here’s a handy guide to arranging the perfect pair.

Basics: Beer pairing is a very practical skill. Well-carbonated beers – like a German pilsner – are naturally refreshing when served with rich food. A crisp IPA can cut through the heat when you’re tackling spicy cuisine. Remember; light beers go with lighter dishes (pilsner with seafood), and heavy beers go with heavy dishes (stout with beef stew). Here are a few pairing suggestions for the most commonly-found beer types: INDIA PALE ALE: A sweet, citrusy beer with an abundance of bitter hops pairs best with spicy foods like curry and kimchi, or rich, sweet desserts like crème bruleé and carrot cake.

AMBER ALE: A milder ale with a hoppy flavor and caramel top notes. Goes well with smoky, moderately spicy foods like barbecue, smoked bacon, jerk chicken, and chili.

BELGIAN ALE: Rich, spicy beers with varying levels of bitterness.

Much like amber ale, these pair well with barbecue, meat stews, and any smoked foods.

PILSNER: A hoppy, bitter beer with a light body and a refreshing finish. Complements fatty fish like salmon and tuna, along with lighter meats like chicken and sausage.

LAGER: The quintessential beer; light, crisp, and supremely refreshing. It pairs well with anything, though it goes best with garlic-heavy foods (Italian, Spanish), as well as Mexican and South Asian cuisine.

CREAM ALE/BLONDE ALE: Smooth, malty beers that balance sweetness and bitterness. Complement foods that blend sweet and spicy flavors, like Thai cuisine, mango salad, and a wide range of sausages.

BOCK: A sweeter lager with minimal bitterness. Pairs well with any spicy food, along with sharp, bitter flavors like white cheddar cheese.

WHEAT BEER/HEFEWEIZEN: Light, unfiltered beers with almost no bitterness. Pair well with lighter foods like salads, sushi, wiesswurst.

PORTER: A hearty beer with a strong nutty flavor. Goes well with anything smoked or roasted—chicken, burgers, bacon—along with chocolate-flavored desserts.

STOUT: A dark, bitter beer with strong notes. Goes well with rich, savory foods like stew and stroganoff. The more coffee-like varieties are great with ice cream.

BARLEY WINE: A dark, hoppy beer with low carbonation. While its flavor will overpower most complex dishes, it’s excellent with strong cheeses and chocolaty desserts.

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY! APTOS ADOPT-A-FAMILY 24 years of providing for families in times of hardship.

Twenty-four years ago, a local businessman in Aptos was diagnosed with inoperable cancer. As the cancer progressed, he was unable to work or support his family as the holidays approached.

Our community put on a spaghetti feed and the money collected went to help his family. Patrice Edwards, of Times Publishing Group, Inc., and a friend worked tirelessly to collect toys, food, clothes, rent money, and more to carry his family through the coming months. This was the birth of Aptos-Adopt-a-Family.

Over the years there have been hundreds of stories, and thousands of gifts. Gifts of wheelchairs, a handicap accessible van, lifts, food, clothes, toys, bikes, rent—gifts that helped many a family enjoy the holidays.

the ground up. Under Lori’s leadership, Jacob’s Heart has grown from serving one child with cancer 19 years ago, to a nationally recognized model of community-based pediatric palliative care serving hundreds of children and thousands of family members each year. Aptos-Adopt-A-Family is proud to offer the community the opportunity to adopt families from Jacob’s Heart through the holiday season.

This year, Aptos-Adopt-A-Family is partnering with Jacob’s Heart.

Started in 1998 by Lori Butterworth when her friends’ son Jacob was diagnosed with leukemia, she has built the organization from

Call: Aptos Adopt-A-Family at 688-7549 x12 to refer someone.

To send a donation: Aptos Adopt-A-Family c/o Times Publishing Group - 9601 Soquel Drive - Aptos, CA 95003.

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Please give us a call to find out how you can adopt a family this year or how you can help make this a Merry Christmas for one of our families by donating to the program. In addition to working with Jacob’s Heart we will also take referrals from families facing medical challenges. All referrals are confidential.

celebrating our babies

supporting our Healing Courtyards Initiative Give the gift of healing this holiday season.

The Celebrating Our Babies Wall recognizes individuals born at Dominican, Community, or Sisters Hospitals.

Your donation of $1,000 will include name and birthdate placement on a 2’’x8” porcelain tile (see below), in the Dr. Joseph T. Anzalone Family & Newborn Care Courtyard.

To participate, please call the Foundation at (831) 462-7712 or visit supportdominican.org.

Honor your children, grandchildren, or family members.

With your donation, you will also receive a keepsake ornament to gift to the individual who you wish to recognize.

100 percent of your tax-deductible donation goes towards this cause, as Dignity Health covers all Foundation operating costs.- 61 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE

PET FRIENDLY PRACTICES FOR THE WINTER SEASON As scorching temperatures fade and pest season passes, pet owners may breathe a sigh of relief. Although the seasonal risks of summer are gone, your four-legged friend may need some special attention this autumn, as well.

Cold-weather pests. Though the dangers associated with ticks, mosquitos and other creepy, crawly critters lessen as the temperatures drop, those same colder days bring other creatures scurrying inside and that can present a whole new set of problems.

