THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY
AUGUST 9, 2019
A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance
Gardening P13 Real Estate P19
Story of Strength Horse rehab facility brings abused animals to health P6
Locals enjoy savings on admission this summer Evenings by the Bay Make Saturday nights special this summer with live music and amazing food. Locals pay only $25 per adult and $15 per child after 6 p.m.
Summer Sundays Spend your Sunday afternoons with us. Locals are invited to arrive after 2 p.m. to save $10 on each general admission.
Remember to park in the Downtown East Garage (340 Tyler Street, Monterey) and hop aboard the MST trolley for a fast, fun and free ride to the Aquarium!
For more information, visit
AUGUST 9, 2019
MontereyBayAquarium.org/Locals
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2019 SOUTH VALLEY
FOOTBALL PREVIEW SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION
A full breakdown & preview of local high schools and Gavilan College football teams. Showcasing schedules, great stories and fun photos. Find out what to expect this season!
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Wallace Baine’s cover story this week (page 6) shows there are still caring people in this world, and thankfully, many are in our own backyard. Dennis and Janece Barwick run Backstretch, a 35-acre farm in Aromas where they rehabilitate abused horses. The rescue operation and rehab facility also serves as an adoption agency, but as Barwick
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describes, it can be difficult to give up the horses to new homes. Its mission is two-fold. Horses are known to be therapeutic creatures, and Backstretch also serves as an equine therapy practice for people suffering through traumatic experiences.
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Calendar
13 Gardening 14 Wildfire 15 Wine 17 Home 19 Real Estate
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Katherine Manlapaz Cover photograph by:
Robert Eliason Published by New SV Media Inc., Gilroy, CA Entire contents © 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
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OUT & ABOUT ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
California’s original outdoor antique and crafts fair returns to San Juan Bautista Aug. 11.
SAN JUAN BAUTISTA
HOLLISTER
ANTIQUE FAIR
COOKING DEMONSTRATION
The 55th annual San Juan Bautista Antique and Collectibles Fair will feature vendors, non-profit booths, an antiques appraiser, food booths and music. Attendees can shop for bonafide antiques, collectibles, memorabilia and nostalgia (items produced prior to 1975), with all proceeds going toward the Rotary Club of San Juan Bautista’s community grants, projects and more. Sunday, Aug. 11, 8am-4pm in downtown San Juan Bautista. For information, visit rotarysanjuanbautista.com.
Becky Herbert of Farmhouse Cafe will help participants prepare a meal for four at an Interactive Cooking Lab cooking demonstration. Participants will make and take home a pasta dish using fresh ingredients for a no-cook sauce that is great for a fast weeknight meal. Cost is $75 per person, and two sessions will be offered. Saturday, Aug. 10, 11:30am-1:30pm or 2-4pm at Farmhouse Cafe, 615-D San Benito St. Space is limited. For tickets and information, visit eatwiththeseasons.com.
GILROY
BIG BAND BENEFIT
TRADITIONAL RODEO The 2019 Gilroy Rodeo celebrates the Western heritage and lifestyle that runs deep in Santa Clara County while giving back to the community. Attendees can enjoy a mix of traditional rodeo and ranch events that are sure to get a little Western, along with junior and peewee events. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and guests over age 21 can purchase alcoholic beverages. Friday-Sunday, Aug. 9-11 at Gilroy Rodeo Arena, 2365 Dunlap Ave. For information, visit gilroyrodeo.com.
MORGAN HILL
Steve Chambers and the South Bay Swing Band will perform upbeat rhythms from Great Gatsby to Neo Swing at “A Century of Swing!” dinner dance benefiting South Valley Symphony. The event will feature a catered steak and salmon dinner, as well as a cocktail hour, live and silent auctions, dancing under the stars and more. Sunday, Aug. 11, 4-9pm at Guglielmo Winery, 1480 E. Main Ave. For information and tickets, visit southvalleysymphony.org.
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AUGUST 9, 2019
Resilien
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ON THE MEND Backstretch is a 35-acre farm that rehabilitates horses of all sizes.
