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THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

UT ABO & T OU OF DA R N E L CA TS EV E N

A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance

Competition heats up in Hollister

Under the Spotlight WINE PASSPORT P12 | ALMOST, MAINE P13

TOP PERFORMER San Benito

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

Stage Company’s Sidecar held its first talent show on Feb. 3, 2018.

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UNDER THE LIGHTS The high pressure stakes of local talent competition BY JENNY ARBIZU

E

ver wonder if you’re talented enough to win a major talent competition?

Carey’s “Hero”) and thought I had a good chance at getting a prize.

As I walked into the Granada Theater for rehearsal, though, my confidence quickly faded.

I caught the fabulous performer, Winter Bond, who has been performed with SBSC in the past, walking in. She has a powerful voice and great confidence—which has always been my goal.

Then, the beautiful and talented Jula Prak walked into the theater with her guitar. She’s a well known singer and barista in Hollister—a triple-threat, actually—who played the title role in SBSC’s Mary Poppins in 2015 (while pregnant with her second child!).

And Ashley Maupin, at the young age of 13 years old, would be performing Frozen’s “Let it Go.” Her impressive pipes helped her land the coveted role of Annie in the SBSC production of the same name this last summer - a role that I wanted (I’m kidding. Kind of). ➝9

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

I have.

From the tender age of six years old, I was belting out such Broadway tunes as “Tomorrow” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in my bedroom.

And when I failed to convince my parents to take me to New York City to try out for Annie (apparently the drive was too long), my heart was set on getting noticed in a talent competitions.

However, in my youth, I was never brave enough to send in a video tape Star Search.

And once American Idol came around, I was too old to be an idol.

Now, 35 years after I first wanted to be Annie, I’ve honed my singing skills and curbed my performance anxiety by performing in local functions and musical theater.

And recently, I’ve caught myself

wondering—Do I have “The Voice”?

Do I “Got Talent”?

But, seriously—am I America’s most talented?

That’s pretty far-fetched.

But how about San Benito County’s?

I was willing to find out.

And so were 17 other acts when they all came out to audition for San Benito Stage Company (SBSC) Sidecar’s first ever talent show on January 19 and 20, a show that was produced by Amy Waran Redmond and Allison Barnes.

Acts that were deemed family-friendly, safety-conscious, and over the age of 6 years old, made it to the show’s line-up on Friday, Feb. 3. They would compete for prizes of first place at $250, second place at $100, and third place at $50.

Though I hate auditioning, I left my audition on Jan. 19 with confidence. I was happy with my song choice (an acoustic version of Mariah

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OA & OUT & ABOUT

HOLLISTER

GILROY

COUNTRY TUNES

WINE & CHOCOLATE

Put on those boots, jeans and hats and get to Ridgemark for a Country dance party with Bootleg. Bootleg is riding into Hollister to play the energetic sound of Modern Country. Enjoy crowd favorite songs from Luke Bryan to the classic standards of Brooks and Dunn. Dance and sing along at this fantastic show Saturday, Feb. 17, 9pm-midnight at Ridgemark Golf Club and Resort, 3800 Airline Highway. For more information, visit ridgemarkgolfclub.com.

Celebrate Valentine’s Weekend with Fortino Winery at Sweetheart Saturday. Experience an unforgettable combination of delectable chocolates and exquisite wines.

Guests will enjoy five different wines paired perfectly with a delicate chocolate. Enjoy family wines and celebrate like family Saturday, Feb. 17, 1-3pm at Fortino Winery, 4525 Hecker Pass Highway. Guests must be 21 to attend. For tickets and more information, visit fortinowinery.com.

SAN JOSE

LUNAR NEW YEAR

WINTER BLOSSOMS Seek out early wildflower blossoms that bloom and are gone before the start of spring during an afternoon hike at Rancho Cañada del Oro. Participants will stroll along the Longwall Canyon and Mayfair trails during this 4.5-mile long hike.

Be prepared for muddy conditions and a stream crossing.

Look for early blossoms Sunday, Feb. 18, 1-5pm at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 4289 Casa Loma Road. For more information, visit openspaceauthority.org.

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

Celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Dog at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose. Guests will learn about the customs and traditions of Lunar New Year, traditionally observed by many Asian cultures. Revel in the lively Lion Dance, make culturally-relevant art and crafts and enjoy traditional and contemporary music and dance performances.

Explore Lunar New Year Saturday, Feb. 17, 10am-5pm and Sunday, Feb. 18, noon5pm at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way. For more information, visit cdm.org.

MORGAN HILL

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& CALENDAR OA

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

SUCCULENT GARDEN

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Plant your own succulent garden at The GardenShoppe’s Succulent Planting Class.

