A Time and a Place for Thanks and Giving

November is our traditional time for giving thanks and sharing food with people that are close to us. But, for some people this is a luxury that is beyond their reach and means.

Many non-profit groups have been organized to help those who are less fortunate. Here on the San Francisco Peninsula, we have the Second Harvest Food Bank which is the primary source of donated, surplus, and purchased food for non-profit agencies in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.

Second Harvest operates direct service programs for seniors, families with children, and individuals, including: monthly food assistance to low-income families with children, weekly food assistance to low-income seniors, weekly food assistance to low-income Food Bank volunteers and the delivery of fresh fruits and vegetables to low-income households with limited access to community markets.

There are many ways that you can help, from volunteering your time, to organizing a drive, or by simply donating food or money. As we give thanks to those close to us, we hope you might consider others in this time of giving.

San Mateo Harvest Festival - Nov 12-14th

This festival is the largest arts and crafts show on the West Coast, showcasing over 24,000 handmade arts and crafts.

Unlike many shows, each vendor must go through a jury process to be chosen as a participating artist, guaranteeing a mix of high quality products. They'll be grab bag prizes and a raffle for a grand prize piece of original art.

The San Mateo Harvest Festival has selected the Peninsula Youth Ballet as the official charity of the show. The Peninsula Youth Ballet (PYB) will receive half of the proceeds from shopping bag sales and all of the donations from the parcel and bag check. The PYB will also perform a sneak peek of their acclaimed rendition of the classic "Nutcracker".

The San Mateo Harvest Festival Original Art and Craft Show takes place at the San Mateo County Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Ave in San Mateo. Hours of the show are as follows: Friday: 10 am - 6pm, Saturday: 10 am - 6pm, Sunday: 10 am - 5pm.

Adults: $9, Seniors (62+): $7, Youth (13-17): $4, Kids 12 and Under: Free. For tickets and additional information, please call 415-447-3205, or visit http://www.harvestfestival.com/

Millbrae Carnival & Monster March Costume Parade

Two big family friendly events will be happening this month.

First, this Sunday, October 10th, from 11AM-1PM, the Millbrae Rotary will be having a "Kids Carnival." It's free for all kids 10 years and younger. They'll be games, entertainment, 4-H animals, hot dogs and cotton candy. You can meet "Boswick the Clown." Call 650-588-5400 for more information.

The Millbrae Lions Monster March Parade will be happening again this year. The new date is scheduled for Saturday, October 30th, from 12-3 PM. There will be carnival games, prizes and kid's activities. Located at Kohl's Parking Lot and Magnolia Ave. The Parade starts at 2 PM. Trick or treating on Broadway follows the parade. The parade this year is sponsored by the Millbrae Lions Club and The Millbrae Chamber of Commerce.

We hope that you can take advantage of the nice weather and local events that Millbrae has to offer.

The Millbrae Art & Wine Festival - 40th Anniversary

Labor Day is a sign for many of us that change is about to happen. Cooler temperatures, the unofficial end of summer and the start of school. But, one thing we can count on is our festival. More than 200 artists and craft vendors from all over the western United States exhibit at the festival.

From the art and food, to the entertainment, it's an easy and fun way to enjoy the holiday. We hope to see you there!

Days: September 4th and 5th, 10 AM - 5 PM right on Broadway Avenue.

From more information on the event, visit the Millbrae Chamber of Commerce.

Art and Tastes of San Bruno in August

The San Bruno Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring two events this month.

Art comes back to the San Bruno Farmer's Market, Sunday, Aug 29. In conjunction with the Chamber’s Weekly Farmers’ Market, the San Bruno Culture & Arts Commission will have art vendors all around. The market runs from 9AM - 1 PM. There were over 2,000 visitors when the market opened up this past May. The location: the 400 block of San Mateo Avenue, 1 block east of El Camino, cross street @ Jenevein Ave, San Bruno, CA.

On Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at San Bruno Senior Center 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., enjoy the Tastes of San Bruno. Tickets are $20 if purchase before August 13th. For More information, visit the San Bruno Chamber of Commerce for more information and details.

Valentine's Smiles

This month we're giving away a gift certificate to the Mid-Peninsula Shop called Style Essentials. How did we pick this place? Quite simply, we like this boutique because of their interesting things, focus on health, fair prices and local service. Whether it's artisan jewelry, natural makeup or fresh local chocolate goods, we couldn't be happier sharing Lisa's products and services with you. Oh, by the way, 20% of Style Essentials profit goes to Second Harvest Food Bank. Whether you're a guy or gal, we believe Lisa will make it easier to find something special for you and your loved one.

Valentines Day Made Easy

You don't have time. You need to keep it reasonably priced and you want your gift to be special. Here's your chance to shine with your partners and loved ones. An easy way to gather all three components -- all in one place. Flowers, candy, jewelry. All guaranteed. All priced right. All quality, from a local source. See for yourself. Oh, one other thing, 20% of their profit goes to Second Harvest Food Bank!

We like the fact they're local to the Mid-Peninsula Area, provide the personal attention that we enjoy and care about what they do. That goes a long way with us and we think it will for you too. Check out Style Essentials.

Can We Donate to Your Cause?

These are some challenging economic times. And for some, it's even tougher. Non-profit groups and organizations that rely on voluntary donations from members and the general public are not seeing the level of participation as in past years. Even public schools are seeing major cutbacks. Where can these organizations turn to?

Millbrae Dental Care has decided to take action. We have an operating budget which has also been impacted by the slowing economy. But, we'd like to see if there is some way that we can help. We would like to hear of organizations that need or are seeking some financial assistance. We'll see what we can do to assist and work with them in their fund-raising efforts. Times can be tough, but they can also foster creativity and new ways of doing business.

If you're part of an organization or know of one that is looking to raise money, awareness or facing some challenge, please send us an email at info@millbraedental.com. Include your contact information and a quick summary of the problem or challenge. A lot of smiles might come from taking this first step!