SBM1849

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Dia de la Virgen

A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance

El Teatro Campesino play honors Mexican holiday P2

SEASONAL RIDES P6 | CIGARS & WINE P10 | ANTIQUES P13

The 400year-old virgin El Teatro Campesino’s La Virgen del Tepeyac finds inspiration in a story of hope in the face of conquest

BY WALLACE BAINE

DECEMBER 7, 2018

OUR LADY La Virgen de Guadalupe as portrayed by Jessica Osegueda in El Teatro Campesino’s ‘La Virgin del Tepayac.’

2

I

n San Juan Bautista, you can tell it’s getting close to the end of the year without ever having to look at a calendar. The shops stay open a bit longer. The alluring and medieval-looking paintings of the Mission Saints appear on downtown street lamps. And everybody is buying tickets for the holiday play.

For almost half a century, San Juan’s famed El Teatro Campesino theater company has been staging two separate plays in rotation during the holiday season: the overtly Christmas-themed play La Pastorela (The Shepherd’s Play), and the spiritual apparition story La Virgen del Tepeyac. In mainstream American culture, neither play is well-known. But in San Juan, they are traditions, as deeply familiar as Thanksgiving dinner.

This year, the every-other-year

rotation turns to La Virgen, which, unlike La Pastorela, is told almost entirely in Spanish, and is not directly connected to Christmas, but instead to Dec. 12, the annual Dia de la Virgen, a Mexican holiday.

The play is a centuries-old story, which traces its origins to some time in the 1700s in Mexico, but was adapted by ETC founder and celebrated Chicano playwright Luis Valdez, and first performed in San Juan in 1971.

It dramatizes the story of Our

Robert Eliason

These appearances happened in the context of European conquest and occurred less than 40 years after the landing of Columbus in the New World. That the Mother of Christ appeared to a humble indigenous Indian is seen as a symbol of hope and comfort for Latino Catholics in the Americas and elsewhere.

The El Teatro production is presented every other year in the church at the Mission San Juan Bautista as a re-creation of the Virgin’s appearance to Juan Diego.

It is a pageant of song, dance and drama that presents not only the miracle of the Virgin, but provides dramatic background to the encounter between the colonizing Spanish and the Aztec Empire.

The production’s director this year is actor and playwright Ruben Gonzalez, who said that, because it is a returning tradition, La Virgen attracts many of the same audiences every year, that it is as much a holiday ritual as a piece of dramatic entertainment.

“It’s a story that’s always presented in a certain way,” said Gonzalez, who played the lead role of Juan Diego in 2000 and 2012. “You don’t play with the story, but you can accent it in certain ways. I’ve added a few things that people who come every year will say, ‘Oh, that’s different.’ But I don’t mess with the story at all.”

In a time when Mexican immigration is front and center in the national political debate, Gonzalez said he wanted to provide ➝ 4

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Lady of Guadalupe, the miracle narrative that binds Catholic Church tradition to the indigenous culture of Mexico.

Catholic true believers around the world know the story of Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, who was a Chichimeca Indian living in the early 16th century in what is today near Mexico City. In December of 1531, as recorded in official Catholic history, Juan Diego was visited on four separate occasions by the apparition of the Virgin Mary.

3

LA VIRGEN DEL TEPEYAC

3

for the

The most wonderful time of the year!

Nov. 16 - Jan. 27: Downtown Ice Nov. 21 - Dec. 31: Winter Wonderland Robert Eliason

Nov. 23 - Dec. 25: Christmas in the Park Dec. 16: Santa Run Silicon Valley Jan. 4 - 7: College Football Playoff Weekend Celebration

EMPIRE Katrina Valdez in the entrance of the Aztecs during El Teatro’s annual performance at Mission San Juan Bautista.

sjdowntown.com/holidays Find Your Go-To Spot. Get your parking validated at more than 100 downtown businesses. Or pay $5 after 6 p.m. and all day on weekends in most ParkSJ garages. ParkSJ.org

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Ad South County due 11-16.indd 1

4

11/15/18 11:37 AM

a reference point or two to remind audiences that the themes of the play are still as relevant as ever. As one example, he said he has given more leadership roles in the play to female actors, to reflect women’s growing influence in culture and politics.

