SBM1942

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY

A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance

OCTOBER 18, 2019

Cake Showdown Local bakers perform on international stage P4

CALENDAR OF EVENTS P10 | THEATER P12 | REAL ESTATE P19

EDITOR’S NOTE

Competitive baking Modern Medicine, Compassionate Care

Even though I can’t cook beyond a microwave, I enjoy watching various cooking competition shows.

I’m always curious to find out where the shows’ contestants live, and if any reside in our area. So I was excited to hear that an Aromas couple, Julie and Mike Conrad, competed on The Big Bake: Halloween, which is now airing on Food Network Canada.

In this week’s cover story (page 4), I had the opportunity to chat with the Conrads, who run A Slice of Heaven Cakes, and get their perspective on competing on a show that gets hundreds of thousands of viewers. No pressure.

ERIK CHALHOUB

Editor, San Benito

Call now to schedule your appointment for a mammogram for only MAGAZINE

then press

64 W. Sixth Street, Gilroy, CA Mailing address: P.O. Box 516, Gilroy, CA 95021 Phone: 408-842-6400

12

Publisher

Dan Pulcrano Associate Publisher

Jeannette Close Editor

Erik Chalhoub

You need a physicians order to schedule your screening mammogram. If you don’t have a physician, you can make an appointment at one of our community health centers for your clinical breast exam and mammogram referral for if you pay at the time of your visit. only

Calendar Editor

Tia Sundberg Contributing Writers

Jenny Arbizu, Wallace Baine, Ron Erskine, Kimberly Ewertz, Cheryl Huguenor, Laura Ness, Susan Rife, Kate Russell

14 4

Cover Story

Advertising Account Executives

Carrie Bonato, Scott Harvey, Eileen Katis, Cynthia Runyon Design Director

Kara Brown Production Operations Manager

7

Crush

10 Calendar OCTOBER 18, 2019

12 Theater

2

14 Community 17 Home of the Week 911 Sunset Drive, Hollister ▪ (831) 637-5711 ▪ hazelhawkins.com

19 Real Estate

Sean George Editorial Production Manager

Katherine Manlapaz Published by New SV Media Inc., Gilroy, CA Entire contents © 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without publisher’s written permission.

TO PLACE AN AD Email:

advertising@newsvmedia.com Phone:

408.842.9404

WHAT EVERY PG&E CUSTOMER NEEDS TO KNOW Public Safety Power Shutoff, or PSPS, is a safety program that proactively shuts off electric power lines when there is an elevated fire risk.

Do you have an emergency kit with nonperishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, medications, flashlights and batteries?

If you own a generator, is it safe to operate?

If anyone in your family depends on electricity for their medical needs, have you made preparations?

All PG&E customers should be prepared for possible power outages that could last for multiple days.

If power is temporarily turned off, customers should consider these questions:

Are your mobile phones fully charged? Do you have a portable back-up charger or a solar charger?

Can we reach you in the event of a Public Safety Power Shutoff? Update your contact info at pge.com/mywildfirealerts.

Do you know how to open your garage door manually?

Do you have a personal safety plan for all members of your family, including your pets?

OCTOBER 18, 2019

Make sure we can reach you in the event of a PSPS. Please update your contact information at pge.com/mywildfirealerts.

“PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation. ©2019 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Paid for by PG&E shareholders.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A PUBLIC SAFETY POWER SHUTOFF?

3

Submitted photos

OCTOBER 18, 2019

4

STEADY HANDS Julie and Mike Conrad work in their home kitchen for their business, A Slice of Heaven Cakes. The husband-wife duo

joined friend Mandy Popejoy to compete on a Food Network Canada show, The Big Bake: Halloween (above).

Stacked

BY ERIK CHALHOUB

COMPETITION

T

Aromas cake decorators battle it out on Food Network show

he anticipation that comes with a TV cooking competition finale can be overwhelming for those viewers who have invested weeks into the show. Who is going to win? Will their favorite contestant emerge victorious?

But whatever emotions the audience may be feeling is nothing compared to those actually on the show, where a team of judges determines their fate as well as thousands in prize winnings.

Julie Conrad knows this all too well. In fact, she’s experienced it twice.

The Aromas cake decorator and former longtime Morgan Hill resident was a member of the winning team in Holiday Gingerbread Showdown, which aired on the Food Network in December. âž?6

OCTOBER 18, 2019

5

STACKED COMPETITION

5

Food Network Canada

OCTOBER 18, 2019

BIG BAKE Mandy Popejoy ( from left), Julie Conrad and Mike Conrad form Team Sweet Chaos.

6

“Words can’t describe the feeling when your team name is called as the winners,” she said. “Being recognized as the best of the best when competing against incredibly talented cake artists is very humbling.”

Now, Conrad is doing it all over again, and this time, her focus has shifted from festive to spooky.

She joined her husband Mike and friend Mandy Popejoy to form Team Sweet Chaos, which is battling against other hopeful cake artists for $10,000 on The Big Bake: Halloween.

The show was filmed in Toronto, Canada in June. Since it is currently airing on Food Network Canada, Conrad can’t reveal who won the competition.