Succulents are a group of plants that store water in their leaves and can endure extended periods of drought. Participants will learn how to plant succulent plants and keep them healthy and happy for a long time. Class cost is determined by supplies chosen by participants, and The GardenShoppe will have many containers available to choose from. Feel free to bring snacks. Beverages can be purchased on site. Plant a garden Saturday, Feb. 17, 11am-2pm at The GardenShoppe, 364 Seventh St, Hollister. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ybq4lgre.

HOLLISTER BINGO & DINNER Grab some bingo daubers and head to

Ridgemark for bingo and dinner.

Attendees will enjoy a buffet dinner, complimentary house drink ticket, raffle ticket and 10 games of “4-on.”

Ages 21 and over only, must have

dinner to play. Don’t miss the chance to win on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 5pm at Ridgemark Golf Club and Resort, 3800 Airline Highway. Please note this is a cash-only event. Please email katie@ridgemarkgolfclub.com for reservations. For more information, visit ridgemarkgolfclub.com.

PRUNEDALE REGGAE SHOW Enjoy an evening of Reggae and Rock music with Cali Nation and Rise Up. “Live, forgive and think positive” with Cali Nation’s Power Reggae, Bluesy Rock and Rootsy Punk music sounds as they play a live set including a mix of high energy original songs and hand picked cover tunes, and join Rise Up

as they spread positive and conscious vibes through Reggae music. Rock Prunedale with Cali Nation and Rise Up Saturday, Feb. 17, 9pm-1am at Country Kitchen, 17500 Vierra Canyon Road. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/y75bs36r.

GILROY COMEDY THEATER Join the funny folks at Pintello Comedy Theater as it kicks off its 16th season with Hate Mail, a “comedy of correspondence.” This inventive story follows the correspondence of Preston, a spoiled rich kid, and Dahlia, an angst-filled artist. Guest will laugh along as the correspondence becomes

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increasingly crazed while the characters move from hate to love and back again. Enjoy comedy theater Friday and Saturday, Feb. 16-17, 8pm and Sunday, Feb. 18, 2pm at Gilroy Grange Hall, 8191 Swanston Lane. Visit pintellocomedy.com.

Brem Lane. For more information, visit alaracellars.com.

Explore beers from local breweries at Local Beer Thursday. The beer program at Vertigo Coffee Roasters is strictly “Locals Only,” and on Thursdays from 2pm to close, draft beer is just $5. Enjoy beers featured from breweries in San Benito, Monterey, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties that are always fresh, exciting and delicious. Discover a new local favorite, Thursday, Feb. 22, 2-6pm at Vertigo Coffee Roasters, 81 Fourth St, San Juan Bautista. For more information, visit vertigocoffee.com.

MEET THE DESIGNER Meet fashion designer and illustrator, Malene Grotrian, the artist behind the watercolor fashion illustrations on Alara Cellars’ wine labels. The rich handcrafted wine from Alara is only part of the story. While Alara wines are composed to highlight the expressions of its fruit, the labels complete Alara’s image and connection to fashion. Learn more about Grotrian and the creative process that goes into designing Alara’s labels Saturday, Feb. 24, noon-5pm at Alara Cellars, 6500

MORGAN HILL SALMON DISCUSSION Get answers to consumer question regarding the salmon species at the South County Lifelong Learning discussion, “Salmon, Sustainability & the Seafood Consumer.” With so much confusion and uncertainty about salmon among consumers this discussion will answer pressing questions including what kinds of salmon are in the marketplace, which are best, are they sustainable and should consumers eat farm or wild salmon? Other

discussion topics will include salmon farming, hatcheries and genetic engineering. Join the discussion Wednesday, Feb. 21, 10am-noon at Morgan Hill Community & Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey St. Visit salmon. brownpapertickets.com.

MUSICAL ROMP Join South Valley Civic Theater at its production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Based on the 1967 Academy Award winning film, Thoroughly Modern Millie is set in 1922 and takes audiences back to the height of the Jazz Age in New York City as young Millie Dillmount searches for a new life for herself.

Enjoy this musical production Friday, Feb. 23 - Saturday, Mar. 17, Fridays ➝8

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

TRIBUTE BAND Head to The District Theater for a funky night with PaPa’s Bag—James Brown Tribute Band. PaPa’s Bag stays loyal to the soul and funk of “The Godfather of Soul,” allowing guests to experience the music of James Brown the way he wrote it, with the funky drums and bass, the cuttingedge guitar and the jazzy horns. Enjoy the music of the greatest entertainer

ever Saturday, Feb. 17, 8pm-2am at The District Theater, 7430 Monterey St. For more information, visit thedistricttheater.com.

Find that cherished antique, a sought-after vintage collectible or something fun and retro at the Monterey Bay Antiques & Vintage Market. Join the finest antique and vintage vendors on the central coast as they present their special collections.

Discover rare and exotic collectibles, home decor, indoor and outdoor furniture, clothing and more from mid-century modern to the primitives. Uncover an antique treasure Sunday, Feb. 18, 8am-3pm at Monterey Peninsula College, 980 Fremont St, Monterey. For more information, visit montereyantiques.com.