The play opens many years before the appearance of the Virgin, portraying the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs in opening scenes that include Aztec dance and music that greet Spanish clergy and soldiers. Cut to about a dozen years later, when the holy Virgin Mary appears to the humble Juan Diego, instructing him to tell the Spanish bishop to build a church on the hill of Tepeyac, among the downtrodden indigenous locals.

Gonzalez said that La Virgen is as concerned about the documented history as it is about the church’s miracle story, and that the play honors both. “You have to be honest about the history,” he said

in reference to the forced baptisms of Indians by Spanish priests in the early parts of the play. “It wasn’t just ceremonial. It was a blitzkrieg.

And I’m kind of highlighting that in a way to make the point that no one has the right to define what God is or what God looks like.”

La Virgen features a cast of about 30, and over the years, it (and La Pastorela) has provided performance opportunities for hundreds of actors. Gonzalez, who is originally from Los Angeles, said, “I’ll meet people in LA, and they’re like, ‘Oh yeah, I did my stint up there (in San Juan).’”

Generations of actors have participated in the play, but this year, said the director, the cast includes more and more young people.

Audiences have just as strong a connection to the holiday plays as the actors do. The play is done entirely in Spanish but, said Gonzalez, most of the audiences speak little to no Spanish. “We call ➝ 12

OA

THE NUTCRACKER

San Benito Dance Academy presents its 11th annual Nutcracker show on Dec. 8.

OUT & ABOUT

SALINAS

THE NUTCRACKER Be a part of a holiday tradition and join San Benito Dance Academy as it presents its 11th annual Nutcracker show. This unforgettable experience features a cast of dancers from ages 2 to adult presenting the timeless tale of Clara, her beloved Nutcracker and their adventures on Christmas Eve. Revel in this holiday staple Saturday, Dec. 15 and Sunday, Dec. 16, 1pm or 6pm at Sherwood Hall, 940 N. Main St. For more information, visit sanbenitodanceacademy.com.

HOLLISTER

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE Bring the whole family to the Winter Magic Holiday Boutique for a fun day of shopping. See what the excitement is all about as Hazel Hawkins Hospital Auxiliary Volunteer Services presents this annual boutique featuring 20 vendors, the best of Hazel’s Thrift Shop, holiday music, raffle drawings and more. Also enjoy lunch, available from 11am-3pm, including polish sausages, hot dogs and more. Saturday, Dec. 8, 9am-5pm at Veterans Memorial Building, 649 San Benito St. Visit tinyurl.com/y8awm5pl.

SAN MARTIN

WRIGHT AVIATION Join The WIngs of History Air Museum as it honors the Wright Brothers with an event about their life and contribution to aviation. Attendees will enjoy a presentation including a docent tour to the museum full scale replica of the Wright Flyer.Admission is $9 general and $6 for museum members.

Saturday, Dec. 8, 1-3pm at 12777 Murphy Ave. RSVPs are required by emailing museum1903@gmail.com with the number of seats to be reserved.

GILROY

HOLIDAY SYMPHONY DECEMBER 7, 2018

Get in the holiday spirit with music as South Valley Symphony and conductor Anthony Quartuccio, present Holiday Hit Parade. Experience winter themes and holiday classics a the symphony performs selections from the Nutcracker Ballet, the theme from Polar Express, “A Winter Landscape” by Alexander Glazunov and more. Celebrate with the Symphony Sunday, Dec. 9, 4pm at Gavilan College Theater, 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd. For more information, visit southvalleysymphony.org.

5

SPOKING MY MIND

Curt Hentschke

HOLIDAY CHEER The Cycle Guy rounds up his best rides to get hungry cyclists through the winter.

Happy New Gear!

Twelve Days of Bike Christmas

DECEMBER 7, 2018

F 6

our packs of tubes, three gel packs, two brake pad sets and a bicycle under my tree! As you can see, I’m dreaming of a Bike Christmas.

We’ve finally made it to December! Is your cycling wish list filled out? Quick, send your designated shopper to the local bike shop! Make it happen! Have you been extra blessed this year? Consider donating a new or gently used bicycle (and/or gear) to your local charity. Share the love; share the thrill; share the ride!