The Conrads run A Slice of Heaven Cakes, which creates and delivers custom cakes for various events in the region, from weddings, birthdays and other special occasions.

As part of the winning team on Holiday Gingerbread Showdown, led by Beatriz Muller, Julie Conrad helped create a 42-inch Christmas tree out of gingerbread, which wowed the judges and sent them to the top of the competition.

Fresh off that win, Conrad received an invitation from Food

Network to apply for another show.

“A friend of mine said, ‘Live with no regrets, why don’t you apply?’” she said. “And I did.”

Conrad said that although she is now a veteran of TV cooking competitions, being in front of a camera on a major network still gives her nerves.

“Sure, I’m nervous,” she said. “I was doing it for the experience, and it was a lot of fun.”

Mike Conrad said besides working in an unfamiliar kitchen and bumping into a cameraperson every so often, it was easy to forget they would be watched by hundreds of thousands of people due to the amount of concentration involved.

“Once you get started and they say ‘go,’ outside of a few camera people being in your way once in a while, you almost forget what’s going on because you’re so focused on your cake,” he said.

Julie Conrad grew up in Morgan Hill and graduated from Live Oak High School. Julie and Mike met and married in the city as well, and both served as paid call firefighters. Mike Conrad retired in December 2016 as a division chief with the Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District.

Julie, who has always had ➝ 8

O& A

OUT & ABOUT

HOLLISTER

WALK & RUN The 30th annual Red Ribbon 5K Run raises awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol in the community while benefiting prevention efforts in local schools. Registration includes a commemorative shirt and medal. On Saturday, Oct. 19, the timed race will begin at 8am and the Family Fun Run begins at 8:30am at the Veterans Memorial Courtyard, 649 San Benito St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y3q9xsfk.

GILROY

BREW CRAWL The sixth annual Halloween Brew Crawl throughout downtown Gilroy will showcase more than 20 craft beers located at pour stations, and food including tacos and German fare. Costumes are encouraged but not required; ages 21 and over only. Saturday, Oct. 19, 2-6pm in Downtown Gilroy. Check-in begins at 1:45pm. Additionally, the first 50 designated drivers that sign up will receive goody bags. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/y4wbhe4j.

MORGAN HILL

DANCE PARTY “Heard it Through the Grapevine,” Guglielmo Winery’s rock and soul dance and wine party, will feature live music by The Houserockers.

Known for their over the top, high-energy set lists, The Houserockers fuse together elements of rock, funk, soul and R&B with occasional forays into rap and country. No outside food or beverage is permitted. Saturday, Oct. 19, 6-10pm at 1480 E. Main Ave. For information, visit guglielmowinery.com.

HOLLISTER

In this fall-themed pumpkin painting workshop, participants will be led through a step-by-step painting process with opportunities to add their own finishing touches. Proceeds from this fundraising event will benefit Hollister Montessori School, and raffle tickets will be available for the chance to win prizes. All ages are welcome to paint. Monday, Oct. 21, 6-9pm at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse, 401 McCray St. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/y2q399kw.

The Hollister Red Ribbon 5K will kick off Red Ribbon Week and the fall running season on Oct. 19.

OCTOBER 18, 2019

FUNDRAISER PAINT

AWARENESS RUN

7

STACKED COMPETITION

6

Modern Medicine, Medicine, Compassionate Compassionate Care Care Modern

S TATE TATE -- OF OF -- THE THE -A -A RT RT F F ACILITIES ACILITIES S

 



Emergency Department Department with with Emergency 16 private treatment rooms and 16 private treatment rooms and 33 trauma trauma bays. bays.

Ambulatory Surgery Surgery Center Center Ambulatory Women’s Center with 12 private, spacious birthing suites.

Technologically advanced Diagnostic Imaging Center.

OCTOBER 18, 2019

S PECIALTY SERVICES

8



Hollister Orthopedic Specialty Center



Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine



Barragan Family Diabetes Center



Hollister Multi-Specialty Center



Skilled Nursing Facilities

911 911 Sunset Sunset Drive Drive ▪▪ Hollister Hollister ▪▪ (831) (831) 637-5711 637-5711 ▪▪ www.hazelhawkins.com www.hazelhawkins.com

Submitted photo

 

LAYERED WORK Julie Conrad’s love of baking has propelled her business. a love for cooking and baking, taught her children how to bake while they were members of 4-H. After the children went off to college, Julie’s friends began asking her to bake them cakes for special events.

Sensing an opportunity, Julie decided to start a custom cake business, and about 12 years ago, A Slice of Heaven Cakes came out of the oven.

Julie said her quest to become the best cake baker and artist she can be has led her across the country, taking classes and meeting other like-minded bakers from around the world. She has also assisted with the construction of an eight-foot-tall cake at the International Cake Exploration Societé’s convention in Mobile, Ala. Like many people, Mike Conrad said he loves eating baked goods.

But to actually bake the goods himself was once a daunting prospect.

Noting that he had “zero artistic talent,” Mike now helps Julie with the larger aspects of cake-making, such as its structure and special effects, and also delivers cakes to customers.

