South Valley Magazine December 20-26, 2019

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF MORGAN HILL, GILROY & SAN MARTIN

A supplement to the Gilroy Dispatch & Morgan Hill Times

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Prune & Festoon Arborists advise proper tree care during cold weather P4

HOLIDAY PLANTS P10 | WINTER HOME TIPS P14 | REAL ESTATE P19

FOR SALE Chuck Allen

(831) 818-1069 42 Brennan St., Watsonville CA chuckallenpginc@gmail.com DRE# 00357826

APN: 117-531-02, 03, 04, 05 Size: 1.25 acres +/Zoning: Rural Residential • Septic percolation approved • Electricity • Natural Gas • City Water

Four Exclusive Home Sites

From $350,000 per lot Located in Royal Oaks at 3 Vista Verde Drive, with views of the Pajaro Valley, these four lots are gently sloped and secured by a gated entrance.

4

TRIM UP Arborists agree that winter is an ideal time to prune dormant trees.

MAGAZINE

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

10

Publisher

Dan Pulcrano Associate Publisher

Jeannette Close Editor

Erik Chalhoub Calendar Editor

Tia Sundberg Contributing Writers

Jenny Arbizu, Wallace Baine, Ron Erskine,

14

Kimberly Ewertz, Cheryl Huguenor, Laura Ness, Susan Rife, Kate Russell Advertising Account Executives

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Carrie Bonato, Scott Harvey, Eileen Katis,

2

4

Cover Story

Cynthia Runyon

7

Crush

Kara Brown

9

Wine

Sean George

Design Director

Production Operations Manager

Editorial Production Manager

10 Gardening

Katherine Manlapaz

12 Calendar

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

14 Home & Garden 16 Wildfire 17 Home of the Week 19 Real Estate

TO PLACE AN AD Email:

advertising@newsvmedia.com Phone:

408.842.9404

DECEMBER 20, 2019

3

FRE EZE

PREPARED Trees must be properly cared for during winter

BY ERIK CHALHOUB

DECEMBER 20, 2019

W

4

inter begins Dec. 21, which means it’s time to batten down the hatches. Homeowners 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 Gilroy-based 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.

Pruning “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 ➝6 if necessary, Humphrey advised.

TRIM UP Arborists

agree that winter is an ideal time to prune dormant trees.

âž? 12

DECEMBER 20, 2019

5

FREEZE PREPARED

5

DECEMBER 20, 2019

GETTING IN SHAPE Pruning is for both practical reasons and aesthetic value.

6

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.

Warmth 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 base of the trunk to two or more feet from the tree in all directions. ➝ 8

DECEMBER 20, 2019

7

BETTER TV FOR LESS!

FREEZE PREPARED Promo

Terms

and con

ditions

Code: DIS

apply.

Call for

6

H100

details .

Americas Top 120

190 CHANNELS! Only $59.99/mo. for 12 months

Plus Hundreds More!

It’s All Included at a Price Guaranteed for 2 Years!

All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification.

Add High Speed Internet

/mo.

for 12 months

190 Channels

America’s Top 120

Subject to availability. Restrictions apply. Internet not provided

by DISH and will be billed separately.

CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card!

855-993-2335

Promo Code: DISH100

Se Habla Español Call 7 days a week 8am - 11pm EST Offer ends 1/13/20.

Savings with 2 year price guarantee with AT120 starting at $59.99 compared to everyday price. All offers require credit qualification, 2 year commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/ Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification. Fees apply for additionalTV’s: Hopper $15/mo., Joey $5/mo., Super Joey $10/mo.

HEALTHY TREES Pruning can halt the spread of disease in trees.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Watering

8

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.

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 were 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.

O& A

OUT & ABOUT

HOLIDAY ADORNMENT Learn to create handcrafted holiday garlands to prepare for upcoming celebrations, Dec. 20 in Gilroy.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

MORGAN HILL

WATSONVILLE

GARLAND WORKSHOP

COMMUNITY BONFIRE

CHANUKAH COOKIE CELEBRATION EXCHANGE

The public is invited to learn how to make a fresh holiday garland at Sarah’s Vineyard’s fourth annual Holiday Garland Workshop. Participants will be provided all of the materials needed. Cost is $65 per participant and wine will be available for purchase. Friday, Dec. 20, 6-8pm at Sarah’s Vineyard, 4005 Hecker Pass Road. For information and tickets, visit sarahsvineyard.com.

