THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY
A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance
JANUARY 24, 2020
Prune & Festoon Arborists advise proper tree care during cold weather P4
CALENDAR OF EVENTS P8 | GARDENING P12 | REAL ESTATE P15
4
TRIM UP Arborists agree that winter is an ideal time to prune dormant trees.
Food for the
Holidays
MAGAZINE
64 W. Sixth Street, Gilroy, CA
Made Easy!
Mailing address: P.O. Box 516, Gilroy, CA 95021 Phone: 408-842-6400
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
10
CATERING EASY! Made Easy! Enjoy
Call cafe152@charter.net Tell Us
Variety of Market Salads Drop Off Free in Gilroy
Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co. Enjoy Audrey’s FinestOn Chocolate
JANUARY 24, 2020
Chip Cookies and many other Desserts
2
Here are some ideas! Here are some ideas! Exceptional Breakfast • Assorted gourmetAssorted sandwiches Gourmet Goodies • Mini sandwiches Sandwiches Pastries and Coffeesalads • Variety of market 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 Exceptional Breakfast Appetizer Party at • Appetizer party atGoodies Cafe 152 - BYOW
Cafe 152 Bread Co. 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
Associate Publisher Editor
Erik Chalhoub Calendar Editor
Tia Sundberg Contributing Writers
Jenny Arbizu, Wallace Baine, Kimberly Ewertz, Laura Ness, Susan Rife, Kate Russell
408.767.2868 Here are some ideas!
Mini SandwichesWe’ll work with your budget
Dan Pulcrano Jeannette Close
Drop Off Free in Gilroy On Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co.
Assorted Gourmet Sandwiches How many from 10 to 100
Publisher
Advertising Account Executives
12
Carrie Bonato, Scott Harvey, Eileen Katis, Cynthia Runyon Design Director
Kara Brown
Production Operations Manager
Sean George
3
Crush
4
Cover Story
8
Calendar
10 Community
Editorial Production Manager
Katherine Manlapaz
Published by New SV Media Inc., Gilroy, CA Entire contents © 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
TO PLACE AN AD
12 Gardening
Email:
13 Wine
408.842.8313
14 Home of the Week 15 Real Estate
advertising@newsvmedia.com Phone:
TO CONTACT EDITORIAL Email:
echalhoub@newsvmedia.com Phone:
408.842.9505
O& A
OUT & ABOUT
SAN JUAN BAUTISTA
MISSION 10 RACE The 37th annual Mission 10 Race features four different races, including a one-mile kids fun run, TAC Distance Certified Half Marathon and 10 miles and a 5k. Each race will run through the scenic Anzar Hills through rural farmland and start and finish in front of the historic San Juan Mission. Family-friendly themed teams are encouraged and trophies will be awarded to top themes. All proceeds benefit local scholarships and charities. Saturday, Jan. 25 at Mission Plaza, 406 Second St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/tecetz2.
MONTEREY
WHALEFEST MONTEREY The 10th Annual Whalefest Monterey celebrates the return of gray whales to the Monterey Bay. This free and educational event is family-friendly and features live entertainment, face painting, educational exhibits, historic walking tours, chalk art and more. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25-26, 10am-5pm both days at Monterey Old Fisherman’s Wharf, 1 Fishermans Wharf. For information, visit montereywharf.com.
GILROY
WOMEN IN TECH Silicon Valley Reads and the Gilroy Library present a Women in Tech Panel, featuring four experienced professionals currently working in the tech industry. Panelists will discuss what it’s like to be a woman in the industry, challenges facing women in tech and how the girls of today can become the tech leaders of tomorrow. Saturday, Jan. 25, 2-4pm at Gilroy Library, 350 W. Sixth St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/yfdbbsal.
ANNUAL RACE
The Mission 10 Race returns to the scenic Anzar Hills Jan. 25 in San Juan Bautista.
HOLLISTER
Calera Wine Company assistant winemaker Amy Gill will host the Calera Library Wine Dinner. A four-course meal will be paired with older wines that have been specially chosen from the Calera private library collection for this evening. Space is limited. Saturday, Jan. 25, 6-9pm at Calera Wine Company, 11300 Cienega Road. Guests must be 21 and over, and pets are not permitted at this event. For tickets and information, visit calerawine.com.