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OA & CALENDAR

7 Park, Mendoza Lot Entrance on Roop Road, Gilroy. Reservations are required, please call 408.918.7779 to register. For more information, visit sccgov.org/sites/parks.

STEINBECK CELEBRATION Celebrate American author John Steinbeck’s birthday with the National Steinbeck Center. Guests at the Steinbeck Birthday Celebration will enjoy a variety of fun free activities for children that reflect the author’s varied interests, including squid dissection with Squid4Kids, Alfie the Squid video game and MY Museum’s wheelie mobilee.

Other free activities include arts and crafts, storytelling and cake. Join the celebration Saturday, Feb. 24, 10am-3pm at National Steinbeck Center, 1 Main St, Salinas. For more information, visit steinbeck.org.

TRAVEL SHOW

Discover the world at the Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show. Explore endless vacation options and learn from travel experts representing more than 250 destinations from around the globe. Enjoy fun for the whole family with camel rides, virtual reality experiences and song and dance from faraway cultures. Find thousands of vacation options under one roof Saturday Feb. 17, 10am-5pm and Sunday, Feb. 18, 11am-4pm at Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great American Pkwy, Santa Clara. For more information and tickets, visit travelshows.com/shows/san-francisco-bay-area.

and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2:30pm at Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Road.

For tickets and more information, visit svct.org.

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

EVENTS

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PLANT COMMUNITIES HIKE Hike through grassland, chaparral and oak woodland to learn about local plant communities in Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve. See serpentine outcrops and unique native plants that have adapted to succeed in a challenging environment on this moderately paced 4-mile hike. Dress in appropriate layers for winter weather and bring water, a hat,

bag lunch and any favorite hiking accessories. Learn more about local plant communities Sunday, Feb. 18, 10am-3pm at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 550 Palm Ave, Morgan Hill. Meet in the parking lot. Space is limited, please register. For registration and more information, openspaceauthority.org.

SCAVENGER HUNT Discover night phenomena with family and friends at the Youth Night Scavenger Hunt at Coyote Lake Park. Participants will work through team activities designed to ignite curiosity in youth ages 9 and above.

Dress for cool weather, please note that rain will cancel the event. Hunt for fun at this free event Friday, Feb. 23, 7-8:30pm at Coyote Lake

PEDRO PARTY Join the San Benito County CattleWomen at their annual Pedro Party. Enjoy a lively evening of card games with friends, family and neighbors. Refreshments will be served and participants will enjoy fabulous door prizes and raffle items. The High Score winner will be awarded $100; second through fourth place winners will also receive cash prizes. Have a fun night of laughter and card games Saturday, Feb. 24, 6pm at Tres Pinos Church Hall, 7290 Airline Highway, Tres Pinos. Game play will begin at 6:30pm sharp. For more information, call 831.206.2060.

MOONDANCE BAND Catch The Moondance Band at Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort’s Saturday Night Entertainment. Enjoy tributes to each decade of music from the ’50s to the 2000s including dance, country, classic rock and more. Join the fun Saturday, Feb. 24, 9pm-midnight at Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort, 3800 Airline Highway, Hollister. Ages 21 and over only. For more information, visit ridgemarkgolfclub.com.

SOULFOOT RETURNS Share an evening with Soulfoot and its excellent brand of classic rock covers and original music.

Soulfoot is a four-piece band launched in 2015 that performs

rock, funk, blues, pop, jazz and a little country. Rock out with Soulfoot Saturday, Feb. 24, 9pm-1am at Daisy’s Saloon, 213 Third St, San Juan Bautista.

For more information visit soulfootband.com.

NIBBLE & NETWORK Join the Hollister Downtown Association (HDA) and its host, Calvista Insurance Agency for the onehour informal networking event, Nibble & Network. Attendees will enjoy morning refreshments provided by Calvista Insurance Agency, and get to know each other at this one hour informal gathering of HDA members, potential members, business owners and customers. There is no cost to attend and HDA membership is not required.

Nibble & Network will be held Wednesday, Feb. 28, 8-9am at Calvista Insurance Agency, Inc, 370 Fifth St, Hollister.

For more information, visit downtownhollister.org.

BLACK HISTORY Join the Gilroy Center for the Arts at the Fourth Annual Black History Month Exhibit. Experience the featured art of Black Folk artists, collage artists, photographers, sculptors and more through March 3 at Gilroy Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St, Gilroy. Admission to the gallery and receptions are always free. For more information, visit gilroyartsalliance.com.

HUMOROUS ENTERTAINMENT Enjoy a comedy with heart at Limelight Actors Theater’s production of The Savannah Sipping Society. Over the course of six months four very different Southern women share laughter, misadventures and cocktails, and form lasting friendships while taking back the joy of life. Guests are invited to bring dinner and wine to enjoy, corkage fee does apply.

The Savannah Sipping Society runs through March 3 at Gilroy Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St, Gilroy. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit limelightactorstheater.com.