San Juan Bautista’s annual bonfire pays tribute to the Hayden Family who, during the Depression era, bought candies, toys and oranges for the community children. Townspeople came together around a bonfire and celebrated with games and songs while keeping warm. The bonfire will be held Friday, Dec. 20, 6pm at the Community Hall, 10 San Jose St. Free photos with Santa Claus follow his arrival on a firetruck. For information, visit tinyurl.com/vfc7ymu.

The Morgan Hill Chanukah Celebration and Grand Public Menorah Lighting will feature an LED show, Chanukah crafts for the children, music and traditional Chanukah songs, a raffle and more. Also enjoy traditional Latkes, doughnuts and chocolate coins. Admission is free and all are welcome. Sunday, Dec. 22, 4:30-6pm at the Morgan Hill Pop-Up Park, corner of Monterey Road and West Second Street.

For information and to RSVP, visit jewishmh.com/chanukah.

Elkhorn Slough Brewing Co. will hold its Holiday Cookie Exchange. Guests are invited to bring a plate of their favorite cookies to exchange for a plate full of cookies made by Elkhorn Slough Brewery friends. Also enjoy a special line up of cookie worthy beers on tap, and those that participate in the exchange will also get half off their first pints. Monday, Dec. 23, 4-8pm at Elkhorn Slough Brewing Co., 65 Hangar Way. For information, visit tinyurl.com/yx68dj9u.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

GILROY

9

GARDENING

Holiday plant care

Photo by Kate Russell

HEALTHY PLANTS Poinsettias require strong morning sun and afternoon shade.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Poinsettias, other festive plants need special attention

10

By KATE RUSSELL

M

ost holiday plants receive too much water and heat, and not enough sunlight, to make it through January. Poinsettias, Amaryllis and miniature Christmas trees make delightful gifts, but they need special care to last.

Poinsettias are fascinating. The bright red blooms are actually modified leaves, called bracts, and the plant is a tree that can reach 13 feet in height. Poinsettias need 12 hours of darkness for at least five days in a row to turn from green to red. Even the slightest exposure to light will halt this process. To keep poinsettias healthy indoors, provide strong morning sun and afternoon shade.

Poinsettias can be grown outdoors as

long as they are protected from frost.

Poinsettias are susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Poinsettias contain latex, which can be an irritant, but they are not poisonous.

Use these tips to keep your poinsettias healthy: • New Year’s Day: Apply all-purpose houseplant fertilizer • Valentine’s Day: Check for whiteflies; cut down to five inches • St. Patrick’s Day: Remove dead leaves; add fresh potting soil • Memorial Day: Cut back three inches; repot, if needed, using fresh potting soil • Father’s Day: Move outside to a location with indirect light • Fourth of July: Trim again;

move into full sunlight; water and feed, as needed • Labor Day: Rinse plant off and move it indoors; reduce feeding • Autumnal Equinox: Place in uninterrupted darkness for 13 hours and bright light for 11 hours each day; nighttime temperatures of 60 degrees are ideal • Thanksgiving: Reduce water and feeding; place in a sunny window, rotating for full coverage • Christmas: Enjoy and repeat!

Most live miniature Christmas trees are Alberta spruce, Italian stone pine or Cypress. Rosemary is also used as a topiary Christmas tree. These plants prefer cooler temperatures, and more sunlight and moisture, than you will find in most homes. Before planting outside, know that Dwarf Alberta spruce will never perform well in high heat, and Colorado blue spruce can reach 75 feet tall. In 20 years or so, a stone pine can provide pine nuts. Rosemary takes care of itself, providing an excellent border or accent in any landscape.

Amaryllis plants are striking South American flowers. They need as much sunlight as you can provide, and temperatures between 68 and 70 degrees. Water sparingly, at first, and then more frequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Blooms should be removed when they start to wither. Amaryllis produces leaves for most of the year. As leaves turn brown, take them off and move your Amaryllis to a protected area on your patio. Being bulbs, your holiday Amaryllis can last for several years.