JANUARY 24, 2020
WINTER LIBRARY DINNER
3
FREEZE
prepared Trees must be properly cared for during winter BY ERIK CHALHOUB
JANUARY 24, 2020
W
4
ith winter now in full swing, homeowners, if they haven’t already, should clear gutters of any debris, make sure their heating system is in top working order, and stock food and other supplies in the event of a power outage. But what about those trees in the yard? They may look hardy enough to weather the chilly three-month season, but trees, like any living thing, must receive the proper care to survive and thrive into the spring and beyond. Brian Humphrey, owner of Pleasant Valley Tree Care, is quick to pass on winter tips for tree caregivers. Humphrey, who was born and raised in Gilroy, is an International Society of Arboriculture-certified arborist who began working in the horticulture field in 1996, apprenticing under four certified arborists in Santa Cruz. The company provides a variety of tree-related services, including consultation, selection, planting, pruning, removal, disease diagnosis and more. The following are some of Humphrey’s recommendations for the winter season, along with some tips from other sources. ➝6
TRIM UP Arborists
agree that winter is an ideal time to prune dormant trees.
âž? 12
JANUARY 24, 2020
5
FREEZE PREPARED
5
FRAMES
100
$
OFF
PLUS, 2ND PAIR FREE*
DIGITAL PROGRESSIVE LENSES
50
$
EYE EXAM
OFF**
69
$
GETTING IN SHAPE Pruning is for both practical reasons and aesthetic value.
†
BOOK APPOINTMENT ONLINE
Morgan Hill | 1049 Cochrane Rd. | Near Target 408.778.4633 | SiteforSoreEyes.com Most Insurance Plans Accepted | Financing Available
JANUARY 24, 2020
*Must purchase frames and lenses. Free second pair from large selection of frames with single-vision lenses. **With purchase of frames. Not combinable with insurance or other offers. Some restrictions may apply. See store for details. Offer expires 03/31/20. †Contact lens exam additional. Eye exams available by an Independent Doctor of Optometry, conveniently located at Site for Sore Eyes.
6
Pruning
Warmth
“Winter is the dormant time for many trees, and it is believed by many people to be the best time of year to trim,” Humphrey said. Winter is the perfect time to prune conifers (pines, cedars, firs and spruce), he said. During this season, the trees have less sap flowing, making it less likely to drip. Monterey pines, which are highly sensitive to disease, are more tolerant of pruning in the winter months. But only prune if necessary, Humphrey advised. Why is it important to prune trees in the first place? According to the “Care of Trees” website, pruning is not only for aesthetic value but for practical reasons, as it reduces the chance for heavy limbs to come crashing down during winter storms and causing major damage, and can also halt diseases that could spread rapidly during the warmer months. Branches ripe for pruning are those that are dead, dying, damaged or diseased. Frost-sensitive trees and plants, however, should be pruned after winter has passed, according to Humphrey. These include citrus, jacaranda, oleander and other tropical plants.
Trees, like people, need to find some sort of warm comfort during winter. Lights that emit heat can provide warmth while also protecting against frost, Humphrey recommended. And those festive lights during the holiday season can also serve a more practical purpose: Christmas lights, if they generate heat, can be wrapped around trees as a way to provide warmth. With the nights dropping to freezing temperatures, frost-sensitive trees and plants should be covered overnight if temperatures are expected to be 32 degrees or lower, according to Humphrey. “You can use an old sheet, a tarp or clear plastic,” he said. “I suggest using something that lets light in so that you do not have to take off and re-cover every day.” Tree care website Canopy.org also recommends that potted trees be moved to more protective areas, such as an outdoor hallway or other covered area. Mulch is another way to provide warmth. According to Canopy.org, soil should be covered with a threeto five-inch layer of mulch (using organic matter such as wood chips) starting a few inches away from the
FREEZE PREPARED
5
Site for Sore Eyes
JANUARY 24, 2020
GETTING IN SHAPE Pruning is for both practical reasons and aesthetic value.