TALENT SHOW

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WHAT IT TAKES The variety of talent was wide—ranging from singing, tap dancing, break dancing, guitar solos and more.

SBSC, but well known in San Benito County as business owners or nonprofit organizations: Rolan Resendiz, Joel Esqueda, Michelle Leonard, Bill Mifsud all sat in the judging chairs.

Audience members acted as the fifth judge—they could scan a QR code on the show program, taking them to a 3-question survey and allowing them to vote for first, second and third place.

Acts were asked to wait in an empty Gavilan College classroom in the Briggs Building across the Briggs Alley, and were brought to the theater three acts before they were needed to come on.

Luckily, being the fourth act of the show allowed enough time beforehand to warm up my voice, while also allowing time after the show to get my knees to stop knocking together.

After warming up my voice with young friends, Kayla Ferry and Meghan Blevins, who sung and danced to High School Musical’s “Bop to the Top,” and Maupin—all 13 years old—I went off to the corner of the parking lot to sing to the dumpsters. I said a prayer that I’d hit those high notes with ease, remember the words, and not let my voice crack.

I then walked into the theater after drinking one last sip of water.

The act right before me was Samantha Logan.

The Amazing Sam had baffled me with her talent of fixing three Rubik’s cubes in less than 3 minutes. I still haven’t finished the one I started 30 years ago!

I asked Sam the night before at rehearsal if she’d show me the trick to solving them.

I then quickly retracted my request.

“Wait, you’re probably just really smart, huh?” I said.

She just chuckled and tried to show me, with her young hands maneuvering the cube in such a way that my aging eyes just couldn’t keep up.

So right before going onstage, I watched Sam through the black curtain as she fixed the cubes. Anxiety began to form in me as Sam got close to the end of the song but still needed to finish her second cube. I grabbed the arms of the stage hands and prayed this prodigy would finish in time. I just couldn’t bear to her fail right in front of me.

And to everyone’s delight, Sam finished her routine in time,

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

My intimidation went beyond the talented singers, though; the variety of talent was wide—ranging from singing, tap dancing, breakdancing, electric guitar solos and a Rubik’s Cube wiz.

Mark Matthews and Joseph Rosales brought down the house at auditions with their two-man band cover of KISS’s “Rock and Roll all Night;” Camaxtli Torres, 17, who has been dancing since the age of 6, did a Popping and Breakdancing number; and dance routines by younger contestants from Flying Colors Spectra Dance Team had been proven fabulous, as well as a ballet routine from adult dancers with the same dance studio.

My talent and musical ability stops with my vocal chords.

And even those aren’t very reliable anymore— a week before auditions, I learned I had adult-onset asthma.

Absolutely fabulous.

So on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 3, I drove to The Granada Theater in downtown Hollister with high hopes, but a realistic mind.

The show was hosted by Betsy Molchan and Steve Hodgkinson. The judges are locals not affiliated with

getting a roaring applause from the audience.

I let out a sigh of relief, and then the anxiety crept back.

My act was up.

I heard Steve start his introduction, “Next up is a 25-year veteran of the stage and a local journalist— Jenny Arbizu.”

I walked out under the the blue, dimmed lights, and he handed me the microphone.

And then I almost stopped, midstep.

Was I supposed to walk out before they dimmed to the blue lights, while they dimmed them, or after?

I almost let the logistics of the show break my courage. So I chose to forget about it, turned to the crowd, and found the masking-taped X that marked my standing spot.

I hate standing all alone on stage—I probably always will.

When I go out to karaoke, I hide behind the big screen with the lyrics.

When I do musical theater, I hide behind my character - or any person over 5 feet tall (I’m a mere 60 inches).

So here I stood—no character, no karaoke machine, no basketball player—and feeling completely vulnerable standing in front of 200 people. It’s like allowing 200 people to criticize my life-long dreams and skills.

Talent shows are not for the faint of heart. Yes, you need a lot of talent. But you also need a lot of humility to be in a talent show competition—which is a rare combination to come by.

So I began to sing, and to my surprise, the voice I heard coming from the speakers sounded pretty. I somehow remembered the words, but I could feel the sweat begin to form on my forehead as I got close to the highest notes. “Please don’t let my voice crack,” I prayed.

To my amazement, not only did I hit the high notes, but they came out with the force that I once had when belting out “Tomorrow”.

When the song was over, I quietly walked over to Betsy Molchan and handed her back the microphone. An applause ran through the audience, and I couldn’t help but do a side bow as I exited the stage.

I left the stage knowing I did my personal best.

And while walking back to the Briggs Building, I could hear a familiar tune being strummed on a guitar.

Jula Prak was sitting near ➝ 10

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TALENT SHOW

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BUTTERFLIES Optimistic performers, including the writer featured in

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

maroon on the right, receive the results of the contest.

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the theater, quietly strumming and singing “Hero” as she smiled at me.

She said I sounded great. Little Ashley Maupin came by and gave me a high five.