Wanna join in some in some seasonal cyclocross insanity? As a spectator or a rider, you can’t go wrong at

BY CURT HENTSCHKE

the Coyote Valley Cross in Morgan Hill, on Dec. 8 and 9. Sun, rain or hurricane, it’s bound to be a muddy mess…just the way we like it!

Penultimately, Critical Christmas returns to Monterey’s Custom House Plaza on Dec. 23, for its 20th—I kid you not—year! Festoon your bikes with as many blinking holiday lights and as much yuletide finery as possible, then gather at 5:44. Revelers roll out at 6pm and generally finish by 7pm. Have fun, stay safe, and be a jolly good ambassador for cycling!

And finally, ending in that long-standing Spoking My Mind tradition...

I wish you a Happy Hanukkah, I wish you a Special Kwanzaa, I wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Gear!

SAVE THE DATES 12/8-9–Coyote Valley Cross– Morgan Hill–coyotevalleycross.com 12/23–Critical Christmas–Monterey 2/23–Almond Blossom Century– Ripon–musicfirstusa.info 2/23–Pedaling Paths to Independence–Linden– communitycenterfortheblind.org

3/9–Solvang Century–bikescor.com 3/16–El Granada 200k– santacruzrandonneurs.org 4/11-14–Sea Otter Classic– Monterey-seaotterclassic.com 4/13–Tierra Bella–Gilroy– tierrabella.org Curt “Cycle Guy” Hentschke has pedaled over 60,000 miles of South Valley and San Benito County trails.

Send your cycle celebrations to heycycleguy@gmail.com. Check for last-minute changes before attending.

It's A Wonderful Life

• Certified Invisalign Orthodontist • Individually tailored financial plans • Designer, invisible & small standard braces in a rainbow of colors Invisible Braces

DR. TOMMY TONG

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST

ORDER LUNCH FOR A FEW OR A BUNCH MORGAN HILL • 779-4169 GILROY • 842-0314 370 W. DUNNE AVE. #6 7880 WREN AVE. #C132

Located in Historic Downtown Gilroy

Open daily 8:00am for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 8am-1pm

408.767.2868

7400 Monterey Street, Gilroy • 408.842.3454 www.oldcityhall.biz

DECEMBER 7, 2018

• 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

7

O& A CALENDAR

CHRISTMAS RACE

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Bring the whole family to the seventh annual Christmas Double Road Race benefiting the American Red Cross and enjoy a fun Christmas event. Double Racing consists of two-stage running events; participants run the longer stage, take a halftime break and then run the second stage. There will be four Double Racing events, including a Kids’ Double and two open races. All participants will receive a Santa hat and official long-sleeve shirt, and finishers will receive a medal. Saturday, Dec. 15, 7am at 406 Second St, San Juan Bautista. For more information and registration, visit tinyurl.com/y7nczsob.

8

HOLLISTER OPEN HOUSE Join The Farm Bertuccios for “Bertuccio’s Market: Annual Christmas Open House” for a day of gourmet food tastings, local olive oil tastings,

free raffles and more. Guests will find a gift for everyone on their holiday lists among the custom and premade gift baskets, dried fruit and nut trays, award winning dried Blenhiem apricots and other festive and delicious items.

Saturday, Dec. 8, 11am-5:30pm at the Farm Bertuccios, 2410 Airline Highway. For more information, visit thefarmbertuccios.com.

SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA B&R Farms invites holiday shoppers to skip the hectic malls and delight in holiday shopping as it brings together the very best boutiques, vendors and shops for “Holidays in Hollister: Shop Amongst Blenheims and Bells.” Enjoy the cozy pine smell of the holidays, refreshments including hot apricot cider and complimentary gift bags and cards.

Shop for gift boxes, wreaths and Christmas trees, quilts, decor, soaps, wood crafts and more. Also enjoy

a children’s book signing and a Santa photo booth. Ten percent of all proceeds to benefit community non-profits. Saturdays, Dec. 8 and 15, 9am-5pm at B&R Farms, 5280 Fairview Road. Visit brfarms.com.