6
Pruning
Warmth
“Winter is the dormant time for many trees, and it is believed by many people to be the best time of year to trim,” Humphrey said. Winter is the perfect time to prune conifers (pines, cedars, firs and spruce), he said. During this season, the trees have less sap flowing, making it less likely to drip. Monterey pines, which are highly sensitive to disease, are more tolerant of pruning in the winter months. But only prune if necessary, Humphrey advised. Why is it important to prune trees in the first place? According to the “Care of Trees” website, pruning is not only for aesthetic value but for practical reasons, as it reduces the chance for heavy limbs to come crashing down during winter storms and causing major damage, and can also halt diseases that could spread rapidly during the warmer months. Branches ripe for pruning are those that are dead, dying, damaged or diseased. Frost-sensitive trees and plants, however, should be pruned after winter has passed, according to Humphrey. These include citrus, jacaranda, oleander and other tropical plants.
Trees, like people, need to find some sort of warm comfort during winter. Lights that emit heat can provide warmth while also protecting against frost, Humphrey recommended. And those festive lights during the holiday season can also serve a more practical purpose: Christmas lights, if they generate heat, can be wrapped around trees as a way to provide warmth. With the nights dropping to freezing temperatures, frost-sensitive trees and plants should be covered overnight if temperatures are expected to be 32 degrees or lower, according to Humphrey. “You can use an old sheet, a tarp or clear plastic,” he said. “I suggest using something that lets light in so that you do not have to take off and re-cover every day.” Tree care website Canopy.org also recommends that potted trees be moved to more protective areas, such as an outdoor hallway or other covered area. Mulch is another way to provide warmth. According to Canopy.org, soil should be covered with a threeto five-inch layer of mulch (using organic matter such as wood chips) starting a few inches away from the
Located in Historic Downtown Gilroy • 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
HEALTHY TREES Pruning can halt the spread of disease in trees.
Open daily 8:00am for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 8am-1pm 7400 Monterey Street, Gilroy • 408.842.3454 www.oldcityhall.biz
base of the trunk to two or more feet from the tree in all directions.
Watering
Assessing frost damage Frost damage is still a possibility, even if one has taken all the suggested measures in preventing it. Humphrey said residents should wait to remove any damage from trees and plants until after winter ends. “Frost damage can still provide protection to trees and plants even though it is dead,” he said. Canopy.org states that new growth may still sprout out of branches that were initially thought dead. Tree caregivers are advised to wait and see what (if anything) sprouts in the spring. “If dieback is severe enough and your tree has lost ‘shade,’ protect the now-unshaded portions of the trunk/branches from the sun, with a physical cover or with whitewash (1:1 ratio of latex paint and water),” the website recommends.
JANUARY 24, 2020
It may seem counterintuitive to water trees during winter when there is so much rain, but it is necessary for their survival like in any other season. Humphrey recommends watering trees and plants before a hard freeze. It is always a good idea to water newly-planted trees before a freeze as well, he added. Canopy.org also advises watering as a way to retain heat. According to the website, moist soil absorbs more solar radiation than dry soil, which re-radiates heat during the night. “If you have a large tree that needs protection, running sprinklers at the coldest time of the day (usually between 4am and 6am) can give it a slight edge,” the website states. “The strategy makes use of latent heat released when water changes from liquid to a solid. When ice crystals form on the leaf surface, they draw moisture from the leaf tissue. The damage from this dehydration will be less
severe if the plant is not already drought-stressed.” Young trees should be watered every one to two weeks, while mature trees should receive water once a month or every other month.
7
O& A CALENDAR
TASTE OF SPAIN
JANUARY 24, 2020
DeRose Winery presents its 14th Annual Taste of Spain, featuring a wide selection of Spanish wines, cheeses and Alphonse DeRose’s homemade seafood paella. All guests ages 21 and over are welcome. $40 entry fee paid at the door includes wine, food and eligibility for sale specials being offered the day of the event only. Saturday, Feb. 8, 11am-5pm at DeRose Winery, 9970 Cienega Road, Hollister. Reservations can be made by calling 831.636.9143 or emailing info@derosewine.com. For information, visit derosewine.com.
8
HOLLISTER ROCK NIGHT Jeff Rye’s Some Unfinished Business will perform at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse with songs from the ‘70s through the
‘90s. Reckless Few will round out the evening with muscle car rock from the ‘70s and ‘80s. Saturday, Jan. 25, 7-10pm at 401 McCray St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ yj86tghe.