“We could hear you singing back here in the alley,” Ashley said. I gave them all hugs.

Yes, these performers were my competitors—some have been my competitors while auditioning for shows—but the comradery at that moment felt genuine.

I walked over to my husband, who was doing security in the alley, and gave him a hug with a big sigh of relief.

Yes, it was over, and I did my personal best.

Contestants who were mere strangers an hour prior were now laughing, sharing life experiences, and truly meant good luck when they’d yell, “Break a leg!”

At least I’d like to think that was the case.

The rest of the night, I chatted with old friends and met new ones.

I met Juan and Eleazar Pacheco, (13 and 11 years old respectively), and their cousin Miguel Rodriguez, 15. Their three-man band, Mi 45, in their sharp cowboy boots and hats, guitars hanging from their shoulders, played the spanish tune

“Los Plebes Sierrenos”—their first big performance.

Miguel spoke of a gig they did at a Gilroy Halloween party, but “it was nothing like this with 200 people,” he said.

And the fun teenager, Camaxtli Torres, had break dancing skills that took me back to the ’80s. Torres was just happy to perform and wanted to “get the audience involved,” he said.

After the last act, we waited for the judges to place their votes, and then we were escorted into the theater, behind the black curtain.

One preteen girl shouted from behind me, “Remember, whatever happens, we’re all winners!”

A happy last thought.

So we walked on stage, all in a line, and waited for the the judges to deliver their speeches.

I looked around the stage at all the talent, and thought, I had been foolish to think I could get a prize.

Steve Hodgkinson began reading the winners.

To be honest, I wasn’t surprised that Jula Prak’s name called, but I was surprised that I heard it called first. Prak, who sang and played guitar to “Not the Only One,” received third place.

I was shocked, but a bit of hope welled up in me.

Maybe I do have talent. Maybe I am a 40-something idol!

But then, 11-year-old Shane Wilbur was called as second place winner. Wilbur played some of my favorite classic rock tunes, like Ozzy Osbourne’s Crazy Train, in his electric guitar montage.

Yeah, I’m not sure I’m more than a second place winner.

However—it did seem the judges were thinking out of the box! And I am waaay out of the box!

So hope welled up some more in my 5-foot frame.

Then the room got silent.

Before Steve Hodgkinson read the winner, I thought he was pulling a Ryan Seacrest—he prolonged the suspense it was as if we’d go to commercial break.

“And the winner is — Jen… (YES! It’s ME!!

JennyMarieMendollaArbizu...) ...na Hunt.”

And the hope that welled up inside me, popped.

Remember how I said that it takes a talent AND humility to be in these competitions?

This is why.

Jenna Hunt, at only 12 years old, sang her heart out to Adele’s “Make You Feel My Love,” and was given the $250 check.

We applauded Jenna, and the hosts thanked everyone for coming.

Participants gave congratulatory hugs to the winners. Afterward, people mingled to chat and take photos.

And me?

I had blown my hope-bubble up too much in the end.

And I was surprised that talents like Maupin, Logan and the dancing acts didn’t get recognized.

Judge Bill Mifsud, however, did explain to the audience, “It was hard to pick just three.”

That’s a lame excuse. We should have at least had honorable mentions!

(I’m just kidding, Bill. Sort of.

As you can see, I’m used to those participatory awards little leagues give out.)

My husband, son and parents met me at the bottom of the stage.

My son, Matthew, 12 years old— and my biggest fan—gave me a smile and a pat on the back.

Yup, mommy lost.

We walked back out to the alley and then to our cars.

But not before I asked a stagehand backstage, “Was I supposed to walk out when the blue lights went dim? Or after the lights came back up?”

(Turns out I walked out at the right time—surely, there’s a prize for that!)

Yes, these competitions aren’t for the faint of heart.

So, do I Got Talent?

Do I have The Voice?

I’ll always fantasize that I’m on that televised stage, colored-confetti raining down all over me, with my family crying in the audience. And me - taking to the microphone to sing some cheesy Top-40 song that will be on the radio the next day.

But quite honestly, I think it’s OK if I never find out.

And I’m A-OK with being the most talented person inside my bedroom walls.

Jenny Arbizu is a freelance writer for New SV Media. She is also a substitute teacher, singer, crossfitter, and an obvious drama-queen in SBSC productions (and at home).

For information about San Benito Stage Company, visit sanbenitostage.org.

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FEBRUARY 16, 2018

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WINE TICKET Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail hosts month-long wine extravaganza.

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Passport Month

INCREASE YOUR INFLUENCE

March into Santa Clara Valley Wines

By LAURA NESS

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

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t’s almost here, and instead of just one weekend, Passport lasts the entire month of March this year. So you have ample opportunity to make that $45 investment pay off in Rhones, Italians, cabs or whatever suits your fancy in the Valley of Heart’s Delight.