nt beings Rescue operation provides healing for horses and people alike BY WALLACE BAINE PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT ELIASON
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hen they found him, Smokey was tied to a tree. All he could do was walk around in a circle. Which he did, for months. The circle eventually became a rut, a deep one. “You could hardly see his head,” Dennis Barwick said. There was no room for a horse his size to even lie down. Barwick freed Smokey from the tree, pulled him out of the rut, and took him to his horse-rescue farm in Aromas. Early the next morning, he went out to check on Smokey. The horse was lying on his side motionless. “I thought he had died overnight,” said Barwick, on the grounds of Backstretch, the 35-acre farm he manages with his wife Janece. “I called out to him, several times. Finally, he lifted his head.” As he speaks, he gestures to a statuesque chocolate-colored horse in a spacious, shady, fenced-in pen. At Backstretch, the Barwicks have three jobs: 1. To rescue abused, neglected or unwanted horses; 2. To rehab them or restore them to health as much as possible, and 3. To find them loving homes. Smokey may never check that third box. “I don’t think I’ll ever let him go anywhere,” Barwick said, “because he continually reminds me of the kind of strength and resilience these animals have, that if you give them the attention they need, they’ll come back, all the way back.” As harrowing and upsetting as it is, Smokey’s story is not unusual. Since he started caring for unwanted horses less than a decade ago, Barwick has seen too many examples of man’s inhumanity to horses. ➝ 10
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O& A CALENDAR
WINE TASTING
AUGUST 9, 2019
The GardenShoppe invites the public to try their wines at Wine Tasting in the Garden. Participants will choose 12 two-ounce pours from 45 different red, white, rose and bubbly wines and light snacks and a branded wine glass will also be included. The GardenShoppe will also be kicking off its wine club at this event. Tickets are limited and guests must be over age 21. Attendees can also enjoy live music and additional food choices available for purchase. Saturday, Aug. 17, 5-9pm at The GardenShoppe, 364 Seventh St, Hollister. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/yx9buybr.
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HOLLISTER SOUL KISS Soul Kiss Band, the Central Coast’s premier variety dance band, will perform
an assortment of top pop, rock, country, hip-hop, old school, classic rock and R&B hits from today and yesteryear. Saturday, Aug. 10, 7-10pm at The Grove by
Leal Vineyards, 7511 Pacheco Pass Highway. For information, visit soulkissband.com. SUMMER MOVIE Christ Fellowship of Hollister is hosting a Summer Movie Night. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy popcorn, ice cream and a movie under the stars at this free event. The movie will begin after sunset. Saturday, Aug. 10, 7:30-10pm at Christ Fellowship of Hollister, ECO, 2066 San Benito St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ yylwacqj. 4-H OPEN HOUSE The family is invited to learn about the
4-H Youth Program at the San Benito County 4-H Open House. 4-H, America’s largest youth development organization, is open to youth ages 5-19. Visit with each club’s booth to enjoy a free make-and-take activity, including planting a flower to take home, cupcake and cookie decorating, and making toys for shelter pets. Saturday, Aug. 17, 3-6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Building, 649 San Benito St. For information, visit cesanbenito.ucanr.edu/4-H_ Program. BIKE PARTY Riders of all kinds are invited to come together to enjoy the sites and streets of
Robert Eliason
BENEFIT WALK/RUN
Growing Hearts Garden Center’s first-ever Growing Hearts Walk/Run will raise awareness for the special needs community and the importance of meaningful employment. All are welcome, and encouraged, to participate in this Hawaiian-themed event. Prizes will be awarded for the first person to cross the finish line in each age group and for the best costume. Sunday, Aug. 18, 9am at Brigantino Park, 2037 San Juan Road, Hollister. For information and to register, visit tinyurl.com/yxslav3s.
GILROY COLOR RUN Cruisin For The Cure’s colorful community event will raise awareness of cancer research. Attendees will
run or walk while being doused in different colored powder representing color cancer awareness ribbons. Monies raised through registration fees and donations will benefit Cancer Research Institute. Saturday, Aug. 10, 9am-noon at Gilroy Sports Complex, 5925 Monterey Frontage Road. For information, visit cruisinforthecure.com. DOWNTOWN LIVE Gilroy’s family-friendly Downtown Live free concerts return Thursday nights, with live music, vendors and a kid zone. Food trucks will also be onsite for hungry
The 2019 Garlic City Car Show has arrived. The event begins during the Friday Night Show & Shine, Aug. 16, 5:30-7:30pm at Gilroy Gardens, followed by Saturday’s free car show featuring muscle cars, dwarf class racing cars, antique tractors and more. The show also features raffles, food, three stages of live music featuring local bands and more. Saturday, Aug. 17, 10am-6pm in Downtown Gilroy. My Classic Car with Dennis Gage will be filming at both events. For information and Show & Shine tickets, visit gilroy.org/garliccitycarshow.
attendees. Attendees are advised to bring along folding chairs and dancing shoes. Enjoy Rockabilly Blues with a Texas twist as Sweet Daddy & The Bad Cats hits the stage Thursday, Aug. 15, 5-9pm in Downtown Gilroy. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ y6t42hr4.
an easy hike and craft project. All ages are welcome. Saturday, Aug. 10, 10-11:30am at Anderson Lake County Park, 19245 Malaguerra Ave, meet at the Visitor Center at the end of Malaguerra Avenue. For information, call 408.918.7980.