“Once I got started, I realized, ‘wow, this is kind of fun,’” he said.

“I love it. It’s something I never dreamed I would be into.”

He credited his wife for teaching

him the craft, and added that he is more than happy to help her out.

“When you have a wife who’s been really supportive during your 38-year career in the fire service, it’s payback time,” he said.

Still, for someone who has spent his career in life-or-death situations, the cake business comes with its fair share of pressure, Mike said, citing a time when he had to carry a wedding cake precariously across a bocce ball court.

“I find that delivering a wedding cake is more stressful than crawling through a burning building,” he said.

Julie said she selected each member of her team for The Big Bake: Halloween based on their individual talent and skills.

“My husband can bake, stack and decorate, but his special skill is cake structure, electrical and other special effects which are essential when competing in these overthe-top cake challenges,” she said.

“Mandy is an incredible decorator and can turn sugar into the most realistic-looking things.

“So with the three of us, I think we can handle anything they throw our way.”

For information, visit asliceofheavencakes.com or foodnetwork.ca/ shows/the-big-bake.

Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino

YOUR BEST DEALS ARE NOW! FROM

319

$

AIR & ROOM PACKAGES

( INCLUDES ALL TAXES & FEES )

October 20, 11:00 am

San Jose, CA to Laughlin, Nevada

Art & Play in the Pre & K!

OCT 31 thru NOV 03

• CAIS & WASC accredited • Nonsectarian, independent, nonprofit school • 375-acre campus among a redwood forest and hilltop meadows • Bus transportation available

on the Banks of the Colorado River

Thursday–Sunday FOR RESERVATIONS

1.800.227.3849 RiversideResort.com

9/26/19 5:04 AM

October 25, 9:30 am

OCTOBER 18, 2019

* Prices are per person. Based on double occupancy. Single occupancy $50 additional charge. Includes roundtrip airfare, taxes, fees, ground transfers and hotel lodging at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino. Prices are subject to change, are not retroactive, and may not be available on certain departures or at time of booking due to limited space.

Tickets are non-refundable. Must be 21 years of age or older. Change penalties apply.

Scheduled air service provided by Sun Country Airlines.

SanJose.CA.RRsm.cmyk.MHGH&MSV.indd 1

Open House

408-847-2717 | MountMadonnaSchool.org | 491 Summit Road, Mount Madonna, CA 95076

9

O& A CALENDAR CALENDAR

OCTOBER 18, 2019

TREAT STREET

10

Downtown Hollister invites the public to this year’s Trick or Treat on San Benito Street. More than 30 businesses will participate in this family-friendly trick-or-treating event that includes music, a haunted house, a cake walk, costume contests with prizes and more. The first 500 participants will receive a Treat Street trick-or-treat bag filled with goodies. Free for all ages. Thursday, Oct. 31, 4-6pm beginning at Veterans Memorial Building, 649 San Benito St., Hollister. Trick or Treat on San Benito Street from Fourth Street to South Street. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y5ufzvao.

HOLLISTER HARVEST DINNER Spend a fall evening enjoying an intimate dinner during the peak of harvest

at Eden Rift Vineyards. Guests will enjoy a seasonally inspired menu that showcases Eden Rift’s new releases under its ancient Linden tree. Seating is limited.

Friday, Oct. 18, 6:30-9:30pm at Eden Rift Vineyards, 10034 Cienega Road, Hollister. For tickets, visit edenrift.com.

PUMPKIN JUNCTION The family-friendly Pumpkin Junction celebrates the harvest season and explores all that Casa de Fruta has to offer. Guests are invited to find a pumpkin, mine for gemstones at Casa de Miner’s Sluice, ride Casa de Choo Choo and take a spin on Casa de Carousel. The Junction will be held through Oct. 31, 8am-8pm at Casa de Fruta Orchard Resort, 10021 Pacheco Pass Highway. For information, visit casadefruta.com.

LIGHTS AND FRIGHTS Swank Farms presents its Trail of Lights and Frights, offering a full Fall Festival experience with a night under the stars. All ages are invited to wander through a starry path filled with Halloween favorites.

This family-friendly experience is open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Halloween, from dusk-10pm at Swank Farms, The Experience, 4751 Pacheco Pass Highway. For information and tickets, visit swankfarms.com/trail-of-lightsand-frights.

File photo

DERBY DEVILZ

The Faultline Derby Devilz will play their last home bout of the 2019 season against the Kuhmaunawanha Roller Derby. The Derby Devilz, an amateur roller derby league, recently joined the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, and is now part of the ranks of more than 400 all-female, skater-owned-and-operated leagues worldwide. Saturday, Oct. 26, doors open at 11:30am and the action begins at noon at Bolado Park Event Center, 9000 Airline Highway, Tres Pinos.

For information and tickets, visit faultlinederby.org.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

PAINT PARTY No experience is necessary in this sugar skull

GHOST WALK The 11th annual San Juan Bautista Ghost Walk features local ghost sightings and paranormal activities.

Reservation fees include gift bags and beverages, and proceeds support Rotary San Juan Bautista’s community and internal projects.