Understanding what your holiday plants need to stay healthy can transform them from short-lived hostess tokens to durable members of the landscape or home interior.

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.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

11

O& A CALENDAR

Robert Eliason

PUPPET SHOW

DECEMBER 20, 2019

The Fratello Marionettes will present its puppet extravaganza, The North Pole Review. The Fratello Marionettes shows use the cabaret style of manipulation and are filled with marionettes ranging in size from 1- to 3-feet tall.

This production showcases the high-kicking antics of the Russian Trepak Dancers, the ice skater Crystal Chandelier, and acrobatic penguins. Saturday, Dec. 21, 10:15-11am at the Morgan Hill Library, 650 W. Main Ave., Morgan Hill. For information, visit fratellomarionettes.com.

12

GILROY BOUTIQUE FUNDRAISER Live Oak Adult Day Services presents its Holiday Boutique, featuring

home baked goods, jewelry, holiday decor, ornaments, clothing and more. All items are offered at low prices and proceeds will benefit Live Oak’s nonprofit center.

Friday, Dec. 20 and Monday, Dec. 23, 9am-3pm each day at 651 W. Sixth St., Suite 2. Attendees are encouraged to bring items from their own closets or garage that are no longer needed to be sold at the event. For information, call 408.847.5491.

MEET SANTA Santa Claus will visit First Street Coffee House for some holiday cheer. Everyone is invited to meet, take pictures, and share wishlists with Santa during his visit. Saturday, Dec. 21, 10am-noon at First Street Coffee House, 1211 First St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/ wwu9rvl.

PICTURES WITH SANTA The Gilroy Library is offering a festive drop-in Pictures with Santa program for families. Guests are invited to visit with Santa and bring their own camera to take a holiday picture. Families will be served in the order they arrive and will receive one pose per family.

Saturday, Dec. 21, noon-2pm at Gilroy Library, 350 W. Sixth St. For information, visit sccl.org or call 408.842.8207.

VINTAGE WINE TASTING Solis Winery is offering its award-winning vintage wines from its library cellar to celebrate the holiday season. Guests are invited to taste and/or purchase

File Art

CHOIR FUNDRAISER

Gallery 1202 will host a holiday fundraiser for the Gilroy High School Chamber Choir’s trip to the 2020 California All-State Music Education Conference– where only three other choirs will be performing. Holiday classics will be performed by these talented high schoolers, as well as refreshments and art. A raffle will be held after the performance with all raffle proceeds benefiting the choir’s travel fund. Saturday, Dec. 21, 7-8:30pm at Gallery 1202, 7363 Monterey Road, Gilroy. For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/u3keffl.

hand-selected premium wines.

Quantities are limited. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 21 and 22, noon5pm each day at Solis Winery, 3920 Hecker Pass Road. For information, visit soliswinery.com.

MORGAN HILL

THE NUTCRACKER Ballet Academy of Silicon Valley presents this year’s production of The Nutcracker. This family-friendly ballet is billed as the perfect way to introduce young children to classical dance. Friday, Dec. 20, 6pm and Saturday, Dec. 21, 1pm at the Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Road.

For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/udtsb34.

Growing Hearts is preparing for its 10th annual Bad Santa Golf Tournament. Entry fee is $100 per player plus an unwrapped gift for a child. Tournament proceeds benefit Growing Hearts, a nonprofit focusing on supportive employment for adult community members with special needs, and providing gifts for children in need. Saturday, Dec. 21, 7am at Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort, 3800 Airline Highway, Hollister. For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/ruxj6dn..

HOLLISTER

visit brfarms.com/holidays-inhollister.

HOLIDAYS IN HOLLISTER B&R Farms invites holiday shoppers to skip the hectic malls as it brings together boutiques, vendors and shops for “Holidays in Hollister.” Refreshments include warm apricot cider, creamy apricot freezes and more, as well as complimentary gift bags and cards. Attendees can shop for handcrafted goods, natural beauty products, decor, artisanal food and more. Ten percent of all proceeds to benefit community non-profits.