MORGAN HILL
SURVIVAL WALK The “Survive in a Knapsack” walk at Mount Madonna will teach the public on what to do should they ever be lost in the wild. Attendees are advised to wear comfortable hiking
OUTDOOR STORIES Story Time with a Park Ranger will explore nature through short stories, adventures and activities. Attendees are advised to dress for
WATSONVILLE
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AUGUST 9, 2019
Hollister during Hollister Bike Party’s upcoming ride. The party will begin downtown as cyclists enjoy a medium to fast paced ride around Hollister, with the party continuing out in the county. Saturday, Aug. 17, 7:30-9:30pm at 400 San Felipe Road. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ y2h7ojkw.
COOL CARS
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RESILIENT BEINGS
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AUGUST 9, 2019
LEADERS Janece and Dennis Barwick manage Backstretch in Aromas.
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“Sometimes, people will just lock them in a stall and leave them out there to die. Or they’ll turn them loose out on the roads, hoping they’ll go somewhere so they don’t have to deal with them anymore.” The people who do these things, they’re not evil, Barwick said. Most of the time, they’re just desperate. For whatever reason, they can no longer take care of their animals. And they don’t know who to turn to, or what to do. “We do tell the public, ‘Call us. Let us find a solution. We may not always have the best solution, but we’ll find a solution. We’ll work with you. No questions asked,’ ” Barwick said. “We just rescued 10 from Hollister. They were in bad shape, drinking rain water, eating mud. One of
them was already dead in the paddock. The neighbor called us and asked if we could come and get them. We made a makeshift hospital here, put two of them into surgery at Steinbeck (animal hospital in Salinas). Today, they are flourishing, gaining their weight back. It’s the most gratifying thing in the world.” As of mid-July, Backstretch had 63 horses on its site, spread out in a serene, gently sloping landscape of oak and eucalyptus. To this point, Barwick said, he is yet to say no to a horse in need. They have quarterhorses, Arabians, Percherons, Clydesdales, even a few donkeys and mules. The smallest on site is a 131-pound mini; the largest, a Belgian draft horse that comes in at more than 2,800 pounds.
Finding fate If you had known Dennis Barwick a decade ago, this whole story might be shocking. Until 2011, he had had next to no experience with horses. Yes, he grew up on a farm in North Carolina, but that was among cows and pigs. An Air Force veteran, he made his living as a real estate broker. He was well into his 50s before fate surprised him. That surprise came by way of a momentous phone call, from a woman he knew, a nurse and horse lover who kept 20 horses in Parkfield, a couple of hours drive to the south. But life had taken a bad turn, and suddenly she couldn’t afford that many horses and she couldn’t find new homes for them. She told him she was going to euthanize 10 of them.
“At that point, I didn’t know what to do,” said Barwick, who is now 64. “But I told her I would go there and talk to her and see what I could do. But when I went and drove there, and looked in the eyes of those horses, something changed that day. I tell everyone, it was just one of those moments that I can vividly remember as if it were yesterday.” Not knowing what else to do, Barwick took responsibility for the 10 horses. He found a facility for them. Every morning before heading to work, he drove to the facility to feed them. Every afternoon, after work, he did it again. “I realized that I could hardly wait to get there, and that I hated to leave,” he said. He moved his horses around from
BEST FRIENDS
“The Blondes,” as this pair is called, are inseparable.
Fenton has been running her equine therapy practice out of Carmel for four years. But she’s found an ideal place to explore her ideas at Backstretch. “I think this place is a diamond in the rough,” she said. “I have to pinch myself sometimes because I can’t believe we’re allowed to be here, but Dennis understands the importance of mental health, and he also understands that these animals have the capacity to heal people.”
Expansion plans
A place to heal On a bright but breezy Sunday afternoon, Jennifer Fenton takes a long walk across a dusty enclosed pen at Backstretch. On the pen’s far side is a horse, a formerly wild mustang that was eventually captured and abused. Fenton is a licensed family therapist who has developed a satellite practice at Backstretch in a practice she calls EAP (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). The horse, she said, is still suffering from trauma. He’s given an enormous pen in which to wander alone, but he’s staying close to the far end. Before taking the long walk to meet the horse, she said she was going to approach him and say something true about herself and her own pain.
“If you’re honest,” she said, “he’ll follow you.” In the distance, she stops in front of the horse, then abruptly turns around to walk back. The horse slowly follows. Fenton works with a broad clientele of people, mostly women, who have been abused in domestic violence or sex trafficking situations. She is convinced that suffering people and suffering horses can help each other heal. Her passion is to help both. She develops personality profiles of each rescue horse at Backstretch. “That means, going into a therapy session, I have a general understanding of what the horse needs,” she said. “And my job as the clinician is to match the horse’s needs with the client’s.”