Open Space Authority will present a family-friendly nature education night— with a Halloween twist. Attendees will embark on an adventure along the valley floor and visit educational stops to gather clues to solve riddles, find geocaches and search for hidden Halloween treasures. Halloween costumes are encouraged at this free, real world, outdoor treasure hunt. Bring flashlights and water to drink. Saturday, Oct. 26, 5:30-7:30pm at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 550 Palm Ave., Morgan Hill. To register, visit openspaceauthority.org.

Friday and Saturday, Oct. 25 and 26 in Downtown San Juan Bautista, meet at the corner of Third and Mariposa streets. Tours will be offered at five nightly departure times beginning at 6:30pm. For reservations, visit rotarysanjuanbautista.com.

GILROY SPOOKY FUN Gilroy Gardens’ spooky-but-not-too-scary Halloween event is back with even more Boo. Little ones can trick or treat, sing and dance along to a live musical show or take a ride on the Boo Train or other “spookified” rides. A marketplace filled with Halloween treats, wine, craft beers and more fills out the event.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct.

18, 19 and 20, 5-10pm nightly at Gilroy Gardens, 3050 Hecker Pass Highway. For information, visit gilroygardens.org.

MORGAN HILL BIRD WALK Open Space Authority presents the Dawn Bird Walk at Coyote Valley, where the landscape will come alive with birdsong as the sun comes up.

Attendees will discover many bird species including yellowbilled magpies, Say’s phoebes and American kestrels while strolling the flat Heart’s Delight Trail and a short way up the Arrowhead Trail to experience the view. Bring along water, binoculars, a flashlight or headlamp and dress in layers.

Thursday, Oct. 24, 6:15➝ 13

OCTOBER 18, 2019

HANDMADE ORNAMENTS Sewing enthusiasts can get started crafting for the holidays by creating handmade ornaments at Family Threads Quilt Shop.

Purchase one of two ornament kits or a gift cardholder tag kit, and finish one ornament or tag in class. Kits include all necessary supplies except needles, scissors and paper for templates. Saturday, Oct. 19, 10:30am-2:30pm at Family Threads Quilt Shop, 107 The Alameda, San Juan Bautista. For information, visit familythreadsquiltshop.com.

painting workshop. Participants will be led step by step through the painting, with opportunities for personalization. The workshop includes light snacks, beverages, two hours of instruction and all necessary painting materials.

Paint-friendly clothing is recommended; note this is an adults-only evening. Thursday, Oct. 24, 6:30-8:30pm at Posada De San Juan, 310 Fourth St, San Juan Bautista. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y3qmez5d.

HALLOWEEN GEOCACHE

11

THEATER REVIEW

Energetic charm

SV Civic Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ a memorable opening to 51st season

BY SUSAN L. RIFE

Photo by Elizabeth Mandel

SHOWSTOPPERS South Valley Civic Theatre’s production of ‘Rodgers and

OCTOBER 18, 2019

Hammerstein’s Cinderella’ runs through Oct. 26.

12

T

here’s something about the sheer joy and enthusiasm radiating from a cast of theater kids singing and dancing their little hearts out in a musical that can charm the most seasoned theatergoer.

And the young people who opened South Valley Civic Theatre’s 51st season with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella on Oct. 5 do a terrific job with a version adapted for pre-high school

students. It’s short and energetic, just right for budding princes and princesses (many of whom dressed for the occasion at Sunday’s matinee) who might find their wiggles impossible to contain for a longer show. The Rodgers and Hammerstein score and lyrics are catchy and memorable.

Making his directorial debut at SVCT, Daniel McDonald, assisted by his mother Susan McDonald as vocal director, has at his disposal a cadre of young voices who surprise

and delight at nearly every turn.

His Cinderella, Riley Brown, has a big voice and a natural ease on the stage that wasn’t shaken even by a wardrobe malfunction that might have rattled a less poised performer. She moves easily from the mistreated yet plucky servant to her stepmother and snobbish stepsisters (“In My Own Little Corner”) to the dazzled yet still quick-thinking belle of the ball as the kingdom’s prince falls for her at first sight (“Ten Minutes Ago”). London

McWilliams’ Prince Charming has a startlingly warm and appealing voice displayed to best advantage in his duet with his future princess, although he could slow down his dialogue delivery a tad.

Stealing the show at nearly every opportunity are Angelina Villafranca and Paige DeRosa as Cinderella’s silly stepsisters Portia and Joy. Outrageously dressed in confectionary-colored, beribboned and beruffled gowns that belie their uncouth natures (nose-picking and butt-scratching indeed), the pair bicker between themselves until they turn their joint sneers toward Cinderella. “Stepsisters’ Lament” and “A Lovely Night” let these two youngsters (13 and 12 years old, respectively) really let loose.

As the Fairy Godmother, Jillian Puente harmonizes beautifully with Brown on “Impossible,” perhaps the show’s most memorable tune.

Elyas Payan as King Maximillian and Ruby Salvatti as Queen Constantina make a charmingly mismatched pair of royals, concerned that their son (who amusingly towers over both of them) is so reluctant to take a bride.