Saturdays through Dec. 21, 10am-4pm at B&R Farms, 5280 Fairview Road. For information,

UGLY SWEATER PARTY The Moondance Band will perform at Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort’s Ugly Sweater Holiday Bash. Guests are encouraged to arrive dressed in their ugliest best and enjoy tributes to each decade of music from the ’50s to the 2000s including dance, country, classic rock and more. Saturday, Dec. 21, 9pm-midnight at Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort, 3800 Airline Highway. Ages 21 and over only and no cover charge. For information, visit tinyurl.com/uukg3zy. ➝ 15

DECEMBER 20, 2019

MOVIE NIGHT At Guglielmo’s free Winery Movie Night, guests are invited to bring along their favorite snack or enjoy refreshments available for purchase from Ricky’s Grill BBQ Food Truck while viewing. All ages are welcome, children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Friday, Dec. 20,

6pm at Guglielmo Winery, 1480 E. Main Ave. For information, visit guglielmowinery.com or call 408.779.2145.

CHARITY GOLF

13

HOME AND GARDEN

Preparing for winter tune-ups to avoid unpleasant surprises. Change your furnace filter frequently so your air quality stays clean indoors, where you’re likely to spend more time as temps get cooler.

Also, consider setting up a schedule with a professional to have your ductwork cleaned on a regular basis.

Keep the outside out

HOME CARE Homeowners should clean gutters and check roofs in preparation for winter.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Cold season can be damaging to homes

14

N

o matter where you live, there are bound to be weather challenges this winter. Your home may suffer damage, minor or major, from the onslaught of colder weather, along with wind, heavy rain and ice storms. This can affect not only the integrity and value of your home, but may lead to costly repairs down the road. That’s why it's smart to prep now to prevent bigger problems in the future. It’s also a good idea to make sure that your home is prepped for spending more time indoors.

Here are basic tasks to prepare for wintry weather, and to ensure your family stays healthy and safe inside.

Perform a safety check Are your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in good working order?

Make monthly testing of these safety features a regular part of your seasonal household chores. For battery-operated units, keep up to date with battery changes as per manufacturer instructions. Also be aware and take action if you hear any low battery alarms. Also, do you have a home fire extinguisher in your kitchen?

Ensure clean indoor air Make sure your home’s heating and air conditioning units are in good condition, and schedule regular

Check weatherstripping around exterior doors, replacing where necessary, then seal and caulk exterior wood, since wood trim can rot around windows and outside doors.

Walk around the outside of your home with sprayfoam gap sealer and caulk to plug gaps, cracks and holes in siding and around windows. Find and seal air leaks where you may be losing valuable heat and letting in the cold. Many energy companies offer an energy audit to discover where you may be losing both heat and money, and advise you on ways to improve your insulation. Making sure your gutters are cleaned out and in good condition helps protect your home’s exterior from exposure to moisture due to rain, ice or snow melt.

Check your roof Whether you inspect your roof yourself or hire a professional, it’s a good idea to take care of repairs before winter wind, hail, snow and ice do their worst. Look for blistering, curling, buckling—or missing—shingles. Moss or lichen growing can indicate decay underneath. Any visible sagging of your roof, rust or cracks around flashing or vent pipes should also be repaired promptly to avoid later problems like leaks.

Don't let the calamities of winter take you and your family by surprise.

Doing prep work and maintenance on your home now, with a focus on safety, will ensure that you’re ready for anything that may come your way— even if it’s just hunkering down in your home for the season. —Brandpoint

O& A CALENDAR

13 Yoga and Sounds of Bliss Sound Bath. Gentle yet powerful sounds from crystal alchemy singing bowls will initiate a vibrational sound frequency releasing stress from the body, allowing the process of relaxation, renewal and expansion to enable a mind, body and soul connection. Friday, Dec. 27, 7-8:15pm at Yoga Bella Gilroy, 8060 Santa Teresa Blvd.

Cost is $45. For information, visit yogabellagilroy.com.

MUSEUM CELEBRATION Include the whole family in celebrating the arrival of 2020 at the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose’s version of the ball drop in Times Square and countdown to noon across the time zones. Attendees will enjoy lots of confetti, a noisy celebration, and shoutouts to different countries at the appropriate times. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 10am-4pm at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way, San Jose. For information, visit cdm.org.