AUGUST 9, 2019
facility to facility for several years until, finally, in 2017, he and Janece jumped in on the 35-acre tract in Aromas. Of the original 10 horses he rescued from euthanasia, three are still with him at Backstretch. Two were adopted and five became part of the equestrian program at Cal Poly. Every horse at Backstretch has a name—Pirate, Nugget, Sweet Pea, Topaz, etc.—and every horse has a story. Barwick finds himself having to do three things at once at Backstretch where he runs a rescue operation, a rehab facility, and an adoption agency. He and Janece have just hired their staffer. Otherwise, they’ve gotten by with volunteers and they’re own commitment. “I tell people I serve more than 40,000 meals last year,” he laughed.
Barwick has big plans for Backstretch. He gestures toward a pile of brush and declares that this will be the site of a 20-stall horse ICU and rehab center with a sea walker, a saltwater spa and a solarium. It’ll take close to a half million dollars to get it built. On top of the new rehab center, he’d like to expand the ranch’s acreage and make room for up to 200 horses one day. It’s a big plan, and it will take fundraising and soliciting donations. Barwick considers that the worst part of the mission at Backstretch. “Growing up in my family, we never asked anybody for money,” he said. “It’s so ingrained in me, I find it hard to be able to ask for any support. But we know without it, we can’t afford the vision of what we want to achieve in supporting these animals.” In the meantime, Barwick is eager for visitors to Backstretch. Horseback riding is available. The community is welcome. “Don’t just listen to me,” he said. “Come out and see what we’re doing. Walk with me. Let me show you the evidence that the lives of these horses have been changed.” The horses are available for adoption, or just for sponsorship— meaning someone can “adopt” a horse without taking it off the grounds. In the meantime, Barwick is up at 5 in the morning feeding his horses, and out again at 11pm to check on them before bedtime. “I wish I could say it’s a lot of work, but it doesn’t feel like that. It’s just something I really enjoy doing.” Backstretch is at 18500 Rea Ave. in Aromas. For information about the ranch, its horses and its services, visit backstretchrescue.org.
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O& A CALENDAR
9 other activities. Storytime at the Library is presented in English at two sessions every Wednesday, 10-11am or 11am-noon, and Bilingual Storytime is presented every Monday, 3-4pm at San Benito Free Library, 470 Fifth St, Hollister. Admission is free and snacks are provided. For information, call 831.636.4107.
Opening performance will be by Turn The Page—Tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. Barbecue items, beer, wine and soda will be available for purchase. Saturday, Aug. 24, 6:309:30pm at Pepper Tree Ranch, 500 John Smith Road, Hollister. For information and tickets, visit hollisterconcerts.com.
VINES & VIBES Guglielmo Winery presents its summer concert series, Vines & Vibes. Attendees are invited to bring a picnic dinner or purchase a meal onsite and relax while enjoying a bottle or glass of Guglielmo’s award-winning wine. Area bands will perform throughout the series. Attendees must be 21 or over, and no outside alcohol is permitted. Wednesday, Aug. 14, 6-9pm at Guglielmo Winery, 1480 E. Main Ave, Morgan Hill. For information, visit guglielmowinery.com.
MOVIE NIGHT The entire family is invited to head outside for In The Park After Dark Movie Night, presented by Santa Clara County Parks. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy a free movie under the stars beginning at sunset. Food will be available onsite for purchase. Reservations are not required, but note that there is a $6 parking fee. Saturday, Aug. 24, 8:30-10:30pm at Mt. Madonna County Park, 7850 Pole Line Road, Watsonville. For information, call 408.535.4065.
NATURE EXPLORERS
POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL Pu Pu O'Hawaii Outrigger Canoe Club and the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department invite the community to join them for the 27th annual Aloha Outrigger Races and Polynesian Festival. The free event includes island-style music and Polynesian dancing, shave ice and festive drinks and Polynesian-themed items for purchase. Sunday, Aug. 18, 11am-5pm with races kicking off at 9am at Santa Cruz Wharf, 21 Municipal Wharf. Visit pupuohawaii.org.
TACOS AND TEQUILA The annual Tequila & Taco Music Festival is back showcasing topshelf tequila samples and gourmet tacos. The festival features live music, margaritas, craft beer and art vendors in a picturesque park setting. Saturday will focus on tequila sampling, and Sunday is margarita themed. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 24 and 25, 11:30am-6pm each day at San Lorenzo Park in Downtown Santa Cruz. For tickets, visit tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com/ santacruz.
gear and bring along water and snacks Saturday, Aug. 10, 1-4pm at Mount Madonna County Park’s Hilltop Group Area, 7850 Pole Line Road. For information, call 408.842.2341.