HOLIDAY PLANTINGS Get into the holiday spirit and create a holiday container filled with beautiful plants for holiday gifting or decorating. Head to the GardenShoppe for this allday drop-in class and create something festive using available holiday or general containers and succulents, mini poinsettias, herbs and other plants. There is no need to pre-register, pricing will vary according to the materials chosen

TEEN AUDITIONS

Aspiring actors ages 13-19 are invited to audition for Inspire Performing Arts Academy’s Teen Murder Mystery. Audition participants will be given a scene to perform with a group, and all who audition are cast. Those looking to be considered for a larger role are encouraged to prepare a monologue, but it is not required for all who audition. Saturday, Dec. 8, 10am-noon at Inspire Performing Arts Academy, 618 San Benito St, Hollister. For information, call 831.635.0553.

and no outside food or beverages are permitted. Sunday, Dec. 9, 11am-4pm at the GardenShoppe, 354 Seventh St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/yb345y9q.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA INSPIRING PERFORMANCE El Teatro Campesino presents La Virgen del Tepeyac 2018, adapted

by Luis Valdez as it celebrates fortyfive years of tradition at the beautiful Old Mission San Juan Bautista. This joyous reenactment of the miraculous events that inspired the religious rebirth of Indigenous Mexico dramatizes the four apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe to

Join guest artist Edward Rooks for a family-friendly lesson in painting in the great outdoors at “Plein Air at Coyote Valley: A 25th Anniversary Event.”

Attendees are invited to paint the beautiful views and take their paintings home with them. All supplies will be provided, all skill levels are welcome and no experience is required. Saturday, Dec. 8, 10am-noon at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 550 Palm Ave, Morgan Hill. For information and to register, visit openspaceauthority.org.

Indigenous messenger Juan Diego in 1531. The performance features live music and Aztec dance and is presented in Spanish. Experience this special Christmas offering through Dec. 16 at Old Mission San Juan Bautista, 406 Second St. For information, dates and tickets, visit elteatrocampesino.com.

MORGAN HILL COMEDY THEATER Experience Mount Madonna School’s performance of Honk! Jr., a modern adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s 1844 fable, The Ugly Duckling. Featuring a heartwarming story that addresses struggles around acceptance,

this hilarious yet deeply moving production will be performed by middle school students taking the stage for matinee performances Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 8 and 9, 2pm each day at Mount Madonna School, 491 Summit Road, Watsonville. For tickets and information, visit mms-honk. brownpapertickets.com.

CELTIC CONCERT Experience music, stories and folklore celebrating the season as Four Shillings Short plays traditional music from the Celtic lands, Medieval and Renaissance Europe, India and the Americas. Enjoy a wide-ranging musical journey at this Celtic Winter Concert featuring ➝ 11

DECEMBER 7, 2018

WINTER CONCERTS Join San Benito Oriana Chorale and the Oriana Youth Chorus at this year’s Winter Concert Series, “Season of Light.” Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, $10 for students and free for children under age 12. Concerts will be presented Tuesday, Dec. 11, 7:30pm at Mission San Juan Bautista, 406 Second St, San Juan Bautista, Friday, Dec. 14, 7:30pm at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 1200 Fairview Road, Hollister and

Sunday, Dec. 16, 3pm at Christ Fellowship Church, 2066 San Benito St. For more information, visit orianachorale.org.

PLEIN AIR

9

SHOPPING

Light ’em up!

Debra Eskinazi

DECEMBER 7, 2018

ROOM 101 Big Payback and Namakubi EC Chingon are just a couple of the sticks offered at Morgan HIll Wine Shop and Cigar Company.

10

Morgan Hill Wine Shop and Cigar CompanyHaven for wine connoisseurs and cigar aficionados

By MARY BARTHOLOMEW

T

aking a draw on a cigar in a sports lounge is a rare opportunity in Northern California. The Morgan Hill Wine Shop and Cigar Company is one of a handful of lounges where novices and aficionados can legally relax and enjoy a cigar.

The sports lounge offers a dozen local and imported beers on tap and even more bottled beers to choose from. The lounge comes equipped with an impressive 400-square foot walk-in humidor, which holds over 2,000 “sticks” and cigar lockers for members. Equally impressive is the wine shop adjacent to the lounge which features local, imported and rare wines.