LEGO CLUB Children of all ages are invited to the Lego Club at the San Benito County Free Library. Children only need to bring their imaginations, Legos will be supplied and snacks will be provided. Sunday, Jan. 26, 2-3pm at San Benito County Free Library, 470 Fifth St. For information, visit sbcfl.org. MOJO WORKIN’ Mojo Workin’ will perform at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse, with blues classics including Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed and Albert King, mixed with contemporary tunes and other genres that are heavily influenced by the blues. Sunday, Jan. 26, 4-7pm at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse, 401 McCray St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/tcz4k7k.
BABY STORY TIME Babies and their caregivers are invited to head to the San Benito County Free Library for stories, songs, rhymes, movement and music designed to promote early literacy skills, motor coordination, social interaction and more. Wednesday, Jan. 29, 10-11am at San Benito County Free Library, 470 Fifth St. For information, visit sbcfl.org.
SAN JUAN BAUTISTA RUSTIC ANNIVERSARY Rustic Charm in San Juan Bautista will celebrate its one-year anniversary by offering items with a rustic feel
LATIN DANCE
Gallery 1202’s two-night Latin Dance Performance event features the music, flavor and colors of Cuba. Free food, refreshments and wine will be available and a mini Salsa lesson offered. Performers will stay for photos in headdresses and feathered costumes following the show. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 24 and 25, 7-9pm each night at 7363 Monterey St., Gilroy. For information and tickets, visit gallery1202.com.
and vintage, antique and industrial decor. The event will include raffles, giveaways and treats along with new inventory and a fresh new look. Saturday, Jan. 25, 11am at Rustic Charm, 106 Third St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ su4q2os.
POETRY CONTEST The San Benito County Arts Council
WATSONVILLE HISTORIC OUTING “Beginnings at the Rancho” is Castro Adobe
Everyone who loves to sing is invited to join San Benito Oriana Chorale as it begins its season. Sopranos, altos, tenors and basses are all welcome to join this community choir in singing classical, folk, Broadway, light opera, pop and gospel vocal music. No auditions are required. The first rehearsal will be held Monday, Jan. 28, 7:15-9:30pm at Christ Fellowship Hollister, 2066 San Benito St., Hollister. For information, visit orianachorale.org.
State Historic Park’s first public open house of the year. Explore the early period of the Adobe and the Castro family’s historic migration as part of the Anza Expedition of 1776 at this free event. Attendees can warm up with traditional hot chocolate from the cocina and keep out of the cold in the comfort of the adobe while listening to the stories of the park and the pioneering Castro family. Saturday, Jan. 25, 11am-3pm at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, 184 Old Adobe Road. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ ybyoo29q. BONSAI CLASS Learn about creating and maintaining Bonsai at Alladin Nursery’s Bonsai Class. Attendees
are encouraged to bring their own trees for consultation. Any type, size or style tree is welcome at this free class. Saturday, Jan. 25, 1-3pm at Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop, 2905 Freedom Blvd. For information, visit alladinnursery.com.
GILROY COMEDY THEATER Pintello Comedy Theater will present the campy comedy musical blockbuster Little Shop of Horrors. Watch as hapless florist’s assistant Seymour tends to a new breed of plant he has named “Audrey II” after his coworker crush, and Audrey II promises Seymour fame, fortune and all his desires—as long as Seymour keeps him fed. ➝ 11
JANUARY 24, 2020
FEROCIOUS FEW The Ferocious Few will present a rollicking, soulful garage-rock performance at Credo Studio. Ferocious Few serves up raw rock and roll with a twist of punk and a bit of rockabilly. Saturday, Jan. 25, 7-9pm at Credo Studio, 1 Polk St. For information and tickets, visit tinyurl.com/yfwzd2dg.
will host a high school contest for Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest. The fifth annual San Benito County competition is part of a national program encouraging high school students to learn about classic and contemporary poetry. Attend the competition to watch students from San Benito and Anzar high schools compete in Live Poetry Contest County Finals. Thursday, Jan. 30, 6-8pm at Anzar High School, 2000 San Juan Highway. For information, visit sanbenitoarts.org.
ORIANA CHORALE
9
COMMUNITY
Honoring the performers
File photo
JANUARY 24,2020
MEMBERS CHOICE San Benito Stage Company will celebrate the performers from its 2019 season on Jan. 25.
10
San Benito Stage Company hosting annual awards show STAFF REPORT
S
an Benito Stage Company is holding its annual Members Choice Awards on Jan. 25 at San Benito High School. The event, which is open to the public, will honor performers and productions from the company’s 2019 season. Last year’s season lineup included Sylvia, Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr., Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Leader of the Pack. SBSC Members Choice Awards will be given out to actors in the youth, teen and adult categories. Guests will also get a sneak peek at the 2020 show line-up.
