Holiday happiness may begin with making out your Christmas gift list. Not so happy may be the actual shopping excursion and parking safely in your local shopping mall. According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, more than 20 percent of all collisions take place in shopping mall parking lots during the holiday season.

"It's the Christmas holidays!" You know it when your tree has been decorated and all of your friends and family say how pretty it is — and put wrapped gifts underneath.

The City of Santa Cruz hosted its second annual Parking for Hope downtown holiday parking program from Dec. 18 through 25. The usual parking rates were applicable; however, the proceeds from street meters during these eight days will be donated to Hope Services, a local nonprofit.

 SCOTTS VALLEY

A house on Bonita Drive in Aptos caught on fire and the homeowner; Antonio Gallindo-Perches was severely injured and was transferred to the hospital to undergo treatment. Four dogs were present in the residence and one of them died from burn injuries. This past Friday, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies were investigating a Butane Hash Oil Lab discovered after Aptos La Selva Fire personnel responded to the house fire. Deputies discovered indoor marijuana cultivation along with the materials used to process marijuana into hash oil.

A medical marijuana product, hash oil, is often made at home with canisters of butane. A small amount of butane hash oil reportedly produces a quick and powerful high. The unregulated underground hash oil industry frequently operates out of garages, basements and kitchens. Butane hash oil is highly flammable and just a spark can set off an explosion.

Probably not many people in the area know that during the 1930’s when most women were pretty much in “homemaker status,” there were daring young ladies challenging men at the age-old game of polo! But the secret is now out. Colleen McInerney Meagher and Joan Gilbert Martin have co-authored a book called, “Comin’ thru – The Golden Age of Women’s Polo 1934 – 1941.”

New tax laws, effective January 1, 2016, enhance the California State Board of Equalization’s ability to protect taxpayers and allow for ongoing administration of taxes that help pay for important state and local services such a public safety, education, and transportation.

Mark Stone represents the people of California’s 29th Assembly District. In his second term in office, Mark emerged as a leader on environmental protection, child welfare, public safety and other issues.

We received two greeting cards designed and created by young readers.