The Wineries of Santa Clara Valley Passport event gets off to a fine start with a Kick-Off Party on March 2, from 6-8pm at the Coyote Creek Golf Club in Morgan Hill. Tickets are $60, and include a $45 Passport book. Purchase tickets by March 2 for a chance to stay at Rosewood Cordevalle in San Martin, CA. Winner will be announced during the Kick-Off Celebration. You do not need to be present to win.

“The WSCV 2018 Spring

Passport is going to be very exciting,” says Santa Clara Valley Winegrower’s President, Karen Seeker.

“Free tasting for booklet holders will be available at all of our 32 member wineries throughout the month of March (beginning March 3rd) during each winery's normal business days and hours. For the Kick-Off Party, we currently have 22 wineries and 14 restaurants participating. You can expect great wine, food, and music in a gorgeous setting—the perfect way to launch our spring celebration.”

Passports are $45 and good at member wineries on the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail, March 3 through March 31, 2018. Wineries may offer music, food and special pricing, in addition to wine tastings.

THEATER

The Maine event

Submitted

UNEXPECTED LOVE Dinner and a show with San Benito Stage Company’s ‘Almost, Maine.’

Romantic dinner theater with SBSC

By JENNY ARBIZU

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a Friday night in the middle of winter. And as the northern lights hover in the sky in the frigid air, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in various and unexpected ways.

“We felt it was appropriate around Valentine’s Day,” says Hall.

“It kind of shows the ups and downs of love. Overall, it’s a pretty fun show.”

The play stars CJ Patereau, Nick Fryou, Derek Barnes, Betsey Mochan, Maddison Alipaz and Sarah Smith.

Hall says the cast of six share 19 roles; all playing at least three characters. But an added benefit is the

SBSC’s Almost, Maine is running Feb. 9 - Feb. 24, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm.

Tickets available at Postal Graphics, 831.636.3787, or call SBSC at 831.636.0122. Purchase online at brownpapertickets.com. Tickets are $45 advance purchase, $50 at the door, and $350 for advance purchase table of eight (complimentary bottle of wine included).

FEBRUARY 16, 2018

here’s a little-known town in the state of Maine, where temperatures are low, relationships are ever-changing, and surreal experiences are commonplace.

San Benito Stage Company (SBSC) is bringing this fictional town—and the play of the same name— Almost, Maine, to the I.O.O. F. Building on 330 Fourth Street in Hollister. It opens on Friday, Feb. 9 at 7pm.

Produced by Anne Hall and directed by James Swan, the play by John Cariani is a series of vignettes taking place in Almost, Maine - on

experience the cast brings to the production.

“The cast is really good,” she says. “And it’s good they have experience because they have to be so versatile.”

And due to the vignette-style of the play, Fryou says the entire cast didn’t work together for the first three weeks of rehearsals.

“It’s been only two weeks, today, that we’ve been rehearsing scenes together,” says Fryou.

But in those two weeks, Smith says it’s been a blast.

“I feel the six of us are sort of a weird family,” she laughs.

Swan says he has been waiting to direct this play for some years, and is excited to finally have the opportunity.

“I’ve been in love with this play for a for a long time and to be able to finally do it is really fun,” he says.

Doors to the I.O.O.F. Building will open at 6:30 pm and dinner will be served at 7pm.

Dinner is being catered by Cozy Cup Cafe in Hollister. Guests will receive a chicken or steak, with a side and vegetables. A cash bar will be open at 6:30, where wine and mixed drinks will be for sale.

“Once everyone’s had a chance to eat, we’ll start the show around 7:30,” Hall says.

“Hopefully everyone will have had time to mingle and chat with friends, then they’ll have dinner and a show. It’s a big evening of entertainment!”

13

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Deanna

Mobile: (831) 359Ͳ5652

Open Sun 1-4pm GATED STONEGATE ~ Large 4Br/2.5Ba family home w/large living spaces. Glam kit w/granite, S/S, island & breakfast bar. Live near schools, stores, wineries & golf courses.

73 Saddle Court, Tres Pinos $799,000 Kim Bautista (831) 566-6926

Spacious Corner Lot LIGHT & BRIGHT 3Br/2.5Ba~ Living room w/high ceilings & FP. Kit w/nook, gas stove & built-in oven. Entertainer’s backyard featuring built-in brick BBQ & covered patio.

Make 2018 Your Year To Be A Homeowner! $535,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321

Lopez

REALTOR® CalBRE #01957307

Peaceful and welcoming ranchette with great views of the mountains. Existing horse facilities.

Spacious floor plan offers formal LR/DR with built-ins, pellet stove, and wet bar. Separate family room has gorgeous open wood beam ceiling Offered at $997,000 and attractive rock fireplace. Remodeled kitchen offers granite counters, center island with stove top, stainless steel appliances. Remodeled master with granite double sink vanity. New paint & new carpet throughout. Horse facilities include sand riding arena with watering system, pastures, 5 stall mare motel with tack room and 24x60 hay storage. 1/4 interest in shared well plus irrigation water available.