ROLLER DERBY The Faultline Derby Devilz take the track against the Sacramento Floodwater Roller Derby. Saturday, Aug. 24, 11:30am-2:30pm at Bolado Park Event Center, 9000 Airline Highway, Tres Pinos. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/y3tanqr3.
SUMMER DELIGHTS Summer Delights: Stone Fruit and Wine Tasting tour features a gourmet luncheon, wine tasting and Old World family wine making traditions at two wineries. Tours will also stop at Andy’s Orchard, where participants will learn about the orchard’s history and taste dozens of stone fruit varieties. Tours are available Mondays-Saturdays through Sept. 30, departing at 11am from 50 E. Third St, Morgan Hill. For tickets and information, visit californiapassporttours.com.
AUGUST 9, 2019
Open Space Explorers is a free multi-day event inviting children ages 5-12 to learn about nature. Each day features a different theme and attendees may join all three days or any combination thereof. Attendees are advised to bring water, sun protection, hiking shoes and snacks. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Wednesday, Aug. 14-Friday, Aug. 16, 10am-1pm each day, at Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 4289 Casa Loma Road, Morgan Hill. For information, visit openspaceauthority.org.
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EVENTS MUSIC SERIES Morgan Hill’s 2019 Friday Night Music Series– Rockin’ the UpBeat Vibes, runs Fridays through Aug. 30. The event features music, booths offering local goods and services, local wines, and free admission
and parking. No outside alcohol permitted; beer, wine, food and more are available for purchase on site. All food proceeds from this event will benefit community youth scholarships. Friday, Aug. 9, 6-9:30pm at Morgan Hill Downtown Amphitheatre, 17000 Monterey Road. For information, visit morganhill.org. LIBRARY STORYTIME Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to Storytime at the Library. Guests will enjoy listening to stories, singing songs, learning rhymes and
JOURNEY TRIBUTE DSB, a tribute to Journey, is coming to the stage at Hollister Concerts at Pepper Tree Ranch. DSB has captured the signature sound of Steve Perry and Journey in their prime and delivers a nostalgic Journey concert experience.
GARDENING
The yellow jacket menace
YELLOW PESTS There are several different species of yellow jackets.
Wasps become more aggressive over the summer
wasps build small, umbrella-shaped nests with exposed cells. Yellow jackets are generally medium-size black wasps with jagged bands of yellow or white on the abdomen. While yellow jackets have the classic wasp-waist, it is often not clearly visible. There are several different species of yellow jackets. You may be able to identify a yellow jacket from a distance by its tendency to fly side to side as it prepares to land. Often, it is easier to identify a yellow jacket by its nest. Yellow jackets are divided into ground-nesting and aerial-nesting varieties. Aerial-nesting yellow jackets build the familiar rounded, hanging
Kate Russell is a UCCE Master Gardener in Santa Clara County. For more information, visit mgsantaclara. ucanr.edu or call 408.282.3105 between 9:30am-12:30pm, Monday through Friday.
AUGUST 9, 2019
By KATE RUSSELL
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watting at a yellow jacket is never a good idea. Rather than chasing them off, that swat is more likely to trigger an attack by the entire colony. Yellow jackets are omnivorous social wasps, and they can ruin outdoor summer events by stinging and biting. Yellow jackets are frequently confused with other wasps, but not all wasps are bad. Mud daubers and paper wasps, both beneficial insects, generally do not eat human food and are rarely aggressive unless provoked. Mud daubers have a very narrow waist and build their nests out of mud, while paper
nests with an entry hole at the base. While aerial-nesting wasps are generally less aggressive, they will attack if they feel threatened. Ground-nesting yellow jackets are extremely aggressive and are often not seen until it is too late. Ground-nesting yellow jackets frequently build their nests in rodent burrows, rotted tree cavities and houses. Yellow jackets rarely go more than a quarter-mile away from the nest. They become more aggressive over the summer as they search for protein and sugar to feed the colony. By late summer and autumn, yellow jackets are best described as angry scavengers. This is when they end up at picnics and cookouts, as well as near pet food and trash cans and around overripe fruit. Prevent stings by keeping food and sugary drinks in sealed containers. Once yellow jackets have found a food source, they will pester the area long after the food is gone. Working in the yard, one of the best ways to prevent stings is to be alert. Before digging, always look for ground-nesting wasps. It is far better to be on the lookout before a confrontation occurs. While bait traps containing esfenvalerate have not been shown to be effective, lure traps can be used to control yellow jackets. Improve the effectiveness of lure traps by adding a small piece of raw meat to the trap. Just be sure to replace the meat frequently, as wasps are not attracted to rotting meat. Ground-nesting colonies can be killed using wasp sprays. Just be sure to wear protective clothing and keep your distance. Yellow jackets will attack when the poison is sprayed, and it may take 24 hours for all the wasps to die. Consider yourself warned.