Rats and mice tend to migrate indoors in search of warmth and the poisons used to eliminate them can be highly toxic to pets.

Be sure pesticides are used in areas inaccessible to your animals.

Stay alert. Ticks may be less prevalent in the fall, but that doesn’t mean they’re gone completely – especially if hospitable environments remain. Keep yard and garden debris to a minimum and continue administering repellents for any pets that spend time outdoors.

ON THE MOVE. Seasonal changes mean wildlife is on the move, making changes to settle into winter. Snakes are often more mobile during autumn months and inexperienced pets may risk bites if they tangle with intruders.

SHINY, NEW THINGS. Kids aren’t the only ones attracted to a collection of new school supplies. Curious pets may dive into a pile of crayons, markers, rulers and other supplies, and although the items likely aren’t toxic, they can result in digestive blockages or damage from sharp, broken edges.

ANTICIPATE ENERGY NEEDS. Colder temperatures

that may warrant bumping up meal serving sizes. Consult with your veterinarian about the appropriate feeding amounts for your pet’s specific breed, health and lifestyle needs.

AUTO-RELATED ISSUES. Many car owners use the change of season as a milestone for car maintenance and winterizing, such as changing oil or antifreeze. Antifreeze in particular is highly toxic; a small quantity can kill pets and, unfortunately, the sweet smell makes it quite attractive to curious creatures. Clean spills thoroughly and take added precaution by keeping pets away from your work area entirely while handling these substances.

NOT SO FUN-GUS. Damp conditions can bring about a surge of mushrooms. Although only a small percentage of mushrooms are toxic, they can be hard to distinguish from the non-toxic variety. A good rule of thumb: keep pets clear of areas where mushrooms may be found, or if that’s not possible, conduct regular checks and remove any temptation that pops up.

COMFORT FOODS. Most pet owners know chocolate is

dangerous for pets, but many other foods that are common in the fall can also be problematic. Keep pets away from rich, savory foods that can upset their digestion and leave Fido at home during your annual jaunt to the apple orchard; apple stems, seeds and cores can create plenty of digestive havoc. If you want to indulge your pet with a little seasonal savor, instead try offering fresh or canned pumpkin.

Find more pet parenting tips for fall and all year long at eLivingToday.com.

can mean your pet has to exert more energy to keep warm and

(831) 335-1212

6221 CA-9, Felton, CA 95018

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GIVING THE GIFT OF A HOME TO SPCA’S LONGEST-TERM SHELTER ANIMALS

At the Santa Cruz SPCA, homeless animals are given safe harbor until the day they meet their adoptive match. In most cases, this takes just days or weeks, but in others, it can take months and even years. Because of the home-like shelter environment and many dedicated volunteers at the SCSPCA, the longer term shelter animals are nurtured, enriched, and socialized during their extended stay with no pressure of a time limit. However, nothing beats a real home, especially in time for the holidays!

That is why the Santa Cruz SPCA is amidst their 2nd annual Home for the Holidays Challenge, beginning October 31st and ending on December 31st. During this nine-week period, nine of the longest-term shelter pets will be introduced to the public through the SCSPCA’s Facebook and Instagram accounts on a weekly basis through bios, photos, and videos. The public is challenged to share these social media posts and spread the word far and wide. Their story only has to reach one special set of eyes!

Adoption fees will be waived for each of the selected animals, and the adoption will include spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip and registration, and a certificate for a free veterinary visit. Also, a foster trial period will be available for each featured animal!

via the Santa Cruz SPCA website www.spcasc.org, by mail to PO Box 3800 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 or by phone at (831) 465-5000.

The Santa Cruz SPCA is a private, nonprofit organization, which receives no federal, state, or local government funding, and relies solely on generous donations from the public. Established in 1938, the mission of the Santa Cruz SPCA is to provide safe harbor for animals in need, and promote an active humane community through adoption, advocacy, and education. The organization offers a comprehensive range of services and programs for the Santa Cruz community, including humane education, low-cost spay/neuter assistance, the Second Chance Fund, and Blackie’s Senior Friends. The main shelter is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday/Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The SPCA Adoption Center and Gift Shop, located in the Capitola Mall (near Target), is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday/Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Further information can be obtained at 831-465-5000 or via the SPCA website at www.spcasc.org.

Each of these animals has so much companionship and love to give -- someone is really missing out! For instance, Nacho, a sixyear-old Corgi/Cattle Dog, was surrendered to the Santa Cruz SPCA when his owner was forced to move into a small apartment that didn’t allow dogs. Nacho has now been at the shelter for eight months because he doesn’t do well with other dogs and is afraid of children. In every other way, Nacho is a super loving and affectionate guy who needs a special home. We hope that his story will land in front of the right set of eyes through this marketing push!

If you’d like to take part in the Home for the Holidays Challenge, make sure to follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ SantaCruzSPCA/) and Instagram (@SantaCruzSPCA), watch for the weekly posts, and please share and re-gram away!

If you would like to help, you can make a tax-deductible donation 2017 HOLIDAY GIFT & DINING GUIDE -

63

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