Surprisingly, the time-honored tradition of cigar etiquette still holds true today. General manager Amy Yancey and her staff can help novices navigate the subtle conventions of properly preparing, handling and “tasting” the cigar so customers can have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

With the holiday season fast approaching, Yancey says she and her staff are on hand to help take out the guesswork of gift-giving.

“Our staff is very knowledgeable about what we have to help pinpoint the right cigars for someone to make it a special, very unique gift,” she says. “If they happened to be a customer, we can

look up their history to see what they have smoked.”

Authentic cigars from Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Honduras and Ecuador have a price range to meet everyone’s budget.

Topping the list is Opus X Tauros (The Bull) and gift sets from Prometheus, Opus X cigar case with limited edition cigars presented in a humidor box.

Although it’s open to the public, this holiday season consider giving a membership, which has its perks—discounts for locker rental, purchases and advanced access to promotions. Gift certificates make great gifts. Torch lighters, cutters, punch and carriers make exceptional gifts. Desktop and table humidors complete the cigar experience which act like banks, securing your investment.

Morgan Hill Wine Shop and Cigar Company is one of the few authorized U.S. retailers of luxury brand S.T. Dupont. Originally an atelier to French Royalty, today it is a purveyor of luxury leather goods, lighters, pens and bespoke goods. If they don’t carry a specific item, Yancey says, they can make a special order.

The wine shop offers a separate entrance for non-smokers to enjoy access to fine wines. Local wineries like Martin Ranch, Solis and Fortino are just a few featured. Rare wine selection includes Opus One, Silver Creek and Insignia. Elusive wines like Opus One tops the list at $375 a bottle. BV Private Reserve Beaulieu is also highly desired.

The company’s Dec. 12 Christmas party is fast approaching, a free catered event for members will feature a cigar and wine event as well as a juried home baked dessert contest. Swag prize will be awarded for the best tasting dessert.

Morgan Hill Wine Shop and Cigar Company at 16375 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill and follow them on Facebook for upcoming events. morganhillcigar.com

O& A CALENDAR

9 Night Holiday. Experience Gilroy Gardens’ 26 acres of majestic trees and gardens come alive with twinkling light displays and special holiday treats around every turn.

Ice skate under the stars, visit with Santa, ride favorite rides, find crafts in the Marketplace and more. Friday-Sunday nights, Dec. 7-9, 4-9pm at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, 3050 Hecker Pass Highway. For more information visit gilroygardens.org.

FAMILY PET PHOTOS

Join the GardenMart and local pet organizations for a family holiday photo opportunity at “A Home for the Holidays Petography Fundraiser.”

This event features pet adoptions on site and Christmas photos starring the whole family, including the family pet. A huge photo area will be set up with pet outfits available to those that wish to use them. “A Home for the Holidays” will be held Saturday, Dec. 8, noon-4pm at GardenMart, 410 Spring Grove Road, Hollister. Visit tinyurl.com/ybncscmf.

EVENTS WEEKLY TOURNAMENT Enjoy the weekly Alehouse Cornhole Tournament. Whether it is called Cornhole, Corn Toss, Soft

Horseshoes or Bean Bag Toss this game is fun for everyone.

Tournaments will be held every Tuesday, 7-9pm at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse, 401 McCray St, Unit B24, Hollister. Sign up with the bartender early on Sundays and Mondays to ensure a place in the tournament and compete for weekly prizes. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/y727y7bo.

EVENING EXPERIENCE Celebrate the wonder of the season during Gilroy Gardens’ Gardens@

AZTEC DANCING All ages are invited to join Calpulli Itzpapalotl Danza Azteca at the Artspace Annex. The Calpulli Aztec dancers are a local arts group promoting, educating and inspiring individuals through pre-Hispanic dances and indigenous culture. This event is free, open to all and presented by San Benito County Arts Council.

Beginners are welcomed to come to circle and experience danza Wednesday, Dec. 12 7:30-8:30pm at ARTspace Annex, 217 Fifth St, Hollister. Visit sanbenitoarts.org.