Results that Move You Deanna’s interest in Real Estate was sparked during her first experience buying her own home. Since then she’s combined hard work, organization and persistence to develop an admirable program that results in a smooth and efficient transaction.

Negotiating the highest possible price for a listing is her favorite part of working with sellers. And buyers will appreciate her “handsͲon” approach.

Deanna is committed to being with her clients every step of the way!

In her spare time, you’ll find Deanna working out and spending time with her husband and two children.

Mediterranean Style w/Lots of Amenities 2 1/2 YEARS NEW ~ 4Br/2.5Ba very clean w/lots of windows for natural light. Amazing kit open to family room. Spacious master suite. Dual pane windows & solar.

Let this Beautiful Home be Yours! $698,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321

RANCHETTE WITH VIEWS

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ACREAGE LOTS

Sunset Hills Development. 8 parcel subdivision located in the scenic Santa Ana Valley area of Hollister. Parcels range from 4.3 to 4.9 acres each. Private wells and views of the city lights & neighboring mountains. Prices ranging from $375,000-$410,000

Call Augie or Calla 831.524.5400 office: 831.637.8400 www.bertao.com augie@bertao.com

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FEBRUARY 16, 2018

Couldn’t Ask for More on 5+ Acres PARADISE ~ 7Br/5Ba including guest cottage & pool house/game room. Chef’s dream kitchen. Resort-like backyard w/shade trees & palms. Bocce ball, poolside fire pit.

Call Today for an Exclusive Showing! $1,150,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321

14

Beautiful Victorian Home WELL CARED FOR ~ Opportunity to call home or as an investment. Main: 3Br/2.5Ba (rented @ $2000/mo) + 1Br w/own entrance (rented @ $800/mo). Enclosed back yard.

Interested? Call for More Details! $499,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321

Open Sat 1-4pm Kim Bautista (831) 566-6926

Beautiful custom 3Br/2.5Ba single-story home on 5 acres w/breathtaking views from every window looking onto the stunning hillsides & vineyard vistas of San Benito County. Kitchen filled w/granite counters, many cabinets & large walk-in pantry. Family room w/vaulted ceilings & cozy atmosphere around wood burning fireplace w/granite surround. Spacious entertainer’s dream deck to enjoy the views!

Large master bedroom offers a great space for your larger furnishings w/fireplace & French doors leading out to the spa nestled into the deck. The master bath & guest bath feature granite & marble counters.

550 Heatherwood Estates Dr, Hollister Offered for $875,000

We are an award winning company offering superior service in each of our five locations!

330 Tres Pinos Road, Suite D1, Hollister (831) 245Ͳ0321 1544 Constitution Blvd, Salinas (831) 800Ͳ7341 496 Pearl Street, Monterey (831) 648Ͳ7271 237 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley (831) 438Ͳ8400 13117 Highway 9, Boulder Creek (831) 338Ͳ2125 or 338Ͳ2184

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800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville California, 95076 831-722-7110

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT FOR RENT Bellagio Villas 2 Bedroom apartments starting at $1,995. Pool. Park like setting. Contemporary landscaping.

1129 Monte Bello Drive, Gilroy, CA 95020. Apply online: bellagiovillas. eprodesse.com 408.847.2328.

INDUSTRIAL LAND 3.5 Acres for Sale Lease or Build to Suit Industrial Shops For Lease

HOME RENTALS IN HOLLISTER

HOMES FOR RENT

Country Home 4 Bed/2 Bath

4 Bedroom, 3 Bath $2,900

$2,500

2/1 3/3 4/2 4/2.5 4/6

$1,850 $1,900 $2,700 $2,500 $3,500

2 Bed/1 Bath Apartment

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COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE

831.637.7337

www.pivetticompany.com Lic# 429006

Office Space, 200 Tres Pinos Rd

600 sq. ft.

STORAGE UNITS

Contact Marilyn Ferreira

$800

Margaret L. Pidd, BROKER 330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

in Santan Ranch Beautiful serene location Available March 1st

All inclusive, tenant responsible for telephone and internet, good signage, front location, good parking, $850 + sec. dep.

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22

15

Don’t Wait! ... Call “PAGE” Today!

9655 NEW AVE, GILROY 79 ACRE ESTATE just waiting for you to come enjoy country quiet. 2,850 square foot home, 70 acres of prime farm land with a 900+ gallon per minute well, facilities for 19+ horses, 2 large steel buildings, office, scales and a fourplex.

THE HOLLISTER PROJECT is a total of 66 acres immediately adjacent to the city limits. You could do 1 acre ranchettes today or wait to be annexed to the city to do a mixed zoning. Adjacent to the Hwy 25 Eastside Bypass.

Sellers are open to an option or seller carry.

$4,999,999

$4,999,994

33 ACRES OF PRIME FARM LAND with good water and easy access. Great location between Morgan Hill and Gilroy with easy access to Hwy 101. Just 40 minutes to Salinas.