Costume credits go to Kimberly Lynch and Adrianne Wilkinson, who have pulled out all the stops for this show, including the inventive transformation of mice to the horses pulling Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage. The program notes that Lynch donated costumes for Cinderella, the Prince, and all tiaras and crowns in memory of her mother, Bobbie.

“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” continues through Oct. 26 at South Valley Civic Theatre in the Morgan Hill Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. For information, call (408) 842-SHOW or visit www.svct.org.

O& A CALENDAR

11 Saturday Night Concert Series and themed weekends. The Northern California Renaissance Faire at Casa de Fruta will be held through Oct. 20 on Saturdays and Sundays only from 10am-6pm at 10021 Pacheco Pass Highway, Hollister.

For information and tickets, visit norcalrenfaire.com.

DIWALI CELEBRATION Diwali: Festival of Lights will celebrate South Asian culture. Families will learn about Indian culture through folktales, creating rangoli designs, sampling traditional sweets, making henna tattoos and molding Diya lamps. The festival also includes classical and contemporary dance.

Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19 and 20, noon-4pm daily at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way, San Jose. For information, visit cdm.org.

LIVING CENTERPIECE

The public is invited to create a living fall centerpiece from a Cinderella pumpkin and succulents at Lemon Hollow Wreaths & Petals’ Succulent Pumpkin Workshop. Students will receive a full size Cinderella pumpkin, a supply of succulents and cuttings and many fall embellishments to create a living centerpiece that will last through winter with proper care. Sunday, Oct. 20, 1-3pm at CGR Farmhouse, 5890 San Felipe Road, Hollister. Space is limited. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/yxz84a2r.

8am at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 550 Palm Ave. Gates will open at 6am. For information and to register for this free event, visit openspaceauthority.org.

EVENTS

RENAISSANCE FAIRE Step back in time to Renaissance Europe and enjoy hearty ales, fine foods and handmade crafts. Hundreds of costumed performers will roam the streets and act on five different stages. The faire includes the Tournament of Horses,

HALLOWEEN COMICFEST Bill’s Bullpen will host Halloween Comic Fest 2019, featuring just treats and no tricks, with free comics and free photos with superhero favorites, as well as a costume contest with prizes.

Saturday, Oct. 26, 10am-8pm at Bill’s Bullpen Baseball Cards & Comics, 207 Fourth St., Hollister.

For information, call 831.636.1180.

HALLOWEEN PARTY Celebrate Halloween at Ridgemark Golf Club and Resort with Soul Kiss Band. Soul Kiss performs a variety of top pop, rock, country, hip-hop, old school, classic rock and R&B hits from today and yesteryear. Ages 21 and over only; no cover charge. Saturday, Oct. 26, 9pm-midnight at Ridgemark

ROCKIN HALLOWEEN Plan a Halloween party night out at Daisy’s with JJ Hawg Band.

Guests will be treated to their favorite classic rock, blues, country and funk songs. Saturday, Oct. 26, 9pm-1am at Daisy’s Saloon, 213 Third St., San Juan Bautista. For information, visit jjhawgband.com.

OFRENDA EXHIBITS The Gilroy Center for the Arts will remember family members and friends who have passed on at the eighth annual Dia de los Muertos Community Ofrendas & Art Exhibit. The exhibit, 7341 Monterey St., Gilroy, runs Oct. 15-Nov. 2 with a free event on Oct. 26 from noon-4pm. For information about the event or setting up an Ofrenda, visit gilroycenterforthearts.com.

SHIBORI WORKSHOP The public is invited to learn the ancient technique of Shibori Indigo Dyeing to create a set of four dinner napkins to take home. Students will learn the basics of mixing indigo dye and the Japanese art of folding and binding fabric to create patterns. The workshop includes a complimentary beverage while crafting. Guests may also bring a small piece to dye at the end of the workshop, Saturday, Oct. 26, 1-3pm at Annieglass, 310 Harvest Drive, Watsonville. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/yy2voc3s.

MURDER MYSTERY The GardenShoppe will present a gothic dinner party, “Murder at the Poe’s Raven Party.” This murder mystery party will feature two victims, prizes for the winners and the first to buy tickets will get their choice of parts. Dinner and dessert are also included in the $30 ticket price. Saturday, Oct. 26, 4-8:30pm at The GardenShoppe, 364 Seventh St., Hollister. Space is limited, and warm attire is advised. For tickets, visit tinyurl. com/yxzd6yuy.

OCTOBER 18, 2019

ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVING Fremont Peak’s expansive views and astronomical observatory will again be on display with public programs. The Solar Public Program offers the chance to view solar weather, sunspots and prominences with special telescopes and filters. An evening public program features a media presentation and the opportunity

to observe the night sky through a 30-inch telescope. Both programs will be held Saturday, Oct. 19, solar program from 2-5pm and evening program from 8pm-midnight or later at Fremont Peak Observatory, San Juan Canyon Road, San Juan Bautista. For information, updated program times and availability status, visit fpoa.net.

SPOOKTACULAR 2019 The importance of after-school programming will be on display at Spooktacular Lights On After School 2019. This free community event will be full of activities, arts and crafts, games and a costume contest. All who bring a toiletry donation will be entered to win a spooky prize. Friday, Oct. 25, 6:30-8pm at YMCA of San Benito County, 351 Tres Pinos Road, Hollister. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y5nvp5ok.