FUNDRAISING EXHIBITION The Gilroy Center for the Arts presents “Small Works Salon,” a fundraising exhibition to benefit the Center’s After School Art Program. The Small Works Salon is an exciting small art exhibition featuring works from emerging and established artists in Gilroy

HOLIDAY HAYRIDE Get in the festive spirit while discovering park trivia during a hayride through Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area. The Holiday Hayride Tours will begin at 6pm in the Madrone Campground and will make stops picking up passengers along the way. Bring along a thermos of hot cocoa, a blanket and warm clothing and enjoy this free event. Saturday, Dec. 15, 6pm at Hollister Hills State Recreation Area, Lower Ranch, 7800 Cienega Road, Hollister. Park entrance fee is $5. For information, email HollisterHills@parks.ca.gov.

COMIC CON Visit the Salinas Valley Comic Con, now in its fifth year, and celebrate comics, comic books, zines, pop culture and more. The event features an expanded Artists’ Alley, enhanced Game Room, local costuming clubs and popular cosplayers. Other highlights include great toy and comic vendors, food trucks and much more. Enjoy this grassroots celebration of comics Saturday, Dec. 15, 10am-5pm and Sunday, Dec. 16,10am-4pm at Hartnell College, 411 Central Ave, Salinas. For more information, visit steinbeck.org.

ROCKIN PARTY Head to Grillin & Chillin Alehouse to celebrate the holidays with Soul Kiss Band at the Ugliest Christmas Sweater Party.

Enjoy high-energy dance music as Soul Kiss performs a variety of top pop, rock, country, hip-hop, old school, classic rock and R&B hits from today and yesteryear. Prizes will be awarded to those wearing the best ugliest Christmas sweater/ clothes. Saturday, Dec. 22, 8-11pm at Grillin & Chillin Alehouse, 401 McCray St, Hollister. Visit soulkissband.com.

DECEMBER 7, 2018

a fantastic collection of world instruments including hammered dulcimer, mandolins, sitar, banjo, charango, doumbek and more.

Tuesday, Dec. 11, 7-8pm at Morgan Hill Library, 660 W. Main Ave. For information, visit sccl.org.

HOLIDAY COMEDY Don’t miss the heartwarming holiday comedy Mom’s Gift, the annual fundraiser for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research presented

by Limelight Actors Theater. In this comedy with a heart, Mom has been dead for eleven months and shows up at her husband’s birthday party as a ghost with a mission. Like Clarence in It’s a Wonderful Life, she has to accomplish a task to earn her wings. Enjoy door prizes and special surprises along with this wonderful show for the holidays through Dec. 8 at the Gilroy Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St, Gilroy. For information and performance schedule, visit limelightactorstheater.com.

and neighboring communities and will be on display through Dec. 12. Entrance to the gallery is always free, Tuesday through Friday, 2-5pm and Saturday, 11am-2pm at the Gilroy Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St, Gilroy. For more information, visit gilroycenterforthearts.com.

11

LA VIRGEN DEL TEPEYAC

4

Robert Eliason

SAINTS Cristal Gonzalez Avila, as La Criada (the maid) with

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Mauricio Samano, as Juan Diego in La Virgen del Tepeyac.

12

it the pilgrimage,” he said. “They come from everywhere, San Francisco, the valley, even from LA.” The program describes the action in each scene and allows those who don’t speak Spanish to follow along.

The new production features ETC regulars Mauricio Samano in the role of Juan Diego, and Stephani Candelaria as La Virgen.

Gonzalez, who has been affiliated with El Teatro Campesino since 1991, is now living in Texas.

For many years, he has been a solo theater artist, performing one-man shows, often directed by Kinan Valdez, the son of ETC founder Luis Valdez. His latest production, from his own play, features Gonzalez taking on the role of 11 different characters. Still, he’s eager to return to San Juan, despite a wife and two young children back home in Texas.

La Virgen gives him a long view of faith in a troubled time.

“I’m a big fan of (mythology scholar) Joseph Campbell,” he said, “and the research I’ve done on different levels tells me that myth is the way we pass on tradition. Especially now, with what’s

happening (in the country), people come to this play for hope that humanity finds a common ground out of tragedy. That’s the only way you can repair these fractured relationships between communities. At the end of the day, it’s not about religion. It’s about people coming together.”

