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 Faraway Japan becomes much closer when teens have a chance to experience it for themselves through an exchange program managed by the City of Santa Cruz.

Winter storms and large swells have shifted sand and brought barred surf perch. There is something about walking the beach between winter storms as the ocean rages and clouds form a backdrop while fishing for winter perch. The energy from the ocean as you comb the beach in search of treasures and fish is exciting. Walking the beach for perch is also a great way to burn a few holiday calories.

Get ready to experience the magic of Disney’s “The Lion King Jr.,” brought to life by the talented students of the Scotts Valley Middle...

The winner is Ginger!

I know many people who wait until the beginning of May to start their vegetable gardens for the summer. Conditions make not be right for them to grow cool season vegetables like beets, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, unions, radish and spinach. Those plants don’t mind cold soil and chilly weather. But it you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to plant those scrumptious tomatoes you crave- wait no more. And if you plan your garden right you can still grow some of the cool season crops in the shade of your other sun lovers.

Dogs do so much. They served honorably in wars and K-9 units, and at airports they sniff out drugs or explosives. Search and Rescue dogs can find a lost child or an injured person in a fallen building.  They alert epileptics of a seizure or can sniff out cancer. They are eyes for the blind or a friend when we’re not feeling well. They are guard dogs, companions and family members; they can fill a void.

The view of the ocean from where I am staying is beautiful. I can hear the waves crashing on the shore and a part of me wants to go play in the water. But I can’t get my mind off of the fact that my house might be burning down as I enjoy the view. My kids are the forth generation to live on the property and we might very well be losing everything except what’s in the three cars packed feverishly while the flames appeared on the tree-line in Ben Lomond. It’s the waiting to hear bad or good news that is so difficult.

If I wanted to know how people of the Holocene period lived, what they ate, what they wore and what their houses were like, all I would have to do is look around.

If working in the garden Thanksgiving weekend is not high on your list then you’re in luck.  Here are some reasons why along with other information you need to know.