Golf Club and Resort, 3800 Airline Highway, Hollister. For information, visit ridgemarkgolfclub.com.

13

COMMUNITY

Service for the soul

Steven Ewertz

CARING HAND Bonita Springs Hospice Care volunteer Josephine Matheny chats with

John Tafuri at Villa Serena of Morgan Hill.

Volunteers provide comfort, compassion at Bonita Springs Hospice Care OCTOBER 18, 2019

By KIMBERLY EWERTZ

14

P

hilanthropy runs high in the Gilroy community, and Bonita Springs Hospice Care volunteers are a perfect example of that generosity. Although the way they see it, what they receive in return is much more than what they give.

Dr. Syeda Omer, CEO and administrator of Bonita Springs, moved to Gilroy from Bonita Springs, Fla. after her father’s 15-year battle with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s ended on June 19, 2012.

“I just felt like I really needed to do something for him,” Omer said.

“I wasn’t able to get him back, obviously, so I thought OK, the best way is to do something for people in the same situation he was in, to help others and get that peace of

mind.”

Two years later the doctor opened Bonita Springs Hospice Care in Gilroy.

“We wanted to make sure that we are there to make a difference in the community,” Omer said.

The facility offers its services to five counties spanning from Fremont to the Monterey/Salinas area, and has served more than 500 patients since opening in 2014, the majority of whom reside in Gilroy, Morgan Hill and Hollister.

The staff of 35, which includes 10 volunteers, currently cares for 50 patients, 30 of whom receive hospice care and 20 who receive home health care, a secondary division of the facility that opened in 2016.

Patricia Amaya, Bonita Springs’ volunteer coordinator, is credited with the success of the volunteer

program, as well as being “an amazing asset” to the team, according to Omer. Amaya joined the facility in its beginning stages and considers the work she’s doing “very special.”

“Not all our elderly people have someone to take care of them and that is heartbreaking, but it feels great to have the opportunity to be that companionship and be the eyes of our community and take care of the immediate needs of the clients,” Amaya said.

Volunteer Mindy Scherr of San Juan Bautista experienced her father’s passing in 2015, and last year joined the Bonita Springs volunteer program as a way to help people with their end-of-life transition.

“It’s just been a service of my soul, or for my soul, or maybe both,” Scherr said, adding she spent 10 months caring for her first patient, who at the age of 104 suffered from severe hearing loss and dementia but still proved to be a great inspiration to her.

Gilroy resident Josephine Matheny began volunteering almost four years ago and considers the experience extremely rewarding.

“To just give a person some comfort by either holding their hand or playing music, reading to them, and if they’re able, you can play games and just talk,” Matheny said.

Volunteers, on average, visit their patients once a week, but the amount of time per visit varies. Depending on the patient’s needs, a visit may last up to three or four hours. Matheny’s reward for her donated time is the smile she receives from her patients when she walks into their room.

“You’re always sorry to see them go, but you see them die in peace and that’s all I think you can ask for in life is to die in peace,” Matheny said.

For information about the Bonita Springs Hospice Care Volunteer Program, visit bonitaspringshospicecare.com/hospice-care-volunteers or call 408-848-1114.

OCTOBER 18, 2019

15

Call 408.767.2868 cafe152@charter.net Food for the How many from 10 to 100 Tell Us We’ll work with your budget MADE

Holidays

CATERING EASY! Made Easy!

Enjoy

Drop Off Free in Gilroy On Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co.

Call cafe152@charter.net

408.767.2868 Here are some ideas!

Assorted Gourmet Sandwiches How many from 10 to 100

Tell Us

Mini SandwichesWe’ll work with your budget Variety of Market Salads Drop Off Free in Gilroy

Enjoy

Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co. Audrey’s FinestOn Chocolate Chip Cookies and many other Desserts Here are some ideas!

Here are some ideas!

Exceptional Breakfast • Assorted gourmetAssorted sandwiches Gourmet Goodies • Mini sandwiches Sandwiches

Pastries and Coffee • Variety of market salads

Mini Sandwiches

Fall Bites • Harvest ChocolateSmall chip cookies Variety of Market Salads Menu • Exceptional breakfast goodies

Audrey’s Finest Chocolate

• Pastries and coffee Sliders - Burger BarChip Cookies and many • Burger sliders other Desserts Buffet Dinner for drop off • Buffet dinner for drop off

Appetizer Party at Exceptional Breakfast • Appetizer party atGoodies Cafe 152 Bread Co. Cafe 152 - BYOW BYOW Pastries and Coffee

Office parties and events

408.767.2868

Catering

Fall Harvest Small Bites Menu Sliders - Burger Bar Buffet Dinner for drop off Appetizer Party at Cafe 152 Bread Co. BYOW

408.767.2868 • cafe152@charter.net

Located in Historic DowntownCatering Gilroy

OCTOBER 18, 2019

408.767.2868 • cafe152@charter.net

16

• Steaks, Seafood & Pasta • Beautiful Ambiance • Patio Dining • Early Bird Dining • Sunday Champagne Brunch 8am • Full Service Bar / Happy Hour 3-6pm • Early Bird Dinner Specials 4-6pm • Ask About Our Banquet & Catering Services Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Line Dancing Baby Showers, Receptions Wed • 7pm FREE Lessons Open daily 8:00am for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 8am-1pm 7400 Monterey Street, Gilroy • 408.842.3454 www.oldcityhall.biz

HOME OF THE WEEK

MOUNTAIN RANGE This Paicines home is perched on

a hill that overlooks a 23-acre ranch.