LA VIRGEN DEL TEPEYAC Presented by El Teatro Campesino Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sundays at 4 and 7:30 p.m. Through Dec. 18. $15-$28 adult; $15$25 seniors, students and children; $30-$45 priority seating.Mission San Juan Bautista 406 2nd St, San Juan Bautista Elteatrocampesino.com

SHOPPING

Jenny Arbizu

PUBLIC GOOD Hazel Hawkins auxilliary board provides for the less fortunate through its two shops serving up used and collectible items.

Doubly delightful

Hazel’s Treasures and Hazel’s Thrift Shop offer twice the fun

BY KIMBERLY EWERTZ volunteer services at Hazel Hawkins Hospital.

The thrift shop offers a large selection of donated items including children and adult clothing of all sizes, in addition to everyday items, and the inventory is always changing.

“There’s always something new when they come in to shop,” volunteer Alice Farnham said.

Hazel’s Treasures is filled with collectibles, antiques, crystal, china, upscale jewelry and much

more, and all proceeds from the stores benefit not only the hospital but the community as well.

“They do a lot for the community,” Oliveira said, adding that once a month the kids from Hollister’s Chamberlain’s Children Center, an organization supporting at-risk youth, are invited to take part in a day of free shopping.

The entire community is invited to attend the auxiliary’s upcoming Christmas boutique on Dec. 8, where shoppers will discover a

wide selection of holiday items for sale.

“We have some nice ones because we collect all year long,” Farnham said.

Both stores are open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Hours of operation for Hazel’s Thrift Shop are 9am-4pm. Hazel’s Treasures is open 9am-3:30pm. For more information, call 831.638.0526, or visit hazelsthriftshop.wixsite.com/ hazelsthriftshop.

DECEMBER 7, 2018

C

ontinuing their mission that began more than 60 years ago, Hazel Hawkins Hospital’s auxiliary board provides help to the less fortunate through Hazel’s Thrift Shop and Hazel’s Treasures, located at 340 Hawkins St. in Hollister.

Both enterprises are operated by local volunteers.

“It’s all run by little whitehaired ladies; nobody is paid here,” said Alice Oliveira, coordinator of

13

Showcase, REALTORS® Featured Agent

Spectacular Solar Powered Home GORGEOUS ~ 4Br/2.5Ba on large lot in cul-desac. Spacious LR for entertaining w/FP. Kitchen (open to dinette area & family room) w/granite, S/S & dining bar. Large master w/2 walk-ins.

Let This Home Be Yours! $679,600 Hollister (831) 245-0321 NEW LISTING

Looking For Your Own Ranchette?

3BR/2BA on 2+ ACRES ~ This diamond in the rough might be perfect for you. All useable land.

Partially fenced, was used for horses. Surrounded by gorgeous estates—location, location, location!

Don’t Miss Out on This Great Opportunity! $800,000 Gilroy (831) 245-0321

Great Yard for Kids & Pets to Play CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ~ 3Br/2Ba close to schools, stores & easy hwy access for commuters. Room to park multiple vehicles & gate access to back. Newly painted interior.

Interested? Call for More Details! $685,000 San Jose (831) 245-0321

CKing arlene

Mobile: (831) 801Ͳ5464 Broker Associate DRE #00813665

Getting You More of What You Want!

With over 35 years in the Real Estate industry, Charlene’s philosophy is that upͲfront, proper planning combined with continuous and constant communication are KEY when working with sellers and buyers. Charlene uses her skills in negotiating and has the proven ability to work well with REALTORS® and industry professionals for a successful and seamless closing.

Charlene’s passion is working with sellers to stage and prepare their home to gain the highest possible price. She also enjoys learning more about her buyer’s dreams and needs, while finding them the perfect home.

Featured Property NEW PRICE

Home For the Holidays

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Step Inside and Be Pleasantly Surprised YOU CAN KEEP LOOKING ~ But this 3Br/2Ba is what you’ve been looking for— freshly updated & nothing left to do. Beautiful front & back yards. This home won’t last long!

Don’t Let This One Go By! $499,999 Hollister (831) 648-7271

14

Many Custom Features Inside & Out! WELCOME HOME ~ Fabulous 4Br/2.5Ba. Airy living room w/high ceilings. Chef’s kitchen w/granite & S/S. Room for RV or possibility of addl living unit. Shows great pride of ownership!