DANCE PARTY

Granada Theatre’s New Year’s Eve Dance Party features music by DJ Dare Run G, hand-passed hors d’oeuvres and mini desserts by the live+love+leal culinary team, a midnight champagne toast and no-host full bar. Guests must be 21 or older to attend, and dress to impress with collared shirts and no ball caps. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 7pm-1am at Granada Theatre, 17440 Monterey St., Morgan Hill.

For information and tickets, visit liveloveleal.com.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

EVENTS RESTORATIVE YOGA Experience an evening of sounds and frequencies that bathe, soothe and re-energize mentally, emotionally and physically at Yoga Bella Gilroy’s Restorative

FAMILY CELEBRATION Ring in 2020 with the entire family at Gilroy Gardens. Attendees are invited to start the night off with Gilroy Gardens’ holiday celebration and stay to midnight for live music and fireworks to countdown to the New Year. Attendees can ice skate, ride favorite rides and more.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 4pm-midnight at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, 3050 Hecker Pass Highway. For information, visit gilroygardens.org.

GALA GETAWAY Casa de Fruta’s traditional gala New Year’s Eve Party features a catered dinner, dancing, champagne and party favors. Attendees are invited to spend a leisurely New Year’s without having to drive by taking advantage

COUNTDOWN CELEBRATION The Chicano All Stars will perform at The District Theater’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Celebration. This local favorite will keep audiences dancing with Latin rock, rhythm & blues, old school and danceable reggae. Enjoy hosted appetizers, party favors, midnight champagne toast and a midnight balloon drop.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 8pm at The District Theater, 7430 Monterey St., Gilroy. For information, visit tinyurl.com/t8nv5h5.

ROARING TWENTIES Celebrate that the ‘20s are almost here at Kelly Brewing Company’s Roaring Twenties NYE Party.

Kelly Brewing will release a new beer for the first of the year.

Attendees dressed in flapper dresses, pin-striped suits and fedoras will receive a free 13-ounce pour. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 9pm-midnight at Kelly Brewing Company, 70 E. Fourth St., Morgan Hill. For information, visit tinyurl.com/wq5rhgr.

MISSION 10 RACE The 37th annual Mission 10 Race, sponsored

by Hollister Rotary Club, features four different races, including a 1-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 theme 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., San Juan Bautista.

Register now at tinyurl.com/tecetz2.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

WINTER SOLSTICE The shortest day and longest night of the year will be celebrated in San Juan Bautista at the annual Winter Solstice Observation.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive at the mission church at sunrise and witness the light enter through the window, line up with the altar to illuminate it and its objects, then move to the aisle and end at

the tabernacle. The free event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 21, 6am at Old Mission San Juan Bautista, 406 Second St. For information, visit sanjuanbautistaca.com.

NOON YEAR’S EVE Families are invited to celebrate the New Year at a special Noon Year’s Eve Countdown at the Morgan Hill Library. Registration is not required. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 11:30am-12:30pm at Morgan Hill Library, 650 W. Main Ave., Morgan Hill. For information, visit sccl.org.

of the Inn and RV Park, just steps from the gala activities. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 7pm-12:15am at the Casa de Fruta Music Hall, 10011 Pacheco Pass Highway 152, Hollister. For information, call 408.842.9316 or visit casadefruta.com.

15

PREPARING FOR WILDFIRE

Dead or alive?

DECEMBER 20, 2019

DEAD BRANCH The presence of dead vegetation near homes greatly increases their vulnerability to ember attack during wildfire.

16

Dead vegetation can easily be ignited by embers

By DWIGHT GOOD

Editor’s note: This is the next installment in a series of articles on wildfire preparation.

D

ead vegetation poses a much greater fire hazard than living plants. Actively growing plants can control the amount of water in their tissues by drawing on moisture from the soil to get more or by transpiring moisture to reduce the amount. Through irrigation, we can ensure that living plants in our landscape have plenty of moisture in their leaves and stems, which is a good thing during fire season.

On the other hand, the water

content of dead vegetation is largely controlled by the amount of moisture in the air. If it is a hot, sunny, windy day, with low humidity, dead vegetation will be very dry. The drier the vegetation, the easier it will be to ignite it and the faster it will burn. Dead vegetation should be routinely removed from around the home, roof, deck and wooden fences during fire season.