Mountains galore Paicines home’s views complemented by sizable private ranch The living room has vaulted wood ceilings and red brick fireplace. The home sits on top of a hill, which overlooks the ranch’s acreage. It is also billed as being located only 20 minutes from hunting land.

The home is listed at $650,000 by Beale Properties. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y3l9qppo.

(or a relative or friend)

TO BE FEATURED IN OUR VETERANS DAY EDITION! The section is devoted to all U.S. or allied military veterans who are currently San Benito County residents or have a connection to this area.

Please provide service photos and information (see below) and submit to us for publication in November 8, 2019. This is a great way to honor the veterans in your family or to let us know of your service to our country.

If you have access to email, please send information to our editor: echalhoub@newsvmedia.com. Attach photos (jpgs preferred).

No email? Complete the form below and mail: New SV Media, 64 W. Sixth St., Gilroy, CA 95020; or drop off materials at the same address.

Please label all materials with your name and phone number and submit by Nov. 1, 2019.

Name: Phone number: Branch of service: Rank achieved (optional): Dates served: Where did you serve?

Special information (e.g. POW)

OCTOBER 18, 2019

I

t’s all about the mountainous views from this secluded home in Paicines. The 23acre ranch it sits on is a nice touch, too.

Located at 2251 Cottonwood Road, the 1,635-square-foot home includes three bedrooms and two baths. The home, built in 1978, features a two-car garage and a fire pit outside.

WE WANT YOU

17

Showcase, REALTORS® NEW PRICE

Open Sat 1-4pm & Sun Noon-3pm EXQUISITE ~ 5-years new Anderson-built 5Br/4Ba w/lots of privacy. Downstairs Br/Ba. Master suite + Jr master + loft area. Open kitchen & chef’s area w/pantry. A WOW & a must see!

1061 Cypress Street, Hollister $739,999 Charlene King (831) 801-5464 NEW LISTING

Highly Sought After Las Palmas II Area BEAUTIFUL MTN VIEWS ~ 3Br/2.5Ba + office/den. Living/dining room combo, wood burning fireplace, high ceilings, walk-in closets, spacious master bath, water softener, backyard w/patio. Community amenities: pool, spa, tennis. $654,000 Salinas (831) 245-0321 NEW PRICE

Open Saturday Noon-2pm COZY & CONVENIENT ~ Delightful 4Br/2.5Ba in Creekbridge area. Crown molding on 1st floor, fireplace in living room, kitchen open to family & dining areas. All appliances convey.

1063 Kensington Way, Salinas $513,000 Heidi Daniels (831) 601-6582

Featured Agent

Monica

Mobile: (831) 801Ͳ0592 REALTOR® DRE #01221258

Selling Dreams Not Just Real Estate I have been helping my clients realize their Real Estate dreams since 1997. With my careful planning, patience and tenacity, I am committed to helping home owners achieve the highest possible price for their home, and helping buyers find the perfect home that fits their needs.

As a California licensed REALTOR®, I have sold in many areas, including several cities in Santa Clara, San Benito, Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties.

I have also handled all types of sales such as single family residential, multiͲresidential, bank owned, short sales, trust sales, condos/ townhouses, mobile homes, homes on land, etc., so whatever your Real Estate need is, do not hesitate to ask me!

Featured Property NEW LISTING

Affordable with Endless Possibilities!

OCTOBER 18, 2019

NEW PRICE

18

Clean, Beautiful and Peaceful!

AMAZING CURB APPEAL ~ Pristine 3Br/2Ba w/fresh exterior paint & new flooring throughout.

Separate living & dining rooms. Kitchen open to family room w/vaulted ceiling & fireplace.

Backyard also landscaped & possible gate access. $579,000 Salinas (831) 648-7271

COMING SOON!

Weltz

NEW PRICE

Open Saturday 1-3pm LOCATION, LOCATION ~ Romantic multigabled 4Br/3Ba + huge bonus room w/fireplace, cozy office, hardwood floors & vaulted, open beam ceiling. Zoned Commercial Residential.

427 Cayuga Street, Salinas $663,900 Heidi Daniels (831) 601-6582

Looking to sell your home?

Want to buy a home?

Open Friday Noon-3pm Tammy Davis (831) 801-3179 Open Saturday Noon-3pm Shannan Matthews (209) 410-8078 Open Sunday 2-5pm Tammy Davis (831) 801-3179 Home is a single story 3 bedroom/1 bath with 2 car attached garage, hardwood flooring and upgraded kitchen. Large lot in a quiet cul-de-sac location. Easy access for commuters to highway 25.