So far, San Benito Stage Company has announced it will perform Neil Simon’s California Suite Feb. 14-29. A location is to be announced. The company is also holding dance and musical theater workshops for actors ages 6-14. “Broadway Dance” will be held Jan. 25 from 11am to 2pm at Flying Color Dance Studio, 320 Fourth St. in Hollister. The workshop, taught by Amy Redmond Waran, will cover technique, auditioning and stage presence. “Musical Theater” will take place Feb. 1 from 11am to 2pm at Mr. O’s Music Academy, 360 Sixth St. in
Hollister. The workshop, taught by Kayla Chizek, will cover song choice and audition prop. Attendees are asked to bring a 30-second prepared song. Admission is $30 per workshop or $50 for both. For information or to register, visit sanbenitostage.org. San Benito Stage Company invites past performers, volunteers and audiences to its Members Choice Awards on Saturday, Jan. 25 at San Benito High School, 1220 Monterey St. in Hollister. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the show starts at 7pm. For information, call 831.636.0122.
O& A CALENDAR
13 at Capos Restaurant & Nightclub, 7588 Monterey St., Gilroy. For information and questions, visit stjosephsgilroy.org. WETLAND WILDLIFE Watsonville Wetlands Watch presents “Hearing Their Call: California Red-legged Frogs and Western Pond Turtles in the Watsonville Wetlands.” Biologist Gary Kittleson will discuss his work at this free event with the red-legged frog and western pond turtle, and provide an update on the health of the wetlands’ threatened wildlife populations. Thursday, Jan. 30, 6:30-8:30pm at Patrick J. Fitz Wetlands Educational Resource Center, 500 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville. For information and to register, visit watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.
SOUPS, STEWS & BREWS
The GardenShoppe presents “Soups, Stews and Sippin’ Brews,” an event pairing soups and stews with several varieties of beer including Stouts, IPAs, Sours and Lagers, as well as ciders, wine and more. Tickets may be purchased for $15 and include an all-you-can-eat meal. This event is for ages 21 and over and ticket quantities are very limited. Saturday, Jan. 25, 6-9pm at The GardenShoppe, 364 Seventh St., Hollister. For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/up9x8kz.
Friday, Jan. 24 and Saturday, Jan. 25, 8-9:30pm each night, or Sunday, Jan. 26, 2-4:30pm at Pintello Comedy Theater, 8191 Swanston Lane. For information and tickets, visit pintellocomedy.com.
CALLIGRAPHY INTRO A Beginning Calligraphy class will teach students the art of pointed pen calligraphy. Attendees will learn basic strokes, practice drills and lowercase letters with an introduction to uppercase letters. Supplies provided include a straight pen holder, beginner-
QUILT AUCTION An evening of food and quilts will take place at a quilt auction benefiting St. Joseph’s Family Center. More than 40 handcrafted quilts from local quilters and special guest artists will be available for bids. Also included is a buffet dinner and no host bar. Sunday, Jan. 26, 4-9pm
YOUNG EAGLES Kids ages 8-17 fly free at the February Young Eagles Rally. Young aviation enthusiasts will get the chance to ride the skies on a safe flight and gain new perspectives on the world. Participants will receive a free 20-minute flight along with a commemorative certificate. Saturday, Feb. 1, 9am-noon at the Watsonville Aviation Education Center, 60 Aviation Way, Watsonville. For information, visit eaa119.org/youngeagles. To register, visit youngeaglesday.com. ANTIQUE AIRCRAFT Frazier Lake Airpark will host antique aircraft at the Antique Aircraft Display & Fly-In.The oldfashioned airpark hosts numerous classic antiques with a 2,500-foot-
LIVING HISTORY Meet mountain men, Civil War soldiers, Victorian ladies, and more while stepping back to the early days of San Juan. Attendees can take part in craft and cooking demonstrations and see historic horse-drawn vehicles and Victorian furnishings. Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-4pm at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, 19 Franklin St, San Juan Bautista. For information, visit sanjuanbautistaca.com. CRAB FEED The public is invited to a night of all-you-can eat crab at the Operation Freedom Paws (OFP) Annual Crab Feed. The dinner includes crab, pasta, salad and garlic bread with all proceeds benefiting OFP. This non-profit organization matches disabled veterans, adults and children with rescued dogs and trains them together. Saturday, Feb. 1, 6-9pm at Old City Hall Restaurant, 7400 Monterey St., Gilroy. For tickets and information, visit operationfreedompaws.org. ADULT DRAWING Artists aged 16 and over are invited to draw at San Benito County Arts Council’s drop-in Adult Drawing Workshops where students will explore fundamental drawing techniques and methods. The $10 drop-in fee includes registration to a single, two-hour class and students will be provided with a materials list at their first class. Drop-in special sessions will be held select Mondays and Fridays through February, 6:45-8:45pm at ARTspace Annex, 217 Fifth St., Hollister. For information, call 831.636.2787.