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PREPARING FOR WILDFIRE
Reduce deck danger
HIGH RISK Decks can contribute to the wildfire threat to your home.
Decks of all materials are vulnerable to embers AUGUST 9, 2019
By DWIGHT GOOD
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Editor’s note: This is the fourth installment in a series of articles on wildfire preparation.
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ill your home survive when the embers arrive? Wind-driven embers ignite many of the homes destroyed by wildfire. Your home could be at risk! Be ember aware and make changes to reduce the threat to your home. Remove leaves and pine needles from your rain gutters, chuck that firewood, and clean out debris from under your deck. You can learn more at www.emberaware.com Most people believe that wildfires ignite homes through direct
contact with flames, but it is rare to have a home ignite this way. Flaming brands and embers can travel a mile or more ahead of the active front of a wildfire and up to 60 percent of wildland/urban interface home ignitions result from embers.
Tip #4: Deck danger Decks are one of the parts of your home that are vulnerable to embers during wildfire. This applies to decks comprised of wood boards as well as those made from plastic and wood-plastic composite deck boards. If your deck ignites, the flames can ignite your combustible siding, break the glass on an adjacent window or sliding glass door, or climb to the eave and burn into
your attic. If you have a deck and live in a high fire hazard area, you should consider the following: • Keep the gaps between deck boards free of pine needles, leaves and other debris. This tip also applies to intersection between your deck and your house. Embers can become lodged in the gaps and ignite the deck. Also, don’t allow fallen pine needles and other dead plant material to accumulate on the deck surface during fire season. • The area underneath the deck is particularly susceptible to ember attack. Don’t store firewood, gas cans, lawn mowers, cardboard or other combustible materials under the deck and keep it free of weeds, pine needles and leaves. Consider enclosing the deck with solid skirting, such as siding that is properly vented, or with 1/8-inch wire mesh to limit ember penetration and reduce maintenance. Don’t enclose it with wooden lattice. • Rotted or otherwise poor condition wood is more easily ignited by embers than wood in good condition. Replace deteriorated wooden deck boards and posts with new ones. • Install metal flashing between the deck and the side of the house. Be sure the flashing is installed to allow proper drainage of water. • If wildfire is threatening, remove combustible materials from the deck, including newspapers and magazines, baskets, door mats, dried flower arrangements, and place them inside the house or garage. Propane tanks should be placed at a distance of 30 feet or more from the house. Decks can contribute to the wildfire threat to your home. Take steps now to reduce the deck danger. Fire Marshal Dwight Good, MS, EFO, serves the Morgan Hill Fire Department, South Santa Clara County Fire Protection District and CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit. He has 24 years of fire service experience. For questions or comments, email Dwight.good@fire.ca.gov or call 408.310.4654.
WINE
Melia Morales
LOCAL CRAFTS More than a dozen vendors showed their wares at the first
Makers Market at The Stomping Ground in July.
Market set to return Aug. 10 First event a success in July
T
Sparrowsongs cards, prints and beeswax fabric, Seaflower Jewelry and Turquoise Blue Design (jewelry and bags). In the vineyards, John Aver of Aver Family said veraison generally occurs in his vines during the first two weeks of August. He says it looks like a big crop, potentially larger than last year. “Despite the couple of short heatwaves we have had, it has been a somewhat cool year,” he said. Stefania Romero of Stefania Wines reports no signs of veraison yet, although Nik Zorn from Guglielmo says the petite sirah is coloring up. Tim Slater of Sarah’s Vineyard says the shot berries in the pinot are turning. “It’s been a nice cool year. Perfect for pinot noir,” he said, predicting a long, late harvest.
AUGUST 9, 2019
he first Makers Market held at The Stomping Ground in July featured more than a dozen local craftspeople whose wares are featured in Makers Market shops at Santana Row, Napa and San Francisco, along with food and live music. It was such a big hit that Janu and Jason Goelz are hosting two more outdoor markets on Aug. 10 and Sept. 14. “Overall, it was the best total sales on the property, along with the most visitors,” Jason Goelz said. “This could be the beginning of a monthly or even weekly event in summer.” Vendors in July included Joan of Artware (Italian-inspired bracelets), Beads n Shine (classic beaded jewelry), Sophie Pottery, Sacred Beauty Self Care (CBD products), Ostri Custom wallets, Fiorella Designs cigar box purses,
By LAURA NESS
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16 AUGUST 9, 2019
HOME OF THE WEEK
Alexis Winder Financial Advisor 615 San Benito St. Suite C Hollister 831-634-0694 Diana Brenneise Financial Advisor 8060 Santa Teresa Blvd. Suite 140 Gilroy 408-846-7748
TREES, LAND AND MORE This Ruben Court home sits on five acres.