Currently planted to corn.

Seller will consider carrying the financing. $1,388,883

D SOL

D SOL

CHECK YOUR LOCAL PAPER & INTERNET FOR SPECIFIC ADDRESSES

$1,249,000

PERFECT FIRST HOME or investment. This unit is in the very back, private, corner of the complex and it has just been refurbished with new paint, mini blinds, light fixtures, dishwasher, carpet and vinyl. Move in condition. $299,992

40 ACRES for your private estate or personal retreat.

Solitude and star gazing are just the beginning of what you can enjoy from this ridge above the valley floor. The views are something to behold and perfect for you to plan your home around Mother Nature’s art. $298,892

D SOL

WHETHER YOU ARE THINKING OF BUYING OR LISTING....

DON’T WAIT! CALL PAGE TODAY!

1932 SPANISH BUNGALOW ON 1/3 ACRE in the country just waiting for your imagination and enthusiasm.

Absolutely original (no renovations or refurbishments).

Character and charm in need of tender loving care. Wait until you see the main bath$274,947 room.

Page Welton

D SOL

408.857.6075 www.pagewelton.com pagewelton@coldwellbanker.com DRE #: 00700221

D SOL

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 SUNDAY, MARCH 18, 2018 1 - 4PM

D SOL

50+ BEAUTIFUL ACRES for your dream estate. Located on the west side of Hollister for great views out over the San Juan Valley and Fremont’s Peak. Excellent well shared with the neighboring parcel.

Seller may be willing to carry the financing for five years. $649,946

97 ACRES OF PRIME ROW CROP. Good soil, good water and a great Mediterranean climate. Great location for shiping in any direction. Currently farmed conventional. Large barn-workshop and equipment yard. Williamson Act Taxes in place. $2,500,000

OPEN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA

20 ACRES just north of Gilroy by the hospital. Just what you have been looking for with a small ranch house that has a basement, a pool and character. Good soil and good water make for good farming. Excellent investment property.

40 ACRES at the Old Summit Ranch is half way between Los Banos and Gilroy. Almost immediately adjacent to exceptional state and county parks. One half shared well, with a pump and electricity.

Within a gated community.

Beautiful views $699,996

D SOL

FOUR PARCELS - 78.9 acres.

Several dwellings, big old barn, farm lease and Bill Board Income equal $6,000 per month. Rural Residential 5 Acre Zoning. Huge potential for the right buyers. Stop and think about the uses in the area and then check with the County. $3,650,000

219 ACRES on the edge of Panoche Valley. If you are looking for a weekend get away you may have found it.

Hunting, deer or birds? Only an hour from Hollister or Los Banos. Some level along the valley floor; some elevated with great views. $149,941

D SOL

18 ACRES OF FARM LAND with two very nice homes, three large barns and several out buildings. 12 acres are being farmed with two wells.

The two homes are two of the nicest around. The barns have character and charm and might be used for several different things. Just minutes to Costco and Walmart. $1,498,894

11 ACRE EQUESTRIAN ESTATE: Two homes, an 18 stall barn, a hay barn, an arena, a round pen and several turn out fields with shelters.

Formal or family comforts.

Entertain around the pool and enjoy the views. Just 3 minutes to town and about 40 minutes to Monterey or San Jose. $1,499,994

D SOL

17+ ACRES JUST SOUTH OF GILROY. Currently in conventionally farmed row crops. Good soil. Good, newer well and water. Electricity and telephone. County paved road, as well as, freeway frontage. Near Gavilan College, new developments and new schools. $999,990

80 ACRES with beautiful views out over the valley and Chesboro Lake. On a clear day you can see for miles.

Commute to San Jose on the back roads and stay out of traffic. 1 or 2 wells on the back side of El Toro Mountain.

8 ACRES of almost all level land with a seasonal creek running along the southern property line.The flag lot allows privacy. Great location just a short distance from the Outlets, the coffee shop and the freeway. Equal distance to San Jose or Monterey. $599,995

25 ACRES WITH POTENTIAL Newly surveyed parcel with a well and 5 acre zoning.

Beautiful rock out-croppings and majestic oak trees. Just a short distance from the historic downtown.

Perfect for a private estate or a small subdivision. Equal distance between San Jose and Monterey. $474,947

G

DIN

PEN

$874,947

D SOL

CUTE AND COMFY. Just right for one or two.The two bedroom with a nice living room and a great kitchen.

Neat and clean. Located in one of the best parks in the county and is convenient to $39,930 $129,921 most everything.

40 ACRES FAR FROM THE MADDENING CROWD. Whether you are a star gazer looking for the dark of night or a hunter you will find these 40 acres perfect to escape from the noise of every day life.

D SOL

To buy, sell or invest in Morgan Hill, San Martin, Gilroy, Hollister, San Juan Bautista or San Benito County, call...

950 Tennant Station Morgan Hill