JANUARY 24, 2020
EVENTS
suited nibs, ink, paper and practice sheets. Ink can get messy, so attendees are advised to dress appropriately or bring an apron or smock. Saturday, Jan. 25, 10am-noon at Art of Yoga, 16165 Monterey Road #200, Morgan Hill. For information, visit tinyurl. com/yz3fkx8d.
AC/DC TRIBUTE Bonfire, a high energy tribute to AC/DC, is coming to The District Theater. The band performs the music of early AC/DC from the Bon Scott years to the more current Brian Johnson eras. Also enjoy the high energy, electrifying melodic hard rock of local favorite, Gundacker. Friday, Jan. 31, 9pm-midnight at The District Theater, 7430 Monterey St., Gilroy. For information and tickets, visit tinyurl.com/tbmsjyw.
long turf runway that makes the Cubs, Stinsons, Cessna 180s and Stearmans right at home. Antique Aircraft Display & Fly-In is a free event, Saturday, Feb. 1, 10am-3pm at Frazier Lake Airpark, 7901 Frazier Lake Road, Hollister. Guest vehicle parking is located north of the hangars via the dirt road. For information, visit frazierlake.com.
11
GARDENING
Tips for a tranquil garden
Kate Russell
MINIMIZING STRESS Maintenance-free succulents make gardening easy.
Colors, fountains and aroma add peace
JANUARY 24,2020
By KATE RUSSELL
12
Y
our garden can be a bright, cheery, busy place, or it can provide the tranquility you need after a busy day. Transform your garden into a tranquil refuge with these easy tips: Keep it simple. Get rid of clutter. Remove plants that are not thriving. Use simple decorations. Leave fences and lawns clear and empty of distractions. Color it calm. Reds and yellows are great colors, but they will not help you relax. Design your landscape around blues, greens and browns for a beautifully relaxing view. Just add water. Fountains, waterfalls, even the sound of a bird splashing in a birdbath bring us back to nature much the way
a campfire does, but without the mess or risks. Water features also attract birds that bring their beauty and song to your garden. Fragrant fancies. Aroma is another powerful tool in creating a restful garden refuge. Savoring fragrant jasmine, hyacinth or lavender, tension slips away, replaced with inner calm. Roses, dianthus, gardenia, nicotiana, clematis and lily-of-the-valley add fragrance and gentle color. Natural tranquility. Stone, wood, grasses, living plants and nature-related art all help to ground you in the moment and set aside the stresses of the day. Forget brightly colored plastics and cheap spontaneous yard art purchases. They are bad for the environment and your psyche. Treat your yard
like a valuable painting, to be handled with care and thoughtfulness. Keep it simple and serene. Soft ferns can also help you find your calm. Minimize maintenance. Use plants that have evolved to thrive in this region. Native plants and succulents are always good choices when trying to reduce the need for watering, weeding and pest prevention. And let those plants go to seed. They will provide for local wildlife, add structure and color during winter months, and create new plants in spring. Gentle sounds. Traffic, machinery and neighbors can destroy the tranquility of your refuge. Reduce these intrusions with good fencing and trees and shrubs planted around your property line. Create an herb garden. Edible herbs require minimal care and most of them come back every year. Besides adding flavor to meals, fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano and rosemary, add color and fragrance to your garden, while helping deter many common pests. Delightful lighting. The way you illuminate your yard also impacts the way you feel. Gentle, soft-colored solar lights along paths, around garden beds, and in seating areas can be soothing. Make the time to enjoy it. One of the biggest problems faced today is our unwillingness to make time to relax. Busy schedules, television and social media whittle away at our spare moments until there aren’t any. Schedule some time for yourself in the garden, without chores and to-do lists. Stop and smell those roses. You’ve earned it. Kate Russell is a UCCE Master Gardener in Santa Clara County. For information, visit mgsantaclara.ucanr.edu or call 408.282.3105 between 9:30am-12:30pm, Monday through Friday.