New home on the pasture In addition to sizable main first floor, upstairs attic is nearly 3K square feet
Golden Gate Villa was designed by Thomas Welsh in the Queen Anne Victorian style, completed in 1891. With its original character preserved, it remains a monument to the era of elegance and craftsmanship in which it flourished. With more than 10,500 square feet of living space, this magnificent residence features 10 suites with kitchens and 11.5 bathrooms, including a penthouse with views of the ocean and city, a turreted carriage house, landscaped grounds & ample off-street parking. The Gold Parlor is modeled after a room in the Palace of Versailles with a pure onyx fireplace and gold-plated chandelier, the entry features a sweeping stairway, mantels are intricately carved exotic woods, plus: high ceilings with plaster rosettes, museum grade Tiffany quality stained glass windows, and gilded ornamental detailing. Walk to the beach or downtown; ideal for an extended family, co-housing community of friends, or your own dream lifestyle. It is zoned for a B&B. Viewing limited to serious inquiries. $5.9 million 924 3rd Street @ Main Santa Cruz
furnaces and two air-conditioning units. In addition, the upstairs attic measures in at more than 2,600 square feet, and is plumbed for heating, air conditioning and central vacuum. The home is listed at $1.35 million by Mary Anne Filice Realty. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ yytbfuv4.
Info & photos
zillow.com (enter address in search bar: 924 3rd Street, Santa Cruz) Drone video: https://player.vimeo.com/video/275315250#t=0 Danny Alvarez 831.818.4181 — David Lyng & Assoc. DRE #01237892 Anjelika Vassilieva 831.566.3961 — Lighthouse Realty, DRE #01977702
AUGUST 9, 2019
W
ithin this five-acre park-like setting lies a newer home. Located at 557 Ruben Court in Hollister, the 3,309-square-foot, five-bedroom, four-bath home was built in 2016. The fenced acreage includes a pasture as well as eucalyptus and oak trees that surround a seasonal creek. The interior has been recently painted. Inside also includes two
The Crown Jewel of Santa Cruz is for Sale
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Showcase, REALTORS® Featured Agent
Located in Well Established Neighborhood GREAT FAMILY HOME ~ 3Br/2Ba at end of cul-de-sac. Light & bright w/separate living room & kitchen open to dining area. Two sliding glass doors into large fenced backyard. A Must See! Don’t Hesitate to Make this Home Yours! $532,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321 NEW PRICE
Open Sat 1-4pm Jose Vargas (831) 524-1559 Open Sun 1-4pm Eileen Stone (408) 505-0067 4-CAR GARAGE ~ Beautiful 5Br/3Ba + retreat. (3000+ SqFt) in sought-after area. Large living room, kitchen overlooks family room. Downstairs Br/Ba. Backyard w/gazebo & entertaining space. 391 Majestic Drive, Hollister $729,900
Open Sat Noon-3pm D A R L I N G!!! ~ Lovely 3Br/2Ba on corner lot w/great access to large backyard. Pride of ownership shows w/newer windows, sliding glass doors, painted exterior, light fixtures & more. 1201 Brighton Drive, Hollister $515,000 Charlene King (831) 801-5465
TDavis ammy
Mobile: (831) 801Ͳ3179 Broker Associate DRE #01860356
Tammy has been in the Real Estate business for over 30 years – that’s a WHOLE lot of experience and a TON of funny stories! This is one Broker Associate that knows her business and finding you the perfect home that fits both your bucket list and budget are her specialty. Known as a tough negotiator and well respected by her peers, you can be sure Tammy will acquire top dollar for your home as your listing agent. Trustworthy, kind, knowledgeable and one of the hardest working agents out there. On her rare days off, Tammy loves spending time on her boat with her husband. Call her today to see how she can put all of her experience to work for you. Or just to say “Hi”!
Featured Property NEW LISTING
AUGUST 9, 2019
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Magical Views Like No Other in Hollister MUCH TO OFFER ~ Spacious 4Br/3.5ba w/large living/dining room & cozy family room. Master suite w/desk area, bath w/two walk-in closets. Jr Suite w/private bath. Oversize, landscaped yard. Call Today for an Exclusive Showing! $670,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321
2019 LISTING SPECIAL
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You can save several thousands of dollars when you sell your home. Contact Dan for a free, no obligation market analysis of your property. Do not overpay for real estate services, this market is your opportunity to sell and save money on closing costs!