Dead vegetation includesdried grass and dried weeds, fallen pine needles and leaves, dead shrubs and trees, as well asdead branches on the ground or still attached to living plants.

The presence of dead vegetation on or near your home greatly increases your vulnerability

to ember attack during wildfire. Keep your landscape plants healthy, green and irrigated during fire season.

Most people believe that wildfires ignite homes through direct contact with flames, but it is rare to have a home ignite this way. Thanks to effective defensible space campaigns, very few homes are in direct contact with traditional wildland fuel models (e.g., uninterrupted fields of seasonal grass, flammable brush or tree canopies). The collective experience of our wildland firefighters suggests that homes most commonly ignite from airborne flaming brands and embers.

Flaming brands and embers can travel a mile or more ahead of the active front of a wildfire, and scientific research finds that up to 60 percent of wildland/urban interface home ignitions result from embers landing on flammable materials such as roofing or landscaping materials, or ember penetration into concealed spaces through vents and other structural openings.

Most of the activity that makes a home less vulnerable to ignition focuses on the home and its immediate surroundings. Defensible space preparations are part of the equation, but they do not address the ember threat. The Ember Aware campaign is intended to educate people on the risks of ember cast and the actions they can take to reduce those risks, to encourage residents to harden their homes against embers and/or to maintain those ember-resistant features, and to practice ember-safe housekeeping and landscaping. You can learn more at www.emberaware.com.

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.

HOME OF THE WEEK

Service Times Holiday Events �f

�f

CENTRAL LOCATION This Morgan Hill home is close to downtown.

Upgraded private patio Morgan Hill home’s large backyard suitable for entertaining floor plan with high ceilings and recessed lighting throughout.

The private backyard was recently updated with stonework, ironwork, pavers and more. The home, built in 1995, also has freshly painted cabinets in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room.

The home is listed at $1,159,950 by Intero Real Estate Services. For information, visit tinyurl.com/scns4tq.

DECEMBER 20, 2019

T

his Morgan Hill home’s shaded outdoor patio, complete with a gas firepit, is ideal for entertaining.

Located at 291 Oak Grove Court, the 2,765-square-foot home includes four bedrooms and three baths. The single-story home, located in a northwest neighborhood of the city, features an open

17

AUGUST 23, 2019 | GAVILAN COLLEGE

7

10

March 10, 1964

1975

2004

November 2018

Voters pass $3.7 million bond for college operations and future land purchase

Rudy Melone becomes president of Gavilan. He later became co-founder of the Gilroy Garlic Festival in 1978

Voters pass the Measure E facilities bond for Gavilan

Voters pass the $248 million Measure X, the largest bond in college’s history

1983

Gavilan purchases land in Coyote Valley and San Benito County for future campuses

1964 Board selects 125 acres of land off of Highway 101 in Gilroy for new campus. Shumaker family offers land for a “reasonable price.”

Summer 1967 Gavilan moves to new campus in Gilroy

Gavilan enacts tuition in face of budget woes

1997 Satellite sites added in Hollister and Morgan Hill

2008

2017 First phase of Coyote Valley Center completed

Thank you for being a part of our family.

Friends, neighbors, and clients like you give us so much to celebrate.

We wish you and your family best wishes this holiday season!

September 2019 Gavilan holds centennial gala

May 2020 Gavilan’s 100th graduating class Source: “To Dream on Your Behalf: A History of Gavilan College” by Leah Halper

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

NEW LISTING

Lovely Family Home 10

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

DECEMBER 20, 2019

GAVILAN CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

18

Open Sunday Noon-3pm Charlene King (831) 801-5464

This well-cared for 5Br/3Ba has it all! Spacious kitchen/dinette area opens to family room & is convenient to the backyard for family parties & entertaining. Downstairs bedroom w/full bath.

Laundry room w/deep sink, large closet & many cabinets for storage. Great space upstairs at the landing to use as you wish. The master suite is open & spacious; master bath w/oversized soaking tub, stall shower, double sinks & walk in closet. 3 more upstairs BRs are good sized & 2 w/walk-in closets. Landscaped backyard, covered patio & space for gardening!