WINE
R s EA pas Y LL- rail U F t ne i w
santa clara valley
wine trail pass $400+ VALUE File photo
TOP HONORS Janu Goelz of Alara Cellars and Jason Goelz of Jason-Stephens
wine taste all year long + ACCESS TO TRAIL DAYS, CELEBRATED BY TERRITORY FEB 1 / AUG 1 / NOV 7
Winery earned Best of Class awards at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Valley is golden Local wineries compete at annual SF Chronicle event By LAURA NESS
T
Bringing home Double Golds for wine made from Santa Clara Valley fruit were Church Creek’s 2014 cabernet franc, Kirigin Cellars’ 2017 barbera and 2017 pinot noir, La Vie Dansante’s 2016 grenache, Martin Ranch’s 2015 Thérèse Vineyards Dos Ninas malbec, Satori’s 2017 merlot and Solis Winery’s 2016 cabernet sauvignon. Other awards from the competition included Best Sparkling, which went to the Breathless blanc de noirs, Best White to Trader Moon 2016 viognier made by Delicato ($5.99), Best Rosé was the 2019 Ferrari-Carano sangiovese, Best Red went to 2016 deLorimier Crazy Creek cabernet from Alexander Valley, and best dessert was a Ferrante Vidal Blanc ice wine from Ohio. I thought the 2017 Sequoia Grove merlot (Napa) was far superior to the cab. The public tasting event will be held Feb. 15. For complete results, visit winejudging.com.
morgan hill
san martin
gilroy
hollister
get yours now @ 1. Any winery tasting room listed on santaclarawines.com 2. California Welcome Center Gilroy @ The Outlets 3. santaclarawines.com
for more details: santaclarawines.com
JANUARY 24, 2020
he San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition is the largest in North America, with more than 6,700 entries this year. It’s a herculean effort that takes months to organize and hundreds of volunteers, who get paid in wine, the best currency. The competition was completed on Jan. 10. More than 65 judges representing various North American wine regions evaluated wines from over 1,000 wineries for the 2020 competition. One of the 66 wines in the sweepstakes round was the playfully peppery 2017 Alara Cellars Cabernet Pfeffer from San Benito. It’s the first time Janu Goelz landed a Best of Class (BOC) wine at “the Chron.” Her husband Jason Goelz of Jason-Stephens scored BOC for his 2014 syrah from Lion Oaks Ranch (and a Double Gold for his San Benito cab franc), and Satori snagged BOC for their 2017 SCV petite sirah.
saratoga
13
Showcase, REALTORS ®
NEW PRICE
HOME OF THE WEEK
NEW LISTING
Six-Years New!
Open Saturday Noon-3pm Host: Jose Vargas (831) 524-1559
In the heart of Hollister, this 1-story 3Br/2Ba boasts pride of ownership! Living room w/cozy fireplace opens to spacious dining area & makes a great indoor entertaining space. Light & bright kitchen w/island, lots of granite counters, S/S appliances—flows into the family room w/easy access to the backyard for family BBQs & outdoor entertaining. The spacious master suite has a walk-in closet w/built-in shelves; master bath w/large soaking tub & stall shower. Easy to maintain backyard w/hardscape/artificial lawn.
1990 Morning Glory Drive, Hollister Offered for $600,000
Open Sat & Sun Noon-3pm SANTANA RANCH W/VIEWS ~ Spacious 1-story 3Br/2Ba, 1850 SqFt, Contemporary Anderson-built in 2017 w/many bells & whistles. Gorgeous yards w/easy maintenance. 1642 Sunflower Drive, Hollister $625,000 Charlene King (831) 801-5464
Open Sunday Noon-3pm A MUST-SEE ~ Lovely 5Br/3Ba in Sunnyslope Village. Kitchen & dinette area flow into family room. Downstairs BR w/full BA. Large master suite. 3-car garage & SOLAR too! 1920 Sycamore Court, Hollister $664,999 Host: Jose Vargas (831) 524-1559
We are an award winning company offering superior services across San Benito, Monterey, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties! And we are the only real estate company in San Benito County that is worldwide!