Call me for a no obligation consultation at 831-313-1656 If your home is on market please disregard this advertisement
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Open Sat Noon-4pm HIDDEN GLEN ~ Single-story 4Br/2Ba w/nice amenities & spacious rooms. Separate living & dining rooms, kitchen w/island open to family room. Backyard is great entertaining space WOW! 6445 Sussex Place, Gilroy $759,999 Monica Weltz (831) 801-0592
2019 Thinking of Selling Your Property?
Open Sun 12:30-3:30pm Hosted by Ana Milenewicz Wonderful 3/Br/2Ba home w/nice open floor plan, separate living, family room & formal dining room. Eat-in kitchen w/white tiled counters & view to the backyard. Cozy brick fireplace in the living room w/raised hearth. Updated main bath w/granite counters. Nice large master bedroom w/walk in closet. Master bath also recently remodeled w/large walk in shower w/dual shower heads, new cabinets/counter, new flooring. All hard surface flooring throughout. A great backyard for the kids with play structure and trampoline. Backyard access from 2 sliding doors in the kitchen and master—and this home has central A/C. Located in a wonderful, established neighborhood walking distance to Cerra Vista School.
1660 Vallejo Drive, Hollister Great New Price $545,900
We are an award winning company offering superior service in each of our five locations! 330 Tres Pinos Road, Suite D1, Hollister (831) 245Ͳ0321 1544 Constitution Blvd, Salinas (831) 800Ͳ7341 534 Abrego Street, Monterey (831) 648Ͳ7271 237 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley (831) 438Ͳ8400 13117 Highway 9, Boulder Creek (831) 338Ͳ2125 or 338Ͳ2184
4 beds, 4 baths
Views are breathtaking!! Privacy, Views and tranquility best describe this custom estate located in the gated Community of Los Madrone in San Juan Bautista. Located on the top of a knoll this custom built home is 3697 square feet and has a finished bonus room over 400 square feet with extra storage. Enter through the front door and immediately admire the travertine floor. Move down the hallway into the large kitchen with island and walk in pantry. The kitchen opens to a large eating area with a wood burning fireplace. The custom mantle adds a nice touch. Of course, there are views from all the rooms. In fact, your breath will be taken away as you step into the large family room with oak floors and , wood stove and large picture windows. The exterior of the property is perfectly manicured and has producing olive trees and fruit trees. You will want to entertain all your friends and family on the large travertine patio with the built in barbeque area. After you are finished eating you can stroll to another smaller patio and listen to the fountain. Upstairs the master retreat has a large sitting area with built in storage. The shower is large and separate from the tub. Everything you need is in this space! Off the master bedroom is the bonus room. If you want a place to do crafts or have a game room this is the space for it! The downstairs has three bedroom. One has its own full bath. If you want a piece of heaven but still want to be close to 101… This is the house for you!
List Price:$1,288,888 Marilyn Ferreira 831-901-0161
CalBRE #00409787
Renee Kunz 831/801-1646
CalBRE#00963855
REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS
HOME RENTALS $2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit 4 Bed 3 Bath 3 car garage. Nice neighborhood, close to schools and shopping. Gardener included in rent. AVAILABLE NOW
BELLAGIO VILLAS
$2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit Nice 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home. AVAILABLE NOW
2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $1995. Pool. Park like setting. Contemporary Landscaping. 1129 Monte Bello Drive Gilroy, CA 95020
$3,000 Month/$3,500 Deposit 4 Bed 2 Bath home down country lane. All new appliances, fresh paint interior & exterior. 3 car garage. Water & gardener included.
(408) 847-2328 • Apply online: http://bellagiovillas.eprodesse.com
HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM
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airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802
2/1 2/2 3/2 3/2 3/2.5 4/2.5 4/3 4/4
$2,100 $2,150 $1,550 $2,550 $2,500 $2,600 $2,600 $3,600
2/1 2/1
$1,675 $1,800
Land Sales Built-to-Suit For Sale or Lease Select Lots Have Airport Access Financing Available
OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Rd. Executive Suite available and
HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND 3.5 Acres for Sale Lease or Build to Suit IndustrIal shops For lease
northpointebusinesscenter.com HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES For more information, call
831.637.1691
330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1
831.637.4297
831.637.7337
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MAGNOLIA LANDSCAPE AND CONCRETE, INC. Specializing, Pavers, Concrete, Irrigation, Sod, Cleanups, All Landscape Construction Serving the Bay Area since 1992 Call for Free Estimates Licensed, Bonded and Insured 408-309-2973 License # 962540
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AUGUST 9, 2019
Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured
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