Call Today for a Private Showing! $624,999 Hollister (831) 245-0321

Open Saturday Noon-3pm Hosted by Shannan Matthews (209) 410-8078 Listed by Tammy Davis (831) 801-3179 Spacious Del Curto built 4Br/2.5Ba home with custom touches throughout. Open kitchen with tons of cabinets, built-in desk and large island that flows into a large family room with a cozy fireplace. Central A/C, upstairs laundry, walk-in closets, wood blind window coverings, ceiling fans, water softener, reverse osmosis. Oversized driveway with a huge side yard for possible RV parking. Huge private backyard perfect for backyard barbecues and gatherings— maybe a pool is in your future? And for your pets—an extra large covered dog kennel. All located in a quiet neighborhood within walking distance to Las Brisas Park.

1291 Manzanita Drive, Hollister Offered for $599,900

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

330 Tres Pinos Road, Suite D1, Hollister (831) 245Ͳ0321 1544 Constitution Blvd, Salinas (831) 800Ͳ7341 534 Abrego Street, Monterey (831) 648Ͳ7271 237 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley (831) 438Ͳ8400 13117 Highway 9, Boulder Creek (831) 338Ͳ2125 or 338Ͳ2184

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS

BELLAGIO VILLAS 2 Bedroom apartments starting at $2175.

Pool. Park like setting Contemporary landscaping.

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

2BD/1BA $1,800 Older Victorian Available NOW

3BD/2BA $2,100

Duplex Available Jan 1st, Deposit $2,600

4BD/2BA $3,300

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA APARTMENTS

HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM

OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE

EXECUTIVE OFFICE SUITE

in Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Road $1,735/Month $1,735 Deposit 2 Executive Suites in Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Road $325/Month $325 Deposit

1/1

Contact Marilyn Ferreire, BRE 00409787 831.635.6700

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

HOLLISTER DUPLEX/TRIPLEX 2/2 $1,900

Corner lot house in Gilroy Available NOW

200 Tres Pinos Road All inclusive Tenant responsible for phone and internet, good signage, front location & parking. $750+ sec. dep.

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS 1/1 $1,800 2/2 $2,600 3/2 $1,550 3/2 $2,500 3/2 $2,800 4/2 $2,600

HOME RENTALS

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

$1,300

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

northpointebusinesscenter.com

831.637.4297

RENTALS Country Home Small Ranch, 2 Units 20+ Acres One Year Lease

$2,400

COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE 600 sq. ft.

$800

STORAGE UNITS

127 sq. ft. to 790 sq. ft.

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

831.637.7337

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES For more information, call

831.637.1691

www.pivetticompany.com Lic# 429006

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES CONCRETE

FENCES

HAULING

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

J. Casalegno Concrete

Soares Lumber P.S.G. Fencing

South County Cleanup, Demo & Hauling

Humberto Montes Tree Services

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

Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling

339 Seventh St., Ste. B, Hollister

CONSTRUCTION

HANDYMAN

www.professionalpropertymgt.com

Rianda Construction

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

Professional Property Mgmt. & Sales

CALL 831.637.9273

WHEN BUYING OR SELLING A HOME ALWAYS CONSULT A REALTOR

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

- 35 years experience -

Quality • Integrity New construction Additions & remodels

408.847.1490 Lic: #649968 Credit cards accepted

Lic. #606051

408.430.3560

Publish

Your Business or Service Ad Here For more information Contact 408.842.5066 or email

classifieds@

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

408.394.6824

Lic: #7921 Fully Insured

Adrian Urenda Gardening Service

Complete Maintenance • Landscaping • Sod & seeding • Hauling & yard cleanups • Plants • Sprinklers • Lawns Lic. #1397

Call 408.847.4337 Cell 408.314.5920

DECEMBER 7, 2018

408.279.8036

408.842.0260 831.726.2002

Margaret L. Pidd, BROKER

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

15

Hazel Hawkins Hospital Auxiliary New Date!

More Vendors!

New Food!

Saturday, December 8 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Veteran’s Memorial Building Downtown Hollister

Lunch available 11:00 am - 3:00 pm New menu with Polish Sausages, Hot Dogs and more!

Bring the Whole Family!

Raffle Drawings New Craft Vendors Thrift Shop Christmas Greenery & much more!