Permitted large accessory building with full bath, great as an artist studio, home business, game room, etc. Private backyard with "she" shed for additional storage. Possible RV parking behind secure double gates.

40 Chappell Circle, Hollister Offered for $476,600

The real estate market is hot and inventory is low! Give us a call to find out what your home could sell for in today’s market!

We are an award winning company offering superior services across Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties!

25 Belmont Ct. Hollister

26 Years of Helping Buyers and Sellers

Your Opportunity to be a Gentleman Farmer!

Comfortable 3 bed 2.5 bath

$899,950

Aggressive Commission Structures!

Ask About Our Savings Programs...

Daniel J. Furtado, Broker www.danfurtadorealestate.com 408.313.0833 | 831.313.1656 furtadodan@gmail.com CalBRE: 01131718

1750 BRIGHTON OPEN SUNDAY 12-3PM

SELLERS MOTIVATED

Within walking distance of neighborhood park; near Cerra Vista School. Lots of extra space in this KB resale home. 4 bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms with bonus room upstairs, stucco exterior, 2464 Sq.Ft., L.R./D.R. combo, laminated flooring, kitchen has eating Reduced: area, tile floors, freestanding gas range, ceramic tile counters, pantry cabinet, microwave. Larger Master Bedroom Suite has good sized bath w/ separate tub, stall shower, double sinks.

Home is wired for security system - not active... Inside utility room with storage, newly painted interior. RV PARKING. 1 hour, notice before showing.

Appointment Only…

$603,800

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS

$1,750 Month/$2,250 Deposit 2 Bed 1 Bath Duplex close to shopping.

Older unit that has been completely re-furbished on the inside. Indoor laundry with lots of storage inside and out. No garage. Gardner included.

BELLAGIO VILLAS

$1,850 Month/$1,850 Deposit 2 Bed 1 Bath Upstairs Apartment 2 Parking Spaces

2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $2245.

Pool. Park like setting.

Contemporary Landscaping.

1129 Monte Bello Drive Gilroy, CA 95020

$2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath 2 car garage.

AVAILABLE MID NOVEMBER

(408) 847-2328 • Apply online: http://bellagiovillas.eprodesse.com

$2,750 Month/$3,250 Deposit Country living on a cul-de-sac.

Easy access to Hwy 25 and 156 Water and garbage included in rent.

HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM

Publish Your Business or Service Ad Here

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS

RENTALS

1/1 3/2 3/2 3/2.5

$1,400 $1,550 $2,600 $2,675

Land Sales Built-to-Suit For Sale or Lease Select Lots Have Airport Access Financing Available

HOLLISTER APARTMENT RENTALS 2/1

$1,800

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

HOLLISTER DUPLEX/TRIPLEX RENTALS 2/2.5 3/2

$1,850 $2,000

HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND

OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Rd. Executive Suite available and

3.5 Acres for Sale Lease or Build to Suit IndustrIal shops For lease

northpointebusinesscenter.com

For more information Contact 408.842.5066

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES For more information, call

or email classifieds@newsvmedia.com

831.637.1691

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

831.637.4297

831.637.7337

www.pivetticompany.com Lic# 429006

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES CONCRETE

DOORS

HAULING

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

J. Casalegno Concrete

All Residential

South County Cleanup, Demo & Hauling LOW RATES • FREE ESTIMATES CLEAN UP-Yards, homes, properties, rentals & garages DEMO-Bathrooms, kitchens, decks, patios, small buildings HAULING-Garbage, yard waste, rock, sand & mulch POWER WASHING 408.430.3560

Humberto Montes Tree Services

A+ rated BBB company 35+ years experience • Driveways • Patios • Walkways • Stamped Concrete

408.279.8036

Installed • Finished Repaired • Entry • Patio Closet Pocket And More Call Adam at 408.710.4556

cccraftsman@gmail.com craftmansdooservices.com

CONSTRUCTION

HANDYMAN

Rianda Construction

Hauling, yard work tree & brush trimming, fence repair, vacant home & garage cleaning FREE ESTIMATES Ruben 408.310.0078

- 35 years experience -

Quality • Integrity New construction Additions & remodels

408.847.1490 Lic: #649968 Credit cards accepted

408.394.6824

Lic: #7921 Fully Insured

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

Soares Lumber P.S.G. Fencing Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks

Arbors • Hole Drilling

408.842.0260 831.726.2002 Lic. #606051

GARDENING

Gregg’s Complete Gardening Service Wood fences • Clean ups Tree work •Sod • Sprinklers Free estimate

Please call or text 831.537.5205

OCTOBER 18, 2019

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

• Hauling • Lawns • Aeration • Landscaping • Yard clean-up • Garden maint.

FENCES

19

A Play Faire Production

WEEKENDS, SEPT 14th - OCT 20th

Halloween Fantasy OCT 19th & 20th

FREE Rock Concert Series The Wicked Tinkers OCT 19th Children 12 & under FREE every weekend

at Casa De Fruta, Pacheco Pass, HWY 152, Hollister

NorCalRenFaire.com