Editor:

Thank you for Jennifer Fumiko Cahill's delightful article on the shisho leaf (Aug. 6). It was a positive light in these uncertain times of COVID-19. Jennifer is a long-time contributor to the Food page, as well as both Wendy Chan and Simona Carini. Their writings are informative and interesting to read.

Food has certainly been a nurturing positive for many families who are cooking together, planting gardens and learning how to preserve food. Humboldt County Master Food Preservers, a local group that promotes safe food preservation, has been unable to teach classes in person during the Pandemic. However, you can get in touch with the director, Dorina Espinoza, at dmespinoza@ucanr.edu. Dorina can answer questions about safe food preservation, as well as gardening and/or refer you to someone who can. You can also check out the National Center for Home Food Preservation at: www.nchfp.uga.edu.

Online sites such as Humboldt Foodies and Quarantine Kitchen provide ways like-minded people can connect, share information and form friendships. 

We all need positive experiences during these stressful days. Make a connection. Share. Stay involved. 

Ilene Harris, Fortuna