2019 DRE #01879796
Thinking of Selling Your Property? Why not save money too?
2019 LISTING SPECIAL
1% 2.5% 3.5%
LISTING AGENT
SELLING AGENT
TOTAL COMMISION FEE*
Full Service Broker Do Not Over Pay for Brokerage! 25 Years of Sales Experience
JANUARY 24, 2020
Daniel J. Furtado
14
Broker
Cal BRE: 01131718 • NMLS: 330315
Visit my website for valuable information www.danfurtadorealestate.com REAL ESTATE COMMISSIONS ARE NEGOTIABLE
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
RIDGEMARK COUNTRY CLUB This Hollister home sits on a corner lot.
Country club estate
Hollister home features open floor plan with large kitchen
T
his home is located on a corner lot in the sought-after Ridgemark Golf and Country Club. Located at 1275 Sonnys Way in Hollister, the 3,000-square-foot home includes three bedrooms and three baths. The kitchen features granite slab counters with an island, Kenmore appliances and a built-in refrigerator. The great room has a recessed ceiling, bar area and gas fireplace.
Ten-foot-high ceilings with 8-foot doors are throughout the home. The master bedroom features a Jacuzzi tub and slider to the back yard, and the master bath has a large walk-in shower with rainfall shower head. The home was built in 1999. It is listed at $779,000 by Intero Real Estate Services. For information, visit tinyurl.com/yx6wckep.
REAL ESTATE Publish Your Business or
RENTALS
$2,650 Month/$3,150 Deposit 4 Bed 2 Bath, 2 car garage. Great neighborhood, near shopping and schools AVAILABLE NOW
Service Ad Here
For more information Contact 408.842.5066
$2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Beautiful Home situated in Ridgemark. All new everything. Gardner included in rent. AVAILABLE NOW
or email classifieds@newsvmedia.com
$2,750 Month/$3,250 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Country living on a cul-de-sac. Easy access to Hwy 25 and 156 Water and garbage included in rent. AVAILABLE NOW
GARDENING
Gregg’s Complete Gardening Service
HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM
Quality Gardening at Competitive Rates
Wood fenches Clean ups •Tree work Sod •Sprinklers Free estimate Please call or text 831.537.5205
HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS
FINISHED LOTS
HOLLISTER APARTMENT RENTALS
airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802
HOLLISTER DUPLEX/TRIPLEX RENTALS
HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND
2/1 2/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/3
1/1 2/1 2/1 2/1.5 2/1.5
2/1
$2,100 $2,450 $2,500 $2,600 $3,000 $3,000 $2,100
$1,200 $1,550 $1,550 $1,600 $1,900
$1,600
330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1 HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES For more information, call
831.637.1691
Land Sales Built-to-Suit For Sale or Lease Select Lots Have Airport Access Financing Available
3.5 Acres for Sale Lease or Build to Suit IndustrIal shops For lease
northpointebusinesscenter.com
831.637.7337
831.637.4297
www.pivetticompany.com Lic# 429006
HOME & GARDEN SERVICES CONCRETE
DOORS
HAULING
LANDSCAPE & GARDEN
FENCES
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
Soares Lumber P.S.G. Fencing
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
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
Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling
408.842.0260 831.726.2002 Lic. #606051
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
BIG PICTURE PLUMBING LOCAL & AFFORDABLE Quality Work That Can Be Trusted Family Owned & Operated Call 408 551-8670 For All Your Plumbing Needs Insured/ Bonded Lic#1047875
JANUARY 24, 2020
Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured
cccraftsman@gmail.com craftmansdooservices.com
• Hauling • Lawns • Aeration • Landscaping • Yard clean-up • Garden maint.
15
t u r d a y. a S a n help o e t u tos! n i i r m r t u s a b l t t Ge akfas
re b E E R F
REGISTRATION SATURDAY
SPRING SEMESTER STARTS JANUARY 27
Saturday, January 25 | 9:30 AM – 1 PM Student Services Center westvalley.edu/reg
westvalley.edu/apply
Meet with a counselor, register for classes, and apply for financial aid.
Apply online now! Online, evening, and Saturday classes available.