1920 Sycamore Court, Hollister Offered for $665,000

NEW LISTING

Open Saturday & Sunday 1-4pm BREATHTAKING VIEWS ~ Custom built 5Br/3Ba, 2,600 sf + 480 sf finished attic. On 2.5 acres in gated area. Owned solar, tankless water heater, chicken coop, fruit trees + so much more!

35635 Eagle Ridge, Soledad $850,000 Shannan Matthews (209) 410-8078

Open Saturday Noon-3pm SIX-YEARS NEW ~ 3Br/2Ba boasts pride of ownership! Living room w/cozy fireplace, spacious dining area, light & bright kitchen open to family room & easy-to-maintain yard.

1990 Morning Glory Drive, Hollister $608,999 Charlene King (831) 801-5464

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!

REAL ESTATE RENTALS

APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS

$2,650 Month/$3,150 Deposit 4 Bed 2 Bath, 2 car garage.

Great neighborhood, near shopping and schools AVAILABLE NOW $2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Beautiful Home situated in Ridgemark. All new everything. Gardner included in rent.

AVAILABLE NOW

BELLAGIO VILLAS

2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $2245.

Pool. Park like setting.

Contemporary Landscaping.

1129 Monte Bello Drive Gilroy, CA 95020

$1,850 Month/$2,350 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Two Story Townhouse. Private 1 car garage.

Close to town, schools and shopping.

AVAILABLE NOW

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

Publish

$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

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS 3/1 3/2 4/2 4/2.5

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

$2,000 $2,100 $2,000 $2,800

HOLLISTER DUPLEX/TRIPLEX RENTALS 2/1

$1,850

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

HOLLISTER APARTMENT RENTALS 1/1 2/1 2/1.5

$1,200 $1,550 $1,900

HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA APARTMENT/DUPLEX RENTALS 2/2

$2,400

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

HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM

Your Business or Service Ad Here

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

For more information Contact 408.842.5066

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES For more information, call

or email classifieds@newsvmedia.com

831.637.1691

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

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

Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling

408.842.0260 831.726.2002 Lic. #606051

Publish Your Business or Service Ad Here

For more information Contact 408.842.5066 or email classifieds@newsvmedia.com

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

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

19

u o y h s i W ived here l EVERYTHING’S INCLUDED® NEW HOMES IN GILROY

Come discover your new dream home where Everything’s Included® at Glen Loma Ranch. Tour the models from three new communities, including gated Burgundy, Provence and Margaux to see all the features and upgrades that come at no additional cost. Enjoy, home automation, stainless steel appliances, solar* and more – without paying extra.

10 NEW MODELS NOW OPEN Approx. 2,409 to 3,639 sq. ft.

Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 4.5 Bathrooms

Text GARLIC to 31996

for more info

Welcome Home Center 7131 Spumante Ct., Gilroy, CA 95020

Lennar.com/BayArea 888-216-2330

New homes from the mid $700,000s

*Requires either participation in the SunStreet solar program or the separate purchase of the system. Details at SunStreet.com. Lennar’s automated homes are built according to the Wi-Fi Alliance® program guidelines for Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ Home Designs. See the Wi-Fi Alliance® website at www.wi-fi.org for additional information regarding the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ Home Design program. Homeowners are responsible for configuring all security features. Lennar does not warrant or represent that any network or network device is secure or can prevent all privacy intrusions, malware, or cyber-attacks, even when correctly configured. Certain products or services are provided by third parties, and not Lennar. Lennar does not guarantee any equipment or services provided by third parties. Features, amenities, floorplans, elevations, square footage and designs vary and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Plans, elevations, hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may contain options that are not standard on all models or not included in the purchase price. Availability may vary. Models/lifestyle photos do not reflect racial or ethnic preference. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your home and its features. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2019 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Everything’s Included, and the Everything’s Included logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. CalAtlantic Group, Inc., CA BRE Broker #02058246 (Responsible Broker: Joanna Duke). Lennar Sales Corp., CA BRE Broker #01252753 (Responsible Broker: Joanna Duke). BMR Construction, Inc., CA CSLB #830955. CalAtlantic Group, Inc., CA CSLB #1037780. Lennar Homes of California, Inc., CA CSLB #728102. 10/19 Amazon, Alexa, Echo Dot, and Echo Show are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.